Dubbed the Global AI Summit on Africa, the event will be held on the 8th and 9th of October 2024 and will be hosted by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Rwanda, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum.
According to the organizers, the summit will bring together distinguished government and business leaders, along with experts from academia and civil society, to engage in an in-depth, collaborative dialogue on AI’s transformative role in shaping Africa’s future.
The summit will be held under the theme ‘AI and Africa’s Demographic Dividend: Reimagining Economic Opportunities for Africa’s Workforce.”
The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Rwanda explained that the theme underscores the urgency of leveraging AI to bolster the productivity of Africa’s youthful workforce, unlock new economic opportunities, and foster inclusive growth across the continent.
“Home to the largest and fastest-growing workforce in the world, Africa is poised to play a consequential role in shaping the global AI agenda. Maximising the benefits, and mitigating the risks, will require multi-stakeholder engagement and inclusive dialogue. This summit aims to advance an ambitious vision for Africa’s leadership in the age of AI,” the organisers said in a statement.
The summit is expected to offer a platform for the exchange of practical insights, collaborations, and the showcasing of innovative AI applications.
“Participants will have the opportunity to interact with cutting-edge technologies and chart an actionable roadmap for the continent,” the statement adds.
“The objective is to translate discussions into tangible actions that can bring about real-world impact, benefiting Africa’s industries, economies, and societies.”
Rwanda has become a hub for high-profile conferences in recent years. Last year alone, the country hosted 165 conferences, attracting over 65,000 delegates from around the world.
The annual Africa CEO Forum is one of the high-level conferences that have been held in the country this year. Hosted in May, the event brought together more than 2,000 business leaders from over 75 countries.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) co-hosted the event alongside the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group focused exclusively on the private sector in developing countries.
Bralirwa Plc, through its social sustainability initiatives partnered with Spouts of Water Rwanda, an international social enterprise with a mission to provide access to clean drinking water and hygiene to all Africans.
Through close collaboration with Rwamagana district, 250 households in Munyiginya sector were provided with 30-litre Viva Purifaaya water filters and were trained on the simple and convenient way that the filter can be used to enjoy pure water, supporting over 1,000 beneficiaries in the community.
The initiative addresses the urgent need for safe drinking water in water-stressed areas by delivering impactful solutions that improve lives and enhance environmental and social well-being.
According to Spouts of Water, a number of rural communities continue to rely on rivers and unclean streams of water which are often contaminated, resulting in the development of waterborne diseases among other challenges which in turn hinder their socio-economic development.
“Our mission is not solely focused on providing access to clean water, but also about transforming lives. We are delighted to be working with like-minded companies such as Bralirwa that place social impact at the heart of its business strategy and is committed to driving positive change,” said David Ngarambe, Country Director of Spouts of Water Rwanda.
Etienne Saada, Managing Director of Bralirwa, reaffirmed the company’s core mission to brew a better world, emphasizing the importance of social responsibility and community well-being.
“At Bralirwa, we are committed to making a lasting impact on the communities we serve. Our partnership with Spouts of Water and donation of ceramic water filters represents a significant step forward in ensuring access to safe drinking water for all,” Saada said.
The event, which was held at Munyiginya sector, Rwamagana District, was attended by several local leaders including the Governor of Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, Rwamagana district mayor, Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi.
In his remarks, Mbonyumuvunyi expressed gratitude to Bralirwa for their significant contribution towards enhancing the social well-being of the community and urged residents to unite and work collaboratively towards the district’s ongoing progress and development.
Provincial Governor Rubingisa underscored the significance of ensuring access to safe drinking water as a core component of Rwanda’s mission to achieve sustainable development.
He commended Bralirwa for the initiative and encouraged the community to conserve these essential resources and to fully leverage the benefits.
“By working together, we can collectively build a healthier and more resilient future for all,” he remarked.
Twenty-one Ministers and nine State Ministers were last week appointed with new faces including Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka (Public Service and Labor), Prudence Sebahizi (Trade and Industry), and Richard Nyirishema (Sports).
Several existing ministers were also reappointed to continue heading their respective ministries.
Additionally, Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard was appointed as the CEO of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) succeeding Dr. Usta Kayitesi.
