The two-day event marks the fourth global observance of the day and is expected to spotlight Kiswahili’s growing role in regional integration, education, diplomacy, and economic development.
Organised under the theme “Kiswahili, Inclusive Education and Sustainable Development,” the celebrations are recognised by UNESCO and are being held in partnership with the East African Community (EAC) and the Government of Rwanda.
In a joint statement released Tuesday, the organisers said the event will serve as a platform to reaffirm Kiswahili’s importance in shaping Africa’s unity, identity, and development trajectory.
“This year’s celebration aims to reaffirm Kiswahili’s pivotal role in fostering regional integration, cultural identity, and socio-economic development across the continent,” the statement read.
The programme will feature a mix of cultural showcases — including music, poetry, and visual art performed in Kiswahili — as well as academic dialogues and expert panel discussions on the language’s application in education, technology, media, and public policy.
The East African Kiswahili Commission, headquartered in Zanzibar, is leading efforts to standardise and promote the language across the region. Established under Article 137 (2) of the EAC Treaty, the commission provides support through research, curriculum development, terminology coordination, and policy guidance.
According to the organisers, Kiswahili’s significance goes far beyond the classroom. The language is increasingly seen as a strategic tool for strengthening political ties and facilitating cross-border communication among EAC member states.
“It is also vital for effective diplomacy, enabling clearer communication and building stronger political relationships,” the statement noted.
“Economically, emphasising Kiswahili in business transactions across the African Free Trade Area enhances trade efficiency and opportunities, boosting economic growth and creating job opportunities across various sectors.”
The Kigali gathering is expected to draw a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, linguists, artists, and civil society representatives, all united in celebrating Kiswahili’s role as a language of daily life and intercultural exchange.
Kiswahili is spoken by more than 200 million people across Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa. It serves as a working language of both the African Union and the East African Community, and its influence continues to expand.
Rwanda officially adopted Kiswahili as one of its four national languages in 2017, alongside Kinyarwanda, English, and French. The government further cemented its commitment in 2023 by integrating Kiswahili more deeply into public administration, education, and regional cooperation efforts, a move aligned with its obligations as an EAC member state.
Scientists and international agencies warn that this crisis is part of a broader “new era of drought,” driven by climate change and posing escalating threats to food security, ecosystems, and national economies.
{{Scorching heat grips Europe
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Germany is experiencing what may be its hottest day of the year on Wednesday, with temperatures forecast to reach 40 degrees Celsius, according to the German Weather Service, which has issued extreme heat warnings across much of the country and highlighted a rising risk of wildfires, especially in the southeast.
Similar conditions are unfolding across Central Europe. In the Czech Republic, the national meteorological institute warned of “very high temperatures” and increased fire danger, with some regions expected to reach 37 degrees Celsius.
Prague’s emergency services have already responded to multiple heat-related incidents, and a fire ban remains in effect.
Slovakia’s meteorological authority issued its highest-level red alert for 10 districts on Thursday, forecasting highs up to 38 degrees Celsius as warm air masses from the west intensify the heat.
Neighboring Croatia and Romania are also on alert, with peak temperatures expected to reach 39 degrees Celsius and 37 degrees Celsius, respectively.
In the Netherlands, the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute confirmed the country’s first official heatwave in three years. De Bilt, the national reference station, recorded five consecutive days above 30 degrees Celsius, prompting a code orange alert in the southeastern provinces.
Southern Europe is faring no better. Spain continues to endure a record-breaking heatwave, with June 2025 confirmed as the country’s hottest month on record.
The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET reported an average monthly temperature of 23.6 degrees Celsius, hotter than typical July and August averages. Tragically, two farmers died on Tuesday in a wildfire that scorched 5,000 hectares in La Segarra, northeast Spain.
In Slovenia, the Environment Agency (ARSO) noted that June 2025 was not only the hottest but also the driest month since records began, with rainfall just 24 percent of the monthly average.
Heatwaves continue in Croatia, where the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) forecast maximum temperatures of 37 degrees Celsius on Wednesday and 39 degrees Celsius on Thursday.
Bosnia and Herzegovina issued an orange weather warning for July 3 and July 4, with temperatures expected to reach between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius. Meteorologist Bakir Krajinovic from the Federal Hydrometeorological Institute said that June 2025 was unprecedented in the country’s measurement history, with zero rainfall recorded at meteorological stations in cities such as Tuzla and Mostar.
