Recently on 23rd September 2021, Rwanda received nine more nationals evicted from Uganda through Cyanika border in Burera district after enduring torture and dispossession of their valuables.
Their deportation follows series of circumstances under which Ugandan officials have been dumping Rwandans at borders following days of torture in detention facilities accused of being spies yet they had traveled to Uganda to run businesses or visit relatives among other reasons.
Rwanda, Uganda relations worsened since 2017. Rwanda has been expressing concerns over Rwandans who travel to Uganda for business purposes but are abducted, imprisoned and tortured accused of being spies.
Rwanda also accuses Uganda of hosting dissidents that are posing a threat to national security.
In March 2019, the Government of Rwanda officially advised citizens not to travel to Uganda for their security following testimonies of over 1000 Rwandans tortured and deported from Uganda.
In August 2019, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame signed memorandum of understanding ‘Luanda Agreement’ in a bid to solve conflicts between both countries.
Despite efforts to sign the agreement between both heads of state witnessed by mediators including the President of Angola, Joao Lourenço and Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the situation is still worsening as Uganda’s Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence continues with arbitrary detention of Rwandans who are subjected to torture in its facilities.
Rwanda is an associate member of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
IOSCO is holding its fifth annual World Investor Week (WIW), a global campaign supported by securities markets regulators and IOSCO stakeholders around the world.
From 4th to 10th October 2021, securities markets regulators, stock exchanges, global and regional financial organizations and other stakeholders will conduct an array of educational activities. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of investor education and protection in participants´ jurisdictions.
The Public Relations and Communications Officer of CMA Rwanda, Magnifique Migisha noted that: “CMA, RSE and all market intermediaries in Rwanda usually complement each other towards various investor education activities. During this year’s World Investor Week, we will conduct digital media and broadcast media campaigns to engage the public into available saving and investment opportunities through the local stock market.”
Mr. Migisha added that: “We shall aim at raising awareness of the importance of investor education and highlight various investor education initiatives in place; in line with CMA and the capital market industry’s mandates to promote investor education and public awareness in Rwanda.”
Rwanda has made impressive strides over the last decade in developing its local capital market, as one of the new sectors in the country with many untapped opportunities.
CMA and the capital market industry have committed to carry out regular public education and awareness initiatives meant to bridge the financial literacy gap targeting retail investors in Rwanda to facilitate an interactive, and educative forum to enable investors to start saving and investing through the local capital market.
RGS is an independent annual publication of the RGB that seeks to gauge the state of governance in Rwanda, comprehensively assesses governance in using both primary and secondary data sources.
It is mainly designed to generate credible and reliable data on governance issues, serves as practical tool that drives policy reform in the domain of governance through the identification of areas for improvement and generates actionable recommendations and to contribute to current and authentic knowledge formation about Rwanda.
The launch of the 8th edition of Rwanda Governance Scorecard 8th attracted participants including members of diplomatic corps, international organizations, representatives of Government institutions, private sector, civil society and academia among others.
The research carried out was entrenched on eight pillars namely; :(1) Rule of Law, (2) Political Rights and Civil liberties, (3) Participation and Inclusiveness, (4) Safety and Security,(5) Investing in Human and Social Development, (6)Control of corruption, Transparency and Accountability, (7) Quality of service delivery,(8) Economic and corporate governance.
Of the eight pillars, six scored above 80%.
The pillar of Safety and Security came on top scoring 95.47% in 2021 from 95.44% of 2020, the Rule of Law performed at 87.08% from 87.86% of last year, Political Rights and Civil liberties scored 83.80 % from 85.76% while Anti-corruption, Transparency and Accountability got 86.77% from 86.28%.
The pillar of Quality of service delivery scored 81.86% from 78.31 of last year, Investing in Human and Social Development scored 75.23% from 73.32%, Economic and corporate governance scored 74.65% from 78.14% while Participation and Inclusiveness performed at 84.19% from 81.96% of last year.
Quality of Service Delivery has emerged the most improved pillar with an increase of 3.55%. It is the first time this pillar scores above 80% since the inception of RGS in 2010. The improvement in this pillar is attributed to the use of ICT in service delivery which improved by 5.07%.
Among others, Economic and Corporate Governance is the least performing pillar at 74.65%. As he made the presentation; the CEO of RGB, Dr. Usta Kaitesi explained that the decline by 3.49% resulted from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic to national economy.
Speaking at the launch of the 8th edition of RGS on Friday 8th October 2021, the Deputy CEO of RGB, Dr. Emmanuel Niyibishaka highlighted that the RGS 8th Edition gives a comparative analysis with the previous editions and gives a snapshot of the variations that have occurred in pillars performance since the 1st edition.
He also emphasized that the improvement or decline in pillar performance is not about figures; rather the reality on the ground.
