Recognized as a promising young talent, Yangiriyeneza recently showcased his skills in Rwanda’s U-20 Championship, where he scored a hat-trick in a 4-1 victory against Rutsiro FC.
Following this performance, his academy revealed that he has attracted interest from Portuguese clubs after undergoing trials for the second time.
Yangiriyeneza previously trained with top-tier Portuguese teams G.D. Estoril Praia and Rio Ave F.C., earning recognition from their youth teams.
His academy stated, “Erirohe, who recently turned 18, is being sought by U-19 teams in Portugal after impressive trials and excellent performances for Rwanda’s U-20 National Team. His contract is expected to be finalized soon.”
In addition to Portugal, reports indicate that Moroccan clubs are also keen on signing him, leaving the final decision in the player’s hands.
He made these remarks in his New Year’s address to Rwandans, marking the transition from 2024 to 2025.
Reflecting on 2024, Kagame highlighted the 30th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Rwanda’s liberation. He described these milestones as symbols of the country’s progress.
“We celebrated and commemorated our nation’s liberation. Both events remind us of where we came from and how far we have come, driven by our shared goal of development and reconstruction,” he said.
President Kagame also mentioned the successful elections held in 2024, reinforcing the trust between Rwandans and their leaders.
“The recent elections were well-organized, further affirming the trust citizens have in their leaders and institutions. I thank all Rwandans and friends of Rwanda for your support during the elections and in other times of need,” he stated.
“Rwandans have voiced their ambition for even greater achievements and better services in the years to come. Together, we must work to realize these aspirations.”
{{Condolences for Marburg victims}}
One of Rwanda’s significant challenges in 2024 was the Marburg virus outbreak, which claimed 15 lives, primarily among healthcare workers.
President Kagame expressed his condolences to the bereaved families, stating, “We stand with you in this time of grief.”
He commended healthcare workers for their bravery and thanked Rwanda’s partners for their contributions, which helped end the outbreak by early December 2024.
{{Addressing regional security challenges}}
The year 2024 saw strained relations between Rwanda and neighboring countries, including Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as security issues in the region. President Kagame reassured that Rwanda’s security and sovereignty remain non-negotiable.
“I want to assure you that Rwanda’s security and sovereignty will always be safeguarded, no matter the circumstances,” he affirmed.
He added, “Quick fixes cannot resolve these issues. Lasting solutions rooted in addressing the core problems are needed to ensure enduring peace for all citizens of the region. This is essential for everyone. There can be no peace for some without peace for others. We all need peace.”
The Head of State stressed that Rwanda would not accept being misrepresented in the ongoing regional challenges.
{{Rwanda’s development vision and Formula One aspirations}}
The President reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to self-driven development, stating, “You cannot wait for others to develop you if you do not put effort into your own growth.”
He highlighted Rwanda’s recent hosting of the FIA conference, the first of its kind in Africa, and the announcement of plans to host Formula One. He noted that these initiatives aim to leverage sports for economic growth that benefits all citizens.
{{A call to the youth}}
President Kagame expressed his confidence in the youth’s role in advancing the country’s development beyond current expectations.
“We count on you to take Rwanda to new heights, beyond what we have imagined. Always remember that we have the ability to shape the future we desire and deserve,” he said.
Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, was the first to celebrate, marking the start of January 1, 2025, earlier today. The country is located in the world’s earliest time zone, UTC+14.
As the first country to welcome 2025, Kiribati, also known as Christmas Island, was followed shortly after by New Zealand. Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower lit up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display, drawing thousands of spectators to ring in the New Year.
Australia followed suit, with Sydney’s world-famous fireworks over Sydney Harbour attracting large crowds despite some disruptions. The celebrations in both nations set the tone for the global festivities that would follow.
In Asia, Japan and South Korea soon joined the festivities. Japan welcomed the New Year with traditional ceremonies and cultural rituals, while South Korea, in observance of a national mourning period, kept the celebrations more subdued. Both nations celebrated in their unique ways, embracing the New Year in their respective time zones.
As the evening wore on, countries across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, began their celebrations.
Meanwhile, nations in South Asia, like India and Sri Lanka, were preparing to usher in 2025. The global progression of New Year celebrations continued across the globe, as each time zone marked the arrival of the New Year in succession.
Rwanda will welcome the New Year 12 hours after Kiritimati Island in Kiribati due to the time difference.