{{Drought spreading, taking toll on economy
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These escalating conditions in Europe are part of a global pattern. A new report released Wednesday, Drought Hotspots Around the World 2023-2025, presents a stark picture. Jointly prepared by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and the U.S. National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC), the report warns that drought has become one of the most widespread and damaging crises of our time.
“Drought was once primarily associated with rainfall and agriculture,” said Daniel Tsegai, program officer at UNCCD. “Today, it is a multi-sectoral, systemic shock. No sector, no part of the economy, and no country is immune to its impacts.”
The report notes that the frequency of global droughts increased by 30 percent between 2000 and 2019. Driven by climate change and rising demands for land and water, droughts now threaten food supplies, water availability, biodiversity, energy systems, and public health, all critical pillars of society.
Mark Svoboda, co-author and founding director of NDMC, described the situation as “a slow-moving global catastrophe, the worst I’ve ever seen.”
The economic toll is mounting rapidly. NDMC research cites an OECD estimate that the financial cost of drought today is at least double what it was in 2000, with further increases of up to 110 percent projected by 2035.
“Ripple effects can turn regional droughts into global economic shocks,” said co-author Cody Knutson. “No country is immune when critical water-dependent systems start to collapse.”
The report warns that drought is already costing some countries up to 10 percent of their GDP annually, and may soon disrupt energy grids, food supply chains, and entire ecosystems.
{{Action, global cooperation in urgent need
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The UNCCD urges countries to act immediately by investing in early warning systems, drought monitoring, and nature-based solutions such as watershed restoration. Building resilient infrastructure, including off-grid energy and alternative water technologies, is also crucial.
Tsegai emphasized that combating drought requires shifting from reactive crisis management to proactive, long-term planning. Addressing these interconnected threats demands coordinated action across sectors and governance levels, involving ministries, local communities, and national governments alike.
Although over 80 countries have developed national drought plans, the UNCCD warns that implementation remains a major gap. Without stronger execution and cooperation, experts caution the world could face increasingly severe and widespread drought-related crises.
The laws establishing these taxes published in the Official Gazette on May 29, 2025, are part of ongoing tax policy reforms aimed at enhancing domestic revenue collection.
When fully implemented, the measures are expected to generate an additional Frw174.1 billion in the 2025/2026 fiscal year and up to Frw353 billion by the 2029/2030 fiscal year.
{{Here are a few things you need to know:}}
{{1. Taxes on hybrid vehicles}}
Hybrid vehicles, which previously benefited from major exemptions since 2021, are now subject to different taxes, though these remain lower than those applied to fuel-powered vehicles.
The applicable taxes include 18 percent VAT, 5 percent withholding tax, and an excise duty based on the year of manufacture. However, Hybrid vehicles still enjoy the 25 percent import duty exemption.
Under the new excise law, vehicles with an engine capacity of less than 1500cc, as well as hybrid vehicles that are under three years old, are subject to a tax rate of 5 percent.
Vehicles with engine capacity between 1500cc and 2500cc or hybrids aged three to eight years, are taxed at 10 percent. Vehicles with engine capacity above 2500cc or hybrids older than eight years are taxed at 15 percent.
Certain vehicles are exempt from excise tax. These include minibuses and buses with a capacity of more than 14 passengers, trucks and single-cabin pickups used for transporting goods, refrigerated vehicles, tourism vehicles, ambulances, and vehicles for persons with disabilities.
Electric vehicles, their batteries, and charging equipment remain VAT-exempt until 30 June 2028.
{{2. VAT on transport of goods}}
Land transportation of goods, which was previously exempt, is now subject to 18 percent VAT starting 1 July. International transport services, however, remain zero-rated.
Entities required to charge VAT include VAT-registered taxpayers, voluntary registrants, and businesses with a turnover of Frw 5 million over three months or Frw20 million annually.
Transport services that remain VAT-exempt, when provided by licensed operators, include land transport of passengers in vehicles with a capacity of 14 or more, air passenger transport, transport by boat for passengers or cargo, and the collection and transportation of household solid waste.
{{3. Tourism tax on accommodation}}
Law Nº 015/2025 of 27/05/2025 introduces a 3 percent tourism tax on accommodation, defined as a service that provides a room or place to sleep or rest.
