These disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.
Roads and other key infrastructure were also severely impacted, particularly in the Northern, Southern, and Western Provinces, leaving over 20,000 people in urgent need of assistance.
As part of the recovery efforts, 1,322 houses are being rehabilitated through the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) project, a collaboration between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank.
According to a report from the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), 537 houses have been fully repaired, 566 are under rehabilitation, and 219 are scheduled for renovation soon.
However, reconstruction of the 2,763 completely destroyed houses has not yet commenced, as authorities continue identifying suitable land for rebuilding.
In addition to housing, 310 families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.
This includes construction materials such as 12,667 iron sheets, 1,574 kilograms of galvanized wire, 1,780 kilograms of roofing nails, 423 kilograms of standard nails, and 65 iron sheet caps.
Four schools damaged during the disasters have also been supported with 931 iron sheets, 129 wires, and 77 iron sheet caps for repairs.
Meanwhile, 2,001 people in 16 districts received essential supplies, including hygiene kits, kitchenware, school supplies, and clothing for students.
Road repair efforts and the rehabilitation of the Nyundo Bridge in Rubavu District are well underway.
To address recurring flooding issues, retaining walls are being constructed along the Sebeya River, which is notorious for causing floods during the rainy season.
The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has already built 1.3 kilometers of retaining walls and implemented other flood mitigation measures, including constructing a reservoir with a capacity of two million cubic meters and planting bamboo and other vegetation to slow water flow.
In October 2024, MINEMA announced $26 million in funding secured from the World Bank for rebuilding houses for disaster-affected families.
These funds will be used to rebuild or rehabilitate 6,218 houses. To date, 2,830 houses have been completed, 2,052 are under rehabilitation, and 1,335 are still to be constructed.
Rwanda continues to prioritize disaster recovery and mitigation, with MINEMA emphasizing that relief, response, and mitigation efforts receive substantial investment worth $300 million annually.
“We have been through severe economic hardships as we moved from one crisis to another in recent years. But there is hope on the horizon, and today marks the beginning of a new opportunity, an opportunity to redefine our governance and economic strategies. Together, we can reset our beloved nation,” Mahama declared.
The event brought together a large crowd of Ghanaians from all walks of life, including party supporters, as well as African heads of state and international dignitaries.
Mahama stressed the importance of this moment in reshaping the country’s future, emphasizing a bold new approach to governance and economic reforms.
As part of his vision, Mahama vowed to tackle youth unemployment by forging strong partnerships with the private sector to create quality, sustainable jobs.
“In this resounding victory, I see a clarion call, particularly from the youth of Ghana, and this moment is a powerful affirmation that your voices matter and that your future must be our priority,” he said.
Having previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s return to office represents a renewed commitment to lifting Ghana out of economic challenges and driving the country towards a more prosperous and inclusive future. His government aims to reset the nation’s path with clear focus on economic stability and good governance.
Through a series of posts on social media platform X, Minister Nduhungirehe condemned the international community’s rush to condemn the M23 rebel group without addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict, particularly the persecution of the Congolese Tutsi community.
The recent surge in criticism of M23 followed the group’s capture of Masisi, a strategically important town in North Kivu Province. In reaction, the European Union issued a statement calling on them to evacuate Masisi and surrounding areas.
However, Nduhungirehe, in his posts, highlighted what he sees as the international community’s double standards by failure to acknowledge the deeper causes of the conflict.
“Most of the statements from various countries and international organizations accuse Rwanda of supporting M23, using biased and simplistic language, and mentioning the violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Nduhungirehe stated.
“It is disappointing that none of these statements recall the facts. Large parts of Masisi were under the control of FDLR, a foreign armed group that has been occupying Congolese territory for years.”
FDLR, a militia composed of remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, has been a persistent presence in eastern DRC, targeting Congolese Tutsi communities.
These militias have carried out numerous atrocities, contributing to the longstanding insecurity in the region. Nduhungirehe pointed out that international statements have never condemned this occupation or the violations committed by these militias, which continue to displace and terrorize the local population.
