Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

  • Application Calls for 2nd year of Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs

    Application Calls for 2nd year of Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs

    This initiative aims to support African entrepreneurs in the fashion, textile, apparel, and accessories (TA&A) industry in expanding their businesses.
    Africa’s fashion and textile industries are a powerhouse, ranking as the continent’s second-largest employer and boasting a market size of $31 billion in 2020.

    With the global fashion market projected to double in the next decade, reaching a staggering $5 trillion annually, exciting opportunities await African fashion entrepreneurs. And this is one of them.
    Even with a promising outlook, African fashion entrepreneurs still face hurdles, lacking crucial industry skills and access to financing.

    To support this budding economy, the ADB’s Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs brings you solutions to face these challenges head-on, aiming to propel Africa’s participation in the global fashion scene.

    At the end of the training program, top fashionpreneurs will receive personalized support to refine their business models, pitching skills, and networking capabilities.

    The Incubator Program nurtures early-stage businesses, equipping them with the know-how to grow their business. It provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge to develop their ventures, build sustainable models, and secure funding.

    The Accelerator Program empowers established fashion businesses (MSMEs and startups) with the tools to thrive. Focused on growth-stage companies, it equips them with knowledge to build a customer base, manage cash flow, and explore product and market expansion.

    The inaugural year of the Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs delivered exceptional results. Top participants gained entrepreneurial skills, financial and technical know-how, and industry insights, solidifying their businesses in today’s digital landscape.

    The curriculum addressed key challenges faced by African fashion startups across four areas, namely, product development, talent management, distribution strategies and access to funds.
    Delivered in three phases, it addressed core technical, business, and creative capacity-building needs.

    The eight-week intensive training empowered over 5000 participants with six winners from Cohort 1 and 2 awarded $20,000 each. The curriculum provided a roadmap for sustainable business growth, fostering trade expansion within Africa and beyond.

    Building on this success, the second year will focus on marketability, branding, business growth strategies, sustainability practices, and financial management.
    Additionally, networking sessions will foster collaboration, partnership building, and knowledge sharing among participants.

    Even with a promising outlook, African fashion entrepreneurs still face hurdles, lacking crucial industry skills and access to financing.

    At the end of the training program, top fashionpreneurs in the program will receive personalized support to refine their business models, pitching skills, and networking capabilities.
    The participants will also have a chance at pitching their ventures to industry experts and investors during the “Demo Day.”

    Twelve winners (six from each cohort) will be chosen and awarded $10,000 each to support their entrepreneurial journeys.
    To get a sneak peek into what Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs has to give, here is what previous participants form the first year of the program have to say;

    {{Gifty Adonu}}

    “Since the training, there has been an increase in the revenue of the business. A 10% increase in profit has been seen on each product as compared to what we had two months ago. During the training I took some cues from the pricing strategy of a product.”

    {{Theresa Ogallo}}

    “I am now a seller on the Afrikrea digital marketplace. Additionally, I have on boarded one new employee and have a strategy to recruit one more in the next couple of months and set my cost markup to 60%, previously 50%.”

    A call for applications for the second year of the Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator programs is on

    Applications for the second year of the Fashionomics Africa Incubator and Accelerator Programs will close on. 20/10/2024 To apply, participants are required to fill out an online form which takes 3 to 5 minutes to complete.

    Please access the application form using this link: [[English->https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfGuzTePZAX-MffFUNakzalcmPi0lPys4zzdVzvHYmznl1tDA/viewform], [French->https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbL9K_daSBx-mGpkksS809rR-BqQJj4tnnRxA2yCn_PPueRg/viewform], [Portuguese->https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdRYqNeqmFPXgiD4ApIHk26uEQurNHpYdW22hrREitauWwkIQ/viewform], [Arabic->https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAMA67EpXw6P5R_lr6d45W78-mT–EH8vDmx_lS80gyU7BvQ/viewform]]

  • ‘UAE stands with Lebanon’: Massive aid drive culminates in 250 tonnes of supplies

    ‘UAE stands with Lebanon’: Massive aid drive culminates in 250 tonnes of supplies

    The in-kind donations were mobilized as per the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the supervision of 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.

    The aid collection was organized by the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, with the participation of more than 4400 volunteers from various nationalities who packed 10000 baskets of supplies.

    Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman, Board of Directors, the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, stressed the depth of the historical relations between the UAE and Lebanon, which, he said, has been evident today in the wide public participation in the activities to collect humanitarian relief aid for its people facing the crisis.

