Category: Social

  • UAE humanitarian efforts in Ukraine

    UAE humanitarian efforts in Ukraine

    The UAE’s humanitarian initiatives to provide aid to Ukraine are ongoing. The country has successfully mediated seven times between Russia and Ukraine in 2024. The latest mediation in August resulted in the exchange of 230 prisoners from both sides, bringing the total number of exchanged prisoners to 1,788.

    As part of its humanitarian initiatives since the beginning of the crisis, the UAE has allocated $105 million to support humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine. This includes sending 14 aircraft with humanitarian aid, operating two ships via Romania, and providing 1,015 tons of medical, food, and relief supplies. Additionally, the UAE has sent 50 fully equipped ambulances to support the Ukrainian healthcare sector.

    The UAE has also contributed to Ukraine’s education sector with 7,500 laptops and 10,000 school bags. To address harsh winter conditions and power outages, 4,520 generators were sent. Support has also been extended to Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, Poland, and Bulgaria.

    Furthermore, 125 tons of food and medical supplies were transported from the International Humanitarian City in Dubai via two aircraft operated by international organizations based in the UAE.

  • Bralirwa supports 250 households to gain access to safe drinking water

    Bralirwa supports 250 households to gain access to safe drinking water

    Bralirwa Plc, through its social sustainability initiatives partnered with Spouts of Water Rwanda, an international social enterprise with a mission to provide access to clean drinking water and hygiene to all Africans.

    Through close collaboration with Rwamagana district, 250 households in Munyiginya sector were provided with 30-litre Viva Purifaaya water filters and were trained on the simple and convenient way that the filter can be used to enjoy pure water, supporting over 1,000 beneficiaries in the community.

    Through close collaboration with Rwamagana district, 250 households in Munyiginya sector were provided with 30-litre Viva Purifaaya water filters.

    The initiative addresses the urgent need for safe drinking water in water-stressed areas by delivering impactful solutions that improve lives and enhance environmental and social well-being.

    According to Spouts of Water, a number of rural communities continue to rely on rivers and unclean streams of water which are often contaminated, resulting in the development of waterborne diseases among other challenges which in turn hinder their socio-economic development.

    “Our mission is not solely focused on providing access to clean water, but also about transforming lives. We are delighted to be working with like-minded companies such as Bralirwa that place social impact at the heart of its business strategy and is committed to driving positive change,” said David Ngarambe, Country Director of Spouts of Water Rwanda.

     David Ngarambe is the Country Director of Spouts of Water Rwanda.

    Etienne Saada, Managing Director of Bralirwa, reaffirmed the company’s core mission to brew a better world, emphasizing the importance of social responsibility and community well-being.

    “At Bralirwa, we are committed to making a lasting impact on the communities we serve. Our partnership with Spouts of Water and donation of ceramic water filters represents a significant step forward in ensuring access to safe drinking water for all,” Saada said.

    Etienne Saada, Managing Director of Bralirwa, reaffirmed the company's core mission to brew a better world.

    The event, which was held at Munyiginya sector, Rwamagana District, was attended by several local leaders including the Governor of Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, Rwamagana district mayor, Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi.

    In his remarks, Mbonyumuvunyi expressed gratitude to Bralirwa for their significant contribution towards enhancing the social well-being of the community and urged residents to unite and work collaboratively towards the district’s ongoing progress and development.

    Rwamagana District Mayor Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi makes his remarks during the event.

    Provincial Governor Rubingisa underscored the significance of ensuring access to safe drinking water as a core component of Rwanda’s mission to achieve sustainable development.

    He commended Bralirwa for the initiative and encouraged the community to conserve these essential resources and to fully leverage the benefits.

    “By working together, we can collectively build a healthier and more resilient future for all,” he remarked.

    Rwanda’s leading beverage company, Bralirwa Plc, supported 250 households in Munyiginya sector, Rwamagana district to gain access to safe drinking water through donation of ceramic water filters in partnership with Spouts of Water Rwanda as part of its social impact initiatives.
    The initiative addresses the urgent need for safe drinking water in water-stressed areas.
    Governor of Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, also attended the event.
  • Solidarity in Action: A lifeline for Rwanda’s vulnerable youth

    Solidarity in Action: A lifeline for Rwanda’s vulnerable youth

    It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
    Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.

