The two-year pilot project aims to assess the prevalence of TB and the effectiveness of efforts to combat the disease, with plans for expansion to other sub-Saharan African countries.
Dr. Kabayiza Jean Claude, the study’s lead researcher, highlighted that the research would provide a comprehensive overview of TB in the region and help identify strategies to address the rising cases.
“Despite improvements in medication availability and the decline of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, we have seen a significant increase in TB cases in both Rwanda and sub-Saharan Africa. This research will help us understand why these numbers are climbing,” Dr. Kabayiza said.
The study aims to collect data from all TB patients treated in Rwanda since the introduction of treatment services. Researchers will specifically focus on 240 patients with multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), exploring factors such as medication adherence and co-existing health conditions.
“We want to understand their experiences, treatment adherence, and other health challenges they may face. This data will be pivotal in shaping future strategies,” Dr. Kabayiza added.
The research will span 16 hospitals across Rwanda, with a focus on gathering data from TB patients. Among these, 240 MDR-TB patients will undergo tests to identify the factors contributing to the rise in TB cases.
The study will employ the “OMOP CDM” technology to collect and store data, which will be accessible to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) for further analysis.
Professor Dr. Twagirumukiza Marc, a medical lecturer at Ghent University, commended Legacy Clinic for its pioneering role in this research, praising its commitment to advancing healthcare.
“Collaborating with international organizations ensures that we gather reliable data, which can inform decision-making and improve healthcare policies,” he said.
Healthcare professionals from participating hospitals expressed the importance of accurate data collection.
Muhawenimana Janvière, data manager at Ntarama Health Centre, emphasized, “By using technology to centralize data, we ensure its completeness and reliability. This will enable authorities to take informed action.”
Xavier Nkundimana, IT officer at Muhima Hospital, noted that the research will provide policymakers with essential data to guide efforts toward eliminating TB.
The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) reported that between 2022 and 2023, the country recorded 9,417 new TB cases, including 90 multi-drug-resistant cases. This marked a significant increase from the previous year, when there were only 5,538 new TB cases.
In judicial appointments made on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, President Kagame also named Justice Alphonse Hitiyaremye as Vice President of the Supreme Court.
The appointment of Supreme Court judges is carried out in accordance with Article 154 of the Rwandan Constitution, which stipulates that the Head of State shall appoint judges following consultations with the Cabinet and the High Council of the Judiciary.
The President then submits a list of candidates, equal to the number of vacant posts, to the Senate for approval.
Until her appointment, Mukantaganzwa served as the Chairperson of the Rwanda Law Reform Commission (RLRC), a position she assumed in December 2019.
She is renowned for her central role and contributions to the success of the Gacaca Jurisdiction, which was tasked with handling cases related to the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. She led the institution from 2003 until 2012, concluding its mandate and presenting a comprehensive report to the government.
Mukantaganzwa was also one of the commissioners who drafted the 2003 Rwandan Constitution.
The 60-year-old holds a Master’s degree in Peace and International Relations from the Institute of Peace Studies and International Relations (HIPSIR) at Hekima University College, part of Hekima University in Kenya. Additionally, she pursued a legal studies course at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), where she earned a law degree.
On the other hand, Justice Hitiyaremye has served as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Rwanda since 2019.
Prior to this, he held various positions within the Government of Rwanda, including Judge of the Court of Appeal (2018–2019), Judge of the Supreme Court before the 2018 reform (2013–2018), Deputy Prosecutor General (2006–2013), Inspector General of Prosecution (2004–2006), Regional Chief Prosecutor (Procureur de la République) (2000–2004), Human Rights Officer in the Ministry of Justice (1999), Advisor to the Minister of Justice (1998), and Communication, Documentation, and Legal Information Officer at the Rwandan Embassy in Paris (1996–1997).
Justice Hitiyaremye holds a Master’s in International Public Law from Kiev State University (1995, Ukraine).
He has participated in various trainings, including one on the legal aspects of economic reconstruction organized by the International Development Law Institute, conflict resolution (TPN, Third Party Neutral) training organized by the Canadian Institute of Conflict Resolution, an internship in the Human Rights domain at ULB (Université Libre de Bruxelles) and Strasbourg (France), and a program on the United States Court System organized by The National Center for State Courts (USA).
In addition to his role as a Judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Hitiyaremye also heads the Bureau of the Anti-Corruption Committee within the Judiciary of Rwanda.
