Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

Sudan’s Higher Education Officials laud Rwanda’s academic excellence

“We are here as part of an ongoing mission to follow up on universities where Sudanese students are enrolled. Due to conflicts in Sudan, many of our students have relocated to countries like Egypt, Qatar, Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda. We came to ensure they are well cared for academically and socially,” he explained.

The delegation visited UMST, which offers programs in medicine, medical laboratory technology, and dentistry, with a student body of over 700, almost all of them from Sudan.

Alnoor praised the university’s facilities, noting that they exceed the standards set back in Sudan. “To be honest, the building, the environment, and the standards are better than what we see back home. The students we spoke to are happy, they study and graduate on time, which is different from what I have seen in other countries where our students are studying,” he added.

The delegation was also highly impressed with Rwanda’s overall hospitality and governance. Alnoor stated, “Rwanda is not only an inspiration to Sudan but to all other African nations on how to transition from colonial rule to a modern, independent state. All African countries have something to learn from this experience.”

Prof. Samir Shaheen, Vice-Chancellor of UMST and a Professor of Pediatric Orthopedics, also expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda. “We are happy with Rwanda for warmly receiving us. The students and faculty have integrated well into the community. We’re happy to have chosen Rwanda as our destination,” he said.

Established less than one year ago, UMST is now fully recognized as a cross-border university, accepting students from Rwanda and the surrounding region. “We have received full support from the Rwandan government and the Higher Education Council. Our admissions will close on September 14,” Shaheen revealed.

In conclusion, Alnoor emphasized the importance of Sudanese students understanding the proper application procedures for foreign universities to avoid any complications. “Our students here are safe, they study and pass well. I have no doubt that many more will come in the future because the feedback from Sudan is very positive,” he noted.

With the delegation’s glowing remarks, it is clear that the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda in higher education is flourishing, providing a solid foundation for future academic partnerships.

September 8, 2024
The Silver Gala: An experience of unforgettable memories

As the doors opened, the guests, dressed in some of the most fashionable and extravagant attires, made a grand entrance, setting the tone for the night. The fashion on display was a testament to Africa’s growing influence on the global fashion scene. It was clear that the night would be more than just a celebration – it was a showcase of power, creativity, and talent.

Kicking off the night in style, the children youths from the Sherrie Silver Foundation graced the stage with their heartwarming performance of “Ndagukunda Afurika” (I Love You Africa), which was creatively performed with the incorporation of flags from various African nations. This moving tribute set the stage for the magic that was to follow.

The performances kept coming, with Aline Sano serenading the audience with her hit songs “None” and “Fake Gee”. The crowd was visibly moved, singing along to every lyric.
However, the electrifying energy hit the best high when the night’s headliner, Benjamin Mugisha also known as The Ben, took to the stage. Alongside Kevin Kade and Element, the Ben performed his new song Sikosa for their fans for the first time since its release

His powerful voice and stirring performance left everyone mesmerized. Before this, he took a moment to praise Sherrie Silver, saying, “This is an opportunity to tell you how much I’m proud of you. The work ethic and the big heart are an inspiration for me to always support you.”

The performances were interspersed with jaw-dropping moments from Sherrie Silver and her dance crew, whose vibrant choreography and stage presence kept the audience on their feet. Every interval performance was met with roaring applause, and it was clear that Sherrie Silver’s dedication to her craft had paid off.

But the night wasn’t just about the music and dancing – the speeches were equally stirring. Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership University, captivated the audience with his motivational words. “We are creating the next generation of superstars. As Africa, we will get the respect we deserve if we tell our story in the best way possible. I pledge all my support in this regard,” he said.

His call for more investment in the arts resonated with the crowd, and his promise of support to Sherrie Silver was met with thunderous applause.

Another standout speech came from Nigerian politician and entrepreneur Peter Gregory Obi, who praised Sherrie Silver’s commitment to nurturing young talent. “Sherrie’s work is extraordinary. What she’s doing for the youth is inspiring, and I will do everything I can to spread the word about her efforts,” he said, offering his full support to her foundation.

Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, also took the stage to share his admiration for Sherrie Silver, saying, “I’ve encountered Sherrie on several occasions, and every time, I’m impressed with the zeal and vigor with which she approaches her work.” His words echoed the sentiments of everyone in the room – that Sherrie Silver is a force to be reckoned with.

