Category: Social

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To register for this competition, click here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In an ongoing effort to improve reproductive, maternal, and child health across Rwanda, Kosmotive, a pioneering social enterprise founded in 2014 by Blandine Umuziranenge, is leading a transformative initiative during this year’s Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Month. Throughout May, the organization has orchestrated a series of events designed to foster dialogue, educate, and empower women and girls about menstrual health.

One poignant event was held last Saturday, the 18th of May, at Groupe Scolaire Notre Dame de Byumba, a school in Gicumbi. Kosmotive’s team, along with a cadre of all-female poets, engaged students in a day filled with educational poetry, discussions, and activities designed to empower young girls. The poets—Esther, Sandrine, Belinda, and Delah—used and still are their art to educate and inspire, emphasizing the importance of menstrual health management and breaking the silence around menstruation.

The initiative continued with a noteworthy event at the Centre culturel français du Rwanda on May 21st. The evening was marked by profound poetry readings and discussions on the environmental impacts of menstrual products and the societal implications of menstrual stigma. This event not only provided a platform for dialogue but also showcased sustainable menstrual practices, an essential aspect of Kosmotive’s mission.

Moreover, the campaign is reaching Gashora Girls School on May 25th, where the team will hold sessions from 1pm to 3pm. Here, the focus will be on inspiring young girls to be bold in conversations about menstrual hygiene, reinforcing the message that managing menstruation should not be a barrier to any woman’s progress.

In addition to these targeted sessions, Kosmotive announces a highly anticipated SWR event on May 29th at the Mundi Center that entails a positive impact, ensuring that the community can fully engage with the campaign’s message and activities.

Through interactive workshops, art exhibitions, and panel discussions, Kosmotive is not just educating but also actively reducing the stigma associated with menstruation. Each event is a step towards empowering women and girls, providing them with the tools and confidence to advocate for their health rights.

As Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Month continues, the expected outcomes are substantial—increased awareness, reduced stigma, and stronger community ties—all contributing to a more informed and supportive society through collaborative efforts and community engagement, Kosmotive is shaping a future where menstrual health is recognized and respected as a right, not a privilege.

However, the dialogue about clothing in Rwanda extends beyond traditional garments to address modern controversies and the evolving societal norms around decency and self-expression.

A notable instance highlighting this dynamic involves Liliane Mugabekazi, who faced legal consequences for wearing what was deemed an “indecent” sheer dress at a concert. This incident sparked a significant debate on the strict standards of decency in Rwanda, particularly concerning women’s clothing.

In Rwandan society, how one dresses is perceived as a direct reflection of personal dignity and respect towards others. This perspective is deeply ingrained, both in traditional settings and contemporary societal norms which generally advocate for modesty and conservatism. The ongoing controversy surrounding miniskirts illustrates this tension between traditional values and modern expressions of individuality.

This debate was vividly captured in discussions by young adults on the “Scoop On Scoop Podcast,” where varying perspectives on modesty and empowerment were shared. For some conservative individuals, miniskirts are seen as provocative and undermining personal dignity by inviting inappropriate attention and objectification. This viewpoint stresses that such garments reinforce gender stereotypes by focusing on women’s physical appearance, thereby diminishing their worth to mere attractiveness.

Conversely, proponents of wearing miniskirts argue that it is a form of empowerment and self-expression. They champion the belief that individuals should have the autonomy to choose their clothing without facing societal judgment or restrictions. For these advocates, miniskirts symbolize a break from traditional gender roles and an opportunity for individuals to celebrate their bodies and sexuality on their own terms.

Understanding this controversy also requires delving into the cultural and historical contexts from which these garments emerged. Originally popularized in the 1960s, the miniskirt was a symbol of women’s liberation and a rejection of conservative norms. Today, as societal attitudes towards clothing continue to evolve, the discussion about the appropriateness and impact of such revealing garments remains vibrant.

