During the event held at Sainte Famille Hotel in Kigali, participants were guided on effective loan utilization to ensure progress in their ventures.
Raissa Muyango, COPEDU PLC’s Managing Director, encouraged women to embrace entrepreneurship and leverage the institution’s financial support to advance their projects.
She stated, “Create your businesses and approach us for loans that support your ideas, helping you achieve your dreams.”
Simon Ndayisenga, a representative from the National Bank of Rwanda’s Department of Inclusive Financial Services, emphasized the significance of empowering women as key contributors to family and community development.
He underscored the importance of gender equality in financial access, improved livelihoods, and poverty alleviation, saying, “When you educate a woman, you educate the nation. Financial equality is crucial—laws that previously excluded women and favoured men must be eradicated.”
Ndayisenga also urged beneficiaries to use loans strictly for their intended purposes to avoid financial mismanagement.
Solange Uwingabire, COPEDU PLC’s Head of Business Development, highlighted the institution’s 27-year legacy of providing financial services, including savings, withdrawals, and loans. She called on more women to engage with the institution to meet their financial needs.
The session included training on project selection, compliance with legal frameworks, and responsible loan usage to prevent losses. The topics were delivered by COPEDU leadership and branch staff.
TRC Director General Masanja Kadogosa announced that a European manufacturer has been identified to supply the engines.
“The funds for the engines are already allocated in our budget. The procurement process is underway, and we anticipate acquiring the engines by next year,” Kadogosa said.
The hybrid engines are designed to switch between electricity and diesel seamlessly, ensuring operational continuity even during grid disruptions.
“Our SGR system is designed to accommodate both electric and diesel engines, ensuring operations remain unaffected,” he added.
TRC has also intensified efforts to safeguard SGR infrastructure. Collaboration with law enforcement has led to arrests for vandalism, though specific figures were not disclosed.
Kadogosa outlined plans to install CCTV cameras along the SGR corridor, especially in high-risk areas.
“Cameras have already been installed in some areas, and the remaining installations will commence soon,” he stated.
Hybrid locomotives utilize two energy sources—electricity and diesel. Under normal conditions, trains operate on electric power supplied via overhead wires. During power disruptions, they switch to diesel mode seamlessly, ensuring schedules remain on track. Some engines may include rechargeable batteries for added emergency power.
The SGR project is already transforming Tanzania’s transportation landscape. Since launching electric train services between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro in June 2024, and extending to Dodoma in August, TRC has generated Tsh30 billion ($12.9 million) in ticket sales by November 30.
The railway’s future phases aim to connect Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and Kigoma, spanning nearly 1,300 kilometers.
The development led to the indefinite postponement of the much-awaited meeting between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and his DRC counterpart, Félix Tshisekedi, on Sunday, December 15, 2024.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed frustration over the failure to reach a consensus, particularly regarding the involvement of the M23 rebel group in peace discussions.
According to a statement released late Sunday afternoon, the talks faltered due to the DRC’s refusal to engage directly with M23, despite previous commitments to do so.
The summit’s postponement comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations, with Rwanda also raising concerns over continued threats from DRC officials, including President Tshisekedi’s comments about pursuing regime change in Rwanda.
Rwanda also pointed to the growing presence of a coalition of forces in eastern DRC, including European mercenaries, Burundian troops, the Wazalendo militia, and the FDLR—a group composed of remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Rwanda called for “serious actions” to address the FDLR, emphasizing the need for concrete steps beyond political “games.”
“There must be serious actions to deal with the FDLR beyond the games being played around this problem,” the statement read.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the postponement allows for further dialogue, as Angola’s President João Lourenço, who is facilitating the peace efforts, has proposed an additional round of discussions between M23 and the DRC, with former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta mediating. This move aims to clarify positions and lay the groundwork for a potential resumption of the broader peace process.
Rwanda’s government reiterated that the DRC must take responsibility for its actions, stating that it could no longer use Rwanda as a pretext for inaction.
“There are actions that the DRC can and must take for themselves without continually using Rwanda as a pretext for doing nothing,” the statement declared.
Despite the setback, Rwanda reaffirmed its commitment to participating in peace talks that offer a serious and concrete path to resolving the region’s persistent issues.