The City of Kigali authorities have confirmed that the night sky in Kigali will be lit up with a spectacular fireworks display on Tuesday night. The fireworks show will conclude the countdown to the New Year at exactly midnight on January 1.
According to a public notice issued on December 30, celebrations will take place at Canal Olympia, Rebero, and Imbuga City Walk in the City Centre.
Fireworks will also be displayed at key locations, including the Kigali Convention Centre and Kigali Serena Hotel, offering a stunning visual experience for thousands of revellers.
With groundbreaking achievements in trading volumes, the launch of innovative financial instruments, and the implementation of forward-looking sustainability initiatives, the RSE continues to drive economic progress and investor confidence.
Some of the year’s key milestones include record-breaking market performance and cutting-edge product offerings plus strategic advancements shaping the future of Rwanda’s capital markets.
From its early years as a modest over-the-counter market lacking listed companies or active stockbrokers, the RSE has undergone a remarkable evolution into a fully-fledged daily trading stock exchange. This year, its achievements are remarkable:
{{Trading activities and investor participation}}
Total market turnover hit a new record and surged past the Frw100 billion mark to close the year at Frw129 billion, a 126% increase from the previous year. The Rwanda share index (RSI) is also up by 15.86%.
The RSE also surpassed its own record in issuance and listing of three products from private issuers in the last quarter of the year, raising at least Frw51 billion.
The new listings include Prime Energy Plc (the first-ever green bond on the RSE market) worth Frw9.58 billion with a 7-year maturity at a coupon rate of 13.75% per annum and listing of the first tranche of Frw3 billion corporate bond of Mahwi Grain Millers Plc paying 15% per annum. It is worth noting that both companies graduated from the RSE’s Capital market Investment Clinic (IC).
Finally, the issuance and listing of Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) Plc 2nd tranche Sustainability-Linked Bond worth Frw33.5 billion with a 7-year maturity at a coupon rate of 12.9% per annum.
All the issuances were oversubscribed and participation from retail investors including members of the Diaspora was remarkable giving hope for future growth of investor participation which overall has increased 37.35% to 95,672 dominated by domestic investors at the rate of 95.75%.
These numbers underscore the growing participation of both institutional and retail investors, driven by better accessibility and targeted education initiatives. The market capitalization has also slightly increased to Frw3.8 trillion from Frw3.6 trillion at the end of December 2023.
{{Pioneering new financial products}}
To broaden investment opportunities and support sustainable development, the RSE introduced a suite of new financial instruments which include the following;
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) & Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) which will provide investors with a low-cost, diversified, and flexible investment option, broadening access to the stock market, offering attractive returns and contributing to urban development.
Green Bonds and Sustainability-Linked Bonds which have placed Rwanda on the map as a leader in sustainable finance, attracting socially responsible investments and supporting environmental goals.
ESG Reporting Guidelines where Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting guidelines were introduced to ensure listed companies adopt global best practices in transparency and sustainability. These guidelines are open to other corporates who may wish to use them.
However, the RSE’s journey has not been without its share of challenges. First, much as activity on the secondary market has improved over the years, it is still low compared to other advanced markets across the globe.
In addition, there is also a limited number of products and little diversification for investors. For instance, initially aiming for an average of 2 new listings per year, the exchange has realized closer to 1 per year, aligning with trends observed in other African stock exchanges.
Factors such as limited financial literacy, low savings rates, and reluctance from companies to go public have contributed to this slower-than-anticipated growth.
As challenging as it may be, deepening our market further is not solely our responsibility as an exchange. Policymakers, regulators, and Rwandans themselves must undergo a mindset change as there is need for a collective effort to address these obstacles.
Undeterred, the RSE remains committed to cultivating the domestic market and encouraging more Rwandan companies to raise money and list on the Exchange.
Just like in some countries, the government’s privatization policy through capital markets and perhaps a deliberate policy to encourage or compel public utility companies or companies of a certain size or systemic enough to go public could offer a promising avenue for expansion.
On the other hand, various efforts to enhance local professional skills and financial services aim to support a growing pipeline of potential issuers.
As Rwanda progresses on its development trajectory, the capital markets will and must play a pivotal role in mobilizing long-term domestic finance and fostering a robust savings culture.
Positioned at the forefront, the RSE is poised to deepen and diversify the country’s financial landscape in the years ahead especially now that we aspire to be an international financial hub of recon through the Kigali International Financial Center (KIFC) initiative.
