British publication The Sun reported on Sunday, November 17, 2024, that allies of the 47th President of the United States had confirmed plans to adopt the scheme originally drawn up by the former British Tory government but cancelled by Sir Keir Starmer when he took over as Prime Minister in July.
According to sources, the incoming administration’s plans include sending illegal migrants to Rwanda and a number of other countries.
“Trump campaigned on a promise to crack down on illegal immigration—and he is determined to stick to it,” a source close to Trump’s camp was quoted as saying.
“His team is looking at the Rwanda scheme. He is considering deporting illegal migrants to Rwanda and other countries so they cannot stay on American soil.”
The UK-Rwanda migration scheme, officially known as the “UK-Rwanda Asylum Partnership Agreement,” was announced by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in April 2022. Under the scheme, the UK government proposed sending individuals who had arrived in the UK illegally, particularly those who crossed the English Channel in small boats, to Rwanda for processing their asylum claims.
The UK government had agreed to pay Rwanda £370 million over five years to relocate illegal immigrants there. Part of the money was used to build the Hope Hostel, where the migrants were supposed to stay. The building remains unoccupied and could potentially be used by another country.
During his campaign, Trump promised to address illegal immigration in the U.S. by deporting immigrants who are in the country illegally and restricting legal immigration. The Republican accused the Democratic administration led by Joe Biden of being too lenient on border control, leading to an influx of illegal immigration through the U.S.-Mexico border.
Notably, between January 2021 and September 2024, U.S. authorities recorded an astonishing 10 million “encounters” with migrants believed to be attempting to cross into the country illegally.
Besides the U.S., another country under pressure to adopt a similar scheme to the UK and Rwanda is Germany.
Seasoned German Parliamentarian Alexander Throm had in July urged the government to utilize the preparatory efforts undertaken by the UK to enhance their own plans.
The spokesperson for Germany’s center-right CDU/CSU faction said since Rwanda was ready to work with European countries on migration cooperation, the termination of the UK deal means more “capacity” for Germany.
“We should stick to the plan and make use of the preparations our British partners made for it,” the Member of the German Parliament for Heilbronn told a local publication. He was referring to the statement by the Government of Rwanda that it was ready to find solutions to the global migration crisis, despite the abandonment of the UK-Rwanda scheme by Starmer’s administration.
Speaking at the 17th annual Unity Club Forum, the Head of State reflected on the country’s history, including the Genocide against the Tutsi, and stressed the need for Rwandans to preserve their identity at all costs.
“Our history defines our identity as Rwandans. Whether you embrace it or not, your essence remains. Being Rwandan is an indelible part of you. You might choose to renounce it, adopt another nationality, become a neighbor, or even a distant foreigner—perhaps a European or an American—and obtain their passport.
“You have the right to feel that way. However, upon reflection, one should remind others that if you are Rwandan, you are Rwandan. Additional identities are possible, but do not erase your native roots,” President Kagame stated.
The Unity Club was founded on February 28, 1996, by First Lady Madam Jeannette Kagame. Initially, the club brought together the spouses of Cabinet members to promote cohesion among them, foster unity and peace, and contribute to the socio-economic development of Rwanda in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. On March 8, 2007, marking its 10th anniversary, the club expanded its membership to include associate members, consisting of the spouses of active members.
President Kagame noted that the club had proven effective in addressing the problems faced by Rwandan society after the genocide.
“Unity Club was established during a period of significant challenges, as people sought solutions to the issues presented by our history. It emerged as one of the many strategies implemented to address these problems. The idea was to bring together individuals, particularly ministers and their spouses, to foster unity,” he remarked.
He emphasized the need to continue the transformation momentum that groups like Unity Club have brought about.
“When people face challenges like ours or have experienced a history similar to what we have gone through, there must be transformation. We must change in our hearts and in the way we do things. That is what is essential and fundamental, so that the history that once defined us disappears, fades away, and vanishes,” he added.
“We must take actions that clearly show everyone that Rwanda is no longer what it was 30 years ago; look at what they [Rwandans] say, look at what they do, and see how they are transforming the lives of their fellow Rwandans. This is critical and cannot be overlooked. Even today, if you search the internet, you will still find people speaking ill of Rwanda and its leaders, distorting everything to make it appear negative.”
