Category: People

Pope Francis’s legacy in Rwanda: Key moments and lasting impact

His death comes after years of fragile health. The pontiff had long battled respiratory complications stemming from a serious illness in his youth, which led to the removal of part of his lung at the age of 21.

In recent months, his condition had deteriorated significantly, with multiple hospitalisations due to bronchitis and other complications.

Despite his failing health, Pope Francis remained deeply engaged in his pastoral mission, often addressing issues of injustice and human suffering around the world, including the legacy of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

As the first Jesuit pope and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years, Pope Francis — born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina — brought with him a distinctly global perspective.

In 2017, Pope Francis made a historic and unprecedented gesture when he publicly acknowledged and apologised for the role of the Catholic Church in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Speaking during a meeting with President Paul Kagame at the Vatican on March 20, 2017, the Pope expressed deep sorrow:

“I feel the pain, the sorrow, and the shame of the fact that some of the Church’s sons, ministers, priests, have been involved in the genocide, in that unspeakable crime. I ask forgiveness for the scandal that this has caused to the Church and to all humanity.”

It was a moment that shifted the tone of relations between the Vatican and Rwanda. For years, survivors and the Rwandan government had called for an acknowledgement of the Church’s complicity.

Some members of the clergy were directly involved in atrocities, while others failed to protect victims or speak out. Pope Francis’s direct and heartfelt apology broke with the Church’s prior reluctance to confront its failings.

President Kagame welcomed the gesture, calling it “an important step in the journey of reconciliation.” Many Rwandans viewed the apology as a powerful act of humility and truth-telling—qualities Pope Francis consistently championed.

A Cardinal for Rwanda

Another major milestone in Rwanda’s relationship with the Catholic Church under Pope Francis came in 2021, when he appointed Archbishop Antoine Kambanda as the country’s first cardinal. A genocide survivor himself, Cardinal Kambanda’s elevation was both a personal recognition and a national symbol of Rwanda’s journey from tragedy to hope.

“This is not just a personal honour,” Cardinal Kambanda said after his appointment. “It is an acknowledgement of the progress Rwanda has made in healing and in building a future based on justice, peace, and unity.”

By naming Kambanda a cardinal, Pope Francis affirmed Rwanda’s place in the global Catholic community and highlighted the Church’s role in the country’s healing process. The decision was also widely seen as reinforcing the Vatican’s commitment to local leadership and its desire to support African voices in shaping the future of the Church.

A Papacy of reconciliation and courage

Throughout his twelve-year papacy, Pope Francis emphasised a Church that is humble, compassionate, and willing to confront uncomfortable truths. His philosophy of leadership was deeply influenced by his own experiences in Argentina during the Dirty War, where he quietly helped victims of state violence. That background helped shape his emphasis on social justice and his refusal to let the Church remain silent in the face of moral crises.

His approach to Rwanda reflected this ethos. He did not shy away from the uncomfortable legacy left by the Church during the Genocide against the Tutsi. Instead, he took ownership, offering not just words but gestures that signalled a readiness to accompany Rwandans on their path to healing.

As he once said in his meeting with Kagame, “Reconciliation is a gift that God gives, but it requires an active commitment from everyone. Only through dialogue, mutual respect, and a willingness to heal the wounds of the past can we build a future of peace.”

Pope Francis’s legacy extends far beyond Rwanda. He is remembered globally for his progressive views, humility, and concern for the marginalised. From advocating for climate justice to addressing income inequality, from engaging in interfaith dialogue to supporting migrants and refugees, he continually reoriented the Catholic Church toward service.

But in Rwanda, his legacy is particularly profound. It is the legacy of a man who looked into the face of a nation’s pain and responded not with defensiveness, but with repentance and solidarity. In doing so, he helped to begin mending a broken relationship and set an example for moral leadership.

As Rwanda continues its journey of remembrance and reconstruction, Pope Francis will be remembered as the pope who listened, who apologised, and who walked alongside a grieving nation with grace and courage.

April 21, 2025
Nicole Ansoni’s journey of entrepreneurship and empowerment (VIDEO)

With over a decade of experience in creating socio-economic impact across Rwanda and West Africa, her story inspires countless others to follow their dreams, even when the path seems uncertain.

