IGIHE

Author: Mutoni Yvonne

  • Kenyan judicial officials in Rwanda to sign cooperation agreement

    Memorandum of Understanding

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to be signed between the two countries’ judiciaries encompasses various aspects, primarily focused on sharing knowledge and best practices. This initiative aims to expedite the hearing and determination of cases and improve the overall quality of judicial services. Additionally, the MoU will facilitate peer-to-peer capacity-building exercises, exchanges, study tours, and institutional consultations.

    Importance of Knowledge Sharing

    Speaking to a local news outlet, Harrison Mutabazi, President of the Rwanda Judicial Officers Association, emphasized the importance of sharing best practices within East African countries. He noted that this exchange is crucial for improving local jurisdictions’ access to justice.

    “We are thinking about benchmarking; that is one of the things we are going to be working on. For example, countries have started using electronic case management systems. In Rwanda, we are using them, in Tanzania, they are using them, and in Kenya too. So, Uganda can learn from us,” Mutabazi stated.

    As part of the agreement, Rwanda and Kenya will collaborate in areas of common interest, particularly in academic, jurisprudence, and intellectual exchanges, as well as information and communication technology (ICT).

    Rwanda’s justice system has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by new policies for criminal justice and alternative dispute resolution approved by the cabinet in 2022. These changes aim to shape legal proceedings and the justice system positively.

    The criminal justice policy focuses on increasing the use of non-custodial mechanisms for handling detainees and convicts. Tools like GPS bracelets are being introduced as alternatives to custodial detention. Community service and fines have also been implemented as substitutes for detention in some cases.

    Furthermore, the policy aims to make Rwanda’s prison system more corrective and rehabilitative by ensuring prison officers are equipped with the necessary knowledge to positively impact inmates. The goal is for inmates to acquire skills, knowledge, and a better attitude by the time they leave correctional facilities.

    On the other hand, the alternative dispute resolution policy prioritizes non-litigation mechanisms for resolving conflicts. The justice ministry continues to encourage the use of mediators (Abahuza), conciliators (Abunzi), and arbitrators, reducing the reliance on direct litigation.

  • President Museveni warns those promoting homosexuality in Uganda.

    These remarks were part of a message President Museveni delivered to attendees at a ceremony and prayers in memory of Uganda’s martyrs. This annual event is held in Namugongo, where the martyrs were burned alive.

    Museveni emphasized that Christianity upholds good values that strengthen the family both in Uganda and worldwide.

    He urged the youth of Uganda and Africa in general to invest their time in activities that build their lives, rather than wasting it on European pursuits.

    He said, “You young people, you spend a lot of your time watching European football, and you are not concerned with what is happening in Africa. You cannot comprehend how African youth have been misled. You cannot understand them talking about African unity that Mwalimu Nyerere fought for and we continue to fight for.”

    He continued to sternly warn those who seek to promote homosexual beliefs in Uganda.

    He stated, “Today, Uganda is the land of martyrs because of their faith. Those outsiders talking about homosexuality do not know that Uganda is a land where people chose to die for their beliefs. If you want to play, you can do so, but you will not enjoy the consequences.”

    Museveni’s statement comes after some foreign countries began imposing sanctions on his country due to the law Uganda passed that penalizes homosexuality.

    This law stipulates that it is prohibited to promote or support homosexual groups and their activities, and that acts of homosexuality should be punishable by life imprisonment.

  • Mega Global Link offers 20% discount on study abroad services

    This organization states that it collaborates with schools from primary, secondary, and university levels and helps each individual find a good school.

    In a statement released by this organization, it said, “For the upcoming term, we inform you that there are available spots for those wishing to study in the term starting in September 2024, with opportunities in Canada, the United States, and Europe.”

    The 20% discount on fees will benefit those who apply for services from June 1 to June 30, 2024.

    Mega Global Link assures that it accompanies the individual from the first step until they reach the school.

    They highlight that the schools they work with offer various courses and in different levels, including undergraduate, master’s, short courses, and PhD programs.

  • Why are men more prone to suicide in Rwanda?