“Rwanda remains ready to participate in a summit that would adopt a serious and concrete path to resolve these remaining questions once and for all,” it said.
The Sunday talks, expected to address ongoing tensions between the two nations, were cancelled due to the DRC’s refusal to negotiate with the M23 rebel group. This decision contradicts commitments made earlier by the DRC to enter discussions with armed groups, including M23, as part of regional peace efforts.
Minister Nduhungirehe stated, “The DRC refused discussions with M23, in direct contradiction to what they had agreed to just a few days earlier.”
Angola, serving as the mediator in these talks, had notified both parties on November 30, 2024, that the DRC had agreed to dialogue with M23, but the decision was later reversed.
The talks were planned as a follow-up to a series of meetings between officials from Rwanda, DRC, and Angola, aimed at creating a framework for addressing insecurity in eastern Congo.
Rwanda maintains that meaningful peace efforts in the region require the inclusion of M23, as it remains one of the key players in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
Despite the postponement, Angola hosted discussions between Tshisekedi and President João Lourenço, along with an invitation extended to former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who has been mediating between the DRC government and armed groups through the Nairobi process.
The M23 group, active since resuming fighting in late 2021, has called for negotiations to address grievances, including alleged persecution of Congolese Tutsi communities.
In earlier peace talks convened in Nairobi in 2022, M23 representatives were expelled after being accused of reigniting hostilities, further complicating the conflict resolution process.
The penalty follows an investigation that found the airline conducted several flights between Ethiopia and Djibouti, carrying United Airlines’ designator code, in regions where the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had imposed a flight prohibition on U.S. operators.
In aviation, a codeshare agreement is a partnership between two or more airlines where one airline operates the flight, but another markets and sells tickets for that flight under its own flight number. This allows airlines to expand their reach and provide more options for passengers without having to operate additional flights themselves.
According to the DOT’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP), Ethiopian Airlines violated FAA restrictions between February 2020 and December 2022. The airline continued to operate these flights even after OACP issued an investigation letter regarding the issue.
“By operating these flights in this manner, Ethiopian Airlines violated the conditions of its authority to operate and engaged in air transportation without the proper DOT authority,” the DOT stated in a release dated December 12, 2024.
The fine against Ethiopian Airlines comes alongside a similar penalty for Etihad Airways, which was fined $400,000 for related violations involving flights carrying JetBlue Airways’ designator code.
According to U.S. authorities, between August and September 2022, Etihad Airways operated several flights between the UAE and the U.S. in FAA-restricted airspace. Despite warnings from the Office of Aviation Consumer Protection (OACP), the airline continued operating these flights until early 2023.
Both airlines have been ordered to cease and desist from any future violations.
“These actions reflect our ongoing commitment to enforcing the conditions under which foreign air carriers operate in U.S. airspace,” said U.S. authorities.
The fines against Ethiopian Airlines and Etihad Airways are part of a broader crackdown by U.S. regulators on foreign airlines violating U.S. airspace restrictions.
This crackdown also resulted in penalties for other international carriers, including Air Canada, which was fined $250,000 in September 2024 for operating flights in Iraqi airspace while codesharing with United Airlines.
Additionally, Emirates was fined $1.5 million earlier this year for violations over Baghdad between December 2021 and August 2022, while operating flights on JetBlue’s codeshare.
Emirates defended itself against the fine, explaining that its pilots were forced to descend into restricted airspace over Baghdad due to adverse weather conditions at their assigned altitudes.
In a social media post on Saturday, Makolo attributed the claims to a small group of individuals who resist change and seek to maintain the economic dominance of a few wealthy nations in global sports.
Makolo’s response came after renowned Kenyan media personality Jackie Lumbasi questioned the meaning and use of “sportswashing” in relation to Rwanda’s growing sports presence.
“Hi Jackie, these people brought this term ‘sportswashing’—it’s a cabal that swims against the tide. They want all the benefits of the sports business to remain the preserve of the few rich countries that have historically reaped the profits. But this is 2024—things have taken a different turn,” Makolo wrote on X.
