The delegations last convened in Angola in March 2024, where they reached several resolutions, including the cessation of hostilities between the DRC’s armed forces and the M23 rebel group, which has been central to these conflicts, in order to restore security in the North Kivu province.
A statement signed by the foreign ministers of both countries at the time, called for mutual trust and the sharing of intelligence information to prevent any security threats to Rwanda and the DRC.
The DRC delegation agreed to present a plan to dismantle the FDLR rebel group in a subsequent meeting that was scheduled for April 2024.
It was agreed that if the DRC follows through on its commitment to dismantle the FDLR, the Rwandan government would also take measures to ensure Rwanda’s security.
However, shortly after these talks, Christophe Lutundula, the DRC’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, told reporters in Kinshasa that he and his government officials were unaware of the FDLR’s exact location, casting doubt on their willingness to fulfill their commitment.
The FDLR, which Lutundula claimed could not be located, is reportedly collaborating with the DRC’s armed forces in the fight against the M23, as corroborated by a UN Group of Experts report containing evidence and testimonies from Congolese soldiers.
The planned talks for April 2024 did not take place. However, both parties continued to communicate with the mediator, Angola, regarding the implementation of resolutions made since the first Luanda summit in 2022.
Although not part of the Luanda talks, in early July 2024, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, and State Secretary for East African Community Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe met with DRC’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gracia Yamba Kazadi, in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Amb. Nduhungirehe explained that during their meeting, held on the sidelines of an East African Community retreat, both parties agreed that resuming the Luanda talks promptly was essential to finding a lasting solution to the conflicts between both countries.
In March 2024, it was anticipated that the April talks would prepare for a meeting between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, facilitated by Angola. Both presidents had agreed to meet face-to-face.
Issues involved include some loan recipients complaining of being tasked to repay amounts higher than what they originally borrowed and others who have completed repayments but still appear on the debtors’ lists.
According authorities, some people have even been listed as debtors without ever having applied for a loan.
Wilson Rurangwa, the Head of the Education Department at BRD, told IGIHE that periodic audits have revealed that some employers continue deducting loan repayments from employees’ salaries without remitting these funds to BRD.
“There are cases where employers deduct loan repayments from employees’ salaries but keep the money instead of transferring it to BRD. This has been observed for several months in some instances,” he said.
Rurangwa implored individuals who still appear on debtors’ list s despite having repaid their loans to approach BRD for correction and possible refunds if overpayments are identified.
He pointed out that some institutions deduct repayments from employees’ salaries without notifying BRD, leading to discrepancies in records.
An audit conducted on of 28 companies operating in Rwanda indicates that none complied with regulations for loan repayment collections, which contributed to the errors in the system.
Initially managed by the Ministry of Education since 1980, the responsibility shifted in 2008 to the Students Financing Agency of Rwanda (SFAR).
In 2013, after merging institutions under the Ministry of Education, SFAR was integrated into the Rwanda Education Board (REB) as a department responsible for student loans.
Some of these disparities stem from loans granted over 20 years ago but BRD lacks detailed records on repayments because these transactions were handled by other entities without proper documenting.
Rurangwa says that BRD is actively compiling reports from these institutions to update records and clear debts where possible.
Based on the existing structures, students who have or intend to apply for loans from BRD are required to open accounts with BRD Minuza, a platform created to make student loan services easily accessible.
The accounts help individuals monitor deductions from their salaries and ensure accurate remittance to BRD.
In case excess detections are made, the extra amounts are refunded. So far, Rwf300 million has been refunded to individuals who were overcharged.
Individuals with concerns about their loan repayment processes are encouraged to contact BRD for further assistance by calling 3288.
Between 2016 and 2023, BRD has disbursed over Rwf370 billion in scholarships and loans to more than 96,000 students in universities and higher learning institutions.
The Rwandan government began providing direct student loans in 1980, and in 2016, BRD was selected as the channel through which the process would be sustained.
