In his message, the Pope emphasized the themes of hope, fraternity, and peace, all conveyed through the Eucharist.
The event, which attracted thousands of participants including clergy, religious, and lay faithful from both Rwanda and beyond, provided an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.
The message, which was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Bishop Vincent Harolimana, Bishop of Ruhengeri and delegate of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR) for the Eucharistic Congresses.
In his message, Pope Francis joined the faithful in Rwanda in their “joy” and “thanksgiving,” celebrating the significance of the event.
Reflecting on the conference’s theme, “Let us fix our gaze on Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist: a source of hope, fraternity, and peace,” he described Communion as the “centre of all Christian life” and a “tangible sign of Christ’s love for humanity.”
The Pope encouraged the faithful to live out this message by embracing the call to “give ourselves to others,” fostering collaboration to “build a civilisation of love.”
He further underscored the Eucharist’s role in inspiring Catholics to become missionaries of fraternity and hope, emphasizing the need to address the various “hungers” humanity faces, particularly the “hunger for meaning.”
Looking ahead to the 125th anniversary of Rwanda’s evangelisation and the upcoming Jubilee, Pope Francis urged the faithful to turn to “Christ, the bread of life,” and extend solidarity to those in vulnerable situations.
“We must be tangible signs of hope,” he reminded them, echoing the message of the Bull of Indiction for the Holy Year.
In his conclusion, Pope Francis highlighted the shared responsibility the Eucharist calls for, not only in responding to humanity’s physical needs but also in nurturing a spiritual hope “in the triune God.”
He stressed that the Eucharist’s nature is “essentially relational,” inviting people to live “in community” and break down barriers of “race, language, or cultural tradition.”
However, this potential is accompanied by significant challenges, including high unemployment rates, an outdated education system, and political exclusion. Despite these hurdles, Africa’s youth, particularly Generation Z, are determined to play an active role in shaping their societies.
Unemployment remains one of the most pressing issues facing Africa’s young population. With 40% of the youth unemployed, the situation is dire. The lack of job opportunities not only affects economic stability but also fuels social unrest, crime, and substance abuse.
Observers say that this youth unemployment crisis has far-reaching consequences. When young people are excluded from the job market, they become disillusioned and often turn to protests and uprisings.
The frustration of Generation Z, which constitutes 31% of Africa’s population, is palpable. These young people are demanding more than just promises. They want action. A major part of the solution lies in reforming the education system to better align with today’s economic demands.
At the ongoing African Education and Youth Employability Forum in Nouakchott, Mauritania, President Paul Kagame has called for urgent need to reform Africa’s education systems. He shares the view that Africa’s growing youth population is a critical driver of economic growth, this opportunity cannot simply just go to waste.
“In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce. This generation has the potential of becoming a powerful engine for growth and prosperity—not just for Africa, but for the rest of the world,” he said.
Experts believe that many African countries still offer curricula that fail to prepare students for the modern job market. Graduates often lack the practical skills needed to thrive in industries that are rapidly evolving due to technological advancements.
It means Africa must invest in industry-based education and ensure that young people graduate with skills that directly correlate with the needs of employers. More importantly, the education system must shift from preparing students for traditional, white-collar jobs to cultivating entrepreneurs.
Aby Agina, a financial journalism expert says that young Africans today are not just looking for employment, they are eager to create opportunities for themselves and their communities.
“But the power of Africa’s youth does not stop at economics. Young people across the continent are also calling for more political engagement. They are rejecting the outdated notion that they are “leaders of tomorrow. They are the “leaders of today,” Agina says.
According to him, Rwanda stands out as an example of positive youth integration into governance. With young people holding key positions in both the public and private sectors, Rwanda has demonstrated that youth inclusion is not only possible but also essential for national progress.
Technology has also become a powerful tool for Africa’s youth in driving change. Many young people are using digital platforms to launch businesses, access global markets, and push for social justice.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents a unique opportunity for Africa’s youth to leapfrog traditional barriers to success. Rather than fearing AI as a threat to employment, young people can use it to enhance productivity, conduct research, and improve their businesses.
Social media, too, has become a platform for youth to raise awareness on critical issues, mobilize for social change, and build entrepreneurial ventures. By embracing technology, Africa’s youth can redefine the continent’s economic and social landscape.
The private sector and civil society also have crucial roles to play in empowering Africa’s youth. The private sector is the largest source of employment on the continent, and by creating more job opportunities and supporting youth-focused initiatives, businesses can help tackle the unemployment crisis.
Similarly, civil society organizations are essential in mobilizing young people and providing them with the tools and platforms to advocate for change. Governments must collaborate with these sectors to create a conducive environment where youth can thrive, innovate, and contribute to national development.
The power of Africa’s youth lies in their ambition, resilience, and drive to create a better future. However, to unlock their full potential, African governments, private sectors, and civil society must provide the right opportunities, resources, and platforms for engagement.
If this happens, Africa’s youth can lead the way in driving transformative change—not just in their own countries, but across the continent and globally.
