Citizens from various parts of the country braved the morning cold to gather at the newly unveiled state-of-the-art stadium before dawn, highlighting their enthusiasm for the inauguration of Kagame, who is credited with spearheading various economic and social reforms that have put Rwanda on the world map.
The stadium was adorned with the colours of Rwanda’s national flag, and many attendees wore matching outfits. The blue, yellow, and green of the flag represent happiness and peace, enlightenment, economic development, and hope for prosperity, respectively.
For the better part of the morning, attendees were treated to songs and dances as they awaited the official kickoff of the event at around 2:00 p.m., when high-ranking dignitaries began to arrive.
More than 20 Heads of State graced the event and were treated to a warm welcome befitting their stature.
The Presidents who attended the event included Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, João Lourenco (Angola), William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Malawi), Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé (Togo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central Africa Republic), Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo) and Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti).
Others were Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles), Mamady Doumbouya (Interim President of Guinea), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique.
King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, and Brice Oligui Nguema, President of the Transition of the Gabonese Republic, also attended the ceremony.
At a quarter past 3 p.m., the motorcade of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame made its way into the stadium to thunderous cheers from the attendees.
Thereafter, President Kagame was sworn into office for another five-year term. The oath of office was administered by Faustin Ntezilyayo, the Chief Justice and President of Rwanda’s Supreme Court.
The Head of State was then presented with ceremonial symbols, including the sword and shield.
President Kagame proceeded to inspect a guard of honour mounted by the Rwanda Defence Forces and the Police.
Shortly thereafter, the military executed a spectacular display, featuring helicopter manoeuvre that soared through the stadium.
After approximately an hour of breathtaking performances, the army and police exited the stage, making way for traditional dancers who captivated the audience, keeping them on their feet throughout the exhilarating display.
At around 5:00 p.m., President Kagame took to the podium to deliver his speech to the enthusiastic crowd.
Following his speech, a ceremonial RDF convoy advanced with to formally escort and secure the instruments of power, ensuring their safe return to the designated place repository, in accordance with protocol.
The Heads of State began arriving in the country on the evening of Saturday, August 10, 2024, while others jetted in on Sunday morning to witness the momentous occasion.
The leaders were accorded a guard of honour by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and a warm welcome by senior government officials at the Kigali International Airport.
And on Sunday afternoon, the presidents were escorted to the state-of-the-art Amahoro Stadium, where they joined thousands of ecstatic citizens gathered at the newly refurbished facility to witness the swearing-in of their Head of State.
It was a spectacular scene at the stadium as the leaders were welcomed to the venue with traditional songs, dances, and cheers from the crowd.
The Presidents who attended the event included Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, João Lourenco (Angola), William Ruto (Kenya), Samia Suluhu (Tanzania), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (Somalia), Sahle-Work Zewde (Ethiopia), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Malawi), Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé (Togo), Faustin-Archange Touadéra (Central Africa Republic), Denis Sassou Nguesso (Republic of the Congo) and Ismail Omar Guelleh (Djibouti).
Others were Nana Akufo-Addo (Ghana), Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles), Mamady Doumbouya (Interim President of Guinea), Mokgweetsi Masisi (Botswana), Emmerson Mnangagwa (Zimbabwe), Umaro Sissoco Embaló (Guinea-Bissau), Salva Kiir (South Sudan) and Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique.
King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, and Brice Oligui Nguema, President of the Transition of the Gabonese Republic, also attended the ceremony.
Malawi, Ivory Coast, and Uganda were represented at the inauguration by Vice Presidents Dr. Michael Usi, Tiemoko Meyliet Koné, and Jessica Alupo, respectively.
The event was also graced by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Boughali, the Assembly President of Algeria, and Patrice Trovoada, the Prime Minister of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Ousmane Sonko, the leader of Senegal’s opposition, and Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Army Chief, also attended, underscoring the broad international representation at this momentous occasion.
Kagame, the flagbearer of the RPF-Inkotanyi, secured 99.18% of the votes cast in the elections conducted in July. His challengers, Dr. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, came in second with 44,479 votes (0.50%), while Philippe Mpayimana finished third with 28,466 votes (0.32%).
