The victim was reportedly visiting a worker at Rutatina’s farm in Murundi Sector, Kayonza District. The incident allegedly occurred on November 27, 2024, when farm workers, acting under Rutatina’s instructions, attacked the visitor.
Medical reports from the hospital where the victim sought treatment confirm that their condition is steadily improving.
RIB has announced that the case file involving Rutatina and ten of his workers will be handed over to the Prosecution this Friday.
The Bureau has advised citizens to avoid taking justice into their own hands, as such actions are punishable by law. Instead, Rwandans are encouraged to report any grievances to the relevant authorities.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Rutatina retired from the Rwanda Defense Force in 2016, where he previously served as the Head of Military Intelligence (J2).
The announcement was made on December 5, 2024, by Théophile Mbonera, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, during an event hosted by the Legal Aid Forum (LAF) in collaboration with Kenya’s Kituo Cha Sheria, a legal advice center.
The event presented findings from a study conducted between late 2022 and 2023 on the impact of digitization in advancing justice systems in Rwanda and Kenya after Covid-19 pandemic.
The annual number of new cases in Rwandan courts rose from 75,000 in the 2019–2020 period to 89,000 in 2023–2024. This increase highlights how digital tools like IECMS have streamlined judicial processes and enhanced efficiency.
Technology has also played a pivotal role in the operations of mediation committees, known locally as Abunzi, through a system called Ganubutabera. Between June 2023 and June 2024, these committees handled 23,000 cases, achieving an impressive 99% resolution rate.
Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly for individuals who are illiterate or live in areas with limited internet access or electricity.
LAF Executive Director Andrews Kananga pointed out that while many Rwandans have embraced digital tools, the study revealed ongoing issues such as literacy barriers, limited connectivity in rural areas, and data security risks associated with using cyber cafés for legal processes.
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Justice has implemented measures such as training individuals to assist citizens in navigating IECMS at cyber cafés. However, concerns about privacy and data protection remain, as sensitive personal information may not always be adequately safeguarded.
The government is also advancing initiatives like the “Byikorere” program, which aims to empower citizens to independently use digital justice platforms. Continuous awareness campaigns and skills training are considered essential to ensure broader access and usability.
Mbonera emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that cyber café services will remain available until digital tools are fully accessible to all citizens. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of non-governmental organizations like LAF in expanding access to justice.
Over the years, LAF has been instrumental in providing legal aid in 120,000 cases, representing 430 individuals in court, advising 14,000 others, and resolving 1,263 cases through mediation. The organization has also facilitated specialized services such as advocacy and DNA testing in 62 cases.
Rwanda’s continued investment in technology, combined with partnerships with civil society organizations, is expected to further enhance its justice system, ensuring it becomes more accessible and efficient for all citizens.
The report, launched at the African Investment Forum on December 4, reveals that the sector reached $1.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to continue expanding rapidly in the coming years.
A key driver of this growth is the $2 billion Bugesera International Airport project, one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in the country.
In addition to the airport project, the report highlights that Rwanda’s construction growth is supported by the implementation of new strategies aimed at boosting key industries, particularly in pharmaceuticals and ICT.
Across East Africa, the construction sector reached $48.1 billion in 2024, accounting for a quarter of Africa’s total construction value.
The region is projected to see this figure nearly double by 2028, reaching $73 billion. Key contributors to this growth include Tanzania’s focus on modern railway construction, Ethiopia’s industrial park developments, and Kenya’s $3.4 billion oil exploration project in South Lokichar, set to commence between 2024 and 2025.
Rwanda’s continued infrastructure development positions it as one of the fastest-growing construction markets in Africa over the next decade.
The agreement was signed on Thursday, December 5, in Kigali between the Inspector General of Police (IGP) CG Felix Namuhoranye and his visiting counterpart of The Gambia, Gen. Seedy Muctar Touray.
Gen. Touray and his delegation arrived in Rwanda on December 1, for a week-long visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two police institutions.