Africa’s future lies with its bold, tech-savvy youth. With the right support, they can drive progress and create a brighter, more prosperous continent for all.
The project, located on the shores of Lake Mugesera in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province, is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s efforts to enhance water security.
The loan agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of the project in promoting economic and social progress.
“This agreement reflects ADFD’s commitment to financing infrastructure projects that promote economic and social progress in beneficiary countries. It also underscores our commitment to strengthening and advancing our strategic partnership with the Republic of Rwanda, contributing to the development of key sectors vital to the country’s growth,” he said.
The Karenge Water Treatment Plant project will expand transmission and distribution systems, ensuring clean and sustainable water supplies to critical areas in Rwanda. By incorporating advanced technologies, the initiative aims to improve the efficiency of water systems, address growing demand, and strengthen the nation’s water security.
Ambassador Mirenge expressed Rwanda’s appreciation for ADFD’s support, saying that cooperation with ADFD demonstrates the UAE’s steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable development globally.
“The expansion of the water transmission and distribution systems at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant is a critical initiative to achieve our national objectives of providing clean water to our population and developing robust and sustainable water infrastructure to meet the needs of communities,” the ambassador remarked.
The initiative is also expected to create jobs and elevate the quality of life for Rwandan citizens.
As part of a larger program to ensure Kigali’s self-sufficiency in water supply, the project will include the construction of a water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic meters, along with expanded distribution systems to key areas of the capital.
The forum, themed “Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa,” brought together African leaders to address key challenges in education and youth employment.
Kagame pointed to the vast potential of Africa’s growing youth population, describing it as a critical driver of economic growth.
“In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce,” he said.
“We cannot let this opportunity go to waste. This generation has the potential of becoming a powerful engine for growth and prosperity—not just for Africa, but for the rest of the world.”
The Rwandan Head of State stressed the need to equip young people with skills aligned with modern labour market demands.
“What we need to do is equip these young people with the skills and expertise to meet the demands of the labour market,” Kagame noted, highlighting the partnership with UNICEF for digital skills and connectivity as a promising model.
Kagame also emphasized the importance of increased investment in education, citing Rwanda’s efforts.
“In Rwanda, we have increased the share of education spending in our budget from 11% in the year 2020 to 17.7% in the year 2024,” he stated.
Beyond increased funding, he highlighted the importance of quality reforms, saying, “The focus should be on quality if we want to see long-term results. This means training and hiring better-qualified teachers, modernizing the curriculum, and encouraging critical thinking rather than rote memorization.”
He further urged African nations to take ownership of their education strategies, reducing dependence on external support.
“Effective partnerships should not be confused with outsourcing responsibility or leadership. It is not a question about being big or small or having sufficient resources; it is about making the right choices. This is well within Africa’s means,” Kagame asserted.
Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani in collaboration with the African Union and UNICEF, the forum aimed to explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children, improve learning outcomes, and prepare youth to tackle Africa’s challenges.
The president closed with a call to action, urging leaders to create opportunities that discourage risky migration in search of better prospects.
“As we speak, many young Africans are putting their lives in danger to go find better opportunities abroad. This is a sign that we need to do more to empower our youth,” he remarked.
“Africa is our common home, and we must ensure that every African has a future on this continent.”
The forum’s outcomes are expected to inform policies to revamp education systems and boost youth employability, strengthening Africa’s position in the global economy.
Among the leaders present at the forum were President Muhammadu Ghazouani of Mauritania, who hosted the event and currently chairs the African Union; President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria; and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and Ted Chaiban, Deputy Director of UNICEF were also in attendance.
Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed more than five years ago, he is accused of advancing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family.
He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in return for assistance with personal matters.
Netanyahu arrived at the Tel Aviv courthouse around 10:00 a.m., where he was met by a mixed crowd of protesters and supporters. Some expressed support, while others urged him to intensify efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Coalition ministers and lawmakers, responding to a call from Netanyahu’s office the previous night, also attended to show support.
At the start of the session, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, criticized the Israeli judicial system, calling the trial “political persecution.” Hadad described the indictment as “flawed and invalid” and argued that the case should have been dismissed.
Netanyahu began his testimony at approximately 11:30 a.m., opening with the statement, “I have waited eight years for this moment to tell the truth as I remember it.” He described his testimony as “an opportunity to puncture the baseless accusations” against him.
Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for more than 17 years, holds the record as the country’s longest-serving leader.
Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.
However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.
In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.
He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.
“Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.
“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,” Brammertz stated.
Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.
He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.
Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.
He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.
Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.
Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.
On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.
RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.
These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.
Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.
This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.
This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.
The promotional event for the “Visit Rwanda” campaign kicked off on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel in Paris and continued on December 10 at the Amigo Hotel in Brussels, Belgium.
The event aimed to showcase Rwanda’s tourist attractions and investment potential in the country’s growing tourism sector.