The institution was handed the responsibility to offer these loans and collect outstanding debts amounting to Rwf70.9 billion from previous recipients. BRD has since recovered over Rwf31 billion.
President Kagame won the presidential election held on July 14-15, 2024, with 99.18% of the vote, defeating Dr. Frank Habineza of the Green Party, who received 0.50%, and Philippe Mpayimana, who garnered 0.32%.
Following the election victory, Sheikh Mohamed joined other world leaders in extending his wishes for President Kagame’s continued success in advancing Rwanda’s development. He acknowledged Rwanda’s remarkable progress in lifting its citizens out of poverty over the past 30 years.
In a phone conversation, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed his best wishes for President Paul Kagame’s success in leading his nation and “fulfilling the aspirations of his people for development and prosperity.”
He also underscored commitment to continue working with President Kagame in the coming period to strengthen UAE-Rwandan cooperation at various levels, benefiting both nations.
In response, President Kagame thanked Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his message and reaffirmed his commitment to further deepen the existing cooperation.
“It was an honor and a pleasure to receive a congratulatory call from my brother and friend President HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed and I thanked him for his very good wishes,” Kagame posted on his X handle.
“Rwanda remains committed to continue deepening the productive bilateral cooperation with the UAE, and I look forward to further strengthening key areas of partnership between our nations and our people,” he added.
The relationship between Rwanda and the UAE spans multiple sectors, including education, technology, trade, and agriculture. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached $1.1 billion in 2023, a significant contribution largely driven by Rwanda’s exports of vegetables and fruits.
Every week, Rwanda exports over 60 tons of vegetables and fruits to the UAE. In 2022, Rwanda exported goods worth $514.5 million to Dubai while importing goods valued at $143 million from the UAE.
This partnership has also facilitated the increase of exports to other Gulf countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
In March 2024, 26 Rwandan companies were registered to do business in Dubai, and 100 Rwandan companies were offering services through Dubuy.com, a platform by Dubai Port (DP) World that helps deliver products like coffee and tea.
DP World, an Emirati company, manages the Kigali Logistics Platform in Masaka, Kicukiro District, a dry port that stores imported and exported goods before distribution across the region.
RwandAir operats three weekly flights between Kigali and Sharjah, the third-most populous city in the United Arab Emirates.
In 2022, a new initiative was launched to export Hass avocados via sea, strengthening the trade relationship between the two nations even further.
Police alongside Uganda People Defence Forces (UPDF) and Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) occupied Kampala streets starting on Sunday evening in anticipation of massive anti-corruption protests.
The heavy deployment followed days of mobilizing people mostly on X to participate in anti-corruption protests which had been dubbed #MarchToParliament. The forces perceived the anti-corruption protests to be a copycat of what is transpiring in Kenya where Generation Z has put President William Samoe Ruto’s government on tenterhooks.
The police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police Kituuma Rusoke has now given an update revealing that the first week of the protests expected to be held every Tuesday and Thursday like it is happening in Kenya led to the arrest of 104.
According to ACP Rusoke, between July 22 and July 25, demonstrators attempted to march to Parliament in Kampala, leading to significant police intervention. He said on July 22 nine individuals were arrested and charged with common nuisance and traffic regulation violations, all of whom were taken to court.
“One July 23, a total of 75 suspects were apprehended; 74 were subsequently taken to court, while one remains in police custody. On July 24, three individuals were arrested and charged with common nuisance offenses, all of whom were taken to court,” ACP Rusoke said.
Security has further explained that on July 25, sixteen people were arrested of which 13 were taken to court, and three are still in police security. “Overall, 104 individuals have been arrested during this period, with 100 already taken to court. Among those arrested, 13 had prior criminal charges,” ACP Rusoke said.
President Yoweri Museveni has since dubbed the anti-corruption protests as being bankrolled by foreigners with the intention to destabilize Uganda. He said if the anti-corruption protests were not having hidden intentions, he would have been informed and invited to participate as the chief walker.
According to Museveni, anti-corruption protesters are playing with fire as his regime and security agencies won’t allow anyone to throw the country into anarchy.