Nicole is a young Rwandan entrepreneur who began her journey with a completely different career trajectory in mind. Originally trained in political science and international relations, she had a clear path toward a career in diplomacy.

However, a series of events, bolstered by guidance from mentors, led her to a bold decision, to become an entrepreneur. “I was set to have a career in diplomacy, but I pivoted completely. Luckily, I was young enough to make that choice, to go from studying political science to becoming self-employed,” Nicole recalls.

She admits that the transition was not an easy one. “It took a lot of mentorship. I was fortunate that my cousins and brothers, who were entrepreneurs themselves, rallied around me. They helped me understand the value I could contribute to Rwanda’s business sector.”

Her shift into entrepreneurship came with many challenges, particularly in the hospitality sector, which was still emerging in Rwanda at the time. But she had a strong belief in the power of mentorship and passion-driven work.

“What I believe in most is mentorship. I’m the product of mentorship, and I want to offer the same opportunity to others, especially young women who want to enter hospitality but don’t know where to begin,” she explains.

Despite her educational background being far apart from the business world, Nicole made a conscious decision to focus on her passion for food and hospitality. She knew that in order to succeed, she had to build a strong foundation around the industry.

Her focus became clear; to create businesses that not only thrive but also contribute positively to the community. However, the lack of infrastructure in Rwanda’s hospitality sector in the early days presented a significant challenge.

“In the beginning, we worked with an unreasonable amount of suppliers because there was no centralized supply chain and barely any suppliers specifically geared towards the hospitality/wholesale industry. You’d have to run all over town to find what you needed for your business, and purchase retail instead of wholesale which affected our cashflow” Nicole recounts.

This logistical nightmare was compounded by the lack of trained human resources in Rwanda’s hospitality and tourism sectors, with students who had the theory but not the hands-on experience.

Despite these challenges, Nicole was determined to make her business work. One of her major breakthroughs came with the creation of Inka Steakhouse, a restaurant that would go on to become a symbol of Rwanda’s growing hospitality scene.

“When I decided to open a restaurant, I wanted something authentic. I didn’t want an Italian or French restaurant, because I am neither of the two. I wanted to create a place where people could enjoy locally sourced meat and produce in a setting that celebrated Rwanda,” she reveals.

Inka Steakhouse became a passion project for Nicole, a way to elevate Rwandan beef and support local farmers. The name “Inka,” which means “cow” in Kinyarwanda, was chosen as a tribute to Rwanda’s agricultural heritage. For her, Inka is a love letter to Rwanda. It represents dignity and nobility.

Inka Steakhouse is not just about food, it’s about community. The restaurant has become a platform to showcase the country’s agricultural potential and raise awareness about the importance of supporting local farmers.

As a result, Nicole’s restaurant became part of a larger movement that changed the face of cattle farming in Rwanda, helping farmers improve their practices and increase the quality of their products.

Her commitment to empowering others is not limited to her business ventures. Her philanthropic work, through the Ansoni Foundation, has been a major part of her journey.

“When we started the foundation seven years ago, I wanted to support schools by providing them with books. But when I visited schools, I realized that the real issue wasn’t the books, it was that the children weren’t coming to school because they didn’t have enough to eat, their families couldn’t afford the school lunch and meals” Nicole explains.

One of the foundation’s accomplishments this year already was donating over 200,000 meals to a school in Huye, district, Southern Province. With a conviction of education as a key pillar for development, Nicole was very passionate about helping kids access it.

“I’ve been given so much in my life, and I believe that those who are fortunate have a responsibility to give back,” she states. This belief is reflected in both her business practices and her philanthropic efforts.

Looking ahead, Nicole is focused on continuing her entrepreneurial journey, expanding her businesses, and supporting the next generation of leaders. She is especially committed to helping Rwanda’s youth harness the opportunities available to them.

“We need an educated and focused youth. We need more discipline and rigor. Entrepreneurship is not glamorous, it requires hard work, self-discipline, and perseverance,” she advises.

An award winning entrepreneur, Nicole has numerous accolades to her name including restaurant of the year (five times), young entrepreneur of the Year (three times, best steakhouse in East Africa and was recently nominated for the Forty under 40 global awards slated for April 12, 2025 in Dubai.

