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.
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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.
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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.
The United States was among the nations that voted to reduce the UN peacekeeping force in Rwanda during the genocide, significantly hampering the peacekeepers’ ability to effectively intervene and protect civilians.
The Genocide against the Tutsi began in April 1994, 13 years and two months after Jimmy Carter—who passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024—had left office as President of the United States.
Despite the international community’s inaction during those dark days, Carter demonstrated through his organization, the Carter Center, that there was still a role to play in preventing similar atrocities.
Carter was among the influential Americans who led efforts to engage leaders from the Great Lakes region to address the plight of Rwandan refugees who fled during the genocide, as well as génocidaires operating near Rwanda’s borders and launching sporadic attacks.
In an article titled “Hope is Not Lost” published on the Carter Center’s website on September 19, 1995, Carter emphasized that, after abandoning the Tutsi, the international community needed to prioritize Rwanda’s challenges as much as those in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He wrote that the world looked the other way the previous year when Rwandans died in the worst case of genocide since World War II.
Carter further stated that another 100,000 people had been killed in Burundi the year before.
“Instead of increasing its efforts to resolve this crisis, the international peace-keeping force is being withdrawn,” he noted.
“Two million exiles, mostly Hutus, now live in crowded camps in Zaire and Tanzania. They are restive and afraid—and a few are armed and aggressive. Militant Hutu refugees conduct night raids into Rwanda and return to their camps in Zaire before daybreak.”
Post-genocide security concerns in Rwanda, as well as ongoing violence in Burundi, prompted Carter to hold talks with leaders from the countries and mediators to seek solutions.
On October 8, 2024, Vince Farley, Carter’s Africa advisor, recounted Carter’s diplomatic efforts in the Great Lakes region. In November 1995, Carter visited Goma, a city hosting many Rwandan refugees.
Farley explained that the purpose of Carter’s visit was to meet with representatives of Rwandan refugees, including those based in the city and others from Europe.
During a meeting in a refugee camp, Carter addressed the Rwandans, explaining the Carter Center’s role in resolving conflicts in the Great Lakes region and recounting his visit to Rwanda, where he toured genocide memorial sites.
Farley recalled that, after outlining these efforts, Carter turned to the refugees and stated that some individuals in the room were architects of the Genocide against the Tutsi, warning them that justice would catch up with them.
Carter said to the génocidaires: “I know many of the leaders of this genocide are in this room, and I want to assure you that you will be brought to justice.”
His words, though seemingly delayed, eventually came to fruition as many génocidaires were apprehended through the efforts of international bodies, including Interpol, and brought to justice. However, more than 1,000 génocidaires remain in hiding worldwide to this day.
The 39th President of the United States, who served from 1977 to 1981, passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100.
Carter, born in 1924, had a diverse career as a naval officer, farmer, and governor of Georgia before serving as president from 1977 to 1981.
While the exact cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed, it is understood that his passing was due to natural causes associated with his advanced age and ongoing health issues.
He had in February 2023 opted to receive hospice care at his home following a series of health challenges, including a 2015 diagnosis of melanoma that had metastasized to his brain and liver.
The appreciation was conveyed through his end-of-year 2024, message to Rwanda’s Defence and Security Forces.
The President took the opportunity to reflect on the significant achievements of the year and encouraged the continued dedication of the forces.
“I take this moment to express my deepest gratitude for your service to our nation,” President Kagame stated, acknowledging the discipline and professionalism that have been the cornerstone of Rwanda’s Defence and Security Forces.
He emphasized that their efforts, even in the face of adversity, have ensured that Rwanda remains a symbol of peace, stability, and progress within the region and globally.
This year marked two key milestones in Rwanda’s history: 30 years of liberation and 20 years of active participation in peacekeeping operations.
These accomplishments, President Kagame pointed out, reflect Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation while contributing to global security efforts.
The President also took the opportunity to praise the forces for exemplifying the highest standards of patriotism, teamwork, and innovation in addressing modern security challenges.
“Your role in promoting Rwanda’s national interests and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our citizens is invaluable,” he said, underlining the importance of their work in advancing national and global peace.
As Rwanda looks toward the new year, President Kagame urged the Defence and Security Forces to continue upholding the principles of integrity and accountability that define them.
He encouraged vigilance and adaptability to evolving security threats while maintaining a firm focus on the shared goal of a secure, prosperous, and united Rwanda.