During Monday’s swearing-in ceremony, Kagame reminded both the newly appointed and returning leaders of the significant responsibility they bear in their roles.
He emphasized that the cabinet’s renewal is not merely a routine change but an opportunity for self-evaluation and a commitment to greater achievements.
“The way I see it, there are things we did well in the past, and things that did not go as well. It’s our duty to put everything together, analyze, and ask ourselves, ‘What can we do better moving forward?’ If you don’t see it this way, then there is a problem. What you did well before means you should do even better, and what was not done well needs to be corrected as we move on,” he advised.
Kagame also stressed the importance of appreciating public criticism and using it as a tool for correction to maintain the right direction when things are going well. However, he emphasized that self-evaluation should be a constant practice.
The Head of State urged the leaders to utilize available resources and their respective capacities efficiently to fulfil their responsibilities to the Rwandan people. He cautioned against prioritizing personal interests over the common good, stating, “This means that what you do for others should also be beneficial to you, but not something you do solely for your own benefit.”
President Kagame highlighted the significant progress Rwanda has made in recent years but warned against complacency, urging the leaders to strive for even greater accomplishments.
“We have achieved many things in the past, without a doubt. But when you do good things, it is not a time to relax. It is not a time to get carried away with joy to the point that what people have been working on could regress because you are no longer paying attention or following up. You should ask yourself, even though we have achieved a lot, couldn’t we have achieved even more?” he challenged.
He also encouraged the leaders to foster collaboration among institutions to ensure they complement each other in advancing the country’s development.
Addressing the absence of some officials from the recently formed cabinet, President Kagame clarified that it was not indicative of dismissal but rather a reassignment of duties.
He acknowledged that dismissals could occur due to accountability issues but assured those who did not retain their roles that future appointments would be announced in due course.
A background check on the new ministers’ education and work experience shows that the officials are experts in various fields, including law, engineering, Science and Technology, economics and medicine among other related fields.
A spot-check conducted by IGIHE also revealed that most members of the government hold undergraduate degrees from the University of Rwanda, particularly from when it was still known as the National University of Rwanda, as well as its affiliated colleges.
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Among the legal experts is Judith Uwizeye, who was appointed as the Minister in the Office of the President. She obtained her undergraduate degree in law from the University of Rwanda in 2006. She later pursued further studies at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, where she earned a master’s degree in international economics and business law. She joined the government in 2014 as a teacher of international economics and business at the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, also studied law at the University of Rwanda and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Dr. Ugirashebuja has also taught law at various universities worldwide and served as the President of the East African Court of Justice.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, holds a master’s degree in tax management from Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and a law degree from the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium.
Between 2005 and 2007, Nduhungirehe taught law at various universities, including the University of Rwanda, while managing other responsibilities.
The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, earned a PhD in international law from the University of Toulouse in France in 2004. Dr. Bizimana also holds a master’s degree in law from the University of Montpellier in France and an undergraduate degree in philosophy and humanities.
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Among the medical professionals in the new government is the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, who holds a Ph.D. in epidemiology from the University of Basel in Switzerland and a master’s degree in epidemiology from the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ivan Butera, studied medicine at the University of Rwanda and practised in various hospitals including CHUK, CHUB, and the Kanombe Military Hospital. Dr. Butera has a master’s degree in medicine from the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Butaro and a Ph.D. in human cell biology from the University of Liège in Belgium.
The Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta, trained as a physician. He also holds post-graduate qualifications in planning and management of health services in developing countries, obtained from Université libre de Bruxelles, in Belgium.
Another doctor is the Minister of Youth and Arts Development, Dr. Utumatwishima Jean-Nepo Abdallah. He initially studied medicine at the University of Rwanda and earned his undergraduate degree there. Dr. Utumatwishima holds a master’s degree in public health from the University of Manchester in the UK and a Ph.D. from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
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Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente studied economics at the University of Rwanda and specialized in statistics and finance at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, holds a master’s degree in statistics and research methodology from Cardiff University in Wales.
The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, is an investor and banking expert with a master’s degree in banking. The Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, holds a Ph.D. in agricultural economics from the University of Bonn in Germany and a master’s degree in economics from the University of Rwanda. Dr. Musafiri was a lecturer and Head of Department of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Rwanda.
