The bus, operated by International Express, was traveling from Kigali to Musanze when it veered off the road and rolled down a hill, approximately 800 meters from the main road.
Rulindo District Mayor, Mukanyirigira Judith, had earlier confirmed 16 fatalities, but the death toll later rose to 20 lives which had been lost in the accident. She said that the bus was carrying 52 passengers when it lost control in the mountainous area.
“The vehicle went off the road and rolled down the slope. We are still investigating the cause of the accident,” said Rwanda National Police spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga.
The Government of Rwanda issued a statement expressing its condolences to the families of the victims. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente conveyed the government’s deepest sympathy and confirmed that the injured were immediately transferred to local hospitals for medical care.
“The Government of Rwanda extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in today’s tragic road accident that claimed 20 lives and left several others injured in Rusiga Sector, Rulindo District,” he said in a statement.
The government has assured continued support for the bereaved and the injured, emphasizing the importance of road safety.
“We remind all road users, especially drivers, to follow the laws and regulations concerning road safety to prevent accidents and save lives,” added the Prime Minister.
The new operating times were announced by the administration of North Kivu, which was established by M23 rebels following their recent capture of the area.
According to a statement from Governor Bahati Musanga Joseph, the border will now open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM, providing a longer window for people and goods to cross.
“Starting from Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Grande Barrière border (La Corniche) connecting Rwanda and the DRC will open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM,” the statement said.
Musanga emphasized that officials on both sides of the border would work together to ensure the smooth flow of activities and keep the crossing efficient and safe for all.
Previously, before the M23 rebels took control, the border’s opening time was later in the morning, and it closed earlier in the evening, limiting the time available for movement.
Speaking at a consultative meeting organized by the Rwanda Council of Churches and Religious Organizations on family well-being and child protection, she emphasized the need for religious groups to address issues affecting Rwandan families.
Uwimana referenced advice given by President Kagame during the National Prayer Breakfast, urging everyone to fulfill their responsibilities better. “No one is perfect, but we must all do what is right,” she advised.
While Rwanda has made strides in family development and children’s rights, challenges remain, especially those related to conflict. A 2024 report from the Rwanda Governance Board highlighted issues such as alcoholism, lack of family communication, infidelity, and abuse of technology.
The Minister stressed the importance of nurturing children in a way that prepares them for the future. “Children are raised at home, in schools, in churches, and on social media. We must reflect on the upbringing we provide,” she noted.
She also emphasized that family development should respect children’s rights, focusing on guidance with love, compassion, and authority. “Parental guidance is always necessary,” she added.
Minister Uwimana called for stronger collaboration and resources to prevent family issues, urging a proactive approach rather than reactive measures.
On his part, Archbishop of Kigali, Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, reinforced the importance of family as the foundation for national development. He called on religious leaders to assess whether current values align with the needs of building healthy families.
Both leaders agreed that religious organizations play a crucial role in shaping families and must work together to find sustainable solutions for future generations.
This statement was made by M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, on February 11, 2025, after leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) called for the airport’s reopening to facilitate humanitarian aid, three days earlier.
“The technical issues, including unexploded bombs and the damaged runway, have created obstacles to reopening Goma’s international airport,” Kanyuka explained.
In addition, EAC and SADC leaders urged M23 to open key roads, such as the Goma-Bunagana, Goma-Lubero, and the route linking Goma to Bukavu through Lake Kivu.
In response, M23 confirmed that all these roads and water routes are accessible, but called on the SADC forces present in the DRC to use the available routes and return to their home countries.
Kanyuka further stated that while M23 supports the decisions made at the summit, especially regarding political talks with the DRC government, M23 must be part of the discussions on how these decisions will be implemented.
He also reminded that M23 declared a ceasefire on February 3, but reported that DRC and Burundi forces were preparing attacks on civilians in areas under M23 control, including Nyabibwe and the Kalehe center. He warned that M23 would retaliate if these attacks continue.
The spokesperson stated that if SADC and Burundi forces want peace in eastern DRC, they must respect the decisions made by EAC and SADC leaders and withdraw from the region.
The call, issued in a letter signed by Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, comes in response to an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, which halted the disbursement of USAID and Center for Disease Contral funds pending review.
The funding suspension has affected numerous healthcare workers whose salaries and operations depended on American financial assistance.
