Whether you opt for an in-person visit or resort to email correspondence, the painstaking task of evaluating damages and estimating repair costs can become an unwieldy burden, particularly when relying on outdated manual procedures.
It becomes evident that a dire need exists for innovative and efficient solutions that expedite the process, providing customers with a seamlessly smooth experience.
While it is imperative to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for users, it is equally essential to recognize the immense benefits it brings in simplifying a myriad of processes and tasks.
In light of this perspective, Sygma.AI technology company headquartered in Morocco, has ingeniously developed a cutting-edge platform that streamlines insurance claim procedures.
This innovative solution was recently showcased at the inaugural GITEX Africa Summit held in Marrakech, Morocco.
It empowers insurance companies to estimate costs with unprecedented efficiency. Human involvement remains vital, but the focus has shifted from manual control to validating outcomes, optimizing the overall process and ensuring swift resolution.
Speaking to IGIHE, Yassine Rahmi, the CEO and co-founder of Sygma.AI, shed light on their mission to digitalize the claims process.
Rahmi explained that Sygma.AI’s solution simplifies the entire claims process for customers.
“When a car accident occurs, all the customer needs to do is take a photo of the damaged vehicle and provide the car’s registration information,” he said. “In just a matter of minutes, we can provide them with an accurate estimate of the repair cost. This streamlined approach alleviates the burden on customers, eliminating the need for extensive paperwork and prolonged waiting periods.”
Sygma.AI primarily collaborates with insurance companies to enhance the claims process. Once the customer provides the necessary information, Sygma.ai shares the data with the insurance company, empowering them to make informed decisions. Rahmi elaborated on the process, stating, “The insurance company evaluates our estimates and validates them with their own experts. This collaborative approach ensures that the insurance companies receive accurate information while expediting the claims process.”
Accuracy and efficiency are of utmost importance to Sygma.ai. While they currently achieve an impressive accuracy rate of around 75%, Rahmi highlighted that their clients, the insurance companies, receive estimates that are 100% accurate. This is made possible by the involvement of human experts who meticulously review and validate the estimations before they are shared with the clients. Additionally, this quality control process aids in training the model for future enhancements.
Rahmi expressed their vision, stating, “Our goal is to provide our clients with answers to their queries within 30 minutes with human intervention, or within 5 minutes using our automatic processes. Ultimately, we aim to process all accidents within a remarkable 5-minute timeframe.”
Sygma.AI’s journey has not been without its challenges. Accessing sufficient accident data for training their model proved to be an initial hurdle. However, they overcame this obstacle by collaborating with friends and leveraging their photo archives to bootstrap their data collection efforts. With a minimum viable product (MVP) in hand, Sygma.ai was able to engage with insurance companies and effectively convey their vision.
Looking to the future, Sygma.ai has ambitious plans to expand their offering beyond pricing estimates. They are actively working on developing fraud detection algorithms to identify suspicious claims and inflated quotations. Moreover, their goal is to provide end-to-end claim management through their platform, allowing clients to submit files, complete necessary tasks, and even receive payments seamlessly.
The benefits of Sygma.AI’s collaboration with insurance companies extend beyond streamlining processes. By minimizing accident costs, insurance companies can reduce insurance premiums, making coverage more accessible to a wider population.
“Our partnership unburdens insurance companies, allowing them to focus on crucial aspects of their business while entrusting us with repetitive and resource-intensive tasks,” emphasized Rahmi.
Ramkalawan extolled President Kagame on Wednesday as he began a two-day visit to Seychelles where he was invited as the guest of honour at the celebration of 47th National Day scheduled on 29th June 2023.
“I congratulate you personally for your leadership not only in Rwanda but also at the African Union level and as a world leader. You are an example to the whole world that Africa indeed has great leaders,” said Ramkalawan.
“You led your country through so many difficulties and today Rwanda is considered as one of the safest countries in the world. […] We want to emulate your example,” he added.
Ramkalawan went on to say that President Kagame gave hope to the continent when he was the chairperson of the African Union where he came forward with solid plans.
“Today, we are still reading through the pages of your vision. And it’s that vision that Africa truly needs, not only to sustain itself but to silence the guns as we keep saying but at the same time to keep working in environment protection, strengthening economy of various countries as well as in the field of health and education,” he noted.
