She took a six-year break from politics during which she established Bright Stars Foundation Academy, a private educational institution located in Gasabo district.
Kazarwa has now returned with a renewed focus on addressing the nation’s evolving needs through legislative reforms.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Kazarwa shared her vision for the next five years, highlighting her key focus areas, responding to citizens’ criticisms, and outlining her commitment to the Rwandan people.
{{Priorities}}
As the new Speaker of Parliament, Kazarwa’s primary goal is to ensure that the legislative body remains dynamic and responsive to Rwanda’s rapid development.
“Our country’s rapid development requires solid, evolving laws that address emerging issues,” Kazarwa stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among members to align their efforts with the government’s broader programs.
Kazarwa’s immediate focus is to review the handover documents from the previous leadership to understand the progress made and identify the starting points for the new term.
She highlighted the importance of examining the government’s wide-ranging agenda and working closely with other institutions to ensure effective governance.
{{Addressing citizens’ criticisms}}
Citizens have often expressed concerns that Parliament does not fully represent their interests, particularly on issues such as taxes and rising market prices.
Kazarwa addressed these criticisms head-on, explaining that while taxes are necessary for national development, it is crucial to ensure that they are not overly burdensome.
“Taxes are essential for building infrastructure like roads. Compared to other countries, our taxes are not the highest,” she noted.
Kazarwa stressed the need for continuous education on the importance of taxes and ensuring that public funds are managed transparently.
Regarding the issue of rising prices, Kazarwa acknowledged that these fluctuations can often be attributed to global economic conditions beyond Rwanda’s control.
However, she assured citizens that Parliament is proactive in addressing such concerns by summoning relevant ministers to provide explanations and taking necessary legislative actions.
{{Parliament’s role in government oversight}}
Parliament’s effectiveness in holding the government accountable has been questioned by some, who believe that the legislative body could be more active in this regard.
Kazarwa clarified that Parliament follows strict legal procedures when overseeing government activities.
“We prepare reports and forward them to the Prime Minister, and issues are followed up by various parliamentary committees,” she explained.
Kazarwa also highlighted the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in summoning individuals to account for the use of public funds as part of Parliament’s broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
{{Promise to Rwandans}}
Looking ahead, Kazarwa made a solemn promise to the people of Rwanda.
“My promise to Rwandans is that, together with other institutions, we will work for them because they elected us, and we are their voice,” she declared.
Kazarwa committed to ensuring that projects are not delayed, that the President’s promises to the citizens are fulfilled promptly, and that the budget is managed effectively to prioritize and execute essential tasks.
It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.
The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
{{From Vision to Reality
}}
The SOLIDACT Foundation’s story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.
What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.
“In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students,” recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. “Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting many more across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”
As TIP’s impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.
The foundation’s vision is ambitious yet attainable—to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
{{Impact on the Ground: Education, Health, and Community Support
}}
SOLIDACT’S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.
These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.
“Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it’s not enough on its own,” Gakwaya explains. “That’s why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures.”
In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.
Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.
The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.
The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.
“We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community,” says Gakwaya. “When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed.”
{{Building for the Future: The Recreation Center of Excellence
}}
As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.
This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.
“The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support,” Gakwaya explains. “It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally.”
The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.
In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.
“Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future,” says Gakwaya.
Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
“These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,” she said.
{{A Call to Action: Join the Journey
}}
As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation’s success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation’s mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.
“We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us,” he says. “Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families.”
For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.
{{A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
}}
The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.
As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation’s work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.
In a stirring and impassioned speech while addressing the newly sworn in parliament on August 14, 2024, Kagame castigated efforts in place to confront a conflict that has cast long shadows over the region for decades.
With reason and conviction, The Head of State dismantled the falsehoods and that have long painted Rwanda as the villain in this tragic saga, asserting with unwavering clarity that the DRC’s problems must not, and cannot be blamed on Rwanda.
