The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was a year-end celebration for 2024. During his address, the President reflected on Rwanda’s key moments throughout the year, both positive and challenging, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements and learning from setbacks.
He highlighted that this year included remembering Rwanda’s tragic history. Despite the pain, he stressed that Rwanda continues to commemorate its past while rebuilding and marking 30 years of liberation.
“This year, we remembered our loved ones for the 30th time. It was a year of remembrance and rebuilding, alongside commemorating 30 years of liberation,” he said.
The President also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the electoral process and addressed the recent Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. He noted that the outbreak has been successfully contained and extended condolences to families who lost their loved ones.
He commended healthcare workers and all individuals who risked their lives to safeguard others during these challenging times.
President Kagame underscored that Rwanda’s accomplishments should be celebrated as they are vital for the nation’s growth. However, he cautioned against complacency.
“As we celebrate, let us remain vigilant, both individually and collectively. We will not allow anyone to disrupt our security—not now, not ever,” he affirmed.
This decision, conveyed by Burundi’s ambassador to the African Union, Willy Nyamitwe, deals a blow to regional peacekeeping efforts as the mission prepares to commence operations in 2025.
At the heart of the dispute is Burundi’s objection to Somalia’s decision to limit its contribution to 1,041 soldiers, despite Burundi’s request to deploy at least 2,000 troops. Ambassador Nyamitwe’s position aligns with that of Djibouti’s Ambassador Abdi Mohamud Eybe, who currently chairs the African Union Peace and Security Council.
Burundi first deployed troops in Somalia in December 2007 as part of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). They helped in the recapturing key strategic locations in Mogadishu, including the Defense Ministry compound, in operations that involved heavy ground combat.
Their contributions have been applauded by Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur expressing gratitude for their support.
Some of the forces expected to take part in the mission include Uganda, Ethiopia and Egypt among others.
Burundi’s withdrawal comes amid Somalia’s plans to exclude Ethiopian forces from AUSSOM, a move driven by sovereignty concerns and fears of Ethiopia reframing Somalia’s security challenges in ways that could impact regional dynamics.
Reports also highlight Burundi’s resistance to deploying troops to the contested Gedo region, an area marked by tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia.
Currently, Somali officials are working to ensure a smooth handover of positions previously held by Burundian troops to the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF).
Minister Nur has called for the establishment of a technical team to facilitate this transition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining security to prevent any opportunities for Al-Shabaab to exploit gaps.
The illness, which began spreading in late October, has claimed dozens of lives and primarily affects children under five years old.
In its latest statement, WHO revealed that tests conducted on 430 samples identified multiple pathogens, including Influenza A (H1N1), rhinoviruses, SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing COVID-19), parainfluenza viruses, and Human Adenovirus.
“… these findings suggest that a combination of common and seasonal viral respiratory infections and falciparum malaria, compounded by acute malnutrition led to an increase in severe infections and deaths, disproportionately affecting children under five years of age”, reads the statement in part.
According to weekly updates by the Ministry of Public Health, the number of positive cases so far recorded stands at 891 including 48 deaths.
Malaria and acute malnutrition have intensified the severity of the outbreak. WHO noted that these overlapping infections disproportionately impact young children, leading to a significant rise in severe cases and deaths.
The DRC Ministry of Public Health has reported 891 cases and 48 deaths to date. However, the actual toll is believed to be higher due to unreported community deaths before November 29, when the outbreak was formally recognized.
The illness presents symptoms such as high fever, cough, generalized body aches, sore throat, and muscle pain. Complications like severe anemia, respiratory issues, and metabolic disorders have further increased mortality rates, particularly among malnourished children.
Roger Kamba, the DRC’s Minister of Public Health, Hygiene and Social Security, confirmed the government’s efforts to provide free treatment for all reported cases at the General Reference Hospital and Nsakala Panzi Secondary Center.
These efforts are supported by the national nutrition program and UNICEF, which have intervened to mitigate the crisis.
The National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) further clarified that the disease involves co-infections of multiple viruses and malaria, occurring against a backdrop of acute malnutrition.
Logistical challenges have delayed response efforts, with WHO and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) facing significant barriers, including poor road networks and a lack of diagnostic tools in remote regions.
