Xi arrived in the Southeast Asian country for a two-day state visit.
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Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri
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Elevating China-Vietnam ties in tune with trends of times
The new strategic positioning between the two parties and countries was announced following talks between Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chinese president, and Nguyen Phu Trong, general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV).
China and Vietnam are connected by mountains and rivers, enjoy cultural proximity, cherish the same ideals, and have a shared future ahead.
Regardless of how the international situation may change, the two sides jointly uphold peace and tranquility, pursue development and cooperation, promote prosperity and progress, and embark on a bright path towards building a community with a shared future for mankind.
As this year marks the 15th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Vietnam, elevating the bilateral relationship is in tune with the trend of the times and will pave the way for an even brighter future in their bilateral relations.
As the world’s top two ruling Communist parties, both the CPC and CPV have been adhering to and developing Marxism, unswervingly follow the socialist path, and leading their respective country in socialist construction.
All the more, the two parties should grasp the special strategic significance of China-Vietnam relations and make solid progress in building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future from the perspective of strengthening the socialist forces in the world and ensuring the steady and long-term progress of their respective cause of socialist construction.
Now enjoying a new positioning, the bilateral relationship sends a clear signal of unity and cooperation to the international community.
The construction of a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance between China and Vietnam not only aligns with the common interests of both parties and countries, but also stands to attract more countries to engage in the noble undertaking of building an Asian community with a shared future and a community with a shared future for mankind.
This, in turn, will provide greater positive energy for the substantial development of Asia, nurturing good-neighborly friendship and making significant contributions to global peace and development.
With joint efforts, China-Vietnam ties enter a new stage of greater political mutual trust, more solid security cooperation, deeper mutually beneficial cooperation, stronger popular support, closer multilateral coordination, and better handling of differences.
The cause of socialist construction in China and Vietnam will advance steadily and make new contributions to the stability, development, and prosperity of the region and the world.
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UK lawmakers back Sunak’s asylum plan for Rwanda
Defending his strategy, Sunak emphasized that the bill empowers the British people to decide immigration matters, rather than criminal groups or foreign courts. This victory comes after the UK Supreme Court ruled last month that Sunak’s previous policy of deporting those arriving illegally on small boats breached human rights laws. In response, Sunak forged a new treaty with Rwanda and introduced emergency legislation to bypass legal barriers hindering deportations.
With Sunak’s Conservatives facing internal divisions and trailing the opposition Labour Party by approximately 20 points ahead of an anticipated election next year, the first parliamentary vote exposed fractures within the party. Moderate Conservatives are reluctant to support the law if it compromises human rights obligations, while right-wing politicians argue it does not go far enough to prevent legal challenges by migrants.
Although party management instructed all 350 Conservative lawmakers to back the bill, nearly 40 were not officially recorded as having voted. Despite this,MPs voted in favor of the bill by 313 to 269.
Approximately 29,000 asylum seekers have arrived via boats this year, marking a one-third decrease from the previous year. However, the image of inflatable dinghies crossing the Channel remains a visible symbol of the government’s struggle to control borders—a central promise of Brexit campaigners. Sunak, having pledged to “stop the boats” as one of his key objectives, expressed determination to move the bill forward.
Sunak’s spokesperson stated after Tuesday’s successful vote that efforts will be made to ensure the bill becomes law, allowing the initiation of flights to Rwanda to effectively address the issue of boat arrivals.
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Rwanda dedicated to transforming mining sector for economic growth, community prosperity
Donat Nsengumuremyi, the manager of Mining Extraction and Inspection Division at Rwanda Mines, Gas and Petroleum Board, shared insights into their transformative process. “We have initiated a shift from small-scale to semi-mechanized mining. Our aim is to enhance recovery both during extraction and processing stages.”
Nsengumuremyi stressed the need for modern equipment and efficient processes, saying “Encouraging companies to adopt modern technology or utilize methods like controlled explosives enables proper extraction while minimizing waste. Implementing modern processing techniques enhances the recovery of essential minerals.”
Official data reveals that Rwanda presently taps into only 30 to 40 percent of its mineral potential. To entice investors, the government has implemented various incentives, including a favorable fiscal regime aimed at increasing profitability within the mining sector, which, in turn, positively impacts other industries.
“We provide technical support to mining operations by offering training to miners and operators, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and understanding. Moreover, we prioritize providing efficient and prompt services to mining operators, creating a conducive and secure environment for conducting business,” Nsengumuremyi added.
This strategy has resulted in the attraction of around 150 mining companies and cooperatives, primarily located in southern and western Rwanda.
According to the manager, the government places utmost importance on the safety of workers and environmental protection. “Employing modern mining equipment and techniques, we prioritize the safety of workers and the surrounding community,” Nsengumuremyi said, adding that “We conduct comprehensive impact assessments before commencing any mining project. Our aim is to design mitigation measures ensuring operations align with environmental and safety standards.”
Rwanda’s mineral export revenues have surged from 71 million U.S. dollars in 2010 to over 772 million dollars in 2022. The government’s objective is to achieve annual mineral export revenues of 1.5 billion dollars by 2024.
