The celebration took place on December 13, 2024, at their new premises located in Remera, KG 8 Avenue. Established in 2015, the company provides multimodal transport services by sea, air, and road, as well as customs clearance, warehousing, and freight forwarding solutions.
Audrey Akimana, the company’s Rwanda representative, expressed her gratitude to the team, partners, and clients for their unwavering support.
“We are deeply thankful to everyone who supported us and our partners who made this milestone possible. A special thanks to our hardworking team. Without collaboration, we wouldn’t be where we are today. This is a day of joy as we celebrate the year’s end and inaugurate our new offices,” she said.
The company CEO Kamiya Hakizimana also addressed attendees, appreciating their presence and reaffirming the company’s commitment to excellence. “We are honored to share this evening with you and proud to gather here in our new Rwanda offices,” he said.
Kamiya commended the local management team for their dedication, ensuring the company achieved its goals. He reassured clients of continued quality services tailored to meet their needs.
Molly Phee, the United States Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs, confirmed this during a recent media briefing regarding President Joe Biden’s visit to Angola earlier this month.
During the presser on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Phee stated that Kenyatta had committed to organizing talks between M23 and the DRC. The East African Community (EAC) endorsed this initiative, transferring the responsibility for resolving the armed group crisis in eastern DRC to the African Union (AU).
“President Kenyatta has agreed to help broker talks between M23 and the DRC. The EAC supported moving that mandate to deal with the armed groups in eastern DRC to the African Union. President Kenyatta was, in fact, in Luanda this past weekend,” Phee stated while commenting on conflict resolution efforts in the region.
Her remarks come in the wake of the postponement of talks intended to bring together Presidents Paul Kagame (Rwanda), Félix Tshisekedi (DRC), and João Lourenço (Angola) in Luanda on December 15, 2024. The talks were delayed due to the DRC government’s refusal to negotiate with M23.
On the scheduled meeting day, President Lourenço, Tshisekedi, and Kenyatta met in Luanda to discuss ways to restore lasting peace and security in eastern DRC.
One of the key issues discussed was the resumption of talks between the DRC government and armed groups operating in the eastern part of the country, including the possibility of involving M23.
President Biden had earlier tasked Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines with using U.S. intelligence resources to hold the DRC and Rwanda accountable for commitments they made to de-escalate tensions in eastern DRC in support of the Luanda mediation process.
M23 previously participated in the Nairobi talks in April 2022 but was expelled by an envoy of President Tshisekedi, who accused the group of instigating violence. M23 denied the allegations.
The DRC government continues to face pressure to reengage in dialogue with the group to address the security issues plaguing eastern DRC collaboratively.
Rwanda maintains that meaningful peace efforts in the region require the inclusion of M23, as the group remains one of the key players in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
The Rwandan government has also called on the DRC to take ‘serious’ action against the FDLR, which poses a security threat to Rwanda. The FDLR comprises remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
This milestone marks a significant step for Rwanda’s capital markets at a time when the global demand for responsible investing and sustainability is rapidly increasing.
At the launch event, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, the CEO of RSE, highlighted the importance of these guidelines in positioning Rwanda as a competitive player in the global investment landscape. He explained that ESG is no longer just a trend but a foundational element for attracting investments.
“ESG is not just a trend but a fundamental pillar for attracting global investment. By adopting ESG reporting, we are ensuring that Rwanda remains competitive and aligned with international standards for responsible investing,” Rwabukumba said.
The guidelines, developed over the past two years in collaboration with various stakeholders, aim to support companies listed on the Stock Exchange as well as those beyond it.
Rwabukumba further emphasized that while the global emphasis on ESG is growing, the RSE is taking proactive steps to ensure that local companies are not left behind. He assured companies that the guidelines are flexible, offering enough time for them to align with the new framework.
“ESG has become dominant in investment decisions. A lot of investors today are not just focusing on profitability. They are looking at the environmental, social, and governance impact of businesses,” he noted.
Dr. James Ndahiro, the Technical Advisor from the Capital Market Authority (CMA), reinforced the significance of sustainability for Rwanda’s future economic development. In his address, he noted that markets must lead the way in transparency and accountability.
“Our markets must lead the way in transparency and accountability. ESG reporting is a cornerstone for creating businesses that not only deliver financial returns but also contribute to environmental stewardship and social development,” Ndahiro stated.
Bhongolwethu Sonti, the Africa Program Manager at GRI, shared his insights into how companies can implement ESG reporting frameworks.
