The high-level meeting took place on April 3, 2025, following the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Africa held in Kigali.
According to the Office of the President, “President Kagame received ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin for discussions centered on strengthening collaboration in finding technology-driven solutions for sustainable development.”
During the meeting, Kagame also welcomed Amandeep Singh Gill, the United Nations Secretary-General’s envoy on technology, who was in Rwanda for the AI conference.
While officiating at opening session of the conference, Kagame emphasized the transformative power of artificial intelligence in decision-making and innovation.
“AI is driving innovation, accelerating technological advancements, and proving its benefits across various sectors. It enhances productivity, supports evidence-based decision-making, and reduces human errors,” he stated.
Rwanda has already integrated AI into key sectors such as healthcare and education, significantly improving service delivery and efficiency. Kagame stressed that technology should be harnessed for positive change.
“Technology should be used for good, and we have a responsibility to ensure that happens. I believe we can work together to achieve that. Regarding politics and diplomacy, AI can be a tool for productivity, but relying too much on it in governance could lead to serious consequences,” he cautioned.
By 2029, Rwanda aims to significantly increase the number of students pursuing technology-related studies, equip them with the necessary skills and tools, and train at least 500,000 people in digital technologies.
Additionally, the government plans to fully digitize all its public services, ensuring seamless access for citizens and businesses.
Rubavu Port was inaugurated on December 6, 2024, with a total construction cost of $9.17 million. It is the largest port in Rwanda and will be connected to other ports, including the nearly completed Rusizi Port and future ports planned for Karongi and Nkora in Rutsiro District.
The port was built on a two-hectare area and has the capacity to accommodate two large boats, each measuring 60 meters in length and capable of carrying 500 tons of cargo. It also features 12 docking pillars for large cargo boats and a dedicated docking area for passenger boats.
The port facilitates the transportation of various goods, including cement produced in Rwanda, food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and other commodities.
Nzabonimpa Deogratias, the Vice Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of economic development, told IGIHE that Lake Kivu was like an untapped goldmine for the region.
“Rubavu Port, built on Lake Kivu, has enabled our residents to trade more efficiently with neighboring districts and the DRC. Currently, it handles 1,400 tons of goods daily, meaning it is operating at 70% of its full capacity,” he stated.
He added that many traders are utilizing the port, and they expect to reach the full capacity of 2,000 tons per day soon.
Nzabonimpa sees the port as a major business opportunity for Rwanda and urged the private sector to maximize its potential. Currently, the port facilitates the movement of 40 trucks daily, each carrying 35 tons of goods, and employs 200 permanent workers engaged in loading and unloading activities through five cooperatives.
“This efficiency ensures that traders can quickly offload their goods and return for more shipments without delays, which is why they should take full advantage of this infrastructure,” Nzabonimpa said.
He also encouraged investors to purchase modern boats for tourism purposes, allowing visitors to explore Rwanda’s scenic beauty.
Discussing the port’s economic impact on Rubavu District, Nzabonimpa highlighted the significant increase in tax revenue and the growth of private sector investments in Nyamyumba Sector, where the port is located.
He revealed plans to develop additional infrastructure, including a cross-border market near the port.
Dieudonné Mabete Niyonsaba, Chairman of the Private Sector Federation in Rubavu District, stated that the port has eased business operations by reducing transportation costs.
“Water transport is cheaper and can carry more goods, which has significantly lowered expenses for traders who previously relied on land transport. Rubavu District has become more accessible, as the port connects us to other areas along Lake Kivu and facilitates trade with the DRC,” he said.
He emphasized that stakeholders are committed to fully utilizing the port’s capacity and maximizing its economic benefits. He also encouraged users to improve their operations and cooperation to ensure mutual profitability.
Rubavu Port, located in Nyamyumba Sector on Lake Kivu, has a total capacity of handling 700,000 tons of goods and 2.7 million passengers annually.
The port comprises key facilities, including a cargo terminal, a tourism section, immigration offices, a police station, a vehicle repair area, and restaurants.
It also hosts services from the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), immigration and security authorities, and institutions typically found at land border crossings, such as MAGERWA and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).
Additionally, the port features designated areas for tourists visiting Rwanda’s Western Province attractions, as well as storage facilities where traders can temporarily keep their goods after unloading.