Professor Placide Mbala, a virologist at the University of Kinshasa, noted that until recently, teams lacked nasopharyngeal swabs needed to identify the pathogens, further delaying an effective response.
Despite these challenges, WHO has deployed multidisciplinary rapid response teams to enhance diagnosis and treatment. Their ongoing efforts aim to mitigate the outbreak’s impact and prevent further fatalities by addressing both immediate medical needs and underlying vulnerabilities, particularly malnutrition and food insecurity.
Following the outbreak, there is need for stronger healthcare systems and proactive measures to address the factors contributing to such crises in vulnerable regions. WHO and its partners remain committed to reducing the outbreak’s toll and supporting the DRC in building long-term resilience against similar health emergencies.
The match began cautiously, with both teams focused on maintaining their defensive structures. South Sudan, known for their resilience, matched Rwanda’s intensity in the early exchanges.
Despite the slow start, Arsène Tuyisenge tested South Sudan’s goalkeeper Juma Jenaro with a direct shot in the 10th minute, earning Rwanda their first corner of the match.
Amavubi’s midfield trio—Jean Bosco Ruboneka, Gilbert Mugisha, and Jean Claude Niyomugabo—controlled the tempo, forcing several saves from Jenaro. Didier Mugisha came close to opening the scoring in the 20th minute, missing a rebound from the post with only the goalkeeper to beat.
As the first half progressed, Rwanda continued to dominate possession, but South Sudan’s defense held firm. In the 35th minute, Gilbert Mugisha’s free kick struck the woodwork, and Didier Mugisha was quick to capitalize on the rebound, tapping the ball past Jenaro to give Rwanda a 1-0 lead.
Rwanda had a golden opportunity to double their advantage in the dying moments of the first half. A South Sudanese defender handled the ball in the penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty. However, captain Kevin Muhire’s effort was saved by Jenaro, leaving the score at 1-0 heading into halftime.
The second half began with Rwanda attacking with renewed vigor. Muhire redeemed himself in the 55th minute, weaving through South Sudan’s defense to slot home Amavubi’s second goal. The home crowd erupted in celebration as Rwanda seemed poised to secure a convincing win.
Despite trailing 2-0, South Sudan refused to back down. Substitute David Sebit capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 81st minute, firing a powerful shot past Adolphe Hakizimana to make it 2-1. Amavubi pushed forward in search of a third goal, but missed chances from Ruboneka and others to keep the score line unchanged.
The Tunisian referee added three minutes of stoppage time, but neither side could alter the outcome. Rwanda’s victory marked a valiant effort but fell short of the desired aggregate result, leaving fans both hopeful and uncertain about their team’s CHAN 2024 prospects.
{{Aggregate deadlock and CECAFA rankings}}
The 2-1 win brought the aggregate score between Rwanda and South Sudan to 4-4, but South Sudan was eliminated on the away goals rule after conceding more goals at home in the first leg, which ended 3-2 in Juba.
In the CECAFA region rankings, Sudan emerged as the top team with six points after a dominant 4-1 aggregate victory over Ethiopia. Rwanda and South Sudan each finished with three points, while Burundi remained at zero points with their second match against Uganda still pending.
The CECAFA region is allotted four slots in the CHAN finals. Three of these are automatically taken by the host nations—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—leaving only one slot for the remaining countries to contest.
With Sudan securing the top spot, Amavubi’s fate now lies in the hands of CAF, which is yet to decide on replacements for Libya and Tunisia, who withdrew from the tournament.
{{Hopes for CAF’s decision}}
Although Rwanda missed out on direct qualification, there is still a glimmer of hope. CAF must fill the void left by Libya and Tunisia’s withdrawal, and Rwanda could be considered as one of the replacement teams.
Caretaker coach Jimmy Mulisa, who stepped in for head coach Frank Spittler during his holiday absence, expressed mixed feelings after the match.
“The boys gave everything on the pitch today. We are proud of the win, but unfortunately, the aggregate result was not in our favor. Now we wait and hope for good news from CAF,” Mulisa said.
