In a statement shared on its social media platforms, AFR said Sayinzoga takes over the leadership of the organisation at a time when it begins implementing a new strategic framework and strengthening its contribution to Rwanda’s financial sector.
“Her experience in institution building, partnership development and inclusive finance will be invaluable as AFR continues to expand its impact,” the organisation said.
Sayinzoga is an expert in economic development with extensive experience in finance, policy, and institutional leadership.
From 2019 to 2025, she served as CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), after previously serving as Director General of the National Industrial Research and Development Agency (NIRDA).
She has also held various senior positions at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, including serving as Permanent Secretary.
Before joining public service, Sayinzoga worked at the World Bank. She has also served on the boards of several financial institutions and organisations, including the Trade and Development Bank (TDB), East African Development Bank (EADB), Rwanda Eurobond Committee, GT Bank, and the Rwanda Revenue Authority.
She holds a Master’s degree in Economic Development and Policy Analysis from the University of Nottingham.
Kampeta Pitchette Sayinzoga his the new AFR Chief Executive Officer.
The American-Venezuelan former professional basketball player is now using the platform he built during his career to support children, mentor young athletes and contribute to communities in Rwanda.
Keeling, who was selected by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1985 NBA Draft, spent a short period in the NBA before building an impressive 18-year international career. He played in France, Israel, Venezuela, the Philippines and Colombia, with 12 years of his career spent in Venezuela, where he became a respected figure in the basketball community.
Today, his focus has shifted from competing on the court to changing lives beyond it.
Harold Keeling speaks during an interview about his basketball journey, humanitarian work and why Rwanda has become a place close to his heart.
A basketball court built to create opportunities
During his visits to Rwanda in February 2025, Keeling has worked closely with the Clark family at The Promised Land in Bugesera District, where he has supported children through different community initiatives.
Through his efforts, hundreds of children have received shoes and shirts, while some have also benefited from healthcare support through insurance coverage designed to help them access medical services when needed.
But for Keeling, giving back was not only about providing basic needs. He wanted to create a place where children could discover their talents and experience the same joy that shaped his own childhood.
With support from David Clark, he helped build a basketball court at The Promised Land, giving young people a safe space to play and develop their skills.
“When I was young, I played basketball every day. My mother always had a house or apartment that was right outside of a basketball court. I could look out my window and go out there and play every day,” Keeling said.
He believes access to sports played a major role in his own success.
Growing up, basketball was his main activity after school. His mother encouraged him to first complete his homework, clean his room and finish his responsibilities before going outside to play until the street lights came on.
“That’s how I got good. That’s part of why I made it to the NBA,” he recalled.
Harold Keeling helped establish a basketball court at The Promised Land, creating a space where children can develop their skills and enjoy the game.
A journey that brought him to Rwanda
Keeling’s connection to Rwanda began through basketball.
He first visited the country after reconnecting with his friend James, head coach of APR Basketball Club. Keeling praised May’s achievements, including leading APR to major success in African basketball competitions.
After discussing the possibility of visiting Rwanda with May and their friend Keevy Dixon, Keeling eventually travelled to the country, where he connected with David Clark and the Clark family, who welcomed him to stay at The Promised Land.
During his time in Rwanda, he attended basketball games in Kigali and later began visiting nearby communities. It was through those visits that he discovered opportunities to support children who needed assistance.
“When I saw that they needed some things, it was an opportunity for me to be able to help them. It really touched my heart,” he said.
Keeling explained that this was his fourth time returning to Rwanda because of the relationships he has built with the children and communities.
“They like me. I like them. I like being with them. We’re happy when we’re together,” he said.
The former professional basketball player has helped organize youth basketball camps in Rwanda, using sport to teach discipline, teamwork and leadership.
Using basketball as a tool for change
For Keeling, basketball has always been more than a sport. He sees it as a tool for discipline, confidence and personal development.
Since arriving in Rwanda, he has organized basketball camps for young players and shared lessons from his own experience as a professional athlete.
He has worked with children at different schools and communities, teaching them basketball skills while encouraging them to believe in themselves.
“I feel blessed that I was put in this position to bless others and that God led me here,” he said.
His humanitarian work has also extended beyond sports.
Through Project Max and Save a Child’s Heart, Keeling became involved in an initiative that brought medical professionals, administrators and technicians to Rwanda to support children requiring medical procedures.
The project was initially planned for Ethiopia, but after discussions with partners, the team eventually came to Rwanda, where they worked with local medical institutions.