Police said mobilization placards that called upon Ugandans to occupy all streets in Kampala as part of their march to parliament was going to result in significant traffic congestion, disruption of trade, and disturbances to public order.
Among those arrested before the protests were Francis Zaake, Hassan Kirumira, and Charles Tebandeke from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), along with seven others.
The program was officially inaugurated in Kigali on July 26, 2024, with a focus on promoting inclusive service delivery and the proper use of sign language while interacting with patients with disabilities.
The first cohort of nurses and midwives will commence their training in early 2025, in collaboration with the National Council of Persons with Disabilities in Rwanda (NCPD).
Emmanuel Ndayisaba, Executive Secretary of NCPD, highlighted the importance of having sign language interpreters to bridge communication gaps between deaf patients and healthcare providers.
He noted that these gaps often lead to patients feeling uncomfortable discussing their health issues, which can result in inadequate health care provision.
“We face significant challenges in delivering services to people with disabilities, particularly in the healthcare setup. Patients sometimes struggle to communicate directly with doctors, a situation that should be handled with confidentiality,” Ndayisaba explained.
“Reliance on others for interpretation can lead to embarrassment and incomplete communication about health matters,” he added.
Caroline Ikiriza, an RNMU staff member, expressed enthusiasm for the training program. As one of the few healthcare workers already fluent in sign language, she is eager to share her expertise with her colleagues.
“We are here to learn so that we can train our peers. This initiative is a vital advocacy effort by RNMU to prepare training sessions for nurses and equip them with sign language skills,” Ikiriza said.
RNMU Chairperson André Gitembagara outlined the program’s objectives, emphasizing the need to address challenges faced by people with disabilities in healthcare settings, particularly in rural areas where these issues are more pronounced.
“Consider a woman coming to give birth who cannot speak or hear. Providing appropriate care in such cases is a significant challenge for nurses or midwives,” Gitembagara said.
“In rural areas, the absence of interpreters further complicates communication with healthcare providers. Additionally, some nurses and midwives themselves have disabilities,” he emphasized.
In 2023, RNMU trained 40 nurses in Kigali who work at patient reception services. The current initiative begins with training national RNMU leaders on inclusive service delivery, with plans to extend the training to district-level RNMU leaders, and eventually to hospital and health center staff.
By the end of 2025, RNMU aims to have 200 nurses and midwives proficient in sign language, with ongoing training efforts planned for subsequent years.
The meeting occurred on Thursday, July 26, 2024, before the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, which bring together over 10,000 athletes from various sports disciplines.
“President Infantino and President Kagame met at FIFA’s new offices in Paris ‘to discuss ongoing cooperation and new opportunities to further develop football in Rwanda,” reads a statement from the President’s office.
During the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games, Rwanda is represented by eight individuals who will compete in cycling, athletics, swimming, and fencing.
Last year, Infantino was re-elected to head the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) for a second term running from 2023 to 2027, during the 73rd FIFA Congress held in Kigali.
President Kagame thanked him for his role in the initiative to renovate Amahoro Stadium, which is among the top stadiums in Africa.
Murangira B. Thierry, the RIB spokesperson, stated that these incidents have occurred since 2019. However, the number of cases has shown a gradual decline: 91 cases in the 2019/20 fiscal year, 61 cases in 2020/21, 41 cases in 2021/22, a slight rise to 58 cases in 2022/23, and 46 cases in 2023/24.
Youth make up 90% of these victims, with 168 individuals aged between 18 and 30, 102 under the age of 18, and 27 over the age of 30. Additionally, women constitute 75% of the trafficked individuals, while men account for 25%.
Murangira explained that the trafficked individuals include both Rwandans and foreigners transiting through Rwanda due to its well-established international transportation network.
Many are enticed by promises of jobs and other opportunities abroad, particularly in Asia, but often fall victim to human trafficking due to naivety and a lack of critical thinking, trusting strangers who offer help without expecting anything in return.