Among others, Ramkalawan reminisced on the fact that Rwanda, will later this year see the opening of a factory that will manufacture vaccines and considered it another great step for ‘the continent that is marred by so many illnesses’.
He underscored that the initiative will not only be beneficial to Rwanda but also to Seychelles as well as the rest of Africa.
Rwanda and Seychelles are both members of the Commonwealth and the Organization Internationale de La Francophonie (OIF).
President Kagame assumed Chairmanship of the Commonwealth in June last year as Rwanda hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Ramkalawan also expressed gratitude to Kagame for the leadership he continued to show during his term expected to end next year.
“Earlier this year, at the coronation of King Charles III, we had a chance to discuss under your chairmanship the role of the youth. As this year is the Commonwealth year of the youth, we want to push our young people to greater heights,” he noted.
After holding discussions on the first day, Rwanda and Seychelles signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in different areas of mutual benefit including health, defence and security, tourism and agriculture among others.
Both countries also signed an MoU paving the way for visa exemption for their people.
Ramkalawan highlighted that his country will work closely with Rwanda, particularly mentioning that Rwanda has one of the best police academies which his country’s police forces will use at all levels.
He said that Seychelles wants to learn from Rwanda’s experiences in agriculture and hailed Rwandan troops intervention to fight terrorism in Mozambique.
“What we signed today marks the confirmation of the solid relations that we want to take forward,” noted Ramkalawan.
He highlighted that a delegation from Seychelles will visit Rwanda before the end of this year where contacts have been already established between various ministries.
As Ramkalawan said, the visit aims to explore other areas of cooperation and concretize what has been already signed.
“We look forward to continuing the friendship and sharing of our two peoples,” he noted.
On his part, President Kagame disclosed that he had very productive discussions with Ramkalawan noting that Seychelles and Rwanda are driven by common aspirations to improve the quality of life for their citizens working hand in hand with partners in the region and beyond.
Building on strong bilateral ties and bonds of friendship, Kagame said, both countries intend to deepen cooperation across strategic areas and areas of mutual benefit including health, defence and security, tourism and agriculture among others.
“For Seychelles and Rwanda, tourism is a key driver of economic growth. Collectively, there is a lot we can do to make the sector more sustainable and resilient.
Tourism creates enormous opportunities for our connectivity and commercial links , bringing businesses from Seychelles and Rwanda closer together,” he stated.
Kagame highlighted that Rwanda and Seychelles are united in their membership of international organizations where they had the opportunity to continue aligning priorities and views through these platforms.
The Head of State also expressed optimism for stronger collaborations between our two countries.
“In moments of uncertainty where the world is experiencing an overlapping crisis, we are even more determined to work together,” he stated.
President Kagame is visiting Seychelles for the second time. Meanwhile, his counterpart from the Seychelles, Ramkalawan, was in Rwanda for CHOGM last year.
Following a two-month trial, Hategekimana was found guilty of committing genocide offenses during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in various areas of the Nyanza district in the Southern Province. At the time, he served as an Adjutant Gendarme in the former government, which planned and executed the genocide.
Hategekimana was convicted of genocide crimes and crimes against humanity, including his involvement in massacres in Nyanza, Nyabubare, Nyamure, Ntyazo, and Isar Songa. Witnesses, including survivors of the genocide and fellow gendarmes, testified that Hategekimana either led gendarmes in firing upon Tutsi individuals or coordinated with both gendarmes and Interahamwe militias at roadblocks. Numerous witnesses reported seeing Hategekimana himself firing at Tutsi victims or making explicit threats to kill them in various locations.
The court also found Hategekimana responsible for the killings of Bourgmester Nyagasaza Narcisse, who was the mayor of the then Ntyazo commune, as well as police officer Pierre Nyakarashi and Musonera, also known as Sana Sana. Hategekimana was further held accountable for the killings that took place at the Rwesero, Mushirarungu, and Nyanza roadblocks.
Me Richard Gisagara, representing the civil parties, highlighted Hategekimana’s attitude throughout the trial among other contributing factors to the decision to impose a life sentence.
