Speaking at the 25th edition of the Africa energy forum underway in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, Al Jaber said the continent was ripe for a green energy revolution, subject to targeted financing combined with conducive policies.
“Clean energy investments in Africa should be intensified now that the continent is facing a climate crisis that is responsible for droughts, floods and destabilization of livelihoods,” said Al Jaber, who is also the minister for Industry and Advanced Technology in the United Arab Emirates.
As host of this year’s global climate talks, slated for Nov. 30 to Dec.12, Al Jaber said the UAE will lobby rich nations and multilateral lenders to honor their commitment to climate financing in Africa.
He acknowledged Africa’s vast renewable energy potential including solar, wind and geothermal, which can be harnessed to secure a climate-resilient and inclusive future for the continent.
In addition, Al Jaber said that smart policies and regulations, innovative financing and uptake of clean technologies will be key to decarbonizing the continent’s energy, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.
Africa’s entrepreneurial youth deserve financial support, training and market linkages to enable them to scale up green innovations that are key to poverty alleviation and enhancing the ecosystem’s health, Al Jaber said.
Kenya is hosting the 25th edition of the Africa energy forum attended by more than 3,000 delegates including ministers, investors, regulators, lenders and innovators to explore a new roadmap for realizing energy security in the continent.
Al Jaber said the premier gathering of energy sector players in the continent provides a platform to showcase the untapped potential of green energy to institutional investors. He said that focused leadership, partnerships, policy and legislative reforms will be key to unlocking financing toward green energy projects in Africa and help meet the Paris climate goal of limiting temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Al Jaber added that investing in Africa’s nascent carbon market will be key to transitioning the continent’s economies towards a greener, equitable and resilient future.
In his letter to Eric Domb, president and founder of the Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium, Xi said that the development of China-Belgium relations cannot be achieved without the long-term efforts and selfless dedication of friendly personages from all walks of life in both countries.
He voiced confidence that Domb and other friendly personages will continue to sow the seeds of friendship, attract more people, not least those of the younger generation, to actively participate in the cause of friendship so as to make new contributions to advancing China-Belgium and China-Europe relations.
China’s commitment to a high-quality development path that prioritizes ecological conservation and features a green and low-carbon mode will provide more opportunities for the world and make greater contribution to human progress, Xi said.
At present, China is actively promoting Chinese modernization that features harmonious coexistence between man and nature and carrying out major biodiversity conservation projects, he said.
A large number of endangered species have been under effective protection with giant pandas thereby having been downgraded from endangered species to vulnerable ones, he added.
In a letter Domb has lately written to Xi, he recalled that Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, attended the opening ceremony of the giant panda hall at the Pairi Daiza Zoo during their visit to Belgium in March 2014.
Domb said that the Chinese garden of the zoo epitomizes the concept of harmonious coexistence between man and nature, and that the Chinese Dream as well as China’s development and prosperity will always be opportunities that could be shared by the rest of the world.
Reading Domb’s warm letter, Xi said he recalls the time when he and Belgian King Philippe, along with their spouses, attended the opening ceremony of the giant panda hall at the Pairi Daiza zoo during the visit to Belgium in 2014.
He is glad to learn that the purple magnolia planted in the zoo at that time has blossomed and the two giant pandas, as China’s “friendship envoys,” are also growing up, Xi added.
Xi made the remarks in reply to a letter from Eric Domb, president and founder of the Pairi Daiza Zoo in Belgium.
At present, China is actively promoting Chinese modernization that features harmonious coexistence between man and nature and carrying out major biodiversity conservation projects, he said.
A large number of endangered species have been under effective protection with giant pandas thereby having been downgraded from endangered species to vulnerable ones, he added.
In a letter Domb has lately written to Xi, he recalled that Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, attended the opening ceremony of the giant panda hall at the Pairi Daiza Zoo during their visit to Belgium in March 2014.
Domb said that the Chinese garden of the zoo epitomizes the concept of harmonious coexistence between man and nature, and that the Chinese Dream as well as China’s development and prosperity will always be opportunities that could be shared by the rest of the world.
