Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

President Paul Kagame confirms Rwanda’s bid for Formula 1 Grand Prix

The Head of State made the announcement during the FIA General Assembly held at the Kigali Convention Center, following months of reports of Rwanda’s push to host the high-profile sporting event.

In his speech, Kagame expressed delight at the progress made so far, acknowledging the positive discussions with Formula 1 officials, led by CEO Stefano Domenicali.

Rwanda’s bid to host the Grand Prix is part of a broader strategy to attract high-profile sports events to Africa—a continent that has not hosted a Formula 1 race since the 1993 South African Grand Prix.

“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is beginning to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix. A big thank you to Stefano Domenicali and the entire team at Formula 1 for the good progress in our discussions so far,” President Kagame stated.

“I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves. Together, we will build something we can all be proud of,” he added.

At the same time, President Kagame emphasized the unifying power of sports in a fragmented world.

“In a world where various forces are pushing us apart, the values of sportsmanship should bring us even closer together. It all comes down to respect and giving everyone the chance to contribute where they can. That’s why it is so important for countries in every region and at every income level to have a fair shot at hosting international sporting events.”

He criticized detractors who have questioned Rwanda’s efforts to host international events like the FIA General Assembly, stating, “Sometimes, when a non-traditional host country is announced, it is as if we did something wrong, especially if you judge by the media reaction. These attitudes have to be left in the past, and the role of sports governing bodies is absolutely central.”

The initiative to host major events ties into Rwanda’s broader economic transformation plan, which includes significant investments in sports infrastructure, such as the BK Arena, the renovated Amahoro Stadium, and the upcoming Zaria Courts Complex.

“Our philosophy has always been to make the most of our valuable resources. We understand that sports is not just about buildings or events but requires an entire ecosystem to cultivate talent and excite fans. This has a real and tangible impact, not only on our economy but also on our people. For every hotel, recreation facility, or restaurant that gets built, new jobs are created,” the president added.

Hosting a Formula 1 race would not only bolster Rwanda’s motorsport ambitions but also create jobs, boost tourism, and enhance the nation’s position as a key player in international sports.

The 2024 FIA General Assembly in Kigali is set to conclude on Friday evening with an awards ceremony honouring notable figures, including Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen.

December 13, 2024
Rwandan student’s artwork selected for FIA’s prestigious Paris collection

Ishimwe Gad emerged as the winner in a competition inviting students to create artwork reflecting the FIA’s milestone as it celebrates its 120th anniversary.

He was announced as the winner during a cocktail reception at the Kigali Convention Centre on Thursday, December 12, 2024, hosted by President Paul Kagame.

Ishimwe’s artwork, a colourful and dynamic representation of motorsport’s vitality and heritage, will now hold a permanent place at the FIA’s headquarters in the historic Place de la Concorde in Paris.

The achievement elevates his creation to the ranks of internationally acclaimed pieces that celebrate the rich history and promising future of motorsport.

“This is a dream come true,” Ishimwe remarked. “To have my work displayed in Paris alongside other renowned artists is an honour, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent Rwanda on a global stage.”

The art competition was one of several initiatives tied to the FIA’s anniversary celebrations, blending motorsport and art to promote cultural exchange.

Thursday’s event brought together FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, members of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, and motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.

Adding to the evening’s significance, attendees witnessed the unveiling of the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa. The innovative project was developed through collaboration between Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

The “Cross Car” is a compact, specialized vehicle equipped with critical features such as a protective racing seat, reinforced safety structures, race-specific tires, and a unique design to protect drivers in case of accidents.

Its safety elements include a six-point harness system and a window opening for easy entry and exit. The vehicle operates with a manual transmission and requires specialized skills and training, as it differs significantly from regular rally cars.

Dutch-Belgian Formula One champion Max Verstappen will test the car.

In his address, President Kagame emphasized the importance of promoting innovation and encouraging young talent in Africa.

“Young people everywhere on the continent, in different fields of sport, show up in large numbers, but they are limited by access to opportunity. I appreciate that the message is loud and clear: instead of Africa exporting talent all the time to other places, it can also be bred, grow, and be seen to stay in Africa,” President Kagame said.

The 2024 FIA General Assembly in Kigali is set to conclude on Friday, December 13, 2024, with an awards ceremony where key figures such as Verstappen will be honoured.

December 13, 2024
Driving progress: EPC Africa Group’s role in the development of Rubavu and Rusizi ports

The event, attended by Rwanda’s Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, representing the Government of Rwanda, along with development partners from the UK and the Netherlands, and Trademark Africa, marked the official commencement of operations for Rubavu Port. The port had been operating under a pilot phase since June 2024 by the consortium of contractors, JV Century Engineering Contractors – Yojaka India.