    Al Mazrouei has also referred to the spirit of human solidarity that marks the diverse segments of the UAE society consisting of a wide variety of nationalities, cultures and ethnicities who rose to the occasion to extend a helping hand to the people of Lebanon in their difficult circumstance.

    Around 24 donor and volunteer organizations participated in the activities of collecting relief aid at the cruise terminal in Abu Dhabi Ports. They are the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.

    Others include the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Ahmed bin Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Dubai Humanitarian, Dubai Cares, Sharjah Charity Association, the International Humanitarian City, the Big Heart Foundation and the Emirates Foundation.

    Other volunteer organization involved in collecting the relief are the UAE Volunteers Foundation, the Sharjah Centre for Voluntary Work, the Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Foundation for Humanitarian Work, the Fujairah Charity Association, the Watani Al Emarat Foundation, the International Charitable Works Organisation, the Emirates Charity Association, the Sharjah Charity House, the Dar Al Ber Society, the Dubai Charity Association, and the Day for Dubai.

    ‘UAE stands with Lebanon’ will run until October 21st.

  • Rotary Club of Kigali-Karisimbi moves to plant 500 trees in fruit tree initiative

    Rotary Club of Kigali-Karisimbi moves to plant 500 trees in fruit tree initiative

    By planting 100 trees, club members and other members of the local community on October 13, 2024 concluded the second phase of his ambitious tree-planting project.
    This was organized at Groupe Scholaire du Mont Kigali popularly known as APACE in Munanira cell, Nyakabanda sector in Nyarugenge district.

    This initiative, aimed at both nourishing the community and preserving the environment, saw enthusiastic participation from school children who were invited to take part in the exercise and learn about the benefits of tree planting.

    Rotary Club of Kigali-Karasimbi members were joined by colleagues from sister clubs across the country

    Addressing the young participants, the current president of the Rotary Club of Kigali Karasimbi, Satish Kumar, explained the vision behind the project;
    “We started thinking about a project to have a plantation of 500 fruit trees and then founded a committee to identify a suitable location in Kigali where the local population can benefit while also supporting the environment,” he said.

    Kumar highlighted that the club ultimately chose Nyakabanda as the ideal locations, confident that these efforts would contribute to both the health of the community and environmental preservation.
    The tree-planting initiative extends beyond providing nutritious fruits like mangoes, oranges, and avocados. It also plays a significant role in supporting environmental sustainability.

    “By planting more trees, we are not only providing oxygen but also future products like timber when the trees are ready for harvest. Additionally, deep-rooted trees help control soil erosion, particularly during heavy rains, by retaining the topsoil essential for agriculture,” Kumar noted.

    Club members were joined by the public

    The overall goal of the Rotary Club’s initiative is to plant 500 fruit trees in phases. This recent event follows the first phase, which took place on March 23, 2024, when 106 trees were planted in public spaces within primary and secondary schools.

    The project is also supported by the Ministry of Environment, the High Commission of India, and external initiatives championed by Indian Prime Minister Modi.
    “This is a good project, and we are also promoting a cultural tradition where individuals are encouraged to plant a tree in honor of their mothers, an idea further supported by the Prime Minister,” Kumar said.

    Beyond local support, the project aligns with Rotary International’s broader mission of promoting community service and sustainability.
    “We collect contributions from our members, some of which go to Rotary International, and use others through the Rotary Foundation to support worldwide initiatives. In projects like these, we also receive donations and services from sponsors, in addition to periodic annual contributions from our members,” Kumar added.

    Founded on March 23, 2022, Rotary Club Karasimbi operates closely with its parent club, Rotary Club Virunga, and other associated clubs such as Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, Rotary Club of Butare, and Rotary Club of Musanze, among others.

    School Going Children participated in the tree planting exercise

    During the event, Shaffy Kubwimana, a representative from Nyakabanda Sector, spoke about the importance of partnerships between non-governmental organizations and local authorities.
    “The collaboration between NGOs and local authorities provides crucial support to various social welfare programs. By complementing the government’s budget, these collaborations help fast-track the execution of programs that uplift the well-being of our citizens,” he said.

    With two phases now complete and more trees to be planted, the Rotary Club of Kigali Karasimbi continues to lead the way in creating a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future for the communities of Nyakabanda and Kimisagara.

    Rotary Club of Kigali Karasimbi, Satish Kumar explained the vision behind the project.
  • “UAE Stands with Lebanon” campaign collects 200 tonnes of relief supplies at Expo City Dubai

    “UAE Stands with Lebanon” campaign collects 200 tonnes of relief supplies at Expo City Dubai

    Led by a number of Sheikhs, senior officials and business owners, and organized by ‘Dubai Cares’ under the supervision of the ‘International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council’ chaired by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chair of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, the event saw massive participation from various segments of the Dubai community.

