Prof. Maringe has a remarkable research track-record over a career spanning more than 30 years. He began his academic career at the University of Zimbabwe, before moving to the Bindura University of Science Education where he was the inaugural Dean of Education.
Under the supervision of Professor Nick Foskett, Prof. Maringe completed his doctoral degree in education in the area of higher education marketing in 2003. In 2004, he was recruited to teach on the PGCE programme at Southampton, United Kingdom.
Notably, he was appointed Director of the Education Doctoral Programme, and replaced Professor Taylor as Director of the prestigious (Centre for Higher Education Management Policy at Southampton (CHEMPaS). He achieved promotion to the rank of Senior Lecturer at Southampton.
He was then recruited by the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg, South Africa, as an Associate Professor in 2012 and confirmed as full professor in 2015. At WITS, Prof. Maringe was appointed Assistant Dean for Internationalisation and Partnerships between 2013-2018. In 2019, he was appointed Head of the WITS School of Education, working through the COVID period until the end of his tenure in 2022.
Prof. Maringe is a well-published scholar, with 122 outputs in the public domain, including 13 books, 12 commissioned reports, refereed journal articles and book chapters. He has over 5,570 google citations, an H-index of 32 and an i10 index of 56.
Throughout his career, he has won more than 15 competitive research grants. He is currently Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Journal of Educational Studies based in South Africa.
He has successfully supervised 31 doctoral students to completion and currently has two doctoral students who are almost completing their theses at Africa University in Zimbabwe and at University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Ndayishimiye asserted that while the population in the region lives decently, the core issue lies in what he perceives as “bad leaders.”
He expressed unwavering determination to persist in the struggle until Rwandans themselves apply pressure on their leaders.
He stated, “This is a regional issue; first, there is the unity of citizens. I know there is no problem between citizens; it’s bad leaders. As in the army, they say there are no bad troops; it’s the commanders who are bad. So, at this moment, I believe our struggle must continue until the Rwandan people also start to exert pressure because I see that Rwandan youth cannot accept being prisoners in the region.”
This position aligns with that of his counterpart in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, who has also expressed a desire to challenge the Rwandan government.
The bold statements quickly drew reactions, with the Rwandan ambassador to the Netherlands, Olivier Nduhungirehe, strongly criticizing Ndayishimiye’s remarks, labeling them as mediocre. He emphasized the unacceptability of an African Head of State, acting as the ‘African Union Champion for the Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda,’ promising to aid an African people in overthrowing their legitimate government, especially during a conference co-sponsored by the AU Commission.
Nduhungirehe pointed out, “This is not only an incongruous diversion from the mandate conferred upon him by his peers during the African Union Conference in February 2023 but also a blatant violation of the letter and spirit of our continental organization’s Charter.”
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi escalated at the end of 2023 following Ndayishimiye’s accusations that Rwanda supported RED-Tabara rebel group against his regime. Rwanda staunchly denied these allegations, highlighting its lack of interest in disrupting Burundi’s security and reminding that they had extradited RED-Tabara fighters who had illegally entered the territory to the Burundian government.
Subsequently, Ndayishimiye appears to have forged an alliance with Tshisekedi, who has long harbored intentions of overthrowing the Rwandan government. This coalition was spotlighted during Tshisekedi’s second-term inauguration ceremony. Upon his arrival, journalists from the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s National Television, RTNC, emphasized Ndayishimiye’s status as a “great friend” of the country, showcasing a unified stance on the Rwandan issue.
Reliable sources indicate that the relationship between Ndayishimiye and Tshisekedi is fortified by a financial commitment from the DRC, promising $5,000 per month for each Burundian soldier present in the East of the DRC, supporting the Congolese army (FARDC) in clashes against the M23.
Only Karim Wade, the son of former President Abdoulaye Wade, was dropped from the provisional list of 21 candidates published on Jan. 13 on the grounds that his “candidacy is inadmissible,” according to a document of the council.
