IGIHE

Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

  • Rwanda’s transformation feels like a self-made miracle- Gen Nyamvumba

    In an in-depth interview with a Tanzanian journalist, Nyamvumba was asked about Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery, secretes on how the country healed from deep wounds and managed to rebuild itself from scratch.

    As a former member of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) that stopped the genocide, Nyamvumba described the state of the country in July 1994, saying that the first steps in nation-building began amid complete devastation.

    “In 1994, Kigali was a city filled with corpses. The very first thing we did after taking control of the country was to clean up the city and remove the bodies. We saw dogs and vultures feeding on the dead. That was the image of Rwanda, a country in total disarray, without a single functioning piece of infrastructure,” he said.

    He explained that the RPA’s immediate task was to restore dignity and order, but there were no institutions, no systems and no resources to rely on.

    “After the Genocide, there was nothing left. No government institutions, nothing that was working. So, when you look back to where and compare it to where Rwanda is today, it feels like a miracle. But it’s a miracle we created ourselves,” he emphasized.

    To illustrate just how much has changed, he shared a personal anecdote. He revealed that between 2008 and 2009, his children came home with a math assignment and asked for help, but he couldn’t remember the methods.

    He remembers using phone to look it up and walking them through the assignment. “I told them they were lucky that he was able to use his phone reminding them of a time when this country didn’t even have mobile phones. They laughed and asked, ‘But Dad, how did people even survive back then?” he said.

    Nyamvumba said it’s hard for the younger generation to grasp the hardships Rwanda faced, like the absence of electricity and communication systems because of how far the country has advanced.

    Looking to the future, Gen Nyamvumba reaffirmed Rwanda’s ambitious development goals; to become a middle-income country by 2035 and achieve high-income status by 2050.

    “We believe it’s possible. In 1994, Rwanda’s GDP was about $3 billion. Today, it exceeds $15 billion. With strategic investment and hard work, over a million people have been lifted out of poverty in just the past 20 years,” he said.

    “We’ve seen other countries, particularly in East Asia, do it. We might be from different continents, but we have the same minds, the same determination. With our leadership and vision, we will get there. That’s my belief,” he said.
    Rwanda’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Gen Patrick Nyamvumba, has said that the progress Rwanda has achieved in the 31 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is extraordinary, more like a miracle, made possible by the resilience, unity, and determination of the Rwandan people themselves.

  • Speaker of Parliament commends Rwandans abroad on their role in national development

    Accompanied by Senator Evode Uwizeyimana and MP Alice Muzana, Kazarwa praised the Rwandan community in Congo for their unity and commitment to upholding Rwandan cultural values.

    During the discussions which focused on the diaspora’s role in advancing Rwanda’s progress, she highlighted how significant it is that Rwandans living abroad are playing an active part in national development.

    “We thank you for remaining loyal to Rwanda, for defending and promoting it wherever you are. You are the Sixth Province of Rwanda, an extraordinary province, but one rooted in unity and development. Keep striving for excellence,” Kazarwa said.

    Members of the community in Congo Brazzaville described the ways they are contributing to national development, including paying health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) for vulnerable citizens, participating in the BRD-led Cana Challenge initiative, and supporting school feeding programs like Dusangire Lunch.

    During the meeting, attendees were also briefed on the functioning of the Rwandan Parliament, including its core responsibilities: lawmaking, government oversight, and citizen representation.

    Senator Uwizeyimana and MP Muzana emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in governance and encouraged diaspora members to continue participating meaningfully in Rwanda’s development efforts.
    The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Gertrude Kazarwa, has commended the continued contributions of Rwandans living abroad to the development of their country.

    The Rwandan community expressed deep appreciation for the visit by their parliamentary representatives and showed a strong willingness to keep contributing to Rwanda’s reconstruction through economic, cultural, and intellectual means.

    This meeting took place during the Speaker’s official visit to Brazzaville, where she was attending the 16th Conference of Speakers of Francophone Parliaments.

