Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Kagame advocates for rotating Africa’s permanent seat on UN Security Council

Responding to concerns about the risk of division within the continent, Kagame emphasized that the seats should not be held by any single nation permanently

His response was clear: “One permanent seat would have to be held by AU Commission and 2nd seat by African Country on rotational basis!!! Not held by any single country permanently.”

His remarks came after Kenyan Ambassador Martin Kimani, who leads the Center on International Cooperation (CIC), expressed reservations about the current proposal to grant Africa two permanent seats.

Kimani said, “Africa must be strategic in considering these P5 invitations for permanent Security Council seats. Without proper reforms in the AU, the U.S. offer — though welcome — would turn the Union into a club of 2 giants and 53 minnows, deepening division and fragmenting our collective intent.”

“Such changes at the UN must align with, and be secondary to, Africa’s historic journey of integration, or they will become mere feel-good measures that uphold current power structures without better safeguarding international peace, security, and African independence,” he warned.

If Africa were to be granted these two seats, it would help the continent have a stronger voice in decisions affecting its member states on security matters. A permanent seat gives its holder the power to veto decisions supported by other countries.

Kagame’s comments reflect his long-standing advocacy for a more inclusive and united Africa on the global stage. His proposal ensures that all African nations would have a chance to be represented, promoting equity and collective responsibility across the continent.

September 12, 2024
Juliana Muganza appointed new RDB Deputy CEO

Juliana Kangeli Muganza previously worked as an analyst in the Strategy and Policy Council at the Office of the President.

She holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Oxford University and a Bachelor’s degree from Drexel University in the United States.

Her previous international experience includes working as the Programme Coordinator at the West Philadelphia Financial Services Institution from May 2013 to May 2014.

RDB was established by Law No. 46/2013 of June 16, 2013. It is tasked with accelerating economic development in Rwanda by supporting the growth of the private sector.

It also has the mandate to participate in the preparation and implementation of policies and strategies aimed at expediting all economic development activities and assisting both the government and the private sector in actively participating in them.

It is responsible for implementing policies and strategies to promote domestic and foreign investment in Rwanda to accelerate economic development.

Additionally, RDB is tasked with implementing policies and strategies to promote the export of value-added goods and services to regional and international markets, except for those under the responsibility of other entities.

RDB also promotes the tourism sector, participates in the design and implementation of policies and strategies related to tourism, and oversees the conservation of national parks and other key tourism sites.”

September 12, 2024
Faster border crossing for goods set to boost Rwanda’s international trade

The project aims to streamline cross-border trade by removing Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) and automating trade processes, providing a much-needed boost to Rwanda’s economic growth. A key component of the new project is the automation of cross-border trade processes.

Rwanda has already implemented an Electronic Single Window system to simplify international trade, and the project will enhance this system further. The upgraded system will allow businesses to submit all required import and export documents through a Single Transaction Portal without physically visiting different agencies.

Approvals will be granted within 24 hours, and traders will benefit from advance clearances for their goods. The Commissioner General of the Rwanda Revenue Authority, Ronald Niwenshuti, expressed confidence in the project’s ability to simplify trade processes.

“RRA has embraced technology not only for customs modernization but also for its entire operations. This phase of Rwanda’s Electronic Single Window builds on the very impactful and successful first phase, and we are confident that it will simplify service delivery and further reduce the cost of doing business with Rwanda,” he said.

Boneza Ubucurizi is implemented by IBI, a U.S. business that works with local experts to drive the interventions. Jackie Zizane, Chief of Party, acknowledged the spirit of collaboration and commitment among stakeholders, which she believes will be vital to achieving the project’s objectives.

“We recognize the importance of partnership and cooperation in overcoming the challenges posed by non-tariff barriers. I believe that this collaborative effort will drive significant progress in promoting cross-border trade and economic growth in Rwanda,” Zizane stated.

Keisha L. Effiom, the USAID Mission Director for Rwanda and Burundi, highlighted the significance of a strong private sector for Rwanda’s development.

“Projects like this one are key for development: with its laser-focus on fixing the obstacles, it will bring benefits to the private sector, the government, and the Rwandan consumers,” she noted.

Effiom emphasized the holistic approach that USAID takes towards development, saying, “When the private sector grows, the country as a whole prospers, because businesses reinvest their earnings into operations and local communities.”

NTBs are obstacles that increase the cost of doing business, unrelated to the direct payment of tariffs. For landlocked Rwanda, issues such as paperwork and wait times along the major transport corridors to Mombasa and Dar es Salaam ports are a significant burden.

