Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Prominent African leaders have come together in this landmark step, as the initiative is set to transform the continent’s leadership landscape by meeting the diverse needs of leaders across Africa.

The ASG aims to address the continent’s pressing governance challenges by equipping emerging leaders with the mindsets, skills and knowledge required for effective leadership in Africa’s future. The initiative brings together visionaries committed to creating a sustainable governance model rooted in African realities.

{{A collective leadership vision}}

The ASG initiative is founded by H.E. Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia (both co-founders of the ASG Foundation) in consultation with other African leaders, academicians, and philanthropists dedicated to improving governance across the continent.

ASG is supported by the Mastercard Foundation as part of its Young Africa Works strategy, which aims to enable 30 million young Africans, 70 percent of whom are women, to access dignified and fulfilling work opportunities by 2030.

ASG will be led by esteemed independent governing board members, chaired by Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and former Minister of Finance and Economy of Senegal, and including Donald Kaberuka, former President of the African Development Bank, Hajer Gueldich, Professor at the University of Carthage, Kishore Mahbubani, former Dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, and Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board.

The ASG Foundation has appointed Professor Kingsley Moghalu, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and a distinguished scholar and academic, to be the inaugural President of ASG. The collective vision of ASG’s leadership is to create an institution that offers world-class education in governance and public policy while promoting home-grown solutions to Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Speaking on the launch, H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn commented: “The time is ripe for an institution rooted in Africa’s needs and aspirations. The African School of Governance will be a hub for nurturing purpose-driven leaders equipped to tackle the continent’s greatest challenges and opportunities, combining Africa’s uniqueness with international best practices. This is not just an educational institution, but a movement towards sustainable African leadership.”

{{Tackling Africa’s development and governance challenges}}

Africa’s rapid economic growth, increasing global influence, and evolving governance structures present unprecedented opportunities and challenges. From post-pandemic recovery to climate adaptation, the continent’s policymakers face complex and urgent issues that require skilled leadership.

ASG aims to meet this critical need, by developing current and future leaders who can address these challenges through a shift in leadership mindsets, governance, and sustainable development to drive long-term, meaningful change across the continent.

{{Academic excellence and tailored programs}}

ASG will offer a comprehensive suite of academic programs designed to meet governance, leadership, and policy deficit across Africa. These include the Master of Public Administration (MPA) and the Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) programs, which are tailored to mid-career professionals and senior executives, respectively.

ASG will also provide specialized Executive Courses aimed at enhancing specific leadership skills for professionals. Additionally, the Young Leaders Program (YLP) and Senior Leadership Fellowship (SLF) will cater for high-potential undergraduates and seasoned professionals nearing the end of their careers, ensuring that ASG supports leadership development at every stage.

ASG’s curriculum will be distinguished by integrating African historical, political, and socio-economic contexts. By grounding students in African realities, the institution will equip diverse leaders to navigate the continent’s complex governance challenges while drawing from global best practices.

{{Innovative research and policy engagement}}

In addition to its educational offerings, ASG will play a critical role in advancing governance through its dedicated research centres. These include the Centre for Home-Grown Innovations in Policy and Governance, the Centre for African History and Leadership, the Centre for Trade and Regional Integration, and the Centre for Technology and Effective Delivery.

These research hubs will focus on generating evidence-based solutions tailored to African governance challenges, helping policymakers design and implement effective policies and strategies.

ASG’s commitment to policy engagement is equally robust, with plans to actively engage with governments, civil society, and private-sector stakeholders. Through policy labs, incubators, and collaborative partnerships, ASG will translate its research into actionable policy solutions that promote good governance and sustainable development across the continent.

{{Leadership and governance structure}}

As the inaugural President of ASG, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, a globally recognised leader in public policy and governance, will steer the institution towards its ambitious goals.

Professor Moghalu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, has held senior positions in the United Nations system for 17 years and taught at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Oxford, and The Fletcher School at Tufts University.

He is also the author of several books, including the critically acclaimed Emerging Africa: How the Global Economy’s ‘Last Frontier’ Can Prosper and Matter.

Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of the IFC and Chair of ASG’s Board, said, “We are excited to welcome Kingsley Moghalu as President of the African School of Governance. His sterling track record of leadership in international and national policymaking institutions, academia, and his thought leadership influence, will help make ASG a transformative graduate school and develop a new generation of purpose-driven leaders with the skills and mindsets to help Africa address the challenges of the 21st Century.”

