As part of the company’s ‘brew a better world’ agenda, Bralirwa donated 5,000 fruit trees and agroforestry seedlings to the residents of Gisenyi Sector in Rubavu District and joined the community for tree planting in a bid to sensitize them on the importance of environmental conservation.
The communal activity, which was graced by the Mayor of Rubavu district, Mr. Mulindwa Prosper, among other distinguished district authorities, was attended by over 200 participants who were thrilled to have some of the fruit trees within their homesteads to improve livelihoods, prevent soil erosion and support biodiversity.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Bralirwa, Mr. Etienne Saada, reiterated the company’s efforts towards replenishing watersheds and nature in close collaboration with key stakeholders. “As a company, we are committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Today’s initiative is one of many steps we are taking to create healthier ecosystems and a better planet for generations to come,” said Mr. Etienne.
Bralirwa plants 20,000 trees every year. While 5,000 trees were planted in Rubavu District last week, the remaining will be evenly distributed to districts of Nyarugenge, Kicukiro and Rwamagana during this year’s planting season.
The Mayor of Rubavu District, Mr. Mulindwa Prosper, thanked Bralirwa for their consistent contribution to the environmental conservation efforts within the district and called upon the residents of Gisenyi sector to preserve the trees for their benefits to the community.
“Our district takes great pride in our ongoing collaboration with Bralirwa and our shared efforts towards the social, environmental and economic development of the District,” said Mr. Mulindwa.
In September, Bralirwa donated garbage collection bins to cooperatives working along the shores of Lake Kivu in Nyamyumba sector, Rubavu district in commemoration of the world cleanup Day, under the theme ‘make room for life’. Last year, the company donated 20 million Rwandan Francs for construction materials to the victims of flooding in Rubavu in partnership with Rwanda Red Cross Society.
As a music teacher at Green Hills Academy, he now spends his days teaching piano and music production to young students, sharing his knowledge and passion for the arts. For Konstantin, Rwanda has become a chosen home, a place where he can explore his interests in music, art, and cultural exchange in a way that feels both fulfilling and impactful.
Known among locals as “Nsengiyumva”, a Rwandan nickname he adopted after hearing it in conversation, Konstantin has embraced his new life with genuine enthusiasm. The name, which initially caught his attention because of its unique sound, has since become a friendly identifier that reflects his commitment to integrating into Rwandan culture.
Although he’s still learning Kinyarwanda, he is determined to improve, believing that language is a key part of understanding the place he now calls home.
Konstantin’s journey in music started long before he arrived in Rwanda. He began playing piano as a child and was involved in choirs and even composed his own songs. His love for music led him to study it professionally in Germany, and over the years, he gained experience in music production, composing for theater, and teaching.
“My decision to come to Rwanda was fueled by a desire to work on cultural projects, and I have since found a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and performers in Kigali,” he explains
In his role at Green Hills Academy, Konstantin teaches students not just about music but also about the importance of creativity and discipline in achieving one’s goals. He encourages his students to think of their dreams as “works in progress,” explaining that goals need dedication and practical steps.
“Music, like life, is all about the little steps that make up the big picture. For me, teaching is about more than imparting technical skills; it’s about inspiring my students to find their voice and their confidence through art,” he says.
In addition to his teaching, Konstantin has become somewhat of a social media personality in Rwanda. His videos, which often feature humorous moments as he attempts to master Rwandan customs or speak Kinyarwanda, have earned him a modest following.
“It all started with a playful video correcting a friend’s pronunciation of his nickname, which quickly went viral. From there, I began sharing more lighthearted content, surprising myself with how much people enjoyed my funny takes on everyday Rwandan life,” he recalls.
Outside of his online presence, Konstantin is deeply engaged in Rwanda’s creative scene. He appreciates the country’s efforts to support the arts, noting how the government and various organizations work to provide opportunities for artists and musicians.
“There’s a strong energy here for the arts, and people genuinely enjoy participating in it. However, there some challenges, particularly the gap between well-established artists and those just upcoming. I believe that with more performance venues, mentorship, and funding, young artists could more easily find their way and make a name for themselves,” he advised.
Konstantin also has strong opinions about the role of values in art. For him, creative work should have purpose and integrity, not just a drive for fame or money. He’s cautious of the global trend of social media sensationalism, particularly when it leads to superficial or provocative content for the sake of attention.
“Art should be meaningful and have a positive impact. If it’s just for show, it loses its value. This perspective aligns with my approach to teaching and my belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for personal and social growth,” he says.
