Humans, if not everything in nature, are unpredictable as we have heard. In a blink of an eye, a person can change from being kind to being the cruelest you’ve ever met. With that in the line, it is not that easy as it is said, to choose the right person to spend your whole life with.
Though that is true, the role of some points in assessing a life partner can’t be neglected. That’s why if you’re feeling the urge to find the right life partner, I can advise you to consider the following tips:
{{Weigh your similarities and differences}}
They say opposites attract each other, and that is undoubtedly true. However, it is better to make sure you have some few similarities, so that later in life, you can always find an easy way to connect. Differences should be there too. Just make sure you’re not polar opposites or doppelgangers in terms of characters and personality.
{{Looks are just a drop in the ocean}}
Yes, you are free to choose a partner whose physique attracts you more than anybody else’s. However, you should remember that looks are so deceiving. Go into depths, analyze the behaviors, preferences, and everything that a naked eye can’t see.
{{Listening and being open during arguments}}
They say “you can’t live with someone without having some random fights”. That being true, living together is not about being perfect. It is about understanding and patience. If a person can’t stay calm during a simple argument, imagine the time when there will be some serious family problems. Are you sure you will be able to handle them? Are you sure the whole family won’t be messed up in a blink of an eye?
{{Respect}}
There are many issues that respect can handle even when bare love can’t. In that line, it is always important to be with someone who respects your preferences, choices and personal space.
{{Do not rush}}
They say ‘anything worth doing is worth doing slowly’. Do not let society, age-related myths and the pace of someone else trick you into moving things faster. Take your time, observe, learn about mistakes, reflect and finally, choose.
Choosing a partner should be done slowly and properly, because after all, who would want to spend their life with a wrong person. These tips can really help, but the important thing to know is that it is not as easy as it sounds. Give it time, give it a thought, and live a long happy life.
In October 2023, BRD issued treasury bonds valued at Rwf30 billion. Shortly after, the bank reported that these bonds were oversubscribed at a rate of 110.59%, exceeding the target and resulting in earnings of Rwf33.17 billion.
A substantial portion of these funds is slated for development projects and sustainable investments. Recently, BRD announced its intention to allocate 50% of this amount (Rwf15 billion) to a program offering loans to entities in the public transport sector, enabling them to acquire buses.
BRD justifies this decision as part of its commitment to fostering sustainable and livable cities by supporting the private sector’s investment in efficient transportation, aligning with its mission to contribute to the country’s progress.
The bank intends to grant this loan to companies looking to purchase 200 buses recently introduced to Rwanda by the Government, facilitating easier access for interested entities.
Richard Tusabe, the Minister of State in charge of National Treasury at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, recently clarified that the government’s purchase of these vehicles does not signal a return to the transportation business. Instead, it addresses an existing problem, recognizing a gap in Kigali City and committing to resolving it.
Tusabe revealed that a study indicated a shortage of 305 buses, prompting the government to import 200 initially by January 2024 to assess further efforts needed to improve transportation in the city. To alleviate the burden on the private sector, the government opted to purchase and distribute the buses conveniently.
The loan agreement was initially signed by five transport companies, including RITCO, Remera Transport Cooperative, City Center Transport Cooperative, Nyabugogo Transport Cooperative, and Jali.
The loan is anticipated to carry a 12% annual interest rate, with a repayment period of five years.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, over 300 buses are required in the City of Kigali to address the growing number of people using the public transport system. BRD asserts its readiness to provide loans to cover 70% of the required buses.
The initial phase of the project, Isange Estate, concluded in 2022 with the construction of 15 houses, all of which were quickly occupied. The second phase includes an additional 18 houses, consisting of six standard houses and 12 apartments, thereby contributing to the diversification of the city’s residential offerings.
Families particularly appreciate the equipped playgrounds for their children, fostering a close-knit and intergenerational community.
