Based on assessments conducted by senators, it has been determined that old cars are significant contributors to road accidents in the country. Senator Hadija Ndangiza Murangwa, who was among those making these observations, referenced a study conducted by the Rwanda National Police, which revealed that 80% of cars on the road are over 15 years old. This concerning statistic underscores the potential dangers of continuing to import such vehicles into Rwanda.
In response to these concerns, Minister Nsabimana emphasized that the government is already focusing efforts on inspecting vehicles’ standards, both for newly imported ones and those already present in Rwanda. He also disclosed that the National Police has set up four mechanical inspection centers, in addition to the existing one in Kigali City, while the government plans to expand such facilities across the country.
Senator Havugimana also stressed the importance of setting an age limit for imported vehicles, following the example of other African countries. Countries like Uganda (15 years), Kenya and Senegal (8 years), Gabon (4 years), Nigeria (10 years), and Algeria (3 years) have implemented age limits for used vehicle imports. Senator Havugimana believes that adopting similar measures for cars in Rwanda would be a step in the right direction.
Regarding age limits for imported vehicles, Minister Nsabimana revealed that discussions are ongoing within the East African Community (EAC). However, he emphasized the need to consider various factors, including economic effects and oil consumption, before finalizing any decisions. The government remains optimistic that measures can be implemented to ensure the continued importation of new cars while addressing road safety concerns.
Apart from the issue of road accidents, a study conducted by the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) in 2019 highlighted other environmental concerns associated with old vehicles. The study revealed that 95.2% of cars in Rwanda were over 10 years old, with 56.6% manufactured before 1999 and 77.2% manufactured before 2000 and contribute significantly to air pollution.
Speaking to The New Times, Yolande Makolo, the government spokesperson disclosed that the decision is regrettable and could have negative implications for the bilateral relations between Rwanda and Belgium.
“It is unfortunate that the Belgian government seems to have capitulated to pressure from the DRC government as well as propaganda from negationist organisations and activists, through who they decided to leak the decision,” she said.
The Belgian government has not yet made a public statement regarding this matter. The leaking of the decision by Jambo News, an outlet affiliated with Jambo ASBL, a group comprising children born to extremist Rwandan exiles accused of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has drawn criticism on social media. Some question whether Jambo News has become a communication channel for Belgium’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This rejection is another setback in the bilateral ties between Rwanda and Belgium, following a misunderstanding in September 2021 concerning the case of Paul Rusesabagina, who was convicted of terrorism.
At that time, Rwanda called off a scheduled bilateral meeting with Belgium at the ministerial level during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, in response to Sophie Wilmes, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium, criticizing the ruling on Rusesabagina’s 25-year jail term.
Wilmes had expressed concerns about Rusesabagina’s trial, stating, ‘Mr. Rusesabagina did not benefit from a fair and impartial trial, especially with regard to the right to defense’.
She said, the presumption of innocence was also not respected and concluded that these factors effectively question trials and judgments.
In response, the Government of Rwanda accused the Kingdom of Belgium of showing contempt toward Rwanda’s judicial system throughout the trial and highlighted the significant contribution of relevant Belgian institutions to the investigation.
Rwanda emphasized that the victims of FLN’s terrorist acts deserved justice just as much as Rusesabagina and his co-defendants. Consequently, scheduled bilateral talks at the ministerial level did not take place.
Rusesabagina was released on presidential clemency this year.
It’s worth mentioning that Belgium has been keen on deepening relations with DRC, especially amidst the ongoing conflict between M23 and the Congolese Army (FARDC), which has allied with FDLR.
In February 2023, Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadja Lahbib, met with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and criticized Rwanda’s alleged support to M23 based on the disputed UN Group of Experts Report on DRC. Rwanda, however, has repeatedly denied any involvement in the DRC crisis.
While the specific reason for the rejection of Amb. Karega was not disclosed, reports suggest that Belgium’s assertive support for the DR Congo played a significant role in this decision.
