The Head of State made the disclosure at the inaugural Africa Climate Summit (ACS) happening in Kenya from 4th to 6th, August, 2023.
In his speech, Kagame emphasised Rwanda’s strategy to ‘position itself as an attractive destination for international climate financing and investment, which prompted the country to launch the ‘Ireme Invest’.
The latter is a green investment facility created by Rwanda Green Fund in partnership with the Development Bank of Rwanda at the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties (COP 27).
“We have been working closely with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as a participant in the resilient and sustainability trust and have access to long term financing to further integrate climate into our economic policies,” he explained.
“So far, more than US$200 million has been mobilised from domestic and international partners including the European Investment Bank and the Green Climate Fund,” added Kagame.
Kagame arrived in Kenya on Tuesday 5th, August, 2023 to attend the ACS co-hosted by the Government of Kenya and the African Union Commission.
The summit was championed by Kenyan President, Dr. William Ruto as an effort to ‘address the increasing exposure to climate change and its associated costs, both globally and particularly in Africa’.
Under the theme ‘ driving green growth and climate finance solutions for africa and the world’, the three day summit brought together different dignitaries like; President Azali Assoumani of the Union of Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson African Union Commission (AUC); Ursula Gertrud von der Leyen, President of the European Commission and Patricia Scotland, the Secretary -General Commonwealth, among others.
The event took place on September 4th, 2023, at Ambassador Shyaka’s residence and drew a distinguished crowd, including the Senate Vice President, counselors from the Polish Presidency office, officials from various Polish ministries, over 30 accredited ambassadors, representatives from esteemed universities and financial institutions, Rwandans, and friends of Rwanda residing in Poland.
Ambassador Shyaka expressed his gratitude to all the participants for joining in the celebration, which coincided with Rwanda’s Independence Day.
He highlighted the significance of 29th Liberation Anniversary, marking the day when the Rwanda Patriotic Front halted the Genocide against the Tutsi, defeated the EX-FAR, and laid the foundation for Rwanda’s rebirth.
He underscored Rwanda’s remarkable socio-economic development achievements, noting that Rwandans had chosen unity as the cornerstone of their progress.
Since 2000, Rwanda has achieved significant milestones, with its GDP growing by 8%, domestic tax collections increasing twentyfold, and the national budget expanding fourteenfold.
Rwanda has also actively contributed to the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions and is one of the safest countries in Africa.
Amb. Shyaka commended Rwanda for its low corruption rates, commitment to gender equality, and its attractive environment for investors, all of which have contributed to its success.
He emphasized that Rwanda’s accomplishments are not the result of an absence of challenges but rather stem from a clear vision and relentless efforts to achieve its aspirations through home-grown solutions.
Amb. Shyaka also lauded the strong and mutually beneficial relations between Rwanda and Poland, particularly in the fields of education and investment.
Ambassador Piotr Rychlik who represented the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his admiration for Rwanda’s achievements under the visionary leadership of President Paul Kagame.
He also praised the cordial bilateral ties between both nations.
The event was further enriched by traditional performances by the Icyeza ballet, adding cultural vibrancy to the celebration.
Dubbed the ‘Kivu Belt Water Supply System,’ this project promises relief to residents who have long struggled with inadequate water supply. The Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC Ltd), a government entity responsible for water distribution, has been able to meet only 60% of the area’s water demand until now.
Construction activities for this crucial project officially commenced on July 1st, 2023, and are scheduled for completion in 18 months. The plant’s anticipated daily water production capacity will be an impressive 13,000 cubic meters, a significant leap from current levels.
By 2025, over 13,000 residents will benefit from this initiative, a marked improvement from the 90,000 residents served in 2024.
The construction of the Kivu Belt Water Supply System represents a collaborative effort between Karongi District, the Ministry of Infrastructure, and WASAC Ltd, with an estimated budget exceeding Rwf13 billion.
Karongi District Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, Theophile Niragire, emphasized the pivotal role this plant will play in addressing water scarcity issues, particularly in the rapidly expanding parts of Karongi town and neighboring Rutsiro District.
As of now, Karongi boasts three water treatment plants, with a combined capacity of 3,000 cubic meters per day.
However, the introduction of the Kivu Belt Water Supply System signifies a significant stride towards ensuring adequate and sustainable water access in the area.
Their discussions were held on Tuesday 5th September 2023 in Nairobi on the sidelines of the Africa Climate Change Summit 2023.
As Kagame met with Ghanaian counterpart, they discussed security challenges facing the continent and reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in several areas, including vaccine manufacturing.
Meanwhile, Kagame’s discussions with Maada Bio of Sierra Leone focused on areas of partnerships in various sectors, including in land restoration and conservation.
