The COP Rwanda 2024 human security activities are held under the theme: “30 years of Liberation: Defence and Security Organs with the Community partnering for Rwanda’s Development.”
In the next three months, RNP, RDF and partners will engage in improving the socio-economic well-being of the Rwandans, including construction of houses for the disadvantaged families, connecting houses that are far from the national grid with solar energy, and constructing Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres.
They will also construct bridges linking communities, extend clean water closer to the people, conduct medical outreach activities, donate livestock to families as well as boats to fishing and water transport cooperatives; give financial support to cooperatives Agents of Change composed of rehabilitated drug addicts, plant trees and construct terraces to fight soil erosion, as well as security and hygiene awareness.
Senior government, defence and security officials presided over the launch of the COP Rwanda 2024 in all provinces and City of Kigali where residents were commended for their trust and partnership in maintaining the security of the country as a pillar for development.
Since 2010, Rwanda National Police engaged in community development activities known as Police Month.
In 2022, RNP injected about Frw2.5 billion to support community development projects. Community development initiatives worth over Frw1 billion were also handed over to beneficiaries in 2021.
The RDF has also conducted the annual Army Week since 2009 to contribute to community development.
The Citizen Outreach Programme is in line with the RDF and RNP constitutional mandate to contribute to Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation.
The new law was passed by the Ghanaian Parliament on February 28, 2024, stipulating that individuals in the LGBTQ+ community in Ghana could face up to three years in prison.
It also prohibits anyone from supporting or advocating for the LGBTQ+ community, imposing a five-year prison sentence.
After the law was passed, the US Department of State issued a statement condemning it as well as calling for its repeal.
The Department stated that the law suppresses general life, freedom of expression, media freedom, democracy, and the economy in Ghana.
Religious groups in Ghana also support this law, citing the preservation of culture and national identity.
A member of the Ghanaian Parliament told Voice of America that the law they passed reflects the values of Ghana’s progress and development, as outlined in Ghana’s Constitution.
Following its passage in Parliament, the law will be sent to President Nana Akufo-Addo for final approval within fourteen days, as prescribed by Ghana’s Constitution.
Passengers who have already booked tickets are encouraged to contact RwandAir for a refund or other forms of assistance, although the airline did not provide a detailed explanation for this suspension of service.
Since April 2017, RwandAir has offered a direct connection between Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and Mumbai, a route popular for its non-stop nature, unlike other airlines that typically make stops in other countries.
However, this is not the first time RwandAir has suspended its flights to Mumbai.
Indeed, on March 12, 2020, the airline halted its operations to this destination due to the suspension of Indian visa issuance, a measure taken in the context of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The flights resumed later, on November 16, 2020.
Speaking at the orientation event held in Beijing; Mr. Yu Lei, Director of CIPCC, emphasized the program’s objective of fostering cooperation between media organizations in China and developing and emerging economies.
Reflecting on the evolution of the program since its inception in 2014, Yu Lei highlighted the expansion from one to six press centers, each focusing on different regions.
These include the China-Africa, China-Asia-Pacific, China-Latin America and Caribbean, China-Eurasia, China-Arabic, and China-Central and Eastern European press centers.
Yu Lei also outlined the structure of the 2024 program, which is divided into two parts.
The first part, commencing with over 100 journalists, focuses on lectures covering various aspects of China’s development, including political, economic, historical, cultural, and technical dimensions.
Additionally, exchange seminars on media issues and visits to key institutions and regions across China are integral components.
Many visits are organized not only in Beijing but also across China, Yu Lei emphasized, underscoring the importance of firsthand experiences in understanding China’s diverse landscapes and developments.
These visits include ministries, renowned enterprises, universities, and prominent media houses such as CGTN and Xinhua News Agency.
Besides, participants will have the opportunity to cover significant domestic and diplomatic events, such as the annual ‘Two Sessions’.
‘The Two Sessions’ refer to the concurrent yearly meetings of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), commencing on March 4, and the National People’s Congress (NPC), which begins on March 5.
Yu Lei expressed his expectations for the participants, emphasizing the importance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of China beyond Western media portrayals.
He envisioned participants establishing contacts and initiating practical cooperation with Chinese media organizations, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and collaboration.
“In promoting practical cooperation between the media from China and developing countries, our program serves as a bridge,” Yu Lei stated.
