The funds are included in the 2024/2025 national budget.
Télésphore Ngoga, Conservation Analyst at Rwanda Development Board (RDB), told RBA that the initiative will focus on addressing key challenges such as wildlife encroaching on local communities, providing clean water to residents who currently fetch it from the parks, and reducing overcrowding in schools near the parks.
Since 2005, the government has invested Frw10 billion in projects designed to improve the livelihoods of communities surrounding the national parks, including Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Akagera parks.
In collaboration with RDB, which oversees tourism, as well as local government entities and nearby communities, more than 880 development projects have been implemented. These include schools, health centers, housing, water infrastructure, and initiatives to boost agricultural productivity.
According to RDB, these efforts not only support environmental conservation but also transform the lives of Rwandans. Many residents near the parks, who previously engaged in harmful activities such as poaching or collecting water from the parks, have since abandoned these practices.
The tourism sector is projected to continue expanding as a key driver of economic growth in Rwanda, with [revenues expected to exceed $660 million in 2024->https://en.igihe.com/economy/article/rwanda-s-tourism-revenue-projected-to-reach-660-million-by-end-of-2024#:~:text=Rwanda’s%20tourism%20revenue%20projected%20to,by%20end%20of%202024%20%7C%20IGIHE], up from $620 million in 2023.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Kenya’s premier bar association expressed full support for Karua, calling the decision an unjustified attack on her professional integrity and a setback for regional cooperation in legal practice.
“We express our unqualified disenchantment with the derogatory, contemptuous, and high-handed decision taken by the Law Council of Uganda. This decision not only offends the mutual cooperation that exists between the Kenyan and Ugandan bar, but the manner in which it was communicated and the reasons given are ludicrous and distasteful,” LSK stated.
“It is inconceivable that the Law Council of Uganda would hold such little regard for Kenyan practitioners, especially a reputable and long-standing member of the Senior Counsel Bar.”
The Uganda Law Council had declined Karua’s application to represent Besigye and his co-accused at the General Court Martial, citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of Karua’s involvement in the trial.
In its response, LSK has stated its intention to take immediate action to resolve the situation. The society called for an urgent engagement with the Kenyan Attorney General to address the issue and ensure a fair, reciprocal agreement on cross-border legal practice.
LSK also threatened to suspend the admission of Ugandan lawyers to Kenya until Uganda demonstrates a commitment to fostering mutual legal cooperation.
“Kenya has been a leader in promoting regional cooperation in legal practice, but the lack of reciprocity from Uganda is unacceptable,” the LSK statement read. “We must either find a mutually beneficial, reciprocal arrangement or withdraw from one-sided agreements that undermine the dignity of Kenyan legal practice.”
Karua, a former Justice Minister in Kenya and one of the senior lawyers in the country, had earlier also expressed her dismay over the decision.
“The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,” Karua wrote in her protest letter to the Uganda Law Council. “Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.”
Karua noted that the decision not only attacked her personal integrity but also violated Besigye’s constitutional right to choose his legal representation.
She had hoped to lead a team of 50 lawyers in the case where Besigye and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.
The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.
According to EAC Secretariat, the three-day forum provides a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and propose solutions on enhancing economic integration and social development, regional peace and security, progress on developing the constitution for the EAC political confederation and amending the EAC Treaty to serve the now enlarged EAC.
Participants include representatives from EAC Partner States’ governments, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, professional bodies, academia, EAC Organs and Institutions, development partners, and other interest groups.
Speaking during the forum, the Chief Guest, Mr. Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service in Kenya, reiterated President William Ruto’s commitment, as the new Chairperson of the Summit of EAC Heads, to steering the region toward increased economic and social integration.
Mr. Koskei commended EAC’s achievements in intra-regional trade, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
“Let’s encourage jointly working together. The joint hosting of AFCON 2027 will foster unity among Partner States, and build on future initiatives such as joint infrastructure projects, peace, security efforts and social integration programs. These milestones remind us of what we can achieve when we work together,” he noted.
He emphasized that accountability to citizens and efficient use of resources are crucial for regional integration. While commending EAC’s clean audit record and financial management, he called for enhanced transparency and citizen participation through various regional platforms.
He highlighted the Community’s efficiency improvements through institutional strengthening and citizen-focused initiatives like the East African Passport.
