Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Our military development is for national security- Makolo

Speaking in an interview with Kenya’s NTV on Saturday, February 8, 2025, Makolo addressed the ongoing insecurity in eastern DRC and the repeated accusations that Rwanda is backing M23.

She reiterated that Rwanda’s focus is on strengthening its own security and not interfering in the internal affairs of its neighbor.

She maintained that the conflict in eastern DRC is a Congolese issue that must be resolved internally. She also pointed out that Rwanda is directly affected by the instability across the border, making security a top priority.

During the interview, NTV journalist Michelle Ngele Odhiambo questioned Makolo about M23’s growing military strength, noting that the rebel group has continued to gain ground, including the strategic city of Goma.

She referenced analysts who argue that the scale of M23’s operations suggests external support and further mentioned President Paul Kagame’s recent visit to Turkey, where Rwanda reportedly acquired new military equipment.

There have been claims that some of these weapons found their way into M23’s hands, a suggestion she put forward to Makolo for clarification.

In response, Makolo firmly stated that Rwanda, like any sovereign nation, has the right to develop its military to safeguard national security. She dismissed the notion that Rwanda’s defense investments were meant for anything other than protecting its own borders and people.

“Every country, including Kenya and the DRC, buys weapons from different suppliers. It is every nation’s right to protect its security and build its military. This is not a matter for debate,” she said.

She went on to explain that the weapons in M23’s possession were largely obtained from the Congolese army itself. According to Makolo, each time M23 defeats the Congolese forces in battle, they leave behind significant amounts of military equipment, which the rebel group then uses.

“The primary supplier of weapons to M23 is the Congolese military itself. Every time they engage in battle with M23 and lose, they leave behind large quantities of weapons and equipment. That is how M23 has been able to amass weapons,” she explained.

Makolo reiterated that Rwanda’s primary concern is its own national security, not M23’s activities.
“We are not preoccupied with M23. They are fighting their own battle for their survival and their right to live on their land in peace, without discrimination or ethnically motivated killings,” she said.

“Our concern is the safety of Rwandans and ensuring that our borders remain secure from the Congolese army, the FDLR, or the over 200 armed groups operating in eastern DRC.”

Her remarks come as M23 continues to advance, raising concerns about their next possible target, including Bukavu in South Kivu.

In response to the growing crisis, leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently met in Tanzania.

The summit called for an immediate ceasefire and urged a peaceful resolution through dialogue between the DRC government and all stakeholders, including M23.

February 9, 2025
Ugandan Rugby player Ronnie Kayondo dies after match injury

He died at Kampala Hospital for an injury sustained during the Nile Special Rugby Premiership fixture between Buffaloes Rugby Club and Kampani Eagles RFC on February 8, 2025, at Kyadondo Rugby Club in Kampala.

“It is with deep sorrow that the Kampani Eagles RFC and the Uganda Rugby Union announce the passing of Kayondo Ronnie, a valued member of the Kampani Eagles RFC,” the statement read.

The statement, signed by Adam Kabalega, Chairman of Kampani Eagles Rugby Club, and Godwin Kayangwe, President of the Uganda Rugby Union, further expressed grief over the loss of the young player:

“The Uganda Rugby Union, Kampani Eagles RFC and the wider rugby community mourn the loss of this promising young player, who had so much more to offer. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ronnie’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

While comprehensive statistics on rugby-related fatalities in Uganda are scarce, the sport has witnessed tragic incidents in the past. In 2012, a Kenyan women’s rugby player Lillian Shikoyi died after sustaining a spinal injury during a match at Kyadondo.

Globally, rugby union is recognized as a full-contact sport with a relatively high risk of injury, including fatal and catastrophic spinal injuries.

The Ugandan rugby community has expressed an outpouring of condolences for Kayondo, whose passion and dedication to the sport were widely recognized. His passing is a heartbreaking loss, and he will be remembered for his contributions to Kampani Eagles RFC and the sport in Uganda.

“May the soul of the dearly departed rest in eternal peace,” the statement concluded.

