It was reported that Brig Gen Kiggundu was electrocuted to death while in the shower, where he resided in the Wakiso District, on Bulime Road in Entebbe.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense and Veterans Affairs, Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye, stated that details on how the man was killed by electricity are still under investigation.
He said, “We were told he was showering in the evening then got electrocuted and died. We don’t yet know the details of how he was killed by the electricity; the body is still in the morgue. Once we receive the report on the autopsy to determine what killed him, we will immediately announce it.”
In 2022, Brig Gen Kiggundu was promoted to the rank of Brigadier and also appointed as the Deputy Air Force Commander (UPDAF).
Brig Gen Kiggundu was born on April 3, 1977, in Bugonga, Entebbe. He studied Information Technology at university, then joined the military in July 1999. After nine months of military training, he was selected to continue pilot training.
In 2000, he was sent to Israel to continue his pilot training for military aircraft, later continuing his training in the Czech Republic, before returning to Uganda to become an instructor himself.
He rose through the ranks until, in 2022, he became the Deputy Commander of Uganda People’s Defence Air Force (UPDAF),
This special place, which used to be a huge steel mill, has been transformed into a hub for movie-making magic, making it a key player in China’s adventure into digital film and TV production.
Since it opened up in 2013, Wuxi Studio has been inviting people to dive into the exciting world of China’s growing film and TV scene, earning itself the nickname “Huallywood,” China’s own version of ‘Hollywood’.
The expansive 6,000,000 square meter park has swiftly risen to prominence, attracting around 500 film and TV production enterprises by 2021.
This beacon of creativity not only boasts of producing many award-winning works but also plays a pivotal role in thrusting the Chinese film and TV industry onto the international stage. As we delve deeper into the heart of Wuxi Studio, its allure becomes increasingly palpable, beckoning us to explore its myriad of features and unique aspects.
At the core of Wuxi Studio’s charm is its adaptive reuse of industrial space, marrying historical significance with cutting-edge technology.
With this harmonious blend, the park has become a sanctuary for creators and artists, providing a comprehensive suite of services that span the entire film and TV production chain—from shooting to post-production, and even film promotion.
This seamless integration of services not only fosters creativity but also enhances efficiency, making Wuxi Studio a magnet for both domestic and international productions.
As we venture further, the studio’s commitment to innovation becomes increasingly clear. It houses facilities that cater to a wide array of filming needs, featuring augmented reality, digital personalities, and even animatronic dinosaurs.
These technological marvels are not just tools but also sources of inspiration, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual representation.
Today, the studio’s embrace of such advanced technology has been instrumental in the creation of over 1,200 films and TV series, including hits like “The Captain,” “The Doctor,” and “The Wandering Earth.”
Beyond its technological prowess, Wuxi Studio is also a cultural hub, hosting the Taihu Lake Film and Culture Industry Investment Summit annually since 2017.
This event is not just a testament to the studio’s influence in the industry but also a platform for fostering discussions on the future development of the film and TV industry in Wuxi and beyond.
Furthermore, the studio’s status as a 4A-level scenic area offers visitors a unique opportunity to step into famous scenes from film and TV works, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
One cannot discuss Wuxi Studio without mentioning its role as a leisure destination. Home to China’s only movie-themed bookstore, the studio transcends its function as a production facility, offering a sanctuary for film enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. This bookstore, celebrated as one of the most beautiful in Jiangsu, sells film-themed souvenirs and artworks, creating a tangible connection between visitors and the magic of cinema.
Owned and operated by the China Research Institute of Film Science & Technology (CRIFST), Wuxi Studios is not just a film production facility; it is a dream realized. Established with the collaborative efforts of various ministries and provinces, the studio stands as a testament to the visionary leap China has taken towards establishing a digital film and television industry.
With facilities ranging from technology studios to underwater special effects studios and a 5G smart virtual photography joint laboratory, Wuxi Studio represents the future of filmmaking.
As the curtain falls on our exploration of Wuxi Studios, it’s clear that this jewel in Jiangsu Province is more than just a production powerhouse; it’s a beacon of innovation and a testament to the transformative power of vision and determination.
Nine people were arrested during the operations conducted on Saturday, March 30. Police are also still searching for two owners of the two houses said to be the ringleaders, who fled during the operation.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Jean Bosco Mwiseneza, the Northern Region Police spokesperson, said that the tunnels, stretching for about 200 metres, were connecting the two houses to a nearby Mahaza stream where they were mining and stealing cassiterite minerals.
At about 5p.m, SP Mwiseneza said, Police went to the two houses as part of the ongoing operations to fight illegal mining and mineral trade.
“Police officers found a tunnel in each of the two neighbouring houses covered with iron bars and a mat, crossing the road to Mahaza stream, about 200 metres from the houses.
