In a statement, the police said the suspect, who was on the list of major drug trafficking suspects, was intercepted at the Grand Barriere border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while crossing into Rwanda on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
At the time of the arrest by officers from the Revenue Protection Unit (RPU) and Border Security Unit, the suspect was found in possession of 40 large bundles of cannabis.
The suspect is said to have created a secret compartment in his car to conceal the narcotics in an attempt to evade security checks.
“On Wednesday, September 25, at around 3:30 p.m., police officers, acting on a tip-off, intercepted a Congolese-registered vehicle at the Grand Barriere in Kivu village, Nengo cell, Gisenyi sector. The vehicle was transporting 40 large bundles of cannabis, and the driver, who is the suspected rightful owner of the narcotics, was arrested,” Superintendent of Police (SP) Bonaventure Twizere Karekezi, the police spokesperson for the Western Region, said.
The suspect was handed over to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau at Gisenyi station.
Investigations indicate that the suspect was on his way to Kigali when he was cornered by the police.
“We believe he was headed to Kigali to supply one of his clients. Operations are still underway to bring all members of this drug trafficking ring to justice,” SP Karekezi said.
SP Karekezi praised the impact of community policing in identifying and arresting drug dealers, as well as dismantling trafficking networks and local retailers.
Cannabis is classified as a severe narcotic in Rwanda, with penalties ranging from 20 years to life in prison.
In a statement, the technology company said the pioneering event will bring together some of the brightest minds in AI and technology to create solutions that address real-world challenges and drive meaningful impact in Rwanda.
The AI Connect Hackathon will unite 20 teams of AI developers, data scientists, and problem-solvers, challenging them to harness the power of artificial intelligence to create innovative solutions for public services, healthcare, education, customer service, agriculture, financial inclusion, education, and cybersecurity.
In under 48 hours, participants will work to build functional, AI-driven applications that address critical issues affecting Rwandan society.
“This hackathon goes beyond coding prototypes; it’s about unlocking the transformative power of AI to ignite real change where it’s needed most,” said Patrick Ndjientcheu, Irembo’s Chief Product and Engineering Officer.
“We are committed to leveraging AI’s boundless potential to address critical societal challenges, empower communities, and spark innovations that leave a lasting, meaningful impact on people’s lives.”
Throughout the three-day event, participants will leverage large language models (LLMs) and locally built technologies to develop practical AI solutions.
Teams will have the opportunity to access IremboPay APIs to integrate cutting-edge digital payment solutions into their projects. Pindo, a partner of the event, will also provide access to its latest speech-to-text and text-to-speech AI model for voice-enabled applications.
Irembo AI experts will guide participants, helping them refine their ideas and push the boundaries of what AI can achieve.
On the final day, teams will pitch their solutions to a panel of distinguished judges, with the top innovations receiving prestigious recognition.
The judging criteria for the AI Connect Hackathon will focus on four key areas:
First, impact—judges will assess the project’s long-term potential for growth and its ability to improve people’s lives. Second, creativity—the originality and innovation of the AI application will be evaluated. Third, technical implementation—the quality of the technology’s execution will be taken into account. Finally, presentation—the team’s final pitch will be judged on how compelling and clear it is.
{{Prizes
}}
The team that secures first place will receive RWF 5 million and VIP passes to the Global AI Summit on Africa in April 2025. The second-place team will be awarded RWF 2 million, while the third-place team will receive RWF 1 million.
In addition to cash prizes, the winning teams will gain invaluable exposure and recognition for their contributions in using AI for social good.
The event is co-organized with C4IR and supported by several other sponsors, including Pindo, GIZ, Andela, and QT Global Software. Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) will also offer internships to the winning teams, providing them with valuable hands-on experience and an opportunity to apply their solutions in real-world scenarios.
This is the 19th group of evacuees from Libya and the first group since the agreement, signed in 2019, was extended last month.
The individuals originate from five countries and include 41 Sudanese, 36 Eritreans, 12 Somalis, 17 Ethiopians, and 13 South Sudanese.
They were received at Kigali International Airport by Philippe Habinshuti, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA); Belen Calvo Uyarra, Ambassador of the European Union to Rwanda; and Aissatou Dieng-Ndiaye, UNHCR Representative in Rwanda.