The cooperation pact guides the two institutions to work together in activities related to fighting transnational crimes and terrorism, exchange of information, training and expertise, among others.
During the bilateral meeting on Monday, December 2, IGP Namuhoranye said that the friendship and collaboration between the RNP and Gambia Police Force is a significant step forward and an opportunity for both sides to strengthen relations, expand their partnership, share knowledge and experience, and to find appropriate solutions to the evolving security challenges.
Gen. Touray also said that this partnership is in the right direction as government of The Gambia is on a journey to reform its security institutions, including Gambia Police Force.
He added that cooperation with the RNP presents an opportunity to learn from each other, particularly learn from Rwanda’s experience in international peace and security operations.
Kigali has recently witnessed a growing urban mobility problem and a high volume of traffic requiring significant adjustments to urban transport design and systems.
Congestion and long queues are prevalent at most major junctions, increasing operating costs, travel times, disruption, and traffic conflicts.
Through “Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project”, Rwanda seeks to put an end to that and improve the efficiency, inclusivity and safety of road transport mobility.
The funds to support this initiative were agreed at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan on 2 December.
The lack of an inclusive urban mobility system, such as dedicated bus lanes, a non-motorised transport system and limited integration between different public transport networks, exacerbates transport problems and has led citizens to opt for motorbike taxis, the number of which is increasing in urban areas, putting users at risk of accidents.
According to Aïssa Touré Sarr, the African Development Bank’s Country Manager for Rwanda, the project will focus on improving three of the seven crucial junctions identified as bottlenecks so as to have more efficient, sustainable and user-friendly urban transport infrastructure.
“Ultimately, the investments should make it possible to mitigate the current and future challenges of urban mobility in Kigali and pave the way for a just transition to a more sustainable and efficient urban transport system, thereby transforming into a low-carbon sector,” she said.
The project provides for the construction of prioritised junctions with provisions for public transport (bus lanes) and non-motorised traffic at the three junctions in question.
It also includes the building of infrastructure to help uplift the social status of communities in Kigali, including the upgrading of bus stops, and safe and well-lit public transport stations that are convenient for nursing mothers and pregnant women, and that will protect waiting bus travellers from the rain.
Pavements and pedestrian crossings to accommodate all citizens, including people with disabilities, will be installed to improve mobility and safety.
The 2022 Population Census indicates that the city of Kigali, which boasted a population of 1.7 million that is expected to grow to 3.8 million by 2050.
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Running until December 6, the event brings together key players from the global tourism industry, including tour operators, tourism experts, and media representatives. This marks Rwanda’s eighth participation in the trade show, which has become an essential platform for promoting the country’s high-end tourism offerings.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is leading the delegation, with several prominent tour operators joining the effort to highlight the diverse attractions Rwanda has to offer.
These include Wilderness Safaris, Primates Safaris, Uber Luxe Safaris, Rwanda Eco Company Safaris, Songa Africa Tourism Company, Blue Monkey Tours, Africa Journeys, Wildlife Tours, and Palast Tours and Travel.
IGIHE spoke with representatives from these companies to gather insights on the opportunities presented by the ILTM and the impact of such a global stage on Rwanda’s tourism industry.
Davidson Mugisha, the Managing Director of Wildlife Tours Rwanda, expressed the significance of participating in this elite event, which brings together some of the most influential players in luxury travel. “This market is perfect for anyone looking for a luxury destination in Rwanda,” he said.
“The agents who come here have done their research, and every company represented is carefully selected. It’s an excellent opportunity to promote Rwanda as a high-end destination.”
For Mugisha, this event serves as a vital platform to connect with agents and tour operators who can help position Rwanda as a prime destination for luxury travelers.
Similarly, Lambert Hategekimana from Rwanda Eco Company and Safaris emphasized the value of the ILTM for both networking and showcasing the country’s attractions.
“This is one of the best exhibitions for promoting Rwanda’s national parks, our gorillas, and other unique attractions,” he noted. “We have the chance to meet tour operators from all over the world and introduce them to Rwanda’s destinations.”
