IGIHE

Category: Opinion

  • Women in Finance Rwanda Foundation launches first financial sector mentorship program for women

    The program, set to be implemented in partnership with Gate Consulting Group, was unveiled during WIFR’s end-of-year dinner in Kigali on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The event was organised to reflect on and celebrate the organisation’s achievements over the past year.

    Dozens of representatives from leading institutions across banking, insurance, and related sectors attended the glamorous and highly interactive dinner. Organisations represented included Bank of Kigali, NCBA, BPR, I&M Bank, EcoBank, Old Mutual, ZEP-Re, One Acre Fund, Rwanda Finance, Access to Finance Rwanda, Urwego Bank, Mayfair Insurance, and Old Mutual among others.

    Amanda Musiimire, who served as the MC for the event, engages Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers Association, during the highly interactive dinner.

    Speaking at the event, Salma Nkusi, CEO of Gate Consulting Group, praised the partnership with WIFR, saying, “It was an easy collaboration because we both shared the same vision of supporting women’s development.”

    According to Nkusi, the mentorship program is designed to bridge leadership gaps by overcoming existing barriers.

    “While formal education is invaluable, this program opens up opportunities for employees to network, learn from leaders, and navigate challenges, all while becoming more strategic about their growth,” Nkusi stated.

    From left to right: Women in Finance Rwanda Foundation Vice Chair Belinda Bwiza, Founding Chair Lina Higiro, and Gates Consulting Group CEO Salma Nkusi pose for a photo during WIFR's end-of-year dinner in Kigali on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

    Nkusi’s decision to pursue a mentorship program, dubbed ‘LiftHerUp’ two years ago, was influenced by her personal career journey as a woman and the valuable lessons she has learned over the years.

    “I felt like what I missed, I really want to give it to younger women. One of our key goals is to shift mindsets, helping women realize that they have a voice and can contribute meaningfully at the table,” added the CEO.

    In the new partnership, at least 20 women from WIFR’s membership will be onboarded into the nine-month program starting in March 2025. They will benefit from carefully crafted activities and interventions aimed at preparing them for career growth, unlocking their full potential, and building a pipeline of future women leaders.

    WIFR's end-of-year dinner was organised to reflect on and celebrate the organisation's achievements over the past year.

    According to a 2023 report from the World Bank, labour force participation in Rwanda stands at 55.1% for women and 66.4% for men, reflecting a gender gap in employment rates.

    Nkusi acknowledged the government’s efforts in increasing women’s participation in the workforce and emphasized the need to boost the number of women in key decision-making positions, particularly in privately owned institutions, where the gap remains huge.

    Lina Higiro, the Founding chair of WIFR, encouraged attendees to enrol in the mentorship program as mentors or mentees to build meaningful connections for their career growth.

    “Opportunity dances with those already on the dance floor,” quipped Higiro, who currently serves as Regional Head of Business Operations at NCBA Group.

    Sylvain Nsabimana, Senior Finance Manager at NCBA Bank Rwanda PLC, also encouraged women to take up the challenge. Having mentored young professionals at NCBA, he believes strongly in the benefits of mentorship in scaling and deepening the sector.

    “Young women should step up and take on leadership roles, as they are fully capable of leading institutions,” said Nsabimana, who helps manage WIFR’s finances and accounts.

    Meanwhile, during the Saturday dinner, 16 young women were recognized for completing courses undertaken in partnership with different institutions including Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI).

    Some beneficiaries of the WIFR scholarship program, who successfully completed courses undertaken in partnership with various institutions, including the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI).

    Since its launch in 2023, the foundation has extended scholarships to about 50 staff members in the banking sector.

    Clarrise Mukantambara, a Loan Officer at BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, expressed her immense joy after successfully completing the scholarship course.

    “Thanks to Women in Finance Rwanda and its co-founder Lina Higiro, I’ve had the opportunity to enhance my skills and grow professionally. The knowledge I’ve gained is invaluable, and I’m excited to apply it in my career,” shared Mukantambara.

    Access to Finance Rwanda CEO, Iyacu Jean Bosco, announced that AFR, part of the FSD network, will support the WIFR Research project on the State of Women in the Financial Sector in collaboration with the Central Bank (BNR). He emphasized that this initiative would be the first of its kind in Africa. As part of WIFR’s Data Pillar, the research findings will inform policy-making and enhance accountability in the sector.