This historic event, following his overwhelming victory in the July 14-15 elections, marks the beginning of Kagame’s fourth term as Rwanda’s leader, a testament to his enduring leadership and the country’s remarkable progress under his guidance.
The inauguration is more than a ceremonial event; it is a powerful statement of Rwanda’s political stability and its rising influence on the global stage.
Over two dozen heads of state have gathered to witness this momentous occasion, reflecting the immense respect and admiration President Kagame commands both within Africa and internationally.
“President Kagame is not just a leader for Rwanda; he is a leader for Africa,” remarked President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, emphasizing Kagame’s role in shaping the continent’s future.
The political implications of this inauguration are significant for both Rwanda and the broader African continent. Kagame’s leadership has been characterized by visionary policies that have transformed Rwanda into a model of economic development, infrastructure growth, and social empowerment.
His commitment to innovation and technological advancement has particularly benefited Rwanda’s youth, equipping them with valuable skills that are driving the country’s future.
“Under President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda has become a hub of innovation,” noted President Emmanuel Macron of France. “The progress we see here is a testament to what can be achieved with strong, visionary leadership.”
The inauguration ceremony itself is a vibrant celebration of Rwanda’s cultural heritage, featuring traditional dances and performances that highlight the nation’s unity and pride.
Testimonies from Rwandans and international leaders alike underscore the impact of Kagame’s leadership on the country’s transformation.
“Rwanda is a beacon of hope and progress,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya. “And President Kagame’s steadfast leadership is at the heart of this remarkable journey.”
As Rwanda continues to advance, the country’s achievements in women’s empowerment and gender equality stand out as significant milestones.
Women have taken their rightful place in leadership roles across various sectors, reflecting the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and justice. This progress is not just symbolic; it represents the foundation of Rwanda’s continued growth and stability.
President Kagame’s leadership has also fostered strong international relationships, with many global leaders expressing their admiration and support.
“President Kagame’s unwavering dedication to his country is an inspiration to us all,” said Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany. “His visionary approach to governance and development sets a powerful example for the world.”
Today, Rwanda celebrates not just a leader, but the collective achievements of a nation that has risen from its past to embrace a future filled with hope, prosperity, and boundless possibilities.
The presence of so many esteemed global leaders at this inauguration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing influence on the world stage and the respect Kagame has earned as a leader of immense capability and vision.
As the country looks ahead to the next five years under Kagame’s leadership, the focus remains on building a future where everyone can thrive. The unity and strength that Rwanda has demonstrated are the cornerstones of its success, and this inauguration is a celebration of that spirit.
“Congratulations, President Kagame. Your leadership continues to inspire us all,” echoed President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, capturing the sentiment of a nation and a world that watches Rwanda with admiration and respect.
This historic milestone is a reminder of the journey Rwanda has undertaken and the bright future that lies ahead. With President Kagame at the helm, the possibilities are indeed boundless.
The firm reports that Rwanda has overtaken Tanzania and Kenya to offer the cheapest rates in the region comprising eight member states.
Data published by the firm shows that residents of Rwanda are paying a monthly average of $43.22 for broadband internet this year, down from $60.96 last year. This translates to a 29.1% year-on-year drop in the prices.
Conversely, Tanzania, which previously topped the affordability chart, has seen a slight increase in average costs, now at $43.44 per month. Meanwhile, Kenya’s broadband prices have dipped slightly from $49.13 to $47.73 per month.
This shift in internet rates reflects a competitive landscape where consumer prices are directly shaped by market forces and regional rivalry.
Rwanda has in recent years adopted advanced technologies and infrastructure improvements that reduce internet costs. Both public and private investments in fiber optic networks and innovations in mobile internet technology have contributed to lower prices. The government has also encouraged competition among service providers, which often leads to lower costs for consumers.
The cost of broadband internet remains high in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), averaging $304.57 and $170.97, respectively.
In Uganda, the average cost of broadband internet is $52.59, whereas in Somalia, it is slightly higher at $54.58.
Meanwhile, residents of Sudan continue to pay the lowest monthly broadband internet rates globally, at $2.40, despite the country’s infrastructure limitations.