Keeling said he was grateful that the opportunity brought him back to a country where he had already developed strong connections.
Keeling says Rwanda’s safety, cleanliness and welcoming people are among the reasons he continues to return and invest his time in local communities.
Why Rwanda feels special to him
Beyond his work with children, Keeling said Rwanda’s safety, cleanliness and people are among the things that have impressed him the most.
He said he feels comfortable moving around the country, including at night, because of the sense of security he experiences.
“The first thing I would name is it’s very safe here. There’s hardly any crime. We walk at nighttime. We don’t worry about anybody stealing us or robbing us,” he said.
Keeling also praised Rwanda’s cleanliness, saying he admires how people protect public spaces and avoid littering.
Another quality he highlighted was the friendliness and unity among Rwandans.
“They’re very nice. They’re very friendly. They work together. I think that’s a wonderful thing,” he said.
The former basketball player also praised Rwanda’s development and said he believes the country continues to create opportunities for people from different backgrounds.
Harold Keeling praised Rwanda’s development, saying the country’s progress has left a lasting impression on him.Harold Keeling describes Rwanda as safer than the United States, citing its low crime rate and peaceful environment.
Born on October 5, 1951, in Byumba, Rwanda, Kaberuka grew up during a difficult period in the country’s history. The persecution of 1959 forced many Rwandans, including his family, into exile. Decades later, he would become one of the key figures involved in rebuilding Rwanda’s economy after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and would go on to lead one of Africa’s most important financial institutions.
Kaberuka studied economics and development, beginning his higher education at the University of Dar es Salaam. He later obtained a Master of Philosophy in Development Studies from the University of East Anglia in 1979 before earning a PhD in Economics from the University of Glasgow.
His economic thinking was shaped by his experiences studying in the United Kingdom during the economic turmoil of the 1970s. In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Kaberuka recalled how Britain’s economic crisis, marked by high inflation and a request for support from the International Monetary Fund in 1976, influenced his views.
“The economic and industrial crisis had a profound impact on me,” Kaberuka recalled. “Imagine the United Kingdom with 25 percent inflation having to seek assistance from the International Monetary Fund in 1976. It taught me to be skeptical of theories. Since then, my approach has been simple: What works?“
Kaberuka’s economic thinking was shaped by his experiences studying in the United Kingdom during the economic turmoil of the 1970s.
Rebuilding Rwanda’s economy
After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Kaberuka returned to Rwanda and became part of the team that helped rebuild the country’s economy.
As Minister of Finance and Economic Planning from 1997 to 2005, he introduced reforms that focused on liberalising the economy, strengthening domestic revenue collection, granting greater independence to the central bank and maintaining strict fiscal discipline.
His leadership during this period contributed to Rwanda’s economic recovery, with development institutions such as the French Development Agency describing the country’s approach as an effective development model in sub-Saharan Africa.
In 2005, Kaberuka was elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), a position he held until 2015.
During his decade at the helm of the institution, he oversaw a major expansion of the bank’s financial capacity, with its capital increasing from $30 billion to $100 billion and annual commitments doubling.
Leading through the 2008 financial crisis
Kaberuka’s leadership was tested during the global financial crisis of 2008, when concerns grew that Africa could face severe economic consequences.
He recalled receiving calls from worried officials asking whether Africa would become the continent most affected by the crisis.
To assess the situation, he brought together finance ministers and central bank governors in Tunis, where the AfDB was then headquartered, to discuss the impact and agree on a response.
The assessment was that African banking systems would remain relatively resilient because they were less connected to Western financial markets. However, the continent would face challenges from declining global demand and reduced trade volumes.
Rather than applying a single economic prescription across countries, Kaberuka promoted solutions adapted to local circumstances, including budget support, balance-of-payments assistance and infrastructure investments.
Economist Modibo Makalou Mao noted that during the crisis, Kaberuka avoided standard solutions and instead favoured approaches adapted to the size, level of development and needs of individual economies.
In Togo, AfDB financing supported strategic projects such as the Lomé-Cotonou corridor, which was viewed as a stronger driver of growth than traditional fiscal adjustment measures.
Kaberuka was elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2005, a position he held until 2015.
Supporting African industrial growth
During his leadership at the AfDB, Kaberuka also focused on supporting industrial small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), inspired by Germany’s Mittelstand model.
He argued that SMEs were central to economic transformation because they played a major role in job creation.