By prioritizing safety, embracing technological advancements and committing to community development, Rwanda’s mining sector aims for sustainable growth while benefiting its citizens.
Nsengumuremyi highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of mining communities. “Our future orientation in professionalizing mining operations includes social corporate responsibility provisions within mineral agreements,” he said.
“We collaboratively identify key activities that contribute to community welfare through discussions with local leaders. Regular monitoring ensures the fulfillment of these commitments,” he added.
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RNP hold ‘Police High Council’ with emphasis on professionalism
The supreme organ of RNP, which was officially opened by the Minister of Interior, Alfred Gasana, also looked at Police discipline and professionalism as ideals of quality services.
The periodic Council brings together the leadership, heads of departments and territorial units, to review the force’s policing strategies and to lay out priorities to be undertaken to further improve security and professionalize the force in line with the evolving policing landscape.
Minister Gasana reiterated the role of the Police to protect the safety of people and their property, which is possible when policing challenges are assessed and addressed.
He thanked the force for its policing strategies that combines physical security and community development to address the root causes of criminality.
“Across the country, Police officers in their areas of responsibility, engage in security and development initiatives, rescue operations, and the government will continue to support you to fulfill your duties effectively in collaboration with other agencies and the people,” Minister Gasana said.
He added that the government will continue to support the RNP in infrastructure development, including Police stations, acquiring more and modern policing equipment for national security.
Minister Gasana urged the officers to be defined by discipline and to avoid anything that can taint the image of the force.
“There are some police officers, who have been caught in misconduct leading to severe punishment, including dismissal from service. This is done to build a professional Police officers dedicated to national duty not personal interest,” the Minister said.
As we approach the festive period and end of the year, the Minister observed that it comes with various activities and celebrations such as musical concerts, religious services and increased movements, which must be done in a safer environment.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Felix Namuhoranye, also emphasized the values of discipline, love for work, and professionalism as key to effective execution of duties.
The Police Chief warned against graft and urged officers to aim for the best services and to work with the people in security and development programmes.
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Rwanda needs Rwf12,000 billion to ensure universal access to clean water by 2050
This announcement emerged during discussions at the International Conference on December 11, 2023, organized by the International Water Association (IWA) in collaboration with the WASAC and other stakeholders.
The conference, attended by over a thousand scholars, delved into strategies for global water provision and modern hygiene and sanitation. Prof. Omar Munyaneza, CEO of WASAC, emphasized the need for over $400 million annually to achieve Rwanda’s clean water and sanitation goals, acknowledging the financial challenges.
Addressing the current state of water treatment plants, Prof. Munyaneza highlighted the need to expand infrastructure, particularly pipes, to meet growing demands as Rwanda undergoes rapid development. He stressed the urgency to address aging and insufficient pipes, emphasizing projects aimed at long-term sustainability beyond 2050.
Partnerships play a crucial role in WASAC’s progress, with recent support from the African Development Bank amounting to Rwf342 billion for water projects in ten districts. The initiative, spanning three years from January 2024, includes repairing the Nzove Water Plant and aims to address water inequality issues.
Despite achieving a water distribution rate of 82.3%, Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, attributes the success to ongoing projects aligned with the Vision 2050. He emphasizes the significance of the recently approved water and sanitation policy in attracting partners and investments.
Vision 2050, a decision stemming from the 13th National Dialogue Council in 2015, seeks to elevate Rwanda’s economy, with per capita income projections reaching 4036$ in 2035 and 12476$ in 2050. The World Bank estimates a global need of 22.6 billion dollars over the next 27 years to provide clean water universally.
Tom Mollenkopf, Head of IWA, underscores the importance of political will and international collaboration to address the shared challenge of water provision, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to find effective solutions.
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100 elephants die in Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve from El Nino-induced drought
Summer rains are five weeks late due to the ongoing El Nino phenomenon, as dozens of elephants have already died in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest protected area, home to about 45,000 elephants, said the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) in a statement.
“At least 100 elephants are already reported dead due to lack of water,” it said.
The organization said the 104 solar-powered boreholes in the park were inadequate to match extreme temperatures that are drying up existing waterholes, forcing wildlife to walk long distances in search of food and water.
Water-dependent mammals like elephants are among the most affected and these and other wildlife species will face a crisis if rains do not come soon, IFAW said.
In 2019, over 200 elephants died in Zimbabwe from severe drought, and according to IFAW, the phenomenon is recurring.
IFAW said the deaths of elephants in Zimbabwe must be seen as a symptom of deep-seated and complex challenges affecting the region’s natural resources conservation, aggravated by climate change.
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Rwanda sets date for merged presidential and deputies’ elections in 2024
Notably, this election marks a historic moment as it will be the first time that presidential elections are combined with the election of deputies. The primary objective behind this decision is to streamline the electoral process and reduce associated costs.
According to the Presidential order, Rwandan nationals residing outside the country will cast their votes on Sunday, July 14, 2024. This applies to both the President of the Republic and the 53 Deputies chosen from a final list of candidates proposed by political organizations or independent candidates, aligning with the date of the respective polling locations.