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The Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, studied technology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. She holds a degree in computer technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, which later became the College of Science and Technology of the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema, also qualified with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and environmental technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology in 2003.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Claudette Irere, obtained a master’s degree in computer science from Oklahoma Christian University in 2013 and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Rwanda in 2012.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera, holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and environmental technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology obtained in 2004. Kabera also has a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Stirling in the UK and a business and leadership degree from the Swedish Management Institute.
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The Minister of Environment, Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the National University of Rwanda. In 2006, she earned a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. In 2013, Dr. Valentine earned a Ph.D. in environmental engineering and a degree in water technology from UNESCO-IHE and Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.
The Minister in charge of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, holds a master’s degree in project management from the University of Liverpool in 2016. He also obtained a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Rwanda, obtained in 1986.
The Minister of Education, Gaspard Twagirayezu, holds a master’s degree in science engineering from Oklahoma Christian University obtained in 2013.
The Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, holds a Ph.D. in atmospheric science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He has also previously taught at the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and military science, a first-level degree in military and conflict resolution, a master’s degree in leadership from Ghana’s top school, and a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy from Mount Kenya University.
In the Prime Minister’s Office, Inès Mpambara, was a teacher in the School of journalism and Communication and also served as its director. She studied journalism in Canada.
The Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, also taught at the Higher Institute of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry (ISAE Busogo) before it became a branch of the University of Rwanda. He holds a Ph.D. in agriculture from the University of Gembloux in Belgium and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the National University of Rwanda.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, Sandrine Umutoni, holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Agnes Scott College in the USA, a master’s degree in French, and a degree in translation from Georgia State University in the USA.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government, Marie Solange Kayisire, holds a master’s degree in project planning from the University of Glasgow in Scotland, obtained in 2008.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning in charge of public finance, Richard Tusabe, holds a master’s degree in project planning from Watt University in the UK.
The 21st edition of the 2024 Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games, was flagged off by Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday, August 18, 2024. The games feature schools from Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and host Uganda.
Rwandan students will compete in eight sports disciplines during the one-week-long games, which are scheduled to conclude on August 26, 2024. The games are Handball, Basketball, 3×3 Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Rugby, Netball, and Athletics.
Groupe Scholaire Remera-Rukoma will open Rwanda’s games on the second day, Monday, August 19, 2024, in girls’ football against Alliance Secondary School from Tanzania.
Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare will face St. Augustine MS of Uganda in boys’ Volleyball, while GS St Aloys from Rwamagana will face Kwanthaze SS from Kenya in girls’ Volleyball.
In the boys’ Basketball, International Technical School of Kigali (ITS Gasogi) will face Hope Secondary School of Uganda, while G.S. Marie Reine from Rwaza will face Buddo Secondary School also from Uganda (girls).
In 3×3 Basketball category, (ITS Gasogi) will face Uganda’s Kibuli Secondary School (boys), while Association of Parents for Education (APE) Rugunga will face St. Mary’s Kitende of Uganda (girls).
In Handball, ADEGI from Gatsibo will face Mbogo Mixed Secondary School from Uganda in the boys’ category.
Rwanda hosted the 20th edition of FEASSA games at Huye in 2023. The country secured third place, trailing Uganda and Kenya, with a total of 17 medals: four gold, four silver, and nine bronze.
While flagging off the games on Sunday, Museveni thanked the participating countries, stating that the event aims to further unite members of the East African Community.
“The unity of the East African Community extends beyond sports, bringing us together as friends, brothers, and enhancing trade relations,” the Ugandan Head of State said.
FEASSSA President, Justus Mugisha, thanked Museveni for being the first Head of State to officially open these games in their history.
It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.
The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
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The SOLIDACT Foundation’s story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.
What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.
“In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students,” recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. “Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting many more across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”
As TIP’s impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.
The foundation’s vision is ambitious yet attainable—to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
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SOLIDACT’S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.
These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.
“Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it’s not enough on its own,” Gakwaya explains. “That’s why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures.”
In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.
Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.
The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.
The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.
“We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community,” says Gakwaya. “When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed.”
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As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.
This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.