“The foundation of its success is SMEs. They are the ones that impact the unemployment curve,” he said, referring to Germany’s experience.
A champion of financial self-reliance
After leaving the AfDB, Kaberuka continued working on global and continental development issues.
He served as Chair of the Board of the Global Fund and later as the African Union’s Special Envoy for COVID-19, where he advocated for Africa to gradually reduce its dependence on external assistance.
While recognising the importance of international solidarity, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS, he argued that such support should not replace long-term financial independence.
“The pandemic and the recent withdrawal of USAID have confirmed the need for autonomy,” he said.
Frannie Leautier, an executive at SouthBridge Investments, the investment firm co-founded by Kaberuka, said his view of finance goes beyond mobilising resources.
“Donald Kaberuka has always seen in finance much more than a mechanism for mobilising resources. For him, it is a lever of dignity, sovereignty and transformation,” she said.
A lasting influence on Africa’s development agenda
Even after leaving public office, Kaberuka has remained active in discussions on Africa’s economic future, advocating for stronger institutions, industrial growth and greater financial independence.
His career reflects a rare combination of policymaking, financial leadership and development expertise, from helping rebuild Rwanda’s economy to transforming the African Development Bank into a stronger continental institution.
At 74, Kaberuka remains a prominent voice in Africa’s development debate, with a legacy built on his belief that financial systems should serve development and ultimately improve people’s lives.
At 74, Kaberuka remains a prominent voice in Africa’s development debate.
After graduating from university in 2016, Capt. Nsengiyumva, like many young graduates, began searching for employment. His efforts paid off when he successfully secured a position at the Rwanda Stock Exchange, where he worked in a field he had always been passionate about.
Although he enjoyed his job, his life took a different direction one morning when he came across a recruitment announcement inviting qualified candidates to join the Rwanda Defence Force.
The notice rekindled childhood memories of watching RDF soldiers march in formation as he walked to school, inspiring him to pursue a career in the military.
Without hesitation, he applied for the recruitment exercise, successfully passed the selection process, and began military training in 2017. After completing a year of rigorous training, he officially joined the Rwanda Defence Force, turning his childhood dream into reality.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE’s Ingingo Nkuru program, Capt. Nsengiyumva opens up about his journey from the financial sector to military service. He reflects on what motivated him to join the RDF, discusses his daily responsibilities as an officer, and shares insights into the experiences that have shaped his career over the past eight years.
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva has served in the Rwanda Defence Force for eight years
IGIHE:What does the daily life of a Rwanda Defence Force soldier look like?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: The life of a soldier is not very different from ordinary life. At the end of the day, we are human beings like everyone else. However, because of the training we receive and the commitment we make to put our country first, we are prepared to make sacrifices, including giving our lives if necessary. That is the main difference.
As a soldier, you also make discipline the foundation of everything you do, both in your professional duties and in the way you relate with other people. Military service also teaches you resilience, perseverance, and the importance of having clear goals.
IGIHE: You have now spent eight years in the military. Did you grow up dreaming of becoming a soldier? How did that dream develop?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: I would not say it was a single thing that led me here. Looking back, I realize that there were signs from my childhood that this could become my path.
When I was young, the school I attended was not far from where we lived, so we used to walk there every day. During those journeys, we would often meet long lines of soldiers marching. Watching them was always inspiring. They looked disciplined, confident, and proud, and I saw something admirable in the way they carried themselves.
Gradually, I began to dream of becoming one of those people I saw every morning.
As I grew older, especially when I reached secondary school, I started to understand more about who those soldiers were, what they did, and what military service truly meant.
I learned about the important role the Rwanda Defence Force played in liberating the country, and I began to see joining the military as one of the things I could do in life. Among the many dreams and ambitions I had, serving in the national army became one of the paths I wanted to pursue.
However, after completing university, that childhood dream developed into something deeper. At the time, I was still a civilian, but I followed the work of the Rwanda Defence Force closely, not only within Rwanda but also through its international peacekeeping missions in countries such as the Central African Republic and South Sudan.
Seeing the professionalism, discipline, and positive reputation of Rwanda’s soldiers motivated me even more. I realized that I also wanted to contribute to building my country, and I could not think of a better way to do that than by becoming part of the Rwanda Defence Force.
His childhood admiration for soldiers inspired him to leave his job at the Rwanda Stock Exchange and join the military
IGIHE: What happened after you graduated from university in 2016?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: After graduating from university, I remember completing my studies in April. Around that time, the Rwanda Stock Exchange was recruiting new employees, so I applied. Of course, it was not the only institution I applied to. Like many graduates, I was searching for opportunities in different places, but fortunately, I was among those who were selected that year.
