The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Continental Forum on Education and Youth Employability in Nouakchott, Mauritania, focused on strengthening partnerships in key areas, including education, defence, and security.
The two Heads of State also discussed opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and infrastructure development.
President Kagame arrived in Nouakchott on Monday evening to participate in the forum, organized by the African Union in partnership with UNICEF.
Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who also serves as the current African Union Chairperson, the forum is being held under the theme, “Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa.”
The forum will focus on transforming Africa’s education systems to meet the demands of the 21st century. Key discussions will cover curriculum reform, teacher development, digital technologies in education, inclusive education, and financing mechanisms for educational transformation.
The conference aims to identify best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children and improve overall learning outcomes.
With the African Union’s theme for 2024 focused on education, the forum will also explore strategies to build resilient education systems that prepare African youth to tackle the continent’s challenges and seize its economic potential.
Officially launched on December 6, 2024, the modern facility is located in Gasabo District’s Kimihurura Sector, Rugando area, near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre.
As Rwanda continues to grow as a regional hub, investors are leveraging opportunities to foster development in key sectors such as tourism. T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.
T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.
The hotel also offers airport transfer services for international guests, ensuring convenience and seamless experiences.
Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a sauna and massage centre, a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Daniel Niyomugabo, the General Manager of T-Stone Apartment Hotel, emphasised the hotel’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.
“Our unique value lies in delivering quick and high-quality services. While we acknowledge competition in the area, we are set apart by the quality of our offerings and our prime location. We aim to create a standout experience, ensuring efficient and friendly service unlike any other.”
Niyomugabo added that the hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.
Founder and CEO Muhirwa Gashugi expressed the company’s ambition to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to position the country as a premier destination in Africa.
For reservations or inquiries, T-Stone Apartment Hotel can be reached via:
According to Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.
In a detailed response dated December 9, 2024, Karua expressed dismay over the council’s decision, calling it an attack on her integrity and a disregard for Besigye’s constitutional right to legal representation of his choice. She criticized the council for failing to request additional documentation rather than outright rejecting her application.
“The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,” Karua wrote. “Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.”
Karua also dismissed allegations that she misrepresented herself as a practising advocate in Uganda during a December 2, 2024, court appearance. She clarified that she attended the session as a visiting jurist alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who introduced her to the court as awaiting approval for her temporary licence.
The rejection comes at a critical moment in Besigye’s trial, where he and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.
The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.
The next hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, following a request by Besigye’s defence team for an adjournment to allow time for Karua’s application to be processed.
Karua’s protest letter also highlighted what she described as “disparaging and personalized aspersions” on her character by the council. She urged the council to exercise its discretion under the Advocates Act judiciously and to respect regional cooperation principles, particularly within the East African Community.
Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous arrests and trials over his activism. His current trial has further heightened tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.
Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister, was seen as a significant boost to the defence team, which includes over 50 lawyers and representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).
The disease, which surfaced in late October 2024, primarily affects malnourished children under five years old and presents symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, runny nose, and body ache.
The outbreak has severely impacted nine health areas within the remote Panzi health zone of Kwango Province, with Tsakala Panzi, Makitapanzi, and Kanzangi reporting the majority of cases. The outbreak coincides with the DRC’s ongoing battle against an mpox outbreak.
In a statement on Sunday, December 8, 2024, WHO said the remote and rural nature of Panzi health zone, compounded by the rainy season, has created significant logistical barriers.
“The area is rural and remote, with access further hindered by the ongoing rainy season,” WHO noted.
The health zone has no functional laboratory, requiring samples to be sent to Kinshasa for testing, further delaying diagnosis.
Efforts to pinpoint the cause of the illness are underway, with potential factors including malaria, measles, influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Laboratory testing is being expedited to confirm or rule out these possibilities.
The outbreak has been worsened by malnutrition and food insecurity in the region.