Incumbent Prime Minister Amadou Ba and his two predecessors — Idrissa Seck and Mahammed Boun Abdallah Dionne — are on the final list.
Incumbent President Macky Sall, who has served two consecutive terms (2012-2024), will not take part in the election.
The militants raided Ldubam Bah village of the region at about 7 p.m. on Saturday, killing four civilians, a security source in the region told Xinhua.
At about 8 p.m. on the same day, the militants attacked Mavoumai village of the region, killing one person and injuring a girl, the source said.
“The bodies were buried early Sunday. Our brave soldiers will hunt them down,” the source added.
Local media reported that villagers were fleeing from the villages where the raids were carried out.
Boko Haram has been operating in the region since 2014.
The ordeal began one day when he urgently summoned her to his home. Despite being immersed in her medical studies in Gitwe, and with only the two of them left in their immediate family, she immediately boarded a bus to be by his side.
Tears welling in her eyes, she recounts, “Since that day, I have never seen my brother live his life again.”
Upon arriving, she found him at home, lying on his couch, complaining of an excruciating headache. As an engineer, they initially attributed it to stress from ongoing projects. However, despite resting, the headache persisted. Months passed, and his condition deteriorated—weakness, numbness, loss of appetite due to the fear of vomiting, decreased coordination, seizures, and significant weight loss.
At only 35 years old, the seriousness of his symptoms puzzled both siblings. Minka, studying medicine, recognized the severity and sought a different hospital for a second opinion, as previous attempts had failed to diagnose the ailment.
Regrettably, the results were disheartening, revealing a critical case of Brain Damage. Years have passed, and her brother struggles to articulate his own name, stuttering and constantly in tears.
The disease has profoundly impacted them, forcing Minka to abandon her medical studies. She now devotes herself to caring for her brother, who, was her sole source of support for her education.
His two children, Nael and Naella (names withheld), had to be moved from reputable schools to others. His house and belongings were sold when he was taken to India for three months, yet there was no improvement.
Not to mention, his wife left him with their two young children, departing under the pretext that she had married a healthy and wealthy man.
“Life has been challenging for everyone, especially for him. He began pleading with me and anyone who visited him to let him die in peace. Despite witnessing his suffering, we knew the decision was not ours to make; it is considered a crime in Rwanda,” she states.
When asked by IGIHE what she would do if euthanasia were not illegal, she expressed, “If this were possible, we would ask the doctors to allow him to rest in peace. Unfortunately, the doctors stated it’s not within their authority; it goes against ethical principles and is prohibited by law. Honestly, if it were up to me, I love my brother dearly, and I would do anything in my power to grant him peace.”
The Article 109 of Law Nº68/2018, dated 30/08/2018, determining offenses and penalties in general, specifies that euthanasia is considered an offense. It is defined as ending a patient’s life upon the patient’s request to relieve unbearable suffering caused by an incurable illness. The offender, upon conviction, faces imprisonment for a term ranging from three (3) to five (5) years.
When IGIHE reached out to a medical doctor, Kalisa Desire working at Ndengera Polyclinique in Rubavu District, he provided another perspective on euthanasia.
Dr. Kalisa clarified that euthanasia encompasses two distinct types: active and passive.
Active euthanasia involves causing the death of a patient through direct intervention, such as administering a lethal dose of medication. This form is sometimes referred to as “aggressive” euthanasia. On the other hand, passive euthanasia entails deliberately allowing a patient to pass away by refraining from providing artificial life support, such as withholding the use of a ventilator or feeding tube.
Dr. Kalisa emphasizes that assisting someone in ending their life is against the medical oath to “do no harm.”
However, if it was up to him, he would legalize passive euthanasia, as there are instances where patients, initially deemed hopeless, have recovered.
Dr. Kalisa recounts a recent case where a severely ill patient was transferred to Ndengera Polyclinique from another hospital with a prognosis of imminent death. Dr. Kalisa adjusted the prescription, and the patient is now recovering, having been discharged and showing improvement.
