Irembo, in a recent statement, indicated that the partnership aims at empowering local talent thereby propelling Rwanda to the forefront of digital innovation.
The two institutions are collaborating on an ongoing internship program that comprises 28 interns, 16 of whom are from the prestigious coding academy.
Irembo, responsible for building and maintaining the government’s one-stop service portal, said that the cohort of interns who joined the company in March 2024 is the largest so far.
The company praised the interns for the significant strides made over the last several months, which include building and testing more than 100 services on top of the IremboGov technology portal.
“Their efforts have substantially accelerated the delivery cadence of new services and further positioned IremboGov as the one-stop portal for government services,” the statement reads in part.
Irembo noted that the interns have also contributed to advancing the company’s AI initiatives through successful experimentations. These include chatbots to answer questions about IremboGov services, assistants to improve developer productivity, and natural language processing for analytics.
“The interns are cultivating valuable teamwork and problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment under the mentorship of Irembo’s seasoned engineers,” said the statement.
According to the company, the talent and skills shown by the interns reflect the high-quality education and training provided by RCA and the diverse expertise brought in through the professional internship program.
“Their work drives significant progress in Irembo’s projects, demonstrating the powerful synergy between academic learning, professional growth, and real-world application. This collaboration creates a dynamic and productive atmosphere, fostering innovation and excellence in all our initiatives,” Irembo noted.
Patrick Ndjientcheu, Chief Product and Engineering Officer at Irembo, affirmed that the ongoing partnership reflects shared vision to nurture the next generation of African tech peers.
“The interns’ achievements showcase their hard work, dedication, and the innovative spirit that drives us all. We are excited to continue this partnership, creating more opportunities for growth and innovation. Together, we are building a digitally empowered Rwanda,” Ndjientche stated.
Dr Papias Niyigena, Principal of Rwanda Coding Academy, also lauded the students’ contributions to Irembo’s Innovative projects.
He said the partnership highlights the strength of the institution’s curriculum and showcases students’ exceptional talent and potential.
“By collaborating with Irembo, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for our students to excel and drive technological advancements, ultimately contributing to Rwanda’s growth as a tech hub in Africa,” he said.
The mediation body was established to bring justice closer to the people and provide solutions to disputes without the need to go to court. Each mediation committee consists of seven volunteers at the Cell and Sector levels, known for their integrity and skill in impartially resolving disputes.
A report on the utilization of the 2023/2024 fiscal year budget indicates that mediators in the justice sector received 8,762 cases and successfully resolved more than 97% of them.
“To continue bringing justice closer to the people and to strengthen their role in resolving disputes themselves, mediators received 8,762 cases, of which 8,577, or 97.8%, were resolved, while 185 cases, or 2.2%, are still under review,” the report reads in part.
The mediation body was established in 2004 and has over the last two decades proved efficient in handling disputes in communities before they are escalated to the courts of law.
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A similar success rate was observed in the provision of legal aid services, where personnel in the Justice Bureaus acted on 4,922 out of 4,926 registered cases. This represents 99.9% of the cases received, with only four cases still pending.
The Justice Bureaus were established by the Ministry of Justice to assist citizens in accessing legal aid at no cost.
Found in every district, they are responsible for advising people on legal matters, advising Abunzi on legal procedures, monitoring and following up on their activities, coordinating the execution of court judgments, and providing legal assistance and representation in courts for poor and vulnerable people. They also handle issues related to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
In March 2024, Rwanda won a Commonwealth Award for Justice due to successful programs such as the establishment of the mediation committees and the IECMS (Integrated Electronic Case Management System), which facilitates access to justice services for citizens.
The Burundi Telecommunications Regulation and Control Agency (ACRT) has introduced new roaming tariffs, which it describes as “unique and competitive.” Mobile network operators are required to transparently communicate these tariffs for regional direct and roaming communications, and to provide detailed billing to ensure a reliable user experience.
“This will significantly reduce the costs of cross-border communications within the EAC,” stated ACRT in an official communiqué which took effect on August 1, 2024.
Burundi’s integration into the One Network Area is poised to impact both telecommunications and business operations positively. Hon. Andrea Aguer Ariik, EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Infrastructure, Productive, Social and Political Sectors, reaffirmed this.
“The entry of Burundi will reduce the high cost of mobile roaming charges in the region and strengthen the integration process because East Africans can now communicate more easily without fear of high billing charges on mobile calls whether at home or in another Partner State,” he remarked.