“Let me speak plainly about these issues of regional insecurity, the war that has gripped the eastern part of DRC, the simmering tensions that have pitted neighbors against each other, these are not new problems,” Kagame said.
“I addressed them the other day at the inauguration, and I address them again now: the true root of these conflicts lies not in Rwanda, but in the mire of interests and hypocrisies that refuse to confront the real causes,” he asserted.
Kagame peeled back the layers of distortion that have clouded the truth for so long describing a narrative that has been twisted and turned to serve the interests of a few, while the many suffer.
“It is a story that was told not to illuminate the truth, but to obscure it by shifting the blame away from those who must be held accountable,” he observed.
The president questioned those that allege Rwanda’s exploitation of the DRC’s resources through the supposed support of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) rebels.
“They say the FDLR returned to Rwanda only to be sent back to the DRC, to exploit their riches. But I ask, what riches? What resources are they speaking of, when the people they claim to defend live in conditions worse than my own citizens?” he wondered
He acknowledged that many of these fighters came back to Rwanda and everyone knows who they are and also addressed the concerning misrepresentation of the refugee situation in the region.
“You acknowledge that there are people who need to be resettled, yet you refuse to engage with the very refugees who are at the heart of the insecurity in this region and then you turn around and blame Rwanda? This is not just wrong, it is unacceptable!” Kagame said.
“It is clear that they have no real interest in resolving this conflict. They do not seek peace, but rather, they seek to maintain the chaos from which they benefit,”
Reflecting on a discussions held with some delegates at his inauguration, Kagame questioned why Rwanda is continually asked to clean up the mess that others have created.
But let me remind you, Rwanda’s liberation and progress was not handed to us as a gift. We fought for it, we bled for it, and we earned it,” he said
He emphasized that security is a matter of survival for Rwanda and good neighborliness cannot come at the country’s expense, or anyone else’s. He said that the problems in the DRC is not Rwanda’s to solve, and this constant narrative should not be used as a scapegoat.
“We will continue to protect our people, our interests, without fear, and without hesitation,” he stressed
A unanimous decision was taken by regional leaders who attended that there was need to continue fostering political and economic stability to accelerate regional integration and industrialization.
The one-day summit drew participants from all 16 member states including Angola, Botswana, Comoros, DR Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rwanda is not a member of SADC.
During the event, Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, took over the SADC chairmanship from his Angolan counterpart, Joao Lourenco. He called on the region to unite and collaborate to advance the development agenda for the benefit of SADC citizens.
The SADC region, Mnangangwa explained, must deploy innovative strategies across all sectors of the economy to spur regional value chains, particularly focusing on value addition and beneficiation of the abundant mineral and natural resources in the region.
He stressed the need for the SADC region to fiercely protect its sovereignty and economic independence. He assured that, during his tenure, the SADC would actively pursue and implement projects and programs aimed at advancing regional development.
At the same time, the new SADC chair expressed gratitude to the regional bloc for its support during the two decades of Western sanctions against Zimbabwe, noting that many countries in the region resisted pressure from Western nations to abandon the southern African country.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to personally thank you all for the many years of your unwavering solidarity, support, and unbreakable fraternal relations with the Republic and people of Zimbabwe. This has been against the continued heinous sanctions imposed on our country, Zimbabwe, by some Western countries,” Mnangagwa said.
“We are aware that various forms of undue pressure may have been exerted on you over the years to abandon us, yet you have remained resolute in the true spirit of our liberation wartime mantra that an injury to one is an injury to all,” the president emphasized.
Several countries and organizations have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe over the years, mainly due to alleged human rights violations, political instability, and governance issues. Most of the countries and bodies have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwean officials and government entities in the country. The sanctions include travel bans and freezing of personal assets.
The countries and bodies that have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe include the United States of America, the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.
In 2019, SADC declared October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day, during which member countries engage in various activities to demonstrate solidarity with Zimbabwe and advocate for the unconditional removal of sanctions.