“It seems as though a Rwandan Genocidal force has more legitimacy on Congolese soil than the Congolese community itself, which the group is trying to exterminate,” he added.
Nduhungirehe’s comments reflect a general sense of frustration with the international community’s tendency to overlook these critical historical and security dynamics.
Furthermore, the Minister raised concerns about the presence of European mercenaries in the region, who, in his view, are supporting a military coalition that includes not only the Congolese army (FARDC) but also the FDLR, Nyatura, Wazalendo militias, and Burundian forces.
“The issue of European mercenaries deployed to eastern DRC to support government forces in violation of international law has yet to be addressed. The EU and its member states, where these mercenaries originate, continue to remain silent and inactive on their criminal activities,” he said.
In his statement, Nduhungirehe stressed that the international community’s condemnation of M23 fails to address the root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC, including the systematic persecution of the Congolese Tutsi community, which has endured hate speech, discrimination, and violence for decades.
These communities, many of whom are descendants of Rwandans who migrated to the DRC over a century ago, continue to face marginalization and violence, exacerbated by colonial-era border demarcations imposed by European powers.
Nduhungirehe also pointed out that none of the international statements have called for direct political negotiations between the DRC government and M23 to address the root causes of the conflict.
He emphasized that a lasting solution to the crisis cannot be achieved through finger-pointing or by simply blaming Rwanda and M23. Instead, he argued that dialogue and a genuine approach to resolving the systemic issues in the region are essential.
These remarks come amid continued reluctance from the DRC government to engage in peace talks with M23. The government’s resistance led to the sudden cancellation of a peace agreement signing ceremony that was scheduled for December 15, 2024, in Luanda.
Despite previously agreeing to negotiations, the DRC government declared at the last minute that it would not engage with M23, thus further complicating efforts to address the crisis.
This was revealed by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, while presenting to the Chamber of Deputies the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali, a measure that took effect on January 1, 2025.
The announcement was made during a parliamentary session that focused on current environmental challenges and how the Rwandan government is addressing them.
MP Egide Nkuranga, who raised the issues to the plenary, praised the government’s efforts to combat air pollution. He highlighted that in 2022, Rwanda emitted 1,400 Gigatons of greenhouse gases, an increase from over 1,300 Gigatons in 2018. Motorcycles accounted for 47.4% of these emissions, releasing 709 Gigatons.
Despite commending the initiative, the MP raised concerns about how motorcyclists transitioning to electric motorcycles would sustain their livelihoods, whether the changes would disrupt transportation, and what other measures the government has in place to ensure environmental preservation without inconveniencing citizens.
Minister Gasore reassured that petrol-powered motorcycles already licensed for commercial use would retain their licenses and could continue operating, with annual renewals. However, these motorcycles will be required to undergo “contrôle technique.”
He clarified that petrol motorcycles will still be allowed into the country for private use, especially in areas without reliable electricity infrastructure.
The Minister emphasized the importance of the decision, citing the rise in air-polluting emissions and its health impacts, such as a 41% increase in respiratory diseases between 2008 and 2019.
Available data indicates a significant increase in deaths caused by respiratory illnesses linked to air pollution. In 2012, 2,227 people died from such illnesses, a figure that surged to 9,290 by 2019.
Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore emphasized Rwanda’s strong measures to address the issue, including enforcing standards on vehicle emissions and introducing new regulations.
He stated, “We have initiated a program to strengthen vehicle inspection centers by establishing a specialized facility to monitor vehicle emissions. This project is expected to be operational by the end of the year.”
A key update involves modernizing the methods used to monitor vehicle emissions, including motorcycles, which were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections. Dr. Gasore highlighted that previously, motorcycle owners only sought inspections when they suspected an issue, but this will no longer be the case.
He said, “Petrol-powered motorcycles will continue to operate, but the new requirement is that they must meet the standards of contrôle technique. For example, if a motorcycle cannot brake effectively or fails to comply with emission standards, it will not be allowed on the road. It’s the same principle applied to all vehicles—every vehicle on the road must meet legal standards. There are no additional burdens; it’s simply about adhering to the law.”