    The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
    Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

    {{From Vision to Reality
    }}

    The SOLIDACT Foundation’s story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.

    SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

    What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.

    “In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students,” recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. “Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting many more across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”

    Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT, makes his remarks during the launch of the foundation.

    As TIP’s impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.

    The foundation’s vision is ambitious yet attainable—to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.

    {{Impact on the Ground: Education, Health, and Community Support
    }}

    SOLIDACT’S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.

    In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.

    These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.

    “Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it’s not enough on its own,” Gakwaya explains. “That’s why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures.”

    In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.

    Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.

    The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
    affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.

    The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.

    “We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community,” says Gakwaya. “When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed.”

    {{Building for the Future: The Recreation Center of Excellence
    }}

    As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.

    This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.

    “The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support,” Gakwaya explains. “It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally.”

    The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.

    In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.

    “Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future,” says Gakwaya.

    Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

    “These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,” she said.

    Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector, makes her remarks during the launch of the foundation.

    {{A Call to Action: Join the Journey
    }}

    As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation’s success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation’s mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.

    “We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us,” he says. “Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families.”
    For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.

    {{A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
    }}

    The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.

    Attendees cut cake to celebrate the launch of the Solidarity in Action (SOLIDACT) Foundation on August 15, 2024.

    As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.

    With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation’s work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.

    The Solidarity in Action (SOLIDACT) Foundation was launched on August 15, 2024.
  • UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Sudan

    UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Sudan

    The UAE’s efforts in Sudan range from humanitarian relief to medical support and reconstruction.

  • Relationship talk: When is the right time to tie the knot?

    Relationship talk: When is the right time to tie the knot?

    In Rwanda, marriage is viewed as a significant decision that involves careful consideration of various factors, including financial stability, maturity, societal expectations, and individual needs.

    In the wake of a legal proposal by the Rwanda government to reduce the marriage age from 21 to 18 years, the public is widely divided.

    While some marry before the age of 25, others wait until their 40s or beyond based on personal experiences or observations. To some others, age is just a number.

    To comprehensively explore perspectives on the ideal age for marriage and the factors influencing this decision, IGIHE spoke to different members of the society.

    A 25-year-old motorcyclist, who preferred to remain anonymous, believes that marriage should begin from age 20.

    “Marriage goes with financial ability. From my understanding, a person who is 20 years old or above can get married because at that age someone is at least financially stable to run a family,” he explained.

    Yassin Munyentwari, a local journalist in his thirties thinks that there should be no specific age for getting married.

    “A person should consider marriage when they feel fully prepared, both mentally and emotionally. This decision should be made after finding someone they believe can spend the rest of their life with them,” he reasoned.

    According to him, once consensus between a couple is reached at considering current and future life needs, the decision to get married should apply equally to both girls and boys.

    “Everyone should have the autonomy to decide when they feel ready for marriage, without being restricted by age,” he said.

    Pascal Baziki, a 33-year-old airtime vendor from Rusizi District, observes that societal pressure often influences people to marry early.

    “Some people do it under pressure basing on others who have got married or even given birth. However, I personally think this should be an individual choice,” he said.

    Baziki has decided to marry in two years’ time when he clocks the age of 35 because that’s when he will be ready and well equipped to conduct a wedding ceremony without being a burden to anyone.

    Solange Niyoniringiye is a 22-year-old businesswoman in Kigali. She shared her views emphasizing that no one should be compelled to marry just because others have.

    “A person should be prepared enough to get married. Being engaged is one thing but transforming into a legal marriage involves many factors especially financially. It would be weird to get married and start soliciting for food from neighbors the next day,” she said.

    Richard Twizeyimana, a 33-year-old man from Gatsibo District, says that engagements should last at least three years to allow for thorough consideration of one’s life partner.

    “Nowadays, people’s engagements can last for one month, but it should be at least three years. That is when you will have enough time to get a thorough understanding of your life partner,” he says.

    For ladies in particular, Twizeyimana explains that the perfect age for marriage should be 24 years old and above.

