IGIHE English

Author: Rania Umutoni

  • BPR Bank MD calls on women to lead by example and prioritise self-care

    BPR Bank MD calls on women to lead by example and prioritise self-care

    The Managing Director of BPR Bank, Patience Mutesi, delivered a keynote speech centred on the theme “Give to Gain.” She reminded attendees that while women often dedicate themselves to others as mothers, sisters, daughters, and professionals, it is equally important to take care of themselves. 

    “You are extraordinary in every way, but you cannot continue to be extraordinary if you neglect yourself,” Mutesi emphasised, underscoring the importance of self-care to prevent burnout and ensure long-term success.

    Throughout the event, expert speakers shared practical tips on nutrition, fitness, and mental health, encouraging attendees to prioritise both physical and mental wellness. This included focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices to manage stress effectively. 

    A panel discussion, featuring four influential women from BPR Bank, Alphonsine Uwera, Jeannine Singa, Alizee Nanyonga, and Christine Kanzayire, was a highlight of the celebration. They shared their experiences of balancing demanding careers in the traditionally male-dominated banking sector with personal well-being.

    Their insights highlighted the importance of time management, setting clear priorities, and building strong support systems. Alphonsine Uwera particularly emphasised the value of community, saying, “I know we all have a support system. It may be big or small, but everyone has one. These are the people who support us so much. The reason I’m sitting here today is because someone behind the scenes is doing an incredible job.”

    The discussion also focused on the importance of investing in others and defining one’s personal circle. Alphonsine shared her experience of narrowing her social circle to those who genuinely support her, stating, “I used to have a lot of friends, and I feel like it’s my responsibility to be in everyone’s life. I’ve learned to have a small circle of friends, define my tribe, and invest in their support system.” 

    The panel further emphasised the need for support both at home and in the workplace, with each panellist stressing the importance of surrounding oneself with people who help each other grow. Their stories served as a powerful reminder of the resilience, strength, and determination required to succeed while uplifting others along the way.

    Mutesi, on her part, also celebrated the diversity and strength of the women at BPR Bank, highlighting the 440 female employees who represent a remarkable force across its branches. She reminded the audience that their participation was a testament to the bank’s trust in their leadership potential. 

    “This is not just about celebrating you; it’s about recognising the leadership and potential you represent,” she said. 

    Mutesi urged women to lead by example and embody the values they wish to see in others. 

    “Each of us is a role model. Mentorship opportunities are valuable, but your daily actions leave a lasting impact,” the MD remarked, adding, “Let us be women who represent what we want to see among those we lead.” 

    She concluded by reminding the attendees that their roles as leaders, whether at home or in the workplace, extend beyond words and are demonstrated through actions, attitude, and behaviour. 

    The celebration left attendees inspired, reinforcing the message that leadership, integrity, and self-care go hand in hand, both at work and at home.


    BPR Bank’s International Women’s Day celebration brought employees together to embrace self-care, empowerment, and the power of unity.
    Women at BPR Bank were empowered with essential tips on nutrition, self-care, and overall well-being. 
    Zuba Mutesi, who was the MC, brought energy, excitement, and joy to BPR Bank’s International Women’s Day celebration.
    Throughout the event, expert speakers shared practical tips on nutrition, fitness, and mental health.
    A panel of inspiring voices from BPR Bank sharing their experiences on balancing careers, self-care, and building strong support systems.
     The colourful event was held at Mövenpick Hotel in Kigali on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
    The celebration left attendees inspired, reinforcing the message that leadership, integrity, and self-care go hand in hand, both at work and at home.

  • Sucrose shown to reduce pain in newborns during blood draw procedures

    Sucrose shown to reduce pain in newborns during blood draw procedures

    The review included 29 randomized controlled trials involving more than 2,700 preterm and full‑term neonates. It showed that infants who received sucrose just before or during the needle insertion probably experienced less pain than those who received no intervention, water, or only standard comfort care. Sucrose was found to lower pain scores during the procedure and for up to one minute afterward.

    Dr Mariana Bueno from the University of Toronto, the lead author of the review, said: “Newborn babies undergo frequent needle procedures in hospital without any pain relief or comforting measures, even though older children and adults rarely have these procedures done without pain care.