Outgoing United States President Joe Biden arrived in Angola late on Monday for a two-day visit. This marks Biden’s first trip to Africa as president since his inauguration four years ago.
Biden’s visit to the oil-rich, Portuguese-speaking country focuses on a multinational project to rehabilitate a railway line that ferries minerals from inland countries to the Angolan port of Lobito for export.
As part of the preparations for the high-profile visit by a U.S. head of state, the Angolan government declared Tuesday, December 3, and Wednesday, December 4, 2024, as public holidays. The visit has also been greeted with heavy security deployment across the Angolan capital, Luanda.
Biden’s tour will officially kick off with talks with President Joao Lourenco, followed by remarks at the National Slavery Museum on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, Biden is scheduled to travel to Lobito, an Atlantic port city about 500 kilometres south of Luanda.
The port, central to the Lobito Corridor project, has benefited from loans from the United States, the European Union, and other partners to rehabilitate a key railway connecting the mineral-rich inland countries of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia with Lobito, from where their minerals can be exported.
The Lobito Corridor project is seen as a direct challenge by the U.S. to China’s extensive investment and increasing influence in the region.
{{China Bans Critical Mineral Exports to the US
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China has announced a ban on the export of certain “dual-use items” associated with gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States, effective Tuesday, December 3, 2024.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, the country will also enforce stricter scrutiny on end-users and end-uses for graphite dual-use items being shipped to the U.S.
This move follows the U.S. announcement on Monday of its third major crackdown in three years on China’s semiconductor sector, targeting 140 companies, including the chip equipment manufacturer Naura Technology Group.
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The United States and Germany on Monday announced additional military assistance to Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.
The U.S. Department of Defense said the military aid package, worth $725 million, includes weapons such as air defence capabilities, munitions for rocket systems and artillery, and anti-tank weapons, among others.
Biden’s move is seen by critics as an 11th-hour scramble to support Ukraine with weapons aid, fearing that incoming President Donald Trump will halt such donations. Trump is set to take office in January following his resounding victory last month.
Meanwhile, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also pledged $680 million in military aid for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv.
Scholz stated that Ukraine can rely on Germany and that his visit was meant to reinforce that commitment. The military equipment is expected to be delivered to Ukraine before the end of the year.
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Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye was remanded for an additional eight days on Monday, December 2, 2024, in a case where he is charged alongside his close ally, Obeid Lutale.
The two suspects were arraigned at the General Court Martial in Makindye, where they face four charges related to engaging in activities that undermine Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of two pistols.
The court’s decision followed a request by Besigye’s lawyers for an adjournment to allow time to process a temporary practising certificate for Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua from the Uganda Law Council.
Court Martial Chairperson Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe declined to adjourn the matter to the following day, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, citing a clash with other scheduled cases.
He instead proposed December 10 as the next court date and ordered the suspects to continue being remanded at Luzira Prison.
Besigye has protested his trial in the military court, arguing that he should be tried in a civilian court.
{{Equity Bank’s James Mwangi Appointed to World Bank Group’s High-Level Advisory Council
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Dr. James Mwangi, Managing Director and CEO of Equity Group Holdings, was appointed on Monday to the World Bank Group’s newly established High-Level Advisory Council on Jobs.
The council, launched during the 2024 World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., will focus on providing actionable, scalable policy recommendations to address the global jobs challenge.
This initiative is part of the World Bank’s broader strategy to combat poverty and foster prosperity by prioritizing job creation, particularly for youth and women in emerging and developing economies.
The council’s members, a diverse group of global leaders, will offer insights on how to turn the challenge of job creation into an opportunity for growth, innovation, and social stability.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has been a driving force in Rwanda’s development since 1994, with a focus on infrastructure projects that support the country’s long-term growth.
By 2023, the AfDB had invested over $2.9 billion in various sectors, with the lion’s share directed toward infrastructure. The transport sector, in particular, has been a major beneficiary of this funding.
AfDB’s contributions have reshaped Rwanda’s transport infrastructure, fueling economic growth and contributing to the country’s national development goals.
In collaboration with the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the AfDB has played a pivotal role in modernizing the country’s transport network, aligning with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 to enhance regional integration and establish the country as a key player in East Africa.
One of the AfDB’s significant impacts has been in road infrastructure, funding the construction and rehabilitation of over 300 kilometers of roads across Rwanda. These efforts have greatly improved connectivity, particularly in rural areas, facilitating trade and access to services.
