He made this disclosure on Monday, 12th February 2023, while attending a session organized on the first day of The World Governments Summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The conversation was moderated by CNN’s News Anchor and Correspondent, Eleni Giokos.
During the session, President Kagame was asked to share his stance on winning elections slated for 15th July 2024, considering he had already announced his candidacy.
In response, Kagame emphasized that the choice of who should lead the country is in the hands of Rwandans, based on their experiences.
“Elections are for people to decide whether the people they are electing are qualified for the job, we will see. Voters’ part counts, history counts, and the proof of the pudding is in the eating,” he said.
The upcoming presidential polls in Rwanda will be merged with parliamentary elections to streamline related budgets. This will mark Rwanda’s fourth presidential election since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Campaigns for candidates in both parliamentary and presidential polls are set to commence on Saturday, 22nd June 2024, concluding on 13th July 2024. The previous presidential elections took place on 3rd and 4th August 2017, while the latest polls for deputies were held on 2nd and 3rd September 2023.
According to Elgeyo Marakwet Police Commander Peter Mulinge, the incident, which occurred around 11 p.m. at Kpatagat area, involved Kiptum, 23, driving a Toyota Premio with two passengers, including his coach and a woman named Sharon Kosgey, en route to Eldoret.
Sharon sustained serious injuries and was taken to Racecourse Hospital, while the bodies of Kiptum and Hakizimana were transported to the Racecourse hospital mortuary. The vehicle, extensively damaged, was towed to Kaptagat Police Station.
The accident was described as a self-involved incident, with Kiptum losing control of the vehicle.
The car veered off the road, collided with a large tree, and landed in a ditch approximately 60 meters away.
Kiptum, who had recently achieved a marathon record in Chicago, was on track to participate in the Rotterdam Marathon on April 14 and had secured a place in the Kenyan provisional team for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France.
The remark came during the 20th African Fine Coffees Conference and Exhibition and the First African Coffee Week that took place from Feb. 6 to 10 in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, with the aim of advocating the export of value-added coffee from Africa.
The event has brought together more than 800 regional and international coffee roasters, traders, producers, buyers and professionals to discuss policies, sustainability, access to finance and international market regarding coffee industry.
Amir Hamza, chairperson of the AFCA, said coffee exporting African countries need to concentrate on value addition and apply better marketing strategies to boost their earnings from the coffee export.
“The biggest problem Africa is facing is poor marketing approaches and export of unprocessed coffee, something the AFCA is trying to solve. Africa has the best coffees, but they are not marketed as they should be,” Hamza told Xinhua in an interview.
He encouraged African coffee exporting companies to intensify trade promotions, broaden markets while concentrating on quality raising and processing to meet the demands of importing markets and to establish brands for sustainable exports.
“After the green beans are exported from Africa, they will be blended and roasted by companies outside the continent, particularly by those companies in Europe and the United States and then they will be sold in the Middle and Far East as coffee products from other origins,” he said.
According to data obtained from AFCA, coffee exports from Africa were valued at over 3.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2022. Ethiopia was the leading exporter, earning around 1.5 billion U.S. dollars, followed by Uganda with an export value of nearly 813 million U.S. dollar during the same year.
The chairperson urged the coffee industry in Africa to shift its focus to improving product quality and aligning with market taste trends, especially in the major coffee consumption markets, which account for around half of global coffee imports, including the EU and the U.S.
Hamza said the expanding inter-Africa trade would give one of the best opportunities for African coffee producing countries to fetch better income from their coffee exports in the coming years.
According to AFCA, non-coffee producing African countries such as Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Algeria and Morocco as well as Nigeria and South Africa will be the most important destinations for the coffee market in Africa.
Speaking about forthcoming European Union’s Deforestation Regulations (EUDR), a move that threatens a significant portion of coffee exports to the economic bloc, Hamza said Africa imports more volume of coffee than it exports and he believes that the regulation would little affect Africa’s coffee export.
AFCA’s Executive Director Gilbert Gatali told Xinhua that the majority of coffee growers in Africa are not getting the right price for their products due to poor marketing strategies and agricultural practices.
