The announcement came during a discussion between the Ministry and the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security on November 27, 2024.
Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, explained that many refugees in Rwanda’s camps seek resettlement in countries like the USA, Canada, and others. “This year alone, 5,000 refugees have been resettled, bringing the total to 36,000 since 2006,” he stated.
The recent influx of refugees includes around 15,000 Congolese fleeing the ongoing M23 conflict, bringing the total number of refugees currently residing in Rwanda to approximately 16,000.
Rwanda continues to support its refugee population through employment programs and the provision of documentation that enables them to compete for jobs across various sectors of the economy.
Senator Evode Uwizeyimana raised concerns about some refugees who fabricate family connections to be resettled in specific countries, pointing out that those selected for resettlement may struggle to adapt or thrive in their new environments.
“Some refugees lie about family relationships with those who have already been resettled abroad. These individuals often feel disconnected, with no strong ties to either the host country or their country of origin,” Uwizeyimana said.
Minister Murasira acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing that individuals preparing for resettlement receive counseling from mental health professionals to ensure a smooth transition despite the difficulties.
He also noted that Rwanda hosts refugees from diverse regions, which contributes to the large refugee population in the country. However, he encouraged refugees to embrace both their host country and their home country.
Resettlement to third countries remains a key solution for refugees who are unable to integrate into their host country or return to their countries of origin.
As of the latest statistics, Rwanda is home to over 135,000 refugees. Mahama camp, houses 68,115 refugees, while other camps such as Kiziba, Kigeme, Mugombwa, Nyabiheke, and Nkamira shelter a combined total of over 67,000 refugees.
According to Egypt Today, the two ministers explored ways to deepen collaboration in key sectors, including health, trade, economic cooperation, and capacity building. They also discussed the exchange of expertise through training programs facilitated by the Egyptian Agency for Partnership for Development.
The ministers expressed a shared desire to convene a joint committee between the two countries at the earliest opportunity and to organize a business forum during the committee’s proceedings. This forum would aim to foster stronger ties between the private sectors of both nations.
Additionally, the ministers reviewed progress on the “Egypt-Rwanda Magdi Yacoub Heart Center,” a significant initiative that expands the reach of one of Egypt’s leading heart treatment centers to Rwanda. The center is expected to be a major healthcare facility in Rwanda and the wider African region.
In the broader context, the two officials also discussed developments across the African continent. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the African Union’s institutions and promoting sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063. They also pledged mutual support for nominations in regional and international forums.
Rwanda and Egypt share a rich history of diplomatic relations. The Egyptian Embassy in Kigali was established in 1976, and Rwanda re-opened its embassy in Cairo in March 2015. The two countries have forged strong ties across multiple sectors, including political, economic, cultural, and development cooperation.
Both countries are active members of regional organizations such as the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Agency, the African Union, and the Nile Basin Initiative.
The Egypt-Rwanda Joint Commission, which was established in 1989, has seen significant collaboration. In 2009, the second round of the Joint Commission led to the signing of ten cooperation agreements spanning agriculture, education, health, industrial development, and other sectors.
Notably, Egypt played a pivotal role in facilitating the construction of the Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Centre, which is set to become the first dedicated cardiac hospital in Rwanda and Sub-Saharan Africa. The $20 million facility, currently under construction in Masaka, Kicukiro District, is expected to be completed in 2025.
In August 2024, the Rwandan government agreed to allocate land for the establishment of an Egyptian logistics hub. In return, Egypt committed to providing land for Rwanda to enhance trade and investment opportunities.
Additionally, Rwandan and Egyptian officials recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the supply of medical equipment and devices for the heart center once it is completed.
These developments reflect the ongoing strengthening of relations between Rwanda and Egypt, underscoring a shared commitment to mutual growth and cooperation across multiple sectors.
The Rwandan government understands this too well, and its partnerships with the African Development Bank (AfDB) over the past six decades have continued to transform the country’s energy sector, putting Rwanda on the world map as one of the fastest-growing economies.
Since the inception of the regional multilateral development finance institution in 1964, Rwanda’s energy sector has benefited from AfDB financing for 16 energy projects. AfDB’s current project portfolio in Rwanda includes six projects, accounting for a $521.82 million investment in the country.
With such partnerships from AfDB and other development partners, Rwanda is well on its way to achieving universal electricity access by 2024, with over 74% of households connected as of 2023 up from 16.8% in 2012.