The AfDB’s support also extended to other vital infrastructure projects, including two ports, two cross-border markets, 10 milk collection centers, 42 classrooms, three multifunctional women’s centers, and 10 water boreholes. These contributions have created a more interconnected and accessible country, with wide-reaching socio-economic benefits.
The economic and regional effects of these investments have been profound. Improved road conditions have reduced vehicle operating costs, and travel times have been shortened, particularly at border crossings, where waiting times have dropped from seven hours to just one.
This has led to an increase in regional trade within the East African Community (EAC), which saw trade exchanges rise to $ 960 million by 2020. Additionally, the rural accessibility rate has risen from 50% to nearly 80%, bringing remote communities closer to markets, healthcare, and educational services.
The social impact of the AfDB-funded projects is equally significant. Over 120,000 temporary jobs were created during the construction phase, with substantial participation from youth and women.
These employment opportunities were complemented by extensive sensitization programs on road safety, environmental conservation, and public health, reaching over 229,000 people. Such initiatives have empowered local communities with the knowledge and skills needed for safer, more sustainable practices.
Moreover, the projects have contributed to education, women’s empowerment, and local economic growth. The infrastructure, including schools and women’s centers, has bolstered the education system and fostered gender equality.
Rural infrastructure improvements have also supported local economies, increasing access to essential markets and services.
Institutionally, these projects have helped build the capacity of the RTDA, enabling the agency to more effectively plan, monitor, and enforce road safety measures. Capacity-building programs and socio-economic studies have strengthened the country’s ability to manage and sustain its transport infrastructure.
“These efforts have boosted economic growth, reduced poverty, and facilitated regional integration,” says Imena Munyampenda, Director General of RTDA. “Additionally, AfDB projects have promoted gender inclusion through community programs, enhanced road safety, and prioritized sustainability.
The technical assistance provided by AfDB has strengthened RTDA’s capacity to manage complex infrastructure projects, which aligns with Rwanda’s vision of resilient and inclusive development.”
In recent years, the AfDB has funded six key transport projects in Rwanda, including the Rusizi–Bugarama, Crete Congo-Nil–Ntendezi, Cyangugu–Ntendezi–Mwityazo, Rubavu–Gisiza, Base–Gicumbi–Rukomo, and Kagitumba–Kayonza–Rusumo roads.
These projects have enhanced regional connectivity, facilitated trade, and furthered Rwanda’s integration within the broader East African region. According to Munyampenda, the completion of these projects marked a transformative milestone for the country’s transport sector.
“Each of these projects plays a critical role in fostering regional integration and enhancing connectivity, which is essential for socio-economic development across Rwanda and the EAC. Together, they have revolutionized Rwanda’s transport infrastructure, strengthening the country’s position as a regional trade hub,” he says.
Accessibility has greatly improved, with 79.73% of rural roads now accessible compared to just 50% previously. This has empowered rural communities and facilitated better access to markets, healthcare, and education.
Munyampenda further emphasizes that the AfDB’s technical assistance has enhanced RTDA’s ability to manage complex infrastructure projects. This support has improved procurement processes, integrated climate-resilient designs into road construction, and fostered a culture of sustainability.
These projects not only serve current needs but are also designed with the future in mind, ensuring long-term viability.
Moving forward, the RTDA’s plans, aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), focus on expanding and upgrading the national road network, enhancing rural accessibility, and promoting green transport solutions.
Through its ongoing partnership with the RTDA, the AfDB is helping to create a modern, efficient, and inclusive transport network, driving sustainable growth and enhancing Rwanda’s competitiveness within the region.
Among the graduates, 67 completed the first level (RAF1) designed for entry-level employees, while 70 graduated from the second level (RAF2), targeted at middle management.
The event, which marked a significant milestone, was attended by John Rwangombwa, the Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, who served as the guest of honor. Also present were banking leaders from various institutions, members of the Rwanda Bankers Association (RBA), and other key stakeholders.
The RBA, which established the academy, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the development of the country’s banking sector.
The training focused on building professionalism across various aspects of banking, including understanding the banking system, asset management, customer service, lending practices, and more.
RAF offers two levels of training: one for employees with general banking knowledge or those seeking to begin a career in banking, and the second for branch managers. A third level of training, set to launch next year, will focus on senior banking executives.
Governor Rwangombwa praised the Rwanda Bankers’ Association for its commitment to improving the knowledge and skills of banking professionals, which he said is essential for building a robust and resilient financial sector.