Gisagara said that he showed no remorse, consistently denied all accusations, and pretended not to recognize any of the witnesses.
Hategekimana,66, chose to remain silent towards the end of the trial, except for a statement proclaiming his innocence. His defense team, consisting of four lawyers, continued to present arguments on his behalf.
Hategekimana was arrested in Cameroon in 2018 and subsequently deported to France, where he had acquired citizenship under the false identity of Philippe Manier by deceiving the French authorities. The defense has ten days to file an appeal, but no party expressed an intention to do so on the day of the ruling.
This case marks the sixth genocide trial concluded in France thus far. Previous convictions include Pascal Simbikangwa, who received a 25-year sentence; Ngenzi Octavien and Tito Barahira, who were handed life imprisonment on appeal; Claude Muhayimana, sentenced to 14 years; and Laurent Bucyibaruta, who received a 20-year sentence.
Hategekimana’s trial began on 10th May 2023.
His life sentence represents the latest outcome in the pursuit of justice for the crimes committed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
It is no brainer that this philosophy has inspired the Government of Rwanda to prioritize sports as a crucial element in fostering unity and achieving socio-economic development.
However, the realization of this vision is contingent upon the availability of proper sports infrastructure. Recognizing this, the government has allocated significant resources to develop state-of-the-art facilities, bringing joy to countless Rwandans, particularly those in Nyagatare, Ngoma, Bugesera, and Huye.
The government’s commitment to sports infrastructure development is exemplified by the ambitious expansion project of the Amahoro Stadium in Remera, Kigali City. With an expected completion date in 2024, this endeavor will require an investment exceeding Rwf160 billion.
Once finished, the stadium’s capacity will increase from 25,000 to 45,000 seats, making it the largest in the country. Moreover, the upgraded facility is designed to host not only international football matches but also concerts and public events.
The expansion of the Amahoro Stadium aims to significantly enhance the comfort and overall experience for spectators, contributing to the growth of sports and entertainment in the country. This investment in infrastructure underscores Rwanda’s commitment to providing world-class facilities for both its citizens and visitors.
While the entire facility will be roofed, FIFA regulations stipulate that the playing field must remain open to sunlight to preserve the grass. Additionally, the stadium will be equipped to host rugby matches, further diversifying the range of sporting events it can accommodate.
The Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), responsible for the construction of public infrastructure, reports that the renovation of Amahoro Stadium has surpassed 27% completion, with an optimistic outlook for its timely conclusion next year.
Notably, the raft foundation and assembly of steel structures have been completed, and the refurbishment of the spectator seating section is currently underway.
The RHA management assures that the project is progressing smoothly, stating, “As you have seen, we have started raising steel columns on the stadium’s peripheries. These columns will hold the ceiling, and related works are expected to commence soon.”
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Citizens are enthusiastic about modern stadiums and recognize their positive impact on local development.
During the 2017 presidential campaigns, citizens across the country advocated for the construction of stadiums. Responding to their request, President Kagame approved the construction of stadiums in Nyagatare, Ngoma, and Bugesera, a project that commenced in 2018. These stadiums have been in use since 2020.
Nyagatare Stadium required an investment of Rwf9.5 billion, Ngoma Stadium cost Rwf9.3 billion, and Bugesera Stadium was built with an investment of Rwf9.5 billion.
Residents attest that these stadiums have had a profoundly positive effect on their communities, attracting a greater flow of people who engage in various activities.
Vestine Nyirakamana, a trader near Ngoma Stadium, emphasizes the facility’s role in boosting sporting and entertainment activities in the area.
She enthusiastically remarks, “The completion of this stadium has brought immense joy to the residents. As businesspeople, we have seen increased foot traffic, resulting in higher profits from food and beverage sales. Before the construction of the stadium, our businesses faced challenging times, but now we experience peak customer flows, particularly during matches involving top-tier teams. On such occasions, daily earnings can reach between Rwf50,000 and Rwf60,000, compared to the usual Rwf20,000.”
Another trader, Aisha Munganyinka, adds, “We observe a significant surge in customers, especially when professional teams play at the stadium. She further elaborates, “In such situations, we register a high influx of customers, especially when teams from the top division are playing.”