He encouraged Rwandans to always strive for unity, leave a positive identity, and transform any negative beliefs that others may hold about Rwanda.
“When people unite, like what Unity Club represents, unity reflects a broader goal for the entire country. The country should be like Unity Club. When falsehoods are spread or bad things are said or done to Rwanda, if people are united, driven by the same purpose and the determination to ask, ‘Why? Why do people portray us like this? Why do we allow such things to define us?’ Then all those insults and lies become meaningless.”
“There are places in the world where people know Rwanda well. They understand it, having followed the history of the past 30 years, seen where we came from, and observed how we continue to make progress. But there are still places where Rwanda is known as the Rwanda of more than 30 years ago, a country of killers. We still bear that stain.
“As Rwandans, we committed the unforgivable, and that bad name, that stain, will stay with us for a long time because what is written in history and books cannot be erased. But we can redeem the tragedy of our past by transforming the country and the lives of its people. That is the struggle we are fighting today.”
Since then, Sudan has never been the same, as this devastating war has caused extensive damage. In 2023, the economy shrank by 40%, and it’s expected to further decline by 28% this year.
The government is also in crisis, with its revenues falling by 80%, and international trade dropping by 28%, while total damages exceed $200 billion.
Aside from economic losses, people have also faced severe impacts. Over 100,000 people have lost their lives, and more than 11 million, nearly 30% of the population, have been displaced internally.
Over three million have sought refuge outside Sudan, mainly in neighbouring countries, including Rwanda.
In total, about 4,000 Sudanese live in Rwanda, including refugees. Among them are around 1,400 students and investors whose investments in Rwanda amount to $10 million (over RWF 13 billion).
In a press briefing on Wednesday, Sudan’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Khalid Musa Dafalla Musa, expressed gratitude to the Rwandan government for its welcoming policy for Africans, including those facing hardship like Sudanese citizens.
He stated, “I want to thank the Rwandan government and President Paul Kagame for his policy of welcoming all Africans, especially those from Sudan. We currently have around 4,000 Sudanese nationals here.”
Ambassador Dafalla explained the reasons why Sudanese are attracted to investing in Rwanda.
“The reasons include investment opportunities. It’s an easy country to do business in, with friendly citizens and security, all factors investors consider when choosing where to invest.”
He added that Sudan has a strong relationship with Rwanda, especially since Rwanda’s forces contributed to restoring peace in regions like Darfur, where they left a positive legacy for their respect for the law.
He emphasized that the strong relations between the two countries will be beneficial when the war ends in Sudan.
“The strong relationship we have with Rwanda will help us in the future as we work towards building peace and security.”
He stressed, “When the war is over, we will need to collaborate with Rwandan institutions to learn how they rebuilt the country after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.”
“We look forward to returning to Rwanda to study how you addressed justice issues, built a resilient Constitution, reintegrated former soldiers, and fostered a strong sense of national unity. The lessons drawn from your history will be invaluable for our future.”
He also expressed optimism about the Sudanese military’s performance on the battlefield, saying, “The government has regained control of at least 70% of Khartoum, as RSF lacks the support of the Sudanese people.”
He urged that RSF be labelled as a terrorist organization due to acts of killing unarmed civilians, raping women, and other atrocities.
So far, 300 hospitals and medical facilities in Sudan have been rendered inoperable, severely reducing the country’s healthcare capacity. Many schools have been attacked, with others being used by RSF as bases.
{{Reasons for the war driving Sudan into crisis
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Ambassador Dafalla Musa pointed out that “RSF started this war for two main reasons. First, to carry out a coup d’état and take control of the country for their economic interests.”
He added, “Second, they’re being used as a tool by foreign countries, hiring mercenaries from countries like Libya. They are driven by other foreign countries with interests in the region.”
He continued, saying, “Another significant reason for this war is to change the demographics of Darfur, wanting to turn it into an Arab-majority area by expelling African ethnic groups and resettling Arab communities.”
