Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

The Advocates-General, in charge of the prosecution had requested for 30 years for the 65-year-old former doctor, born on June 6, 1959, and a few hours ago he has received a sentence just 3 years less.

The day of the verdict was also the day of the final hearing. Dr. Rwamucyo was given the opportunity to make a final statement, in which he stated that he did not kill anyone and did not directly cause the death of anyone.

He claimed that he knew the locations of all the mass graves where bodies were buried but denied knowledge of other details, adding that he had nothing to offer to those who lost loved ones. Rwamucyo concluded by thanking the court for listening to him.

The presiding judge instructed Rwamucyo to remain at the court building while his deliberated on the verdict. He was asked to stay in a designated room under police watch until both parties were summoned again for the announcement.

After the verdict was read, the police immediately took Dr. Eugène Rwamucyo to the prison where he will serve his sentence.

Rwamucyo’s case, who once headed the medical department at the former National University of Rwanda in Butare (UNR), began on October 1, 2024.

He was accused of several crimes, including committing genocide, complicity in genocide, involvement in a genocide plot, crimes against humanity, and aiding and abetting genocide.

These charges are linked to evidence and testimonies collected in the former Butare Prefecture, where Dr. Rwamucyo worked before and during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Various witnesses testified in court that Dr. Rwamucyo gave orders to bury bodies of Tutsis, including some who were still alive and injured, using equipment such as road construction machinery commonly referred to as caterpillars

During the meeting, President Museveni highlighted the importance of strengthening security measures between Uganda and the DRC, a priority amid ongoing regional challenges.

“We discussed, among other issues, security between Uganda and DRC, regional security, and infrastructural developments, including key roads of mutual economic benefit,” Museveni stated.
Both leaders expressed a unified vision for the future, recognizing that the needs of the DRC closely align with those of Uganda.

“We are all in agreement that what Congo needs is what Uganda needs,” Museveni remarked.
The discussions also touched upon critical infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing economic ties and fostering stability in the region.

The two presidents underscored their commitment to working together to address common challenges and promote peace and development in their respective nations.
President Museveni thanked Tshisekedi for accepting his invitation to the meeting, signaling a positive step toward strengthening bilateral relations between Uganda and the DRC.

Earlier, Tshisekedi and his delegation had been welcomed by Ugandan Defense Minister Jacob Oboth-Oboth with expectations to discus the ongoing joint military operations between the DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) and the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a group linked to ISIS and accused of deadly violence in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

Since the launch of these operations in November 2021, the two armies report progress, including the neutralization of 52 ADF combatants and the capture of 72 others from April to September 2024, according to the spokesperson for the joint FARDC-UPDF operations, Colonel Mak Hazukay.

This mission takes place amidst a complex diplomatic climate, Although the DRC-Uganda military cooperation is considered crucial by Kinshasa to eradicate armed groups in the East, it is also criticized by some segments of Congolese civil society, which accuses Uganda of supporting M23 rebels.

However, President Tshisekedi confirmed the continued collaboration on October 12, following an operations review meeting in Kinshasa attended by the military leadership of both countries.

Despite diplomatic tensions, Kinshasa and Kampala appear determined to strengthen security ties to ensure stability in this troubled region. Tshisekedi and Museveni’s meeting comes only two weeks after a high-level meeting in Kinshasa to assess the effectiveness of their joint operations.

The Congolese Minister of Infrastructure, Alexis Gisaro, the FARDC Chief of General Staff, and other members of the Congolese delegation also participated in this mission, underscoring the importance the DRC places on this bilateral cooperation.

There was no evidence of community transmission from the patient, who is being treated at the Royal Free Hospital in London.

The person involved had been on holiday in Africa and travelled back to the UK on an overnight flight on 21 October.

More than 24 hours later, the person developed flu-like symptoms and on 24 October, started to develop a rash which got worse in the following days. It was later discovered October 27 that the person had contracted Mpox.

About 10 direct contacts are being traced after the discovery, and Professor Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at UKHSA, said “the risk to the UK population remains low, it is thanks to our surveillance that we have been able to detect this virus,” she said.

This is the first time Clade 1b has been detected in the UK. Germany reported its first Clade 1b case earlier this month.