Her message to young Rwandans is simple but powerful: “There are endless opportunities here. Keep dreaming, keep learning, and take the time to prepare yourself for success.”

Nicole Ansoni’s journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, passion, and the willingness to embrace change. She continues to inspire a generation of Rwandans to believe in their dreams, pursue their passions, and use their success to uplift others.

April 4, 2025
The mysterious death of Dian Fossey and its untold consequences

Originally from the United States, Nyiramacibiri played a significant role in preventing the extinction of gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. When she arrived, gorilla populations were dwindling due to poaching.

Nyiramacibiri arrived at the park in 1967 after spending time studying gorilla behavior. Over the 18 years she spent living among them, she gathered extensive knowledge on their feeding habits, social structures, emotional expressions, and more.

On the morning of December 27, 1985, the tragic news of her death spread throughout Rwanda, particularly in the former Ruhengeri Prefecture. She was found murdered in her cabin with six head and facial wounds, indicating she had been hacked to death with a machete.

Robbery was ruled out as a motive since the substantial cash she kept in her home was untouched. Additionally, her passport and a handgun remained undisturbed. Investigators found footprints of two individuals outside her cabin, and a hole had been cut into the wall.

Following her death, Rwandan authorities swiftly arrested her staff, including Emmanuel Rwelekana, who had previously guided Fossey during her fieldwork. While most were released the next day, Rwelekana remained in custody due to prior conflicts with Fossey that had resulted in his dismissal.

Nine months later, on September 29, 1986, the day before U.S. Embassy officials were scheduled to question Rwelekana, the Rwandan government announced that he had died in his cell, allegedly by hanging. This conclusion raised suspicions, especially among his family.

We have no proof that my father died- Rwelekana’s daughter

To this day, the circumstances of Rwelekana’s death remain unclear. His family never received his body nor any concrete evidence confirming his death.

Donata Mukarwego, born in 1980 in Rwambogo village, is Rwelekana’s daughter. In an interview with IGIHE, she recounted the day her father learned of Fossey’s death.

“My father was at home when he received the news. He immediately left the house after telling my mother that something terrible had happened,” she recalls. A few days later, gendarmes arrived to arrest her father and other staff members. Eventually, the family heard the news of his alleged death in prison.

“A man came to tell us that our father had died. Rumors spread that he either committed suicide or was killed. Among all the staff, only my father died, which left us devastated,” Mukarwego said.

Following Rwelekana’s death, his wife also passed away, leaving their children to face severe hardship.
Fossey died without ever conceiving a child

Jonas Nubaha, born in Kinigi in 1965, started working for Fossey at Karisoke Research Center in 1979. His duties included monitoring wildlife and setting traps for poachers.

“She hired people who knew the work well. We would report to her every morning with our findings,” Nubaha recalled. He remembered Fossey as a kind employer who treated her staff and local residents generously.

“On holidays, we would bring our families to celebrate with her. She provided food, drinks, and clothes for our children. She was a good person who treated us well,” he said. Despite working closely with the gorillas, Fossey’s staff remained cautious around them.

“She loved the gorillas deeply. We would stay back while she approached them. She played a major role in ensuring their protection,” Nubaha said.

Fossey’s work extended beyond wildlife conservation to supporting local communities, which earned her lasting admiration. “The problem is that she died without ever having a child. But even today, people continue to hold memorials in her honor,” Nubaha noted.

Fidèle Uwimana, another former staff member born in 1967 in Kinigi, described how he first encountered Fossey in 1984 during a community celebration. As a young volunteer, he would help with household tasks during staff holidays, receiving clothes in return.

Uwimana explained that the name “Nyiramacibiri” originally belonged to another researcher who was shorter than Fossey. When that researcher returned home, Fossey inherited the nickname.

Was Rwelekana wrongfully accused?

When asked whether Rwelekana was responsible for Fossey’s death, Nubaha remained skeptical. “Although some people suspected him, there was never clear evidence,” he said.

Rumors suggested that Fossey’s conflicts with local and foreign authorities might have played a role in her murder. Some believed that disagreements over whether the gorillas should be used for tourism rather than research created enemies for her.

Others speculated that she clashed with the Rwandan government, especially with local officials in Ruhengeri. Uwimana, who also knew Rwelekana and his brother, acknowledged that while Fossey and Rwelekana had a contentious relationship, the truth remains elusive.