All the nine suspects were found in the two houses, some of them had just returned back from mining through the same dangerous tunnels,” SP Mwiseneza said.
Police also seized from the suspects, some quantities of cassiterite mineral, different traditional tools such as iron bars, spade, hummers, weighing scales, helmets; and 15kgs of honey, which they were taking while mining.
“These activities are not only illegal but they are also dangerous with high fatal risks,” said the spokesperson.
Five of the suspects, who had entered the tunnel earlier at about 04a.m, got stuck inside due to lack of enough oxygen, but were rescued by their colleagues at about 3p.m.
The arrest came few days after similar operations in Rutongo and Musha mining concessions in Rulindo and Rwamagana districts, respectively, where 48 people (37 mineral thieves and 11 illegal mineral traders) were arrested.
Article 54 of the law No. 58/2018 of 13/08/2018 on mining and quarry operations, states that; any person, who undertakes mineral or quarry exploration, exploitation, processing or trading without a licence, commits an offence.
Upon conviction, the offender is liable to imprisonment for a term of between two and six months and a fine of not less than Rwf1 million and not more than Rwf5 million or only one of these penalties.
After the forces left early Monday, numerous individuals came back to al-Shifa Hospital and its vicinity. They encountered numerous bodies scattered both within and outside the premises.
Mohammed Mahdi, one of the returnees, witnessed a scene of complete devastation. He reported that numerous structures were incinerated, and he found six bodies in the vicinity, with two located in the hospital’s courtyard.
The health ministry in Gaza, controlled by Hamas, alongside various eyewitnesses, confirmed to the BBC the IDF’s departure from the hospital’s premises. These developments have stirred a complex mix of reactions, highlighting the hospital’s critical role in providing medical services amidst ongoing conflict and the broader implications of military operations within such sensitive locales.
Israel’s justification for the raid hinges on claims of Hamas utilizing al-Shifa Hospital as a launchpad for attacks. This accusation introduces a contentious debate regarding the conduct of warfare and the protection of medical facilities, enshrined under international law as sanctuaries free from military use and targeting. Hamas, on the other hand, staunchly refutes these allegations, denying any military activities within the hospital or other medical sites.
The situation at al-Shifa Hospital underscores a grim reality faced by civilians caught in the crossfire of prolonged conflict. The destruction of healthcare infrastructure in conflict zones not only disrupts immediate medical services but also inflicts long-term repercussions on public health systems, further exacerbating the humanitarian crises that typically accompany such conflicts.
Moreover, the incident raises pertinent questions about the measures taken by combatants to avoid civilian casualties and the sufficiency of intelligence used to justify attacks on facilities typically regarded as neutral grounds in warfare.
International responses have been varied, with calls for thorough investigations into the incident and the tactics employed by both sides. Humanitarian organizations and international bodies stress the imperative of upholding international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution in the conduct of hostilities. The destruction at al-Shifa Hospital not only represents a physical loss but also symbolizes the broader challenges of safeguarding humanitarian principles in the theatre of modern warfare.
As the dust settles on the ruins of al-Shifa, the international community is left to ponder the path forward in ensuring the protection of civilian life and infrastructure in conflict zones. The incident at Gaza’s largest hospital serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the urgent need for concerted efforts towards conflict resolution and the safeguarding of fundamental human rights.
The journey to this milestone began in October 2021 with the laying of the foundation in the Rutaraka industrial zone, Nyagatare Sector. Funded by a robust budget of 45 billion Rwandan Francs, the factory is strategically positioned to procure milk from the prolific dairy-producing districts of Nyagatare, Gatsibo, Kayonza, and Kirehe.
Governor Rubingisa, in a conversation with IGIHE, highlighted the completion of the factory’s construction and its recent inauguration. “It’s all set and already in motion. The factory not only supports our existing Inyange milk processing capabilities in Rusororo but pioneers the domestic production of milk powder, catering to both our local needs and international markets,” he explained.
This facility is projected to process 650,000 liters of milk daily, steering the nation towards prioritizing local, high-quality dairy products over imported alternatives. When queried about the transition from imported to locally produced milk powder, Governor Rubingisa confidently advocated, “Let’s embrace our own high-quality products and move away from imports.”
The Eastern Province, with its cattle population exceeding 500,000, produces over 320,000 liters of milk each day. Governor Rubingisa expressed a robust optimism regarding the factory’s milk demands. “We are hopeful about meeting our daily requirement of 600,000 liters. Beyond supplying the factory, there’s a broader need for milk for direct consumption and for producing other dairy products like yogurt and cheese,” he noted, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to ramp up milk production to fulfill both factory and market demands.