The UNHCR Rwanda representative, while lauding Rwanda as a safe haven, said the refugees and asylum seekers will be hosted at the Emergency Transit Mechanism Centre in Gashora, where they will await a durable solution, such as resettlement.
“Rwanda constitutes a safe place for them because they are coming from Libya, where they don’t receive any assistance and are insecure, also coming from detention centers, living through trauma and very difficult conditions,” she stated.
Last month, the Rwandan government, UNHCR, and the African Union Commission (AUC) reached an agreement to extend the refugee evacuation programme until December 31, 2025.
In a joint statement on August 22, 2024, Rwanda, the AU, and the UN refugee agency emphasized that the extension reaffirms their commitment to providing protection and seeking durable solutions for those evacuated, offering them a safe haven in Rwanda.
“The Government of Rwanda reaffirms its unwavering commitment to receive and protect these individuals, as well as others identified as particularly vulnerable and at risk,” the statement read in part.
The parties disclosed that the second addendum to the original Memorandum of Understanding, dated September 10, 2019, emphasizes a more transparent selection process for evacuees, ensuring equal opportunities for all potential candidates, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, race, gender, age, or any other criteria beyond their vulnerability.
The first group of 66 evacuees arrived in Rwanda on September 26, 2019. Since then, over 2,400 have been received, with 1,835 resettled to third countries.
The resolution was made during the 2024 ISO General Assembly, held in Cartagena, Colombia, from September 9 to 13, 2024.
ISO is an independent, non-governmental organization that develops international standards for various industries. These standards provide guidelines for businesses, industries, and governments to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency in their operations.
The organization draws members from around the world. The Rwanda Standards Board is a member of ISO.
The ISO General Assembly is the annual meeting of all ISO member countries. It is an important platform for member countries to share their views, collaborate on standards development, and contribute to the global standardization system.
Rwanda Standards Board Director General Raymond Murenzi welcomed the decision to host the next AGM, stating, “It is indeed our honour and pleasure to host you next year in the beautiful, safe, green, and clean City of Kigali, at the heart of the hospitable and remarkable Rwanda.”
In a notice on Friday, September 13, 2024, the police said the auction will take place in Gatsata, in Kigali, from October 8 to October 10, 2024,
“The auction will take place publicly where the vehicles are parked, in Gatsata. Viewing of the vehicles will begin on September 16 and end on October 3, 2024,” the notice reads, adding, “The law stipulates that a vehicle held for over a month in police parking can be auctioned.”
All individuals whose vehicles have been seized have been urged to promptly visit the location where the vehicles are parked to resolve pending issues that led to the seizure of their vehicles before they are auctioned.
Some of the reasons a vehicle may be impounded include the lack of an inspection certificate, traffic offenses such as speeding, reckless driving, and unpaid fines, among others.
Public transport vehicles and trucks are subjected to mechanical inspection every six months.
The vehicle roadworthiness inspection tests the shock absorbers, brakes (including the handbrake), axle play detection, wheel alignment and vehicle geometry, steering system, headlights, and a visual inspection of the vehicle’s body condition, among other aspects. It also tests fuel emissions to combat greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change.
The monument was installed in the north garden area at the UN offices on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, coinciding with the 79th session of the UN General Assembly which opened on Tuesday.
Mellisa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General of Global Communications at the UN, termed the installation of the monument as a permanent tribute to more than one million people who were systematically killed during the 100 days of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“The Kwibuka Flame of Hope will burn forever as a visual reminder for the international community and all visitors coming here to the United Nations on the need to speak out and say no to hate,” Fleming stated.
“It serves as a solemn reminder of the responsibility that we, as diplomats and representatives of the international community, bear in preventing atrocities. The flame urges us to act when confronted with the early warning signs of mass violence, to ensure that the lessons of Rwanda are not forgotten.”
The Genocide followed years of misinformation, disinformation and hate speech exacerbating ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities in Rwanda.
The international community is blamed for its inaction to stop the Genocide which left many more victims injured and raped.