“Coffee growers in Africa lack the necessary knowledge and technology to produce high quality coffee,” said the executive director, encouraging traders in the continent to collaborate and establish production chains, making it more feasible to adopt modern technology and promote the shift from raw to processed coffee export.
He further said Africa’s coffee production and export have been influenced by rising inflation, geopolitical impacts and increasing fertilizer costs, urging coffee exporting companies to closely monitor the market for suitable business and production strategies.
Gatali urged coffee buyers and governments to support farmers in increasing their knowledge and skills of coffee agronomical practices besides helping them get the right prices for their products at the international market.
“Climate change, access to inputs, intermediaries which negatively affect the final income of coffee growers, low volume yields and access to market remain to be challenges for coffee producing countries in Africa,” he added.
The ministry said the disease is spread through touching the eyes of infected persons or contaminated surfaces.
In an advisory to the public on the measures to be taken to avoid infection, the ministry urged those infected to avoid going to crowded places, hugging and shaking hands.
It also cautioned those infected to avoid swimming in public water pools and sharing sanitation and other materials.
Sharing of beddings for family members infected with the disease is also discouraged.
“The disease presents with red watery eyes,” the ministry said.
It advised those with severe symptoms including redness, swelling and blurred vision to urgently seek medical attention to avoid the risk of sight impairment.
This came after regional countries Kenya and Tanzania reported the outbreak of red eye disease.
The disease is suspected to be caused by a virus, adenovirus, according to health officials.
The blast occurred in Nkambe, a town in the region, as school children were taking part in activities to mark National Youth Day, which has been celebrated in the country on Feb. 11 since 1966.
Many of those affected were school children.
Health workers were “working very hard” to treat many of the children who sustained “very serious” injuries, a security source in the region told Xinhua.
“The death toll could increase. It is a disturbing situation but our brave soldiers have beefed up security to track down the terrorists who committed this abominable act,” the source said.
Authorities were yet to make an official statement.
Separatists had imposed a three-day lockdown to disrupt the activities in the regions where they have been clashing with government forces since 2017 in a bid to create an independent nation they call “Ambazonia.”
The call for march has been given by farmer unions to increase pressure on the federal government to meet their demands including the enactment of a law guaranteeing a minimum support price (MSP) for crops.
Approximately 200 farmer organizations are part of the protest plan.
Authorities have announced prohibitory orders under Section 144 (a government order). The order prohibits gathering of more than four people in public places.
This gathering will bring together leaders, experts, and high-ranking officials from over 150 countries to delve into emerging global trends, anticipate shifts on a worldwide scale, and strategize ways to enhance collaboration both regionally and globally.
The following day, on February 12, President Kagame is slated to engage in a one-on-one conversation with CNN’s News Anchor and Correspondent, Eleni Giokos.
This exclusive interview promises to shed light on crucial topics shaping the global landscape.
The World Governments Summit serves as an inclusive platform dedicated to shaping and exploring the future of governments.
It seeks to contribute to building a better future for humanity by establishing international partnerships rooted in the ideals of inspiring future governance.
The two-day humanitarian exercise conducted on 9th and 10th February, was part of the MINUSCA UN Police Week in partnership with Kaga Bandoro District Hospital to save lives.
Dr. Armand Daran Yadakpa from Kaga Bandoro hospital Blood Transfusion Unit, thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for a lifesaving act that will improve the life of patients.
“This human security act is very meaningful and will support victims of road accidents, expecting mothers and children suffering from anaemia and malaria,” Dr. Yadakpa said.
Jeanne D’arc Makemeza Ndongfack, MINUSCA UNPOL Sector Commander also thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for the voluntary act to save lives.
In his remarks, the RWAFPU2-8 Contingent Commander, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Jean Bosco Rudasingwa, commended the existing strong partnership with the local people and authorities in aspects of security and development, particularly in health.
He added that donating blood and other human security activities falls within the protection of civilians mandate.
Rwanda FPU2-8 has previously conducted several human security activities, including free medical outreach and environmental protection, among others.
On December 18, 2023, the office of Pope Francis released a document outlining new guidelines for blessing individuals, including those who identify as homosexuals. While priests are encouraged to offer blessings to homosexuals, the directive clarifies that it does not pertain to sacraments for married couples.