The President also recognized the sacrifices made by the families of those who have lost loved ones in service.
“I honour your sacrifice and assure you that we will always stand by your side and that the sacrifices shall never be in vain,” President Kagame assured the grieving families, expressing his deepest respect and commitment to honoring their memory.
The President also extended heartfelt wishes to all members of the Defence and Security Forces and their families for a joyful festive season and a successful year ahead.
Recent reports have highlighted incidents of violence against genocide survivors in certain parts of Rwanda.
These include killings, threats via unsigned letters and property damage.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, [retired diplomat ->https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-mutaboba-67930367/?originalSubdomain=uk] Ambassador Mutaboba lamented that even 30 years after the genocide, such actions persist.
“It is infuriating that after committing such heinous crimes, serving prison time, or seeing your accomplices held accountable, you would still come out and engage in the same hateful behaviors as 30 years ago is unacceptable,” he said.
Amb. Mutaboba pointed out that these acts undermine government efforts to foster unity among Rwandans. He also raised concerns about external influences encouraging division within the country.
“There’s more to be done. Efforts to educate Rwandans have been made, but we need to intensify them. Some people understand, while others either ignore or reject the teachings. If a child grows up exposed to harmful ideologies, those lessons shape their worldview,” he explained.
Amb. Mutaboba stressed the importance of teaching Rwanda’s youth the nation’s history comprehensively, starting from pre-colonial times, through colonial rule, and into the post-colonial era.
“We need to double down on teaching young people where Rwanda came from—how it was united before colonization. That history must be thoroughly explored and taught to the younger generation,” he said.
Amb. Mutaboba also acknowledged the existence of hidden forces working to sow division, urging a resolute and vigilant approach to counter these influences.
“It’s deeply troubling and frustrating. These divisive actions must stop, and the law must be enforced without compromise to set an example for anyone caught engaging in them,” he insisted.
Amb. Mutaboba called for stronger initiatives to discourage those who fuel such harmful activities within Rwanda.
“We must also address the enablers of these actions. Some individuals within the country engage in dangerous behaviors because they are paid small amounts of money. These people spread harmful ideologies, and that needs to end,” he said.
Amb. Mutaboba encouraged young people to counter false narratives about Rwanda’s history and avoid being misled by those who seek to distort the truth.
Jean Baptiste Gasominari, a lawyer, echoed Mutaboba’s concerns, stating that attacks against genocide survivors are fueled by persistent genocidal ideology in the region.
“We are in a region where the genocide ideology remains prevalent. This issue extends beyond Rwanda. Look at what has been happening in Burundi since 2015, or the ongoing situation in the eastern DRC. Many individuals claiming to oppose the Rwandan government spend their time on social media, radio, and television spreading hate. Eradicating these ideologies is no easy task,” Gasominari explained.
He also urged the Rwandan government to strengthen its efforts to educate citizens and address the challenges posed by those who continue to promote genocide ideology globally.
“Education must be continuous. The Rwandan government is doing its best to educate the population, counter these actions, and prevent new attempts. However, the government cannot be everywhere at once. The persistence of these actions is largely due to perpetrators of the genocide who remain free and active around the world,” he said.
Gasominari concluded by emphasizing that the primitive mindset of taking another person’s life is unacceptable and reflects a dangerously low level of moral and intellectual development.
Images and videos shared by the local media show protesters, mainly in Nairobi and Mombasa counties, holding placards demanding the government to “Stop Injustice” and “End the Abductions.”
A group of protesters stage peaceful demos at Aga Khan Walk, Nairobi, demanding release of those abducted pic.twitter.com/jb5zU9DFgG
The protests are being led by human rights organizations, lobby groups, youth, and survivors of abductions that occurred in June during the height of youth-led demonstrations. The earlier protests forced President William Ruto to shelve plans to introduce additional taxes through the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
In a communiqué released on Sunday, the organizers announced that nationwide demonstrations would be held in all 47 counties to condemn what they described as enforced disappearances.
The protesters argue that the demonstrations aim to pressure the government to release those believed to have been abducted, end arbitrary arrests, and address the demands voiced by Generation Z during the June protests.
At least five abductions have been reported in December alone, targeting critics of President Ruto’s administration. Among those missing are individuals who shared AI-generated images of Ruto in a casket—images that some deemed offensive.