“There were meetings at his home with foreign collaborators before Fossey died. It is hard to dismiss the possibility that he was involved,” he said.

Fossey was buried at Karisoke among the gorillas she had cared for, fulfilling her wish to rest alongside the animals she loved so dear.

“The government granted us permission to bury her there. To this day, her grave remains a place of remembrance,” Uwimana said.

March 6, 2025
Discover the meaning behind Boxing Day

The tradition of Boxing Day is believed to have originated in Britain during Queen Victoria’s reign ( between 1837 and 1901) , under the reign of Queen Victoria.

Its name is derived from the practice of giving “Christmas boxes” to servants, tradespeople, and the less fortunate. These boxes were filled with money, gifts, or leftovers from the Christmas feast and were distributed as a gesture of gratitude and goodwill.

December 26th was chosen because it coincided with St. Stephen’s Day, a Christian holiday commemorating St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr known for his acts of charity. This blending of secular and religious traditions laid the foundation for Boxing Day as we know it.

The concept of Boxing Day was initiated by the wealthy households of Victorian England. In an era where servants often worked tirelessly on Christmas Day to ensure their employers’ celebrations went smoothly, Boxing Day provided an opportunity for them to spend time with their own families.

On this day, employers showed their appreciation by presenting their staff with boxes containing gifts, food, or monetary bonuses. Similarly, tradespeople who had served households throughout the year were also given Christmas boxes as a token of thanks.

Over time, the essence of Boxing Day evolved, especially as societal structures shifted. While the original tradition of giving Christmas boxes has largely faded, the day has retained its association with generosity and sharing.

In many countries, it has become a public holiday marked by various customs. In the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, Boxing Day is a time for families to relax, enjoy leftovers from Christmas dinner, and engage in outdoor activities. Sporting events, particularly football matches and cricket games, are a significant part of the day’s festivities, drawing large crowds and fostering a sense of community.

Boxing Day has also become synonymous with shopping in modern times. In much the same way that Black Friday follows Thanksgiving in the United States, Boxing Day is known for its sales and discounts.

Beyond the sales and sports, the heart of Boxing Day remains tied to its spirit of generosity. Charitable acts and community service are still common, with many people using the day to volunteer, donate to those in need, or spend time with loved ones.

December 26, 2024
Finding strength and hope after years of waiting for a child

Even though people may share the same background, siblings may have vastly different life paths, showing just how unpredictable and challenging life can be. In some cases, people with strong faith may still face significant challenges, such as infertility, while others seem to have it all. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and despair.

It is common for individuals to look for answers in unhealthy places when their hopes are dashed, yet these paths often lead to more emotional distress. However, there is another way – a path of faith, patience, and shared strength.

Sandra Kirenga, driven by her own experiences and the struggles she witnessed in others, founded the “Lady In Waiting”, a platform, bringing together over 300 women from different countries who are committed to comforting one another through various means.

To support those walking the same difficult road, her initiative, aims to comfort those who are dealing with infertility and childlessness. The foundation of this platform is built on the Word of God, offering hope and guidance to those who have been waiting for years to conceive.

Kirenga realized that while many of her friends and family struggled with childlessness, others faced similar challenges, whether in marriage or other aspects of life.

“We all have something we are waiting for. Whether it’s a child, a job, or a breakthrough in any other area, we all have something that we desire and pray for,” she says.

One of the key goals of her platform is to help women find hope and strength through shared experiences. “Whether you’re waiting for a child or a job, being with others in the same situation helps you find strength and hope,” Kirenga explains.

She created a space where women in similar situations could come together, support one another, and share their strength in times of uncertainty. It’s a place where women can share their struggles and receive encouragement to keep going, even when the wait feels endless.

Kirenga also emphasizes that the pressure from family members and society to “move forward” can add unnecessary stress to the waiting process. She encourages those struggling with infertility or delayed milestones to stand firm in their faith and trust God’s timing.

“We want them to know who they are in Jesus and find strength to withstand the pressures from others. God’s plan for each person is unique, and we must learn to wait for what He has prepared for us,” she says.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 48 million couples globally face infertility, with one in six adults experiencing fertility problems in their lifetime. The road to parenthood can be long and difficult, and many couples find themselves in a seemingly endless cycle of medical treatments, tests, and emotional strain.