The debate over miniskirts intersects with the broader movement towards body positivity and acceptance. Advocates argue that such clothing can help foster a more inclusive society by challenging conventional beauty standards and promoting confidence and acceptance of diverse body types.

Ultimately, the discourse surrounding miniskirts in Rwanda reflects a broader societal struggle to balance personal freedom with societal expectations. It highlights the need for a respectful recognition of diverse perspectives while advocating for inclusivity and body positivity.

As Rwanda continues to navigate these issues, the evolution of its clothing norms will likely serve as a barometer for broader social changes and the continuing dialogue on gender, tradition, and modern identity.

The debate, viralized by TikTok’s Screenshot HQ, taps into a visceral choice: faced with the prospect of encountering either a bear or an unknown man while alone in the woods, who would you prefer to meet? The response among women has been overwhelmingly in favor of the bear, a choice that reflects deep-seated fears and societal warnings ingrained from a young age.

“A strange man is undeniably a threat,” explains one TikTok user, highlighting the routine precautions taught to women: don’t walk alone at night, lock your car doors immediately upon entering, avoid wearing headphones too loudly on solitary hikes. These precautions are not merely cautionary advice but survival strategies in a world where, statistically, women are frequently harmed by men, often those within their circle of trust.

This stark reality is underscored by the disturbing statistics that suggest 1 in 7 women will be hurt or injured by men in their lifetime, predominantly by acquaintances. The fear that a woman could turn around to find a man standing in a secluded area is not unfounded—it’s a scenario echoed in thrillers and crime shows, reflecting a grim everyday fear for many.

Interestingly, this conversation has also touched men, albeit differently. John, a TikTok user with 31 years of experience as a detective, shares that he would prefer his daughter to encounter a bear over a man, articulating that while bears might attack out of hunger or defense, men often commit acts of violence driven by choice and emotion. “Bears kill because they are hungry or protecting their own, whereas men kill for choice, jealousy, often out of rage,” he notes.

The discussion highlights a disconnect between how men and women perceive threats. For many women, the choice of the bear over a man isn’t just a hypothetical preference; it’s a poignant commentary on the everyday realities they navigate.

Jonathan, another voice in the debate, points out the societal double standards in reactions to violence. “If the news reported a bear had killed a woman, nobody would ask what the woman was wearing or why she was out so late,” he remarks, suggesting that victims of male-perpetrated violence are often subjected to scrutiny and victim-blaming.

In this complex interplay of social media storytelling and real-life fears, the question remains potent and provocative: What do you think? Are you choosing the bear?

@bubblegum_mila #stitch with @SCREENSHOT On god I’m picking the bear. Easy lmao #woods #scary #fyp ♬ Terror Music (Scary Song) – IMPERIUM RECORDS

@jon.the.detective Man or bear a detective’s perspective. Team Bear. #fyp #manvsbear #woods #bearman ♬ original sound – Jon.The.Detective

Africa has witnessed exorbitant military spending as terrorism and conflict continue to destroy some African states, reversing their development priorities, Faki said at the opening of the 37th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of the Heads of State and Government, which began Saturday at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

Faki said that unconstitutional changes of government have continued to multiply, defying the entire political and legal order of the union at the expense of vital social developments on the continent.

“Never since its establishment has the AU seen such a number of unconstitutional changes of governments in Africa,” said Faki, acknowledging the continental body’s failure to address the problem. He highlighted the situation in Libya, which remains divided and exposed to external interferences, and Sudan, which is sinking into chaos amid calls from its people for peace and justice that remain ignored.

Faki also pointed out worrying security challenges in the Horn of Africa, threatening the sovereignty, integrity, security and fundamental interests of all countries in the region. He said that the Great Lakes Region of Africa is bearing the brunt of a worsening security crisis, while the Sahel region faces a security vacuum following the withdrawal of the United Nations mission from the region.

Critically, Faki criticized the irregularities in elections, saying that instead of being peaceful transfers of power, elections have become factors exacerbating crises due to their extent of irregularities. He questioned the effectiveness of the African Peace and Security Architecture and the African Governance Architecture, highlighting the urgent need for action to counter these challenges.