Moving forward, Konstantin hopes to continue contributing to Rwanda’s art scene, helping young artists find their way and encouraging a community of creativity. He’s also eager to keep learning Kinyarwanda, deepening his understanding of the country that has welcomed him so warmly.
“In just a few years, I have gone from being a visitor in Rwanda to becoming an active member of the creative community. Rwanda isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place where I can grow, share, and connect with others through the universal language of music and art,” he emphasizes.
Through his teaching, his performances, and his lighthearted videos, Konstantin has found a way to bridge cultures, inspire young minds, and make a lasting impact in a country that has captured his heart.
Speaking at the launch of the 6th Annual CIMERWA Golf Tournament, set for November 30 at Kigali Golf Club, Kumar clarified that while a few senior positions were streamlined due to overlapping roles, the majority of the workforce has been retained, with new employment opportunities created both directly and indirectly.
Kumar described the decision as necessary to eliminate duplicate roles after the acquisition but stressed that it was not a mass layoff as some reports have suggested. “Most of the staff are still with us, and since taking over Prime Cement, we’ve achieved tremendous growth, a result that wouldn’t be possible without our team,” Kumar noted.
“We absorbed nearly all plant staff from Prime Cement, and only a few senior staff at the head office were let go due to role duplication. It was a tough decision, but we felt it was the best course for the company’s future,” he explained.
Kumar highlighted that CIMERWA has continued to expand its workforce since the acquisition, with the company now employing more than 4,200 people directly and indirectly, including 650 positions created in the local community.
“Our first priority is always for Rwandans, whether in logistics, services, or other business opportunities. This is a core aspect of our growth strategy, with a commitment to local hiring and supporting Rwandan service providers” Kumar said.
In addition to addressing the disparities engulfed in the company’s human resource, Kumar detailed CIMERWA’s recent growth in production operations, with a 200% increase since May, significantly reducing the need for imported cement and supporting Rwanda’s trade balance
“Our export business has shown robust growth, helping the country minimize trade deficits and making Rwanda more self-reliant in meeting its cement needs,” Kumar stated.
Kumar also underscored CIMERWA’s ongoing investment in environmental and community initiatives, including a shift toward sustainable practices within the cement industry. “We’re aware of the environmental impact of cement production and are doing what we can to minimize carbon emissions. Compared to last year, we’ve increased our alternative fuel usage from 15% to over 30%. This shift allows us to reduce emissions while ensuring we continue to meet high-quality standards,” he said.
As the company addresses the ongoing employment adjustments, it also continues to invest in sports development through the CIMERWA Annual Golf Tournament, now in its sixth year.
Eugene Mukabwa, the Vice-Captain of the Kigali Golf Club, highlighted the positive impact of CIMERWA’s sponsorship on the event, which will see over 100 golfers across six categories.
“Thanks to CIMERWA’s support, this tournament has improved year after year. It’s a public event and a great opportunity for golfers of all levels,” Mukabwa said.
CIMERWA’s annual investment of USD150,000 (over 200million Frw) to USD200,000 (over 270million Frw) in the tournament is part of its broader vision for supporting health, wellness, and community engagement in Rwanda.
The agency is tasked with implementing foreign aid programs in line with the general policy for international humanitarian affairs. Its responsibilities include planning, overseeing, executing, and monitoring official government support, with a particular focus on disaster relief, early recovery programs, post-conflict stabilization, development programs, and capacity building programs.
Speaking on the occasion of the establishment of the UAE Aid Agency, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, said, “The establishment of the UAE Aid Agency represents a continuation of the steadfast humanitarian legacy laid by our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
“This approach reflects the UAE’s dedication to addressing humanitarian challenges and fostering sustainable development globally. The country pursues this mission under the wise leadership and enduring support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan affirming the commitment of the leadership, government, and nation to advancing this noble humanitarian endeavor.”
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated, “The establishment of the UAE Aid Agency reaffirms the UAE’s humanitarian role in providing essential assistance, improving living conditions, and supporting communities and people across all continents.”
His Highness emphasized the UAE’s commitment to collaborate with international partners to create a tangible and lasting positive impact, especially in regions affected by crises and instability, with a focus on vital areas such as educational services, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure sectors to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for all.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, said, “With the formation of the UAE Aid Agency, we are reaffirming our commitment to addressing global humanitarian challenges and promoting sustainable development in a strategic and coordinated manner.”