At a recent gathering in Kigali, Uganda-based evangelist Sarah Muhwezi shared her powerful testimony. After 15 years of marriage, she and her husband struggled with infertility, trying everything from medical treatments to IVF, but nothing worked.

“It was extremely painful to wait. I felt like I wasn’t producing any fruit, and it caused so much anxiety,” she recalls. But despite the challenges, Sarah remained patient and prayed continuously, supported by her husband, who is a pastor.

“I finally gave birth after 14 years of marriage. My child is now nine months old. Through prayer and patience, I found my answer. It was a difficult journey, but God’s timing was perfect,” Muhwezi shares, her voice filled with gratitude.

Her testimony highlights the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it seems like there is no hope in sight. “Waiting through prayer is the best way to resist discouragement and avoid harmful distractions that may lead to bad decisions,” she advises.

“With God, nothing is impossible. I encourage others facing similar struggles to remain patient and steadfast in their faith,” she added.

This powerful message is a reminder that while the wait may be long, God is always at work, and with patience, faith, and support from others, the strength to overcome even the hardest trials can be found.

November 26, 2024
Celebrating the life and legacy of Carmen Nibigira; A pioneer in African tourism

She will be laid to rest on November 24, at Rusororo Cemetery after a funeral mass at Centre Christus in Kigali.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Carmen’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her homeland and its natural beauty. Her early years were filled with exploration, as her father often took her to various provinces in Burundi, showcasing the country’s rich landscapes and biodiversity.

These formative experiences ignited a lifelong passion for tourism and laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

After completing secondary school in Burundi, Carmen moved to England, where she spent a decade pursuing her education and building the foundation of her career. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Travel Management, followed by a master’s in Tourism Destination Management, and ultimately a PhD focusing on tourism policy and park management.

Her parents’ encouragement to follow her passion was instrumental, as tourism was not traditionally seen as a promising career path in her community. Carmen’s academic pursuits were complemented by hands-on experience through a vocational training program in England.

Her first role in hospitality, as a housekeeper in a five-star hotel, was the beginning of a journey that would see her rise to leadership positions in the industry.

Carmen’s career was marked by its diversity and global reach. Over the years, she lived and worked in Switzerland, the United States, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other countries, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience.

She managed tour operation companies across East Africa and oversaw an international hotel in Tanzania, always focusing on elevating the region’s tourism standards. Her ability to navigate different cultural and professional environments set her apart as a leader who could bridge local traditions with global best practices.

In 2014, Carmen returned to Burundi to take on the role of Director General at the National Tourism Board. She saw this as an opportunity to give back to her country and to reform its tourism sector.

During her tenure, she worked to restructure the board, making it more aligned with private-sector needs and advocating for policies that would position Burundi as a competitive destination.

Carmen was a fierce proponent of developing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing the quality of tourism products to attract international travelers. While acknowledging Burundi’s challenges, she remained optimistic about its potential, believing in the power of tourism to drive economic growth and national pride.

Between 2015 and 2017, Carmen served as the regional coordinator for the East Africa Tourism Platform, where she championed the integration of East African countries as a unified tourism destination.

She believed in leveraging the unique strengths of each country while fostering collaboration to attract more visitors to the region. Her work in promoting East Africa’s tourism earned her widespread recognition.

In 2017, she was named one of the Top 100 Influential Women in Travel, and a year later, she received the African Women in Tourism Leadership Award. These accolades were a testament to her vision, dedication, and ability to inspire change.

At the time of her passing, Carmen was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team. In this role, she focused on skills development and capacity building, particularly for young professionals in the industry.

She worked tirelessly to create opportunities for African youth, believing that education and training were critical to unlocking the continent’s potential.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carmen was a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She served on the Board of Directors for the Akilah Institute for Women in Rwanda, where she championed initiatives to equip young women with skills in tourism, hospitality management, and entrepreneurship.

Carmen believed that women had a vital role to play in the tourism industry, and she worked to break down barriers and stereotypes that often hindered their progress. Her mentorship extended to countless individuals, many of whom credit her with shaping their careers and aspirations.