As he delivered key note address, the One UN Resident Representative in Rwanda Dr. Fode Ndiaye commended RGB for keeping the regularity to produce the index despite challenges of Covid-19 pandemic.
He also extolled Rwanda for producing Rwanda Governance Scorecard considering it ‘the most comprehensive national index on the African continent that consistently assesses the state of governance in the country’.
Ndiaye also highlighted that RGS uses a comprehensive methodology that particularly values the voices of the citizens through different surveys used as sources of data.
“By including citizens’ perception, the RGS does not only consider expectations and analysis of governance trends, but also makes people at the center of the assessment, thus, representing the views of experts and citizens,” he said.
“The impact of RGS as a national assessment tool transcends the national level to play an important role in the context of renewed multilateralism and the UN decade of action to speed up the implementation of the shared commitment for sustainable development,” added Ndiaye.
Safety and security has maintained the lead since the inception of RGS.
Rwanda’s Presidency has via Twitter handle revealed that the meeting discussed key areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Kagame received the delegation one day after the Government of Rwanda and Mozambique signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote trade, attract and facilitate investments in the two countries.
The MoU was signed on Wednesday 6th October 2021 between the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEX) on behalf of Mozambique.
During the ceremony; Mozambique was represented by the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Carlos Alberto Fortes Mesquita; Presidential Adviser, Omar Ossumane Momade Mitha and Luis João Matsinhe, the National Director of Studies and Economic Analysis at the Ministry of Planning and Development among others.
Meanwhile, Rwanda was represented by senior economic advisor to the President of the Republic, Francis Gatare; Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning , Richard Tusabe and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry among others.
At the time, Rwanda showcased investment opportunities to the visiting delegation from Mozambique and took them through different incentives to provide favorable business environment for Rwandans and foreigners.
The delegation comes to Rwanda following Kagame’s two-day state visit to Mozambique recently in September 2021.
The man aged 59, arrived at Kigali International Airport on Thursday 7th October 2021 around 4p.m.
Upon arrival at the airport, Rurangwa was immediately handed over to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB).
Born in 1962, Rurangwa was in 2007 convicted and sentenced to 30 years by Gisozi Gacaca Court for his role in the Genocide.
The National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA) has said that Rurangwa lived in Gisozi sector, Gasabo district of Kigali City during the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.
At the time, he was a primary school teacher 1994 and leader of Interahamwe militia in Gisozi.
It is said that Rurangwa is among masterminds behind the killings of Tutsis that had fled to Sainte Famille and Saint Paul in Kigali during the Genocide.
He is also suspected to have set up different road blocks in Kigali City where Tutsis were arrested and killed.
Rurangwa featured in the trial of Maj Gen Laurent Munyakazi who was handed life sentence and the former of Kigali Prefecture, Col Tharcisse Renzaho.
Rurangwa fled to former Zaire in Kibumba refugee camp and joined Kayindo camp later from where he left in 1996 flying to USA.
In 2008, Rurangwa who had changed his name to Oswald Rukemuye was apprehended as he pursued studies at Wilberforce University in Ohio State.
He becomes the sixth Genocide fugitive deported from USA.
Other deportees include Enos Iragaba Kagaba (2005), Jean Mary Vianney Mudahinyuka (2011), Marie Claire Mukeshimana (2011), Dr. Léopold Munyakazi (2016) and Béatrice Munyenyezi deported recently on 16th April 2021.
In a statement released today, the National Public Prosecution Authority (NPPA), has commended the move by US authorities.
“The NPPA commends the US judicial authorities for the deportations of genocide fugitives, continued cooperation in matters of mutual legal assistance, and contribution to the global effort to fight impunity,” reads part of the statement signed by Faustin Nkusi, the Spokesperson of NPPA.
The MoU was signed on Wednesday 6th October 2021 between the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and Investment and Export Promotion Agency (APIEX) on behalf of Mozambique.
During the ceremony; Mozambique was represented by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Carlos Alberto Fortes Mesquita; Presidential Adviser, Omar Ossumane Momade Mitha and Luis João Matsinhe, the National Director of Studies and Economic Analysis at the Ministry of Planning and Development among others.
Meanwhile, Rwanda was represented by senior economic advisor to the President of the Republic, Francis Gatare; Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning , Richard Tusabe and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry among others.
Rwanda showcased investment opportunities to the visiting delegation from Mozambique and took them through different incentives to provide favorable business environment for Rwandans and foreigners.
The Deputy CEO of RDB, Zephanie Niyonkuru said that the signed MoU lays the foundation for implementation of priority activities under the framework set between both heads of state when President Paul Kagame visited Mozambique recently.
“Both heads of state assigned us to make possible efforts so that private investors can benefit from existing cordial bilateral relations. The signed agreement is just the beginning and a fruit of discussions held during the visit,” he said.
