The annual average inflation rate between November 2023 and November 2022 was 15.3 percent.
Figures released on Sunday indicate that in November 2023, ‘Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages’ rose by 17.5 percent annually but decreased by 3.3 percent monthly.
Transport increased by 8.3 percent annually and 0.2 percent monthly, while ‘Restaurants and Hotels’ increased by 6.4 percent annually and 0.2 percent monthly.
The data also reveals a 9.1 percent annual increase in “local products,” with a 1.4 percent monthly decrease, and a 9.3 percent annual increase in the prices of “imported products,” remaining stable monthly.
“Fresh products” experienced an 18.4 percent annual increase but decreased by 5.1 percent monthly. The “energy” category saw a 3.6 percent annual increase and a 1 percent monthly increase.
The “General Index excluding fresh products and energy” rose by 6.9 percent annually and 0.2 percent monthly.
As the East African Community (EAC) took steps to address security challenges in the Eastern DRC, the Burundian government made a controversial move by clandestinely deploying troops into the DRC.
This deployment is viewed as a breach of peace agreements designed to stabilize a region threatened by over 200 armed groups.
The Burundian army formed alliances with groups like Wazalendo and the FDLR, a terrorist organization comprised of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. This alliance raises serious questions about Burundi’s commitment to the EAC’s strategy, which emphasizes political negotiations to resolve crises in the DRC.
Accusations have also surfaced about Burundi supporting the Congolese Army (FARDC) and its coalition, facing criticism for alleged atrocities against Congolese Tutsi. Reports from Kinshasa suggest that the Congolese government pays each Burundian soldier, with payments reportedly reaching $5,000 per month, to combat the M23—a group dedicated to defending the rights of Tutsi communities in the DRC.
Since November 29, Burundi has initiated the evacuation of its soldiers who were killed or injured in clashes with the M23 in North Kivu. While the Burundian government acknowledges approximately 60 deaths, credible sources suggest that the actual number could be higher.
Protests have erupted within the Burundian army and the national assembly against this intervention in the Congo, resulting in the arrest of senior officers.
On November 13, a meeting chaired by President Evariste Ndayishimiye at Ntare Rushatsi House confirmed the continued presence and reinforcement of Burundian troops in North Kivu. In addition to the initially deployed 2,000 soldiers, an additional 1,800 soldiers were sent to bolster these forces. The collaboration between the Burundian army and armed groups such as Wazalendo and the FDLR is particularly troubling, given their alleged involvement in atrocities against Congolese Tutsis.
It is essential to note that the alliance between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and the FDLR remains a central element in the conflict between Rwanda and the DRC.
Despite the withdrawal of the East African Community Rapid Deployment Capability (EACRF) troops from the DRC, Burundi maintains its military presence under the bilateral cooperation agreement signed with the Congo.
Analysts closely monitor this situation, questioning the real impact of the Burundian intervention on the resolution of the conflict.
The testimony was part of the case initiated by Dr. Munyemana’s defense lawyer, who had invited Rusesabagina as a witness.
Rusesabagina, was introduced by Dr. Munyemana’s defence lawyer, Ms. Florence Bourg. She requested to present the video of Rusesabagina’s statements on July 1, 2023, after his release, as he was not physically present in court.
Ms. Bourg said that Rusesabagina is associated with the heroic past where he allegedly rescue people during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi as he managed Hotel des Milles Collines, emphasizing the acknowledgment of his actions in the movie “Hotel Rwanda.”
She pointed out that Rusesabagina formed a political party in 1996, leading to his exile in Belgium. In 2020, he boarded a plane bound for Burundi but ended up in Kigali, leading to his imprisonment and subsequent 25-year sentence for nine crimes related to terrorism.
He served three years before being released through a presidential prerogative of mercy.
The videos presented in court carried messages from Rusesabagina after his release, expressing gratitude to the United States, his family, and those involved in securing his release. The plaintiff’s side immediately contested the relevance of these videos to Genocide against the Tutsi in Tumba and the role of Munyemana.
