Chapo, representing the ruling party Frelimo, secured 65.17% of the votes, a slight decrease from the 70.67% initially announced by the National Electoral Commission (CNE) in October.
His main rival, Venancio Mondlane of the extra-parliamentary Podemos party, garnered 24.19%, while Renamo’s Ossufo Momade and Lutero Simango of the MDM captured 6.62% and 4.02%, respectively.
Lucia Ribeiro, President of the CC, acknowledged irregularities during the election but noted they were insufficient to nullify the results.
In parliamentary elections, Frelimo retained its dominance, winning 171 of the 250 seats.
Podemos followed with 43 seats, Renamo secured 28, and the MDM claimed 8.
Post-election violence has cast a shadow over the results, with local reports indicating over 100 civilian deaths and hundreds injured.
Despite the unrest, Chapo is set to succeed outgoing President Filipe Nyusi, continuing Frelimo’s long-standing leadership.
One of the key innovations about his invention is the ability to measure vital signs, such as blood pressure and weight, simultaneously. This drastically reduces the time required for tests that previously took doctors 2–3 minutes per patient.
Irankunda is the Founded Innovahyper Technologies, a company that provides tech-driven solutions in healthcare and construction. It refurbishes old tech devices into modern construction tools and produces medical equipment designed to detect non-communicable diseases under a service called “Baho Nursebots.”
Currently, Innovahyper Technologies is preparing 60 machines for deployment across Rwanda’s 30 districts. Their work has garnered attention internationally, with interest from other countries in adopting their solutions for combating non-communicable diseases.
However, the journey was not without challenges. Irankunda is privy to difficulties operating in rural areas lacking infrastructure like electricity. In response, they adapted their machines to run on solar power.
He grew up in a rural area with a keen interest in technology, inspired by his entrepreneur parents. His passion for innovation was fueled by a life-threatening illness during his childhood, which left him hospitalized for six months due to inadequate medical care. This experience motivated him to improve healthcare for others.
After completing his university education in engineering, Irankunda began researching ways to contribute to society and create job opportunities for youth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his team developed machines to measure body temperature, but the products quickly lost relevance as the pandemic subsided.
Undeterred, they sought long-term solutions and conceived the idea of creating Nursebots to address the growing number of deaths from non-communicable diseases, which account for 70% of global deaths and 44% in Rwanda.
Their innovation has been applauded by medical professionals and community members alike for significantly improving diagnostic efficiency.
“Doctors shared the challenges they face, and we discovered that we had reduced the time needed for patient testing. Our robot completes all measurements in under 60 seconds, with results viewable on a phone,” Irankunda said.
He encouraged youth to recognize their potential and seize the opportunities available today.
“Youth shouldn’t see themselves as just tomorrow’s strength. We are the strength of today. We have the capability and the support of our country to create solutions and achieve great things,” he emphasized.
The angel went forth to tell her that she would conceive and give birth to a son, who would become the savior of the world. Mary got troubled by these words, wondering what kind of greeting this might be.
This event took place in northern Israel, in the city of Nazareth, about a three-hour journey from Israel’s capital, Jerusalem.
Nazareth is a small city located uphill. It does not boast the same cleanliness as other parts of Israel, and its houses are not as modern. The majority of its residents are Muslims, making it the largest Arab city in Israel.
Despite this, Christians and Muslims coexist peacefully in the city, with mutual respect for each other’s history.
One of the most noticeable features of Nazareth is the abundance of churches scattered across the city, most of which belong to Christian denominations such as Methodists, Baptists, and Orthodox Christians.
On the hill where Gabriel began his message, stands the Basilica of the Annunciation. This church, built in 1956 by architect Giovanni Muzio, was designed to provide a sanctuary for visitors from around the world to reflect on the message given to the Virgin Mary.
The Basilica of the Annunciation is a key attraction for tourists visiting Israel, particularly Nazareth. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by artistic depictions of the Virgin Mary, created by various countries according to their cultural perspectives.
African, European, and South American countries have contributed images of Mary, which are displayed in the church. Many visitors, predominantly women, come to see this historic site. However, like other parts of Israel, the current war has significantly reduced the number of tourists.
Zalina, a tour guide mainly hosting visitors from South America, told IGIHE that she usually attends to visitor from Brazil and it’s exciting to see people from different cultures and languages every year.
