As confirmed by Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs through X account, the visa waiver agreement was signed on Monday, September 23, 2024, in New York, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
This MoU marks a significant step in enhancing diplomatic relations between Rwanda and The Bahamas.
In July 2023, President Paul Kagame was honored with the Order of Excellence, the highest accolade in The Bahamas, in recognition of his strong friendship with the Bahamian Government and its people.
He received this honor during the celebration of The Bahamas’ 50th Independence Anniversary, which was attended by leaders from across the Caribbean.
The Order of Excellence is one of the highest honors in The Bahamas, ranking just after the Order of National Hero and the Order of the Nation.
The Bahamas, located in the Caribbean Sea, is an archipelago covering a land area of 13,878 km² with a coastline stretching 3,542 km. Geographically important, The Bahamas ranks as the 28th largest country in the Americas and 161st globally by area.
On July 10th, 1973, The Bahamas peacefully gained independence after 300 years as a British colony.
Since then, July 10th has been celebrated as a national holiday throughout the archipelago and in Bahamian foreign missions.
The Bahamas is now a member of the Commonwealth, as is Rwanda, which joined in 2009.
These appointments come a few days after the National Electoral Commission officially announced the election of 12 senators chosen from local governance structures and two elected from both public and private higher learning institutions. Additionally, the Political Party Forum announced two senators elected to join the Senate.
{{Dr. François Xavier Kalinda }}
Dr. François Xavier Kalinda joined the Senate in January 2023 and was immediately elected as its President, replacing Dr. Iyamuremye, who had resigned. Born in Kitabi Sector, Nyamagabe District, Kalinda holds a PhD in commercial law from Strasbourg, France.
He completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees at the National University of Rwanda, and later pursued a master’s degree at the University of Ottawa in Canada. In 2015, he was elected to represent Rwanda in the East African Legislative Assembly, succeeding Céléstin Kabahizi, who had resigned.
Kalinda also served in the university’s teaching and administration, including as a law lecturer at the University of Rwanda.
{{Dr. Usta Kayitesi }}
Dr. Usta Kayitesi is the former Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) who served from July 2019 until August 2024, when she was succeeded by Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard.
Prior to her role as CEO, Dr. Kayitesi was the Deputy CEO of RGB. She holds a PhD in law and has a background as a lecturer and administrator at the University of Rwanda, particularly in the College of Arts and Social Sciences.
She was also part of the seven-member commission tasked with reviewing the Constitution, as mandated by the Cabinet in 2015, where she served as Vice President of the commission.
{{Amb. Solina Nyirahabimana }}
Amb. Solina Nyirahabimana, formerly State Minister at the Ministry of Justice responsible for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, had previously served as Rwanda’s ambassador to Switzerland and the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva until 2013.
She also held several government positions, including Minister of Gender and Family Promotion from 2018 until she transitioned to the Ministry of Justice.
{{Bibiane Gahamanyi Mbaye}}
Bibiane Gahamanyi Mbaye is a human rights activist with dual citizenship in Rwanda and Senegal. She is fluent in French, English, Kinyarwanda, and Swahili, with extensive experience in international human rights law, gender equality, reproductive health rights, and international partnerships.
She has worked with numerous non-governmental organizations and has held advisory roles in international human rights organizations such as International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF-Africa) and ActionAid International.
These four newly appointed senators join four others whose terms have one year to expire, as per legal provisions.
Recent elections saw senators elected from different provinces, including Dr. Nyinawamwiza Laetitia and Rugira Amandin from the Northern Province, Adrie Umuhire, Uwera Pélagie, and Cyitatire Sosthene from the Southern Province, Bideri John Bonds, Nsengiyumva Fulgence, and Mukabaramba Alvera from the Eastern Province.
Others are Havugimana Emmanuel, Mureshyankwano Marie Rose, and Niyomugabo Cyprien from the Western Province. In Kigali City, it is Nyirasafari Espérance who was elected with 55.26% of the vote.
Furthermore, Telesphore Ngarambe and Uwimbabazi Penine were elected to represent higher learning institutions, while former speaker of Parliament, Mukabalisa Donatille and Murangwa Ndangiza Hadija were elected by the Political Party Forum.
These modern style Apartments, consist of three rooms each at a cost of Seventy-Five Million Rwandan Francs (Frw75M)
The in charge of the project at KTN Rwanda, Jean Pierre Uwitonze explained the uniqueness of these houses.