Hategekimana also highlighted the exclusivity of the event, saying, “Only select countries are invited to participate in this prestigious fair, and it’s an honor for Rwanda to be represented. We are thankful to the RDB for facilitating our participation and to the embassy for ensuring a smooth process.”
The event also provides tour operators the chance to connect with international travelers and inform them about what Rwanda has to offer. “It is up to us, the entrepreneurs, to tap into this opportunity,” Hategekimana added.
“By showcasing our attractions, we help visitors understand what Rwanda has to offer, ensuring they know where to stay and what services will be available to them.”
For Primate Safaris represented by Marketing Manager, Betty Mutoni, the ILTM offers a valuable opportunity to connect with new clients and expand the company’s reach.
“We have seen this event as a growth opportunity, with more people coming to Rwanda each year. It’s been an incredible platform to show the world the unique experiences we offer,” she said.
Daniella Gaza, representing Songa Africa, also emphasized the incredible opportunity the ILTM has provided for the company.
“Attending ILTM has allowed us to connect with new agents and partners in the luxury travel market, while also strengthening the relationships we’ve built over the years,” she explained.
“Through conversations with agents from around the world, we’ve learned that Rwanda is one of the top-selling destinations globally. We’re promoting it not only as a gorilla destination, but also as a place to experience safaris in Akagera, rainforest adventures in Nyungwe, and so much more.”
Gaza expressed her gratitude to the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for facilitating their participation, adding, “We’re already looking forward to returning next year.”
Denis Lefebvre, representing Palast Tours & Travel, shared his impressions of Rwanda at ILTM 2024 and highlighted the country’s appeal.
“Rwanda is indeed a destination we recommend, especially for seasoned travelers,” he remarked.
Lefebvre emphasized the country’s safety, short travel distances, top-notch accommodations, and ease of exploration, making it the perfect choice for a memorable day trip.
Irene Murerwa, Chief Tourism Officer at RDB, expressed excitement about Rwanda’s participation in this prestigious event.
“Visit Rwanda is pleased to take part in the 23rd edition of the ILTM flagship luxury travel trade show, which attracts over 10,000 delegates,” Murerwa said.
Murerwa also took the opportunity to thank the various partners and tour operators for their continued collaboration.
“We want to thank our partners, the tour operators, and the organizers of ILTM Cannes 2024. We will not shy away from discussing the consistent leadership we have in Rwanda,” she noted.
“We are now set to push for Rwanda as one of the biggest luxury travel destinations in the world,” Murerwa added.
Through its participation in events like ILTM, Rwanda is not just solidifying its reputation as a luxury destination but also taking bold steps towards shaping its future in global tourism.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Minister Nduhungirehe confirmed that Rwanda is committed to contributing to global efforts aimed at addressing illegal migration.
He emphasized that Rwanda is open to receiving migrants relocated from other countries, as it had agreed to do under its canceled deal with the UK.
“If there is any will from another country to discuss this, we will be open to discuss, to see how it can be materialised,” Nduhungirehe stated.
The proposed arrangement would see Rwanda taking in migrants transferred from countries facing migration challenges, aligning with the nation’s broader stance on immigration.
In September, Germany’s migration commissioner had even suggested Rwanda as a third-party country to handle migrant offshoring. Italy has already moved forward with a similar agreement, using Albania for migrant relocation.
While no direct proposals have been received from the U.S. administration, the elect-President Trump’s close aides have indicated that Rwanda may be considered as a destination for migrants as part of Trump’s mass deportation plans.
Nduhungirehe said Rwanda had not yet had any direct approaches but reaffirmed Rwanda’s readiness to partner with any country willing to address the global migration crisis.
“We are open to continue contributing to the solution to the migration, if in the days or months or years to come, we have to get into partnership with another country. So we consider all the conditions, including the facilities.”
Discussing the canceled migration partnership with the UK, Nduhungirehe explained that the deal, which was terminated after the election of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, would have provided a viable solution by acting as a deterrent while adhering to international law.