February 9, 2025
Why RRA shut down more than 40,000 taxpayer accounts

This was due to registered businesses that never operated or ceased operations for various reasons. The closure of these accounts led to a reduction of nearly 100,000 small taxable businesses.

Jean Paulin Uwitonze, the Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Services and Communications at RRA, told the national broadcaster (RBA) that the decrease resulted from technological reforms that enabled the identification of registered businesses and taxpayers that were not actually operational.

“With the adoption of digital systems, RRA was able to access information that was previously unavailable, allowing us to make informed decisions. For instance, some young graduates eager to become entrepreneurs would register businesses and receive TINs, but later, many found formal employment, leaving their TINs unused with no tax payments, no imported goods, and no business transactions within the country,” he explained.

Previously, RRA’s digital system imposed penalties on these inactive accounts as non-compliant taxpayers. However, after thorough investigations confirmed that these businesses never operated, the authority opted to close the TINs instead.

Additionally, some TINs were either closed or suspended due to businesses that had been active but later ceased operations.

“There were TINs that were once used for tax payments but later became dormant. After a period of inactivity with no indication of ongoing business operations, some owners even approached us to explain that they had secured employment and stopped running their businesses. Should we continue treating them as taxable businesses? In such cases, we closed or suspended their TINs,” Uwitonze added.

He emphasized that this move was aimed at ensuring that only those required to pay taxes are taxed, clarifying that it does not indicate a decline in the number of taxpayers.

The decision also relieved individuals who had inactive TINs from penalties for non-compliance, despite no longer engaging in business.

In the past fiscal year, RRA closed over 40,000 tax accounts and suspended more than 130,000 others. As a result, the number of taxable small businesses dropped from 465,378 to 382,318, while the number of taxable medium-sized businesses declined from 842 to 786.

February 9, 2025
The hidden cost of staying in your comfort zone

The comfort zone is more than just a place of security; it is a psychological state where routine and predictability reign. While it offers a sense of stability, it can also become a barrier to taking risks, exploring new possibilities, and reaching one’s full potential.

Dependence on the comfort zone often manifests in subtle patterns that can hold individuals back. Identifying these behaviors is the first step toward breaking free and pursuing meaningful growth.

While routines help structure daily life, an overly rigid schedule can stifle creativity and limit experiences. When every day unfolds in an identical manner, it may indicate a reluctance to step into the unknown.

Signs of being trapped in a routine include difficulty adapting to change, discomfort with unpredictability, and a gradual decline in problem-solving abilities.

One of the biggest barriers to growth is an aversion to risk. Many people avoid stepping outside their comfort zones due to fear of failure, judgment, or discomfort.

This hesitance can lead to excessive over planning, missed opportunities, and an unwillingness to embrace challenges that could lead to personal or professional advancement.

Yet, true progress often requires stepping into uncertainty and trusting the process of learning through experience. In reality, overcoming obstacles fosters resilience and paves the way for greater satisfaction.

Many equate staying in their comfort zone with peace and fulfillment, but real growth often comes from facing challenges. The belief that avoiding difficulties leads to a content life can be misleading.

More to this, comfort zone dependency can suppress creativity and hinder innovation. When individuals become too accustomed to the status quo, they resist adopting new ideas or approaches.

This is especially evident in workplaces where employees hesitate to embrace evolving technologies or strategies, limiting both personal and organizational progress. The fear of making mistakes often holds back breakthroughs that could lead to significant achievements.

Another consequence of remaining in the comfort zone is the underutilization of talent and skills. Those who avoid new challenges may find themselves stuck in career stagnation, leading to dissatisfaction and a lack of fulfillment. Without taking initiative to grow, opportunities for career advancement remain limited.

When individuals prioritize comfort over progress, personal and professional goals often take a backseat. The safety of routine can lead to procrastination, with aspirations left unfulfilled. A deep attachment to familiarity may prevent people from taking necessary steps toward success.

Ironically, those who stay in their comfort zones often struggle with impatience when they do attempt growth. Expecting instant results, they become frustrated with the gradual nature of development.

This mindset can make it difficult to embrace the process and appreciate the small victories along the way.
Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is a conscious choice that requires effort and persistence. It involves embracing uncertainty, taking small but deliberate risks, and being open to challenges.

