The continuing legacy of the Advocating for Safe Abortion Project in Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG)

RSOG

Since 2019, the Advocating for Safe Abortion project has empowered many national societies of obstetrics and gynaecology to champion evidence-based safe abortion advocacy as national, regional and global leaders. 

The project in Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG) has now concluded, but its impact endures through the ongoing work of Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG), which continues continue to lead the charge in advocating for safe, accessible abortion care. 

Following the successful completion of their project, the Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG) has remained at the forefront of abortion advocacy in Rwanda, playing a pivotal role in the Ministry of Health’s Comprehensive Abortion Care (CAC) programme. A major achievement was the national launch of a Values Clarification and Attitude Transformation (VCAT) initiative formed during the ASA project. This initiative created a pool of certified VCAT trainers, ensuring the sustainability of expert abortion care and guidance readily available across the country. 

RSOG continues to drive other impactful programmes, including Onsite District Orientation trainings, which provide hands-on support to hospital staff to enhance their readiness to offer safe abortion services. A recent partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Rwanda Health Initiative for Youth and Women (RHIYW) has introduced a mentorship programme in Burera District, aiming to elevate the quality of abortion care services.