He added that the agency aims to enhance the impact of UAE’s global priority foreign aid. It seeks to maximize positive outcomes in executing humanitarian relief programs, initiatives, and developmental projects worldwide, aligning with the UAE’s role and stature in regional and international humanitarian and developmental efforts.
The UAE is considered one of the world’s most generous donor countries. Latest figures show the UAE, since its founding by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, has contributed over US$98 billion (AED360 billion) in foreign assistance, which has benefited over one billion people worldwide.
Scheduled from November 12 to 14, 2024, the assembly will be held under the theme “Enhancing Sustainable Public Procurement for Africa’s Economic Resilience and is set to define procurement reform as a cornerstone of economic resilience.
It brings together experts, policymakers, and practitioners committed to fostering a new era in Africa’s public procurement.
The APPN, established in 2018, has emerged as a platform for advancing procurement practices that are both sustainable and transparent. Public procurement accounts for nearly 17% of Africa’s GDP, making efficient and ethical procurement essential to sustainable development.
Joyeuse Uwingeneye, Director General of the Rwanda Public Procurement Authority (RPPA), explained Rwanda’s achievements ahead of the event, underscoring the country’s commitment to high standards in procurement.
“The Rwanda Public Procurement Authority was created to separate regulatory oversight from the awarding of tenders, empowering institutions to manage their procurement processes while RPPA focuses on compliance and capacity-building,” she said.
This distinction is crucial, she noted, for fostering transparency and accountability in public procurement, positioning Rwanda as a benchmark for best practices in the region.
Rwanda’s journey in procurement reform includes the successful launch of the Umucyo e-procurement system in 2016, a digital platform that has redefined efficiency and compliance in government procurement.
“Our digital infrastructure has allowed us to revise and strengthen our legal frameworks continuously. With the recent rollout of a new procurement policy in 2024 and the upcoming implementation of the Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS), we will allow public access to data on awarded tenders, financial allocations, and execution timelines, giving citizens direct insight into how funds are allocated and spent,” Uwingeneye said.
The adoption of OCDS, a major highlight of the assembly, demonstrates Rwanda’s leadership in procurement transparency, marking an unprecedented step toward public accountability.
The assembly will also celebrate the launch of Rwanda’s Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) Policy Framework, developed with support from APPN. This framework integrates one of Africa’s first Open Contracting Data Standards for e-Government procurement, positioning Rwanda as a leader in procurement modernization.
On his part, Alassane BA, The Vice Chairperson of the APPN explained that adopting practices that promote transparency, efficiency, and reduced reliance on imports, African nations can drive self-sufficiency and bolster local economies.
He said that Rwanda, as host, stands out as a model of procurement reform and digital innovation, showcasing a blueprint for countries seeking to enhance governance through sustainable procurement.
“Transparency on this scale is rare and challenging to achieve, but it’s essential to building trust and accountability. The public can now view government spending details and question how these procurements benefit society. This open data approach will set a new standard for procurement accountability across the continent,” he said.
APPN’s Technical Secretary, Aftar Toure Morou, emphasized the assembly’s importance, framing it as “not merely an event, but a call to action.” He praised Rwanda’s achievements in advancing professional standards and transparency, highlighting that the assembly encourages African leaders to rethink procurement policies that align with sustainable growth, resilience, and economic inclusivity.
“This assembly urges leaders across Africa to reshape procurement policies that support our continent’s shared goals of economic stability, environmental sustainability, and inclusive prosperity,” he stated.
Throughout the assembly, participants will engage in collaborative sessions exploring topics such as eco-friendly procurement, ethical sourcing, digital innovations for transparency, and building resilient local supply chains.
These discussions will directly inform APPN’s 2025 agenda, creating a roadmap for advancing procurement practices across Africa.
By addressing core issues such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and digital frameworks, attendees will explore how sustainable procurement can support climate action, economic resilience, and sustainable growth.
Global support for the assembly highlights its significance on the international stage, with sponsorship from institutions such as the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and Agence Française de Développe ment.
As Rwanda hosts this prestigious gathering, the nation’s accomplishments in procurement reform take center stage, inspiring other African countries to pursue transparent, sustainable, and efficient public procurement.
This price surpassed the bids of more than a dozen other tea producers from across the region at the 44th East Africa Tea Trade Association (EATTA) auction, marking a significant milestone for Rwandan tea on the international market.
Mombasa, Kenya, is home to the world’s second-largest black tea auction center after Colombo, Sri Lanka. The achievement at this auction emphasizes Rwanda’s growing reputation as a producer of high-quality tea and signals increasing demand for its products.