Darfur is one of the resource-rich regions in Sudan.
Ambassador Dafalla said the ongoing atrocities constitute genocide.
“These acts include killing large numbers of unarmed civilians, without any reason except to kill them. Evidence of mass graves of civilians has been found, as well as sexual violence against women and children.”
Regarding women, he added, “We even have reports of women committing suicide after being raped. This is part of their plan to change Darfur’s population.”
Aside from killing citizens with weapons, RSF has also been accused of poisoning water supplies.
“They engage in the barbaric act of poisoning drinking water, leading to more deaths. They’re using various methods to kill people who are unarmed and not involved in the war. This constitutes both war crimes and genocide.”
“They are using starvation as a weapon, preventing people from receiving aid, which they steal. This tactic is also used to intimidate civilians into joining RSF. They’re even using civilians for military operations, which is against international law.”
{{Foreign aid exacerbating the situation
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Ambassador Khalid Musa Dafalla openly stated that some countries continue to support RSF.
“There are regional countries supporting this war, including the United Arab Emirates, RSF’s primary backer. Chad is also used as a transit point for military supplies to RSF, helping the group continue the war. Without this weapon supply, the war would not go on.”
He noted that in the past six months, RSF has received 145 planes carrying weapons and transporting wounded fighters for treatment in the UAE.
RSF, he added, is also being supported by over 50,000 mercenaries “paid in foreign currency.”
{{AU’s response questioned
}}
The ambassador also criticized the African Union’s response, noting Sudan was removed from the AU.
“The African Union lacks the political will to help resolve this issue. We don’t believe that neutrality is the best approach to solving this issue. The best solution is for the AU to take the side of truth.”
He stated that the only way for Sudan to regain peace is to have a unified army and respect the signed agreements.
Both parties signed the “Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect the Civilians of Sudan,” committing to safeguard civilians. This agreement was signed in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on May 11, 2023.
Ambassador Dafalla said, “We call on RSF to respect the agreement it signed with the government, which requires RSF to withdraw its forces from civilian infrastructure and relocate them to designated areas. Sadly, this agreement is not being followed.”
However, he noted that those responsible for war crimes should face justice.
He concluded, “During the transitional period, Sudanese people will have the opportunity to choose their preferred governance system through elections, and this period will be led by the current government in Sudan.”
“Moreover, those involved in all these atrocities, including genocide, must be held accountable and punished for the crimes committed against the people of Sudan.”
We bring you top headlines, breaking developments, government updates, and trending topics to provide a comprehensive view of the issues that matter most.
{{Rwanda unveils climate finance strategy at COP29 to combat climate challenges
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At COP29, Rwanda introduced its ambitious Climate and Nature Finance Strategy, a multi-sectoral approach to address climate change’s severe impacts.
Teddy Mugabo, CEO of the Rwanda Green Fund, highlighted Rwanda’s vulnerability, citing $300 million in climate-related losses in 2022 and over $415 million in damage from flash floods in a single day in May 2023.
Mugabo emphasized the urgent need for sustainable development, warning that inaction could lead to GDP losses of 5-7% annually.
The strategy aims to position Rwanda as a sustainable finance hub, leveraging the Kigali International Financial Center (KIFC) to attract green finance investments. Key components include collaboration between the Environment and Finance Ministries, the Green Fund, and private sector partners.
Innovative financing mechanisms, like blended finance through the IREME Invest facility, have already raised $260 million to support green projects. Mugabo called for global collaboration, underscoring Rwanda’s commitment to a climate-resilient, carbon-neutral future by 2050.
{{Ugandan gov’t ordered to compensate journalists assaulted by the military with Shs150m
}}
The Ugandan High Court has ordered the government to pay Shs150 million in compensation to journalists Timothy Murungi and Henry Sekanjako, who were assaulted by Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) soldiers in 2021.
The journalists were covering a protest linked to opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi’s petition to the UN Human Rights Office when they were attacked. Murungi and Sekanjako, working for New Vision, suffered physical and psychological injuries, with each awarded Shs75 million for the harm endured.
