The closures follow a directive from the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), which had previously announced that stations failing to meet quality standards or operating in wetlands would be shut down.
RURA’s Director General, Evariste Rugigana, assured the public that these closures will not lead to fuel shortages.
He emphasized that measures are in place to ensure uninterrupted services at nearby petrol stations.
The teachers were apprehended on January 8, 2025. Among them is Emmanuel Ushimimana, a 30-year-old teacher at G.S Rugaragara in Mushonyi Sector, Rurara Cell, Rugaragara Village.
The other suspects include Claudine Iradukunda, 28, a teacher at G.S Rundoyi in Ruhango Sector, Rundoyi Cell, Gakaranka Village; Jeannette Nyiraminani, 37, from G.S Rugote in Gihango Sector, Shyembe Cell, Rugote Village; and Marie Goreth Tuyisenge, 34, who teaches at Umubano Primary School in Ruhango Sector, Rundoyi Cell, Rushashu Village.
The fifth individual, Epaphrodite Uwineza, 38, is a teacher at Umucyo Primary School in Mushonyi Sector, Rurara Cell, Gisunzu Village.
According to RIB, these teachers allegedly used forged university degrees to gain benefits such as salary increases, which were intended for teachers with verified university qualifications.
The suspects are currently detained at RIB stations in Ruhango and Gihango Sectors within Rutsiro District. Their case files have been finalized and were scheduled to be forwarded to the prosecution on January 13, 2025.
Forgery, alteration, or the use of falsified documents is a criminal offense under Article 276 of Law No. 68/2018 of August 30, 2018, concerning offenses and penalties in Rwanda.
The law stipulates penalties of five to seven years of imprisonment and a fine ranging from 3 to 5 million Rwandan Francs (Frw), or one of these penalties.
RIB has urged the public to refrain from using forged documents, emphasizing that such actions are punishable by law and offenders will face the law.
Local residents reported that the victims were members of vigilante groups and civilians protecting themselves from armed gangs known for kidnapping for ransom.
According to reports, the airstrikes targeted militant groups in the Zurmi and Maradun areas.
Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his condolences to the community.
The military confirmed conducting the airstrikes, claiming they successfully targeted criminal gangs causing havoc in the region.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) acknowledged the loss of civilian lives, stating it was investigating the incident.
They emphasized that the operation had rescued kidnap victims and eliminated bandits but expressed concern over the civilian casualties.
A thorough investigation is underway, and the findings will be shared with the public.
The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in Charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, on Monday, January 13, urged Police officers set to be deployed to the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, to remain professional during their one year tour-of-duty.
DIGP Sano was briefing a female-dominated contingent of Rwanda Formed Police Unit Three rotation Seven (RWAFPU3-7) composed of 160 Police officers, at the RNP General Headquarters, Kacyiru.
The contingent commanded by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Donatha Nyinawumuntu, will replace RWAFPU3-6 deployed in the capital Juba under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
DIGP Sano urged the officers to apply the training they received, emphasizing dedication, professionalism, and exemplary conduct to execute their responsibilities effectively.
“You have been selected to represent the country and the RNP on this mission because of your competence. You were given preparatory training for the tasks ahead, in addition to your prior experience in maintaining security within the country. In this mission, continue to work with diligence and good conduct to uphold the trust placed in you,” DIGP Sano said.
He also emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and mutual respect among themselves and with colleagues from other contributing countries while respecting diversity.
“In your new assignment, you will work with people from various countries; collaborate with them well, uphold our Rwandan culture and values while respecting the culture and beliefs of others,” the Deputy Police Chief said.
He reminded them that the mission is a “collective responsibility”, urging them to work as a team, follow instructions, and seek guidance when faced with uncertainties.
He concluded by advising them to maintain hygiene, handle the contingent owned equipment well, prioritize their work, avoid distractions like unnecessary use of social media, and to continue projecting a positive image of Rwanda and its police force.
The relentless fires, fueled by extreme drought and powerful winds, have claimed at least 25 lives, with over a dozen individuals still missing.
Communities across the region are grappling with destruction on a massive scale, as the fires have consumed more than 40,500 acres and obliterated upwards of 12,300 structures.
The largest blaze, known as the Palisades Fire, was only 14% contained as of Monday morning.
Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, the second-largest wildfire, was slightly more contained at 33%, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
As firefighters battle to gain control, residents face yet another challenge: widespread power outages.
More than 80,000 households are in the dark as Southern California Edison preemptively shut off power in anticipation of strong winds expected to hit the area on Tuesday.
According to the European Commission, these measures could negatively impact transatlantic trade and cooperation.
Officials highlighted that allowing EU entities to procure these advanced chips freely aligns with both U.S. economic goals and national security priorities.
The Biden administration’s updated rules on chip exports are seen as part of a broader effort to restrict advanced technology from reaching rival countries like China.
The report sheds light on the conflict involving the DRC’s army (FARDC), armed groups like the FDLR formed by remnant perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Wazalendo, European mercenaries, and MONUSCO, who have been fighting against the M23 rebel group for nearly three years.
Released on December 27, 2024, the report draws on information from the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), FARDC, and senior officials in the Congolese government.