As the night drew to a close, items were auctioned to raise funds for the Sherrie Silver Foundation, with guests enthusiastically participating in the bidding. The proceeds will go toward supporting young African talent, a cause close to Sherrie’s heart.

In her own words, Rwanda’s very own Mutesi Jolly perfectly summed up the night. “Our country has provided opportunities for the youth, and we should seize them. Let’s make the most of these moments,” she said.
The gala was not just a celebration of talent but also a reminder of the potential Africa holds – a continent bursting with creativity, passion, and promise.

The Silver Gala was, without a doubt, an evening of unforgettable memories. From the dazzling fashion to the inspiring speeches and breathtaking performances, it was a night that celebrated Africa’s bright future. As The Ben so powerfully said, “The best way to achieve your dreams is to keep your standards. Let us not lose that no matter what.” What a night to remember!

September 8, 2024
WCS launch Africa’s first High Integrity Forest Investment Initiative (HIFOR)

The country’s Minister of Forest Economy, Rosalie Matondo and WCS officials launched this initiative which aims to address the significant financing gap for the conservation of tropical forests, especially those still untouched by degradation.

“This project marks a significant step towards innovative financial mechanisms that allow our country to capitalize on our conservation efforts,” said Matondo during the launch in Brazzaville.
Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, covering over 0.4 million hectares, has absorbed over 11 million tons of CO2 over the past decade, showcasing the immense climate contribution of these forests.

WCS, the visionary behind HIFOR, developed the initiative to create a sustainable financial model for conserving tropical forests that offer vital climate, biodiversity, and socio-economic benefits.
Each HIFOR unit represents one hectare of well-preserved forest, allowing investors to support the protection of these critical ecosystems while creating a long-term stream of funding.

The HIFOR initiative was endorsed on August 28 by the Republic of Congo’s Forest Carbon Task Force, led by Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso. The task force recognized the importance of the high-integrity forests, which remove an estimated 1.8 billion tons of CO2 annually. Without these forests, global temperatures could already be 0.5°C higher.

Despite their importance, the world’s high-integrity forests are in decline, with 12% lost between 2000 and 2020. These forests are increasingly vulnerable to fragmentation and degradation, a reality that underscores the urgency of new conservation efforts.

Richard Malonga, WCS Congo Country Director, emphasized the importance of protecting these forests: “With threats to high integrity forests constantly evolving and increasing, our efforts must be relentless. Congo is fortunate to have many of these forests, and we are proud to partner with the government to pilot this innovative mechanism for their long-term protection.”

Unlike traditional forest financing tools, HIFOR focuses on preserving ecological integrity rather than compensating for deforestation emissions. HIFOR units are non-compensatory, tradable assets that provide a way for governments and communities to protect their forests while developing low-carbon, sustainable economies.

WCS plans to pilot HIFOR in collaboration with local governments and communities to ensure transparency and long-term success. “Early HIFOR projects will be individually audited to maintain quality and transparency,” noted Malonga.

For over 30 years, WCS has been a crucial partner in the conservation of global wildlife and ecosystems, contributing to the management of national parks and the protection of biodiversity on the planet.

As the world grapples with climate change and biodiversity loss, initiatives like HIFOR offer a beacon of hope, providing both ecological and financial solutions to safeguard the planet’s most vital ecosystems.

September 7, 2024
Burundi food relief to Zambia sparks mixed reactions

While Nalumango reassured the public that the food provided was safe, conflicting reports have emerged, prompting an investigation into possible contamination. The deaths of 400 dogs were linked to aflatoxins, harmful toxins produced by fungi found in maize and other food products.

Health Minister Elijah Muchima, addressing concerns about the contamination, acknowledged Burundi’s donation, stating, “We appreciate the solidarity shown by Burundi through their food donations, but the health and safety of Zambians remain our utmost priority.”

He added, “As we investigate the aflatoxin issues, we are ensuring that all maize products, including those donated, adhere to safety standards to protect our citizens.”

Concerns persist across Zambia, and while the government has launched an inquiry, specific maize brands linked to the contamination have yet to be identified. The presence of aflatoxins has sparked widespread fear, as maize is a dietary staple for the majority of Zambians.