If euthanasia was legal, both the patient’s wishes and the family’s requests could have been fulfilled, potentially denying him the chance to be alive today. This prompts contemplation that life, as ordained by God, holds more profound significance.
Religious experts contribute a thought-provoking perspective on euthanasia. A pastor in his early fifties holding doctorate Theology, who has been serving since 1998, asserts that euthanasia is not merely a crime but also a sin.
“There is only one creator God, and only He has the power to take away a human being’s life. Only He decides who lives and who dies in His own perfect time. Given this, accepting euthanasia goes against Christian beliefs as it is considered killing, which is a crime against the Lord,” he explains.
He further elaborates, “A person may appear to be on their last breath, experiencing immeasurable pain with an incurable disease, but if God is not done with them yet, we have no right to end their life. He himself has witnessed people living after everyone thought they were destined to die. Let us leave such matters to God and refrain from committing evil.”
On the other hand, some individuals, like Alice, view euthanasia as a personal decision, akin to the right an individual has in making life choices. The law, as suggested, should acknowledge that the patient is enduring unbearable suffering with an incurable disease, making it logical to grant them the right to rest.
Some argue that Rwandan laws should legalize euthanasia with regulated conditions, such as the requirement that the person be an adult and willing to sign with two or three witnesses, including family members or partners.
Alice suggests that in the case of minors, consultation with parents and an elder sibling should be mandatory.
“Medical assistance in dying is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Rwanda should be committed to ensuring that laws reflect Rwandans’ needs, protect those who may be vulnerable, and support autonomy and freedom of choice,’’ she advocates.
Contrastingly, countries like Belgium and Canada have legalized euthanasia, terming it Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). In Canada, it is extended to people with mental illness under specific conditions.
In the face of diverse ideas and legal intricacies, the controversy over euthanasia in Rwanda remains unresolved. While some argue for inclusive deliberations and societal consensus, others emphasize the need for individual autonomy and freedom of choice.
However, the question persists: Should euthanasia be legalized in Rwanda, and if so, how can it be ethically and responsibly regulated? As the debate continues, the stories of individuals like Minka and her brother underscore the urgency of addressing this complex and deeply personal issue.
However, it is essential to recognize the importance of taking time to rest and recharge, especially on the weekends. The weekend provides us with a valuable opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, rejuvenate our minds and bodies, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives.
{{The Neglected Art of Rest}}
In our society, rest is often seen as a luxury or a sign of laziness. However, rest is not a luxury; it is a necessity for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Rest allows us to recharge our energy levels, reduce stress, and improve our overall productivity. By neglecting rest, we risk burnout and compromise our long-term health and happiness.
{{The Weekend: A Time for Reconnection}}
The weekend serves as a sanctuary, a brief respite from the demands of our daily lives. It is an opportunity to step away from the constant noise and distractions and reconnect with ourselves. By intentionally setting aside time for rest and self-care, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of our needs, desires, and values.
{{Unplug from Technology}}
Take a break from screens and digital devices. Disconnect from social media, emails, and work-related tasks. Instead, spend time in nature, read a book, or engage in activities that don’t involve technology.
{{Practice Mindfulness and Meditation}}
Set aside time for mindfulness and meditation exercises. Focus on your breath, observe your thoughts without judgment, and cultivate a sense of presence and inner calm. This practice can help reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.
{{Engage in Physical Activity}}
Engaging in physical activities can help release tension and boost endorphins. Go for a walk, run, or bike ride in nature. Try out yoga or engage in a gentle workout routine that suits your fitness level.
{{Pamper Yourself}}
Pursue Hobbies and Creative Outlets: Use your free time to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Paint, draw, write, play a musical instrument, bake, or engage in any hobby that interests you. These creative outlets can help you relax, express yourself, and tap into your inner creativity.
{{Connect with Loved Ones}}
Spend quality time with your loved ones. Plan a family gathering, have a picnic in the park, or organize a game night with friends. Meaningful connections and shared experiences can bring immense joy and relaxation.