A strategic approach to breaking free includes setting incremental challenges, building resilience through exposure to discomfort, surrounding oneself with a supportive network, and celebrating progress, no matter how small.

Shifting one’s mindset is key to overcoming the limitations of the comfort zone. A growth mindset fosters the belief that challenges present learning opportunities rather than obstacles. By viewing discomfort as a necessary part of development, individuals can push past their fears and unlock their full potential.

Recognizing the restrictive nature of the comfort zone and taking proactive steps to move beyond it can lead to a life filled with growth, fulfillment, and success.

The path to personal and professional advancement begins with the willingness to embrace the unknown and challenge oneself to evolve.

February 9, 2025
Namibia’s ‘founding father’ Sam Nujoma dies aged 95

Nujoma rose to head the lightly populated southern African country on March 21 1990 and was formally recognized as “Founding Father of the Namibian Nation” through a 2005 act of parliament.

He was a longtime ally of Zimbabwean strongman Robert Mugabe, backing Mugabe’s land seizures from white farmers, though at home Nujoma stuck to a “willing buyer, willing seller” policy.

“The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken. Our venerable leader, Dr. Nujoma did not only blaze the trail to freedom, but he also inspired us to rise to our feet and to become masters of this vast land of our ancestors,” the presidency posted on X.

The presidency said Nujoma had been hospitalized for medical treatment over the past three weeks, adding: “Unfortunately, this time, the most gallant son of our land could not recover from his illness.”

Nujoma served his three terms as president from 1990 to 2005 and sought to project himself as a unifying leader bridging political divides. In a country scarred by the legacy of apartheid and German colonial rule, Nujoma’s SWAPO party oversaw a national reconciliation programme under the motto “One Namibia, One Nation”.

In his speeches, Nujoma made a point of repeating the phrase: “A united people, striving to achieve a common good for all members of the society, will always emerge victorious.” His achievements included establishing democratic institutions and prioritizing reconciliation.

Nujoma was born in a village in northwestern Namibia in 1929, when his country was under South African administration. SA had controlled Namibia since World War 1 after a brutal few decades of German colonial rule remembered for the genocide of the Herero and Nama people.

As a boy he looked after his family’s cattle and attended a Finnish mission school, before moving to the coastal town of Walvis Bay and then the capital Windhoek, where he worked for South African Railways, according to a biography posted on the website of Nujoma’s charitable foundation.

Nujoma left his job on the railways to focus his energies on bringing down the apartheid system. In the late 1950s he became leader of the Owambo People’s Organisation, a precursor to liberation movement SWAPO, organizing resistance to the forced relocation of Black people in Windhoek that culminated in the police killing 12 unarmed people and wounding dozens more.

Nujoma was charged with organizing the resistance and arrested. In 1960, he went into exile. He travelled across Africa before reaching the US, where he petitioned the United Nations for Namibia’s independence.
Made SWAPO leader in absentia, Nujoma established its armed wing and in 1966 launched a guerrilla war against the apartheid government.

It took more than a decade of pressure from Nujoma and others before a UN Security Council resolution in 1978 proposed a ceasefire and elections, and another decade for the ceasefire deal to be signed and elections held in late 1989.

SWAPO won a majority in those elections, and Nujoma took office in March the following year.

February 9, 2025
The marriage debate: Why women marry early and men don’t

Although there is no written rule that states when a person is expected to be married, society has developed much more respect for married individuals than those who are single.

It is the desire of every parent to see their child married before they grow old and most times, these parents will pressure their children into finding a worthy lover.

However, much leniency is given to men than women when it comes to seeking out a lover and marrying. Human society ties a woman’s identity to her success in building a home and her capabilities to sustain her family.

Being a spinster has proven to be difficult as pressure is mostly mounted on women from to marry early before they are no longer attractive in the eyes of men. This rhetoric has birthed a popular dating sites or campaigns which most unmarried women attend in hopes of finding a man.

