Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

  • RSE to unveil Green Finance Window and Hard-Currency Instruments at ASEA 2025

    RSE to unveil Green Finance Window and Hard-Currency Instruments at ASEA 2025

    Speaking on the sidelines of the Capital Market Issuer Roadshows’ closing ceremony at Kigali Serena Hotel, Rwabukumba said the initiatives aim to deepen private sector participation, expand access to long-term finance, and support sustainable investment across Rwanda and the continent.

    “We have received the necessary approvals to allow hard-currency denominated instruments in our market. Soon, companies will be able to raise financing in dollars or other currencies, and investors will be able to invest in these instruments,” said Rwabukumba, who was appointed president of the continental stock exchange body in April 2024.

    The Green Finance Window will provide a platform for companies and investors involved in environmentally sustainable projects to raise capital efficiently, while the Pan-Africa ESG Awards will recognise outstanding corporate and individual performance in environmental, social, and governance practices across the continent.

    “The market is ready for these instruments,” Rwabukumba said, noting that RSE has already raised more than Rwf 70 billion through sustainability-linked and green bonds, reflecting strong investor interest in sustainable finance.

    The ASEA conference, scheduled for November 26-28 at the Kigali Convention Centre, will convene securities exchanges, regulators, investors, and financial service providers from across Africa and the globe. This year’s theme is “Adapting to Global Market Shifts: Strategies for Resilience and Growth.”

    Rwabukumba highlighted the broader context for these developments, noting that African capital markets remain underutilised, with low company listings and liquidity levels.

    “Across the continent, excluding South Africa, the average number of new listings per market is less than one per year,” he said. “We must foster a culture of equity investment and local ownership to mobilise savings and drive sustainable growth.”

    He added that the conference will serve as a platform for dialogue on critical issues, including SME financing, technological innovation in markets, and sustainability-linked finance. Speakers from countries such as Jamaica will share experiences on leveraging capital markets to support SMEs and cultivate an equity culture.

    Capital Markets Authority (CMA) CEO Thapelo Tsheole said the ASEA conference will also spotlight Rwanda’s rapid market growth and the expanding ecosystem of licensed entities.

    “The conference provides a unique opportunity to showcase Rwanda’s capital market developments, including record fundraising, strong turnover, green finance initiatives, and new ESG recognition programs,” Tsheole said.

    Established in 1993, ASEA represents more than 30 securities exchanges across Africa, providing a platform for cooperation, policy development, and knowledge sharing. The Kigali conference will focus on strategies for resilience and growth as African markets navigate global economic shifts.

    RSE CEO Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba said the exchange will launch the Green Finance Window, hard-currency instruments, and Pan-Africa ESG Awards at ASEA 2025 in Kigali.
  • Nationwide campaign strengthens Rwanda’s capital market engagement

    Nationwide campaign strengthens Rwanda’s capital market engagement

    Led by the Capital Market Authority (CMA) in partnership with the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), the Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd, and the Private Sector Federation (PSF), the initiative engaged over 700 enterprises across all four provinces and Kigali. Participants included SMEs, cooperatives, corporates and prospective issuers seeking guidance on raising equity and debt capital through formal markets.

    CMA Chief Executive Officer, Thapelo Tsheole, said the nationwide effort successfully brought financial market opportunities closer to businesses that traditionally operated outside the capital.

    “We set out to bring capital market opportunities to every part of Rwanda, and we achieved that. This effort represents the beginning of a wider strategy to extend financial participation and stimulate enterprise development through local markets,” he said.

    Private Sector Federation CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, noted that the capital market provides patient, partnership-oriented capital that can accelerate business expansion and reduce overreliance on collateral-based loans. He highlighted financing instruments such as corporate bonds, commercial paper, stock exchange listings and real estate investment trusts as tools that enable companies to diversify their capital base and scale sustainably.

    Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd CEO, Jonathan Gatera, emphasised that long-term domestic savings will continue to anchor the country’s capital market growth.

    “Increased saving drives domestic investment. That change in behaviour is fundamental to building sustainable financial capacity,” he said, pointing to the rising importance of pension schemes, unit trusts and pooled investment vehicles.

