The 2025 edition of the awards, unveiled at the EAC headquarters in Tanzania’s northern city of Arusha on Monday night, is expected to build upon the success of the inaugural 2024 edition, which took place in Uganda and drew widespread participation and enthusiasm.
According to the statement, the primary objective of the EAC Regional Quality Awards is to foster a culture of quality within the region by encouraging the adoption of standards and quality management practices by EAC enterprises.
The awards seek to stimulate interest in quality management practices and excellence among EAC enterprises and encourage sustainable competitiveness by recognizing organizations that excel in adopting international standards, the statement said.
Speaking during the launch, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva said the awards have grown into one of the most consistent and impactful regional initiatives.
“I am pleased to note that over 40 enterprises, small, medium, and large, from across diverse sectors, including services, have benefited from this competition,” said Nduva.
The statement also said the winners will be honored at a formal ceremony in December in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital.
The EAC is a regional intergovernmental organization of eight member states, namely Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, with a mission to promote economic, political, and social integration in East Africa.
“I drove through most parts of the city and could not see any signs of a humanitarian crisis,” Fahrenholtz revealed in a post on X on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
“The streets are bustling with people and they seem very relaxed and feeling safe. The shops are full with foodstuff, imported goods, etc. The University reopened, electricity and water are supplied by the municipality 24 hours per day. There is even street lighting during the night.”
No humanitarian crisis in Goma. I drove through most parts of the city and could not see any signs of a humanitarian crisis. The streets are bustling with people and they seem very relaxed and feeling safe. The shops are full with foodstuff, imported goods etc. The University… pic.twitter.com/xAbuGTj3kT
— Peter Fahrenholtz, Ambassador rtd (@peterfahren) April 15, 2025
Fahrenholtz, who previously served as Germany’s ambassador to Rwanda and Bangladesh, praised the efforts to restore order in Goma, noting that law enforcement appeared effective and visible improvements in public services were evident.
“Almost no garbage to be seen in the streets. Police officers are doing their job, crime and corruption seem to be clearly less. Rule of law is beginning to be established,” he added.
During his visit, Fahrenholtz observed that the border crossing between Goma and Gisenyi, Rwanda, is fully operational, with UN World Food Programme trucks and NGO vehicles crossing smoothly to address humanitarian needs that may still exist in districts outside the city.
“I saw women walking across into Goma at 9 p.m.,” he noted.
In his visit, Fahrenholtz met with the Governor of North Kivu, Manzi Willy, who spoke of the ongoing genocidal acts targeting the Tutsi population in eastern DRC—atrocities also flagged by the UN Special Advisor on Genocide Prevention.
The governor stressed that the M23 movement aims to end these acts, protect civilians’ human rights, and work toward peace and stability in the region.
Describing M23 as an “inclusive and diverse Congolese movement” with members from various ethnic backgrounds, including Hutu, Fahrenholtz echoed concerns about the persecution and displacement of Tutsi communities over decades.
The former ambassador has previously criticized international responses to the conflict, particularly those of the European Union. He challenged comments made by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, who in March accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebellion. Rwanda has repeatedly denied involvement in the conflict, insisting that its primary concern is the continued presence in the DRC of the FDLR militia, which is linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“Are M23 not DR Congo citizens? Were there not European mercenaries fighting against them in DR Congo? Who will protect ethnic minorities in eastern DR Congo?” Fahrenholtz questioned.
He further criticized the Congolese government’s failure to resolve the root causes of the rebellion, including ethnic divisionism and genocidal ideology.
Fahrenholtz’s remarks add a diplomatic voice to the growing scrutiny of the conflict in eastern Congo since the takeover of Goma by the rebels in January, urging the international community to reevaluate its stance and prioritize protection of minority communities.
According to the latest data, 11 health zones in Kinshasa have been impacted, with more than 5,000 people displaced. At least 72 people have died, and 170 others have been injured due to torrential rains and resulting floods.
Tanganyika and South Kivu provinces, in the eastern part of the country, have also reported significant damage, with local authorities working to assess the full extent of the humanitarian needs.
Emergency shelters and care centers have been established in Kinshasa’s stadiums. However, with the Stade des Martyrs, the country’s biggest sports stadium, already hosting over 4,500 people, authorities have initiated a decongestion plan to transfer displaced residents to other venues.
The health ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening multi-sectoral coordination and ensuring swift, targeted, and coordinated responses to both health and humanitarian emergencies.