    The evidence shows that a small amount of sucrose given just before the procedure is a simple, fast, and effective way to reduce that pain. Our review helps clinicians use this evidence more confidently and consistently in practice.”

    The review also found that sucrose appeared to be more effective than the use of pacifiers alone for reducing pain. However, evidence comparing sucrose with other comforting measures such as skin‑to‑skin care was limited.

    Importantly, no studies reported harmful side effects such as gagging or pauses in breathing  when sucrose was used in the small amounts required for pain relief.

    Researchers emphasized that sucrose can be given orally in very small doses and that this simple intervention could help inform clearer clinical guidelines for neonatal pain management worldwide. 

    New research indicates that sugar helps relieve pain in newborns during venepuncture.
  • Ishimwe Clement celebrates two decades in music with debut album project

    Ishimwe Clement celebrates two decades in music with debut album project

    According to Ishimwe Clement, this album has been in the works for quite some time, and although it is not yet fully finished, he has begun releasing some of the songs. “Bella” is the first of ten tracks that will make up the album, and he plans to release the rest soon.

    The album will contain ten songs, although the full list of featured artists has not yet been disclosed. Ishimwe Clement said it is still too early to reveal all the collaborators but assured that nearly all the talented artists he admires will be part of the project.

    “I can say they are all well-known and established artists,” he added.

    While Ishimwe Clement is still contemplating whether to organize a launch concert for the album, he is confident that he will have released all the songs by the end of this year.

    Ishimwe Clement began his music career in 2006. Initially recognized for his instrumental skills, he eventually transitioned into becoming a renowned producer.

    Apart from producing for various artists, he founded KINA Music record label, where he has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Butera Knowless, King James, Dream Boys, Tom Close, Igor Mabano, Nel Ngabo, and other rising stars such as Zuba Ray.

    Ishimwe Clement begins releasing songs from his album to celebrate 20 years in music.
  • Trump warns of strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island oil network if shipping lanes remain blocked

    Trump warns of strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island oil network if shipping lanes remain blocked

    In a social media post, Trump said the United States had already “totally obliterated” military targets on Kharg Island, but that the island’s oil facilities were deliberately spared for now. He made clear that if Iran or any other force interfered with the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, those energy assets could be hit.

    The warning comes amid a broader and escalating conflict that began in late February with coordinated U.S. and Israeli bombardments on Iran.

    Iran’s armed forces have responded with missile and drone attacks against U.S. bases, Israel, and shipping traffic in the Gulf, prompting closures of some sea routes.

    The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most significant maritime passages, with about 20% of global oil supplies normally passing through it each day. Disruptions there have already disturbed energy markets and driven global oil prices higher.

    Iran’s government has vowed that any attack on its energy infrastructure would prompt retaliation against energy facilities linked to the United States and its allies. Oil markets are closely watching the situation, as even small disruptions at Kharg Island could tighten already strained global supply. 

    Trump threatens to hit Iran’s Kharg Island oil network if shipping lanes remain blocked.
  • Goma residents protest,urging AFC/M23 to liberate the entire DRC

    Goma residents protest,urging AFC/M23 to liberate the entire DRC

    In the early hours of March 11, drones from the DRC military targeted civilian homes in the Himbi area, resulting in the deaths of three civilians, including Karine Buisset, a French national working for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

    The AFC/M23 condemned the attack, criticizing the international community for remaining silent while the DRC government violated the peace agreements signed in Doha, Qatar.

    Responding to an invitation from civil society organizations, the residents of Goma paused their daily activities on March 12 and took to the streets in protest against the violence perpetrated by the DRC government.

    Some of the protesters expressed their condolences to the families of the civilians killed in the drone strike and condemned the continued use of drones by the DRC military, which continues to target civilian-populated areas in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces.

    The protesters expressed their belief that the ongoing drone attacks, which show complete disregard for civilian lives, serve as a sign that President Félix Tshisekedi is willing to do whatever it takes to retain power.

    Lawrence Kanyuka, spokesperson for the AFC/M23, revealed that the protesters have demanded that AFC/M23 take control of the entire DRC, as the areas under government control have become centers of violence, insecurity, and the suffering of civilians.

    Goma has been under the control of AFC/M23 since January 2025. This is the first time the city has been attacked by drones since it was taken from the DRC government’s control more than a year ago.