Ariik also highlighted the advantages for the business community, noting, “The ONA also promotes easier communication among the business community who have to span the entire region while transacting merchandise or services.”
This development is expected to facilitate the free movement of persons, workers, services, and capital, as outlined in the EAC Common Market Protocol.
With Burundi’s inclusion, the One Network Area now comprises six states: Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Federal Republic of Somalia, the latest members of the EAC, are yet to join this arrangement.
Ariik emphasized the importance of full participation, stating, “The onboarding of all eight partner states would be a big boost to our journey toward an integrated East Africa.”
The harmonized EAC roaming framework was developed and approved by the 30th Meeting of the Council of Ministers in 2014 and subsequently endorsed by the EAC Heads of State in February 2015.
This framework imposes price caps on roaming charges and calls for the removal of surcharges on cross-border telecommunications traffic originating and terminating within the East African Community.
As Burundi joins this transformative initiative, the prospect of reduced costs for calls and mobile data roaming charges across the region becomes a reality, significantly enhancing connectivity and integration within East Africa.
The prospect of labour pain, a shadow over the luminous joy of bringing forth new life, has long been a daunting spectre for expectant mothers. However, in the heart of Rwanda, a new promise is emerging; A promise of painless labour delivery, a gentle embrace of childbirth that seeks to alleviate the agony and accentuate the joy.
King Faisal Hospital and Clinique Bien Naître at Muhima are among the few sanctuaries of health and hope in Rwanda offering the gift of painless labour delivery.
While the specifics of its prevalence remain elusive, a steady truth stands tall: all referral hospitals in Rwanda, armed with skilled anaesthetists, are poised to offer this transformative experience. Even private health facilities are encouraged to follow suit.
Dr. Claude Nkundabagenzi, an obstetrician-gynaecologist and the visionary founder of Clinique Bien Naître, speaks with the gentle authority of one who has witnessed miracles.
“Painless labour delivery,” he explains, “is the art of minimizing or eliminating pain during childbirth, allowing mothers to embrace the arrival of their child with grace and serenity.”
This art encompasses a spectrum of techniques, from the medical marvels of epidural anaesthesia to the soothing embrace of water births and relaxation practices.
At the heart of this approach lies epidural anaesthesia, a beacon of hope for many. “The gold standard for painless childbirth remains epidural anaesthesia,” Dr. Nkundabagenzi remarks, his voice imbued with the confidence of experience.
This method, he elucidates, involves the precise administration of anaesthetic into the epidural space around the spinal cord, numbing the lower half of the body while keeping the mother awake, alert, and fully present in the moment of birth. It is a delicate balance of science and compassion, offering profound pain relief and a sense of control over the birthing process.
Yet, the journey to painless labour is not confined to epidurals alone. Spinal blocks, akin to their epidural counterparts, provide immediate and complete pain relief for shorter durations, often favoured for cesarean sections.
In rare instances, general anaesthesia steps in, enveloping the mother in a deep, restful sleep. While effective, it carries the weight of unconsciousness, a trade-off between pain relief and active participation in the birth.
Beyond the realm of medical interventions lies a tapestry of non-medical approaches, each thread woven with care and intention. The gentle caress of warm water in a birthing pool, the rhythmic patterns of Lamaze breathing, and the power of visualization form a mosaic of natural pain management techniques.
These methods empower women to reclaim their birthing experience, fostering a deep connection between body, mind, and the miracle of life.
The benefits of painless labour delivery ripple through the birthing process, touching both mother and child with their grace. For the mother, the reduction of pain and stress transforms the birthing room into a sanctuary of comfort and positivity.
“Reduced pain and stress, improved comfort and experience, better ability to participate,” Dr. Nkundabagenzi lists, each benefit a testament to the profound impact of this approach.
The emotional bonds forged in the crucible of a gentle birth extend into the postpartum period, easing recovery and enhancing the mother’s ability to nurture her newborn.
For the baby, the serenity of a mother free from the throes of pain creates a stable and nurturing environment. The steady rhythm of a heart unburdened by agony ensures a more abundant supply of oxygen, reducing the risk of complications and ushering new life into the world with calm assurance.
Yet, every rose has its thorns, and painless labour delivery is not without its risks and side effects. Commonly encountered are low blood pressure, itching, backache, and shivering.