    From the market operations perspective, Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, stressed that public markets provide more than just capital, helping issuers strengthen governance and operational standards.

    “A public listing provides not just funding, but structure, discipline, and visibility. For ambitious companies, it is a strategic evolution,” he said.

    Speaking from private sector experience, Grain Millers Plc Chairperson, Chantal Habiyakare, said listing on the market transformed the company’s competitiveness and formalisation.

    “We are living proof that the market works. Going public helped us grow, formalise operations, and compete more effectively. It changed how we operate for the better,” she said.

    Delivering the keynote address, Steven Biganiro, Director General of Capital Markets and Investment Schemes at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mobilising domestic resources and strengthening financial independence.

    “We have laid the foundation. The next step is to build an economy in which our own markets finance our own development. This is about sustainability and shared prosperity,” he said.

    While the nationwide campaign has concluded, stakeholders agree that the work continues. The roadshows are seen as a catalyst for sustained engagement among enterprises, regulators and investors as Rwanda seeks to expand market participation and liquidity.

    With more local companies exploring listings and international investors seeking entry into frontier markets, Rwanda is positioning itself to build a more transparent, inclusive and robust financial ecosystem capable of financing national development from within.

    CMA CEO Thapelo Tsheole stated that the campaign brought capital market opportunities closer to businesses beyond the capital.
    RSE CEO Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba told the delegates that public markets help companies strengthen governance and operational standards.
    Rwanda National Investment Trust Ltd CEO, Jonathan Gatera, emphasised that long-term domestic savings will continue to anchor the country’s capital market growth.
    Private Sector Federation CEO, Stephen Ruzibiza, noted that the capital market provides patient, partnership-oriented capital that can accelerate business expansion and reduce overreliance on collateral-based loans.
    Participants included SMEs, cooperatives, corporates and prospective issuers seeking guidance on raising equity and debt capital through formal markets.
  • Trump hits out at Ukraine and Europe as confusion grows over US peace plan

    Trump hits out at Ukraine and Europe as confusion grows over US peace plan

    The discussions were centred on a 28-point proposal, confirmed to be authored by the United States with input from both Kyiv and Moscow. The proposal, which leaked days prior to the talks, caused widespread confusion among allies and a fierce political debate within the US administration.

    In a series of weekend posts on his social media platform, President Trump complained that Ukraine’s leadership “has expressed zero gratitude” for American efforts. He also accused European countries of continuing to buy oil from Russia while the United States “continues to sell massive amounts of weapons to NATO, for distribution to Ukraine.” His comments came directly before the Geneva negotiations began.

    The peace framework also sparked chaos in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced a major crisis after reports emerged that he told Senators the plan was a “Russian wish list” and not an American proposal. Rubio then publicly reversed course, confirming via a social media post that the plan was indeed “authored by the U.S.” but based on input from all sides. Trump, for his part, later said the plan was not America’s “final offer,” adding to the uncertainty over Washington’s definitive position.

    In Europe, leaders voiced significant concerns about the proposal’s concessions. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated publicly that while a chance to end the war existed, he was “still quite a way from a good outcome for everyone,” reflecting widespread European scepticism. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that any settlement must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and preserve the European Union’s central role in security.

    From Kyiv, senior Ukrainian officials were cautiously positive about the diplomatic process but firm on red lines. Andriy Yermak, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, said the Geneva meeting showed “very good progress” and noted that teams would continue to refine the text.

    However, a major sticking point is that the draft framework reportedly crosses Ukraine’s long-standing red lines, particularly demanding the withdrawal of forces from the remaining Ukrainian-controlled part of Donetsk province, a territorial concession Kyiv has repeatedly rejected.

    The proposal has also drawn criticism in Washington. Several Republican lawmakers rejected the plan’s concessions, warning that any agreement must reflect “the will of the Ukrainian people,” signalling deep resistance to any arrangement that could pressure Ukraine into ceding territory.