Amavubi’s victory over South Sudan showcased the team’s potential, with standout performances from players like Kevin Muhire and Didier Mugisha. However, the missed penalty and defensive lapses highlighted areas that need improvement if Rwanda is to compete at the highest level.
As the team awaits CAF’s decision, fans remain optimistic that Rwanda will join the CHAN 2024 tournament, set to be hosted in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
{{Final Standings in CECAFA Region CHAN Qualifiers:}}
• Sudan: 6 points
• Rwanda: 3 points
• South Sudan: 3 points
• Burundi: 0 points (pending second match against Uganda)
With the CHAN 2024 finals fast approaching, Amavubi’s journey is far from over. Their spirited performance against South Sudan is a testament to their resilience, and should CAF grant them a spot, Rwanda will undoubtedly aim to make a strong impression on the regional stage.
At the age of two, his family relocated to Chicago, USA, in search of safety and opportunities. That move, though daunting, set the stage for an extraordinary journey.
Rugamba grew up in a household where challenges were constant, but so was a deep-rooted sense of determination. His mother, Daniella Esperance Umutanguha, was the cornerstone of their survival.
A single parent raising ten children, including some she adopted after they were orphaned by the Genocide, Daniella’s life was a testament to resilience. She worked tirelessly while pursuing a nursing degree in a foreign country, often sacrificing her own needs to ensure her children had a future. Emmanuel often credits her strength as the inspiration behind his perseverance.
Sports entered Rugamba’s life almost by chance. His older siblings played basketball, but at just nine years old, he was too young to join them. To keep him occupied, Daniella signed him up for football.
It was a simple decision that would change the trajectory of his life. Rugamba quickly fell in love with the game, finding a sense of belonging on the field that extended beyond the boundaries of sport. Football became his escape, his passion, and his purpose.
As he grew, Rugamba’s talent and work ethic began to stand out. In high school, his coach, the late Tim Lavery, saw his potential early on. Lavery’s words, “If you keep playing like this, someone’s going to pay for your college,” became a driving force for the young athlete.
For him, football was more than a game; it was a lifeline. He realized that excelling on the field could provide a scholarship, easing the financial strain on his mother and opening doors to a brighter future.
Rugamba’s hard work paid off when he earned a scholarship to the University of Iowa, where he transitioned from wide receiver to cornerback. His versatility and determination on the field caught the attention of scouts.
Though he went undrafted in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns signed him as a free agent.
That moment was a culmination of years of perseverance. Becoming the first Rwandan to sign with the NFL was a milestone not just for Rugamba but for an entire community inspired by his journey.
Although his time with the Browns was brief, Rugamba’s resolve never wavered. He joined the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League in 2022, where he thrived. By 2023, he had earned a spot on the CFL West All-Star Team, solidifying his place as a standout athlete. His career trajectory underscores the value of persistence and adaptability, even in the face of setbacks.
Rugamba’s story is about more than his accomplishments on the field. It is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. As a refugee who turned his struggles into motivation, he embodies hope for countless displaced people around the world.
For him, every achievement represents more than personal success—it is an opportunity to inspire others to dream big, regardless of their circumstances. The dream is to give back through mentorship programs, football camps, and initiatives that help youth unlock their potential.
The connection to his Rwandan heritage remains a vital part of his identity. Though he has yet to visit Rwanda, Rugamba carries his roots with pride. He envisions a future where American football is introduced to the country, providing young Rwandans with opportunities to excel in sports.
Off the field, Rugamba actively engages in outreach programs through the BC Lions, using his platform to mentor young athletes and share his story. He is determined to show that success is possible through hard work, faith, and perseverance.
His path from a refugee camp to NFL stardom is a story of hope, determination, and the unyielding belief that dreams can come true. As he continues to excel in his career, his legacy grows—not just as an athlete but as a symbol of resilience and possibility.
His journey inspires countless others to believe that no matter where they start, with enough courage and dedication, they can achieve greatness.
Facing political instability, economic hardships, and rising insecurity, the leaders issued a joint statement condemning widespread oppression, human rights violations, and the proliferation of illegal armed groups, including foreign mercenaries.