Amb. Karega was appointed as ambassador-designate in March 2023, with the expectation that he would replace Dieudonné Sebashongore. Previously, Karega served as Rwanda’s ambassador to DR Congo.
Dr. Ernest Nsabimana, the Minister of Infrastructure made the revelation while addressing the upper house of parliament on July 25, 2023. He was summoned by the Senate to elaborate on the Rwandan government’s efforts to prevent fatalities and serious injuries among road users.
Various measures have been implemented to prevent and combat road accidents, including the decentralization of vehicle technical inspection services to the public, the installation of speed governors, road surveillance cameras to monitor traffic, detection of drunk drivers, introduction of new road signs, and intensified awareness campaigns regarding traffic accidents.
Despite some progress, Rwanda still recorded more than 9400 accidents across the country last year, resulting in over 700 fatalities and 4000 injuries. From January to April 2023, road accidents claimed the lives of 250 people, with 72 sustaining serious injuries, while 1550 others suffered minor injuries.
The Senate identified several obstacles to preventing and controlling road accidents, including the lack of respect for traffic rules and irresponsible behavior by some drivers. Senator Hadija Ndangiza Murangwa expressed concern over non-compliance with commonly used traffic rules and the prevalence of drunk driving, both of which significantly contribute to accidents. Additionally, she highlighted 298 accident-prone areas that still require attention, along with the continuous use of dilapidated vehicles on the roads.
Minister Nsabimana acknowledged that road accidents are caused by a combination of outdated infrastructure and the behavior of road users. He emphasized the importance of education and awareness campaigns to promote road safety.
Dr. Nsabimana also revealed that a study conducted in January 2023 by Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) and Rwanda National Police underlined the need for Rwf102 billion to effectively address all identified road safety issues.
A standout performer throughout the quarter was undeniably gold, which took the lead as the top revenue generator.
In April alone, Rwanda exported 1,506 kilograms of gold, bringing in an impressive US$ 97,553,111. The momentum continued into May, with 1,520 kilograms of gold worth US$ 99,039,329 being exported. However, the true highlight was June, when Rwanda exported 1,670 kilograms of gold valued at a staggering US$106,100,444. Combining these figures, the cumulative revenue from gold for the entire quarter reached an astonishing US$302,692,884.
Cassiterite, a vital mineral in Rwanda’s mining industry, also made a substantial impact on the country’s mineral export earnings. In April, it generated 388,818 kilograms, amounting to US$ 6,210,054. Though May witnessed a slight decline in production, with 341,533 kilograms valued at US$ 5,202,418, June saw a surge in performance, as Rwanda exported 413,804 kilograms worth US$ 7,400,529. The cumulative revenue from Cassiterite for the entire quarter stood at an impressive US$18,813,001.
Coltan, another valuable mineral, showed steady growth throughout the quarter. In April, Rwanda exported 133,828 kilograms, resulting in revenue worth US$6,296,903. The following month, May, witnessed a notable increase in both volume and value, with 198,787 kilograms worth US$ 9,587,723 exported. In June, Coltan exports reached their peak, with 254,400 kilograms worth US$ 11,930,212. The combined earnings from Coltan in the second quarter amounted to US$ 27,814,838.
Wolfram, also known as tungsten, demonstrated a remarkable upward trajectory in export revenue. In April, Rwanda exported 120,920 kilograms, generating US$ 1,574,123. The subsequent month saw a considerable jump, with 246,920 kilograms worth US$ 3,335,391 exported. By June, Wolfram’s performance peaked, recording 267,595 kilograms worth US$ 3,579,145. Over the entire quarter, Wolfram contributed US$ 8,488,659 to Rwanda’s mineral export revenue.
Besides these major minerals, “Other Minerals” also made a valuable contribution to Rwanda’s export revenue. In April, Rwanda exported 514,820 kilograms, generating US$ 1,233,420. May showed an increase in volume, with 1,357,729 kilograms worth US$ 1,327,094 exported. By June, the volume of “Other Minerals” reached 2,394,688 kilograms, resulting in revenue worth US$ 1,998,947. Over the entire quarter, “Other Minerals” contributed US$4,559,461 to Rwanda’s export earnings.