“With immediate effect, all activities related to the disbursement of federal financial assistance have been paused. As a result, operations and emoluments directly supported by the U.S. government are suspended,” Dr. Atwine stated in the letter.
“However, in the meantime, we encourage contracted staff willing to continue working in the spirit of patriotism as volunteers to reach out for possible integration into the existing healthcare system,” she added.
The funding freeze has raised concerns about potential disruptions in essential health services, particularly in HIV/AIDS programs, maternal health, and infectious disease prevention. Uganda heavily relies on foreign aid, with U.S. funding playing a critical role in supporting public health initiatives.
Some affected health workers have expressed frustration over the government’s call for voluntary service.
“Many of us have families to feed and bills to pay. It’s not realistic to expect us to work without pay,” said a healthcare worker formerly supported by USAID, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Others worry about the long-term impact of the suspension on Uganda’s health system. “These programs have saved millions of lives. If funding is not restored soon, we could see a serious crisis,” said Dr. James Okello, a senior medical officer.
The Ugandan government says it is in discussions with U.S. officials to find a resolution. “We remain optimistic that engagements with the U.S. government will yield a positive outcome,” Dr. Atwine reassured, urging health workers to stay patient during the process.
However, with no immediate solution in sight, the uncertainty has left many health workers and beneficiaries anxious about the future of critical medical programs in the country.
His burial in Aswan was in accordance with his personal wishes, as explicitly stated in his will. This decision was not arbitrary but deeply rooted in historical, religious, and familial significance, reinforcing Aswan’s profound connection to the Ismaili faith and Aga Khan IV’s legacy.
Aswan, a city in southern Egypt, holds immense historical importance for the Ismaili Muslim community. The region was once part of the Fatimid Caliphate, a Shia Ismaili dynasty that ruled vast territories from the 10th to the 12th centuries.
The Fatimids, who established Cairo and Al-Azhar University, played a significant role in shaping Ismaili doctrine and governance. Given this historical connection, Aswan remains a sacred location for Ismailis worldwide.
Aga Khan IV, throughout his lifetime, deeply valued the heritage and contributions of the Fatimid Caliphate to Ismaili thought and governance.
By choosing Aswan as his final resting place, he reinforced the spiritual and historical link between the present-day Ismaili community and its historical origins. This act serves as a reminder of the Ismaili faith’s longstanding presence in the region and its continuous influence on global Islamic culture.
Beyond its historical significance, Aswan also held deep personal and familial meaning for Aga Khan IV. His grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan III, who was instrumental in the modern development of the Ismaili community, is buried there alongside his wife, Begum Om Habibeh.
The choice to be buried near them reflects a strong familial connection and continuity of leadership within the Ismaili Imamat.
Aga Khan III was a prominent advocate for Muslim unity, education, and socio-economic development, and his contributions to the Ismaili community and the broader Muslim world were profound. Aga Khan IV carried forward this legacy by emphasizing modernization, social progress, and global philanthropy.
His burial near his grandfather and grandmother in Aswan symbolizes the continuation of their shared vision for the Ismaili community and acknowledges the historical role Aswan played in his family’s legacy.
Throughout his leadership, Aga Khan IV was known not only for his religious guidance but also for his extensive contributions to philanthropy, economic development, and global diplomacy.
His work, particularly in East Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East, focused on improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for marginalized communities.
His investments in Africa, particularly through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), spanned over six decades, supporting numerous institutions and projects that transformed lives. His decision to be buried in Aswan may also reflect his appreciation for Egypt’s role as a bridge between Africa, the Middle East, and the Islamic world.
Aswan, known for its serene beauty along the Nile, provides a peaceful resting place befitting a leader who dedicated his life to fostering harmony, development, and spiritual guidance.
Therefore, Aga Khan IV’s burial in Aswan, Egypt, was not a random choice but a deeply meaningful one.
It reflects the historical significance of the city to the Ismaili faith, its deep ties to his family, and his broader vision for a connected, progressive, and globally engaged Muslim community.
By resting in Aswan, he solidifies his legacy as a bridge between history and the future, between faith and modernity, and between his ancestors and future generations of Ismailis.
The launch took place on February 10, 2025, simultaneously across six sub-Saharan African countries, including Rwanda. The others are Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone and Namibia.