The court ruled that the assault violated the journalists’ constitutional rights, including freedom of the press, dignity, and protection from torture. Supported by the Uganda Journalists Association, the case highlighted the broader issue of press suppression.
While the Attorney General defended the military’s actions, the court held the government responsible, condemning the assault as “inhumane, cruel, and degrading.” However, the court declined to mandate a public apology from the military.
{{Russia writes off $20 Billion in African debt
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Russia has written off $20 billion in debts owed by African countries, redirecting these funds towards development projects.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, also the special envoy for the Middle East and Africa, highlighted that this debt relief enables the implementation of socio-economic projects within African nations.
The announcement followed the First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, held on November 9-10 in the Sirius Federal Territory on Russia’s Black Sea coast.
The event drew around 1,500 delegates, including more than 40 African ministers. Through debt forgiveness and a refinancing program, Russia aims to strengthen its support for African countries’ socio-economic growth.
{{Donald Trump has appointed leaders in key administrative posts
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Donald Trump has announced key positions in his incoming administration as he prepares to return to the White House. These appointments highlight Trump’s focus on loyal allies and experienced figures, poised to steer U.S. policy in defence, diplomacy, and national security.
On Wednesday, November 13, Trump officially made a pick for one of his most important Cabinet positions, choosing Rep. Matt Gaetz as attorney general. Here are the major names selected for key roles in the Trump administration
{{White House Chief of Staff – Susie Wiles:}} As Trump’s former campaign manager, Wiles becomes the first woman to hold this role, centralizing control over the administration’s operations and strategy.
{{Secretary of State – Sen. Marco Rubio: }} Rubio’s appointment places him in charge of U.S. foreign policy, influencing international alliances and diplomatic efforts worldwide.
{{Attorney General – Rep. Matt Gaetz:}} Overseeing the Department of Justice, Gaetz will handle federal law enforcement and legal policy, making him a powerful figure in U.S. justice administration.
S{{ecretary of Defense – Pete Hegseth:}} A veteran and media personality, Hegseth will command the Pentagon, overseeing military policy and national defence.
{{National Security Adviser – Rep. Mike Waltz:}} This role grants Waltz direct influence over security strategy and crisis management, shaping responses to both domestic and global threats.
{{Director of National Intelligence – Tulsi Gabbard: }} Gabbard will oversee the U.S. intelligence community, coordinating efforts across agencies to protect national security.
{{Secretary of Homeland Security – Gov. Kristi Noem: }} Noem will oversee domestic security, focusing on issues such as border control, immigration, and counter-terrorism efforts.
{{CIA Director – John Ratcliffe:}} Returning to a familiar role, Ratcliffe will lead intelligence gathering operations crucial to national defense and international intelligence.
{{US Ambassador to the United Nations – Rep. Elise Stefanik:}} As the U.N. ambassador, Stefanik will represent U.S. interests on the global stage, impacting international diplomacy and humanitarian policies.
{{US Ambassador to Israel – Gov. Mike Huckabee: }} Huckabee’s role involves key decisions in U.S.-Israel relations, influencing policy in the Middle East and supporting U.S. allies in the region.
{{Elephant mother heartbreakingly sacrifices one baby to save the other from Lions
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In Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, a distressing scene highlights the strength and resilience of motherhood, an elephant matriarch was forced into a tragic choice when her newborn twins were threatened by a pride of lions.
Isolated in open terrain, without the support of a herd, she faced an unthinkable decision: attempt to save both calves, risking all their lives, or focus on protecting one to ensure its survival.
The mother elephant charged repeatedly at the lions, using every ounce of her strength to fend off the attackers. Despite her fierce efforts, one twin was ultimately snatched by the pride, a loss captured on video that conveys the brutal realities of life in the wild.
Wildlife experts noted the resilience of the matriarch, who, though unable to save both calves, exhibited remarkable courage in the face of overwhelming odds.
Dangote Refinery is in discussions with eight African countries including South Africa, Angola, Niger Republic, Chad, Burkina Faso and Central African Republic and Namibia for fuel supply deals.
This development comes after Ghana indicated interest in purchasing fuel from the refinery, with projections to save $400 million monthly on costly imports from Europe.