David Benazeraf, CEO of Imara Properties, highlights the positive impact of the project on local property values and its significant contribution to the growth of Kigali. “By initiating this project in 2021, we transformed a village into a dynamic neighborhood, thereby enhancing the value of the surrounding land,” he states. He emphasizes the company’s commitment to providing quality housing, thereby contributing to Rwanda’s economic development.
Murabukirwa Vicky, heading the association of French commercial companies in Rwanda, also recognizes the significance of this project for the local economy, emphasizing the employment opportunities generated for many Rwandans.
The company has plans to construct housing units in the Gasabo and Kicukiro districts, with real estate projects in Kibagabaga and Kanombe, named Ituze. These residences, valued between 60 and 145 million Rwandan francs, will be constructed with environmental considerations and offer generous communal spaces.
Each building, featuring four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a kitchen, and parking, has a floor area ranging from 89 to 97 square meters, combining comfort and modernity.
This development is part of Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to improve housing and accelerate its urban development. The Rwandan government aims to build 150,000 homes by 2050, with the ambition of increasing the urbanization rate to 70%. For this purpose, 1,100 hectares across the country, including 890 in Kigali, are dedicated to social housing projects.
The city of Kigali, expected to host 3.8 million inhabitants by 2050, has a crucial need for 859,000 homes to accommodate this demographic growth.
The central focus of this event was arbitration, positioned as a preferred approach to conflict resolution in contrast to the systematic judicialization of disputes. Prof. Rugege underscored the significance of this methodology, particularly in the context of post-genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, where reconciliation played a pivotal role in the nation’s reconstruction.
Addressing an audience comprising recent graduates and ILPD staff from diverse African countries such as The Gambia, Gabon, Cameroon, Ghana, Sudan, and Rwanda, Prof. Rugege delved into the historical roots of arbitration within pre-colonial African traditions. He highlighted the disruption introduced by the arrival of colonizers and their imposition of a judicial system.
To illustrate the advantages of reconciliation, an eloquent example involving a dispute between a patient and a hospital was presented. The decision to amicably resolve the conflict not only steered clear of negative publicity and legal consequences but also satisfied the involved parties.
Prof. Rugege also delved into the law enacted on May 12, 2023, which permits public prosecutors and investigators to act as mediators in certain offenses. This innovative approach, adopted in Rwanda since 2019, aims to expedite dispute resolution while fortifying the culture of mediation within the courts.
This conference forms part of a series of public lectures organized by ILPD, renowned for its diverse teaching methods that seamlessly integrate theoretical lectures, practical exercises, and assignments. It provided attendees, particularly students, with an enriching perspective on alternative conflict resolution methods, a vital aspect in modern legal practice.
Prof. Maringe has a remarkable research track-record over a career spanning more than 30 years. He began his academic career at the University of Zimbabwe, before moving to the Bindura University of Science Education where he was the inaugural Dean of Education.
Under the supervision of Professor Nick Foskett, Prof. Maringe completed his doctoral degree in education in the area of higher education marketing in 2003. In 2004, he was recruited to teach on the PGCE programme at Southampton, United Kingdom.
Notably, he was appointed Director of the Education Doctoral Programme, and replaced Professor Taylor as Director of the prestigious (Centre for Higher Education Management Policy at Southampton (CHEMPaS). He achieved promotion to the rank of Senior Lecturer at Southampton.
He was then recruited by the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg, South Africa, as an Associate Professor in 2012 and confirmed as full professor in 2015. At WITS, Prof. Maringe was appointed Assistant Dean for Internationalisation and Partnerships between 2013-2018. In 2019, he was appointed Head of the WITS School of Education, working through the COVID period until the end of his tenure in 2022.
Prof. Maringe is a well-published scholar, with 122 outputs in the public domain, including 13 books, 12 commissioned reports, refereed journal articles and book chapters. He has over 5,570 google citations, an H-index of 32 and an i10 index of 56.