Over 1,000 deaths from the strain have been reported across Africa prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the increasing spread of the disease a global health emergency for the second time in two years.

Common symptoms of Mpox include a skin rash or pus-filled lesions which can last two to four weeks. It can also cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.

Mpox, and the Clade 1b strain is usually passed on by close physical contact, contact with infected animals or sexual transmission. Professor Hopkins said there was no evidence of a transpiration route of infection.

Clade Ib Mpox has been widely circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo in recent months and there have also been cases reported in neighboring countries.

“We are Banyarwanda not Bavandimwe as being mooted by Mr. Frank Gashumba and some State Agents. We have suspended him (Gashumba) from our affairs and also petitioned the president over this matter,” Simon Kaiyitana Chairman-Umubano Task Force & Member of Buganda Lukiiko told the press on October 29, 2024.

He revealed that Gashumba has been suspended with immediate effect and requested to stop peddling his personal interests using Abavandimwe disguising as Banyarwanda.

According to plan, there are scheduled meetings between Banyarwanda community and the leaderships of all Kingdoms and cultural institutions in the country during the ongoing countrywide consultations expected to end on December 01, 2024.

The cultural institutions to be consulted include Buganda Kingdom, Tooro Kingdom, Bunyoro Kingdom, Busoga Kingdom, Rwenzururu Kingdom, Rwoti Cultural Institution and others to solicit views and support for a proposed amendment bill regarding right to citizenship, identification and certification of Ugandans.

Kayitana also said that his group will meet the European Union Representative in Uganda, the British and United Nations and United States Ambassadors, and other members of the donor community over the same matter.

Hon. Dr. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, the Legal Advisor to UMUBANO Task Force said that the Uganda Government and President of the Republic of Uganda has been put to notice that over six million Kinyarwanda-speaking people in Uganda are now stateless because of the wrongful constitutional provision under Article 10.

He explained that the proposed law seeks an amendment of the first section of the article to delete and replace the year 1926 with 1962 as well as introduce the “Jus soli” principle of international Law on citizenship by birth for all persons born in Uganda while maintaining the Jus Snguinis principle already applied under the law.

Other amendments include introduction of freedom of access to citizenship rights through proper management, certification, identification, recognition and equal opportunities for both roving and borderline ethnic groups as well as amendment of the immigration law “mutatis mutandis”.

Mbidde highlighted that the above process has been reduced into a fully-fledged memorandum that shall be handed over to Government for ultimate consideration.

After engaging all Banyarwanda across the country, the task formed will hold a major public hearing at Kololo Independence Grounds on the final day of the consultations.

“The perspective” is privileged to host a brave guest who is here to share her personal journey, through treatment and support and how she has found a way to manage her situation. Her testimony is not just a story of recovery but a message of hope for those who may be struggling in silence.

While it’s often believed that mental health is the responsibility of the government or health institutions, true change begins with each of us.

By fostering understanding, offering a listening ear, and supporting one another, we become the first line of defense in a society where mental well-being matters.

In this discussion, we explore the power of seeking help, how therapy and medication can transform lives, and what we can each do to uplift one another.

Watch the full interview in the video below and witness a story that encourages us all to embrace both strength and compassion.

{{IGIHE}}: Welcome to the Perspective. You are brave and thanks for accepting to openly share your story about mental health, something that people often avoid, and yet, it affects so many.

{{Uwimana}}: Thank you for having me. But, I was just laughing when you mentioned ‘brave.’ Honestly, I just see myself as me. I don’t feel particularly brave. My journey really began in 2007, though at the time, I didn’t even realize I was receiving support for my mental health.

My mother was very ill, and as her only caregiver, I took on a lot. She was often reluctant to take her medication, so one day, I went to the clinic to ask for help in convincing her. Instead, the clinic staff turned their attention to me, noticing the stress I was under.

I remember one lady there who wanted to be friends with me and it was actually her way of offering me psychological support without saying it. She would check on me regularly, asking how I was doing and making sure I had someone to talk to, especially after my mother passed away in 2008.

{{IGIHE}}: That must have been an incredibly tough time. When did you realize that you needed support for yourself, outside of what you were getting from friends?

