Bringing together more than 600 Rwandans, distinguished guests including the Lord Mayor and local officials of Coventry, and numerous friends of Rwanda from across the UK, the event aimed to commemorate the historic milestone and promote unity among the Rwandan diaspora.
The festivities commenced with a gripping Liberation Day Cup football match featuring the London Rwandan Community’s team, Intwari FC, competing against the hosts, the West Midlands Rwandan Community represented by Ntugasaze FC. In an exhilarating showdown, the London community emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, earning them the prestigious Liberation Cup trophy.
The High Commissioner, Johnston Busingye praised both teams, emphasizing that “the real winner is the Rwandan community.” Encouraged by the enthusiastic response, the Community pledged to establish this football match as an annual liberation tradition, fostering even stronger bonds among Rwandan communities in the UK.
The evening reception treated the audience to a captivating array of performances, including inspirational speeches, traditional dance routines, poetic recitals by talented youth, and delectable Rwandan cuisine, which added a touch of cultural richness to the celebration.
In his address, High Commissioner Johnston Busingye reminded everyone present of the sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes and heroines in the struggle for liberation. He urged the Rwandan community to continually honor their legacy by remaining steadfast in their commitment to the cause of liberation. Emphasizing the significance of unity, he underscored its pivotal role in Rwanda’s past and future, as the country had paid a heavy price for past divisions.
Expressing gratitude for the vital role played by Rwandan communities abroad in the ongoing liberation journey, the High Commissioner called upon them to take up their responsibilities with unwavering determination. He encouraged them to invest in Rwanda, take on leadership roles in their communities, actively involve the youth, and embody the cherished values that define Rwanda’s spirit.
The Kwibohora29 celebration in Coventry served not only as a time for rejoicing and reflection but also as a symbol of the resilient Rwandan community’s dedication to progress, unity, and the pursuit of liberation. With the establishment of the annual Liberation Football Cup, the community in the UK has set a powerful precedent for fostering togetherness and cultural pride among Rwandans abroad, and it promises to be a cherished tradition for generations to come.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, urged the province to write a new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization.
He said that it is imperative to apply the new development philosophy, forge a new pattern of development and promote common prosperity across the board and throughout economic and social development.
He urged more efforts to advance the transformation of the model, driving force, areas and quality of development to break new ground in the country’s high-quality development.
During the Sichuan tour, Xi visited places including Guangyuan and Deyang cities from July 25 to 27.
On Tuesday afternoon, he went to Guangyuan and visited the site of a section of an ancient road system known as “Shudao.”
Xi walked along the ancient road and took a close look at the ancient cypress forest that has been well preserved.
Xi stressed the importance of building institutional frameworks and their implementation as well as inspiring the people’s motivation, initiative and creativity to consolidate and expand the achievements in ecological conservation.
On Wednesday afternoon, Xi visited the new building of the Sanxingdui Museum in Deyang. Sanxingdui Ruins are the remnants of an ancient capital and represent the ancient Shu civilization.
After touring the exhibition halls, Xi went to the venue for relic preservation and repair, where he carefully observed the procedures, details, and latest techniques. Xi also talked with the staff on site.
He stressed more state support for the preservation and repair of cultural relics, describing the work as a long-term task.
Xi also called for promoting craftsmanship and perseverance to yield more achievements in this regard.
On Thursday morning, Xi was briefed by the Sichuan provincial Party committee and government about their work, and recognized their efforts in various respects.
He urged Sichuan to make more progress in sci-tech innovation, the building of a modern industrial system, rural revitalization and the consolidation of ecological shields along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River and the Yellow River.
Opening up new areas of development with sci-tech innovation is an urgent requirement for high-quality development, Xi said, calling on Sichuan to give full play to its strengths and make efforts on both sci-tech innovation and the application of scientific and technological achievements.
He asked the province to resolve problems concerning a number of core technologies in key fields and to become an innovation hub in western China.
Relying on its unique advantages in manufacturing, Sichuan should actively contribute to the safety of the country’s industrial and supply chains, and dock itself with the new industrial layout in China’s eastern coastal areas in a high-quality manner, Xi said.
Stressing the deep integration of the digital economy and the real economy, Xi called on the province to build a modernized industrial system with Sichuan characteristics and strengths.
He urged Sichuan to put rural revitalization in a prominent position and further take on the responsibilities of stabilizing the production and ensuring the supply of major agricultural products such as grain, hogs and oilseed crops.
Xi stressed that Sichuan should enhance ecological conservation, move faster to build a national park-based nature reserve system, and actively advocate eco-friendly and low-carbon ways of work and life.