“However, fewer people are coming these days. It’s sad to see this place like this. The reason is that people are afraid to visit Israel or the Middle East, and many airlines have canceled their flights. Even those who want to come cannot find a way.”
The Basilica is divided into two parts. One section preserves the history of the site where the Virgin Mary received the message. Visitors are shown the spot where Mary sat and the pillar where it is said Gabriel stood. Unlike other parts of the church, this section retains its ancient appearance.
The upper section of the Basilica is used for Mass, featuring artworks depicting Jesus’ early life, from conception and birth to how his family fled to Egypt.
There is a permanent altar for prayer, where visitors give thanks and seek intercession from the Virgin Mary. Many women, inspired by Mary’s story, pray while carrying rosaries, often reciting them as they walk.
In the surrounding area, souvenirs related to the Virgin Mary, such as images, rosaries, and other religious items, are sold. Every day, locals gather at the Basilica for morning Mass in Italian and Arabic.
Nazareth is just an hour’s drive from Lebanon. At the Israel-Lebanon border, recent attacks by Hezbollah caused significant destruction, forcing many residents to flee. During those times, residents of Nazareth described the situation as tense.
Zalina described the turmoil during the war with Hezbollah, noting that alarms rang out across Israel, including in Nazareth, where both Christians and Muslims coexist peacefully.
She is sad that Hezbollah’s attacks spared no one, targeting cities like Nazareth and Jerusalem, sacred to many. Despite the devastation, she expressed relief that calm has been restored and life is returning to normal as people move forward.
On December 22, 2024, Rufyikiri was welcomed by President Evariste Ndayishimiye at the Presidential Office. Photos of the meeting show the two leaders engaging in a cordial and friendly discussion.
The Presidential Office spokesperson, Gatoni Rosine Guilene, shared four photos of Rufyikiri and Ndayishimiye on social media, writing, “It is a joy for the Head of State, Evariste Ndayishimiye, to see citizens returning home freely.”
Rufyikiri was among the prominent voices opposing the decision of former President Pierre Nkurunziza to run for a controversial third term. It is reported that his opposition to this move led to threats from the government.
In June 2015, Rufyikiri traveled abroad for medical treatment and decided to remain in exile due to security concerns. During his time outside Burundi, he continued to voice his disapproval of Nkurunziza’s extended tenure, which he argued violated the two-term limit set by the Constitution.
In June 2016, Rufyikiri published a 32-page book titled “Echec de la transformation du CNDD-FDD du mouvement rebelle en parti politique au Burundi: une question d’équilibre entre le changement et la continuité” (The Failure to Transform CNDD-FDD from a Rebel Movement into a Political Party in Burundi: Balancing Change and Continuity).
This book examines the CNDD-FDD’s rise to power in 2005 and the challenges it faced in transitioning from a rebel movement to a functioning political party.
It is unclear whether Rufyikiri intends to remain in Burundi or plans to return abroad. However, his meeting with President Ndayishimiye, who was a close ally of the late President Nkurunziza, signals a positive step toward reconciliation.
In a statement shared on X, Police spokesperson ACP Rutikanga Boniface urged the youth to be cautious and desist from actions that would undermine their value during the festive holidays.
“Young people, as you go on holiday, avoid using drugs, refrain from ‘house parties’ that lead to drunkenness and other degrading behaviors such as vandalism, fighting, and even actions that could cost you your life or cause serious injury. This is a time to reflect on your academic achievements but also to think about your future goals,” he said.
He further advised parents, to watch out and know where their children are and what they are doing, as it helps in ensuring the safety of the youth, who are the future generation of Rwanda.
Rutikanga also reminded alcohol vendors that alcohol is not for children and that even adults who begin to drink should not continue to sell it irresponsibly.
He urged them to observe noise restrictions, ensuring that the volume is kept at a level that doesn’t interrupt the neighborhood.
Rutikanga appealed to the public to drink responsibly, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
In his address, Kagame emphasized the critical responsibilities the new ministers face, urging them to be resourceful and innovative in executing their roles.
“Your jobs involve finding the necessary equipment and resources to carry out your duties effectively,” he said. While acknowledging that the country may not have an abundance of resources, Kagame encouraged the ministers to be strategic in using what is available based on need and capacity.
For the Minister of Sports, Kagame highlighted the importance of building on existing achievements and focusing on talent development.