Eric Itangishaka ‘Dihno’, the Team Manager of Bugesera FC, grew up in Nyamata with a passion for football. He recalls playing on poor playgrounds during his childhood.
Reflecting on the impact of having a stadium, he says, “As someone who was born here, the memories of lawnless playgrounds come to mind when I think about the development of sports.
When there is a stadium like this, children as young as five years old come to play.
But without a stadium, it would be difficult as a parent to let your child play on a soil-covered playground. You worry about the risk of injury if there are stones on the pitch. Conversely, when you know they are playing in a stadium, you can let children play freely without such concerns.”
Farouk Sejuuko Ssentongo, also known as ‘Ruhinda Farouk,’ has been a player for Bugesera FC since 2017. He vividly remembers the challenges of playing on lawnless playgrounds and expresses gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for building the stadium.
Ssentongo appealed for similar infrastructure to be established in other districts, stating, “It was very difficult to play on lawnless playgrounds. We used to train on such fields and occasionally visited teams with turf-covered playgrounds. We thank the Government of Rwanda for constructing this stadium and request support to create similar infrastructure in other districts.
The stadium has had a tremendous impact on the development of our district and football in general. We can now play and entertain fans without the risk of injuries. Previously, we faced restrictions, including limitations on the types of shoes we could use while playing. But now, we can enjoy the game with greater comfort and freedom.”
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Government officials highlight the wider benefits of these stadiums beyond hosting matches.
They serve as versatile venues for campaigns, public meetings, religious gatherings, and other events, fostering economic and social development. Economists emphasize that such infrastructure plays a pivotal role in transforming the mindset of the local population.
Ange Sebutege, the Mayor of Huye District, acknowledges the significant impact of the stadium on the town’s development.
She remarks, “The stadium is one of the infrastructures that have accelerated the development of Huye town. It has created job opportunities for our people. We are grateful for this gift from the Head of State, as it brings joy to sports and propels us towards development.
Moreover, the stadium has garnered international recognition, hosting international matches. With the infrastructure in place, foreigners can easily access accommodations, witnessing that Rwanda’s development extends beyond the city of Kigali. Additionally, we have seen increased private sector investments in hotels. Undoubtedly, the stadium has stimulated investment in our district.”
Richard Mutabazi, the Mayor of Bugesera District, highlights several advantages resulting from improved access to infrastructure, including enhanced professionalism and the ability to attract visitors.
He explains, “One notable advantage is that we receive visitors. In the past, when planning matches with prominent teams, we would often face complaints when our stadium didn’t meet their requirements. There were instances when we were compelled to play in Kigali, despite being the host team. During the renovation of the Kigali Stadium, Bugesera hosted many matches, generating revenue for the district. Additionally, local businesses experienced an influx of customers during these events.”
The positive impact of stadiums extends to Nyagatare as well. In addition to the benefits enjoyed by the Sunrise FC team, the city of Nyagatare continues to reap the advantages of being in close proximity to the stadium. Recently, the stadium hosted a match between Kiyovu Sports and Sunrise FC, with Kiyovu emerging victorious with a score of 1-0.
In addition to hosting matches, the stadium has served as the venue for graduation ceremonies of over 10,000 graduates from the University of Rwanda and East African University Rwanda.
Mayor Stephen Gasana of Nyagatare District shares the significance of having a suitable venue, stating, “Out of those 13,000 graduates, approximately 2,000 may be from Nyagatare, while the remaining 10,000 come from different parts of the country. They chose to come here because we had a place where we could host them. Prior to their arrival, we held numerous meetings with traders and the private sector to prepare for their visit.”
“Although we didn’t tally the exact numbers, the stadium was packed during the match between Sunrise and Kiyovu Sports, with a substantial number of cars parked in the vicinity. When visitors come, they explore the town, make purchases, and contribute to the local economy,” he added.
Decentralized stadiums, a promise fulfilled by President Kagame to citizens, have been built in Nyagatare, Bugesera, and Ngoma districts. Each stadium has a capacity to accommodate 4,000 people in both roofed and unroofed seating areas. The football playground of Nyagatare Stadium features a turf surface and includes additional facilities such as basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. Furthermore, athletes can utilize the stadium’s running track for training and competitions.