I started working there, mainly in investment advisory services. My responsibility was to advise individuals and investors based on their financial goals, the projects they wanted to undertake, and the best ways to invest their resources.
I continued working in that field until 2017. It was a career I genuinely enjoyed, and I would not say I left because I was unhappy or because I was looking for an alternative. I was doing something I loved and could have continued doing for many years.
IGIHE: How did you eventually decide to join the military?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: Around February 2017, I came across an announcement inviting people interested in joining the Rwanda Defence Force to apply. Such announcements were not new, but when I saw that particular one, I felt a strong connection to it, as if it was an opportunity meant for me.
I looked at the age requirements and realized that I qualified. I checked the education requirements and found that I met them as well. I was a Rwandan citizen, which was also a requirement. At that moment, I felt that ignoring the opportunity would mean turning down a chance to serve my country.
IGIHE: Some people describe Cadet training as extremely demanding. What was your experience?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: If you were used to waking up at 8:00 a.m., having lunch at noon, and going to sleep early in the evening, military training completely changes that routine. You learn to look beyond your personal comfort and preferences. Instead, you learn to follow instructions, meet expectations, and work together with others.
I remember seeing soldiers and being told that the soldiers we saw beginning their day in the morning would continue working throughout the day and sometimes into the night. At the time, it seemed almost impossible to me.
I would ask myself, “How can someone continue moving and working for so many hours?” But once you go through military training, you gradually develop that ability. You find yourself doing things you once thought were impossible, and with time, they become part of your daily life.
IGIHE: What qualities should young people between the ages of 18 and 23 who wish to join the military develop?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: Beyond those who aspire to join the military, every young person should strive to have good values and positive character. It is important to be someone with a clear vision, someone who understands that they have goals to achieve and a contribution to make to themselves, their families, and their country.
You should also be someone who believes that possibilities go beyond what you have already experienced. Do not limit yourself to what you can see or what you have achieved today. Believe that through learning, training, and accepting challenges that may seem beyond your current abilities, you can still accomplish great things.
IGIHE: Is there a special feeling that comes with receiving your first military rank?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: It is one of the most memorable and important moments in a soldier’s life. Receiving your first rank is a great honour and a moment you always remember.
IGIHE: Rwanda has enjoyed more than 30 years of peace, and many people often associate soldiers with war and combat. During such a period of peace, what does life look like for you as soldiers?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: Protecting the country’s sovereignty does not necessarily mean fighting a war. There is a principle that we all learn and uphold: putting the citizen first.
Everything we do within the Rwanda Defence Force, whether it is in healthcare, technical services, administration, or any other area, is focused on ensuring that citizens are safe and able to carry out their daily activities without fear or disruption.
A farmer should be able to work on their land peacefully. A businessperson should be able to conduct their activities in a secure environment. Our responsibility is to create conditions where every citizen feels protected and confident.
Therefore, military service is not only about being on the battlefield. It is also about carrying out your daily duties with the understanding that your work is meant to serve and protect the people.
When citizens see you, they should feel reassured that they are safe and that their well-being is being protected.
IGIHE: What responsibilities do you personally handle in your daily work?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: As a soldier, you must always be prepared to take on any responsibility assigned to you by your commanders. However, in my current role, I work in administration at the Rwanda Defence Force headquarters.
IGIHE: As Rwanda marks the 32nd anniversary of Liberation, what stories from the liberation struggle have inspired you the most?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: The history of Rwanda’s liberation is broad, and every part of it gives me inspiration.
However, one thing that continues to stand out for me is the journey of President Paul Kagame, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force. He left the life he had established in the United States and returned to join a difficult struggle at a time when Rwanda was facing a serious crisis.
The way he transformed the struggle and led it until Rwanda was liberated is something I reflect on often. It motivates me and pushes me to constantly evaluate myself and learn from that history.
IGIHE: What do you believe young people should do to preserve the achievements and legacy built over the years?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: We grew up hearing about Vision 2020, and today the country is working towards Vision 2050. These visions demonstrate the direction and ambitions that Rwanda has set for itself.
In the same way, every young person should have a personal vision. You should be able to say, “This is where I am today, but this is where I want to be tomorrow.”
The Rwanda we found when we were born should not remain the same when we grow older. Each of us has a responsibility to contribute something meaningful to the country’s development and leave behind a positive impact.