Accommodation providers are required to register for the tax with the Tax Administration. The tax becomes due upon receipt of payment and must be declared and paid within 15 days following the end of each declaration month.
Providers are also required to use the Electronic Invoicing System (EBM) to comply with tax regulations and ensure accurate reporting and declaration.
{{4. Environmental levy}}
Law Nº 010/2025 of 27/05/2025 establishes a 0.2 percent environmental levy on imported items packaged in plastic materials, calculated based on their customs value.
The law identifies nine categories of items subject to the levy. These include bottled water; all types of juice, energy drinks and carbonated non-alcoholic beverages; peanut butter, honey and related products; body lotions, petroleum jelly and shampoos; mattresses; clothes; shoes; all types of soaps; and toilet paper.
{{5. Motor-vehicle road maintenance levy}}
Under Law Nº 013/2025 of 27/05/2025 establishing a levy on petrol, gas oil, and motor vehicles for road maintenance, owners of locally registered motor vehicles can now declare and pay the levy according to the following vehicle categories:
-* Car and Jeep: Frw50,000
-* Pick-up, microbus, minibus, bus: Frw100,000
-* Truck and half-trailer: Frw120,000
-* Trailer: Frw150,000
The levy on motor vehicles for road maintenance is declared and paid annually to the tax administration not later than December 31 of each year.
In recent weeks, the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has actively engaged with various sectors to clarify the new changes, ensuring that stakeholders understand their responsibilities and the procedures for declaration and payment.
Many have expressed optimism following these consultations, which were designed to ensure effective implementation and compliance.
The report, which concluded its investigation on April 20, alleged the presence of Rwandan troops in areas controlled by the AFC/M23 coalition and accused Rwanda of illegally extracting 3T minerals (Tungsten, Tantalum, and Tin) from the region.
In a statement shared on July 2, Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, dismissed these allegations as false while reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to a newly signed US-brokered Peace Agreement aimed at stabilizing the region.
The UN report claimed that Rwandan troops were operating in AFC/M23-controlled areas, with thousands more positioned at the DRC border, preparing to enter.
Rwanda has consistently denied any military presence in eastern DRC.
Addressing the report’s findings, Makolo criticized its portrayal of Rwanda’s security measures, stating, “The report confirms DRC state support for the FDLR genocidal militia and the Congolese army’s reliance on the FDLR as a frontline fighting force, but then deliberately misrepresents Rwanda’s longstanding security concerns related to the persistent threat of the FDLR and its affiliated groups, which necessitates the defence posture in our border areas.”
Makolo also highlighted Rwanda’s commitment to the US-brokered Peace Agreement signed last Friday, which she described as a pivotal step toward resolving regional tensions.
“Following the signing of the US-brokered Peace Agreement last Friday, Rwanda is fully committed to its implementation, including the neutralization of the FDLR, which will enable the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures, the safe return of refugees to their home areas, and much-needed stability in our region,” she stated.
The agreement is expected to address the FDLR threat, paving the way for improved security and the return of displaced populations.
On the allegations of illegal 3T mineral extraction, Makolo categorically rejected the claims, underscoring Rwanda’s regulated mining sector.
“Rwanda has its own 3T critical mineral reserves and unlike eastern DRC whose mining sector is mostly artisanal and characterized by predatory exploitation by armed groups and corrupt DRC officials, Rwanda operates a regulated and formalized mining sector, with investment in mineral processing and other infrastructure that allows for commercial refining of minerals and appropriate certification,” she said.
Makolo also pointed to the economic potential of the Peace Agreement, noting that it “will ultimately present opportunities for economic cooperation, with US private investment in the region to further formalize the mining sectors and allow for improved standards and revenue/tax collection by the respective governments.”
For the first time, Shazia experienced childbirth with access to doctors, medicines, and professional care. Her daughter was also the first baby delivered at one of ten new maternity clinics built by the UAE across Afghanistan, marking the start of a new chapter for maternal health in rural areas.
”Our economic condition was pretty bad all through. Now, thanks to the help we have received, we are much better off. We thank the UAE for this transformation in our lives,” Shazia said.
Her husband, Ramadan Mohammadi, recalled their struggles to access care in the past. ”Six of our children were born at home because we couldn’t afford transportation to distant hospitals. This is the first time a clinic has been built near our house, and it has been a blessing for us.”
