Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Ntibitura previously served as the Director General in charge of Internal Security within the National Intelligence and Security Service.

This leadership change follows the resignation of several officials in Karongi District, including the former District Mayor, Mukase Valentine; the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs, Théophile Niragire; as well as the Chairperson of the District Advisory Council, Donatha Dusingize. They all stepped down, citing personal reasons.

At the time, the Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, told RBA that the officials had submitted resignation letters stating that their decisions were personal.

He said, “Based on the letters I reviewed, they resigned voluntarily and indicated that they were unable to fulfill their assigned responsibilities. Therefore, they decided to step aside to allow others to provide better services to the citizens.”

Regarding reports that other staff members from Karongi District had also submitted resignations, Minister Mugenzi clarified that he had not yet received any such letters.

“However, not all staff members in Karongi District have performed well. If the district leadership admits that they have failed to deliver quality services, it implies that some employees have also been unable to execute their duties effectively. Therefore, an ongoing assessment will continue to evaluate how these staff members serve the public,” he added.

The center is designed to provide young people with access to training sessions, spaces to showcase their projects, technology services, reproductive health education, and recreational facilities.

Its sports courts also offer opportunities for leisure and physical activity, which were previously less accessible in the area.

Local youths have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about the benefits it will bring to their community. Grace Uwimana pointed out that the center’s computers will help them work on projects more efficiently.

“This center will help us develop our projects because it has many computers. Anyone in need of technology or sports can now come here,” she proudly said.

Thomas Nshimiyimana shared that the sports facilities will save them from traveling long distances to Rwamagana town, where they previously had to go to engage in sports activities.

Wilson Karasira, President of the Rwanda Red Cross, explained that the center was built to tackle challenges facing the youth, such as drug abuse and teenage pregnancies, by offering them productive activities and a safe space to gather.

He noted that the center will provide young people with opportunities to engage in meaningful activities rather than staying idle at home.

Eastern Province Governor, Pudence Rubingisa, commended the project and emphasized the importance of making such facilities accessible within communities. “We wanted this center to be close to where people live, especially the youth, to address issues before they escalate,” he said.

The Governor also called on parents to encourage their children to actively participate in the programs available at the center.

The new facility is expected to bring lasting benefits to the youth by improving their access to essential services and creating a platform for personal and community growth.

{{US blocks Gaza ceasefire resolution at UN, sparking global outrage}}

The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate, unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, its fourth veto during the ongoing conflict.

Fourteen of the 15 Council members supported the resolution, which also demanded the release of hostages and condemned efforts to starve Palestinians.

The U.S. argued the draft failed to link a ceasefire to the release of hostages, with Deputy Ambassador Robert Wood warning it would send a “dangerous message” to Hamas.

Critics, including France and China, condemned this position, accusing the U.S. of enabling humanitarian violations. Human Rights Watch accused Washington of shielding Israel from accountability for alleged crimes in Gaza.

France expressed deep regret, while China questioned whether Palestinian lives held value to the U.S.
The war, sparked by a deadly Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages, has led to over 43,920 deaths in Gaza, according to Hamas-run health officials.

Israel defends its military campaign as targeting Hamas fighters, facilitating civilian evacuations, and delivering aid. Amid worsening humanitarian conditions and UN warnings of imminent famine in northern Gaza, the veto has intensified global calls for a permanent ceasefire and humanitarian relief.

{{Biden denounces ICC war crimes warrant against Netanyahu}}

US President Joe Biden called the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) war crimes arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu “outrageous.”

The ICC also issued warrants for former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Hamas commander Mohammed Deif, citing their “criminal responsibility” during the Israel-Hamas war.

While European nations largely respected the ICC’s decision, the U.S. and Israel rejected it. Biden emphasized unwavering U.S. support for Israel, denying any moral equivalence between Israel and Hamas.

Netanyahu dismissed the ICC’s accusations as antisemitic, likening them to the Dreyfus trial, and declared Israel would not recognize the court’s authority. He also defended Israeli actions, claiming efforts to safeguard Gaza civilians amid Hamas’s alleged use of human shields.

The ICC’s allegations include policies leading to starvation in Gaza, which Netanyahu strongly refuted, citing substantial humanitarian aid provided to the region.

Meanwhile, the UN warned of dire survival conditions in Gaza due to prolonged sieges and minimal aid deliveries. Both Israel and Hamas deny the ICC’s charges, further polarizing global responses to the court’s controversial move.