Known to cause serious health risks, including liver cancer, the discovery of aflatoxins has heightened public anxiety. Though no human fatalities have been reported, authorities have begun recalling affected products and are conducting additional tests to prevent further health risks.

Zambia, like several other Southern African nations, is reeling from a drought affecting 84 out of its 116 districts. In light of the ongoing crisis, donations from neighboring countries have been pivotal. Vice President Nalumango has consistently welcomed these contributions, acknowledging their immediate impact on hunger alleviation efforts.

In a similar show of regional solidarity, Rwanda recently donated 1,000 metric tonnes of maize to aid Zambia, reinforcing the collective effort to support those affected by the drought.

September 7, 2024
Uganda’s State Minister of Defence succumbs to heart attack

According to Mugisha, she was rushed to hospital for medical attention but she was pronounced dead upon arrival. “It’s sad that Sarah died when Kisoro district and Uganda needed her more, it’s a big loss to our family. Although we expect the government to come up with a burial programme, as a family we need to plan ourselves,” he said.

At the age of 49, Mateke was a daughter of former Minister Philemon Mateke. Born into a political family, Mateke followed in the footsteps of her father Philemon Mateke who also served in Museveni’s and held Kisoro district leadership for years.

When she won the parliamentary seat for Kisoro district, Museveni named her minister in appreciation of her father’s contributions to the NRM government.

She was first appointed State minister of Gender in-charge of Children and Youth Affairs in 2021 until March 21st when Museveni reshuffled his cabinet and moved her to the Defense Ministry where she’s the Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs.

Her previous docket at the Gender ministry is currently occupied by events promoter Balaam Barugahara.
As the cloud of sorrow and grief hovers above Kisoro district, Museveni’s government has announced that burial arrangements will be communicated later and will be accorded an official burial.

Condolences have poured in from different government officials, with some casting a shadow of controversy.
Former Ugandan high commissioner to Canada Joy Ruth Acheng remarked and stated that she would run for the upcoming Kisoro by election following Sarah Mateke’s demise.
“I wish it was my area MP. I would have run for the by election and got to parliament. RIP Hon. Mateke,” she said.

Speaker of Parliament Honourable Annet Anita Among posted on her X, “With a heavy heart, I have received the news of the demise of the Hon Sarah Mateke, Woman MP Kisoro, and State Minister for Defence. Sincere sympathies to her family, H.E. President Museveni, relatives, friends, and the Kisoro community. In her, we have lost a humble and committed servant of our country.”

September 7, 2024
Former Nigerian Presidential candidate Peter Obi in Rwanda for Sherrie Silver gala (Video)

Speaking to IGIHE upon his arrival, Obi expressed his admiration for Rwanda’s transformation, particularly the changes he observed at Kigali International Airport. “The airport has expanded and looks more executive than before,” he remarked, recalling his previous experiences when he only transited through the country.

This is his first time stepping onto Rwandan soil, and he is already impressed by the nation’s progress.
Obi’s relationship with Sherrie Silver began through social media, where he was captivated by her global influence and dedication to uplifting African youth. “Her influence on the world stage fascinated me,” Obi said.

“I am more than willing to support her in any way I can.” He emphasized that supporting young talents like Silver, who rose from humble beginnings to become a global icon, is something he is passionate about.
Obi expressed his desire to use his platform to encourage more African youths to strive for success in various fields. “The sky is the limit for the youth,” he said. “They can always count on me for support, whether in art, fashion, or music.”

The Silver Gala, organized by the Sherrie Silver Foundation, promises to be a night of glamour, entertainment, and impact. The foundation, which supports over 660 children and youths, empowers young people with the skills, tools, and resources they need to lift themselves out of poverty and create brighter futures.

Obi’s presence at the event underscores his commitment to fostering youth development across the continent.
The gala will feature prominent speakers such as Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership Group and African Leadership University, and award-winning Rwandan musician The Ben.

The event will also include performances by children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation, showcasing their talents in dance, along with performances by musician Boukuru.
DJs Toxxyk and Sonia, who have pledged to provide deejaying lessons to the children in the coming days, will entertain the audience, further supporting the foundation’s mission of equipping youth with valuable skills.