We should also leverage on the presidency of the African Securities Exchanges top body (ASEA) for continued growth and collaboration within Africa’s securities exchanges landscape and use Rwanda’s prominence in the regional and international financial arena.
This reflects the country’s commitment to fostering collaboration and integration within Africa’s financial markets, further solidifying its role as a driver of economic development and prosperity across the continent.
{{Driving regional and digital transformation}}
Looking ahead, the RSE is poised for continued growth through a few strategic initiatives including some of the following;
The East African Capital Market Infrastructure (CMI) project, which is part of integration of financial market. The overall objective under this component is to allow a seamless movement of securities and payments between the different EAC capital markets.
Its compatible at the regional level to enable the creation of a regional financial market in the EAC. The project will see full automation of trading operations on the RSE and increase efficiency.
The African Exchanges Linkage Project (AELP) is in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the RSE is collaborating with other exchanges to create a unified trading platform thereby boosting cross-border investments and positioning Rwanda as a regional financial hub.
The RSE plans to launch cutting-edge digital platforms to streamline trading, enhance transparency, and improve user experience.
New offerings such as the introduction of a green exchange window, multi-currency-denominated instruments, market-making and Islamic finance or Sharia compliant platforms will also enhance product offerings.
And finally, sustainability commitments with renewed efforts to promote green financing and ESG practices will play a pivotal role in supporting Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
And as 2024 comes to a close, the RSE stands as a testament to the transformative power of a well-structured and innovative capital market.
With record-breaking achievements, groundbreaking product introductions, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, the RSE has laid a solid foundation for a prosperous future.
Investors, policymakers, and stakeholders alike can look forward to an even brighter 2025, as the we continue to drive Rwanda’s economic growth and establish itself as a leader in Africa’s financial landscape. Together, we are building a resilient and sustainable financial ecosystem
{{The author is the CEO, Rwanda Stock Exchange & Chairman of African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA).}}
The partnerships, spanning sectors such as agriculture, climate change, trade, technology, and education, have reinforced Rwanda’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and mutual growth.
While the year witnessed several agreements, this article highlights some of the most impactful ones, underscoring Rwanda’s role as a key player on the global stage.
The year began on a momentous note with the Kingdom of Jordan. On January 7, 2024, Rwanda and Jordan solidified their partnership across various sectors, including agriculture, trade, health, and medical science.
The ceremony, attended by President Paul Kagame and King Abdullah II Ibn Al-Hussein, marked a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations.
The agreements also included a pact to eliminate double taxation, a move aimed at enhancing trade and investment between the two nations.
This collaboration builds upon existing ties and promises to invigorate tourism and agricultural ventures, setting a strong tone for the year ahead.
Later that month, Rwanda turned its focus to global environmental stewardship. On January 21, a key agreement on climate change was signed with Denmark at the picturesque Nyandungu Eco Park.
Representing a shared commitment to environmental preservation, this partnership drew on Rwanda’s reputation as a leader in sustainability and Denmark’s expertise in eco-friendly innovation.
Together, the two nations pledged to address climate challenges, advancing Rwanda’s green agenda while strengthening Denmark’s environmental outreach.
In a show of enduring friendship, Rwanda and Belgium inked a bilateral cooperation agreement valued at approximately Rwf131 billion on January 30.
This agreement, covering 2024–2029, strategically channels resources into agriculture, urbanization, health, and public finance management.
As February unfolded, Rwanda joined hands with the European Union to promote sustainable mining practices. The partnership aims to improve mineral supply chains, enhance value addition, and combat illegal mineral trading.
With a focus on eco-friendly mining and technological innovation, this agreement represents a pivotal step toward advancing Rwanda’s mining sector while aligning with global sustainability goals.
The first quarter of the year also witnessed strengthened ties with China. On March 28, Musanze District in Rwanda’s Northern Province entered a Sister Cities Agreement with Jinhua, marking a historic first in Rwanda-China relations.
This partnership was complemented by a five-year educational exchange program between Jinhua Polytechnic and IPRC Musanze.
The initiative, which enables Rwandan students to study both at home and in China, reflects a decade-long relationship rooted in mutual capacity building and knowledge exchange.
The second quarter brought an ambitious collaboration with Mali. From May 25 to 27, the first Joint Permanent Commission meeting between the two countries culminated in 19 agreements across diverse sectors such as health, security, agriculture, and technology.