These stadiums are part of a larger development plan, which includes complementary projects such as hotels, roads, and electricity infrastructure. The construction of such facilities not only provides economic opportunities but also transforms the mindset of the local population. By investing in sports infrastructure, Rwanda aims to create a thriving environment that nurtures talent, fosters unity, and attracts visitors from both domestic and international spheres.
The journey towards comprehensive sports infrastructure continues in Rwanda, with the expansion of the Amahoro Stadium serving as a testament to the country’s dedication to providing world-class facilities. With the completion of these stadiums, Rwandans are empowered to pursue their sporting aspirations and embrace the transformative power of sports in their lives.
{{Amahoro Stadium is undergoing major renovation works}}
Critics have questioned the DRC’s response to the situation, pointing out that the country has failed to address its internal problems and instead shifted blame to neighboring Rwanda. In the midst of the fighting with M23, Congo accused Rwanda of backing the rebel group, which subsequently captured different areas and later handed them over to regional forces as part of established mechanisms to restore peace.
Rwanda has consistently refuted these allegations and urged the DRC’s leaders to find a solution without externalizing their problems. However, it appears that the DRC has turned a deaf ear to these pleas, further exacerbating the situation by forming a coalition with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a terrorist group comprised of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The violence perpetrated by this coalition has escalated, leading to targeted killings of members from Congolese Tutsi communities. In addition to the violence against specific ethnic groups, there have been reports of provocations such as bombs being shelled on Rwanda’s territory.
The ongoing collaboration between FARDC and FDLR is a grave concern and a threat to regional security, undermining the efforts made to address the crisis. Despite the hostile environment for independent media in North Kivu, two courageous journalists, Adeline Umutoni and Marc Hoogsteyns from the Kivu Press Agency, managed to enter the tense area and gather invaluable testimonies. These testimonies shed light on an unprecedented collaboration between the FDLR and the FARDC, revealing an even more sinister reality.
19-year-old Lambert Habumugisha testified to the terror instilled by these armed groups, stating, “I lived with my chief ‘Fayida’. We worked for all the present soldiers. If you are suspected of working with M23, they behead you overnight and decimate your entire family.” He also revealed that the FARDC facilitated the strengthening of FDLR military operations through new recruits and the supply of arms.
The situation is further complicated by multiple alliances, particularly between the FDLR, FARDC, and Nyatura. Civilians, who are the primary victims of these conflicts, suffer significant losses, particularly due to the forced recruitment of young individuals by the armed forces.
Hakizimana Rukundo, 20, a former FDLR member, shared his experience of being recruited, stating, “My parents and I fled to Congo to survive. As soon as we arrived, the FDLR recruited us. We cooperated with the FARDC.”
According to Théoneste Ndayambaje,20, another former FDLR member, the forced recruitments are justified by the FDLR as a necessity to protect themselves against external threats, particularly the rebel group M23. “They told us to ensure our security, to make sure no Tutsi lives here,” he reported.
The lives of civilians are disrupted by this violence, as they are subjected to taxation in the form of food or material goods by the FDLR, FARDC, and Nyatura, with the M23 being presented as the common enemy. In the face of this constant struggle for power, North Kivu resembles a complex chessboard where civilians pay the heaviest price.
Dr. Jason Stearns, Director of the Congo Research Group (GEC) and former member of the United Nations Group of Experts on Congo, affirms that the FDLR has maintained a devastating presence in North Kivu for decades. Their genocidal ideology and brutal military tactics have left indelible scars on the region.
Amanda Thomas-Johnson, a researcher at the Center for Conflict, Freedom, and Security Studies, underscores the persistent threat posed by the FDLR to Rwanda and the DRC.
Their ongoing presence continues to destabilize the North Kivu region and poses a significant obstacle to achieving peace and security.
According to the United Nations, over 6,000 people have lost their lives since tensions escalated in North Kivu. The majority of the victims are innocent civilians trapped in the clutches of this endless conflict.
International cooperation and support, coupled with a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the conflict, are essential for achieving lasting peace in eastern DRC.
Besides, the atrocities committed in North Kivu demand urgent attention and concerted action.