“It is difficult to find a place in Kagarama, so it is an opportunity to find a three-room house that is close to infrastructure such as kindergartens and universities that are planned to be built neighborhood,” he said.
He also mentioned that those who are unable to pay at once, are availed with different payments plans where they were connected to the Bank of Kigali, which helped them.
“The good thing is that when you don’t have enough money, we link you with the Bank of Kigali (BK), which will give you a loan, with the house as collateral.”
KTN Rwanda also continues to help Rwandans find good places to live in different parts of the country.
KTN Rwanda is a company with experience in connecting buyers and sellers of their property. Its specialty is that it helps its clients to track the land they have bought and to process all the documents including those living abroad.
If you are interested in working with KTN Rwanda, you can visit www.ktnrwanda.com or call +250783001414 or 0789 000 422.
Mukuralinda made the disclosure during an interview with RBA on Sunday.
On July 31, 2024, representatives from Rwanda, the DRC, and Angola agreed that all hostilities between the warring factions in the DRC should cease by August 4, 2024. The parties also agreed that the FDLR terrorist group should be dismantled.
This decision stemmed from a proposal by the DRC delegation during the Luanda talks on March 21, 2024.
If implemented successfully, the dismantling of the FDLR could significantly contribute to ending the conflict, as the group is seen as a major driver of insecurity in the region.
Although the DRC government expressed its commitment to honoring this agreement, contradictions surfaced during Luanda talks on September 14, 2024.
Before these ministerial-level discussions resumed, military and intelligence experts from Rwanda, the DRC, and Angola had met in Rubavu on August 29-30, 2024, where they agreed on a plan to dismantle the FDLR.
Mukuralinda disclosed that during the September 14 Luanda talks, DRC representatives backtracked on their earlier commitment, refusing the proposed plan to dismantle the FDLR.
“When they arrived at the meeting, those who were supposed to present the report did so. If our minister said, ‘We signed at 1 AM,’ you can understand that it was challenging. These difficulties must have involved changes because the plan to dismantle the FDLR was no longer on the table,” he remarked.
Mukuralinda referenced a 1 AM message from Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe, who noted that the meeting minutes were signed after facing difficulties.
He further commented, “If you analyze the situation, it’s the mediator who should explain the changes. However, if he didn’t say anything, and those who promised us a plan to dismantle the FDLR haven’t provided one, it shows that something changed.”
He also criticized President Félix Tshisekedi’s plan to welcome into the DRC, six Rwandans who faced genocide charges.
These individuals, temporarily hosted in Niger, include some who completed their sentences and others who were acquitted.
Among them is Capt. Innocent Sagahutu, who has attempted to enter the DRC illegally to join the FDLR, along with Protais Zigiranyirazo, the brother-in-law of former Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana.
Mukuralinda emphasized that Tshisekedi’s shifting position, particularly his willingness to align with individuals who openly seek to overthrow the Rwandan government, highlights his duplicity.
He noted, “If you change and collaborate with people who openly declare they want to overthrow Rwanda’s government, then who is contradicting? If there has been a contradiction, who would dare stop them and say, ‘Everything we were about to do must stop’? It’s the Head of State!”
As the Luanda talks move forward, Mukuralinda asserted that the process is revealing which party genuinely lacks the will to resolve issues that led to conflicts between both countries.
“Today, as these talks continue, they expose who lacks willingness. Yet, just recently, he was the one loudly accusing Rwanda of being the cause. Let these talks continue until the true instigator becomes clear, even though they are already exposed,” he stated.
Mukuralinda concluded by assuring that Rwanda will remain actively engaged in the Luanda talks but will also continue to take the necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
He spoke at an event to mark CRBC Rwanda Office’s 50th anniversary in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, Saturday evening.
“This anniversary not only highlights CRBC’s long life but also underscores its significant impact on Rwanda’s development, particularly connecting our communities and promoting our economic growth,” said Ngirente.
The CRBC has constructed more than 1,500 km of roads across the East African country, including both completed projects and ongoing ones, according to the prime minister.
These key roadways, he said, have significantly contributed to upgrading Rwanda’s transportation networks, increased market access, and created thousands of jobs while improving the quality of life for Rwandans.
Ngirente noted the partnership has also facilitated technology transfer and skills development, providing local workers with invaluable experience through their involvement in various projects.