{{Overhaul of vehicle inspection systems}}
Dr. Gasore explained that traditional vehicle inspection methods are also being upgraded. Previously, vehicles were inspected while stationary, with devices inserted into their exhaust pipes to measure emissions. However, this approach failed to provide a complete picture of a vehicle’s emissions under different conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving.
“Under the current system, a vehicle may seem fine on flat terrain but emit significant pollutants when ascending. The new system will provide a more accurate analysis of a vehicle’s emissions. Vehicles will be placed on rollers that simulate driving conditions, allowing for a realistic assessment of their performance,” he explained.
Gasore revealed that vehicle computer systems will be utilized as part of the emissions control strategy. These systems, which already record key metrics, will help identify issues and ensure timely solutions.
Beyond the vehicle inspection program, introduced in 2013, the minister highlighted other efforts to combat air pollution. These include the 2016 law on air quality preservation, 2019 emission standards for vehicles, and the 2021 initiative promoting electric vehicles by offering tax exemptions for electric vehicles, hybrids, and related equipment.
“We have also facilitated investors who show interest in setting up electric vehicle infrastructure by providing land free of charge,” Gasore noted.
The measures have significantly contributed to reducing vehicular emissions. Other steps include advanced air quality testing, improving fuel quality inspections, enhancing vehicle testing laboratories, and empowering garages to address emissions-related issues.
Regarding electric vehicle infrastructure, the minister revealed that an initial assessment indicated the need for over 200 charging stations across the country. Feasibility studies have been conducted, and preliminary sites have been identified for immediate implementation.
On the issue of expired electric batteries, Gasore explained that batteries used in transport for 10 years can be repurposed for energy storage, such as solar power, for another decade.
Rwanda already has a facility capable of handling such processes. He added that, after their lifespan, hazardous chemicals in the batteries are safely extracted, while remaining materials are used to manufacture new batteries.
The government is also exploring retrofitting petrol motorcycles by replacing their engines with batteries. An initial investor managed to convert 80 motorcycles before facing financial constraints, but the government is supporting the project to ensure its expansion.
Rwanda has over 100,000 motorcycles, including 46,000 used for transporting people and goods. Of these, 26,000 operate in Kigali, with more than 6,000 already electric-powered.
In a visit to the Suam Point of Entry/Exit in Endebess Constituency, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki underscored the significance of the border post in bolstering bilateral trade and fostering stronger human connectivity with particularly Uganda, Kenya’s largest trading partner.
“Uganda is not just a friendly and neighboring country; it is Kenya’s biggest trading partner,” Kindiki emphasized during his assessment of the ongoing construction works.
His remarks highlighted the central role Uganda plays in Kenya’s economic landscape, with much of the regional trade in the East African Community driven by the dynamic business interactions between the two nations.
Once completed, the establishment will streamline border management processes by allowing border officers from both Kenya and Uganda to operate from shared facilities. This will not only expedite the clearance of people and goods but also reduce delays that have long hindered smooth trade flows between the neighboring countries.
According to Kindiki, the modernization of the border post aligns with the Kenyan government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring that the country remains competitive in the East African trading bloc.
The project is progressing rapidly, with ongoing construction work that includes the development of state-of-the-art terminal buildings and the expansion of the 45-kilometer Suam-Kitale road.
“We are aware that this project is a joint venture between Kenya and Uganda. Each side has specific tasks to complete, and we are here to assess the progress on the Kenyan side,” Kindiki said, acknowledging Uganda’s significant progress in developing its side of the border post.
He expressed confidence that the project will soon be ready for commissioning by the heads of state of both countries. While no specific date was given for the official launch, Kindiki indicated that it would take place “hopefully very soon.”
The Deputy President commended the collaboration between the two nations, highlighting that both governments are working in tandem to ensure the success of the one stop boarder post.
“We have seen good progress on the Ugandan side, and we are equally committed to completing our portion of the project,” he stated, stressing the mutual benefits of the project for both Kenyan and Ugandan citizens.