The trio was taken into custody at about 05:00 a.m. when the police and local leaders recovered assorted stolen electronics from a house, which they were renting in Nyarusange Village, Remera Cell of Rukoma Sector.
The recovered electronics include three flat-screen televisions, two computers and their accessories, a radio set, two sound speakers and several forged keys that they used in robberies.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Emmanuel Habiyaremye, the Police spokesperson for the Southern region, said that the suspects had turned the house into store for stolen valuables.
“The three suspects were arrested in a Police operation launched based on information that was shared by the District Police Unit of Bugesera, where they hail from, that they were engaged in burglaries and snatching people’s belonging, before relocating to Kamonyi District, where they were hiding,” SP Habiyaremye said.
Police, he added, first arrested two of the suspects, with two stolen TV sets, two computers and a radio set. They disclosed their accomplice, who was also taken into custody shortly after with the third flat screen.
The suspects told the Police that they were stealing the electronics from different houses in Kigali and Bugesera using the same forged keys they were found with, before transporting them to the same house in Kamonyi District and looking for buyers.
The suspects and exhibits were handed over to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB)–Gacurabwenge Station–for further investigation.
Article 166 of Law Nº 68/2018 of 30/08/2018 determining offences and penalties in general, stipulates that any person convicted of theft is liable to imprisonment for a term of not less than one year and not more than two years and a fine of not less than Rwf1 million and not more than Rwf2 million, community service in a period of six months or only one of these penalties.
Article 167 of the same law says that; the penalty for theft doubles if: the offender committed the crime through burglary, climbing or possession of keys other than the owner; the theft is carried out in an occupied house or a building used for habitation or in its surroundings.
President Hichilema arrived in Kigali on Tuesday, the 20th, to attend the prestigious Inclusive Fintech Forum.
This event marks a momentous occasion, as Rwanda is hosting the world’s first-ever global FinTech forum, which has attracted over 2500 attendees from across the globe.
The primary objective of the forum, organized in partnership with the KIFC and Elevandi, a notable non-profit established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, is to explore the potential and requirements for driving the digital economy. Furthermore, the forum aims to foster the implementation of sustainable Fintech strategies, with a strong focus on inclusivity.
Upon his arrival at Kigali International Airport, President Hichilema was warmly received by high-ranking Rwandan officials before proceeding to a meeting with President Kagame at Urugwiro Village.
It is expected that President Kagame will be hosting President Hichilema for a State Banquet on Tuesday night. During his visit, President Hichilema will engage in a tête-à-tête with President Kagame and pay tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at the Kigali Genocide Memorial on Wednesday.
Additionally, President Hichilema’s itinerary includes visits to significant locations in Rwanda. He is scheduled to explore the innovative startup hub Norssken and tour the Africa Improved Foods (AIF) production facility at the Kigali Special Economic Zone (KSEZ). The AIF production facility plays a crucial role in combatting malnutrition by locally producing highly nutritious foods in a scalable and sustainable manner.
On Wednesday, President Hichilema and his delegation will engage in bilateral talks focused on enhancing the friendly relations between Rwanda and Zambia. Following the talks, the two heads of state will address members of the press, shedding light on the outcomes of their discussions.
Furthermore, both leaders are expected to deliver keynote remarks during the Leaders Session of the Inclusive Fintech Forum. Additionally, President Hichilema will participate in a Fireside Chat facilitated by Soraya Hakuziyaremye, the Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda.
This visit to Rwanda by President Hichilema follows President Kagame’s successful two-day state visit to Zambia in April 2022. During that visit, the leaders witnessed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding, emphasizing cooperation in areas such as mutual administrative assistance, immigration matters, health, and investment promotion. The agreements also encompassed collaboration in agriculture, fisheries and livestock development, as well as trade and investment cooperation.