The accords, rooted in shared values of inclusive development, reflect a growing partnership that has steadily evolved since Mali established its embassy in Kigali in 2017.
June saw a renewed focus on innovation with the Kigali Innovation City project. Rwanda and Africa50 signed an agreement to accelerate the implementation of this transformative initiative, which aims to position Kigali as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurship.
With 61 hectares of land designated for development, this partnership seeks to attract global investors, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for innovation in Africa.
The momentum continued into August when Rwanda and Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on transport cooperation.
Held during a bilateral meeting between Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, this agreement laid the groundwork for enhanced infrastructure development and connectivity.
A key moment for Rwanda-Egypt relations came on August 12, 2024, when the two nations finalized a deal concerning the supply of medical equipment and devices for the Rwanda-Egypt Heart Centre.
Also known as the Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Care Centre, this facility, under construction in Masaka, Kicukiro District, will play a crucial role in the treatment of heart-related diseases.
The first phase of the facility is expected to become operational in early 2026, a landmark achievement that stems from a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2021.
This collaboration highlights the ongoing medical and technological exchange between Rwanda and Egypt and underscores Rwanda’s commitment to improving healthcare for its citizens.
In September, diplomatic relations took centre stage as Rwanda and The Bahamas signed an MoU for mutual visa requirements exemption.
Formalized on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, this agreement symbolized a significant step toward fostering ease of movement and stronger bilateral ties between the two nations.
Rwanda’s commitment to climate change mitigation was further solidified with Sweden in an MoU signed later that month.
Through a partnership aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, Rwanda and Sweden pledged to trade carbon credits and support each other’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
This initiative showcased Rwanda’s proactive stance on global climate issues while benefiting from Sweden’s expertise in sustainable energy solutions.
The final months of the year were marked by notable agreements with Nigeria, Russia, and Poland.
In early November, Rwanda’s Private Sector Federation and Nigeria’s Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU to boost trade and investment.
The collaboration promises to streamline procedures, reduce trade barriers, and explore opportunities in sectors ranging from agriculture to creative industries.
Days later, an agreement with Russia removed visa requirements for diplomatic and service passport holders, reflecting long-standing ties in education, military training, and cultural exchange.
On November 13, Rwanda signed an Air Service Agreement with Poland, heralding the prospect of direct flights between the two countries.
Represented by Ambassador Prof. Anastase Shyaka and Poland’s Secretary of State Lasek Maciej, the deal promises to enhance economic and cultural exchanges, connecting Rwanda to Europe in unprecedented ways.
The agreements, building on those signed in previous years, highlight Rwanda’s strong commitment to driving national growth and strengthening its global partnerships.
In its latest directive, the Ministry of Economy declared that all national and foreign nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) employing women would face closure if they failed to comply with the ban.
The directive, shared on social media platform X, warned that noncompliance would lead to the cancellation of an NGO’s operating license. This follows a prior 2021 suspension of Afghan women’s employment in NGOs, citing non-adherence to the Taliban’s interpretation of Islamic dress codes.
The Taliban’s Ministry of Economy, responsible for supervising national and foreign organizations, reaffirmed its stance, stating that women’s work in institutions not under Taliban control must cease.
The ministry warned, “In case of lack of cooperation, all activities of that institution will be cancelled.”
Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban has implemented measures that significantly restrict women’s presence in public life. Girls and women have been barred from post-primary education, public parks, and most forms of employment. The UN has described these actions as “gender apartheid.”
The new restrictions extend beyond employment. Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhunzada recently issued a decree banning windows in residential buildings that overlook areas where women may sit or work.
The order applies to new and existing structures, requiring property owners to obscure such views using walls, fences, or screens.
A statement from government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid justified the policy, claiming it would “remove harm” and prevent “obscene acts.”
Municipal authorities are tasked with ensuring compliance during construction and renovations.
The Taliban has also prohibited women from singing or reciting poetry in public, with some local broadcasters halting the airing of female voices.
Despite these measures, the Taliban claims to have issued thousands of work permits to women and denies obstructing humanitarian operations.
However, the United Nations has reported increasing restrictions on female aid workers, hindering critical relief efforts. The Taliban insists these actions are in line with Islamic law and necessary to maintain public safety and social norms.
The international community has condemned the Taliban’s policies, with many urging the group to reverse its decisions to allow Afghan women greater participation in society.