Continued heavy rainfall has been forecast for the coming days, raising fears of further destruction in the city of 17 million, already vulnerable due to rapid and unregulated urban expansion.
The DRC’s rainy season typically runs from November through May.
Field Marshal Jula was received by General MK Mubarakh, Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), at RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura during a series of engagements on Monday. He also paid a courtesy call on Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda.
In a statement, the Ministry of Defence described the visit as a key opportunity to deepen the longstanding bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and Ethiopia.
Discussions between the military leaders are focused on expanding collaboration in defence and related sectors, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing regional peace and security.
Field Marshal Jula’s visit follows a recent trip by General Mubarakh to Ethiopia on March 13 2025, during which the two defence chiefs signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation.
As part of his itinerary, the Ethiopian military chief is also scheduled to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum to pay tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, as Rwanda marks the 31st commemoration of the tragedy.
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Rwanda and Ethiopia have enjoyed over 20 years of military cooperation, initially focused on joint military training. The partnership has since expanded to include collaboration between the police forces of both countries.
Beyond defense and police cooperation, Rwanda and Ethiopia share strong bilateral ties in sectors such as agriculture, trade, education, and more.
Over the past seven years, the two nations have also signed agreements in air travel services, allowing for seamless cooperation between their airlines, RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines.
The rise was driven by strong performances in both goods and services exports, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) emerging as the country’s top export destinations.
Rwanda’s top exports include minerals such as gold, coltan, and wolfram, as well as agricultural products like coffee and tea.
The UAE led Rwanda’s export market with a 63.9% increase, reaching over $1.5 billion in value. The DRC followed with a 32.3% rise to approximately $229.5 million.
Exports to Luxembourg surged by an astonishing 243.8%, reaching $55.4 million. Other top markets include China ($83.6 million) and the United Kingdom ($36.1 million).
According to the report, Rwanda’s export growth has been underpinned by targeted interventions from RDB. In 2024, 243 companies across key sectors—including manufacturing, agro-processing, horticulture, services, and handicrafts—were facilitated to access both regional and international markets, generating $164.1 million in export revenues.
To enhance the competitiveness of local businesses and boost Rwanda’s participation in international trade, the Rwanda Development Board rolled out a range of targeted support programs in 2024.
A total of 152 companies received hands-on coaching focused on international trade standards, pricing strategies, product packaging, and compliance with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) requirements.
At the same time, 155 businesses enrolled in the E-Commerce Readiness Program, with 15 completing advanced training to expand their digital sales channels. In addition, 124 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) benefited from business development services that included access to affordable financing, grant opportunities, and tailored advisory support.
To help firms meet global quality requirements, 52 SMEs were supported in obtaining internationally recognized certifications.
Furthermore, 112 SMEs took part in trade fairs and expos held in Senegal, South Sudan, and Rwanda, providing them with platforms to showcase their products, generate immediate sales, and forge new business contracts.
A new report published by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) indicates that the growth was driven by resilient performance across various segments, including conservation, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), and domestic tourism.
According to the report, gorilla tourism led the surge, with revenues rising by 27% to exceed $200 million, fortifying Rwanda’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism.
The country welcomed over 1.36 million visitors, with new tourism segments like education and visiting friends and relatives (VFR) also showing growth at 16% and 5% respectively. RwandAir’s non-resident ticket sales jumped by 11%, further signaling international demand.
In total, Rwanda welcomed more than 1.36 million visitors in 2024. The East African Community (EAC) remained the largest source market, contributing over 1.09 million travellers, while steady flows from Europe (83,076 visitors), North America (52,805), and Asia (36,256) highlighted Rwanda’s reputation as a premier global destination.
Rwanda also continued to strengthen its MICE sector, hosting 115 high-profile events and welcoming 52,315 delegates. Notably, the country became the first in Africa to host the FIA Annual General Assemblies & Prize Giving Ceremony, showcasing its world-class hospitality and event infrastructure.
The impact of tourism extended beyond conferences. Rwanda’s national parks experienced a 10.7% increase in visitors and 8.5% growth in revenue, reaching 138,000 visitors and $38.8 million in park-generated income. Nyungwe National Park led the growth with a 20% increase in visitors, followed by Volcanoes and Akagera National Parks.
Local engagement also played a key role, with 54,800 domestic visits and steady domestic park revenues of $793,000, reflecting strong local interest in the country’s natural heritage.
Highlighting Rwanda’s forward-looking agenda, RDB Chairman Itzhak Fisher remarked: “The coming years present an exciting chapter of transformation, where strategic collaboration and bold ambition will drive Rwanda toward even greater economic success.”