Xi urged Sichuan to keep skies blue, waters clear, and lands pollution-free by higher standards, improve the compensation system for ecological conservation, and elevate the modernization of ecological environment governance.
Xi pointed out that as Sichuan is a place with frequent natural disasters, it is necessary to strengthen the building of emergency response forces.
July and August mark the time the Yangtze River basin enters its main flood season, Xi said, calling for efforts to make preparations for flood control and disaster relief and minimize casualties and property losses to the greatest extent.
Xi also urged Sichuan to comprehensively check the hidden dangers of workplace safety, and resolutely prevent and contain the occurrence of major workplace safety accidents.
On the education campaign launched by the CPC, Xi urged Party organizations at all levels to fully carry out the CPC Central Committee’s plans and make practical progress as the first round of the campaign will conclude in less than two months.
On Saturday, Xi visited Hanzhong in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province on his way back to Beijing. During his visit to the municipal museum, Xi emphasized making good use of museums. He also called for efforts to expand the influence of Chinese culture.
“I was in Hanzhong in 2008 after the devastating Wenchuan earthquake to oversee the relief work. Hanzhong has always been in my heart over the years,” Xi told local residents who gathered around him when he was leaving the museum. Xi said he was delighted to see huge changes of the city since then.
In Hanzhong, Xi also visited a wetland park, where he stressed the important responsibility and great significance of protecting the wetland resources in the area along the Hanjiang River and its tributaries.
He urged efforts to improve the overall protection and systematic restoration of the wetland ecosystem.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.
The arrests occurred on Sunday, July 30, 2023, in the Nyamata Village, Byimana Cell of Ndego Sector, Eastern Province. The detained individuals hail from various sectors of Kayonza District, including Ndego, Kabare, Rwinkwavu, Mwiri, and Mpanga in Kirehe District.
The accused individuals are alleged to have defied government measures, specifically those related to the fight against Covid-19, tax collection, and the education of children, claiming these measures are unnecessary burdens since the end of the world is imminent.
Following their arrest, the individuals maintained that they were on their way to meet Jesus, although the exact location of this encounter remains mysterious.
Claude Bizimana, the Executive Secretary of Ndego Sector, confirmed the arrests and stated that the detainees are now in the custody of Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) Station in Ndego. He added that they are being educated on the importance of adhering to the government’s programs.
In light of this incident, Bizimana urged the population to exercise caution when interpreting religious teachings to avoid being misled by unfounded apocalyptic messages. He stressed the significance of adhering to government programs for the well-being and safety of the community.
The contingent led by Maj Gen Alexis Kagame that departed today is part of larger relief force comprising of over 2000 troops based in Cabo Delgado province.
Prior to their departure, Maj Gen Nyakarundi emphasized the importance of upholding the highest level of commitment, discipline, dedication, and humility while serving the population of Cabo Delgado.
This deployment is a result of the strong bilateral relations between the Republic of Rwanda and the Republic of Mozambique.
Rwanda started the deployment of 1000 troops of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Rwanda National Police (RNP) to Mozambique on 9th July 2021, to fight terrorist groups, honoring the request of Mozambique. The troops had increased to nearly 2500 by the end of the year 2022.
The situation in the country had worsened since October 2017 when armed extremists launched an insurgency in the Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique.
Mozambique Defence Armed Forces battled the extremists but many civilians were killed and displaced by the fighting.
Before Rwandan troops’ intervention, terrorists had killed 3000 civilians while more than 800,000 were displaced. The insecurity had also put to halt all development projects in the area controlled by insurgents.
The joint operations between Rwandan and Mozambican troops yielded big, where different regions were seized from rebels.
Responding to a question on Rwanda’s journey in the fight against terrorists in Mozambique, at a joint press conference with his counterpart of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema in Kigali recently, President Kagame said that there has been commendable progress.
“I should say, largely, the problem has been addressed in terms of large numbers of people that had been displaced being able to go back to their villages, homes and starting their activities as they should. There has been a presence of troops from SADC deployed in different parts of that area and together, security and stability has returned because of that,” he stated.
Rwandan troops are deployed in Palma and Mocimboa da Praia and sometimes cooperate with SADC forces upon available intelligence to dislodge terrorists.
Since deployment of Rwandan troops in Cabo Delgado, security has been restored where the majority of displaced residents returned home.
Besides, businesses resumed and French company, TotalEnergies with US$20 billion investment that might be increased to US$50 billion under the Liquefied Natural Gas project, is expected to resume operations as well.