In addition, he said the improved infrastructure has attracted foreign investment to Rwanda, making it an increasingly attractive destination for business operations.
“I am confident that the achievements of the past 50 years provide a strong foundation upon which we will build even greater successes in the future. Together, we can continue to build infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a brighter and more sustainable future,” Ngirente said.
The event featured dragon dance, a traditional Chinese dance performance.
Over the past 50 years, CRBC has created over 500,000 jobs in Rwanda, according to information from the Chinese Embassy in Kigali.
It has successively undertaken over 60 major projects, of which, ten are ongoing. It employs over 2,200 local staff members, accounting for more than 96 percent of the whole team, among whom nearly 20 percent are women.
Lin Hang, charge d’affaires ad interim at the Chinese Embassy in Kigali, said infrastructure works by CRBC echoed so well with bilateral relations between China and Rwanda, recently elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
“Through half a century, the world has changed a lot, so has Rwanda, but there’s something not changing, the commitment to each other, CRBC is always there with Rwanda, to best showcase China’s solidarity and brotherhood with our Rwanda people,” she said.
Lin noted that to CRBC, serving the people first and better and making everyone’s dream come true, is their dream, and their belief despite the challenges of living in remote areas due to the nature of their job.
“I have a dream, CRBC will help finish another 30 percent of unraveled roads in Rwanda, and extend the roads to every corner of Rwanda. I also have a dream, to make the first railway with the highest international standard happen in Rwanda,” she said.
Guo Meng, the director general of the China Road and Bridge Corporation Rwanda Office, thanked all the friends who have generously supported the development of their office and the employees who have contributed to its growth.
Zhao Lianzhi, the deputy managing director of CRBC Headquarters, said in response to the Rwandan government’s call for green and sustainable development, the company has expanded its business to focus on people’s livelihoods, enhancing the well-being of the Rwandan people.
“It is about growing together with Rwanda’s economic development. As one of the first Chinese enterprises to enter Rwanda, we have always remained committed to the Rwandan market, even during the most challenging times. As one project after another has been completed and put into use, the economic development along the project routes has also steadily improved. Watching the cities transform day by day, we deeply feel that our work is meaningful, which motivates us to continue our efforts,” Zhao said.
The statement was made Saturday by Bankole Adeoye, AU commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, in line with the International Day of Peace, which is annually commemorated on Sept. 21.
The AU commissioner said this year’s edition of the International Day of Peace, which is commemorated under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” is being observed amid growing threats of intractable terrorism, insurgency, and armed conflicts in different parts of the African continent.
Adeoye said in some instances of such continental peace and security perils, “the concept of protection of civilians is collapsing and genocide is either real or looming, driven by injustice, intolerance, exclusion, poverty, inequality and climate change challenges.”
He warned that the concerning phenomenon poses “a grave threat to Africa and, indeed, to the global stability, peace, and prosperity.” He also underscored the need to expedite cross-sectoral, inclusive, and locally-owned response efforts that aimed to address conflict and post-conflict situations across the continent, mainly security challenges in the Horn of Africa, the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel, and the Great Lakes regions, among others.
Noting that the 55-member continental organization has prioritized conflict prevention by strengthening early warning mechanisms, preventive diplomacy, inclusive peacemaking, and peace missions, Adeoye called on Africans from all walks of life to redouble efforts in achieving peace through sustainable development, good governance, and the protection of human rights.
“We urge all Africans, especially women and youth, to actively engage in policy-making and peace-building initiatives. Together, let us build on the African values of Ubuntu (an African traditional philosophy of “I am because we are”), solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation and to concretely build peace,” Adeoye said.
In an official report issued on September 20, 2024, CPDG expressed its satisfaction with the conduct of the elections, which were held on September 16 and 17, 2024, across the country.
Founded in 2015, CPDG is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting peace, good governance, democracy, and development. The organization has consistently deployed election observers to monitor elections across Africa, particularly in French-speaking Central Africa and English-speaking East Africa.
For the senatorial elections in Rwanda, CPDG deployed 42 election observers to 25 polling sites in districts and the City of Kigali, as well as 22 additional sites representing higher learning institutions.
In their post-election report, CPDG highlighted the exceptional preparation and management of the elections by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
The report noted: “The National Electoral Commission demonstrated expertise and professionalism in organizing and managing the senatorial elections of September 16 and 17, 2024. This was evident in the timely voter education, preparation of election materials, and ensuring transparency in the voting process.”