This initiative aligns with the cooperation agreements within the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes Rwanda alongside nations such as Belgium, France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
Through this partnership, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign, providing a platform for stakeholders in Rwanda’s tourism sector to highlight how they deliver exceptional services to visitors.
The event in Paris gathered around 50 tourism professionals, eager to explore potential collaborations with Rwanda after learning about the country’s opportunities in the sector.
Rwanda’s delegation was led by Kageruka Ariella, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, who was joined by representatives from various Rwandan tour operators: Musoni Betty from Primate Safaris, Hategekimana Lambert from Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza from Songa Africa, and Musonera Mugisha Davidson from Wildlife Tours Rwanda.
RwandAir, represented by Higiro Déogratias, was also present, along with other key participants such as Amani Emmanuel from Blue Monkey Tours, Denis Lefebvre from Palast Tours & Travels, Nsengiyumva Barakabuye from Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Ndandari Philbert from Respafrica Tours.
The event was officially opened by Nkulikiyimfura François, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, who praised the attendees and tourism agency representatives for their contributions to promoting Rwanda’s tourism sector.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura stated, “You are all partners, and we are pleased to advocate for the tourism sector in Rwanda, which will open more doors for visitors eager to explore the beauty of Rwanda. You have the responsibility to provide information that highlights Rwanda and encourages potential visitors to come.”
He highlighted Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, its clean cities recognized as the cleanest in Africa and its rich cultural heritage, including the gorillas, national parks, and the recent inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
“The moment you arrive in Kigali, you will find a city that is not only beautiful but also welcoming, with warm-hearted people eager to share their stories,” he added.
Ambassador Nkulikiyimfura also expressed hope that the event would inspire attendees to become enthusiastic ambassadors for Rwanda, guiding their clients and peers to experience the country’s wonders. He invited them to imagine enjoying a sunset over the volcanoes while savoring Rwandan coffee or tea.
Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, also addressed the attendees, presenting Rwanda’s tourist attractions with visual aids and explanations.
She reminded the audience that citizens of member countries of the OIF, African Union, and Commonwealth can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kanombe Airport at no cost.
Kageruka encouraged the guests to engage with Rwandan tourism stakeholders, creating new connections and discovering the treasures Rwanda has to offer.
The evening’s festivities included traditional Rwandan performances by the Intore, adding cultural depth and vibrancy to the event.
Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.
This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.
Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.
His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.
Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.
He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.
At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp, where both refugee children and local Rwandan students are benefiting from this digital revolution.
The tech-driven learning program, launched in 2021, is part of a broader effort by the Rwandan government, in collaboration with international partners like the UNHCR, World Vision International, and ProFuturo, a Spanish-based organization.
The initiative aims to bring digital learning to schools in districts like Kirehe, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Gisagara, Karongi, and Gicumbi.
Currently, the program reaches 15 schools near refugee camps, benefiting over 16,000 students, including both refugee and Rwandan children in grades 4 to 6. The program provides students with tablets loaded with educational software, offering them a unique opportunity to learn in ways that were not possible before.
More than 500 teachers have been trained to use these digital tools, enhancing their teaching methods and improving student engagement.
Ange Brinella Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE, shared how the use of technology has transformed her learning experience.
“Before, teachers would write on the board, and sometimes it was hard to understand. But with tablets, we can see visual explanations of the subjects. We use them for Kinyarwanda, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies,” she said.
Nick Rafael Ishimwe, another Grade 6 student, added, “When we used to take tests on paper, it would take weeks for the teacher to grade them. Now, we take the tests on the tablet, and we see our results immediately. It makes learning more effective.”
Teachers have also noticed improvements in how students are engaging with lessons. Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher, explained that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.
“I prepare exercises on the computer, and each student can access them right away. After completing the exercises, they are graded instantly. This allows me to see who is making progress and who needs help,” he says.
The use of technology has also had a positive effect on student motivation. “When I tell the students that we will be using technology, no one wants to miss class. They are excited to engage with the tools,” said Nibitura.
Since the introduction of the program in 2022, academic performance has improved. “The first sign of success is when a student powers on the device, logs in, and starts learning on their own,” said Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director.
“Last year, 57 students graduated from primary school, and all of them passed. Ten of them received confirmation to continue their studies at secondary schools,” he reveals.
Despite the program’s success, there are still challenges, particularly with the number of tablets available. “In Grade 6, there are four classrooms with tablets, but only 96 tablets for the entire school. We hope to get more so that every student can benefit,” Ntamunoza said.
The ProFuturo program has equipped the schools with tablets containing Rwanda’s national curriculum, along with computers and other technological tools. Three computer labs have been built in Mahama, Nyabiheke, and Kiziba refugee camps, and teachers have received training on how to use these tools to enhance their teaching methods.
This tech-driven learning program is not only improving education for refugee children but also fostering integration between refugees and the local population.
Through these digital tools, students are gaining the skills necessary to succeed in a digital world, while also helping to bridge the gap between refugee and local communities. With continued support, this initiative has the potential to provide every child in Rwanda, regardless of their background, with a brighter, tech-enabled future.