    European diplomats warned privately that they were preparing for the possibility that the United States could scale back its military and financial support for Ukraine, a scenario they described as increasingly plausible if Kyiv rejects the plan. They stressed that if Western unity breaks down, Ukraine could be left vulnerable at a critical moment in the conflict.

    The Geneva talks are expected to continue, but the fundamental disagreements surrounding the peace plan, combined with Trump’s public attacks, have raised new questions about whether the West can remain united as efforts continue to reach a credible and durable settlement.

    US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised both Ukraine’s leadership and several European governments as high-level officials met in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 23, 2025, to discuss a controversial peace framework aimed at ending the war with Russia.
  • Kigali’s 2050 master plan positions the city as modern African economic hub (Photos)

    Kigali’s 2050 master plan positions the city as modern African economic hub (Photos)

    According to national development projections, Rwanda’s per capita income is expected to rise to USD 12,476 (over Rwf 17 million) by 2050, supported by rapid economic growth, increased productivity, and stronger social protection systems.

    Unemployment is forecast to drop sharply to 0.05 percent from 7 percent in 2035, while universal access to water, electricity, and improved social services is expected to significantly increase national living standards and life expectancy to at least 73 years.

    {{Kigali population growth driving infrastructure demand
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    The 2022 national census estimated Kigali’s population at 1.7 million, a figure projected to more than double to 3.8 million by 2050. This population growth is shaping a comprehensive city development master plan that focuses on expanding affordable and modern housing, upgrading public transport and mobility systems, developing improved economic hubs and commercial districts, and protecting green spaces through environmentally sustainable planning.

    The master plan also identifies strategic zones for investment, including Nyarugenge CBD, Remera, Kimironko, Gahanga, Nyabugogo, and Muhima, each earmarked for specific economic and cultural roles.

    The vision for Kigali in 2050 positions the capital as a modern, competitive, and investment-ready city.

    {{Transformation of Nyarugenge CBD
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    The Central Business District, home to major commercial towers such as M-Peace Plaza and KCT, is set for a significant upgrade to strengthen its role as Rwanda’s prime financial and business hub. The development will expand pedestrian-only zones and enhance urban aesthetics, redesign roundabouts to incorporate gardens, walkways, and improved traffic flow, and create new cultural spaces, including an arts complex near Sainte-Famille.

    Additionally, the historic Quartier Matheus commercial area will be modernised while preserving its heritage architecture. New pedestrian corridors will link the CBD to Muhima and Nyabugogo, integrating retail, tourism, cultural activities, and green spaces to create a more vibrant and connected city centre.

    How the city center, along with Muhima, Kiyovu, and surrounding neighborhoods, is planned in the master plan.

    {{Nyabugogo to become a modern regional transport gateway
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    Nyabugogo, one of the region’s busiest terminals connecting passengers from Rwanda and neighbouring countries, will undergo a major redesign to ease congestion and meet international service standards.

    Plans include developing a modern bus terminal with enhanced commuter services, transforming the surrounding wetland into an urban park that integrates transit routes, landscaping, commercial facilities, and pedestrian pathways.

    In addition, Mpazi Park will be constructed as a mixed-use recreation and business zone featuring sports facilities, green spaces, and commercial amenities. New housing projects in Muhima are also planned to provide affordable urban accommodation for local residents, further supporting inclusive urban growth.

    Nyabugogo Station will be equipped to handle passengers efficiently and built to modern standards.

    {{Remera and Kimironko to strengthen sports and retail economy
    }}

    Remera, known for Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and several key institutions, is set to become Kigali’s primary sports, entertainment, and cultural hub. Investments will include new commercial developments, multi-storey parking solutions to reduce congestion around Gisimenti, and cultural centres, libraries, and event venues integrated with business facilities.

    Meanwhile, Kimironko Market, one of the city’s busiest traditional markets, will be upgraded alongside its local transport terminal to balance modern retail facilities with the preservation of traditional trading culture, ensuring that the market meets the demands of a growing urban population.

    Remera takes on a new look as Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and Petit Stade reach full capacity.