    These diverse views highlight that marriage is a subject with varying perspectives.

    To address this complex issue, the focus should be put on ensuring the well-being and future prospects of marriage as an institution. Young citizens should be empowered to enter marriage with the maturity and resources necessary for a stable and fulfilling relationship.

    Rwandan family law currently sets the legal marriage age at 21. However, in March 2024, the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion reported that numerous girls aged 18 to 20 sought permission from the Ministry of Local Government to marry, but their requests were denied.

    Sources say that many of those seeking to marry before 21 were either pregnant or sought to take on employment opportunities abroad that require an affirmative marital status.

    A legislative proposal is currently under review by the Rwandan Parliament that could potentially lower the marriage age to 18 if individuals have valid reasons.

    According to The Barrett Academy, an international think-tank on human consciousness, there are seven stages of psychological development.

    Between age 20 and 25, individuals typically reach physical and mental maturity, completing the first three stages: surviving, conforming, and differentiating.

    Research by Nicholas H. Wolfinger from the University of Utah suggests that the optimal age for marriage is between 28 and 32.

    Marriage is a legally and socially sanctioned union, typically between two individuals, that is regulated by laws, rules, customs, beliefs, and attitudes.
  • Trinity Metals Secures $3.8 Million Funding from DFC

    Trinity Metals Secures $3.8 Million Funding from DFC

    The funding has been earmarked for ESG-specific projects underway across Trinity’s mining operations in Rwanda. These include comprehensive baseline studies to support updated Environmental and Social Impact Assessments for all Trinity mines; a holistic employee skills development program; the implementation of an international standard SHEC (Safety, Health, Environment, and Community) Management System; integrated development planning for all mining concessions; and legacy tailings and river rehabilitation planning. These projects are an integral part of the Company’s transformation plans to make Trinity Metals a leader in the critical metals sector.

    Trinity Metals was formed in May 2022 from the merger of shareholders in three entities, including Africa’s largest tungsten mine, Nyakabingo, Rwanda’s largest tin mine, Rutongo, as well as the country’s second-largest tin mine, Musha. Strong government and community support, coupled with over $30 million in shareholder investment, has led to a quadrupling in production in just two years, ensuring consistent positive cash flow performance from the three mines. Trinity Metals has exciting growth plans in Rwanda, and securing technical assistance funding from the DFC represents a major milestone.

    Peter Geleta, Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Securing funding support from an important institution like the DFC is very encouraging and a testament to the significant progress the Company has made in the past 24 months. At Trinity, we are blessed with long-life ore bodies, committed employees and communities, and a supportive investment climate. This funding is a major boost and support for our vision for the Company.”

    Shawn McCormick, Chairman, commented: “As Rwanda’s largest producer of conflict-free and child labour-free critical minerals, it is a distinct honor to be recognized by the US DFC with this Technical Assistance grant. The funding and American partnership will significantly expand our ability to operate at global industry standards as we work with Rwanda to bring its abundant resources to international markets in a safe and responsible manner.”

    “The US DFC’s $3.865 million investment in Trinity Metals Group underscores the significant role of local and international partnerships in advancing the development of Rwanda’s mining sector. This aligns with our commitment to transforming the mining industry into a more productive and profitable sector on a larger scale,” noted Francis Kamanzi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board.

    David Hester, DFC’s Managing Director of Technical Assistance, commented: “DFC is pleased to support such an impactful project that aligns with our priority of building more diverse, resilient, and sustainable critical mineral supply chains and bolstering economic development in Africa. This technical assistance grant demonstrates the commitment of the United States to supporting economic growth and the transition to clean energy technology.”

    For more information, visit [Trinity Metals](https://trinity-metals.com) or contact Trinity Metals Limited at +250 791 959 034.

  • The IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd has set up a station for quickly charging electric vehicles.

    The IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd has set up a station for quickly charging electric vehicles.

    This station was inaugurated on June 24, 2024, at Century Park Hotel & Residences in Nyarutarama, through a partnership between the hotel and IZI to further support the use of electric vehicles in Rwanda.

    This station is the first in Rwanda with the capability to rapidly charge electric vehicles, boasting a capacity of 120 kilowatts, allowing it to fully charge a vehicle in 30 to 40 minutes.

