Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Women in the workforce are trained and supported in competing for leadership positions. Graduates are prepared to compete in the job market while women with small businesses are empowered on how to expand their ventures.

“Lift Her Up” was launched in 2022 by Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group, a company that offers business and leadership consulting services.

“A woman has many responsibilities that make her encounter difficult to rise in leadership as a man would. You can see this even with children just finishing school, where the confidence of girl low, even if she has completed her education,” Nkusi said.

The “Lift Her Up” program has three main interventions; the first prepares female graduates to compete in the job market, the second helps women or girls ambitious to start their own businesses while the third supports women and girls in the workforce who seek to advance in their careers. Each year, about 100 women and girls are facilitated through this training.

Gate Consulting Group first assesses the gaps in the development of women and girls and what they want to learn, then connects them with relevant training on a monthly basis.

Successful women in decision-making positions are invited to share their experiences and guide others on the paths they took and what they need to focus on to advance.

At the close of the third phase of “Lift Her Up,” which had lasted nine months, the CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), Pitchette Kampeta Sayinzoga, and the CEO of Canal+ Rwanda, Sophie Tchatchoua, shared their journeys with participants, discussing how they reached leadership positions.

Marie Aimée Ingabire, who works at Bralirwa and has been receiving training for nine months also shared her experience.

“I have received valuable knowledge, including personal development, professional growth, and leadership. It’s a great program, and we wish it would continue to expand so more women can benefit. You get to know yourself, understand the people around you, work towards goals, and more,” she said.

Rwanda has made significant strides in advancing women across various sectors. For instance, the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament has 63.75% women, the Senate has 53.8% women, and Rwanda has allocated 30% of parliamentary seats to women, with the possibility for them to compete for the remaining positions. This is also the case in government sectors.

“We want to promote this initiative, increasing the number of women in all sectors. Additionally, if an opportunity arises, a woman should be given the chance not because she is a woman, but because she is capable. It’s a journey, but we are on the right track,” Nkusi said.

In the first phase for graduates, Gate Consulting Group works with universities to support their alumni. For those wishing to become entrepreneurs, the program has a registration process for those who want to be trained.

For women already working, Gate Consulting Group collaborates with their employers to arrange the necessary training.

His trial began on October 7, 2024, and lasted four days. It was based on a complaint filed by three organizations namely; CPCR, Survie, and IBUKA France. Through his book, Onana argued that there was no plan for the Genocide against the Tutsi.

The key issue in the trial was whether the French military’s Opération Turquoise had been conducted with the intention of furthering the genocide against the Tutsi or whether such a plan did not exist.

The trial was attended by many people, including Rwandans on the side of the plaintiffs and the defendant. There were also people from the Democratic Republic of Congo supporting Onana.

Legal expert, Professor Thomas Hochmann, was one of the witnesses for the plaintiffs. Contrary to Onana’s arguments, Hochmann explained that the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), established for the prosecution of crimes committed in Rwanda, had confirmed the existence of a Genocidal plan against the Tutsi.

Professor Hochmann clarified that the tribunal, which operated in Arusha, convicted individuals for committing genocide and for planning it, which serves as evidence that the Genocide took place and was premeditated.
He pointed out that denial of Genocide includes distorting the term in publications, rejecting the findings of courts like the ICTR, as Onana had done.

Lawyer Bernard Maingain explained to the court that it would be impossible for genocide to occur without prior planning.

“How is it possible for 10,000 people to be killed in one day without preparation? How could machetes and other weapons be distributed to people to carry out the killings if it wasn’t planned? Could they have identified and killed all Tutsis, knowing where they lived and their identity, without any preparation?” he wondered.

Maingain, from Belgium, further argued that before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi began, lists had already been made of the Tutsis who were to be killed, emphasizing that this is evidence of premeditation.

Onana arrived in court stating that he had never denied the genocide but had linked it to the shooting down of President Juvénal Habyarimana’s plane. He also claimed that the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) Inkotanyi had blocked Opération Turquoise from proceeding as planned by France.

The researcher used testimonies from witnesses including General (Retd) Jean-Claude Lafourcade, who led Opération Turquoise, Johan Swinenn, former Belgian Ambassador to Rwanda, and Christian Quesnot, former Chief of Staff for François Mitterrand who led France’s operations.

These witnesses stated that Onana’s book aimed to reveal the truth about Rwanda’s history, but they emphasized that the 1994 Tutsi Genocide was not planned.

Quesnot stated that Onana is an honest person who could not deny the genocide, adding that the ICTR never confirmed the existence of a genocide plan. However, he acknowledged that the genocide occurred and blamed the RPA forces for committing crimes against humanity and war crimes.

For his conviction, Onana has been ordered to pay a fine of 1,400Euros with the risk of 115 days in detention if the fine is not paid on time while his publisher, Damien Serieyx, was fined 5,000Euros.