    {{Gahanga positioned as new business and innovation zone
    }}

    Gahanga, located in Kicukiro District and strategically positioned along the route to Bugesera International Airport, is planned as a major innovation and commercial zone to attract both domestic and foreign investment. The developments will include technology and innovation parks, green commercial centers connected through pedestrian networks, and new museums, arts centers, hotels, and leisure facilities.

    Mixed-use residential developments will be integrated with business and recreational services to create a cohesive urban environment. The nearby Gikondo Exhibition Zone will also be modernised to host large-scale international conferences and expos, complemented by hotels, business services, and green recreational areas.

    Kigali’s 2050 Master Plan reflects Rwanda’s broader strategy to develop a competitive city that supports business growth while maintaining environmental sustainability and social inclusiveness.

    With major investments in mobility, housing, commercial zones, and cultural infrastructure, Kigali is being positioned as a central economic hub for East Africa and a model for modern urban development across the continent.

    Kigali in 2050 will be magnificent.
    The master plan envisions that by 2050, the commercial areas of Kigali, including Muhima, Nyarugenge, and Kimicanga, will be fully transformed.
    This type of urban development is designed to support and enhance business in Kigali.
    In Gahanga, business, technology, residential development, and environmental conservation will be integrated.
    The Gahanga hub will feature a state-of-the-art library and an arts center.
    In Gikondo, the exhibition and trade fair area will be purposefully designed.
    In Nyarugenge, modern infrastructure will define the area’s design.
    An aerial view of the city center roundabout and its surrounding neighborhoods.
    Development has begun on the Nyabugogo wetland, which will be transformed into a picturesque visitor attraction.
    Muhima and the Nyabugogo wetland as envisioned in the master plan.
    The city center, Muhima, Kiyovu, and surrounding neighborhoods are laid out like this in the master plan.
    The Muhima hub will feature commercial buildings and a cultural zone.
    Nyabugogo Park will provide a serene space for rest and relaxation.
    Gisimenti as envisioned in 2050.
    The Kimironko hub will feature a modern market and bus terminal.
  • Diplomatic Charity Bazaar debuts in Kigali, opening new opportunities for artisans

    Diplomatic Charity Bazaar debuts in Kigali, opening new opportunities for artisans

    Held at Green Hills Academy, the event served as both a cultural showcase and a fundraising platform, with proceeds directed toward supporting 50 rural artisan cooperatives across Rwanda.

    Organised by Intercultural Bridge Group CBC, a Community Benefit Company specialising in cultural advocacy, research, and education, the event aimed to create a space where diplomacy meets culture and philanthropy.

    Nigerian and Sudanese envoys tour exhibitions by local artisans during the event.

    The inaugural edition featured vibrant performances from local traditional dance troupes, alongside cultural groups from the Indian community and other participating nations. Attendees also enjoyed a diverse culinary experience, sampling dishes prepared by various diplomatic missions in a celebration of global flavours.

    Ten embassies and high commissions took part in the Bazaar, including Angola, Brazil, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, and Sudan, each showcasing their country’s art, cuisine, traditional attire, and tourism attractions. The stalls, set up with the support of community members, gave visitors an opportunity to interact directly with diplomatic representatives and artisans.

    The inaugural edition featured vibrant performances from local traditional dance troupes.

    Speaking at the event, Naeem Khan, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Rwanda, emphasised the importance of cultural diplomacy as a pillar of international cooperation.

    “I sincerely appreciate the efforts of the Diplomatic Charity Bazaar organisers. It’s a great initiative,” he said. “Politics, economics, and culture are equally important pillars of diplomacy. When we understand each other’s cultures and bridge the gaps in cultural communication, genuine public diplomacy emerges.”

    Envoys pose for a photo outside a stall by the Pakistan High Commission.

    He noted that events like the Bazaar help create the foundation for stronger economic and political relations between nations, stressing that culture must not be overlooked in global engagement.

    India’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, Mridu Pawan Das, echoed this sentiment, describing the Bazaar as a “very good start” with the potential to grow into a major annual event.

