Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

UNICEF distances itself from controversial “Solidarité Congo” Paris concert

In a statement released on Tuesday, March 25, UNICEF Rwanda confirmed that the UN agency dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of children worldwide is not involved with the concert and will not receive any proceeds from it.

“UNICEF is not associated with the planned ‘Solidarité Congo’ charity concert. UNICEF will not receive any proceeds from the event, and no person associated with UNICEF is part of the concert,” the statement clarified.

The organizers of the concert say the event is intended to support children affected by the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the Congolese army has been fighting the M23 rebels.

However, UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles, stating that it remains “a non-political organization whose work strictly adheres to the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.”

The concert, featuring Congolese artists such as Maître Gims and Youssoupha, has sparked significant backlash due to its scheduled date coinciding with the annual commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

The date, recognized by the United Nations, marks the beginning of the 100 days of commemoration of the genocide, in which over a million people were killed.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has called for the event’s cancellation, citing concerns over public order and the emotional impact on the Rwandan community.

In a letter to the city’s police chief, Hidalgo emphasized the inappropriateness of hosting the concert on such a significant day, especially in light of “recent hateful rhetoric targeting Rwandans and Tutsis circulating online.”

The concert has also faced criticism from the Rwandan diaspora in France, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura, and survivor organizations, who argue that holding the event on April 7 undermines genocide remembrance efforts.

Critics have further accused some performers, including Maître Gims and Youssoupha, of previously expressing controversial views about Rwanda, intensifying tensions between the Rwandan and Congolese communities in Paris.

The Rwandan government has previously denied the Congolese government’s claims that it is backing M23 rebels, insisting that its main concern is the FDLR militia—comprising remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide—which continues to operate in eastern Congo, posing a security threat to Rwanda.

March 25, 2025
UK MP seeks government action on ethnic persecution in DRC

McFadden’s appeal follows concerns raised by his constituent, Alexis Kiray, who represents approximately 2,300 Banyamulenge refugees resettled in the UK.

In a letter to Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa, McFadden stated that Kiray is concerned about the ongoing violence and human rights abuses against the Banyamulenge people and Tutsis in the eastern Congo.

“He [Kiray] is deeply concerned with the continuing persecution and displacement of the Banyamulenge community in the DRC, with many being arbitrarily detained and some executed. External observers have noted the risk of ethnic cleansing taking place in the DRC,” wrote the MP representing Wolverhampton South East.

McFadden highlighted that Mr. Kiray seeks clarification on the UK Government’s response to the situation.

“Mr Kiray wishes to know what action the UK Government is taking to protect the Banyamulenge and Tutsi from this treatment, and what can be done to prevent crimes against humanity from taking place.”

The Banyamulenge refugees, whom Kiray represents, were resettled in the UK through a partnership between the UK Government and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

The Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the DRC, whose presence traces back to the colonial era’s arbitrary border-drawing, have faced decades of persecution for decades.

The AFC/M23 rebel group, which has recently captured large swaths of territory in the eastern region, says it is fighting for the rights of this minority group.

Alarmed by the escalating conflict and violence, regional leaders and the international community have renewed calls for dialogue between the parties to settle the conflict.

March 25, 2025
Lead medic reveals doctors treating Pope considered ending treatment so he could die

Speaking to Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Alfieri revealed that the Pope experienced a violent bronchospasm in which he aspirated vomit, endangering multiple organ systems.

The medical team faced a critical decision: whether to halt aggressive treatment or to push forward with interventions that carried the risk of damaging other organs.

“We had to choose whether to stop and let him go, or push forward with every available treatment—despite a high risk of damaging other organs,” Alfieri stated. “We chose to go forward.”

Massimiliano Strappetti, Francis’ longtime health aide, played a crucial role in the decision, urging doctors not to give up.

“He knows the Pope’s wishes perfectly,” Alfieri explained. “He told us: ‘Try everything.’”

