Over the years, the link between corporate governance and stock market performance has become more evident, with investors paying closer attention to a company’s governance practices before investing. Private equity investors also show a greater preference for companies that embrace good corporate governance standards.
Today, the principles of corporate governance have become essential to gain shareholder confidence and maximize shareholder value. Companies with good governance practices are better equipped to navigate economic downturns with agility.
In this context, the Capital Market Authority (CMA), in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), has developed the Capital Market Corporate Governance Code.
This code has been benchmarked against leading global frameworks and initiatives, including those from the OECD, IFRS, EU, the Task Force for Climate-related Disclosures (TCFD), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking at the virtual launch of the governance code, CMA CEO, Mr. Thapelo Tsheole said that the corporate governance code will foster investor confidence. “Confidence and integrity are crucial for the development of any capital market. Investors invest with the understanding that their money is in good hands and will remain in good hands. Good corporate governance structures inspire this confidence,” he said.
Tsheole added that Rwanda’s capital market is in competition for capital, with investors spoilt for choice, hence the need for a competitive strategy.
Investors today have expanded their focus beyond a company’s financial performance to include the financial risks and opportunities arising from broader economic, environmental, and societal challenges, as well as a company’s ability to manage and adapt to those risks.
Amb. Nduhungirehe made these remarks during the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China, held at Kigali Convention Centre on September 12, 2024. The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda, drew diplomats, government officials, members of the Chinese community in Rwanda, and friends of China.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1971, Rwanda and China have forged a strong relationship grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for development. In recent years, this bond has grown through increased partnerships and political understanding.
Rwanda firmly upholds the One-China principle, while China has consistently supported Rwanda’s national unity and efforts to combat Genocide denial and hate speech.
China’s investments in Rwanda, which exceed $1.2 billion since 2019, span critical sectors like manufacturing, construction, real estate, and mining.
Notably, the upgrade of Masaka District Hospital to an 837-bed facility, which will form part of the Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK), is one of many infrastructure projects demonstrating China’s significant contributions. The two nations also saw a bilateral trade volume of $550 million in 2023, with China’s imports from Rwanda increasing by 86.2% from last year.
Rwanda’s cooperation with China is further strengthened through platforms like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and the Joint Economic, Technical, and Trade Committee (JETTCO).
China is also engaged in key sectors such as agriculture, education, ICT, and infrastructure, significantly contributing to Rwanda’s social and economic transformation. A prime example is the Juncao mushroom cultivation program, which has benefitted 35,000 Rwandan farmers.
In light of this, Amb. Nduhungirehe expressed Rwanda’s deep appreciation for China’s contributions, stating, “Rwanda views China as an important and reliable partner that has significantly contributed to our socio-economic development. This collaboration has been particularly impactful in priority sectors such as infrastructure, health, energy, and education, aligning with our shared vision of mutual growth and prosperity.”
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun welcomed growing relations between both countries underscoring that this year holds great significance.
He was referring to recent engagements where President Paul Kagame attended the 2024 Beijing Summit of Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and co-chaired the high-level meeting on state governance.
Kagame met with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping and elevated bilateral relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, an important milestone in bilateral relations.
Besides, more close friendship ties have been cemented. Notably, this year, the City of Jinhua of Zhejiang Province, and the District of Musanze, became sister cities, the first ever pair of sister cities between the two countries.
“China-Rwanda relations are now at the best in history. Let’s work together to implement the important consensus reached by leaders of the two countries,” he stated.
Amb. Xuekun emphasized the need to work together to advance cooperation in various fields, and inject new momentum into the comprehensive strategic partnership to create more benefits for the two peoples.
{{China’s development: A model of growth and global impact}}
Reflecting on China’s achievements over the past 75 years, Amb. Xuekun highlighted how the country has transformed from a society facing shortages of food and clothing into a global economic powerhouse under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
In 2023, China’s GDP reached $17.9 trillion, a 223-fold increase from 1952, with an average annual growth rate of 7.9% over the past 70 years. The per capita GDP rose from $194 in 1980 to $12,700 in 2023, almost matching the global average.