The state-of-the-art facility in the Nyamyumba Sector, Rubavu District, promises to enhance regional trade connecting all the adjacent towns with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while boosting regional economic exchange opportunities.

Driving this transformative project was EPC Africa Group, through its subsidiary Century Engineering Contractors (CEC). Contracted by Trademark Africa in partnership with the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the project was funded by Netherlands-backed Invest International and the UK government, in collaboration with the Government of Rwanda.

As a trusted civil engineering and electromechanical contractor, CEC leveraged its expertise in marine construction expertise which allowed it to deliver the two-hectare facility to the global standards.

Speaking during the inauguration of the facility, EPC Africa Group CEO, Ferdy Turasenga said the company managed to deliver the Rubavu Port project on schedule, despite the significant challenges they faced at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

“We are very grateful and happy today that we have handed over this historical project, the first of its kind in our country and perhaps in the sub-region of the Great Lakes region. We are thankful to the client.

“We started this project at the beginning of 2020 when COVID just knocked on the door of the world. It was a global shock, but we kept the resilience Spirit to this date,” the CEO remarked during the opening ceremony graced by Joan Wiegman, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner.

The facility includes two modern terminals, one for cargo and another for passengers. The cargo terminal features advanced infrastructure, such as a wastewater treatment plant, a petrol station, and two quays capable of simultaneously handling 2X60m length vessels with a capacity of 500 deadweight tons each. The passenger terminal is equipped with modern offices and enhanced security checkpoints.

Rubavu Port is designed to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually. It provides an essential waterways link between Rwanda and the DRC, offering a cost-effective alternative to road transport and streamlining cross-border exchanges and trade.

Key commodities such as cement, beverages, and agricultural products are now transported more efficiently, reducing long queues at border delays which is going to benefit passengers and traders.

The pilot phase already demonstrated the port’s impact, with businesses reporting smoother logistics and reduced transport costs. The port has also created employment opportunities, with around 150 workers currently involved in daily operations—a number projected to grow as trading activity increases.

Rubavu Port is part of Rwanda’s ambitious Lake Kivu Harbour Transport Project, which also includes planned facilities in Rusizi, Karongi, and Nkora. The ports aim to further bolster trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.

EPC Africa Group, through its construction arm “Century Engineering Contractors”, is also implementing the Rusizi project, continuing its contribution to Rwanda’s infrastructural transformation.

Beyond its work on Rubavu Port, EPC Africa Group operates several other subsidiaries that contribute to its diverse portfolio. These include Energicotel Plc, which specializes in the development, maintenance, and operation of power plants across Africa; Afrilott, focusing on commodity trading, procurement and logistics; and EPCA Development, which offers expertise in the design, supervision, and maintenance of commercial infrastructure projects, including the construction of modern and low-cost houses.

December 12, 2024
Over Frw 1 trillion needed to support modern agriculture program

This initiative aims to develop a sector that employs over 400,000 Rwandans, with 69% of households in Rwanda relying on agriculture for their livelihoods.

The program focuses on increasing and processing the production of tea, vegetables, and fruits, particularly avocado and pepper, expanding and processing potatoes, boosting poultry and pig production, and increasing beef production.

Investors were introduced to the opportunities to promote a revolution in agriculture, increase production, create jobs for women and youth, expand irrigated land, and develop modern agricultural systems.

The program is linked to a five-year strategy to accelerate agricultural development (PSTA 5), which will cost Frw 7.063 billion.

Regarding tea production, MINAGRI has announced a need for an investment of $289 million to help process and develop tea-growing regions.

At least 300 million tea seedlings are required, and tea farming will be expanded to 17,000 hectares, along with building a tea processing factory in the Nyamagabe District, a region known for tea cultivation.

The tea development project must also be accompanied by road construction for better access to the farms.

The investment will benefit over 85,000 people, with production expected to rise from the 39,008,978 kilograms Rwanda harvested in 2022/2023, yielding $107 million.

Regarding animal husbandry, MINAGRI sees investment opportunities of $169.8 million, primarily in increasing poultry and pig production to boost meat and egg output.

Plans include establishing modern poultry farms, animal feed mills, modern livestock pens, and storage for animal feed, benefiting over 123,000 people and 69,953 poultry and pig farmers.

For expanding and processing potato production, Rwanda requires $63.8 million to expand farming areas and add processing facilities to meet both local and international market demands.