    “This is the first time ever that a diplomatic charity bazaar is being organised in Rwanda,” he said. “In the years to come, it will grow to become a really big event with more embassies and high commissions participating. It stands for a noble cause, benefiting 50 cooperatives of artisans, and we are all willing to work together to contribute.”

    Indian High Commissioner to Rwanda, Mridu Pawan Das (centre), and other envoys cut a ribbon to officially kick off the first edition of the Diplomatic Charity Bazaar at Green Hills Academy on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

    He highlighted the enthusiasm of the Indian community, which contributed cultural performances, artisan exhibits, and cuisine. He also praised the diversity on display across other country stalls, including jewellery, crafts, traditional attire, and tourism showcases.

    Beyond cultural appreciation, the Bazaar served a critical economic purpose. Vendor fees, auctions, and raffle tickets raised funds to support rural artisan cooperatives.

    “The money will be used to buy tools, materials, and training according to each cooperative’s needs,” stated Chief Organiser Edison Niyontegereje.

    Visitors tour the inaugural Charity Bazaar event at Green Hills Academy.

    The organisers also announced that an e-commerce platform is under development to help artisans reach wider markets.

    “The platform will support the artisans in showcasing their products to a much larger audience, beyond the physical Bazaar,” said Organising Committee Member Dr Saurabh Singhal.

    Some of the artwork showcased by the Nigerian Embassy.

    Meanwhile, Edison noted that the success of the first edition sets a strong foundation for growth.

    “The first edition gives us hope that the next edition, in 2026, is going to be an even bigger event,” the chief organiser said. “More embassies and partners are showing interest in joining. This is about coming on board to contribute to the cause of improving artisans’ lives.”

    Some of the paintings that were on display at the charity bazaar.

    He added that the organisation plans to build a cultural centre that will allow visitors to experience different cultures through immersive exhibitions, languages, and virtual reality. The goal, he said, is to foster deeper cultural exchange while exposing Rwandan artisans to global craftsmanship techniques.

    Artisans themselves expressed gratitude for the visibility and support the Bazaar generated.
    Esperance Mukabaranga, a basket weaver and cultural artist, said the event helped her connect with potential business partners.

    “We met different people, and they like our products. We exchanged business cards, and we believe they will become our business partners,” she said.

    Some of the cultural and handmade accessories showcased by the Kenyan community.

    She added that the funds raised will help strengthen artisan communities: “If they support us, we will be supporting our families and communities as well.”

    Despite the event’s success, organisers acknowledged challenges such as the Rwf 10,000 ticket price, which some embassies felt may have limited attendance. Several missions recommended making the event free in future editions to increase accessibility, and some have expressed their intention to sponsor entry for participants to encourage greater participation.

    As the event concluded, envoys from the participating missions called for stronger lobbying within diplomatic circles and encouraged more embassies in Kigali to support the cause in future editions. Such backing will not only provide Rwanda’s artisan communities with the resources they need to scale their operations, but also help them gain glocal connections.

    Held at Green Hills Academy, the event served as both a cultural showcase and a fundraising platform.
    The inaugural edition featured vibrant cultural performances from various groups.
    The dance groups kept guests engaged and entertained.
    Kenya High Commissioner to Rwanda, Janet Mwawasi, dazzled in traditional Maasai accessories during the Diplomatic Charity Bazaar.
  • Central African Republic president in Rwanda for two-day visit

    Central African Republic president in Rwanda for two-day visit

    President Touadéra was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta. His visit underscores the strong partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in the areas of security and peacekeeping.

    Rwandan forces first deployed to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of peacekeeping efforts following civil unrest in 2012. Initially under the African Union mission MISCA, and later the United Nations mission MINUSCA, Rwandan troops have played a key role in protecting civilians, safeguarding UN facilities, and providing security for the Head of State and his family.

    In 2020, Rwanda reinforced its support through additional troop deployments and military training programs for the Central African Republic’s armed forces. The third cohort of 438 soldiers trained by Rwanda completed their courses in March 2025, gaining skills in enemy reconnaissance, tactical operations, and field exercises.