These UAE-funded clinics have brought much needed medical care to communities that have long lacked access to even the most basic health services. Located in seven provinces – Nangarhar, Balkh, Herat, Paktia, Paktika, Helmand, and Kandahar – the facilities offer maternity and paediatric care, counselling, contraceptive services, emergency care, medicines and referrals for high-risk cases. They also serve as hubs for community outreach, offering health education, awareness programmes, and life-saving vaccinations, including for COVID-19 and BCG to protect against tuberculosis, to more than 20 people each day.
Dr. Ikramullah, a doctor at one of the clinics described the change underway, “Previously, childbirth happened at home, without any medical support, in unsafe, unhygienic conditions. It is changing now, and the people here are so delighted. We not only ensure safe deliveries, but also provide vaccinations, nutritional assistance, and continuous medical care for mothers and newborns.”
He pointed to a young child named Ayesha Qamari as an example of the progress being made, “The impact of these maternity centres is already being felt. This baby is just one of hundreds of children receiving crucial health checks and vaccinations. This will help bring down the high infant mortality rate in Afghanistan, one of the highest in the world.” According to UNICEF, more than 57 children out of 1,000 in Afghanistan die before reaching the age of five.
Ayesha’s mother shared her experience, “We have come to the clinic three or four times. Earlier, we could not afford the cost of transport to the city hospital. Many times, the sick children would not survive the long journey. We are deeply indebted to the UAE for building this clinic in our vicinity.”
Beyond healthcare, the initiative is also revitalising the local economy. Small businesses – offering services such as transportation and food supply – have emerged around the clinics and over 100 Afghans have been employed in a range of roles, from medical support to administration.
Mawlawi Ameenullah Sharif, Health Director of Nagarhar Province, noted the broader impact, “We thank the UAE for their investment in Afghanistan’s healthcare. This clinic was urgently needed, and now, the poor have access to essential services, including vaccinations, maternal care, and nutrition support.”
The clinics are all state-of-the-art, equipped with advanced medical equipment, solar power, mobile units, and ambulances – and staffed by dedicated healthcare professionals. They reflect the UAE’s commitment to improving quality of life, empowering women and children, and strengthening local communities in Afghanistan.
Expected to impact the lives of more than 100,000 women in the coming years, these facilities represent a transformative step toward accessible healthcare in some of the country’s most underserved areas.
The high-octane event has received a major boost from BPR Bank, which has committed Rwf 40 million to support four standout drivers: reigning ARC champion Karan Patel, Nikhil Sachania, Uganda’s Michael Muluka, and Rwanda’s celebrated female rally star Queen Kalimpinya.
Speaking ahead of the event, BPR Managing Director, Patience Mutesi said: “Our continued support for motorsport is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent, promoting diversity, and elevating the sport to greater heights. The Rwanda leg presents another exciting opportunity for our drivers to showcase their skill and resilience on the continental stage.”
Karan Patel and his navigator, Tauseef Khan, will face a fierce battle as they go head to-head with Uganda’s Yasin Nasser, who currently leads the Africa Rally Championship standings with 63 points. Hot on his heels are Kenyan drivers Nikhil Sachania and Carl Tundo, tied in second place with 50 points each.
Fellow Kenyan Jeremiah Wahome holds fourth place with 42 points, closely followed by Samman Vohra on 36 points. Karan Patel currently sits sixth in the rankings with 35 points, as he looks to climb higher in the standings.
“We are the defending champions of the African Rally Championship. The first two rounds could have been better, but we have a point to prove in Rwanda. The terrain has always favored us, so I think we are more than ready to fly the BPR brand high at the event that will be graced by top rally drivers on the continent,” noted Karan Patel.
The much-awaited event is set to attract at least 35 drivers battling for glory in the 386- kilometer ride, which will kick off with the opening round at Kigali Convention Center before heading to Bugesera for another two rounds of battle on the dusty roads of Gako and Nemba.
The Rwanda Mountain Gorilla Rally, known originally as the Fraternity Rally, is an international rally racing event organised by the Rwanda Automobile Club.
The rally is based in the Rwandan capital of Kigali. The event is a round of the African Rally Championship and the Rwandan National Rally Championship.
The lively and heartwarming installation ceremony took place at the Mythos Boutique Hotel in Kigali, drawing an audience of Rotarians from across Rwanda, friends, and distinguished guests—including Antoine Anfré, Ambassador of France to Rwanda, who honored the gathering as Guest of Honor.
