As the first public listed company in Rwanda since 2011, shareholders were delighted to participate in a physical meeting to discuss the company’s 2023 business performance and future strategic plans.
Below are the event’s pictorial highlights.
Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege
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Exploring Dr Richard Mihigo’s plans to transform healthcare in Africa
With the backing of the Rwandan government, Mihigo is among the five contestants eyeing the coveted regional post in elections slated for next month.
Speaking in an exclusive interview recently on Sunny Ntayombya’s podcast, the 57-year-old said that once elected, he will put in place measures to ensure that the African population lives a healthy life so that they can contribute to their own development.
“From various conversations we have had with ministers of finance and economic policymakers, people tend to perceive health as an expenditure only. They claim to always need money for health insurance, hospital bills, etc. but that’s not all. Health is not only an expenditure; health a tool that can positively contribute to the development of a nation,” Dr. Mihigo stated.
He added, “If you have a healthy population, those people can thrive and contribute more efficiently to the prosperity of their own families, their own communities, and their own nation as a whole. This is my immediate target.”
To achieve this, Mihigo has developed a robust programme on how he would put in place strategic shift to avert this.
The programme includes building resilient health systems able to withstand health crises such as disease outbreaks or pandemics like COVID-19, which have previously exposed vulnerabilities and gaps in global healthcare systems for years.
“We saw how literally everything collapsed during COVID. The responsiveness and preparedness of our systems were really very weak. I want to make sure that we help countries build very robust and resilient health systems based on a primary healthcare system that responds to the needs of the population,” he emphasized.
According to him, a functional primary healthcare system is the foundation of any well-meaning society.
He believes that if people at the grassroots level can access the basic health services needed (both curative and preventive), then Africa will be on track to build a more resilient and functional health system.
Citing instances where Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment, Dr. Mihigo emphasized the need to promote Vaccine manufacturing in Africa.
He also expressed his intent to respond to non-communicable diseases as well as maternal and infant mortality rates.
Beyond fighting diseases, Dr. Mihigo plans to break the gender barriers that exist in the health sector.
“We need to put in place a more robust system that can address gender barriers by borrowing a leaf from Rwanda as a champion of gender equality and inclusion at the continental level,” he emphasized.
Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Dr Mihigo, largely lived as a refugee but defied all odds to become a widely considered strong candidate for the WHO job due to his rich career profile and extensive education in the medical field.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (M.B., Ch.B.) from the Faculty of Medicine, Université de Kisangani, DRC and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in International Health from Boston University School of Public Health, USA, obtained in 2003.
He held numerous positions, including advisory roles at WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Mihigo also served as an advisor at United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-Rwanda.
Locally, he served as the first Medical Director of Nyanza Hospital in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Today, Dr Mihigo doubles as the Senior Director of Programmatic and Strategic Engagement at the African Union/Africa CDC and advisor at the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), a position he has held since March 2024.
He reminisces that the death of his mother due to cervical cancer partly shaped his future in public health, where he has been advocating for immunization to combat various diseases.
“My mother passed away from cervical cancer which is something easily preventable today,” he said, adding, “This is what has also shaped a bit of my future in public health. I am a renowned specialist in immunization globally.”
The mother, whom he fondly refers to as his heroine, also encouraged him to pursue medicine instead of law.
His competitors for the WHO role include Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo of Niger, Senegal’s Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall and Tanzanian Doctor Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile.
The Regional Committee of the WHO African Region will vote to nominate the next Regional Director in a closed-door meeting during its 74th session from 26th to 30th August 2024 in Congo Brazzaville.
The nominee will then be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, set for January 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
The newly appointed Regional Director will take office on February 1, 2025, for a five-year term, renewable once.
At IGIHE Ltd, we wish Dr Mihigo all the best.
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CAF president hails Amahoro as one of “world’s most beautiful and best stadiums”
The state-of-the-art facility, renovated for $160 million, was officially opened by President Paul Kagame on Rwanda’s Independence Day.
The CAF boss was among the dignitaries who attended the opening ceremony, which featured a trophy match between APR FC and Police FC to mark the inauguration. APR FC lifted the trophy after beating Police FC 1-0.
Commenting on the renovations that included equipping the stadium with modern facilities and expanding its capacity from 25,000 to 45,000, Motsepe said Rwandans and Africans should be “so proud” of President Kagame for “birthing the best stadium”.