This decision was made as part of efforts to strengthen and unify the work of organizations representing the survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

According to information obtained by IGIHE, these changes had been under discussion for over five years, and the most recent meeting of the leaders of these organizations resulted in this resolution.

In a statement released to the public, IBUKA emphasized its continued commitment to ensuring that the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi is never forgotten.

“After 30 years since the Genocide was halted, the effects of the Genocide are still visible both in Rwanda and abroad. IBUKA continues to take measures to confront and address these challenges. IBUKA, in collaboration with all Rwandans and friends of Rwanda, will ensure that the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi is not forgotten, and will continue to refute those who deny or downplay the Genocide,” reads the statement in part.

“IBUKA will also continue working with the Rwandan government on the important programs of unity and reconciliation as part of efforts to build a Rwanda free from any form of discrimination,” it says.

Following the decision to merge the organizations, the General Assembly elected IBUKA’s leadership. Dr. Philbert Gakwenzire was chosen as President, Christine Muhongayire as First Vice President, Blaise Ndizihiwe as Second Vice President, and Louis de Montfort Mujyambere as General Secretary.

Aline Mpinganzima became Commissioner for youth, education, and culture, while Janvier Bayingana took on as Commissioner for remembrance, reconciliation, justice and peace building.

Monique Gahongayire was appointed Commissioner for health, social Welfare, and gender promoting whereas Evode Ndatsikira was elected Commissioner for research, development, capacity building, and investment.

IBUKA was founded in 1995 to advocate for the rights of survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, preserve its history, and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. The organization operates in Rwanda and with other independent similar groups based abroad.

These changes affect IBUKA in Rwanda, as the IBUKA organizations in other countries will independently continue their operations as usual, while aligning their efforts with the newly merged organization in Rwanda.
AERG was established by 12 students at what was then the National University of Rwanda in 1996, and it has since expanded its reach.

GAERG was founded in 2003 with the goal of empowering organizations of Genocide survivors, collaborating with other Rwandans to fight against Genocide and other conflicts, and contributing to the development of Rwanda.

The event, recently held in Kigali, brought together a diverse group of aviation professionals, government officials, and industry stakeholders to celebrate a joint mission and vision for the future of African aviation.

AATSA is focused on enhancing the role of air transport in Africa’s economic and social development. The company aims to address critical issues like high travel costs, limited connectivity, and inadequate infrastructure that have long hindered the continent’s aviation sector.

By developing, promoting and thus championing innovative solutions, AATSA envisions playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of air travel across Africa.

“Africa faces significant challenges in air transport. We struggle with expensive flight tickets, limited routes, and a shortage of trained personnel. But we also have immense potential. Our goal is to overcome these challenges and foster a more efficient and sustainable aviation ecosystem in Africa” said Barry Kashambo, AATSA’s Executive Chairman.

One of the key issues highlighted during the event was Africa’s relatively small share of global air traffic. Despite the continent’s vast size and growing population, Africa accounts for less than three percent of the world’s air traffic, a stark contrast to its potential. The leadership of AATSA aims to reverse this trend.

“Africa was once a giant in air transport. We need to reclaim that position and ensure that Africa gets the share of global air traffic that it deserves. This launch is just the beginning of a long-term effort to transform our aviation sector,” Kashambo said.

He mentioned that Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and agreements with several key aviation partners across the continent and these agreements are expected to pave the way for greater collaboration between AATSA and other stakeholders, driving progress towards a more interconnected and efficient African air transport network.

Silas Udahemuka, the Director General of Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to fostering innovation in aviation.

“I want to congratulate AATSA on this significant milestone. Rwanda is a country that embraces innovation, and we are excited to see this initiative take off. With the expertise of this team, I am confident that we will reach new heights in African aviation,” Udahemuka said

He also acknowledged the challenges facing the industry, particularly the issue of sustainable aviation fuel but expressed optimism about AATSA’s ability to collectively lead the way in addressing these concerns.

On his part, the Ambassador of Angola to Rwanda, H.E. Eduardo Filomeno Octavio, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of air transport to Africa’s economic development.

“Air transport is a critical pillar of globalization. It connects countries, continents, and cultures, driving trade, tourism, and business. However, Africa unique challenges that have prevented it from fully integrating into the global aviation ecosystem will be solved through initiatives like these,” Octavio said.

The high costs of air travel within the continent are one of the biggest barriers. For example, it is often cheaper to fly from Rome to Paris than from Kigali to Nairobi, despite the latter covering a shorter distance.

By general consensus, there is an urgency in addressing the high cost of air travel in Africa making flights more affordable and accessible thereby improving the continent’s connectivity and competitiveness on the global stage.