{{Practice Self-Care}}
Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Take a nap, practice gentle stretching or yoga, practice deep breathing exercises, or engage in journaling or gratitude practices. Prioritize self-care and listen to what your body and mind need.
{{Explore Nature}}
Spend time in nature to relax and rejuvenate. Go for a hike, visit a nearby park, or simply sit in a garden. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and helps relieve stress and anxiety.
{{Enjoy Music and Art}}
Listen to calming music or attend a live performance. Visit art galleries or museums to immerse yourself in creativity and beauty. Engaging with art and music can be incredibly therapeutic and restful.
In a world that constantly demands our attention and energy, it is vital to prioritize rest and self-care. The weekend serves as a valuable space for us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and foster a sense of well-being.
By embracing rest, practicing mindfulness, pursuing personal passions, and nurturing relationships, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Let us remember that taking the time to rest is not a selfish act but an essential investment in our overall well-being and happiness.
They were further asked to closely follow up and be actively involved in their lives and plans of the children not to become drug abusers and dealer.
ACP Teddy Ruyenzi made the call on Friday, January 19, while addressing about 700 former street children, who have been reintegrated in their families, as well as their parents, held at FAWE school in Gisozi sector, Gasabo District.
This dialogue was intended to explain to children and parents, the rights of children and the necessary education that should be provided in the family in order to protect them from wandering and other attitudes that are contrary to family and national values.
“The problem of street children is a burden on the family and the country in general, and it’s the responsibility of us all and particularly parents, to have the same collective understanding on the solutions,” said ACP Ruyenzi.
Currently, there are at least 3900 young people and children in rehabilitation centers over drug abuse and other illegal acts.
Children should be taken care of right from birth, and parents should work together to look after them; their diet and education, help them to choose the right direction and to know the consequences when they make bad choices,” she observed.
Fred Mufulukye, the Director-General of National Rehabilitation Service (NRS) pointed out that problems that children face are largely family-related driving them out of their homes.
“It not good to see our Children in the streets, for a children to be able to have a future life and to be a good citizen and contribute to their ouwn country”. Mufulukye said.
“It is not good for the children to be on the street, because for a child to have a good life, to be a healthy Rwandan and to benefit the country; it requires parents to be involved in their lives, commit and be responsible in their education journey and to help them in every possible way,” said Mufulukye.
He appealed to parents to prevent and protect their children against all malpractice including, drug abuse, violence and going on the streets, and to teach them the right way to purposeful growth and development.
Assumpta Ingabire, the Director-General for National Child Development Agency (CNDA) said that the dialogue is a good channel to address the apparent problem and to take collective solutions to put an end to the trend, and reduce the big number of children who often leave their families for streets.
It is expected that the same dialogue will be conducted in other regions in an effort to address the root causes of street children.
The course was organised by RNP in partnership with UN Police and Canada to prepare female Police candidates for the Assessment for Mission Service (AMS) to serve in the UN mission.
The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Administration and Personnel, Jeanne Chantal Ujeneza, while closing the course, said that capacity building is among the top priorities of Rwanda National to shape Police officers to perform to the expected standards, both in Rwanda and beyond in peace operations.
“Training is both a tool and profession that shape character, enforce the RNP doctrine and officers’ readiness prior to any mission.
It is also is in line with the national commitment to implement the action for Peace and embrace gender mainstreaming for female police officers to be able to perform Assessment for Mission Service,” DIGP Ujeneza said.
She added that with the training expected outcomes, the gender gap, which is still being observed, will be solved as a result of fruitful training outcomes.
The Deputy Police Chief thanked the trainers and challenged the trainees to live up to the expectation.
To fulfill this promise, public transport companies utilized government funding to procure approximately 200 vehicles, initially manufactured by the Chinese Yutong factory, boasting advanced features and technology.