They demanded the immediate withdrawal of these forces, emphasizing the need to uphold democracy, restore fundamental rights, and end ethnic discrimination.
Both leaders also criticized the government’s governance, denouncing plans for constitutional reforms aimed at extending presidential terms indefinitely. They stressed that power is a temporary democratic trust, not a permanent entitlement.
The duo expressed solidarity with victims of the regime’s policies and arbitrary arrests, including journalists and activists. They urged international actors to break their silence and support Congolese efforts to reclaim freedom and democracy, highlighting atrocities in Goma, Lubumbashi, and Makala Prison.
While commending regional peace initiatives from Nairobi and Luanda, they stressed the importance of aligning solutions with the aspirations of ordinary Congolese citizens, who long for peace and justice.
Their declaration is a rallying cry for political and social forces opposing dictatorship to unite in pursuit of an inclusive, people-centered alternative. Both leaders vowed to continue consultations, building momentum to address poverty, corruption, and infrastructure decay while safeguarding national unity.
This symbolic meeting marks a critical step towards mobilizing Congolese voices and fostering a future rooted in peace, freedom, and democracy.
One of the key innovations about his invention is the ability to measure vital signs, such as blood pressure and weight, simultaneously. This drastically reduces the time required for tests that previously took doctors 2–3 minutes per patient.
Irankunda is the Founded Innovahyper Technologies, a company that provides tech-driven solutions in healthcare and construction. It refurbishes old tech devices into modern construction tools and produces medical equipment designed to detect non-communicable diseases under a service called “Baho Nursebots.”
Currently, Innovahyper Technologies is preparing 60 machines for deployment across Rwanda’s 30 districts. Their work has garnered attention internationally, with interest from other countries in adopting their solutions for combating non-communicable diseases.
However, the journey was not without challenges. Irankunda is privy to difficulties operating in rural areas lacking infrastructure like electricity. In response, they adapted their machines to run on solar power.
He grew up in a rural area with a keen interest in technology, inspired by his entrepreneur parents. His passion for innovation was fueled by a life-threatening illness during his childhood, which left him hospitalized for six months due to inadequate medical care. This experience motivated him to improve healthcare for others.
After completing his university education in engineering, Irankunda began researching ways to contribute to society and create job opportunities for youth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his team developed machines to measure body temperature, but the products quickly lost relevance as the pandemic subsided.
Undeterred, they sought long-term solutions and conceived the idea of creating Nursebots to address the growing number of deaths from non-communicable diseases, which account for 70% of global deaths and 44% in Rwanda.
Their innovation has been applauded by medical professionals and community members alike for significantly improving diagnostic efficiency.
“Doctors shared the challenges they face, and we discovered that we had reduced the time needed for patient testing. Our robot completes all measurements in under 60 seconds, with results viewable on a phone,” Irankunda said.
He encouraged youth to recognize their potential and seize the opportunities available today.
“Youth shouldn’t see themselves as just tomorrow’s strength. We are the strength of today. We have the capability and the support of our country to create solutions and achieve great things,” he emphasized.
The angel went forth to tell her that she would conceive and give birth to a son, who would become the savior of the world. Mary got troubled by these words, wondering what kind of greeting this might be.
This event took place in northern Israel, in the city of Nazareth, about a three-hour journey from Israel’s capital, Jerusalem.
Nazareth is a small city located uphill. It does not boast the same cleanliness as other parts of Israel, and its houses are not as modern. The majority of its residents are Muslims, making it the largest Arab city in Israel.
Despite this, Christians and Muslims coexist peacefully in the city, with mutual respect for each other’s history.
One of the most noticeable features of Nazareth is the abundance of churches scattered across the city, most of which belong to Christian denominations such as Methodists, Baptists, and Orthodox Christians.
On the hill where Gabriel began his message, stands the Basilica of the Annunciation. This church, built in 1956 by architect Giovanni Muzio, was designed to provide a sanctuary for visitors from around the world to reflect on the message given to the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica of the Annunciation is a key attraction for tourists visiting Israel, particularly Nazareth. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by artistic depictions of the Virgin Mary, created by various countries according to their cultural perspectives.
