Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri

By the start of the 2025/2026 school year, 21% of schools will be newly connected to the internet, with efforts underway to increase that number further.

Technology has become a critical tool in transforming education across Rwanda, from primary schools to universities. Digital tools, including audiovisual books, are increasingly being used to enhance teaching materials and streamline educational processes.

However, school leaders in areas without electricity or internet connectivity face challenges in delivering lessons and submitting digital reports.

At the close of the 2022/2023 school year, Rwanda had a total of 4,923 schools, comprising 1,568 public schools, 2,065 government-subsidized schools, and 1,290 private schools.

Notably, over 80% of these schools were connected to the electricity grid.

However, Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana revealed late last week that more than 500 schools in remote areas still lack electricity, although efforts to connect them to the grid are ongoing.

Nsengimana shared, “Many of these schools are located far from the electricity grid, and we are exploring alternative ways to connect them.”

Currently, about 62% of schools have internet access, but this figure is set to increase significantly.

“Many schools now have electricity, and 62% are connected to the internet. An additional 21% will gain internet access in the first semester of the upcoming 2025/2026 school year, and the process is ongoing,” Nsengimana noted.

Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, speaking at the International Teachers’ Day celebration, acknowledged the ongoing challenges related to electricity and internet access in some schools.

He emphasized the need for a collective effort from all stakeholders to ensure that every school has access to these vital resources.

Statistics from the Ministry of Education show that internet access is already high in certain sectors.

In Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) schools, 83.1% have internet, while internet penetration in general secondary and vocational education schools stands at 75.3%.

In primary schools, 56.5% have internet access, with further improvements expected in the coming years.

Rwanda is among the countries focusing on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and since 2019, it has signed an agreement with Russia to establish a Center for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) in Rwanda.

Speaking to the press on the sidelines of a ministerial roundtable on Financing Africa’s Nuclear Energy Future in Kigali on December 16, 2024, Dr. Gasore emphasized that many developed countries have successfully embraced nuclear energy.

He reiterated that while discussions with Russia continue, nuclear energy projects require careful consideration and long-term planning.

“The project has progressed, and we are in discussions, but nuclear energy requires a thoughtful approach. It’s our first time venturing into this area, so we must proceed cautiously. The projects are moving forward, and when the time is right, we will make a decision to begin implementation,” Dr. Gasore stated.

He noted that before Rwanda embarks on building a nuclear power plant, it is crucial to consult with other countries that already have nuclear facilities. This will help Rwanda learn from their experiences, understand the challenges they faced, and determine the best approach for its own projects.

Dr. Gasore further explained that nuclear energy projects are long-term endeavors.

“It’s not something for the immediate future, but rather a medium to long-term project, often taking over five years. Once a plant is built, it typically operates for about 60 years.

“Therefore, implementation takes between five and ten years. It’s a careful process because, as we know, nuclear accidents, though rare, can have severe consequences. Additionally, there are strict international regulations that must be adhered to, making it impractical to rush the process,” he added.

In August, Russian Ambassador to Rwanda, Alexander Polyakov, announced that experts from Rosatom, Russia’s nuclear energy agency, would visit Rwanda to provide detailed insights on how the projects outlined in the agreements would be executed.

Nuclear power plants are operational in 32 countries, providing more than 10% of the world’s electricity. For example, South Africa produces 8.154 gigawatt hours (GWh) of nuclear electricity per hour, South Korea generates 171.640 GWh, and the United States produces 779.186 GWh.

Nuclear energy has various uses, including electricity generation, medical treatments (especially for serious diseases like cancer, where radiation is used for treatment), security applications (such as in scanning devices), and even in the development of weapons.

To generate electricity from nuclear energy, uranium ore is utilized, which is also used in the production of nuclear weapons.

Investigators are conducting a criminal investigation into murder, terrorist acts, and the illegal circulation of weapons and ammunition “in connection with the death of two servicemen in the capital,” the committee said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov, head of the Russian Armed Forces’ radiological, chemical and biological defense troops, and his assistant were killed by an explosion in a residential building in Moscow.

The committee had previously said it opened a criminal case, adding the blast occurred after the detonation of an explosive device planted in a scooter parked next to the entrance of the residential building.

Conducted in Musanze District on the farmlands of the Twizamure Cyuve cooperative, the study utilized technology to monitor climate and soil conditions. Results showed a productivity rate exceeding 75%.

Dr. Martin Kuradusenge, a lecturer at UR, College of Science and Technology and the principal investigator (PI) of this research, explained that the research provides farmers with valuable insights, enabling them to predict crop yields more effectively.

“We’re presenting the results of three years of research on agricultural forecasting using technology known as Internet of Things (IoT) that tracks climate conditions, such as rainfall, temperature, humidity, and soil moisture” he said.

“This technology works both in the air and the soil, offering farmers a clearer picture of what to expect in the upcoming growing season according to the growth stage of the crop. With this information, farmers can take proactive measures, especially when yield predictions are low and they need support from local authorities.”

Dr. Kuradusenge emphasized that while forecasting cannot be entirely precise due to its predictive nature, a success rate of 75% or higher is considered an achievement.

He confirmed that the research has already produced yield predictions above 75%, and continuous improvements will be made to increase accuracy over time, with a target of 90% or higher.

Therese Uwamahoro, President of the Twizamure Cyuve Cooperative, highlighted the practical benefits of the research.

“This research helps us make informed decisions on what crops to plant, based on the data we gather about our fields. It enables us to avoid losses and optimize our yields,” Uwamahoro said.

“Farming is not just a livelihood; it’s an integral part of national growth, and this partnership with UR is helping us understand seasonal forecasts for both dry and rainy periods,” she added.

Charlene Umuhoza, a student at UR, expressed how the research offered valuable knowledge that will benefit farmers.