    Access to Finance Rwanda CEO Iyacu Jean Bosco delivers his remarks during the dinner, announcing that AFR, as part of the FSD network, will support the WIFR research project on the state of women in the financial sector in collaboration with the Central Bank.

    Building on this momentum, Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers Association, commended the foundation’s efforts and expressed a strong commitment to continued partnership.

    The evening’s program also highlighted the work of Belinda Bwiza, co-founder of WIFR, who spearheaded the Mentorship Pillar, further advancing the organization’s mission to empower women in the financial sector.

    As a gesture of gratitude, the WIFR leadership extended appreciation tokens to key partners, including the heads of the Rwanda Bankers Association, Access to Finance Rwanda, and IGIHE, for their unwavering support. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali, presented the tokens, while Amanda Musiimire served as the MC for the event.

    Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali, presents tokens of appreciation to key partners for their unwavering support.

    With nearly 15 member institutions signing the WIFR Gender Diversity Charter—a framework for measuring and monitoring progress annually—the Rwandan financial sector now leads the way in promoting accountability for gender equality.

  • T-Stone Apartment Hotel opens in Kigali, promising to raise the bar in hospitality

    Officially launched on December 6, 2024, the modern facility is located in Gasabo District’s Kimihurura Sector, Rugando area, near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre.

    As Rwanda continues to grow as a regional hub, investors are leveraging opportunities to foster development in key sectors such as tourism. T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

    T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

    T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

    The hotel also offers airport transfer services for international guests, ensuring convenience and seamless experiences.

    Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a sauna and massage centre, a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

    Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

    Speaking during the opening ceremony, Daniel Niyomugabo, the General Manager of T-Stone Apartment Hotel, emphasised the hotel’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.

    “Our unique value lies in delivering quick and high-quality services. While we acknowledge competition in the area, we are set apart by the quality of our offerings and our prime location. We aim to create a standout experience, ensuring efficient and friendly service unlike any other.”

    Niyomugabo added that the hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.

    T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at 0 per night or ,000 per month.

    Founder and CEO Muhirwa Gashugi expressed the company’s ambition to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to position the country as a premier destination in Africa.

    For reservations or inquiries, T-Stone Apartment Hotel can be reached via:

    Phone (General Inquiries): +250 795 300 188
    Phone (Reservations): +250 795 303 065
    Email: info@tstoneapartmenthotel.com
    Website: T-Stone Apartment Hotel

    The hotel, located near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre, was officially launched on December 6, 2024.The modern facility was officially launched on December 6, 2024.T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at 0 per night or ,000 per month.
    The hotel offer high-end dining experience.The hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.054a9054-d7eff.jpg054a9046-2-e2709.jpg054a9431-enhanced-nr-971b6.jpg054a9440-c4a53.jpg054a9581-enhanced-nr-17198.jpg054a9440-c4a53.jpg054a9367-44c60.jpg054a9206-a3ef6.jpg054a9126-be07e.jpg054a9191-03d96_1_.jpg054a9545-enhanced-nr-02ab4.jpg

  • Kenya overtakes Tanzania in Rwanda’s import market

    The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.

    The growth propelled Kenya to the second spot among Rwanda’s top import partners, contributing 19.29% of total imports.

    Meanwhile, Tanzania experienced a notable decline, with its exports to Rwanda plummeting by 39.04% month-on-month to $57.38 million, representing just 9.11% of Rwanda’s total imports.

    Tanzania’s sharp drop from its previously dominant position indicates a significant shift in Rwanda’s import landscape, as it has long been Rwanda’s primary partner due to its geographical proximity and the role of the Dar es Salaam port.

    Kenya’s performance has been attributed to increased trade in key commodities such as food products and manufactured goods, sectors in which it is highly competitive. By contrast, Tanzania’s decline reflects reduced trade volumes in categories like crude materials and other traditional export items.

    China remains Rwanda’s top import partner, supplying $142.08 million worth of goods in October 2024. However, Kenya’s surge underscores its growing role in the regional trade landscape.

    The shift also highlights Kenya’s robust trade infrastructure and strong bilateral relations with Rwanda. Enhanced trade agreements, improved logistics, and competitive pricing are likely contributing factors to Kenya’s rise.

    Other notable import partners include India, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.

    In the export market, the United Arab Emirates led as the largest destination, accounting for 67.44% of exports, despite a 15% month-on-month decline. Other notable export partners include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luxembourg, and Uganda.