As a successful businessman, Obi hinted at the possibility of exploring business opportunities in Rwanda. “I cannot rule out the possibility of establishing a business relationship with Rwanda,” he said, recognizing the country’s potential for growth and collaboration.
His visit not only supports Sherrie Silver’s cause but also opens doors for future partnerships between Nigeria and Rwanda.

Founded by Sherrie Silver, the Silver Foundation is dedicated to helping young people realize their full potential. Silver’s journey from a humble background to global fame mirrors the stories of the youths she now empowers.

The foundation’s next major goal is to establish a permanent Talent Development Centre in Rwanda, which will house the country’s first-ever theatre.
“The Sherrie Silver Foundation is here to stay,” Silver told the press, emphasizing her commitment to expanding the foundation’s impact. “We are eager to extend our support to more children and create spaces for artistic expression and growth.”

As the gala approaches, Silver extended an open invitation to the public: “I am inviting you to my first event in Rwanda, a glamorous gala dinner bringing together business leaders and my celebrity friends,” she posted on her X. All proceeds will go towards supporting the foundation.”

With Peter Obi’s support, along with other influential figures, the Silver Gala promises to be an unforgettable night, celebrating the power of youth and the potential for a brighter future.
His arrival in Rwanda marks not just a commitment to youth empowerment but also the possibility of future collaborations that could benefit both Rwanda and Nigeria.

The Silver Gala, slated for Saturday 7, 2024 will undoubtedly be a night of glamour, impact, and inspiration for all involved.

September 6, 2024
The urgent imperative for Africa: Navigating the climate crisis

The Climate Clock, a tool designed to underscore the urgency of climate action, paints a dire picture. 2024 has been the warmest year on record, reflecting a disturbing trend in global temperatures and Carbon dioxide emissions.

In Southern Africa, the consequences are particularly acute. The past century has seen Africa endure over 300 severe droughts, the highest number recorded on any continent.

Zambia, for instance, is facing one of its worst droughts in decades, with 84 out of 116 districts severely affected and crop yields plummeting by over 50%. Zimbabwe is similarly grappling with a drought that has left approximately 6 million people exposed to food insecurity and hunger.

Predictions are bleak; Crop yields in Africa could decline by up to 50% by 2050, and climate-induced diseases like malaria could result in an additional 250,000 deaths annually by mid-century.

These projections highlight the urgent need for global action, as emphasized in recent Conference of the Parties (COP) summits from COP26 to COP28. Despite various commitments to accelerate climate action, the gap between necessary and actual adaptation finance remains substantial.

Currently, Africa receives around $19 billion annually in climate finance, but only a small fraction supports agrifood systems. The continent needs between $30 billion and $50 billion annually by 2030 to effectively address climate impacts.

To meet these challenges, several actions are essential. They include raising climate ambitions where African nations must adopt more aggressive climate policies at both regional and national levels.

Enhanced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) should integrate climate goals into development strategies, fostering innovation and creating green job opportunities.

Stronger adaptation and mitigation measures which involve increased investment in adaptation strategies, such as developing drought-resistant crops and improving early warning systems, is crucial. This requires both local resource allocation and international financial support.

Enhanced Climate finance is also paramount where developed and developing nations must demonstrate greater commitment to providing the necessary financial resources. Africa needs a significant increase in both domestic and international funding for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Inclusive participation is ensuring that diverse voices, including those from vulnerable communities, are included in decision-making processes as it is essential for effective climate action. This inclusivity should extend to the integration of African perspectives in global climate policies.

A productive Private sector engagement where the private sector plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable development is substantial. African leaders must create investment climates that attract and retain private sector involvement in climate solutions.

There is also need for a functional policy and implementation strategy where strong climate policies must be complemented by effective implementation. Streamlining bureaucratic processes and enhancing inter-agency collaboration will help translate ambitious climate goals into tangible actions.

Decentralized leadership should be exercised through empowering local leaders who understand their communities’ specific needs as vital for building resilience and ensuring that climate strategies are effective and equitable.

The climate crisis presents complex challenges, but proactive and strategic leadership can help Africa navigate these turbulent times. By enhancing adaptation efforts, increasing investment, and fostering collaboration, the continent can not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also drive sustainable development and economic transformation. The time for action is now—Africa’s future depends on it.