“This is one of the most beautiful, one of the best stadiums in Africa and in the world. We as Rwandans, we as Africans, should be so proud and thank our president for his leadership and birthing the best stadium,” remarked the CAF president two weeks after CAF approved Amahoro Stadium for use in all upcoming CAF and FIFA competitions, confirming that the newly refurbished facility meets all required standards.
He expressed confidence that the sporting facility will empower local talent to reach their full potential and increase sporting competition not just in Rwanda but across the continent.
“The next time I come here, I want to see the national team of Rwanda playing against the best national teams of countries in Africa. With your support, with your love, and with the talent and sports talent we have in Rwanda, we are going to win. Rwanda will win. Rwanda will be the best in Africa,” he stated, adding, “I want to say to my brother President Kagame, thank you for your commitment, thank you for your love, thank you for your sacrifices to improve and make the lives of our people in Rwanda amongst the best in Africa, and this beautiful stadium is a reflection of the people of Rwanda.”
On his part, President Kagame said the renovation works at Amahoro Stadium were inspired by Motsepe and his FIFA counterpart Gianni Infantino
“Let me thank the president of CAF, my brother Patrice Mosepe, together with another brother and friend, President of FIFA Gianni Infantino. The two inspired us to put up a good sporting facility like this one. They have done many things to support Rwanda and other brotherly African countries and beyond to raise the kind of football through availing this kind of facility to many countries so that the young people of Africa can have where to develop and exercise the huge talent we have on our continent,” President Kagame averred.
Kagame said the stadium will help retain talent and challenged the youth to take advantage of the facility to grow their sporting careers both locally and abroad.
“In fact, this (development of the stadium) will lead to more retention of our best talents instead of exporting them all the time. But people will still remain free to go wherever they want to be, but they can also look at home for such retention and development of what they want to do.
“There is no excuse for our young footballing talent. You have to work hard, you have to work smart, and let us be counted among the best on our continent,” he added.
Amahoro Stadium has been undergoing a facelift since August 2022, with Turkish construction company Summa undertaking the renovations.
Besides the football turf with a cutting-edge hybrid surface, blending natural grass and artificial turf, Amahoro boasts an eight-lane track for athletics events, a paralympic gymnasium, and training facilities for football, handball, and volleyball.
The sports arena has also been fitted with various amenities, including VIP lounges, an Amavubi bar, dressing rooms, washrooms, coaches’ offices, a massage room, a changing room, and a FIFA office.
Additionally, there are rooms for match officials, a medical room, a doping control room, a staff management room, and a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Room, among others.
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How modern roads, market, and craft centre have transformed business in Rwamagana
Seven years ago, the areas surrounding Rwamagana town were mostly characterized by dirt roads, which resulted in dusty conditions or mud during the rainy season. The Mayor of Rwamagana District, Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi, told IGIHE that in collaboration with the Belgian Development Agency, Enabel, nearly 10 kilometres of roads around various parts of Rwamagana town have been paved.
These roads have transformed the image of the town, with the roads also being equipped with streetlights. Mayor Mbonyumuvunyi stated, “Initially, there were 4.6 kilometres of roads, followed by another 2-kilometre road from the bus station to the craft centre. We have now constructed additional roads in various phases, totalling nearly four kilometres. These roads have helped change the town’s appearance and improve living conditions. Previously, the roads were dusty in dry seasons and slippery during rains, sometimes causing cars to get stuck. But today, people can move confidently, knowing they will reach their destinations.”
He also highlighted that these infrastructure developments have led to the renovation of old commercial buildings and the construction of new, modern ones.
He said, “New buildings have been constructed, and those with old ones have renovated them. Those who had only residential buildings have also built commercial ones, allowing them to trade and support their families. The commercial buildings generate taxes for the country, enabling us to build more roads, clinics, schools, and other infrastructure.”
Rehema Uwamahoro, who owns a water processing and selling plant in Rwamagana town, told IGIHE that she started her business there in 2016, initially facing ridicule for working in what was considered a rural area. She recalled, “The roads were dirt and in poor condition, making it difficult for trucks to transport goods without breaking down. Today, a truck can complete a delivery within an hour and return for a second trip because of the well-maintained roads.”