The prestigious event brought together distinguished guests, education leaders, students, and partners, celebrating a new chapter in Kepler College’s commitment to accessible and transformative education across Africa.
Chancellor Geingos, who officially began her term on July 29, 2024, brings a wealth of experience in governance, philanthropy, and youth empowerment. In her inaugural speech, she underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping Africa’s future.
“Education is the most powerful weapon we can wield to reshape our future. The world as we know, is changing at a fast pace, and the future isn’t coming, it’s here. It demands a new kind of African leader,” she stated.
“Today, as Kepler’s inaugural chancellor, I stand in front of you as a strong believer in the unstoppable force of African youth and the urgency of equipping them with the tools to reshape our future, because we have no more time,” she underscored.
Geingos reflected on Rwanda’s journey of resilience, emphasizing the power of narrative in shaping a nation’s destiny.
“A people who own their narrative control their destiny. When His Excellency President Kagame says, ‘We must do what is right for our country and not what pleases outsiders,’ he isn’t just speaking policy, he’s declaring intellectual sovereignty. That same sovereignty must define African education,” she emphasized.
She praised Kepler’s impact, highlighting its remarkable record of 95% of graduates securing meaningful employment within six months. Leadership, she emphasized, is not about titles but about action.
The new Chancellor called for a transformative education model that reaches across divides, empowering students from all backgrounds, including refugee communities.
The inauguration was attended by Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairperson of the Governing Council of Kepler College, who expressed deep gratitude for Geingos accepting the role. “Your wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to education make you an ideal and invaluable leader for our institution,” he said.
He also acknowledged the unwavering support from the Government of Rwanda, particularly the Ministry of Education. “We are dedicated to supporting the college in its mission to provide innovative, job-driven higher education that equips young people with the skills they need to thrive.”
Dr. Murigande reaffirmed Kepler’s commitment to making quality education accessible, affordable, and scalable.
On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, State Minister of Education Claudette Irere also extended congratulations.
“Education is the foundation of Rwanda’s progress and a key driver of our national development. Institutions like Kepler College are instrumental in realizing this vision by delivering competency-based learning and fostering a strong culture of job readiness,” she said.
Irere lauded Geingos’ appointment as a turning point for Kepler College. “Her extensive experience, passion for education, and advocacy for youth empowerment will no doubt propel this institution to new heights.
We’re confident that under her leadership, Kepler College will continue to nurture graduates who not only achieve academic excellence but also contribute meaningfully to Rwanda and Africa’s socio-economic transformation.”
Addressing Kepler students directly, Irere encouraged them to see their education as a journey of growth and leadership. “Rwanda is counting on you to use your education to become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Your contributions will help shape a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future for our nation.”
The inauguration of H.E. Monica Geingos as the founding Chancellor of Kepler College marks a significant step forward in the institution’s mission to equip African youth with the education and skills necessary for a brighter future.
This appeal was made following a meeting held in Rwanda at Saint Joseph in Ngoma District. They conference addressed social welfare, strategies for restoring peace in the Great Lakes Region, and efforts to strengthen the Catholic faith.
The gathering was attended by bishops and other senior leaders of the Catholic Church from both nations. They underscored that prolonged border closures have had adverse effects on citizens and trade between the two countries.
Burundi closed its borders, citing demands for the extradition of individuals allegedly involved in the 2015 coup attempt. Rwanda, however, maintains that international law prohibits the repatriation of refugees who have sought asylum.
The bishops expressed their support for ongoing diplomatic discussions between Rwanda and Burundi, emphasizing that ‘border closures have significant economic and social repercussions.’ They urged leaders to act prudently to restore normalcy and strengthen unity between the two nations.
The discussions also addressed security concerns in eastern DR Congo, with the bishops advocating for sustained dialogue among conflicting parties to resolve tensions. They also condemned the use of hate speech by the DRC government, which they believe has exacerbated violence and unrest.
Regarding education, the bishops highlighted the need to improve educational standards in both countries. They also raised concerns about the increasing violence against young people and stressed the urgency of addressing this issue.
The TKMD facility, located in the Mwulire industrial zone in Rwamagana District, aims to meet local demand while also supplying other African nations facing syringe shortages.