The Heads of State agreed to establish working groups to further collaboration and knowledge exchange.
On the same day, Kagame also had engaging discussions with Sigrid Kaag, outgoing Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister of the Netherlands on the opportunities for bilateral collaboration in furthering projects that address climate change and contribute to socio-economic transformation.
They also discussed ongoing developments on the continent and the need for a paradigm shift towards mutually beneficial Europe Africa partnerships as revealed by Rwanda’s Presidency.
President Kagame arrived in Kenya on Tuesday morning for the Africa Climate Change Summit 2023, which was attended by Kenyan President William Ruto, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, and Azali Assoumani of Comoros.
The meeting also saw the participation of Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary-General, and other dignitaries.
This decision was made during the 22nd Extra-Ordinary Summit of the East African Community Heads of State, which convened in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
Leaders from Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Sudan, along with representatives from the DRC and Uganda, gathered to address the ongoing challenges in the eastern DRC region.
In their communique, they collectively decided to prolong the mandate of the regional force in the DRC, originally set to expire on September 8th, until December 8th.
“The Heads of State acknowledged the operational milestones of the EAC regional force in restoring security in eastern DRC,” the communique emphasized.
The regional military force was initially deployed to eastern DRC in November last year.
Since then, it has played a crucial role in facilitating a successful cease-fire in many areas where the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group had been engaged in intense conflict.
The prolonged violence in eastern DRC and its impact on the civilian population have been a cause for concern within the international community.
The communique also expressed gratitude for the African Union Commission’s generous financial contribution of $2 million towards the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF), recognizing their commitment to regional peace and stability.
The extraordinary EAC Summit, hosted by President William Ruto of Kenya and chaired by President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, was attended by President Paul Kagame.
The summit, held on the sidelines of the Africa Climate Summit, also saw the participation of Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Salva Kiir of South Sudan.
Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi was represented by Prime Minister Jean Michel Sama Lukonde, while Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of EAC Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, represented President Yoweri Museveni.
Motorcycles, for example, were involved in 2322 accidents during the same period, resulting into 98 fatalities and 46 serious injuries.
Now, the RNP has shifted its ongoing Gerayo Amahoro road safety campaign to addressing road carnage largely caused by the recklessness of motorcyclists and cyclists.
The campaign which kicked off on Tuesday, September 5, will be conducted across the country where Police officers will be meeting the two groups of road users at their stations and highways to educate them on safer road usage, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, the RNP spokesperson, said.
“The high number of road accidents involving motorcyclists and cyclists has called for a special awareness campaign to address their reckless behaviors, which lead to loss of lives and destruction of property.
Some behaviors like speeding, maneuvers, holding onto moving trucks on hilly roads, overloading, cyclists operating at night, driving when intoxicated, violating traffic lights and other traffic rules; these are some of the major causes of road carnage,” ACP Rutikanga said.
There are also fatal cases of cyclists who lose control when speeding downhill and cannot stop the bicycle when they encounter an obstacle.
The majority road accidents that occurred between January and June, were recorded in City of Kigali, followed in the same order by the Southern, Northern, Eastern and Western provinces.
Motorcyclists are reminded to always to use low beam headlights whenever they use the road; avoid driving under the influence of alcohol; avoid riding without wearing a helmet as well as their passenger; driving at the prescribed speed or regulating speed; refraining from swerving into other vehicles; wrong and dangerous overtaking; avoid overloading and using the phone while riding; and to respect pedestrian rights.
Equally, cyclists are advised to stop holding onto moving vehicles, avoid speeding downhill, stop operating beyond 6p.m and riding in middle of the road; to respect pedestrian walkways, not to transport heavy luggage sometimes impeding traffic flow; and to respect traffic control signposts.
“This is one of many other similar road safety awareness campaigns conducted in the past targeting motorcyclists and cyclists under Gerayo Amahoro, but this time, the campaign will be followed by operations on defiant motorcyclists and cyclists, who continue to violate regulations governing the road and putting lives of people at risk,” ACP Rutikanga said.
A Glimpse into September’s History:September gets its name from the Latin word “septem,” meaning seven. But why is it the ninth month? The Roman calendar used to begin in March, making September the seventh month. When January and February were later added, it retained its name, even though it became the ninth month. Fascinating, isn’t it?
The Celestial Dance of Equinox also happens in September and One of September’s defining moments is the autumnal equinox, which usually happens on 22 or 23 of September in the northern hemisphere and is sometimes called the Fall. In the same way September in Rwanda is considered as the start of the rainy seasons Considered the and a reminder to find balance in our own lives as we embrace the changing season.