The Author is Rwanda’s former Minister of Agriculture and current Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) President

September 5, 2024
FOCAC 2024: What Do ‘Africa+1’ Summits reveal about Africa’s place on the global stage?

Xi’s speech also included several promises to African nations in areas such as trade, connectivity, agriculture, health, green development, people-to-people exchange, and security. The Chinese government plans to provide RMB360billion (approximately $50.7B) to support these projects over the next three years.

Since its establishment in 2000, FOCAC has become the flagship platform for cooperation between China and African countries, playing a very significant role in promoting China’s desire to enhance South-South cooperation in various development sectors. However, China is not alone in approaching African nations on a multilateral basis.

This year alone in September, Indonesia held its second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) in Bali, and in June, South Korea hosted its first Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul. In July 2023, the second Russia-Africa Summit took place in St. Petersburg. In December 2022, the United States hosted the second U.S.-Africa Summit in Washington D.C., while Turkey held the Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit in Istanbul.

The rise of these high-level meetings between African nations and a host country, known as ‘Africa+1’ summits, suggests that the world is increasingly turning its gaze towards Africa. However, a closer look at the structure of such summits reveals the weak and marginal position African countries continue to occupy on the global stage.

Rethinking the ‘Africa+1’ Summit structure

The ‘Africa+1′ summits present opportunities for African countries. Whether it is China, Japan, the U.S., Turkey, Saudi Arabia, or Korea, these summits bring financial and diplomatic commitments that are appealing to African nations.

China emphasizes win-win cooperation, Indonesia hopes to revive the Bandung spirit of Asia-Africa solidarity, Japan aims to promote sustainable development, and Korea seeks to share its developmental experience with African countries, and so on and so forth.

While it is natural for African countries to welcome such cooperation deals, it is intriguing how easily individual countries can invite African heads of state to summits—something not seen with any other continent.

On one hand, this reflects the perceived importance of African nations, but on the other, it underscores the gullibility of African countries. Moreover, it is not always the case that when grouped together, African countries form a much stronger force in negotiations with the summit-hosting country.

The lack of unity among African heads of state raises doubts about whether African countries can present a cohesive front to counter the host nations’ clearly defined agendas and strategies at these ‘Africa+1’ summits.

Africa is politically and socio-economically diverse, far from being unified. Countries like Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, and Sudan are grappling with internal conflicts. Inter-African trade remains low, regional integration is limited, and many nations are still working to eradicate poverty.

Each African country has its own unique context, challenges, and opportunities. Treating Africa as a single entity often leads to simplistic conclusions about how to best support growth and development on the continent.

How to move forward

In the evolving global geopolitical landscape, African countries have proven to be important partners. Africa’s youthful population, vast natural resources, and diplomatic influence at the United Nations are strong incentives for engagement.
However, African countries need to demonstrate a readiness to leverage these attributes to claim their rightful place in international politics.

“I find that our leaders, who should have been working together all along to address these problems that commonly affect their countries, wait until they are invited to go to Europe to sit there and find solutions to their problems,” remarked President Paul Kagame at the African Development Bank annual meeting in 2014.

It has been ten years, and little has changed. African Heads of state attend summits en masse, but their collective influence remains questionable. The developed world can provide financial support, but neither China nor the U.S. can bestow global power and influence upon Africa.

African countries must figure out how to build unity, assert their position, and establish themselves as significant players on the international stage. Africa does not always have to be the invited party; it should aspire to become the inviting one.

The Author is a Learning Coach at the African Leadership University
BA in International Studies from Yonsei University
MA in China Studies (Politics and International Relations) from Yenching Academy of Peking University

September 5, 2024
Heifer supports Rwandan farmers with 15 tractors

Heifer International provided this equipment through the ‘Mechanization for Africa Initiative,’ a project that offers agricultural machinery on a loan payment plan. This initiative has been operational in three African countries since 2022, and Rwanda becomes the fourth, following Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria.

The handover event was officiated by the State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Eric Rwigamba, who expressed that the project is expected to accelerate agriculture in Rwanda.
He said, “It will help farmers cultivate faster and on time, enabling them to achieve higher yields. When you look at a farmer cultivating 10 or five hectares, they can hire manual labor, but often the delay causes them to miss the rainy season.”