52-year Pascasia Nyinawumuntu, a mother of seven says that women marry early to avoid so many complications, including health, as menopause often begins between 45 and 55 years old, barring women from procreating and starting a biological family with their husbands.

“As young girls, we were raised to always marry early so we could be of use to our husbands. There was an ancient belief of marriage as strictly for procreation and the extension of legitimate lineages unlike these days where people marry for love or just for fun,” she explained.

In the past, women were believed to always find favor in the eyes of the man who would marry them and care for them, therefore making their individuality and desires obsolete as they would eventually end up as family home caregivers.

Today, according to popular opinion, men have always married later than women, except for some men who married early.

With the strong voice of feminism and the recognition of women beyond their matrimonial services, women are beginning to embrace individuality, such as creating a life and career for themselves before choosing to settle and marry, just as men.

While women are told to marry early, between the ages of 20 and 25, men are allowed to ‘hustle’ and be excused from marrying as early. This part helps society embrace the idea of a young girl marrying an older and accomplished man.

A random survey carried out by IGIHE in Kigali City indicates that, on average, “unmarried youth and their parents view 20 to 25 as acceptable ages for women to marry, while ages 23 to 30 are appropriate for men.
Historically, men’s income-earning capabilities were necessary for marriage, while attractiveness and household capabilities were more important for women.

{{Feminism, a pushback on women marrying early}}

Feminists understand the power dynamic between a man and a woman in a traditional marriage, whereby the men are always authoritative and have dominion over their households.

This is because their wives, who have been conditioned to marry early before chasing any personal goal, have to be financially dependent on them (their husbands). Feminists believe that women should shun the idea of marrying early and instead focus on personal growth and achievements before settling to create a family.

Although there have been fights against women ageing without marriage and starting a home, feminists strive to ensure that all women get the chance to choose their lives and what they want with them rather than being conditioned to enjoy such a life for themselves.

Feminists have claimed that early marriages often lead to early childbirth, and this could pose a disaster for women, especially if they are not emotionally or physically prepared to take on such life-threatening roles.

{{Should women marry early or not?}}

Marrying early or marrying at all is best left to any individual who identifies as an adult. Men are pressured to produce off springs and women are asked to marry early while they are fertile.

However, before any man is congratulated for starting a family, he must be scrutinized by those around him as they gauge his financial capacity to understand if he is ready to take on the role of a “breadwinner.”

This scrutiny is why men are often given the freedom to marry whenever they want, as they could also produce off springs at any age, unlike women.

February 7, 2025
RPF’s SG Gasamagera discusses Party’s vision for Rwanda and the future of leadership (VIDEO)

As a pivotal figure in Rwanda’s political transformation, Gasamagera shared his perspectives on how the RPF has led the country through significant progress, its ongoing commitment to unity and progress, and the future direction that the party intends to take in shaping Rwanda’s growth.

{{Leadership as the cornerstone of national development}}

During the interview, Gasamagera explained that the RPF’s leadership philosophy is fundamentally tied to the principles of resilience, unity, and clear strategic direction.

“Under President Paul Kagame’s guidance, the RPF has transformed Rwanda from a post-genocide society into one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies,” he said.

According to him, the party’s vision revolves around leadership that not only holds power but also inspires collaboration and ensures that every Rwandan has a stake in the country’s success.

Reflecting on the party’s role in uniting a divided nation, Gasamagera noted that leadership within the RPF is about more than governance. It’s about healing historical wounds and building a foundation of trust and cooperation among all citizens.

He highlighted that the RPF’s success in Rwanda is rooted in its leadership’s ability to prioritize inclusivity, good governance, and sustainable development. For him, leadership should empower citizens and contribute to a society where everyone can thrive.

As Secretary-General, Gasamagera plays a pivotal role in maintaining the RPF’s values and reinforcing its commitment to social justice, economic opportunity, and national stability. His leadership focuses on ensuring that these values continue to guide the party as it looks ahead to a future of continued progress.

{{The RPF’s vision for the future}}

Looking to the future, Gasamagera spoke with great optimism about Rwanda’s continued progress and the RPF’s role in fostering long-term national development.