Professor Moghalu will be responsible for steering and shaping ASG’s academic vision, delivering learning programs that reflect the complex governance challenges facing Africa today. Under the guidance of the Governing Board, he will focus on recruiting top-tier African faculty, fostering academic excellence, and positioning ASG as a hub for intellectual and policy innovation.

“The establishment of ASG is a powerful expression of a clear vision on the part of the founding leaders,” Prof. Moghalu said in response to his appointment. “I share this vision of a transformed Africa driven by competent leadership and governance, and I am honoured to have been tasked with leading ASG’s critical contribution to making that vision a reality.”

{{Strategic partnerships}}

ASG is supported by the ASG Foundation, a not-for-profit foundation, that exists to help mobilize funding and manage its endowments, as well as give strategic guidance to the institution and support related initiatives for the development of African leaders.

The establishment of ASG is supported by strong strategic partnerships with other world-class institutions, including the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, and the Mastercard Foundation.

{{A Pan-African initiative with global reach}}

Headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda, ASG is set to become a Pan-African institution with a global influence. Its mission is to build leadership capacity that transcends borders, ensuring that African voices are not only heard but lead the charge in global governance discussions.

ASG’s partnership with institutions such as the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore further reinforces its commitment to providing a world-class education that draws from both African and international expertise.

This announcement marks a significant milestone in Africa’s governance journey. Through the collective efforts of its founders and partners, the institution will help to nurture the leaders that Africa needs to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

According to WHO Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, this achievement marks a major milestone in Marburg virus care, as these patients would likely have succumbed to the disease in previous outbreaks.

“We believe this is the first time patients with Marburg virus have been extubated in Africa. These patients would have died in previous outbreaks. I commend Rwanda’s health system for its preparedness and life-saving interventions,” Tedros said, citing a recent incident where two patients successfully recovered.

The WHO boss was speaking at a joint presser with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health held on October 20, 2024, attended by various partners and stakeholders in the health sector. He recognized Rwanda’s ability to contain the deadly virus, a feat achieved through strategic measures and effective health interventions.

“We’re pleased to see that there have been no new cases in the past six days. And we hope that remains the case,” said Tedros, highlighting the aptitude to provide critical care for Marburg patients.

The country has not seen any new cases in the past six days thereby reducing the number of active cases to three with 43 recoveries. Out of the 4715 tests conducted so far, the Ministry of Health has recorded 62 confirmed cases, 44 recoveries, 15 deaths (predominantly health service providers) and a fatality rate of 24.2%.

Tedros also lauded Rwanda’s long-term investments in healthcare, which have strengthened its capacity to manage such crises. He emphasized that the country’s health infrastructure now allows it to offer critical care that is deployed both in routine medical situations and in emergencies.

He acknowledged the international collaboration in Rwanda’s fight against Marburg. Rwanda has initiated trials for vaccines and therapeutics and these efforts, according to Tedros, demonstrate the country’s forward-thinking approach to pandemic preparedness and the country’s hard work towards reaching WHO’s maturity level 3 in its regulatory framework.

He expressed satisfaction with the available technological advancements in tracking and controlling the outbreak, noting that the National Command Center’s use of real-time information systems was crucial in coordinating the response.

“We believe these strategic investments will address the equity problems we faced during COVID-19,” he said.

Even though the WHO chief warned that vigilance must continue until the outbreak is officially declared over, he urged countries not to impose travel or trade restrictions on Rwanda, as they are unnecessary and could harm the country’s economy.

“We ask those countries which have imposed travel restrictions to reverse them,” he said, ensuring that Rwanda’s leadership in this outbreak response is recognized and supported by the global community.

The WHO’s praise for Rwanda’s achievements reinforces the country’s growing reputation as a leader in healthcare innovation and emergency response on the African continent.

Rwanda’s Minister of Health Dr Sabin Nsanzimana, echoed WHO’s recognition of the country’s progress, highlighting the significant milestone as a clear sign of the outbreak being brought under control.

“We’ve had zero infections and zero deaths consecutively for six days, which is a continuous improvement. This has been as a result of rigorous testing, contact tracing, and treatment strategies,” he said, expressing optimism that Rwanda could be soon be declared Marburg free.