    Dr. Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman of Dubai Cares , pointed to the keenness of the country’s wise leadership, represented by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and with follow-up from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, in directing swift humanitarian response to people affected by crises and emergencies across the world.

    He added that the coordination of all UAE entities working in the humanitarian space with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council helps provide medical, food and shelter assistance to countries, communities and peoples affected by crises and conflicts in a way that ensures early recovery and meets the essential needs for the stability of societies.

    The 24 donor organizations and volunteer institutions participating in the relief aid collection activities at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City include the Emirates Red Crescent, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Work.

    Others are Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Foundation for Humanitarian Work, Ahmed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, Dubai Humanitarian, Dubai Cares, Sharjah Charity Association and The Big Heart Foundation.

    Others include Emirates Foundation, Volunteers.ae Platform, Sharjah Volunteer Centre, Fujairah Charity Association, Watani Al Emarat Foundation, International Charity Organisation, Emirates Charity Association, Beit Al Khair Society, Dar Al Ber Society, Dubai Charity Association, and the Day for Dubai initiative.

  • Pat Connaughton Foundation, Shooting Touch celebrate completion of first international basketball court in Rwanda

    Pat Connaughton Foundation, Shooting Touch celebrate completion of first international basketball court in Rwanda

    Built in partnership with Shooting Touch Rwanda, this court represents a major milestone as the Foundation continues to expand its global reach, following three successful Clinics in Ireland last summer.

    The Pat Connaughton Foundation is thrilled to be a global organization, committed to making an impact through sports both locally and abroad.

    The partnership with Shooting Touch Rwanda brings the power of basketball to the forefront as a means to unite communities and create life-changing opportunities.

    Shooting Touch’s innovative sport-for-development programs help uplift youth and women in rural Rwanda by providing access to health services and educational resources, which aligns with the Pat Connaughton Foundation’s vision of transforming lives through the game of basketball.

    The new court, completed in August 2024, is already being utilized by nearly 1,000 boys, girls, and women every week.

    “We are extremely excited to partner with Shooting Touch to build our first Connaughton Court outside of America,” said NBA Champion Pat Connaughton. ”

    “This project is a great representation of our commitment to create access to athletics for the next generation of student athletes worldwide. My foundation is proud to help enhance the incredible work that is already being done in Rwanda. Basketball is a universal language that can positively impact change while inspiring the next generation to dream big, and we’re honored to be a part of it,” he added.

    In addition to being a platform for sports, the new court will serve as the home base for Shooting Touch’s holistic programs, which address crucial issues related to public health, gender equality, and economic mobility.

    “Building a basketball court with Shooting Touch isn’t just about creating a space for sport—it’s about giving an entire community access to something much bigger,” said Liza Gallagher, Executive Director of Shooting Touch.

    “Thanks to the incredible support of the Pat Connaughton Foundation, thousands of youth and women in Rwanda will now have a safe place to play, learn, and grow. By combining the love of the game with vital education and services, this partnership is creating lasting change that will impact generations to come.”

    The completion of the court in Rukara Sector highlights the Pat Connaughton Foundation’s growing presence around the world and its unwavering dedication to using sports as a tool for positive change. With 12 courts completed and five more underway, the Foundation continues to create spaces that foster growth, education, and community.

    {{About the Pat Connaughton Foundation}}

    The Pat Connaughton Foundation was founded in 2016 with the mission of creating access to athletics for the next generation of student athletes through Courts, Clinics, and Character.

    The PCF focuses on teaching them the translatable life skills sports instill, including hard work, teamwork, leadership, accountability, and discipline. During the last 8 years the PCF has hosted 27 clinics, completed 13 Courts with 12 Schools/Organizations, and impacted over 25,300 youth student-athletes.

    Built in partnership with Shooting Touch Rwanda, this court represents a major milestone

    {{About Shooting Touch}}

    Shooting Touch is an international sport-for-development organization based in Boston, Massachusetts, whose mission is to use the mobilizing power of basketball to bridge health and opportunity gaps for youth and women facing racial, gender, and economic inequalities.

    Since launching Shooting Touch Rwanda (STR) in 2012, it has continued to expand its reach in Rwanda’s Eastern Province, now operating programs in six sectors within the Districts of Kayonza and Bugesera. STR focuses on providing access to basketball for youth and women, while working to improve public health and gender equality in rural communities.