    In Rwanda, 576 cases of suicide were recorded between 2021 and 2022. While marking Suicide Prevention Day last year, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) reported that 82 per cent of recent cases involved men.

    Dr. Thierry Murangira, RIB’s spokesperson, noted that the leading causes of suicide include incurable illnesses, job loss, and toxic relationships.

    This statistic aligns with global trends. WHO reports that men are more likely to die by suicide, with the ratio of men to women being 3:1.

    Several questions arise from these statistics. Why are men more prone to suicide? Is it societal pressure, the stigma of seeking help, or the perceived burden of providing for their families? Dr. Murangira mentions that some men might see suicide as a “heroic” act to relieve their families of financial burdens. Yet, this perspective highlights a profound issue in our societal and mental health support systems.

    Additionally, the prevalent mental health issue in Rwanda is depression, affecting one out of ten people aged 14-65. With the stigma around mental health still strong, many men might avoid seeking help, leading to tragic outcomes. In a society where men are often seen as the primary providers, the loss of a job or a relationship can be devastating, pushing them towards this irreversible decision.

    The methods of suicide also tell a story—hanging, poisoning, drowning, and jumping off buildings—each a desperate act reflecting deep despair. The statistics released in 2019 highlighted that Nyagatare had the highest rate of suicide cases in Rwanda at 7%, followed by Gasabo, Gicumbi, and Rutsiro each at 6%, and Karongi at 5%. The reasons for these suicides were varied, with 2% attributed to failed relationships, 2% to extreme poverty, 2% to debts, and 2% to severe commercial losses.

    Rwanda has several l health facilities, with only three specialized mental health centers: Ndera Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Huye Isange Rehabilitation Center, and Icyizere Psychotherapy Center. Additionally, there are mental health departments in four national hospitals: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali (CHUK), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Butare (CHUB), Rwanda Military Hospital, and King Faisal Hospital. In recent years, smaller counseling centers like the Lighthouse Counseling Center and Never Again Rwanda’s Mental Wellness Center have emerged to address these gaps.

    Recognizing the importance of mental health, the public sector and civil society have prioritized raising awareness about mental health issues and the availability of professional help. The Rwanda Ministry of Health, through its health sector strategy, has emphasized mental health by implementing a mental healthcare program. This program includes purchasing necessary medicines, hiring and training medical professionals, and decentralizing mental health services from national hospitals to local centers, thereby making these services more accessible to the general population.

  • Real Madrid clinches 15th UEFA Champions League title in spectacular celebration with Heineken

    Heineken’s theme for the year, “Cheers to the Hardcore Fans,” resonated throughout the night as guests displayed a full range of emotions during the thrilling final. The atmosphere was electric, filled with excitement, tension, joy, and heartbreak, perfectly mirroring the highs and lows of the match.

    The event attracted high-ranking dignitaries and influential figures, underscoring its status as one of the biggest and most exclusive gatherings of the year. Attendees enjoyed gourmet food and an endless supply of drinks, ensuring they watched the match in ultimate comfort and style.

    The meticulous planning and execution were evident in every detail, from the vibrant décor to the attentive service. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as guests settled into their seats, green Heineken cups in hand, ready to witness football history in the making.

    As the match progressed, the collective energy of the crowd ebbed and flowed with each pass, tackle, and goal. It was more than just a viewing party; it was a communal experience that united fans in their shared passion for the beautiful game.

    In a night filled with memorable moments, Heineken successfully celebrated and honored the true essence of being a hardcore football fan. The event was not only a testament to the brand’s commitment to football but also a heartfelt tribute to the fans who live and breathe the sport.

  • Belgian Development Agency Enabel launches ‘Awa’ Prize to Support female entrepreneurs in Rwanda

    The competition was launched on May 30, 2024, during a ceremony in Kigali. Participants can register from June 12 to 28, 2024.

    Tom Crohin, Communication Officer for Enabel’s Awa Prize project, reminded everyone that the establishment of these awards for women and girls aims to show them that it is possible for them to become entrepreneurs.

