IGIHE

Author: Mutoni Yvonne

  • Farewell to ambassador Chalyan Karén Drastamatovich, a pillar of Rwanda-Russia relations

    Strengthening Diplomatic Ties

    Ambassador Chalyan’s tenure in Rwanda has been pivotal in fortifying the ties between Rwanda and Russia. Appointed as the Extraordinary Ambassador of Russia to Rwanda in 2018, Chalyan Karén brought with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the African continent. Before his assignment in Rwanda, he had served in various capacities within the Russian embassies in Nigeria and Botswana and had been part of the United Nations peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sudan.

    Key Achievements in Bilateral Relations

    One of the hallmark achievements of Ambassador Chalyan’s tenure was the signing of several bilateral cooperation agreements. These agreements focused on advancing education and developing nuclear energy, showcasing the strategic importance of the Rwanda-Russia partnership. Notably, in July 2023, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Irere Claudette, highlighted that since the 2019 nuclear energy agreement, 40 Rwandan students had been sent to Moscow universities to further their education.

    A Legacy of Peace and Development

    From 2010 to 2017, Ambassador Chalyan Karén led the joint African Union-United Nations peacekeeping mission in Darfur, Sudan. His extensive experience in peacekeeping and diplomacy greatly benefited his role in Rwanda, where he worked tirelessly to foster a peaceful and cooperative relationship between the two nations.

    A Farewell Ceremony

    The farewell ceremony at Village Urugwiro was a testament to the strong ties that have been nurtured over the years. President Kagame, accompanied by Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, expressed his gratitude for Ambassador Chalyan’s dedication and service. Ambassador Karén was accompanied by his embassy team, signifying the collaborative spirit that has characterized his tenure.karr-2-829bf_2_.jpg

    As Ambassador Chalyan Karén departs, both Rwanda and Russia look forward to building on the solid foundation he has laid. The future promises continued cooperation and new opportunities for growth and development, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.

    In a nutshell, Ambassador Chalyan Karén Drastamatovich’s tenure in Rwanda will be remembered for its significant contributions to enhancing Rwanda-Russia relations. His efforts have paved the way for future collaborations that will undoubtedly benefit both countries. As he embarks on his next chapter, Rwanda expresses its heartfelt thanks and best wishes for his future endeavors.

  • Mega Global Link reduces prices for those wishing to study abroad

    This company collaborates with Apply Board to ensure that all its clients receive excellent services and quality education. Those wishing to study in countries such as Canada, the United States, and Europe, starting this September, can approach this company to find good schools in these countries at reasonable prices.

    One of the special features of this company is that it assists those seeking various levels of education, including primary schools, secondary schools, and universities. This is achieved by leveraging the opportunities provided by Rwanda’s good relationships with other countries and the strong partnerships the company has established with international universities.Those wishing to travel outside Rwanda have access to everything they need when they collaborate with them.

    For students who seek the services of this company, assistance is provided from the beginning until the student finds the school and courses they desire. The company also helps students obtain visas and monitors their journey until they reach their schools.

    The schools working with Mega Global Link offer various programs at different levels, including undergraduate (bachelors), graduate (masters), short-term courses, diplomas, and even doctoral programs (PhD), among others.img_2-2-6bd26.jpg

    Studying abroad is very important as it helps in learning foreign languages, professional development, life experience, personal growth, making international friends, gaining global exposure, finding various opportunities, changing perspectives, and more.

    Those wishing to take advantage of these opportunities through international education can approach Mega Global Link and be facilitated to find schools at reduced costs, as Mega Global Link’s services are now 20% off for applications submitted between June 1 and June 30 of this year.

    Explore with us in Summer Camps

    Besides assisting Rwandans in studying abroad, Mega Global Link also helps those wishing to take vacations in foreign countries.

    Summer camps have built a reputation as enjoyable and relaxing times for people of all ages, whether adults or children. Activities include outdoor games, educational programs, music, dance, sports, performances, and more.

    Summer camps help participants build self-confidence, independence, social skills, leadership abilities, and physical fitness.

    Mega Global Link is collaborating with summer camp organizers in Canada, the United States, and Europe to ensure that participants are safe and familiar with the environment while enjoying their time.