    The partnership with Shooting Touch Rwanda brings the power of basketball to the forefront as a means to unite communities and create life-changing opportunities.
    The new court, completed in August 2024, is already being utilized by nearly 1,000 boys, girls, and women every week.
    The court is located in Rukara Sector, Eastern Rwanda
  • How STEMpower is promoting science based knowledge in Rwanda

    How STEMpower is promoting science based knowledge in Rwanda

    Every STEM center consists of a computer and electronics laboratory. By working closely with the higher education institutions that host these STEM centers, the organization guarantees that students obtain hands-on training to supplement their theoretical classroom learning.

    So far, STEMpower’s presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits, as many who have attended training sessions at the centers explain.

    Victoire Irakoze, a 22-year-old mother, dropped out of school at an early age when she got pregnant, and would always find herself ill-equipped for the job market as a result.

    However, STEMpower’s free computer literacy program at the Adventist College of Gitwe in Ruhango District has turned around her life after acquiring computer skills. She says that she is now better positioned for job opportunities.

    Many people including local community members have benefited from STEMpower initiatives of free-to-attend training programs.

    “I literally didn’t know how to use a computer, and most of the job opportunities I came across required some basic skills on the same. After completing training at this center, I have the basic computer skills, and I am now more confident and optimistic to apply these skills on the labor market,” she explained.

    Irakoze is one of the 131 students and community members who completed computer literacy training at College Adventist de Gitwe in the most recent cohort. Her story showcases the organization’s commitment to inclusive education and reviving of shattered dreams.

    Emmanuel Tuyisenge is another beneficiary of STEMpower’s training programs whose testament further highlights the practical impact of the organization. The 22-year-old from Kanjongo Sector in Nyamasheke district, always dreamt of becoming an electronics technician, but lacked the financial means to pursue his dream.

    In 2022, he heard about STEMpower and enrolled for its free-to-attend training program. After completing training, he opened ‘Emmy Shop of Electronics’, the only electronic repair shop in his village.

    “I wanted to utilize the skills I acquired and then noticed there was no one in my area repairing electronic gadgets. My business is now running well, and I hope to expand it as time goes by,” he said.

    STEMpower’s presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits.

    {{Effective teaching methodology}}

    Gervais Tuyizere, a high school student at Murama Secondary School in Ruhango district, also participated in a number of trainings by STEMpower. He says that they have helped him better understand what he was being taught in class.

    “The hands-on teaching methodology helps me better understand what I am learning and it becomes easier to remember and apply it. I have since learnt how to install internet connection in my area, and how to do basic computer maintenance, thanks to this training,” he said.

    Tuyizere says he envisions becoming an IT engineer and therefore believes the skills he has acquired will be of fundamental importance as he pursues his dream career.

    STEMpower has established at least one STEM center in all four provinces of the country and in Kigali city, to reach as many beneficiaries as possible. The facilities are located at University of Rwanda- College of Science and Technology, Nyarugenge district, Ines Ruhengeri in Musanze district; Kibogora Polytechnic located in Nyamasheke district and at the University of Rwanda- College of Education in Kayonza district.

    Other learning institutions hosting the centers are Gitwe Adventist College (Ruhango district), East African Christian College in Kicukiro district, Nyabiheke Refugee Camp (Gatsibo district) and University of Tourism, Technology and Business studies situated in Rubavu district.

    These centers are not just for students but also serve members of the local community, providing vital skills and opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind.

    The non-profit organization will soon inaugurate a new STEM center at Rwanda Polytechnic College in Kigali as it expands its footprint in the country.

    Besides Rwanda, STEMpower has presence in many other Africa’s Sub-Saharan countries such as Ethiopia, South Sudan, Mali, Congo-Brazzaville, Burundi, Uganda, and Kenya among many others.

    In total, the organization has established 125 STEM centers which are helping students learn innovation, real-world problem-solving and creativity, thereby empowering them to lift their respective countries from poverty.

    Some students who have benefited from STEM trainings have been able to create their own jobs
    STEMpower has established at least one STEM center in all four provinces of the country and in Kigali city.
  • Rwanda crowns Customer Service Week 2024 with Kigali Customer Experience Leader’s Forum

    Rwanda crowns Customer Service Week 2024 with Kigali Customer Experience Leader’s Forum

    Organized by CX Touchpoints Rwanda, the forum serves as a flagship event for customer-centric organizations and leading professionals in customer experience. It aims to bring together key players from both the public and private sectors to learn, network, and reimagine the future of customer experience (CX) in Rwanda.