Young people must also avoid behaviours that can harm themselves and society, such as alcohol abuse and drug use. These challenges do not only affect individuals; they also affect the country because they take away valuable human resources, talents, and people who could have contributed to national development.
Beyond education and professional skills, young people must also be ready to adapt to a changing world. Technology continues to evolve every day, and we must develop the ability to learn, adapt, and continue improving ourselves so that we remain relevant in the future.
IGIHE: We often see reports of individuals or groups outside the country attempting to undermine Rwanda’s security. As those who liberated the country gradually pass on responsibility to your generation, how prepared are you to ensure that no one can threaten the country’s security?
Capt. Michael Nsengiyumva: The answer is evident in itself. Today, we have people who were born during the liberation struggle, as well as others who were born after that period, and many of us are now serving in the Rwanda Defence Force.
This demonstrates that there is a continuation of the values that have guided the country, including patriotism, love for Rwanda, and the commitment to make sacrifices whenever the country requires it.
With such values being passed from one generation to another, there is no reason for anyone to worry about the future of Rwanda’s security.
More importantly, we understand the history of where our country came from. No one would ever wish to see Rwanda return to the difficult and painful period from which it emerged.
Murenzi announced the appointment through his social media platforms, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and his commitment to representing the interests of young people.
“I am delighted to share that I have been appointed to the Youth Sounding Board of the European Union Delegation in Rwanda,” he wrote.
He added that he looks forward to working closely with the EU Delegation and embassies of EU member states in Rwanda to strengthen cooperation and advocate for initiatives that address the aspirations, challenges and needs of Rwandan youth.
The Youth Sounding Board is a mechanism established by the European Union to ensure meaningful youth participation in the design and implementation of EU policies, programmes and partnerships. The platform enables young people to contribute their perspectives and help make development efforts more inclusive, responsive and impactful.
Murenzi’s appointment adds to a growing record of youth leadership and engagement in national and international development initiatives.
He founded Rwanda We Want in 2015 at the age of 17, creating a platform aimed at empowering young people and encouraging their participation in Rwanda’s development agenda. Under his leadership, the organization has grown into a prominent youth-focused movement that promotes civic engagement, leadership and sustainable development.
Murenzi holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Monetary Economics from the University of Rwanda and a Master’s degree in Design Management from Coventry University in the United Kingdom.
Over the years, he has also served in several regional and international roles focused on youth empowerment and sustainable development. These include membership on the policy team of the planning task force for the 12th Commonwealth Youth Forum and serving as Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Coordinator for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN-SDSN).
His new role on the EU Youth Sounding Board is expected to provide an additional platform for engaging with policymakers and development partners on issues affecting young people in Rwanda.
Murenzi’s appointment adds to a growing record of youth leadership and engagement in national and international development initiatives.
Anant joins Spiro with more than two decades of leadership experience across India, the Middle East and Africa, building and scaling businesses across electric mobility, energy and industrial sectors.
Most recently, he served as CEO of Indofast Energy, the joint venture between IndianOil and SUN Mobility, where he led the development of one of India’s largest battery-swapping networks, comprising more than 1,800 stations and serving nearly 90,000 vehicles daily.
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Spiro following its landmark US$215 million financing round, one of the largest investments ever made in Africa’s electric mobility sector.
As Spiro is accelerating on its mission to transform mobility across Africa, Anant’s broad mandate will span battery swapping, leasing, logistics, energy, and vehicle manufacturing. As CEO Mobility, Kaushik Burman will continue to further consolidate Spiro’s leadership and fleet in Spiro’s 7 existing markets and beyond.
Commenting on the development; Gagan Gupta, Founder and Chairman of Spiro said: “As Spiro is accelerating on its mission to transform mobility across Africa through clean, affordable and accessible electric transportation solutions, Anant will consolidate the Group’s strategic initiatives and guide the company through its next chapter of growth and execution in mobility, energy and tech.”
Commenting on his appointment, Anant Badjatya said: “Africa represents the most exciting frontier for electric mobility. Spiro has built a unique platform and is exceptionally well positioned to accelerate the transition to cleaner and more accessible mobility across the continent. I look forward to working with our teams, partners and stakeholders to drive the next phase of growth and impact.”
Spiro is Africa’s largest electric mobility company and operates the continent’s most extensive battery-swapping network for electric two-wheel vehicles.