Over the past 75 years, China also made significant strides in improving the quality of life for its citizens. About 100 million of the Chinese population was lifted out of poverty in the past decade. Absolute poverty has been eradicated in China.
The average life expectancy increased from 35 years in 1949 to 78.6 years in 2023. With the world’s largest social security system in place, the Chinese people are enjoying a great sense of gain, happiness, and security.
According to Amb. Xuekun, China has spared no efforts in promoting ecological civilization.
In 2023, China ranked first in the global scale of renewable energy, with more than half of the world’s newly installed capacity.
For 9 consecutive years, China has produced and sold the most new-energy vehicles in the world, accounting for 60% of the world’s total in 2023.
China is now among the world’s top countries in terms of trade, manufacturing, commodity consumption and others. It has contributed more than 30% to world annual economic growth in the past decade, remaining as a robust engine of the world economy.
Among others, China has consistently pursued an independent foreign policy of peace, and adhered to the path of peaceful development. The country also established diplomatic relations with 183 countries in the world.
“Looking back on the history in the past 75 years, we are deeply proud of what we have achieved. And we are determined to achieve more,” noted Amb. Xuekun, underscoring the country’s commitment to world peace and development, and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
“Through Jinhua University, we focus on areas such as research, academic discussions, and skills training, and we’ve established a new multilevel, multifield, and multiform pattern of China-Africa education cooperation,” Zhu stated.
To date, Jinhua City has trained over 30,000 African students from more than 50 countries. [Zhejiang Normal University ->https://en.igihe.com/arts-culture/article/inside-the-african-museum-at-zhejiang-normal-university-photos]in Jinhua is home to the first comprehensive African Research Institute in a Chinese university and has hosted nearly 300 training programs for over 6,000 African officials, experts, and scholars. This has cultivated a significant number of African experts in China and China experts in Africa.
The city’s educational collaboration includes partnerships like the Morocco-Yiwu Business School and Jinhua Polytechnic Universities. Additionally, Jinhua Polytechnic has partnered with Musanze Integrated Polytechnic in Rwanda’s Northern Province. Zhu expressed optimism about this year’s FOCAC Summit, seeing it as an opportunity to deepen such collaborations.
“In April, the university welcomed 30 international students from Rwanda’s Musanze College [IPRC Musanze]. These students have quickly adapted to their studies in Jinhua and have strengthened their confidence in the future of vocational education,” Zhu noted.
“Looking ahead, we take this Beijing Summit FOCAC as an opportunity to further deepen and expand pragmatic cooperation with African countries in all aspects. We will continue to polish businesses as part of China Africa cooperation and make great contributions for building a China-Africa high level community with a shared future,” added Zhu.
On March 28, 2024, [Jinhua signed a Sister Cities Agreement with Musanze District->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/sister-city-of-musanze-explore-jinhua-the-heart-of-zhejiang-s-economic-growth] in Rwanda’s Northern Province, marking the first such agreement between China and Rwanda and symbolizing a new chapter of friendship and cooperation.
In the same month, Jinhua Polytechnic, signed a five-year agreement for an exchange program that initially allowed students from IPRC Musanze departing for China to study for two years in Rwanda and one year in China for an Advanced Diploma. This agreement followed a long term partnership between the two side, spanning more than a decade.
Zhejiang Province is one of China’s most economically developed regions, and has forged agreements with various African countries in trade, education, and development.
Chen Jiangfeng, Deputy Director of Zhejiang’s Department of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that Zhejiang has launched two consecutive three-year action plans on Zhejiang-Africa cooperation. “These efforts have led to new progress and results, particularly in frequent people-to-people exchanges,” he said.
Zhejiang has established 31 sister relationships with African countries, including Rwanda, ensuring friendly relations at the provincial, municipal, and district levels. In recent years, delegations led by top Zhejiang officials have visited Africa, co-hosting events and signing major cooperation agreements with local governments.
Economic and trade ties between Zhejiang and Africa are yielding significant results. In 2023, bilateral trade reached USD 53.9 billion, with Zhejiang’s investment in Africa totaling USD 4.6 billion. In the first half of 2024, two-way trade amounted to USD 27.88 billion, with a 12.9% year-on-year increase in imports from Africa, totaling USD 5.55 billion.