{{Modern Market Replaces Traditional One
}}As part of this project, a modern market was built, replacing the old one that accommodated fewer than 300 traders. The old market was essentially a shelter with metal pillars and a roof. Mayor Mbonyumuvunyi explained, “We had a makeshift market with a metal structure that wasn’t a proper building. It was very old, leaking, and not in line with the direction of Rwamagana town and Rwanda as a whole.”
The new market will accommodate about 1,000 traders, including those selling in boutiques, stalls, and various other sections like fruits and vegetables. It is designed to house many people comfortably, making it easier for traders to conduct their businesses.
He emphasized that doing business in a well-structured market allows traders to earn profits more easily. He also mentioned that they are encouraging nearby residents to build modern and multi-story buildings to support the market.
“When the market is completed, many people will need places to trade and work. We are not self-sufficient, which is why we are asking people nearby to construct large, modern buildings to support the market. This will ensure that those who need spaces to work and trade can find them, reducing unemployment,” he stated.
{{Expanded Craft Center
}}In addition to the market and roads, a modern craft centre has been built in collaboration with Enabel, greatly assisting local development.
Thierry Mbarushimana, a carpenter at the Rwamagana Craft Centre, told IGIHE that before the new centre, they were scattered in different parts of the town. Now, they work with the assurance that their products are secure and have a designated place to sell them.
Mayor Mbonyumuvunyi noted that they previously faced challenges asking craftsmen and artisans in Rwamagana town to move to the old, small craft centre. Now, three large hangars have been constructed.
“One hangar is for drying timber, which previously led to poorly crafted doors due to insufficient drying. The other two large hangars are temporarily housing market traders while the new market is being completed. Once the market is ready, these hangars will continue to serve the craft centre, providing ample and quality workspace for craftsmen.”
The craft centre does not only focus on carpentry and artisanal work but also trains youth in various relevant skills.
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Kagame says Rwanda is ready to welcome its citizens still in DRC back home
Addressing RPF Inkotanyi supporters at Mbonwa Site in Karongi District, the incumbent President said that Rwandans should seize their opportunities and participate in the nation’s development.
He cited Lake Kivu and the beautiful mountains in Karongi District, Rutsiro, and others that span the border, stating, “Lake Kivu, and these beautiful mountains surrounding Rwanda, we must utilize them. […] We must be healthy to see how we can build upon what we have together.”
Regarding Rwanda’s stable security, Kagame reminded residents that it was achieved through the participation of all Rwandans, emphasizing that the country’s development hinges on this stability.
The chairman of RPF Inkotanyi led the struggle of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) to liberate Rwanda from October 1990 to July 1994.
He explained that in 1996 he arrived in the Western (Karongi) and found that there was one part of Rwandans who were in DRC while the other part were in Rwanda. He informed the Congolese government that he wanted them to return home, and this was achieved, leaving only a few who sought to disrupt security.
He said, “I remember, it’s been a long time, I think it was in 1996. When I came here, I found that one part of Rwandans is here, and the other is across the water in Congo. Then I told them that those Rwandans who were on the other side, we want them to return. Many of them came home, a few wanted to cause problems and stayed there, and some of them may still be there or went somewhere else.”
Kagame announced that the Rwandans still in the DRC would be fine and that Rwanda would welcome them, settle them like Rwandans, and build the country.
The RPF candidate told the residents that after achieving security, the next step was building national institutions and effective administration based on the principles of the community and the new Rwanda.
He said, “Furthermore, beginning with security means constructing institutional leadership and effective governance that lead well, adhering to the principles of the RPF and those of the new Rwanda, with the RPF and its partners advancing Rwanda further. Leading well entails ensuring that Rwandan citizens receive what they deserve and can witness it. Good governance excludes leaders who appropriate public resources for personal gain. What we oppose, you too should oppose and reject.”
He informed the people that by voting for him on July 15, 2024, they would be choosing to continue the journey of nation-building.
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Rwanda secures RWF 40 billion to combat climate change
The funding is part of a $61 million investment approved by the governing board of the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) under the Nature, People, and Climate (NPC) investment program to support climate change interventions in the Dominican Republic and Rwanda.
The CIF NPC program, launched in June 2022, deploys nature-based solutions that acknowledge linkages among land use, climate-change mitigation and adaptation, and the improvement of the sources of livelihoods of rural communities and Indigenous people.