“A critical aspect of Rwanda’s success has been its high level of care for patients, including life-saving interventions. The case fatality rate that stands at 24 is a reflection of the dedication of healthcare workers,” the Minister noted, underscoring the teamwork involved in saving lives.

In addition to critical care, Rwanda has taken proactive steps to vaccinate over 1,000 frontline healthcare workers and contacts of Marburg patients. This has provided an additional layer of protection and reassurance for those at the forefront of the fight against the virus.

The WHO standards and regulations stipulate that in case of an outbreak such as this, once there are no more patients in the treatment Centre and no new cases emerge, a country can be declared virus free after a period of 42 days.

The Rwandan government continues to work together with various partners to ensure that no cases are missed, and measures remain in place until the outbreak is fully contained.

Karongozi sheds light on the unique aspects of the case, including the controversial witnesses for the defense and their surprising claims, as well as the challenges faced in ensuring that the truth about the events of 1994 is fully revealed.

This interview offers a critical perspective on justice, the complexities of such trials, and the lasting impact on survivors.

{{IGIHE}}: {{Who is Eugène Rwamucyo?}}

{{Karongozi}}: Eugène Rwamucyo is a Rwandan who hails from Musanze district. He studied Occupational Health Sciences and was one of the Directors at the University of Rwanda Health Center in Huye district.

He is accused of planning and execution of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Butare. As someone who wielded significant influence, he is currently on trial and as usual is still presumed innocent. As representatives of the affected, we are striving to ensure the truth comes to light.

{{IGIHE}}: {{There have been many trials, what is unique about this one?}}

{{Karongozi}}: The first unique aspect about this case is that the defendant claims, in his view, that there should not have been so many political parties and even goes as far as bringing in witnesses whose testimony aligns with his narrative.

Among these witnesses are people like Ndindiriyimana, the former Commander of the Gendarmerie, Habyarimana Emmanuel, former Minister of Defense, Jean Marie Vianney Ndagijimana, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Jean Kambanda, the Prime Minister during the interim government, among others.

These individuals still hold on to ideologies that contributed to the Genocide against the Tutsi, and as we go through the trial, it becomes evident that holding onto such beliefs is inappropriate, especially when they led to the Genocide.

Additionally, there are international witnesses like Charles Onana, who was supposed to appear but later expressed uncertainty about attending. There are also people like Stephan Smith, a journalist for ‘Le Monde,’ and Hervé Deguine, among others, whose testimony contrasts with what is known about the Genocide against the Tutsi.

These witnesses seem to be defending Rwamucyo’s stance. While he acknowledges some atrocities, he denies having committed Genocide.

{{IGIHE: Why do the witnesses focus heavily on events in Butare?}}

{{Karongozi}}: You know that the Genocide in Butare started after Theodole Sindikubwabo’s speech on April 19, 1994, but even before this massacres were being planned and some going on unnoticed.

Rwamucyo is accused of participating in meetings organized by members of the Coalition for the Defense of the Republic (CDR), where plans for the killings were made.

The Genocide in Butare was executed in a shocking manner, with roadblocks set up everywhere, bulldozers and caterpillars brought from Kigali, prisoners forced to bury the dead, and mass graves filled with victims from various locations such as Matyazo, Ngoma Parish, the university buildings, Hotel Faucon, and the Butare Prefecture.

Even hospitals weren’t spared; patients were taken out and killed, their bodies dumped in pits. The genocide was conducted swiftly and in an organized manner.

There were security meetings at the Prefecture level, attended by figures like Higaniro, who was sentenced in Belgium, and various local officials, military officers, and police. These meetings determined who would be killed.

Rwamucyo is accused of being responsible for the disposal of bodies, but they buried some people before they had fully decomposed. The brutality was evident in how they quickly moved around, leaving no place untouched.

{{IGIHE: How are the plaintiffs seeking reparations handling the case?}}

{{Karongozi}}: In any trial, plaintiffs’ rights are respected, and this is no exception. We’ve seen individuals speaking with knowledge of the country and providing insights into how things were.

We’ve heard from people like Herene Dumant, a historian, and Damien Vandermeersch, who started the Butare trials in Belgium. Jean François Dupaquier, a renowned journalist, also testified. These people have a reputation for telling the truth about the Genocide against the Tutsi.

We also saw people from Médecins Sans Frontières, like Rony Zakaria, who was helping people in hospitals but had to flee after witnessing the massacre of the patients.