“The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support,” Gakwaya explains. “It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally.”
The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.
In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.
“Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future,” says Gakwaya.
Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
“These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,” she said.
{{A Call to Action: Join the Journey
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As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation’s success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation’s mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.
“We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us,” he says. “Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families.”
For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.
{{A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
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The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.
As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation’s work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.
A unanimous decision was taken by regional leaders who attended that there was need to continue fostering political and economic stability to accelerate regional integration and industrialization.
The one-day summit drew participants from all 16 member states including Angola, Botswana, Comoros, DR Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rwanda is not a member of SADC.
During the event, Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, took over the SADC chairmanship from his Angolan counterpart, Joao Lourenco. He called on the region to unite and collaborate to advance the development agenda for the benefit of SADC citizens.
The SADC region, Mnangangwa explained, must deploy innovative strategies across all sectors of the economy to spur regional value chains, particularly focusing on value addition and beneficiation of the abundant mineral and natural resources in the region.
He stressed the need for the SADC region to fiercely protect its sovereignty and economic independence. He assured that, during his tenure, the SADC would actively pursue and implement projects and programs aimed at advancing regional development.
At the same time, the new SADC chair expressed gratitude to the regional bloc for its support during the two decades of Western sanctions against Zimbabwe, noting that many countries in the region resisted pressure from Western nations to abandon the southern African country.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to personally thank you all for the many years of your unwavering solidarity, support, and unbreakable fraternal relations with the Republic and people of Zimbabwe. This has been against the continued heinous sanctions imposed on our country, Zimbabwe, by some Western countries,” Mnangagwa said.
“We are aware that various forms of undue pressure may have been exerted on you over the years to abandon us, yet you have remained resolute in the true spirit of our liberation wartime mantra that an injury to one is an injury to all,” the president emphasized.
Several countries and organizations have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe over the years, mainly due to alleged human rights violations, political instability, and governance issues. Most of the countries and bodies have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwean officials and government entities in the country. The sanctions include travel bans and freezing of personal assets.
The countries and bodies that have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe include the United States of America, the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.
In 2019, SADC declared October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day, during which member countries engage in various activities to demonstrate solidarity with Zimbabwe and advocate for the unconditional removal of sanctions.
In a notice to the public, the authority stated that White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, are no longer allowed to be produced, distributed, or sold on the Rwandan market.
The directive follows inspections that established the two companies were illegally operating as food processing facilities and did not comply with safety requirements set by the Rwanda FDA.
“Rwanda FDA orders immediate closure of both facilities and a complete halt to the production, sale, distribution and use of their food products, including but not limited to Discovery White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, respectively,” reads a statement issued by FDA on August 17, 2024.
“For the sake of protecting public health, the general public is informed that the two products indicated above (all lots) are not allowed to be produced, distributed, and sold on the Rwandan market.”
The Rwanda FDA has urged consumers who have purchased the products to immediately stop using them and dispose of them properly.
Additionally, the public has been cautioned against consuming other products produced by the affected companies.
“The general public is also informed that all other food products processed by the aforementioned facilities are likewise prohibited from entering the Rwandan market,” the authority said.
Rwanda FDA was established in February 2018 to safeguard public health by regulating human and veterinary medicines, vaccines and other biological products, processed foods, poisons, medicated cosmetics, medical devices, household chemical substances, tobacco, and tobacco products.
In a public notice issued Friday, August 16, the police announced that the road will be used by racing cyclists from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on both days and urged motorists and other road users to bear with the traffic disruption.
Road users have also been urged to cooperate with traffic police officers who will be on-site to direct traffic flow.
“We would like to inform the public that due to the “2024 National Championship” scheduled from 17 to 18 August 2024, the road: Batsinda – Nyacyonga – Marenge back to Batsinda will be temporarily used by racing cyclists from 0900hrs to 1100hrs,” the notice read in part.
“We urge road users to bear with these changes.”
The two-day cycling competition is organised by the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY).
The annual competition was initially scheduled for June 22 and 23 before FERWACY changed the dates.
Several top local cyclists are expected to participate in the race. In last year’s edition, Patrick Byukusenge of Benediction Club and Diane Ingabire were crowned winners in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.