Throughout history, September has witnessed remarkable events that have shaped our world. On September 1, 1939, World War II began with the invasion of Poland, marking a dark chapter. Conversely, on September 11, 2001, the tragic 9/11 attacks occurred, forever changing the course of modern history.
On a brighter note, September has seen iconic achievements too. On September 20, 1973, Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in the famous “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match, symbolizing the strength and resilience of women in sports.
{{We also have International days celebrated in September and these include;}}
{ {{5 September – International Day of Charity
7 September – International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies
8 September – International Literacy Day
9 September – International Day to Protect Education from Attack
10 September – Suicide Prevention Awareness Day
12 September – United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation
15 September – International Day of Democracy
16 September – International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
17 September – World Patient Safety Day
18 September – International Equal Pay Day
21 September – International Day of Peace
23 September – International Day of Sign Language
26 September – International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons
27 September – World Tourism Day
28 September – International Day for Universal Access to Information
29 September – International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste
29 September – World Maritime Day
30 September – International Translation Day}} }
There are Some of the world’s most beloved celebrities born in September. Let’s celebrate their talent and charisma:
Will Smith (September 25): The Fresh Prince himself, a multi-talented actor, and rapper who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Taraji Henson (September 11): An Emmy-winning actress known for her powerhouse performances in movies and TV series like “Empire” and “Hidden Figures.”
Nick Jonas (September 16): A versatile musician and actor who found fame with the Jonas Brothers and continues to shine in his solo career.
Idris Elba (September 6): A British actor known for his compelling roles in films like “Luther” and “The Wire,” he’s a true master of his craft.
Prince Harry (September 15): A member of the British royal family who, along with his wife Meghan Markle, has championed important social causes.
Nick Jones (September 16): A talented musician and actor, part of the Jonas Brothers trio, and married to the lovely Priyanka Chopra.
Keanu Reeves (September 2): An actor known for his roles in “The Matrix” and “John Wick,” who has captured the hearts of many with his kindness and humility.
Beyoncé (September 4): Queen Bey herself, a global icon in the world of music and culture, whose artistry knows no bounds. And Many More.
These celebrities, born in September, remind us that this month is not only a time of transition but also a time of birth, growth, and the potential for greatness.
As September unfolds, take a moment to appreciate the historical significance and the remarkable individuals who share this month with us. It’s a time to find balance, embrace change, and let the legends of September inspire us to create our own legacies. Happy September
In various forms, charity has played a pivotal role in societies throughout history:
{{Ancient Civilizations:}} In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, individuals and organizations provided aid to the less fortunate. This practice was often driven by moral and religious beliefs.
{{Religious Foundations: }} Many of the world’s major religions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism, emphasize the importance of charity. Religious institutions have historically played a central role in organizing and facilitating charitable activities.
{{Medieval Charity:}} During the Middle Ages, religious orders, and monarchs established hospitals, orphanages, and almshouses to provide for the needy. These institutions laid the groundwork for modern charitable organizations.
{{The Enlightenment:}} In the 18th century, the Enlightenment era brought new perspectives on charity. Thinkers like Adam Smith and Jeremy Bentham argued for a more rational approach to charitable giving, emphasizing the greatest good for the greatest number.
{{The Modern Era: }} The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed the rise of philanthropic foundations, charitable trusts, and non-profit organizations. Figures like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller became iconic for their immense charitable contributions.
{{The Power of Charity Today}}
Fast forward to the present, and charity has never been more important. In today’s interconnected world, we have the unique opportunity to make a difference on a global scale. Whether it’s providing clean water to a remote village, funding medical research to combat diseases, or supporting education initiatives, charity can address some of our world’s most pressing challenges.
In a world that often measures worth by wealth, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the true meaning of generosity. Many people associate generosity primarily with monetary donations, assuming that those with substantial means are the ones who can truly make a difference.
However, on this International Charity Day, it’s crucial to revisit the age-old proverb that reminds us that “charity begins at home” and explore the deeper significance of generosity that goes beyond financial wealth.
{{Generosity: More Than Just Money}}
While it’s undeniable that financial contributions play a significant role in charity , generosity encompasses much more than just the size of one’s wallet. True generosity is about the intention behind the action, the compassion in one’s heart, and the willingness to make a positive impact on the lives of others, regardless of financial status.
Generosity transcends borders, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It can manifest in various forms, such as volunteering time, sharing knowledge, offering emotional support, or simply showing kindness to those in need. The beauty of generosity is that it’s not limited to those with vast resources; it’s accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a billionaire or an average citizen, you can contribute to the betterment of society by giving what you can, in whatever form that may take.