Goods are often delayed for days at border points, resulting in higher costs that ultimately affect consumers.
As such, the Rwandan government has established National Monitoring Committees on NTBs to identify and eliminate these barriers.

The Feed the Future Rwanda Trade Facilitation project will work closely with these committees, strengthening Rwanda’s strategy for removing NTBs and improving the overall trade environment.

Another major improvement is the expansion of ASYCUDA World, the Rwanda Revenue Authority’s customs software, which will include new features like an Advance Ruling Mechanism. This mechanism allows customs decisions to be made online before the goods even reach the border, reducing wait times and improving efficiency.

The Feed the Future Rwanda Trade Facilitation Activity is a four-year project funded by the United States through USAID, with a budget of $5 million. Its goal is to eliminate NTBs, increase the automation of cross-border trade, and promote seamless and efficient trade processes that benefit Rwandan businesses and consumers alike.

By improving the efficiency of trade and reducing the costs associated with border crossings, this initiative will position Rwandan companies for greater success in international markets and contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.

September 12, 2024
President Kagame attends Amavubi match after 8 Years

At the time, he mentioned that he had informed the former Minister of Sports, Munyangaju Aurore Mimosa, that “such things should not be tolerated because it is clearly known how things are done. Where things work well, there is government support. I love sports, which is why I used to attend matches, but I could not stand such an endless mess.”

Since then, significant changes have been made in Rwanda’s football, leading to notable progress appreciated by football fan base

On Tuesday, September 10, 2024, Kagame joined others in following the match, which Amavubi aimed to win as they were facing Nigeria in a group stage match for Africa Cup of Nations qualification, to be held in Morocco.

The Head of State arrived at the beginning of the second half of the game, with widespread excitement hovering over Amahoro Stadium as Amavubi firmly held to a 0-0 draw.
The national team secured two points from the draw with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who now have four points from two matches.

The last match President Kagame attended was during CHAN 2016, when Amavubi faced the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rwanda.

This was the first national team match played at this stadium, but it wasn’t the first game held there. Another match President Kagame attended at the venue was between APR FC and Police FC, marking the official opening of Amahoro Stadium in 1999.

September 10, 2024
Amavubi keeps AFCON hope alive with heroic draw against Nigeria (Pictorial)

From the start, it was clear that Rwanda, under the leadership of coach Frank Spittler, was not intimidated by their opponents. The Amavubi dominated the first five minutes of play, showing composure and determination, though no direct shots were fired at Nigeria’s goal.

Early attempts came from Jojea Kwizera in the 7th minute, narrowly missing the crossbar with a long-range shot. Despite Nigeria’s 61% possession, Rwanda maintained a solid defense, with Bizimana Djihad captaining the team and keeping the players organized.

Ntwari Fiacre’s saves were the highlight of the match. His first came in the 25th minute, following an untimed back pass that almost resulted in a Nigerian goal. His composure and quick reflexes denied Osimhen, a moment that had the crowd on their feet.

Throughout the game, he made a total of eight direct saves, each one more crucial than the last, particularly in the final moments of the match. “Fiacre was an absolute wall today! His saves kept us in the game. We still have hope for AFCON,” said Augustine Muhirwa, a jubilant and passionate fan after the final whistle.

The game was filled with tense moments, especially when a 22nd-minute goal for Nigeria was canceled due to a foul on Manzi Thierry. Rwanda’s defensive players, including Omborenga Fitina, who dominated the right flank, and Niyomugabo Claude, who played a strong game despite a yellow card, contributed to keeping the Super Eagles at bay.

As the second half commenced, a wave of excitement rippled through the stadium as President Paul Kagame arrived. His presence ignited the crowd, with cheers and chants filling the air, and it seemed to inspire the players on the field. Fitina and Kevin Muhire responded with a near-goal, immediately putting pressure on the Nigerian defense.

“It felt like a different game when the President showed up,” shared one enthusiastic spectator. “The energy was electrifying, and you could see the team feeding off it.”

Though Rwanda missed a chance to score in the dying minutes of the first half, the second half was filled with intense action. Fiacre again stole the spotlight, denying Simon Moses a goal with a spectacular one-on-one save in the 57th minute.

Fans held their breath as the clock ticked down, with Nigeria pressing hard for a goal, but Rwanda’s defense, led by Manzi Thierry, remained steadfast. Even with five minutes of added time, Nigeria could not break through. The final whistle blew to the relief and joy of Rwandan supporters, who celebrated their team’s resilience.

