The ceremony took place at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world.
The Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church, represents the Pope’s spiritual and administrative authority. It is a sovereign entity that oversees the global operations of the Church and conducts diplomatic relations with countries around the world.
Prior to the formal presentation of credentials, Ambassador Ngango engaged in important discussions with senior Vatican officials.
On Friday, December 6, 2024, he met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, for talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican, particularly in the areas of education and health. The fruitful discussions underscored the growing collaboration between the two institutions.
Additionally, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, Ambassador Ngango met with Monsignor Roberto Campisi, the Assessor for General Affairs, where he presented copies of his credentials.
The meeting laid the groundwork for continued diplomatic dialogue and cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican.
Ambassador Ngango resides in Geneva and also represents Rwanda in Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Switzerland, and other Geneva- and Vienna-based international organizations.
Addressing reports suggesting Kenya’s unpreparedness and the possibility of Rwanda stepping in as a replacement co-host, Murkomen stated that such claims are unfounded.
“The truth is that we are hosting CHAN from February 1 to February 28, 2025. While the schedule and team allocations are yet to be finalized, we are burning the midnight oil to ensure our facilities are ready,” Murkomen told Kenya’s NTV on Monday night, insisting that plans are in top gear to expedite the arrival of essential materials by air to meet the tight deadline.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by delays in infrastructure development, particularly at the Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, but assured the public that efforts are underway to meet the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) requirements.
“I receive updates three times a week from contractors, who have assured us they will do everything humanly possible to meet the deadline,” he stressed.
Murkomen also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to hosting CHAN and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), clarifying that the bids for the two tournaments are independent of each other.
“Unfortunately, some have conflated the two. For CHAN, we committed to providing two stadiums, and we are on track to fulfil this obligation,” he explained.
In response to reports claiming CAF’s dissatisfaction and the potential relocation of CHAN matches, Murkomen stated: “There has never been a discussion about shifting hosting rights from Kenya to any neighbouring country. CAF officials are in constant communication with us, and their feedback has been constructive. President Patrice Motsepe will visit Kenya next week to inspect progress, which underscores their support.”
Murkomen acknowledged Kenya’s historical struggles with sports infrastructure but framed the current situation as a wake-up call.
“We need nearly Ksh7 billion (about Rwf70 billion) to bring our facilities up to the required standards. Despite competing national priorities, we are mobilizing resources and working with contractors to ensure readiness,” he said.
The minister also praised CAF for their collaborative approach and urged Kenyans to remain optimistic and patriotic.
“This is a critical moment for our nation to reclaim its place as a leader in African sports. Hosting CHAN and AFCON will leave a lasting legacy for our sports infrastructure and inspire future generations,” he noted.
Murkomen’s reassurances come amid heightened public scrutiny and concerns over Kenya’s ability to deliver on its hosting commitments.
CHAN 2025 is scheduled to begin on February 1, 2025. CAF initially awarded co-hosting rights for CHAN 2025 to three countries from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) zone including Tanzania and Uganda.
With Kenya struggling to meet the necessary requirements, reports emerged over the weekend that Rwanda was being considered as a replacement co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenyan media reports indicate that CAF delegates visited Kenya last week and expressed dissatisfaction with the state of preparations. The delegates reportedly issued a deadline of December 31, 2024, for Kenya to complete the required work or lose its hosting rights.
Currently, Kenya has no CAF-approved stadiums for the tournament. Kasarani Stadium, one of the proposed venues, is only 30% complete, while Nyayo Stadium lags even further behind.
In contrast, Rwanda’s infrastructure is well-prepared. Stadiums such as Amahoro Stadium, Kigali Pelé Stadium, and Huye Stadium all meet CAF standards and are capable of hosting CHAN matches. Rwanda previously hosted the entire tournament in 2016, demonstrating its capability.
The program, set to be implemented in partnership with [Gate Consulting Group->https://gateconsulting.rw/], was unveiled during WIFR’s end-of-year dinner in Kigali on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The event was organised to reflect on and celebrate the organisation’s achievements over the past year.
Dozens of representatives from leading institutions across banking, insurance, and related sectors attended the glamorous and highly interactive dinner. Organisations represented included Bank of Kigali, NCBA, BPR, I&M Bank, EcoBank, Old Mutual, ZEP-Re, One Acre Fund, Rwanda Finance, Access to Finance Rwanda, Urwego Bank, Mayfair Insurance, and Old Mutual among others.