In anticipation of this significant advancement, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, during the 19th National Dialogue Council, announced that the milk powder factory in Nyagatare is slated for its official opening in April 2024.
This initiative not only showcases a remarkable increase in dairy production, from 700,000 liters in 2017 to over a million liters in 2023, but also underscores Rwanda’s dedication to enhancing its dairy sector and reducing dependency on imported milk powder.
He mentioned that the citizens’ request for him to continue leading is not due to a love for power but rather because of his perspective on the country’s condition.
Kagame made these remarks on Monday in a conversation with Radio 10 and Royal FM, where various topics were covered.
He said, “I, too, see the existing problems, as I have eyes. If it were a country of choice and there was a capability for things to go well, I would have left a long time ago. If continuing would pose a problem to people’s livelihoods, then I would feel it.”
“People will say what they say, but we must look and provide a platform for Rwandans to express their thoughts. It won’t take much time, and it won’t escape me; if they were to say ‘this person has brought us this far’, I would leave before they say so,” added Kagame.
He commented that those criticizing him for staying in power for too long fail to recognize that the countries they govern are different from Rwanda or other African countries.
Kagame gave the example of the United States, a country that has been long established and has set its course, suggesting that what is done there should not necessarily be replicated in developing countries.
He stated, “Not all countries are the same around the world, what is done in one country cannot necessarily be done in another.”
The Head of State explained that some countries criticizing African leaders also have leaders in their ranks who may have different titles but have stayed in power for a long time.
He said, “Let’s say because it’s the Prime Minister of a certain country, they have the right to continue, they just change the title from President to Prime Minister or Chancellor, and stay there until they are tired. You know some who have been there for 20 years.”
He emphasized that what should be considered is what a leader does for the people, rather than counting the years.
“Citizens reach a point of fatigue. There should be policies to correct things so people don’t get stuck in that rut. If they haven’t grown tired, why should you?” Kagame wondered.
The President has agreed to run for presidency again in the elections that will take place in July this year, having been nominated by the RPF Inkotanyi party.
He began leading Rwanda in 2000, succeeding Pasteur Bizimungu who had resigned, and ran for his first term in 2003, in the first elections after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Speaking on Sanny Ntayombya’s podcast titled The Long Form, the VC said some of the issues raised by the critics, including lack of soft skills among graduates, should not be blamed on the varsity but basic education institutions.
“If anyone within the country or even beyond is complaining about a university graduate who cannot properly format his or her CV, or express themselves clearly, then that should not be blamed on the university.
“I, myself, didn’t learn how to write my CV at university. My primary three kid writes a proper CV… Every morning, he writes a letter to me or his mom… That is the age where you start exploring what you can do. Upon reaching university, you are focused on other sciences. You are not trying to learn how to write a letter or CV,” Kayihura said in response to claims that some of the university graduates were unable to craft compelling CVs for the modern-day job market.
He added “Whoever says that, I really don’t take them seriously. They should be directing their concerns elsewhere, not towards the university. If it were a case of taking a graduate to a laboratory or law firm and they don’t know how to write submissions that would be an issue.”
Kayihura, while expressing confidence in technical skills impacted on the graduates at the University of Rwanda, noted that the institution had put in place intervention measures to address the soft-skill gaps.
“We are now teaching soft skills, not because it’s our primary mandate, but because someone else did not do it. We are trying to expose our students to how to behave in their respective disciplines, how to communicate, and how to transmit what they know, as people say that has been the challenge,” the VC revealed.
He added that some of the graduates who are accused of not being able to communicate effectively in English, French, or even Kinyarwanda were some of the best students from public schools, excelling in mastering content and hard skills.
“There are individuals who worked hard, grew up from deep within secondary schools, and excelled academically, but they struggle to properly express themselves, whether in English, French, or even in Kinyarwanda at times. However, when you expose them to Science—the real substance—they excel. When they come to university, I cannot say it’s too late for them, but it’s too costly for them to focus on soft skills other than the science they came to study.
“Yet, upon graduation, they perform well in written interviews and demonstrate mastery of content. Their weakness primarily lies in public speaking, a deficiency that can be traced back to their experiences in primary and secondary schools. We are trying to assess their levels of communication and soft skills and work towards bridging that gap, the VC stated.
In response to the question of why the University of Rwanda ranks poorly compared to other universities in Africa and even globally, the former Dean of the School of Law stated that his main focus was not on rankings but on producing graduates capable of addressing the country’s challenges, including those related to agriculture, energy, and health.
He, however, admitted that there were areas needing improvement, which he attributed to the merger of at least seven institutions to form the University of Rwanda in 2013.
He called for patience, stating that the investment would ultimately bear fruit.