“Ntwari Fiacre deserves all the praise today,” said another fan. “Without him, the score line would have been very different. We’re still in this fight for AFCON” said another fan who identified himself as Gasogi.

This result marks another milestone for coach Frank Spittler, who continues to impress since taking over the Rwandan squad. Having lost just one of his first five games, including a victory over South Africa, Spittler has gained the trust of many Rwandans.

With this draw against the Super Eagles, who were AFCON finalists last year, Rwanda’s hopes of qualifying for AFCON remain alive. As the dust settles, Rwanda prepares to take the momentum from this match forward. The next fixture is due on October 7, as Rwanda face Benin with Nigeria against Libya in Group D.

After two games, Nigeria sits top on the group with 4 points, Rwanda is second after a one-all draw in their opening game against Libya on September 4, 2024. Libya and Beninin are third and fourth with one and zero points respectively.

September 10, 2024
Top Five standout moments at the Sherrie Silver Gala (Video)

From notable appearances to unexpected surprises, the evening was filled with moments that sparked conversation and left a lasting impression on all who attended. Here are the top five standout moments at the Silver gala

The dress code was a striking fusion of cultural creativity and sophisticated elegance:

Attendees of the Silver Gala took the theme of the event to heart by blending traditional elements with high-end fashion. The creativity in combining bold, colorful cultural attire with elegant, contemporary designs not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of the participants but also reflected a modern, stylish twist.

This mix was likely encouraged by the gala’s intent to promote cultural pride while maintaining a sense of class and formality suited to the prestigious nature of the event.

The event preparation and turnout were exceptional, with flawless execution:

The level of attention to detail in organizing the gala was remarkable. From the venue setup, which likely involved intricate lighting, decorations, and seating arrangements, to the punctual and well-structured program, everything went off without a hitch.

The impressive turnout of attendees, many of whom were high-profile figures, contributed to the event’s success. The professionalism in managing both logistics and guest relations speaks to the organizer’s deep experience in handling such grand events, likely ensuring everything ran smoothly.

An Arsenal jersey fetched a staggering USD 3500, while a Childish Gambino signed jacket sold for USD 2000:

The auction became one of the night’s biggest talking points, with bids skyrocketing for these exclusive items. The Arsenal jersey, likely a rare or signed piece, drew the attention of passionate sports fans willing to bid generously, while the Childish Gambino jacket appealed to music and pop culture enthusiasts.

The high auction prices suggest that the crowd was eager to contribute to the foundation’s cause, and the bidders likely had both personal interest in the items and a desire to support charity, driving the prices up.

Runtown made a notable appearance but left guests puzzled as he did not perform:

The presence of Runtown, a renowned Nigerian artist, was highly anticipated, and many guests expected him to take the stage. However, despite being seen interacting with attendees, he did not perform, leaving many wondering why.

A possible explanation could be a last-minute issue but its alternatively possible that Runtown was not officially booked to perform but attended the event as a special guest, with some guests incorrectly assuming he was part of the lineup.

The Sherrie Silver Foundation’s performance stole the show, leaving the crowd in awe:

Sherrie Silver’s foundation, known for its powerful and engaging performances, delivered the most memorable act of the night. The performance likely combined energetic choreography, cultural storytelling, and a strong message of empowerment, which resonated deeply with the audience.

The foundation’s ability to bring such passion and purpose to the stage could be tied to their broader mission of using dance and art to uplift communities, making it more than just entertainment but an inspiring and transformative experience for all who watched.

September 10, 2024
Rwandans among students set to benefit from Airtel Africa Foundation scholarship program

In a statement, Airtel Africa Foundation said the Fellowship aims to support deserving students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.

The scholarship program is designed to support students from 14 African countries, including Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, DR Congo, Niger, Chad, Congo B, Gabon, Madagascar and Seychelles.

Starting with an outlay of US$500,000, this program will benefit 10 undergraduate students, for their entire course duration of four years.

Founded in 2024 with a vision to foster a prosperous Africa, the Airtel Africa Foundation is dedicated to advancing digital and financial inclusion across the continent along with key focus on education and environmental protection.

“This Fellowship is the maiden initiative undertaken to enhance educational opportunities for meritorious students, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, enrolled at IIT M Zanzibar,” the statement reads in part.

The Foundation said that the recipients of the scholarship will be known as ‘Airtel Africa Fellows’. They will receive 100% of their college fees i.e. US$12,000 as per the course fee structure of the Institute for a 4-year program. Additionally, to cover the living expense cost, US$500 will be given to all eligible students.