    In October 2024, Rwanda’s trade deficit stood at $363.65 million, reflecting a 7.37% decrease compared to September 2024 but an 11.89% increase compared to October 2023.

    Rwanda’s total exports displayed a mixed performance during the same month. While exports declined by 12.29% month-on-month, they showed a remarkable 45.49% increase year-on-year. Domestic exports followed a similar pattern, with a 15.75% month-on-month decline but an impressive 61.81% rise year-on-year. Meanwhile, re-exports recorded modest growth, increasing by 1.63% month-on-month and 8.87% year-on-year.

    Among export sectors, animal and vegetable oils, fats, and waxes stood out with exceptional growth, registering a 42.43% increase month-on-month and a staggering 6347.55% increase year-on-year. Similarly, miscellaneous manufactured articles performed strongly, growing by 23.76% month-on-month and 57.26% year-on-year.

    On the imports side, total imports experienced a slight decline of 1.92% month-on-month but rose significantly by 23.99% year-on-year. The food and live animals category contributed notably to this growth, increasing by 19.21% month-on-month and 22.00% year-on-year. Additionally, chemicals and related products exhibited robust performance, with imports rising by 21.42% month-on-month and 35.15% year-on-year.

    The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to 1.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.

  • Rethinking governance: Why youth inclusion is vital for Africa’s future

    This seemingly small responsibility as a prefect/head girl taught me about the importance of structure, accountability, and having a voice within a community. This was a time, my country, Sierra Leone, was on the edge of a brutal civil war that would last over a decade, where youth involvement in any form of governance became rare and almost unimaginable.

    Despite the enormous impact of young people in Africa’s liberation movements, decades later, youth-led governance in many countries remains limited, with policies typically shaped with little or no direct inputs from youth.

    This creates a dangerous paradox: we task young people with inheriting tomorrow’s challenges while denying them a voice in today’s solutions. In an era where young people represent both the largest demographic and the most digitally native generation, excluding them from governance means sacrificing our greatest source of innovation and economic potential. Not only is this a missed opportunity, but it is also a risk. And this can be seen across the continent, with young people organizing to demand more equitable opportunities and a greater say in their future.

    In Kenya, nationwide protests against tax hikes and corruption highlighted youth frustration. This unrest prompted demands for more inclusive reforms. The government responded with a major cabinet reshuffle and announced policy changes. Similarly, the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria exposed broader issues of corruption and governance.

    This led to the Nigerian government disbanding the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and pledged various reforms, including a $70 million youth investment fund. In South Africa, the #FeesMustFall movement was driven by students protesting high tuition fees, poor university governance, and limited financial aid. It led to the halt of planned fee increases and pressured the government to boost education subsidies and expand financial aid for low-income students.

    The solution requires genuine commitment: we must establish platforms that welcome youth perspectives, fund youth-driven projects, and ensure young voices shape policy at every level, from neighbourhoods to parliaments.

    There are promising examples of youth inclusion that provide a way forward. Rwanda, where I have the honor to serve as the United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative, stands out. Youth representation in government is growing, with over 30,000 young people in local government councils across districts, sectors, cells as well as villages, all elected by the National Youth Council.

    Additionally, there are two youth serving as members of parliament and many others in key ministerial roles. Given such commendable representation, youth in Rwanda have championed policy changes in rescuing street children, supporting teen mothers, road traffic speed limits among others.

    There are other approaches that are gaining traction globally. For example, youth shadow cabinets, like the one in Canada, allow young leaders to simulate government processes, while youth-led policy think tanks like UK Youth, enable young people to research and influence public policy on critical issues. There are also digital platforms, including the global #Youth4Climate initiative co-led by the Government of Italy and UNDP that aims to foster youth leadership on climate.

    Youth empowerment also requires economic opportunity. This means investing in youth-led businesses and community initiatives, through coordinated efforts from government, private sector, and civil society to design supportive policies, enhance education, and build regulatory frameworks that foster youth entrepreneurship.

    Reimagining employment models is also crucial, since over 80% of workers in most African countries are in the informal sector, covering gig work, small enterprises, and self-employment that typically lack the protections and stability of formal jobs. There is a need to extend basic protections, improve financial inclusion, provide vocational training and upgrade the technical skills and capacity of youth-led businesses.

    When young people have these opportunities they and their communities prosper. For instance, in South Africa, initiatives like the Youth Employment Service (YES) provide skills development and job placements, allowing youth to gain valuable work experience and contribute to local economies. In Ghana, the National Digital Transformation Agenda equips youth with digital skills, resulting in a surge of startups that contribute to local economic development.