Throughout his career, he has won more than 15 competitive research grants. He is currently Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Journal of Educational Studies based in South Africa.
He has successfully supervised 31 doctoral students to completion and currently has two doctoral students who are almost completing their theses at Africa University in Zimbabwe and at University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg.
Ndayishimiye asserted that while the population in the region lives decently, the core issue lies in what he perceives as “bad leaders.”
He expressed unwavering determination to persist in the struggle until Rwandans themselves apply pressure on their leaders.
He stated, “This is a regional issue; first, there is the unity of citizens. I know there is no problem between citizens; it’s bad leaders. As in the army, they say there are no bad troops; it’s the commanders who are bad. So, at this moment, I believe our struggle must continue until the Rwandan people also start to exert pressure because I see that Rwandan youth cannot accept being prisoners in the region.”
This position aligns with that of his counterpart in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, who has also expressed a desire to challenge the Rwandan government.
The bold statements quickly drew reactions, with the Rwandan ambassador to the Netherlands, Olivier Nduhungirehe, strongly criticizing Ndayishimiye’s remarks, labeling them as mediocre. He emphasized the unacceptability of an African Head of State, acting as the ‘African Union Champion for the Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda,’ promising to aid an African people in overthrowing their legitimate government, especially during a conference co-sponsored by the AU Commission.
Nduhungirehe pointed out, “This is not only an incongruous diversion from the mandate conferred upon him by his peers during the African Union Conference in February 2023 but also a blatant violation of the letter and spirit of our continental organization’s Charter.”
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi escalated at the end of 2023 following Ndayishimiye’s accusations that Rwanda supported RED-Tabara rebel group against his regime. Rwanda staunchly denied these allegations, highlighting its lack of interest in disrupting Burundi’s security and reminding that they had extradited RED-Tabara fighters who had illegally entered the territory to the Burundian government.
Subsequently, Ndayishimiye appears to have forged an alliance with Tshisekedi, who has long harbored intentions of overthrowing the Rwandan government. This coalition was spotlighted during Tshisekedi’s second-term inauguration ceremony. Upon his arrival, journalists from the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s National Television, RTNC, emphasized Ndayishimiye’s status as a “great friend” of the country, showcasing a unified stance on the Rwandan issue.
Reliable sources indicate that the relationship between Ndayishimiye and Tshisekedi is fortified by a financial commitment from the DRC, promising $5,000 per month for each Burundian soldier present in the East of the DRC, supporting the Congolese army (FARDC) in clashes against the M23.
Only Karim Wade, the son of former President Abdoulaye Wade, was dropped from the provisional list of 21 candidates published on Jan. 13 on the grounds that his “candidacy is inadmissible,” according to a document of the council.
Incumbent Prime Minister Amadou Ba and his two predecessors — Idrissa Seck and Mahammed Boun Abdallah Dionne — are on the final list.
Incumbent President Macky Sall, who has served two consecutive terms (2012-2024), will not take part in the election.
The militants raided Ldubam Bah village of the region at about 7 p.m. on Saturday, killing four civilians, a security source in the region told Xinhua.
At about 8 p.m. on the same day, the militants attacked Mavoumai village of the region, killing one person and injuring a girl, the source said.
“The bodies were buried early Sunday. Our brave soldiers will hunt them down,” the source added.
Local media reported that villagers were fleeing from the villages where the raids were carried out.
Boko Haram has been operating in the region since 2014.
The ordeal began one day when he urgently summoned her to his home. Despite being immersed in her medical studies in Gitwe, and with only the two of them left in their immediate family, she immediately boarded a bus to be by his side.
Tears welling in her eyes, she recounts, “Since that day, I have never seen my brother live his life again.”
Upon arriving, she found him at home, lying on his couch, complaining of an excruciating headache. As an engineer, they initially attributed it to stress from ongoing projects. However, despite resting, the headache persisted. Months passed, and his condition deteriorated—weakness, numbness, loss of appetite due to the fear of vomiting, decreased coordination, seizures, and significant weight loss.