In the horn of Africa, female genital mutilation (FGM) is among the cultural practices done in regards to the ‘high moral value’ tied to virginity and sex despite being declared a criminal act in; September 1985 under ‘the prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985”.
It was replaced by ‘the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003’ which came into force in 2004 and further amended by the ‘Serious Crime Act 2015’.
During the recently concluded Women Deliver Conference 2023 held in Kigali, Rwanda; women’s organizations, mostly female activists across Africa, under their umbrella ‘Frontline ending FGM’ gathered in solidarity in one space to find solutions to the ongoing practice as part of the UN mandate to end FGM by 2030.
IGIHE spoke to Sess, an activist from Kenya at the ‘Frontline ending FGM’ booth during the conference to explain what their work entails.
“Basically, what we do is sensitize the community about the harmful cultural practices because they have been medically proven to be very detrimental. We have girls and women going through difficult economic times as a result of the various medical conditions they experience,” she said.
As a gynecologist specializing in the management of ‘prolapse and incontinence’, conditions that can be linked to FGM, Dr. Willison emphasizes that FGM survivors may encounter challenges such as intimacy pain and menopausal issues as they age. These long-term complications could significantly impact their quality of life and, in severe cases, may even lead to death.
According to Sess, the communities that cut in Kenya include; Somali’s, Kiisi, Masai, Kuria, Kalenjin, Taita and Taveta, Meru, and immigrants among others. She added that these communities have different reasons for performing the act, all which rotate around; society, culture and religion.
“The Somali’s tie it to the religion bit, in communities where I work they tie it to culture. To them, it’s a social norm and they want to continue doing it because they want to appease their leaders,” she mentioned.
Considered a transition of ‘girls into womanhood’ in practicing communities, FGM not only varies in beliefs but also the way it is done, said Sess.
She told IGIHE that there are various types of FGM: Type 1 (clitoridectomy) where they either cut the entire part/partial removal of the clitoris, Type 2 (excision) where they cut the clitoris in half and Type 3(infibulation) or type 3 genitalia, very common among the Somali’s.
“Here, they scoop everything out and sew it together leaving the girl/woman with a very small part to ease herself and for menstruation’, it is a very crazy practice,” she exclaimed.
Despite their efforts, Sess acknowledged that there are challenges hindering their work from resistant movements that are against the practice. However, she says that they won’t back down as it is against human rights.
Funded by ‘Global Leader campaign’, the Frontline movement supports activists (people on ground) to create awareness on harmful cultural practices.
They use local media and social media where they bring medical professionals, law enforcers, reformed cutters, elders, community members, and all stakeholders to give their different context and perspective on the practice and how it can be stopped.
FGM was legally recognized in Kenya in 1999 by the Ministry of Health under the National Plan of Action for the Elimination of FGM/FGC.
Globally, FGM was declared a criminal act in September 1985 under ‘the prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985”. It was replaced by ‘the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003’ which came into force in 2004 and further amended by the ‘Serious Crime Act 2015’.
The apology was conveyed through a message posted on her Twitter handle on Monday, 24th July 2023. The installation ceremony took place on 9th July in the Kinigi Sector of Musanze District and was attended by members of the private sector, local officials, and security personnel, among others.
The act was deemed divisive, raising fears that it could hamper the progress made in achieving national unity after the tragic 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In response to these concerns, the ruling party, RPF Inkotanyi organized a meeting that brought together approximately 800 cadres, including senior officials, to discuss various issues threatening Rwandans’ unity. The installation of the Abakono clan’s leader, which the party had previously denounced, was one of the topics discussed during the assembly.
Senator Nyirafari expressed her heartfelt apologies one day after the assembly. In her tweet, she addressed the Chairman of RPF Inkotanyi and the President of Rwanda, acknowledging the gravity of her mistake in attending the ceremony. She mentioned that her realization came after participating in discussions revolving around Rwandans’ unity on 23rd July 2023.