Educational and cultural exchanges are also flourishing. More than 20 Zhejiang universities have formed partnerships with African institutions, and eight Confucius Institutes have been established across the continent, training 120,000 Chinese language talents. Zhejiang has also provided vocational training for over 2,800 individuals from more than 160 African companies, and over 6,500 African students are currently studying in Zhejiang.
Medical cooperation is another pillar of Zhejiang’s engagement with Africa. For 55 consecutive years, Zhejiang has sent medical aid teams to African countries, including Mali and Namibia. In 2022 and 2023 alone, Zhejiang dispatched 110 medical personnel to Africa, delivering services to 183,800 people. These teams also provided free clinics in remote areas and promoted traditional Chinese medicine while conducting over 70 medical training sessions and 15 academic meetings.
“Our tricycles, capable of carrying both goods and passengers, are easy to operate and don’t require fuel, making them a hit in many African countries,” said Wang Juxiang, head of the company’s technical department.
As trade between China and Africa booms, more African consumers are embracing quality Chinese products like smartphones and electric vehicles, creating new growth opportunities for Chinese companies.
Jiangsu, a manufacturing powerhouse in China, is witnessing a surge in its enterprises exploring new collaborative ventures across the vast African continent.
According to customs data, Jiangsu’s trade with Africa reached 97.43 billion yuan (about 13.7 billion U.S. dollars) in the first half of this year, marking a 30.3 percent year-on-year increase.
Keiper Changshu Seating Mechanisms Co., Ltd., specializing in manufacturing key automotive seating components, is among those making significant strides in the African market.
“In the first half, we exported 222,000 automobile seat parts to South Africa. Our clients are satisfied with the quality of our products,” said Han Tingwen, an engineer at the company.
With an abundant variety of commodities, convenient and fast logistics, and a good business environment, the city of Yiwu in east China’s Zhejiang Province is often referred to as “the world’s supermarket.”
The Yiwu International Trade Market, offering 2.1 million types of goods and serving over 200 countries and regions, counts Africa among its top export destinations.
Thanks to growing China-Africa trade relations, the city’s exports to Africa make up about one-twelfth of China’s total exports to the region in 2023, while its imports from Africa are increasing.
Currently, over 560,000 overseas merchants make purchases in Yiwu each year, with African traders representing more than 10 percent of that number. Additionally, over 3,000 merchants from Africa reside in Yiwu.
China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching a record 282.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, according to China’s Ministry of Commerce.
Notably, China’s exports of new energy vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products to Africa in 2023 surged year on year by 291 percent, 109 percent and 57 percent, respectively.
Beyond traditional sectors such as primary processing industries, Sino-African trade cooperation is expanding into emerging fields like the digital economy, healthcare and financial services.
Chinese-made products are also enjoying smoother entry into African markets. Wuxi BioHermes Bio and Medical Technology Co., Ltd. in Jiangsu recently shipped a batch of glycated hemoglobin analyzers and test kits to Algeria.
“In the field of diabetes diagnosis, we’ve miniaturized large lab equipment into portable devices, making transportation easier and more cost-effective for our African clients,” said Liu Yan, the company’s general manager, adding that thanks to expedited customs procedures, the company has shortened its delivery cycle by 15 percent, further solidifying its customer base in Africa.
“Our personal care products are now sold in over 10 African countries and regions, with related exports growing by 15 percent year on year in the first half of this year,” said Chen Caiming, a foreign trade manager at a biotechnology company in Jiangsu.
Chen said the company’s products have been well received by African customers, prompting local customs authorities to open a green channel for sea freight exports, which significantly improves shipping efficiency. “Our orders from African clients are already booked through November, and we are confident in our ability to deliver on time without compromising quality.”
Sang Baichuan, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said the rapid development of Sino-African trade is rooted in mutual benefits and shared interests.
“This is not only a testament to China’s high-quality development but also plays a significant role in advancing African social progress and improving local living standards,” said Sang.
“The economic complementarity between China and Africa is robust,” Sang noted. “China possesses mature, applicable technologies and ample financial resources, while African nations have abundant human and natural advantages.”