The Suam OSBP is part of broader regional efforts aimed at enhancing cross-border trade and strengthening economic ties within the East African Community (EAC).
Once operational, the facility is expected to significantly reduce the costs and delays associated with cross-border trade, creating an environment that fosters deeper economic integration and cooperation. The streamlined processes will benefit businesses, especially those engaged in import-export activities, by reducing waiting times and lowering operational costs.
It is expected to play a pivotal role in improving the flow of goods, services, and people between Kenya and Uganda, two of the largest economies in the East African Community.
Accompanying DP Kindiki during his visit were Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omolo and other senior government officials. Together, they reviewed the project’s progress and discussed the next steps to ensure that the project is completed on schedule.
The successful completion of this project promises not only to boost trade but also to promote greater people-to-people interactions, fostering a stronger and more integrated East African region.
Appearing on a talk show hosted by RadioTV10, ACP Rutikanga addressed concerns from some drivers and car owners who believe that speed cameras sometimes confuse their vehicles with others nearby.
“It is not possible, although some people have reported mistakes,” he said.
“The speed camera’s advanced smart technology operates in sync with the vehicle’s running engine. When a vehicle exceeds the speed limit, the engine generates a specific signal that the system detects without error. The camera does more than just capture the license plate; it identifies the engine first, then photographs the vehicle, including its license plate,” ACP Rutikanga explained.
He further clarified that even in cases where multiple vehicles are close together and moving at high speed, the system does not mistakenly prioritize one vehicle over another due to visibility.
“If all the vehicles are speeding, their engines generate distinct signals. The camera captures each one, even if it appears like a single flash. Every speeding vehicle is photographed, along with detailed information about its movement. No one can claim they were hiding behind another car to avoid detection,” he added.
ACP Rutikanga also spoke about motorcycles, noting that riders sometimes assume they can evade detection because speed cameras primarily capture license plates, which are located only at the back of motorcycles.
“It’s true that motorcycles only have license plates on the rear, limiting the angles from which they can be captured. However, speed cameras are not the only tools we use for traffic monitoring,” he explained.
He highlighted that other cameras at intersections record violations from multiple angles, making it possible to track various infractions.
“Some drivers challenge their fines, claiming the speed camera didn’t capture their violation. However, we present evidence from other cameras that prove otherwise,” he said.
ACP Rutikanga also revealed that while the current technology focuses on monitoring vehicle speed, it has the potential to be upgraded to detect additional offenses, such as using a mobile phone while driving or failing to fasten a seatbelt.
“The technology has the capability for such enhancements,” he concluded.
The joint investigation team—comprising the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), the National Office of Investigation (NOI), and the Defense Ministry’s investigative unit—confirmed the reissuance of the warrant in an official statement.
The Seoul Western District Court issued the new warrant after the initial one expired on Monday, following unsuccessful attempts to detain Yoon last week.
This makes Yoon the first sitting president in South Korea to face an arrest warrant, a development highlighting the intensifying legal challenges against him.
Reports suggest that the newly issued warrant may have a longer validity period than the first, which was valid for seven days.
CIO investigators and police attempted to arrest impeached President Yoon at the presidential residence on January 3, but the effort was thwarted by the presidential security service.
Yoon’s impeachment, approved by the National Assembly on December 14, suspended his presidential powers and is under constitutional court review for up to 180 days.
Accused of leading an insurrection, Yoon declared martial law on December 3, though it was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly.
The case continues to draw national and international attention.
Amb. Gashumba shared the update through her X account, where she highlighted their conversation during the Annual Reception hosted by King Frederik André Henrik Christian of Denmark on January 6, 2025.
The event, held at Christiansborg Palace, gathered diplomats and representatives to celebrate the beginning of the new year.
“At the annual reception hosted by Their Majesties, I had the honor of meeting Queen Mary, a passionate advocate for Global Health, who praised Rwanda’s health progress,” Dr. Gashumba posted on X.