Bite Jackie, hawa watu walileta this term “sportswashing” ni cabal ina swim against the tide. Wanataka benefits zote za business of sports, zibaki the preserve of those few rich countries that have historically reaped the profits. Lakini this is 2024 – ibintu byafashe indi ntera.…
The term “sportswashing” surfaced after Rwanda made history on Friday, December 13, 2024, by hosting the 2024 FIA Awards, the first to be held in Africa. The prestigious awards ceremony brought together key figures in motorsport, including four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen, to Kigali.
Rwanda’s critics often use the term “sportswashing” to discredit the government’s initiatives that have placed the country on the world map, especially through high-profile sports partnerships and events. These include significant sponsorship deals with global football clubs like Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) through the “Visit Rwanda” branding.
In addition to football, Rwanda has invested heavily in basketball, with the country hosting events such as the Basketball Africa League (BAL) and focusing on strengthening its ties with the NBA.
Other notable events Rwanda has bid for include the IRON MAN 70.3 race, the ATP Challenger 50 Tennis Tour, the Kigali International Marathon, and the Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally.
The government disputes the ‘sportswashing’ narrative and has often affirmed that Rwanda’s involvement in sports is not about hiding wrongdoing but rather about boosting the country’s international profile and capitalizing on the opportunities that hosting sports events presents.
The talks are being mediated by Angolan President João Lourenço, who has been acting as a facilitator in efforts to resolve tensions between the two nations.
The discussions aim to address ongoing conflicts and foster lasting peace, particularly in light of strained relations between the DRC and Rwanda. Angola, committed to mediating the situation, hopes the talks will lead to agreements, including a ceasefire and strategies to restore security in the eastern regions of the DRC.
This meeting follows preliminary discussions held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, when representatives from both countries met in Luanda.
Ministers of Foreign Affairs from Angola, Rwanda, and the DRC worked on a draft agreement that will be reviewed by the heads of state during the summit.
President Tshisekedi’s trip to Angola comes days after he accused Rwanda of displacing Congolese citizens in North Kivu and replacing them with foreigners. His remarks, delivered on December 11, 2024, to a joint session of the Congolese parliament, were met with strong criticism from Rwanda.
Rwandan Foreign Minister Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe described Tshisekedi’s comments as inflammatory, expressing concern that they could incite hatred against Congolese Tutsis in eastern DRC.
Rwanda also refuted the allegations, emphasizing that Congolese refugees returning to North Kivu—estimated at over 1.45 million—had fled violence during clashes between the DRC armed forces and the M23 rebel group. Rwanda reiterated its stance that those individuals are Congolese citizens and not foreigners.
The peace talks follow agreements from the sixth ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, which outlined a three-month strategy to dismantle the FDLR, a militia group comprising individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This operation will proceed in three stages: assessing the militia’s threats and resources, launching direct operations against the FDLR, and reviewing the progress of these measures.
Both parties have expressed cautious optimism that these efforts could lead to a breakthrough in resolving the security crisis in the region.
Angola’s leadership remains central to coordinating these efforts and encouraging the neighboring nations to prioritize peacebuilding over conflict.
Verstappen participated in a grassroots motorsport development program organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club on Friday, December 13, 2024, during his visit to Kigali to collect his fourth consecutive Formula One World Championship trophy.
The initiative, though part of a disciplinary measure imposed by the FIA following inappropriate remarks made during a press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix, offered Verstappen a chance to engage directly with aspiring drivers and engineers.
For the Red Bull driver, the experience was much more than fulfilling a penalty.
Speaking afterwards, Verstappen expressed his enthusiasm for the potential of motorsport in Africa and the power of such programs to break down barriers faced by young drivers in developing nations.
“In the whole world, everything is getting more and more expensive, so the more you can build [motorsports] in your own country, the more you make it affordable for kids,” the 63-time Grand Prix winner said.
“I think it’s great to have that possibility, and I hope it stimulates all these kids so that they want to be a racing driver, an engineer, in the future.”
He emphasized his belief in the transformative potential of initiatives like this one.
“It has massive potential and that is what I think everyone is working on… trying to make everyone very enthusiastic. It doesn’t matter where in the world you come from, anything is possible,” he added.
“That’s why I also think it’s important that we’re here. I’m very excited to see that hopefully in five to ten years, there are more people coming through [into motorsports].”