Niyonkuru said that both countries agreed on cooperation to support and facilitate business communities to invest in each of the two countries.
The visiting delegation is also expected to interact with members of the private sector in Rwanda to take them through investment opportunities in Mozambique and available incentives.
RDB and the private sector also plan to visit the country Mozambique to explore areas of investments and invite Mozambicans to invest in Rwanda as well.
“We are exploring different areas of investment including agro-processsing. Concerning trade, Mozambique is connected to the sea and borders with five countries. This signifies that it is easy to transport goods to other countries when you are running business there,” explained Niyonkuru.
The Director General of APIEX, Gil da Conceicao Bires has revealed that they are set to encourage Mozambican investors to invest in Rwanda.
“We have been impressed. Rwanda has ample investment opportunities particularly in agriculture. Rwanda has a variety of crops which can be exported to our country. Besides, we are members of the Southern African Development Community. Trading with us provides direct linkages to these country members,” he said.
Gil Bires explained that Rwandans can also explore investment opportunities in agriculture, trade, and infrastructure and health sector among others.
The two hotels also emerged 25th and 26th best in the world in Readers’ Choice Awards organized by Condé Nast Traveler.
Readers’ Choice Awards are organized annually where transatlantic readers submit responses rating their travel experiences across the globe to provide a full snapshot about the places they can’t wait to return to next.
This year, readers were requested to vote 12 best resorts.
The two hospitality establishments that topped resorts on the African continent are owned Kerzner International, a leading international developer and operator of destination resorts, ultra-luxury hotels and residences and innovative entertainment and gaming experiences.
Apart from One&Only Gorilla’s Nest and One&Only Nyungwe run by a Dubai-based firm, Virunga Lodge is another facility based in Rwanda which has been ranked the 8th on the continent.
One & Only Gorilla’s Nest is a multi-luxurious lodge on the foothills of the National Park. It targets high-end tourists.
The five-star facility has 21 cottages decorated with Rwandan cultural items including Imigongo paintings and other artworks.
Imigongo paintings are a truly indigenous Rwandan art form. They are made from cow dung and dirt made into clay. They are not only very soft and fragile but so beautiful.
Completed at a cost of US$65 million, it was officially inaugurated in February 2020 following two years of construction activities.
On the other hand, One & Only Nyungwe House is another five-star facility built in 2010 in the midst of Nyungwe National Park in partnership with the Government of Rwanda.
Boasting an infinity pool, One&Only Nyungwe House offers premium 5-star accommodation. Guests also have exclusive access to the One&Only Spa and One&Only Gym. The lodge provides a garden to unwind in, as well as free private parking on site. Guests have access to a terrace and a barbecue area.
The rooms at One&Only Nyungwe House are air-conditioned and include a mini bar, a private balcony and tea and coffee making facilities. They come with an in-room safe, a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV.
In-house dining options include Dining Room, which provides a convenient spot to enjoy a meal. Each evening, guests are welcome to relax in the comfortable lounge bar. Kamembe International Airport is only a 45-minute drive from One&Only Nyungwe House, and a shuttle service is provided for those staying at the property.
The surrounding countryside ensures plenty of opportunity for scenic walks.
Among others, Thorntree River Lodge from Zambia emerged the 3rd followed by Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge from Botswana while Volcanoes Safari Lodges from Uganda was ranked to the 5th position.
Dr. Kayumba is accused of rape attempt to rape crimes.
The court has stated that there are evidences pinning the suspect on sexual assault accusation filed by the latter’s former home servant which prompted the remand.
The court has also explained that Dr. Kayumba’s profile portrays him as a journalist running his own media house which he would use to tamper with evidences once released.
The Presiding judge has said that the suspect and his defense lawyer, Jean Bosco Ntirenganya have five days to appeal against the decision at Nyarugenge Intermediary Court.
Dr. Kayumba, 50, has been denying accusations linking his detention to political reasons.
He requested his release explaining that he cannot rape a house servant.
Dr. Kayumba appeared in court on 28th September 2021 at Kicukiro Primary Court for hearing on his release or remand.
The ruling has been read virtually.
The suspect was detained at Kicukiro Police Station early September 2021.
As part of the deal, the Rwandan flag carrier will also launch new non-stop flights between their Kigali hub and Doha in December.
According to a statement released today, the agreement benefits travelers from across the globe who fly with both airlines, which expands each carrier’s route network.
Customers can enjoy the simplicity of buying connecting flights on both airlines using one reservation, with a seamless ticketing, check-in, boarding and baggage-check experience that encompasses the entire journey.
Commenting on the development; Yvonne Makolo, RwandAir CEO said that it is a major milestone for RwandAir and marks the beginning of an exciting new journey with Qatar Airways.
“We are also immensely proud to welcome Doha to our route network, connecting customers with Qatar’s hub and further expanding their flight map. This codeshare agreement will give our customers significantly more choice and flexibility, allowing RwandAir to strengthen its global presence and build on its strong and loyal African customer base,” she noted.