{{The Proverb: “Charity Begins at Home”}}
The proverb “charity begins at home” suggests that before we extend our generosity to others, we should first take care of our immediate family and community. This sentiment resonates deeply with the idea that generosity is not solely about grand gestures on a global scale but also about the small, everyday acts of kindness that create a ripple effect within our own circles.
When we embrace the notion that charity begins at home, we recognize that our actions at a local level have the power to create positive change within our communities. Simple acts like helping a neighbor, supporting a local charity, or mentoring a young person can have a profound impact on the lives of those closest to us. These actions not only strengthen the bonds within our communities but also inspire others to do the same.
{{A Call to Action}}
International Charity Day, observed on September 5th each year, serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to promote and practice generosity in all its forms. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the human capacity for empathy and kindness, regardless of financial status or social standing.
On this day, let us remember that generosity is not about the size of our bank accounts; it’s about the size of our hearts. It’s about the willingness to extend a helping hand, lend a listening ear, or share our knowledge for the betterment of humanity. While financial contributions are undoubtedly valuable, let’s also appreciate the immeasurable worth of our time, compassion, and empathy.
Generosity is a universal language that transcends the boundaries of wealth and privilege. On International Charity Day and every day, let’s remind ourselves that true generosity starts with a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others, no matter where we come from or how much we have. By embracing the proverb “charity begins at home” and expanding our circles of generosity, we can create a more compassionate and connected world for all.
A lot of people have great hearts with this, I mean the Generosity. Some people believe that generosity is something that has to do with the wealth, people that have a lot to give, and some others think is just the heart to give regardless like ‘AHO UMWAGA UTARI URUHU RW’IMBARAGASA RWISASIRA BATANU’. This means that where there is unity, people can share the smallest thing they have in owning.
Kagame made the remarks on 4th, August, 2023 while speaking at the ‘Africa Climate Summit’ happening at Kenyatta International Convention Center (KICC) in Kenya.
In his speech, Kagame applauded the International community for working closely with Rwanda towards ‘the strategy of positioning itself as an attractive destination for international climate financing and investment’.
He underscored that there is still room for improvement and called for implementation of the Paris Agreement.
“I welcome the discussions held at the Paris summit for renewing the Global financial pact, the bridge town initiative spearheaded by the Prime Minister of Barbados-Mia Mottley also deserves consideration and serious attention,” he stated.
The Paris Agreement is a legally binding international treaty on climate change that was adopted by 196 parties at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 21) in Paris, France on 12th, December, 2015 but entered into force on 4th, November, 2016.
In 2022, during the UN Climate Change Conference(COP 27), Mia Mottley, the Prime Minister of Barbados unveiled ‘The Bridgetown Initiative’ that calls for “changes and new mechanisms that would provide inclusive, resilient finance to address the climate and development crisis”.
The Bridgetown initiative is calling for 5 main things namely; a change in how money is loaned to and repaid by a country hit by a disaster aiming to prevent countries from spiraling into a debt crisis and call on the World’s Development Banks like World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) to mobilise an additional $1 trillion to developing nations for climate resilience.
Other areas of focus include a call for a new mechanism to be set up to fund climate mitigation and rebuilding in the wake of a disaster, widening of the eligibility for lending below market rates for climate-vulnerable countries investing in resilience in climate-vulnerable countries and calls for a new loss and damage fund that pays out when a major climate disaster hits.
Stressing that, despite contributing the smallest share of Global GreenHouse Gas Emission (GHGE), Africa carries the burden of rising temperatures, Kagame urged for continued efforts towards mitigating climate change effects.
“We can’t just continue talking about it without doing what is required to fix the problem. This is unfair, but in the long run, playing the blame game is not the answer.
A more pragmatic approach is for Africa to be a key player in the search for global climate solutions. Africa stands united and should remain so, in this position,” he stated.
The Africa Climate Summit is a three -day summit championed by Dr. William Ruto and co-hosted by the Government of Kenya and African Union Commission.
During the summit, policy makers, practitioners, business and civil society members will have a platform to showcase Global solutions, innovations and projects aimed at mitigating climate change challenges.
Happening for the first time in Africa, the Africa Climate Summit will be held from the 4th to 6th, August, 2023 at Kenyatta Convention Centre in Kenya, co-hosted by the Government of Kenya and African Union Commission.
The Africa Climate Summit aims to ‘address the increasing exposure to climate change and its associated costs, both globally and particularly in Africa’.
The three day summit will serve as a platform for policy makers, practitioners, businesses and civil society to showcase global solutions, innovations and projects aimed at mitigating climate change challenges.
The inaugural summit has been organised in parallel with the Africa climate week taking place from 4th to 8th, August 2023 where exhibitors from around the world will participate, interact, learn, and adopt practical solutions to climate change.