    Beyond security, Rwanda has contributed to improving the welfare of Central African citizens, with its forces supporting healthcare and other community services. In February 2025, both countries signed a security cooperation agreement to further strengthen bilateral ties.

    President Touadéra was received by Rwanda’s Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
    The CAR Head of State is in Rwanda for a two-day working visit.
    The visit underscores the strong partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic, particularly in the areas of security and peacekeeping.
  • Avocado exports reach 4,200 tonnes as Rwanda earns Frw 125 billion from horticulture

    Avocado exports reach 4,200 tonnes as Rwanda earns Frw 125 billion from horticulture

    The latest results extend a consistent upward trend that has seen export earnings grow from $58 million in 2022/23 to $75 million in 2023/24, and now more than $86 million. Increased investment, growing farmer participation, and new markets have led to strong performances from avocados, macadamia, chili, and French beans.

    Speaking in an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), Jean Bosco Mulindi, Emerging Commodities Division Manager at NAEB, said the sector is now seeing the benefits of production that began several years ago.

    “We are now beginning to witness the impact of plantations that were established in recent years reaching maturity, and this is translating directly into higher export volumes and earnings,” he said.

    Mulindi highlighted chili as one of the strongest drivers of growth. In 2018/19, Rwanda exported 605 tonnes, earning under $1 million. Last year, that figure rose to 2,000 tonnes, generating $6 million.

    Chili peppers are grown by Gashora Farm PLC in Nyagatare District.

    {{Avocado output surges
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    Avocado production is also expanding rapidly. A recent NAEB survey shows more than 550,000 avocado trees planted nationwide, with 88% aged between one and six years, meaning most are still maturing.

    Rwandan delegates, including NAEB and local exporters, showcase avocados and other horticultural products at the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Germany.

    In 2018/19, Rwanda exported fewer than 1,000 tonnes of avocados, earning slightly above $400,000. Last year, exports rose nearly tenfold to 4,200 tonnes, valued at more than $8 million.

    “We are seeing many farmers joining horticulture because the opportunities in international markets are clearer than ever,” Mulindi noted.

    Avocados are mainly exported to the Gulf, Europe, and neighboring countries, with a new market now opened in China.

    Mulindi said international demand now exceeds Rwanda’s current supply capacity. Fresh chili is primarily exported to European markets, including Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany, while dried chili is exported in large volumes to China and India.

    Avocados are largely exported to the Gulf region, which accounts for around 80% of the market, as well as Europe and neighbouring countries. Rwanda has also recently signed a bilateral agreement allowing avocado exports to China, opening another major destination.

    Rwandan delegates, including NAEB and local exporters, showcase avocados and other horticultural products at the Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Germany.

    Macadamia exports are in high demand in China, Vietnam, and Japan, where Rwanda is still unable to meet market needs. More than 90% of Rwanda’s French beans are exported to Europe, with the remaining share going to regional and Gulf markets.

    Mulindi said the results show the sector is well-positioned for continued growth as more plantations reach full production and export promotion initiatives expand.

    Rwanda recently signed a bilateral agreement allowing avocado exports to China, opening another major destination.
    Rwanda participated in the Fruit Logistica expo in Berlin.
  • Floating solar, 560 jobs, 57% progress: Inside Nyabarongo II Hydropower project

    Floating solar, 560 jobs, 57% progress: Inside Nyabarongo II Hydropower project

    The project, currently 57% complete, has already created 560 jobs and plans to install floating solar panels, marking a milestone in the country’s push for renewable energy.

    Once operational, the dam will generate 43.5 megawatts of electricity and give rise to a 67-kilometre lake, the fourth-largest in Rwanda, stretching from Kamonyi and Gakenke to Muhanga, Ngororero, and Nyabihu.

    The lake will reach a depth of 59 metres and hold 803 million cubic metres of water, reshaping landscapes and opening new opportunities for irrigation, flood control, and water-based activities.

