Covering an area of 6,736 hectares across the Gicumbi and Burera districts, Rugezi Marsh is one of Rwanda’s most vital wetlands. It serves as a crucial water source for the Burera and Ruhondo lakes, which supply water to the Ntaruka and Mukungwa hydroelectric power stations.
In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.
Despite its ecological importance, the species inhabiting the marsh were not fully documented until the recent research initiative launched in 2023.
Among the new discoveries are two species recorded in Rwanda for the first time: a butterfly known as the Hydrilla Leafcutter Moth and climbing plant species, Zehneria tridactyla.
Researchers documented 197 plant species, including 109 previously unrecorded in the marsh. They also identified 127 bird species, 28 of which are new to the region.
The marsh hosts an array of aquatic life, with 82 newly identified invertebrate species, 14 amphibian species (eight of which are newly discovered), and 13 reptile species (10 of them previously unknown).
Regarding mammals, 53 species were recorded, including 22 species of bats. Three fish species were also found, one of which is newly discovered. The study also unveiled 149 species of arthropods, including 49 butterfly species, all previously undocumented in the Rugezi Marsh.
Laure Rurangwa, a lead researcher with expertise in bird species, emphasized the significance of this thorough biodiversity study.
She pointed out that it marks the first time such an in-depth investigation has been carried out in Rugezi, stressing the need for ongoing research to better understand the genetic composition of these species, which will contribute to global conservation initiatives.
Rurangwa also mentioned the possibility of discovering species entirely new to science as genetic analysis continues.
Dr. Olivier Nsengimana, Executive Director of the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA), underscored the importance of this research, particularly the conservation of cranes, a species of special concern in Rwanda.
The Rugezi Marsh is home to nearly a quarter of the country’s crane population, which has grown from 487 in 2007 to 1,293 today, thanks to continued conservation efforts.
Faustin Munyazikwiye, Deputy Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), highlighted the critical role the marsh plays in Rwanda’s environment and energy sectors.
He recalled the 2001-2002 power shortage caused by a decrease in water levels at the Ntaruka power station, later traced back to the drying of Rugezi Marsh.
Restoration efforts were successfully completed by 2010, and today the marsh is thriving, with ongoing collaboration between authorities and local communities to protect the area and provide sustainable livelihoods for those living nearby.
“Yes, the number has risen. Two more cases have been reported, bringing the total to six,” Niyingabira told IGIHE.
The first case was confirmed in July, with the initial four cases involving individuals who had recently traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
More than 22,000 suspect cases, with more than 1,200 suspected deaths, have been reported in DRC since January 1, 2023.
In response, Rwanda recently launched its first phase of a vaccination campaign, aiming to vaccinate 10,000 people. This initiative focuses on high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, cross-border traders, hospitality staff, and others likely to be exposed to the virus.
Sources indicate that the vaccination of 10,000 individuals is expected to be completed within one week.
Across Africa, 2,912 new Monkeypox cases have been reported within a week, including 374 new infections and 14 deaths. The spread of a new variant, referred to as clade 1b, has raised concerns, with cases detected in the DRC, Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda.
On September 13, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the use of the MVA-BN vaccine for Monkeypox. This vaccine had already been authorized in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.
Developed by Danish pharmaceutical company Bavaria Nordic A/S, the vaccine is administered to individuals aged 18 and older in two doses. The second dose is given four weeks after the first. In Rwanda, the current vaccination campaign is administering a single dose of 0.5 ml.
Research indicates that the first dose of the vaccine provides 76% protection against Monkeypox, with the second dose increasing protection to 82%.
{{Symptoms and treatment of Monkeypox}}
Monkeypox symptoms usually appear three to 14 days after infection. The virus typically causes a rash that starts on the face, hands, and genital areas, but it can spread to other parts of the body. The rash consists of fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry up and form scabs as the individual recovers.
In addition to the rash, patients often experience fever, which may be mild or severe, and fatigue.
With appropriate treatment, most patients recover within two to three weeks after symptoms first appear.
This dedication was highlighted during the International Conference on Technological Advancement in Embedded and Mobile Systems, held from September 19-20, 2024.
The event brought together researchers from various universities across East Africa and Germany, aiming to promote mobile technology as a critical tool for progress.
UTAB’s Vice-Chancellor, Father Dr. Gilbert Munana, emphasized the significance of the conference as an opportunity for Rwanda to exchange ideas and ensure inclusivity in the digital age.