At only 35 years old, the seriousness of his symptoms puzzled both siblings. Minka, studying medicine, recognized the severity and sought a different hospital for a second opinion, as previous attempts had failed to diagnose the ailment.
Regrettably, the results were disheartening, revealing a critical case of Brain Damage. Years have passed, and her brother struggles to articulate his own name, stuttering and constantly in tears.
The disease has profoundly impacted them, forcing Minka to abandon her medical studies. She now devotes herself to caring for her brother, who, was her sole source of support for her education.
His two children, Nael and Naella (names withheld), had to be moved from reputable schools to others. His house and belongings were sold when he was taken to India for three months, yet there was no improvement.
Not to mention, his wife left him with their two young children, departing under the pretext that she had married a healthy and wealthy man.
“Life has been challenging for everyone, especially for him. He began pleading with me and anyone who visited him to let him die in peace. Despite witnessing his suffering, we knew the decision was not ours to make; it is considered a crime in Rwanda,” she states.
When asked by IGIHE what she would do if euthanasia were not illegal, she expressed, “If this were possible, we would ask the doctors to allow him to rest in peace. Unfortunately, the doctors stated it’s not within their authority; it goes against ethical principles and is prohibited by law. Honestly, if it were up to me, I love my brother dearly, and I would do anything in my power to grant him peace.”
The Article 109 of Law Nº68/2018, dated 30/08/2018, determining offenses and penalties in general, specifies that euthanasia is considered an offense. It is defined as ending a patient’s life upon the patient’s request to relieve unbearable suffering caused by an incurable illness. The offender, upon conviction, faces imprisonment for a term ranging from three (3) to five (5) years.
When IGIHE reached out to a medical doctor, Kalisa Desire working at Ndengera Polyclinique in Rubavu District, he provided another perspective on euthanasia.
Dr. Kalisa clarified that euthanasia encompasses two distinct types: active and passive.
Active euthanasia involves causing the death of a patient through direct intervention, such as administering a lethal dose of medication. This form is sometimes referred to as “aggressive” euthanasia. On the other hand, passive euthanasia entails deliberately allowing a patient to pass away by refraining from providing artificial life support, such as withholding the use of a ventilator or feeding tube.
Dr. Kalisa emphasizes that assisting someone in ending their life is against the medical oath to “do no harm.”
However, if it was up to him, he would legalize passive euthanasia, as there are instances where patients, initially deemed hopeless, have recovered.
Dr. Kalisa recounts a recent case where a severely ill patient was transferred to Ndengera Polyclinique from another hospital with a prognosis of imminent death. Dr. Kalisa adjusted the prescription, and the patient is now recovering, having been discharged and showing improvement.
If euthanasia was legal, both the patient’s wishes and the family’s requests could have been fulfilled, potentially denying him the chance to be alive today. This prompts contemplation that life, as ordained by God, holds more profound significance.
Religious experts contribute a thought-provoking perspective on euthanasia. A pastor in his early fifties holding doctorate Theology, who has been serving since 1998, asserts that euthanasia is not merely a crime but also a sin.
“There is only one creator God, and only He has the power to take away a human being’s life. Only He decides who lives and who dies in His own perfect time. Given this, accepting euthanasia goes against Christian beliefs as it is considered killing, which is a crime against the Lord,” he explains.
He further elaborates, “A person may appear to be on their last breath, experiencing immeasurable pain with an incurable disease, but if God is not done with them yet, we have no right to end their life. He himself has witnessed people living after everyone thought they were destined to die. Let us leave such matters to God and refrain from committing evil.”
On the other hand, some individuals, like Alice, view euthanasia as a personal decision, akin to the right an individual has in making life choices. The law, as suggested, should acknowledge that the patient is enduring unbearable suffering with an incurable disease, making it logical to grant them the right to rest.