“Effective ESG reporting allows businesses to align their operations with global sustainability goals while addressing local challenges. This is how we create resilient and impactful organizations,” Sonti explained.
He also underscored the importance of strong corporate governance as the foundation for successful ESG integration, emphasizing that businesses must ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making at all levels.
Sonti praised Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability, noting that the country’s strong governance structures make it an ideal environment for the integration of ESG principles.
He encouraged businesses to embrace the guidelines not merely as a compliance requirement but as an opportunity to innovate and adapt to a rapidly changing global landscape.
The launch event was preceded by a one-day training session facilitated by Protos Capital LLP, where Loise Wangui Musyoka, Managing Partner at Protos, spoke about the importance of integrating ESG into business strategy.
“ESG reporting is more than a compliance exercise; it is a powerful tool for driving innovation and building trust with stakeholders. These guidelines are not just a process flow document; they are a how-to guide that provides templates and tools to help companies integrate ESG into their operations,” Musyoka remarked.
She addressed concerns regarding the cost of implementing ESG practices. While acknowledging that there are initial costs, especially for upskilling internal teams and adapting business operations, she argued that the cost of non-compliance could be far higher in the long run.
Jean Claude Uwizeyemungu, the Managing Director, Mahwi Grain Millers Ltd, one of the companies listed on the RSE said that the launch of these ESG guidelines is a critical step for Rwanda, not only in attracting investments but also in positioning the country as a leader in sustainable business practices in Africa.
With this new framework in place, Rwanda, through RSE, becomes the seventh member of the Africa Stock Exchange Association and only the second in the East African region. It joins countries including South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco and Eswatini.
This shows that capital markets are slowly but surely moving towards meeting the growing global demand for transparency, accountability, and sustainability in business operations.
In response to Muhoozi’s latest remarks, Opondo has questioned the legitimacy of the general’s words. “So, being a buffoon, proven or otherwise, is now an offence?” Opondo responded challenging Muhoozi to provide specifics on his allegations.
“If you have serious allegations, General Muhoozi, be specific. Who is the fool you are talking about, and what have they done?” Opondo’s sharp response underscored the growing rift within Uganda’s leadership, as Muhoozi’s critics, including Opondo, accused him of undermining military cohesion and creating unnecessary divisions.
Opondo further argued that public name-calling does nothing to resolve internal disputes and only exacerbates tensions. “We have institutions to handle disputes. Calling someone a fool or a buffoon in public does not solve anything. It only creates more division and confusion,” he said.
This comment highlighted the deepening divide between those who support Muhoozi’s outspoken nature and those who view his remarks as harmful to Uganda’s stability and diplomatic relations.
Meanwhile, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi has said that Muhoozi’s posts are not the official position of government of Uganda.
“Regarding the comments attributed to general Muhoozi, the CDF, on DRC and Sudan, those are comments made on social media, casually, privately, and not the official position of UPDF or Ministry of Defense or government of Uganda,” Baryomunsi said.
He urged the public and the international community to treat Muhoozi’s tweets as casual comments.
“They should be treated as casual comments, if at all he made them, and therefore there should be no anxiety at all about those comments, both within the country and even our friends outside Uganda. So, they shouldn’t be treated as an official position of the government of Uganda,” Baryomunsi said.
Muhoozi, the son of President Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, has once again found himself at the center of controversy, this time for his inflammatory tweets about Sudan, the DRC and internal military circles.
Muhoozi’s initial remarks about Sudan, in which he threatened to invade the country with the support of the United States, quickly sparked outrage both locally and internationally.
The Sudanese government has since called on the African Union, regional and international organizations, and the entire international community to condemn Muhoozi’s statements, which it said, pose a threat to regional and international peace and security.
Another post where Muhoozi threatens to wipeout all white mercenaries operating in eastern DRC prompted he Congolese government reacted by summoning Uganda’s Acting Chargé d’Affaires, Matata Twaha Magara to get clarification on the official position of government of Uganda.
Although Muhoozi did not single out a mercenary group, it is widely believed that he was referring to foreign operatives associated with Bulgaria’s Agemira group and Romania’s RALF, who have been assisting the Congolese national army (FARDC) in its fight against M23 rebels since 2022.
The Congolese government has repeatedly stated that these individuals are not mercenaries but trainers working to strengthen the FARDC’s capacity in modern warfare and safeguarding strategic locations like Goma and Sake.
Critics have argued that Muhoozi’s inflammatory statements could be part of a broader political strategy, suggesting he is being used as a scapegoat by powerful figures within the Ugandan government.