    Vacation programs are meticulously prepared, especially for those with children, ensuring they receive everything they need, including nutritious meals for healthy growth.

    There are many benefits for those who register or enroll their children in summer camps. Besides having fun, staff assist in finding additional opportunities to prepare for a bright future.

    Additionally, children gain new experiences that help their brains develop, which will benefit them as they grow older.

    The good news is that Mega Global Link has introduced a 20% discount on this service from June 1 to June 30 for anyone interested in these opportunities.summer_camp-e6a8d_1_.webpwhatsapp_image_2024-06-13_at_10.44_05-54931.jpg

  • Never Again highlights injustices committed against Congolese Tutsis by FDLR

    In its 2023 report, released on June 12, 2024, the organization highlighted that the attacks on these Congolese included killings, sexual violence, arson, looting of livestock, and spreading hate speech.

    The report stated, “These attacks involved killings, sexual violence, burning villages, looting large amounts of livestock, and hate incitement.

    Hundreds of Tutsi families fled from Masisi and Rutshuru territories to camps near Goma, where they still face threats from militias.”

    Never Again explained that their lives were severely endangered at the beginning of 2023 when the M23 militia took control of various parts from the Congolese army.

    In January, Wazalendo groups allied with the FDLR killed 18 Tutsis in Tongo and Muvunyi-Shanga in Masisi and looted all their cattle.

    The report continued, “In late January, Mai Mai fighters collaborating with the FDLR killed 18 Tutsi civilians in the villages of Tongo and Muvunyi-Shanga in Masisi, looting all the cattle they found.

    These attacks were followed by the FDLR beheading the leader of the Tutsi community in Kitchanga and dumping his body in a field. In that same week, six Tutsi traders from Mudja area were ambushed and killed while taking goods to the Kitshanga market.”

    As the report continued, in February 2023, when M23 captured Kitchanga, the FDLR, Mai Mai, and Congolese army attacked camps near Katoyi, Muheto, and Ikobo villages. They burned more than 100 houses, killed over 20 Tutsis, kidnapped 13, and forced 2000 others to flee. Several people went missing after this attack.

    The organization reported that this violence was compounded by the terror inflicted on Congolese Tutsis by state soldiers and police, accusing them of collaborating with M23. This led to some being imprisoned, tortured in military camps, and others going missing.

    They cited an example of five young men working at Mwanza Water Treatment Plant who were arrested by soldiers on February 24, 2024, accused of being M23 fighters. These were Byiringiro Kennedy, Irumva Steve, Banze Mudari, Zirimwabagabo Sambibe, and Nizeyimana Callixte.

    A shepherd named Kazungu was reportedly killed by the FDLR in Bihambwe on February 25, with the militia taking his cattle and raping Nzayisenga Ziragora in a farm in Ngungu area, also taking her cattle.

    On that day, Nyatura CMC fighters and Congolese soldiers attacked a milk collection center of ACOGENOKI association in Luhonga.

    At the end of that month, Nyatura CMC militias raided the Kaniro area, seizing over 1500 cattle, some of which were later recovered by M23 after a clash between the two sides.

    In July 2023, as the organization explained, a senior officer in Nyatura CMC released a song titled “Tutsis are dogs,” praising those who attacked Tutsis in Masisi and Rutshuru. Reports suggest he killed a shepherd because of his ethnicity.

    In FDLR-controlled areas, they continued to train children to hate and harm Tutsis. This was reinforced by a video released that month, in which Tutsis were referred to as “cockroaches.” These actions led to attacks on Tutsis and destruction of their property.

    As the violence targeted Congolese Tutsis, by the end of 2023, around one million had fled to neighboring countries for safety.

    Never Again revealed the role of FDLR fighters in the violence targeting Congolese Tutsis.

  • International vaccine institute to establish a branch in Rwanda

    The agreement, signed on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, aims to foster cooperation between the two countries.

    This agreement comes at a time when Rwanda is constructing the BioNtech plant, which will manufacture various vaccines.

    IVI is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy for vaccine availability and accessibility for all, through collaboration with research institutions, governments, and pharmaceutical companies.

    The organization plays a role in the development of new vaccines, testing, and distribution worldwide.

    Founded in 1998, IVI is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea.