With more than 100,000 electric motorcycles on the road, over 2,500 swapping stations and more than 30 million battery swaps to date, Spiro is replacing expensive fossil-fuel transport with affordable, accessible and sustainable mobility solutions.
Through its growing regional production and assembly footprint, Spiro is committed to building electric vehicles made in Africa by Africans for Africa and the world.
Spiro has appointed former Indofast Energy CEO Anant Badjatya as Group CEO to lead its next phase of growth
Born and raised in Berkeley and Oakland, Monica never imagined she would one day settle in East Africa. But after the loss of her firstborn daughter following a long hospital stay, her life took a painful turn that forced her to reconsider everything about where and how she wanted to live.
“I was in the hospital with my daughter for nine months in intensive care,” she shared. “Unfortunately, she passed away. That was a really pivotal moment in my life.”
In the aftermath, Monica began searching for a place to heal. That search eventually led her to Rwanda, where she first arrived about a year and a half ago, initially visiting family who had already relocated. She spent time in Kigali and later moved to quieter areas such as Bugesera and Nyamata before discovering land near Lake Cyohoha.
What she found there changed her life again. “Rwanda really touched my heart,” she said. “It’s just so warm and inviting and safe and peaceful.”
Monica Clark, a retired nurse from California’s Bay Area, is building a new chapter of life in Rwanda.
On this land, she began building what she calls Zion Shores, a name inspired by the biblical idea of Zion as a place of peace and restoration. For Monica, it represents both healing and purpose.
“This is like heaven on earth,” she said. “God’s promise to come back home and live in peace and serenity.”
She began developing the project using her own savings, starting with an estimated investment of around $25,000 (about Rwf 37 million). As the farm expanded and more systems were added, her total investment grew to roughly $50,000 (Rwf 75 million), all self-funded.
The farm is still developing, but it is already taking shape with fruit trees, including mango, guava, citrus, passion fruit, pomegranate, and dragon fruit. Monica is also part of a dragon fruit growers’ collective, experimenting with crops that can thrive in Rwanda’s climate while supporting long-term food systems.
Monica describes the farm as a closed-loop system where nothing is wasted.
A key part of her philosophy is soil preservation. Because the land sits on a hillside, she uses cover crops to prevent erosion during heavy rains. These plants not only protect the soil but also serve another purpose.
“When you cut them, you can feed the inyambo,” she explained. “They love this. It’s very nutritious, full of protein.”
She describes the farm as a closed-loop system where nothing is wasted. A fish pond stocked with tilapia plays an important role in this cycle, where nutrient-rich water from the fish is reused to fertilise crops.
“Everything here is in a loop,” she said. “The fish feed the plants, the plants feed the animals, and feed us as well.”
Monica is committed to fully organic farming.
Monica is also committed to fully organic farming, rejecting synthetic chemicals entirely.
“Absolutely no pesticides and no chemicals are used on this farm,” she said firmly. “That’s one thing I’m strong about and I’m not going to bend on that.”
Behind the agricultural vision is a deeply personal journey of healing, but also a broader reflection on identity and belonging. Speaking about her perspective as an African American, she reflected on generational history and experience in the United States.
“African Americans were stolen to go to the land of so-called America,” she said. “Our ancestors did whatever they had to do to survive, but their whole intention was to come back home to the continent.”
She went on to describe her feelings about life in the United States, particularly in California.
“Growing up and living in California, I realised a lot of it was hype. It’s beautiful, but it’s expensive, it’s stressful, you have to have many jobs just to survive.”
Her critique also touched on deeper social experiences.
“You’re tolerated there,” she said. “Sometimes you walk into a room and you’re not even seen as a human being.”
For Monica, these reflections are part of what made Rwanda feel different.
“Why would you leave paradise where you’re loved and supported and safe?” she asked. “What you have here is everything you need.”
What she found in Rwanda surprised her. “You feel safe 24 hours,” she explained. “There are no guns, there’s no violence. It allows your nervous system to finally relax and become at peace.”
She contrasts this with her life in California, which she describes as fast-paced and expensive.
“There’s a lot of distractions, and it’s money-driven,” she said. “Here, you just relax. You don’t have to deal with the same level of stress.”
The farm is still developing, but it is already taking shape with fruit trees and other agricultural projects.
Beyond farming, Monica has also focused on community building. The surrounding village has been deeply involved in developing Zion Shores, providing labour, skills, and collaboration. At peak times, up to fifty people work on the project, while around ten are employed full-time.
“I’m not like an outsider just coming to take something,” she said. “I’m a part of this village. We have relationships and friendships.”