He explained that technological advancements, particularly in mobile systems, are increasingly central to modern life and education, making it important for everyone to understand their capabilities.
Dr. Munana highlighted how almost every sector now involves some form of computing, and noted that the foundation of this shift lies in understanding the intelligence behind both stationary and mobile technology.
He further pointed out that the conference aligns with UTAB’s objective of launching advanced computer science programs, and the knowledge gained will contribute to the improvement of these courses.
Looking ahead, UTAB intends to offer courses that are not limited to academic settings but also aim to benefit the general public.
Dr. Munana stressed the importance of helping citizens realize that their phones can be used for more than just entertainment, such as for practical tasks like ordering groceries remotely, no matter their location, even in smaller towns like Byumba.
Engineer Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Education, underscored how technology has already become an integral part of everyday life, necessitating a shift in traditional practices.
He mentioned that farming methods, for example, should be modernized with technological tools, and highlighted how technology, such as cameras, has played a role in reducing traffic accidents by monitoring speed violations.
Gatabazi added that technology also enables people to perform tasks like withdrawing money and making payments remotely, stressing that Rwanda is advancing in this area and that it is essential for all sectors to keep pace with technological progress.
He emphasized that when people come together to share ideas and collaborate, growth becomes inevitable.
Professor Kisangiri Michael, representing the Centre of Excellence for ICT in East Africa (CENIT@EA), shared that the institution has provided over 148 young people with education in mobile technology. He pointed out that mobile technology has significantly impacted daily life in East Africa, with phones now replacing the need to carry physical cash.
Kisangiri stressed that further development in mobile technology is needed to continue driving regional progress and promoting knowledge-sharing in countries like Rwanda and Tanzania.
The conference attracted participants from universities across East Africa, including Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ghana, as well as institutions from Europe and Asia, fostering an environment of knowledge-sharing and collaboration to support technological growth.
The official signing ceremony marked the beginning of this strategic initiative, which seeks to provide financial backing for SMEs in key sectors of the economy contributing to decent job creation and inclusive green growth.
Through this collaboration, the Embassy of Sweden in Kigali will cover 70% of the SME loan portfolio, ensuring that qualifying SMEs can access loans with flexible terms ranging from US$5,000 to US$350,000 for a period of 3 to 60 months. This 8-year coverage period will allow eligible businesses to scale their operations, contribute to economic development, and create employment opportunities.
Eligible sectors include Agriculture, Light manufacturing, Logistics, Renewable energy, Water and waste management, Export oriented SMEs, Tourism and Hospitality, Affordable Housing development and green building materials, Information and Communication Technology.
Commenting on the development; Dr. Diane Karusisi, the CEO of the Bank of Kigali, expressed excitement about this partnership and described it as a game-changer for SMEs in Rwanda.
“By providing a safety net that allows us to extend more flexible and accessible financing, we are enabling businesses to innovate, expand, and compete on a larger scale. At Bank of Kigali, we believe that empowering SMEs is crucial for driving inclusive growth, and this guarantee is a powerful step towards a more dynamic and resilient Rwandan economy,” she said.
Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR), as the strategic partner of the facility, will work closely with BK by providing technical assistance, supporting the optimal utilisation of the guarantee, and monitoring impact while capturing learnings. Their involvement will ensure that the facility achieves its objectives and that best practices are integrated throughout the implementation of the initiative.
Jean Bosco Iyacu, CEO of Access to Finance Rwanda, added that this partnership complements Bank of Kigali’s ongoing efforts to channel more capital into the SME sector.
“BK is a long-standing partner in AFR’s journey to drive innovation and support key sectors of the economy and rural areas. We are delighted to continue this relationship through this first SME-Centric Portfolio Guarantee Scheme. This initiative addresses the collateral constraints mainly faced by youth and women owned SMEs across Rwanda, and we anticipate it will play a crucial role in unlocking growth and creating dignified employment opportunities,” he noted.
Martina Fors Mohlin, Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Sweden, noted, “Our partnership with Bank of Kigali aligns with our mission to promote economic inclusive sustainable development in Rwanda. By providing the guarantee instrument, we strive to create a positive impact on job creation, gender equality and youth entrepreneurship.”
{{About Bank of Kigali Plc}}
Bank of Kigali, established in 1966, is Rwanda’s largest financial institution. As a leading commercial bank, it provides a wide range of services, including digital banking, to over 500,000 customers through an extensive branch network and digital platforms. BK is committed to fostering innovation and economic growth through targeted financial solutions for individuals, SMEs, and corporations.