    Previously, Rwanda had charging stations with a capacity of 40 kilowatts, which took between one and a half to two hours to fully charge a vehicle.

    To further facilitate electric vehicle owners, IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd decided to introduce this station, which can quickly charge vehicles at a low cost of 400 Rwandan Francs per kilowatt, making it cheaper compared to gasoline prices.

    Vincent Mukimbiri, the Managing Director of IZI Electric in Rwanda, stated that they chose to establish this station to further ease the process for individuals with electric vehicles.

    “As we expand our operations in Rwanda, we will continue to increase the number of rapid charging stations for electric vehicles. You know, someone with an electric vehicle avoids certain trips thinking they won’t find a charging station there and may get stuck,” he said.

    “That’s why we want to install them everywhere along our vehicle routes across the country, and they will also be available to private electric vehicle owners to ease the process of finding a place to charge,” he added.

    Mukimbiri encouraged Rwandans to embrace the use of electric vehicles as they are much more cost-effective. He highlighted that an electric vehicle owner saves about 40% compared to someone using a gasoline or diesel vehicle.

    Cheung Yiu Tung Billy, Chairman of the Board of Century Park Hotel and Residences, mentioned that they entered into this partnership to assist their clients with electric vehicles and support the government’s environmental conservation initiatives.

    “Rwanda is one of the African countries promoting the use of eco-friendly energy. For instance, it established a policy to reduce taxes on electric vehicles a few years ago. Only a few countries in Africa, such as Ghana, Ethiopia, and Kenya, have such policies… to me, this is a good move because we should follow where the world is heading,” he said.

    IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd started its operations in Rwanda in 2023, with five electric buses operating in Kigali City. It plans to bring in 160 more buses within the next 18 months and continue building electric charging stations in various provinces across the country.

    Tung from Century Park Hotel and Residences stated that they chose to partner with IZI Electric because they want to support the use of electric vehicles in Rwanda.
    The Director of IZI Electric in Rwanda, Vincent Mukimbiri, stated that this station has the unique feature of quickly charging vehicles.
    Rwanda is promoting the use of electric vehicles in its efforts to reduce air pollution.
  • What you need to know on the impact of the Africa‘s Business Heroes  Initiative on Rwandan entrepreneurs

    What you need to know on the impact of the Africa‘s Business Heroes Initiative on Rwandan entrepreneurs

    Rwanda’s presence in the ABH competition has been remarkable.The distinguished Rwandan entrepreneurs who have emerged as top 10 finalists include Francine Munyaneza, founder of Munyax Eco, who was recognized for her innovative approach to solar energy solutions; Yvette Ishimwe, founder and CEO of IRIBA Water Group, who made it to the top 10 in 2021 for her work in providing clean water solutions; Christelle Kwizera, founder of Water Access Rwanda, who secured third place in 2019 for her efforts in ensuring water access; Kevine Kagirimpundu, co-founder and CEO of UZURI K&Y, a top 10 finalist in 2019 for her sustainable fashion brand; and Albert Munyabugingo, co-founder and CEO of Vuba Vuba Africa Ltd, a top 10 finalist in 2023 for his innovative logistics solutions.

    The ABH competition is more than just a grant opportunity; it offers participants a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond the monetary prize. Participants gain profound insights into their businesses and themselves through the rigorous competition process. They receive invaluable feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts, which helps refine their business strategies. Additionally, being part of ABH means joining a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and service providers. Participants also have access to top-tier mentorship and training programs tailored to their needs and gain international recognition and exposure, helping them connect with global markets.

    Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba and the Jack Ma Foundation, encapsulates the vision of ABH, stating, “This is the hope of Africa. If we can enable the entrepreneurs there, they may change Africa. Africa’s Business Heroes is giving inspiration and courage to all entrepreneurs in Africa.”

    This past April, the top 10 heroes from the past five years, along with judges and ABH partners, embarked on an exchange program to Hangzhou, China. This visit included interactions with various business units of Alibaba Group, offering invaluable learning experiences and insights. Albert Munyabugingo, founder of Vuba Vuba Africa Ltd and a 2023 top 10 finalist, shared his reflections on the trip. He highlighted three main takeaways: building strong networks with other African entrepreneurs to foster collaborations, understanding the strategies that shapedAlibaba’s development over the years and exploring ways to establish partnerships that connect Chinese and African markets.