African, European, and South American countries have contributed images of Mary, which are displayed in the church. Many visitors, predominantly women, come to see this historic site. However, like other parts of Israel, the current war has significantly reduced the number of tourists.
Zalina, a tour guide mainly hosting visitors from South America, told IGIHE that she usually attends to visitor from Brazil and it’s exciting to see people from different cultures and languages every year.
“However, fewer people are coming these days. It’s sad to see this place like this. The reason is that people are afraid to visit Israel or the Middle East, and many airlines have canceled their flights. Even those who want to come cannot find a way.”
The Basilica is divided into two parts. One section preserves the history of the site where the Virgin Mary received the message. Visitors are shown the spot where Mary sat and the pillar where it is said Gabriel stood. Unlike other parts of the church, this section retains its ancient appearance.
The upper section of the Basilica is used for Mass, featuring artworks depicting Jesus’ early life, from conception and birth to how his family fled to Egypt.
There is a permanent altar for prayer, where visitors give thanks and seek intercession from the Virgin Mary. Many women, inspired by Mary’s story, pray while carrying rosaries, often reciting them as they walk.
In the surrounding area, souvenirs related to the Virgin Mary, such as images, rosaries, and other religious items, are sold. Every day, locals gather at the Basilica for morning Mass in Italian and Arabic.
Nazareth is just an hour’s drive from Lebanon. At the Israel-Lebanon border, recent attacks by Hezbollah caused significant destruction, forcing many residents to flee. During those times, residents of Nazareth described the situation as tense.
Zalina described the turmoil during the war with Hezbollah, noting that alarms rang out across Israel, including in Nazareth, where both Christians and Muslims coexist peacefully.
She is sad that Hezbollah’s attacks spared no one, targeting cities like Nazareth and Jerusalem, sacred to many. Despite the devastation, she expressed relief that calm has been restored and life is returning to normal as people move forward.
On December 22, 2024, Rufyikiri was welcomed by President Evariste Ndayishimiye at the Presidential Office. Photos of the meeting show the two leaders engaging in a cordial and friendly discussion.
The Presidential Office spokesperson, Gatoni Rosine Guilene, shared four photos of Rufyikiri and Ndayishimiye on social media, writing, “It is a joy for the Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, to see citizens returning home freely.”
Rufyikiri was among the prominent voices opposing the decision of former President Pierre Nkurunziza to run for a controversial third term. It is reported that his opposition to this move led to threats from the government.
In June 2015, Rufyikiri traveled abroad for medical treatment and decided to remain in exile due to security concerns. During his time outside Burundi, he continued to voice his disapproval of Nkurunziza’s extended tenure, which he argued violated the two-term limit set by the Constitution.
In June 2016, Rufyikiri published a 32-page book titled “Echec de la transformation du CNDD-FDD du mouvement rebelle en parti politique au Burundi: une question d’équilibre entre le changement et la continuité” (The Failure to Transform CNDD-FDD from a Rebel Movement into a Political Party in Burundi: Balancing Change and Continuity).
This book examines the CNDD-FDD’s rise to power in 2005 and the challenges it faced in transitioning from a rebel movement to a functioning political party.
It is unclear whether Rufyikiri intends to remain in Burundi or plans to return abroad. However, his meeting with President Ndayishimiye, who was a close ally of the late President Nkurunziza, signals a positive step toward reconciliation.
In a statement shared on X, Police spokesperson ACP Rutikanga Boniface urged the youth to be cautious and desist from actions that would undermine their value during the festive holidays.
“Young people, as you go on holiday, avoid using drugs, refrain from ‘house parties’ that lead to drunkenness and other degrading behaviors such as vandalism, fighting, and even actions that could cost you your life or cause serious injury. This is a time to reflect on your academic achievements but also to think about your future goals,” he said.
He further advised parents, to watch out and know where their children are and what they are doing, as it helps in ensuring the safety of the youth, who are the future generation of Rwanda.
Rutikanga also reminded alcohol vendors that alcohol is not for children and that even adults who begin to drink should not continue to sell it irresponsibly.
He urged them to observe noise restrictions, ensuring that the volume is kept at a level that doesn’t interrupt the neighborhood.
Rutikanga appealed to the public to drink responsibly, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