{{Swedish development cooperation with Rwanda}}
The Swedish development cooperation with Rwanda is governed by a strategy for the period 2020 – 2024. The strategy focuses on human rights, democracy and gender equality; environment and climate; and more inclusive economic growth. In addition, support is provided for building up domestic research capacity in Rwanda.
With this strategy, Sweden will increase its commitment to contribute to an environmentally sustainable and including growth. The strategy also contributes to an inclusive economic development and growth, improved conditions for and increased access to productive employment and decent work, corporate social responsibility, and free and fair trade, including in rural areas.
{{About Access to Finance Rwanda (AFR) }}
AFR is a Rwandan not for Profit Company , established in 2010 to promote financial inclusion and financial sector development in Rwanda. AFR supports the removal of systemic barriers that hinder access and usage of financial services by low-income people, particularly the unserved segments including young people, women, MSMEs, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), refugees and the informal sector.
The discussions were held on Friday, September 20, 2024 as confirmed by Rwanda’s Presidency.
President Kagame also held discussions with Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong.
According to the Presidency’s message shared on X account, the leaders “renewed their commitment to a strong bilateral partnership and exchanged views on shared values of good governance and leadership aimed at transforming the lives of citizens.”
The two leaders also welcomed the signing of a renegotiated Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, which will help boost investment opportunities between the two countries.
Besides, President Kagame attended a luncheon hosted by Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong at Istana, the office of the president of Singapore.
The two leaders discussed global affairs and the impact of technology on development, as well as the productive economic partnership between their countries and its tangible benefits.
Lee Hsien Loong, who served as Singapore’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2024, first visited Rwanda In 2022, marking his first trip to both Rwanda and Africa.
Rwanda and Singapore enjoy robust bilateral relations, particularly in areas such as investment, trade, education, rule of law, technology, and air transport services.
Both nations are members of FOSS, an organization established in 1992 by Singapore, which comprises small nations working together to address global challenges and promote development.
The bilateral relationship was further strengthened on September 29, 2023, when Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET) and Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to renew and deepen cooperation.
Signed by Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Singapore, and Wy Mun Kong, CEO of SCE, the five-year MoU focuses on key sectors such as ICT and cybersecurity, sustainability and climate change, urban planning, infrastructure development, and capacity building.
High-level visits continue to bolster ties between the two nations. President Kagame, who is on his fourth visit to Singapore, also attended the 11th Annual Asia Summit on September 19, where he participated in a fireside chat moderated by Richard Ditizio, CEO of the Milken Institute.
The discussion centered on Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation journey.
Singapore is one of the wealthiest countries globally, with a 2023 GDP of $501 billion, up from $0.70 billion in 1960. Its per capita GDP in 2023 stood at $84,600, reflecting its remarkable economic growth.
The Angolan President’s Office confirmed the development through a message shared on social media.
It further mentioned that President Lourenço sent Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete António, as a special envoy to Kinshasa to meet with DRC President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi in the framework of Angola’s broader efforts to mediate and resolve the security crisis in eastern DRC.
The conversation between Kagame and Lourenço followed a September 14, 2024, ministerial meeting in Luanda, where officials from Rwanda and the DRC discussed crucial issues, including the dismantling of the FDLR terrorist group and efforts to cease hostilities between conflicting parties in North Kivu province.
Despite these discussions, reports indicate that the recent Luanda talks did not result in concrete outcomes. The DRC delegation rejected Angola’s proposal for cooperation in dismantling the FDLR and declined the idea of engaging in dialogue with the M23 rebel group, which controls large swathes in North Kivu.
On September 18, President Lourenço also met with Huang Xia, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region. Their discussions centered on the progress of the Luanda talks. Huang Xia, who had previously visited Kigali and Kinshasa, expressed the UN’s full support for Angola’s continued efforts to secure peace and stability in eastern DRC.
Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC escalated following the resurgence of the M23 rebel group.
While the DRC accuses Rwanda of backing M23, Kigali strongly denies these claims and, in turn, accuses the DRC of collaborating with FDLR. Rwanda insists that DRC should address its internal issues without involving Kigali in its mess.
The money was recovered on Thursday, September 19, from a 24-year suspect, who was working for the victim.
The suspect, who was handed over to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), allegedly stole US$17,200 from his boss, on Wednesday, September 18, at about 9p.m.