    Customer Service Week is celebrated globally during the first full week of October to honor both customers, the heartbeat of every organization, and the dedicated employees who ensure exceptional service delivery.

    In a statement, CX Touchpoints Rwanda said the event offers a platform for senior leaders to unite and share strategies on improving CX across the country.

    “This is more than just a meeting—it’s a pivotal moment in transforming customer experiences across the nation,” said the company, which provides customer experience management solutions, training, research, and events.

    The forum marks a new era for Rwandan organizations.

    Attendees are expected to gain exclusive insights into local customer research, including the first-ever deep dive into Rwanda’s Customer Experience Index (CEI).

    Throughout the forum, leaders will explore key factors that influence service quality, with discussions centered on innovative themes such as cutting-edge CX technologies, insights from Rwanda’s CEI, developing customer experience competencies, and performance management strategies.

    Other topics include voice-of-the-customer programs to elevate service delivery, reinventing employee experience and its impact on CX, and emerging CX trends. Additionally, participants will explore how product experience (PX) and brand experience (BX) can be used as strategic tools to drive customer loyalty.

    The high-impact event features an impressive lineup of senior executives from various institutions, including Olivia Ntambara, Senior Manager of Customer Experience at RwandAir, Liliose Nyinawinkindi, Director of Customer Experience and Service Distribution at Irembo, Christine Teta, Senior Customer Experience Manager at NCBA Bank Rwanda and Fidelis Katangwa, Head of Customer Experience at Access Bank.

    Other notable attendees include Francine Umulisa, Head of Customer Experience Management at Bank of Kigali, Dr. Mawo Martin, Sales & Marketing Director at Rwanda Mountain Tea, Belinda Mukunde, Head of Customer Service at DHL Express, Richard Kayibanda, Registrar General at Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Christella Umuhire, Head of Marketing at Sonarwa General Insurance, Kpunsa Mbinkar, Lead Customer Experience Consultant at CX Touchpoints Rwanda, Mirko Buonerba, Senior Customer Experience Manager at Sandsiv and Paulin Uwitonze, Deputy Commissioner for Taxpayer Services & Communications at Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).

    Attendees are expected to gain exclusive insights into local customer research.

    During the forum, the business leaders are expected to share their expertise and inspire actionable strategies to elevate customer experience across Rwanda’s public and private sectors.

    The forum marks a new era for Rwandan organizations, aligning with the government’s vision for the country to achieve middle-income status by 2035 and high-income status by 2050.

    “By prioritizing customer experience, both local and international businesses will create greater value, improving how visitors experience Rwanda and transforming how citizens engage with their government. The ripple effects of enhanced CX will strengthen Rwanda’s economic standing and foster long-term prosperity,” CX Touchpoints Rwanda explained.

    Learn more about the event or the company via their website: https://www.cx-touchpoints.com/

    Senior executives from Rwanda’s most influential institutions are gathering today, October 10, 2024
  • Rwanda’s CMA joins IOSCO’s Investor week to promote technology and sustainable finance

    Rwanda’s CMA joins IOSCO’s Investor week to promote technology and sustainable finance

    This year’s IOSCO World Investor Week will specifically focus on technology and digital finance, crypto assets, and sustainable finance.

    Thapelo Tsheole, the Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority (CMA) of Rwanda stressed the Authority’s commitment to technology in developing the capital market.

    “CMA Rwanda welcomes all Fintech innovations to test their ideas in our Fintech regulatory sandbox. This programme helps both CMA and innovators understand emerging trends in financial technology and regulatory needs through shared learning. It fosters innovation while ensuring we meet our regulatory objectives,” he said.

    CMA Rwanda is participating alongside regulators from around the world in a series of activities designed to empower investors and protect their interests.

    WIW has two key goals: to promote key messages that support investor education, protection, and financial literacy, and to create learning opportunities for investors. The campaign also aims to strengthen cooperation among IOSCO members on investor education and protection.

    “The IOSCO Investor Week aligns with our goal to create a more knowledgeable and secure investment environment in Rwanda. Throughout the week, CMA will engage thousands of current and potential investors through digital platforms to enhance investor education and protect their interests as an educated investor is a protected investor,” Thapelo noted.

    During this year’s World Investor Week, CMA Rwanda, Rwanda Stock Exchange, and investment and fund managers will run a digital media campaign to inform the public about saving and investment opportunities in the local stock market.