The evening was a beautiful showcase of Rotary’s spirit of service and solidarity, bringing together people of action, united in friendship and committed to transforming communities.
{{Reflecting on a year of “Rotary Magic”}}
Outgoing president Rtn. PHF Freddy Mutanguha took the stage to reflect on a vibrant year of service under the 2024/2025 Rotary theme, “The Magic of Rotary.” He highlighted key milestones that defined his presidency—from impactful community initiatives to celebratory moments that strengthened club unity.
“Our club witnessed the true magic of Rotary—reaching those who needed us most,” he said. “We stood by people living with albinism, children with autism, women in correctional facilities, and families in need of clean water.”
Among the notable achievements, the club has made significant strides in several key areas. In partnership with the Organization for the Integration and Promotion of People with Albinism in Rwanda (OIPPA), the club provided essential support to individuals with albinism.
This included distributing skin-protective lotions, sun-safe eyewear, and facilitating access to cancer screenings.
Additionally, the club made a meaningful impact at the Nyamagabe correctional facility, where 12 sewing machines were donated to women learning vocational skills.
“These machines are not just tools; they are a pathway to reintegration, dignity, and renewed purpose,” Mutanguha shared.
The club also collaborated with Autism Rwanda to raise awareness and provide support for children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Through advocacy, funding education, and fostering inclusion, the club has played a crucial role in promoting the well-being of individuals with autism.
Another significant project was the partnership with Rotary Club Vitré (France), which facilitated access to clean and safe water for communities in Rwinyoni, located in Rutsiro District, Western Rwanda.
Rtn. Mutanguha also led the club in celebrating its 25th anniversary—a milestone marked by pride, reflection, and recommitment to the Rotary motto: Service Above Self.
{{A new dawn: “Unite for Good”}}
Stepping into leadership for the 2025/2026 Rotary year, Rtn. Claver Irakoze energized the audience with a forward-looking vision grounded in compassion and collaboration. Under the global Rotary theme “Unite for Good,” he emphasized the importance of unity, innovation, and impactful service.
“I stand here deeply honored and ready to lead with a heart for service and a mind for solutions,” he said. “We will grow our membership, strengthen our club’s dynamism, and launch flagship projects that uplift vulnerable communities—not just in words, but with measurable, lasting impact.”
He pledged to champion cross-club collaborations, engage youth, and position RC Kigali Mont Jali as a model of purpose-driven action. “When we unite for good, we amplify our impact. Rotary is not just about giving—it’s about connecting, empowering, and transforming,” Claver affirmed.
{{A voice of diplomacy and encouragement}}
In his address, French Ambassador Antoine Anfré shared heartfelt remarks that connected Rotary’s mission to the universal values of empathy and civic responsibility.
“Rotary does what diplomacy often dreams of—changing lives through daily acts of compassion,” he said. “What you do matters deeply. By providing clean water, supporting children with special needs, or empowering women to stitch a new chapter for their future, you remind us that service knows no borders and no small actions.”
{{Celebrating growth and generosity}}
The installation night was also marked by two major Rotary milestones: growth in membership and giving.
Three new members were officially inducted into Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali, joining a global network of over 1.4 million Rotarians. Their induction (intronisation) was met with cheers, pins, and a heartfelt welcome.
Additionally, four members were recognized as Paul Harris Fellows (PHF)—a distinction given to Rotarians who contribute $1,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation.
These contributions help fund high-impact projects across the globe, including in Rwanda. Each PHF was honored with the iconic PHF pin, symbolizing not just generosity, but a shared commitment to building a better world.
“When you wear that pin,” said one club leader, “you’re telling the world: I believe in change that lasts.”
{{A night to remember}}
More than a formal ceremony, the installation night was a joyful celebration of purpose. Laughter, conversation, music, and a shared meal created an atmosphere of deep connection—a reminder that Rotary is not just an organization; it’s a family.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a renewed sense of energy in the room. Under Rtn. Claver Irakoze’s leadership, and with the theme “Unite for Good” as a compass, Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali is set to embrace another year of service, action, and impact.
On July 1, 2025, the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) announced new prices for petroleum products, with the price of a litre of petrol increasing by Frw 170, rising from Frw 1,633 to Frw 1,803 , while diesel rose to Frw 1,757 from Frw 1,647.