“The investment you put in education today you can only see the proceeds of the investment in like 15 years to come. It’s something that you invest in and you don’t to have to expect the results quite often,” the VC said.
“As the head of the institution, my first business is not ranking but responding to demands. If the energy sector or any other area is suffering I have to respond to that,” he stated.
The University of Rwanda ranks 176th in Africa and 7124th in the world, according to Scimago Institute Rankings.
According to the VC, some of the measures has taken to improve its quality of education include revising teaching approaches every five years.
John Ntirushwamaboko, her husband, confirmed to IGIHE that Mukaruliza’s illness was sudden and brief.
“The tragic event occurred today, roughly two hours ago. She was under medical care in Brussels for approximately two weeks,” he stated.
In early March, President Paul Kagame appointed her as Ambassador at Large with a focus on regional integration efforts within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Prior to this role, she served as an Advisor within the same ministry.
Amb. Mukaruliza’s most notable tenure was as Rwanda’s first Minister to the East African Community (EAC), a position she held from 2008 until February 25, 2013.
Her leadership significantly contributed to Rwanda’s diplomatic and regional integration initiatives.
Between 2016 and 2017, she led the City of Kigali as Mayor, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s development and governance.
Her diplomatic career also included serving as the Rwandan Ambassador to Zambia and Malawi, roles she assumed after her mayoral tenure in Kigali.
Furthermore, from 2006 to 2007, she was the acting representative of the African Union in Sudan and previously the deputy head of the African Union mission in Sudan from 2004 to 2006.
Amb. Mukaruliza was not only a seasoned diplomat but also a skilled financial expert. She played a crucial role in establishing the Rwanda Revenue Authority, where she served as Commissioner of Internal Audit and later Commissioner of Domestic Taxes.
Her financial expertise also extended to the Bank of Kigali, where she worked as an auditor, and to the SOS Children’s Villages International-Rwanda, where she was the Chief Financial Officer.
Amb. Mukaruliza’s contributions to Rwanda’s diplomatic, financial, and governance sectors have left an indelible mark on the nation, and she will be remembered for her dedication, expertise, and leadership.
He announced that he obtained this information from various documents and also from his personal observations while he was leading a United Nations team tasked with investigating the Genocide against the Tutsis.
During a conference held in Brussels, Belgium, on March 29, 2024, focusing on the planning of the Genocide, Galand explained that the World Bank and European banks provided financial support to the government of Juvénal Habyarimana for purchasing weapons in 1990.
This annual conference was organized by the Socialist Party and the IBUKA organization, which advocates for the interests of the survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Attendees included Rwandans living in Europe, university professors, and representatives of non-governmental organizations.
As explained by the BBC, the researcher stated, “Approximately one billion US dollars from the World Bank’s mission in Rwanda was given to the Rwandan government in the early 1990s to purchase weapons used during the Genocide.”
Galand highlighted that this support was significant because, since 1990, the military was allocated 50% of the country’s total budget, which significantly strengthened it before 1994.
Since the Rwandan government at that time was under an arms embargo, Galand explained that the World Bank and the IMF chose to channel this support through BNP Paribas Bank in France and Lambert Bank in Belgium.
He said, “BNP Paribas Bank in France and Lambert Bank in Belgium were the channels used for the money to buy weapons used in the Genocide because Rwanda was under an embargo on purchasing weapons, and it’s no secret because we have the documents to prove it.”
Regarding BNP Paribas, Galand explained that the documents showing its involvement are being used to sue it in court to compensate the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Genocide against the Tutsi was perpetrated by soldiers, the Interahamwe militia, and politicians. From April 7 to July 4, 1994, it claimed the lives of over one million people.
It was announced that 61-year-old Sir Jeffrey and another 57-year-old woman, whose identity was not disclosed, were arrested on Thursday and interrogated about the crimes the man is accused of and the woman is alleged to have assisted him with.
The country’s police announced that Sir Jeffrey and the woman will be brought to court next month to face the charges against them. However, the man stated that he does not accept the accusations against him and will continue to vehemently deny them.
The DUP’s leadership announced that “The Leader has received a letter from Sir Jeffrey Donaldson confirming that he is being pursued for alleged crimes he committed in the past, stating that he resigns from his position as the leader of the DUP party immediately.”
“As per the party’s regulations, the leadership has stripped Donaldson of his membership pending the outcome of the trial, appointing Gavin Robinson as the interim leader.”
Robinson, who succeeded Donaldson as the party’s leader, expressed his shock at the allegations against Donaldson.
“It was very surprising, not just for me but also for my colleagues in the DUP, and indeed across all of Northern Ireland. We are a party that believes in our justice system, and we hope that in the coming days and months, no one will try to behave in a manner that could hinder the ongoing investigation.”
