The Head of State, credited with spearheading various policy and economic transformations in Rwanda, was honoured during his trip to South Korea, where he attended the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit.
“I would like to thank you for the tremendous honour you have bestowed on me and my country with the award of this honorary doctorate,” Kagame stated in his acceptance speech.
“This is my fourth visit to Korea but my first to the Yonsei campus, I wish that our connection had started much earlier,” he added.
In his speech, President Kagame emphasized the importance of public policy in nation-building, especially in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, saying, “The purpose of public policy is to make our citizens safe, united, free, creative, and prosperous, more or less in that order.”
“We inherited a country that was completely broken and devastated physically, financially, and spiritually. Our people were displaced and divided. Establishing security was our first policy objective; without it, nothing else is possible.”
Founded in 1885, Yonsei University is one of the top private Universities in South Korea. The university boasts of 158 research centres.
The South Korean varsity has multiple campuses, with the Sinchon campus in Seoul as its main location. Other locations include the International Campus in Songdo, which opened in 2010, and the Wonju Campus.
During his visit to the university’s campus in Seoul, President Kagame held discussions with Professor Dong-Sup Yoon and faculty members about furthering the partnership and increasing the number of Rwandan students.
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During the Korea-Africa summit that attracted 48 African leaders, President Paul Kagame called for more partnerships between Africa and South Korea, emphasizing that the two regions stand to benefit from each other’s immense resources and potential.
President Kagame said “the moment was long overdue”, praising Korea as a strategic partner for Africa.
“Korea is a global pivotal state and Africa is a pivotal continent. It’s only natural for us to draw closer together in the years ahead for many reasons. First, Korea knows the value of sovereignty and independence as well as the struggle required to achieve accountable and inclusive politics. Those experiences allow us to look at each other eye to eye with mutual respect and admiration,” President Kagame said in his address on Tuesday.
President Kagame noted that Africa has much to learn from Korea’s rapid economic transformation over the past few decades, emphasizing the need to invest in political stability, health, education, and technology.
“Korea’s experience shows that a country can be radically transformed in the course of a generation. Is there any explanation why Africa has not become a high-income continent? Africa can go much faster and there is no better way than focusing on stability, health, education and technology. All of these are possible depending on how we address our security and governance challenges. Africa’s young people need these opportunities. It’s possible,” the Head of State said.
Africa, President Kagame explained, stands to benefit from cutting-edge innovations from Korea to boost advancements in various sectors, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Jinhua comprises two districts, Wucheng and Jindong, four county-level cities, Lanxi, Dongyang, Yiwu, and Yongkang, and three counties, Pujiang, Wuyi, and Pan’an. In 2023, Jinhua’s regional GDP reached an impressive 601.13 billion yuan (more than 80 billion US$), a testament to its robust economic growth.
Renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage, Jinhua is often referred to as “another hometown of Confucius and Mencius.” The city boasts a 10,000-year-old rice planting civilization and an institution history spanning more than 2,200 years.
Over the centuries, Jinhua has been a cradle for numerous notable figures. Ancient luminaries include writer Song Lian, strategist Zong Ze, Taoist Wong Tai Sin, doctor Zhu Danxi, and musician Li Yu.
In more recent times, the city has produced influential individuals like Chen Wangdao, the first Chinese translator of the Communist Manifesto, historian Wu Han, writer Feng Xuefeng, Chinese painting master Huang Binhong, newspaper publisher Shao Piaoping, musician Shi Guangnan, poet Ai Qing, and scientist Yan Jici. Since China’s reform and opening-up, 1.2 million Jinhua natives have ventured out for development, with over 30,000 high-level talents contributing to the global community.
Strategically located, Jinhua is a central transport hub, essential for connecting various parts of China. The city is the second largest information port in Zhejiang and a national logistics hub for production and trade. With 10 railways and 9 highways, Jinhua and Yiwu stations accommodate 462 high-speed trains daily, directly connecting to 21 provincial capitals. These developments aim to establish Jinhua as a national comprehensive transport hub.
