Rwanda’s Minister of Youth and Arts Development, Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, has strongly condemned behaviors among young people that are increasingly linked to crime and loss of life.
He made the remarks while addressing youth in Kirehe District during an event focused on reflecting on youth development. He referred to a recent tragic incident involving a 20 year old student from Rwanda Polytechnic Tumba campus, who was found dead in his residence alongside a 19 year old female visitor.
The minister said such incidents highlight deeper challenges facing the youth, especially risky lifestyles that expose them to crime and fatal consequences. He emphasized that substance abuse, including alcohol and drugs, as well as irresponsible sexual behavior, are among the leading causes.
He said, “You cannot succeed while abusing strong alcohol. Some young people think they will change later in life, but the reality is that we are losing many of them at a young age due to drugs and alcohol.”
Dr Utumatwishima also raised concern over the rising number of teenage pregnancies, describing it as a worrying trend that requires urgent attention from both families and the government.
He said, “We are seeing a growing problem where young girls visit boys and end up getting pregnant. Young people must understand that their energy and future are needed by the country and their families.”
According to data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, the percentage of girls aged between 15 and 19 who have been pregnant increased from 5 percent in 2020 to 8 percent in 2025.
Meanwhile, research by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre indicates that alcohol consumption remains high, with about 48.1 percent of the population reported to consume alcohol.
The minister urged young people to make responsible choices, avoid harmful behaviors, and focus on building a better future, noting that the country depends heavily on their contribution for sustainable development.