Speaking at the event, Salma Nkusi, CEO of Gate Consulting Group, praised the partnership with WIFR, saying, “It was an easy collaboration because we both shared the same vision of supporting women’s development.”
According to Nkusi, the mentorship program is designed to bridge leadership gaps by overcoming existing barriers.
“While formal education is invaluable, this program opens up opportunities for employees to network, learn from leaders, and navigate challenges, all while becoming more strategic about their growth,” Nkusi stated.
Nkusi’s decision to pursue a mentorship program, dubbed ‘LiftHerUp’ two years ago, was influenced by her personal career journey as a woman and the valuable lessons she has learned over the years.
“I felt like what I missed, I really want to give it to younger women. One of our key goals is to shift mindsets, helping women realize that they have a voice and can contribute meaningfully at the table,” added the CEO.
In the new partnership, at least 20 women from WIFR’s membership will be onboarded into the nine-month program starting in March 2025. They will benefit from carefully crafted activities and interventions aimed at preparing them for career growth, unlocking their full potential, and building a pipeline of future women leaders.
According to a 2023 report from the World Bank, labour force participation in Rwanda stands at 55.1% for women and 66.4% for men, reflecting a gender gap in employment rates.
Nkusi acknowledged the government’s efforts in increasing women’s participation in the workforce and emphasized the need to boost the number of women in key decision-making positions, particularly in privately owned institutions, where the gap remains huge.
Lina Higiro, the Founding chair of WIFR, encouraged attendees to enrol in the mentorship program as mentors or mentees to build meaningful connections for their career growth.
“Opportunity dances with those already on the dance floor,” quipped Higiro, who currently serves as Regional Head of Business Operations at NCBA Group.
Sylvain Nsabimana, Senior Finance Manager at NCBA Bank Rwanda PLC, also encouraged women to take up the challenge. Having mentored young professionals at NCBA, he believes strongly in the benefits of mentorship in scaling and deepening the sector.
“Young women should step up and take on leadership roles, as they are fully capable of leading institutions,” said Nsabimana, who helps manage WIFR’s finances and accounts.
Meanwhile, during the Saturday dinner, 16 young women were recognized for completing courses undertaken in partnership with different institutions including [Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI)->https://www.cisi.org].
Since its launch in 2023, the foundation has extended scholarships to about 50 staff members in the banking sector.
Clarrise Mukantambara, a Loan Officer at BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, expressed her immense joy after successfully completing the scholarship course.
“Thanks to Women in Finance Rwanda and its co-founder Lina Higiro, I’ve had the opportunity to enhance my skills and grow professionally. The knowledge I’ve gained is invaluable, and I’m excited to apply it in my career,” shared Mukantambara.
Access to Finance Rwanda CEO, Iyacu Jean Bosco, announced that AFR, part of the [FSD network->https://fsdafrica.org/], will support the WIFR Research project on the State of Women in the Financial Sector in collaboration with the Central Bank (BNR). He emphasized that this initiative would be the first of its kind in Africa. As part of WIFR’s Data Pillar, the research findings will inform policy-making and enhance accountability in the sector.
Building on this momentum, Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers Association, commended the foundation’s efforts and expressed a strong commitment to continued partnership.
The evening’s program also highlighted the work of Belinda Bwiza, co-founder of WIFR, who spearheaded the Mentorship Pillar, further advancing the organization’s mission to empower women in the financial sector.
As a gesture of gratitude, the WIFR leadership extended appreciation tokens to key partners, including the heads of the Rwanda Bankers Association, Access to Finance Rwanda, and IGIHE, for their unwavering support. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali, presented the tokens, while Amanda Musiimire served as the MC for the event.
With nearly 15 member institutions signing the WIFR Gender Diversity Charter—a framework for measuring and monitoring progress annually—the Rwandan financial sector now leads the way in promoting accountability for gender equality.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Continental Forum on Education and Youth Employability in Nouakchott, Mauritania, focused on strengthening partnerships in key areas, including education, defence, and security.
The two Heads of State also discussed opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and infrastructure development.
President Kagame arrived in Nouakchott on Monday evening to participate in the forum, organized by the African Union in partnership with UNICEF.
Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who also serves as the current African Union Chairperson, the forum is being held under the theme, “Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa.”
The forum will focus on transforming Africa’s education systems to meet the demands of the 21st century. Key discussions will cover curriculum reform, teacher development, digital technologies in education, inclusive education, and financing mechanisms for educational transformation.
The conference aims to identify best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children and improve overall learning outcomes.