Speaking to the media recently, Kagame highlighted that economic activities are beginning to pick up owing to current efforts to stabilize the area.
“I have heard even those who were making investments there like Total [Energies] and others, are already thinking of resuming their activities. Of course, there may be one thing here and another there that needs to be put out of their way before they fully resume, but I think that is being enabled by such collaborative efforts, around the provision of security and working together with the host country. And each one playing their part, together, we are seeing a lot of progress,” he noted.
“I should say, 80% of the problem has been addressed. The 20% might be small or big depending on a number of circumstances but that needs to be cleared as well,” added Kagame.
This funding forms an integral part of the larger €260 million EU support package designated for Rwanda through its 2021-24 Multi-Annual Indicative Programme. The €19.5 million initiative will play a vital role in realizing the objectives set forth by Rwanda’s Justice, Reconciliation, Law and Order Sector (JRLOS) Strategic Plan 2018-2024, aiming to enhance justice delivery, foster inclusivity, and reinforce human rights.
During the signing event, EU Head of Delegation Ambassador Belén Calvo Uyarra said that this comprehensive approach reflects the EU’s steadfast commitment to support Rwanda’s journey towards building a sustainable, inclusive society with effective governance and a strong foundation in human rights.
“Through strengthened justice and reconciliation efforts, we stand united with Rwanda to create a future where every citizen enjoys equitable access to justice, fostering social cohesion, empowerment, and dignity for all,” she noted.
By aligning with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and JRLOS Strategic Plan, this ambitious action further solidifies the EU’s commitment to promoting the rule of law and strengthening human rights in Rwanda. The program not only bolsters Rwanda’s strides towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) and Vision 2050 but also empowers civil society and paves the way for a more just and accountable society.
Commenting on the development, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana said: “This Support will contribute to strengthening capacity of the Justice sector by consolidating reconciliation, and a just and equitable society as foundation to economic development for all in Rwanda.”
Under the first component, the action will enhance the professionalism and skills of key justice sector actors, including the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, the National Prosecution Authority, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the Rwanda National Police (RNP), and the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR). By streamlining legal aid support, the initiative will work toward universal and affordable justice for all, with a strong focus on inclusivity for vulnerable groups as well as respect for human rights.
The second component will concentrate on Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Unity, offering support to the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) and civil society. Technical, vocational, education, and training (TVET) programs will empower prisoners and former genocide perpetrators with essential skills, reducing recidivism upon their reintegration into society.
Concurrently, the EU will support civil society organisations (CSOs) to carry out socio-psychological healing and reconciliation processes at the community level to enhance resilience and unity across the country.
The third component will focus on amplifying the voice and accountability of civil society. By empowering CSOs to work closely with citizens, the programme aims to tackle issues of accountability effectively.
The initiative is set to build upon the accomplishments of previous programmes carried out by the EU as well as the Embassy of the Netherlands in Rwanda’s justice sector over the past two decades. In doing so, it will fulfil political, economic, and social rights, and promote gender equality, aligning with Rwanda’s international human rights commitments.
{{56 megawatts to be generated from Methane Gas }}
The Methane Gas Electricity Generation Project in Lake Kivu is set to produce 56 megawatts, with its first phase already completed, generating 20 megawatts. Théoneste Higaniro, Head of Power Generation Projects at Rwanda Energy Group (REG), has expressed excitement about the project, stating that it will soon start generating electricity as planned.
The second phase aims to add 36 megawatts, bringing the total capacity to 56 megawatts, and Higaniro is optimistic that this goal will be reached by August. All electricity generated from this project will be supplied to Rwanda.
{{Rusumo Hydro Power Plant}}
The Rusumo hydro power plant, part of the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project (RRFP), is a joint effort between the governments of Burundi, Rwanda, and Tanzania. With an expected generation capacity of 80 megawatts, the plant will distribute approximately 26.6 megawatts to each beneficiary country. The project aims to connect a substantial number of households, benefiting 520,000 in Burundi, 467,000 in Rwanda, and 159,000 in Tanzania. The power plant, located at Rusumo Falls on the border of Rwanda and Tanzania, is currently undergoing testing and is anticipated to be operational by August.
{{Electricity Transmission from Uganda }}
Rwanda has recently completed the construction of power transmission lines connecting it to neighboring countries, particularly Uganda, from which an additional 40 megawatts of electricity have been procured. Although this supply is not used full time, it serves as an alternative during periods of high electricity demand, reducing the reliance on generators powered by diesel or petrol.
{{Nyabarongo II Power Plant}}
The Nyabarongo II power plant, being constructed on River Nyabarongo, is expected to produce 43.5 megawatts upon completion in 2026.