Rwanda Mountain Tea, known for its commitment to excellence, once again demonstrated the strength of its offerings in this fiercely competitive environment. Kitabi Tea Factory, which operates in the Nyamagabe District in Rwanda’s Southern Province, is a standout within the group.
The factory oversees a vast tea plantation spanning over 1,600 hectares, ensuring high-quality output year after year.
During this auction, Rwanda’s premium BP1 grade was not only the highest bid for its category but was also the top bid across all participating producers for the second consecutive auction.
Additionally, Kitabi Tea Factory secured other top grades: Pekoe Fanning One (PF1) at USD 4.23, Pekoe Dust (PDUST) at USD 4.79, while Mata Tea Factory earned USD 3.41 for the DUST1 grade. This exceptional performance in multiple categories underscores the quality and dedication to standards that Rwanda Mountain Tea maintains across its products.
“Rwandan tea’s success at the most recent auction reinforces the global reputation of our product. Our commitment to producing premium-quality tea is unwavering, and we are proud to see this reflected in the high demand and top prices our products achieved ” said Martin Luther Mawo, Director of Sales and Marketing at Rwanda Mountain Tea Group.
He highlighted that despite a challenging growing season due to prolonged dry conditions, Rwandan tea retained its top position, with its factories achieving leading prices on all four tea grades at the auction.
This success comes at a time when the East African tea market is facing a supply reduction. This year’s Mombasa auction reported a decrease of over 2.4 million packages, with 6.25 million sold in 2024 compared to 8.67 million in 2023.
In terms of regional competition, Kenya, the largest tea producer in East Africa, sold 5.27 million kilograms, Rwanda sold 191,235 kilograms while Uganda sold with 733,846kgs with other countries also making significant contributions. Rwanda’s unmatched premium prices place it as a leader in quality within the auction.
The Tea Market Report for 2023-2024 further highlighted Rwanda’s success in securing an annual average price of USD 3.55 per kilogram, an increase from USD 3.22 the previous year. This average was the highest among East African producers, with Kenya following at USD 2.28.
The outstanding achievements of Rwanda Mountain Tea were further recognized at the recent 6th African Tea Convention and Exhibition in Kigali, where the company won several awards, securing top honors across the main tea grades.
In the 2022/2023 fiscal year, Rwanda exported 39,000 tonnes of processed tea, generating over USD 107.7 million, which contributed to 12% of the country’s agricultural export revenue.
Key markets for Rwandan tea include the United Kingdom, Pakistan, Egypt, Kazakhstan, Ireland, and Russia. With rising global demand and consistent quality, Rwanda is well-positioned to continue expanding its tea exports, strengthening its reputation in the global tea market and providing substantial support to the national economy.
The Federation of Popular Movements (FMP), a coalition of grassroots organizations, has played a central role in fostering this spirit of unity and progress.
It is comprised of smaller groups, including JOC (Young Christian Workers – Male Branch), JOCF (Young Christian Workers – Female Branch), MTCR (Christian Workers’ Movement of Rwanda), and MXR (Xaveri Movement of Rwanda).
These organizations, united by a shared commitment to sustainable development, have pooled their resources and efforts to empower communities across the country.
Over the years, a focus on vocational training, climate and environmental conservation plus modern agricultural practices has led to remarkable progress. Between 2008 and 2024, more than 3,000 individuals were trained in advanced farming and livestock management techniques, with women making up a significant proportion of participants.
Many of these individuals have seen dramatic improvements in their productivity, with some quadrupling their yields. Practical support, such as livestock and agricultural inputs, has further empowered them to implement what they’ve learned, enhancing economic resilience and food security.
In fields like tailoring, mechanics, welding, and hairdressing, over 1,000 participants have gained practical skills that directly translate into income-generating opportunities.
During a training today in Huye district, Innocent Harerimana, the association’s Legal Adviser reflected on these achievements. He highlighted the importance of collective action.
“When people come together and pool their strengths, the results are extraordinary. These achievements are a testament to the power of collaboration and the willingness of individuals to invest in their futures through shared efforts. This spirit of unity is what drives true and lasting development,” he said.
Alongside training, tools and resources were provided to graduates, enabling them to apply their expertise immediately and contribute to their households and communities.
The impact of these efforts is evident in the establishment of 63 active cooperatives, formed by graduates of these initiatives. These cooperatives have not only served as platforms for shared resources but have also nurtured teamwork, financial literacy, and a culture of savings.