She also shares food, seeds, and trees with neighbours, encouraging others to grow their own crops and restore the land around them. For her, the project is as much about people as it is about farming.
Looking ahead, Monica hopes Zion Shores will become a learning space for sustainable agriculture, where both locals and visitors can exchange knowledge about organic farming, companion planting, and ecological design.
She also envisions expanding crop diversity and continuing to reforest the land.
“I want visitors to come,” she said. “A place to learn different ways of growing organically… and also learning from farmers here who have been doing it for thousands of years.”
Monica Clark’s journey from California to Rwanda is ultimately one of transformation, shaped by grief, resilience, and a search for peace. Through Zion Shores, she is building a life she says finally feels like home.
Watch Monica Clark’s full journey in the video below:
This strategic move underscores the Group’s commitment to strengthening leadership within Rwanda’s evolving insurance, risk advisory, pensions and investments sector.
The appointment reflects the company’s ambition to enhance governance and support its next phase of growth in an increasingly dynamic and innovation-driven market.
His appointment comes at a time when Rwanda’s financial services sector is undergoing a significant shift toward digitalization, driven by the emergence of mobile-based services and the increasing adoption of AI-powered solutions that are transforming business processing and customer experience.
For Liaison Rwanda and Liaison Financial Services Rwanda, this transformation presents an opportunity to strengthen its innovation-led service offering, expand its risk advisory solutions, and reinforce its position as a trusted partner in insurance, risk management, pension, and investment solutions.
With over two decades of experience in operational transformation, business reengineering, and leading recovery initiatives in complex environments, Sebera is widely recognized for delivering practical, results-oriented solutions. He has successfully guided organizations through both turnaround and growth phases across African markets.
His cross-sector experience positions him to support Liaison Rwanda and Liaison Financial Services Rwanda, in accelerating innovation, strengthening institutional resilience, and enhancing its competitive position within the financial services sector.
In an official statement, Group Managing Director Tom Mulwa said; “We are pleased to welcome Eddy Sebera as Chairman of Liaison Rwanda and Liaison Financial Services Rwanda. His depth of experience, strategic foresight, and proven leadership across African markets will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our position and deliver innovative risk and insurance solutions.”
He added that the Group is confident the new Chairman’s leadership will help accelerate growth, drive innovation, and contribute to the continued development of Rwanda’s financial sector.
In accepting the appointment, Eddy Sebera stated; “I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time. I look forward to working with the Board and Management to build on the Company’s strong foundation and contribute to its continued growth and impact in Rwanda and the region.”
Looking ahead, Liaison Group remains focused on sustainable growth, leveraging its regional expertise to deliver technology-driven solutions that help clients manage risk and build long-term financial security. The appointment is for a term of three (3) years and is subject to renewal.
Founded in 2009, Liaison Rwanda is an independent non-banking financial services Organization that has been at the forefront of Risk advisory and Healthcare management. Through a comprehensive suite of service offerings, Liaison Rwanda is wholly and exclusively engaged in supporting its clients in building and maintaining robust risk management and internal control structures.
Eddy Sebera has been named Chairman of Liaison Rwanda and Liaison Financial Services Rwanda.
Uwimbabazi received the “J. Willard Marriott Award of Excellence,” an award given every year to only 10 employees across Marriott International’s worldwide operations who demonstrate exceptional service and leadership in the hospitality industry.
The award ceremony took place at Marriott International’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. on May 11, 2026.
Employees considered for the award are nominated by the hotels where they work based on their performance and achievements. Marriott International evaluates candidates on customer care, teamwork, leadership and professionalism.
Uwimbabazi works as the Director of Rooms Operations at Kigali Marriott Hotel. She became the first employee from East Africa to receive the award.
Her leadership and ability to provide efficient and high-quality services to guests from different backgrounds were among the reasons she was recognised.
After receiving the award, Uwimbabazi thanked those who had trusted her and expressed pride in representing Rwanda on the international stage. She noted that becoming the first Rwandan woman and the first employee from East Africa to receive the award was not simply a personal achievement, but also a responsibility.
She added that the recognition belonged to every African working in the hospitality industry, especially women.
Uwimbabazi also highlighted that the values and confidence she gained as a Rwandan inspired her to love her work and helped her achieve international recognition.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, thanked Uwimbabazi for making Rwanda proud, noting that she deserved the recognition of her commitment to excellence.