Carmen’s vision for African tourism was deeply rooted in promoting the continent’s rich cultural heritage. She emphasized the importance of showcasing Africa’s gastronomy, art, history, and traditions as key components of its tourism offering.

She believed that these cultural assets, when properly packaged and marketed, could create unique and memorable travel experiences. Carmen also urged the African diaspora to reconnect with the continent by becoming tourists in their home countries, investing in local businesses, and promoting Africa globally.

As a mother of two teenage boys, Carmen balanced her demanding career with her personal life, serving as an inspiration for many young women navigating similar challenges.

She often spoke about the importance of planning, organization, and building a strong support system. Her ability to juggle family responsibilities and a thriving career was a reflection of her resilience and determination.

Carmen’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in Africa’s potential. She envisioned a future where African professionals lead globally in tourism and hospitality, where African destinations compete on the world stage, and where the continent’s cultural and natural wealth is celebrated and preserved.

Carmen Nibigira’s life was a testament to the power of education, vision, and perseverance. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the tourism sector, a legacy of empowerment for women and youth, and a profound love for her continent.

While her passing is a great loss, her spirit and work will live on in the hearts of those she touched and the industry she helped transform. Her contributions will continue to inspire and guide future generations. Fare Thee Well!

November 20, 2024
Exploring Dr Richard Mihigo’s plans to transform healthcare in Africa

With the backing of the Rwandan government, Mihigo is among the five contestants eyeing the coveted regional post in elections slated for next month.

Speaking in an exclusive interview recently on Sunny Ntayombya’s podcast, the 57-year-old said that once elected, he will put in place measures to ensure that the African population lives a healthy life so that they can contribute to their own development.

“From various conversations we have had with ministers of finance and economic policymakers, people tend to perceive health as an expenditure only. They claim to always need money for health insurance, hospital bills, etc. but that’s not all. Health is not only an expenditure; health a tool that can positively contribute to the development of a nation,” Dr. Mihigo stated.

He added, “If you have a healthy population, those people can thrive and contribute more efficiently to the prosperity of their own families, their own communities, and their own nation as a whole. This is my immediate target.”

To achieve this, Mihigo has developed a robust programme on how he would put in place strategic shift to avert this.

The programme includes building resilient health systems able to withstand health crises such as disease outbreaks or pandemics like COVID-19, which have previously exposed vulnerabilities and gaps in global healthcare systems for years.

“We saw how literally everything collapsed during COVID. The responsiveness and preparedness of our systems were really very weak. I want to make sure that we help countries build very robust and resilient health systems based on a primary healthcare system that responds to the needs of the population,” he emphasized.

According to him, a functional primary healthcare system is the foundation of any well-meaning society.

He believes that if people at the grassroots level can access the basic health services needed (both curative and preventive), then Africa will be on track to build a more resilient and functional health system.

Citing instances where Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment, Dr. Mihigo emphasized the need to promote Vaccine manufacturing in Africa.

He also expressed his intent to respond to non-communicable diseases as well as maternal and infant mortality rates.

Beyond fighting diseases, Dr. Mihigo plans to break the gender barriers that exist in the health sector.

“We need to put in place a more robust system that can address gender barriers by borrowing a leaf from Rwanda as a champion of gender equality and inclusion at the continental level,” he emphasized.

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Dr Mihigo, largely lived as a refugee but defied all odds to become a widely considered strong candidate for the WHO job due to his rich career profile and extensive education in the medical field.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (M.B., Ch.B.) from the Faculty of Medicine, Université de Kisangani, DRC and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in International Health from Boston University School of Public Health, USA, obtained in 2003.

He held numerous positions, including advisory roles at WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Mihigo also served as an advisor at United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-Rwanda.

Locally, he served as the first Medical Director of Nyanza Hospital in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Today, Dr Mihigo doubles as the Senior Director of Programmatic and Strategic Engagement at the African Union/Africa CDC and advisor at the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), a position he has held since March 2024.

He reminisces that the death of his mother due to cervical cancer partly shaped his future in public health, where he has been advocating for immunization to combat various diseases.

“My mother passed away from cervical cancer which is something easily preventable today,” he said, adding, “This is what has also shaped a bit of my future in public health. I am a renowned specialist in immunization globally.”