Rarely, more severe complications like nerve damage or allergic reactions may arise.
“Most side effects of epidural anaesthesia are predictable and manageable,” Dr. Nkundabagenzi reassures, underscoring the importance of vigilant care and proper management.
The path to painless labour is paved with preparation and informed choices. Expectant mothers are encouraged to explore their options, attend childbirth classes, and engage in open dialogue with healthcare providers.
A flexible birth plan, crafted with care and supported by a dedicated birthing team, can transform fear into confidence, guiding mothers through the labyrinth of childbirth with grace.
In the broader landscape of Rwanda’s healthcare, the promise of painless labour is a beacon of hope, albeit one not yet universally accessible.
The nation’s public health insurance scheme, Mutuelle de Santé, does not yet cover the cost, a barrier for many. However, as resources grow and the tapestry of healthcare expands, there is hope that this gentle approach will become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s commitment to universal childbirth health coverage.
As Dr. Nkundabagenzi reflects on the journey of painless labour delivery, his words resonate with wisdom and compassion.
“By staying informed, preparing adequately, and maintaining open communication, expectant parents can make the experience as positive and comfortable as possible,” he says.
His vision, shared by many, is one where every mother can embrace childbirth with serenity, knowing that pain is not a requisite for bringing life into the world.
In the heart of Rwanda, the symphony of childbirth is being rewritten. The melodies of pain are giving way to the harmonious notes of painless labour, a testament to the power of medical innovation and human compassion.
And as each mother steps into the sacred dance of life, she does so with the promise of a gentle birth, where the joy of new beginnings shines brighter than ever before.
In a significant development, Rwanda’s Frederic Kwihangana was appointed as the speaker of the association. Kwihangana is a student at the University of Rwanda and serves as the president of the University of Rwanda Law Students Association (UR-LSA).
Gideon Mwanje, a 24-year-old law student from Nkumba University in Uganda, was sworn in as the first president of LSAEA. Mwanje’s election is a notable achievement, given his dual role as the attorney general of the Nkumba University guild government. The LSAEA, which unites law students’ associations from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, aims to promote collaboration and dialogue on legal issues across these nations.
Tanzania’s Samwel Ngelela, who was named general secretary, highlights the diverse representation within the new executive team. Esther Odipo Ayoo, president of the Kenya Law Students Association (KLSA), was also appointed as vice president of LSAEA.
The ceremonial swearing-in was conducted by Bernard Oundo, president of the Uganda Law Society (ULS) and former president of the East Africa Law Society (EALS). Oundo’s presence underscored the importance of the event, as he administered the oath to the new executive members, fulfilling the requirements of LSAEA’s constitution.
Oundo urged law students to embrace opportunities for cross-border legal practice, emphasizing the benefits of collaboration among emerging legal professionals in the region. He stressed the need for unity and joint efforts to build a strong regional legal community.
In his acceptance speech, President Mwanje expressed his commitment to fostering unity among law students across East Africa. He outlined plans to extend the association’s reach to include students from South Sudan, Burundi, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mwanje and his team are actively working to help these countries establish their own national law students’ associations, paving the way for their integration into LSAEA.
With Frederic Kwihangana’s appointment as speaker, Rwanda will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this newly established association, marking a promising beginning for regional legal collaboration and development.
In a statement issued on Saturday, August 3, 2024, the police disclosed that among those arrested in the recent operation were 18 drivers caught operating public service vehicles either without speed governors or with disconnected ones.
Four others were taken into custody for allegedly tampering with and disconnecting the speed governors in vehicles.
“Some of the arrested suspects include those who had disconnected the device, those who modified them to block its GPS, others had altered them in a way that it did not limit them to 60km per hour maximum speed, while others had set them above the speed limit,” Police spokesperson Boniface Rutikanga revealed.
He added that some drivers and vehicle owners override the system to switch the device on and off, especially when they notice traffic officers, and have installed switch buttons to help them control the device.
Rutikanga emphasized that speeding is one of the major causes of road accidents and related fatalities, noting, “Public vehicles, especially those with tampered speed governors, are frequently involved in accidents due to speeding.”
The officer issued a stern warning to drivers and mechanics against engaging in such dangerous practices that endanger lives. He confirmed that operations to enforce the speed governor order are ongoing.