Besides, controversy emerged when Rutayisire was not invited to the GAFCON conference held in Rwanda in April 2023, an organization dedicated to sustaining and reinforcing the teachings of the word of God.
IGIHE interviewed Rutayisire, who addressed the matter and shared his perspective on Pope Francis’s statements about granting freedom to homosexuals.
{{IGIHE:}} Faith appears to be influenced by diverse cultures. Some claim your exclusion from the GAFCON conference in April 2023 was due to disagreements with colleagues on topics like homosexuality. What’s your take on this?
{{Rutaysire:}} Let me clarify a few points. First, in Rwanda, individuals were selected to attend the GAFCON meeting based on diocesan plans, and representatives were allocated to the 12 dioceses. My non-attendance wasn’t a result of intentional exclusion.
Second, GAFCON has consistently opposed homosexuality, and I comprehend that they would have invited me due to my stance against it. Thirdly, it’s important to note that I was not in Rwanda by the time the GAFCON conference took place.
{{Should homosexuals be legally bound?}}
Our Constitution makes it clear, our laws are unquestionable. The law does not punish but also does not allow the union.
The law stipulates a marriage between a man and a woman, let’s put it back there, keep it that way and we won’t have any problems.
{{Do you agree with Pope Francis blessing homosexuals?}}
The Pope said they will not wed them but bless them! I wonder how else to tell them apart? There are times when people do things that make you wonder; if someone comes to the church and blesses them, how is it different from supporting their marriage?
I think that blessing is more powerful than a wedding because when you give a blessing, you agree to the action. If you blessed them then you accepted them, you would as well just wed them.
These are things they put in the middle but the Bible says that the middle way is not allowed. It is whether you are in or out. There is no middle ground. The Pope refused to take one side and that has an effect. The fact that he is respected and an elder does not mean that he can not be wrong. Even adults make mistakes!
{{Nigerian evangelist TB Joshua is said to be fake. How did you receive the testimony given about his actions?}}
It can be true or false. The fact that he committed sins does not mean that the miracles he performed were from Satan. Unless you give me other evidence that contradicts the miracles he was doing.
If you come and tell me that this man sexually abused women and performed miracles, and you tell me that this man stole money and performed miracles, beat children and performed miracles, these three do not remove the fact that he performed miracles because the Bible tells us that if God has given you a gift and you use it, he will leave it to you.
Even if you start to misbehave, God will not take away your gifts. If you pray for a sick person and he gets well, he was calling upon God anyways . God will let his people prosper but will punish him alone.
Again his name is ruined, as now he is in disgrace. There is a time when God lets your name be destroyed while you are still alive, he hits you on his side and devalues you. What he wanted to do with you is over.
Even Samson from the Bible used to beat people who went to commit adultery among the Philistines, it was not necessary for him to commit adultery, but God told him: “Since you chose the way to beat them ,you went to commit adultery, committing adultery will affect you. They tore out his eyes”.
{{What advice do you have for evangelists?}}
There is no money involved in evangelism. When a person chooses to be a cheater he becomes one. It’s the evangelicals that you see, but fraud is everywhere. Nonetheless, it’s still not right.
It was not expected that a man doing God’s work would engage in fraud. I advise them to serve God, money will come to him. Do what you are called to do and to avoid all evil.
{{Don’t you see that these things take away Christians from God?}}
A Christian who gets discouraged by an evangelist is because of their lack of faith and lack of vision. How on earth does an evangelist take your money? You shouldnt be conned twice.
When it comes to the third time someone lies to you, you are a fool because you should open your eyes and see if what he is telling you is true, especially based on the Bible.
If you are in the Church and the pastor tells you that they are going to build a temple, that is not fraud. If you are told that contributions are meant to build a TV station and the project is implemented, that is not a scam. If you are requested to bring a tithe, it is recommended in the Bible.
If the pastor tells you to bring the money to be blessed, run away and never come back to that church. Quoting the Bible, the scripture suggests that people may perish due to a lack of understanding. It emphasizes that God’s blessings are not commodities to be bought or sold.
Since more than 20 years ago, Rwanda has not stopped showing the desire to develop this sector, and its vision to be the hub of technology in Africa and the world in general.