{{Uwimana}}: The first real moment came in 2015. I had gone through a difficult breakup with the father of my daughter. It was a shock because I was financially dependent on him, and suddenly, I found myself facing the reality of single motherhood without a job or stable income.

I even remember feeling urges to drink alcohol—something that’s not part of who I am. It was like my mind was in chaos, and I realized that I was losing control. I was fortunate enough to have connections with a few psychologists, and I reached out to one of them.

Talking to them was a turning point, and their questions helped me reflect on my own strength and resources.

{{IGIHE}}: Seeking help like that can be overwhelming. Many people struggle with the idea. How did you feel taking that first step?

{{Uwimana}}: It was challenging but very eye-opening. People often think of mental health treatment as medication, but in 2015, I didn’t take any. Instead, it was about conversations and finding answers within myself.

The psychologist asked me questions that helped me reflect, like when I felt ashamed or lost after the breakup, she reminded me that I hadn’t actually ‘lost’ anything. She reframed things, showing me that I still had value, dignity, and my own life to build. That insight gave me back my strength and helped me move forward with hope.

{{IGIHE}}: Mental health issues often carry stigma. How have you coped with the stigma, and what advice would you give to people who might be going through something similar?

{{Uwimana}}: There is definitely stigma, especially in our society where people feel they need to handle everything on their own. But I’ve learned that silence can be dangerous. By staying true to myself and being open about my experiences, I hope to encourage others to seek help.

I now create mental health awareness content on platforms like YouTube. I want people to know that they don’t have to face these challenges alone and that vulnerability is not a weakness.

{{IGIHE}}: It’s wonderful that you’re leading by example. How do you think family and friends can be supportive in a campaign like yours?

{{Uwimana}}: It really comes down to understanding and listening without judgment. Often, when people open up, they’re told that their problems aren’t serious, or others may downplay their struggles.

Family and friends can help by simply listening and showing empathy. If someone trusts you with their feelings, it’s important to respect that and be there for them without minimizing what they’re going through.

{{IGIHE}}: As a society, what steps do you think we can take to better address mental health challenges?

{{Uwimana}}: Education is crucial. I think organizations like the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) could play a bigger role in educating the public about mental health. People need to understand what mental health is and how it can affect anyone.

Knowing how to recognize the signs and find help is essential. Education can empower individuals to seek support and reduce the stigma around these issues.

{{IGIHE}}: That’s such an important point. What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your journey, and how has it changed your perspective towards life?

{{Uwimana}}: I’ve learned not to panic over every problem. Life is full of ups and downs, and I can’t control everything. Now, I try to relax even during tough times, understanding that every challenge passes eventually.

Stressing out doesn’t solve problems, and I don’t have to face everything alone. For example, last year, I went through a tough financial issue with a bank loan. I had no income for several months, and after all the stressing and worrying, I realized that the only thing I could do was stay calm and find solutions without letting stress consume me.

{{IGIHE}}: Your resilience is inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your courage to speak openly about mental health will surely help others facing similar challenges.

{{Uwimana}}: Thank you for giving me the chance to share. I hope that by speaking out, others will feel encouraged to seek support and know they’re not alone in this journey.

During several events and campaigns conducted across the country, Rotary members and their partners highlighted their progress aiming to inspire continued action toward a polio-free world.

Jeannette Rugera, a Past Assistant District Governor of Rotary Rwanda, described the Rotary Clubs’ commitment to eradicating polio, noting their work with over 400 members across 12 Rotary clubs and five Rotaractor clubs in Rwanda.

“Our clubs are unified in this cause and awareness campaigns are ongoing because this disease’s impact doesn’t end at our borders,” she said.

In this year’s activities to contribute to the cause, children were vaccinated in Kamonyi district’s Gihara Sector, a critical step in maintaining Rwanda’s polio-free status and organized an awareness walk on Sunday the 27th Oct 2024 and the general public asked about it and they were told what the walk is all about- “to sensitize Mother’s to make sure they take their kids for vaccination programs to their nearest Post the Sante, and to celebrate so far the 99.99% achievement of eradication of its impact worldwide.