The discussions were described as being at an advanced stage and, if successful, the Lagos-based refinery will have expanded its reach across the African continent.
In September 2024, Dangote Group chairman Aliko Dangote stated that the refinery will meet the demand for petrol, diesel, and other products across Sub-Saharan Africa, pledging high-quality fuel that aligns with global standards.
However, pricing disputes with Nigerian petroleum marketers, who argue that the refinery’s petrol prices are high, have created challenges. As the refinery reaches full capacity and negotiates competitive pricing, local marketers may find incentives to shift toward domestic procurement.
{{Suicide bombing shakes Brazil’s Three Powers Plaza, leaving attacker dead
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A suicide bombing struck Brazil’s Three Powers Plaza in Brasília, causing evacuations and halting government proceedings. The attack, which took place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, evening, resulted in the death of the attacker, Francisco Wanderley Luiz, 59, who was identified as the sole casualty.
Two explosions occurred around 7:30 pm local time; one outside the Supreme Federal Court near the prominent ‘Lady Justice’ statue and another from a parked car close to the Chamber of Deputies, the lower house of parliament.
The suspect, originally from Santa Catarina, had previously issued threats against politicians and Supreme Court justices on social media. In 2020, Luiz had run unsuccessfully for city council in Rio do Sul, receiving only 98 votes.
Authorities responded quickly, with Brasília’s Federal District Governor Ibaneis Rocha labeling it a suicide attack. The blast has led to heightened security, with ongoing investigations into Luiz’s motives and any potential connections.
The comprehensive report, a collaborative effort between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank, highlights the country’s significant economic achievements and presents recommendations to sustain growth in alignment with the second National Strategy for Transformation (NST-2).
Rwanda has shown impressive economic resilience, with GDP growth averaging 7.4% annually between 2000 and 2023. This growth has been accompanied by improvements in social indicators, including life expectancy nearing 70 years, enhanced healthcare access, and expanded educational attainment.
The CEM highlights opportunities for Rwanda to build on these achievements by expanding private sector engagement, strengthening human capital, and enhancing agricultural resilience—critical drivers to sustain and accelerate Rwanda’s path toward high, sustainable growth.
The report serves as a roadmap to address current economic challenges and seize emerging opportunities across key sectors, including private investment, education, agriculture, and climate resilience. It provides policymakers, stakeholders, and development partners with actionable insights to support the country’s ambitious growth and inclusivity goals.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, affirmed that Rwanda’s impressive progress over the past years has laid a solid foundation for economic growth and social well-being.
“To achieve the ambitious targets set in NST-2, we must now prioritize enhancing productivity, fostering private sector engagement, and investing in our people. The CEM provides a strategic framework to address these priorities, guiding us toward a more inclusive and resilient economy,” the minister stated.
Key findings from the CEM underscore Rwanda’s effective growth strategy, driven by public investment, alongside a promising opportunity to further boost growth through increased private sector involvement. With the private sector currently contributing a non-negligible share to GDP, the report highlights substantial potential for expansion, particularly in the services and manufacturing sectors.
The CEM recommends a series of reforms aimed at enhancing competition, increasing access to finance, bolstering domestic savings, and fostering innovation and ICT development. Additionally, it underscores the importance of regional integration to expand market access and promote sustainable trade partnerships.
Speaking at the launch, World Bank Country Manager Sahr Kpundeh emphasized the strength of the partnership between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank, noting that the collaboration underscores a shared commitment to Rwanda’s vision for sustainable growth.
“The CEM’s recommendations provide clear pathways to greater economic resilience and shared prosperity. With strategic policy adjustments, we are confident Rwanda can foster a diversified economy that brings widespread benefits to all Rwandans,” Kpundeh said.
The report further highlights Rwanda’s human capital as a cornerstone for achieving long-term growth. It recommends sustained investment in education, skills development, and healthcare. By nurturing a skilled and healthy workforce, Rwanda can unlock new growth potential across generations.
The CEM also emphasizes opportunities in nature-based solutions to address climate risks. By prioritizing conservation and nature-based initiatives, Rwanda can tackle climate challenges while advancing its development goals.