CIF said the funding will help address systemic challenges holding back vulnerable populations in the Kaduha-Gitwe corridor and also support the launch of the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Bond, an innovative capital market structured bond to promote biodiversity, including endangered chimpanzees. Both projects are implemented by the World Bank and co-financing of up to $283 million is expected.
In the Kaduha-Gitwe corridor, the plan will prioritize the restoration of degraded land and the sustainable management of forests and wetlands. It encompasses five sectors in Nyamagabe District, Southern Province: Kaduha, Kibumbwe, Mbazi, Mugano, and Musange; three sectors in Ruhango District: Bweramana, Kinihira, and Kabagari; and two sectors in Nyanza District: Nyagisozi and Cyabakamyi.
CIF’s $370 million Nature, People, and Climate investment program supports the development of nature-based solutions in low- and middle-income countries, ranging from small island developing states to sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. It funds initiatives that recognize the interdependence of land use, climate-change mitigation and adaptation, and the improvement of livelihoods for rural communities and Indigenous peoples.
While announcing the funding, Tariye Gbadegesin, the CEO of Climate Investment Funds, termed the climate ambitions of both Rwanda and the Dominican Republic as “impressive”.
“Their programs will bring co-benefits such as improved biodiversity and enhanced livelihoods, with a specific focus on vulnerable groups such as Indigenous peoples and local communities,” the CEO stated.
Dr Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, the Minister of Environment, welcomed the funding, saying Rwanda’s participation in the CIF NPC program is instrumental in securing a resilient and prosperous future for all Rwandans.
“We are immensely proud that Rwanda has been selected for the CIF Nature, People and Climate (NPC) program. This achievement is a testament to the robust collaboration among our diverse stakeholders, including Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), government agencies, district authorities, civil society, and the private sector.
“Together, we have laid a solid foundation that will not only enhance the livelihoods of our vulnerable communities but also foster innovation in conservation efforts, exemplified by the introduction of a wildlife conservation bond. This initiative promises to enhance climate adaptation and create sustainable economic opportunities while protecting our rich biodiversity, ensuring a resilient and thriving future for all Rwandans,” the minister stated.
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Rwandans abroad can now get national IDs, passports at embassies
In a notice, the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE) said the service will be available on a new system developed by the immigration department in collaboration with the National Identification Agency (NIDA) and Irembo, an online platform that enables access and provision of government services.
“This was implemented to facilitate the Rwandan community abroad without national ID cards,” the DGIE said.
“The biometric data will be captured from the nearest embassy and be used for the processing of both National ID and e-Passport.”
Interested applicants are required to submit their applications for National ID cards and e-Passports on the Irembo portal.
Irembo was introduced in 2015 to allow people to access government services online with the [ issuance of e-Apostilles being among the latest services onboarded on the portal ->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-starts-issuing-and-accepting-e-apostilles-from-other-countries].
Early this month, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET) in partnership with Irembo started issuing and accepting Apostilles from other member countries of the Hague Apostille Convention of October 5, 1961.
The initiative makes the legalization process for public documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates faster, simpler, and digitized through the use of electronic Apostilles (e-Apostilles).
“Rwandan documents intended for use abroad will be processed digitally and accessible through the Irembo e-government platform [https://irembo.gov.rw->https://irembo.gov.rw/]. Foreign documents apostilled abroad will be directly usable in Rwanda,” officials said.
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Kagame urges the youth to preserve Rwanda’s unity, security and development
Upon arriving at Kamarampaka Stadium, the incumbent President Kagame was greeted with a joyful atmosphere and songs from a crowd of Rusizi residents and neighbouring districts.
Kagame expressed his gratitude to the event participants, highlighting that this campaign stage is a significant moment to appreciate the progress made while remembering Rwanda’s history.
He acknowledged that all achievements are due to the patriotism of every citizen who has dedicated themselves to building Rwanda, and that the best has already been accomplished.
“Thanks to our security, no one can find a point of entry to destabilize us!” he declared.
He emphasized that Rwanda’s external enemies cannot penetrate the country and keep their malevolence to themselves.
“All they have left is to wish us harm,” he added.
To help the youth understand their duty and responsibility to preserve this security and the progress already achieved, Kagame referred to Rwanda’s journey from the tragic history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which the RPF’s policies have transformed into current success.
Kagame expressed his confidence that Rwandans will always work to protect Rwanda and its progress.