    Albert’s engagement with Cainiao, Alibaba Group’s logistics arm, provided him with critical insights into enhancing the logistics sector in Africa. He envisions Vuba Vuba as a transformative logistics company that meets the community’s needs effectively. Albert emphasized the importance of connecting with fellow ABH heroes, learning from Alibaba’s journey, and exploring partnership opportunities to forge long-lasting relationships between Chinese and African markets.

    Adding to Rwanda’s prominence in the ABH initiative, last year’s final judges included Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali. Her presence as a judge underscores the high regard in which Rwandan business leaders are held within the African entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    The ABH initiative continues to open doors for African entrepreneurs, providing them with tools, knowledge, and networks to thrive. As part of this dynamic community, Rwandan entrepreneurs are not only gaining recognition but also driving impactful changes within their industries. The journey of empowering Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit continues, fostering a future where African entrepreneurs lead the way to sustainable development and innovation.

    For more information about the ongoing ABH 2024 edition, please visit https://africabusinessheroes.org/en/ and follow ABH on X (https://apo-opa.info/3KY3OQs), LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3L1Cgda), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa), Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3ylgNE9) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH).

    Albert Munyabugingo, Co-founder and CEO of Vuba Vuba Africa, was an ABH 2023 Top 10 Hero.
    Francine Munyaneza, Founder and CEO of Munyax Eco, was an ABH 2022 Top 10 Hero.
    Yvette Ishimwe, Founder and CEO of IRIBA Water Group, was an ABH 2021 Top 10 Hero.
    Kevine Kagirimpundu, Co-founder and CEO of UZURI K&Y, was an ABH 2019 Top 10 Hero.
    Christelle Kwizera, Founder and Managing Director of Water Access Rwanda, was the ABH 2019 Second Runner-up.
    The ABH heroes in China
  • More  about Mountain Gorillas, amazing creatures leading in attracting tourists in the Northern province

    More about Mountain Gorillas, amazing creatures leading in attracting tourists in the Northern province

    In 2023, Rwanda received 25,927 tourists who visited gorillas, compared to 20,035 in 2022.

    Volcanoes National Park began as a protected area in 1925, known as Albert National Park in Congo, Belgian. After Rwanda’s independence in 1962, the portion located in Rwanda became Volcanoes National Park, initially covering slightly over 320 square kilometers.

    Currently, the park covers an area of 160 square kilometers, bordering Uganda to the north and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the northwest.

    In 2023, 46,187 people visited Volcanoes National Park, participating in various activities such as gorilla trekking, monkey visits, visiting Dian Fossey’s grave, exploring Buhanga Eco-Park, caving, forest walks, and climbing all five volcanoes including Muhabura, which stands at 4,127 meters and can be seen from various high points across the country.

    Other notable peaks include Gahinga at 3,473 meters, Sabyinyo at 3,669 meters, known for its jagged summit, Bisoke, famous for its crater lake at 3,711 meters, and Kalisimbi, the highest at 4,507 meters.

    These great apes reside in the high-altitude forests of the Virunga Mountains, spanning parts of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as Bwindi in Uganda and Sarambwe in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Scientifically named Gorilla beringei beringei, they were first documented by German officer Robert Von Beringe in 1902, after whom they are named.

    These animals have moved off the endangered species list but are still considered vulnerable according to the World Wildlife Fund.

    Thanks to exceptional conservation efforts, including healthcare and anti-poaching measures led by the Rwandan government through the Rwanda Development Board, the most recent census shows a global population of 1,063 gorillas.

    In Rwanda’s section of the Virunga Mountains, there are 604 gorillas. The extraordinary experience of visiting them leaves many visitors profoundly moved, often considering it a once-in-a-lifetime event. Tourists spend one hour with the gorillas, an experience many describe as unparalleled.

    Gorilla trekking attracts visitors because of their human-like traits, their lifestyle in the wild, and their social structures, which are remarkably similar to human communities.