“There is an element of human gullibility because the victims often do not receive complete information from their traffickers. Some people leave to marry someone they met on Facebook or Instagram, without knowing anything more about them,” Murangira noted.
“Others are lured by promises of education or marrying wealthy men abroad. Some knowingly go to work as prostitutes under the impression that it is respectable, only to find themselves exploited,” he added.
Murangira emphasized that people should not be swayed by everything that glitters, mistaking it for gold, and should be cautious of strangers offering lucrative jobs without knowing them. As he explained, every country has unemployed citizens, noting that such offers should raise suspicion.
Regarding the tactics used, Murangira said, “The first thing traffickers do is tell the victim to keep everything secret, warning them that ‘if you talk about this, it won’t happen.’ This secrecy is intended to prevent the victim from seeking advice and questioning the trafficker’s intentions.”
He also mentioned that some individuals are intercepted at borders, appearing reluctant to disclose their destination, and are subsequently returned. Parents have also approached RIB upon noticing their children seeking travel documents under suspicious circumstances, believing they are being lured by promises of education or marriage abroad.
From 2019 to June 2024, 85 people have been rescued through collaboration with the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with 79 of them being women. These individuals often used social media, particularly WhatsApp, to send distress messages back to Rwanda, prompting RIB to coordinate their rescue with other agencies.
Murangira called on the public to avoid being lured by vague promises of benefits abroad, as this provides loopholes for trafficking. He revealed that some of those rescued now work with RIB in campaigns against human trafficking.
From its lush national parks teeming with wildlife, to its vibrant cities and welcoming people, Rwanda promises an unforgettable [journey->http://www.Easyride.rw]. Here’s why you should consider making Rwanda your next travel destination.
According to Forbes’ Bucket List Travel, there are as many reasons to visit Rwanda as there are people who call it home. The 26,338 square km area is home to over 14 million people, making it one of the most densely populated nations on the African continent.
Yet, it stands out as a leader in conservation efforts, (with four national parks) ranked as the third greenest place globally by The World Travel Guide, 2015.
In Rwanda, you will find tourists searching for a luxury experience, those roughing it in campsites or seeking out the country’s famous gorillas and chimpanzees- a small tip on the iceberg.
From historical inspirational museums, to incredible meals served high above the city’s lights, Rwanda is full of promise and wonder. Exploring it will leave you emotional and enlightened.
Some must-do experiences to add to your itinerary include gorilla trekking to see mountain gorillas, visiting national parks like Akagera and Nyungwe, Gishwati-Mukura for wildlife species, golden monkey trekking, boat cruises, bird sighting, to mention but a few.
You can also explore traditional dance and rich culture through visits to cultural villages like Ibyiwacu in Kinigi at the foothills of the Volcanoes National Park. Rwandan hospitality will leave an indelible memory.
Rwanda is also home to the “Big Five (wildlife species),” thanks to conservation efforts that reintroduced extinct species like rhinos and lions.
Additionally, Rwanda is one of the safest African countries, ensuring security for tourists during their stay. The country’s cleanliness and ease of access are also significant pull factors.
Notably air transport is readily at hand with Kamembe Airport and Rubavu Airstrip facilitating domestic travel while Kigali International Airport serves as the main gateway for international tourists, offering direct flights to numerous cities worldwide.
This experience is deeply felt and appreciated by tourists who have witnessed Rwanda’s attractions firsthand.
“As a tourist in Rwanda, I was captivated by the breathtaking landscape, the thrill of gorilla trekking in the misty mountains, and the warmth of the Rwandan people,” says George Tinashea from Zimbabwe.
“From exploring the vibrant streets of Kigali to relaxing by the serene shores of Lake Kivu, every moment was a beautiful blend of adventure and culture. This enchanting country is a testament to resilience and hospitality, and it left an indelible mark on my heart,” he confesses.
For Kerim Abdel Rahim from Egypt, Rwanda is a must-visit place considering the great moments he had in the country.