The Pope remained alert and aware during the crisis, though at one point, doctors feared he might not survive the night. The medical team employed a non-invasive aspiration procedure to clear his airways, followed by an intensive regimen of medications. While concerns loomed over potential kidney and bone marrow damage, the treatment ultimately succeeded in stabilizing his condition.

Three days later, Francis suffered a second pair of acute respiratory episodes. Doctors inserted a specialized tube to remove mucus from his lungs, once again averting a life-threatening situation.

The Vatican took an unusually transparent approach during the Pope’s hospitalization, releasing detailed daily updates. According to Alfieri, Pope Francis himself insisted on honesty.

“He wanted the truth about his condition to be shared. Nothing was hidden or omitted.”

After 38 days in the hospital—the longest stay of his papacy—Francis was discharged on March 23. Appearing frail but resolute, he greeted well-wishers from a hospital balcony, thanking them for their prayers.

The Vatican has since confirmed that the Pope will undergo a strict two-month recovery period at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. His doctors have recommended continuous medical supervision and oxygen support during his convalescence.

It remains uncertain whether the Pope will participate in upcoming events such as King Charles III’s planned visit to the Vatican or the Holy Week celebrations. Francis has not publicly led the Angelus prayer in weeks but has continued to offer reflections online, recently calling for global peace.

In a message on social media, he expressed gratitude for the prayers that supported him through his ordeal.

“Let us pray together for peace,” he wrote, citing ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Reflecting on the Pope’s remarkable recovery, Alfieri credited both science and faith. “Science backs it up—prayer can have real effects,” he said. “Twice we thought we had lost him, and then it happened like a miracle.”

March 25, 2025
Nduhungirehe terms President Ndayishimiye’s comments unfortunate in the wake of peace efforts

The minister made the comments following President Ndayishimiye’s interview with the BBC, in which he claimed to have reliable information suggesting that Rwanda is planning an attack on Burundi through the RED Tabara rebel group, which operates in South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the interview, President Ndayishimiye intensified his rhetoric, suggesting that Burundi is prepared to attack Rwanda.

“We know that Rwanda is attempting to attack us via Congolese territory, using the RED Tabara group. But we are telling them that if they want to attack Bujumbura through Congo, Kigali is not far from us through Kirundo,” he stated.

Nduhungirehe expressed concern that such comments contradicted the progress made in talks between the two countries to de-escalate tensions.

“This statement by H.E. the President of Burundi is unfortunate, especially since the military and intelligence authorities of both countries are currently in discussions and have even agreed on the need for a military and verbal de-escalation,” Nduhungirehe stated, referring to the talks, with the most recent meeting taking place in Kirundo Province on March 10, 2025.

The minister also noted that he had discussed the matter with his Burundian counterpart during a recent joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) ministerial meeting in Zimbabwe.

“I also discussed this matter with my Burundian counterpart on the sidelines of the joint EAC-SADC ministerial meeting in Harare on March 17, 2025, and we were fully aligned on this issue,” Nduhungirehe added.

Despite the setbacks, Nduhungirehe emphasized that Rwanda remains committed to peace with Burundi and the broader Great Lakes region.

“Rwanda will continue its commitment to peace with Burundi and in the Great Lakes region, while hoping for more calm and restraint in official statements from across the Akanyaru River,” he stated.

The relations between Rwanda and Burundi have been strained for years, particularly due to Rwanda’s refusal to extradite individuals accused of attempting to overthrow former President Pierre Nkurunziza’s government in 2015. Rwanda maintains that these individuals are refugees protected under international law, preventing their extradition.

Since January 2024, Burundi has closed its land borders with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting attacks by RED Tabara—a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied, asserting it has no connection with the armed group.

March 25, 2025
Acupuncture: My mind-blowing experience with traditional Chinese medicine technique

However, one experience stood out above the rest: my encounter with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly acupuncture.