  • Scoop On Scoop Podcast: The impact of parental decisions on children’s futures and personal growth

    Education: The Path to Self-Discovery

    Education is one of the most critical areas where parental decisions can significantly influence a child’s future. Esther, the host, shared her personal experience of not being guided into a course that aligns with her personality. Struggling to fit into this world, she eventually found her way to a path she truly enjoyed . Reflecting on her journey, Esther expressed a wish that her father had either guided her more effectively or allowed her to explore her interests earlier. This highlights the delicate balance parents must strike between providing guidance and allowing their children to explore and discover their passions.

    Career Choices: The Journey of Self-Reliance

    Diana, one of the guests, emphasized the importance of making her own decisions, even when they conflicted with her parents’ wishes. She recounted her experience of working in a bar despite her parents’ disapproval. Diana believes that while parental advice is valuable, the ultimate decision should lie with the individual. Her stance underscores the importance of self-reliance and the need for young adults to make choices that reflect their aspirations and values.

    Relationships: Trust and Rebellion

    The dynamics of parental influence extend into the realm of personal relationships. Bruce, another guest, spoke about the importance of trust between parents and children. He suggested that everyone should have a bit of a rebellious side, where they can confidently say, “I have thought about this, I want to do it, and you should trust me.” This rebellion is not about defiance but rather about asserting one’s autonomy and demonstrating that they have carefully considered their choices.

    Fred shared his truth that if it came to marrying a woman his parents do not approve of. If he took his time to learn and love his partner, he believs that no one, not even his parents, could change his decision. Fred’s opinion illustrates the importance of following one’s heart and the need for parents to respect their children’s choices, even if they initially disagree.

    Balancing Guidance and Independence

    The overarching question is at what point parents should give their children the room to grow, make mistakes, and learn from them. While parental decisions can provide a safety net during the formative years, it is crucial for parents to gradually loosen their control as their children mature. This transition allows young adults to develop critical decision-making skills and fosters a sense of independence.

    Bruce highlighted the risk of overdependence if parents continue to make decisions for their children even after they are capable of doing so themselves. He warned that this could trap young adults in a cycle of dependency, hindering their ability to make autonomous choices.

    The stories shared by Esther, Diana, Bruce, and Fred highlight the complex interplay between parental decisions and children’s personal growth. While parental guidance is invaluable, it is equally important for parents to trust their children’s judgment and give them the freedom to navigate their paths.

    The balance between guidance and independence is essential for fostering resilient, self-reliant individuals capable of making informed decisions about their futures. Ultimately, the journey towards self-discovery and personal growth is a collaborative effort, requiring trust, communication, and mutual respect between parents and their children.

  • Familiar faces, key information about the newly appointed government officials

    Amb Nduhungirehe Olivier

    Amb Nduhungirehe Olivier has been appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, replacing Dr. Vincent Biruta. Previously, he served as the Rwandan Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands from 2020. Born on September 13, 1975, in Huye District, he attended primary school at APE Rugunga, secondary school at Ecole Belge in Kigali, and pursued a degree in law at the Université Catholique de Louvain in Belgium. He also holds a postgraduate degree in tax management from the Université Libre de Bruxelles.

    His career includes various roles such as Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation from September 2017 to April 2020, Rwandan Ambassador to Belgium from December 2015 to September 2017, and Acting Director-General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from May 2015 to December 2015. Additionally, he served as First Counselor at the Rwandan Embassy in Ethiopia (2007-2010) and New York, USA. In 2004-2005, he was a special advisor to the Secretary of State in the Ministry of Trade and Industry and also in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources.
    Amb Nduhungirehe is notably recognized for representing Rwanda on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in 2014 and is the first Vice President of the PSD party.

    Yusuf Murangwa

    Yusuf Murangwa has been appointed as the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, succeeding Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana. Murangwa has been leading the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) since 2009. He brings over 20 years of experience in statistics and economic development. Under his leadership, NISR has transformed data collection processes by integrating technology, making information more accessible and timely.

    Uwimana Consolée

    Uwimana Consolée has been appointed as the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, taking over from Dr. Valentine Uwamariya. She is the Vice Chairman of the FPR Inkotanyi party since 2023 and has held various positions, including Senator in the Rwandan Parliament from 2003 to 2013, Vice President of the Economic and Financial Commission, and Chair of the Forum of Rwandan Women Parliamentarians (FFRP). She has also led special commissions on the development of historically marginalized groups and worked as an entrepreneur and in banking.