This groundbreaking initiative, backed by £3.5 million in funding from the UK Government’s Ayrton Fund, aims to address Africa’s energy challenges through circular economy principles. Priority will be put on knowledge transfer, skills development, and policy integration to ensure lasting impact.
CEPREC will drive renewable energy innovation by repurposing electronic waste and developing circular microgrids. The initiative brings together academia, government, and industry to pioneer sustainable energy solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges.
Professor Muyiwa Oyinlola, Director of CEPREC and Professor of Innovation for Sustainable Development at De Montfort University, explained the project’s transformative vision.
“CEPREC was set up to change the way we think about waste. Turning it into opportunity, empowering communities, and driving economic transformation. This initiative will set a new benchmark for sustainable energy solutions across Africa.”
Africa faces a stark energy gap, with access rates varying widely across the continent. South Africa enjoys an 85% electricity access rate, while rural areas in Sierra Leone struggle with just 5%.
Meanwhile, economies differ significantly, from Nigeria’s $477 billion GDP to Sierra Leone’s $4 billion economy. These disparities highlight the urgent need for localized, scalable energy solutions, a challenge CEPREC is uniquely positioned to address.
“When technology is implemented without local capacity to maintain and expand it, sustainability is compromised. By integrating circular economy principles into Africa’s energy sector, we are creating a resilient and sustainable future,” said Professor Layi Alatise, Deputy Director (Engineering) of CEPREC.
In Rwanda, CEPREC is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the country’s green energy ambitions. Dr. Barry Rawn, Head of CEPREC in Rwanda, highlighted the significance of the initiative.
“The future of energy in Africa lies in local innovation and resource efficiency. By repurposing lithium-ion batteries and solar e-waste, CEPREC is proving that sustainable, low-carbon solutions can be both economically viable and socially impactful,” he said.
CEPREC is also working closely with Chatham House to ensure its research translates into actionable policy. Dr. Patrick Schroeder, Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House and CEPREC’s policy lead, emphasized the importance of international collaboration.
“The transition to a circular economy is not just an environmental imperative; it requires a comprehensive international policy framework that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices across all sectors.”
The launch marks the beginning of an ambitious long-term vision. CEPREC’s approach aligns with key UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, explained the government’s decision to adjust taxes. He emphasized that taxes play a crucial role in national development.
“For a country to develop, we need financial ability, and that comes from taxes. These are fair and realistic taxes that people can afford,” he said.
He clarified that the tax changes will not all take effect immediately but will be implemented over a period of four years until 2029. The main goal, he said, is to reduce dependence on foreign aid while strengthening the country’s economy.
The new tax reforms fall into three categories. The first involves existing taxes where certain exemptions are being removed. For example, VAT exemptions on electronic devices like phones and computers were introduced to encourage digital adoption. Since nearly 80% of Rwandans now own phones, the exemption is being lifted.
The second category includes tax increases on certain products like cigarettes and alcohol. The third category introduces a digital services tax on platforms like Netflix and Amazon, which Rwandans access from abroad.
The government believes these changes will boost revenue while ensuring fairness in taxation. “Not all these taxes will be felt at once, but they will help us build a stronger and more self-reliant economy,” Murangwa added.
With these measures, Rwanda is taking firm steps toward financial independence, ensuring sustainable growth without over-reliance on external funding.
Jacqueline Mutesi, a bar owner in Gitega Sector, Nyarugenge district expressed uncertainty on how the new tax plan rolls out in the coming days during its implementation.
“We are not sure if our client will stop coming through if the price of the beers increases. We will just wait to see what happens,” she said.
Meanwhile, pressing security concerns, particularly the recent fighting in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and its effects on Rwanda were also discussed and the government expressed condolences to the families of the 16 civilians from Rubavu District who lost their lives when shells landed on Rwandan territory.
Additionally, the Cabinet reviewed the government’s efforts in assisting those who fled the conflict, including facilitating the transit of United Nations (UN) staff members from Goma.
The meeting also considered the outcomes of the February 8, 2025, gathering of Heads of State from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which reaffirmed a political resolution as the preferred approach to addressing the instability in eastern DRC.
The performance of the 2025A agricultural season was also reviewed confirming strong yields driven by increased farmer participation and strategic government interventions. It was noted that the use of climate-resilient crops, improved harvesting methods and better storage facilities significantly boosted productivity.