    Reflecting on my journey from a teenage student leader in Sierra Leone to my current role as UNDP Resident Representative, I see both how far we’ve come and how much remains to be done. At the just concluded 2024 YouthConnekt Africa Summit in Kigali, one could see the enormous potential in young people. If leaders don’t create meaningful opportunities for youth participation, we risk losing not just individual potential, but also the innovative energy needed to transform our continent.

    Young people are already leading, innovating, and demanding change across Africa. Those of us in positions of influence today must recognize that Africa’s transformation depends not only on our willingness to make space for youth, but on our courage to share the space we have and the power with them.

    Fatmata Lovetta Sesay is UNDP's Resident Representative in Rwanda. She is passionate about youth advancement, women’s economic empowerment, and designing sustainable policies that ensure inclusive development.

  • Grand Legacy Hotel celebrates a decade of excellence in Rwanda’s hospitality sector

    Located in the vibrant Remera neighbourhood, the hotel opened its doors in 2014 and has since become a key player in the country’s hospitality sector, helping shape the experience of both travellers and business professionals.

    Since its inception, Grand Legacy Hotel has been committed to providing world-class accommodation, hosting international conferences, and offering a wide range of amenities. These include two restaurants, a gym, aerobics facilities, a steam room, sauna, massage services, and a pool for guests to enjoy.

    The hotel has also established itself as a trusted venue for events, offering catering services for meetings and private parties, ensuring guests’ needs are met with unparalleled hospitality.

    With 43 rooms, including 33 superior rooms, and exclusive facilities for business conferences and meetings, Grand Legacy Hotel has earned a stellar reputation for its professional and welcoming service. The hotel has hosted over 3,000 guests at notable events, such as the African Development Bank’s Annual Meeting, earning accolades from both customers and international organizations.

    In 2015, just one year after opening, the hotel won the prestigious “Best 2nd Hotel for Excellent Service” award at the Gateway Tourism Expo in Nairobi, surpassing some of the world’s largest hotel chains. This recognition was followed by glowing reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor and Booking.com, where the hotel earned praise for its exceptional service and guest satisfaction.

    Reflecting on this milestone, Christian Ndagijimana, CEO of Grand Legacy Hotel, said, “When we started, there were few hotels in Rwanda. Our goal was to contribute to the development of the country’s hospitality and tourism sectors, and we are proud of the progress we’ve made. Today, we’ve seen our hotel grow in both reputation and clientele, and we look forward to continuing our support for Rwanda’s tourism industry for years to come.”

    François Nsengimana, Development Manager at Salvation Army and one of the hotel’s most loyal clients, expressed his satisfaction with the hotel’s services, saying, “Grand Legacy Hotel is a modern establishment with professional staff who pay attention to every detail. Its location—close to the airport and Kigali’s key attractions—makes it an ideal place for both business and leisure.”

    To celebrate this significant achievement, Grand Legacy Hotel will host a special anniversary event at its premises in Remera on December 6, 2024.

    The event will bring together local dignitaries, loyal clients, business partners, and media representatives to reflect on the hotel’s journey and future endeavours.

    During the event, the management will unveil plans to expand its offerings with a new eco-friendly resort on Nkombo Island, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to environmental sustainability and Rwanda’s tourism development.

    Looking ahead, Grand Legacy Hotel plans to continue expanding its influence on both the local and international hospitality landscape. With several new projects in the pipeline and an unwavering dedication to excellence, the hotel is poised to play an integral role in shaping the future of Rwanda’s tourism industry.

    Grand Legacy Hotel in Kigali is marking its 10-year anniversary of delivering exceptional service and contributing to Rwanda’s growing tourism and hospitality industry.
    Located in the vibrant Remera neighbourhood, Grand Legacy Hotel was opened in 2014.
    Since its inception, Grand Legacy Hotel has been committed to providing world-class accommodation.
    whatsapp_image_2024-12-04_at_3.41_17_pm_2_.jpg
    With 43 rooms, including 33 superior rooms, and exclusive facilities for business conferences and meetings, Grand Legacy Hotel has earned a stellar reputation for its professional and welcoming service.
    The hotel has exclusive facilities for business conferences and meetings.
    A gym facility at the Grand Legacy Hotel.Grand Legacy Hotel features a pool for guests to enjoy.