    Mutesi Linda Rusagara

    Mutesi Linda Rusagara, formerly the Director General of Agaciro Development Fund, has been appointed as the State Secretary for State Investment in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning. Born in 1989, she holds a degree in finance from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, and a master’s degree from Stanford University, obtained in 2017. Her career includes roles at the Office of the President, Bank of Kigali, and Kigali Innovation City. She has significant experience in financial services and technology projects.

    Kabera Olivier

    Kabera Olivier, appointed as the State Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, was previously the Director of Macefield Ventures in Rwanda since 2022. He has extensive experience in transport development, having worked at the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) from 2012 to 2022, led Real Contractors from 2017, and served as a project oversight expert for the World Bank-funded CEPX project. From April 2006, he was the head of the land, urban planning, housing, and infrastructure department in Nyarugenge District.

    Reassigned Officials Dr. Vincent Biruta, previously the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, is now the Minister of National Security, replacing Alfred Gasana. Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, formerly the Minister of Environment, is now the Minister of Public Service and Labour, taking over from Prof. Jeannette Bayisenge. Dr. Valentine Uwamariya has been appointed as the Minister of Environment.

  • Niyongabo to represent Rwanda in the international Chinese language competition

    The competition took place on June 9, 2024, at the University of Rwanda’s Remera Campus. It is organized by the Confucius Institute, which has a branch at UR, and is attended by university students, primary school students, and secondary school students.

    The competitors are students who study Chinese alongside their regular courses, but they must first pass a written exam.

    They demonstrate their knowledge of the Chinese language and culture through songs, dances, drama, speeches, poems, and various other performances.

    Niyongabo Viateur, who outshined all other university competitors, told IGIHE that this is a significant achievement in his life and that he prepared for it.

    He said, “I am extremely happy because learning the Chinese language is not easy. I have participated in previous years and did not come first, but today it has happened.”

    He continued, “Representing the country in China will give me the opportunity to meet other people in China, and I am confident that I will perform well in the next round of competitions there. The certificate they will give me is highly valuable in the job market because, here in Rwanda, Chinese companies need translators, and when you have it, they do not hesitate to give you a job.”

    The first-place winner in the university category receives various prizes, including a computer, a trip to China, and other items.

    They also have the opportunity to apply for a third-level university scholarship to study Chinese and receive an international certificate.

    For primary and secondary school students, the first-place winner is awarded the chance to participate in another round of competitions in China, a tour of the country, and other items.

    The Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun, said that the Chinese language is rising globally and that Rwandan students who have studied it have played a role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

    He said, “Many Rwandans, especially the youth, have joined the large community of Chinese language learners. Together with this large community, they understand Chinese culture, and this has helped to strengthen the friendship and cooperation between China and Rwanda.”

    “Chinese is a beautiful language, and lea’rning it is a great journey to understand cultural differences and enjoy sharing them from both sides.”

    Ambassador Xuekun also said that in the past 15 years, over 40,000 Rwandan students have benefited from learning Chinese and that currently, the Chinese education program is taught in over 190 countries worldwide.

  • Special features of the electric car used in the ‘Kigali International Peace Marathon 2024

    In this 19th edition of the Kigali International Peace Marathon, Carcarbaba was a sponsor, with its vehicles responsible for leading the athletes along the route and showing them the time they had spent.

    In 2022, there were T5 EVO petrol cars, in 2023 there were T5 EVO Hybrid 2023 cars using both electricity and petrol, but this time Carcarbaba showcased “Dongfeng Forthing Friday ” vehicles that use only electricity.

    All these vehicles are made by Dongfeng LIUZHOU Motor Corporation Ltd, a Chinese state-owned company and one of the leading ones.

    The ambassador of Carcarbaba Ltd, Kalimpinya Queen, who was driving the car leading the runners, said that this car came as an environmental solution because it does not pollute the air.

    She said, “This car is one of the best modern cars here in Rwanda and it aligns well with the government’s goals because it does not harm the environment. We have a large number of these cars, and the first buyers have already started purchasing them. We also have Hybrid ones. As someone who usually engages in motorsport, I like these cars because they perform well and are fast.”