Established in partnership with Gates Foundation, the World Health Organization pre-qualified facility employs over 100 people—80% of whom are women—enhancing healthcare quality and access.
Dr Nsanzimana described the factory as a game-changer for Africa, addressing a long-standing challenge of syringe shortages across the continent.
“The issue of syringe shortages was not unique to Rwanda; it was a widespread challenge due to reliance on imports and limited global production capacity. With this factory, that problem is now solved—not just for Rwanda, but for Africa as a whole,” he stated.
The first batch of syringes produced was immediately purchased by UNICEF for distribution to Ethiopia, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, and other nations.
Currently, TKMD has a production capacity ranging from 600,000 to one million syringes per day, with plans to scale up based on market demand.
The factory had been operational for five months before its official launch, undergoing stringent quality assessments to ensure compliance with international standards.
The Rwamagana industrial zone is designed to accommodate 51 factories. At present, 19 are fully operational, four have been completed and are awaiting permits, while 11 are still under construction.
Since 2017, Rwanda has moved away from importing second-hand clothing, commonly known as ‘caguwa,’ and has instead focused on promoting the production of new, locally made garments.
Many local garment factories now purchase fabric from various countries and transform it into finished products for both the domestic and international markets.
However, some Rwandans perceive these locally produced garments as expensive, with a pair of pants and a shirt labeled ‘Made in Rwanda’ often costing up to 50,000 Rwandan Francs or more.
Despite this challenge, statistics show a significant growth in the output of Rwanda’s garment and leather industries, with production increasing fivefold from 34 billion Rwandan Francs (Rwf) in 2017 to Rwf154 billion in 2024.
As he addressed the issue on March 28, during a session with Parliament, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted the critical role these industries play in the country’s economic development and their contribution to increasing exports.
“We do not have enough locally produced clothing, and so we must work harder to ensure that the garment industries can meet the needs of all Rwandans at an affordable price,” Dr. Ngirente emphasized.
He added, “Our goal is to dress all Rwandans. We eliminated second-hand clothes so that Rwandans stop wearing outdated garments. The aim is to offer affordable clothing that people can buy without resorting to second-hand options.”
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Dr. Ngirente further explained that during a Cabinet meeting on March 26, 2025, the government discussed strategies to enhance the local textile industry, with the objective of making fabric more accessible to tailors within the country.
He noted that UTEXRWA, which used to be the only textile factory, has been producing fabric and selling it to local and international garment manufacturers. However, many of those working in the garment industry still rely on importing fabric.
“Most garment manufacturers rely on imported fabric. During our recent government meeting, we explored ways to support local textile industries. This includes providing additional resources to businesses already in operation and supporting new entrants into the sector so that we can start producing fabric here in Rwanda,” Dr. Ngirente stated.
He confirmed that this initiative would soon be rolled out, enabling local tailors to source fabric domestically. The government also plans to help industry investors secure markets, further integrating Rwanda’s garment sector into the country’s broader economic development plans.
In addition, plans are underway to establish a factory in Musanze that will produce essential materials for the metal industry. Meanwhile, a leather processing factory is being set up in Bugesera. This facility will not only produce leather goods, including shoes, bags, and belts, but is also expected to generate $430 million annually for the country.
Makolo was responding to DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, who, on March 31, 2025, accused “neighboring countries, including Rwanda,” and armed groups of contributing to the deaths of “over a million” Congolese people, claiming that these killings were targeted at a specific ethnic group.
“For all those who have died and continue to die in the DRC, the responsibility lies with the leaders of the DRC first and foremost. These leaders are the cause, and they must not look for pretexts or problems elsewhere. They are the problem,” Makolo said in a post shared on X on Monday, March 31, 2025.
The Rwandan government spokesperson emphasized that any change or solution in the DRC must come from within, stressing that the real issue is the leaders’ lack of will to address it.
“Any change or solution will also only come from within. The dead, the displaced, and the refugees in their millions can only be blamed on these Congolese leaders who to this day show no effort to address the issues, but persist in delusions of grandeur,” she added.
While Tshisekedi claims that Rwanda and other countries played a role in the deaths of over 10 million Congolese people, the spokesperson for the DRC forces, Major General Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa, has previously refuted these claims.