Overall, President Hichilema’s visit to Rwanda promises to strengthen the bonds between Zambia and Rwanda, fostering collaboration and opening avenues for mutual growth and development.
eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a revolutionary virtual SIM technology that replaces the physical SIM card with an integrated chip within the smart device. With this new technology, customers using smart devices can activate their SIM profiles digitally, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. This provides users with the convenience of seamlessly switching between multiple mobile numbers on a single SIM device, enabling them to connect smart devices like their smartphones, tablets, and smart watches digitally.
“We are excited to introduce our customers to this new technology that represents a paradigm shift and offers convenience and ease. At MTN, it’s crucial for us to ensure our customers’ experience is not only seamless but suitable to their evolving needs. The days of struggling to insert tiny SIM cards and the hassle of transferring them between devices are long behind us. Now, with a few taps, you can effortlessly activate it within the palm of your hand,” commented Mapula Bodibe, MTN Rwanda Chief Executive Officer.
The eSIM platform will enable MTN to offer its range of services including Voice, SMS, Data, USSD and MOMO services through an embedded SIM that is eSIM technology enabled.
Customers with compatible smart devices are encouraged to visit any MTN Service Center across the country to purchase their eSIM. eSIM registration requires the same process as obtaining a physical SIM, as set by the regulatory authorities. Customers are required to present their ID/Passport and get their photograph taken (if they are new customers) to activate eSIM at MTN Service Centers.
Bodibe added “But eSIM will offer more than just convenience to our customers; it is a gateway to endless opportunities for businesses, travellers, and remote workers who desire innovative solutions that provide flexibility and choice.”
Customers are encouraged to dial *#06# to check if their smart devices are e-sim compatible. If the device is eSIM capable, customer will see the Unique Identification number (EID or eSIM Identifier).
“MTN is empowering customers to effortlessly embrace the digital world. We remain committed to drive the adoption of advanced technological, redefining convenience, and delivering seamless connectivity.” said Desire Ruhinguka, MTN Rwanda acting Chief Digital and Consumer Officer.
MTN Rwanda envisions a future where connectivity is no longer bound by physical limitations. It is a future where consumers are empowered, businesses thrive, and innovation knows no bounds. The introduction of the eSIM reaffirms MTN’s commitment to leading digital solutions for Rwanda’s progress and provides our valued customers with the benefits of a modern connected life.
{{About MTN Rwandacell }}
MTN Rwandacell Plc (MTN Rwanda) is the market leader in mobile telecommunications in Rwanda.
Since 1998, the telecom has continuously invested in expanding and modernising network.
MTN Rwanda offers various services to subscribers, including innovative propositions such as personalised voice and data offers with MTN Irekure. The company is also the front runner in mobile financial services in Rwanda with Mobile Money, MoMoPay and MoKash Loans and Savings.
Nestled in the heart of Kacyiru, Kigali City, Shami Tours is the brainchild of Emmanuel Mvuyekure, serving as both its founder and Managing Director. With a mission to unlock economic growth and empower young individuals, including members of the Rwandan diaspora, Shami Tours has become a catalyst for change by offering a wide array of services to cater to the needs of its diverse clientele.
Since its establishment in 2012, Shami Tours has expanded its repertoire beyond the realm of renting cars and driving tourists around the country. Today, it proudly stands as a multifaceted enterprise, encompassing a captivating tapestry of restaurants, coffee shops, accommodations, and a delightful display of local works of art.
Every detail at Shami Tours has been meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable experience for travelers from the moment they step off the plane.
Located in Kacyiru, the headquarters of Shami Tours beckons visitors with its awe-inspiring charm. Surrounded by lush gardens and ancient buildings that adorn the hill, the premises exude a serene tranquility that transports guests away from the hustle and bustle of Kigali City.
As one strolls through the gardens, carefully tended by the dedicated team at Shami Tours in collaboration with talented artisans, the air carries a sense of freshness and vitality. These gardens serve as a testament to the company’s commitment to harmoniously blending nature’s beauty with the captivating spirit of Rwandan culture.