“Sports is a business that thrives on talent. We must explore and nurture the available talent in Rwanda, while continuously improving our sports infrastructure across the country,” he remarked.
The President further stressed that the government has already laid down infrastructure to support sports, and the next step is to maximize its potential.
Turning to the newly appointed Minister of State in Charge of the National Treasury, Kagame stressed the importance of financial acumen in driving economic growth.
“It’s not just about counting money, but understanding where it comes from and how to increase its inflow,” he said. The President called on the Ministry of Finance to focus on effectively managing resources and increasing national income through strategic policies.
The President also emphasized that success in these roles depends not only on individual efforts but also on strong collaboration with other leaders and sectors across the government. “Working together with others in different capacities and sectors is crucial in achieving our collective goals,” Kagame stated.
Kagame reminded the new ministers that their oaths of office are not just formalities. “I often say, the oath is not just a tradition; it carries weight, and it reflects the work you are about to undertake,” he said.
Mukazayire previously served as the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Sports and a senior official at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) before was appointed Minister of Sports.
Rwego Ngarambe has expertise in sports law and previously served as the Director General for Sports Development at the Ministry of Sports before becoming Minister of State for Sports.
Godfrey Kabera is formerly the head of the Planning and Research Department at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.
The car, unveiled by President Paul Kagame and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in Kigali, has sparked pride and ambitious aspirations among the students involved.
Speaking to RBA, some team members highlighted the importance of their milestone, describing it as proof of Africa’s potential in innovative engineering.
Clemence Iradukunda, one of the students, shared, “Being part of this project, creating a racing car for the first time in Africa, has inspired me to further refine my skills and contribute to Rwanda’s development.”
Félix Ndayizeye, a student who assisted in supervising the project and welding components, emphasized the transformative power of vocational training.
“My responsibilities included welding and supporting our engineer from FIA. After working together, we assembled the required parts. This shows that Rwanda’s vocational training programs have immense potential. We’ve proven that Rwanda can achieve great things, and we’re confident about future projects,” he said.
Marc Sibomana, an instructor at IPRC-Kigali, lauded the team’s dedication and resilience.
“We learned to work within deadlines and realized that nothing is impossible if we strive to achieve our goals,” he noted.
Dr. Alice Ikuzwe, Deputy Principal in charge of Academics and Training at IPRC-Kigali, encouraged the students to use this accomplishment as a springboard for tackling local challenges.
“Students now understand their capability. They should start identifying and addressing development projects that meet societal needs while creating jobs for others,” she explained.
The car is the first in the world to be built using blueprints provided by the FIA to its Member Clubs as part of the Affordable Cross Car project.
Remarkably, the students completed the vehicle in just one month, working alongside an FIA technician to meet international standards.
This achievement placed Rwanda firmly on the motorsport map and set a powerful example for future innovations by young African engineers.
Donald Trump’s transition team is pushing to pull the United States out of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the first day of the new administration, according to experts who warn of the “catastrophic” impact it would have on global health, the Financial Times (FT) reported on Sunday.
Members of Trump’s team told the experts of their intention to announce a withdrawal from the global health body on the president-elect’s January 20 inauguration, the FT said, noting that the departure would remove the WHO’s biggest source of funds, damaging its ability to respond to public health crises such as the coronavirus pandemic.
U.S.’s plan to withdraw “on day one” would be “catastrophic” for global health, the FT quoted Lawrence Gostin, professor of global health at Georgetown Law, as saying.
Gostin said there would be “very lean years for the WHO where it will struggle to respond to health emergencies and will have to reduce its scientific staff considerably.”
Trump has in the past expressed his intent to withdraw the United States from WHO due to concerns over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He criticized the organization for being “overly influenced by China”, claiming it failed to address early missteps in reporting the virus. Additionally, he faulted the WHO for its perceived lack of urgency and transparency during the pandemic, which he argued worsened the global crisis.
Citing the substantial financial contributions the U.S. makes to the WHO, Trump claims that the organization does not sufficiently advance American interests or provide adequate value in return.
This prestigious event is one that Rwanda has recently shown interest in hosting, with discussions on the matter progressing, as highlighted by President Paul Kagame on December 13, 2024.
Hosting a Formula One Grand Prix would require significant investment, including building the race track and maintaining it.
The costs involved cover the construction of the racing circuit, roads for the race, and ongoing repairs to potential damages. Seats for spectators, barriers, and fencing also add to the total expense.