“Since the 2016 launch of the EAC e-Passport, member states’ nationals have enjoyed free travel across the region without separate visas or travel documents. Visa exemptions for EAC citizens have enhanced mobility, while efforts continue to harmonize immigration and visa policies in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia,” he noted.
Mr. Koskei further added that the EAC Single Tourist Visa, introduced in 2014, allows tourists to move freely between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, with plans to include more member states.
“Harmonized work permits and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) enable professionals like accountants and engineers to practice across member states,” he stated.
On her part, the EAC Secretary General, Veronica Nduva, highlighted the Community’s significant progress over 25 years, particularly in implementing the Customs Union, Common Market, and Monetary Union protocols.
“These frameworks have allowed for the liberalization of intra-regional trade, reduced barriers to business, and enhanced the movement of goods, services, and people,” she noted.
The Secretary General emphasized progress through initiatives like the Electronic Single Window System and East African Electronic Passport.
“The reduction of transit times for goods, particularly from Mombasa to Kigali, from 21 days to 3 days today, exemplifies the impact of our integration efforts,” she added.
One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) have streamlined customs procedures, reducing border crossing times by 70% and generating annual savings exceeding USD 63 million. Transit times from Mombasa to Kampala have decreased from 18 days in 2007 to 4-5 days currently.
Nduva noted that the Electronic Single Window (ESW) System has simplified customs and trade documentation, while Regional Trucking Initiatives, including a Centralized Monitoring Centre, have enhanced goods tracking and response to emerging issues.
Significant infrastructure upgrades along the Northern Corridor have improved goods flow between Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan.
“These efforts have yielded impressive results in regional trade. Intra-EAC trade grew from $6.2 billion in 2017 to $13.8 billion in 2023. The EAC’s merchandise trade with the rest of the world also rose from $65.3 billion in 2017 to $109.4 billion in 2023,” she added.
Trade between the EAC and Africa grew from $19.4 billion in 2017 to $24.4 billion in 2023, boosted by participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The forum aims to share good practices and lessons from 25 years of regional integration through presentations, recorded stakeholder testimonies (documentaries), and exhibitions.
The meeting will submit clear and practical recommendations to the Secretary General for consideration by the EAC Council of Ministers.
In his message, the Pope emphasized the themes of hope, fraternity, and peace, all conveyed through the Eucharist.
The event, which attracted thousands of participants including clergy, religious, and lay faithful from both Rwanda and beyond, provided an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.
The message, which was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Bishop Vincent Harolimana, Bishop of Ruhengeri and delegate of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR) for the Eucharistic Congresses.
In his message, Pope Francis joined the faithful in Rwanda in their “joy” and “thanksgiving,” celebrating the significance of the event.
Reflecting on the conference’s theme, “Let us fix our gaze on Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist: a source of hope, fraternity, and peace,” he described Communion as the “centre of all Christian life” and a “tangible sign of Christ’s love for humanity.”
The Pope encouraged the faithful to live out this message by embracing the call to “give ourselves to others,” fostering collaboration to “build a civilisation of love.”
He further underscored the Eucharist’s role in inspiring Catholics to become missionaries of fraternity and hope, emphasizing the need to address the various “hungers” humanity faces, particularly the “hunger for meaning.”
Looking ahead to the 125th anniversary of Rwanda’s evangelisation and the upcoming Jubilee, Pope Francis urged the faithful to turn to “Christ, the bread of life,” and extend solidarity to those in vulnerable situations.
“We must be tangible signs of hope,” he reminded them, echoing the message of the Bull of Indiction for the Holy Year.
In his conclusion, Pope Francis highlighted the shared responsibility the Eucharist calls for, not only in responding to humanity’s physical needs but also in nurturing a spiritual hope “in the triune God.”
He stressed that the Eucharist’s nature is “essentially relational,” inviting people to live “in community” and break down barriers of “race, language, or cultural tradition.”
The project, located on the shores of Lake Mugesera in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province, is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s efforts to enhance water security.
The loan agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of the project in promoting economic and social progress.
“This agreement reflects ADFD’s commitment to financing infrastructure projects that promote economic and social progress in beneficiary countries. It also underscores our commitment to strengthening and advancing our strategic partnership with the Republic of Rwanda, contributing to the development of key sectors vital to the country’s growth,” he said.
The Karenge Water Treatment Plant project will expand transmission and distribution systems, ensuring clean and sustainable water supplies to critical areas in Rwanda. By incorporating advanced technologies, the initiative aims to improve the efficiency of water systems, address growing demand, and strengthen the nation’s water security.