The success of Shami Tours is undoubtedly a collective effort, with a team of passionate individuals working tirelessly to make every customer’s experience extraordinary. With a staff of 41, including 20 full-time drivers, three talented cooks, six meticulous gardeners, and a devoted administrative team, Shami Tours boasts a synergy that permeates every aspect of its operations.
Among the exceptional individuals who contribute to the agency’s success is Igihoho Arsène, a student in Finland and esteemed member of Shami Tours’ marketing team. Arsène’s expertise and dedication bring a fresh perspective to the company, amplifying its reach and impact.
While Shami Tours primarily thrives in the realm of tourism, it offers a comprehensive range of services to ensure the utmost convenience for its clients. From car rentals and delectable dining options to comfortable accommodations, Shami Tours has curated an experience where no detail is overlooked.
Step inside the Shami Tours headquarters, and you will be greeted by an interior design that is nothing short of mesmerizing. Traditional wooden furniture, meticulously chosen, envelops visitors in an ambiance that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity. It is an invitation to immerse oneself in the rich cultural tapestry of Rwanda while embracing the comforts of contemporary travel.
Marebe Aurore, the head of communication at Shami Tours, passionately articulates the myriad of services they offer. “Anyone can find their place here,” Aurore emphasizes, highlighting the company’s commitment to providing a welcoming environment. With high-speed internet, guests are invited to spend the day, indulging in a delectable breakfast or enjoying a satisfying lunch. Resting areas are thoughtfully provided, allowing individuals to unwind and even catch some sleep should they desire.
Olive Nibagwire, the company’s diligent accountant, articulates the significance of offering comprehensive services.
Nibagwire underscores the importance of accommodating the diverse needs of tourists, stating, “Sometimes, finding suitable accommodation can be a challenge for travelers. By providing everything they need under one roof, we ensure that their sojourn with us is truly memorable. We warmly welcome not only foreigners but also Rwandans, extending our hospitality to families seeking weekend getaways or small groups in need of a meeting space after our official opening.”
To further enhance the guest experience, Shami Tours has erected spacious tents within its picturesque garden. These inviting tents offer a unique opportunity for individuals seeking an overnight stay immersed in the tranquility of nature.
Whether gazing at the starlit sky or waking up to the melodies of chirping birds, guests are guaranteed an enchanting and unforgettable experience.
To discover more about the services and offerings of Shami Tours, one can visit their engaging website at www.shamitoursandtravels.com.
For those seeking further details, the friendly team at Shami Tours can be contacted via email at toursshami@gmail.com or reached by phone at +250 785 623 319.
In a world where dreams are often shaped by humble beginnings, Mvuyekure’s journey from a business of carrying passengers on bicycles to establishing Shami Tours is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination. Shami Tours stands tall as a beacon of inspiration, its rapid growth fueled by a commitment to providing reliable and practical travel solutions while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Rwanda.
As he visited the school located in Kigarama Sector of Kicukiro District on Monday 19th May 2023, the envoy also emphasized the UAE government’s belief in the significance of empowering youth and enabling them to shoulder responsibilities, innovate, and contribute to the welfare of the community.
Recognizing the importance of providing opportunities for young Emiratis, the UAE has implemented various initiatives aimed at diversifying the economy and creating job prospects in both the private and public sectors.
Amb. Alqahtani reminisced on the appointment of Shamma Al Mazrui in 2016 as the first Minister of State for Youth Affairs in the UAE at the age of 22, making her the world’s youngest minister.
Besides out of the 34 ministers in the UAE’s cabinet, 10 are young Emiratis. This trend extends to other positions of influence, such as undersecretaries and CEOs.
The ambassador stressed that the growing number of young undergraduates can find employment in the public and private sectors where numerous multinational companies including Apple and Google, attract young graduates, especially in the fields of information technology and sciences.
To support youth participation in key federal entities, the UAE government approved 33 young Emiratis as members of boards of directors in February 2020.
According to Amb. Alqahtani, these young board members underwent intensive training and enjoyed similar privileges and benefits as established board members.
Additionally, the government subsidizes private sector companies that employ UAE youth, ensuring they receive the same benefits as their peers working in the public sector.