Generally, the cost to build a new Formula One venue ranges between $270 million and $1.5 billion. The Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi currently holds the record, costing $1.34 billion.
Nowadays, new races come with a 10-year contract, costing almost $48.9 million annually (amounting to about $396.2 million over ten years) and an additional $575 million for race preparation, totaling nearly $1 billion, or roughly 1.3 trillion Rwandan francs.
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It has been six months since Visit Rwanda partnered with major European teams and various other competitions, which has boosted the country’s tourism sector.
The growing awareness has been evident, with a rise in the number of visitors. Rwanda’s sports investments have also been aimed at promoting its natural beauty and attracting international events, not just for tourism but also for business opportunities related to sports.
The tourism sector is expected to generate $660 million for Rwanda in 2024, up from $620 million in 2023.
The potential hosting of the Formula One Grand Prix has attracted global attention, and if it materializes, it would significantly boost Rwanda’s visibility, especially since the last African Formula One race took place in 1993 at Kyalami, South Africa.
In other countries, such races have proven to generate substantial returns, primarily from ticket sales because money from sponsorships often goes to the organizing company, Liberty Media.
While there have been instances where Formula One races incurred losses, such as in India and South Korea, where the Grand Prix failed to continue after heavy financial losses amounting to $24 million and $37 million respectively in 2012 and 2013, there are numerous successful examples.
For instance, Las Vegas invested $500 million for its 2023 Grand Prix, which generated an impressive $1.2 billion in tourism revenue. Similarly, between 2008 and 2018, Singapore’s Grand Prix contributed about $1.4 billion to its economy by drawing in 450,000 more tourists.
In Mexico, the Formula One Grand Prix boosted the country’s economy by 12%, largely through spending on luxury hotels and other services, where each Formula One attendee spends an average of $1,730 over the race weekend.
Research shows that between 2012 and 2015, hosting the event in Austin, Texas, generated $2.8 billion.
Formula One races are watched by over 1.54 billion viewers worldwide, with each race attracting an average audience of 70 million people.
With races broadcast in over 200 countries and spanning 635 hours of television coverage annually, the global reach is vast. About 53% of viewers are international, with tourists and teams spending significant amounts in the host country.
In addition to promoting the country, hosting such an event also creates job opportunities for local residents.
For example, the Formula One Grand Prix in Canada creates 640 jobs, while in Austin, Texas, it supports 9,100 jobs and generates $306 million annually.
If Rwanda was to host the Formula One Grand Prix, it could see a significant boost in its economy, both from tourism and the creation of job opportunities for locals.
The East African Community (EAC) had previously urged inclusive negotiations with all armed groups in the DRC after M23 resumed hostilities in late 2022. The plan sought to reintegrate domestic militias into civilian life and disarm foreign-based groups, repatriating their members.
However, momentum quickly faded. While M23 initially participated, subsequent talks focused primarily on groups allied with the Congolese army (FARDC), excluding M23.
During a discussion on RBA’s Inkuru mu Makuru, lawyer Jean Baptiste Gasominari described the Nairobi talks as a political maneuver.
“I avoided calling it theater because theater entertains and conveys purpose. This was purely political—a move by the DRC to appear cooperative,” he stated.
Senator Uwizeyimana agreed, calling the Nairobi talks “an illusion.”
“The DRC claims all issues related to armed groups are being addressed, asserting that foreign groups should return to their countries. Yet, it refuses to treat M23 differently, grouping them with others,” he explained.
The DRC government has consistently labeled M23 a terrorist organization and vowed not to engage with them.
“The government once negotiated with M23 and even signed agreements, which it later violated,” Uwizeyimana said. “Tshisekedi has at times admitted M23 are Congolese citizens, only to deny it later. This inconsistency reflects the chaos in their approach.”
Uwizeyimana emphasized that peace talks cannot succeed without addressing M23, which lies at the heart of tensions between Rwanda and the DRC.
“You cannot exclude M23 from the Luanda discussions, as they are central to resolving Rwanda-DRC conflicts. Ignoring them undermines the entire dialogue,” he asserted.
The Luanda talks, involving Rwanda, Angola, and the DRC, stalled after seven days when the DRC rejected direct talks with M23 despite the mediator’s request.
Rwanda maintained its stance, arguing that excluding M23 rendered any agreements meaningless.