Traditional medicine is an integral part of every culture. In Rwanda, I have often heard about traditional healing practices, but I had never personally explored them. However, when I travel, I make it a point to experience new things firsthand.

So, when the opportunity arose to visit Beijing Massage Hospital, I knew I had to try acupuncture—one of the most renowned components of TCM.

Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a premier institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.

Established in 1958, the hospital has built a stellar reputation for integrating TCM practices with modern rehabilitation techniques. It is particularly known for treating musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic pain through methods such as tuina (therapeutic massage), acupuncture, and herbal medicine.

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. While some people dismiss it as quackery, I was eager to judge for myself.

What made my experience even more interesting was that, on the morning of my visit, I woke up with a nagging pain in the upper right part of my back. Whether from poor posture or an awkward sleeping position, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test acupuncture’s effectiveness.

Walking into Beijing Massage Hospital, I was immediately struck by its calm and orderly atmosphere. After a brief consultation, I was guided to an acupuncture specialist who assessed my condition and explained how the treatment could help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.

As the session began, I felt a slight prick as five thin needles were inserted into targeted points on my back. Contrary to my expectations, there was no real pain—just a mild tingling sensation.

I lay still, breathing in the serene environment as the needles worked their magic. The entire process lasted about 10 minutes. While I wasn’t instantly cured, I felt a noticeable sense of relief and a soothing warmth where the needles had been placed.

Just before my session, a friend who accompanied me opted for a general health check-up using traditional Chinese diagnostic techniques. What I witnessed was nothing short of fascinating.

The doctor placed two fingers on her right wrist, closed his eyes briefly, and then asked her to open her mouth so he could examine her tongue. After only two minutes of assessment, he confidently diagnosed her with digestive issues, sensitivity to cold, and a need for more exercise.

To my amazement, my friend confirmed that all his observations were accurate. It was incredible to witness the precision of this ancient diagnostic method, which relied solely on pulse reading—a practice that has existed in China for thousands of years.

Beijing Massage Hospital offers a wide range of TCM treatments beyond acupuncture, including medical massage (tuina), moxibustion, rehabilitation therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine consultations, among others.

My experience at Beijing Massage Hospital was eye-opening and reaffirmed a saying in my native Kinyarwanda: “Buri gahugu n’umuco wako,” which means each country has its own culture and practices.

March 25, 2025
Leadership guru Christian Sellars shares how Rwandan managers can turn Gen Z into an asset (Video)

Speaking on Sanny Ntayombya’s “Long Form” podcast, Sellars shared insights from his global career and recent research in Rwanda. He offered a roadmap for leaders to harness the potential of this new generation while addressing entrenched habits holding the country back.

Sellars, who has led teams across Australia, Asia, the U.S., and Switzerland, founded T.E.S. to distill decades of leadership lessons into practical tools.

In Rwanda, he has worked with 33 leaders across the banking, construction, and health sectors, surveying 200 peers and reports. His findings reveal that Rwandan leaders excel in people-oriented skills like achievement, self-actualization, humanism, and affiliation, surpassing global averages.

“These leaders are well above the world averages,” he said, attributing this to “a level of awareness of others and a consciousness of what needs to be done.”

He, however, noted that some leaders’ reluctance to take risks could hinder the government’s broader agenda to transform Rwanda into a regional economic powerhouse.

Sellars observed that Gen Z—a generation he describes as opinionated, emotionally intelligent, and eager for happiness—has much to offer. According to him, Unlike their predecessors, who were shaped by fear and survival, these young Rwandans enter the workforce with security and ambition.

“They’re probably the first generation to have that since God knows when,” Sanny interjected, noting their contrast with leaders “trained by trauma.”

Sellars sees opportunity here, but it demands adaptation. “They get bored quickly,” he said. “If you don’t challenge them, they’ll check out or leave.”

So, how can Rwandan leaders turn Gen Z into an asset? “Delegate effectively,” Sellars advised.