AfDB’s strategic investments have helped power the remotest villages, ensuring that homes, schools, and health centers benefit from reliable energy. The projects have also led to job creation, both during construction and in industries powered by the new energy infrastructure.
{{Scaling Up Electricity Access Program (SEAP)}}
The SEAP has been a cornerstone of Rwanda’s journey toward universal electricity access. Over 8,112 kilometers of distribution lines have been established, connecting homes, schools, and businesses to the national grid.
The program has also provided over 193,000 new on-grid connections, including 2,112 productive use connections for small businesses. The rural electrification rate has surged, lighting up homes and powering economic activities across the country.
For Jacqueline, a shop owner in Nyamasheke, electricity has changed her life. Before SEAP, her shop closed at sundown due to the lack of power. Today, she runs a freezer to sell cold drinks, generating enough income to send her children to school.
“Electricity has changed everything,” Jacqueline says, reflecting the life-changing impact of the AfDB’s investments.
{{KivuWatt: Harnessing Methane for Clean Energy}}
AfDB’s support for the KivuWatt project has unlocked the vast methane gas reserves of Lake Kivu to generate electricity. With an initial output of 26 MW and plans to expand to 100 MW, KivuWatt provides reliable, climate-friendly power, reducing reliance on wood and diesel.
This energy has spurred business growth in western Rwanda, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
{{Renewable Energy Investments}}
AfDB has been instrumental in driving Rwanda’s push for clean energy. Solar projects have brought light to remote communities, benefitting over 20% of households outside the grid.
Additionally, small hydropower plants have provided affordable, sustainable energy to thousands, contributing to a renewable energy mix that now accounts for 50% of Rwanda’s energy supply. These investments not only reduce environmental impact but also lower energy costs for businesses and households.
Emmanuel, a farmer in Bugesera, now irrigates his crops using solar-powered pumps. “I no longer rely on the rains, and my harvests have tripled,” he shares.
As the African Development Bank celebrates six decades of partnership with Rwanda, its contributions to the energy sector have proven essential in powering the nation’s growth. AfDB’s investments ensure that energy is not just a service, but a lifeline for development.
With energy at the core of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, AfDB remains a trusted partner, empowering the nation to build a sustainable, inclusive future.
Attendees of the 3-day meeting include the Second and Fifth Infantry Division Commanders from RDF, the Second Infantry Division Commander and his delegation from UPDF, and Defence Attachés from both nations. These leaders convened to discuss strategies to combat negative activities impacting the border region.
Brig Gen Frank Mutembe, RDF’s 2nd Infantry Division Commander, welcomed the UPDF delegation and emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing illicit activities on the border.
“Such meetings are aimed at discussing challenges our border communities usually face, including drug dealing, illegal border crossing, smuggling, and deforestation,” he noted.
The head of the UPDF delegation, Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi, expressed gratitude to the leadership of both armies and their Chiefs of Defence Staff for facilitating the meeting.
“We continue to thank our Heads of State for creating this enabling environment. It is a great honour to fulfil the vision of our great leaders and review security requirements for our border communities,” he said.
Before the meeting officially commenced, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to Musanze district officials, joined by the Mayors of Burera and Gicumbi districts, which border Uganda.
Rogers Taitika, a spokesperson of Elgon region police, told Xinhua over the phone that local officials and relatives report that over 100 people are missing in the landslides that happened Wednesday night, burying dozens of houses.
Taitika said 14 bodies have so far been retrieved and about 15 people who were critically injured have been admitted at a local health facility. “The search for victims is still going on but more than 100 people are still missing according to local leaders and relatives,” Taitika said.
The landslides, triggered by torrential rains Wednesday night in the mountainous region, buried 40 houses and partially damaged others, according to the URCS.
Ramazan Twalla, a district official, told Xinhua by telephone that urgent humanitarian assistance, including food and temporary shelter, is needed for the affected families.
The URCS said that heavy rains across Uganda are intensifying the adverse effects of climate change. “As a national society, we remain vigilant, delivering early warning messages through our community radio networks and providing timely support to those affected,” the agency said.
Landslides have become frequent in Uganda during periods of heavy rainfall. In August, more than 30 people lost their lives in a landslide at a garbage dump site in central Uganda, following days of torrential rain. Earlier in May, landslides in the western district of Kasese killed eight people.
This came during the eighth Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa Week (PIDA Week 2024), held on Nov. 25-29 under the theme “Fostering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure for Africa’s Sustainable Growth: Leveraging Transformative Financing and Regional Integration” at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital.