    According to the National Bank of Rwanda, the diaspora’s financial contributions to the country continue to grow. In 2024, Rwandans abroad sent home $502 million, compared to $505 million in 2023. This upward trend has been consistent.

    In 2020, $274 million was contributed by Rwandans abroad while in 2022$ 461 million was collected.
    The meeting took place during the Speaker’s official visit to Brazzaville.Senator Evode Uwizeyimana emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in governance.MP Alice Muzana, Kazarwa praised the Rwandan community in Congo for their unity and commitment to upholding Rwandan cultural values.whatsapp_image_2025-04-17_at_10.43_31_1_-63fc7.jpgwhatsapp_image_2025-04-17_at_10.43_30_5_-a46e6.jpg

  • Top FARDC General dies in detention after fleeing M23 advance on Goma

    He had previously served as the commander of the 34th military region when M23 forces captured the city of Goma in North Kivu Province at the end of January 2025.

    At that time, Nzambe, along with several other officers, withdrew from Goma and fled to the city of Bukavu in South Kivu Province, claiming they were “regrouping” in order to mount a counteroffensive against M23.

    Other military officers who faced similar charges of fleeing included Brig. Gen. Danny Tene Yangba, who was an advisor on security to the Governor of North Kivu, and Brig. Gen. Papy Lupembe, the commander of the 11th Brigade.

    Senior police commissioners were also implicated, including Ekuka Lipopo Jean-Romuald, former Deputy Governor of North Kivu, and Mukuna Tumba Eddy Léonard. These officials were accused of fleeing to Bukavu using private boats.

    Sources revealed that Nzambe died early in the morning of April 16. However, it is not yet confirmed whether he died inside the Ndolo military prison where he was being held, or in a hospital. The cause of death has also not been disclosed.

    Details of the legal proceedings against the soldiers and police officers have remained scanty, especially since the Kinshasa Military High Court decided on March 20 to hold the trial behind closed doors, citing national security concerns.

    Nzambe and his co-accused first appeared in court on March 13. Their lawyers requested provisional release, arguing that their detention was unlawful.
    It is not yet confirmed whether Nzambe (R) died inside the Ndolo military prison where he was being held, or in a hospital.

  • Africa’s AI awakening and Rwanda’s vision for an inclusive future

    In an exclusive interview on the Rundown podcast, Ingabire outlined Rwanda’s ambitious agenda and the broader opportunities AI presents for the continent.

    “What I’m more excited about is the quality of conversations we’ve had, the engagements, the optimism. We truly can shape what the future of AI looks like for Africa,” Ingabire said.

    One of the standout moments for her was seeing young innovators, especially in the creative industry, harnessing AI in unexpected ways.

    “It’s amazing to see them using AI for video development and digital creativity. You’d think most would focus on agriculture or healthcare, but these young people are pushing boundaries in culture and media,” she noted.

    According to her, Rwanda’s leadership on AI stems from deliberate planning and a collaborative spirit. “We’ve done our homework. We understand the value of AI, but we also know we can’t do it alone. Collaboration is essential, between policymakers, industry players, and startups,” she explained.

    That collaboration extends across borders, with initiatives like the creation of a 3,400-hour Kinyarwanda dataset now scaled to 16 African languages across 14 countries.

    This effort, driven by the Rwanda center for the fourth industrial revolution, is building foundational infrastructure that enables AI to reflect Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity.

    With a median age of 19 across Africa, talent is both abundant and untapped. Rwanda has partnered with institutions like Carnegie Mellon University and the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences to train engineers in AI and machine learning.

    More uniquely, the country’s Coding Academy is preparing gifted 13-year-olds in a three-year intensive program portraying skilling the youth is another top priority.

    But as Rwanda builds talent, it’s also focused on creating jobs and markets for them. “We can’t just build talent without a market to absorb them,” she said. “Money follows talent. Investors will come when they see quality solutions,” she said.

    The Minister was clear-eyed about challenges too, particularly infrastructure and regulation. Yet she believes the continent holds natural advantages. “Skills are our low-hanging fruit. We’re youthful, open to innovation, and we have real problems AI can help solve.”