“Everything that has been achieved is thanks to you; the RPF has worked with you. You are truly Inkotanyi,” he stated.
He added that the journey has been long, much has been accomplished, and the future holds even more progress.
“We will undoubtedly achieve it,” he asserted confidently to his patriotic citizens.
“You, the youth, look at where Rwanda came from and where it is today. You have a dual responsibility to continue building on the gains and to protect them against any threat,” he urged.
“We will protect our security,” the youth shouted again, reassuring Kagame of their strong sense of responsibility for Rwanda’s well-being.
The RPF chairman is running against Frank Habineza, the leader of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and Mbayimana Philippe, who is vying for the presidency on an independent ticket.
The campaigns will close on July 13. Approximately 9.5 million people have registered to vote in this year’s parliamentary and presidential elections.
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Kenyan court bars police from using tear gas, bullets against protesters
In the orders issued on Friday, the High Court also barred the authorities from using any other crude weapons or any form of brute force against protesters, following a petition filed by lawyer Saitabao Ole Kanchory.
“I find the petitioner has demonstrated that the petition is arguable and not frivolous, he has further demonstrated that it is in the public interest that the orders sought are granted,” Justice Mugure Thande ruled.
The court also allowed the petitioner’s request that the police be barred from committing any extrajudicial killings, arrests, abductions, detentions, harassment, intimidation, torture, or cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of persons protesting against the Finance Bill.
The court heard that the police had resorted to arbitrary arrests, abductions and harassment of persons believed to be leaders of the Gen Z protesters who took to the streets to protest against what they termed as punitive taxes by the government.
The protests continued on Thursday despite President William Ruto declining to sign into law the controversial Bill which sought to introduce additional taxes to support various government initiatives, including easing foreign debt distress.
There was heavy police presence in Nairobi and major cities in the country as protesters turned up to express their anger against the government and mourn more than 20 people killed during Tuesday’s protests.
To prevent a repeat of the dramatic scenes witnessed on Tuesday when protesters invaded parliament, the government also deployed the military and erected roadblocks around key buildings in the Capital Nairobi.
The police fired teargas canisters to disperse the demonstrators who were demanding President Ruto’s resignation.
President Ruto had earlier committed to engaging the young people to address their concerns after resolving to withdraw the Finance Bill 2024.
“I propose an engagement with young people of our nation to listen to their issues and agree with them on their priority areas of concern,” President Ruto said on Wednesday.
The Kenyan Head of State also emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral conversation about the public debt and the country’s future.
“I also propose that within the next 14 days, a multi-sectoral, multistakeholder engagement be held with a view to charting the way forward on matters relating to the content of the Bill as well as auxiliary issues raised in recent days on the need for austerity measures and strengthening our fight against corruption.”
The Finance Bill 2024 sought to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes for the government but Kenyans opposed the proposals citing over taxation.
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Kagame affirms he’ll not falter in rebuilding Rwanda
He made the remarks in Huye District, Southern Province, where he continued his campaign activities on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
The RPF flagbearer started by thanking the citizens, especially those who gathered in Huye District including residents from Gisagara, Nyanza, and Nyaruguru, reminding them of Rwanda’s collective achievements.
Kagame urged Rwandans to vote for him on July 15, 2024, to continue the journey of building the nation that began after its liberation in July 1994.
The people responded unanimously, saying, “It’s you!” and he responded, “I agree. What convinces me is that what you choose for me, you will also do. So my task is straightforward: to move forward together.”
He continued, “You already know, the progress will continue year after year. The election date is approaching quickly as if it knows that we are all eagerly awaiting it. It’s soon! Actually, with all of you gathered here in such large numbers, it feels like the election has already concluded. Therefore, that excitement compels us to act (to vote) so that we can expedite our work of building the nation. The youth here — when I look at your numbers and other places I have been — you give hope to everyone.”
The people sang, “Continue the path you started, if you falter, you’ve made the right choice, Lord be with you.” That’s how it is.”
Kagame assured those gathered in Huye District that if they vote for him, he will return to thank them.
The RPF chairman is running against Frank Habineza, the leader of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and Mbayimana Philippe, who is vying for the presidency on an independent ticket. Six other independent candidates had their candidature rejected after failing to meet several requirements set by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
The campaigns will close on July 13. Approximately 9.5 million people have registered to vote in this year’s parliamentary and presidential elections.