He emphasized that Rwanda’s future growth will rely heavily on sectors such as technology, agriculture, and tourism, areas that are already central to the party’s strategic focus.

Gasamagera is particularly passionate about Rwanda’s goal of becoming a regional technology hub, noting that the country’s digital transformation is a crucial pillar of the RPF’s vision. According to him, technological innovation will play a key role in Rwanda’s economic diversification, which is essential for sustainable growth.

The RPF is already investing in digital infrastructure and creating an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship, which Gasamagera sees as essential for Rwanda’s competitiveness on the global stage.

Furthermore, Gasamagera underscored the RPF’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where all citizens have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for upward mobility.

The party’s policies, continue to reflect a dedication to reducing inequality and empowering marginalized communities, ensuring that every Rwandan benefits from the nation’s progress is at the core of the party’s long-term vision.

{{A legacy of unity and progress}}

Gasamagera conveyed a deep sense of responsibility for the RPF’s legacy and the future of leadership within the party. He emphasized the importance of nurturing new leaders who are aligned with the RPF’s core values and who are committed to building on the achievements of the past.

The success of the RPF, he noted, is not solely attributed to the party’s historical leadership but to its ability to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the nation.

In his view, the future of leadership within the RPF lies in ensuring that the party remains relevant, transparent, and accountable while maintaining its focus on national unity and sustainable development. He believes that fostering a new generation of leaders who embrace these principles will ensure the continuity of the party’s vision for Rwanda’s future.

Gasamagera also spoke about the importance of leadership in maintaining Rwanda’s social cohesion. He believes that the RPF’s continued success will depend on how well the party can preserve the unity achieved since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi while navigating the challenges that come with rapid modernization and global interconnectedness.

As the RPF’s Secretary-General, Gasamagera works tirelessly to maintain this balance and ensure that the party remains focused on its core mission of promoting peace, prosperity, and unity. His insights into the RPF’s leadership and vision for Rwanda’s future offer a compelling picture of the party’s unwavering commitment to the nation’s development.

He makes it clear that leadership is the driving force behind Rwanda’s achievements and future growth. As the Secretary-General of the RPF, his focus remains on ensuring that the party stays true to its founding principles while adapting to new challenges and opportunities in an ever-changing world.

The RPF’s legacy, as envisioned is one of sustained unity and progress. A political party that has guided Rwanda from recovery to prosperity and remains dedicated to shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.

February 7, 2025
RCS and Namibia counterparts sign pact advance correctional services

The agreement was signed at the conclusion of a visit by a delegation from Namibia’s Correctional Service, which was in Rwanda from February 4 to 6, 2025.

The ceremony took place on February 6, 2025, with Rwanda represented by the Commissioner General of Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS), Murenzi Evariste, and Namibia represented by the Commissioner General of its Correctional Service, Raphael T. Hamunyela.

The pact aims to facilitate the exchange of technical knowledge, best practices in prisoner management, staff training, and the sharing of information related to correctional services. It also includes provisions for study visits between the two countries, joint research and assessments, as well as cultural and sports exchanges.

During the visit, Hamunyela and his delegation commended Rwanda’s approach to environmental conservation in correctional facilities and the emphasis on protecting inmates’ rights. They also praised the training programs provided to correctional officers in Rwanda, which help enhance their skills.

Similarly, RCS expressed appreciation for Namibia’s vocational training programs within its correctional facilities, which equip inmates with industrial skills, increasing their chances of securing employment or starting their own businesses after reintegration.

Rwanda and Namibia have an existing history of cooperation in various sectors. Since 2015, the police forces of both nations have maintained a partnership, particularly in training programs. By 2022, at least 15 senior Namibian police officers had completed advanced training at Rwanda’s National Police College.

Beyond security cooperation, the two countries have also signed agreements on airspace sharing to enhance trade, tourism, and the movement of people between Rwanda and Namibia.

February 7, 2025
Rwanda’s Embassy in South Africa condemns Kayumba Nyamwasa’s deception

The embassy stated that his narratives align with hate speech and ongoing acts of violence targeting Banyamulenge and Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, particularly those of Tutsi descent.