Higaniro explained that this project will be essential in maintaining a steady electricity supply during dry spells when other plants might experience reduced generation. Furthermore, with enough electricity anticipated by the time this plant estimated at Rwf214 billion is completed, Rwanda might explore the possibility of selling excess electricity to neighboring countries.
{{Rusizi III Power Plant}}
Rusizi III Hydro Power Plant is a joint project between Rwanda, Burundi, and DR Congo, aiming to generate a total of 206 megawatts. Each beneficiary country will receive an allocation of 68 megawatts from this power plant. With these projects, Rwanda’s electricity supply capacity is expected to increase by over 100 megawatts by the end of 2023.
Rusizi III Power Plant is expected to be completed at a tune of US$759 million.
Over the years, Rwanda has made significant progress in expanding its electricity access, with the percentage of households connected to electricity rising from 18% in 2012 to 61% in 2022. Of these, 47% are linked to the national grid, while 14% access electricity through off-grid systems, primarily solar-powered solutions.
With these transformative projects, Rwanda is on track to achieve its goal of universal electricity access, further enhancing economic growth and improving the lives of its citizens.
OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha is following with great concern over the developments in Niger, an OIC member state, said the report.
The OIC chief denounced any attempt to seize power by force and demanded the immediate release of the president and the restoration of the rule of law in the country, it added.
Taha expressed his solidarity with the people of Niger and the OIC’s full support for the regional efforts toward restoring peace, security and stability to the West African country, as well as to the entire Sahel region.
Soldiers in Niger have overthrown Bazoum, the democratically elected president, the country’s Defense and Security Forces said in a press release broadcast on national television late Wednesday, hours after the president was allegedly held hostage.
Startling figures from the RNP reveal that individuals aged between 29 and 32 account for 18% of road accidents, while those between 33 and 37 are involved in 20% of incidents. The event was held at Airtel Money’s headquarters in Kigali on a Friday, with esteemed attendees such as CP John Bosco Kabera, the RNP Spokesperson, and ACP Gerard Mpayimana, the Commissioner for Traffic and Road Safety, along with the Airtel Rwanda staff.
During the event, Airtel Rwanda employees received comprehensive education on road safety precautions and behaviors that can help drivers avoid accidents caused by carelessness. These encompassed crucial reminders such as ensuring clear auditory perception, maintaining unobstructed vision of the road and surroundings, and practicing proper arm function, all while avoiding any distractions.
Indrajeet Singh, the Chief Commercial Officer at Airtel Rwanda, expressed appreciation to the RNP for their enlightening session and reiterated the company’s wholehearted commitment to supporting the extension of the Gerayo Amahoro campaign. He further disclosed that even those employees unable to attend the initial session would be educated, and the telecom company would leverage diverse channels, including social media platforms, to reach a wider audience and maximize the campaign’s impact.
CP John Bosco Kabera emphasized that the campaign’s efforts extended beyond public spaces, as they also engaged with workplaces to ensure no one misses the crucial safety messages. He stressed that adherence to road safety measures must be a collective responsibility, and complacency should have no place in this endeavor.
The global toll of road accidents, claiming over 1.3 million lives annually, remains a serious concern. Africa alone sees approximately 28 out of 100,000 people losing their lives to accidents, and Rwanda, with 5.2 fatalities per 100,000 individuals, is not immune to this tragic reality.
Recognizing their role as influential stakeholders, Airtel Rwanda’s employees vowed to exercise greater caution, contributing to the prevention of road carnage and fatalities. The police authority echoed the sentiment, urging all road users to exercise responsible practices to reduce accidents and preserve lives.
Through this resolute partnership between Airtel Rwanda and the RNP, the Gerayo Amahoro Campaign shines as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to safer roads and a more secure future for all Rwandans. With their concerted efforts, this joint initiative endeavors to create a society where road safety is a priority, ultimately saving countless lives and building a stronger, more responsible community.
Running from July 28 to August 8, the Chengdu Universiade, with the slogan of “Chengdu Makes Dreams Come True”, is the first international multi-sport Games being held in China after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overseas leaders attending the opening ceremony are President Joko Widodo of Indonesia, President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani of Mauritania, President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, President Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili of Georgia.
Chengdu, a metropolis in southwest China, has become the third city in the Chinese mainland to host the biennial Summer Universiade, following Beijing in 2001 and Shenzhen in 2011.
Although the Universiade was postponed twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Chengdu has completed the construction, renovation, and expansion of 49 venues and facilities, which boast top-tier infrastructure and service.