Huang Xin, deputy dean of the School of International Education at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology, said, “Talent training programs and teaching plans for the new group of Rwandan students are being perfected based on the feedback from the first group of students.”
Vocational education, as an important bridge to continue the traditional friendship between China and Africa, shoulders the important responsibility of training variety of talents, passing on technical skills, promoting employment and entrepreneurship, and adding youth power to the dream of modernization for China and Africa. At present, China has built the world’s largest vocational education system.
In the system, Luban Workshops shines like a pearl in the international cooperation of China’s vocational education. Currently, more than 30 workshops have been jointly built in Asia, Europe and Africa. And nearly 10,000 students have been trained in academic education and more than 31,000 people received vocational training.
Jinhua’s cooperation with African countries in vocational education is a “golden card” for China-Africa educational exchanges and cooperation.
As the first batch of pilot institutions of “Future Africa– China-Africa Vocational Education Cooperation Plan” project, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology welcomed the first group of 30 Rwandan students involved in the Future of Africa—Vocational Education Cooperation Plan in April this year. They gained fruitful results during the year in Jinhua.
At Africa Tech Challenge (ATC) Season IX in 2024, MBONIMANA Philimine won the highest score while Tuyihimbaze Israel won the third prize.
In the finals of Industrial Robot Installation and Maintenance Technical Competition Season V(International Group) of the 2024 Belt and Road and BRICS Skills Development and Technological Innovation Competition, Tuyihimbaze Israel, Musengamana Eugene and Iradukunda Abel won the third prize; Umwali Ange Natacha, Ngabonziza Elie and Uwamahoro Alphonsine won the gold medal in the finals of the Finance and Business Circuit (International Group) of the 2024 World Vocational College Skills Competition, while Mbonimana Philimine won the bronze medal in the Equipment Manufacturing circuit (International Group).
Umwali Ange Natacha was also employed as the international communication envoy of Jin Hub and the promotion officer of Jinhua Mountain Cultural Travel, telling the good story of Jinhua to the world.
At present, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology is also preparing the graduation ceremony for these Rwandan students. The students say that they have lived an extremely fulfilling life in Jinhua and hope to become witnesses, beneficiaries, builders as well as story tellers of China-Africa friendship and cooperation.
Umwali Ange Natacha and Hafashimana Patrick say that they will stay in Jinhua after graduation and have signed letters of intent with Zhejiang Wandefu Intelligent Technology Co., LTD. and Jinhua Runxing Technology Co., LTD respectively.
“Most overseas students choose to return to their country after graduation. We have contacted Chinese enterprises in Rwanda through the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda and the Association of Overseas Chinese in Rwanda, and actively helped them realize their dream of returning to China.”
Qian Xiangming, dean of Musanze International College of Jinhua University of Vocational Technology says. He hopes that Rwandan students will innovate and explore “small but beautiful” cooperation projects when promoting local economic development, and become a link of business exchanges between Jinhua and Africa.
In the overseas development of vocational education for Africa, in addition to Jinhua University of Vocational Technology, Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College and Zhejiang Guangsha Vocational and Technical University of Construction are highly active as well.
In October 2023, Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College and Morocco Mondiapolis University cooperated in running an overseas branch – Morocco Yiwu Business School, jointly carrying out the training of international trade talents, big data technical talents, and e-commerce talents.
In 2018, Zhejiang Guangsha Vocational and Technical University of Construction gave full play to the industrial advantages of national intangible heritage Dongyang wood carving, and cooperated with the Ministry of Forestry of the Republic of the Congo to recruit the first batch of international students from the country, becoming the first vocational college in Zhejiang province to recruit international students in the field of arts and crafts.
At the end of March this year, it cooperated with Sassu University of the Republic of the Congo to build the “China-the Republic of the Congo Silk Road College”, carrying out all-round cooperation in running schools around personnel training, skills training and cultural exchanges.
The year was marked by several high-profile initiatives, collaborations, and projects aimed at tackling climate challenges and advancing the nation’s goals of reducing emissions, conserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable urban development.
From groundbreaking climate talks with Germany to cutting-edge waste management projects, Rwanda’s environmental journey in 2024 highlighted both local and global engagement.
This round-up brings together the key milestones, offering a comprehensive view of how the country continued its pursuit of a green, sustainable future.
{{Rwanda and Germany launch quarterly Kigali climate talks
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One of the most significant developments in Rwanda’s environmental sector in 2024 was the launch of the Kigali Climate Talks in May.