    A house was severely damaged by drones from the DRC government forces.
    Senior officials arrived at the building and listened to testimonies from the residents.
    On the morning of March 12, the residents of Goma staged a protest condemning the attack.
  • Kanye West ordered to pay $140,000 in Malibu mansion renovation lawsuit

    Kanye West ordered to pay $140,000 in Malibu mansion renovation lawsuit

    The verdict was delivered on March 11, 2026, in the Los Angeles Superior Court, following a civil trial in which Tony Saxon, the plaintiff, claimed that West did not pay him the agreed‑upon compensation and unjustly fired him during the renovation of the $57 million property. Saxon had originally sought $1.7 million in damages for unpaid wages, medical costs, and other claims, but the jury awarded a much smaller amount.

    According to court testimony, Saxon was hired in 2021 to act as a project manager and handyman for the extensive remodel of the Malibu house. He alleged that he was promised $20,000 per week for his work but received only one weekly payment and approximately $100,000 for construction costs despite continuing to work on the project for several weeks. Saxon also claimed he endured unsafe working conditions, was forced to sleep on the floor of the home, and sustained neck and back injuries while on the job.

    During the trial, Saxon’s lawyers argued that he was not fully compensated for his work, was fired after raising safety concerns, and suffered injury without proper protection. They described challenging conditions at the job site and maintained that Saxon was unjustly terminated.

    West’s legal team, however, contested many of Saxon’s claims. They argued that Saxon was an unlicensed contractor and not a full employee and that financial records showed he had received about $240,000 for his work. West’s attorneys also denied that the conditions described by Saxon warranted the larger damages sought.

    In delivering a mixed verdict, the jury found West liable for certain claims related to injury but rejected most of the more serious allegations, such as wrongful termination and unpaid wages. As a result, Saxon was awarded $140,000 specifically for medical expenses and injury‑related compensation, significantly less than the amount he had originally requested.

    In addition to the $140,000 award, West may also be required to pay Saxon’s attorney fees and court costs, which could push the total financial responsibility above $1 million, according to statements from Saxon’s legal team.

    Kanye West ordered to pay $140,000 in Malibu mansion renovation lawsuit.
  • NASA’s old spacecraft reenters Earth’s atmosphere in an uncontrolled crash

    NASA’s old spacecraft reenters Earth’s atmosphere in an uncontrolled crash

    The satellite, which weighed approximately 600 kilograms, reentered Earth’s atmosphere on March 11, 2026, and burned up during reentry, with some debris potentially surviving and reaching the surface.

    According to reports, the spacecraft’s descent occurred over the Pacific Ocean, just west of the Galapagos Islands. The exact time and location of impact were difficult to predict, as uncontrolled reentries are challenging to track with precision until they happen.

    The Van Allen Probe A was part of a pair of satellites that studied the Earth’s radiation belts, which protect the planet from harmful solar and cosmic radiation. NASA had deactivated the spacecraft in 2019 after completing its mission.

    Despite the satellite being inactive, solar activity in recent years caused increased atmospheric drag, pulling the spacecraft out of orbit and accelerating its reentry years earlier than originally predicted.

    While NASA had expected the satellite to remain in orbit for nearly another decade, the increased drag from the Earth’s upper atmosphere forced an earlier descent.

    Despite the early reentry, NASA determined the risk of the satellite causing harm to people on the ground was incredibly low, about 1 in 4,200. Most of the satellite burned up during reentry, and the majority of Earth’s surface is covered by water, further minimizing the risk of debris causing any damage.

    Uncontrolled reentries like this are uncommon but are closely monitored by space agencies, including NASA and the U.S. Space Force, to ensure public safety.

    NASA continues to assess the risks of space debris and its impact on both human life and technological infrastructure.

    NASA Spacecraft crashed back to earth in uncontrolled reentry.
  • WASAC Group urged to take swift action on water wastage

    WASAC Group urged to take swift action on water wastage

    This concern was raised on March 10, 2026, during a report presented by the Committee on Economic Development and Finance, reviewing the government’s efforts to provide clean water to the public.

    The report highlighted that 39.4% of water processed by treatment plants is lost.

    The committee also revealed plans for the construction of 25 new water treatment plants, along with an expansion of the water supply network, which is expected to increase from 35,001 kilometers in 2024 to 39,639 kilometers by 2029.