In order to prepare children for the dynamic labor market and equip them with essential technological skills, it is crucial to foster their growth in multiple areas. Additionally, engaging children in extracurricular courses can contribute to their brain development and overall skill set.
Recognizing this need, Active Labs has introduced online robotics courses and physical classes for children. These courses not only provide valuable technological knowledge but also act as a shield against harmful internet content and other distractions that can lead children astray.
Located in the north of Morocco, Active Labs has emerged as a game changer in the field of robotics and programming. Salma Maroufi, the Marketing and Sales Manager at Active Labs, highlighted the center’s offerings during a recent interview with IGIHE. She mentioned that Active Labs provides classes for children aged 7 to 16, where they engage in robotics, coding, and 3D modeling.
“The children work with various robots, learning how to program them using tools like PyTab. They also delve into coding with programming languages such as Python, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript,” stated Maroufi. She further explained that the center offers both on-site and online classes, allowing children to explore the world of technology from the comfort of their homes while enjoying the educational and interactive experience.
Maroufi emphasized that the primary goal of Active Labs is to encourage children to utilize their time effectively by engaging in technology-driven learning experiences, rather than aimlessly scrolling through social media or spending excessive time gaming. By meeting other children and having fun while learning, children can enhance their educational journey. Active Labs also collaborates with schools, providing classes and spreading their educational impact even further.
Active Labs caters to children of all skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced learners. Maroufi expressed the center’s commitment to lifelong learning, stating, “We have beginner and advanced classes. Children can start as beginners, and the following year, they can progress to the advanced level. Some children have stayed with us for four years, experiencing an annual level up and an advanced program. With the rapid advancements in AI and technology, there is always something new to learn.”
Maroufi proudly shared the achievements of some of the center’s trained children, who have excelled in international robotics competitions.
“We participated in the first LEGO League Challenge, an international robotics competition, where one of our teams presented an innovative project. They created a robot capable of detecting the emotions of special needs children. Through a connected app, parents receive notifications about their child’s emotional state. This outstanding project earned them second place internationally,” Maroufi explained.
The center not only nurtures young talent but also provides a platform for children to explore their own ideas and unleash their imagination. Active Labs encourages children to turn their concepts into reality and supports them throughout the process.
In terms of fees, Maroufi revealed that Active Labs charges approximately $360 per year for each child enrolled in their training programs. Additionally, they offer a three-month program to provide parents with various options.
“For our online classes, such as the Python course, we offer 12 sessions, one per week, totaling three months of training. The fee for this program is 144 euros, which is quite affordable. We coordinate with a group of seven children and provide an animated coaching session through a platform called Work Adventure. It’s similar to Zoom but offers a more engaging and interactive experience,” Maroufi added.
Active Labs was founded in 2016 with a focus on robotics, but their online courses were launched just three months ago.
It was among tech startups that showcased their innovations on the sidelines of the inaugural GITEX Africa Summit held recently in Morocco.
Looking ahead, Maroufi envisions a future where an increasing number of children join Active Labs to enjoy the fun, educational, and beneficial experiences it offers. She anticipates a surge in registrations and a thriving learning atmosphere, as children enthusiastically embrace the opportunities provided by the center’s diverse technologies.
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on innovative technologies, Active Labs serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring more tech startups to introduce innovations that can transform not only the African continent but also the world at large.
Upon his arrival, Gen Kabarebe was warmly received by Maj Gen E. Nkubito, the RSF JTF Commander, who provided him with a detailed briefing on the progress achieved in their ongoing counter-terrorism operations in Cabo Delgado Province.
Engaging with the dedicated Rwandan Security Forces in the Mocimboa da Praia District, the Ministry of Defence has revealed, Gen James Kabarebe conveyed a message on behalf of President Kagame, commending them for their unwavering commitment and dedication in fulfilling their duties. He encouraged them to continue demonstrating steadfastness and strive for exceptional results in their endeavors.
Rwanda started the deployment of 1000 troops of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Rwanda National Police (RNP) to Mozambique on 9th July 2021, to fight terrorist groups, honoring the request of Mozambique. The troops had increased to nearly 2500 by the end of the year 2022.
The situation in the country had worsened since October 2017 when armed extremists launched an insurgency in the Cabo Delgado Province of Mozambique.