“Set clear expectations upfront, not late-stage control. Move people across functions. A cameraman in marketing brings fresh visuals, while a marketer in sales crafts better messaging.”

He emphasized accepting failure without punishment. “Magic happens between silos, but it requires risk,” he said.

For a generation that doesn’t defer to authority—“they don’t call you sir, they don’t title emails properly”— he emphasizes that leaders must let go of their egos.

“The most effective leaders are incredibly hard to offend,” he said.

This shift, Sellars argues, could also ease another Rwandan leadership trap, which he describes as overworking.

“The most senior people are working 12-hour days, most of the weekend,” he said. “My hope is that the message I’m sharing is: You are doing a great job—slow down. Those extra 20 hours destroy more value than they create.”

His own sabbatical story drives this point home. After leaving his Australian team for three months, he returned to find them delivering their best performance yet.

“You created a team that was independent and brilliant,” his boss told him, giving him the highest rating of his career.

Sellars’ recent research highlights Rwanda’s strengths and weaknesses. While aggressive styles like competition and opposition, common in the U.S. and Australia, are less prevalent in Rwanda, he notes that passivity remains a persistent challenge.

“The most effective leaders in Rwanda are the ones investing heavily in helping their people succeed,” he said.

Sellars tested his ideas at leadership retreats in Nyamuhazi last year, and he believes they worked. Leaders opened up about their struggles, and one even reported that her team performs better now that she’s stopped micromanaging.

Looking ahead, Sellars connects Rwanda’s future to its leaders and how they tap into Gen Z’s potential.

“Build a space where they can grow, even if they’re not ready to do it themselves,” Sellars advised.

The leadership guru believes Gen Z’s tech skills and confidence can thrive if leaders guide them the right way.

Watch the full interview below:

March 25, 2025
Three former African presidents join DRC peace facilitators’ panel

In a virtual summit chaired by Kenyan President William Ruto and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday night, regional heads of state appointed three former African presidents—Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa, Catherine Samba-Panza of the Central African Republic, and Sahle-Work Zewde of Ethiopia—to an expanded team that will lead peace talks between the AFC-M23 rebel group and the Congolese government. The panel already included Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya and Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria.

The summit cited the need to ensure gender balance, regional, and linguistic inclusivity in the team, leading to the appointment of the three additional former presidents. Former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who was part of the initial team, has been dropped.

The Heads of State and Government from 14 EAC and SADC member countries participated in the Monday night meeting, focusing on the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC and the implementation of a comprehensive peace roadmap.

The Joint Summit, attended by President Paul Kagame, mandated the EAC and SADC Secretariats to formally notify the panel members and convey the outcomes of the summit to the African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) Security Council.

Furthermore, the co-chairs, Kenyatta and Obasanjo, were directed to convene a briefing session with the facilitators within seven days, to be conducted jointly by the EAC, SADC, and the African Union.

The Monday summit also adopted a comprehensive report from the Joint EAC-SADC Meeting of Ministers, which outlines immediate, medium-, and long-term measures to achieve lasting peace and security in the region. The Heads of State emphasized the urgent implementation of these measures to address the ongoing conflict.

The new appointments follow a joint summit held on February 8, where the EAC and SADC proposed merging the Nairobi Process, an EAC-led mediation effort led by Kenyatta, with the Luanda Process, a separate peace initiative facilitated by Angolan President João Lourenço under the African Union.

The expanded team marks a renewed regional commitment to resolving the protracted conflict in eastern DRC. The newly appointed facilitators are expected to play a pivotal role in mediation efforts and ensuring the successful execution of the peace roadmap after months of fighting between the Congolese army and rebels who accuse the government of poor governance and the persecution of Congolese Rwandophones in the east.

March 25, 2025
Rwf 140 billion investment to modernize Gishushu, Chez Lando and Sonatube intersections

The targeted intersections for this upgrade are Gishushu, Chez Lando, and Sonatube.