This quarterly series, a collaboration between Rwanda and Germany, was inaugurated by Rwanda’s then Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, and German Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann.
The talks aimed to foster dialogue on climate change, sustainability, and joint action.
The first session focused on Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, with discussions centred on the financial, technical, and capacity-building reforms needed to achieve Rwanda’s climate goals.
Dr. Mujawamariya reaffirmed Rwanda’s strong commitment to global climate targets and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, youth, and international partners in realizing the nation’s vision of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The talks will continue to provide a platform for actionable solutions, deepening the Rwanda-Germany climate partnership.
{{Rwanda inaugurates first municipal waste valorization facilities
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In June, Rwanda took another significant step towards environmental sustainability with the inauguration of its first municipal waste valorization facilities at the Nduba dumpsite.
This initiative, part of the ‘Waste to Resources Project,’ aims to revolutionize the country’s approach to waste management by transforming waste into valuable resources.
Funded by Luxembourg’s Ministry of Environment and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the project includes a waste sorting facility capable of processing 100 tons of waste daily, and a bio-waste treatment plant that turns organic waste into fertilizers.
Over the past few years, Rwanda has also implemented household waste sorting programs, awareness campaigns, and reverse vending machines in Kigali to promote recycling.
The waste valorization project not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 15,000 tons annually but also creates green jobs, advancing Rwanda’s vision of a zero-waste circular economy by 2035.
{{Rwanda, Sweden forge climate cooperation
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In September, Rwanda strengthened its international climate partnerships by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden.
This agreement focused on implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to collaborate on carbon markets and trade carbon credits to achieve more significant emissions reductions.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and the Swedish Energy Agency will work together on capacity building, technical analysis, and the development of work plans to advance both countries’ climate goals.
The collaboration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing role in global climate leadership and Sweden’s commitment to supporting emission reduction efforts in Africa.
Environment Minister Dr. Valentine Uwamariya emphasized that the partnership would help Rwanda meet its NDCs while fostering sustainable development.
{{Green Climate Fund approves $28 million for Kigali’s green city initiative
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Rwanda’s urban sustainability efforts received a boost in October with the announcement of a $28 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The grant will support the Green City Kigali project, which aims to transform Kigali into a model of sustainable urbanization with climate-resilient infrastructure.
As Kigali grows rapidly, nearly 77% of its population lives in informal settlements vulnerable to climate risks such as flooding and landslides.
The Green City initiative seeks to upgrade these settlements, incorporating sustainable solutions to improve climate resilience.
Over the next five years, the project will position Kigali as a regional leader in climate-conscious urban planning, reducing emissions and improving living conditions for residents.
Rwanda unveils AI-powered ‘interspecies money’ for gorilla conservation
In November, Rwanda launched an innovative conservation initiative, “Interspecies Money,” aimed at supporting gorilla conservation in Volcanoes National Park.
This AI-powered platform allows tourists to make real-time, symbolic contributions to conservation efforts through digital wallets.
The funds directly support vital activities such as hiring park rangers and protecting gorilla habitats.
The platform also provides income-generating opportunities for local communities, such as wildlife photography and conservation reporting.
{{Kigali to phase out petrol-powered motorbikes
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Rwanda’s push for clean mobility took a significant step forward in November with the announcement of a plan to phase out petrol-powered motorcycles in Kigali by January 2025.
The policy requires all new entrants into the motorcycle taxi business to use electric motorcycles, while existing petrol-powered bikes can continue operating for the time being.
This transition is part of Rwanda’s broader environmental strategy, aimed at reducing air pollution and improving air quality in urban areas.
The country is already investing in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as battery swapping stations.
The move reflects Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions, and it is expected to reduce carbon emissions while improving air quality in Kigali.
{{Rwanda leads global call for a treaty to end plastic pollution
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Rwanda continued to play a leadership role in global environmental advocacy in November 2024, when it called for a legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution at the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5).
As Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Rwanda urged nations to adopt a treaty that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastic pollution and promotes sustainable alternatives.
The country also advocated for a Multilateral Fund to help developing nations meet the treaty’s obligations, highlighting the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on vulnerable communities.
Rwanda’s call for a global treaty reflects its long-standing commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.
{{Rwanda’s call for global action on climate change at COP29
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At the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) held in November, Rwanda joined global leaders in calling for urgent action to combat climate change.