“Cementing trade ties between both sides facilitates the optimal use of these strengths and the vast market potential, leading to mutually beneficial and shared development,” he added.
The call was made on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, during a press briefing in Beijing, to update local and international media on preparations of the upcoming eighth Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs, scheduled for September 6.
This conference is a key component of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), to run from September 4 to 6.
It is jointly organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and China’s Ministry of Commerce. Notably, this year marks the first time the conference will be held in person since the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the briefing, Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, highlighted the significance of this event, which will bring together around 1,000 business representatives from China and African countries.
In the lead-up to the event, significant consultations have taken place, considering important documents and projects, including the China-Africa Cooperation Vision 2035.
The participants will discuss issues of economic concern, build consensus for cooperation, and explore opportunities in investment, trade, and industry.
Zhang emphasized the deepening cooperation between China and Africa in recent years, underscoring the strategic guidance provided by leaders from both regions.
He affirmed China’s commitment to promoting interconnected economic development with Africa, aiming to deliver shared benefits that contribute to the consolidation of the China-Africa comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and the joint construction of a China-Africa community with a shared future.
Zhang also pointed out the similarities between Chinese and African business communities, urging entrepreneurs to leverage existing platforms for enhanced cooperation.
“I encourage entrepreneurs from China and Africa to make full use of economic trade cooperation platforms, such as the China International Supply Chain Expo, to enhance the integration of industrial and supply chains. Together, we can oppose protectionism and maintain stable and smooth industrial and supply chains,” he noted.
He further emphasized the potential for cooperation in emerging industries, highlighting areas such as the digital economy, green development, and artificial intelligence.
During the conference, 12 entrepreneurs from China and Africa will deliver speeches focused on promoting the integration of industrial and supply chains, sharing insights and experiences, and discussing cooperation opportunities.
Besides, the conference’s special attention has been given to the integration of industrial and supply chains and the development of emerging industries among others.
Since its inception in 2003, the conference has alternated between China and Africa. This year, 48 African countries will be represented, which Zhang views as a testament to the African business community’s enthusiasm for thriving China-Africa economic and trade relations.
Participating companies will span a range of industries, from traditional sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, and finance, to emerging fields like electronics, telecommunications, and biomedicine.
FOCAC has evolved into a critical platform for collective dialogue and practical cooperation, with economic and trade collaboration under its framework yielding impressive results.
In 2023, China-Africa trade volume reached an extraordinary US$282.1 billion, an 11% increase from 2021. Additionally, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeded US$40 billion by the end of 2023, reinforcing China’s role as a leading foreign investor on the continent.
Aloys Manzi, who spent many years in the United Kingdom, recognized this issue and launched a project aimed at providing different types of homes tailored to clients’ preferences. This initiative allows members of the diaspora to own homes in Rwanda without the usual difficulties.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Manzi and Ignatius Mugabo explained that anyone wishing to build a home in Rwanda needs to pay 20% of the construction cost upfront. If they lack the full amount, the remaining balance can be financed by a bank, which they will repay gradually.
They confirmed that those interested in building a home do not need to oversee the construction process themselves, as Blackrock handles everything, including finding tenants if the owner is not yet ready to live in the house.
{{Excerpts:}}
{{IGIHE: Could you please describe the ‘Blackrock’ project?}}
{{Mugabo: }} The ‘Blackrock’ project is a reliable and well-structured initiative designed with the diaspora in mind. Many members of the diaspora don’t have the time to manage a construction project.
They often visit Rwanda for a few weeks and leave without completing what they started due to time constraints. Our project simplifies this process by taking care of everything for them. From purchasing land to building the house, we handle it all.
The process is even more accessible, as clients can begin with a 20% upfront payment, and a major Rwandan bank supporting this project will finance the rest. This ensures that their investment is protected, as the bank oversees the progress of the construction.
{{IGIHE: What sets these homes apart from others?}}
{{Manzi:}} Our homes stand out because we focus on building high-quality houses customized to the client’s specifications. Clients can request specific modifications, and once the construction is complete, we even assist in finding tenants if they are not ready to move in.