In 2025, RDB aims to surpass $700 million in tourism revenue, bolstered by continued investment in conservation, tourism infrastructure, and global events.
“We aim to generate tourism revenues exceeding USD 700 million by showcasing Rwanda as a leading global destination for leisure, wildlife conservation, and international events,” said Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of RDB.
According to an annual report recently published by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), a total of 612 investment projects were registered throughout the year, reflecting growing investor confidence in the country’s business climate and economic trajectory.
The manufacturing sector led the way, attracting $1.35 billion. This was followed by the financial and insurance sector, which drew in $811.2 million, and real estate activities, which secured $377.7 million. Together, the three sectors accounted for nearly 78% of all registered investments.
Notably, Rwanda’s industrial base continues to expand, with manufacturing also generating the highest number of expected jobs. Of the 51,635 jobs projected from 2024’s investments, 22,500 are expected to come from the manufacturing sector alone.
Among the largest investment projects registered were Bio Usawa Biotechnology Ltd, National Cement Holding Ltd, Parklane Group Ltd, and TTEC CX Solutions Rwanda Ltd, reflecting diversity across biotech, construction, technology, and clean energy. International giants such as Rio Tinto Exploration also featured prominently.
In terms of foreign direct investment, China and India emerged as top contributors, accounting for $460 million and $445.1 million, respectively. Other key investors came from the USA ($442.3 million), Nigeria ($313 million), the UK ($144.6 million) and the Netherlands ($103.9 million).
Despite strong foreign participation, Rwandan-origin investments, including joint ventures, represented the largest share by number, accounting for 24.4% of all registrations—highlighting a growing local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Beyond manufacturing and finance, notable investment flows were directed toward information and communication technologies, agriculture, accommodation and food services, and mining. While manufacturing topped job creation, the real estate sector also stood out with 6,600 projected jobs, reflecting growing demand for urban infrastructure.
The financial sector, in particular, recorded rapid expansion, signaling increased investor interest in Rwanda’s fintech landscape and a strong push for financial inclusion and digital finance.
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Rwanda’s broader economic performance in 2024 underpinned the strong investment momentum.
According to RDB, tourism revenues reached $647 million, with over 1.36 million visitors. The country’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry generated $84.8 million, welcoming 52,315 delegates across 115 events. Gorilla tourism alone saw a 27% revenue boost.
Exports rose to $4.2 billion, a 22% increase from 2023, driven by high demand in markets such as the UAE and Luxembourg, along with a 33% increase in cargo exports.
More than 240 companies were supported to access international markets, generating $164.1 million in export earnings.
Rwanda’s reform-driven economic agenda earned the country a top ranking in the World Bank’s B-READY Report, placing 1st in Africa and among the top 10 globally for ease of doing business. The recognition underscores Rwanda’s growing reputation as a competitive and innovation-friendly investment destination.
Looking ahead, RDB is targeting over $3 billion in new investments and $700 million in tourism revenue in 2025.
Key initiatives will focus on expanding Special Economic Zones, digitizing government services, and promoting innovation, conservation, and entrepreneurship.
Rwanda is also set to host major international events, including the 20th Kwita Izina ceremony and the UCI Road World Championships. The UCI event, scheduled for September, will be held in Africa for the first time.
On Saturday, April 12, 2025, during its Imvo n’Imvano program, BBC Gahuza aired a story about a Rwandan named Joseph Semafara, a survivor of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Semafara has since overcome that traumatic history and now runs a successful company, Solvit Africa, valued at $10 million.
However, instead of stating that Semafara survived the Genocide against the Tutsi, the BBC’s Kinyarwanda and Kirundi service referred to him as having survived “the genocide that took place in Rwanda in 1994”—a phrase the broadcaster has often used and which is widely criticized for distorting the facts about the genocide.
Among those who condemned the phrasing was Minister Nduhungirehe.
Taking to his official X account, the minister wrote: “I wish to remind @bbcgahuza that Semafara didn’t survive ‘the genocide committed in Rwanda in 1994’, but survived the 1994 Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in Rwanda.”
He went on to denounce what he described as the UK’s long-standing failure to bring genocide fugitives to justice, and criticized the BBC for continuing to distort the narrative of a crime recognized by both the UN General Assembly and an international tribunal.
“For over 31 years, the UK has refused to extradite or prosecute even a single genocide suspect living on its territory,” he said.