    The project is being constructed by the Chinese company Sinohydro Corporation and represents the first phase of the Nyabarongo II Multipurpose Development Project. Beyond power generation, it will support irrigation along the Nyabarongo, Akagera, and Akanyaru rivers, reduce flooding downstream, and improve access to clean water for surrounding communities.

    According to the Energy Development Corporation Ltd (EDCL), the dam’s powerhouse, where turbines will convert water into electricity, is 54.5% complete, while the water-retaining wall has reached 41%. The transmission lines connecting the dam to the national grid are 6.4% complete, and the outlet channel for excess water is 32.6% built.

    So far, $93 million has been spent, representing 43.7% of the $214 million budget, while Italian firm Studio Pietrangeli oversees construction supervision, having spent €2.8 million (56% of the €5.2 million planned).

    Mushuti Anicet, EDCL official overseeing the project, highlighted the technical challenge of converting river water into energy:

    “To generate hydropower, we rely on two things: sufficient water volume and the height from which it falls. The river was in a valley, so we built a wall to hold the water and allow it to rise to the height we need. It will eventually reach 59 metres; currently, it stands at 15 metres.”

    Originally, the project was designed to produce 37.5 MW, but an upgrade in 2018 increased its capacity to 43.5 MW, adding to Rwanda’s total hydropower capacity of 406.4 MW. The government aims to achieve universal electricity access by 2029, up from the current 86%.

    The floating solar component will generate 200 megawatts and store energy for use during periods without sunlight, making Nyabarongo II one of the first projects in Rwanda to combine hydropower and solar energy on such a large scale.

    As the dam rises and the lake begins to take shape, the project is already impacting local communities. Roads are being upgraded, water transport routes prepared, and employment opportunities expanded. Officials say these developments will create a ripple effect for irrigation, agriculture, and other water-based economic activities across the region.

    The Nyabarongo II Hydropower Project is one of the key initiatives driving the country’s push to boost electricity generation.
    Photo illustration of the new lake to be created by the Nyabarongo multipurpose dam.
    A long wall will be constructed in the blue-marked area to contain the water, creating a lake behind it.
    On the Gakenke District side, construction work has progressed considerably.
    The project is being constructed by the Chinese company Sinohydro Corporation.
    Construction of the powerhouse, which will house turbines to generate electricity from water, is well underway.
    The areas above and below the dam have been reinforced to ensure stability and prevent any structural failure.
    An outlet sluice will regulate water flow through the underground channel when required.
    Excavation of the underground water channel is complete.
    The project is 57% complete.
    The project, currently 57% complete, has already created 560 jobs.
  • Rwandan conservation group signs cross-border agreement to protect migratory cranes

    Rwandan conservation group signs cross-border agreement to protect migratory cranes

    The agreements were signed in Kigali on November 21, 2025, during RWCA’s 10th anniversary celebrations, which highlighted the organisation’s achievements in crane conservation over the past decade.

    Representatives from wildlife organisations in Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda attended the ceremony and joined RWCA in signing the collaborative agreements. Partner organisations include Nature Uganda and the International Crane Foundation from Uganda, Nature Tanzania, and the Association Burundaise pour la Protection de la Nature from Burundi.

    Under the agreements, the organisations will work together to protect cranes across a 24,904-square-kilometre area. This includes the Rwandan border regions, home to 1,030 cranes, representing 82% of the national population, as well as 787 cranes in neighbouring Uganda. Additional coverage includes 266 cranes in Tanzania’s border areas and 19 cranes in Burundi.

    RWCA founder and Executive Director, Dr Olivier Nsengimana, said surveys showed that some Rwandan cranes, especially those in wetlands near borders, cross into neighbouring countries without returning, with their survival uncertain outside Rwanda.

    “In wetlands near borders such as Akagera, Akanyaru, and Kagitumba, crane numbers fluctuate and are generally low, but the birds are not dying. Some cross borders, while populations in protected wetlands like Urugezi increase each year. In wetlands used for agriculture, cranes may leave during planting seasons,” he said.

    Dr Nsengimana added that GPS tracking of some cranes revealed their cross-border movements, prompting RWCA to collaborate with local organisations to protect the birds, educate communities, and promote shared use of tracking technology.