Africa needs to see air transport grow rapidly, becoming stronger, more resilient, and sustainable. With Rwanda at the helm and the launch of Africa Air Transport Solutions Associates, the future of African aviation promises to be bright.

The trial of Charles Onana has been ongoing in France since October 7, 2024. The charges against Onana are based on his book Rwanda, la vérité sur l’Opération Turquoise: Quand les archives parlent (“Rwanda, the Truth About Operation Turquoise: When the Archives Speak”), published on October 30, 2019.

In the book, Onana argues that there was no planned Genocide against the Tutsi and that the Genocide itself did not occur.

Onana denied the allegations during the trial, though he called upon witnesses who testified, many of whom spoke out against him. Instead of defending Onana, the witnesses described some of the actions they took in Rwanda.

After the trial concluded in November 2024, Charles Onana’s defense lawyer, Richard Gisagara, told IGIHE that the prosecution had taken the floor and requested the court to find Onana guilty of the charges, stressing that society fully supported the lawsuit.

“The prosecution, as the complainants have stated, agrees that what Onana did is a crime, that he violated Article 21 of the 1881 law, and should therefore be convicted,” said Gisagara.

“They have not requested any specific penalties, stating that the court should decide on the punishment. However, they have supported the complainants, showing that the prosecution represents society at large. The complainants are individual citizens, but to this moment, we had not received the backing of the entire society,” he added.

Gisagara also noted that based on previous cases involving Holocaust denial, where individuals who denied the Holocaust using similar rhetoric as Onana were convicted, he believed Onana could also be found guilty. “For my part, I believe we have a good chance of seeing him convicted,” he emphasized.

Experts note that France has distanced itself from individuals accused of denying or trivializing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In April 2024, the French prosecution announced that it was investigating 40 cases involving suspects accused of genocide crimes, with significant efforts being put into bringing these cases to trial.

Félicien Kabuga, a key financier of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was arrested in France in May 2020 after decades on the run. He is accused of funding genocidal militias and using media to incite violence against the Tutsi. His capture marked a major victory in the pursuit of justice for genocide victims.

Kabuga’s arrest in Paris, after an international manhunt became a major boot in prosecuting genocide perpetrators. His trial in The Hague, alongside ongoing cases like Charles Onana’s, are a cornerstone in the global fight against genocide denial and the quest for accountability.

In a press briefing on Sunday, 8 December 2024, just a day after the general elections, Bawumia admitted that Mahama had won the presidency, based on provisional results from the NPP’s internal tallies.

Although the Electoral Commission has not yet made an official declaration, Bawumia’s concession has been widely seen as an acknowledgment of Mahama’s victory.

According to Bawumia, the NPP’s internal results showed that Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) had not only won the presidential race but also secured a majority in the parliamentary elections. Although some seats were still being tallied, Bawumia expressed confidence that the overall result would not change.

In his statement, Bawumia said, “The people of Ghana have spoken, and they have voted for change at this time. We respect that decision with all humility.” He added that he had already called Mahama to congratulate him on his victory, a call which Mahama confirmed in a post on social media, stating.

“This morning, I received a congratulatory call from my brother Mahamudu Bawumia following my emphatic victory in the Saturday election. Thank you, Ghana,” he said.

Mahama’s NDC had earlier claimed an early victory based on provisional results from their agents stationed in all 276 constituencies. Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC’s National Communications Officer, declared at a party press conference on Sunday.

“From the results we have so far from our internal collation, it is clear that Ghanaians have rejected eight years of corruption, eight years of state capture.” He emphasized that the people of Ghana had voted for change, adding that the NDC had secured an “unprecedented, historic victory.”

Despite the early claims, it is only the Electoral Commission (EC) that has the constitutional mandate to announce the final results of the election. As of 8:00 am on Sunday, the EC had yet to receive all the results at its National Collation Centre, according to an official statement.

The EC assured the public that once all the necessary data from the regional collation centres was received, the final results would be declared.

“The declaration of final results is based on a process enshrined in law. The pink sheet, signed by presiding officers and party agents at the 40,650 polling stations, will determine the final results,” the EC said.

The outcome of the election marks the end of two terms in power for the NPP, under President Nana Akufo-Addo, who is stepping down after reaching the constitutional limit of two terms.

Bawumia’s concession signifies a shift in Ghana’s political landscape after years of economic challenges, including high inflation, currency devaluation, and a debt default, which led to a $3bn bailout from the International Monetary Fund.

Mahama, 65, who served as president from 2012 to 2017, now has the chance to return to office in what would be a historic victory, as he becomes the first president in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to reclaim the presidency after being voted out.

His campaign focused on promises of economic recovery, tackling corruption, and appealing to Ghana’s youth.
In the wake of his apparent victory, Mahama’s supporters have already begun celebrating, with cheers and blaring horns echoing through the streets of Accra.