    He said, “It is very important to reward female entrepreneurs with promising projects that bring change because they can become role models for others. In many parts of the world, it is much harder for women than for men to become entrepreneurs for various reasons, so it is essential to support women who want to become entrepreneurs.”

    Some of the prizes for the winners of this competition include training to help them expand their projects, opportunities to meet other entrepreneurs in Belgium, and more.

    Among the 12 winners of the 2023 competition were Rwandan Raissa Ikuzwe and Burundian Mireille Niyonkuru, founder of BUIM in Rwanda and Burundi.

    Raissa Ikuzwe, the director and founder of INO Coffee series, which processes coffee grown in Rwanda, said that the prize she received would help her expand her project.

    She said, “It showed me that the effort one puts in is recognized and appreciated by people. It made me and my colleagues very happy to see our work recognized at this level […] My message to young girls is that I would tell them it is possible.”

    Mireille Niyonkuru, a Burundian entrepreneur and founder of BUIM, which distributes solar-powered electricity in Rwanda and Burundi, won the third prize.

    The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Dr. Uwamariya Valentine, highlighted that although women and girls still face challenges in becoming entrepreneurs, she appreciates Enabel’s program as it serves as a solution to make their dreams come true.

    She said, “One area that still requires effort is for women and girls to become entrepreneurs. Although female entrepreneurs face many challenges, they play a significant role in all our economic sectors.”

    The Belgian Ambassador to Rwanda, Bert Versmessen, said that this competition, being held in countries including Rwanda, aims to help women and girls undertake activities that benefit not only themselves but also the larger community. He praised the collaboration with the Rwandan government in this initiative.

    To register for this competition, click here.

  • President Paul Kagame Engages with Wharton School of Business Leaders and Students in Rwanda

    The students and some leaders from the Wharton School of Business are in Rwanda to study a course on conflict, governance, and transformation.

    The President’s Office, Village Urugwiro, announced that on May 30, 2024, President Kagame received these students from the Wharton School of Business, led by the Deputy Director of the Wharton School’s Transformation Program, Professor Katherine Klein, and a member of the Wharton School’s Executive Board for Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Eric Kacou.

    “This group is studying the international perspective on Rwanda for the 10th time, focusing on ‘conflict, governance, and transformation: lessons learned from Rwanda.’”

    In 2023, some students from this school also visited Rwanda and were received by the President in his office.

    At that time, President Kagame had discussed Rwanda’s development journey and reconstruction over the past 25 years.
    Wharton School of Business is one of the world’s leading schools for finance and business education.

  • BK Insurance comes to the aid of farmers affected by disaster

    The assisted cooperative, Covmb from Burera District, faced significant losses due to heavy rains followed by intense sunshine, which led to substantial crop damage. Since the farmers had insurance coverage with BK Insurance, they were compensated with over RWF 17 million.

    The president of Covemb Cooperative, Théobald Ndacyayisenga, stated that after losing potato crops spanning 195 hectares, they were initially hopeless but were later encouraged by the insurance they had taken.

    He said, “Insuring agriculture is a solution because when you face unexpected losses, you get compensated. Another benefit is that whatever little that is salvaged from the farm still belongs to us. We are no longer in losses because we were assisted.”

    Jean de Dieu Niyonzima, a potato farmer from Musanze District, added, “I joined the insurance program with BK Insurance, and when heavy rains destroyed my potatoes, they compensated me.”

    Appollinaire Karegeya, the director of SPF, which will work with the farmers, mentioned that the initiative to support potato farming through insurance is a solution for those in this sector, urging them to take advantage of this profitable profession.

    He said, “This insurance for potato seeds, sponsored by BK Insurance, comes at the right time. Previously, farmers would face disasters and lose their crops without any recourse, but now seeds bought here must be insured without any issues.”

    Alexis Bahizi, the CEO of BK Insurance, said they chose to partner with SPF because they provide quality and reliable potato seeds to farmers.