Just days after the Sudan debacle, Muhoozi stirred internal unrest by targeting his fellow military officers, including Lt. Gen. Peter Elweru, whom he publicly called a “buffoon” while accusing him of incompetence.
This sparked a firestorm of debate, with many Ugandans questioning whether such remarks were appropriate from a senior figure in the military and political scene. Muhoozi’s critics suggested that his outbursts were intentionally encouraged to draw attention away from larger issues.
Muhoozi’s actions come at a time when his political ambitions are under close scrutiny. His critics believe that these outbursts may be part of a broader strategy to bolster his profile ahead of any future political ambitions, while others argue that he is being manipulated as a scapegoat for political maneuvering within the government.
While he has since deleted many of his inflammatory tweets, the diplomatic and internal fallout looms. Uganda’s international relations, particularly with neighboring Sudan and DRC remain in jeopardy, and the tensions within the Ugandan military and political circles show no signs of easing.
As the fallout unfolds, many are left wondering whether Muhoozi’s controversial remarks will continue to shape the country’s political landscape or whether Uganda’s leadership will regain control of the narrative.
Speaking to Imvaho Nshya, RCS Spokesperson CSP Thérèse Kubwimana addressed accusations raised in an October 2024 Human Rights Watch report. The report alleged cases of torture and unlawful detentions, including claims from a detainee at Rubavu Prison who reported being subjected to beatings and electric shocks.
Kubwimana firmly denied these allegations, emphasizing that RCS does not condone such acts and whenever committed, these are personal choices and not directives from RCS or the government.
“No leader assigns duties that include torturing others. Those found guilty of such actions are held accountable in courts of law,” she stated,
She criticized the tendency to generalize individual misconduct as institutional failure and expressed disappointment over narratives portraying correctional facilities negatively without verified information.
“It is deeply troubling because those making these claims have never visited our facilities to see for themselves. I can confidently say our prisons provide good living conditions, contrary to these allegations,” she said.
Highlighting the credibility of RCS, Kubwimana pointed out that its personnel are entrusted with responsibilities in United Nations peacekeeping missions in Sudan and the Central African Republic, where they work alongside Rwanda’s army and police forces.
“A country accused of systemic torture would not be selected to provide peacekeepers who promote human rights and dignity,” she noted.
RCS continues to improve inmate welfare through programs like farming and livestock management, which contribute to dietary needs within facilities. Vulnerable prisoners and children in custody benefit from milk produced by RCS-owned cows, reflecting a positive commitment to humane incarceration.
Meanwhile, the government is taking further steps to enhance reintegration for inmates nearing the end of their sentences. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, Minister of Justice and Attorney General recently announced the establishment of Rwanda’s first social reintegration center, set to open in February 2025 in Rwamagana District.
The facility, commonly referred to as a halfway home, will initially accommodate 250 female inmates, allowing them to transition back into society by engaging in day-to-day activities outside the center while returning in the evenings. This initiative is aimed at reducing recidivism and supporting a smooth reintegration process.
Ugirashebuja shared that the halfway home will also offer civic education and vocational training. If successful, the program will be expanded to other regions in the country.
With these measures, Rwanda demonstrates its dedication to balancing accountability, rehabilitation, and reintegration for a fair and humane correctional system.
The community outreach, led by members of the Parliamentary Forum on the Prevention and Denial of the Genocide Against the Tutsi (AGPF), focused on five districts that had been identified as areas where Genocide ideology and acts of violence against survivors had been prevalent.
These districts are Nyaruguru, Ngoma, Karongi, Rusizi, and Ruhango. The goal of the initiative is to encourage local communities to stand united against division and to actively support the principles of unity and reconciliation.
Senator Prof. Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu, the Forum President explained to IGIHE that the visits were aimed at raising awareness and building local capacity to prevent the recurrence of genocide ideology.
“We are not only sending a message of support and comfort to the survivors but also urging the people to hold fast to the values that promote unity and equality among Rwandans. We must ensure that the progress we’ve made in promoting unity and peace in Rwanda is not reversed,” he said.
The forum’s members engaged in discussions with local leaders, youth, women, and survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to outline strategies for addressing and eliminating any remnants of divisive rhetoric or actions.
These efforts are supported by educational campaigns and clear calls for unity, stressing that any attempt to create divisions or diminish Rwanda’s progress toward peace must be resisted.
Prof. Dusingizemungu emphasized that the parliament’s actions are a direct response to the recent incidents of violence linked to genocide ideology.