One of the standout features of the election was the impressive voter turnout, with over 98% of registered voters in the electoral college participating. According to CPDG’s report.
“The voter turnout was remarkable, exceeding 98% of registered voters. This success can be attributed to the voter awareness campaigns and the facilitation provided by the Electoral Commission, in collaboration with local authorities,” the report said.
The organization also praised the smooth operation of polling stations, noting that the voting process commenced on time and election materials were delivered without delay. “In most polling stations, voting began at 9 AM as scheduled, and election materials were delivered on time and kept secure throughout the process,” CPDG stated.
Furthermore, the report emphasized the integrity of the voting and counting processes.
“The secrecy of the vote was respected at all polling stations and monitored by both international and national observers. Vote counting began immediately after the voting process ended and was conducted in an open and transparent manner.”
CPDG also highlighted the role of election observers, both national and international, in ensuring the fairness of the elections.
“Based on reports from its observers at polling stations across the country, CPDG is pleased to announce that the senatorial elections were conducted peacefully, transparently, and freely, with full respect for laws and human rights. This reflects a significant step in consolidating democracy and enhancing citizens’ participation in the electoral process.”
The organization’s commendation of the 2024 senatorial elections underscores Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic practices and ensure that its citizens are actively engaged in shaping the nation’s governance.
In a statement shared on his X handle, Muhoozi expressed that this decision came after divine intervention.
“I would like to announce that I will not be on the ballot paper in 2026. Almighty God told me to focus on His Army first. So, I fully endorse President Yoweri Museveni in the next elections,” Muhoozi stated.
This announcement has sparked a range of reactions across Uganda, with some expressing full support while others voiced skepticism.
Among the prominent figures to endorse Muhoozi’s decision is Balaam Barugahara, the State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Barugahara took to social media, praising Muhoozi for his loyalty and endorsing President Museveni for another term in office.
“My leader General, I fully declare my unwavering support for General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s endorsement of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s candidacy in 2026. As our esteemed leader, your guidance is invaluable, and I pledge to stand firmly behind your declaration. We look forward to President Museveni’s final term and eagerly await General Kainerugaba’s leadership in the 2031 elections when Mzee finally retires. May God bless you, our leader, for respecting divine guidance,” Barugahara wrote.
Other reactions on X painted a mixed picture. One user identified as Jaafar Karamagi expressed faith in Muhoozi’s future leadership.
“We are patiently waiting and praying for the right time for our next president,” reflecting hopes for his potential candidacy in the future.
However, David Bagonza, another X user, criticized Muhoozi’s shifting stance, saying, “Always shifting goal posts with no strong objectives. It’s like a circus.”
Muhoozi’s endorsement of his father for the 2026 elections raises questions about Uganda’s political future, especially given speculation about his presidential ambitions.
With Museveni approaching his current term, many now wonder what role Muhoozi will play in Uganda’s political landscape after 2026.
This dedication was highlighted during the International Conference on Technological Advancement in Embedded and Mobile Systems, held from September 19-20, 2024.
The event brought together researchers from various universities across East Africa and Germany, aiming to promote mobile technology as a critical tool for progress.
UTAB’s Vice-Chancellor, Father Dr. Gilbert Munana, emphasized the significance of the conference as an opportunity for Rwanda to exchange ideas and ensure inclusivity in the digital age.
He explained that technological advancements, particularly in mobile systems, are increasingly central to modern life and education, making it important for everyone to understand their capabilities.
Dr. Munana highlighted how almost every sector now involves some form of computing, and noted that the foundation of this shift lies in understanding the intelligence behind both stationary and mobile technology.
He further pointed out that the conference aligns with UTAB’s objective of launching advanced computer science programs, and the knowledge gained will contribute to the improvement of these courses.
Looking ahead, UTAB intends to offer courses that are not limited to academic settings but also aim to benefit the general public.
Dr. Munana stressed the importance of helping citizens realize that their phones can be used for more than just entertainment, such as for practical tasks like ordering groceries remotely, no matter their location, even in smaller towns like Byumba.
Engineer Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Education, underscored how technology has already become an integral part of everyday life, necessitating a shift in traditional practices.
He mentioned that farming methods, for example, should be modernized with technological tools, and highlighted how technology, such as cameras, has played a role in reducing traffic accidents by monitoring speed violations.