{{Rwanda plans nationwide EV charging network}}

The Ministry of Infrastructure is developing a master plan to establish a well-distributed network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across Rwanda. The plan ensures that no driver will need to travel more than 50 kilometers to find a charging station.

This initiative seeks to guide investors in the EV sector, avoiding random placement of stations and ensuring optimal utilization.

The plan prioritizes densely populated and high-traffic areas, while considering existing fuel stations and commercial buildings for integration. Preliminary analysis estimates a need for at least 226 charging stations nationwide.

As of August 2024, Rwanda had 24 EV charging stations, four for electric motorcycles, and 49 motorcycle battery-swapping and recharging points, excluding home charging units.

With only 512 fully electric vehicles and 7,172 hybrid vehicles recorded between 2020 and 2024, the master plan aims to expand infrastructure to support the growing adoption of electric transportation. This project is a key step in promoting sustainable mobility and reducing Rwanda’s reliance on fossil fuels.

{{Amahoro stadium to host first Athletics event after renovation}}

Amahoro Stadium will host the National Athletics Championship on November 23, 2024, marking its first athletics event since its renovation.

The competition will feature 1,117 athletes, including 268 men, 279 women, 288 boys, and 282 girls, representing teams such as APR AC, Police AC, Sina Gérard AC, and others.

Participants will compete in track events ranging from 100m to 10,000m and field events like long jump, triple jump, javelin, discus, and shot put.

This championship returns to Amahoro Stadium after three years, with the venue now upgraded to support diverse sports events.

In 2023, the championship was held in Bugesera, where Team Sina Gérard dominated in the women’s and overall categories, winning 15 gold, eight bronze, and three silver medals.

The University of Rwanda’s Huye Campus (UR-Huye) led the men’s category, earning six gold, one bronze, and three silver medals.

The event highlights Amahoro Stadium’s readiness to host major competitions and reinforces Rwanda’s commitment to advancing athletics.

{{Adani Group faces U.S. charges over alleged bribery scheme in solar energy project}}

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his companies face U.S. criminal and civil charges for allegedly bribing Indian officials to secure contracts for a massive solar energy project.

In 2020, Adani Green Energy won a bid to supply 8 gigawatts of electricity, part of a 12-gigawatt project expected to generate billions in revenue. However, local electricity distributors resisted buying the power, leading to alleged bribes to persuade them.

According to U.S. authorities, Adani and associates promised hundreds of millions in bribes, including $228 million to Andhra Pradesh officials in 2021. By December, Andhra Pradesh and other states had agreed to purchase the power.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Justice Department began investigating in 2022, uncovering messages between Adani’s team and executives of Azure Power, the project’s co-awardee. Azure cooperated, stating implicated individuals had left the company.

Despite ongoing investigations, Adani’s companies raised billions through international investors, allegedly providing false assurances about anti-bribery compliance. A 2023 FBI search of Adani’s devices revealed further evidence.

On Nov. 20, 2024, an indictment against Adani and others was unsealed, causing a $27 billion loss in Adani Group’s market value. Adani Green Energy canceled a $600 million bond sale as fallout intensified.

{{Ugandan Minister denies gun possession claims against Besigye}}

Uganda’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Kahinda Otafiire, has dismissed allegations that veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye was found in possession of a firearm during his recent arrest in Nairobi.

Otafiire stated that immigration officials at both Entebbe and Nairobi airports confirmed that Besigye did not have a gun when he was checked.

The clarification follows Besigye’s arrest on charges linked to security offenses and alleged gun possession. These claims have sparked outcry among Besigye’s supporters, who view the accusations as politically motivated.

“I inquired from both Entebbe and Nairobi airport officials, and they confirmed Besigye was not carrying any firearm,” Otafiire said, countering speculation about the legitimacy of the charges.

The Minister’s remarks aim to dispel public doubts about the case. However, Besigye’s supporters argue that his arrest is part of a larger strategy of political suppression as Uganda heads toward the 2026 presidential elections.

The incident has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, with critics questioning the government’s motives. While officials maintain that Besigye’s detention is justified, the controversy continues to intensify, further highlighting the deep divisions in Uganda’s political landscape.