Lawyer Gisagara Richard questioned the testimony’s relevance, citing Rusesabagina’s alleged support for terrorists and his association with the FDLR. Gisagara also raised concerns about Rusesabagina’s reported involvement in aiding those responsible for the genocide.
On the scheduled day for Rusesabagina’s testimony, Dr. Munyemana’s lawyer informed the court that he would not be available, proposing the court listen to his videos instead.
Addressing concerns raised by journalist Stig Abell about the democratic legitimacy of the election, Makolo defended Rwanda’s political system, emphasizing that electoral dynamics depend on the context, historical background, and the prevailing circumstances in a specific country.
Makolo underscored President Kagame’s achievements in steering Rwanda from devastation to visible progress. She highlighted the unity, aspirational thinking, and responsibility embraced by Rwandans, emphasizing that the country’s developmental strides were motivated by internal considerations rather than seeking external validation.
Disputing Abell’s assertion that Rwanda was built around one individual, Makolo expressed disagreement, stating that such a description doesn’t resonate with the Rwandan populace. She emphasized that Rwanda’s progress, both economic and otherwise, stemmed from active citizen participation and a sense of shared responsibility in nation-building.
Discussing the adaptation of Rwanda’s democratic model, Makolo stressed its specificity, pointing out that the Rwandan context, history, social fabric, and values differ from those of other nations.
She clarified that Rwanda’s development path is unique and tailored to its own circumstances, asserting President Kagame’s popularity and appreciation within the country.
Makolo acknowledged the seemingly high 98% election percentage, explaining that it reflects Rwanda’s current developmental stage and may evolve over time. She concluded by stating that, given their specific history, Rwanda will continue working with what they have, as it suits their current developmental needs.
President Kagame, who assumed office in 2000 after succeeding Pasteur Bizimungu, was first elected during general polls in 2003. He secured re-election in 2010, and 2017 following a constitutional amendment responding to citizens’ demand.
The event, attended by President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, drew thousands of fans to BK Arena for the opening of Move Afrika Rwanda—a unique music tour across Africa featuring a performance by Kendrick Lamar, an American rapper, and songwriter.
Other artists at the event included popular Tanzanian singer Zuchu, Rwandans Bruce Melodie and Ariel Wayz, as well as British choreographer Sherrie Silver.
In his address, Kagame described the evening as a moment of joy. “What a good way of ending the year. With music, with energy, with optimism.”
Kagame emphasized the need for Africans to work together to address the continent’s challenges.
“There are many things we can address together. Working together, our continent stands strong and can address most of our challenges. We are looking forward to hosting global citizens every year, here in Kigali, through Move Afrika. I hope you feel at home, all of you, and I hope to see you again in the near future,” he stated.
Kagame noted that this year’s theme focused on health as a precious asset and commended the efforts of community health workers. “I want to dedicate this moment to community health workers, who keep us healthy and safe,” he noted.
Referring to the 2001 Abuja Declaration, Kagame highlighted the commitment of African Union member states to allocate at least 15% of their national budgets each year to improve their healthcare systems.
The President concluded his remarks by wishing concert participants Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2024.
Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of Global Citizen, expressed gratitude for hosting the first Move Afrika event in Kigali, stating, “This is just the beginning. The real work starts tomorrow. Thank you for being on this journey to Move Afrika.”
Created by the international advocacy organization Global Citizen, creative imprint pgLang, and the Rwanda Development Board, the inaugural Move Afrika: Rwanda show showcased the best African artists, creators, and entertainers to the world.
With every facet of the event’s production driving local economic investment, skill training, and youth entrepreneurship, the first Move Afrika concert signaled the launch of a five-year incremental tour schedule that will pioneer a world-class music touring circuit across the continent, changing the face of live entertainment in Africa.
Initially beginning with a small-scale operation, processing only 5% of its capacity, the refinery, later renamed Aldango Ltd in 2019, has a processing capability of 480 kilograms every 30 hours, equivalent to 96 tons per year. The strategic objective was to process gold locally, preventing the export of unrefined gold and maximizing returns in the international market.
To ensure the highest quality, the refinery employs advanced technology, similar to that used in South African facilities. The meticulous process involves melting the stones, separating impurities, and returning the refined gold to customers, ensuring a purity level of 999.9.