“The victim reported the alleged theft that night in Kigali and the search for his employee, who was the prime suspect, commenced,” Superintendent of Police (SP) Jean Bosco Mwiseneza, the Police spokesperson for the Northern region, said.
“On Thursday, at about 9a.m, Police received information from a resident in Musanze town, about the prime suspect. He was arrested at a forex bureau, where he was exchanging the money. At the time, he had already wired Frw12, 680,000 to his bank account and had Frw1 million cash,” he added.
SP Mwiseneza thanked the resident, who provided information that led to the arrest of the prime suspect and recovery of the money.
Article 166 of law determining offences and penalties in general states that; any person convicted of theft is liable to imprisonment for a term of not less than one (1) year and not more than two (2) years and a fine of not less than Frw1 million and not more than Frw2 million, community service in a period of six (6) months or only one of these penalties.
In a message shared on its social media platforms on the evening of September 19, 2024, the Ministry of Health emphasized that this vaccination effort is part of Rwanda’s ongoing strategy to prevent and combat the spread of MPox, a virus that has affected many African countries, including Rwanda, where cases have already been reported.
Julien Mahoro Niyingabira, spokesperson for the Ministry, recently told IGIHE that Rwanda’s approach to preventing MPox focuses on vaccinating those at greatest risk. He clarified, “We will not begin by vaccinating everyone. Certain groups are more vulnerable, and they will be prioritized based on vaccine availability. As the situation evolves, additional groups may also be considered for vaccination.”
The African Union is coordinating vaccine distribution across several African nations, assisting in the containment of MPox on the continent.
In Rwanda, all four individuals who contracted MPox in July have received treatment and been discharged. Health authorities have reassured the public that the country is well-equipped to manage and treat MPox cases, should more arise.
Meanwhile, the outbreak has significantly impacted the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has recorded over 22,000 cases and more than 715 deaths in 2024.
The virus has now spread to 22 of DRC’s 26 provinces and is present in 13 other African countries. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has allocated $600 million over six months to combat the virus globally.
Health officials continue to stress the importance of preventive measures such as frequent handwashing and avoiding sexual contact—both protected and unprotected—to prevent the virus’s transmission.
MPox symptoms typically manifest within three to fourteen days of infection and include a rash that primarily affects the face, hands, and genitals.
The rash begins as small fluid-filled blisters that dry out and form scabs as the patient heals. In addition to the rash, individuals may experience fever, fatigue, and weakness.
Recovery generally takes two to three weeks, and none of the patients treated in Rwanda have required prolonged hospitalization or succumbed to the virus.
Rwanda has reported cases of the less severe grade 1B strain of MPox, similar to that found in the DRC. In contrast, West Africa has seen cases of the more severe grade 2 strain.
This follows an International call by President Emerson Mnangagwa in April 2024 declaring a nationwide state of emergency where President Kagame swiftly responded as it is in the culture of Rwandans to stand with each other in times of crisis.
“It is with a deep sense of humility that I officiate at this momentous occasion to receive humanitarian assistance by our all-weather friend, the Government Rwanda,” Garwe said.
“I am very grateful to the Government of Rwanda for responding positively to the clarion call for support by the Government of Zimbabwe following the 2023/24 Elnino induced drought disaster that we are grappling with. This is a clear demonstration of our seamless relationship,” Garwe added.
“The donation has come at a time when Government and partners are accelerating the implementing of the overarching Food Deficit Mitigation Strategy and it will be distributed to the drought stricken communities across the country.” He emphasized.
Both Rwanda and Zimbabwe have a very special bilateral relationship based selflessness and mutual interests which are being fostered through various cooperation agreements.
During the Zimbabwe-Rwanda Trade and Investment Conference held in Harare in 2022, the two nations signed some cooperation agreements that are aimed at enhancing trade and investment between the two nations with the view to improving the standard and quality of life of the people of Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The cooperation specifically targets Trade and Investment, Mining, Education, Tourism and Agriculture among others.
Overall, the cooperation between Zimbabwe and Rwanda is poised to enhance economic growth, promote cultural exchange, and further strengthen bilateral ties.
In May 2023, Mnangagwa mobilised humanitarian support for victims of flooding and landslides in Rwanda which claimed dozens of lives.
While each has unique aspects, China’s efforts to rise from a shattered past to becoming a global giant, speaks volumes about what it can offer and help the African continent along its development journey.