Prime Minister Ngirente expressed the government’s commitment to leveraging lessons learned from the study to address the challenges identified.
“Rwandans are eager for development, and our government is committed to pushing forward toward the aspirations of Vision 2050. Despite facing external shocks and challenges, even in difficult times, we are determined to keep moving forward,” the Prime Minister stated.
The report will serve as a guiding document for policymakers and stakeholders collaborating to build a brighter, more resilient, and inclusive future for Rwanda.
This is according to a report by the World Bank and the Government of Rwanda, which highlights the state of the country’s economy and outlines the steps needed to achieve inclusive and sustainable development in alignment with the second National Strategy for Transformation (NST-2).
Gorilla trekking activities are expected to generate the most revenue for the tourism sector, at $200 million in 2024, followed by other leisure activities ($110 million), conferences ($90 million), visiting friends and relatives (VFR tourism/travel) ($86 million), business travel ($68 million), and revenue from other visitors ($46 million).
Nature-based tourism (NBT) is estimated to account for 80 percent of visitors entering Rwanda for leisure or conferences, playing a significant role in job creation, particularly by increasing formal jobs in rural communities near game parks.
The new report, titled Pathways to Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, was launched on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in Kigali at a ceremony presided over by Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente.
According to the report, the rapid recovery and expansion of the tourism sector following the COVID-19 pandemic, which slowed the country’s biggest foreign exchange earner, is a key objective for the government.
The World Bank said that achieving this will require additional financial resources from the non-state sector to support fast-growing productivity gains.
The report further highlights Rwanda’s human capital as a cornerstone for achieving long-term growth. It recommends sustained investment in education, skills development, and healthcare. The authors of the report note that by nurturing a skilled and healthy workforce, Rwanda can unlock new growth potential across generations.
The report also emphasizes opportunities in nature-based solutions to address climate risks and advance the country’s development goals.
Prime Minister Ngirente expressed the government’s commitment to leveraging lessons learned from the study to address the challenges identified.
“Rwandans are eager for development, and our government is committed to pushing forward toward the aspirations of Vision 2050. Despite facing external shocks and challenges, even in difficult times, we are determined to keep moving forward,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, affirmed that Rwanda’s impressive progress over the past years has laid a solid foundation for economic growth and social well-being.
“To achieve the ambitious targets set in NST-2, we must now prioritize enhancing productivity, fostering private sector engagement, and investing in our people. The CEM provides a strategic framework to address these priorities, guiding us toward a more inclusive and resilient economy,” he stated.
World Bank Country Manager, Sahr Kpundeh, emphasized the strength of the partnership between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank, noting that the collaboration underscores a shared commitment to Rwanda’s vision for sustainable growth.
“The Rwanda Country Economic Memorandum (CEM) recommendations provide clear pathways to greater economic resilience and shared prosperity. With strategic policy adjustments, we are confident that Rwanda can foster a diversified economy that benefits all Rwandans,” Kpundeh stated.
Whitman announced in a statement on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, that she had submitted her resignation to outgoing President Joe Biden.
“Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honour and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” she said.
“…Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President. The American people have spoken, and a new President will be inaugurated in January. I wish him and his new team success.”
The ambassador, who was deployed to Kenya in 2022 under Biden’s Democratic administration, said she was proud of leading a people-centered agenda that saved lives, increased security, and created economic opportunities for both Kenyans and Americans.
“From delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing fight against malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the U.S. government prioritizes the health and welfare of our friends in Kenya,” the ambassador added.
She also reflected on the strengthening relationship between Kenya and the United States, saying, “This year, the United States elevated Kenya as its first Major Non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance our countries place on standing shoulder to shoulder to protect our shared democratic values and enhance security.”
“My efforts also opened the door for more American companies to do business in Kenya. When I arrived in 2022, I focused on expanding these ties with my ‘Why Africa, Why Kenya?’ presentation to American companies and entrepreneurs. Trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya are at historic highs because of our efforts.”
She further expressed confidence in the future of Nairobi and Washington’s bilateral relationship.