The UAE’s commitment to youth empowerment is also evident in various government institutions.
For instance, Amb. Alqahtani said 75% of employees in the UAE Ministry of Finance are young people who play a crucial role in the country’s financial growth and sustainable economic development. The government has also established funds to support small and medium enterprises owned and run by young Emirati entrepreneurs.
In 2016, the UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai announced the establishment of the Emirates Youth Councils, which aim to represent the ideas and aspirations of Emirati youth and provide innovative solutions within the government. The Global Youth Council, a part of this initiative, brings together Emirati students from around the world to promote cross-cultural understanding, enhance leadership skills, and prepare them to make a positive impact in their universities and communities.
These Youth Councils serve as platforms for ongoing communication between leadership and youth, providing opportunities for young people to voice their innovative ideas and opinions. The UAE government also supports youth businesses through dedicated funds and awards that aim to bolster young entrepreneurs in various phases of the small and medium enterprise sector.
Amb. Alqahtani highlighted the pivotal role of education in youth empowerment, quoting Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, who said, “The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and execute it. It is not something you await but rather create.” He emphasized that secondary school is where the journey towards creating a successful future begins.
The UAE has established an exceptional and diverse higher education system, encompassing more 100 public and private institutions of higher learning, including renowned international campuses like Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University, New York University, and the American University of Sharjah.
The Ministry of Education offers scholarships to young Emiratis in various fields such as medicine and health sciences, engineering sciences, environmental science, and energy.
To further support youth development, the UAE Government has launched several career development and support programs to empower youth. These programs include free career counseling and workshops offered by different career centers, which are now present in every university in the UAE.
In 2017, the UAE government introduced the Youth Hub, a community space for young people aged 15 to 35, regardless of whether they are studying or working. The Youth Hub provides workspaces for young entrepreneurs, researchers, programmers, and media professionals.
Moreover, the UAE Government initiated the Youth Circles initiative to foster youth-centric dialogue across various areas and encourage sustainable engagement with young people to shape innovative solutions for global challenges. The Youth Circles bring together youth from different genders, fields, and age groups to participate in a dialogue with senior government leaders. This dialogue takes place in a circle format, enabling youth to express and share their opinions in shaping policies and solutions.
In 2019, the UAE Embassy organized a successful youth circle for 100 young women in the hospitality and tourism sector in collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Youth and Culture.
The participants attended a training session on empowerment in hospitality excellence, facilitated by trainers from the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management.
Furthermore, going beyond youth empowerment through education, in June 2019, the UAE Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Rwanda to facilitate labor mobility between the two countries.
This agreement allows skilled Rwandans to access job opportunities in the United Arab Emirates through the exchange of workforce, as well as the transfer of skills and knowledge.
By sharing these experiences and programs, the UAE aims to inspire and motivate young people in Rwanda to explore their potential, develop their skills, and actively contribute to their communities and the nation’s progress.
The training, which commenced on June 17th, 2023, brought together students representing colleagues from various Higher Learning Institutions and Universities.
In her speech, Minister Uwamariya stressed that indulging in such destructive habits only serves to harm their lives, offering no advantages whatsoever. She urged the participants to prioritize integrity and cautioned against associating with negative influences that may lead them astray.
Addressing the issue of drug abuse prevalent among the youth, including university students, Dr. Uwamariya underscored the need to abandon such detrimental practices and instead focus on building a bright future.
She reminded the audience about the adverse consequences of excessive alcohol consumption, emphasizing that continuous cell damage and mental instability are among the long-term effects.
The Minister questioned the purpose of pursuing education if individuals end up experiencing avoidable brain damage and impaired cognitive function.
Minister Uwamariya further attributed the prevalence of drug abuse to negative peer influence, urging students to cultivate positive attitudes and moral behaviors. She emphasized that meaningful education should contribute to personal growth and national development.
Participants of the civic education training expressed their belief that the advice and courses provided would equip them to effect positive change within their respective universities. They vowed to address the issue of immoral conduct among their peers.
