Reflecting on the escalating violence and uncertainty following the fall of the Assad regime, the Pope urged the international community to seek a political solution that would bring lasting unity to the country without further exacerbating divisions.
During his weekly General Audience, held on the eve of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pope Francis spoke about the critical moment Syria is facing in its history.
According to Vatican News, he emphasized the importance of a resolution that would ensure the country’s stability and prevent additional conflict. The Pope also prayed for the people of Syria, hoping that they would soon be able to live in peace and security in their homeland.
In light of Syria’s shifting political landscape, particularly the rise of new leadership following the collapse of the Assad regime, Pope Francis entrusted the nation to the intercession of the Virgin Mary.
He prayed that Mary’s guidance would help Syrians move forward in peace, while also fostering greater cooperation and mutual respect among the country’s diverse religious communities, which include Sunni and Shia Muslims, as well as Christians.
As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, with the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) gaining ground, Pope Francis called for global prayers not only for Syria but also for peace in other regions affected by conflict, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Myanmar.
He urged the world to unite in prayer, hoping that a path to peace could be found and that stability might return to these troubled areas.
During a press briefing in Geneva on Wednesday, four Special Rapporteurs to the UN Human Rights Council called for greater international accountability for Israel’s actions, which they argue include excessive violence, humanitarian blockades, and the expansion of settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Margaret Satterthwaite, the UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, condemned U.S. efforts to undermine the International Criminal Court through “unacceptable” threats, emphasizing that international justice must be applied fairly and without bias. “It’s time to end this double standard,” she stated.
Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Palestine, highlighted the ongoing human rights violations, citing the high number of civilian casualties and attacks on UN personnel as examples of Israel’s systemic violations.
She also criticized the lack of action from the international community, which she believes has allowed Israel to operate with little consequence. “There are never sanctions on Israel,” Albanese remarked.
“Judicial processes are either ignored or circumvented, trade continues, and diplomatic ties remain intact. Member States seem paralyzed or awestruck, many of them still normalizing the occupation.”
Ben Saul, who specializes in human rights and counterterrorism, condemned Israel’s use of counterterrorism rhetoric to justify violence against Palestinians, noting the persistent dehumanization of Palestinians over the past year.
He called for thorough investigations into these actions and the end of impunity, pointing out that Israel’s actions have largely gone unchallenged by powerful states with the ability to influence change. He specifically called out the U.S. for not using its leverage as a key military supplier to Israel to address these violations.
Finally, George Katrougalos, a Special Rapporteur on promoting a just and equitable international order, warned that the continued lack of accountability for Israel’s actions risks creating a global system where some nations are immune to repercussions for violating international law.
The initiative aimed not only to raise awareness of the country’s extraordinary landscapes but also to underscore Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural exchange.
The gatherings attracted key players from the tourism industry, including tour operators, travel agents, and industry influencers, who were all invited to explore the multifaceted attractions that Rwanda has to offer.
Following the success of the event in Paris, the campaign continued its momentum in Brussels, further cementing Rwanda’s presence on the European tourism map.
The Rwandan Embassy’s chargé d’affaires a.i., Bucyana André, played a pivotal role in engaging Belgian tour operators, effectively showcasing the diverse experiences Rwanda has in store for European travelers.
Rwanda, long known for its breathtaking landscapes, is making waves as a vital tourism hub in Africa. The country has strategically positioned itself within the tourism sector, which has become a significant contributor to its economy.
In the first half of 2023 alone, tourism revenues surged to $247 million, marking a remarkable 56% increase compared to the same period in 2022. These results reflect the positive outcomes of government measures aimed at revitalizing the tourism industry and reinforcing Rwanda’s appeal on the global stage.
Several forward-thinking policies have been pivotal in driving this growth. One standout initiative is Rwanda’s visa policy, introduced in 2018, which allows citizens from all over the world to visit without the need for a visa. This move has positioned the country as one of the most accessible destinations in Africa, fostering increased international interest.
Rwanda’s world-class infrastructure further enhances its attractiveness. The Kigali Convention Centre, opened in 2016, and numerous high-quality hotels, including major international brands such as Marriott, Radisson Blu, and One&Only, have positioned Rwanda as a premier destination for business tourism.
The successful hosting of high-profile events, such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2022, demonstrated the country’s ability to cater to large-scale international gatherings.
Moreover, Rwanda’s dedication to conservation and ecotourism continues to set it apart.
The Volcanoes National Park, home to more than 1,063 mountain gorillas, is a prime example of the country’s successful protective measures. Akagera National Park, once ravaged by poaching, has seen the successful reintroduction of iconic species such as black rhinos and lions, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
Safety remains another cornerstone of Rwanda’s tourism offering, with a reputation for providing a secure and welcoming environment for visitors. The country’s robust safety measures ensure the free movement of people and goods at all times, offering peace of mind to those seeking adventure in the heart of Africa.