Having personally experienced the consequences of divisionism that plagued the country, Nyirafari emphasized her understanding of the seriousness of the issue. She acknowledged her distraction in attending such an event, stressing that the historical repercussions of sectarianism were evident in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Nyirafari firmly denounced beliefs and actions similar to the installation of the Abakono clan’s leader, reiterating her commitment to resist any divisive practices that might lead Rwandans down a tragic path again. She pledged to distance herself from anything that could potentially drag the nation into the painful history it endured.
Finally, Nyirafari called on all Rwandans to reject any negative attitudes related to divisionism and emphasized the importance of promoting national unity and reconciliation.
Bill Kayonga, President of Rwanda Golf Union (RGU), was also among the participants of the installation ceremony of the Abakono Clan’s leader. However, he has now expressed his sincere apology through his Twitter handle, acknowledging that the event goes against the national efforts to promote unity and reconciliation.
In his tweet, Kayonga stated, “I write this tweet to deeply apologize to the leadership of our nation for the gross irresponsible act of participating and speaking at the Abakono clan leader installation ceremony held in Kinigi.”
Upon careful reflection, he has come to understand the potential damage that such sectarian acts can inflict on the social cohesion of Rwandan society and deeply regretted his participation in the ceremony and promoting the event without fully considering the negative impact it would have on the larger Rwandan community.
Among others, Kayonga expressed remorse for not immediately denouncing and disassociating himself from what he witnessed during the event, even after its conclusion.
“For these reasons, I sincerely apologize to my leadership and Rwandans in general for this irresponsible act. I commit myself to fight any negative tendencies that threaten the unity of Rwandans. I find it befitting to take this step and apologize publicly so that no other responsible Rwandan finds themselves in the same mistake,” stated Kayonga.
On the same day, Andrew Rucyahana Mpuhwe, the vice mayor of Musanze District in charge of economic development, resigned from his position in connection with the case. He submitted his resignation on Monday after confessing his attendance at the installation of the Abakono Clan’s chief.
In his resignation letter, Rucyahana said that he regrets his appearance in the ceremony which could have led to divisionism, and considered it a big mistake because it sets back the progress of unity and reconciliation among Rwandans.
Meanwhile, Jean Marie Vianney Gatabazi, who held various government positions, has also become entangled in the case and recently sought forgiveness from President Paul Kagame. In a tweet, he expressed his acceptance of the President’s mercy and pledged to stand firmly against anything that threatens Rwandan unity, emphasizing its significance as their collective strength.
“Dear President Paul Kagame, the mercy you have shown us is gratefully accepted, and we are committed to opposing anything that seeks to undermine Rwandan unity, as it is the bedrock of our strength,” Gatabazi tweeted.
He further expressed his gratitude to President Kagame for the guidance, advice, and support provided, emphasizing the importance of building a nation based on a strong national identity that unites all Rwandans.
During the assembly of RPF Inkotanyi cadres on Sunday, the installation of Kazoza Justin as the leader was declared null and void.
Kazoza also took responsibility for his lack of foresight and involvement in activities that could undermine the progress made in fostering national unity.
Speaking at the RPF cadres’ meeting on Sunday, General James Kabarebe, the Senior Presidential Advisor on security matters, delivered a powerful message on maintaining Rwandans’ unity and expressed strong disapproval of any actions that could undermine the progress made in building national unity.
He disclosed that Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) have consistently stood against divisive activities, which led to the arrest of three soldiers involved in the “investiture of the Abakono clan leader.”
Musoni, who once served as the vice-president of the FDLR, disclosed that the group continues to collaborate with the Congolese Army (FARDC) and urged its combatants to cease hostilities, emphasizing the devastating effects of war that are known to all.
Originally specializing in rural and urban planning after his graduation in Germany, Musoni excelled in this field before choosing a career in political opposition, rather than returning to Rwanda to contribute to the development of his home country.
Born in Masoro, in the district of Rulindo, Musoni pursued his studies in Germany with the help of a state scholarship. In September 2015, he and Ignace Murwanashyaka, then president of the FDLR, were sentenced by the Stuttgart court to 13 and 8 years in prison, respectively. They were found guilty of ordering attacks in the North Kivu province between 2008 and 2009.