The project will include developing virus-free potato varieties, creating certified storage facilities, and building modern potato processing plants. Over 41,000 potato farmers and processors, along with 245,000 others in the value chain, are expected to benefit directly.

This initiative aims to address gaps in potato farming, as Rwanda currently needs 1.5 million tons annually, while it harvests 865,000 tons per year.

In terms of vegetables and fruits, particularly avocados and peppers, Rwanda requires an investment of $222.3 million, including $40.5 million for avocado farming and $181.8 million for pepper production.

Although exporting peppers and avocados internationally is a recent development for Rwanda, it has made significant progress in the past decade. In 2022/2023, Rwanda exported 3,200 tons of avocados, earning $6.5 million, compared to $440,000 from 10 years prior. The goal is to export over 14,000 tons of avocados in the next five years.

Pepper also plays a significant role in Rwanda’s exports, particularly to Asia and Europe. In 2022/2023, Rwanda exported 2,000 tons of pepper, generating $6 million, and the target is to increase exports to $48 million by 2029 through PSTA 5.

Rwanda also requires $40.2 million to improve cattle farming for meat production.

The government has selected the Gako and Gabiro areas as suitable locations for this investment, with plans to establish a modern slaughterhouse, leather processing facilities, and a system to provide livestock feed, among other developments.

December 12, 2024
Uganda’s Museveni defends trial of civilians in military courts

Museveni’s remarks come amid heated debates surrounding the ongoing trial of opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate, Obeid Lutale, in the Makindye-based General Court Martial.

President Museveni, in a detailed statement on Thursday, December 12, 2024, praised the role of the Court Martial system, referring to it as “eyokyeero,” a Runyankore term meaning reinforcement.

He attributed the establishment of military trials for civilians to the increasing activities of criminals and terrorists who have wielded weapons indiscriminately to harm Ugandans.

Museveni argued that the civilian court system, overwhelmed with a backlog of cases including murders, assaults, and land disputes, could not efficiently handle gun-related crimes.

“For stabilization, you need speed,” Museveni argued, adding that military courts provide the necessary swiftness and decisiveness to deal with armed offenders.

He stressed that such offenders, though civilians, become “soldiers” in a sense by taking up arms and should therefore face the jurisdiction of the Court Martial, which is specifically designed to handle cases involving weapons.

The president’s comments were a direct response to legal and public criticism, particularly from opposition voices, about the legality and morality of trying civilians in military courts.

Lawyers for Besigye and Lutale have described the Court Martial proceedings as illegitimate, with lead counsel Erias Lukwago labeling it a “kangaroo court.”

Besigye, a retired army officer turned opposition leader, has long been a thorn in Museveni’s side, having run against him in four contested presidential elections.

Besigye and Lutale were recently charged with endangering national security and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Their detention followed their controversial abduction by Ugandan intelligence agents in Nairobi, Kenya, last November.

Despite protests, the two remain in custody, with their case adjourned until January 7, 2025.

Critics, including Besigye’s legal team, have argued that Ugandan law does not permit civilians to be tried in military courts, making their trial unconstitutional. They have refused to apply for bail, maintaining their stance against the court’s legitimacy.

However, Museveni defended the practice, stating that the military court system operates as a subordinate to civilian courts, with opportunities for appeal and oversight to rectify any miscarriages of justice.

“If the Court Martial judges badly, the superior courts will rectify the issue,” Museveni stated.

He also argued that military trials provide a pragmatic solution to keeping dangerous individuals off the streets.

Citing his recent tour of Karamoja, Museveni pointed to the effectiveness of military courts in addressing crime in the region. He noted that over 900 Karamojong youth, detained for gun-related crimes, were being processed by military tribunals.

The president credited this approach for the restoration of peace in the region, contrasting it with what he termed as the inefficiency of civilian courts where offenders are often “granted bail or kept on remand endlessly where they form part of the backlog of the general court system.”

Museveni proposed a referendum in districts like Karamoja to gauge public support for the military court’s jurisdiction over civilians, expressing confidence that such a measure would receive overwhelming approval.

The Besigye case, however, remains a lightning rod for dissent, with opposition leaders and activists accusing the government of weaponizing military courts to suppress political opponents.

December 12, 2024
Why Trump’s inauguration invitation to Xi Jinping has everyone talking

While it remains unclear if Xi has accepted, the mere possibility of his presence is generating significant buzz in political circles and even on social media.

Inviting a foreign leader—particularly one representing a major geopolitical rival—to a U.S. presidential inauguration is highly unusual. Historically, foreign dignitaries have attended these events, but never has a leader of Xi’s stature been asked to witness the transfer of power firsthand.