  • Rwanda to host Africa Trade Development Forum 2024

    The two-day forum, co-organized by the Government of Rwanda and TradeMark Africa (TMA), will bring together Heads of State, government officials, development partners, academicians, multilateral organizations, and private sector leaders from 14 TMA implementation countries and beyond.

    TMA focuses on promoting trade and regional integration across a range of countries, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea. These nations form the core of TMA’s efforts to enhance trade facilitation, reduce barriers, and drive economic growth through innovative projects and partnerships.

    Held under the theme ‘Digital Trade,’ this year’s forum will highlight transformative digital trade practices and technologies. The forum will be officially opened at the Kigali Convention Centre by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Édouard Ngirente.

    According to the organizers, key discussions will explore the interoperability of digital payments, the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) and artificial intelligence in trade processes, and the role of automation in supporting green trade initiatives. The sessions aim to address leveraging technology to streamline trade facilitation, enhance policy frameworks, and foster sustainable development across Africa.

    This marks the first time the forum will be held in Rwanda, following previous editions in Kenya (2011, 2012, 2014, and 2019) and Uganda (2018).

    David Beer, CEO of TradeMark Africa, emphasized the forum’s significance in advancing Africa’s economic prosperity.

    “TradeMark is driven entirely by generating practical results to remove trade barriers and drive up exports within and from Africa. While we have seen serious progress from trade facilitation interventions in the last decade, there is another big step forward to take,” he said.

    “The 2024 forum will focus on propagating digitization successes more widely and introducing cutting-edge technologies. We look forward to sharing lessons and presenting innovative ideas to help governments and the private sector further drive down the cost and time of trade.”

    The forum is expected to drive Africa’s trade integration, leveraging digital solutions to build sustainable, seamless trade systems that enhance regional and global competitiveness.

    This year’s conference will culminate in the development of the Africa Trade Development Forum Kigali Declaration, which will capture the key insights and decisions arising from the event’s discussions.

    Additionally, TradeMark Africa (TMA) is set to unveil the Trade Facilitation Flagship Document, a report that outlines emerging trends in Africa’s trade facilitation and showcases innovative technologies designed to streamline and enhance trading processes.

    The Africa Trade Development Forum will be officially opened at the Kigali Convention Centre by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Édouard Ngirente.

  • Lessons from the Kigali Genocide Memorial: A Call to action for Africa

    Many I spoke to call it luck, surviving by the skin of their teeth; others see their survival as an opportunity to be beacons of hope, voices for the voiceless. Their persistence proves that people can endure unspeakable adversity.

    The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as a striking memorial to the Genocide mass murders. In addition to being a center for repugnant history, it also functions as a learning center and a space for introspection.

    Its role is also international in scope, advocating reconciliation, healing, and peacemaking via education across borders. In fact, for me visiting this memorial wasn’t just a journey to the past but a reflection of those lessons which Africa should urgently internalize in securing her future.

    The Frailty of Peace

    Growing up in my rural Kenyan neighborhood, I learned about the genocide in school, but the extent of its barbarity felt alien, and somewhat elusive—perhaps because I was only about one month old when it occurred and about twelve when I first learned it in school.

    Walking through the Kigali Genocide Memorial, however, the reality became unequivocally stark: peace is easily disrupted. Rwanda’s story is a grim reminder that polarization, hate speech, and rampant bias can escalate into a crippling massacre.

    Standing before walls inscribed with names, staring into photos of innocent victims, sent a sobering message about vigilance. Roots of animosity are often planted through careless remarks, policies of exclusion, or orchestrated propaganda campaigns. When cultivated by indifference or culpability, they morph into horrors.

    The Power of Unity

    Remarkably, Rwanda has demonstrated a power of unity and active resolution. This memorial keeps the remembrance of the victims alive as well as enlightens its visitors on the road to restoration for Rwanda.

    With programs in place that facilitate dialogue, rebuilding communities, and holding people accountable as a nation, it is an example to show that even amidst a deeply divided population, reconciliation can be realized.

    This is a lesson most needed on the African continent, which often finds itself torn apart by ethnic, political and tribal dispute. If Rwanda was able to rise from the ashes of genocide, why can’t other nations turn their conflicts into avenues for healing and advancement?

    It takes strong leadership, for sure, but it also requires a united effort to highlight the mutual humanity that binds us together.

    The Role of Education

    The Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as an important educational hub, particularly for young people. By confronting difficult truths, the memorial helps ensure that history is remembered and not repeated.