{{Mali Junta ousts Prime Minister amid transition tensions}}

Mali’s military leader, Colonel Assimi Goita, dismissed Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga and his government on Wednesday, following Maiga’s criticism of the junta. The decree, read on state television, comes as the West African nation grapples with prolonged political instability and violence from jihadist and separatist groups.

Initially appointed by the military in 2021, Maiga had recently voiced concerns over the indefinite delay of promised elections, warning that the lack of clarity could hinder the transition to civilian rule. His dismissal highlights deepening uncertainty surrounding Mali’s future governance.

The country has been under military control since coups in 2020 and 2021, with elections postponed despite prior commitments to return power to civilians by March 2024. Mali’s ongoing political turmoil and security crisis, exacerbated by armed groups and separatist tensions, leave its path to stability increasingly fraught.

{{Michael Flynn urges Biden’s removal over World War III fears}}

Retired US Army Lieutenant General Michael Flynn has called for the urgent removal of President Joe Biden, accusing him of leading the United States toward a potential World War III.

Flynn urged Vice President Kamala Harris to invoke the 25th Amendment to address Biden’s alleged inability to responsibly manage escalating global tensions.

His comments follow reports that Biden permitted Ukraine to use US-provided ATACMS missiles to strike deep into Russian territory and his decision to supply Ukraine with anti-personnel landmines, breaking a prior commitment to restrict their use.

Flynn, who served as Donald Trump’s national security advisor, argued that Biden’s actions pose a grave danger to the United States.

He suggested that the House of Representatives impeach Biden and called on Harris to take decisive action, claiming Biden’s “poor memory” makes him unfit for accountability.

Flynn also urged Trump allies and future officials to reveal those influencing Biden’s decisions and to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin to deescalate tensions.

Flynn’s comments echo his controversial tenure under Trump, during which he was forced to resign after allegations of misleading officials about conversations with Russia’s ambassador. Despite his legal battles, Flynn has remained a vocal critic of US foreign policy and Biden’s leadership.

{{Spiraling gang violence leaves Haiti in crisis}}

Gang violence in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, claimed at least 150 lives over the past week, pushing the death toll from gang-related violence this year to over 4,500, according to UN human rights chief Volker Turk.

The violence, driven by a coalition of gangs seeking control of the city, has displaced 20,000 people and injured 92. Gangs now control 80% of the city, blocking all major roads and effectively holding Port-au-Prince’s four million residents hostage.

Despite the presence of a Kenyan-led international force, limited resources and troop numbers have hampered efforts to restore order. Kenya’s security advisor has called for the mission to transition into a formal UN peacekeeping operation, which could provide greater support.

The violence has deepened Haiti’s humanitarian crisis, leaving 700,000 displaced and exacerbating food, water, and healthcare shortages. Turk warned that the situation could worsen, with rising reports of mob lynchings and coordinated attacks overwhelming the outgunned police force.

Amid the chaos, 28 gang members were killed by self-defense groups and police during a recent operation.
Turk emphasized the urgent need for action to protect citizens and reestablish rule of law, warning that the unchecked violence risks plunging Haiti further into despair and instability.

{{Elon Musk and Ramaswamy unveil bold plans for Federal overhaul}}

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, recently appointed co-leads of President-elect Donald Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE), have outlined an ambitious strategy to streamline the federal government.

In a Wall Street Journal article, they proposed sweeping executive actions aimed at reducing federal agencies, cutting trillions from the budget, and curbing regulations they deem excessive and undemocratic.

Using recent Supreme Court rulings as their foundation, DOGE plans to work with legal experts and advanced technology to identify regulations exceeding congressional authority.

These recommendations will empower Trump to pause enforcement and begin rescission of such rules, a move they argue will stimulate the economy. They also anticipate large-scale staff reductions, determining the minimal workforce required for agencies to perform their constitutional functions.

Key proposals include eliminating certain federal expenditures, such as funding for public broadcasting, international grants, and progressive organizations.

Musk and Ramaswamy advocate a return-to-office mandate for federal employees, aiming to provoke voluntary resignations. They project DOGE’s work will lead to significant deregulation and cost savings, potentially dismantling many government agencies.

Their ultimate goal is to “eliminate the need” for DOGE by July 4, 2026, symbolizing a leaner, restructured federal government under the Trump administration.

{{Abdirahman Irro Elected President of Somaliland Amid Promises of Change}}

Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, popularly known as Irro, has been elected as the sixth president of Somaliland, winning 64% of the vote in the November 13 election.