“Despite poor telecommunications infrastructure and improving take-up of mobile broadband services, where available, fixed-line broadband remains cheap in Sudan, if not particularly affordable by the general population,” Cable said.
Other countries on the top 10 list include Argentina ($5.17), Belarus ($7.03), Ukraine ($7.35), Egypt ($8.31), Romania ($8.60), Vietnam ($8.72), and Kazakhstan ($9.08).
The first to arrive was President Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan, who touched down at Kigali International Airport in Kanombe. His arrival was marked by a warm welcome from the Minister of State for Regional Cooperation, Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe.
President Kiir’s visit is yet another testament to the enduring relationship between Rwanda and South Sudan. As the current chair of the East African Community (EAC), President Kiir’s frequent engagements with Rwanda, including his visit in February 2024, highlight the deepening ties within the region.
Following closely, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau arrived in Kigali, greeted by the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa. A light rain shower, a brief respite after days of dry weather, accompanied his arrival.
The bond between Rwanda and Guinea-Bissau is steeped in history, with numerous agreements in place, including those related to trade, education, tourism, and air transport, further solidifying their long-standing relationship.
Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces of Uganda, also arrived in Kigali to represent Uganda at the inauguration. His reception by his Rwandan counterpart, Gen Mubarakh Muganga, reflects the close military ties that bind the two nations.
Adding to the growing list of dignitaries, President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe arrived in Kigali, where he was welcomed by Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The relationship between Rwanda and Zimbabwe has flourished under the leadership of both Kagame and Mnangagwa, evidenced by high-level visits and the signing of over 26 cooperation agreements across various sectors, including education, energy, justice, economy, social welfare, and culture.
Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, representing President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, was also among the distinguished guests. Upon his arrival, he was received by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Irere Claudette. The strong bilateral relations between Rwanda and Senegal, highlighted by the opening of the Rwandan Embassy in Senegal in 2011 and a series of agreements, including cultural cooperation dating back to 1975, are further strengthened by his presence.
Ivory Coast is represented by its Vice President, Tiemoko Meyliet Koné, who arrived on Saturday evening. He was also welcomed by the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Irere Claudette. His attendance at the inauguration scheduled on Sunday 11th August 2024, signifies the continued collaboration between Rwanda and Ivory Coast, as both nations look forward to furthering their mutual interests under President Kagame’s leadership.
These leaders are among the many dignitaries expected to attend President Kagame’s inauguration, symbolizing the global recognition and support for Rwanda’s continued progress under his leadership.
As the new millennium approached, anxiety gripped the world, driven by religious prophecies, technological fears, and a collective sense of uncertainty.
Certain religious groups and individuals, armed with biblical convictions or other religious teachings, were particularly inclined to make extreme preparations for the end of the world.
In countries including Rwanda and elsewhere people with fervent beliefs sold valuables, including land and homes, at bargain prices, convinced they would no longer need them after the supposed end.
Many donated their proceeds to religious organizations, paid off debts, or disposed of material possessions they believed would become meaningless in the face of an imminent apocalypse.
As New Year’s Eve of 1999 approached, a palpable sense of dread enveloped the globe. People stayed awake, waiting in confusion and fear for the unknown.
The clock ticking toward midnight on December 31, 1999, symbolized more than just the arrival of a new year—it was seen as the harbinger of apocalyptic doom.
Predictions of the end of time had circulated for years, fueled by religious interpretations, technological concerns, and societal anxiety. But when the clock struck midnight, the world did not end.
The feared doomsday proved to be nothing more than a phantom, leaving the world to grapple with the psychological, social, and economic aftermath of its own self-imposed panic.
When the year 2000 arrived without significant disruptions, those who had made drastic decisions based on doomsday fears, were left to face the consequences.
Financial hardships followed for many who had sold properties at subsidized prices or made irreversible financial choices. The episode remains a cautionary tale about the dangers of panic-driven decisions rooted in unfounded fears.
The roots of the millennium panic can be traced to a convergence of religious, technological, and cultural factors. For many, the year 2000 represented a significant milestone in biblical prophecy.
Edgar C. Whisenant, author of The End: Why Jesus Could Return by A.D. 2000, was among the most vocal proponents of the idea that the second coming of Christ was imminent.