Mozambique Defence Armed Forces battled the extremists but many civilians were killed and displaced by the fighting.
Before Rwandan troops’ intervention, terrorists had killed 3000 civilians while more than 800,000 were displaced. The insecurity had also put to halt all development projects in the area controlled by insurgents.
The joint operations between Rwandan and Mozambican troops yielded big, where different regions were seized from rebels.
Responding to a question on Rwanda’s journey in the fight against terrorists in Mozambique, at a joint press conference with his counterpart of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema in Kigali this week, President Kagame said that there has been commendable progress.
“I should say, largely, the problem has been addressed in terms of large numbers of people that had been displaced being able to go back to their villages, homes and starting their activities as they should. There has been a presence of troops from SADC deployed in different parts of that area and together, security and stability has returned because of that,” he stated.
Rwandan troops are deployed in Palma and Mocimboa da Praia and sometimes cooperate with SADC forces upon available intelligence to dislodge terrorists’.
Since deployment of Rwandan troops in Cabo Delgado, security has been restored where the majority of displaced residents returned home.
Besides, businesses resumed and French company, TotalEnergies with US$20 billion investment that might be increased to US$50 billion under the Liquefied Natural Gas project, is expected to resume operations as well.
Speaking to the media this week, Kagame highlighted that economic activities are beginning to pick up owing to current efforts to stabilize the area.
“I have heard even those who were making investments there like Total [Energies] and others, are already thinking of resuming their activities. Of course, there may be one thing here and another there that needs to be put out of their way before they fully resume, but I think that is being enabled by such collaborative efforts, around the provision of security and working together with the host country. And each one playing their part, together, we are seeing a lot of progress,” he noted.
“I should say, 80% of the problem has been addressed. The 20% might be small or big depending on a number of circumstances but that needs to be cleared as well,” added Kagame.
In a statement released on June 22, 2023, Rwanda pointed out that the report affirms the grave threat posed by the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a genocidal militia backed by Kinshasa, and highlights their increased capacity to jeopardize Rwanda’s security.
The report further reveals the financial support, weaponry, and political cover provided to the FDLR by the government of the DRC. It also acknowledges that the FDLR has been fighting alongside the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), which have repeatedly violated Rwandan territory over the past year.
Rwanda’s statement highlights that the UN Group of Experts’ report heavily relies on questionable evidence and unreliable sources that perpetuate the false narrative blaming Rwanda for the insecurity and internal problems in the DRC.
Besides, Rwanda said that the report fails to include Rwanda’s responses to the accusations against the Rwanda Defence Force where the sources used by the UN Group of Experts include the DRC Government, former combatants, anti-Rwanda Congolese civil society campaigners, and current members of illegal armed groups, including elements of the so-called “Wazalendo” coalition allied with the FARDC.
Rwanda asserts that the report disregards the ongoing regional peace efforts, where the United Nations plays a supporting role, and fails to acknowledge the documented efforts by the DRC to obstruct the Nairobi and Luanda processes, including the work of the East African Community Regional Force deployed in the eastern DRC. The report also overlooks multiple violations against Rwanda’s territorial integrity and the DRC’s potential path toward all-out war.
Rwanda’s statement expresses concern that the report downplays the risk of ethnic cleansing targeting Congolese Tutsi communities and shockingly blames the victims for their own suffering. This contradicts the findings of the UN and other organizations, echoing the rhetoric of genocide deniers and ideologues. Rwanda emphasizes that these assertions contradict the testimonies of numerous Congolese refugees who have been compelled to flee to neighboring countries, including Rwanda, over the past two decades.
Additionally, Rwanda clarifies that the report inexplicably fails to mention the statements made by the UN Special Adviser on Genocide Prevention in November 2022 and January 2023, in which the adviser expressed alarm over the killings of Tutsi in the DRC and warned of the potential for genocide if steps are not taken to protect the targeted communities.
The statement from Rwanda regrets that the UN Group of Experts continues to perpetuate dangerous distortions and fabrications that obscure the root causes and realities of the conflict in the eastern DRC. This not only prolongs the conflict but also endangers the lives of millions of people in the region while perpetuating insecurity and threats along Rwanda’s border.