Other individuals continue to tell the truth, and as lawyers, we fight for that truth because we have become accustomed to these trials, even though each one has its unique aspects.

We are still expecting more survivors to testify, as they are the foundation of our history in these trials. Their experiences and what they heard or witnessed are deeply respected in court. While Rwamucyo’s representatives may question them, it is not as harsh as in Arusha, where witnesses were sometimes mistreated.

Here, the trial respects both sides, and we believe that the truth will continue to emerge.bWe have two more weeks left, and our schedule aims to conclude by the end of October.

{{IGIHE: A witness claimed that they went to kill with Rwamucyo, but Rwamucyo denies knowing them. What does this mean?}}

{{Karongozi}}: It appears to be a strategy, as he claims not to know almost everyone, although it’s understandable that after 30 years, one might forget certain people. However, it seems improbable that one would forget everyone.
These are individuals he worked with, such as drivers and secretaries, people he encountered regularly, so denying knowledge of them is difficult to comprehend.

Another example that puzzled us was when he claimed not to know the nearby multipurpose building. There are moments where you can tell he is exaggerating, but it is his right to remain silent.

{{IGIHE: What has surprised you the most in this trial?}}

{{Karongozi}}: It’s the way witnesses for the defense seem to mock us. Jean Kambanda, for instance, claimed that it was the RPF (Rwandan Patriotic Front) that killed people in Butare, referencing Robert Kajuga.

Others echoed similar statements, including Rwamucyo, who denies that the killings were planned.
Some also argue that the killings were fueled by anger following the shooting down of Habyarimana’s plane. But how could this anger travel over 100 kilometers to Butare, where Tutsis were then killed?

Was this anger hidden for over 10 days, only to erupt later? It clearly contradicts the claim that the Genocide wasn’t planned.

We have shown evidence dating back to 1990, even from Dr. Abel Dushimimana, who was arrested as a spy despite being a Hutu. When asked why he was arrested, he said he didn’t know, but that it might have been because of his appearance, suggesting that Rwamucyo looked more like a Tutsi than he did.

Do you remember in 1990 when older people like Kamugunga and Gakuba were killed, and students like Munyeshuri and Modeste Mungwarareba, who led the Seminary, along with Father Musoni, were imprisoned?
They fired shots in the night of October 4-5, 1990, claiming that the RPF had reached Kigali. The next day, over 8,000 people were arrested. All of this had been planned.

{{IGIHE: After handling many cases like this, how do you, as a Rwandan lawyer, approach them?}}

{{Karongozi}}: I’ve developed a practice of visiting the locations where the accused are alleged to have committed their crimes before the trial starts. Even though I spent many years in Butare, I go there to speak with the people we are defending, as many cannot come to court here.

I visit various sites to understand the current situation, especially where new buildings have been constructed, so I can be informed. I also gather information myself—not by conducting investigations but by listening to survivors to ensure I have enough knowledge for the case.

It’s an ongoing battle, and with my colleague Gisagara, we have the advantage of understanding Kinyarwanda, so when people use terms like ‘kora’ (work) or ‘kubohora’ (liberate), we understand the meaning fully.
{{karirima@igihe.com
{}}}

Speaking during a recent interview, UNMISS Malakal Upper Nile Sector Commander Brig Gen Nakul Rayamajhi emphasized how the collaborative efforts of various contingents, including Rwanabat-2, INBAT-1, and BAN-FMU, helped maintain peace and prevent the loss of lives.

“It’s a success story wherein the collaborative efforts of the entire force, entire sector—north, the Rwanabat-2, the previous contingent, INBAT-1, the previous contingent, and BAN-FMU—were able to control the situation and prevent loss of lives,” he said.

The Commander highlighted several key achievements, including a crucial operation in May, which saw RDF troops play a proactive role in controlling unrest. He attributed their success to the training and readiness of their forces, noting that their approach helped minimize casualties.

“We had just about eight losses, including those four there, the fifth one here outside the POC, and I think three in the town. About eight to ten losses, including injured,” he recounted, labeling it the “second success story.”

Additionally, the RDF has been instrumental in engaging local communities in areas like Nasir County, where a youth mobilization effort to raid cattle due to unemployment was peacefully halted. The Commander detailed how Rwanabat-2, along with local authorities, engaged with the community and the county commissioner to defuse the situation, preventing further violence. “That mobilization was halted, thereby saving lives,” he said.