    Rwanda’s AI strategy is deeply rooted in values. “Transparency, privacy, data reliability, and eliminating bias are essential. The country began its AI journey by enacting a data protection and privacy law, long before launching a national AI strategy,” she emphasized.

    Inclusion, especially gender inclusion, remains central as women are encouraged not just on using AI but building and leading in AI by designing solutions that benefit them too.

    Despite Rwanda’s relatively small market size, the country’s speed and efficiency make it a proving ground for foreign partners. “People come here doubting the market size, but once they see how fast things move, they start betting on us. And we bet on them too,” she revealed.

    Rwanda is also using AI to bridge urban-rural divides. From developing AI chatbots to assist community health workers to building solutions for underserved areas, inclusion is at the heart of every rollout.
    Ingabire outlined Rwanda’s ambitious agenda and the broader opportunities AI presents for the continent.

  • Calls mount for arrest of French priest convicted of Genocide in Rutsiro

    His case resurfaced during the 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, held at Nyamagumba Hill in the former Mabanza and Rutsiro communes of the Kibuye prefecture, where over 9,600 Tutsi were killed.

    On April 13, 1994, mass killings ensued on Nyamagumba hill, formerly known as Gitwa. The massacre involved the direct participation of Father Mendelo Gabriel, who was head of Crête Congo Nil Parish at the time.

    Philippe Niyonsenga, President of IBUKA in Rutsiro, told IGIHE that it is so heartbreaking that the priest has never been brought to justice.

    “It is extremely painful that Father Mendelo has not been arrested, despite his central role in the killings of Tutsi who had fled to Nyamagumba hill, and also in the 1992 killings of Abagogwe who sought refuge in Rutsiro commune,” Niyonsenga said.

    He explained that the priest had forced the Abagogwe to sign documents claiming the 1992 killings were “ordinary unrest.”

    Niyonsenga added that Mendelo was a member of the extremist CDR party, which allowed him to collaborate openly with the killers. His influence contributed directly to the massacre of more than 9,600 people on Nyamagumba hill.

    On April 12, 1994, the day before the massacre, Mendelo allegedly sent someone to count the number of Tutsi taking refuge on the hill.

    “The goal was to know how many they were, so they could mobilize more Interahamwe militias from other areas and come finish off the Tutsi, who were still putting up resistance,” Niyonsenga said.
    Philippe Niyonsenga, President of IBUKA in Rutsiro, says that it is so heartbreaking that the priest has never been brought to justice.

    Indeed, Interahamwe militias were then assembled from areas of Gisenyi, Nyamyumba, Kayove, Rutsiro, Ramba, Satinsyi, Giciye, and Mabanza, which bordered the hill.

    “As IBUKA, we believe he must be brought before a court of law, especially since he was already convicted in absentia by the Gacaca courts,” Niyonsenga stressed.

    He called on the Government of Rwanda to help ensure international arrest warrants are issued so that the priest can be tried in person, delivering justice to the survivors.

    Emmanuel Uwimana, a survivor from Nyamagumba Hill, also spoke out about Mendelo.

    “Mendelo Gabriel was an extremely wicked man. He even wore CDR party caps. What he did is well known, and he was sentenced to life by Gacaca courts. He has since changed names multiple times. The fact that he hasn’t been arrested and held accountable is an open wound for us. We urge the authorities to help ensure he is arrested,” Uwimana said.

    The Genocide memorial at Nyamagumba, was built on the hill formerly known as Gitwa, where a Catholic chapel once stood. That presence gave many Tutsi hope when they fled there.

    Trusting Father Mendelo as a priest, they disclosed their numbers, only for that trust to lead to betrayal, and the slaughter of more than 9,600 people.
    Emmanuel Uwimana, a survivor from Nyamagumba Hill, also spoke out about Mendelo.Father Mendelo Gabriel, a French priest sentenced to life imprisonment by Gacaca courts for his major role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

  • DRC intelligence forces raid home of former President Joseph Kabila

    “Men dressed in DRC military uniforms arrived without any legal documentation authorizing a search, disrupting the security of those living in the home. The Kabila family condemns this abuse of power and the unlawful actions that were carried out,” Shemisi said.