He emphasized the graduates’ role in applying their new skills to drive the development of the financial sector, particularly in adapting to industry changes and delivering high-quality services to clients. He expressed confidence that the training would empower the graduates to innovate and make informed decisions to contribute to the sector’s growth.
Hannington Namara, Managing Director of Equity Bank PLC Rwanda and Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Rwanda Bankers Association, acknowledged that all the graduates work for financial institutions and that the knowledge gained through the training would enhance productivity and efficiency within their organizations, as well as mitigate financial risks.
Diogène Twizeyimana, Branch Manager of BPR Rwanda Plc in Kayonza and one of the graduates, expressed gratitude for the program. He highlighted that the training would enhance the quality of his work and underscored the importance of continuous learning in improving performance.
He noted that the courses equipped him with critical skills, from customer service to understanding the role of technology in banking, making him better prepared to meet customer needs and provide high-quality service.
Cloritah Naamara Mbabazi, an employee at Bank of Kigali and one of the top performers in the program, shared how the training broadened her knowledge beyond her specific department.
She explained that this newfound expertise would enable her to offer more comprehensive support across the bank, benefitting not just her department, but the entire institution.
Tony Francis Ntore, Chief Executive Officer of RBA, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to continue demonstrating professionalism in their work, applying the knowledge they had gained to enhance service delivery across the sector.
Weapons in the latest package include air defense capabilities, munitions for rocket systems and artillery, and anti-tank weapons, among others, according to a press release from the Department of Defense.
The provision followed President Joe Biden’s announcement on Sept. 26 that his administration would provide another significant package of urgently needed weapons and equipment to Ukraine. The weapons will be provided under previously exercised Presidential Drawdown Authority from Department of Defense stocks, the Department of State said in its version of the announcement.
The assistance has been reported by news outlets based on anonymous sources prior to Monday’s formal announcements from the defense and state departments. It coincided with the Biden administration’s reported request for Ukraine that it lower the recruitment age from 25 to 18 to make up for the loss of manpower on the battleground.
According to a statement released by RURA, the pilot will be conducted on the Nyabugogo-Kabuga and Downtown-Kabuga routes.
“Under this new system, commuters will pay based on the distance travelled rather than a flat fare for the entire route. The approach is designed to promote equity and fairness in public transport fare systems,” the statement reads.
RURA further clarified that passengers will be required to tap in when boarding the buses and tap out at the end of their trip to avoid being charged for the entire route.
The statement also outlined the fare structure, with passengers paying Frw182 for the first two kilometers, Frw205 for three kilometers, Frw219 for four kilometers, Frw251 for the fifth, and so on until the 25th kilometer, where the fare will be Frw855.
RURA also provided examples of how fares will change on various common routes in Kigali. For example, the fare from Downtown to Remera (10 km) will be Frw388 from Frw307. The fare from Downtown to Rwandex (6 km) will cost Frw274, reduced from Frw307, among other adjustments.
Earlier this year, in February, Minister Dr. Gasore explained that a fare-based system would be particularly beneficial to passengers, especially after the removal of subsidies.
He emphasized that while the new system might result in higher fares for long-distance travelers, short-distance fares could decrease.
Gen Touray and his delegation are in Rwanda for a week-long visit aimed at strengthening the partnership between the Police institutions.
IGP Namuhoranye, during the bilateral meeting, stated that the friendship and collaboration between the Rwanda National Police and The Gambia Police Force is a significant step forward and that the visit presents another opportunity for both sides to strengthen relations and expand their partnership.
“This meeting will open many doors for collaboration, paving way for continued knowledge sharing, exchanging experiences and establishing strong partnership strategies. Working together will help us find appropriate solutions to the evolving security challenges as the world continues to advance,” IGP Namuhoranye said
He added: “As we embark on this new chapter of partnership, our goal should focus on building the strength and capacity needed to address common security challenges in both of our countries.”
He underscored that achieving this requires uniting efforts and developing effective strategies to reach shared goals, promoting collaboration, and striving for a common vision.
IGP Namuhoranye expressed gratitude to the leadership of both countries for laying the foundation for this partnership.
In his remarks, Gen Touray stated that his country is on a journey to reform its security institutions, including The Gambia Police Force (GPF), adding that this is an opportunity to build partnerships with other security institutions, including the Rwanda National Police.