    One striking feature of mountain gorillas is their size and strength. Mature females weigh between 150 and 200 kilograms, while males weigh between 200 and 250 kilograms. They live between 35 and 45 years if they survive to adulthood without major threats. Their offspring are born after a nine-month gestation, weighing between three to five kilograms, and wean at around three and a half years old.

    A mature female gorilla can have between four to six offspring in her lifetime, though there are exceptions like Kampanga, who gave birth to eight. Currently, the oldest gorilla is Kibyeyi, a 49-year-old female from the Hirwa group. The youngest is a one-month-old from the Sabyinyo group.

    Their daily life mirrors that of humans, focusing on survival activities such as feeding mainly on vegetation and bamboo shoots. An adult gorilla consumes food equivalent to 15% of its body weight daily, meaning a 200-kilogram gorilla eats 30 kilograms of vegetation each day.

    After feeding, they rest for over an hour. At night, they make nests at chosen sites and sleep. Their social structure includes families with dominant males, typically silverbacks with a white stripe on their backs, females, and young ones.

    Families are usually led by a dominant male responsible for their protection and territory. Fourteen families are currently habituated for tourism, with no more than eight tourists per family per day, totaling 112 visitors daily. However, as the gorilla population grows, new families form, first monitored by researchers before being introduced to tourism.

    The first families open to tourists were Susa, Sabyinyo, and Group 13, now known as Agashya, starting in 1979 when American researcher Dian Fossey began studying their behavior and habituating them to human visitors.

    A clear example of family expansion is the Susa family, which split into Karisimbi, Igisha, and Isimbi families. This pattern continues as the gorilla population increases.

    This knowledge is compiled from researchers and experts working in Volcanoes National Park and partners like The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, Gorilla Doctors, and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme.

    To protect the park’s wildlife, 149 daily rangers monitor the animals in the high-altitude forests, while 27 staff assist tourists visiting the park.

    There remains a few  Mauntain Gorillas.
    Those that Visit them are very much pleased
    he Development of peaple in the North bases largely on the touristic activities in the Volcanoes national park
    Th Volanoes National Park is among the most loved tourism sites
  • Srinath Vardineni elected President of the newly established Rotary Club Kigali Cosmopolitan

    Srinath Vardineni elected President of the newly established Rotary Club Kigali Cosmopolitan

    He was given these responsibilities during a ceremony held on the night of Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the Kigali Convention Centre. The event was also attended by the Indian Ambassador to Rwanda, Nilratan Mridha.

    Rotary International is a global non-governmental organization involved in charitable activities, including helping the needy, supporting services that promote the well-being of the community such as clean water, fighting epidemic diseases, and contributing to development initiatives.

    After being inaugurated, the new President of the Rotary Club Kigali, Srinath Vardineni, announced that he would focus on several projects, including providing dental care to over 3000 children.

    He said, “We have four major projects that we will undertake, but we will focus heavily on health, providing dental care to 3000 or 4000 children. Additionally, we will collaborate extensively with Rotary Clubs in the United States on various initiatives.”

    Vardineni arrived in Rwanda in 2003 and is well-known not only for his various activities but also in the sport of cricket, being one of its pioneers in Rwanda and currently serving as the treasurer of the sport’s governing board.

    He continued to express that this opportunity is significant for him, as it will allow him to engage more deeply with the community, even though he has been involved in many social activities before.

    He stated, “I have been involved in various activities that connect me with the community, but this position will help me reach people more effectively and continue assisting the government in building the nation. I have been here for the past 22 years and have witnessed Rwanda’s transformation, so we need to stay on that path.”

    The Rotary Club Kigali Cosmopolitan is a new club that was founded three months ago, stemming from existing clubs like Kigali Seniors and The Elders. It is particularly comprised of diverse members, including doctors, accountants, and engineers.

    This club is one of the 12 that make up Rotary Club Rwanda, which is part of Rotary Club District 9150. This district was established in 1982 and includes countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, Chad, and Sao Tomé and Príncipe.

    The Rotary Club is a non-profit organization engaged in charitable activities, including helping the underprivileged, providing clean water to communities, fighting epidemic diseases like polio, and contributing to all activities aimed at societal development.