“Through this research, I’ve learned how agricultural technology will help solve many of the challenges farmers face. We can apply this knowledge to improve productivity and meet market demands,” she noted.

SMART-CYPS (Smart Crop Yield Prediction System) is the title given to the technology used in this study involving IoT sensors placed in fields to collect data on climate and soil conditions.

This data provides farmers with comprehensive insights, enabling them to optimize farming practices based on their specific needs.

The outcomes of this research were also published in the international scientific journals and can be accessed using the following links: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/13/1/225 and https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43926-024-00079-0

According to RDB, the agreement signed with Harvey’s company, focuses on skills development in film, media, and education, alongside the promotion of health and wellness campaigns.

It also includes plans for establishing an academic institution under Melt Education.

On Thursday December 12, American comedian and television host Steve Harvey Harvey attended the unveiling of the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa last week, marking his second trip to Rwanda in two months.

This project was developed in collaboration with Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

The event held at Kigali Convention Centre also saw the presence of President Paul Kagame and the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

During his earlier visit in November, Harvey discussed investment opportunities in Rwanda’s entertainment sector with President Paul Kagame.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the meeting aims to focus on advancing the readiness of the EASF for regional peace and stability.

The director of the EASF Secretariat, Brig Gen (Rtd) Kahuria Njema commended the expected strategic inputs from the EASF’s Experts Work Group before being forwarded to the next level of policy organs meeting.

Brig Gen Celestin Kanyamahanga, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), as the guest of honor warmly welcomed the delegates from EASF member states, and officiated the opening session of the six-day event under the theme ‘Two Decades of Commitment to Promote Regional Peace and Security’.

In his opening remarks, he encouraged the experts to work in groups to spare the efforts and deliver strong recommendations.

“I urge you to spare your efforts in your discussions to come up with well-thought-out recommendations. This is the only way that will be able to guide the policy organs in making decisions that enhance peace and security, not only in the region but also in Africa as a whole,” he said.

The EASF includes ten (10) member states, namely Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Soudan, and Uganda.

Photos: MoD

On December 12, 2024, the car was unveiled by President Paul Kagame and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), in a ceremony that underscored Rwanda’s growing presence in the automotive sector.

In an interview with IGIHE, Dr. Mucyo expressed her excitement about the completion of the cross car, calling it a significant milestone for both the students and the institution.

“This project is a tremendous opportunity for Rwanda Polytechnic in its mission for skills development, as well as for creating technological solutions,” she said.

“It shows what our students and staff are capable of when they merge theoretical knowledge with practical application.”

The cross car project, designed to be both affordable and locally sourced, is aimed at lowering barriers to entry in motorsports.

Students and instructors from various disciplines collaborated in the design and construction of the vehicle, mainly using locally available materials, which significantly reduces reliance on international suppliers and import taxes.

“This achievement demonstrates the potential to manufacture this car in Rwanda. The fact that Rwandans were involved in its manufacturing highlights that the skills learned at school can be effectively applied in real-world production,” Dr. Mucyo noted.

“We will be able in the future to manufacture this cross car, which is very significant for the motorsports industry,” she added.

Dr. Mucyo also highlighted the broader implications for Rwanda Polytechnic and its future in the motorsports sector.

“It proves that our students can meet industry standards and address real-world challenges,” Dr. Mucyo added.

While the cost of materials was kept low through local sourcing, Dr. Mucyo acknowledged that some components, like the engine, were imported.

The cross car was completed in just one month, with the FIA providing a technician who worked closely with the students to guide them through the necessary specifications.

The car is the first in the world to be built using the blueprints delivered by the FIA to Member Clubs as part of the Affordable Cross Car project.

While many countries saw a sharp rise in malaria cases in 2023, Rwanda’s malaria cases continued to decline.

In contrast to nations like Ethiopia, where malaria cases increased by 1.5 million due to ongoing conflicts, and Madagascar, which reported 1.2 million more cases due to extreme weather events, Rwanda recorded a 36% reduction in malaria cases, with 300,000 fewer cases in 2023 compared to 2022. This marks a consistent decrease in malaria cases over the past four years.

Between 2019 and 2023, Rwanda’s malaria cases dropped from 4.9 million to 749,000.

Several factors contributed to this decline, including a multisectoral approach that involved political engagement, local leadership ownership, and decentralization.

The government also strengthened malaria surveillance systems, using data to direct interventions to the most at-risk areas.

Key strategies included the implementation of Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) in 12 high-endemic districts, widespread distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) in areas with high and moderate transmission, and the introduction of new-generation nets to address pyrethroid resistance.

Access to malaria diagnostics and treatment was expanded, with community care now available for adults, alongside children. Public awareness campaigns promoting free malaria services, preventive measures, and community involvement further contributed to the reduction.

According to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, malaria cases in Rwanda dropped by 88% from over five million cases in 2016/2017 to 623,000 in 2023. Malaria-related deaths also saw a significant decline, from 600 in 2016/2017 to just 51 in 2023.

Besides, the WHO recognizes Rwanda, along with Cabo Verde (which is now malaria-free), as one of the countries making significant strides toward achieving the 2025 malaria reduction target.

The latest raids hit missile bases in Battalion 107 near Zama and weapons warehouses in rural Tartus, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported.

Earlier in the evening, an Israeli jet reportedly struck radar installations at the Deir Al-Zour Military Airport in eastern Syria.

Earlier Sunday, Israeli aircraft targeted former munitions depots dug into mountains in Rural Damascus, causing a series of powerful explosions.

There were no reports of casualties.

These attacks are part of an ongoing military campaign by Israel that began on December 8, targeting any remaining military capabilities linked to Syria’s former leadership, as the country’s new authorities are working to stabilize the country’s security situation.