After serving his sentence, Musoni was repatriated to Rwanda. In October 2022, he was transferred to the Mutobo Demobilization Center, where he participated in civic education programs aimed at rehabilitating former combatants.
During an interview with IGIHE, Musoni revealed that his political engagement began with the Rally for the Return of Refugees and Democracy in Rwanda (RDR). He expressed how he became aware of the post-genocide situation in Rwanda and felt the urge to do something about it, leading him to become one of the founders of the FDLR and eventually serving as its vice-president.
In the aftermath of the genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, some of its instigators and perpetrators, particularly former military personnel, expressed their desire to return to Rwanda to commit genocide again. As the initial objectives of the RDR were not achieved, the FDLR was created with the intention to challenge the Rwandan Patriotic Front (FPR Inkotanyi) and reclaim power in Rwanda.
Musoni acknowledges that the FDLR’s formation was largely by former EX-FAR soldiers who believed that returning to Rwanda necessitated the use of weapons. However, over time, the group was classified as a terrorist armed organization.
The FDLR initially received support from Laurent Désiré Kabila, the then-president of the DRC, who promised to assist the EX-FAR in their attempt to overthrow the Rwandan government. In return, the EX-FAR supported Kabila against various armed groups threatening his power, including the Congolese Rally for Democracy (RCD).
Kabila, facing challenges from his opponents, including the RCD, later asked the EX-FAR to engage in dialogues, lay down their arms, and join the Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF), effectively abandoning his initial commitment. This is when the FDLR emerged.
Musoni reveals that the FDLR’s plan failed at a certain point, and they then attempted to pressure the RPF Inkotanyi into negotiations. The FDLR split into two sections: a political one and a military one (FDLR/FOCA), with both factions sourcing their weapons from Laurent Kabila’s army, the FARDC, and other armed groups.
He emphasizes that some FDLR members who once served in FARDC never handed over their weapons when they left Rwanda, but instead, they kept them. He further claims that the FARDC and FDLR currently collaborate when the government seeks their assistance in combating armed groups like the M23.
Musoni concluded by calling on the FDLR combatants to understand that the time for war is over and emphasized the importance of peace for Rwanda and the need to preserve it.
He reminded everyone of the disastrous consequences war brought to Rwanda, and he urged everyone to strive for a peaceful future.
Addressing the gathering, General Kabarebe expressed strong disapproval of any actions that could undermine the progress made in building national unity. He reiterated that the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) have consistently stood against divisive activities, which led to the arrest of three soldiers involved in the “investiture of the Abakono clan leader.”
The primary purpose of the meeting was to address various issues threatening unity among Rwandans and to develop proactive measures to strengthen this cohesion.
General Kabarebe emphasized the importance of eradicating divisive tendencies from their roots, just as was demonstrated by the swift action taken against the soldiers involved in the divisive activity. He highlighted how the success of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) in liberating Rwanda was a result of its unwavering rejection of anything that could lead to divisionism. He warned that indulging in such wrongdoing can lead to uncontrollable consequences.
During the assembly, Vice-President of the Senate, Espérance Nyirasafari, who had attended the investiture as a friend of the elected leader, Mr. Justin Kazoza, publicly apologized for her participation in the “Bakono” gathering and acknowledged her irresponsibility. Similarly, Rucyahana Mpuhwe Andrew, the Vice-Mayor for Economic Affairs of Musanze district, also confessed his guilt in the matter.
General Kabarebe passionately emphasized that Rwanda’s success lies in the unity of its citizens, a precious asset that must be preserved at all costs.
As a result of the RPF’s cadre session, the investiture of Justin Kazoza was declared null and void. It was concluded that this act lacked foresight and long-term vision. RPF members who participated in the divisive event sought clemency and pledged to prioritize the unity of Rwandans above all else.