The mother, whom he fondly refers to as his heroine, also encouraged him to pursue medicine instead of law.

His competitors for the WHO role include Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo of Niger, Senegal’s Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall and Tanzanian Doctor Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile.

The Regional Committee of the WHO African Region will vote to nominate the next Regional Director in a closed-door meeting during its 74th session from 26th to 30th August 2024 in Congo Brazzaville.

The nominee will then be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, set for January 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The newly appointed Regional Director will take office on February 1, 2025, for a five-year term, renewable once.

At IGIHE Ltd, we wish Dr Mihigo all the best.

July 3, 2024
Inside the rich career profile of Dr. Mihigo, Rwanda’s candidate for key WHO role

The WHO boss sent five names of the candidates eyeing the coveted regional seat to member states on June 14.

The five candidates include Rwanda’s Dr. Richard Mihigo, who is considered a strong contender for the position. Dr Mihigo will run against Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo from Niger, Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall from Senegal, and Dr. Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile from Tanzania.

All the shortlisted candidates have the backing of their countries, a key requirement for the regional role.

Dr. Mihigo met with President Paul Kagame on Saturday, June 15, to discuss his bid for the post, ahead of the government’s intense lobbying to secure the seat.

The Regional Committee of the WHO African Region will vote to nominate the next Regional Director in a closed meeting during its seventy-fourth session from 26 to 30 August 2024 in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

The nominee will then be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, set for January 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The newly appointed Regional Director will take office on February 1, 2025, for a five-year term and will be eligible for reappointment once.

Dr. Mihigo’s name was submitted to the WHO Director-General by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on May 16, 2024.

The 57-year-old Rwandan, born in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is considered a strong candidate for the post due to his rich career profile and extensive education in the medical field.

Dr. Mihigo holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in International Health from Boston University School of Public Health, USA, obtained in 2003, and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (M.B., Ch.B.) from the Faculty of Medicine, Université de Kisangani, DRC, obtained in 1994.

Dr. Mihigo boasts of several other trainings, including an Executive Leadership Programme at the World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Africa in Johannesburg in 2019. He also completed a Certificate program in Complex Humanitarian Emergencies at Boston University School of Public Health in Massachusetts, USA, from February to May 2002. Additionally, he undertook a Certificate program in Quality Assurance Management Methods for Developing Countries at Johns Hopkins University, School of Public Health, in Baltimore, Maryland, from June to July 2000.

Dr. Mihigo has held numerous positions, including advisor roles at WHO, UNICEF, and GAVI (the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization). He also served as an advisor at USAID-Rwanda, working in various health sectors.

He currently serves as the Senior Director of Programmatic and Strategic Engagement at the African Union/Africa CDC. He has held this position at GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, in Geneva, Switzerland, since March 2024.

Previously, from April 2022 to February 2024, Dr. Mihigo served as the Global Lead and Senior Director for COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery, Coordination, and Integration at GAVI. Prior to that, from June 2014 to March 2022, Dr. Mihigo held the role of Regional Coordinator for the Immunisation and Vaccine Development Programme at the World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Africa in Brazzaville.

From June 2008 to May 2014, Dr. Mihigo served as the Team Lead for the Immunisation & Vaccine Development Programme at the World Health Organization’s Regional Office for Africa in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

Earlier, from August 2006 to May 2008, Dr. Mihigo was the Immunisation and New Vaccines Officer at the Inter-Country Support Team for West Africa countries, World Health Organization, based in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

From July 2004 to July 2006, he worked as a Monitoring & Evaluation Officer at the Inter-Country Programme for Central Africa countries, World Health Organization, based in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

From January to June 2004, Dr. Mihigo served as the Permanent Secretary of the Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM). Additionally, From 2000 to 2003, Dr. Mihigo served as the National Programme Director of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) at the Ministry of Health in Rwanda.

From 1999 to 2000, he held the position of the Provincial Medical Director at the Ministry of Health, overseeing Provincial Health Services in Butare District.

Previously, from 1996 to 1999, Dr. Mihigo was the District Medical Director at the Ministry of Health, overseeing District Health Services in Nyanza Province, and from September 1994 to 1996, he served as the first Medical Director of Nyanza Hospital in the difficult period following the end of the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Dr. Mihigo, proficient in English and French, has received four awards for his contributions to healthcare and has published 32 research papers on health.