In this story, we are going to highlight some of the activities and programs of the Government of Rwanda, which continue to make it a leading country in Africa in the process of strengthening technology.
{{C4IR Branch }}
C4IR Rwanda became the inaugural host of the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) department in Africa. Its establishment was sanctioned during the 2020 World Economic Forum, following an accord between the Rwandan government and the forum.
The Rwandan government has opted to leverage this center for the advancement of technology-driven governance, the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI), and the progression of advanced computer science, specifically in machine learning. The department is actively involved in diverse initiatives, such as the formulation of data protection legislation and the National Artificial Intelligence Policy.
{{National ‘AI’ Policy}}
On Thursday, April 20, 2023, the Cabinet convened at Urugwiro Village and sanctioned the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Over the next five years, Rwanda is poised to allocate a budget of $76.5 million, equivalent to more than Rwf84 billion, to advance artificial intelligence across various sectors. The aim is to make significant strides in leveraging AI technologies. Projections suggest that this investment will yield a profit of $589 million for Rwanda during the stipulated period.
{{Data Protection Act}}
In the contemporary, rapidly evolving world, vital services such as financial transactions and daily necessities are increasingly being conducted online, underscoring their significance. To safeguard the sensitive information of individuals availing themselves of these services, legislation has been enacted for its protection.
The National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) are the architects of this law, which places an obligation on individuals with access to personal data to ensure its safeguarding and restrict its usage to the intended purposes.
The primary recipients of this legal framework are data processors, encompassing entities such as hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, banking agents, telecommunication companies, and various other service providers that handle personal data.
These data processors are obligated to adhere to the directives set forth by data controllers, ensuring compliance with the stipulations of the law and emphasizing responsible handling of personal information.
{{The establishment of BionTech and IRCAD}}
The healthcare sector in Rwanda is actively focusing on advancing its technological capabilities. On December 18, 2023, the first unit of the BioNTech vaccine manufacturing facility, situated in the Special Economic Zone in Masoro within the Gasabo District, was inaugurated. The construction of this facility commenced in June 2022.
The vaccines produced in Rwanda will belong to the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) category, a novel approach that originated during the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The official operations of this factory are scheduled to commence in 2025.
In addition to this, IRCAD Africa, an extension of the French Institute for Research, has been introduced. IRCAD Africa provides courses in human surgery incorporating advanced technology.
The primary objective behind the launch of IRCAD Africa is to enhance surgical procedures that involve minimal body intrusion, ensuring painless treatments, reduced bleeding, and shorter hospital stays.
This technology is anticipated to significantly impact people’s lives. Furthermore, it facilitates remote surgery, allowing patients to undergo procedures without the physical presence of the surgeon, thanks to technological advancements.
{{Norrsken House Kigali}}
Norrsken, a company established in Kigali, is dedicated to assisting and supporting entrepreneurs working on technology projects that address societal challenges in Nyarwanda and globally.
Launched with a funding of $20 million, this initiative chose Kigali as its base, anticipating the city’s trajectory toward becoming a hub for modern technology in Africa. The platform serves as a collaborative space for individuals with innovative ideas and tech projects, fostering idea-sharing and providing support for implementation to enhance productivity.
In October 2023, Rwanda hosted the Regional Cybercrime Investigation Center of Excellence at the Rwanda Police Headquarters. Comprising three key divisions, the center focuses on coordinating IT security activities, analyzing data related to cybercrimes, and facilitating the exchange of information. Additionally, it houses a digital forensic lab for monitoring and investigating digital crimes, along with a training section for regional personnel dedicated to combating such offenses.
The technological landscape in Rwanda has witnessed significant progress, with approximately 682 public services now accessible through technology.
The Irembo website serves as a repository for most essential services, attracting 42% of those in need. The country’s journey to becoming a technology hub is further supported by technology-related councils, educational institutions specializing in technology, and ongoing plans for various projects.
One such initiative is the Cassava Technologies project, an investment company planning to construct a data center in Kigali at a cost exceeding Rwf32 billion.
This center aims to store customer data securely. Another upcoming project is the Rwanda Space Agency’s National Geospatial Data Hub, slated for completion in the next five years. This hub will serve as a comprehensive database, collecting and storing geological data, satellite images, and other geospatial information for diverse applications across fields.