UNMISS has also introduced integrated medical campaigns to address healthcare needs in remote areas. The Commander explained that RDF medical personnel collaborate with other contingents to attend to emergencies during patrols, offering vital treatment and medicines to affected populations.

He pointed to a recent operation in New Fangak, where RDF medics, alongside other personnel, treated over 270 women and children displaced by floods, providing much-needed malaria medicine.

“Quite a stock of medicines, including malaria tablets for approximately 250 persons, was presented to the county commissioner by Rwanabat and INBAT,” the Commander noted.
The success stories underscore the important role RDF troops play in UNMISS’s broader efforts to protect civilians and promote stability in South Sudan.

The Commander also emphasized that small, consistent steps taken by RDF forces, such as teaching unarmed combat to girls in conflict zones, have the potential to save lives and empower vulnerable communities.

The current conflict in South Sudan, though somewhat reduced in intensity, stems from deep-seated political, ethnic, and resource-related issues that have plagued the country since its independence in 2011.

South Sudan’s journey to statehood began with decades of civil war between Sudan and the southern regions, culminating in the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, which led to a 2011 referendum for independence. However, internal conflicts soon emerged, primarily driven by political power struggles and ethnic tensions.

Dr. Joseph Karemera’s journey through life was intertwined with those he cared for, beginning in Umutoni’s family home in Kireka, Kampala, where he stayed while studying at Kololo Secondary School in the early 1980s. He developed a strong bond with her father and they shared a lot.

His warmth extended to many young people who lived in the home where Umutoni’s parents Rutwaza Leonidas and Didasiana Kiguzi treated every child as their own including Karemera.

“My parents instilled in us resilience and self-confidence, even in the face of adversity. When we were ridiculed for being called “Rwandese” during our time as refugees, Uncle Karemera empowered us by affirming our identity,” Umutoni said.

“There is nothing wrong with being Rwandese, he would say, dissolving any insecurities we harbored and replacing them with pride,” she recalled

Umutoni says that as a role model, Karemera ignited aspirations in many, including herself. His pursuit of medicine inspired her to dream of becoming a doctor. She passed all her science subjects but due to unforeseen circumstances arrived two weeks late at the school and science classes were full. Karemera personally encouraged her toward the arts section and she eventually pursed law at the university.

“His unwavering support taught me to excel in any path I chose. Later, when I hesitated during law school, he reminded me of our shared determination, famously saying, “Rwandese never quit!” His faith in us never wavered, and his mentorship stretched far beyond academics,” she said.

“Afande Karemera’s generosity knew no bounds. He opened his home to students and family alike, whether during our school holidays in Kenya (Lamu, Mombasa, Machakos, Nakuru, Nairobi Kenyatta Hospital). He accommodated us in his home in Uganda, or Rwanda. He shared what little he had with everyone, a testament to his selflessness and genuine care for those around him.”

His dedication to education was unwavering, as he continuously supported young people’s endeavors, even in times of personal difficulty. Umutoni remembers when she had a two-year-old (Amanda Akaliza), was pregnant with her second child (Paula Kami) and couldn’t afford tuition for a master’s degree.

He encouraged and facilitated her studies, proving that challenges should never hinder ambition. Pregnancy is not a disease he would say, “with hard-work and determination you will make it.”

“But perhaps what truly defined Karemera was his patriotism. Long before Rwanda’s liberation struggle reached its crescendo, he planted the seeds of love for our homeland in us,” she says.

He foresaw the importance of everyone’s participation in building a free Rwanda and never failed to remind each one of the need to fight for that vision. His early involvement in the formation of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) in 1987 showed his deep commitment to the cause.

His service as Head of Medical Services during the liberation struggle embodied his unyielding dedication to the wellbeing of others and it is an achievement that should be documented because it was a very critical role that was much need by everyone on the battlefield.

“I first new about plans for Liberation in his home and like he did to many young people, he shaped my decisions to join the liberation struggle. I later served with him in Government, we became ambassadors almost at the same time. all this long he was mentoring me.” says Umutoni.

Dr. Karemera was more than just a doctor, minister, or diplomat. He was a visionary leader a comrade whose actions were rooted in love for his country and for his people. Whether as Minister of Health, of education, promoting education in sciences and other courses, or as a diplomat, negotiating and advocating tirelessly for Rwanda’s benefit, he exemplified patriotism and integrity in every role he held.