In contrast, the polling date for Deputies elected by specific organs, such as 24 female Deputies chosen by electoral colleges, two Deputies selected by the National Youth Council, and one Deputy elected by the National Council of Persons with Disabilities, is set for Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
Commencing on Saturday, June 22, 2024, the electoral campaign for both presidential and parliamentary candidates will be underway. The conclusion of the campaign period is determined by the election category and location: for candidates for the President of the Republic and Deputies elected from the final list, the campaign ends on Friday, July 12, 2024 (for campaigns outside Rwanda) and Saturday, July 13, 2024 (for campaigns within the country). Candidates vying for Deputy positions through specific organs will conclude their campaigns on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
The previous presidential election occurred on August 3 and 4, 2017, while the most recent deputies’ polls took place on September 2 and 3, 2018. Notably, this upcoming election marks the fourth time Rwanda will hold presidential elections after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
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Kigali’s green transit wave: Electric buses steer toward sustainable urban mobility
These electric buses, identical in size to the conventional ones used for passenger transport in Kigali (commonly known as Yutong), differ significantly by operating solely on electricity.
Launched on Monday, December 11, 2023, at the Downtown Station, the first two buses, operated by the electric bus-savvy company BasiGo in collaboration with AC Mobility, incorporate Tap & Go technology for electronic bus trip payments.
The charging process for these buses takes approximately three hours to fully charge the battery, enabling them to cover a distance of 300 kilometers when fully charged—almost the entire span from Kayonza to Rusizi, which is 304 kilometers.
A noteworthy example illustrating the capabilities of these buses is that, on a given day, a large bus used in public transport within Kigali can travel up to 250 kilometers. The buses utilized in this initiative are 10.5 meters long and have the capacity to accommodate 70 passengers. Due to their robust battery capacity, specialized ‘180 kW DC’ chargers have been installed at Rwandex in Kicukiro District in collaboration with the Rwanda Energy Group (REG).
Interested parties, whether individuals or companies, have the option to either rent or purchase these buses, with the cost ranging between Rwf200 million and Rwf300 million. In the initial testing phase, three prominent companies—Kigali Bus Service (KBS), Royal Express, and Volcano—have already signed agreements with BasiGo Rwanda.
Operations Manager at BasiGo, Allan Kweli highlighted that during the trial period, these companies will collect the vehicles from BasiGo Rwanda for use. He emphasized the intention to showcase the efficiency and environmental benefits of these buses during the testing phase before expanding operations.
The CEO of KBS Ltd, Ngarambe Charles, expressed satisfaction with the electric buses, emphasizing their environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional diesel-fueled vehicles.
Passengers also shared their positive experiences, praising the reduction in waiting times and the environmentally conscious approach.
The Government of Rwanda has announced the requirement for 100 such vehicles to address public transportation challenges in Kigali. While two buses are currently in operation, two more are expected to arrive within two weeks, with additional buses scheduled for the coming year.
BasiGo Rwanda has already trained 80 drivers from collaborating companies for the trial phase, including technicians to address any mechanical issues promptly.
Doreen Orishaba, the Country Director of BasiGo Rwanda, highlighted the comprehensive preparation, including training for drivers and technicians, and revealed plans to establish additional charging stations at KBS Ltd, Royal Express, and Volcano Express.
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Wisdom School’s Nursing Program inspires confidence in students’ academic journey
Iyabesi Umugwaneza, one of the aspiring nursing students, shares her journey of pursuing a dream that was once hard to find. With the school’s introduction of the ANP, Umugwaneza and her fellow students appreciate the comprehensive approach to education, including essential science courses, which prepares them for future studies at the university level.
Micheline Umuhoza echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the school’s commitment to thorough teaching, research, and technological exposure.
Her ambition to continue studying medicine reflects the broader need for capable medical personnel, and she expresses confidence in the school’s preparation for success.
Evariste Bizimana, the Head of the Science Department at Wisdom School, underscores the school’s focus on practical skills. He emphasizes that students are equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with practical abilities to apply what they learn, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship.
Elie Nduwayesu, the Director of Wisdom School, highlights the institution’s commitment to providing education that empowers graduates to contribute positively to society. With a global shortage of medical workers, Nduwayesu encourages parents to enroll their children in Wisdom School, emphasizing the availability of places and the assurance that students will be supported to succeed.
What sets Wisdom School apart is its holistic educational approach, integrating a robust work ethic, care for personal belongings, healthy eating habits, and access to state-of-the-art laboratories. The school’s commitment to discipline and top-notch education ensures a delinquency-free environment.
Parents are invited to witness firsthand the school’s dedication to excellence and discipline, while Wisdom School warmly welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.
With numerous branches across Rwanda including Kanzenze, Rubengera, Ngororero, Nyamasheke, Runda, Muyumbu, Nyagasambu, Rwamagana, Kayonza, Kabarore, Kiramuruzi, and Nyagatare, in addition to Musanze, Burera, Mukamira, and Rubavu; the school stands as a beacon of quality education, fostering a conducive environment for learning and personal development.
For more information on Wisdom School International, interested individuals can visit wisdomschoolsrwanda.com or contact the school directly at 0788478469, 0782407217, and 0784188101.
The school’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders is evident in its comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to education.