To combat the crisis, rapid response teams (RRTs) from provincial and national levels have been deployed, equipped with medications and diagnostic tools. These teams are conducting active case searches, investigating community deaths, and engaging with local populations to strengthen awareness and preventive measures.
The WHO highlighted that “infection prevention and control measures are being reinforced,” with health workers receiving training and supplies to reduce transmission risks.
Surveillance efforts have also intensified, with data collection and community-based monitoring helping to track the outbreak’s dynamics.
While local risks remain high, WHO has assessed the regional and global risk as low. However, the proximity to Angola has raised concerns about potential cross-border transmission, prompting calls for enhanced coordination between the two countries.
The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.
The growth propelled Kenya to the second spot among Rwanda’s top import partners, contributing 19.29% of total imports.
Meanwhile, Tanzania experienced a notable decline, with its exports to Rwanda plummeting by 39.04% month-on-month to $57.38 million, representing just 9.11% of Rwanda’s total imports.
Tanzania’s sharp drop from its previously dominant position indicates a significant shift in Rwanda’s import landscape, as it has long been Rwanda’s primary partner due to its geographical proximity and the role of the Dar es Salaam port.
Kenya’s performance has been attributed to increased trade in key commodities such as food products and manufactured goods, sectors in which it is highly competitive. By contrast, Tanzania’s decline reflects reduced trade volumes in categories like crude materials and other traditional export items.
China remains Rwanda’s top import partner, supplying $142.08 million worth of goods in October 2024. However, Kenya’s surge underscores its growing role in the regional trade landscape.
The shift also highlights Kenya’s robust trade infrastructure and strong bilateral relations with Rwanda. Enhanced trade agreements, improved logistics, and competitive pricing are likely contributing factors to Kenya’s rise.
Other notable import partners include India, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.
In the export market, the United Arab Emirates led as the largest destination, accounting for 67.44% of exports, despite a 15% month-on-month decline. Other notable export partners include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luxembourg, and Uganda.
In October 2024, Rwanda’s trade deficit stood at $363.65 million, reflecting a 7.37% decrease compared to September 2024 but an 11.89% increase compared to October 2023.
Rwanda’s total exports displayed a mixed performance during the same month. While exports declined by 12.29% month-on-month, they showed a remarkable 45.49% increase year-on-year. Domestic exports followed a similar pattern, with a 15.75% month-on-month decline but an impressive 61.81% rise year-on-year. Meanwhile, re-exports recorded modest growth, increasing by 1.63% month-on-month and 8.87% year-on-year.
Among export sectors, animal and vegetable oils, fats, and waxes stood out with exceptional growth, registering a 42.43% increase month-on-month and a staggering 6347.55% increase year-on-year. Similarly, miscellaneous manufactured articles performed strongly, growing by 23.76% month-on-month and 57.26% year-on-year.
On the imports side, total imports experienced a slight decline of 1.92% month-on-month but rose significantly by 23.99% year-on-year. The food and live animals category contributed notably to this growth, increasing by 19.21% month-on-month and 22.00% year-on-year. Additionally, chemicals and related products exhibited robust performance, with imports rising by 21.42% month-on-month and 35.15% year-on-year.
In a statement on Sunday night, the FIA, the governing body of motorsport, announced that the endeavour stems from a penalty imposed on the Dutch driver for indiscreet remarks made during a Singapore Grand Prix press conference in September.
As part of the sanction, Verstappen will engage in “work of public interest” during his visit to Kigali for the FIA Prize-Giving Gala, where he will collect his fourth consecutive Formula One World Championship trophy.
The 2024 FIA Awards ceremony, scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024, will mark the first time the event is held in Rwanda.
The occasion will also provide a platform for Verstappen’s involvement in a development program organized by the Rwanda Automobile Club (RAC).
Verstappen will assist junior competitors in the program, showcasing an FIA Affordable Cross Car—a locally built vehicle designed using FIA blueprints.