In an interview broadcast on state television on April 15, 2024, Major General Ekenge stated that the FDLR terrorist group was responsible for many of the Congolese deaths over the past 30 years.
“The FDLR attacks and kills Congolese people. Among the more than 10 million people who have died in the last 30 years, the FDLR has played a significant role in causing these deaths,” he said.
Various reports, including those from United Nations experts, indicate that the FDLR continued its killings in eastern DRC after its fighters participated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
This terrorist group collaborates with the DRC government forces in fighting against the AFC/M23 coalition, which controls large areas in the east of the country. Tshisekedi even promised to support the FDLR in its mission to overthrow the Rwandan government.
When questioned about this collaboration, Tshisekedi claims that the FDLR is a weak group made up of elderly individuals with few fighters who do not pose a real threat to Rwanda. However, it has been repeatedly observed that some of those captured by AFC/M23 include young recruits.
For all those who have died and continue to die in the DRC, the responsibility lies with the leaders of the DRC first and foremost. These leaders are THE cause and they must not look for pretexts or problems elsewhere. They are the problem.
The findings are based on the Travel Expenditure Survey (TES), which provides a comprehensive analysis of outbound travel spending by Rwandans.
The TES, conducted from November 1, 2024, to January 30, 2025, analyzed travel expenses across major expenditure categories such as accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, shopping, entertainment, sightseeing, education-related expenses, and health-related expenses, excluding international transportation costs.
In the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, Rwandan travelers spent approximately $91.0 million on travel services. Business travel was a major contributor to this figure, with expenses amounting to $36.3 million in Q4.
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The TES report provides deeper insights into the travel behaviors of Rwandan residents abroad, including the length of stay and average daily expenditure.
Rwandans traveling by air for education stayed the longest, with an average of 323 nights in North America, 317 nights in Europe, and 281 nights in Asia. Business travelers typically stayed between 8 and 14 nights, depending on the destination.
Health-related travel had varying durations, with the longest stays recorded in Europe (79 nights) and the EAC (18 nights). For land travelers, those studying in the EAC stayed an average of 129 nights, while business travelers stayed around 7 nights.
Rwandans traveling by air for health-related reasons had the highest daily spending, particularly in the rest of Africa ($249) and Asia ($164). Holiday travelers spent $193 per day in Asia and $134 in Europe, while business travelers had an average daily expense ranging from $100 in the EAC to $154 in North America. By land, Rwandan business travelers spent significantly less, averaging $10 per day in the EAC and $6 in the rest of Africa.
In Q4 2024, a total of 56,324 Rwandans returned from international trips by air, while 339,110 returned by land. The majority of air travelers were from the EAC (25,279), followed by Europe (699) and the rest of Africa (1,234). Among land travelers, the EAC dominated, with 169,786 business travelers and 160,461 visiting friends and relatives.
While Rwandans spent significantly on travel abroad, the report also highlighted the economic benefits of foreign visitors to Rwanda. In 2024, foreign visitors injected over $579.5 million (approximately Rwf 816 billion) into the country’s economy through expenditures on various goods and services.
According to the study, visitors to Rwanda spent approximately $126.1 million in Q4 2024, with holiday travelers contributing $56.2 million to this total. The analysis of visitor spending patterns showed that tourists arriving by air accounted for 81.1% of total visitor expenditures, while those entering via land borders contributed the remaining amount.
Foreign visitors’ spending varied based on origin and mode of travel. Air travelers from Asia had the highest average daily expenditure at $197 per person, followed by those from North America and other African countries at $151 per day.
European visitors spent an average of $129 daily, while East African visitors had the lowest daily expenditure at $82. For land travelers, North Americans on holiday spent an average of $146 per day, while visitors from Asia and Europe spent $109 and $100 per day, respectively.
The report’s findings provide crucial data to guide strategic decisions in the tourism and travel sectors, ensuring that Rwanda maximizes both inbound and outbound economic activities in a sustainable manner.
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente announced on Friday, March 27, 2025, the construction of a steel and metal-processing plant in Musanze, with an annual production capacity of 300,000 tonnes. The factory is expected to supply essential raw materials to other industries, aligning with the government’s vision of boosting industrial productivity.