    The IOSCO Investor Week brings together regulators, market participants, and stakeholders from across the globe to promote financial literacy and underscore the importance of protecting investors. Through various educational activities, the event aims to equip people with the knowledge and tools to make informed investment decisions.

    CMA Rwanda oversees the development and regulation of the country’s capital market. Its mission is to create a dynamic, transparent, and investor-friendly market that supports economic growth and development in the country.

  • Uganda High Commission celebrates 62nd Independence in Kigali

    Uganda High Commission celebrates 62nd Independence in Kigali

    The celebration, which marked not just Uganda’s history but also its deep ties with Rwanda, was a moment of shared joy and mutual respect between the two nations.

    H.E. Rtd. Gen. Robert Rusoke, Uganda’s Ambassador to Rwanda, expressed his deep admiration for Rwanda’s recent achievements and the close relationship that has flourished between the two countries over the years.

    “Our history is reflected in our strong ties. Our collaboration extends to addressing regional opportunities, as evidenced by the Joint Permanent Commission that was held in Rwanda in March 2023,” he remarked.

    Rusoke noted that the Commission, a key vehicle for fostering cooperation, had resulted in several signed agreements, including those promoting free movement of persons, trade facilitation, and diplomatic consultations.

    He also announced that the next Joint Permanent Commission would take place in early 2025 in Kampala to review progress and set new targets for mutual benefit.

    Rusoke voiced his heartfelt congratulations for Kagame’s recent victory for the new term of office stating that Rwanda has emerged as a beacon of hope and an example on the African continent.

    H.E. Rtd. Gen. Robert Rusoke is Uganda's Ambassador to Rwanda

    The ambassador further highlighted the historical ties between Uganda and Rwanda, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and shared goals and underscored the importance of these collaborations for future generations.

    “Our countries remain united with projects that will continue to impact relations and create wealth for both nations,” he stated.

    The guest of honor, General James Kabarebe, Rwanda’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, echoed these sentiments. Kabarebe congratulated Uganda on its milestone anniversary.

    “I would like to congratulate all Ugandans as you celebrate the 62nd anniversary. Today, we are not only commemorating Uganda’s journey towards self-determination but also its resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism, which has shaped Uganda into the vibrant country we see today,” he said.

    Reflecting on the deep connections between Uganda and Rwanda, Kabarebe noted that the two country’s bonds run so deep, extending beyond a common border.

    He said both countries share values rooted in mutual respect and a common vision of peace, prosperity, and regional integration and highlighted multiple areas of successful cooperation, including defense, cyber security, migration, and trade, which have brought the two nations closer together over the years.

    Kabarebe expressed optimism for the future of Uganda-Rwanda relations and commended the prosperity both nations have achieved and urged for continued collaboration.

    The guest of honor was General James Kabarebe, Rwanda’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation

    “Allow me to express my commitment to further strengthen our bilateral relationship, and express our eagerness to explore new areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of our two peoples,” he said.

    “Let us all overcome our challenges and build a future filled with growth and prosperity. May our friendship continue to flourish and grow as we work hand in hand for the future of our two nations,” he added.

    The event was a joyful celebration of Uganda’s independence but also a testament to the enduring friendship and growing cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda.

    The dignitaries present reflected on the shared history, values, and vision that have cemented the partnership between the two nations, as both look toward a future of continued progress and collaboration.

    The celebration was a moment of shared joy
    Many Dignitaries attended the celebration including security personnel from different countries.
    H.E. Rtd. Gen. Robert Rusoke, Uganda's Ambassador to Rwanda and Gen James Kabarebe, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation share a light moment at Uganda's 62nd Independence anniversary held in Kigali.
  • Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed launches two-week philanthropic campaign to help Lebanon

    Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed launches two-week philanthropic campaign to help Lebanon

    Slated to begin on 8th October and continue until 21st October under the slogan “The UAE Stands with Lebanon”, the campaign is aimed at involving the community, institutions, and public sector and private sector organizations.

    Speaking about the importance of the campaign, H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has stressed the utmost importance given by the UAE under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to helping the people in Lebanon in their tough humanitarian circumstance.
    He expressed confidence in the UAE community – people, businesses and institutions – in standing with people facing crisis situations and extending support to them.

    The campaign announcement came close on the heels of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ordering an urgent relief aid package worth US$100 million as part of the country’s efforts to support the people of Lebanon.

    The UAE sent 6 planes loaded with around 205 tonnes of medical supplies, food, relief materials, and shelter equipment. This was done in cooperation with international partners such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.