    Upon arrival at the property in Limete, which includes an industrial zone, the soldiers clashed verbally with the occupants, who demanded that they show an official warrant permitting entry but none was produced.

    The soldiers claimed that two Jeep Defender vehicles parked at the residence were evidence of a plot to undermine state institutions. The occupants, however, responded that the vehicles were only used for civilian purposes.

    Shemisi explained that the soldiers initially arrested an accountant who works at the residence, but he was later released. Authorities stated the investigation would continue the next day.

    By 2 a.m., the soldiers were still inside the residence. The Kabila family spokesperson accused them of trespassing, saying they opened multiple parts of the house and disturbed the residents’ peace, even though there was no indication of any criminal activity being planned there.

    The DRC government has long accused Kabila of collaborating with the AFC coalition, which includes the M23 armed group currently fighting government forces in North and South Kivu provinces.

    In March 2025, Kabila, who is in exile in Zimbabwe, denied any connection with the AFC/M23. “If I were truly collaborating with them, this war would have escalated to another level,” he said.

    Kabila, who led the DRC from 2001 to 2019, recently announced plans to return to his country via its eastern region. However, it remains unclear whether he intends to return as an ordinary citizen.
    Military intelligence officers of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) raided one of the homes of former President Joseph Kabila, located in the capital city, Kinshasa.

  • SAMIDRC troops to withdraw by road through Rwanda

    News reaching IGIHE has confirmed that a request has already been made for these SAMIDRC soldiers to transit through Rwanda. “Yes, it’s true—they will pass through Rwanda, but we don’t know the exact day. The request was made several days ago,” a source said.

    Earlier, a one-page SAMIDRC communique advised of a delay in the re-opening of Goma airport, stating it “could cause further delays” in the SAMIDRC withdrawal.

    It also noted withdrawal will be by road from Goma through Rwanda to the designated general assembly area of Chato in Tanzania, adding the SADC Secretariat will “engage” Rwanda to facilitate safe passage for SAMIDRC troops.

    The three troop contributing countries were tasked with “beefing up” the withdrawal planning element with operations, intelligence and logistics experts. They will be tasked to “conduct reconnaissance and develop instructions for withdrawal.”

    This is a point from discussion of a revised withdrawal plan at a meeting last Friday April 11,2025, attended by chiefs of the three defense forces that contributed troops and equipment to the mission.

    They are generals Rudzani Maphwanya (SA National Defence Force), Jacob Mkunda (Tanzania People’s Defence Force- TPDF) and Paul Phiri (Malawi Defence Force). Also present at the Dar es Salaam headquarters of the TPDF for the meeting was Professor Kula Theletsane, Director of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs.

    Initial deployment for the mission, under the acronym SAMIDRC, was in December 2023 to the eastern DRC under the command of South African Major General Monwabisi Dyakopu.

    Its termination, to be followed by a phased withdrawal, was made public by the regional bloc on 13 March. The announcement came two months after all three SAMIDRC troop contributing countries reported deaths in action against M23 with South Africa (14) bearing the brunt.

    On February 6, two weeks after the fatalities during combat around Sake and Goma in North Kivu province, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera ordered his soldiers to start preparing for withdrawal from Goma and surrounds in the eastern DRC.

    The SADC planning elements will lead and direct the SAMIDRC Force Commander on formulating a withdrawal plan adhering to guidelines permitted by the troop contributing countries.

    The M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) claims SAMIDRC forces are carrying out joint operations with DRC government forces (FARDC), Wazalendo militia and other elements around Goma.

    These, according to a 12 April statement by the M23, “violate the existing SADC agreements and delay therefore the rehabilitation of Goma airport, compelling the AFC/M23 to demand the immediate withdrawal of SAMIDRC forces.

    “Despite our restraint in response to these persistent criminal acts, the AFC/M23 finds itself compelled to reconsider its position to prioritize the security of the Congolese population and that of the SAMIDRC elements present in the liberated areas,” the statement said.