The 69-year-old former parliamentary speaker defeated incumbent President Musa Abdi Bihi, who garnered 35%. Irro’s victory is seen as a response to dissatisfaction with Bihi’s leadership, marked by a dismissive approach to public opinion and economic challenges.

During his campaign, Irro pledged to review Somaliland’s controversial deal with Ethiopia, which grants Addis Ababa access to a 20km stretch of Somaliland’s coastline for a naval base.

While critics view the agreement as aggressive, Irro has taken a diplomatic stance, signaling potential adjustments rather than outright rejection.

Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, remains unrecognized internationally despite its stability and democratic elections. Irro, a unifying figure, promises continued relations with Taiwan, a move likely to draw criticism from China and Somalia.

Born in Hargeisa and educated in the US, Irro brings extensive diplomatic experience, including service as Somalia’s acting ambassador to the Soviet Union.

As leader of the Wadani Party, Irro’s presidency offers hope for stronger governance, regional diplomacy, and progress for Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition.

{{Court bailiff and Clerk arrested for corruption charges}}

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has arrested Jerome Mwiseneza, a Clerk at the Gatunda Primary Court in Nyagatare District, Victor Semahoro Mabondo, a Court Bailiff, along with four accomplices.

The suspects are accused of soliciting money from individuals in exchange for releasing detainees or offering legal assistance in cases they are involved in.

The suspects are currently detained at the RIB stations in Gatunda and Nyagatare as their case files are being finalized for submission to the Prosecution.

RIB commended citizens for refusing to engage in corrupt practices and for providing information about those soliciting bribes, ensuring that such individuals are investigated and brought to justice.

REITs allow individuals to invest in income-generating real estate without directly owning properties. Investors purchase shares in a trust that manages, owns, or finances real estate assets, receiving profits distributed to them. This structure makes REITs an attractive investment option for those seeking steady returns.

The introduction of REITs in Rwanda opens new avenues for enhancing capital markets and creating investment opportunities. It enables both institutional and retail investors to engage in real estate, an area historically dominated by large developers and affluent individuals.

By lowering entry barriers, REITs can democratize access to real estate investment and contribute to broader economic growth.

The Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda’s Capital Market Authority, Thapelo Tsheole noted that “Building investor confidence depends on strong governance. A robust regulatory framework will protect investors and ensure the long-term success of REITs.”

The CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, described this initiative as a major milestone. He emphasized that REITs would empower more citizens to participate in wealth creation, fostering economic equity.

Geoffrey Odundo, Chairman of the REITs Association of Kenya, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation. He noted that REITs could facilitate cross-border capital mobilization, address infrastructure challenges, and promote sustainable development.

“Through collaboration, African countries can create a cohesive investment ecosystem that attracts both local and international capital,” he remarked.

Guido Giachetti, Chairman of the Realestate Group and Vice Chair of RDC Properties in Botswana, pointed out the transformative potential of REITs for Africa’s real estate sector. He stressed that integrating REITs into Rwanda’s capital market is essential for unlocking investment opportunities and enhancing infrastructure.

The introduction of Real Estate Investment Trusts signifies a transformative opportunity for Rwanda’s financial markets.

By providing a more accessible, diverse, and liquid investment option, REITs hold the potential to drive significant economic growth and promote inclusivity, allowing citizens from all backgrounds to contribute to national development.

The newly introduced system enables phone users to make calls without the typical interruptions associated with older technologies. Traditionally, phone calls relied on 2G or 3G networks, which sometimes resulted in poor connectivity and distorted audio.

Additionally, using these older technologies was often more expensive due to the limitations of outdated systems. The company CEO, Emmanuel Hamez, says that this new VoLTE service aims to enhance Airtel’s voice call services.

“This is a significant milestone for Airtel Rwanda as we lead the way in bringing Voice Over 4G to the country, delivering an exceptional calling experience with HD-quality voice, faster call setup, and uninterrupted internet usage during calls. Best of all, there’s no additional cost for switching to our VoLTE service,” he said.

Hamez added that Airtel’s extensive 4G network, which covers 95% of the country, ensures all Rwandans can access fast and reliable internet. He also assured that Airtel offers affordable 4G-enabled smartphones available, eliminating barriers to accessing the new technology.

The nationwide 4G coverage offered by Airtel provides fast and affordable internet, even in remote areas. VoLTE also reduces calling costs as it allows for quicker, more efficient calls without the additional expenses associated with older 2G or 3G technologies.