Gatabazi added that technology also enables people to perform tasks like withdrawing money and making payments remotely, stressing that Rwanda is advancing in this area and that it is essential for all sectors to keep pace with technological progress.
He emphasized that when people come together to share ideas and collaborate, growth becomes inevitable.
Professor Kisangiri Michael, representing the Centre of Excellence for ICT in East Africa (CENIT@EA), shared that the institution has provided over 148 young people with education in mobile technology. He pointed out that mobile technology has significantly impacted daily life in East Africa, with phones now replacing the need to carry physical cash.
Kisangiri stressed that further development in mobile technology is needed to continue driving regional progress and promoting knowledge-sharing in countries like Rwanda and Tanzania.
The conference attracted participants from universities across East Africa, including Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana, as well as institutions from Europe and Asia, fostering an environment of knowledge-sharing and collaboration to support technological growth.
The official signing ceremony marked the beginning of this strategic initiative, which seeks to provide financial backing for SMEs in key sectors of the economy contributing to decent job creation and inclusive green growth.
Through this collaboration, the Embassy of Sweden in Kigali will cover 70% of the SME loan portfolio, ensuring that qualifying SMEs can access loans with flexible terms ranging from US$5,000 to US$350,000 for a period of 3 to 60 months. This 8-year coverage period will allow eligible businesses to scale their operations, contribute to economic development, and create employment opportunities.
Eligible sectors include Agriculture, Light manufacturing, Logistics, Renewable energy, Water and waste management, Export oriented SMEs, Tourism and Hospitality, Affordable Housing development and green building materials, Information and Communication Technology.
Commenting on the development; Dr. Diane Karusisi, the CEO of the Bank of Kigali, expressed excitement about this partnership and described it as a game-changer for SMEs in Rwanda.
“By providing a safety net that allows us to extend more flexible and accessible financing, we are enabling businesses to innovate, expand, and compete on a larger scale. At Bank of Kigali, we believe that empowering SMEs is crucial for driving inclusive growth, and this guarantee is a powerful step towards a more dynamic and resilient Rwandan economy,” she said.
Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR), as the strategic partner of the facility, will work closely with BK by providing technical assistance, supporting the optimal utilisation of the guarantee, and monitoring impact while capturing learnings. Their involvement will ensure that the facility achieves its objectives and that best practices are integrated throughout the implementation of the initiative.
Jean Bosco Iyacu, CEO of Access to Finance Rwanda, added that this partnership complements Bank of Kigali’s ongoing efforts to channel more capital into the SME sector.
“BK is a long-standing partner in AFR’s journey to drive innovation and support key sectors of the economy and rural areas. We are delighted to continue this relationship through this first SME-Centric Portfolio Guarantee Scheme. This initiative addresses the collateral constraints mainly faced by youth and women owned SMEs across Rwanda, and we anticipate it will play a crucial role in unlocking growth and creating dignified employment opportunities,” he noted.
Martina Fors Mohlin, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden, noted, “Our partnership with Bank of Kigali aligns with our mission to promote economic inclusive sustainable development in Rwanda. By providing the guarantee instrument, we strive to create a positive impact on job creation, gender equality and youth entrepreneurship.”
{{About Bank of Kigali Plc}}
Bank of Kigali, established in 1966, is Rwanda’s largest financial institution. As a leading commercial bank, it provides a wide range of services, including digital banking, to over 500,000 customers through an extensive branch network and digital platforms. BK is committed to fostering innovation and economic growth through targeted financial solutions for individuals, SMEs, and corporations.
{{Swedish development cooperation with Rwanda}}
The Swedish development cooperation with Rwanda is governed by a strategy for the period 2020 – 2024. The strategy focuses on human rights, democracy and gender equality; environment and climate; and more inclusive economic growth. In addition, support is provided for building up domestic research capacity in Rwanda.
With this strategy, Sweden will increase its commitment to contribute to an environmentally sustainable and including growth. The strategy also contributes to an inclusive economic development and growth, improved conditions for and increased access to productive employment and decent work, corporate social responsibility, and free and fair trade, including in rural areas.
{{About Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) }}
AFR is a Rwandan not for Profit Company , established in 2010 to promote financial inclusion and financial sector development in Rwanda. AFR supports the removal of systemic barriers that hinder access and usage of financial services by low-income people, particularly the unserved segments including young people, women, MSMEs, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), refugees and the informal sector.