    Fighting has been taking place north of Goma since last week. It is believed that DRC government forces and Wazalendo militia forces that retreated into the Virunga national park are clashing with M23 rebels in the area.

    A withdrawal by land complicates things for the SAMIDRC troops, as a long logistic trail through Rwanda was not something they were anticipating. It is slow, rough roads and reliant on Rwanda to agree to the plan.
    Major General Ibrahim Michael Mhona, chief of operations of the Tanzanian People’s Defence Force (left) and Sultani Makenga, M23’s military commander, shake hands after signing a withdraw deal on 28 March 2025.

  • Inka Steakhouse scoops global Forty Under 40 award in hospitality sector

    The restaurant’s founder and proprietor, Nicole Ansoni, was honored in the hospitality category, representing Rwanda among a class of global change makers who are redefining their industries before the age of 40.

    The Forty Under 40 Global Awards, themed “Connecting Global Champions,” celebrated 40 high-performing leaders from 17 countries who are creating transformational impact across business, technology, arts, and culture.

    Hosted at the Hilton garden inn hotel in Business Bay, the event brought together a vibrant network of entrepreneurs and innovators, highlighting excellence, vision, and leadership on a global scale.

    Nicole Ansoni’s recognition marks a significant moment for Rwanda’s hospitality sector. Through her work with Inka Steakhouse, she has elevated Rwandan cuisine and championed a local-first philosophy that blends fine dining with community empowerment.

    Her restaurant, known for its refined menu centered on locally sourced meat and produce, has not only redefined Kigali’s dining scene but also served as a platform for promoting Rwanda’s rich agricultural heritage.
    Nicole Ansoni’s recognition marks a significant moment for Rwanda’s hospitality sector.

    “This award is a powerful recognition of Rwanda’s growing voice in global hospitality and of the work we’re doing to celebrate African excellence through food, service, and storytelling,” Ansoni said in her acceptance speech.

    “Standing on that stage, representing my country, was humbling, but also a reminder that our ideas, our culture, and our vision have a rightful place at the center of global conversations. I hope this moment encourages more young Africans, especially women, to lead boldly, dream without limits, and build with purpose,” she added.

    Founded with a mission to spotlight Rwanda’s culinary potential, Inka Steakhouse has quickly become more than just a restaurant, it is a movement celebrating local ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and homegrown talent.

    Named after the Kinyarwanda word for “cow,” Inka reflects dignity, nobility, and a deep respect for tradition.

    Under Nicole’s leadership, the restaurant has forged partnerships with Rwandan farmers, improving meat quality standards and helping establish a more sustainable supply chain in a country where the hospitality infrastructure is on an upward trajectory.
    Nicole's (C) work is grounded in a belief that business can be both profitable and purpose-driven.

    Nicole’s award highlights not only her personal journey as an entrepreneur but also the rise of African voices shaping the global narrative in food and hospitality.

    Her work is grounded in a belief that business can be both profitable and purpose-driven, and that excellence can be achieved through honoring local culture and community.

    The Forty Under 40 recognition underscores the growing international appreciation for innovative African-led businesses.

    For Inka Steakhouse and Nicole Ansoni, this milestone is not just a celebration of achievement, it’s a signal that Rwanda is firmly on the map as a destination for world-class hospitality and visionary leadership.
    Nicole’s award highlights not only her personal journey as an entrepreneur but also the rise of African voices shaping the global narrative in food and hospitality.Inka Steakhouse, one of Kigali’s standout culinary destinations, has been recognized on the world stage, earning a prestigious accolade at the 2025 Forty Under 40 global awards in Dubai.Nicole says that the award is a powerful recognition of Rwanda’s growing voice in global hospitality.pic_2-198.jpgpic_5-91.jpgpic_6-70.jpg

  • Commonwealth games federation president resigns, Ugandan appointed in interim role

    The Ugandan lawyer and sports administrator was named following an announced resignation of President Chris Jenkins to guide Commonwealth Sport until elections in November 2025.