In a further demonstration of regional collaboration, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda have launched a joint East African tourist visa, making it easier for travelers to explore all three countries with a single entry. This initiative enhances the region’s appeal, simplifying travel for tourists and fostering a sense of shared tourism potential among the East African nations.
The roadshows in Brussels attracted around 30 travel agents at each event, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and opportunities.
Led by Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, the Rwandan delegation was composed of industry representatives, including Betty Musoni from Primate Safaris, Lambert Hategekimana of Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza of Songa Africa, and Emmanuel Amani from Blue Monkey Tours, among others.
Through a combination of stunning landscapes, sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships, Rwanda is making its mark on the world stage as a leading African tourism destination.
According to EAC Secretariat, the three-day forum provides a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and propose solutions on enhancing economic integration and social development, regional peace and security, progress on developing the constitution for the EAC political confederation and amending the EAC Treaty to serve the now enlarged EAC.
Participants include representatives from EAC Partner States’ governments, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, professional bodies, academia, EAC Organs and Institutions, development partners, and other interest groups.
Speaking during the forum, the Chief Guest, Mr. Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service in Kenya, reiterated President William Ruto’s commitment, as the new Chairperson of the Summit of EAC Heads, to steering the region toward increased economic and social integration.
Mr. Koskei commended EAC’s achievements in intra-regional trade, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
“Let’s encourage jointly working together. The joint hosting of AFCON 2027 will foster unity among Partner States, and build on future initiatives such as joint infrastructure projects, peace, security efforts and social integration programs. These milestones remind us of what we can achieve when we work together,” he noted.
He emphasized that accountability to citizens and efficient use of resources are crucial for regional integration. While commending EAC’s clean audit record and financial management, he called for enhanced transparency and citizen participation through various regional platforms.
He highlighted the Community’s efficiency improvements through institutional strengthening and citizen-focused initiatives like the East African Passport.
“Since the 2016 launch of the EAC e-Passport, member states’ nationals have enjoyed free travel across the region without separate visas or travel documents. Visa exemptions for EAC citizens have enhanced mobility, while efforts continue to harmonize immigration and visa policies in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia,” he noted.
Mr. Koskei further added that the EAC Single Tourist Visa, introduced in 2014, allows tourists to move freely between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, with plans to include more member states.
“Harmonized work permits and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) enable professionals like accountants and engineers to practice across member states,” he stated.
On her part, the EAC Secretary General, Veronica Nduva, highlighted the Community’s significant progress over 25 years, particularly in implementing the Customs Union, Common Market, and Monetary Union protocols.
“These frameworks have allowed for the liberalization of intra-regional trade, reduced barriers to business, and enhanced the movement of goods, services, and people,” she noted.
The Secretary General emphasized progress through initiatives like the Electronic Single Window System and East African Electronic Passport.
“The reduction of transit times for goods, particularly from Mombasa to Kigali, from 21 days to 3 days today, exemplifies the impact of our integration efforts,” she added.
One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) have streamlined customs procedures, reducing border crossing times by 70% and generating annual savings exceeding USD 63 million. Transit times from Mombasa to Kampala have decreased from 18 days in 2007 to 4-5 days currently.
Nduva noted that the Electronic Single Window (ESW) System has simplified customs and trade documentation, while Regional Trucking Initiatives, including a Centralized Monitoring Centre, have enhanced goods tracking and response to emerging issues.
Significant infrastructure upgrades along the Northern Corridor have improved goods flow between Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan.
“These efforts have yielded impressive results in regional trade. Intra-EAC trade grew from $6.2 billion in 2017 to $13.8 billion in 2023. The EAC’s merchandise trade with the rest of the world also rose from $65.3 billion in 2017 to $109.4 billion in 2023,” she added.
Trade between the EAC and Africa grew from $19.4 billion in 2017 to $24.4 billion in 2023, boosted by participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The forum aims to share good practices and lessons from 25 years of regional integration through presentations, recorded stakeholder testimonies (documentaries), and exhibitions.
The meeting will submit clear and practical recommendations to the Secretary General for consideration by the EAC Council of Ministers.
In his message, the Pope emphasized the themes of hope, fraternity, and peace, all conveyed through the Eucharist.
The event, which attracted thousands of participants including clergy, religious, and lay faithful from both Rwanda and beyond, provided an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.
The message, which was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Bishop Vincent Harolimana, Bishop of Ruhengeri and delegate of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR) for the Eucharistic Congresses.
In his message, Pope Francis joined the faithful in Rwanda in their “joy” and “thanksgiving,” celebrating the significance of the event.