Rwanda’s Permanent Mission to the UN said the Kwibuka Flame of Hope monument “serves as a powerful reminder of the shared responsibility to prevent such a tragedy from ever occurring again.”
The inscription on the statue “The 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda Remember – Unite – Renew” emphasizes the importance of remembering, uniting, and rebuilding as a nation to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for all Rwandans, while honouring the memory of those lost.
He noted that, contrary to the critics, the event drew participants from all walks of life, including individuals from the corporate sector, whom he said are often too busy to meet their “missing rib” through conventional dating.
Unlike conventional dating, which emphasizes longer, one-on-one interactions that allow people to build a deeper connection before deciding to pursue a relationship, speed dating involves meeting a large number of people in a short period to assess compatibility.
“There were so many young diplomats from international embassies in Rwanda, the corporate sector, and young entrepreneurs who don’t have time to go to bars and look for someone, or to ask their families to connect them to others. They want to meet in a more corporate environment, and that was the right place for them,” Bunyeshuri said.
He added, “People who are saying otherwise were not there and probably hate the feeling that people are falling in love.”
Bunyeshuri acknowledged that criticism and the fear of being judged are some of the challenges facing emerging trends in modern dating, especially in conservative societies.
“Speed dating in Rwanda, a very conservative country, obviously faces negative talk and criticism from people. This is expected,” he added.
“With the era of social media, anyone can say anything for likes and views. Young people should stay focused,” he emphasized.
Bunyeshuri is planning another event, which he says will take place between September and October this year.
He mentioned that he has received many requests to bring back the second edition of speed dating but cautioned those seeking to participate that finding a perfect match is not guaranteed.
“I don’t want them to think that when you come, it’s a done deal that you’re going to find someone. It doesn’t work like that—you have to make a connection,” he added.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, she expressed her desire to use her influence to help as many children as possible access medical care to prevent blindness, with support from Light for the World, an international disability and development NGO dedicated to promoting an inclusive society.
She also spoke about her success at the pageant and future plans to participate in Miss Universe in October, her mixed heritage, love for Rwanda, popular tourist destinations and hobbies, as well as the country’s music and fashion industries.
{{Here is the transcript of the full interview:
}}
{{Q: What inspired you to contest for Miss Belgium 2024, and what helped you win?
}}
How I think I won is by having a very clear vision of what I wanted to achieve. What inspired me to contest for Miss Belgium 2024 is that, when you become Miss Belgium, you get a platform. You gain the ability to change a lot of things in your own country and other countries as well. You become a spokesperson for your country, and you can change a lot by just speaking out.
Before this, I was just a student with great ideas, but as a student, you can’t achieve the same impact as Miss Belgium. I wanted to become Miss Belgium to make a change and talk about issues like children’s mental health and the importance of education.
That was my goal, and I even shared this during the final stage of the competition. I was so happy when the judges appreciated that, and that’s how I became Miss Belgium.
{{Q: What does this victory mean to you on a personal level?
}}
This victory is important because I didn’t aspire to be Miss Belgium just for fame or media attention—I wanted to make a change. As a kid, I was fortunate to have access to school and university, but I know many children in Rwanda, especially those who are blind, don’t have the same opportunities.
I found Light for the World through a friend in Belgium, and they help thousands of babies every year at Kabgayi to get the surgeries they need to prevent blindness caused by cataracts. This is very important to me. My goal as Miss Belgium is to make a difference by supporting these children.
{{Q: What inspired you to choose a good charity for Rwanda?
}}
I wanted to focus on children who needed my help the most. I thought about how I could make a big difference in a short time because I’m only Miss Belgium for one year.
After that, I lose the title. When I visited Rwanda as a child, I saw how difficult life was for blind children—going to school or finding a job was almost impossible. I want to help more than a thousand babies a year get the surgery they need, giving them a brighter future.
Vision is the foundation of a bright future here in Rwanda because they need to see to go to school and work. If I can raise money in Belgium or Rwanda to help these kids, I’ll do everything I can.
We’re planning benefit events in Belgium where companies can donate, and all the money will go to Light for the World, so the Rwandan doctors get everything they need.
{{Q: Tell us more about your upbringing and Rwandan heritage.