“Through firsthand experiences, participants can provide authentic reports, transcending Western narratives,” he concluded.
Chancen International is the first private student financing operator that aims to provide fair and affordable access to education finance , particularly targeting students from low-income earning families using Income Share Agreement (ISA) model.
During the high-level stakeholder consultation on financing quality education for decent employment, held on February 27, Uwamahoro emphasised the crucial role of private companies in the education sector, citing her personal experience as a beneficiary of Chancen International’s innovative Income Share Agreement.
Uwamahoro said that coming from a rural background, she faced financial challenges that threatened her dream of attending university. Traditional loans and scholarships were not viable options, leading her to discover the lifeline offered by Chancen International.
The Income Share Agreement, according to Uwamahoro, allowed her to embark on her academic journey without constant worries about tuition fees, providing peace of mind and enabling her to focus on her studies wholeheartedly. Under the ISA model she only needs to starts repaying once she secures a decent job, defined as job which pays her more than Rwf80, 000 net per month.
“Even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Chancen International remained committed and supportive, ensuring my successful graduation in 2022,” she said.
Uwamahoro, now employed, completed her repayment under the unique model of the Income Share Agreement. She highlighted the manageable burden and alignment with her financial capacity, urging stakeholders to recognise that with the right support and innovative solutions, the dreams of young people are not only achievable but within reach.
Chancen International has already provided financial support to over 3,000 students and is expanding its portfolio to serve more through collaborations with seven higher education institutions, including Kepler, Ines Ruhengeri, Catholic University of Rwanda, and Muhabura.
{{Call for increased representation of private financial institutions}}
Ross T Nathan, the Chief Operating Officer of Chancen International, underscored the need for more private financing service providers such as banks, Microfinance institutions to scale student financing in Rwanda, to complement government-sponsored student finance models like the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD),
Nathan called for a regulatory framework where private financial service providers can directly engage employers to ensure repayment, emphasising that this would encourage more financial institutions to develop student-financing models.
The Director General of the High Education Council (HEC), Rose Mukankomeje, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in investing in high-quality education, emphasising the need for collaboration and discussions to improve initiatives and involve more contributors to higher-level learning.
Mukankomeje further pointed out that collaborative efforts can contribute to making Rwanda an education hub, emphasising the importance of sustainable investments in education for the country’s growth and development.
Stakeholders concluded with an agreement on the necessity to push for a broader higher education financing policy that ensures investors can recuperate individual repayments from the graduate base, among other elements.
The conversation also reflected further on the need for increased investment in higher education from private actors such as employers, and financial institutions, through the establishment of an education bond, which could also collect significantly from a skilling levy.
Chancen International’s vision is to facilitate 10,000 students by 2026, which is an important contribution towards equitable access to quality education and skills.
In 2020, a fare revision was made, but the government decided to offer a subsidy to citizens to mitigate the economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. From that year, although a revised fare was applied, the state introduced a financial subsidy allowing passengers to continue benefiting from the 2018 fares.
At that time, travelers making inter-provincial journeys were allowed to continue paying the rates set in 2018, based on Rwf21 per kilometer for inter-provincial trips and Rwf22 per kilometer for movements within the city of Kigali.
Currently, the government subsidizes between 40% and 50% of the travel cost for anyone using public transport, whether in Kigali or in the provinces.
Today, as the national economy and that of individuals stabilize, there is a plan to revise these fares that have not changed for six years. One of the main expectations is the removal of the government subsidy for public transport, although it will be redirected towards other initiatives aimed at improving access to quality transportation services, such as the acquisition of 200 new buses to supplement the existing network in the city of Kigali.
End of internet charging in buses for users
In the formulation of transportation fares, the cost of internet access was also taken into account. Initially, the idea was that each bus would be equipped with an internet connection to enhance passengers’ travel experience. However, it turned out that the service was not as effective as expected.
Previously, in the price of a ticket for a journey within the city of Kigali, 10 Frw were allocated for the internet. Given that this internet connection did not work properly most of the time, in the new fares, citizens will no longer be charged for this service, following the suspension of the internet program in buses.
For example, a passenger traveling from Remera to downtown paid Rwf220 for their journey. The actual cost of transport was therefore Rwf210, with the remaining Rwf10 intended for the internet.