Despite MONUSCO’s mission to protect civilians in the region, it has allegedly supported FARDC with weapons and equipment, which have also reached terrorist groups like the FDLR.
The collaboration raises doubts about the reliability of information collected by the UN experts from MONUSCO, given its active involvement in the conflict.
{{Biased stance}}
The report lacks input from M23 representatives, focusing instead on testimonies from sources that often remain unnamed or unverifiable.
This approach undermines its credibility and raises questions about the impartiality of the research.
President Paul Kagame criticized such biased reports during a press conference on January 9, 2025, questioning MONUSCO’s effectiveness in addressing the FDLR threat over three decades.
He highlighted that despite the billions of dollars spent, MONUSCO has failed to resolve security challenges in Eastern DRC, choosing instead to shift blame onto Rwanda for Congo’s internal issues.
{{Overlooking the FDLR threat}}
The FDLR remains central to the tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, given its history of cross-border attacks on Rwanda and its destabilizing presence in the region.
However, the UN Group of Experts’ report largely downplays the FDLR’s role and its integration into the Congolese military, portraying this as a strategy to cover the group’s continued existence.
Besides, MONUSCO, which has been tasked with dismantling armed groups in DRC like the FDLR, now appears to be aligned with forces aiming to destabilize Rwanda.
{{Alleged links between M23 and ADF}}
The report also alleges a connection between the M23 and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group associated with the Islamic State and known for crimes against humanity.
This claim, based on unverified social media rumors, has been dismissed by M23 as baseless.
M23 has repeatedly sought dialogue with the DRC government to address security issues, including the ADF threat.
Analysts argue that the UN’s narrative reinforces the DRC’s portrayal of M23 as a terrorist group, further justifying military operations against them despite their calls for peace.
{{Ignoring FARDC’s collaboration with militia groups}}
The report highlights FARDC’s alliances with armed groups like Wazalendo but fails to address their well-documented atrocities.
Wazalendo, which partly includes former FDLR fighters, has been implicated in attacks on Congolese Tutsi communities, such as the October 2023 massacre in Masisi.
The presence of over 1,600 European mercenaries fighting alongside FARDC also goes unmentioned, despite their use of weapons provided by MONUSCO.
This omission contradicts international norms, which prohibit the use of mercenaries in conflicts.
By overlooking the FDLR threat, FARDC’s alliances with militia groups, and the role of MONUSCO, the report risks undermining efforts to achieve sustainable peace in the region.
This annual motor show brings together leading carmakers from around the globe to display vehicles designed to meet the changing demands of consumers and the industry.
This year’s exhibition highlighted the rapid technological advancements shaping the automotive sector.
Manufacturers presented vehicles that incorporated cutting-edge features, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Eco-friendly cars are becoming a major focus, with both consumers and producers prioritizing greener alternatives.
Alongside the vehicle unveilings, the event hosted discussions on automotive technology and manufacturing processes, providing a platform for industry leaders to exchange knowledge and expertise.
The exhibition, which began on January 10, 2025, will run until January 19. It was officially opened by King Philippe of Belgium, joined by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Brussels Mayor Philippe Close.
Over 60 automakers participated this year, including industry giants such as Volkswagen, Groupe Renault, and Mercedes-Benz.
Groupe Stellantis, formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Peugeot-Citroën, also showcased its diverse lineup of brands, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Leapmotor, Opel, and Peugeot.
Other notable participants included Kia, Hyundai, Isuzu, Maxus, MG, KGM, Suzuki, Ford, and Mazda.
Among the standout vehicles was the Audi RS Q8 2025, a luxury SUV priced at $137,495. The car is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 631 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.
With an 8-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.
The Audi RS Q8 2025 also features advanced safety technologies, including lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge safety.
Others include the KIA EV3, a car unveiled for the first time at the end of 2024. It is fully electric, featuring a motor capable of covering up to 600 kilometers on a single charge.
The car’s weight ranges between 1,750 and 1,850 kilograms, with a horsepower of 201 and torque of 283, delivering impressive performance and smooth driving.
Its acceleration is powered solely by the front wheels, allowing it to gain speed quickly. When the accelerator is pressed, the car can reach 100 kilometers per hour in just seven seconds.
The BMW XM was another highlight of the exhibition. Priced from $159,000, this hybrid car combines electricity and gasoline, featuring both a V8 engine and an electric motor. It can travel up to 50 kilometers on electricity alone.
The Salon de l’Auto remains one of the premier events in the automotive world, offering an exciting preview of the innovations and technologies shaping the future of mobility.
The vehicles showcased at this year’s event underline the industry’s commitment to driving forward technological advancements and sustainable design.
karirima@igihe.com
The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President through a statement shared on X, which highlighted that both parties discussed the bilateral relations.
Shimelis Abdisa has been leading Oromia since April 2019 and has been Chief Staff of the Prime Minister since 2018, Abiy Ahmed, since 2018.
Oromia is the largest region in Ethiopia, covering more than 350,000 square kilometers and home to nearly 40 million people, approximately a third of Ethiopia’s population.