The Queen expressed a strong interest in strengthening ties between Rwanda and Denmark, especially with the anticipated opening of the Danish Embassy in Kigali.
Queen Mary Elizabeth also acknowledged the collaboration between the Maternity Foundation—an organization she supports, which advocates for maternal and child health worldwide—and the Rwanda Nurses and Midwives Association (RMA). This partnership aims to ensure safe childbirth for mothers in Rwanda.
“This conversation reaffirmed the power of partnerships to transform lives and build a healthier future for all. Together, we explored how strong partnerships can transform communities,” Dr. Gashumba remarked.
{{Rwanda’s maternal and child health achievements}}
Over the past two decades, Rwanda has reduced maternal mortality by 80%, showcasing its dedication to improving healthcare systems.
According to the Statistical Year Book 2024 by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), maternal mortality rates have fallen from 1,071 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 203 per 100,000.
This decline reflects the success of targeted healthcare policies and investments in maternal health.
Key contributors include increased antenatal care coverage, with 98% of mothers in Rwanda receiving at least one antenatal visit by 2023. Early detection and timely interventions have played a vital role in preventing maternal deaths.
Skilled birth attendance has also improved significantly, with 94% of deliveries now assisted by trained health professionals, ensuring safer outcomes for both mothers and newborns.
Additionally, infant and under-five mortality rates have seen notable reductions. Infant mortality decreased from 107 per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 33 in 2023, while under-five mortality dropped from 196 to 45 per 1,000 live births.
According to reports, the earthquake, centered in Tsogo Township, Dingri County, struck at 9:05 a.m. (Beijing Time). Within a 20-km radius of the epicenter, 27 villages with around 6,900 residents were severely impacted.
Authorities reported 407 people rescued and over 30,000 residents relocated as temperatures in the region dropped to minus 17 degrees Celsius.
In the worst-hit areas of Tsogo and Chamco, many homes were reduced to rubble, forcing residents to seek shelter in open spaces.
Tragic losses were reported in Chamco’s Gurum Village, where 22 people, including 11 children, perished.
{{Nationwide rescue efforts}}
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for “all-out rescue efforts” to minimize casualties. More than 12,000 rescuers, including firefighters, police, and soldiers, have been deployed.
Relief supplies, including cotton tents, winter coats, and specialized materials for the cold, have been dispatched to the quake-hit areas.
The government has allocated 200 million yuan (approximately 27.8 million USD) to support relief and post-disaster emergency recovery. Resettlement sites are operational, providing shelter, food, and water. Telecommunications in the hardest-hit areas have been restored.
Dingri County, with a population of over 61,000, lies on the northern slope of the Himalayas, bordering Nepal.
It is home to the northern base camp of Mount Qomolangma. While the Mount Qomolangma scenic area has been temporarily closed, no damage has been reported to Tashilhunpo Monastery in Xigaze.
Rescue efforts and recovery continue in the wake of this devastating earthquake.
The fighters, hailing from Rubavu District, crossed the plain separating Rwanda and the DRC, traveling from their Kibati base in Nyiragongo Territory. They entered Rwanda through Kigezi Village, Kageshi Cell, in Busasamana Sector.
Rubavu District Mayor Mulindwa Prosper confirmed to IGIHE that the combatants are currently under the care of Rwandan authorities.
Officials are engaging with them to help them understand the development and progress of their home country.
“We, as local leaders, are responsible for welcoming them, providing them with information about their country, and helping them reintegrate before they return to the community. These individuals have been living in another country and involved in combat for some time. We are still educating them,” said Mayor Mulindwa.
The mayor commended their decision to return home peacefully, noting that they did not pose any security threat during their entry into Rwanda.
He also reassured others who wish to follow suit that they will be received in a similar manner.
Upon receiving the news of their surrender, local village leaders informed superiors, who in turn called on security forces to facilitate the fighters’ reception.
The combatants handed over three AK-47 rifles and one communication device upon entering Rwanda.
The individuals leave behind comrades still aligned with the Congolese military in their ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group, which continues to capture territories in North Kivu Province.