CNB, citing multiple sources, reported on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, that President-elect Donald Trump extended the invitation to Xi Jinping shortly after his November 5 election victory. The Chinese embassy in Washington has not commented on the matter, leaving analysts and observers speculating about Xi’s potential response.

What is certain, however, is that Trump’s relationship with Xi, while complex, seems to be entering a new phase. Shortly after his election victory, Xi congratulated Trump, expressing hope for a “stable, healthy, and sustainable” relationship between the U.S. and China.

“China and the U.S. will benefit from cooperation and lose from confrontation,” Xi stated.

Proponents argue that Trump’s move could signal a willingness to reset relations between the world’s two largest economies.

Indian tech influencer Manoj Kumar reacted on X, saying, “Interesting move by Trump! Inviting Xi Jinping could signal an intent to improve or at least stabilize U.S.-China relations right from the start of his new term. It will be key to see if Xi accepts and how this impacts international dynamics.”

During Trump’s first term between 2017 and 2021, the U.S.-China trade war heightened tensions, with tariffs and accusations of unfair trade practices dominating the bilateral agenda. Trump has vowed stricter tariffs in his second term, including a 10% levy on Chinese imports unless Beijing takes action on fentanyl trafficking.

Despite this history, Trump maintains that he shares a “good rapport” with Xi, recently revealing that they had communicated earlier this week.

Critics, however, remain sceptical. Shahzad Saleem, a netizen, commented, “Trump’s invitation to Xi Jinping is a bold move, but it’s hard to ignore the irony. For a leader who campaigned on being tough on China, this feels more like rolling out the red carpet for geopolitical theatre.”

This development comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations, with ongoing trade disputes, restrictions on critical exports, and clashes over technology policies. Beijing has cautioned against “mutually destructive tariff wars,” while Xi continues to call for “peaceful coexistence.”

Whether Xi Jinping accepts Trump’s invitation or not, the gesture underscores Trump’s unpredictable diplomatic strategies. As inauguration day approaches, the global community will watch closely to see how this bold overture unfolds—and what it means for U.S.-China relations moving forward.

December 12, 2024
Frw4 billion earmarked to support communities around national parks

The funds are included in the 2024/2025 national budget.

Télésphore Ngoga, Conservation Analyst at Rwanda Development Board (RDB), told RBA that the initiative will focus on addressing key challenges such as wildlife encroaching on local communities, providing clean water to residents who currently fetch it from the parks, and reducing overcrowding in schools near the parks.

Since 2005, the government has invested Frw10 billion in projects designed to improve the livelihoods of communities surrounding the national parks, including Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Akagera parks.

In collaboration with RDB, which oversees tourism, as well as local government entities and nearby communities, more than 880 development projects have been implemented. These include schools, health centers, housing, water infrastructure, and initiatives to boost agricultural productivity.

According to RDB, these efforts not only support environmental conservation but also transform the lives of Rwandans. Many residents near the parks, who previously engaged in harmful activities such as poaching or collecting water from the parks, have since abandoned these practices.

The tourism sector is projected to continue expanding as a key driver of economic growth in Rwanda, with [revenues expected to exceed $660 million in 2024->https://en.igihe.com/economy/article/rwanda-s-tourism-revenue-projected-to-reach-660-million-by-end-of-2024#:~:text=Rwanda’s%20tourism%20revenue%20projected%20to,by%20end%20of%202024%20%7C%20IGIHE], up from $620 million in 2023.

December 11, 2024
Kenyan bar threatens retaliation after Uganda denied Karua practising certificate

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Kenya’s premier bar association expressed full support for Karua, calling the decision an unjustified attack on her professional integrity and a setback for regional cooperation in legal practice.

“We express our unqualified disenchantment with the derogatory, contemptuous, and high-handed decision taken by the Law Council of Uganda. This decision not only offends the mutual cooperation that exists between the Kenyan and Ugandan bar, but the manner in which it was communicated and the reasons given are ludicrous and distasteful,” LSK stated.

“It is inconceivable that the Law Council of Uganda would hold such little regard for Kenyan practitioners, especially a reputable and long-standing member of the Senior Counsel Bar.”

The Uganda Law Council had declined Karua’s application to represent Besigye and his co-accused at the General Court Martial, citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of Karua’s involvement in the trial.

In its response, LSK has stated its intention to take immediate action to resolve the situation. The society called for an urgent engagement with the Kenyan Attorney General to address the issue and ensure a fair, reciprocal agreement on cross-border legal practice.

