A statement released late Wednesday by the EAC headquarters at the end of a ministerial session of the 16th Sectoral Council of Energy held in Arusha, Tanzania, said the EAC member states resolved to embark on various initiatives aimed at tapping the potential of renewable energy and energy conservation.
The initiatives included the review of national renewable energy laws, the implementation of energy management regulations, national strategies and standards for energy efficiency and renewable energy, and the promotion of energy efficiency and conservation.
The EAC member states are Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania, and Somalia.
These children and youth are vulnerable to all sorts of scourges, and they can be easily manipulated by terrorist groups, drug dealers and human traffickers, Belhocine told reporters during the ongoing AU Summit held in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, noting that many of them end up in different crime networks or migrating to other parts of Africa or out of the continent.
He stressed the need to support these children and youth through vocational and technical training, and help them get necessary skills to become self-employed.
Africa faces a setback in delivering quality education, especially at low grades, resulting in nine out of 10 children in Sub-Saharan Africa being unable to read and understand a simple text by the age of 10, the commissioner acknowledged.
Noting that Africa needs about 90 billion U.S. dollars to achieve universal education coverage by 2030, he called for global support for the continent to meet the funding gap.
In a document received by Xinhua, the Constitutional Council asserted that the law adopted by parliament on Feb. 5, which delayed the election from Feb. 25 to Dec. 15, is “contrary to the constitution.” Considering that “it is impossibile to organise the presidential election on the date initially planned,” the Constitutional Council invited the authorities to hold it “as soon as possible.”
The president on Feb. 3 announced the postponement of the presidential election originally scheduled for Feb. 25, in a message broadcast to the nation just a few hours before the start of the electoral campaign. Senegal’s parliament on Feb. 5 adopted a bill postponing the presidential election until Dec. 15 this year.
The bustling activity of Rwandans and Congolese, once common from dawn till dusk, exchanging goods, and currencies, has been visibly reduced. The imposition of a 3:00 p.m. curfew by the DRC has further affected these cross-border interactions.
Jean Pierre, a young man from the DRC working as a porter at the border, shared his concerns about the dwindling traffic, highlighting a decrease in opportunities to earn a livelihood. Despite these challenges, individuals with disabilities continue to traverse the border with goods-laden bicycles, though in reduced numbers. Additionally, large trucks transporting goods to Goma are subject to rigorous inspections before clearance.
One of the milk vendors at the La Corniche border shared their experiences, stating, “There’s theft, and sometimes, upon arrival, we’re met with scolding. It makes me think, ‘I should just save myself; God will handle the rest.’”
They also highlighted the discrimination they face for being Rwandan, explaining, “We’re often chased away simply because of our nationality. When I’m forced to flee, it’s because I’ve been labeled a ‘haramu’ and told to ‘run away because you’re Rwandan.’ This poses a significant challenge for us milk sellers. Being Rwandan is like a stigma, even if some can conceal it. Since the milk is known to originate from Rwanda, any accusation can be made against us. Being associated with M23 could lead to our disappearance.”
DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting M23 rebel group, allegations which Kigali rejects and urges the neighboring country to solve internal problems without seeking justifications through blame games.
Data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows the importance of trade between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In the second quarter of 2022, the DRC was the top destination for Rwandan re-exported goods, receiving products worth $152.97 million. By the second quarter of 2023, it remained a significant trade partner, importing $321.94 million worth of goods from Rwanda, making it the second-largest recipient of Rwandan exports.
At the La Corniche (Grande Barrière) border, the flow of goods from the DRC into Rwanda persists, underscoring potential hurdles in cross-border trade. Rubavu District’s Executive Secretary, Ruhamyambuga Olivier, emphasized the enduring relationship between the two nations’ citizens, despite political tensions. He asserted the people’s resilience in maintaining mutual respect and understanding, amidst external pressures to foster discord.
Rubavu District, situated on the eastern border with the DRC, is a vital hub for cross-border commerce and hosts a significant foreign population. According to the 2022 population census, Rubavu is home to 2,780 foreigners. The daily cross-border movement has seen a drastic reduction from pre-pandemic levels, indicating the profound impact of both health and security challenges on regional trade and mobility.
The man, who moved to the Netherlands in 1998, faces accusations of complicity in genocide, incitement to genocide, and war crimes, including plunder and property destruction.
Rwandan authorities, having issued an international arrest warrant in 2014, sought his extradition, but he will be tried in the Netherlands due to his Dutch nationality.
This case marks another instance of the Dutch authorities acting against individuals suspected of participating in the Genocide against the Tutsi, following the extradition of Venant Rutunga in 2021, the third such extradition to Rwanda by the Netherlands.
Solid’Africa, recognized for offering free nutritious meals to underprivileged patients, will use its €1.1 million share to inaugurate a training center focused on cooking and nutrition. This initiative aims to elevate meal quality for patients while providing valuable job opportunities within the hospital catering industry.
Additionally, SFH will receive €1.53 million to construct over 20 health centers, adding to the 80 health facilities already established in a prior phase. This expansion is expected to create numerous construction jobs and improve healthcare access by enhancing the professional capabilities of medical staff.
The agreements, signed at the German Embassy in Rwanda, signify a crucial phase in Rwanda and Germany’s collaborative efforts towards socio-economic growth. Solid’Africa’s director, Nassir Katuramu, highlighted the partnership’s role in expanding their food program nationally, in cooperation with the Rwandan government, to serve district hospitals across 47 regions.