June 16, 2024
Harnessing technology to monitor progress, a solution for citizen development

The digital platform is tailored to advance community driven welfare. The platform encompasses various initiatives, including infrastructure projects, educational facilities, healthcare services, and others.

Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi, the Mayor of Rwamagana District, emphasized the pivotal role of technology in advancing community-driven development projects.

He stated “A resident will able to access and see how the city and the entire district is growing based on the delivered Spatial information that can now address all relevant concerns, from seeking assistance to voicing grievances, whether it pertains to the community, schools, or health facilities etc.”

“All of these efforts are facilitated through technology, empowering you to take charge of decision-making processes based on Reliabilities and addressing issues based on reliable real-time information and your specific needs.”

Within the Urban Dynamic Map and Spatial development framework system implemented in Rwamagana, residents can access data regarding demographics and regional maps, enabling them to explore pertinent information about their neighborhoods comprehensively.

The project also equiped Districts with Digital Situation/decision rooms. In the Decision room data in Rwamagana there is a computer and two large screens that are used to look at statistics and maps of the area, where they can search for information about a particular village and find out everything that is there and what is not.

Mayor Mbonyumuvunyi announced that this room helps in informed decision making, whereby planning and Identifying what is needed inside the district territory is now much easier. The facility is also used in implementation and real time monitoring and evaluating of district projects as they get implemented.

He remarked, “This System integrates comprehensive data accessible to residents, fostering transparency and accountability. Whether you seek local updates or wish to report concerns, the system provides tools such as demographics and regional maps to facilitate informed decision-making.”

This System of Urban dynamic Map and Spatial development framework is going to be continued supported by Enabel in the 5 years (2025-2029), whereby those 5 districts and Central Level Staffs will be regularly capacitated by Rwanda Housing Authority and Ministry of Infrastructure.

June 13, 2024
Criminalizing homelessness: A divisive strategy amid rising concerns

California emerged as a focal point for progressive strategies, where voters narrowly approved a ballot measure prioritizing funding for homeless services.

This initiative reflects a growing consensus among some segments of the public and policymakers on the need for increased resources to tackle homelessness head-on.

Conversely, in Chicago, a proposed tax increase on high-value property transfers designed to fund homeless programs faced rejection by voters. This outcome underscores a palpable frustration and skepticism among the electorate regarding the effectiveness of such funding measures, despite the city’s growing need to support its residents without stable housing.

Florida and Kentucky have opted for a markedly different approach, implementing policies that effectively criminalize homelessness. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation banning camping in public spaces, while Kentucky’s legislature moved forward with a bill that not only prohibits camping but also expands citizens’ rights to use force against perceived trespassers. These measures have ignited a fierce debate over the ethics and efficacy of criminalizing poverty and homelessness.

The problem of homelessness is undeniably worsening, with over 653,000 individuals experiencing homelessness in 2023, marking a 12% increase from the previous year.

Homeless advocates and policy experts argue that the solution lies in creating more affordable housing options, rather than transient crackdowns that fail to address the root causes of homelessness.

Jesse Rabinowitz of the National Homelessness Law Center criticized the focus on criminalization as fundamentally misguided. The challenges of reversing decades of underfunded housing programs cannot be underestimated, nor can they be swiftly resolved through punitive measures.

Governor DeSantis defended Florida’s tough stance by contrasting it with California’s approach, which despite significant investment in housing and homelessness programs, continues to struggle with a large homeless population. The controversy underscores the divergent philosophies on public policy and social welfare across the nation.

The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to weigh in on this issue, with upcoming arguments in an Oregon case that may set legal precedents on the enforcement of anti-camping laws. This decision could potentially redefine the landscape of homelessness policy in America.

Amid these developments, voter sentiment on funding initiatives reflects a broader disillusionment with past efforts to address homelessness, suggesting a crisis of confidence in traditional solutions. The narrow passage of California’s funding measure, alongside the rejection of Chicago’s tax proposal, signals a complex mix of concern, frustration, and debate over the most effective path forward.

As the nation grapples with these divergent strategies, the debate over how to humanely and effectively address homelessness continues to intensify, raising crucial questions about the balance between compassion, public safety, and social responsibility.

April 2, 2024