Rwanda asserts that it will maintain reinforced defensive and preventive measures to safeguard its airspace and borders, and to counter any spillover from armed groups, ensuring total security for its territory and people. The statement reiterates Rwanda’s commitment to working within regional mechanisms, particularly the Nairobi and Luanda processes, to contribute to stability in the Great Lakes Region.
Emmanuel Uwarugira, his brother, confirmed the sad news to IGIHE, stating that Pastor Niyonshuti was returning from Uganda.
According to sources, the accident occurred while Pastor Niyonshuti was accompanied by two other individuals. Sadly, one person died on the spot along with Pastor Niyonshuti, while the condition of the third person in the car has yet to be confirmed.
Uwarugira expressed his grief and confirmed the incident, saying, “It is true that he passed away. I am currently en route to the location to assess the situation. He was involved in the accident with two other individuals, one of whom also lost their life instantly, while the fate of the other is uncertain. It is suspected that he may have also succumbed to his injuries.”
Details about the death of Niyonshuti emerged in the wee hours of Friday, June 23, 2023.
A member of the ADEPR Church, Pastor Niyonshuti, had gained a significant following due to his inspiring transformation and his unique approach to evangelism, characterized by his use of street language and tone.
Prior to becoming a pastor, Niyonshuti had experienced a difficult life on the streets, which was not how he envisioned his future, considering his privileged upbringing in a prosperous family.
Rusesabagina, the former President of the MRCD-FLRN terror group, had been sentenced to 25 years in 2021 for his involvement in terrorism activities. However, in March 2023, he was released from Mageragere prison after President Paul Kagame commuted his sentence. This decision came about following Rusesabagina’s request for a pardon, which he had submitted in an October 2022 letter.
Surprisingly, just three months after his release, Rusesabagina made statements that contradicted his previous letter, in which he had pleaded for clemency, citing his advanced age and chronic health issues, and claiming that he had no personal or political ambitions anymore.
In his letter dated October 14th, Rusesabagina expressed regret for any association his work with MRCD may have had with the violent actions taken by the FLN.
“As the former head of the MRCD, I regret not taking more care to ensure that members of the MRCD coalition fully adhered to the principles of non-violence… If I am granted a pardon and released, I understand fully that I will spend the remainder of my days in the United States in quiet reflection. I can assure you through this letter that I hold no personal or political ambitions otherwise. I will leave questions regarding Rwandan politics behind me,” he wrote.
Despite this letter, Rusesabagina surprised many by claiming during the recent Oslo Freedom Forum that he was released due to pressure.
He addressed the participants, stating, “Today, I am a free man because of your voice and the voices of many others… All of you came together to advocate for my release and the release of all political prisoners. For me, you have succeeded.” He added, “My freedom demonstrates that when you stand up for what you believe in, when you come together in solidarity and are guided by the principles of human rights and democracy, you win.”
Tito Rutaremara, the Chairperson of the Rwanda Elders’ Advisory Forum, has questioned why Rusesabagina is praising human rights activists while disregarding his earlier letter requesting clemency.
Rutaremara pointed out that the letter, in which Rusesabagina himself requested a pardon from the President of the Republic and signed it, is available for anyone to see.
He emphasized that Rusesabagina had admitted to being a criminal and had confessed to his crimes, which gave no reason for him to be retained in prison.
“Why did he write the letter requesting clemency if he was released by those activists?” he wondered.
During a cabinet meeting in March 2023, the release of Rusesabagina and other individuals convicted of terrorism charges was approved on the grounds of presidential clemency.
This decision followed letters in which the individuals confessed their crimes and requested a pardon.
Rusesabagina had been arrested in 2020, along with Nsabimana Callixte, also known as “Sankara,” the spokesperson for the FLN, and 18 others connected to the same case.
They were all released on presidential clemency on March 24th, 2023. besides, additional 358 individuals convicted of various offenses were granted collective commutation on the same day.
Under Rwandan law, commutation of sentence does not extinguish the underlying conviction. If any individual benefitting from early release repeats offences of a similar nature, the commutation can be revoked and the remainder of the prison sentence will be served, in accordance with the conditions specified in the Presidential Order.