The city’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its green landscapes and clean rivers, earning it the prestigious Dayu Golden Prize for water management. With a forest coverage rate of 61% and Class I drinking water quality, Jinhua is a haven for nature lovers, boasting five national scenic spots and one national 5A tourist area. Prominent attractions include the Double Dragon Cave, the Residence of Lord Shi of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, Hengdian World Studios, and Lanxi Zhuge Bagua Village.
Jinhua is also a powerhouse of industry and commerce, playing a pivotal role in Zhejiang’s private economy. The city is notable for its numerous market entities, with over 1.5 million registered businesses, ranking second in Zhejiang. Jinhua was the first prefecture-level city in the province to surpass one million privately or individually owned businesses.
The city hosts 86 markets with annual turnovers exceeding 100 million RMB (approximately 14 million US$) and four surpassing 10 billion RMB (around 1.4 billion US$). Yiwu China Commodity City, Yongkang China Science and Technology Hardware City, and Dongyang China Woodcarvings City are internationally recognized.
Jinhua’s industrial prowess includes 18-billion-yuan-level industrial clusters in sectors such as automotive, hardware, textiles, and medicine. Remarkably, two out of every three safety doors in China are produced in Jinhua, and one in every three TV dramas is filmed there. The city is also a leader in emerging economic models like cross-border e-commerce and influencer marketing, with its express delivery business consistently ranking first in China.
As a trailblazer in reform and opening-up, Jinhua has implemented over 50 national and provincial pilot reform programs. The Yiwu International Trade Comprehensive Reform Pilot Program, the only one of its kind in China, has set a precedent with its innovative “mart procurement” trade model.
Jinhua has also established several significant zones and clusters, including the Yiwu International Trade Comprehensive Reform Pilot Zone, the National Cross-border E-commerce Pilot Zone, the Jinyi New Area, the Hengdian Film and Television Cultural Industry Cluster, and the Zhejiang Free Trade Zone Jinyi Area.
The city’s three major opening-up channels—the Yiwu-Madrid Railway, the Yiwu-Ningbo-Zhoushan Channel, and cross-border e-commerce—connect Jinhua with 233 countries and regions. The city’s exports exceed 1 billion RMB (over 13 million US$) to 80 of these destinations, making Jinhua a significant player in international trade.
{{Partnership with Rwanda}}
On March 28, Jinhua signed a Sister Cities Agreement with Musanze District in Rwanda’s Northern Province, marking the first such agreement between China and Rwanda and symbolizing a new chapter of friendship and cooperation.
The signing ceremony was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Wang Xuekun, Mr. Zhu Chonglie, Secretary of the Jinhua Municipal Committee of the CPC, Nzabonimpa Emmanuel, Executive Secretary of Rwanda’s Northern Province, and Claudien Nsengimana, Mayor of Musanze District.
Ambassador Wang reiterated the embassy’s support for promoting cooperation that benefits both peoples. Mr. Zhu Chonglie expressed Jinhua’s eagerness for better industrial collaboration, closer trade relations, and deeper cultural exchanges with Musanze. Mayor Nsengimana also highlighted that the agreement would enhance mutual understanding and build a brighter future for both cities.
On the same day, Dr. Sylvie Mucyo, Vice Chancellor of Rwanda Polytechnic, and Dr. Zhang Yanping, Vice President of Jinhua Polytechnic, signed a five-year agreement for an exchange program where 30 students from IPRC Musanze will study for two years in Rwanda and one year in China for an Advanced Diploma.
This initiative has already started, with 30 Rwandan students embarking on a year-long study program in China to delve into e-commerce and electrical automation vocational skills at Jinhua Polytechnic in Zhejiang Province.
This agreement follows a longstanding partnership between IPRC Musanze and Jinhua Polytechnic, spanning more than a decade. Notable achievements include the inauguration of the Rwanda Luban Workshop last November, which enhances technical and vocational education training (TVET) in Rwanda. The workshop features a laboratory equipped with new technologies, including robots, to train students.
So far, the partnership has recruited 210 students and conducted “Chinese language plus vocational skills” training for nearly 10,000 people, providing vital support for Chinese-funded enterprises in Rwanda and improving the employability of Rwandan youths. Both China and Rwanda attach great importance to TVET due to its role in human resource development and national transformation.