“I have no doubt that our 60 years of partnership will continue to strengthen and serve Americans and Kenyans as we aim to build more prosperous, healthy, secure, and democratic nations,” she said.
With her departure, Amb. Whitman announced that Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard would lead the embassy staff until a new ambassador is appointed by the next administration.
A section of Kenyans had taken to social media to demand her recall after Trump secured a second non-consecutive term in the election held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
The envoy’s diplomatic style seems to have irked some Kenyans, especially her silence on the perceived failures of President William Ruto’s administration and on police excesses, which led to the deaths of more than 60 young people during the [Gen-Z-led protests->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/protesters-storm-kenyan-parliament-as-controversial-finance-bill-is-passed] in June.
She had earlier reaffirmed her commitment to her duties despite the change in leadership in Washington.
“As a U.S. Ambassador, I serve at the request of the President,” Whitman said in response to the online campaign under the hashtag #RecallMegWhitman.
David Ssengozi, 21, alias Lucky Choice, and Isaiah Ssekagiri, 28, were arraigned in court on Monday, November 11, 2024. Magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis directed that the suspects be detained at Kigo Prison pending their next court appearance on Wednesday.
Police accuse the young men of hate speech and spreading malicious information against the first family and musicians linked to the governing National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The duo denied the charges on Monday.
The prosecution alleges that the suspects committed the offences with 19-year-old Julius Tayebwa, who had previously been brought before court and remanded.
According to the prosecution, the suspects posted information on TikTok intended to “ridicule, degrade, demean, and promote hostility” against the first family and others.
The latest arrests come barely two months after police spokesman Rusoke Kituuma warned that insulting the president, whom he termed the “fountain of honour,” was an offence.
Kituuma issued the warning while commenting on an investigation into a TikToker known as Lucky Choice, who was accused of similar offences, arrested, and later released.
In July, a 24-year-old man was sentenced to six years in prison for insulting the first family through a TikTok video.
Edward Awebwa was charged with hate speech and spreading “misleading and malicious” information against Museveni, First Lady Janet, and Muhoozi, who is the head of the Ugandan army.
Though Awebwa pleaded guilty and asked for forgiveness, the presiding magistrate noted he did not appear remorseful and that the language used in the video was “really vulgar.”
Magistrate Amabilis ruled, “The accused deserves a punishment that will enable him to learn from his past so that next time he will respect the president, the first lady, and the first son.”
The lawmakers, Matthew Green, a Member of Parliament for Hamilton Centre, and Sarah Jama, a Member of Provincial Parliament for Hamilton Centre, questioned authorities’ contradictory statements regarding the circumstances under which the 43-year-old Rwandan national was fatally shot.
Hamilton Police initially claimed that the deceased had exchanged fire with officers responding to a 911 call near his apartment in Ontario. However, a subsequent statement from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) indicated that it did not appear Kabera had discharged a firearm during the incident.
“His (Kabera’s) death was a violent death at the hands of police, and we join with the community in demanding truth and justice. Reports initially released by the Hamilton Police Service (HPS), which suggested that Erixon had exchanged gunfire with police at the time of his death, have been proven false, according to information from the province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU),” the MPs stated.
“Reports of ‘suspicious activity’ in the area prior to his death also appear to be questionable and racially charged. We agree with the Kabera family that ‘the reversal of crucial facts, a full day after telling the entire world otherwise and painting an image of violence, is deeply outrageous and unnerving,’” the MPs added.
The MPs issued a joint statement after meeting with the devastated family of the deceased on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to share their condolences.
They accused Hamilton Police of racially targeting Black individuals, asserting that “this is not the first time that Hamilton Police have been directly involved in the serious harming or killing of a Black Hamiltonian.”
“Hamilton Police have also, by their own account, disproportionately used force against members of the Black community during public interactions. Hamilton Police Services must be held accountable for their actions.”
The lawmakers noted that there are many unanswered questions regarding the killing that must be addressed in a timely and transparent manner.