“Rwanda has captured my heart with its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and warm hospitality. It’s a place where adventure meets serenity, and every moment feels like a cherished memory in the making,” he says.
This amazing experience is shared by Suzgo Chitete from Malawi and Patrick Mogani from the Central African Republic.
They both recount that the order and security in Kigali make it a compelling destination, attracting visitors for another trip to Rwanda.
Frank Muzungu, Managing Director of [Kigali Car Rentals->http://www.Kigalicitytour.com], shares his view noting that Rwanda offers a combination of nature, adventure, and culture.
“From trekking through the forest for gorillas to hanging out in Kigali visiting the [eco-parks ->http://www.gorillatourrwanda.com]where one watches hundreds of birds including the treasured grey crested cranes, doing a canopy walk and primates watching in Nyungwe forest Rwanda offers everything one would wish for,” Muzungu says.
“It’s a special place which you may want to never miss out on as you will feel emotionally attached to the land, the people, and nature. It is a country that truly reinvigorates your soul and defines the spirit of travel,” he adds.
Due to a variety of attractions and government initiatives, the tourism sector has grown significantly.
Reports from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) indicate that the sector generated growth from 1.4 million visitors in 2023, surpassing 2019 revenues with a recovery rate of 124% from the hurdles of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Domestic tourism increased to $47.7 million, contributing to increased visits to national parks which generated $35.79 million in 2023.
Volcanoes National Park registered the highest increase of 38% in visitors, followed by Akagera National Park with a 24% increase, and Nyungwe National Park with a 10% increase. Nyungwe National Park was declared a World Heritage site in 2023.
According to Rugwizangoga, the Chief Tourism Officer at RDB, the growth results from strategies to position Rwanda as a unique high-end, low-volume, eco-tourism destination, and conservation efforts.
The country has consistently participated in top global tourism business fairs over the past 20 years, including ITB Berlin, We Are Africa, ILTM (Singapore, Cannes, and Virtuoso), where Rwandan travel agencies engage with tourism buyers.
Rwanda’s capacity to attract top hospitality global brands such as One&Only, Singita, Radisson, and Marriott, the promotional role played by Visit Rwanda partnerships, as well as incentive opportunities for local and international investors are also key factors for such incredible growth.
This lineup includes a mix of traditional sports, such as athletics and swimming, as well as newer additions like surfing and skateboarding, reflecting the evolving nature of the games.
Rwanda will be represented by eight athletes at the 2024 Summer Olympics, including five women and three men across four sports disciplines–cycling, athletics, swimming, and fencing.
The Rwandan Olympic team arrived in France on July 6, 20024 and commenced their pre-training camp two days later with athletes training at various venues.
Despite Rwanda’s consistent participation in the Olympic Games since 1984, a medal of any kind remains a far-fetched dream for the country’s athletes. And their dream continues in Paris for the next fortnight.
{{Meet Rwandan Athletes at the Paris 2024 Games:}}
{{Clementine Mukandanga (Women’s Full Marathon)}}
Born on December 8, 1985 in Ngoma district, Eastern Province, Mukandanga plays for Italian side, G.S. Orecchiella Garfagnana as a full Marathon runner.
She will hit the track on August 11 at Hôtel de Ville and Les Invalides.
Mukandanga achieved the required “Minima” time of 2:26:50 at the 39 Firenze Marathon in December 2023 with a time of 2:25:54, the fourth fastest in the event’s history and a personal best, improving on her previous record set in Florence in 2022.
She is the only Rwandan athlete in the Olympic Team who qualified for the Paris 2024 Games.
{{Eric Manizabayo (Men’s Road Race)}}
Manizabayo was born on August 28, 1997 in Nyabihu district in the Western Province. His current team is Benediction Club.
His road race (Cycling) category will take place on August 3 at Pont d’ Iéna.
Manizabayo made it to Paris through a wildcard, a special entry granted to an athlete or team that might not have qualified through the usual competition or qualification process.