Janvier Iribuka, a student from the University of Kigali, highlighted the importance of national development and expressed a strong sense of responsibility toward building the nation.
He acknowledged Rwanda’s past challenges and the progress achieved through the collective efforts of its people. Iribuka affirmed that the youth hold the responsibility to shape the future of their universities and the country as a whole.
Similarly, Usanase Ntaganda from the University of Rwanda pledged to share the Minister’s message with colleagues, with the aim of bringing about visible transformations and helping university students overcome their addiction to drugs and alcohol.
The civic education training, which has been held since 2014, brought together approximately 200 students this year. Over the past three editions, more than 2700 students have participated in the program, contributing to the development and progress of the nation.
During a visit to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Secondary School for Sciences on Monday 19th June 2023 in Kigarama Sector, Kicukiro District, Amb. Alqahtani interacted with students and teachers, taking the opportunity to highlight the UAE’s efforts in the education sector.
Education has always been a top priority for the UAE, as emphasized by its founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The late Sheikh Zayed believed that investing in education was the best use of wealth, creating generations of educated and trained individuals.
The UAE’s focus on education extends to both men and women, with significant progress made over the years. In 1975, adult literacy rates stood at 54% for men and 31% for women. Today, literacy rates for both genders are close to 95%.
Emirati women, in particular, have excelled in higher education, with 77% of them enrolling after completing secondary school. Furthermore, women constitute 70% of all UAE national university graduates, and 46% of graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields are women.
According to Amb. Alqahtani, the UAE National Strategy for Higher Education aims to equip future generations with the necessary technical and practical skills to drive the country’s economy in both the public and private sectors.
This initiative has been extended to other countries through scholarship programs offered to foreign students at UAE universities. These students, upon completion of their degrees, return to their home countries to contribute to their respective economies.
The UAE’s vision is for its students to be the best in the world in reading, mathematics, and science, and the Ambassador expressed his desire for the Rwandan students he addressed to strive for excellence in their science classes.
The UAE has developed student exchange programs, allowing Emirati students to gain enriching academic, professional, and personal experiences by spending time in other countries. Additionally, students from around the world have the opportunity to apply for exchange programs in UAE schools, providing them with diverse educational and cultural experiences.
In a short period, the UAE has established an excellent and diverse higher education system. With over 100 public and private institutions, including local and international campuses, such as the Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University, New York University, and the American University of Sharjah, the UAE offers a wide range of educational opportunities.
Scholarships have been provided to Rwandan students at these universities, including the UAE University and Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University, for those who have excelled in their secondary education.
The UAE has been actively supporting education in Rwanda for several years. The Al Maktoum Foundation has funded two secondary schools, including the Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Girls Secondary School for Sciences in Muhanga. Moreover, the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation has provided full support to the Islamic Secondary School for Sciences and the Islamic Cultural Center for the past 14 years.
As part of joint efforts to support the education sector in Rwanda, the UAE Government has awarded scholarships to outstanding Rwandan students in various UAE universities through the UAE Technical Assistance Program.
Since 2018, twenty students from Rwanda have received UAE Government scholarships at the UAE University, pursuing disciplines such as Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, and Computer Science. In 2019, an additional ten Rwandan students were granted full scholarships to pursue bachelor’s degree programs at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University.
Speaking to students and teachers, Amb. Alqahtani affirmed his country’s commitment to continue providing opportunities to the best performing Rwandan students.
“I want to reiterate that the UAE is fully committed to ensure that not only its citizens should have access to the best educational opportunities, and my country in cooperation with Rwanda, is willing to give the most talented students access to higher education in internationally recognized universities in the UAE,” he noted.
After the interactive discussions, Amb. Hazza Alqahtani awarded seven academically best performing students with Samsung smart phones.
UAE is a country in Western Asia, founded in 1971. It consists of seven Emirates, with Abu Dhabi as the capital and Dubai as the economic capital. The UAE has a population of around 10 million, with 90% being expatriates. Its main exports are oil, natural gas, pearls, and precious metals/stones.