}}
My connection with Rwanda is very special because my mom is Rwandan, and my whole family is from here. Every year, we would come to Rwanda to visit my grandparents.
Sadly, they’ve passed away, but I spent every summer in Rwanda—first in Gikondo, then Nyarutarama. I’m very close to my roots, and Rwanda is as important to me as Belgium.
The only downside is I don’t speak Kinyarwanda fluently, but I understand almost everything. My mom would speak Kinyarwanda with her sisters, and I got frustrated that I couldn’t understand, so I taught myself a bit. I can’t make full sentences, but I find it very important to at least understand the people from my country.
{{Q: What is one thing you like the most about Rwanda and how have the Rwandan roots influenced your identity?
}}
What I love most about Rwanda is how important family is. Everyone takes care of each other, even neighbors and friends are considered family. When I come to Rwanda, even if I don’t know you, I feel like you are family.
My Rwandan roots have influenced my identity, especially because I was very close to my mom. She showed me that in Rwanda, you have to care for others, especially those in need, whether they lack money or need medical help.
{{Q: How often do you visit Rwanda, and what places or experiences stand out to you the most?
}}
Although I live in Belgium, I visit Rwanda almost every year. As a child, I was always in Kigali, but now that I’m an adult, I’m exploring other parts of the country.
Last year, I travelled by car and saw the whole country. I visited Kibuye, Gisenyi, Mount Bisoke, and Akagera [Akagera National Park] in just one week! What stood out most to me were the fishermen in Kibuye. Their story was so powerful, and they believed in creating positive vibes while fishing. I spent a day with them, and it was magical. Kibuye is definitely my favourite spot in Rwanda.
{{Q: How do you think the creative industries (music, film, and fashion) in Rwanda are evolving, and would you like to contribute?
}}
The music scene in Rwanda is evolving quickly, and there are some amazing artists. I’ve seen concerts and videos on YouTube, and international artists are also taking notice.
For example, Stromae [Belgian singer and rapper Paul Van Haver] is of Rwandan descent, and I believe we have incredible talent. I think Rwanda will grow even faster in the future.
Miss Rwanda is also a great way to showcase the country on an international stage. With the world cycling championship happening next year, Rwanda will gain more recognition through sports, but I also think strong women can help show the world what Rwanda has to offer. If I can help in that, I’d love to contribute.
{{Q: Are there any Rwandan musicians or fashion figures you admire?
}}
I admire Meddy. When I was younger, I often rode in cabs in Kigali, and I always heard his song ‘Igipimo’. I’ve loved that song ever since, so Meddy is one of my favourite artists.
I also admire Naomi, Miss Rwanda 2020. She’s done amazing things for the country, and I’m so proud of her. I want to congratulate her on her upcoming wedding. These two are people I look up to in Rwanda. Naomi is a great role model, and I think she’s an excellent spokesperson for Rwandan women.
{{Q: Have you faced any challenges related to your mixed heritage in the pageantry industry, and how have you overcome them?
}}
Being mixed can attract comments from both sides. Some say, “You’re not fully Rwandan,” while others say, “You’re not fully Belgian.” But I find it amusing because being mixed is a beautiful thing, and I’m proud of it.
I’ve learned to ignore the hateful comments and focus on my purpose and goals. That’s what matters most. I also hope to change how people in the media view African countries by showing the beauty of Rwanda—places like Kibuye, Akagera, and Mount Bisoke. I think more people need to see how beautiful our country and nature are.
{{Q: Outside of pageantry, what are some of your hobbies and interests?
}}
My hobby is modelling but I also enjoy sports, and I love going on walks. I also volunteer at animal shelters. I adopted my dog from a shelter, and I enjoy helping out there.
Another passion of mine is learning languages. I’m currently studying in English, but I usually speak Flemish. My mom spoke to me in French, and I also learned German in school. I understand Kinyarwanda, but I’m working on speaking it fluently. My main hobby is learning as many languages as I can.
{{Q: What are your long-term goals after your reign as Miss Belgium ends?
}}
My long-term plan is to continue helping people, possibly living in Rwanda and making a difference here. I want to keep modeling, but also combine it with helping others.
At the end of the day, I want to look back and feel proud of myself for the impact I made. I want to inspire women from all backgrounds, whether they’re Black, white, mixed, or Asian.