“As we continue to grow out of the pandemic, this partnership represents yet another extremely important step on our recovery runway, and we hope to deliver more commitments like this to our customers in the very near future,” added Makolo.
Mr. Akbar Al-Baker, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive highlighted that the company shares a very close and collaborative bond with Rwanda and welcomed RwandAir’s new non-stop service between Kigali and Doha.
“With this comprehensive codeshare agreement, we are committed to deliver greater choice and connectivity to our customers in Africa and around the world. The new partnership will help position Qatar Airways in the region and complement our African expansion strategy,” he said.
“As we brace ourselves to meet pent-up demand for travel, I see dynamic partnerships like this one propel travel, tourism and trade firmly on the path to recovery,” added Akbar.
The new codeshare will enable RwandAir customers to book attractive offers to popular destinations in the U.S, such as New York, Washington D.C., Dallas and Los Angeles.
The partnership will also see these offers extend to key European cities, such as London, Zurich and Madrid, and points across Asia, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok.
Those travelling on RwandAir will benefit from outstanding service, as the airline won the award for best airline staff in Africa at the 2021 Skytrax awards.
The agreement also increases Qatar Airways’ footprint in Africa, with access to destinations such as Bujumbura, Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.
Both airlines recently announced a loyalty partnership, giving RwandAir Dream Miles and Qatar Airways Privilege Club loyalty members access to each other’s destinations.
This gives customers the opportunity to accrue and redeem miles across their reciprocal route networks and access the airlines’ airport lounges at both airline’s hub homes in Doha and Kigali.
RwandAir continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 25 destinations, offering unrivalled (smooth or seamless) connectivity to customers and making it easy for them to change their travel dates or destination as required.
Earlier this year, RwandAir became the first African airline to achieve Diamond status in the APEX Health Safety audit powered by SimpliFlying.
{{About RwandAir}}
Operating from Kigali, RwandAir is one of the world’s fastest growing airlines and operates one of the youngest state-of-the-art fleets on the African continent. With a reputation for delivering a premium service to all its customers, RwandAir operates 12 aircraft with an average age of just under six years. The airline currently offers services to 25 destinations across 21 countries throughout Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
{{Rwanda is at the Forefront of Covid-Testing (and Thus Protecting) Their National Parks}}
All tourists and locals must provide a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours before entering park gates. This is to protect the animals in the parks including the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. And if travelers are spending a chunk of time in Rwanda, they have to make sure their Covid test is still within the 72-hour window, or they have to get another one (which means multiple Covid tests during their stay).
This is good news for visitors (and for the animals of Rwanda). Regular testing ensures those visiting the park are Covid-free. Travelers will have a strong sense of security visiting the national parks of Rwanda, knowing that the country places such a high value on keeping everyone safe and healthy. There are four national parks in Rwanda, all worth visiting.
{{Rwanda Opens the Newest National Park in Africa (and You Can Trek with the Chimps)}}
Gishwati Mukura National Park is one of the youngest national parks in Africa. In December 2020, the park officially opened its doors to the public (although with Covid, the park still has not seen many visitors). This means that parts of the vast montane forest that once stretched across much of central Africa now has permanent protection and is open to visitors.
Gishwati is home to a group of 20 chimpanzees, making it one of only two places in Rwanda to go on a bucket-list worthy chimp trek. There are also a variety of other primates visitors can see including golden and blue monkeys. The park is currently part of an ambitious landscape restoration program. Previously, the area was nearly depleted largely due to resettlement, illegal mining in the mineral-rich forest and livestock farming. Now, the park is addressing those issues by increasing the number of trees to improve soil fertility, stabilize slopes and regulate stream flow.
Additionally, park officials are working with people living in the surrounding areas to create positive impact on their livelihoods, which in turn offers the forest a better chance of regeneration in tandem with the potential to raise living standards in the longer term.
For tourists, the upside is that they can book a chimp trek now (which normally has a waiting period of three months to a year).
{{Visiting Rwanda’s Baby Gorillas}}
Each year, Rwanda holds a special ceremony naming the new baby gorillas born in the last twelve months. The ceremony is called Kwita Izina and this year it was held on September 25, World Gorilla Day. This year’s ceremony was the 17th anniversary of the tradition and the theme for 2021 is ‘Conservation and Sustainable Tourism – A Foundation for Future Generations’. A surprising 24 baby mountain gorillas have born in the country’s Volcanoes National Park over the last 12 months. To date, 328 baby gorillas have been named since the first Kwita Izina was held in 2005.
Visitors to Volcanoes can not only see the beautiful silverback adult male gorillas, but they can also see one of the adorable babies.
{ {{This article was first published by Forbes on 4th October 2021}} }