Many members now confidently access loans and work collaboratively on projects that enhance development further.
“Our togetherness has fostered more than economic benefits. It has created a sense of shared responsibility and laid a strong foundation for future progress,” said Daphroza Murekatete one of the participants.
As communities continue to celebrate these successes, it is clear that the approach of working together as groups has demonstrated that transformative change is possible when individuals unite towards common goals, proving that the strength of a community lies in its ability to work together.
Following a heated confrontation on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Akol stunned the public and his colleagues with inflammatory statements in the media, not only expressing no remorse but further escalating the situation by threatening Zaake’s life.
“I don’t regret what I did to Zaake. I could even kill him if I had a chance,” Akol said and He went on to imply that Zaake might be suffering from mental health issues, suggesting he should be admitted to Butabika Hospital, Uganda’s national mental health facility.
Akol declared he was “well trained” and capable of taking on all members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) at once, singling out Francis Zaake as a specific target.
“I can even beat up all NUP MPs if they can all come at once. I have no problem with killing, so Zaake should be careful with me,” Akol boasted.
The confrontation between Akol and Zaake began during a parliamentary session on Wednesday, when Zaake raised concerns about a potential firearm in the chamber, fearing for the safety of lawmakers.
He approached Speaker Anita Among to voice his suspicions, suggesting that someone might have brought a weapon into the session, which was about to debate the controversial National Coffee (Amendment) Bill 2024.
Speaker Among called a brief recess to conduct a security check, which yielded no firearm. However, when Zaake returned to his seat, he found it occupied by Akol, leading to a verbal exchange that quickly spiraled into a physical altercation.
Zaake was later rushed to St. Francis Hospital Nsambya, where he is currently receiving medical treatment, and has since announced plans to pursue legal action against Akol.
These shocking remarks have ignited widespread condemnation, particularly as Akol drew on his past as a former child soldier in the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a rebel group infamous for its brutal violence and forced abductions under warlord Joseph Kony in Northern Uganda.
The National Unity Platform and human rights advocates have swiftly condemned the statements, warning that such rhetoric reflects a dangerous normalization of violence in Uganda’s political arena and taps into deeply painful memories of the LRA’s atrocities.
As of now, there have been no official statements from Ugandan political parties, human rights organizations, or government officials condemning MP Anthony Akol’s recent threats against MP Francis Zaake. The incident has sparked public concern, but formal responses from key stakeholders are yet to be issued.
This is not the first time Zaake has faced violence in Uganda’s parliament. Known for his outspoken stance on human rights and criticism of President Yoweri Museveni’s administration, Zaake has been a frequent target of both verbal and physical attacks.
In 2017, he was part of a chaotic session over a proposed amendment to remove the presidential age limit, sustaining injuries while security forces attempted to remove him.
In 2019, he was hospitalized after a physical altercation within parliament, and in 2020, he was injured again by security forces who reportedly attempted to remove him from his home during COVID-19 lockdown measures.
Trump’s victory has already sparked a wave of global recognition as leaders from around the world are stepping forward with congratulations and praise, lauding his resilience and the renewed diplomatic possibilities his win brings.
With excitement and anticipation, international figures have hailed Trump’s political resurgence as a pivotal moment for America and the world, their words reflecting deep respect for his persistence and a shared hope for strengthened alliances.
The first to acknowledge the Republican Party candidate’s victory was Nayib Bukele, President of El Salvador, who wasted no time in affirming his support.
In a message of confidence, Bukele tweeted, “Congratulations, President-elect.” His prompt recognition paved the way for an array of international leaders to echo his sentiment, marking this victory as a truly global affair.
In the same spirit, Rwandan President Paul Kagame extended warm congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump, recognizing his historic and decisive victory as the 47th President of the United States.
Kagame praised Trump’s message of partnership based on mutual respect rather than imposition, expressing a strong desire to work collaboratively for the shared benefit of both nations in the years to come.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali joined in with words that resonated with optimism and partnership.
“Congratulations to President Donald Trump on your election victory and comeback. I look forward to working together to further strengthen the relationship between our two countries during your term.” Abiy said in a statement.
From Burundi, President Evariste Ndayishimiye offered his own congratulatory note: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump on your historic election victory and convey my wishes for success as you lead America forward with purpose and conviction. I look forward to further strengthening the Burundi-USA cooperation.”
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey responded to the news with a personal touch, referring to Trump as a friend. “I congratulate my friend Donald Trump,” he said warmly and went on to express his hopes for a strengthened U.S.-Turkey relationship, emphasizing shared global challenges.