According to the management, the initiative aims to transform, shape lives and nurture future leaders who will contribute to technological innovation and economic growth of Africa.

“We are pleased to partner with IIT Madras Zanzibar to provide opportunities for young Africans to access quality education. This initiative aims to contribute towards creating a prosperous and sustainable continent. We look forward to creating even more opportunities not just in education, but also in financial and digital inclusion, and environmental protection,” the Chairman of the Airtel Africa Foundation, Dr. Olusegun Ogunsanya said.

Zanzibar’s Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Lela Mohamed Mussa, lauded the fellowship scheme, saying it will support efforts to increase access to quality education to students from across the continent.

“IITM Zanzibar is charting a wonderful path in technical education in the region. Providing access to this high quality education to students from Tanzania and the rest of the continent, who are topping the IITM Zanzibar screening and test processes, through financial assistance, is an important priority for us. We are thankful to this support from Airtel Africa Foundation, which will enhance our own efforts in this direction,” the minister stated.

The Director of IIT Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti welcomed the partnership with the Airtel Africa Foundation, saying “We are delighted that Airtel Africa Foundation is joining hands with us in this effort. We look forward to welcoming the second cohort of bright young students to the IITM Zanzibar campus this year. We are immensely grateful to Airtel Africa Foundation for providing financial assistance for these future global leaders.”

September 10, 2024
King Faisal Hospital launches university to transform healthcare education in Rwanda

In this context, the hospital has launched the university in line with Ministerial Order No. 001/MINEDUC/2024, dated April 26, 2024, which authorized AHSU to begin operations and granted it legal status. The order specified that AHSU is permitted to offer Master’s degree programs in anesthesiology, emergency medicine, surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics.

Additionally, AHSU will provide courses in the fields of pharmacy, nursing, midwifery, radiography, and laboratory sciences. The university has started by offering the Bachelor of Science in midwifery course initially enrolling 40 learners selected from1423 applications (2.3% acceptance rate for the midwifery program).

This opportunity is highly advantageous for the selected learners, as they will receive full scholarships, accommodation, and stipends during the course of their studies. The selection process prioritized learners who excelled in high school exams, particularly in biology.

However, due to the large number of applicants, additional written exams and interviews were conducted to identify the top 40 learners who reported on 1st September 2024 and commenced their studies the same week.

Learners will spend their first semester taking theoretical and simulation based learning, with subsequent years spent in hospital-based training at hospitals, among them, Kacyiru hospital, Muhima hospital and King Faisal Hospital.

Some of the learners at the university expressed their excitement during the reporting day, affirming that it will help them achieve their goals in the midwifery field.
During an interview with IGIHE, Kevine Kayihoza Ntawuyifasha, one of the selected learners could not hide her excitement at the opportunity.

“Getting this opportunity is a great blessing; I am now determined to work hard and succeed so that I can help expectant mothers in the future. Since childhood, I wanted to pursue a career in midwifery, but I wasn’t sure where I would study.”

Similarly, her colleague, Nina Shania Kamikazi, said, “It’s a blessing to be among the few selected learners from the many who applied. This is an opportunity I must use to build my future, and I believe this place will help me achieve that.”

Kamikazi also revealed that she has always dreamt of working in the medical field, particularly in midwifery, as she considers it a noble profession and a calling.

Dr. Augustin Sendegeya, Chief Medical Officer at King Faisal Hospital, emphasized that the university is expected to address the shortage of trained medical professionals.
He stated, “We were given the responsibility not only to be a hospital but also to contribute to education. With the resources we have and the strong leadership, we saw the need to establish a university that offers various programs related to medical education.”

He added, “The university will increase the number of healthcare workers, not just in quantity but also in the quality of the services they provide. Based on how we have started and the support available, this is an achievable goal.”

Dr. Sendegeya noted that the Master’s degree programs will be offered at Kibungo Hospital in Ngoma District and Kibuye Hospital in Karongi District. This will enhance the capacity of these hospitals, improving the services provided to the community.

AHSU currently operates at the Kacyiru Executive Apartment buildings, located near King Faisal Hospital.

September 9, 2024
DRC: The Wazalendo monster threatens its creator

A few weeks before this meeting, starting on February 12, 2023, there were already reports of the movement of troops of the self-proclaimed rebel leader, William Amuri Yakutumba, who was sanctioned by the European Union in December 2022.