“He was very loyal to the leadership of the country and this is something he instilled in all around him. Leadership structure, discipline and following guidance of the country were key virtues in his life.”

“In his passing, I reflect on the monumental role he played in shaping not just our nation but the lives of all who had the privilege to know him and be guided by him. We appreciate Karemera’s family for embracing all of us. To Mrs. Ann Karemera, we thank you for sharing him with us, and for your own role as a heroine alongside him. Besides every Hero there is a Heroine and vice versa.”

“You were very young when he left you to join the armed struggle. The sacrifices of the many women who were left with young children, pregnant or newly married and yet you supported all these families. You all deserve to be honored and remembered,” Umutoni emphasized.

“Uncle Karemera, your legacy will live on through the lives you touched, the wisdom you shared, and the love you gave so freely. You will forever remain in our hearts, you are seated with the Lord, watching over us as we and the generations to come continue the work you and your comrades began,” she concluded.

I dedicate this poem as a tribute to You my mentor, parent, dear friend, my guardian Angel; known to many as simply « Uncle Karemera »
.{{
{To my dear mentor and anchor, My treasured guardian
In the quiet shadows where memories reside,
I will always cherish your guide.
In wisdom, like an eagle you taught me to soar,
Each lesson a treasure, each word I adore.
With discipline amid laughter you remain a beacon of kindness and a source of inspiration and pride.
In your nurturing voice, I found strength, you are my mentor and a compass forever true.
In the depths of my heart, your light shines strong and laughter lingers on.
As stars shine above, I’ll carry your wisdom.
So here’s to my mentor, my friend: Time after time I will honor your name.
In my heart you will continue to bloom just the same.
Fare thee well to a true guardian Angel
We will carry your memory with us always.
Yours truly Ambassador Christine Umutoni Nyinawumwami
(One of the many that you mentored)}}}

The program is designed not only to raise awareness and foster an inclusive work environment across all BK Group subsidiaries but also to provide financial literacy training to people with disabilities.

By combining these two components, the initiative aims to promote both inclusion and economic empowerment for individuals with disabilities.

The training began with BK staff and will soon be extended to all BK Group subsidiaries. Mami F. Said, Head of People and Human Resources Business Enablers & Control Functions, welcomed the participants, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive workplace culture.

Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation, spoke about the significance of the program: “This initiative is about much more than meeting compliance obligations. It’s about ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, feels supported and valued. By starting with BK staff and providing financial literacy training to people with disabilities, we are laying the foundation for a truly inclusive society.”

The 20-day training provides BK staff with a comprehensive understanding of disability inclusion, focusing on removing barriers to accessibility and effective communication.

NUDOR experts led interactive exercises that encouraged participants to reflect on personal experiences and explore how they can contribute to creating a more inclusive environment for their peers and customers at large.

The sessions also covered Rwanda’s legal framework on disability rights, ensuring that employees understand their responsibilities in fostering inclusion.

In addition to training staff, the program will empower people with disabilities by offering financial literacy education, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed for financial independence. This component aligns with BK Foundation’s mission to uplift vulnerable communities and enhance financial inclusion for all.

BK Foundation will continue to roll out the program across all BK Group subsidiaries, ensuring that inclusion becomes a core principle throughout the organization.

The win was a much-needed boost, as Rwanda aims to claim a spot in the tournament after several setbacks in the qualifying rounds. With goals from Nshuti Innocent and Captain Bizimana Djihadi, scored just two minutes apart, the victory was a testament to Amavubi’s fighting spirit and their refusal to bow out.

The game started on an intense note with Gilbert Mugisha attempting the first shot for Rwanda in the second minute, though it was comfortably saved by Benin’s goalkeeper.

By the 7th minute, Emmanuel Imanishimwe also tried his luck, but once again, Benin’s Souke Marcel was up to the challenge, catching the ball effortlessly.

Despite several promising opportunities and set pieces in the first ten minutes, Amavubi struggled to capitalize on these chances. Missed opportunities, particularly by forward Gilbert Mugisha, left fans frustrated as the team worked to find its rhythm.

In the 25th minute, a foul against Imanishimwe earned Rwanda a free kick, but the effort yielded no result. The first half saw Amavubi dominate possession, especially in the final 15 minutes, keeping Benin on their back foot and forcing the game into their half.