    Jenkins, who took the role in November 2023, will be remembered for his longstanding service and contribution to the Commonwealth Sport movement.

    “I am particularly proud of the opportunities I have been given to advance Sport for Development and especially Para inclusion through our GAPS program and want to thank all my Commonwealth Games Association colleagues and friends for their support,” said Jenkins.

    Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir explained that with a mid-term resignation the Constitution allows for an interim President to be appointed by the Executive Board, and a new President will be elected by the membership at the next General Assembly in November 2025.

    “The Board appointed Dr. Donald Rukare as interim President until the General Assembly. We look forward to working with Donald in this role as we continue driving the organization’s event operations and wider movement forward,” said Sadleir.

    “We look forward to welcoming a new President in November to lead us through our upcoming period of growth and continued transformation,” he added.

    “I am ready to step into this role and thank the Board for their confidence in me. We have come through a particularly challenging period in our Games history, and we are now building momentum towards an outstanding Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026,” said Rukare upon his appointment.
    Chris Jenkins competed for Wales at the 1984 Commonwealth Games as a rowing cox.Uganda Olympic Committee President Dr. Donald Rukare has been appointed as interim head of the Commonwealth Sport. Commonwealth Sport

  • Rwanda to host Afreximbank trade center to boost intra-African trade

    Having already broken ground with the first AATC site in Abuja, Nigeria, the others will be located in key African cities including Kampala (Uganda), Harare (Zimbabwe), Cairo (Egypt), Yaoundé (Cameroon), Tunis (Tunisia) and Kigali (Rwanda).

    The Abuja AATC was officially commissioned on April.10 2025, marking a pivotal milestone in the Bank’s broader vision for continental trade transformation.

    These flagship trade facilities are designed to serve as physical and institutional hubs that promote trade facilitation, investment promotion, and capacity building, all of which are critical pillars for sustainable economic development across Africa.

    Speaking during the grand commissioning ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria’s Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr. George Akume, representing President H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasized the strategic importance of the AATC initiative.

    “This is more than a building. It is a symbol of Africa’s bold ambitions for economic integration and trade-led development,” he said.

    “The Abuja AATC will be a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-border collaboration, aligning seamlessly with Nigeria’s national priorities, including job creation, economic diversification, and regional integration.”

    Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said the multi-purpose facility will serve not only as the Bank’s permanent regional office but also as a comprehensive trade ecosystem.

    “This center will house a technology incubation hub, SME support facilities, the Digital Africa Trade Gateway, a trade exhibition center, and a business hotel. It is a 41-month journey that embodies Afreximbank’s enduring commitment to advancing intra-African trade,” Oramah said.

    According to him, the Abuja AATC is part of a broader network of trade centers to be established across Africa and the Caribbean. Some will be owned by the Bank, while others will be developed under a franchise model.

    “These centers are envisioned to become lighthouses for the movement of goods, services, capital, and information, linking African economies more efficiently with each other and with the global trade ecosystem,” he added.

    The Abuja facility comprises two interconnected nine-storey towers. One tower offers world-class commercial A-grade office space, a trade and exhibition centre, conference facilities, a digital trade hub, and a technology incubator.

    The adjoining tower features a 148-room business hotel, wellness centre, meeting and seminar rooms, a restaurant, and other ancillary services. The centre is also expected to host regional offices of financial institutions, trade bodies, and policy organizations to provide a comprehensive support network for business and trade development.

    Designed by global architectural firm SVA International, the building’s design draws inspiration from the traditional African bazaar, capturing the vibrant pulse of trade that characterizes the continent’s urban centres.

    Constructed on 5,856 square meters of prime land, the $120 million development began in November 2021 and reached completion within 41 months.

    Beyond Africa, Afreximbank has also initiated plans for its first AATC outside the continent, having broken ground in Bridgetown, Barbados, a few weeks ago.

    Through franchising and licensing arrangements, the Bank aims to establish non-Bank owned AATCs in collaboration with partner institutions across the broader African diaspora.
    Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (C) cutting ribbon with other officials at the launch of the Afreximbank African Trade Centre in Abuja on April 10, 2025.