    Education that promotes empathy, inclusivity and critical thinking must be given top priority for us Africans. To help them strive for a more cohesive future, it is our duty to teach our kids about our shared past, including its triumphs and sorrows.

    My Experience: A Personal Call to Action

    The experience of touring the Kigali Genocide Memorial was both life-changing and profound. In addition to serving as a devastating reminder of the depths of human evil, it also showed how remarkably resilient and forgiving we are when faced with such terrible grief.

    I thought about how I could contribute to “Never Again” for it to become more than just a cliche and a reality that we all live by. I believe the answer lies in fostering dialogue, creating a path to harmony through education and immense support from allies.

    For Africa, this means drawing lessons from Rwanda’s scars and successes to forge sustainable peace. With that said, I deeply appreciate the fact that the Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as a memorial and a call to action for a continent that needs to heal.

    Before it’s too late, let’s take note of these teachings. When we come together, Africa will continue to rise but when remain divided along the lines of ethnicity and hate, the continent will certainly come down crumbling.

    The Author is a Digital Marketing and Communications Consultant based in Nairobi. She is a published author and a thought leader in the intersection of digital media, communications, and consumer behavior.

  • Marking the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism

    As we join the international community in marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism, it is vital to shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by women worldwide, including from Israel and Rwanda, and reaffirm our collective commitment to eradicating this pervasive issue.​​

    More than 400 days have passed since Hamas abducted hundreds of civilians from Israel. To date, 101 hostages, including women and children, remain in captivity in the Gaza Strip.

    These hostages have been denied Red Cross access, and absolutely no contact with them has been allowed.​​ These precious human beings, including women and daughters, endure unimaginable isolation and suffering.

    In this context, we recall that the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Sexual Violence in Conflict has reported that there is clear and convincing information that some of the hostages have been subjected to various forms of sexual violence including rape and sexualized torture and that there are reasonable grounds to believe that such violence is ongoing.

    ​​This enduring tragedy – which has unfolded over 400 days – underscores the need for urgent action to be undertaken by the international community, in line with the global commitments we have all endorsed under UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.​​ ​​

    This landmark resolution calls on us to safeguard women and girls in conflict and prevent their victimization.​​ So long as the hostages remain in custody, and continue to be brutalized by Hamas, we are witnessing the utter failure of the international community to uphold the principles on UNSCR 1325, including the protection of women and girls. We are not only failing Israeli women; we are failing humanity as a whole​​.

    We urge you to join in the humanitarian call for the immediate release of all of the hostages being held captive in Gaza by the Hamas terrorist organization, including women, children, husbands and fathers, the elderly and the sick and wounded.

    Their plight is a universal concern that transcends politics, bound by our shared commitment to human rights and justice. Let us act together to uphold the dignity and safety of all women and children — as well as all of humankind — affirming the world’s resolve to combat violence against them in every form.

    We ask that you take action in your circles of influence – vis-à-vis world decision makers, local leaders and civil society – to orange the world and free the hostages. Let us hope and pray that by the time that next year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is commemorated, all of the hostages being held in Gaza will be reunited with their loved ones, safe and sound in their homes. But their release depends on the actions of each and every one of us. Not apathy and indifference.

    Rwanda has made remarkable strides in promoting gender equality, with an unwavering and vocal commitment of HE the president. Despite these advancements, GBV remains a pressing concern.

    According to the UNHCR Rwanda GBV Situational Analysis Dashboard for example, over 10,000 cases of GBV were reported in the first half of 2024.

    These figures remind us that while progress has been made, the fight against GBV requires sustained efforts and innovative solutions and we all need to work together to eradicate this phenomenon

    With hope and determination,

    Einat Weiss

    Ambassador, State of Israel to Rwanda

    Einat Weiss is the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Rwanda.

  • There are more than 900 reasons why every business should use IremboPay

    IremboPay simplifies the payment process, ensuring it is as fast as it is secure—allowing you to focus on enjoying your time without worrying about complicated transactions. Besides, we don’t know any other fintech platform or payment gateway you can use in Kinyarwanda. Do you?

    IremboPay began as a solution for IremboGov, a platform designed to streamline access to government services. Its initial focus on efficiency quickly proved successful, demonstrating the ability to handle high transaction volumes with remarkable reliability. As it gained traction, it became clear that the robust infrastructure behind IremboPay could extend beyond public services, paving the way for broader enterprise applications.