Deborah Marriott Harrison, a member of the Board of Directors of Marriott International also congratulated Uwimbabazi. Uwimbabazi was accompanied by her husband, Ribani Eric.Bill Marriott, the Executive Chairman of Marriott International and son of the company’s founder J. Willard Marriott, congratulated Uwimbabazi. Sandeep Walia is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Marriott International in the Middle East & Africa congratulated Uwimbabazi.
He also describes himself as a longtime friend of President Paul Kagame, dating back to the period when Kagame lived in Kampala.
Capt Mike Mukula, now 69, is widely known for his 28 investment companies under the Mukula Group of Companies. He is also a former pilot.
Between 1996 and 2016, he represented Soroti constituency in the Parliament of Uganda and currently remains a prominent figure within Uganda’s ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Thirty-six years after the launch of the Rwandan liberation struggle and 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was stopped, Capt Mukula reflects on his close and personal ties with both President Paul Kagame and Maj Gen Fred Rwigema.
In an interview on The Long Form Podcast with Sanny Ntayombya, Mukula recalls meeting Rwigema in 1985, a moment that quickly evolved into a deep friendship.
Captain Mike Mukula still remembers the night of September 30, 1990, with painful clarity. He was getting a haircut in Bugolobi when Major General Fred Rwigyema walked in.
“He came to me and said, ‘I just want to look at you. I wanted to see you and look at you,’” Mukula recalls. “That was the last time I saw him.”
The following day, Rwigema crossed into Rwanda to launch the Liberation Struggle. He was killed on the second day of fighting.
For Mukula, that quiet moment marked the end of a deep friendship that had grown over years—one shaped in Kampala’s social spaces, shared meals, and a shared revolutionary spirit.
Long before the Rwandan Patriotic Front launched the Liberation Struggle on October 1, 1990, Mukula and Rwigema moved in the same circles. At the time, Mukula, then a pilot and businessman, ran Bimbo Ice Cream, a popular hangout in Kampala.
“Fred loved to come to Bimbo,” Mukula says. “He used to come, order ice cream. He used to come home. I was very close to his mother—very, very close to his mother. Actually, we started speaking Kinyarwanda. She started teaching me Kinyarwanda because she didn’t know English, she didn’t know Luganda, she didn’t know Swahili.”
Their friendship grew so close that Mukula believed he would play a central role in Rwigema’s wedding.
“We had even bought suits,” he recalls with a smile. “I thought I was going to be his best man. But then the hierarchy wanted to make it a military wedding, so they got General Ivan Koreta to be the best man. But we had already bought the suits—for both the Kasiki and the wedding.”
A Kasiki in Uganda is a traditional, celebratory party held on the eve of a wedding at both the bride’s and groom’s homes, acting as a farewell to bachelorhood.
The Kasiki ceremony was held in Bugolobi, not far from Mukula’s home. As he said, President Kagame was responsible for security at the time.
“We coordinated together to make sure that the function went very well,” Mukula says. Rwigema remained a frequent visitor to Bimbo, where he ate, drank, and interacted freely with Mukula.
“That’s how close we were,” he explains. “They would eat freely in my place, drink freely, and interact with me. That’s how free it was.”
Mukula also recalls a moment that revealed Rwigema’s calm bravery far from the battlefield. One evening, as they drove out of Bimbo along Jinja Road, they encountered an armed robber who had hijacked a vehicle and was exchanging fire with police officers who had frozen in place.
“Fred then took a brand new AK-47 from one of the policemen,” Mukula recounts. “He went into the corner—the act of bravery—fired I think two or three shots… As soon as [the robber] stopped, he entered in and fired rapidly. He had pinned where the man was. And the man was no more.”
Afterward, Rwigema calmly returned the gun to the policeman and drove away.
Mukula reflects on the moment with admiration: “General Salim Saleh and most of the soldiers of the NRA did not command from the rear. They breathed in engagement directly from the front.”
When news of Rwigema’s death reached him, Mukula says the pain was overwhelming. To this day, he marks October 2 as a personal day of remembrance.
“On the 2nd of October every year from the time he fell, I don’t work. I stay home… in memory of my brother,” he says. “It was very painful, very, very painful.”
Capt. Mike Mukula recalled how his close friendship with Gen. Fred Rwigyema extended to wedding preparations, where he had expected to serve as best man before military protocol changed the arrangement.Capt. Mike Mukula has shared personal memories of Maj Gen Fred Rwigema, highlighting their bond and the emotional weight of their last encounter.