The 27-year-old’s season has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Verstappen clinched his fourth title in Las Vegas, solidifying Red Bull’s dominance in the championship.
However, he faced scrutiny after receiving a 10-second penalty in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix following a first-lap collision with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.
Despite his fiery on-track demeanour, Verstappen expressed regret over the incident, stating: “I apologized to Oscar. I never want to crash with anyone, especially not someone like Oscar, who is a great guy.”
Now, in Kigali, Verstappen’s efforts will focus on promoting motorsport accessibility and nurturing future talent—a meaningful contribution to the sport that has defined his illustrious career.
The petition stems from allegations of Besigye’s abduction by Ugandan security personnel in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, with claims of Kenyan authorities’ complicity.
Prominent lawyers Andrew Karamagi, Godwin Toko, and Anthony Odur lodged the petition, challenging the legality of the abduction plus Besigye and Lutale’s subsequent trial in a Ugandan military court.
The petitioners argue that the abduction and trial of the two suspects who were in Nairobi to attend the launch of a book by Kenyan lawyer and politician Martha Karua violate international and regional legal standards, including the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community (EAC). They condemn the use of military tribunals for trying civilians, asserting that it undermines judicial independence and fairness.
The lawyers contend that the abductions tarnish Kenya’s image as a democratic safe haven, accusing its authorities of failing to prevent or investigate the incident, thereby jeopardizing regional stability and the rule of law.
The General Court Martial in Makindye, Uganda, where Besigye and Lutale face charges of undermining national security and illegal possession of firearms, has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Observers argue that the military court lacks impartiality and jurisdiction over civilians.
The latest developments come days after Besigye and Lutale were remanded to Luzira Prison for an additional eight days on December 2, 2024. The adjournment followed a request by their defence team, seeking time to secure a temporary practicing certificate for Karua, who is expected to lead the defence.
The next court date in Uganda has been set for Tuesday, December 10, 2024, while the EACJ proceedings are anticipated to gain momentum in the coming weeks.
After taking over, opposition fighters appeared on state television channels to announce what they described as the fall of Damascus and the end of President Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
A man in military fatigues, flanked by armed fighters, read a statement on air, calling it “Statement No. 1.” He claimed that rebel units had captured Damascus.
Opposition activists said the rebel fighters entered the Syrian capital at dawn Sunday, according to the Britain-based war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The monitor said hundreds of government soldiers were ordered to withdraw from Damascus International Airport and were seen removing their military uniforms and donning civilian clothing.
Multiple media outlets have reported that al-Assad has left the country, citing rebel forces.
Reporters in Damascus witnessed intense gunshots reverberating through the streets with heavy traffic caused by cars departing the capital.
Civilians took to the streets, waving the “revolution flag,” an older flag used in Syria before the rule of Hafez al-Assad, the late father of Bashar al-Assad.
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Al-Jallali announced his readiness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the Syrian people.
Opposition military leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad Al-Julani, declared Al-Jallali would oversee public institutions until an official transfer of authority is completed.
“We extend our hands to every Syrian citizen committed to safeguarding the country’s resources,” Al-Jallali said in a televised address. “Syria belongs to all Syrians, and I urge everyone to think rationally about the nation’s best interests.”
Al-Julani instructed opposition forces in Damascus to refrain from approaching public institutions and banned celebratory gunfire. “These facilities will remain under the supervision of the former prime minister until they are handed over formally,” he said in a statement.
The opposition celebrated the release of prisoners from Sednaya Prison near Damascus. The prison was emptied as security forces withdrew.
Flight data from the tracking platform FlightRadar24 showed a Syrian Air jet departing Damascus amid reports of opposition control of the capital. Initially heading toward the Alawite-dominated coastal region, the aircraft abruptly changed course before disappearing from radar, raising speculation about a possible evacuation of senior government figures.