He moved his troops from Fizi to North Kivu, saying he wanted to fight the M23 and secure the Congolese-Rwandan border at Kamanyola.

General Ramazani Fundi, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) operational commander in Uvira, had said the army was considering how to facilitate the movement of Yakutumba’s forces to the front.

The active collaboration between the Mai-Mai groups collectively referred to this force as Wazalendo (“Indigenous Patriots”) and the support from FARDC was confirmed by the Minister of Higher and University Education, Muhindo Nzangi Butondo, during a press conference held in Goma on March 6, 2023.

He had specified that the government decision concerning the reserve forces was legalized as the Wazalendo.
“From next week, you will receive missions, will be equipped and will fight under the same supply conditions as the FARDC.”

For Minister Nzangi, this legalization means that the Wazalendo could no longer hide. He insisted: “From now on, you are no longer negative forces. You become reserve forces!”
However today, in Eastern DRC, tensions are rising between Kinshasa and the Wazalendo militias, who are considered to support Congolese army in the fight against the AFC/M23. These groups have express growing frustration with the military authorities.

Despite the discretion of the Congolese authorities, it has been confirmed that between the end of 2023 and April 2024, they supplied large quantities of weapons and ammunition to Mai-Mai groups and other militias on the front line against the AFC/M23.

A document, seen by Africa Intelligence, a renowned media outlet that specializes in political and economic affairs in Africa indicates that nearly 2 million cartridges, 868 rockets, 284 bombs, 300 Kalashnikovs and 15 rocket launchers were delivered. This military support puts President Felix Tshisekedi in a delicate situation, as it could prepare the ground for future conflicts.

Frustration among the Wazalendo has intensified, particularly after a meeting in April 2024 with Tshisekedi. During this meeting, the leaders of the armed groups accused FARDC officers and provincial authorities of diverting part of the promised aid. Additionally, the assistance varies between groups: some receive ammunition, while others only receive food or small amounts of money.

On the ground, these militias, often isolated on the front lines, hope for recognition after the war, such as their integration into the national army. However, Kinshasa has so far only made vague promises, postponing discussions to a post-conflict period. Without concrete compensation, demobilization could become a major issue, and these fighters might take up arms again.

In the absence of coordination with the FARDC and without major offensives against the AFC/M23, the Wazalendo are often left on their own, which increases violence against civilians.

Faced with the rise of banditry in Goma and in the displaced persons’ camps around Goma, the military Commander Peter Cirimwami banned militiamen from moving around the city with their weapons in April 2024, without any progress so far.

September 9, 2024
Bralirwa’s ‘Dubai Twagiye’ Ceremony Celebrates Top Coca-Cola Challenge Winners

Bralirwa Pic, Rwanda’s leading beverage company which began producing beer in 1959, started the production of Coca-Cola products in partnership with The Coca-Cola Company in 1974 and today continues to engage its customers and consumers through innovations, fascinating events, and award-winning competitions.

The “Dubai Twagye’ challenge which ran from February to June 2024, was set for Bralirwa’s Coca-Cola distributors with an objective of enabling growth, boosting interactions among its consumers & customers as well as driving commitment across the entire ecosystem. The five-month initiative inspired distributors to win and deliver together as one of the strategies to achieve companywide priorities.

In his appreciation remarks, Bralirwa’s Managing Director, Mr. Etienne Saada, highlighted the significant contribution that direct partners continue to make towards achieving the company’s ambitions and success. “As we celebrate the winners today, we are recognizant that it is a cross-functional collaboration combined with dedication and hard work of every member that we are able to attain great achievements,” he said.

Over 40 male and female distributors participated in the Coca-Cola challenge including distributors from Gasabo, Nyarugenge, Nyamasheke, Ngoma, Huye, Rubavu, Kicukiro, Bugesera, and Rulindo representing the diversity within Bralirwa’s distribution network. This inclusive approach motivated distributors to excel and highlighted Bralirwa’s commitment to customer centricity and efforts in celebrating both big and small wins.

The top four winners awarded with all-inclusive 5-day trip to Dubai where they will get a chance to watch Formula One qualifiers and finals. The second category of 4 winners were each awarded a tuk-tuk worth five million Rwandan Francs to support them in their transportation logistics while the third category of 3 winners were awarded a Nyungwe experience for two nights at Kivu Mantis among other activities.

The event was concluded with light moments between the distributors and staff, creating unforgettable moments as the Company continues to customers as one of its key values demonstrate passion for its consumers and customers as one of its key values.

September 9, 2024