Addressing the closing session Thursday, Kamugisha Kazaura, director for Infrastructure and Energy at the AU Commission, underscored the urgent need to address financing and capacity development gaps as a crucial enabler for the realization of major infrastructure development projects in Africa. Noting the critical gap in financing infrastructure projects in Africa, he stressed the need to strengthen public-private partnerships to bridge the gap.
“We need to mobilize domestic as well as international financing. This is very crucial to be able to bridge the financing gap. In order to be able to implement complex development projects, we need the right requisite technical and capacity building,” Kazaura said.
According to the AU, as a continental initiative spanning until 2040, the PIDA aims to address infrastructure deficits across the continent. The PIDA is a continental initiative adopted by all African countries to mobilize resources to transform Africa with modern infrastructure.
Data from the AU show that through PIDA projects, nearly 30 million people in Africa have gained access to electricity, bringing the continent’s overall electricity access rate to approximately 44 percent. Since the start of PIDA, more than 16,000 km of roads and 4,000 km of railway lines have been developed across the continent.
While addressing the opening session Monday, Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the AU Commission, underscored that the African continent is at a critical juncture in its development. He said the structural transformation of African economies, as envisioned in Agenda 2063, the AU’s 50-year continental development blueprint, requires modern, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure.
Faki underscored that the theme of PIDA Week 2024 reflects Africa’s common commitment to building a prosperous and integrated future for all. He said the PIDA remains Africa’s flagship program for developing cross-border infrastructure that promotes integration and sustainability.
Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime noted that a significant amount of investment is needed to meet core infrastructure development in developing countries.
“Half of Africa’s population still lack access to electricity, and millions of people have no access to clean drinking water. On top of that, a few people in the continent have access to all weather road and railway network, and Africa is below the global average almost in all aspects,” Sime said.
He said poor physical and digital infrastructure remains the most formidable challenge to boost intra-Africa trade and spur development. Inadequate financial resources and high investment costs are key impediments to Africa’s infrastructure development.
“We cannot rely solely on traditional financing mechanisms. We must leverage innovative funding sources especially public-private partnerships and international financing options to turn our visions into reality,” Sime said.
This must-attend event is highlighted by its theme, “Economic Events to Promote Tourism,” aiming to establish powerful synergies between the economy and the tourism sector. This year, Rwanda is honored to be the guest country, celebrating its 50th anniversary with grandeur.
{{Rwanda: A Story of Transformation and Innovation}}
Rwanda’s selection as the guest of honor at FIDAK 2024 is a testament to the exceptional relationship between Rwanda and Senegal. In a setting where innovation meets sustainability, Rwanda has managed to reinvent itself through a clear vision of its economic development.
Its participation in the fair will be illustrated by exhibitions showcasing its innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture, tourism, and industry, demonstrating how a country can rise with strength and resilience.
{{A Focus on Sustainable Tourism}}
FIDAK 2024 will highlight sustainable tourism, a sector in which Rwanda excels. As a popular destination committed to environmental protection and species conservation, Rwanda will have the opportunity to share its model of responsible tourism.
Throughout the fair, seminars and discussions will explore best practices for reconciling economic development and ecological preservation, thus inspiring other African nations.
{{Exhibitions and Cultural Events}}
Rwanda’s presence at FIDAK will be enriched by exhibitions, seminars, and cultural performances. Visitors will discover the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda, including its crafts, cuisine, and music.
Conferences will also be organized to discuss Rwanda’s achievements in economic development, tourism, and local production, serving as a model for other countries in search of sustainable development.
{{Strengthening Links Between Nations}}
Rwanda’s participation in FIDAK 2024 also underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in Africa. Rwanda and Senegal share a common vision focused on economic growth, regional integration, and knowledge exchange. These interactions will not only promote the development of both countries but also enhance the progress of the entire African continent, stimulating intra-African trade.
{{An Invitation to Innovation and Engagement}}
FIDAK 2024 will serve as a platform of opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs from Rwanda and beyond.
By showcasing their innovative initiatives, participants will have the chance to connect, strengthen their networks, and benefit from a collective growth dynamic. Rwanda, as the guest of honor, embodies this aspiration perfectly: the drive to move forward together.
The International Dakar Fair 2024 promises to be a landmark event where Rwanda, as the guest of honor, will showcase its economic and cultural achievements.