    “Dongfeng Forthing Friday” has the capacity to travel 410 kilometers when fully charged. It takes six hours to charge it fully at home, while at a regular station it can be charged in 45 minutes.

    Carcarbaba started importing vehicles made by these manufacturers at the end of 2021, including those suitable for the Rwandan market, which have become popular because they are new and reasonably priced.

    Kalimpinya mentioned that Carcarbaba tested how these vehicles perform on Rwandan roads and found that they work well.

    How can someone who bought a Carcarbaba vehicle get help if they encounter a problem?

    Regarding how someone with a Carcarbaba vehicle can get assistance in case of a problem, the company has trained staff and its own garage.

    They have engineers sent by the manufacturer who make these vehicles, plenty of spare parts, and they offer a warranty that gives the customer confidence in the vehicle.

    The warranty is three years for the car and five years for its battery.

    Carcarbaba is located on ‘Poids Lourds’ road, next to Sawa Citi, on the road to Kanogo, and is open every day including weekends.

    It is easy to visit anytime or call 6699/ 0788708280.

    carcar_baba_58-1a74a.jpgcarcar_baba_70-8452b.jpgCarcarbaba officials who attended the 'Kigali International Peace Marathon 2024' provided support.Kalimpinya Queen, who was driving this car, said that it is good and suitable for Rwandan roads.ec1a0123-2e8e0_1_.jpgCarcarbaba started bringing these cars to Rwanda in 2021 and has been a sponsor of the Kigali International Peace Marathon since 2022.ec1a0209-2-6530a.jpgec1a0173-2-2ce02.jpgec1a0110-bdd8c.jpg

  • Over 500 youths from the Great Lakes region educated on history of Genocide against the Tutsi

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  • Members of Rotary Club Rwanda urged to educate youth about history of Genocide against the Tutsi

    This was highlighted during the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, an event held on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Kigali Genocide Memorial.

    Members of Rotary Club Rwanda visited Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where they were informed about the history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, how it was planned and executed by the bad leadership, and how the youth in the RPF-Inkotanyi sacrificed to stop it.

    After paying tribute to more than 250,000 victims laid to rest at this memorial, the Deputy Governor of District 9150 in Rotary Club Rwanda, Carole Karema, said that this is a good time to learn again as people who teach peace.

    “We come to learn so that we understand the history, thus ensuring that genocide never happens again in Rwanda. Additionally, this involves teaching the younger generation to promote peace and reconciliation starting from Rwanda to the entire world because Rotary is present worldwide,” she said.

    Karema further highlighted the role of Rotary in confronting genocide deniers.

    “We should publicize what happened in Rwanda because we have a lot of evidences including survivors, footage, and more. Every three months we publish a magazine, so we must present the truth about what happened to confront genocide deniers,” she said.

    Tom Ndahiro, a researcher on history and genocide who gave a talk during the event, emphasized that fighting genocide denial should be treated as another war to be fought.

    He said, “Genocide denial is a very serious issue, and as Rwandans, we must take it upon ourselves, treat it as another war to be fought, and the young should know about it and fight it. Otherwise, the victim ends up being seen as the cause of the crime committed against them.”

    Rotary Club Rwanda is comprised of 12 clubs including Rotary Club Kigali, Rotary Club Butare, Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali, Rotary Club Kigali Virunga, and Rotary Club Kigali Gasabo.

    Other clubs include Rotary Club Musanze Murera, Rotary Club Bugoyi Ibirunga, Rotary Club Kivu Lake, Rotary Club Kigali Senior, and Rotary Club Kigali Karisimbi.

    Rotary Club is a non-profit organization that engages in charitable activities such as helping the underprivileged, providing clean water to citizens, fighting epidemic diseases like polio, and contributing to all activities aimed at developing society.

    Senior leaders lay flowers on the graves of the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi.The historian and genocide researcher, Tom Ndahiro, stated that fighting against those who deny the Genocide against the Tutsi should be considered a battle among others.The Deputy Governor of District 9150 in Rotary Club Rwanda, Carole Karema, stated that they should raise awareness about what happened in Rwanda to ensure it doesn't happen anywhere else in the world.Members of Rotary Club Rwanda have been called upon to fight against genocide deniers to prepare the country for a new generation.