Kayobotsi Bosco, the Managing Director, emphasized the need for confidentiality due to the precious nature of gold. The identity of customers is closely guarded, even from employees. Addressing the canceled agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda for gold processing, Kayobotsi clarified that it had no impact on Gasabo Gold Refinery’s operations.
The focus is on increasing processing output to 28.8 tons per year from the current 30% capacity equivalent to 144 kilograms in 30 hours. Actively raising awareness among foreigners, the refinery aims to prevent bankruptcy due to the export of unprocessed gold. Currently employing 40 Rwandans, the company ensures their well-being with benefits such as transportation, food, and health insurance.
Environmental considerations are a priority, with automated systems in place to absorb harmful emissions and protect workers from hazardous substances. Gasabo Gold Refinery is working towards obtaining an international license, currently held solely by South Africa, by meeting all necessary requirements.
Despite global challenges, Rwanda’s gold industry is thriving, with the country selling 33,241 kgs of gold in the last four years until 2022. In the third quarter of 2023, approximately 3,000 kgs of gold were sold, generating around Rwf234 billion.
This initiative, disclosed by the UK’s Home Office, is scheduled for presentation to members of parliament on Thursday, December 7, 2023. The release of this bill follows one day after the return of the UK’s Home Secretary from Kigali, where a new treaty governing the deportation of illegal migrants was signed.
This legislative adjustment stems from concerns raised by the UK Supreme Court, which had previously criticized the initial 2022 Migration and Economic Development Partnership, deeming Rwanda a risky destination for migrants.
The new agreement and the accompanying bill aim to address the concerns raised by the Supreme Court, asserting Rwanda’s safety for migrants. The UK Home Office emphasizes that once enacted, this bill will codify in UK law the recognition of Rwanda as a safe destination.
The spokesperson for the UK Prime Minister’s Office stated that the goal is to “put an end to the arrival of small boats and address the root of the problem of illegal immigration.”
This bill is presented as a pivotal element of the government’s deterrence program, with the aim of reducing the number of immigrants arriving by sea and preventing tragic incidents of drowning.
Since the beginning of this year, the UK has witnessed the illegal entry of more than 29,000 migrants. Additionally, in the preceding year, the country received 45,000 individuals who arrived illegally, marking the highest level of migrant reception ever recorded by the country.
During the Home Secretary’s recent visit to Kigali, the importance of addressing this issue at its roots to prevent criminals from exploiting the situation was emphasized. The minister also refuted criticisms questioning the safety of Rwanda for migrants.
Over the past few years, the Rwandan currency experienced a gradual depreciation of around 5% annually compared to major currencies, particularly the US dollar. However, the year 2023 witnessed a dramatic spike in this rate, reaching 13.5%, highlighting a pressing issue that demands attention.
The BNR reports that from January to September 2023, Rwanda’s trade imbalance widened to 12.2%, a significant increase from the previous year.
Professor Kasai Ndahiriwe, Director of the Monetary Policy Department at the BNR, shed light on the implications of this depreciation during a recent talk show aired on a local broadcaster.
Prof. Ndahiriwe emphasized that the decline in the value of the Rwandan currency has tangible effects within the country, where the purchasing power has eroded.
Inflation surged by 13.9% over the past year, considered a large percentage compared to BNR’s ideal inflation figure of less than 8%. This surge in prices directly correlates with the currency’s depreciation, impacting citizens’ ability to afford goods and services.
Prof. Ndahiriwe attributed the currency’s depreciation to the persistent gap between exports and imports, stating, “Our imports are still higher than our exports, which means that the inflows and outflows are not equal.” He stressed the need for continued development, particularly in emerging industries under the ‘Made in Rwanda’ initiative which continue to make imports as the country paves the way for self-sufficiency and international market competitiveness.
Highlighting external factors, Prof. Ndahiriwe pointed to the United States’ decision to raise base lending rates, which prompted investors to develop interest in the country looking for higher returns. This influx of capital into the US resulted in the strengthening of the dollar, causing a ripple effect in international markets, including Rwanda. Prof. Ndahiriwe expressed concern over the disproportionate impact of the US policy change on developing nations.
