In a statement released on Thursday, July 27, 2023, the Congolese Army accused Rwandan soldiers of crossing the Congolese border and attacking border security forces.
In response, RDF has issued a statement denying the accusations.
“The accusations are baseless and part of a long-standing pattern of misinformation and propaganda by the DRC leadership to divert attention from their internal failures in maintaining peace and security within their own borders, while continuing to support, arm and fight alongside the genocidal militia FDLR,” reads the statement in part.
The statement from the RDF also notes a continued trend of false accusations and escalation, which it believes may serve as a pretext for a planned attack by the FARDC/FDLR on Rwandan territory.
Recently, Rwanda released another statement warning the DRC against continuously searching for justifications to launch attacks on Rwanda. Through the statement issued by the Government Spokesperson, Rwanda emphasized its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and asserted that it would take all necessary measures to protect itself.
This response came after a statement released on July 19th by the Congolese Army, signed by spokesperson Maj Gen Ekenge Bomusa Efoma Sylvain. At the time, FARDC claimed to be reacting to a statement allegedly made by the Rwandan government on July 18th, in which Rwanda supposedly announced its readiness to send troops from the RDF to the DRC.
However, Rwanda denied the existence of such a statement, adding that the claim by FARDC is merely a pretext aimed at escalating hostilities and justifying an attack on Rwandan soil.
The DRC has been accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied. Rwanda characterizes the clashes between the Congolese Army and M23 as an internal conflict and has advised the neighboring country to take responsibility for its internal problems instead of externalizing them.
Meanwhile, Rwanda accuses the FARDC of supporting, arming, and fighting alongside the genocidal militia group known as the FDLR.
DRC is reported to have previously provoked Rwanda on multiple occasions and launched rocket attacks on Rwandan territory in collaboration with the FDLR terrorist group.
Congolese fighter jets have also trespassed into Rwanda’s airspace three times since 2022.
The UNWTO is the agency responsible for the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.
After receiving 14 votes out of a possible 20, Rwanda joins Ghana, which received 17 votes, Nigeria (15 votes), Namibia (12 votes), Tanzania (12 votes) and DRC (11 votes) for the Executive Council’s 2023-2027 term.
In addition, Rwanda is now part of the working group for the setup of the Tourism PanAfrican Fund together with Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zambia.
The UNWTO Executive Council acts as the Governing Board of the organisation and takes all necessary measures and decisions linked to global tourism development.
It works directly with the Secretary General and the Council members meet at least twice a year during their four-year tenure.
After the election, Michaëlla Rugwizangoga, Chief Tourism Officer at the Rwanda Development Board, noted: “We are very pleased to join the UNWTO Executive Council. Rwanda’s mandate will focus on African integration by promoting intra-African travel, sports tourism, sustainability and nature-positive tourism.”
The Annual General Assembly of the UNWTO will take place in Uzbekistan on 16-18 October 2023.
Algeria will welcome the 67th Regional Commission for Africa meeting in 2024.
BasiGo has partnered with AC Mobility, Rwanda’s provider of automated fare collection systems for public transport. The partnership will deliver electric buses to Kigali transport operators by October of this year through BasiGo’s innovative Pay-As-You-Drive financing model.
Commenting on the partnership, BasiGo Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Jit Bhattacharya said: “Rwanda has led the way in creating an enabling ecosystem for E-mobility. BasiGo is proud to be partnering with AC Mobility, a technology leader in Rwanda’s transport sector, to help accelerate the transition to electrified public transport. Electric buses will be more cost-effective for operators while also dramatically reducing air pollution and CO2 emissions. Through our Pay-As-You-Drive model, we are excited to bring a complete E-Bus solution to make electric buses accessible and convenient for all bus operators in Rwanda.”
On her part, Clare Akamanzi, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) said: “In line with RDB’s mandate to fast-track private-sector economic development in Rwanda, we welcome the BasiGo – AC Mobility partnership to bring electric bus technology to Kigali bus operators as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to diesel buses. This partnership of public transport technology providers in the region will accelerate decarbonization of the sector in Rwanda while also alleviating the current public transport shortage. RDB is intentional in its support towards this investment and growing a thriving market for electric mobility solutions in Rwanda.”
Jones Kizihira, Chief Executive Officer, AC Mobility Rwanda expressed delight for the partnership with BasiGo to drive Rwanda’s public bus electrification.
“The country has recorded rapid transformation, creating a need for a more robust and cost effective public transport system. The electric buses will help ease the cost burden of public bus transporters and advance Rwanda’s transition to clean mobility. We look forward to leveraging BasiGo’s experience and network to build a strong electric bus business in Rwanda,” he noted.
The Government of Rwanda recently announced an initiative to rapidly scale the size of Kigali’s public transport fleet while also aiming to convert 20% of the public bus fleet to electric by 2030.
Founded in 2021, BasiGo has led the introduction of electric buses in Nairobi’s public transport fleet. BasiGo has sold 19 Electric Buses to public transport operators in Nairobi and has secured reservations for over 100 additional buses. BasiGo electric buses have driven over 460,000 kilometers and carried over 580,000 passengers. BasiGo has also deployed Kenya’s first DC fast charging stations for electric buses.
BasiGo offers electric buses to private bus operators through a mileage-based leasing model called Pay-As-You-Drive, which makes electric buses affordable for private bus operators to purchase and use.
{{About BasiGo}}
BasiGo is an e-mobility company bringing the future of clean, electric public transport to sub-Saharan Africa. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the company offers state-of-the-art electric buses along with charging and maintenance services for public service bus operators. BasiGo makes electric buses affordable to operators through an innovative financing model called “Pay-As-You-Drive” which makes the upfront cost of their electric bus competitive with diesel diesel buses. In 2022, BasiGo became the first company to pilot test electric buses in Nairobi.
{{About AC Mobility Rwanda}}
AC Mobility Rwanda is a leading provider of smart and interactive transport solutions in Africa cities, bringing efficient cashless payment systems to the mostly informal cash-based public transport system in emerging African cities. AC Mobility is currently operational in Kigali, Rwanda.
It is held amid ongoing tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rwanda expresses concerns about potential security threats arising from the collaboration between the Congolese Army (FARDC) and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) during their joint efforts against the M23 rebel group.
It’s important to note that the FDLR is a terrorist organization formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Over time, elements of the FDLR have attempted hit-and-run attacks to destabilize Rwanda, but the country has successfully repelled these attempts.
On the other hand, the DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group. However, Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations and urged the DRC to focus on resolving its internal issues instead of engaging in blame games.
President Kagame’s meeting with the security organs follows a recent reshuffle in the RDF’s top leadership. Notably, Juvenal Marizamunda was appointed as the Minister of Defence, and Lt Gen Mubarakh Muganga assumed the role of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Marizamunda succeeded Maj Gen Albert Murasira, who had been in the position since October 2018, while Lt Gen Muganga took over from Gen Jean Bosco Kazura, who had held the position since 2019.
This recent meeting with security top brass marks the second time President Kagame has convened such discussions in 2023. The previous meeting in May 2023 was attended by representatives from the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS), RDF leadership, Rwanda National Police (RNP), and Rwanda Correctional Services (RCS).
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.”