Minister Uwamariya stressed the severe impacts of climate change on Rwanda’s economy, noting that the country is already experiencing extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.
Rwanda’s commitment to reducing emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 was reaffirmed, and the country called for a more equitable climate finance framework to support developing nations.
Rwanda also urged high-emitting countries to accelerate emissions reductions and strengthen efforts to build a low-carbon future for all.
{{Rwandan ranger Claver Ntoyinkima honoured for conservation leadership
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In late November, Claver Ntoyinkima, a Senior Ranger Guide at Nyungwe National Park, was awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his outstanding contributions to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.
Ntoyinkima’s dedication to protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity has earned him international recognition.
His work includes anti-poaching patrols, primate habituation, and guiding scientific research, as well as founding conservation clubs for local youth.
His award was presented by Prince William at the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards in London, where he was celebrated for his tireless commitment to wildlife and community conservation.
The peace process, which took place at a time of heightened tension, was critical to stabilizing East Africa. Sudan’s government had been accused of supporting the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a rebel group waging an insurgency against Uganda.
Meanwhile, Uganda backed the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.
For Sudan, the peace talks were an opportunity to improve its international standing. After being designated a terrorist state by the U.S. in 1993, due to alleged ties to Osama bin Laden and the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania, Sudan’s leaders sought to repair their global reputation.
They turned to Jimmy Carter, hoping his influence could help alter U.S. policy toward Sudan.
On the Ugandan side, President Yoweri Museveni faced increasing military and economic pressures. His government was dealing with multiple insurgencies and struggling to meet World Bank demands to reduce military spending.
Museveni saw the peace process as an opportunity to stabilize the region and reallocate resources to other critical conflicts, including the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Carter’s involvement was grounded in years of prior engagement with Sudan. As early as 1995, he had brokered a ceasefire between warring factions in Sudan to allow for humanitarian aid.
His deep understanding of the region’s complexities positioned him as the ideal mediator for the Uganda-Sudan peace talks.
By 1999, both Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and Ugandan President Museveni agreed to invite Carter to mediate the negotiations. Despite the challenges posed by Museveni’s support for the SPLA, Carter believed that improved relations between Sudan and Uganda could create a foundation for broader regional peace.
His strategy involved engaging not just the governments but also armed groups like the SPLA and LRA, aiming to address the root causes of the conflict.
A significant challenge was Joseph Kony, leader of the LRA. Carter’s attempts to bring Kony to the table faltered, and efforts to arrange meetings between Kony and his parents as a trust-building gesture ended in failure.
Nevertheless, Carter’s persistence and diplomacy proved effective. In December 1999, his efforts culminated in the Nairobi Agreement, signed by Bashir and Museveni in the presence of Kenyan President Daniel Arap Moi.
The agreement called for both countries to cease support for each other’s rebel groups, improve the treatment of refugees, and restore full diplomatic ties.
Carter’s use of the “single document approach,” which he had previously applied at Camp David, ensured that both parties felt ownership of the agreement. The success of the Nairobi Agreement was a rare moment of cooperation in a region plagued by mistrust and conflict.
Carter’s work in Sudan and Uganda highlights his lifelong commitment to peace. His ability to bridge divides and foster trust between warring nations left a lasting legacy in East Africa.
He is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, and his legacy continues to inspire those who work toward peace and human rights.
The world has paid tribute to Carter, with U.S. President Joe Biden praising him as a leader whose life was measured not by words, but by deeds.
The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was a year-end celebration for 2024. During his address, the President reflected on Rwanda’s key moments throughout the year, both positive and challenging, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements and learning from setbacks.
He highlighted that this year included remembering Rwanda’s tragic history. Despite the pain, he stressed that Rwanda continues to commemorate its past while rebuilding and marking 30 years of liberation.
“This year, we remembered our loved ones for the 30th time. It was a year of remembrance and rebuilding, alongside commemorating 30 years of liberation,” he said.
The President also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the electoral process and addressed the recent Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. He noted that the outbreak has been successfully contained and extended condolences to families who lost their loved ones.
He commended healthcare workers and all individuals who risked their lives to safeguard others during these challenging times.
President Kagame underscored that Rwanda’s accomplishments should be celebrated as they are vital for the nation’s growth. However, he cautioned against complacency.
“As we celebrate, let us remain vigilant, both individually and collectively. We will not allow anyone to disrupt our security—not now, not ever,” he affirmed.