However, Rwanda’s dominance wasn’t reflected on the scoreboard. As the half drew to a close, Niyigena Clement received a yellow card, and Benin delivered a crushing blow with a goal from Andreas William in the 43rd minute.

His perfectly placed shot put Benin ahead, sending the teams into halftime with a 1-0 score line in favor of the visitors. Rwanda’s hopes of qualifying seemed to fade as the first half ended with that narrow lead for Benin, but the second half told a different story.

Determined not to let the AFCON dream slip away, Amavubi came out stronger. The pressure mounted, and in the 75th minute, Nshuti Innocent brought the home crowd to life by scoring the equalizer with a tap in shot.

The excitement in the stadium was palpable, and the fans’ energy only grew when, just a minute later, Captain Bizimana Djihadi stepped up to take a penalty, coolly converting it in the 77th minute to give Rwanda the lead.

The thunderous celebration that followed saw top government officials acknowledging the team’s performance. The fans erupted in jubilation as Rwanda turned the game around in an extraordinary two-minute burst.

The atmosphere in the stadium was electric, with the crowd throwing their full support behind the team as they held on to their slim lead.

Benin fought back fiercely, pushing for an equalizer in the final minutes of the game. However, Rwanda’s defense held strong, with Fiacre in goal making critical saves to deny Benin any chance of leveling the score. In the four minutes of added time, Amavubi managed to resist Benin’s efforts, securing a well-deserved victory.

The tension wasn’t only on the field. After the final whistle, officials from Benin expressed their frustration with referee Andofetra Rakotojaona, accusing him of questionable decisions, especially regarding the penalty. Security had to intervene to escort the referee off the field safely, but the controversy did little to dampen Rwanda’s celebrations.

In the other Group games, the fate of some teams remained uncertain. Nigeria, scheduled to play Libya, faced complications upon their arrival. With no clear directives from the hosts, Nigeria decided to retreat after just a day. CAF later confirmed the postponement of the match, stating in an official release.

“The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 qualifier fixture between Libya and Nigeria will not take place as scheduled tonight. The matter will be referred to competent CAF bodies,” CAF said.
After the match, Rwanda’s head coach, Torsten Frank, spoke about the challenges his team had faced and praised the players for their resilience.

“You see the quality of the other players. I told my players, I told them our opponents are five times better than us, but good enough our boys used their body physique to protect the ball. They knew that the higher you come, the better if you know your opponent,” said Torsten.

He continued, “I’m happy about the result, and I had told them to utilize any empty space. I was especially happy with the boys in the second half. Nshuti did a great job today, and the way he was protecting and saving the ball was very impressive.”

With this vital win, Rwanda’s dream of qualifying for AFCON 2025 is alive and well. The team’s ability to turn the tide in such a crucial match serves as a beacon of hope for the remaining games in the qualification campaign. Amavubi Stars have shown that, despite the odds, they are determined to fight until the very end.

Photo Credits: Herve Kwizera and Claude Kasiro

This action, led by renowned human rights lawyer Isaac Ssemakadde, underscores the ULS’s resolve to rebuild public confidence in Uganda’s justice system.
The ULS cited several reasons for Kiwanuka’s removal, focusing primarily on a conflict of interest due to his ex officio role in the Council.

The society described this position as a colonial-era relic that is no longer suitable for modern legal governance. The ULS plans to challenge this practice through a constitutional petition, aiming to redefine the roles and independence of key legal officers.

Additionally, a forensic investigation has been initiated to probe serious allegations against Kiwanuka. The ULS accuses Kiwanuka of interfering with judicial appointments, further eroding public confidence in the judiciary.

Among the accusations are breaches of constitutional law connected to his private legal work, financial misconduct in land compensation cases involving approximately Shs 28.8 billion, and misleading the Cabinet on issues concerning judicial independence.

Another significant concern was the imposition of fees for digital access to Uganda’s laws under Kiwanuka’s tenure, which the ULS views as an obstacle to justice, particularly for ordinary citizens.

Human rights issues were also raised, with allegations that Kiwanuka condoned acts of torture and supported the use of military courts to try civilians, contrary to Uganda’s international commitments.

Despite his expulsion from the Council, Kiwanuka retains his membership in the ULS. However, he is no longer recognized as the head of the Uganda Bar.