    He explained, “SPF ensures quality seeds, and we decided to collaborate with them so that every seed purchased by a farmer is insured. This will speed up adoption and ensure a smooth process, as the seeds are of high quality and reliable. If a disaster strikes, the farmer is insured and compensated, avoiding total loss.”

    The Musanze District administration indicated that it would increase awareness among potato farmers to encourage them to get insurance, as it promotes both individual prosperity and national development.

    Dr. Olivier Kamana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, urged potato farmers to seek quality seeds and insure their crops.

    He said, “We urge farmers to use reliable, certified seeds that have been researched. We are launching a system where farmers can pre-order seeds, and seed producers can know the types and quantities needed for cultivation.”

  • ANC political party faces unprecedented challenge in upcoming South African Election

    But after winning election after election for 30 years, the ANC, now led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is facing its biggest challenge since taking power in 1994. This potentially marks a watershed moment for one of Africa’s most powerful nations and a major test for South Africa’s still-fledgling democracy.

    Polling ahead of Wednesday’s election shows that, for the first time, the ANC could fall below 50% of the vote. Although the party would still likely end up controlling the presidency, currently held by its leader Cyril Ramaphosa, it would be forced to enter into a coalition with smaller parties. These smaller parties blame the ANC’s current direction for the nation’s profound problems.

    In the years after apartheid ended with the first free, democratic election in 1994, many voters credited the ANC with improving life for South Africans — especially for the black majority that gained basic rights. International sanctions that had hampered the economy were lifted, and the gross domestic product surged.

    This year, a record 51 opposition parties are on the national ballot attempting to unseat the ANC. Some of them are new parties, while others are campaigning on specific issues like closing the borders, or appealing to specific ethnic groups. According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa, 27.79 million South Africans aged 18 and above have registered for the elections this year, up from 26.74 million in 2019.

    According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa, 27.79 million South Africans aged 18 and above have registered to vote in this year’s elections, up from 26.74 million in 2019.

    The Democratic Alliance, the second-largest party in the 2019 election, is campaigning on a platform of combating widespread corruption and revitalizing the economy. Party leader John Steenhuisen has urged voters to oust the ANC to “rescue” the country, calling this “South Africa’s most consequential election in post-democratic history.” However, the party faces the perception of being predominantly supported by white voters.

    The ANC is also challenged by the Economic Freedom Fighters, a party founded about a decade ago. Its core supporters are young people, including many black university students concerned about racial inequality. With polls indicating around 11% support ahead of Wednesday’s election, EFF leader Julius Malema has criticized the ANC’s platform for lacking ambition.

    A newcomer to the political scene is uMkhonto weSizwe, or the MK party, named after the ANC’s former paramilitary wing. Formed last year by former South African President Jacob Zuma as a breakaway from the ANC, the MK party faces the obstacle of Zuma’s ineligibility to run for office due to a criminal conviction for contempt of court. Nevertheless, his face will appear on the ballot alongside his party.

    As the nation heads to the polls, the ANC faces unprecedented challenges, and the outcome of this election could reshape South Africa’s political landscape for years to come.

  • Rwanda to sign agreements with major global medical equipment manufacturers

    The management of the state’s agency responsible for the procurement and distribution of medicines and medical supplies indicates that agreements have been made with over 16 types of drug manufacturers, including those within Rwanda, the region, and various continents, to supply Rwanda directly.

    Towards the end of 2023, the government intensified efforts to source medicines and medical supplies directly from manufacturers without intermediaries. Medical expert Prof. Stephen Rulisa stated that this initiative will lower healthcare service costs, noting that sometimes 10% of the costs were a significant burden on citizens due to the services provided.

    Dr. Abel Dushimimana, the Head of the Association of Private Importers of Medicines and Medical Supplies, mentioned that they have begun organizing themselves to explore ways to also approach these manufacturers.

    The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, noted that since the government started direct negotiations with manufacturers, there have been instances where costs have decreased by up to 50%. He assured private importers that they will also benefit from these opportunities.

    Rwanda imports between 3,000 to 4,000 different types of medicines and various medical supplies, with an annual cost exceeding 100 billion Rwandan Francs.