A total of 6,500 athletes from 113 countries and regions are competing in 269 events across 18 sports. In addition to 15 compulsory sports, the Chengdu Universiade also features three optional sports – rowing, shooting and Wushu. Host nation China has sent 411 athletes to compete in all 18 sports.
In order to minimize the impact of the pandemic and guarantee the participation of students, FISU raised the maximum age of participants from 25 to 27.
Additionally, a rule that only current students and those who have graduated within one year can participate was relaxed, allowing for the participation of students who graduated in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
The opening ceremony started amid the countdown fireworks and the shimmering radiance of “Sun and Immortal Birds”, the logo of China Cultural Heritage.
At 21:15 Beijing time when Chinese President Xi declared Chengdu Universiade open, the English “welcome” shaped fireworks exploded into the sky.
The cauldron was lit by Ye Guangfu, China’s Shenzhou-13 Taikonaut, together with other 30 torchbearers, who ran towards the tower with the 12-ray shape of “Sun and Immortal Birds”, which depicts people’s aspirations to ascend to the sun and symbolizes light, strength and hope.
In the singing of “Our National Flag Is So Beautiful” by the Children’s Chorus from the Mountainous Area and “Ode to the Motherland” by young representatives from China’s 56 ethnic groups, an eight-man honor guard escorted China’s national flag into the stadium, before it rose amid the national anthem.
All participating delegations marched on along the pass paved with Sichuan brocade patterns.
Spearheaded by flag-bearers Hu Zhenzhuo and Guo Hanyu, the Chinese delegation, consisting of over 700 members entered last as the host nation.
In his speech, Huai Jinpeng, president of the organizing committee of the Chengdu Universiade, extended warm welcome to athletes, coaches, technical officials and guests from around the world, saying that “the FISU World University Games is a global sporting event for youth and friendship, and we have made elaborate preparations, aiming to deliver a streamlined, safe and splendid Games.”
“I sincerely wish all our young friends could challenge your limits, strive for your excellence, strengthen the intercultural ties and friendship, and display the charisma of youth here,” Huai added.
FISU acting president Leonz Eder expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese government, Sichuan province, Chengdu city and all participants for their joint efforts in creating an outstanding and highly anticipated sports gala.
“Here we are, finally, ready to enjoy this wonderful FISU World University Games in Chengdu. Together, we have created a Games worth waiting for,” said Eder.
“We may have a global society now, but the moments when you can live together with so many young people from so many different countries (and regions), even for a short time, are deeply special,” the acting president added.
Eder also extended best wishes to all the athletes, saying that “Dear athletes… remember that there is much more to FISU World University Games than your sporting results. Enjoy this precious time alongside each other, learn from one other, make new memories and make new friends.”
Beijing Winter Olympic snowboard champion Su Yiming, four-time Universiade table tennis winner Ma Yuefei, and six other outstanding young people entered the stadium holding the flag of FISU.
Athlete Tang Ziting and technical official Liu Jiang made the oath on behalf of their respective groups.
Gala performance of “Young Dream Chasers” was unveiled through segments of Pursuit of Light, Passion of Sports and Celebration of Friendship.
Under the flame, a total of 31 university students gathered joyfully and sang the theme song “Make Dreams Come True”, cheering for their friendship to be strengthened further during the Chengdu Universiade.
The acquisition, valued at Rwf54.68 billion, propels Equity Bank to a prominent position among the local banking giants, now ranking as the second-largest bank in Rwanda in terms of portfolio size.
Dr. James Mwangi, the CEO of Equity Group, expressed his satisfaction with the deal, highlighting its potential to drive a 54% growth for Equity Bank Rwanda and increase its lending capacity from US$15 million to at least US$25 million. This boost is expected to greatly benefit entrepreneurs and loan applicants seeking financial support.
Dr. Mwangi emphasized that this acquisition goes beyond a simple sale; it signifies a collaboration that fosters economic and commercial development in the region, holding the potential to positively impact local economic players.
The acquisition of Cogebanque Plc by Equity Bank is also anticipated to stimulate the creation of various job opportunities.
Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, praised the spirit of collaboration between the two parties and celebrated the swift conclusion of the deal, with negotiations taking only one month.
According to Minister Ndagijimana, this acquisition will make a significant contribution to accelerating the country’s economic growth.
The merger was officially sealed on Friday, July 28, 2023, at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning premises, with the participation and signatures of Rwandan stakeholders, including the government, RSSB, Sanlam, and Judith Mugirasoni, the representative of Bertin Makuza’s interests.