The agreement was inked by Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industries, and Denis Christel Sassou Nguesso, Congo-Brazzaville’s Minister of International Cooperation. The memorandum of understanding aims to streamline trade processes and facilitate economic growth by focusing on strategic areas of collaboration.
The development was reached during President Nguesso’s two-day state visit to Rwanda where he visited Kigali Genocide Memorial, addressed members of Parliament, and toured Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA), among other activities.
So far, bilateral engagements between both countries at different times have resulted in the signing of 33 agreements and a memoranda of understanding.
Among the notable achievements were the bilateral air service agreement that allows RwandAir to operate direct flights to Congo-Brazzaville, the ratification of the double taxation avoidance agreement, and the ratification of a visa waiver between both countries. These agreements will help strengthen economic ties and promote people-to-people interactions.
Vincent Biruta, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, highlighted the importance of monitoring progress on the signed agreements and ongoing economic projects. This systematic approach will ensure accountability and effectiveness in implementing the initiatives.
The Congolese President, Denis Sassou Nguesso, emphasized the crucial role of the AfCFTA in promoting economic development on the African continent. He stressed the need for free movement of goods and people to catalyze prosperity in the region. President Nguesso also called for concrete and tangible results from the cooperation efforts, emphasizing that signing agreements should not be mere formalities, but rather actions that yield real benefits for citizens.
Meanwhile, President Kagame expressed his commitment to building on this newfound cooperation between Rwanda and Congo-Brazzaville. He asserted that both nations should work together to lead the way in driving progress and achieving their shared development goals.
The Rwandan President’s visit to Congo-Brazzaville in April 2022 had already set the stage for mutual prosperity and strengthened the friendship between the two countries.
The agreement signed under the AfCFTA represents a significant milestone in regional economic integration between Rwanda and Congo-Brazzaville.
During the conference, IGIHE spoke with some of the conference participants and captured their key takeaways.
Lilliane Umutoni, a participant from Rwanda who attended a session on ‘The Power of Choice: Fostering Partnership to Realize Bodily Autonomy’ hosted by UNFPA, expressed deep gratitude for the conference.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have attended this conference. Until today, I wasn’t aware of my own power to positively impact someone else’s life. I now realize that from where I stand, I can make a difference and my pledge is to empower a girl somewhere, in whatever way possible,” she shared.
Line Aggernaes, a senior advisor in sexual and reproductive health and rights from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, hailed the decision to host the conference in Africa.
She appreciated the diversity among the participants and acknowledged that often, despite holding numerous conferences and meetings and raising funds to support gender rights and SRHR, there remains uncertainty about whether those in need receive the necessary support.
“Being here today, seeing the real people at the grassroots, talking to them, and understanding their needs and aspirations is truly enlightening,” Line expressed.
Shaille Chaundhary, a campaigner with ‘Dalit Lives Matter’ from Nepal, was impressed by the passion African women exhibited for their rights. She stated, “Experiencing Africa firsthand and witnessing the passion African women have for their rights is truly inspiring. Seeing things from their perspective changes how we perceive the continent.”
Caroline Bigirimana, an advocate for sexual and reproductive health and research from Burundi, was delighted to connect with fellow women who share the same cause. “It’s heartening to see girls and women gaining access to knowledge about their bodies and the choices available to them,” she shared.
Even Abraham Famanou from Chad, a male participant, recognized the transformative power of the conference. He admitted that his understanding of gender equality and his role in promoting it has evolved. “I’ve come to understand that as a man, I play a crucial role in gender equality and combating gender violence. From now on, I’ll value and respect everyone regardless of their gender,” he asserted.
The Women Deliver Conference which was concluded on 20th July 2023 featured side events, conferences, and sessions focusing on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender equality, LGBTQ+, youth involvement, and other related topics. Additionally, participants had opportunities to network during breaks, and they were entertained with art, music, movies, comedy, and games at various booths.
The conference’s impact has been profound, igniting a sense of empowerment, solidarity, and a deeper commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s rights worldwide. The participants’ collective efforts and shared experiences during these five days in Kigali will undoubtedly pave the way for transformative changes in the quest for a more equitable and inclusive world.