With the African Union’s theme for 2024 focused on education, the forum will also explore strategies to build resilient education systems that prepare African youth to tackle the continent’s challenges and seize its economic potential.
Officially launched on December 6, 2024, the modern facility is located in Gasabo District’s Kimihurura Sector, Rugando area, near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre.
As Rwanda continues to grow as a regional hub, investors are leveraging opportunities to foster development in key sectors such as tourism. T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.
T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.
The hotel also offers airport transfer services for international guests, ensuring convenience and seamless experiences.
Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a sauna and massage centre, a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Daniel Niyomugabo, the General Manager of T-Stone Apartment Hotel, emphasised the hotel’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.
“Our unique value lies in delivering quick and high-quality services. While we acknowledge competition in the area, we are set apart by the quality of our offerings and our prime location. We aim to create a standout experience, ensuring efficient and friendly service unlike any other.”
Niyomugabo added that the hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.
Founder and CEO Muhirwa Gashugi expressed the company’s ambition to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to position the country as a premier destination in Africa.
For reservations or inquiries, T-Stone Apartment Hotel can be reached via:
According to Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.
In a detailed response dated December 9, 2024, Karua expressed dismay over the council’s decision, calling it an attack on her integrity and a disregard for Besigye’s constitutional right to legal representation of his choice. She criticized the council for failing to request additional documentation rather than outright rejecting her application.
“The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,” Karua wrote. “Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.”
Karua also dismissed allegations that she misrepresented herself as a practising advocate in Uganda during a December 2, 2024, court appearance. She clarified that she attended the session as a visiting jurist alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who introduced her to the court as awaiting approval for her temporary licence.
The rejection comes at a critical moment in Besigye’s trial, where he 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.
The next hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, following a request by Besigye’s defence team for an adjournment to allow time for Karua’s application to be processed.
Karua’s protest letter also highlighted what she described as “disparaging and personalized aspersions” on her character by the council. She urged the council to exercise its discretion under the Advocates Act judiciously and to respect regional cooperation principles, particularly within the East African Community.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous arrests and trials over his activism. His current trial has further heightened tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.
Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister, was seen as a significant boost to the defence team, which includes over 50 lawyers and representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).
The disease, which surfaced in late October 2024, primarily affects malnourished children under five years old and presents symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body ache.
The outbreak has severely impacted nine health areas within the remote Panzi health zone of Kwango Province, with Tsakala Panzi, Makitapanzi, and Kanzangi reporting the majority of cases. The outbreak coincides with the DRC’s ongoing battle against an mpox outbreak.
In a statement on Sunday, December 8, 2024, WHO said the remote and rural nature of Panzi health zone, compounded by the rainy season, has created significant logistical barriers.
“The area is rural and remote, with access further hindered by the ongoing rainy season,” WHO noted.
The health zone has no functional laboratory, requiring samples to be sent to Kinshasa for testing, further delaying diagnosis.
Efforts to pinpoint the cause of the illness are underway, with potential factors including malaria, measles, influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Laboratory testing is being expedited to confirm or rule out these possibilities.
The outbreak has been worsened by malnutrition and food insecurity in the region.
To combat the crisis, rapid response teams (RRTs) from provincial and national levels have been deployed, equipped with medications and diagnostic tools. These teams are conducting active case searches, investigating community deaths, and engaging with local populations to strengthen awareness and preventive measures.
The WHO highlighted that “infection prevention and control measures are being reinforced,” with health workers receiving training and supplies to reduce transmission risks.
Surveillance efforts have also intensified, with data collection and community-based monitoring helping to track the outbreak’s dynamics.
While local risks remain high, WHO has assessed the regional and global risk as low. However, the proximity to Angola has raised concerns about potential cross-border transmission, prompting calls for enhanced coordination between the two countries.
The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.
The growth propelled Kenya to the second spot among Rwanda’s top import partners, contributing 19.29% of total imports.
Meanwhile, Tanzania experienced a notable decline, with its exports to Rwanda plummeting by 39.04% month-on-month to $57.38 million, representing just 9.11% of Rwanda’s total imports.
Tanzania’s sharp drop from its previously dominant position indicates a significant shift in Rwanda’s import landscape, as it has long been Rwanda’s primary partner due to its geographical proximity and the role of the Dar es Salaam port.
Kenya’s performance has been attributed to increased trade in key commodities such as food products and manufactured goods, sectors in which it is highly competitive. By contrast, Tanzania’s decline reflects reduced trade volumes in categories like crude materials and other traditional export items.