In the next phase, an additional 15 tractors will be distributed to help farmers cultivate larger areas in a shorter time, increasing both the quantity and value of the yield.

Heifer International’s Vice President for Africa, Adesuwa Ifedi, stated that the organization is pleased to launch this program to uplift Rwandan farmers and noted that in other parts of Africa where it operates, the initiative has already advanced the level of local farming.

She said, “It helps farmers cultivate larger areas, which translates into higher income. We are pleased that, over the last two years, this program has improved agriculture in other countries. For instance, one testimony we received here was from a farmer who increased his cultivation from one hectare to five hectares thanks to the machine.”

Heifer International’s Director in Rwanda, Verena Ruzibuka, mentioned that the project will also create job opportunities for the youth across the country by connecting them with farmers who need these services.
However, Ruzibuka urged more partners to join the initiative to assist more farmers in accessing these loans.

She said, “We’ve provided the initial funding for the project, but we encourage financial institutions to explore how they can also get involved. We’ve seen interest from other donors, but we invite more partners to join us on this journey to help provide mechanization for more farmers.”

Modus operandi

Heifer International will provide the tractors in collaboration with a company called Hello Tractor, which connects the owners with farmers in need. A farmer who requires the tractor must cultivate at least 500 hectares annually, and cooperatives must have 500 hectares under cultivation.

Farmers are required to make an initial payment of 5% of the machine’s cost and sign a contract with Hello Tractor, which outlines the terms and conditions of collaboration. They typically pay for three to five years; after which they own them outright. Those who meet the criteria can register on the Hello Tractor website, undergo an assessment, and be connected with the providers.

A facility for machine maintenance will soon be built in Kayonza District in the Eastern Province.
Each tractor provided has a value ranging from Rwf45million to Rwf50 million. They come with large plows that can cultivate, harvest, and perform other functions depending on the farmer’s needs.

September 5, 2024
Kagame: Effective governance key to productive Africa-China partnership

Kagame, extended heartfelt congratulations upon the upcoming 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, attributing the country’s transformation over the last decade to effective leadership that prioritizes the values and expectations of its citizens.

“Effective state governance is undoubtedly central to the success China has achieved,” Kagame said during the opening ceremony of the high level summit attended by more than 10 African Heads of State and Government.

“However, for governance to be truly effective, it must be grounded in the values and expectations of its citizens and not imposed from outside,” he said.
Kagame highlighted China’s impressive strides in poverty alleviation, development, and technological innovation as key areas from which Africa can draw valuable lessons to accelerate its own modernization efforts.

The Rwandan Head of State praised China’s commitment to shared development, which has facilitated a flourishing relationship between the two regions in areas such as infrastructure development, scientific innovation plus peace and security. The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, was hailed by Kagame as a transformative force with a global impact, benefiting not only China but also nations like Rwanda.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction, Kagame shared two crucial lessons. First, he emphasized that there is no universal model for governance; each nation must navigate its own path in accordance with its unique context, history, and aspirations. He described how Rwanda, in the wake of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, relied on homegrown solutions to rebuild its economic, social, and political foundations.

Kagame highlighted Rwanda’s focus on national unity, economic diversification, and decentralized governance as pillars of its development strategy. “Our journey of self-reliance has allowed us to forge many productive partnerships, particularly with China and other African countries,” he stated.

The Head of Sate expressed confidence that as new global challenges and opportunities continue to emerge; the Africa-China partnership will remain more united and strengthened. He acknowledged the significant gains made in trade, industrial cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges since the inception of FOCAC, demonstrating the vitality of South-South cooperation.

Looking ahead, Kagame reaffirmed Africa’s readiness to build on the momentum achieved through participation in the three Global Initiatives on Development, Security, and Civilization proposed by President Xi Jinping.

On his part President Xi Jinping pledged to step up Chinese support to Africa with 30 infrastructure projects across the African continent and offer $50.7billion in financial assistance. The projects are expected to create a million jobs. “China is ready to deepen cooperation with Africa in industry, agriculture, infrastructure, trade and investment,” Xi said during the forum attended by delegates from more than 50 African nations.

September 5, 2024