Speaking before both chambers of Parliament, Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing industrial output and exports to achieve sustainable economic growth. He noted that many industries in Rwanda currently operate below their full capacity, and the government is determined to change this through strategic investments and support mechanisms.
To further support local industries, the government is establishing a RWF 500 billion fund to assist private sector players in expanding manufacturing exports and mineral extraction. A key focus is on the cement industry, which heavily relies on imported clinker.
Research has confirmed that clinker can be produced locally in northern Rwanda, particularly in Musanze. This move is expected to help Rwanda save over $4.5 million per month in import costs.
In the steel sector, the new Musanze-based factory will not only increase local production but also supply essential raw materials to existing manufacturers.
“This new factory will have a processing capacity of 300,000 tonnes per year. It will play a crucial role in meeting domestic market demand and eliminating the need for costly imports,” Dr. Ngirente stated.
The project is expected to create about 1,000 jobs and enhance Rwanda’s export potential in the steel sector.
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Rwanda is also taking significant steps to develop its textile industry following the ban on second-hand clothing imports. The government is committed to supporting the establishment of new textile industries and strengthening existing ones to ensure all Rwandans have access to locally made, affordable clothing.
“We currently do not have enough locally produced clothing, so we must intensify efforts to ensure that textile industries can manufacture clothing for all Rwandans at competitive prices,” Dr. Ngirente said.
To further promote the sector, the government will facilitate access to diverse markets, helping the country save approximately RWF 20 billion that was previously spent on imported garments. This initiative is also expected to create thousands of jobs, aligning with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) goal of generating 250,000 jobs annually.
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In addition to textiles and steel, the government is prioritizing the edible oil industry, recognizing its potential to generate substantial revenue within a short period.
“Enhancing our cooking oil production will enable us to save approximately $100 million annually,” Dr. Ngirente stated.
The expansion strategy also includes advancing Rwanda’s wood-processing sector and establishing a leather processing park in Bugesera. The leather facility is expected to generate $430 million annually, significantly contributing to the country’s export earnings.
Rwanda’s agro-processing sector remains the largest industrial segment, comprising 85 large-scale and 908 small-scale enterprises. The country also hosts 91 major manufacturers of various products, alongside 398 small-scale producers. Additionally, 38 large and 82 small construction material manufacturers operate within Rwanda.
With these industrial developments, Rwanda is positioning itself as a key player in regional and international markets while significantly reducing its reliance on imports.
The government’s investment in industrial growth is expected to drive economic transformation, create jobs, and improve the country’s trade balance in the years to come.
Dr. Ngirente shared the update on Friday, March 27, 2025, as he addressed members of parliament.
He revealed that in 2024, Rwanda exported 2,384 tonnes of coltan, generating $99 million, while 4,861 tonnes of cassiterite earned $96 million. Wolfram exports stood at 2,741 tonnes, contributing $36 million, while gold remained the dominant mineral, generating $1.5 billion from 19,397 kilograms.
The Prime Minister highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to boost mineral exports, particularly by shifting focus to processed minerals since 2020. He dismissed claims that Rwanda has limited mineral deposits, stating that resources are spread across different parts of the country.
Dr. Ngirente attributed the increase in mineral exports to four key factors, including the modernisation of mining operations, which has moved away from traditional extraction methods. He further noted that the government has invested in advanced machinery and expertise to improve production efficiency while ensuring environmentally sustainable practices.
Additionally, the Prime Minister said Rwanda has recently discovered new minerals such as lithium and beryllium, which are in high demand globally, particularly for electric vehicle batteries.
“The volume of production has increased, and new minerals such as lithium and beryllium have been discovered. These are highly sought after globally,” he said.
Investment in the mining sector has also increased significantly, rising from $25 million in 2010 to $121 million in 2023. Dr Ngirente said this growth reflects a structured and strategic approach to developing the industry.
He emphasised that Rwanda is prioritising value addition before exporting minerals, with three processing plants now operational.
Gasabo Gold Refinery has the capacity to process 96 tonnes of gold annually, while LuNa Smelter refines 360 tonnes of cassiterite per month. Additionally, Power Resources International Ltd processes 120 tonnes of coltan every month.