While similar services may exist, they are not as widely available, especially for the diaspora. We understand their unique challenges and are here to help them navigate the process easily.
{{IGIHE: }} {{How do you assist those who may not have enough money?}}
{{Manzi: }} We collaborate with a leading bank in Rwanda that is keen to support the diaspora. If a client has 20% of the required funds, the bank will provide an 80% loan to cover the remaining costs. The bank’s involvement means they will monitor the project’s progress, ensuring everything goes according to plan. This approach differs from simply handing over money to a relative, where there’s a risk of being shown photos of someone else’s house.
That’s why Blackrock is here, and we have other plans for the future, including helping someone with land by building houses on it and assisting them to run other income generating ventures.
{{IGIHE: Is it possible for someone to request a custom-built home?}}
{{Manzi: }} Absolutely. For example, one of our clients from the United States wanted to use only part of his house and rent out the rest.
He requested that the first and second floors be designed as rental units while he lived on the top floor.
We cater to such needs, whether a client wants to live in the entire house, rent out parts of it, or customize the space for other purposes. Each room is self-contained, making it easy to adapt to different needs. Our dedicated team is always available to assist with customization, ensuring that each home meets the client’s desires.
A statement issued by RDF confirms that President Paul Kagame, who also serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwandan Defence Force, approved the retirement of General Kazura, along with four Brigadier Generals including; John Bagabo, John Bosco Rutikanga, Johnson Hodari, and Firmin Bayingana.
In addition, President Kagame also approved the retirement of 170 senior officers and 992 soldiers of various ranks.
General Kazura has held key leadership roles within the Rwandan Defense Force for many years, including his tenure as Chief of Defense Staff from November 2019 to June 2023.
He has also served in several other significant positions, such as the Commandant of Nyakinama Military Academy, Military Advisor to the President, Deputy Commander of the African Union forces in Darfur, Sudan, and Commander of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Brig Gen John Bagabo, known for his extensive work in military justice, recently served as the President of the Military High Court and was a Commissioner in the Demobilization and Reintegration Commission.
Brig Gen John Bosco Rutikanga once served as the RDF Division Commander in the Northern Province and as the Commander of the 204th Brigade. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 2018.
Meanwhile, Brig General Johnson Hodari, once served as military commander in the districts of Bugesera, Ngoma, and Kirehe, and later led the 305th Brigade in Musanze and part of Burera districts.
Brig Gen Firmin Bayingana is also recognized for his leadership role in APR FC.
During the send-off ceremony held on Friday, Defense Minister Juvenal Marizamunda expressed gratitude to the retiring Generals and Senior Officers for their contributions from the period of the liberation struggle, stopping the Genocide against the Tutsi and to the current development programme.
“I encourage you to uphold the same dedication you have shown throughout the years. The young RDF soldiers have gained valuable insights from your example, and I am confident that you will continue to contribute to the protection of our country,” said Marizamunda.
In his remarks, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, emphasised that this is a unique milestone, marking the culmination of long and distinguished military careers, reflecting the highest credit upon the retiring military personnel.
“Behind each of our historical successes have been your sacrifices, dedication, and commitment to accomplishing the mission of defending our country. You have served our nation with distinction and honour, and you can be proud of your contributions to current peace and security. You have left behind a tremendous legacy, not just in the accomplishment of your duties but in strengthening the respected institution of the RDF,” said Gen Mubarakh.
Brig Gen John Bagabo, speaking on behalf of the retirees, expressed gratitude to President Paul Kagame and the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF for his leadership and guidance over the years, noting that during the struggle to liberate the country, the President emphasised the importance of good conduct to benefit the nation and distinguish themselves from their adversaries.
“These principles have remained with us and continue to guide our actions. As we move into the Reserve Force, we take great pride in bidding farewell with honour.
“We ask our leaders present today to relay our message to the Commander-in-Chief, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to serve and protect the accomplishments we have fought for over the years. We stand ready to support the RDF active force in our future deployments,” said Brig Gen Bagabo.
The retirees were awarded certificates in recognition of their service to the Rwanda Defence Force.
The development was disclosed during a press briefing held on August 30, 2024.