Charles Gahungu, the Director of Technology at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), commended Airtel’s innovative efforts, noting that government policies have created an enabling environment for telecom companies to invest in and adopt new technologies.

“This has provided opportunities for telecom companies to embrace and utilize advanced technologies, and we applaud Airtel for seizing these opportunities,” he said.

Yves Iradukunda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised Airtel for aligning with Rwanda’s vision of adopting cutting-edge technology.

He emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving such milestones, saying, “We commend Airtel for recognizing our shared objectives and making them their own, working with us to bring these innovations to life.”

Irakudunda also acknowledged the ongoing efforts needed to raise awareness and encourage the use of this new service among the population. He expressed confidence that Airtel customers would experience significant improvements in their calling experience with VoLTE.

The ceremony concluded the 7th Galien Forum Africa, which explored the theme: “Health and Community Action Under Climate and Environmental Crisis in Africa.”

Among the evening’s highlights, CyberRwanda stood out for its innovative approach to addressing the critical needs of Rwandan adolescents aged 12 to 19.

By offering accessible, culturally relevant resources in both English and Kinyarwanda, CyberRwanda has empowered over 25,000 young people and is on track to reach 100,000 by the end of 2024.

Its holistic approach tackles key challenges, including teenage pregnancy, HIV prevention, and mental health support, demonstrating how technology can be a powerful tool for social change.

During the award ceremony, the judges praised CyberRwanda for its thoughtful design and measurable impact, highlighting its role in addressing the urgent health and social needs of Rwandan adolescents.
As part of the award, CyberRwanda received FCFA 20,000,000 (USD 30,000) to further its mission of empowering Rwandan youth and fostering resilience through technology.

Mireille Umutoni Sekamana, Design Research Lead at YLabs, attributed CyberRwanda’s success to its youth-centered design approach. She highlighted how engaging young people in every stage of development ensured the platform met their needs effectively.

“From structuring information to creating features like the advice column, the platform keeps improving because young people shape every feature, making it a trusted space for their concerns,” she said.

Moving forward, Umutoni envisions CyberRwanda expanding to include topics like mental health and scaling globally to become a worldwide service, accessible to young people wherever they are.

In his address, President Faye emphasized the transformative power of such initiatives, noting that the Prix Galien Africa is not just a recognition but a call to action.

He applauded CyberRwanda and its creators for their dedication to empowering young people and leveraging technology to address pressing health challenges.

The event also honored Morocco’s MASCIR SARS-CoV-2 PCR Kit 2.0, winner of the Best Medical Technology award. Developed by Professor Hassan Semour, the kit has advanced Africa’s diagnostic capabilities in the fight against COVID-19.

These two innovations—CyberRwanda and the MASCIR SARS-CoV-2 PCR Kit 2.0—highlight a future where technology and creativity work hand in hand to overcome obstacles and create meaningful change for communities across Africa.

From 11th November to 20th December 2024, customers will have the chance to win great gifts by enjoying their favorite products. This exciting nationwide campaign celebrates our commitment to rewarding our loyal customers while creating an engaging and fun experience.

Once a customer buys a Bralirwa soft drink in a returnable bottle, they are invited to look under the crown of the bottle for a unique code. Once found, customers can enter the code by dialing *786# and find out if they have won exciting cash prizes. In addition to the cash prizes, those customers will also be automatically entered into weekly and monthly draws, giving them even more chances to win fantastic prizes.

The prizes offered by the Under the Crown Lottery (UTC) are as exciting as the experience itself. Those who submit codes are eligible for direct deposits to their mobile cash accounts. This makes the awarding of prizes a simple and straightforward process.

Through the weekly and monthly draws, customers stand a chance to win larger cash prizes. The grand prize is a reward of 5 million Rwandan francs which will be awarded to three lucky winners. This considerable sum, transferred directly to the winner’s MTN MoMo or Airtel account, is intended to recognize and celebrate Bralirwa’s most loyal customers and bring them joy in a meaningful way.

This Lottery is designed to bring the joy of true togetherness to all soft drinks consumers and encourage them to interact with Bralirwa’s products in a fun and engaging way.

“We are committed to creating great moments and rewarding experiences for our consumers. We want our customers to enjoy the products they love and feel valued and appreciated every step of the way,” said Fleury Sekiyuku, Bralirwa Sales Director.