    “We realised that monitoring these cranes would require complex permits, so we signed agreements with organisations in Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda to jointly protect cranes in the region, share information, and take coordinated action,” he said.

    Over the past decade, RWCA has helped increase Rwanda’s crane population from fewer than 300 in 2015 to 1,245 today. Public awareness of crane conservation has grown, and the organisation has expanded from five volunteer staff to 300 permanent employees.

    Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Fidèle Bingwa, praised RWCA’s dedication, noting that the organisation’s work over the past 10 years has strengthened government efforts in biodiversity conservation and produced tangible results.

    Under the agreements, the organisations will work together to protect cranes across a 24,904-square-kilometre area.
    Five organisations signed the cross-border agreement to protect migratory cranes.
    Representatives from wildlife organisations in Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda attended the ceremony and joined RWCA in signing the collaborative agreements.
    Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment Fidèle Bingwa praised RWCA’s 10 years of work in strengthening biodiversity conservation.
    The Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, Ariella Kageruka (centre), attended RWCA’s 10th anniversary celebration.
    A local dance troupe entertained guests at RWCA’s 10th anniversary celebrations on November 21, 2025.
    Juliet Kabera, the Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, was honoured for her role in strengthening collaboration between her agency and RWCA.
  • Gold watch from Titanic tragedy sets new Frw 3 billion auction record

    Gold watch from Titanic tragedy sets new Frw 3 billion auction record

    The 18-carat Jules Jurgensen timepiece, which had remained in the Straus family for more than a century, was the star item at a sale held by Henry Aldridge & Son Auctioneers on Saturday, November 22. The auction house, known for handling significant Titanic artefacts, confirmed the sale marks the highest price ever achieved for an item connected to the sinking.

    Straus, a prominent American businessman, politician, and co-owner of Macy’s department store, was travelling first class with his wife Ida when the Titanic struck an iceberg on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York. Both were among the more than 1,500 passengers and crew who perished.

    Isidor Straus and his wife Ida were among the more than 1,500 people who perished when the ship went down in 1912.

    Their story is remembered as one of the most poignant of the tragedy. Witnesses recalled Ida refusing a seat on a lifeboat, insisting she would not leave her husband of 41 years behind. The couple were last seen sitting together on the deck as the ship went down. Isidor’s body was later recovered; Ida’s was never found.

    Among the items discovered with him was the gold watch, its hands stopped at 02:20, the moment the Titanic slipped beneath the Atlantic. The piece had originally been a gift from Ida to Isidor for his 43rd birthday in 1888, engraved with his initials and carried with him until his final moments.

    The watch's hands stopped at 02:20, the moment the Titanic slipped beneath the Atlantic.

    The watch was returned to the family after the disaster and carefully preserved through the generations. Isidor’s great-grandson, Kenneth Hollister Straus, later had the mechanism repaired and restored, while keeping the original casing intact.

    The auction generated strong global interest, with auctioneer Andrew Aldridge describing the watch as a symbol of the couple’s enduring legacy.

    It is believed the watch was a gift from Ida to her husband in 1888.

    “This world record price illustrates the lasting fascination with the Titanic and the profound human stories attached to it,” he said. “The Strauses embody what many consider the ultimate love story of the disaster, and this sale is a testament to the respect in which they are held.”

    The auction also featured other significant Titanic-related items. A letter written by Ida Straus on Titanic stationery, posted during the voyage, sold for £100,000 (Frw 167 million). A passenger list fetched £104,000 (Frw 174 million), while a gold medal presented to the crew of the rescue ship RMS Carpathia was purchased for £86,000 (Frw 144 million). In total, the sale of memorabilia reached £3 million.

    A letter from Ida Straus fetched £100,000 at the auction.

    The previous record for a Titanic artefact was £1.56 million (Frw 2.6 billion) for a gold watch given to the Carpathia captain, sold last year. With this latest sale, the Straus watch now stands as the most valuable piece of Titanic history ever auctioned.

    The watch was returned to the family after the disaster and carefully preserved through the generations.