Reflecting on the conference’s theme, “Let us fix our gaze on Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist: a source of hope, fraternity, and peace,” he described Communion as the “centre of all Christian life” and a “tangible sign of Christ’s love for humanity.”
The Pope encouraged the faithful to live out this message by embracing the call to “give ourselves to others,” fostering collaboration to “build a civilisation of love.”
He further underscored the Eucharist’s role in inspiring Catholics to become missionaries of fraternity and hope, emphasizing the need to address the various “hungers” humanity faces, particularly the “hunger for meaning.”
Looking ahead to the 125th anniversary of Rwanda’s evangelisation and the upcoming Jubilee, Pope Francis urged the faithful to turn to “Christ, the bread of life,” and extend solidarity to those in vulnerable situations.
“We must be tangible signs of hope,” he reminded them, echoing the message of the Bull of Indiction for the Holy Year.
In his conclusion, Pope Francis highlighted the shared responsibility the Eucharist calls for, not only in responding to humanity’s physical needs but also in nurturing a spiritual hope “in the triune God.”
He stressed that the Eucharist’s nature is “essentially relational,” inviting people to live “in community” and break down barriers of “race, language, or cultural tradition.”
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed more than five years ago, he is accused of advancing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family.
He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in return for assistance with personal matters.
Netanyahu arrived at the Tel Aviv courthouse around 10:00 a.m., where he was met by a mixed crowd of protesters and supporters. Some expressed support, while others urged him to intensify efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Coalition ministers and lawmakers, responding to a call from Netanyahu’s office the previous night, also attended to show support.
At the start of the session, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, criticized the Israeli judicial system, calling the trial “political persecution.” Hadad described the indictment as “flawed and invalid” and argued that the case should have been dismissed.
Netanyahu began his testimony at approximately 11:30 a.m., opening with the statement, “I have waited eight years for this moment to tell the truth as I remember it.” He described his testimony as “an opportunity to puncture the baseless accusations” against him.
Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for more than 17 years, holds the record as the country’s longest-serving leader.
Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.
However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.
In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.
He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.
“Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.
“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,” Brammertz stated.
Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.
He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.
Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.
He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.
Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.
Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.
On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.
RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.
These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.
Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.
This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.
This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.
The promotional event for the “Visit Rwanda” campaign kicked off on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel in Paris and continued on December 10 at the Amigo Hotel in Brussels, Belgium.
The event aimed to showcase Rwanda’s tourist attractions and investment potential in the country’s growing tourism sector.
This initiative aligns with the cooperation agreements within the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes Rwanda alongside nations such as Belgium, France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
Through this partnership, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign, providing a platform for stakeholders in Rwanda’s tourism sector to highlight how they deliver exceptional services to visitors.
The event in Paris gathered around 50 tourism professionals, eager to explore potential collaborations with Rwanda after learning about the country’s opportunities in the sector.
Rwanda’s delegation was led by Kageruka Ariella, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, who was joined by representatives from various Rwandan tour operators: Musoni Betty from Primate Safaris, Hategekimana Lambert from Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza from Songa Africa, and Musonera Mugisha Davidson from Wildlife Tours Rwanda.
RwandAir, represented by Higiro Déogratias, was also present, along with other key participants such as Amani Emmanuel from Blue Monkey Tours, Denis Lefebvre from Palast Tours & Travels, Nsengiyumva Barakabuye from Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Ndandari Philbert from Respafrica Tours.
The event was officially opened by Nkulikiyimfura François, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, who praised the attendees and tourism agency representatives for their contributions to promoting Rwanda’s tourism sector.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura stated, “You are all partners, and we are pleased to advocate for the tourism sector in Rwanda, which will open more doors for visitors eager to explore the beauty of Rwanda. You have the responsibility to provide information that highlights Rwanda and encourages potential visitors to come.”
He highlighted Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, its clean cities recognized as the cleanest in Africa and its rich cultural heritage, including the gorillas, national parks, and the recent inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
“The moment you arrive in Kigali, you will find a city that is not only beautiful but also welcoming, with warm-hearted people eager to share their stories,” he added.
Ambassador Nkulikiyimfura also expressed hope that the event would inspire attendees to become enthusiastic ambassadors for Rwanda, guiding their clients and peers to experience the country’s wonders. He invited them to imagine enjoying a sunset over the volcanoes while savoring Rwandan coffee or tea.
Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, also addressed the attendees, presenting Rwanda’s tourist attractions with visual aids and explanations.
She reminded the audience that citizens of member countries of the OIF, African Union, and Commonwealth can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kanombe Airport at no cost.
Kageruka encouraged the guests to engage with Rwandan tourism stakeholders, creating new connections and discovering the treasures Rwanda has to offer.
The evening’s festivities included traditional Rwandan performances by the Intore, adding cultural depth and vibrancy to the event.
Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.
This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.
Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.
His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.
Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.
He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.