Furthermore, Faki highlighted the importance of operationalizing new organs, particularly in the field of health, to ensure decisions are effectively implemented. He commended the African common positions on climate issues and the successful financing of African peacekeeping missions at the United Nations Security Council.

Faki also noted a decline in African solidarity and Pan-Africanism, urging a reconnection with the spirit of unity and collective action that characterized the fight against colonialism and apartheid.

Here are some concerning factors that, if left unaddressed, may impact the youth’s ability to fulfill their role as future leaders:

Substance Abuse: Substance abuse, including alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, poses a significant risk to the well-being and future prospects of young individuals. It can lead to physical and mental health issues, impaired decision-making, and hinder personal and professional growth.

Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: The rise of digital platforms has unfortunately given rise to cyberbullying and online harassment. These negative experiences can have severe consequences on the mental health and self-esteem of young people, potentially leading to social isolation, anxiety, and depression.

Lack of Education and Skills: Limited access to quality education and skills development opportunities can hinder the youth’s ability to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. Without proper education and training, young individuals may face difficulties in securing employment, pursuing higher education, and contributing to society.

Unemployment and Economic Challenges: High youth unemployment rates and economic challenges can create a sense of hopelessness and frustration among young people. Lack of job opportunities and financial stability can lead to disillusionment, social unrest, and a loss of faith in the future.

Peer Pressure and Negative Influences: Peer pressure can lead young individuals to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, criminal activities, or unhealthy relationships. Negative influences from peers can divert them from their goals and hinder their personal growth and development.

Mental Health Issues: The prevalence of mental health issues among youth, such as anxiety and depression, is a growing concern. Factors like academic pressure, societal expectations, and social media influence can contribute to mental health challenges, impacting their overall well-being and ability to thrive.

Lack of Civic Engagement: Apathy and disengagement from civic and political processes can prevent young people from actively participating in shaping their communities and influencing policy decisions. This disconnection may lead to a lack of representation and a missed opportunity to address pressing societal issues.

Violence and Crime: Involvement in violence and criminal activities can have long-lasting consequences on the lives of young individuals. Exposure to violence, whether in their communities or through media, can desensitize them to its impact and lead to a perpetuation of harmful behaviors.

Lack of Positive Role Models: The absence of positive role models in a young person’s life can impede their personal growth and development. Without guidance and mentorship, they may struggle to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and develop crucial life skills.

Unhealthy Relationships: Unhealthy relationships, whether romantic or peer-based, can negatively impact the emotional well-being and self-esteem of young individuals. Toxic dynamics, including abuse and manipulation, can hinder their ability to form healthy connections and maintain positive social interactions.

Excessive Screen Time and Technology Addiction: Overindulgence in screen time and technology can lead to addictive behaviors and have adverse effects on physical and mental health. Excessive use of social media, gaming, and internet browsing can contribute to social isolation, sleep deprivation, and a lack of real-world social skills.

Lack of Financial Literacy: Insufficient knowledge and understanding of financial matters can leave young individuals vulnerable to debt, poor financial decisions, and limited opportunities for economic growth. Without proper financial literacy education, they may struggle to manage their resources effectively.

Environmental Disengagement: Disinterest or neglect towards environmental issues can hinder the youth’s ability to contribute to sustainable development. Failing to address climate change, pollution, and resource depletion may have severe consequences for future generations.

Social Inequality and Discrimination: Inequities based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, and other factors can limit opportunities for young individuals and perpetuate systemic discrimination. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure equal access to education, employment, and other resources.

While the youth hold immense potential, it is crucial to address the negative influences that can hinder their success. By providing support systems, access to quality education, mental health resources, and opportunities for civic engagement, we can empower young individuals to overcome these challenges and fulfill their role as future leaders. It is our collective responsibility to create an environment that nurtures their growth, protects their well-being, and enables them to contribute positively to society.