NEC’s Executive Secretary, Charles Munyaneza, said that the Commission received 41 candidacies in accordance with legal provisions, but the Supreme Court approved only 32.
Munyaneza explained the reasons considered by the Supreme Court to reject some candidacies include failure to meet the necessary qualifications, such as lacking relevant work experience or not meeting the minimum age requirement of 40 years.
Additionally, some candidates lacked the required documents, and those from universities and higher learning institutions did not meet stipulated requirements.
This will be the fourth senatorial election since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with previous elections held in 2003, 2011, and 2019. This marks the second time senators will be elected for a five-year term, different from the previous eight-year terms.
NEC’s Chairperson, Oda Gasinzigwa, mentioned that the campaigning process for the approved candidates is progressing smoothly.
She emphasized that the elected senators will serve a five-year term, subject to renewal, and the law stipulates that the elections must be held at least 30 days before the end of the current senators’ term.
Rwanda’s senate consists of 26 senators, including eight appointed by the sitting President, four appointed by the Consultative Forum of Political Organizations, and elected senators through Electoral Colleges.
The upcoming elections in September 2024 will be for 12 senators elected according to the country’s Constitution, two senators elected respectively from lecturers and researchers from the public and private universities.
Both mosques are central to the religious life of Muslims in Kigali—Masjid Alfatah located in Biryogo, adjacent to Onatracom head office, and the Madina Mosque in the city center.
Preparations regarding the renovation project began before the COVID-19 pandemic, involving the Rwanda Muslim Community (RMC) and the Saudi Arabian government, which was expected to fund the initiative.
The plans for Masjid Alfatah included expanding its capacity from 500 to over 2,500 worshippers and adding a commercial facility to generate revenue.
The Madina Mosque was expected to undergo an extensive overhaul, with a new structure with over 10 floors, where the ground floor would serve as the mosque and the upper floors would be used for commercial activities. The total cost was estimated at Rwf8 billion for the Madina Mosque and Rwf6.5 billion for Masjid Alfatah.
In an interview with IGIHE, the Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, explained that the project was to be implemented through cooperation with the Saudi Arabian government, which had also funded the original construction of Masjid Alfatah in 1974.
“This mosque at Onatracom was built 50 years ago in 1974 by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At the time, the King of Saudi Arabia visited Kampala, and Muslims from Rwanda went there to welcome him. They presented a request to build a mosque which he welcomed and funded the project,” Sheikh Sindayigaya noted.
“Given this historical connection, the leadership of the Muslim community in Rwanda reminded them about the mosque they had helped us build, which has now aged and needs renovation. They agreed to assist with this mosque as well as the one in the city center.”
Sheikh Sindayigaya mentioned that representatives from Saudi Arabia visited Rwanda to discuss the implementation of this project with the leadership of the Muslim community in Rwanda.
“A delegation comprising officials from various ministries convened: they included the Finance Ministry and that in charge of Religious Affairs who contacted us through our very own Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Sindayigaya explained.
He said that they met with the former Mufti, Sheikh Salim Hitimana, who then presented the projects, which they had already received in writing and got them approved.
According to him, a site visit was then conducted and appreciated, leaving them with a solid hope that the project would be implemented.
However, as preparations to implement the project proceeded the COVID-19 pandemic struck, delaying the planned activities.
“They later informed us to start preparing, as the funding agreements would be signed soon. We started gathering the necessary documents, but then COVID-19 hit, leading to an economic downturn in many countries, and after the pandemic, some countries became more focused on their own issues,” Sindayigaya explained.
He however revealed that the new leadership of the Rwanda Muslim Community has resumed discussions, and expressed hope that the project will be revived, with the support of the Rwandan government.
Major General Nzaramba was dismissed for corruption and the misappropriation of funds designated for soldiers’ welfare during his time as Commandant of the Basic Military Training Centre in Nasho.
Similarly, Colonel Dr. Etienne Uwimana was removed for gross misconduct and violating the core ethics and values of the RDF.
Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, the RDF spokesperson, underscored the gravity of these offenses, stating, “The RDF has zero tolerance for corruption, gross indiscipline, and misconduct. These dismissals reflect our unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards within our ranks.”