In a notice to the public, the authority stated that White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, are no longer allowed to be produced, distributed, or sold on the Rwandan market.
The directive follows inspections that established the two companies were illegally operating as food processing facilities and did not comply with safety requirements set by the Rwanda FDA.
“Rwanda FDA orders immediate closure of both facilities and a complete halt to the production, sale, distribution and use of their food products, including but not limited to Discovery White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, respectively,” reads a statement issued by FDA on August 17, 2024.
“For the sake of protecting public health, the general public is informed that the two products indicated above (all lots) are not allowed to be produced, distributed, and sold on the Rwandan market.”
The Rwanda FDA has urged consumers who have purchased the products to immediately stop using them and dispose of them properly.
Additionally, the public has been cautioned against consuming other products produced by the affected companies.
“The general public is also informed that all other food products processed by the aforementioned facilities are likewise prohibited from entering the Rwandan market,” the authority said.
Rwanda FDA was established in February 2018 to safeguard public health by regulating human and veterinary medicines, vaccines and other biological products, processed foods, poisons, medicated cosmetics, medical devices, household chemical substances, tobacco, and tobacco products.
Land is widely regarded as a valuable asset that never loses its worth, with many considering land ownership as the best way to secure wealth. Ordinarily, the government is the largest land owner the Catholic Church holds the second-largest amount of land in Rwanda.
Sources reveal that the Catholic Church first acquired land during the German colonial era, significantly expanding its holdings during the Belgian colonial period and beyond.
The land law established by Belgian colonizers in 1943 granted religious institutions, research organizations, and government entities the right to request unused land from colonial authorities, which was often provided at no cost.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Bishop Rukamba confirmed that the Catholic Church owns vast amounts of land, though he did not specify the exact amount.
However, he highlighted that a large portion of the land is used for the benefit of Rwandans.
“People say it, and it could be true because our land is not just for ourselves. For example, the government recently built schools; many of them were built on Church land. We use Church land to build schools, residences for priests, health facilities, and work with Christians or help them to exploit the land,” he said.
Data from the Ministry of Education shows that schools owned by the Catholic Church or those managed in partnership with the government total 142, accounting for 28.2% of owned schools.
Bishop Rukamba emphasized that in areas where the land is cultivated by a large number of citizens, reclaiming it could lead to significant problems for the government. Therefore, they decided to allow the citizens to continue using the land.
“There are many fields cultivated by citizens, and they give a small token in return. For example, in Save, a large number of people cultivate the land because it is one of the oldest parishes, with many people depending on that land. Removing them would cause significant issues for the government.”
Bishop Rukamba confirmed that although the land is cultivated by citizens, it remains registered under the Catholic Church.
IGIHE was unable to determine the exact amount of land owned by the Catholic Church in Rwanda, but within its nine dioceses and around 200 parishes, the Church holds substantial tracts of land used for infrastructure and other activities.
The fifth Rwanda Population and Housing Census (RPHC5) in 2022 revealed that the Catholic Church has over 5 million followers, accounting for 40% of the Rwandan population, followed by ADEPR with 21%.
Earlier this week, Pope Francis appointed Father Jean Bosco Ntagungira to replace Bishop Rukamba as the new leader of the Butare Diocese, as the latter steps into retirement.
The concept of mandatory military training for Rwandan high school graduates gained attention during recent election campaigns, with the Social Democratic Party (PSD) advocating for a year of military training after high school to instill values and foster national service.
PSD believes this initiative would enhance the youth’s understanding of their role in safeguarding the nation’s integrity.
During a press conference on Friday, August 16, 2024, the RDF leadership addressed ongoing reforms within the Reserve Force, including new pathways for youth entry into this unit. Brig Gen Rwivanga reiterated that Rwanda has not implemented a mandatory military training system.
He stated, “While some countries have compulsory military service, we offer the ‘Indangamirwa’ civic education program, which is not mandatory. Unlike other nations where military training is compulsory for all high school graduates, in Rwanda, participation is a choice.”