Every woman deserves to achieve her dreams—whether that’s getting a degree, landing a job, or being a mother. Being a mom is so powerful because we give life, and it’s our time to shine.
Q: What advice would you give to young women who aspire to follow in your footsteps?
I believe every woman is beautiful in her own way, whether she’s blonde, brunette, or anything else. What makes someone truly beautiful is her story—what she wants to achieve and how she goes about it.
My advice is stay true to who you are and show the world your goals and how you plan to achieve them. If you’re determined, people will choose you for who you are.
Nelly Mukazayire, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board was appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports replacing Zephanie Niyonkuru who was recently relieved of his duties.
Until his appointment to MINEDUC, Nsengimana served as Director at the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning, a key initiative driving the innovative use of technology to improve access to quality education, particularly for underserved communities.
The Mastercard Foundation Centre collaborates with a wide range of actors, including innovation hubs, EdTech entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, educators, and learners, to support the integration of technology in education. This includes developing, deploying, and scaling up promising EdTech innovations that enhance learning and strengthen education systems.
Before joining the Mastercard Foundation, Nsengimana had an extensive career at Intel Corporation where he last served as Executive Director of Global Diversity and Inclusion (GDI) Policy, Strategy, and External Partnerships (PSEP). He was instrumental in helping Intel achieve full representation in its U.S. workforce two years ahead of schedule in 2018.
Nsengimana succeeds Twagirayezu, who has served as Minister of Education for one year, having been appointed in August 2023.
Before his appointment as Minister, Twagirayezu held the position of Minister of State in charge of Primary and Secondary Education at the Ministry of Education since February 2020.
Twagirayezu was among the ministers retained by President Kagame when he [named his new Cabinet in August 2024->https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/president-kagame-unveils-30-member-cabinet], following his re-election.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by various government officials, including the Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire Musoni, Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore and the CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Dr. Francis Gatare.
This project will be implemented by the Government of Rwanda through RDB in partnership with Africa50, an investment platform for infrastructure projects that generate benefits across Africa.
Covering 61 hectares, the project is expected to cost around $2 billion and will include buildings that will host international universities, technology companies, commercial facilities, and more.
The city will feature a large center with bases focusing on Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity. Some buildings in Kigali Innovation City will have solar-powered roofs, and the vehicles used within the area will predominantly be electric, contributing to environmental sustainability.
The Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire Musoni, mentioned that the idea for this project has been in development for over 10 years. It was conceived to create a hub for various sectors, including education and technology. She stated that in the next 10 years, Rwanda expects this project to be a reality and play a significant role in technological development.
The buildings in this city will have unique construction designs, with some adorned with special Rwanda traditional decorative features. Kigali Innovation City will also feature wide roads, coffee shops, and restaurants with outdoor seating. Additionally, it will include high-end buildings for international tech companies, hotels, modern student accommodations, and residential areas.
Currently, some parts of the project are already under construction, including the African Leadership University and Carnegie Mellon University Africa.
Dr. Francis Gatare, CEO of RDB, highlighted that this is a major milestone for Rwanda in its quest to establish a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.
“We are here to celebrate this achievement for our nation, its leadership, and the people of Rwanda, who are committed to building a knowledge-based economy that fosters innovation and sustainable development,” he said.
“Kigali Innovation City is one of Rwanda’s flagship projects and serves as a cornerstone of our strategy to develop a knowledge-based economy. This project reflects the power of collaboration between our people and leadership to transform our country and make innovation, education, and technology the foundation of our future,” he explained.
Once fully completed, the project is expected to generate $150 million annually from the technology developed there and attract $300 million in foreign investment.
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente noted that this project will benefit not only Rwanda but also other Africans.
“We are laying the foundation for a bright future where every African can benefit from cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. Kigali Innovation City is more than just infrastructure; it is a convergence that will drive innovation, attract talent, and bring investment from around the world.”
He urged both local and international investors to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Kigali Innovation City. This groundbreaking ceremony comes just days after the Government of Rwanda signed an agreement with Africa50, a platform that invests in infrastructure projects that benefit the African continent.