Finally, the Cabinet approved two major policies aimed at driving national development. The Energy Policy and the National Urban Planning Policy.
For some time now, messages encouraging girls to embrace vocational training have been widely shared through the media and other public spaces. These efforts are paying off, as more girls are now joining TVET schools.
RTB’s Director General, Eng. Paul Umukunzi, noted that while the number of girls in TVET schools is still lower than that of boys, the gap is much smaller compared to previous years.
“Girls now make up 43% of students in technical, vocational, and training schools. The challenge is that they tend to concentrate in certain programs while avoiding others,” he said. In 2023, only 15% of TVET students were girls.
Umukunzi explained that the government has introduced initiatives to encourage girls to enroll in fields they traditionally avoided due to cultural perceptions.
“For example, in construction and manufacturing, the number of girls remains low. We have introduced programs to show them that they are just as capable as their male counterparts.”
Among these initiatives is a scholarship program designed to increase female participation in underrepresented fields, with RTB planning to award scholarships to 4,000 girls.
Additionally, the government is improving infrastructure in TVET schools to make them more accommodating for female students.
“The equipment we purchase today is modern and does not require excessive physical strength. Even though strength differences are often exaggerated, technological advancements now ensure that no job is exclusive to men,” he added.
Established by the Rwandan government in 2020, RTB is tasked with enhancing the quality of technical and vocational education to support economic development and improve the well-being of citizens.
Trump’s order specifically criticizes the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024, which allows the South African government to take private land without compensation in certain cases.
The order states, “It is in shocking disregard of its citizens’ rights that the Republic of South Africa recently enacted a law that enables the government to seize land owned by ethnic minority Afrikaners without compensation.”
The U.S. government announced that it will stop providing aid to South Africa and will offer refugee status to White Afrikaners who want to leave the country due to alleged racial discrimination.
“The United States will promote the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees escaping government-sponsored race-based discrimination,” the order emphasized.
Beyond the land law, Trump’s administration also accuses South Africa of taking positions that go against U.S. interests, such as supporting Palestine in the International Court of Justice and strengthening its relationship with Iran.
The order states that South Africa’s actions “undermine U.S. foreign policy and pose national security threats to “our” nation and allies.
The South African government responded on Saturday, strongly rejecting the claims. Chrispin Phiri, a spokesperson for the International Relations Department, called the executive order misleading and lacking factual accuracy.
“It is disappointing to see such misinformation being spread about our country,” he posted on X. The ruling African National Congress (ANC), which leads South Africa’s government, also reacted to Trump’s offer of refugee status for Afrikaners.
The party’s secretary general posted an image online showing a Black man standing at an open door, appearing to gesture Afrikaners to leave the country.
The South African government insists that land reform is necessary to address historic inequalities. It argues that White South Africans, not just Afrikaners, still own about 70% of the country’s land.
Officials say the law is not meant to target any race but will be used only when land is needed for public projects, such as schools, and that owners will receive “fair and equitable compensation.”
Emma Powell, a spokesperson for the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA), criticized the government’s approach. She told the media, “For decades, the DA has opposed the ANC’s race-based policies. These policies have only benefited the political elite while most South Africans remain in poverty.”
Powell added that her party plans to take legal action to protect property rights and will send representatives to Washington, D.C., to discuss the issue with U.S. officials. “It is time for the ANC to rethink both its domestic and foreign policies, which are hurting our country,” she said.
The executive order has been welcomed by some Afrikaner groups. AfriForum, a civil rights organization representing many Afrikaners, said it was grateful for Trump’s intervention.
“This is a direct response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s irresponsible actions,” the group said in a statement. However, AfriForum insisted that Afrikaners still have a future in South Africa and called for solutions to protect their rights.
Not everyone in South Africa is concerned about Trump’s move. Julius Malema, firebrand leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), dismissed the order and called for even stronger ties with countries like Russia and China.
“Given the U.S. aggression against South Africa, we should strengthen our alliances with BRICS nations to avoid unnecessary confrontations with maniacs like Donald Trump,” Malema wrote on X.
Malema has been a controversial figure, having faced hate speech charges for singing an anti-apartheid struggle song with lyrics calling for violence against White farmers.
The dispute between Trump and South Africa adds another layer of tension between the two nations, raising questions about the future of their diplomatic and economic relationship.