“These continuous operations are in line with the implementation of the February 2015 Presidential Order relating to the installation of speed governors in public service and other commercial vehicles, to control the speed of vehicles, which is one of the leading causes of fatal accidents,” Rutikanga stated.
The police further explained the efficacy of the high-tech speed governor devices, saying, “The device enforces a strict 60 kilometers per hour speed limit and automatically reduces vehicle speed if an attempt to exceed it is made. It also has a storage computer which allows controllers or traffic officers to check the vehicle’s previous speed and detect any tampering.”
With these stringent measures, the police are determined to combat the tricks used by motorists to evade speed limits, ensuring safer roads for all.
Addressing a packed audience at the 100 Most Notable Africa Leadership and Excellence Summit on August 3, 2024, in Kigali, Dr. Nicaise Ndembi, Senior Advisor to the Africa CDC Director General, highlighted the critical need for systemic reforms in response to the unpredictable rise in these cases.
“The current rate of mpox spread is alarming and demands immediate action otherwise we could soon declare an outbreak,” Dr. Ndembi declared.
His remarks underscored a troubling trend in mpox cases. The outbreak has seen a dramatic increase in both confirmed cases and deaths over recent years. In December 2022, 13 countries reported 1,262 confirmed cases and 256 deaths.
By December 2023, these figures had risen sharply, with seven countries recording 1,664 confirmed cases and 739 deaths. Recent data from July 2024 indicates a further escalation, with 11 countries reporting 2,745 confirmed cases and 456 deaths.
“The crisis is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities within our public health systems and the urgent need for comprehensive reform.” Dr Ndembi cautioned.
He emphasized the continent’s broader health challenges, noting that Africa experiences over 160 outbreaks annually. The continent’s heavy reliance on imported medical supplies, including vaccines and diagnostic tools, further exacerbates these challenges.
The CDC estimates that health crises result in an annual productivity loss of $800 billion USD across Africa.
To address these issues, Ndembi called for significant improvements in several key areas.
“We need to strengthen our public health institutions to ensure they can effectively manage and respond to health emergencies,” he said.
He also highlighted the urgent need to expand the public health workforce, noting that Africa currently has only 1,200 epidemiologists, far below the 6,000 needed to adequately address public health concerns.
Enhancing regulatory mechanisms and boosting local manufacturing capabilities are also critical. Ndembi, who also doubles as a Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Prevention at the Institute of Human Virology University of Maryland revealed that that 30 vaccine manufacturing plants are under development across the continent, including in Rwanda.
“Investing in local production is essential for reducing our dependence on imports and improving our capacity to respond to health crises,” he stated.
The call for reform is not only a matter of addressing immediate health challenges but also preparing for future pressures.
Africa’s population is projected to grow from 1.4 billion today, to 2.5 billion by 2050, a factor that will exacerbate existing health issues. Climate change and ongoing conflicts, with 25 active conflicts reported on the continent, further complicate the situation.
Dr. Ndembi also highlighted the importance of equitable international partnerships.
“We sometimes reject grants from European countries because it comes with conditions that undermine our sovereignty. We need partnerships that are respectful and empowering,” he explained.
Rwanda’s proactive measures, including advancements in health infrastructure and vaccine manufacturing, were cited as positive examples of how countries can lead the way in addressing public health challenges.
“Rwanda’s initiatives demonstrate the potential for African countries to drive significant progress in public health,” Dr. Ndembi observed.
As Africa confronts these challenges, Ndembi’s call to action underscores the necessity of strengthening public health systems, expanding local production capabilities, and fostering respectful international collaborations.
“This is a pivotal moment for Africa’s health sector. Our response will shape the future of global health security and resilience.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains the epicentre of the outbreak, but cases have also been reported in Uganda, Ivory Coast, and Rwanda.
Recently the Ministry of Health confirmed that all required measures are in place to combat Mpox in case an outbreak is declared.
The scene was both vibrant and familiar. Some people carried baskets filled with gifts, a symbol of gratitude and communal sharing. The organizers seldom bring rounds of freshly boiled maize (a beloved traditional staple food), and crates of all kinds of drinks.
As we ate, discussions about the significance of the day revolved around how to honour our ancestors and the fruits of their labour, an appreciation and profound acknowledgement of the community’s collective efforts and the bounty provided by the land.