His book resonated with millions who believed the world was nearing its final days, meticulously interpreting scripture to pinpoint the year 2000 as the likely time for Jesus’ return.
The religious anticipation extended beyond mainstream Christianity. Figures like Ben Ammi Ben-Israel, founder of the Black Hebrew Israelite religion, also predicted the end would occur in 2000, believing it would mark the beginning of divine justice and redemption for the chosen people.
The sense of urgency and anticipation was palpable, with communities preparing for what they believed would be a momentous, albeit catastrophic, event.
Even the academic and technological worlds were not immune to the apocalyptic fervor. The approach of the year 2000 brought with it the Y2K bug, a technological panic based on the fear that computer systems worldwide would malfunction when their clocks rolled over from ’99’ to ’00,’ interpreting the year 2000 as 1900.
Books like The Millennium Bug: How to Survive the Coming Chaos by Michael S. Hyatt capitalized on these fears, presenting doomsday scenarios where technology would fail, bringing modern civilization to its knees.
As the year 2000 drew closer, panic spread across the globe. Governments, corporations, and individuals scrambled to prepare for what they believed could be the end.
In the United States, President Bill Clinton established the President’s Council on Year 2000 Conversion, a task force dedicated to ensuring critical systems were Y2K compliant.
Companies spent billions on upgrades and contingency plans, while the public stockpiled essentials, bracing for a world where basic services might suddenly vanish.
Religious communities were particularly active in their preparations. Churches held vigils, prayer meetings, and other gatherings, where believers sought divine protection from the impending apocalypse. Some made pilgrimages to holy sites, hoping to be in the right place when the end came.
The media played a very significant role in fueling the panic, with news outlets running stories on various doomsday scenarios, from nuclear war to natural disasters, that could be triggered by the turn of the millennium.
Yet, as midnight struck on December 31, 1999, nothing happened. The Y2K bug turned out to be a minor glitch rather than the catastrophic event many had feared.
Planes did not fall from the sky as had been earlier anticipated, power grids did not fail, and financial markets did not collapse. The apocalyptic prophecies, too, proved unfounded. Jesus did not return, the chosen people were not delivered, and the new millennium began much like any other year, with fireworks, celebrations, and the usual mix of hope and uncertainty.
In the aftermath of the non-event, there was a collective sense of bewilderment. For those who had genuinely believed in the prophecies, the absence of catastrophe was disorienting. Some felt betrayed, questioning why the signs they had so carefully interpreted had not come to pass.
As explored in Leon Festinger’s When Prophecy Fails, people often respond to the failure of their expectations by doubling down on their beliefs rather than abandoning them.
This was evident after the year 2000, with some believers reinterpreting the events, suggesting that the world had been given a temporary reprieve or that the true end was still to come.
The economic impact of the millennium panic was significant. The billions spent on Y2K preparations, while arguably necessary to avoid potential disruptions, represented a massive expenditure driven largely by fear.
Companies that had invested heavily in Y2K compliance found themselves with surplus supplies and systems that, in many cases, were never needed. The public, too, was left with stockpiled goods, a reminder of the hysteria that had gripped the world.
Culturally, the year 2000 marked a turning point in how society viewed apocalyptic predictions. The panic preceding the new millennium was a testament to the power of prophecy, fear, and the human tendency to expect the worst.
It also highlighted the complexities of navigating a world where technological and religious anxieties can converge to create a perfect storm of fear.
As we moved into the 21st century, the lessons of the millennium panic remained, reminding us that while the future is uncertain, it is not something to be feared, but rather something to be appreciated and approached with caution, preparation, and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Unfortunately, some callous acts in the region that came in the aftermath of this hysteria left sad marks and scars that may never be healed in the world’s history.
About 130km from the Northern border of Rwanda and Uganda in Kanungu district, a self-styled high priestess Credonia Mwerinde had told her followers that the world was going to end on December 31, 1999 but when this did not happen, the cult leader and her accomplices decided to end it their way.
On March 16, 2000, over 600 cult members and their families were herded into a church hall named the Ark, in reference to the biblical Noah’s ark, all doors and windows were boarded up and nailed shut, and it was set ablaze.