    IremboPay simplifies the payment process, ensuring it is as fast as it is secure—allowing you to focus on enjoying your time without worrying about complicated transactions.

    Today, IremboPay is a powerful standalone payment solution ready to enhance payment processing for businesses across various industries.

    IremboPay functions as a payment gateway—and more! It helps businesses collect payments securely and efficiently through various methods, such as mobile money, debit and credit cards, agents, and bank transfers. It makes transactions simple, offering customers a quick and seamless payment experience.

    IremboPay functions as a payment gateway—and more!

    With easy integration into your system, IremboPay ensures a smooth, unified payment experience across platforms. It is a complete fintech solution with advanced features like real-time processing, support in multiple languages, offline payment options, insightful analytics, and automatic reconciliation, among others. It’s like having a versatile tool that handles payments and empowers businesses to improve their daily operations and boost customer satisfaction.

    Nine reasons (out of 900) why your business should use IremboPay

    We could list all the 900 reasons, but we figured you’d appreciate getting the highlights before next year. So, here are nine reasons why IremboPay is the ideal payment solution for your business:

    Multilingual support

    Serving a diverse clientele means communicating effectively. IremboPay supports English, French, and Kinyarwanda support, enhancing accessibility and customer engagement.
    Effortless integration.

    IremboPay supports English, French, and Kinyarwanda support, enhancing accessibility and customer engagement. Effortless integration

    No one really likes complicated setups. If you want to add payment processing to your existing systems, IremboPay offers user-friendly APIs
    that simplify integration. You can start accepting payments quickly without the headaches.
    Ability to use payment links

    If you’re looking for a quick and easy setup, our payment link solution allows you to accept payments without needing an integration; you can generate them and send them to your customers via email, WhatsApp, SMS, or any other platform, and they can then pay through all our supported channels.

    Unmatched reliability

    With a 99.9% uptime, IremboPay ensures your payment systems are always operational. This reliability means fewer disruptions, allowing you to focus on your core business without worrying about payment failures.

    Real-time processing

    Time is precious. Whether you run a hotel, restaurant, tour company, school, or manufacturing plant, the last thing you want is to hold your customers hostage because you can’t verify in time that they paid you, as their proof of payment took too long to reflect in your systems. IremboPay’s real-time capabilities ensure payments are completed on the spot, keeping your relationship with your customers intact.

    Diverse payment options

    Flexibility is crucial in today’s marketplace. IremboPay supports various payment methods, including mobile money, cards, agents, and local bank transfers, with more options on the way. This diversity caters to different customer preferences, making transactions seamless for everyone.

    Multi-currency acceptance

    IremboPay facilitates transactions in multiple currencies, including RWF, EUR, GBP, and USD. This flexibility attracts a broader range of customers, including international travellers and expatriates who can pay in their preferred currency.

    Actionable insights

    IremboPay provides robust analytics, giving businesses valuable insights into customer behaviour and transaction trends. This data empowers one to make informed decisions, optimise inventory, and tailor offerings to meet market demands.
    Offline payment capabilities

    IremboPay supports offline payments through local mobile operators and banks, ensuring transactions can occur even in areas with limited connectivity. All your users need is a Bill ID, which they can present to agents, banks, and mobile money operators to make payments instantly.

    Who needs IremboPay?

    IremboPay offers comprehensive solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across various sectors.

    In tourism and hospitality, it streamlines check-ins and payments to create a welcoming guest experience.

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    Moreover, software and IT companies enhance their services by integrating this reliable payment solution, improving client experiences and building trust in their offerings.

    No matter your industry, IremboPay has the tools to support your payment needs.

    As IremboPay grows, it’s ready to transform how businesses handle payments, regardless of scale or size. Choosing IremboPay means you not only enhance your operational capabilities but also adopt a solution that guarantees efficiency, reliability, trust, and innovation.

    Ready to discover how IremboPay can elevate your business? Visit www.irembopay.com or email irembopay@irembo.com to learn more and start your journey toward streamlined payments today.

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  • Why Rwanda’s progress makes figures like Ingabire irrelevant

    Rwanda, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame and the RPF Inkotanyi, has been a particular target of this strategy. Figures like Paul Rusesabagina and now Victoire Ingabire are the latest tools in a long series of failed attempts to weaken the country’s stability and influence its leadership. However, once again, Western backers are betting on the wrong person at the wrong time.