China remains Rwanda’s top import partner, supplying $142.08 million worth of goods in October 2024. However, Kenya’s surge underscores its growing role in the regional trade landscape.
The shift also highlights Kenya’s robust trade infrastructure and strong bilateral relations with Rwanda. Enhanced trade agreements, improved logistics, and competitive pricing are likely contributing factors to Kenya’s rise.
Other notable import partners include India, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.
In the export market, the United Arab Emirates led as the largest destination, accounting for 67.44% of exports, despite a 15% month-on-month decline. Other notable export partners include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luxembourg, and Uganda.
In October 2024, Rwanda’s trade deficit stood at $363.65 million, reflecting a 7.37% decrease compared to September 2024 but an 11.89% increase compared to October 2023.
Rwanda’s total exports displayed a mixed performance during the same month. While exports declined by 12.29% month-on-month, they showed a remarkable 45.49% increase year-on-year. Domestic exports followed a similar pattern, with a 15.75% month-on-month decline but an impressive 61.81% rise year-on-year. Meanwhile, re-exports recorded modest growth, increasing by 1.63% month-on-month and 8.87% year-on-year.
Among export sectors, animal and vegetable oils, fats, and waxes stood out with exceptional growth, registering a 42.43% increase month-on-month and a staggering 6347.55% increase year-on-year. Similarly, miscellaneous manufactured articles performed strongly, growing by 23.76% month-on-month and 57.26% year-on-year.
On the imports side, total imports experienced a slight decline of 1.92% month-on-month but rose significantly by 23.99% year-on-year. The food and live animals category contributed notably to this growth, increasing by 19.21% month-on-month and 22.00% year-on-year. Additionally, chemicals and related products exhibited robust performance, with imports rising by 21.42% month-on-month and 35.15% year-on-year.
In a statement on Sunday night, the FIA, the governing body of motorsport, announced that the endeavour stems from a penalty imposed on the Dutch driver for indiscreet remarks made during a Singapore Grand Prix press conference in September.
As part of the sanction, Verstappen will engage in “work of public interest” during his visit to Kigali for the FIA Prize-Giving Gala, where he will collect his fourth consecutive Formula One World Championship trophy.
The 2024 FIA Awards ceremony, scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, will mark the first time the event is held in Rwanda.
The occasion will also provide a platform for Verstappen’s involvement in a development program organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).
Verstappen will assist junior competitors in the program, showcasing an FIA Affordable Cross Car—a locally built vehicle designed using FIA blueprints.
The 27-year-old’s season has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Verstappen clinched his fourth title in Las Vegas, solidifying Red Bull’s dominance in the championship.
However, he faced scrutiny after receiving a 10-second penalty in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix following a first-lap collision with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.
Despite his fiery on-track demeanour, Verstappen expressed regret over the incident, stating: “I apologized to Oscar. I never want to crash with anyone, especially not someone like Oscar, who is a great guy.”
Now, in Kigali, Verstappen’s efforts will focus on promoting motorsport accessibility and nurturing future talent—a meaningful contribution to the sport that has defined his illustrious career.
The petition stems from allegations of Besigye’s abduction by Ugandan security personnel in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, with claims of Kenyan authorities’ complicity.
Prominent lawyers Andrew Karamagi, Godwin Toko, and Anthony Odur lodged the petition, challenging the legality of the abduction plus Besigye and Lutale’s subsequent trial in a Ugandan military court.
The petitioners argue that the abduction and trial of the two suspects who were in Nairobi to attend the launch of a book by Kenyan lawyer and politician Martha Karua violate international and regional legal standards, including the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community (EAC). They condemn the use of military tribunals for trying civilians, asserting that it undermines judicial independence and fairness.
The lawyers contend that the abductions tarnish Kenya’s image as a democratic safe haven, accusing its authorities of failing to prevent or investigate the incident, thereby jeopardizing regional stability and the rule of law.
The General Court Martial in Makindye, Uganda, where Besigye and Lutale face charges of undermining national security and illegal possession of firearms, has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Observers argue that the military court lacks impartiality and jurisdiction over civilians.
The latest developments come days after Besigye and Lutale were remanded to Luzira Prison for an additional eight days on December 2, 2024. The adjournment followed a request by their defence team, seeking time to secure a temporary practicing certificate for Karua, who is expected to lead the defence.
The next court date in Uganda has been set for Tuesday, December 10, 2024, while the EACJ proceedings are anticipated to gain momentum in the coming weeks.