Many of Credonia’s followers and even some of the renegade Catholic clerics believed she had spiritual powers following her claims to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary who directed her to spread the message of strict adherence to the 10 Commandments to avoid apocalyptic damnation.
It floated a Rwf5billion corporate bond, marking a significant milestone as the first ever Agri Business SME to hit the market.
Mahwi Grain Millers join the stock market to provide investors with a broader range of opportunities to diversify their portfolios, invest in different sectors, and participate in the country’s economic growth.
To achieve this, the company’s annual turnover surged from Rwf78 million in 2021 to Rwf3 billion in 2022, Rwf75.7 billion in 2023, and Rwf15 billion in 2024.
This remarkable growth underscores the opportunities available to investors who engage with Rwanda’s stock market, particularly in sectors as fundamental as agribusiness.
Chantal Habiyakare, Chairperson of the Board of Directors at Mahwi Grain Millers, expressed confidence in the company’s growth and the opportunities available to investors.
“This is a very big source of growth, and as investors, your money will be safe with us. Being involved in the agriculture sector, we cannot go wrong,” she affirmed.
Her statement highlights the stability and potential of investing in Rwanda’s agribusiness sector, a sentiment that is likely to resonate with both local and international investors.
This development is part of a broader trend that is transforming the country’s economic landscape, driving growth, and offering new opportunities for investors.
Rwanda’s stock market has been steadily expanding, with an increasing number of companies opting to go public. This trend reflects the maturation of the financial sector in Rwanda, where the stock exchange is becoming a critical platform for raising capital, fostering economic growth, and promoting financial inclusion.
The addition of Mahwi Grain Millers to the exchange is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the vital role that the agribusiness sector plays in the country’s economy.
The listing on the stock exchange also aligns with global economic dynamics that increasingly influence local markets.
As Thapelo Tsheole, CEO of the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), noted, “As more companies list on the Rwanda Stock Exchange, we see a positive cycle where businesses gain access to capital, investors grow their portfolios, and the economy as a whole.”
The CMA’s role in facilitating these listings is crucial to ensuring that the market remains accessible and beneficial to all stakeholders.
Rwanda’s stock market has become an essential tool for economic development. The increasing number of listings sends a strong signal to both domestic and international investors about the stability and potential of Rwanda’s economy.
The government has also recognized the importance of a robust stock market as part of its broader economic strategy.
Dr. Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, the Minister for Trade and Industry, highlighted Mahwi Grain Millers’ role in ensuring food security and stabilizing the economy, particularly during challenging periods.
“Upon realizing that the company had the capacity to continue processing their products to support the food value chain, we provided the necessary grants, and the market has stabilized in a short time,” Dr. Ngabitsinze explained.
This support reflects the government’s commitment to bolstering sectors that are critical to both economic stability and growth. The growing activity on the Rwanda Stock Exchange also has significant implications for the personal development of investors.
With more companies listing, individual investors have greater opportunities to diversify their investments and build wealth. This process not only contributes to their financial growth but also enhances financial literacy, empowering more Rwandans to actively participate in the country’s economic development.
The interconnectedness of the global economy further underscores the importance of strengthening local financial markets. Decisions made in major economic centers, such as those by the Federal Reserve in Washington, D.C., can have far-reaching impacts, even in Kigali.
For instance, the U.S. economy, valued at $26 trillion and accounting for nearly 25% of global output, plays a significant role in shaping global financial trends. Recent market fluctuations in Japan and Europe, spurred by developments in the U.S., demonstrate how global economic dynamics can affect local markets.
In this context, the listing of companies like Mahwi Grain Millers on the Rwanda Stock Exchange is not just a local success story but a strategic move that positions Rwanda to better navigate and benefit from global economic trends.
As the stock market grows, so too does Rwanda’s ability to attract investment, drive economic development, and empower individual investors.
The listing of Mahwi Grain Millers on the Rwanda Stock Exchange is a key milestone in the ongoing development of Rwanda’s financial markets.
It reflects the growing strength and resilience of the economy, offers new opportunities for investors, and highlights the government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive financial sector.