“And the BBC remains the only major international broadcaster that continues to downplay a genocide confirmed by a UN court. At the very least, they should remain silent during these 100 days of commemoration.”
Minister Nduhungirehe’s remarks come at a time when Rwanda is observing the annual 100-day period of mourning and remembrance for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The BBC has faced repeated criticism in the past for using language perceived as minimizing or denying the Genocide against the Tutsi, which claimed a million lives.
Organized by Peace and Love Proclaimers (PLP) Canada, the event—whose name “Ku Gicaniro” means “at the bonfire” in Kinyarwanda—served as a symbolic gathering space for community reflection and healing. It brought together youth, survivors, and allies in an artistic tribute to the more than one million lives lost during one of the 20th century’s darkest chapters.
The evening began with a moment of silence, a reading of victims’ names, and a candle-lighting ceremony that transformed grief into collective reverence. The moments honoured not just those who died, but who they were: students, sisters, fathers, dreamers.
A curated exhibition welcomed guests before the formal program, offering a powerful walk through visual and written testimonies. The intention, organizers said, was not to consume history, but to carry it—to resist forgetting through art and storytelling.
Art was at the heart of the program. Musical performances and a stage play provided emotional expression where words alone might fall short. The performance reminded the audience that “art remembers what history tries to forget.”
One of the most moving moments came when genocide survivor Mukarukundo Godelieve, known as Maman Casta, publicly shared her story for the first time in a heartfelt conversation with her daughter, Casta. The dialogue between mother and daughter became a powerful handoff of memory: an intimate, courageous act of intergenerational truth-telling.
A documentary screening followed, exploring how to teach the history of genocide to children. It posed a challenging but necessary question: How do you explain a wound this deep to a child? The film emphasized the importance of teaching with honesty, compassion, and clarity, especially as survivor voices grow fewer with time.
In his address, Pascal Kanyemera, President of the Humura Survivors Association, praised the youth-led effort, highlighting the role of digital platforms in combating genocide denial. He also spoke about Humura’s ongoing memorial initiatives to preserve truth and history.
The Rwandan Ambassador to Canada, Prosper Higiro, offered a powerful reminder that genocide is not an accident but a deliberate political crime. He spoke candidly about the ideology that preceded the 1994 atrocities and urged the youth to stand firm in defending unity, dignity, and truth.
The evening closed with remarks from Danny, Representative of PLP Canada, who reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to remembrance and youth engagement. He stated that the aim of PLP Canada is to create safe, intentional, and powerful spaces, where young people can remember, reflect, and reconnect with their identity and history.
The evening left attendees moved, inspired, and reminded that while the genocide against the Tutsi ended 31 years ago, the responsibility to remember — and to resist forgetting — lives on through the voices and visions of Rwanda’s youth.
The sombre ceremony was marked by prayers led by different religious leaders, testimonies from Genocide survivors, as well as the laying of wreaths on mass graves at the site.
Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Amb. Joseph Rutabana told thousands of mourners that the same ideology which fuelled the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda continues to spread in neighbouring countries.
“We currently see it in the Eastern DRC, where local populations are mobilized to kill Congolese Tutsi (whom they relate to Tutsis in Rwanda). This is coupled by hate speech and other precursors of genocide incitement,” he said.
Rutabana emphasised that education remains one of the most powerful tools to preserve the memory of the victims and to combat the ideology that led to their deaths.
“It is important to reflect on the root causes and consequences of the Genocide so that not only Rwandans, but the world at large, take the necessary steps to punish the crime of genocide and prevent it from happening again,” he said.
Grief filled the air as mourners—mainly youth and a delegation from the HUMURA Lake Victoria Warakoze Genocide Survivors’ Association—sat in the tents, remembering the brutal and inhumane ways their loved ones were killed during the Genocide.
Alice Kaboyo, Uganda’s State Minister for the Luwero-Rwenzori Triangle and the guest of honour, noted that the rise of misinformation and hate speech, particularly online, poses a serious threat to social cohesion and peace.
“Education must therefore be at the forefront of our efforts to combat these dangers. By fostering critical thinking, promoting human rights education, we can equip Africa’s youth to reject division and violence and build a more inclusive society. Schools and universities must serve as spaces for dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect,” she said.
A total of 10,983 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi are buried in various memorial sites across Uganda. Kasensero Genocide Memorial site in Rakai District is the resting place of 2,875 victims; Lambu Genocide Memorial site in Masaka District holds 3,337 bodies; and Ggolo Genocide Memorial site in Mpigi District is home to 4,771 victims.