This advisory comes in the wake of escalating violence near Sake, marked by confrontations between the DRC’s military forces and the M23 rebel faction, raising alarms about the deteriorating security landscape in Goma.
Amidst the volatile situation, concerns have amplified due to recent demonstrations in Kinshasa, the Congolese capital, which pose a potential risk of spreading to Goma.
Such developments have heightened the risk of targeted aggression towards foreigners, prompting decisive action from Dutch officials. The advisory extends to Dutch nationals across the DRC, advising heightened vigilance and avoidance of populous events.
The Netherlands Times reports that the eastern segment of the DRC has been designated as a red zone. This classification serves as a stark warning from the Dutch government, strongly discouraging travel to the area and urging those present to depart without delay.
Dutch residents in Goma are implored to establish contact with their families to convey their safety and to liaise with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for assistance with their evacuation plans. This initiative underscores the Dutch government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, particularly in regions plagued by conflict and instability.
The ongoing situation in Goma is under intense scrutiny by the global community, with both Congolese officials and international bodies mobilized to address the crisis.
George’s military career is marked by her ascendancy through various pivotal roles. Prior to her groundbreaking appointment, she served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Armed Forces of Liberia, showcasing her leadership and strategic planning capabilities.
Her tenure within the Liberian army is highlighted by her roles as the Acting Commander of the 23rd Infantry Brigade, Company Commander of the Military Police, S-5 CIMIC Officer, and Provost Marshal of the 23rd Infantry Brigade. These positions underscore her diverse skill set and adaptability across multiple facets of military operations.
In addition to her military expertise, George’s academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from Webster University in the United States, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the African Methodist Episcopal Zion University College in Monrovia. Her rich educational background complements her practical military experience, providing her with a broad perspective on defense and strategic affairs.
Brig Gen Geraldine Janet George’s appointment as Minister of Defense is a testament to her exemplary service and dedication to her country. Her diverse experience, enhanced by international training and academic achievements, positions her as a formidable leader in Liberia’s defense sector.
Commonwealth Day witnesses participation from individuals across continents including Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Americas, the Pacific, and Europe.
On this occasion, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, emphasized the day as a moment to acknowledge, rejoice in, and rejuvenate the spirit among its 56 member states, which are unified by the Commonwealth Charter.
She highlighted that this year’s theme is a testament to the collective resilience and strength of its members, which is crucial for overcoming current challenges and ensuring a future of equitable wealth distribution.
The Secretary-General also noted the diverse sizes of the Commonwealth’s countries, stating that their unity stems from shared values that focus on enhancing governance, environmental sustainability, economic strength, and societal empowerment for its citizens.
In addition, Secretary-General Scotland extended, on behalf of the Commonwealth, well wishes to His Majesty King Charles III, the Head of the Commonwealth, for his speedy recovery.
The theme for Commonwealth Day also aligns with the focus of the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) set to be hosted in Samoa in October 2024. Samoa’s Prime Minister, Afioga Fiame Naomi Mataafa, expressed anticipation for showcasing Samoa’s unique communal culture and traditions to foster a sense of a unified family.
The week of Commonwealth Day in March will see a convergence of world leaders, diplomats, youth advocates, and other delegates from the Commonwealth to engage in meaningful discussions on global challenges, propose empowering initiatives, and advocate for transformative changes. A highlight of this year includes the declaration of the Commonwealth Year of Youth, aiming to amplify support for the Commonwealth’s 1.5 billion young individuals.
Observance of Commonwealth Day will involve activities such as the reading of the Commonwealth Proclamation and hosting of celebratory events, with the Commonwealth Secretariat’s website providing resources to facilitate these events. In London, the Commonwealth Secretariat will organize a reception for representatives from across the Commonwealth, and a special service at Westminster Abbey on 11th March will feature a multicultural, multi-faith celebration of the Commonwealth’s diversity.
Furthermore, the day will be marked by the presence of Speakers and Presiding Officers from Commonwealth countries, invited by Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker of the House of Commons in the UK, highlighting the unity and milestones of the Commonwealth, including the upcoming 75th Anniversary of the modern Commonwealth on 26 April 2024.
Rutaremara recounted the bravery of Rwanda’s young liberators, who, driven by a clear purpose, overcame fear and adversity to secure the nation’s peace. He stressed that today’s leadership, having actively participated in the liberation struggle as young adults, possesses a profound understanding of the needs and aspirations of the youth.
He emphasized the dismantling of societal barriers as a foundational step towards national unity and development. Rutaremara pointed out that the liberation movement focused on eradicating ignorance, poverty, and aimlessness, thereby fostering a unified Rwandan identity.
Highlighting the government’s commitment to education, Rutaremara noted the provision of educational opportunities that surpass the country’s economic constraints. This initiative aims to equip the youth with necessary skills and knowledge, thereby bolstering a knowledge-based economy.
Rutaremara touched on the significance of civic education, explaining that through various platforms, including Civic Education camps and direct interactions with leaders, the youth are encouraged to embrace their inevitable role in leading the country across different sectors.
He also shed light on Rwanda’s long-term developmental strategies, referencing Vision 2020’s goals to overcome the country’s past challenges and Vision 2050’s focus on technological advancement and smart technology as pivotal to the nation’s future prosperity.
Through his talk, Rutaremara inspired the students to recognize their potential and role in shaping Rwanda’s future, emphasizing the importance of leadership, education, and technological innovation in achieving national development.