On February 6, 2025, the embassy expressed its concerns via X in response to South African news outlet Newzroom Afrika, which had recently given Kayumba a platform to share what it called his “truth” about the security crisis in eastern DRC.

This controversy stems from growing tensions between Rwanda and South Africa, following remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who labeled the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) as “rebels” and denied key aspects of his discussions with President Kagame regarding the war in eastern DRC.

South African troops are deployed in DRC under the regional military coalition fighting M23 rebels, and some of them were recently killed in clashes.

After interviewing Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, Newzroom Afrika deleted the discussion and instead aired an interview with Kayumba Nyamwasa, where he made inflammatory remarks about Rwanda’s leadership.

In a 33-minute and 30-second interview, Kayumba made several accusations against the Rwandan government, even going as far as legitimizing the FDLR, a militia responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, while discrediting M23, which has been fighting for the rights of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese.

The Rwandan Embassy in South Africa reminded the public that Kayumba, despite his attempts to portray himself as innocent, has been actively involved in destabilizing Rwanda through the Rwandan National Congress (RNC) and its armed wing, P5.

“Since 2012, Kayumba’s RNC and its P5 coalition have recruited and trained rebels in eastern DRC with the intent of toppling Rwanda’s leadership. Though Kayumba and his associates have failed in their objectives, these rebel groups have contributed to terrorism and targeted attacks against Tutsi Congolese, with support from the Kinshasa government,” reads the statement.

The embassy further pointed out that Kayumba’s collaboration with genocidal FDLR forces has worsened the humanitarian crisis, forcing many civilians into exile across the region.

“Rwanda urges the media to exercise caution and avoid giving a platform to armed groups that threaten peace and security in our region,” the embassy added.

On February 2, 2025, Yolande Makolo also took to X to expose Kayumba’s deceptive tactics. She noted that Newzroom Afrika’s decision to delete the interview about South African troops and instead air an interview with a fugitive convicted in absentia of a 24-year prison sentence by a Rwandan military court confirmed South Africa’s ulterior motives.

Kayumba Nyamwasa was convicted on January 14, 2011, on charges including forming a terrorist group, attempting to destabilize the country, and violating national laws. His crimes date back to 2010, when grenade attacks in Kigali killed multiple civilians.

Over the years, various reports have linked Kayumba to efforts in eastern DRC to recruit fighters for a planned attack on Rwanda.

February 7, 2025
Rwanda in talks with Egyptian firm to establish a pharmaceutical factory

Pharco Pharmaceuticals, founded in 1983 by Dr. Hassan Abbas Helmy, is one of Egypt’s major pharmaceutical firms. It produces a wide range of medications under the Pharco brand and distributes them in over 50 countries.

In 2019 alone, the company sold 750 million medicine packages globally. Some of its key products include Acne Zinc for skin treatment, Alambuphine for fever relief, and Alfatral, used in the treatment of urinary tract infections.

On Thursday, President Paul Kagame met with a delegation from Pharco Pharmaceuticals, led by its CEO, Dr. Sherine Abbas Helmy. The discussions were also attended by Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana.

According to Village Urugwiro, the meeting focused on identifying areas of collaboration between Rwanda and the pharmaceutical firm, particularly in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

Before meeting President Kagame, Dr. Sherine Abbas Helmy and his delegation also held discussions with Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

Following the meeting, RDB stated, “The discussions explored opportunities to expand access to essential medicines, conduct clinical trials, and establish local pharmaceutical manufacturing.”

Rwanda has been making significant investments in its healthcare sector, aiming to improve medical services and modernize healthcare infrastructure. These efforts seek to reduce the number of Rwandans seeking medical treatment abroad while attracting international patients to the country’s healthcare facilities.

If the pharmaceutical factory project is launched, it will complement Rwanda’s ongoing initiative to establish a vaccine manufacturing plant in partnership with Germany’s BioNTech.

Additionally, in November, RDB signed an agreement with Bio Usawa Inc. to build a pharmaceutical plant specializing in the production of treatments for severe eye diseases, including those affecting diabetic patients.

February 7, 2025