The region is located in central Ethiopia, extending to the western part, sharing borders with other parts of the country in the Horn of Africa, excluding Tigray.
Oromia is known for its fertile land, natural resources, and agricultural production, particularly coffee.
It is also rich in minerals such as gold, gemstones, and others. However, the region has faced political challenges, natural disasters, and other issues.
Rwanda and Ethiopia have a strong relationship based on diplomatic respect and cooperation agreements aimed at benefiting their citizens.
The two countries have signed various agreements, including those focused on cooperation in law enforcement, media, sports, tourism, healthcare, education, and culture.
Their partnership extends to agriculture, trade, education, and air travel services with agreements between RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines.
In 2024, Rwanda and Ethiopia signed cooperation agreements in five areas, including political collaboration, business, sports, disaster management, and investment.
The countries also share a deep connection through their people-to-people exchanges. In April 2024, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed, attended Rwanda’s commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
President Kagame and Dr. Ahmed have held several discussions, including during the 2023 Africa-Saudi Arabia summit, to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations.
The two leaders also met in 2021 during a two-day visit Dr. Ahmed made to Rwanda.
This pivotal gathering will bring together Chiefs of Police from 14 member countries to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation in combating emerging security threats.
As the region grapples with increasingly sophisticated and transnational criminal activities, the AGM serves as a critical platform for addressing shared challenges, fostering intelligence exchange, and enhancing the collective capacity of law enforcement agencies.
The theme of this year’s meeting, “Strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation to counter terrorism, transnational, organized, and emerging crimes,” reflects the growing need for robust collaboration in tackling complex security issues that transcend national borders.
The meeting will not only focus on current crime trends but will also explore innovative solutions to enhance regional security and prevent future threats.
A unified response to regional security challenges
Founded in 1998 in Kampala, Uganda, EAPCCO was established as a regional response to the increasing threat posed by transnational and organized crimes.
The organization aims to unite law enforcement agencies in Eastern Africa to combat these shared threats.
The 14 member countries of EAPCCO include Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Comoros, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Seychelles, and Somalia.
EAPCCO’s core mission revolves around strengthening cooperation among member states to address regional crime, share vital intelligence, and build capacity to effectively combat emerging threats.
Over the years, the organization has evolved into a key player in regional security, ensuring that law enforcement agencies remain equipped to tackle challenges that affect the entire region.
{{Collaboration and capacity building}}
EAPCCO’s main objectives focus on promoting cooperation, enhancing crime management, and strengthening law enforcement across the region.
This includes fostering joint strategies to combat cross-border and related crimes, disseminating information on criminal activities, and facilitating efficient management of criminal records.
The organization also places a significant emphasis on training and capacity building, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are well-prepared to meet the region’s evolving security needs.
Through its various subcommittees and initiatives, EAPCCO continually develops new approaches to address the complex landscape of regional security.
The organization’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping a more cohesive and effective regional response to emerging crime trends.
{{Focus areas of the 26th AGM}}
The 26th AGM will focus on addressing key crime areas that are increasingly affecting the region, including financial crimes, terrorism, human trafficking, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and intellectual property crimes.
These areas have become more interconnected and complex, necessitating a coordinated response from member states.
{{Reviewing resolutions’ implementation}}
At the AGM, Chiefs of Police will review the implementation of previous resolutions and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime.
The meeting will provide an opportunity to assess the challenges faced in implementing these strategies and identify actionable measures to overcome obstacles.
Additionally, the meeting will facilitate the approval of new recommendations and resolutions aimed at improving regional cooperation and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies.
The AGM will also serve as a platform for sharing best practices and experiences, allowing member countries to learn from one another’s successes and challenges in tackling criminal activities.
Through these discussions, EAPCCO will continue to refine its strategies, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are better equipped to address both current and emerging threats.
{{A showcase of tactical excellence}}
This year’s AGM introduces a dynamic new feature: the EAPCCO SWAT Challenge.
Set to take place from January 29-30, 2025, at the Counter-Terrorism Training Center (CTTC) in Bugesera District, the SWAT Challenge will showcase the operational readiness and skills of police tactical units from EAPCCO member countries.
Elite law enforcement teams will compete in various exercises designed to test their physical fitness, teamwork, and tactical expertise in responding to security incidents.
The event will not only serve as a demonstration of the region’s capacity to respond to critical security situations but will also foster knowledge sharing among participating teams.
The best-performing units will be recognized for their excellence in law enforcement, further promoting a spirit of healthy competition and continuous improvement among the region’s law enforcement agencies.
{{EAPCCO Events}}
The AGM key events include the meeting of Chiefs of Police—a supreme decision-making authority of EAPCCO—Council of Ministers, and sideline meetings that include the Permanent Co-Coordinating Committee (PCC) composed of directors of Criminal Investigations and Heads of National Central Bureaus (NCB).
Other sideline subcommittee meetings include those on legal, training, cybercrime, gender and counter-terrorism.
Each session provides a unique opportunity to share experiences, review progress, and discuss new ways to address challenges facing the region.
During the AGM, there is always change of chairmanship to the Chief of Police of the host country.