In addition to the intersection upgrades, a joint Rwanda-Burundi development project, known as BRIDEP, has also commenced. This project will focus on building major roads to enhance connectivity between the two countries.

The total cost of these projects is estimated at $360 million, equivalent to over 514 billion Rwandan Francs. The upgrade of the intersections alone will require an investment of $100 million, or more than 142 billion Rwandan Francs.

Funding for these initiatives comes from a loan provided by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Japan, with repayment scheduled over 25 years.

As part of the Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project (KUTI), the upgrades aim to enhance the city’s transportation system, ease traffic flow and improve overall mobility.

At the Chez Lando intersection, a new road will be constructed beneath the existing one, allowing vehicles travelling from Gishushu to Kigali International Airport at Kanombe to pass under the current road. The existing road will remain for use by other vehicles. Vehicles coming from the gravel road towards Amahoro Stadium will travel above the new road, helping to alleviate congestion at this busy intersection.

At the Gishushu intersection, a flyover bridge will be built starting from the Simba Supermarket area. This flyover will cater to regular vehicles, while buses will use a separate route beneath the bridge. The bridge is expected to be at least 500 meters long.

Meanwhile, the Sonatube intersection will feature an underground tunnel, running from the Ministry of Health building to the site of the former University of Tourism, Technology, and Business (UTB). This tunnel will span 620 meters.

On December 4, 2024, the AfDB approved a $100 million loan to support the Rwandan government’s efforts to improve public transport in Kigali. The RTDA indicates that the project is slated for completion within five years from the approval of the loan.

Gihoza Mivugo François, RTDA’s Project Implementation Manager, emphasized that the upgrade will significantly ease traffic congestion in Kigali, especially during peak hours.

He said, “These intersections are notorious for heavy congestion, particularly in the mornings, evenings, and sometimes even at noon. It’s a major issue when commuters are stuck in traffic for an hour. This project will help resolve this problem and improve the daily commute for many people.”

As for BRIDEP, Mivugo highlighted that the project will also include the construction of new roads to enhance trade connectivity within Rwanda, covering a total of 215 kilometers. This includes the renovation of the Ngororero-Musanze-Cyanika road, the Bugarama-Bweyeye road, and the much-needed upgrade of the road from Ngororero to Rutsiro, which has deteriorated significantly and hindered trade.

Other key infrastructure projects under BRIDEP include the construction of a port at Kirambo in Nyamasheke, and enhanced monitoring of transportation routes on Lake Kivu to prevent accidents. Additionally, studies will be conducted on water conservation initiatives for Rwanda’s rivers, aimed at ensuring sustainable resource usage.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Abimana Fidele, noted that BRIDEP will play a pivotal role in improving regional connectivity with neighbouring countries like Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda.

“This will be particularly important for areas lacking paved roads, such as the Cyanika-Musanze-Ngororero route. This road, along with other critical infrastructure, will better connect Ngororero, Nyabihu, Musanze, and Burera districts. The Bugarama-Bweyeye road will also improve cross-border trade with Burundi,” he explained.

Aissa Touré, the AfDB Country Director for Rwanda, praised the project, noting that it will not only improve transportation but also contribute to economic growth and job creation.

“These projects will have a lasting positive impact on the region, boosting trade and creating new economic opportunities,” she said.

The proposed road plans for Kigali reveal significant upgrades to the intersections at Chez Lando, Gishushu, and Sonatube. These upgrades will include dedicated lanes for buses, cyclists, pedestrians, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive and efficient transportation network for the city.

March 24, 2025
10 young Rwandan agripreneurs compete for multi-million grants in Heifer’s AYuTe Africa challenge

The finalists were shortlisted from a pool of more than 500 applicants and will be competing for a share of 50 million Rwanda Francs in grants, along with mentorship and business development opportunities.

Launched in 2023 as part of Heifer International’s AYuTe Africa NextGen initiative, the challenge identifies and supports young Rwandan agritech entrepreneurs developing scalable solutions to benefit smallholder farmers.