Some argue that Rwandan laws should legalize euthanasia with regulated conditions, such as the requirement that the person be an adult and willing to sign with two or three witnesses, including family members or partners.
Alice suggests that in the case of minors, consultation with parents and an elder sibling should be mandatory.
“Medical assistance in dying is a complex and deeply personal issue. The Government of Rwanda should be committed to ensuring that laws reflect Rwandans’ needs, protect those who may be vulnerable, and support autonomy and freedom of choice,’’ she advocates.
Contrastingly, countries like Belgium and Canada have legalized euthanasia, terming it Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). In Canada, it is extended to people with mental illness under specific conditions.
In the face of diverse ideas and legal intricacies, the controversy over euthanasia in Rwanda remains unresolved. While some argue for inclusive deliberations and societal consensus, others emphasize the need for individual autonomy and freedom of choice.
However, the question persists: Should euthanasia be legalized in Rwanda, and if so, how can it be ethically and responsibly regulated? As the debate continues, the stories of individuals like Minka and her brother underscore the urgency of addressing this complex and deeply personal issue.
However, it is essential to recognize the importance of taking time to rest and recharge, especially on the weekends. The weekend provides us with a valuable opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, rejuvenate our minds and bodies, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives.
{{The Neglected Art of Rest}}
In our society, rest is often seen as a luxury or a sign of laziness. However, rest is not a luxury; it is a necessity for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Rest allows us to recharge our energy levels, reduce stress, and improve our overall productivity. By neglecting rest, we risk burnout and compromise our long-term health and happiness.
{{The Weekend: A Time for Reconnection}}
The weekend serves as a sanctuary, a brief respite from the demands of our daily lives. It is an opportunity to step away from the constant noise and distractions and reconnect with ourselves. By intentionally setting aside time for rest and self-care, we can cultivate a deeper understanding of our needs, desires, and values.
{{Unplug from Technology}}
Take a break from screens and digital devices. Disconnect from social media, emails, and work-related tasks. Instead, spend time in nature, read a book, or engage in activities that don’t involve technology.
{{Practice Mindfulness and Meditation}}
Set aside time for mindfulness and meditation exercises. Focus on your breath, observe your thoughts without judgment, and cultivate a sense of presence and inner calm. This practice can help reduce stress and enhance your overall well-being.
{{Engage in Physical Activity}}
Engaging in physical activities can help release tension and boost endorphins. Go for a walk, run, or bike ride in nature. Try out yoga or engage in a gentle workout routine that suits your fitness level.
{{Pamper Yourself}}
Pursue Hobbies and Creative Outlets: Use your free time to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Paint, draw, write, play a musical instrument, bake, or engage in any hobby that interests you. These creative outlets can help you relax, express yourself, and tap into your inner creativity.
{{Connect with Loved Ones}}
Spend quality time with your loved ones. Plan a family gathering, have a picnic in the park, or organize a game night with friends. Meaningful connections and shared experiences can bring immense joy and relaxation.
{{Practice Self-Care}}
Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Take a nap, practice gentle stretching or yoga, practice deep breathing exercises, or engage in journaling or gratitude practices. Prioritize self-care and listen to what your body and mind need.
{{Explore Nature}}
Spend time in nature to relax and rejuvenate. Go for a hike, visit a nearby park, or simply sit in a garden. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind and helps relieve stress and anxiety.
{{Enjoy Music and Art}}
Listen to calming music or attend a live performance. Visit art galleries or museums to immerse yourself in creativity and beauty. Engaging with art and music can be incredibly therapeutic and restful.
In a world that constantly demands our attention and energy, it is vital to prioritize rest and self-care. The weekend serves as a valuable space for us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves, and foster a sense of well-being.
By embracing rest, practicing mindfulness, pursuing personal passions, and nurturing relationships, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Let us remember that taking the time to rest is not a selfish act but an essential investment in our overall well-being and happiness.