{{Government subsidy to be scrapped}}
Given the government subsidy that covered between 40% and 50% of the travel cost, the passenger traveling to Remera benefited from financial aid varying between 90 Frw and 100 Frw for this journey.
With the recent reforms, this burden will now fall on the citizen, which could increase the fare for a trip to Remera from Rwf220 to more than Rwf300.
This increase could represent up to 50% of the fare initially paid by the passenger, depending on the evolution of fuel prices and the general economic situation.
As a result, transportation fares, both within the city of Kigali and between provinces, could see a similar rise, increasing by about 50% compared to current rates.
{{Gasoline prices to be considered while setting fares}}
When the subsidy was introduced in October 2020, the price of diesel, used by the majority of public transport vehicles, was Rwf943 per liter. Today, this price has climbed to Rwf1,632.
This means that since the subsidy was introduced in 2020 until today, the price of diesel has increased by about 74%.
In October 2020, when these fares were applied, a barrel of oil cost $39 on the international market, while today, it has reached $78.
{{Subsidy is reallocation}}
Despite government announcements about the removal of the subsidy (Nkunganire), a deeper analysis reveals that it will actually be transferred to other initiatives. This follows the government’s recent decision to acquire buses intended to improve the public transport service.
Transport operators, often facing financial difficulties and reluctant to invest in new vehicles, will now see the government facilitate the purchase of these vehicles. This measure aims to solve the problem of long queues at bus stops.
A study showed that the city of Kigali requires up to 300 large buses. In a first phase, the government purchased 200, of which 100 are already operational and have begun to improve the service. Each bus costs more than Rwf150 million. The remaining 100 buses are expected to arrive shortly.
Since 2020, the government has spent more than Rwf91 billion to subsidize passenger transport as indicated recently by the Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente.
A passenger interviewed by IGIHE expressed a preference for a paid but faster service, avoiding long waits, over a free or cheap but less efficient service.
Recent reforms in the transportation sector in Kigali have eliminated the monopoly system, where only three companies were allowed to operate, opening the market to any company, even those owning just one vehicle.
This has enabled ten companies, including Yahoo and Volcano which previously operated in the provinces, to serve different routes of Kigali. Moreover, in areas less served by carriers, they are now allowed to set their fares, subject to approval by RURA to prevent overcharging passengers.
This message was conveyed yesterday on February 29, 2024, as Lt Col Kabera’s appeared on “Waramutse Rwanda” show broadcasted by RBA, which discussed the upcoming joint initiatives between the Rwandan military and police aimed at advancing the welfare of Rwandans over the next three months.
Joined by the Rwanda National Police (RNP) spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga, the discussion shed light on the collaborative efforts between these security organs, traditionally seen as operating independently.
The initiatives, kicking off on March 1, 2024, which is today will span all provinces in districts including Bugesera, Gasabo, Ngoma, Musanze, Burera, and Gisagara, under the theme “30 Years of Liberation through the Partnership of the National Defence Forces, Security Organs, and Citizens in the Development of Rwanda”.
Lt Col Kabera assured that the RDF is well-equipped and professional, possessing the necessary capability, willingness, and strength to protect Rwandan citizens and prevent any destabilization efforts.
He cited Rwanda’s peacekeeping contributions to various countries as evidence of its commitment to security, arguing that if Rwanda can ensure peace abroad, it can certainly do so at home, allowing its citizens to live in peace and security.
The conversation also touched on the importance of distinguishing between words and actions, with Kabera criticizing those stuck in the past and spreading divisive rhetoric on social media, in contrast to the unity and development-focused discourse within Rwanda.
ACP Rutikanga echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the 30 years since Rwanda’s liberation, acknowledging the persistent challenges from detractors but affirming the country’s resilience and progress despite such adversities.
He highlighted a recent incident where two soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo illegally entered Rwanda but were apprehended by local citizens and handed over to security forces, showcasing the strong collaboration between the public and security agencies.
Both spokespersons emphasized their organizations’ roles in not only maintaining security but also contributing to the country’s development, with the upcoming joint initiatives set to include healthcare services, construction of bridges, schools, early childhood development centers, housing for the vulnerable, and the provision of solar energy and boats among other infrastructure projects.