He also clarified that the option available in Rwanda allows individuals aged 18 and above to join the Reserve Force, which is distinct from the compulsory military training programs in other countries.
Responding to journalist’s inquiry to know whether the newly announced youth recruitment into the Reserve Force was related to the previously suggested idea of mandatory military service for high school graduates, Brig Gen Rwivanga confirmed that the two are unrelated, emphasizing that Rwanda does not have a mandatory military training programe.
Currently, the RDF has opened registration for Rwandan youth interested in joining the military service through the Reserve Force.
The Reserve Force is one of the four components of the RDF alongside the Army, the Air Force, and the Military Health Service, traditionally comprised of retired regular soldiers who continued to contribute to national security before full retirement.
The RDF has now introduced two additional pathways for entry into the Reserve Force: one for young people who meet specific criteria and another for individuals with specialized skills, regardless of age.
Recruited youth will serve in the Reserve Force, ready to be called upon for military duties as needed. The RDF has invited interested young people to register for entry into the Reserve Force, with selected candidates undergoing six months of training at Gabiro Combat Training Center.
Eligible candidates include those who have completed at least secondary education, with varying age limits depending on their educational level. Secondary school graduates must be not older than 25 years, IPRC graduates not older than 26 years, and bachelor’s degree holders aged 28 years and below.
The Ministry of Defence reported that the training completed on 16th August 2024, included specialized courses for Company Commanders, Platoon Commanders, Sergeant Majors, and Platoon Sergeants.
The rigorous program focused on enhancing military skills, leadership abilities, command and control, strategic thinking, and tactical proficiency.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the RDF’s ongoing efforts to professionalize its forces and prepare them for future challenges.
The graduation ceremony was officiated by Maj Gen Denis Rutaha, Commandant of CTC-Gabiro, on behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff.
In his remarks, Maj Gen Rutaha congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of career courses in building a capable and responsive military force.
“I congratulate you for this achievement and the RDF at large. The career course in RDF has a big role. Remember, the skills and knowledge acquired here today will help you to respond to the current challenges,” said Maj Gen Rutaha.
These courses are part of existing training programs designed to build a professional and highly skilled army.
In the new appointments, Judith Uwizeye continues in her role as Minister in the Office of the President while Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe retains his position as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation.
These were very instrumental in strengthening Rwanda’s international relationships and enhancing the country’s global standing in the previous cabinet.
Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, previously at the helm of the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, takes over as Minister of Health as Rwanda continues to advance healthcare reforms and adding up its public health infrastructure building on the successes achieved during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Paula Ingabire remains Minister of ICT and Innovation as Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja steps into the role of Minister of Justice and Attorney General. The former President of the East African Court of Justice is now tasked with ensuring that Rwanda’s judicial system remains strong.
Inès Mpambara has been appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office as Yusuf Murangwa, takes over the Finance and Economic Planning docket. Richard Nyirishema and Prudence Sebahizi steps in as Minister of Sports, Trade and Industry respectively.
Other appointments include Dr. Jean-Damascène Bizimana as Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri as Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, who is expected work to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Dr. Jimmy Gasore is the new Minister of Infrastructure, will oversee the development of critical infrastructure projects, while Ms. Consolée Uwimana continues to serve as Minister of Gender and Family Promotion.
Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira remains Minister of Disaster Preparedness and Dr. Valentine Uwamariya was retained as Minister of Environment.
Others are Gaspard Twagirayezu, Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka, Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, Gaspard Twagiray in charge of Education, Labor and Public Service, Youth and Culture respectively.
This comes shortly after, the newly appointed Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente took oath and after the swearing-in of new members of parliament.
According to Rwanda’s constitution, Cabinet members are appointed within 15 days preceding the appointment of the Prime Minister. This new cabinet, reflects a strategic blend of continuity and change, positioning Rwanda to meet its goals and continue its path toward sustainable development and prosperity