{{Diane Ingabire: (Women’s Road Race and Individual Time Trial)}}
Ingabire was born on July 17, 2001 in Nyabihu district located in the Western Province.
She currently plays for Canyon//SRAM Generation team based in Germany but her training base is in Barcelona, Spain.
Her Individual Time Trial event will take place on Saturday, July 27 while the road race is scheduled for August 4, 2024 at Pont d’Iéna.
Her qualification to the Paris 2024 Olympics was also through wildcard
{{Jazilla Mwamikazi (Women’s Mountain Bike)}}
Mwamikazi is approaching 20years of age because she was born on September 8, 2004; in Rwamagana district, Eastern Province.
She is a member of Ndabaga Cycling Team and is expected to hit the road on July 28, 2024 when the mountain bike racing takes place at Élancourt Hill. She made it to Paris 2024 through a Wildcard.
{{Yves Nimubona (Men’s 10,000m)}}
Nimubona was born on August 15, 1998 in Nyamasheke didstrict, Western Province.
He will ironically hit the track just 12days before his 26th birthday at Stade de France
Currently he trains at Tuscany Training Camp, Italy. Nimubona also reached Paris 2024 through a wildcard
{{Peyre Mitilla Oscar Cyusa (Men’s 100m Butterfly)}}
Cyusa is one of the two swimmers representing Rwanda at the Paris 2024 Olympics through a wildcard.
Born on April 27, 2005 in France, Cyusa currently resides in Marseille
The event (100m Butterfly) in which he is set to participate will take place on August 2 with the final slated for August 3 at Paris La Défense Arena
{{Lidwine Umuhoza Uwase (Women’s 50m Freestyle)}}
Just like Cyusa, Uwase is the other swimmer representing Rwanda at the Paris 2024 Olympics through a wildcard.
She was born on June 13, 1999 in Karongi district, Western Province and plays for Gisenyi Beach Boys.
Her category of 50m Freestyle qualifiers will be played on August 3, 2024, with Semi-finals and Final on August 4, 2024 at Paris La Défense Arena.
{{Tufaha Uwihoreye (Women’s Epée)}}
Uwihoreye will represent Rwanda at the Olympics in the sport of fencing; a combat sport where two competitors, called fencers, use swords to score points by hitting their opponent.
Born in Nyamirambo, Nyarugenge District on January 1, 1996, Uwihoreye is a member of Dreams Fencing Club who also finds herself in Paris through a wildcard.
Her event (Epée) will be held on July Saturday 27, 2024 at Grand Palais.
In a brief interview with IGIHE, RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira confirmed the development.
“The investigation involving Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya and Permanent Secretary Patrick Karera are based on the mismanagement of forest conservation projects,” he said.
Murangira added that the investigation extends to other individuals. “It’s not only them being investigated; all those involved in forest project management are under scrutiny,” he noted.
The spokesperson assured Rwandans that the Bureau is responsible for investigating and prosecuting anyone who violates the law, emphasizing the importance of legal compliance.
“RIB has the responsibility and authority to pursue anyone who does not adhere to the law. Anyone who violates the law will face justice,” he said.
In 2020, Patrick Karera was appointed as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, after serving as an advisor to the Minister of Environment in 2019.
On the morning of Thursday 25th July 2024, the Office of Prime Minister released a communique announcing the dismissal of Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya who has been serving as the Minister of Public Service and Labor, citing matters of accountability under investigation.
Dr. Mujawamariya was the Minister of Environment before she was moved to the docket of Public Service and Labor.
From 2013 to 2019, she served as Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia. Prior to that, she had been the Vice Chancellor and Rector of the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) from 2011 to 2013.
Between 2008 to 2011, she held the position of Minister of Gender and Family Promotion.
She was the Minister of Education from 2006 to March 2008, after serving as the State Minister in Charge of Higher Education within the same ministry, a year earlier.
Between 2003 and 2005, she was the Minister of State for Primary and Secondary Education
Mujawamariya worked as a lecturer of Physical Chemistry at the University of Rwanda from 2001 to 2003.