After a day focused on community service, Verstappen made his way to the iconic BK Arena for the FIA Prize-Giving Gala, where he was awarded his fourth consecutive Formula 1 World Championship trophy.
This achievement places him among the sport’s all-time greats, tying him with legends such as Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel.
Reflecting on his impressive accomplishments, Verstappen stayed true to his characteristic humility.
“As a kid, when you grow up, you don’t think about these things. You look at the names and think, ‘Wow, that’s really impressive. I hope one day I can be on the podium!’” he said during the ceremony.
He noted that his success has been a combination of preparation and seizing opportunities.
“But, sometimes you get lucky in life… you’re in the right place at the right time! Luckily, I’ve been able to do that. It’s amazing. Four titles is incredible,” he added, a smile lighting up his face.
Looking to the future, Verstappen remains driven both on and off the track.
“Winning four titles is incredible, but I hope it’s just the beginning. For now, it’s important to celebrate what we’ve achieved as a team and keep pushing for more success—not just for us, but for the sport worldwide.”
The 2024 FIA Prize-Giving Gala in Kigali was a historic event, marking the first time the ceremony was held in Africa.
Earlier, President Paul Kagame had confirmed Rwanda’s formal bid to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a move that would [bring the thrill of racing back to the continent->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-paul-kagame-confirms-rwanda-s-bid-for-formula-1-grand-prix?var_mode=calcul] for the first time in three decades.
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente presided over the event, commissioning the graduates to the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP). He also recognized the top three performers: Frederick Ndinzi, Felix Nahimana, and Eric Manzi.”
Dr. Ngirente emphasized the importance of security as a foundation for Rwanda’s development. He praised the Rwanda National Police for collaborating with citizens and other security agencies to fulfil its responsibilities effectively, promoting trust among Rwandans and international partners.
He noted that despite Rwanda’s current state of peace, global threats to security—such as cross-border crimes, drug trafficking, and cybercrimes—require continuous vigilance.
The Prime Minister urged the police to remain prepared, engage with citizens to report crimes promptly and participate in national development activities.
Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the police force by providing equipment, infrastructure, personnel, and training to ensure public safety.
He called on the new officers to uphold integrity, professionalism, and their oath of service, while making the most of their opportunity to serve the nation.
The 12-month training program covered leadership, weapon handling, values, and discipline.
Among the 635 graduates, 527 were men and 108 women. Some of the graduates were already part of the police force, while others came from civilian backgrounds. A few represented other agencies, including the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), and the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS).
The program also featured four weeks of field practice and involvement in the July 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, which provided hands-on experience.
CP Robert Niyonshuti, the Commandant of Gishari Police Training School, highlighted that two Rwandan trainees had studied at Singapore’s Home Team Academy.
He noted that out of the 641 initial trainees, six did not complete the course due to health and other challenges. He encouraged the graduates to demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct in their duties.
The ceremony was attended by key officials, including the Minister of Defense, Juvenal Marizamunda; Chief of Defense Staff of the Rwanda Defense Force, Gen Mubarakh Muganga; Inspector General of Police (IGP) Felix Namuhoranye; Secretary General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Aimable Havugiyaremye; Minister of Justice, Dr. Ugirashebuja Emmanuel; and other security and national leaders.
The parents and guardians of the graduates also attended to support them on this important milestone.
Ethiopia and Somalia reached an agreement on Wednesday after Turkish-mediated negotiations in Ankara, marking a breakthrough in resolving misunderstandings between the two nations.
Tensions had been escalating between Ethiopia and Somalia after Ethiopia and Somaliland signed an agreement earlier this year allowing Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for its recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, described the agreement as having no legal force.
“The chairperson welcomes the communique signed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Dec. 11 in Ankara, under the auspices of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan,” the AU said in a statement issued on Thursday.
The AU chief praised “this important act of high responsibility on the part of the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia.” Faki encouraged them to implement the agreed-upon measures without delay.
Following the agreement, Abiy and Mohamud issued a joint statement emphasizing cooperation and dialogue between the two countries.
Both leaders reaffirmed their respect and commitment to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity and agreed to work together to finalize arrangements which will allow Ethiopia to enjoy access to and from the sea.