Despite the substantial cost of over Rwf150 million per car, government support ensured a reduced price of just under Rwf120 million. These 10-meter-long vehicles, capable of carrying more than 70 passengers, incorporate cutting-edge elements like cameras for monitoring passengers, aiding those with visual impairments, and amenities such as charging plugs for mobile phones.
RITCO Public Transport Company, granted permission to transport passengers throughout Kigali, seized the opportunity to acquire 40 vehicles. RITCO’s expanded fleet, now totaling 195 vehicles, positions the company to serve various parts of the country, as well as nearly every corner of Kigali.
The Prime Minister-approved decision to allow any car owner to transport passengers, in collaboration with RITCO, significantly eased the burden of commuting.
RITCO’s Managing Director, Nkusi Godfrey, emphasized the removal of restricted zones, enabling cars to transport passengers freely. The increased flexibility has led to RITCO establishing a presence in multiple directions, contributing to the resolution of travel challenges.
Nkusi Godfrey expressed optimism about the positive impact of these changes, stating, “A prosperous city must rely on an efficient transportation system.”
He highlighted the company’s plan to enhance the passenger experience by introducing amenities such as screens and free computers, aiming to instill confidence in bus services.
With the newfound freedom for car owners to transport passengers, RITCO has experienced a surge in passenger numbers and revenue. The company, currently boasting 720 employees, caters to approximately 800,000 passengers daily, with the potential to reach a million if trends persist.
Looking ahead, RITCO envisions leveraging technology to further enhance transportation. Plans include acquiring longer buses to accommodate more passengers, with a prototype of a 16-meter vehicle expected in the near future. Nkusi Godfrey even hinted at the possibility of introducing vehicles akin to trains in the coming years.
The ambitious initiative, spearheaded by the ‘Connect Rwanda’ initiative, began in 2019 with the distribution of smartphones to underprivileged families, ensuring that Rwandans can harness the power of the 4G internet infrastructure that now covers 97% of the country.
The Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, highlighted the government’s commitment to bridge the digital divide during her address at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 on January 17, 2024.
She revealed that over 24,000 mobile phones were distributed in the first week of the ‘Connect Rwanda’ initiative, with an average of 8,000 phones handed out daily. Additionally, the ‘Make Make’ program was introduced, enabling citizens to acquire smartphones through affordable installment payments.
Collaborating with the South Korean government, Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation played a pivotal role in establishing 4G internet coverage, reaching an impressive 97% of the population.
However, despite this extensive coverage, only 1,126,276 Rwandans possessed smartphones, according to the 2022 census. Minister Ingabire acknowledged the challenges, citing the high cost of smartphones and a lack of technological knowledge as barriers to widespread adoption.
To address these issues, Rwanda has implemented various programs, including technology skills training in rural areas, the National AI Policy and Strategy, service digitization, partnerships, and the Digital Ambassadors program.
Ingabire emphasized the importance of tackling both cost and knowledge barriers, stating, “The ownership of these phones has reached 23%, and the biggest problem for the majority of the population is that they are expensive.”
Ingabire elaborated on the innovative solutions being implemented, including a partnership with a telecommunications company to offer a payment plan for smartphones.
For just $16, individuals can acquire a smartphone, with an additional $1 providing 1GB of internet daily for a month. By December 2023, this initiative had already reached 52,558 Rwandans, putting the nation on track to achieve its goal of widespread technological access.
President Kagame’s meeting with the CEO of Bharti Company on January 17, 2024, revealed plans to bring thousands of smartphones and internet access to Rwandans. The partnership between Airtel Rwanda and Netflix founder Reed Hastings Jr. further underscores the commitment to technological advancement.
When asked about Rwanda’s approach to partnerships and collaborations, Minister Ingabire emphasized the importance of not picking sides but rather aligning with entities that meet the nation’s specific needs. She cited successful collaborations with countries like Singapore, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, focusing on mutual benefits and added value.
As Rwanda moves forward, the vision of every citizen having access to the internet within the next three years seems increasingly achievable, marking a significant step towards a more digitally connected and empowered nation.