Despite these challenges, BNR has opted to maintain its repo rate at 7.5%, with a plan to stabilize rising prices within a range of 2% to 8%. This strategic move is part of the central bank’s broader efforts to address the economic imbalances affecting the nation.
As per current BNR exchange rates, the value of 1 US dollar is Rwf1248. However, it is purchased at Rwf1,235 and sold at Rwf1,260.
This treaty aims to address the hosting of migrants and asylum seekers who are illegally staying in the European country.
This announcement follows concerns raised by the British Supreme Court, which previously deemed the existing agreement non-compliant with the law.
In an effort to rectify this, James Cleverly, alongside Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Vincent Biruta, formally solidified the new agreement on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. The subsequent press conference provided an opportunity for both ministers to outline the treaty’s content, specifically crafted to rectify the flaws identified by the Supreme Court.
Minister Cleverly emphasized that the Rwandan government did not make any demands for extra funds, and he made it clear that the UK is not obligated to provide any additional money related to the signing of the new treaty. This statement directly contradicts speculations about Rwanda’s financial motivations in entering this agreement, though Minister Cleverly did acknowledge the ongoing costs associated with addressing the migrant issue.
Matthew Rycroft, a senior official from the UK Home Office, recently announced the UK’s commitment to support efforts in transferring migrants to Rwanda. While testifying before the House of Commons Security Committee, Rycroft hinted at additional payments to Rwanda each year but maintained confidentiality in revealing the exact amounts, adhering to the government’s privacy policy.
Despite initial scrutiny of the UK-Rwanda agreement, which initially totaled £140 million for managing asylum requests, both parties demonstrate a determination to sustain their collaboration.
The UK’s annual cost for migrant care stands at a minimum of £3 billion, with a daily expenditure of approximately £8 million for immigrant housing.
Originally intended to involve the relocation of illegal migrants to Rwanda, the MEDP faced setbacks when the UK Supreme Court declared the initial deportation scheme unlawful on November 15.
The court expressed concerns about the potential risk asylum seekers faced upon being sent to Rwanda. Responding to these concerns, Rwanda underscored the necessity of a binding treaty between the two nations.
The Migration and Economic Partnership Treaty, was signed on Tuesday December 5, 2023, in Kigali, between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta, and the recently appointed UK Home Secretary, James Cleverly.
This renewed agreement reiterates the provisions of the initial plan, emphasizing the transfer of migrants arriving illegally in the UK through the British Channel to Rwanda. Importantly, Rwanda commits not to repatriate asylum-seekers to their home countries, even if their applications are declined.
Minister Biruta, speaking at a joint press conference, emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, building on the country’s history of welcoming refugees and migrants.
“Rwanda is very committed to this partnership, and that is why we worked with the UK government to address the concerns raised by the Supreme Court,” Dr. Biruta stated.
The new treaty introduces a significant enhancement to the appeals process, establishing an appeals tribunal under Rwandan law overseen by two co-presidents and a panel of judges from diverse nationalities. This tribunal will play a crucial role in hearing appeals in the event of denied asylum claims.
UK Home Secretary Cleverly acknowledged Rwanda’s professionalism in handling migration affairs and expressed a shared desire to continually improve the process. He highlighted that the treaty’s signing strengthens and enhances the MEDP, solidifying Rwanda’s reputation for humane and professional administration of refugees and migrant affairs.
The Rwandan government, in a statement, emphasized that this partnership aligns with their commitment to protecting vulnerable people and providing a home for migrants and refugees globally. The statement concludes, “We believe today’s treaty provides the necessary assurances that will allow the partnership to move forward.”
The renewed treaty not only re-emphasizes existing commitments but also establishes a robust framework to address concerns raised in the legal process regarding the protection of asylum seekers.
Additionally, it underlines the collaborative efforts of Rwanda and the UK in creating a Migration and Economic Development Partnership that aims to deter dangerous migration journeys while addressing the global imbalance of economic opportunity—a crucial step towards addressing the root causes of mass irregular migration.