This event will provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the future of tourism and economic development in Africa while reinforcing the fraternal ties between Rwanda and Senegal. Get ready to discover an inspiring Rwanda and explore the many possibilities that this continental gathering has to offer.
Leaders and experts from the agriculture and food security sectors gathered to discuss innovative solutions and strategies to strengthen global food security and build resilient food systems.
The summit brought together 21 ministers and government officials responsible for global food security, as well as leading experts and scientists from around the world. Discussions focused on current challenges, future opportunities, and the importance of ensuring food systems are resilient and sustainable to address future crises.
Organized by ADNEC in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the summit highlighted the alarming statistic that over 733 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, a crisis that threatens peace, stability, and human dignity.
The summit also emphasized the vital role of the Islamic Organization for Food Security in tackling these challenges, noting significant progress in 41 member states through initiatives focused on governance, sustainability, and resource mobilization.
A proposal was made for a dedicated Food Security Day for members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, offering a platform for ongoing action and reflection to improve food security systems.
{{Focus on Africa}}
A key highlight of the summit was the focus on sustainable agri-food systems in Africa, particularly in West Africa, where approximately 73% of farming households have improved their resilience to climate shocks.
Held for the first time in the region, the summit took place under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, as part of Global Food Week, which ran from November 26–28 at ADNEC Abu Dhabi. The event also featured the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition, the Abu Dhabi Date Show, and the Abu Dhabi Coffee Platform.
{{Key recommendations}}
Summit participants stressed sustainability as a key pillar of food security. Recommendations included more efficient resource utilization, the adoption of renewable energy in agriculture, and support for value-added food production. The importance of diversifying export markets and attracting foreign direct investments to stimulate economic growth was also emphasized.
The empowerment of women in agriculture was a central theme, with participants recognizing the critical role women play in advancing economic sustainability within the food sector.
Despite the challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions, the summit also highlighted opportunities for a transition to clean energy. A six-pillar framework—encompassing inclusivity, incentives, information, investments, institutions, and innovation—was proposed to drive an effective and inclusive transformation in global food systems.
{{Innovative solutions}}
The summit showcased cutting-edge solutions to feed the growing global population, emphasizing the need for investments in advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to ensure reliable food supplies for future generations.
{{Call for global action}}
The summit concluded with a strong call for global collaboration across food value chains to overcome current challenges and build resilient food systems. Participants stressed the urgent need for international cooperation to create a fair, resilient global food system that guarantees sustainable and healthy food for all.
{{UAE’s leadership praised}}
Participants praised the UAE’s leadership in food security, with the summit reaffirming the nation’s commitment to addressing this critical global issue.
The UAE’s Ne’ma initiative, aimed at transforming consumer behavior and reducing food waste, was also commended.
The summit reinforced the importance of investing in scientific research, promoting crop diversification, and adopting sustainable practices, all of which are essential for building resilient food systems and ensuring reliable, sustainable food supplies for future generations.
The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners, and private sector to reflect on the enduring partnership that has contributed to Rwanda’s transformation.
Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the pivotal role the AfDB has played in the country’s socio-economic growth.
“This moment offers us an opportunity to reflect on our impactful journey and reaffirm our shared visions for a brighter and more inclusive world,” Murangwa said, hailing Rwanda’s progress, calling the country “a beacon of hope and a model for economic development.”
He acknowledged President Kagame’s transformative leadership and the pivotal role of the AfDB in supporting Rwanda’s recovery and growth after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
The AfDB’s partnership with Rwanda dates back to 1965, with agriculture being the initial area of focus. Over the years, the collaboration has expanded to cover various sectors, including energy, water, sanitation, and infrastructure.
“These achievements are a testament to the strength of our partnership and the unwavering commitment of everyone involved,” Murangwa stated.
Today, Rwanda’s portfolio with the Bank stands at $2.21 billion, with 27 projects directly aligned with the country’s National Strategies for Transformation (NST1 and NST2).
One of the key areas of success highlighted at the event was the Bank’s investment in Rwanda’s energy sector. “These investments have been crucial in improving the standards of living and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,” Murangwa stated.
The country’s electricity access has seen a remarkable increase from 16.8% in 2012 to 74.4% in 2023, with the goal of achieving universal access in the near future.
In addition to infrastructure, the AfDB has supported Rwanda’s efforts in human capital development. A notable example is the establishment of Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU Africa) in Kigali in 2018, which offers world-class master’s programs in fields such as artificial intelligence and engineering.
Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s exceptional relationship with the African Development Bank, noting that it is the only country in Africa to fully utilize all the Bank’s financial mechanisms.
“Rwanda is the fifth largest customer of the AfDB on the continent. This underscores the country’s strong partnership with us,” she said.
Sarr discussed key challenges faced by the private sector, particularly the lack of adequate access to finance, technology, and capacity building, especially within the informal sector. She also addressed climate change issues, explaining that the Bank has established a fund to raise climate financing, which will help build more climate-resilient infrastructure.
Moving forward, Sarr stressed the importance of private sector development for Rwanda’s long-term growth, saying that the country’s future economic development will be driven by the private sector to achieve Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation goals.
“We must continue to build on this foundation, especially through private sector development, to secure Rwanda’s future prosperity,” she pointed out.
The celebration also featured the story of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, a beneficiary of the AfDB’s investments in education and skills development. Gatsinzi, who began her career in prosthetics and orthotics in 2014, shared her personal journey.
“Thanks to the AfDB’s investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,” she said. Today, Gatsinzi advocates for the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities, using her expertise to drive change in her community.
Gatsinzi’s story is one of many that highlight the AfDB’s impact on human capital development. Thousands of professionals, including students, healthcare workers, and faculty members, have benefited from AfDB-supported training programs, scholarships, and research opportunities.
Notably, 40% of these beneficiaries are women, reflecting the Bank’s commitment to gender equity and inclusive growth.
The AfDB’s role in Rwanda’s development has been transformative, and with the shared vision for a sustainable future, the partnership is poised to continue its success.
This 60th anniversary not only marked a celebration of the past but also set the stage for the future, with a continued commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development for Rwanda.
This recognition came on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, during a visit by World Bank representatives and donors to SAIP II-supported projects in Rwamagana District.
SAIP II is implemented under the Single Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) of the Rwanda Agricultural and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).
Some of the projects visited include the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which utilizes water from the Nyirabidibiri dam for irrigation and greenhouse farming, as well as an avocado farm spanning eight hectares.
Jean Hitimana, the SAIP II manager, revealed that the initiative, along with its predecessor SAIP I, had received a total of $52 million in funding. He emphasized that the project aims to boost agricultural productivity in Rwanda, with a particular focus on crops such as maize, beans, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits.
“The primary goal is to improve nutrition, which is why we are working with farmers on various initiatives, including distributing chickens for egg production, teaching kitchen gardening, and supplying mushroom cultivation kits. These efforts all contribute to improving the diets of local farmers,” Hitimana said.
He added that World Bank officials and other donors were pleased with the positive outcomes their support had produced in the community, urging citizens to maintain the infrastructure in place and use the funding responsibly.
“The donors observed the progress made and were pleased to see that the funding was being used effectively. Farmers shared their progress and outlined their plans for future growth, showing that the funding is continuing to deliver positive results,” he added.
Fidele Dushimirimana, president of the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which farms across 215 hectares in the Mwulire, Rubona, Nzige, and Gahengeri sectors, explained that before the introduction of irrigation infrastructure, farmers relied on unpredictable rainfall, which often led to crop losses.
“Now, we can farm even without rain. We grow crops like chili peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and potatoes, while also practicing crop rotation with maize, beans, and soybeans. Many of us now have a stable income, as tomato farmers, for example, can sell their produce regularly in the market,” Dushimirimana said.
He expressed his gratitude to the Rwandan government for facilitating such effective partnerships with donors, which have quadrupled the benefits farmers are experiencing and allowed them to farm sustainably throughout the year.
Josiane Mukansanga, a farmer from Kigarama in the Nzige sector, shared her success story of growing vegetables, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes.
“Previously, we farmed just for subsistence, but now we have access to markets where we sell our produce regularly. In one season, I earned over 300,000 Rwandan Francs, which enabled me to renovate my house and buy livestock,” Mukansanga said.
Oliver Mutesi, the Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources for Rwamagana District, praised the SAIP for its support, including the provision of solar-powered irrigation systems and other vital resources.
She urged the World Bank to continue supporting such initiatives, recognizing the profound impact they have on farmers’ livelihoods. Mutesi also assured that the district would continue to monitor and support farmers in maintaining the infrastructure provided to them.
Currently, the SAIP II is operational in 20 districts across Rwanda, helping farmers increase productivity in crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, vegetables, and fruits.
The project emphasizes improving nutrition, facilitating small-scale irrigation on small plots, and supporting smallholder farmers through infrastructure development and value addition.