The celebrations reflect the high hopes many Ghanaians have for the return of Mahama’s leadership, particularly after the economic struggles the country has faced in recent years.

Though the final official results are yet to be declared, Mahama’s early victory claims have set the stage for a potential change in leadership, with hopes that his return could usher in a new era of stability and growth for Ghana.

The event brought together key players in Rwanda’s wood product sector, including cooperatives, wood processors, traders, service providers, and government bodies. The aim was to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the wood product value chain in Rwanda.

Dr. Athanase Mukuralinda, ICRAF Rwanda Country Director, opened the with a call highlighting the need to create a platform for stakeholders in the wood sector to engage in constructive discussions that would lead to actionable solutions.

He pointed out that the wood product value chain, one of the key areas of focus for the project, holds significant potential.

“By improving climate-resilient production systems, the value chain can provide employment opportunities and income to a wide range of stakeholders, from forest managers and cooperatives to processors and traders,” he said.

This is part of the larger Transforming Eastern Province Through Adaptation (TREPA) project which aims to build a more resilient and equitable wood product value chain, particularly in Eastern Province.

The TREPA initiative focuses on restoring 60,000 hectares of drought-degraded landscapes and strengthening agroforestry systems, ultimately benefiting 75,000 smallholder farmers.

Dietmar Stoian, a lead scientist in value chains, private sector engagement and investments at ICRAF, shared insights into the goals of bringing together various actors involved in the wood product value chain.

He explained that the chain begins in the forest or plantations, where trees are grown and harvested. The wood then undergoes various processing stages, such as turning into sawn wood, fiberboard, or even fuel wood products like charcoal or pellets.

“The challenge faced by many actors in the value chain is their limited perspective. For example, producers may not understand the needs of the processors, and vice versa. Bringing all stakeholders together helps foster collaboration and a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities at each stage,” he said.

One key challenge identified was the lack of quality wood, which affects both production costs and the ability to add value. Stoian emphasized that overcoming such challenges requires collaboration between private companies, NGOs, and the state.

Speaking about the market dynamics, he noted that there is a significant opportunity for the wood product sector in Rwanda.

“Both fuel wood and timber have a higher demand than domestic supply, with imports filling the gap. However, the challenge remains that some of the imports are cheaper, posing a competitive threat to local producers,” he said.

Stoian called for better collaboration among stakeholders to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality, ultimately turning these challenges into opportunities.

Charles Kayumba, General Manager of Atelier de Mecanique Generale Du Rwanda (AMEGERWA Ltd), a local manufacturer and processor of wood products, also provided valuable input.

He stressed the importance of quality wood products and noted that poor quality often stems from premature harvesting of trees. He emphasized that forest conservation practices are essential to address this issue and ensure a sustainable supply of quality wood.

“Such a platform where stakeholders can share information and insights are crucial for disseminating knowledge and aligning the efforts of all actors in the wood value chain,” he said.

This marks an important step toward strengthening Rwanda’s wood product value chain by fostering collaboration and addressing common challenges. Stakeholders are well-positioned to transform the sector, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and contribute to Rwanda’s broader environmental and economic goals.

It is a starting point for ongoing collaboration, with plans for a larger follow-up consultation in February 2025 to develop an upgraded strategy for the wood product value chain.

This message was shared through a presentation he gave on December 4, 2024, at the British think tank Chatham House, focusing on Rwanda’s policy in the region and internationally.

Nduhungirehe highlighted that the FDLR, a terrorist group, poses a threat to Rwanda’s security, noting that it continues to recruit new fighters and is supported by the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

“The FDLR threatens Rwanda’s security, not only because it is provided with support, weapons, and money, and is sheltered by the DRC government politically, but also it spreads the genocide ideology,” he said.

He explained that the ideology propagated by the FDLR is aligned with rhetoric from DRC leaders who keep boasting of their plans to overthrow Rwanda’s government.

He hinted on the connection between the FDLR and the DRC military, as well as with Burundi’s forces, those from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Wazalendo militia groups, and other European mercenaries.

Nduhungirehe further explained that security is a key pillar of Rwanda’s development over the past 30 years, and that the country will not allow anything to jeopardize its security, whether from within or outside.

“Rwanda will not tolerate any threat to our security and territorial integrity, which is why our border security measures, which are legal and necessary, are still in place. These measures will only be lifted once the security threat is eliminated,” he said.

On November 25, 2024, Rwanda, DRC, and Angola’s ministerial representatives met in Luanda and agreed on a plan to dismantle the FDLR. Rwanda agreed that once the group is completely eliminated, the security measures at the border will be lifted.

It is expected that Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Félix Tshisekedi of DRC, and João Lourenço of Angola will meet in Luanda on December 15, 2024, to confirm the decisions made by the ministers of their respective countries.