During a press briefing on Monday October 28, 2024, Dr. Alexis Muderevu the Chairperson of Rotary Polio Plus Rwanda urged Rwandans to remain vigilant in permanently eradicating polio, ensuring that every child born receives a vaccine.

“We should always remain vigilant to avoid a reoccurrence of the disease. As you know, there are several factors that could lead to its resurgence, such as the movement of people from countries where the disease still exists, who may spread it to others. In such cases, the country should be prepared to ensure that those arriving can also receive the vaccine as joint efforts to eliminate the disease permanently,” he said

Globally, Polio is no longer a health threat and efforts against its eradication remain steadfast. Rotary’s global partners in this campaign include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, UNICEF, and the CDC and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Recent WHO data shows that polio is now 99.9% eradicated globally, with only isolated cases remaining in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and some parts of Gaza highlighting the disease’s near elimination and diminishing threat.

However, these outbreaks underscore the importance of sustained immunization campaigns, as Dr Muhayimpundu Marie Aimée, a representative from WHO Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), indicated.

“Vaccination is still our strongest defense. There is need for ongoing vaccination and surveillance. “We’ve seen how polio can sometimes reappear and without continuous efforts, the situation is unpredictable,” she said.

In addition to its Polio eradication campaigns, Rotary- Rwanda has been supporting individuals affected by the disease. Masterjerb Paul Birungi, former president of Rotary Club Virunga in 2004/5 shared some of the club’s efforts in helping those living with disabilities.

“During my tenure as Rotary Club Kigali Virunga President, we distributed over 550 wheelchairs country wide to all the Gatagara Centres and established a center at Kanombe Military Hospital to manufacture and provide artificial limbs to people in need,” Birungi said.

“We’re working to create an inclusive environment where people with disabilities due to Polio can thrive, encouraging sports participation and empowering them through international disability programs.”

Rotary Rwanda’s impact extends to education as well where as a way of promoting a culture of reading through library initiatives that empower Rwandans with knowledge and opportunities, Rotary Club Kigali Virunga, established the Kigali Public library at Kacyiru right now where the Press Conference is taking place.

As World Polio Day pays homage to Dr. Jonas Salk, who developed the first polio vaccine, Rotary- Rwanda members remain with a vision of a “world free of polio”, a goal within reach if everyone plays par according to Birungi.

The activity was part of a national initiative to promote environmental conservation and resilience against climate change through tree planting. During this event, approximately 5,000 tree seedlings were planted, contributing to the government’s larger goal of planting 65 million trees across the country.

The event, held during the national Umuganda (monthly community service day), was attended by several prominent figures, including members of parliament, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, the Mayor of Kayonza district, students from FAWE School, and staff from BK Group in Rwamagana and Kayonza districts.

During the event, John Bosco Nyemazi, the Mayor of Kayonza, highlighted that deforestation in the district, particularly in areas like Rubanga, had contributed to frequent droughts. He stressed the importance of the initiative in restoring the area’s environment.

“Many areas in Gahini, such as Rubanga, have been heavily deforested. Planting trees will help reverse this trend, prevent soil erosion, and bring back the much-needed rain. This project is a critical step toward addressing these environmental challenges,” he said

Residents expressed their support for the initiative and affirmed their commitment to ensuring its success.
“Trees are essential for stabilizing the environment, contributing to rainfall, and preventing erosion. We recognize the long-term value of this initiative and will work diligently to ensure the trees are well-maintained,” Vianney Rutebuka, a local resident noted.

At the event, Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation, stated that the initiative goes beyond planting trees—it’s about securing the future of the planet and building climate resilience within various communities.

“By combining tree planting with financial literacy, we are not only addressing climate change but also promoting sustainable development in the district. Empowering communities to manage and benefit from their natural resources strengthens both climate and economic resilience. We are starting here in Kayonza with a target of 20,000 trees. By the end of this year, we aim to plant a total of 50,000 trees across the country,” she said.

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with REDO, includes planting both agroforestry species and fruit trees, helping to restore the environment and enhance local livelihoods.

As BK Foundation and its partners continue to expand their environmental initiatives, they aim to make a lasting impact on both the environment and local communities. This tree-planting project is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable development and ensure a greener future for Rwanda.