“We believe that every country should address this issue of migration in a way that will deter migration while treating the migrants in a humane way according to international law,” he said.
“We did our part and we are willing to do it again, but for other countries, especially European countries, they should talk among themselves and then find an appropriate solution to the migration aiming at deterrence, but also receiving people who have reached the territory and integrating them according to international law.”
Rwanda had started building accommodations for migrants from the UK. Nduhungirehe suggested that this infrastructure could be repurposed for any future migrant relocation schemes with other countries.
“If we get into partnership with any other country, we will discuss the terms and conditions of that partnership and that could be considered at that time,” he said.
Although the UK’s MEDP has been canceled, Nduhungirehe noted that the housing facilities built with the funds could still serve a useful purpose.
“We are still discussing within the government how to use that accommodation, not necessarily to deal with migration now that the MEDP is being terminated. They will be used for other purposes. We have started implementing the agreement, because part of the money was on development of that infrastructure.”
Rwanda’s position reflects its continued openness to contributing to global migration solutions while ensuring that agreements are mutually beneficial and aligned with international law.
The deal between the UK government, led by the Conservative Party, and Rwanda was signed in April 2022 and revised in December 2023 after doubts arose over the security of migrants while in Kigali.
In an interview with journalist Nick Ferrari of LBC, Minister Nduhungirehe explained that Rwanda was surprised by the security concerns raised in the UK after it had agreed to help the UK address the migrant issue.
“We have strong relations with the UK, and then we are working with the Labour government to terminate the migration partnership that we had worked on with the previous government, so that we can focus on our other projects and policies between our two countries,” he said.
Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, upon being elected as the new UK Prime Minister, stated that he would stop the deal.
When asked by Ferrari how the UK government had informed Rwanda about its decision to halt the program, Minister Nduhungirehe responded that Rwanda had not been formally notified, and it was initially disappointing.
“We knew it even through the campaign, electoral campaign. The Labour Party had stated on several occasions that they would repeal this partnership, and we knew when the results came out that this migration partnership would be repealed. We then worked with the government,” he noted.
“Initially, we were a bit disappointed with how this was handled, as we were not formally notified with the initial announcement in the media. But later on, we managed to speak with the government, including the Home Secretary and other officials, to work on how to terminate this migration partnership,” Nduhungirehe added.
UK High Commissioner to Rwanda, Alison Thorpe, during a press briefing in Kigali on October 2, 2024, suggested that it seems unlikely that the UK government would reinstate the program, as they have introduced other measures to deter illegal migrants.
The diplomat stated that after Starmer halted the agreement, it was expected that the UK Parliament would approve the decision, and the UK government would formally notify Rwanda in accordance with legal procedures.
The policy, which required passengers from Rwanda to be redirected to three designated U.S. airports for screening, is now no longer in effect. This decision also removes the requirement for travelers who have been in Rwanda within the last 21 days to undergo additional health assessments.
“ Passengers are now able to arrive in the United States without being redirected to one of the three designated airports where public health entry screening was previously conducted,” reads a statement released on December 4.
This change follows the November 22, 2024, downgrade of Rwanda’s travel advisory from Level 3 (“Reconsider Travel”) to Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”), signaling that the situation had significantly improved.
In addition, the last known patient with Marburg Virus Disease in Rwanda tested negative on November 8, 2024, and the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Rwanda had begun the 42-day countdown to officially declare the end of the outbreak.
With no new cases reported, public health officials are now confident that the risk posed by the virus has been effectively mitigated.
While the end of the screening measures marks a positive step, U.S. health authorities emphasized the continued importance of vigilance and monitoring.
The Marburg Virus Disease outbreak was first declared in Rwanda on September 27,2024.
As Rwanda approaches the official declaration of the end of the outbreak—expected to occur on December 12, 2024, this policy change is expected to improve the flow of air travel between Rwanda and the U.S., making it easier for passengers to enter the U.S. without unnecessary delays.