Ambassador Mirenge expressed Rwanda’s appreciation for ADFD’s support, saying that cooperation with ADFD demonstrates the UAE’s steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable development globally.
“The expansion of the water transmission and distribution systems at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant is a critical initiative to achieve our national objectives of providing clean water to our population and developing robust and sustainable water infrastructure to meet the needs of communities,” the ambassador remarked.
The initiative is also expected to create jobs and elevate the quality of life for Rwandan citizens.
As part of a larger program to ensure Kigali’s self-sufficiency in water supply, the project will include the construction of a water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic meters, along with expanded distribution systems to key areas of the capital.
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed more than five years ago, he is accused of advancing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family.
He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in return for assistance with personal matters.
Netanyahu arrived at the Tel Aviv courthouse around 10:00 a.m., where he was met by a mixed crowd of protesters and supporters. Some expressed support, while others urged him to intensify efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Coalition ministers and lawmakers, responding to a call from Netanyahu’s office the previous night, also attended to show support.
At the start of the session, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, criticized the Israeli judicial system, calling the trial “political persecution.” Hadad described the indictment as “flawed and invalid” and argued that the case should have been dismissed.
Netanyahu began his testimony at approximately 11:30 a.m., opening with the statement, “I have waited eight years for this moment to tell the truth as I remember it.” He described his testimony as “an opportunity to puncture the baseless accusations” against him.
Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for more than 17 years, holds the record as the country’s longest-serving leader.
Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.
However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.
In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.
He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.
“Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.
“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,” Brammertz stated.
Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.
He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.
Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.
He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.
Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.
Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.
On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.
RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.
These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.
Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.
This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.
This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.
The promotional event for the “Visit Rwanda” campaign kicked off on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel in Paris and continued on December 10 at the Amigo Hotel in Brussels, Belgium.
The event aimed to showcase Rwanda’s tourist attractions and investment potential in the country’s growing tourism sector.
This initiative aligns with the cooperation agreements within the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes Rwanda alongside nations such as Belgium, France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
Through this partnership, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign, providing a platform for stakeholders in Rwanda’s tourism sector to highlight how they deliver exceptional services to visitors.
The event in Paris gathered around 50 tourism professionals, eager to explore potential collaborations with Rwanda after learning about the country’s opportunities in the sector.
Rwanda’s delegation was led by Kageruka Ariella, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, who was joined by representatives from various Rwandan tour operators: Musoni Betty from Primate Safaris, Hategekimana Lambert from Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza from Songa Africa, and Musonera Mugisha Davidson from Wildlife Tours Rwanda.
RwandAir, represented by Higiro Déogratias, was also present, along with other key participants such as Amani Emmanuel from Blue Monkey Tours, Denis Lefebvre from Palast Tours & Travels, Nsengiyumva Barakabuye from Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Ndandari Philbert from Respafrica Tours.
The event was officially opened by Nkulikiyimfura François, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, who praised the attendees and tourism agency representatives for their contributions to promoting Rwanda’s tourism sector.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura stated, “You are all partners, and we are pleased to advocate for the tourism sector in Rwanda, which will open more doors for visitors eager to explore the beauty of Rwanda. You have the responsibility to provide information that highlights Rwanda and encourages potential visitors to come.”
He highlighted Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, its clean cities recognized as the cleanest in Africa and its rich cultural heritage, including the gorillas, national parks, and the recent inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
“The moment you arrive in Kigali, you will find a city that is not only beautiful but also welcoming, with warm-hearted people eager to share their stories,” he added.
Ambassador Nkulikiyimfura also expressed hope that the event would inspire attendees to become enthusiastic ambassadors for Rwanda, guiding their clients and peers to experience the country’s wonders. He invited them to imagine enjoying a sunset over the volcanoes while savoring Rwandan coffee or tea.
Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, also addressed the attendees, presenting Rwanda’s tourist attractions with visual aids and explanations.
She reminded the audience that citizens of member countries of the OIF, African Union, and Commonwealth can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kanombe Airport at no cost.
Kageruka encouraged the guests to engage with Rwandan tourism stakeholders, creating new connections and discovering the treasures Rwanda has to offer.
The evening’s festivities included traditional Rwandan performances by the Intore, adding cultural depth and vibrancy to the event.
Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.
This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.
Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.
His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.
Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.
He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.