Rwanda, he noted, has made tremendous achievements, emphasizing how much they stand to learn from its experiences portrayed both at home and in international peace and security operations.
During this visit, Gen Touray and his delegation will also tour various RNP departments and units in different parts of the country, including training schools.
The two suspects were arraigned at the General Court Martial in Makindye, where they face four charges related to engaging in activities that undermine Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of two pistols.
The court’s decision followed a request by Besigye’s lawyers for an adjournment to allow time to process a temporary practising certificate for Kenyan lawyer Martha Karua from the Uganda Law Council.
Court Martial Chairperson Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe declined to adjourn the matter to the following day, Tuesday, December 3, 2024, citing a clash with other scheduled cases. He instead proposed December 10 as the next court date and ordered the suspects to continue being remanded at Luzira Prison.
Earlier, the Uganda Law Council indicated that a decision on Karua’s urgent application for a practising license is expected tomorrow.
If approved, Karua will lead a team of 50 lawyers in mounting a spirited defence for Besigye and Lutale, who were arrested by Ugandan security agents in Nairobi on November 16, 2024, while on a visit to attend the launch of the former Justice Minister’s book.
Karua is expected to formally take over the lead role from Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, heading a defense team that includes representatives from notable organizations such as the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).
Karua, alongside several rights groups in Uganda and Kenya, has been at the forefront of condemning the charges, which they argue are politically motivated.
Key questions arising from the controversial arrest include a debate over the jurisdiction of the military court in trying civilians.
Karua’s involvement has heightened the stakes, with her legal expertise seen as a crucial addition to the defence.
Besigye, a four-time presidential contender, has been arrested numerous times for leading anti-government protests in Uganda and charged with inciting violence.
The council, launched during the 2024 World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., will focus on providing actionable, scalable policy recommendations to address the global jobs challenge.
This initiative is part of the World Bank’s broader strategy to combat poverty and foster prosperity by prioritizing job creation, particularly for youth and women in emerging and developing economies. The council’s members, a diverse group of global leaders, will offer insights on how to turn the challenge of job creation into an opportunity for growth, innovation, and social stability.
As the world faces an unprecedented demographic shift, with over 1.2 billion people in the Global South expected to reach working age in the next decade, the need for job creation is urgent. It’s estimated that only 420 million jobs will be available for this young workforce, leaving a significant gap that the council aims to address.
The council will meet bi-monthly for up to two years, directly interacting with senior management at the World Bank Group to ensure that its ideas are implemented.
Dr. Mwangi’s appointment highlights his long-standing commitment to socio-economic development, not only in the financial sector but across broader societal initiatives.
He joins the World Bank’s advisory council alongside a distinguished group of global leaders, including Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore, and Michelle Bachelet, Former President of Chile.
The council, co-chaired by these two influential figures, brings together 14 eminent individuals from diverse sectors such as policymaking, business, academia, and civil society, all of whom have demonstrated exceptional expertise in job creation and development.
Reflecting on his appointment, Dr. Mwangi expressed his honor and commitment to advancing job creation in Africa. He noted, “Over the next decade, the world is expected to experience significant demographic shifts, with one in four people on the planet being African, and more than a third of the world’s young people residing in Africa.”
Dr. Mwangi emphasized the importance of leveraging Africa’s growing youth population to drive economic growth. He highlighted that these demographic changes, driven by progress in health, education, and nutrition across the continent, could lead to a remarkable opportunity for Africa to contribute to global prosperity.
The World Bank’s High-Level Advisory Council on Jobs will meet every two months over an initial period of two years, engaging directly with the World Bank Group’s senior management. The council’s findings and recommendations will inform the Bank’s strategies to support job creation and economic development, particularly in regions that face high unemployment rates and economic inequality.
As part of his commitment to supporting Africa’s development, Dr. Mwangi also shared his intentions to apply the insights gained from the advisory council to further Equity’s own Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan. The plan, which aims to create 50 million jobs across the African continent by 2030, reflects Dr. Mwangi’s dedication to ensuring that Africa’s burgeoning youth population has access to meaningful employment opportunities.
In addition to Dr. Mwangi, the advisory council includes other distinguished members, such as Guy Ryder, Under Secretary General for Policy at the United Nations; Patrick Achi, Former Prime Minister of Cote d’Ivoire; and Sebastien Bazin, Group Chairman and CEO of Accor Group.
These leaders, alongside Dr. Mwangi, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the council, ensuring that the solutions developed will be grounded in both global best practices and local realities.