“I hope that relations between Turkey and the United States will be strengthened, that regional and global crises and wars, especially the Palestinian issue and the Russian-Ukrainian war, will end, and I believe that more efforts will be made for a more just world.”
Across the continent, French President Emmanuel Macron shared a note of familiarity and ambition.
“Congratulations, President Trump. Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”
Macron’s message, nodding to their past cooperation, conveyed a desire to continue addressing global challenges in tandem.
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán also added his enthusiastic endorsement. “The biggest comeback in U.S. political history! Congratulations to President Trump on his enormous win. A much-needed victory for the World!”
Meanwhile, from the heart of Africa, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo extended warm congratulations on behalf of his nation. In a message shared on the Congolese presidential Twitter account, Tshisekedi expressed his intent to build upon the already positive relations between the U.S. and the DRC.
“On behalf of the Congolese people and in his own name, President Félix Tshisekedi extends his warmest congratulations to Donald Trump for his great victory in the presidential election of USA.
The Head of State said he was ready to collaborate with the newly elected American President and to deepen the strategic partnership between the RDC and the U.S., which already maintain good friendly and cooperative relations.”
From the East African region, Kenyan President William Ruto said, “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Kenya and on my own behalf, I convey to Your Excellency, my warmest congratulations on your election as the 47th President of the United States of America.”
South Africa’s Cyril Ramafosa said, “Congratulations to United States President-Elect on your return to the Presidency. I look forward to continuing the close and mutually beneficial partnership between our two nations across all domains of our cooperation.”
Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister said, “Heartiest congratulations my friend Trump on your historic election victory. As you build on the successes of your previous term, I look forward to renewing our collaboration to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership. Together, let’s work for the betterment of our people and to promote global peace, stability and prosperity.”
In a show of solidarity and great admiration, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the longest and most passionate message.
He said, “Congratulations to Donald Trump on his impressive election victory! I recall our great meeting with President Trump back in September, when we discussed in detail the Ukraine-U.S. strategic partnership, the Victory Plan, and ways to put an end to Russian aggression against Ukraine.”
“I appreciate President Trump’s commitment to the “peace through strength” approach in global affairs. This is exactly the principle that can practically bring just peace in Ukraine closer. I am hopeful that we will put it into action together.”
He added, “We look forward to an era of a strong United States of America under President Trump’s decisive leadership. We rely on continued strong bipartisan support for Ukraine in the United States. We are interested in developing mutually beneficial political and economic cooperation that will benefit both of our nations.”
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine, as one of Europe’s strongest military powers, is committed to ensuring long-term peace and security in Europe and the Transatlantic community with the support of allies.
Trump served as the 45th President of the United States from 2016 to 2020, after which he was succeeded by Democrat Joe Biden in an election that was disputed by the Republican candidate.
While Biden had initially launched a campaign to defend his seat, he dropped out of the race in July to endorse Harris. The 81-year-old withdrew from what would have been a rematch between him and Trump, primarily due to concerns about his age.
Dusengiyumva met with senior faculty and staff to discuss ongoing projects, including partnerships with the University of Rwanda and UMST’s planned expansion in Kigali.
“UMST’s commitment to healthcare and medical training is clear. The City of Kigali is ready to support initiatives that bring more medical services and learning opportunities to our community,” he said.
A highlight of UMST’s plans is the construction of a state-of-the-art hospital and student hostels in Busanza Sector which will provide both medical services and housing for students.
Mayor Dusengiyumva praised these plans, noting that they align well with the city’s vision for community health and education. “Projects like these are essential for Kigali’s future. They ensure access to healthcare and create a supportive environment for medical students,” he noted.
On his part, UMST Chancellor Professor Mamoun Homeida shared insights on the university’s journey since 1996, as well as its focus on medical education, research, and service in Rwanda.
“Our goal has always been to contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s healthcare system and to train future medical professionals. This planned hospital and student accommodation are steps toward creating an integrated learning and healthcare environment.” said Prof. Homeida.
Homeida also expressed appreciation for the support UMST has received from the Rwandan government, highlighting that the new facilities will be instrumental in addressing healthcare needs and improving student life. “Your support has allowed us to invest in Kigali and build a foundation for medical education here,” he said.
The meeting included a campus tour where the Mayor and UMST leadership inspected the school’s infrastructure and equipment, demonstrating their commitment to collaborate in strengthening Kigali’s healthcare capacity and educational resources through joint efforts.