This year’s competition seeks to empower the next generation of agritech leaders by equipping them with financial support and expert guidance.

The Bootcamp serves as a critical stage in the competition, allowing the ten finalists to refine their ideas and engage with industry experts.

Participants are eager to leverage the platform to expand their businesses and increase their impact on Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

“I’m here at Bootcamp because I want to see how we can scale our idea to have a bigger impact across the country. We aim to grow our business from a small to a major player in the sector,” said Kayitare Gisa Patrick of Eco Green House.

Another finalist, Sabina Mari Rose from Green Energy Technology, expressed enthusiasm about the mentorship opportunities: “During this Bootcamp, I hope to learn from the mentors and coaches, refine my idea, and network with fellow entrepreneurs.”

Beyond the financial grants, AYuTe Africa Challenge Rwanda provides participants with business development training, networking opportunities, and a pathway to compete at the regional level. This holistic support framework ensures that young innovators can transform their ideas into sustainable ventures.

Verena Ruzibuka, Country Director of Heifer Rwanda, emphasized the challenge’s importance in agricultural transformation.

“At Heifer Rwanda, we believe that young innovators can play a key role in transforming the agriculture sector in Rwanda.. This Bootcamp is not just a competition; it is about equipping the next generation with the skills, knowledge, and support to drive meaningful change,” she said.

We are excited to see the innovative ideas that will emerge and how they will contribute to a more resilient and prosperous agricultural future for Rwanda,” she added.

The AYuTe Africa Challenge aligns with national efforts to encourage youth participation in agriculture. While the sector employs over 60% of Rwanda’s workforce, young people’s engagement remains limited. By providing a platform for agritech and social enterprise development, the competition inspires more young Rwandans to explore agriculture as a viable career path.

With the competition heating up, all eyes are on the top ten agripreneurs as they refine their innovations and prepare to compete for the top prizes. The winners will not only receive financial backing but also critical support to scale their businesses, ultimately benefiting smallholder farmers and strengthening Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

March 24, 2025
Gahanga: Worship Harvest Church extends health insurance to 60 vulnerable families

The generous donation was made on Saturday, March 22, 2025. In addition to offering health coverage, church members actively participated in a community blood donation drive and distributed clothing and food to local residents.

Rucyahana Joy, the leader of Worship Harvest Church, emphasized that supporting underprivileged communities is a core mission of the church, with similar initiatives taking place every month.

“We regularly engage in charitable activities, but this time was special because we wanted to go beyond our usual efforts. Everyone may need blood at some point—it could be you, your child, a parent, a spouse, a neighbour, or a friend,” Rucyahana stated.

She further encouraged people to recognize the importance of blood donation and to help raise awareness among those who may not yet understand its significance.

“You can ask doctors if there has ever been a time when blood banks had a surplus and stopped accepting donations. That never happens because the demand for blood only continues to grow. This is why blood banks are never full,” she added.

Rucyahana concluded by expressing gratitude to the residents who participated in the initiative and willingly donated blood.

The beneficiaries warmly appreciated Worship Harvest’s support and were equally pleased to contribute to saving lives through blood donation.

Ndayisaba Thomas, one of the recipients, remarked, “Donating blood has no negative effects, and you lose nothing by doing it. When you donate, you are giving someone a chance at life.”

He also expressed gratitude to Worship Harvest for the clothing and shoes he received, emphasizing that such generous acts greatly benefit the less fortunate.

Batamuriza Jeanne, another resident of Gahanga Sector, shared her joy over the assistance provided, including health insurance coverage, food, and clothing.

“They have truly helped us, but what’s even more fulfilling is that we also had the opportunity to give back. We are constantly reminded that donating blood is a noble act because anyone might need it one day,” she said.

Worship Harvest Church is widely recognized for its philanthropic efforts, including sponsoring school fees for underprivileged children, providing school supplies, building homes for those in need, and covering health insurance costs for vulnerable families.

March 24, 2025