LSK also threatened to suspend the admission of Ugandan lawyers to Kenya until Uganda demonstrates a commitment to fostering mutual legal cooperation.

“Kenya has been a leader in promoting regional cooperation in legal practice, but the lack of reciprocity from Uganda is unacceptable,” the LSK statement read. “We must either find a mutually beneficial, reciprocal arrangement or withdraw from one-sided agreements that undermine the dignity of Kenyan legal practice.”

Karua, a former Justice Minister in Kenya and one of the senior lawyers in the country, had earlier also expressed her dismay over the decision.

“The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,” Karua wrote in her protest letter to the Uganda Law Council. “Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.”

Karua noted that the decision not only attacked her personal integrity but also violated Besigye’s constitutional right to choose his legal representation.

She had hoped to lead a team of 50 lawyers in the case where Besigye and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.

The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.

December 11, 2024
Rwanda secures $25 million funding from ADFD for expansion of key water project

The project, located on the shores of Lake Mugesera in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province, is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s efforts to enhance water security.

The loan agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of the project in promoting economic and social progress.

“This agreement reflects ADFD’s commitment to financing infrastructure projects that promote economic and social progress in beneficiary countries. It also underscores our commitment to strengthening and advancing our strategic partnership with the Republic of Rwanda, contributing to the development of key sectors vital to the country’s growth,” he said.

The Karenge Water Treatment Plant project will expand transmission and distribution systems, ensuring clean and sustainable water supplies to critical areas in Rwanda. By incorporating advanced technologies, the initiative aims to improve the efficiency of water systems, address growing demand, and strengthen the nation’s water security.

Ambassador Mirenge expressed Rwanda’s appreciation for ADFD’s support, saying that cooperation with ADFD demonstrates the UAE’s steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable development globally.

“The expansion of the water transmission and distribution systems at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant is a critical initiative to achieve our national objectives of providing clean water to our population and developing robust and sustainable water infrastructure to meet the needs of communities,” the ambassador remarked.

The initiative is also expected to create jobs and elevate the quality of life for Rwandan citizens.

As part of a larger program to ensure Kigali’s self-sufficiency in water supply, the project will include the construction of a water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic meters, along with expanded distribution systems to key areas of the capital.

December 11, 2024
President Kagame advocates for youth-centered education reforms at AU forum

The forum, themed “Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa,” brought together African leaders to address key challenges in education and youth employment.

Kagame pointed to the vast potential of Africa’s growing youth population, describing it as a critical driver of economic growth.

“In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce,” he said.

“We cannot let this opportunity go to waste. This generation has the potential of becoming a powerful engine for growth and prosperity—not just for Africa, but for the rest of the world.”

The Rwandan Head of State stressed the need to equip young people with skills aligned with modern labour market demands.

“What we need to do is equip these young people with the skills and expertise to meet the demands of the labour market,” Kagame noted, highlighting the partnership with UNICEF for digital skills and connectivity as a promising model.

Kagame also emphasized the importance of increased investment in education, citing Rwanda’s efforts.

“In Rwanda, we have increased the share of education spending in our budget from 11% in the year 2020 to 17.7% in the year 2024,” he stated.

Beyond increased funding, he highlighted the importance of quality reforms, saying, “The focus should be on quality if we want to see long-term results. This means training and hiring better-qualified teachers, modernizing the curriculum, and encouraging critical thinking rather than rote memorization.”

He further urged African nations to take ownership of their education strategies, reducing dependence on external support.

“Effective partnerships should not be confused with outsourcing responsibility or leadership. It is not a question about being big or small or having sufficient resources; it is about making the right choices. This is well within Africa’s means,” Kagame asserted.

Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani in collaboration with the African Union and UNICEF, the forum aimed to explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children, improve learning outcomes, and prepare youth to tackle Africa’s challenges.

The president closed with a call to action, urging leaders to create opportunities that discourage risky migration in search of better prospects.

“As we speak, many young Africans are putting their lives in danger to go find better opportunities abroad. This is a sign that we need to do more to empower our youth,” he remarked.

“Africa is our common home, and we must ensure that every African has a future on this continent.”

The forum’s outcomes are expected to inform policies to revamp education systems and boost youth employability, strengthening Africa’s position in the global economy.

Among the leaders present at the forum were President Muhammadu Ghazouani of Mauritania, who hosted the event and currently chairs the African Union; President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria; and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and Ted Chaiban, Deputy Director of UNICEF were also in attendance.

December 11, 2024