“Why did the Chief of Police allow false information to be released about Erixon carrying a weapon? Why was the Chief so quick to highlight the gun-related injuries of his officers when, according to the SIU report, Erixon did not shoot at police? Why won’t video footage from the hallway where this incident took place be released to the family? Why did Erixon’s family first learn about his death through an online post from HPS? What ‘suspicious activity’ in the neighbourhood led to Erixon’s violent death in his own home? And why won’t the names of the officers involved be released to the public?”
In their quest for justice, the Rwandan community in Canada has organized a vigil to honour Kabera’s life and call for accountability.
The night vigil and march will be held at City Hall on Thursday, November 14, at 6:00 PM.
At the time of his death, Kabera was working as a Resource Officer with the Canada Revenue Agency.
In addition to his job, he was deeply involved in the Rwandan community, serving as Vice President of the Rwandan Community Abroad in Toronto and as an advisor for the Rwandan Canadian Healing Center.
He is survived by his wife and three children, aged 10, 13, and 17.
Slated for December this year, the science and engineering fair will enable students to showcase their STEM innovations and compete with peers in robotics, ICT, 3D printing, game development, coding, electronics, entrepreneurship, and bio-chemistry.
In line with this upcoming competition, a three-day training of trainers (ToT) event was held this week at K-Lab, Kacyiru, and was attended by 21 trainers.
According to [STEMpower Rwanda->https://www.stempower.org/rwanda] Country Director Espoir Serukiza, the ToT will equip the trainers with the necessary skills they need to effectively train students across the country.
“We want to work with our different STEM centers across the country to drive innovation and harness hands-on experience. The purpose of the ToT is to make sure these trainers go back to the STEM centers with the right tools and information they will share with students, and eventually use the skills to solve problems in their respective communities,” he explained.
The significance of the ToT was also highlighted by one of the trainers who said it will improve her training skills.
“The ToT will help me and my fellow trainers to efficiently train students in different STEM fields, as we prepare them for the national science and engineering fair,” said Florence Umutoniwase.
Serukiza appreciated the role being played by the Ohio-based Case Western Reverse University (CWRU) US, one of the best research universities and a partner in the implementation of the project. The university shall provide technical expertise and hands-on training programs in Biochemistry (Chemical micro factory).
“We are grateful to Case Western Reverse University for their continued contribution of knowledge and experience in STEM fields to enrich the training sessions and provide valuable insights to both trainers and students,” he stressed.
After the ToT, the trainers will go ahead to train hundreds of high school students at Ines Ruhengeri, Kibogora Polytechnic, and Gitwe Adventist College STEM centers, three of the nine [STEM Centers established by STEMpower in Rwanda->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/how-stempower-is-promoting-science-based-knowledge-in-rwanda].
Meanwhile, speaking on the upcoming science and engineering fair, Karlene Noel Jennings, Regional Public Engagement Specialist for Central Africa at the US Embassy, commended the partnership with STEMpower, noting that the program will positively impact many students.
“This partnership is truly a wonderful opportunity to look at reaching new audiences, especially young women and girls, and encourage their interest in science,” she said.
She added: “I have true appreciation for the work of encouraging the next generation to collaborate and look at problems creatively, as we try and solve them for the betterment of world.”
It is expected that at least 70% of students who will participate in the program will be young women, in a bid to encourage them to pursue STEM education and careers.
Marissa J Polnerow, Deputy Public Affairs Officer at the US Embassy, also noted that through the partnership between STEMpower and the US Embassy, shared goals are being advanced.
“The diversity of STEM and technology fields is remarkable, from life-changing medical devices to global educational platforms like Khan Academy. I’m inspired by your commitment to use your knowledge for social good and encourage you to think big and impact not just Rwanda but the world. Congratulations on your achievements and vision, it’s an honor to support and be a part of this,” she said.
Besides Rwanda, there are other science fairs planned in other countries where the organization has presence. A case in point is the 9th annual Ethiopian National Science Fair slated for next week, two weeks after the end of the second science fair in South Sudan.
These competitions provide students with the opportunity to showcase their creativity, problem-solving skills, and innovative ideas.
So far, STEMpower has established 125 STEM centres in different countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, which are among other things helping bridge the digital divide.