One of the abductees is the popular cartoonist Kibet Bull, whose real name is Gideon Kibet. His satirical images of the president went viral. Kibet disappeared on Christmas Eve after meeting opposition senator Okiya Omtatah.
Kibet’s younger brother, Ronny Kiplangat, who has also been missing for several days, is believed by their family to have been used as bait by security forces to lure Kibet.
Besides sharing silhouette images of the Head of State, those abducted have been vocal on social media, accusing the government of corruption, failing to address unemployment, and not fulfilling its promises to revitalize the economy.
The police have denied any involvement in the incidents, stating that none of the missing persons are in their custody.
However, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in October for allegedly sabotaging President Ruto’s administration, claims the government is behind the abductions.
Speaking to the press in Nairobi on Friday, Gachagua alleged that the abductions are being conducted by a secret unit operating outside the authority of the Inspector General of Police.
“There’s a building in Nairobi, on the 21st floor in the city centre, where the unit operates from, led by a certain Mr. Abel. Abel is a cousin to a very senior official in this government,” Gachagua disclosed.
He threatened to reveal more details about the secret unit if the abducted individuals are not released.
Later that day, President Ruto, accompanied by opposition leader Raila Odinga—whose allies have joined Ruto’s Cabinet in a broad-based government formed after the Gen-Z protests—promised to address the issue of abductions.
Odinga condemned the state-linked abductions of government critics, stating that Kenya cannot become a “gangster state.”
Recognized as Kenya’s second liberation hero, Odinga was a victim of the oppressive regime of the late President Daniel Arap Moi during the fight for multiparty democracy in the 1990s. He warned that allowing such practices to persist could return the country to the dark days of the “Nyayo Torture Chambers.”
President Ruto acknowledged the public’s concerns but urged the youth to exercise discipline.
“We will stop the abductions so Kenyan youth can live in peace, but they must be disciplined and polite so that we can build Kenya together,” Ruto said during an event at a stadium in Homa Bay in western Kenya.
The legislation, set to take effect on January 19, would either force TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell the platform to an American company or result in a nationwide ban.
Trump’s appeal, filed just weeks before his inauguration, aims to buy time for a “political resolution” to the issue once he takes office.
TikTok’s troubles began when U.S. lawmakers accused ByteDance of posing a national security risk due to alleged ties with the Chinese government—claims the company has consistently denied.
Earlier this year, Congress passed a bill requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok, and President Biden signed it into law. Despite ByteDance’s legal challenges, no buyers have emerged, leaving the app’s future in limbo.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments on January 10 about whether the law infringes upon First Amendment rights. However, Trump’s legal team has requested a stay on the January 19 deadline, arguing that the incoming administration should have the opportunity to address the matter diplomatically.
Trump’s latest stance represents a stark departure from his 2020 efforts to ban TikTok over similar security concerns. His recent shift appears tied to his burgeoning presence on the platform during his presidential campaign, which he credits for his strong support among younger voters.
“I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok because I won youth by 34 points,” Trump remarked during a recent press conference, highlighting the app’s impact on his outreach efforts.
In a court filing, Trump’s lawyer, D. John Sauer, stated that the president-elect “takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute” but seeks a delay to “pursue a political resolution” to the complex tensions between free speech and national security.
Trump has also expressed confidence in his ability to broker a deal that would preserve TikTok’s operations in the U.S. without compromising security concerns.
The case has drawn sharp divides. Free speech advocates argue that banning TikTok would set a dangerous precedent akin to authoritarian censorship.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department and a coalition of 22 state attorneys general, led by Montana’s Austin Knudsen, contend that TikTok’s Chinese ownership poses an ongoing threat to American national security.
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, met with Trump twice in recent weeks, reportedly discussing potential paths forward. While TikTok has long maintained that its U.S. operations are independent—with data stored on Oracle servers and content moderation handled domestically—the allegations have persisted.
The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision could mark a pivotal moment for TikTok and its 170 million American users. If the court declines to delay the deadline and no deal is reached, the app faces an imminent ban just a day before Trump’s inauguration.
Trump’s legal team argues that extending the timeline would allow for a diplomatic solution that avoids litigation.
“The incoming administration has the mandate, expertise, and political will to address this matter in a way that safeguards national security while preserving free expression,” Sauer’s filing stated.