Ali Hassan Mwinyi, the second President of Tanzania, served the country with distinction from 1985 to 1995. He took over the reins from Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, the founding president, and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s path during a critical period in its history. His leadership spanned a decade of significant transformation, as Tanzania navigated the complexities of the post-independence era and sought to establish its place on the global stage.
Mwinyi’s tenure was characterized by efforts to liberalize the economy and introduce multi-party democracy, setting the stage for the Tanzania of today. His policies and governance style left an indelible mark on the nation, fostering a period of growth and increased openness to the international community.
Sadly, Mwinyi passed away just three months shy of his 99th birthday, after being hospitalized on February 24 for a chest illness. His demise brings to a close a chapter in Tanzania’s history that will be remembered for its significant contributions to the country’s development and democratic process.
His legacy continues through his family, notably his son, Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who is currently serving as the President of Zanzibar, part of the Tanzanian archipelago. This continuation of public service within the Mwinyi family underscores the deep commitment to the nation that Ali Hassan Mwinyi exemplified throughout his life and career.
As Tanzania mourns the loss of Ali Hassan Mwinyi, it also celebrates the life of a leader who dedicated himself to the betterment of his country and its people. His contributions to Tanzania’s political, economic, and social fabric will not be forgotten, and his vision for the nation will continue to inspire future generations. The country now reflects on his legacy, honoring a man who was not only a pivotal figure in its history but also a beloved father and statesman whose impact will be felt for many years to come.
This group of young leaders is part of the third cohort of the program organized by the French-Africa Foundation.
A statement from the President’s office on X indicated that the young leaders discussed their plans to promote the use of Artificial Intelligence in Africa, achieve food security, and improve education with President Kagame.
Since 2017, the French-Africa Foundation has committed to enhancing the relationship between Africa and France by supporting young leaders across various sectors such as politics, economy, culture, social welfare, and more.
The Young Leaders program annually attracts youth from French-speaking African countries to explore ways to improve the Africa-France relationship for mutual benefits.
Selected participants spend two weeks in France and another two weeks in an African country, receiving training, advice, and engaging in discussions with experts.
After spending time in France in October 2023, the group is now in Rwanda.
Overall, the initiative to improve Africa-France relations through youth is overseen by French President Emmanuel Macron and President Kagame.
France has faced accusations of engaging in neocolonial policies in Africa, tarnishing its image, especially in West Africa.
President Macron has shown a desire to change this narrative, aiming for Africa-France cooperation based on mutual respect and benefits, focusing on initiatives that benefit the people.
The legal proceedings saw a significant turn when prosecutors decided to drop 13 other charges against Rocha, which included wire fraud and making false statements.
While the court has been informed of a mutually agreed sentence between the parties, the specifics remain undisclosed. Rocha’s return to court is scheduled for April 12, where the ramifications of his espionage activities will further unfold.
Rocha’s espionage saga began in 1981, following his naturalization as a U.S. citizen in 1978. Born in Colombia, he embarked on a covert mission to infiltrate the U.S. State Department, climbing its ranks to further the interests of Cuba’s spy agencies.
His roles within the State Department granted him access to sensitive information, spanning various capacities across U.S. embassies in the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Argentina, and Mexico.
Notably, his tenure as director of inter-American affairs on the National Security Council from 1994 to 1995 placed him in a pivotal position overseeing Cuban affairs. Rocha’s career as a U.S. ambassador to Bolivia between 2000 and 2002 marked the zenith of his diplomatic journey, further facilitating his espionage endeavors.
Following his departure from the State Department, Rocha continued to serve as an adviser to the head of U.S. Southern Command until 2012. This role, overseeing military operations in a region inclusive of Cuba, underscored his persistent involvement in espionage activities.
His arrest was the culmination of a year-long sting operation by the FBI, during which Rocha confessed to his decades-long allegiance to Cuba, labeling the United States as “the enemy.”
This confession sheds light on the pervasive threats of espionage that continue to challenge national security.
Rocha’s case, emblematic of the complex dynamics of international relations and espionage, serves as a stark reminder of the continual vigilance required to safeguard against the clandestine activities of foreign agents within the U.S. government.
As the legal process unfolds, further insights into the extent of Rocha’s espionage activities and their impact on U.S. national security are anticipated.