The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which escalated in April 2023, has claimed more than 15,500 lives to date. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), this war has led to a massive displacement crisis, with over 6.1 million people displaced within Sudan and more than 1.5 million seeking refuge in other countries.
UNHCR’s Rwanda branch reports a significant increase in Sudanese asylum seekers in Rwanda in 2024. As of August 6, 2024, 89 Sudanese refugees had arrived, including 58 individuals from 17 families living in Kigali and another 31 individuals from 20 families residing in the Mahama Refugee Camp in Kirehe District.
Among the 718, 354 individuals are from 197 families settling in Kigali and 364 individuals from 209 families residing in the Mahama camp.
In addition to these refugees, Rwanda received over 200 students from the University of Medical Sciences and Technology in Sudan at the end of 2023. These students continued their education at the University of Rwanda, with the partnership expected to extend to over 7,000 students. Prior to this, Rwanda had also welcomed refugees from Afghanistan.
Rwanda is currently home to over 130,000 refugees, many of whom have been in the country for more than a decade. Approximately 90% of these refugees reside in camps such as Kiziba, Nyabiheke, Kigeme, Mugombwa, and Mahama, while others live in various urban areas.
Rwanda has consistently emphasized the need for long-term solutions to the refugee and migrant crisis. In recent years, the country received thousands of migrants evacuated from camps in Libya, with 90% of them resettled in other continents. These migrants have come from various countries, including Eritrea, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and South Sudan.
Speaking to the youth during the 14th cohort of the Indangamirwa civic training program on August 9, 2024, Dr. Bizimana traced the roots of ongoing regional insecurity to the 1885 Berlin Conference and the subsequent formalization of borders on May 14, 1910, by Belgium, Britain, and Germany.
These decisions, he explained, led to the dismemberment of Rwanda, with several provinces, including Masisi, Rutshuru, Fizi, and Uvira, being annexed to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and others to Uganda.
“These provinces were given to DRC even though they were inhabited by Rwandans. The people living in those provinces continued to speak Kinyarwanda because it was their language,” Dr. Bizimana stated. He further emphasized that “the consequences are evident, as in the eastern part of DRC, some of these residents are treated as outsiders, labeled as Rwandans, even though they are Congolese.”
This colonial redrawing of borders stripped Rwanda of territories that were predominantly inhabited by Rwandans.
Despite becoming Congolese citizens, these communities in eastern DRC have been subjected to persistent violence and discrimination, often labeled as outsiders simply because of their language and cultural ties to Rwanda.
Dr. Bizimana underscored that the violence against Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in eastern DRC is deeply rooted in these historical injustices. “This was the first harmful decision made by the Europeans. Had these provinces remained part of Rwanda, the current issues of injustice, killings, and hate ideologies in eastern Congo would likely not exist today,” he asserted.
The colonial-era decision to fragment Rwanda created deep-seated divisions that continue to manifest in the form of ethnic discrimination, killings, and systemic exclusion of these communities from leadership and governance in the DRC.
Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s former representative in Kinshasa, reinforced this perspective by drawing parallels between the current governance challenges in the DRC and Rwanda’s past struggles from 1959 to 1994.
“The problem is that DRC is poorly governed, with divisions similar to those we experienced, where ethnic discrimination led to the exclusion of certain groups, particularly the Kinyarwanda-speaking community, to prevent them from competing for leadership positions,” Karega noted.
The Kinyarwanda-speaking population in the DRC is diverse, consisting of groups who settled there before colonization, those brought by Belgium during colonial rule, and Rwandan refugees who fled from 1959 onwards due to escalating insecurity. Despite a 1971 law granting these refugees Congolese citizenship, they have continued to face systemic violence and mistrust, a direct legacy of the colonial border realignments.
Dr. Bizimana’s remarks highlight the far-reaching consequences of colonialism, particularly how the arbitrary partitioning of Rwanda has fueled long-standing regional insecurity.
“The legacy of colonialism continues to cast a long shadow over the region,” Dr. Bizimana observed, noting that the scars of history are still deeply felt in eastern DRC, where violence, discrimination, and instability persist.
Had the territorial integrity of Rwanda been preserved, the region might have experienced a different trajectory- one of greater unity and peace.