    Victoire Ingabire has been presented by her Western supporters as a political activist, a so-called voice for democracy in Rwanda. Yet, her past affiliations with criminal networks and groups linked to destabilization efforts paint a very different picture.

    The attempt to whitewash her image ignores her documented ties to individuals and organizations responsible for violence and chaos. No matter how much effort is put into rebranding her as a “freedom fighter,” her record will continue to haunt her credibility.

    This strategy of amplifying problematic figures has been tried and tested in other parts of the world. For example, in Venezuela, Juan Guaidó was propped up as an opposition leader, attempting to delegitimize a sitting government.

    In Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky transitioned from an outsider to a Western-backed leader with CIA connections playing a pivotal role. In Russia, Alexei Navalny became a symbol of anti-establishment forces pushed by Western entities. The goals are clear: regime change or at least applying enough pressure to extract concessions. In Rwanda, however, such tactics are destined to fail.

    The key difference between Rwanda and other nations targeted by similar strategies lies in the effectiveness of the government. Under the RPF Inkotanyi, Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation across nearly every sector.

    The economy is growing steadily, infrastructure is modernizing at an impressive rate, and healthcare and education systems are improving.

    For example, in the health sector, life expectancy rose from 47.5 years in 2000 to 67.5 years in 2021. Over 90% of the population had health insurance by 2014, ensuring better access to healthcare.

    In education, primary education enrollment reached 87.3% in 2021/22, while secondary enrollment improved with a net rate of 25.4%. Tertiary education expanded rapidly, with universities and other higher learning institutions growing from one in 1994 to over 30 by 2023.

    The economy is growing steadily, infrastructure is modernizing at an impressive rate, and healthcare and education systems are improving.

    Kigali City is renowned for green initiatives.

    Statistics indicate that GDP has risen by an average of 8.2% annually from 2022 to 2023 and 9.7% in early 2024. Per capita income increased from $127 in 1994 to $909.9 in 2022, reflecting improved living standards.

    Similarly, Rwanda’s infrastructure has advanced with electricity capacity increasing plus other major investments in roads and ICT, including a 2,300 km fiber-optic network that has boosted connectivity and digital transformation.

    Rwanda’s infrastructure has advanced with electricity connections increasing significantly.

    These tangible achievements leave little room for opposition figures to gain traction among the population.

    Most Rwandans are not interested in supporting opposition figures when they see consistent delivery on promises from the government. In fact, many ask themselves why they would gamble their country’s future on divisive individuals with questionable agendas when the current government continues to exceed expectations.

    Hope for a brighter future under Paul Kagame’s leadership remains high, and trust in the government has only grown stronger over time.

    Western entities have also tried to infiltrate Rwandan civil society, hoping to sow dissent from within. These efforts, however, have been thwarted by the government’s robust structures and the unity of the Rwandan people.

    The iconic Kigali Convention Centre (KCC), is the premium events venue in Rwanda since its opening in 2016 and a hugely popular MICE destination in the East African region.

    The RPF Inkotanyi’s focus on inclusivity, good governance, and accountability has made it difficult for foreign actors to create divisions or exploit weaknesses. The effectiveness and popularity of the government leave little room for opposition movements to gain ground.

    By choosing to elevate figures like Victoire Ingabire, Western powers are betting on individuals who lack both credibility and grassroots support within Rwanda. Their efforts are not only futile but also reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the Rwandan political landscape.

    The country’s citizens, having experienced unparalleled growth and stability, are unwilling to risk their progress by supporting divisive figures or external agendas.

    Moreover, attempts to frame Rwanda as a country in need of external intervention overlook the fact that its development model has become a beacon of hope for many in the region. Rwanda is not Venezuela, Ukraine, or Russia. The dynamics here are different, and the strategies that may have worked elsewhere are unlikely to succeed against the unity and resilience of the Rwandan people.

    Victoire Ingabire was released from prison in September 2018 through presidential pardon.

    Western attempts to use individuals like Victoire Ingabire to destabilize Rwanda and put pressure on its government are destined to fail. The effectiveness of the RPF-led administration, combined with the trust and optimism of the Rwandan people, ensures that such strategies will not take root.

    Rwanda’s progress is a testament to what can be achieved with visionary leadership, and its people remain steadfast in their support for a government that delivers results. The West would do well to respect Rwanda’s sovereignty and focus on partnerships based on mutual respect, rather than tired, ineffective tactics aimed at destabilization.