Earlier Sunday, opposition fighters secured full control of Homs, a pivotal city and strategic crossroads, after a brief but intense battle. The victory severed connections between Damascus and the coastal strongholds of al-Assad’s Alawite community.
“The fall of Homs marks a historic moment,” Al-Julani said, urging his fighters to show restraint toward those who surrender. Thousands of prisoners in the city were freed as security forces fled, reportedly setting fire to government documents before departing.
The allegations, attributed to a Reuters report, claimed that nearly 20 officers had submitted letters of resignation over the past two months.
In a statement released by MSS Force Commander Godfrey Otunge, the mission refuted the claims, terming them as “inaccurate and malicious.”
Otunge stated that all MSS personnel have received their salaries and allowances, adding that no officer has resigned or submitted resignation letters.
“Reuters News did not reach out to the MSS for clarification, and the information being disseminated is both inaccurate and malicious. All MSS personnel have received their salaries, including monthly allowances, and no MSS officer has tendered their resignation as alleged,” the statement read.
The MSS reiterated that its officers remain motivated and dedicated to their mission of supporting the Haitian National Police (HNP) in combating gang violence and restoring stability to the nation.
Reuters had reported that three anonymous Kenyan officers claimed they had not been paid since September and had submitted resignation letters without receiving a response.
Kenyan National Police Chief Douglas Kanja had earlier addressed the issue during a news conference, stating that officers had been paid up to the end of October.
Kenya deployed 400 police officers to Haiti in June as part of a United Nations-backed initiative to stabilize the Caribbean nation, which has been plagued by gang violence. The MSS, expected to comprise 2,500 personnel from about 10 countries, has faced some challenges, including funding and staffing shortfalls.
Despite these hurdles, the MSS reaffirmed its commitment to helping Haiti restore peace and security.
“The MSS remains resolute in its mission to help Haiti reclaim its glory and restore peace and security for its people,” Otunge said.
Speaking at the opening of the East Africa Community (EAC) Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa on Saturday, December 7, 2024, President Ruto highlighted the significant impact this expansion would have on the movement of goods and people within East Africa.
“We have now agreed with Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC that the Standard Gauge Railway will be extended from Naivasha to Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC so that we both can use the SGR whenever we are going to these places,” he said.
The SGR extension is expected to strengthen the transportation network within the East African Community (EAC), a move that will greatly boost intra-regional trade, which currently stands at 28%.
Furthermore, the expansion is seen as a stepping stone toward greater continental integration, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Work has already begun on the SGR project in Uganda, with the first phase covering a 272 km stretch from Malaba to Kampala. This phase is slated for completion in four years. In Kenya, plans to develop the Naivasha to Kisumu line are in top gear.
The SGR extension is poised to revolutionize sectors such as agriculture, trade, tourism, and transport in the regions it serves.
“This project will not only benefit the countries directly involved but will also enhance economic cooperation throughout East Africa,” said Kenya’s Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar.
The development is part of a broader initiative under the East African Railway Master Plan, which aims to replace the region’s aging meter-gauge railways. The plan includes integrating the rail systems of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, with further links planned to Rwanda and the DRC.
Ruto’s remarks come months after officials from the neighbouring countries signed a new agreement to expedite the SGR extension to Rwanda.
The agreement, reached during a meeting in Mombasa in May 2024, aims to overcome funding challenges that had previously delayed the project. The meeting included representatives from Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, attended the meeting.
Then Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who has since been transferred to the Ministry of Sports, expressed confidence in the project’s success.
“This historic agreement will facilitate joint resource mobilization and fast-track the completion of the SGR sections from Naivasha to Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC,” he stated.
“It’s a crucial step toward creating economic hubs along the corridor, transforming regions with stop stations into centers of commerce.”
The construction of Kenya’s SGR cost $3.6 billion, financed by a loan from China’s Exim Bank. The SGR has significantly reduced the cost of transporting cargo from the Port of Mombasa to the hinterlands.