    Additionally, the volume of treated water is projected to rise from 329,652 cubic meters per day in 2024 to 688,696 cubic meters daily by 2029.

    However, despite these efforts, Nsengiyumva Fulgence, the Chairperson of Committee on Economic Development and Finance, pointed out that the wastage rate of treated water remains alarmingly high, standing at 39.5%. This inefficiency, he stressed, represents a significant loss for the country.

    He further stated, “We believe more focus should be placed on accelerating efforts to reduce water loss and finding ways to lower the expected wastage rate of 25% by 2029 to below 15%.”

    Senator Nkubana Alphonse emphasized the need for technology to address the issue of water wastage.

    He said, “Our recommendation is to implement technology that can quickly detect leaks. If a pipe bursts, WASAC should be notified immediately, enabling prompt intervention to minimize water loss. Many countries already use technology for fire detection, and we believe such systems would greatly assist in preserving more water.”

    He also explained that, aside from the wasted water, the potential damage to infrastructure due to leaks could have serious long-term consequences.

    Senator Uwera Pélagie expressed concern about the substantial loss this represents for both the country and its citizens, who are unable to access needed water in a timely manner.

    “This is a huge loss to the country and a significant hardship for the people who need water, as they cannot access it as needed, despite the large investments made in the infrastructure. The amount of wasted water should have been reduced,” she stated.

    She also highlighted the issue of water pricing at public taps, where RURA’s pricing regulations are often not being followed.

    Senator Bideri John Bonds pointed out that supplying clean water to rural areas is relatively simple and that Rwanda is moving in the right direction. He called for significant reductions in water wastage.

    Following extensive discussions, the plenary session of the Senate called on the Rwandan government to accelerate the construction of new water treatment plants, the expansion and renovation of water networks, the replacement of outdated equipment, and the implementation of measures to reduce the wastage of clean, treated water.

    The Senate also urged the establishment of a reliable system to monitor the quality of all water provided to the public, including water supplied by private vendors in rural areas.

    WASAC group urged to swiftly resolve the issue of wasted water.
  • Study points to faster global warming in past decade

    Study points to faster global warming in past decade

    This research, published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, provides the first statistically significant evidence that global warming is not just continuing, it is speeding up. Researchers removed the influence of natural climate variations to show that the recent increase in temperature is real and persistent.

    According to the study, if temperatures continue to rise at the current rate, the world is likely to exceed the 1.5°C global warming limit established under the 2015 Paris Agreement by the end of this decade.

    This threshold is considered crucial because surpassing it would greatly increase the risks of extreme weather, rising sea levels, and long-term damage to ecosystems and human societies.

    Scientists emphasize that the main driver of this rapid warming is human activity, particularly the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere and trap heat. Global fossil fuel consumption and emissions have both reached record levels, mainly contributing to the recent acceleration in warming.

    The study also notes that the past 11 years have all been the warmest on record, with the three most recent years among the hottest ever observed. This trend underscores the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and shifting toward cleaner energy sources in order to limit future warming and avoid the most severe consequences of climate change. 

    Global warming has accelerated over the past decade.
  • Corneille Nangaa accuses DRC of seeking to escalate war across the region

    Corneille Nangaa accuses DRC of seeking to escalate war across the region

    This statement followed a drone attack carried out by the DRC’s armed forces on the city of Goma on March 11, 2026. Nangaa revealed that the attack had been planned for some time, as a campaign led by Kinshasa had been urging the people of Goma to evacuate the city.

    “This campaign directly preceded the recent assault by a coalition of government forces, including FARDC, FDLR, Wazalendo, FDNB, and mercenaries on Goma. The message instructing the residents to leave the city was spread across networks linked to President Tshisekedi’s administration, aiming to create the illusion for the international community that the people of Goma were fleeing,” he said.

    Nangaa further stated that the DRC government has a plan to eliminate AFC/M23 leaders and opposition politicians in order to undermine any dissent, but he also warned that the government is working to “extend the war into a broader regional conflict.”

    The AFC/M23 has emphasized that, as the DRC government continues to escalate the conflict, their fighters have a duty to protect the civilians under controlled areas. They also stated that President Félix Tshisekedi will be held accountable for the consequences of the looming war.

    Corneille Nangaa asserted that President Tshisekedi will be held accountable for the consequences of the military offensives being conducted by the DRC’s government forces.