The newly established philanthropic entity will consolidate major global efforts carried out under the patronage of His Highness the President, positioning itself as a force that enhances the efficiency, impact, and reach of the UAE’s philanthropic endeavors.

Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Erth Zayed Philanthropies upholds the legacy of giving instilled by the Founding Father of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and passed down through generations and embraced by the people of the UAE.

Speaking on the establishment of the foundation, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, said: “The launch of Erth Zayed Philanthropies is a testament to the UAE’s ongoing commitment to amplifying its global philanthropic impact.

It represents a strategic effort to bring together our humanitarian initiatives and philanthropic entities under one cohesive vision, enhancing their reach and effectiveness to deliver positive impact on a truly global scale.

As the UAE carries forward the enduring legacy of the Founding Father, this foundation will stand as a beacon of our nation’s commitment to humanitarian progress.

In creating a positive impact across all humanitarian, charitable, and developmental fields, the UAE strives to achieve community development and help those in need in line with the values, humanitarian principles, and noble ideals promoted by Sheikh Zayed for the UAE and its people in service to all of humanity.”

His Highness also noted the significant attention dedicated by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan towards optimizing the impact of the country’s humanitarian, charitable, and developmental projects, initiatives, and programmes.

These efforts are an essential part of the nation’s commitment towards providing assistance with a profound impact on communities and people’s lives, thereby fostering sustainable development, growth, security, and stability.

On his part, 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: “Philanthropy and the spirit of giving have long been central to the UAE’s identity and are deeply rooted in the enduring legacy of our Founding Father and the unwavering commitment of the UAE’s President.

This dedication is focused on improving lives around the world, ensuring wellbeing, empowering individuals, and continuously striving to foster the prosperity, security, and stability of communities.

With the establishment of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, we are deepening our commitment to honouring this legacy with renewed energy and focus while reaffirming the UAE’s leadership in international development and support for humanitarian causes.

Through Erth Zayed Philanthropies, we seek to make a positive impact globally that will be felt for many generations to come, enriching the principles of solidarity and harmony and strengthening cooperation and peace.”

Erth Zayed Philanthropies will oversee diverse programmes in various sectors, leveraging partnerships across the public and private sectors. Under the patronage of His Highness the UAE President, it will support the country’s evolving position as a leader in global philanthropy to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Erth Zayed Philanthropies will encompass a broad portfolio of high-impact projects in areas of local and international significance, such as global health, education, food and water security, energy, climate and sustainability, and social innovation.

Moreover, Erth Zayed Philanthropies will embrace existing philanthropic initiatives, including Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, Emirates Foundation, Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, Sandooq Al Watan, Clean Rivers, the Global Institute for Disease Elimination, Zayed Sustainability Prize, Khalifa Award for Education, Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, and the Mohamed Bin Zayed Award for Best Teacher.

Collectively, Erth Zayed Philanthropies will oversee these philanthropic foundations and awards with the goal of fostering a shared vision and collaborative approach to philanthropy, leveraging its resources, networks, and knowledge to deliver transformative impact to communities in need around the world.

Since 1975, Rwanda has been celebrating tree planting day as a way of increasing the country’s forest cover, protect the landscape from soil erosion, and meet global demands. With the world facing severe climate change impacts such as floods, droughts, and food insecurity, there is an urgent need to plant more trees to enhance resilience against these challenges.

Rwanda has achieved a 30% forest cover, but there is still much work to be done. The Ministry of Environment plans to plant more than 65 million trees during this planting season, including forest trees, agroforestry trees, native species, fruit trees, and ornamental trees.

Uwamariya emphasized the importance of investing in research, quality seed resilience to climate change impacts, new technologies, value addition to forest products, and alternative renewable sources of energy to reduce dependence on biomass and avoid deforestation.

The Minister thanked public institutions and partners for their contributions to the event, including Rwamagana district leadership, One Acre fund, Tubura, Enabel, ARCOS Network, IUCN, Delagua, Prime Insurance, and MTN. The Embassy of Israel in Rwanda also offered fruit tree seedlings for planting during the event.

Uwamariya reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to working with stakeholders to mobilize funds and address sector priorities. She encouraged everyone to join in planting and maintaining trees to help combat climate change and protect the planet.