In 2021, China eliminated extreme poverty, lifting 770 million people out of poverty since 1978.
This is one of many examples , highlighting the yielding efforts of the Chinese people under the guidance of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
Meanwhile, reports indicate that about 429 million people in Africa live below the extreme poverty line.
As China continues to urbanize, the Shiyou model demonstrates how thoughtful governance and resource integration can make a tangible difference in people’s lives, which Africa can leverage to develop more home grown solutions to enhance the wellbeing of its population.
Located in Dashiba Sub-district, Jiangbei District, Chongqing Municipality, Shiyou Community stands as a testament to modern community care and governance.
Originally established in 2001 as a residential area for a petroleum company, Shiyou has evolved from its industrial roots into a thriving hub focused on fostering a resident-friendly environment.
Covering an area of 0.33 square kilometers, the community accommodates over 5,000 residents from 2,510 households. Despite its past, Shiyou has redefined itself with forward-thinking initiatives, notably its model for elderly home-based care.
At the core of Shiyou’s transformation is its unique governance model, which integrates resources through community space construction and social space reconstruction. This initiative seeks to establish a governance system centered on all-lifestyle scenarios, all-age services, and all-process involvement.
According to Huang Haiyan, the head of the community, Shiyou’s primary goal is to provide residents with convenient, comprehensive services that improve their quality of life.
This focus on modern governance and service has earned Shiyou numerous accolades, including the prestigious National Civilized Community Demonstration Site and National Model Community for Creating Learning-Based Families.
{{Building an inclusive, modern community}}
Shiyou Community’s efforts to shape a modern community environment are evident in its all-lifestyle approach. Gone are the days of traditional platform-based offices. Instead, the community has reorganized its six functional divisions within the Party-Masses Service Center into undifferentiated processing windows, bolstered by intelligent equipment.
The result? A 24/7 intelligent station that delivers one-stop services for residents.
These services encompass everything from single-window integrated processing and proactive life assistance to online processing with remote guidance. Shiyou has also established a 15-minute urban living circle by transforming 13 stores into “neighborhood living bazaars.”
These diversified establishments cater to the daily needs of residents, offering household appliance repairs, grocery shopping, laundry services, and even volunteer clinics. By providing convenient, high-frequency services, Shiyou ensures that residents are never far from the help they need.
{{All-age services}}
Perhaps the most notable aspect of Shiyou’s community care model is its commitment to supporting residents of all ages, particularly its elderly population. Recognizing the challenges faced by senior citizens, especially those living alone or with mobility issues, Shiyou has transformed five stores into senior citizen canteens. These canteens operate under a service model that includes centralized meal distribution, nearby dining options, and door-to-door delivery.
This initiative has been a game-changer for elderly residents. With an average daily attendance of more than 370, the canteens have become a sustainable solution to the dining needs of the elderly. To further support this group, meal prices are subsidized based on age. Seniors aged 60 to 75 pay just 13 Yuan per meal, while those aged 80 and above enjoy meals for only 10 Yuan. Managed by the Center for Senior Citizens’ Care, the canteens provide nutritious meals and foster a sense of community among the elderly residents.
Beyond meal services, Shiyou offers a range of activities that engage residents of all ages. Fun knowledge quizzes, youth quality enhancement programs, and shared parenting spaces contribute to the vibrant, intergenerational atmosphere within the community. These initiatives ensure that residents not only receive essential services but also have opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together.
{{Grid-based services}}
Shiyou’s success lies in its collaborative governance approach, which involves residents at every stage of decision-making. To facilitate this, the community has adopted a grid-based governance system—a widely used model in China that divides the area into smaller grids for more effective management. This system allows for more personalized services and improved governance efficiency.
The community has selected 12 key individuals, including officials and governance team members, to serve as grid chiefs. Their efforts have led to the resolution of various property conflicts and the successful completion of livelihood projects, such as traffic diversion and elevator retrofitting. These accomplishments demonstrate the power of community collaboration and the importance of involving residents in governance processes.
Grid services further enhance Shiyou’s community care model. The community provides heated meals, charging stations, rented umbrellas, and other essential services directly to residents’ doorsteps. Additionally, Shiyou has established six volunteer service teams, allowing residents to exchange service hours for charity items or discounts on living services. This system promotes a culture of mutual assistance and fosters strong relationships among neighbors.
Shiyou Community’s innovative approach to elderly home-based care and community governance serves as a blueprint for other communities seeking to enhance the quality of life for their residents.