These prices came into effect on July 2 at 6:00 a.m. The authority also indicated that these new petroleum product prices include revised Value-Added Tax (VAT) charges.
Speaking to Rwanda Television, Dr. Jimmy Gasore explained that the new prices have risen due to the implementation of Cabinet decisions, as well as increasing costs on the global market.
“What is different from usual is that the resolutions arising from the Cabinet’s decisions have now been implemented. As Rwandans may recall, in February this year, the Cabinet established new taxes, in particular stipulating that, starting on July 1, the price of petrol would include value-added tax. That tax has now been applied, which is why the increase is higher than what we usually see for petroleum products,” he said.
Dr. Gasore stated that the Government had taken measures to prevent price increases from becoming excessively high, committing to retain certain subsidies on petroleum products.
As a result, the price of petrol rose by 11%, although it was initially projected to increase by 18%. Similarly, diesel was expected to increase by 14% but only rose by 6.8%.
Dr. Gasore explained that there should not be significant changes in transportation fares and costs.
He gave the example of motorcycle taxi rides, noting that for a ride costing Frw 500, the fuel portion should not exceed Frw 200. Therefore, the 11% increase in fuel prices would not justify raising the fare by more than Frw 20.
“We believe that, in reality, the recent increases should not lead to higher national transport costs.”
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Antoine Marie Kajangwe, noted that the recent price hikes are not alarming for business operations in general.
He explained that, typically, transportation costs for goods imported from neighboring countries or transported within Rwanda account for 22% of the total cost of the goods.
“That 22% is not significant enough for transportation to substantially raise prices for essential food items that every Rwandan needs on a daily basis,” Kajangwe noted.
He explained that, for example, for rice transported from Rusizi District in the Western Province, the new prices might add approximately Frw 6 per kilogram in transportation costs.
This means that for a 25-kilogram sack of rice from Bugarama, the price would increase by only Frw 150.
He further clarified that for other goods such as maize from Nyagatare District or potatoes from Musanze District, transportation costs might rise by about Frw 4.
“These are not amounts that should be perceived as significantly driving up the prices of essential daily food items. However, the government has also foregone certain revenues to ensure that these price increases remain manageable,” Kajangwe noted.
RURA emphasized that, in response to rising global petroleum prices and in order to ease the burden on consumers, the Government of Rwanda has maintained sufficient petroleum reserves in its storage facilities.
As he briefed the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) recently, the Director General of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), Telesphore Ndabamenye, explained that the projects, which will irrigate up to 4,000 hectares of land, include Mpanga, Mahama I, and Mahama II.
Ndabamenye highlighted that the Mpanga project, which has an $18 million budget, will irrigate 650 hectares. However, its implementation has been delayed due to the lack of electricity necessary to operate the water pumps that will draw water from the Akagera River.
“The engines needed to initiate the trials are expected to arrive in August, with operations scheduled to commence in October 2025,” he noted.
The Mahama I project, which will irrigate 1,225 hectares at a cost of $27 million, and Mahama II, covering 1,900 hectares at a cost of $32 million, are both expected to be completed by December 2025.
Ndabamenye explained that the variation in project costs is due to factors such as the size of the land to be irrigated, the nature of the soil, and the power requirements for water pumping.
In addition to these projects, Rwanda is also pursuing two other major initiatives. One, funded by the World Bank, is the CDAT project, which will irrigate 11,000 hectares and is expected to be completed by 2027.
The other, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is KIIWP2, which will cover 2,200 hectares and is scheduled for completion by 2028.
To achieve its goal of irrigating 500,000 hectares of land to combat climate change, Rwanda will require substantial investment and swift implementation of these projects.
Funding for these initiatives has been provided through loans from the Export-Import Bank of India (India Exim Bank), as well as other domestic financing sources.
These irrigation projects are expected to boost Rwanda’s irrigated land area from the current 70,000 hectares to 130,000 hectares by 2029, supporting sustainable agricultural growth and enhancing food security.
He invested in infrastructure projects, particularly in real estate developments that have completely transformed the face of the country.
In a youth-focused program on Rwanda Television called ‘Password’, Dennis Karera shared how he ventured into business, the various roles he undertook in the army that liberated the country, and also offered advice to young people.
Karera’s story begins in Uganda, where he was born as a refugee, like many other Rwandans who were exiled because of the bad governance that existed in Rwanda at the time.