Anathalia Mukamusoni, a mother of three, dressed her family in colourful traditional attire, feels a growing sense of responsibility to welcome me and we strike a conversation. The significance of the day begins to take shape through the unfolding festivities and interactions.
She begins by explaining to me the depth of a communal spirit. She is so passionate about the government initiative of providing nutritious meals for children at school where parents are expected to take a leading role.
The genuine enthusiasm I encounter in her makes it clear that Umuganura is not only about celebrating the harvest but also about fostering community support for future generations.
Local leaders and the general public took to the microphone one by one sharing layers of insight into the day’s meaning. They explain that Umuganura is more than a feast; it’s a testament of unity and hard work.
“Together, we cultivate our fields, and together, we celebrate the fruits of our labour,” Pascal Niyigena, one of the village leaders proclaimed; words that resonated deeply with the the essence of communal achievement and solidarity.
People kept discussing dedication to community service, and quoted an ancient Rwandan proverb: “Umuhinzi n’umurinzi, ni bo bahesha igihugu ishema,” a phrase emphasizing the vital roles that farmers and protectors (such as soldiers, police, and other security personnel) play in upholding the pride and dignity of a nation through their hard work and dedication.
Others highlighted the value of diligence and security by working together and ensuring our safety, laying a strong foundation for future generations. These discussions further enriched my understanding of Umuganura’s broader significance.
As the day progressed, traditional dances and songs filled the air, celebrating Rwandan heritage and unity.
I watched Nyiransabimana’s children join the dances, and their laughter was a joyful testament to the occasion. The experience had evolved from mere observation to an immersive celebration of community values and shared heritage.
As the sun set, casting a serene twilight over my village home, the community gathering left a remarkable seal and a profound sense of connection and appreciation for the traditions that bind the community together.
My first physical attendance at Umuganura Day transformed my understanding of the event from a distant concept to a deeply felt experience.
Today, I sit with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound respect for the vibrant traditions that celebrate both the harvest and the strength of a community.
RGB reported that 4,223 places of worship, mostly churches, were closed immediately due to non-compliance with legal requirements and regulations governing faith-based organizations.
The inspection criteria included verifying that churches have registration documents issued by RGB, a cooperation agreement with the district for opening a branch, ensuring the church building meets local construction laws, and confirming that leaders possess appropriate academic qualifications in theology.
The faith-based organization’s closures continue nationwide, with 348 churches in Kigali City alone found to be non-compliant. These closures followed an inspection of approximately 700 churches to ensure they met legal requirements.
The Eastern Province has the highest number of closed churches, with 2,040 out of 3,736 inspected by August 1, 2024. Additionally, 427 unauthorised structures used for worship in the Eastern Province have also been closed.
The Governor of the Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa told IGIHE that religious leaders and churches should comply with RGB’s regulations and laws.
“Our advice during these times is to follow RGB’s regulations and requirements. They should think about the safety of their followers. You cannot go to a cave or a goat pen and expect to be safe,” he said.
In the Northern Province, 1,253 churches have been closed, including 288 in Burera, 144 in Gakenke, 318 in Gicumbi, 211 in Musanze, and 292 in Rulindo.
The Governor of the Southern Province, Kayitesi Alice, revealed to IGIHE that 582 churches in the province have been closed due to non-compliance. By press time, the exact number of affected churches in the Western Province could not be verified.
The Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, explained that the renewed effort to inspect churches is based on previous inspections from 2018, where certain requirements were not met by some.
“In recent days, we have seen escalating cases of people praying in prohibited places, putting their lives at risk. We have seen people praying in unsuitable places, and we wanted to check if all requirements have been implemented,” the minister stated.
He also explained that it is the responsibility of local authorities to ensure that activities carried out in the country are done legally and provide security for those involved. Rwanda Police spokesperson ACP Boniface Rutikanga told the media that many churches across the country were closed due to failure to ensure the safety of their attendees.
Key requirements for a church to be reopened once closed, include a vehicle and personal screening equipment, fire extinguishers and alarms, and noise control measures.
Regarding noise pollution, sounds from instruments and voices in the church should be regulated.
Rutikanga stated that no one outside the church should be inconvenienced, which is why the church must have soundproof provisions.
Churches must also have a spacious outdoor assembly area for emergency evacuations. This area should be paved in urban settings and a green space in rural locations.
Other requirements stipulated by the law and regulations governing faith-based organizations include that a parish-level church must be led by someone with a university degree in theology.