“We are sending a clear message that these acts will not be tolerated. Our objective is to make sure that such destructive ideologies are rooted out from society and that every Rwandan feels secure and respected,” he asserted.
Going forward AGPF plans to continue its outreach in all districts. In early 2025, the forum will expand its efforts by targeting youth in different age groups, teaching them the dangers of genocide ideology and reinforcing the importance of unity and national development.
This initiative is part of Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the horrors of the past are never repeated.
Speaking at his annual news conference on Thursday, Putin said, “If someone takes part in the election and gains legitimacy, we are ready to talk to him, including Volodymyr Zelensky.”
Putin’s remarks signal an openness to dialogue, but he emphasized that such talks would take into account the evolving situation on the ground, referencing the Istanbul agreements as a potential framework for discussions.
These agreements were initially brokered in March 2022 during peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, although they ultimately failed to bring about a ceasefire.
The war in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022, has caused widespread destruction, with tens of thousands of casualties and millions displaced.
The conflict, rooted in long-standing tensions between the two countries, has escalated into a brutal war, marked by fierce battles, significant international sanctions on Russia, and ongoing geopolitical ramifications.
The recent comments from Putin come amidst increasing global pressure for a peaceful resolution and a series of military setbacks for Russian forces, which have prompted discussions about potential negotiations.
However, given the entrenched positions on both sides and the complexities of the conflict, prospects for meaningful peace talks remain uncertain. Ukraine is scheduled to hold its next presidential elections in March 2024, despite the ongoing conflict.
He was speaking on December 19, 2024, at the opening ceremony of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF)’s 33rd Policy Organs meeting running from 16 to 21 December 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda.
“We must continue working together across political, security, development, and humanitarian pillars, deepening our partnerships as member states, regional economic communities, mechanisms, and our umbrella organisation, the African Union, to effectively contribute to peace, security, and stability,” Marizamunda said.
The Minister further urged EASF member states to enhance their response systems, adapt them to tackle existing challenges, and fully utilise their resources to foster peace and security across the region and the continent.
The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Chiefs of Defence who joined the Experts Working Group at the meeting, reaffirmed their commitment to member states’ pledges and acknowledged the valuable suggestions and recommendations provided by the experts during three days of deliberations.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff (CDS) of the EASF, General MK Mubarakh, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, assured that the EASF Chiefs of Defence Staff remain committed to providing crucial guidance to improve the force’s operational readiness.
Brig Gen (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, the EASF Director, commended the Experts Working Group for their exchange of ideas and productive recommendations, which will significantly contribute to maintaining EASF’s readiness and enhancing conflict prevention efforts.
The 33rd Policy Organs Meeting (POM) coincides with EASF’s 20th anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Two Decades of Commitment to Promote Regional Peace and Security.”
The organisation, now operational under the African Union’s umbrella, comprises ten member states.
The first phase of the centre, currently under construction in Rwamagana District, is almost complete. Initially, it will accommodate up to 250 female inmates.
Dr. Ugirashebuja shared the update at the Annual Conference and General Meeting of the Rwanda Bar Association (RBA) on December 19, 2024.
“The first phase is nearly finished, and we plan to begin operations by hosting up to 250 female inmates in February 2025,” he said. “If successful, we intend to expand the program to other areas across the country.”
The halfway home will provide inmates with the opportunity to reintegrate into society before their full release.
Dr. Ugirashebuja explained that the program will allow inmates nearing the end of their sentences to live at the centre, where they can go out during the day and return in the evening. This will help them adapt to life outside of prison.
“Inmates will start adjusting to life outside of prison and learn how to successfully reintegrate into society,” he explained. “This gradual reintroduction will help reduce recidivism.”
The centre will offer a range of programs, including civic education and vocational skills training to help inmates live independently after their release.
Families will also be allowed to visit their loved ones, supporting their reintegration into Rwandan society.
Dr. Ugirashebuja also emphasized the importance of lawyers in promoting alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice practices.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Murangira B. Thierry emphasized this message in a recent interview with IGIHE.
The warning follows a disturbing incident where a student was severely assaulted after days of harassment at a house party in Kicukiro District.
RIB’s investigation revealed that the assault took place in a house rented by the perpetrators. Authorities arrested several individuals aged between 19 and 24 in connection with the crime.
Dr. Murangira warned that such events often lead to criminal activities, including child abuse, drug use, assault, theft, and public disturbance. He urged property owners to be vigilant and avoid renting their properties for “House Parties” to prevent the escalation of such incidents.
Landlords who fail to heed this warning may face legal consequences for aiding and abetting criminal activities.