After enduring the hardships of exile, Karera, together with other energetic young men, decided to join the Ugandan army as a way to learn how they could one day fight for rights to return to their homeland.
“We felt that it wasn’t enough to simply be refugees where we were, living there unhappily. So, we decided to join the Ugandan army, saying to ourselves, ‘Let’s go and learn how we might find a way forward.’”
“We went and became soldiers while we were still very young. We joined the war, most of us aged 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25, driven by the conviction that we could not continue living as refugees.”
He explained that the struggle to liberate the country was not easy, but that as challenges increased, they gained new knowledge and became even more determined, because they had a purpose and a goal to fight for.
“There were many challenges. We were young, but should we have given up just because we were young? The idea was: you are there, so fight for this cause, and indeed, that work was done. Honestly, if we hadn’t been young, I doubt we would have had the same courage,” he said.
In 1992, a meeting was held in Volcanoes National Park, where military operations were being coordinated. It was a gathering to pool ideas and discuss what would be done after defeating the enemy. Everyone had an opportunity to share what they thought they could contribute in order to achieve complete liberation for the country.
After the struggle to liberate the country and stop the Genocide against the Tutsi, there followed another battle, that of building the development of a nation that had been devastated.
Many of those who played a role in the country’s liberation initially worked in various government positions, while others chose to invest in different sectors.
Karera also worked for the government in different roles, including in security services, the Ministry of Education, and others, although from time to time he also engaged in business activities.
In 1997, he requested a bank loan of 70 million Rwandan francs (Frw), presenting a project he wanted to implement and explaining how it would have a positive impact on society.
Although it was uncommon for an individual to seek such a large loan at the time, he was eventually approved and received the funds in phases, and the venture turned out to be successful.
“Within two years, the project was doing extremely well. I repaid the millions and was left with resources to continue growing my businesses,” hennoted.
After concluding his government service, he reflected on how he could contribute both to his personal growth and the country as a whole. While initially considering continuing his previous activities, he decided that expanding them would be a more impactful approach.
In 2008, he embarked on a project valued at 500 million Rwandan francs. He applied for a loan from the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), secured the funding, and successfully executed the project, which progressed smoothly.
After a short period, he returned to the bank to request a loan of Frw 1 billion, embarking on a major project to construct the Crown Conference Hall in Nyarutarama. Located near the Tennis Club and Golf Course, this venue hosts a wide range of meetings and events.
He continued expanding his business ventures, and in 2011, he sought out business partners. Starting with an initial investment of Frw 1 billion, he and his partners successfully raised about $40 million, which they used to embark on groundbreaking projects. This led to the construction of Kigali Heights, a landmark development in the city.
Inaugurated in 2016, the building was later sold to Yyussa, a Rwandan-owned company, for approximately $31 million (equivalent to over Frw 43.8 billion).
Karera also shared that he remains active in business and, along with his partners, now manages investments worth at least $200 million (over Frw 280 billion) across various sectors.
One of the most promising projects currently underway is being developed by Savannah Creek Development Company, which is modernizing the Kangondo neighborhood. The project will feature 600 residential units, including apartments and unique housing structures that reflect Kigali’s distinctive architecture.
The housing units will be designed in a range of styles, such as Tuscan, Classical, Mediterranean, Contemporary, and Apartment designs, to cater to the purchasing power of different buyers. The project is expected to cost at least $60 million.
The buildings being constructed in Nyarutarama are modern in design and construction.
{{Advice to young people}}
Karera also emphasized that when you perform well, it gets noticed, helping to build a strong reputation and open doors of opportunity. He encouraged young people to dedicate themselves fully to everything they do.
He explained that having a clear vision of who you want to become from a young age is crucial, as it helps you stay focused on your goals.
“Let me offer some guidance to young people: start preparing now for the person you want to become in the future. Begin to envision yourself and ask, ‘Who are the people doing the things I see and hear about?’ To expand your knowledge, you need to listen attentively.
Today, there are many distractions, unlike in our time when we didn’t even have mobile phones,” he said.
Karera urged young people to continue broadening their knowledge through reading diverse books, as reading expands the mind. He also suggested educational trips and engaging in meaningful conversations as valuable ways to learn.
Karera further reminded young people to uphold truth and integrity, avoiding anything that could undermine their dreams.