At the workshop launch, Ambassador Wang said the 10 years of collaboration between Rwanda Polytechnic and Jinhua Polytechnic “reflects the deep friendship between Chinese and Rwandan people, and more importantly, shows what we can achieve through working together.”
Since 2018, IPRC Musanze has graduated over 1,700 students and offers courses in irrigation and drainage technology, construction technology, highway engineering, e-commerce, and information technology. Student enrollment has grown from 171 in 2014 to over 1,800 currently.
{{Photos: Théophile Niyitegeka / Zhejiang, China }}
These remarks were part of a message President Museveni delivered to attendees at a ceremony and prayers in memory of Uganda’s martyrs. This annual event is held in Namugongo, where the martyrs were burned alive.
Museveni emphasized that Christianity upholds good values that strengthen the family both in Uganda and worldwide.
He urged the youth of Uganda and Africa in general to invest their time in activities that build their lives, rather than wasting it on European pursuits.
He said, “You young people, you spend a lot of your time watching European football, and you are not concerned with what is happening in Africa. You cannot comprehend how African youth have been misled. You cannot understand them talking about African unity that Mwalimu Nyerere fought for and we continue to fight for.”
He continued to sternly warn those who seek to promote homosexual beliefs in Uganda.
He stated, “Today, Uganda is the land of martyrs because of their faith. Those outsiders talking about homosexuality do not know that Uganda is a land where people chose to die for their beliefs. If you want to play, you can do so, but you will not enjoy the consequences.”
Museveni’s statement comes after some foreign countries began imposing sanctions on his country due to the law Uganda passed that penalizes homosexuality.
This law stipulates that it is prohibited to promote or support homosexual groups and their activities, and that acts of homosexuality should be punishable by life imprisonment.
Speaking during the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul on Tuesday, June 4, President Kagame said “the moment was long overdue”, praising Korea as a strategic partner for Africa.
“Korea is a global pivotal state and Africa is a pivotal continent. It’s only natural for us to draw closer together in the years ahead for many reasons. First, Korea knows the value of sovereignty and independence as well as the struggle required to achieve accountable and inclusive politics. Those experiences allow us to look at each other eye to eye with mutual respect and admiration,” President Kagame said in his address.
President Kagame noted that Africa has much to learn from Korea’s rapid economic transformation over the past few decades, emphasizing the need to invest in political stability, health, education, and technology.
“Korea’s experience shows that a country can be radically transformed in the course of a generation. Is there any explanation why Africa has not become a high-income continent? Africa can go much faster and there is no better way than focusing on stability, health, education and technology. All of these are possible depending on how we address our security and governance challenges. Africa’s young people need these opportunities. It’s possible,” the Head of State said.
Africa, President Kagame explained, stands to benefit from cutting-edge innovations from Korea to boost advancements in various sectors, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Partnerships with Korea have focused on the cutting edge of innovation, helping bring the latest technologies to Rwanda and Africa more quickly. This summit serves to remind us that even more can be done. From artificial intelligence and robotics to small model nuclear reactors to driving the energy transition with critical raw materials, Africa and Korea should be working side by side.”
He insisted that Africa, on the other hand, has much to offer in its partnerships with Korea, especially in ongoing efforts to create a single continental market for goods and services in Africa through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“Notably, by taking advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) connecting with Africa, particularly with our very capable young people will pay dividends for decades to come. Africa will be a central driver of global trade before too long so long as we don’t take our future for granted. We have to keep on the path of partnerships such as these one between Africa and Korea. In doing so we may also enhance our cooperation on other matters of mature concern in the global arena.”
During the summit attended by 48 African leaders, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol pledged to expand development aid to Africa and pursue deeper cooperation with the region on critical minerals and technology.
Yoon said South Korea plans to expand its cumulative development aid contributions to Africa to around $10 billion by 2030 and separately provide $14 billion in export financing to encourage South Korean investment in the region.
The graduation ceremony, held at Intare Conference Arena in Gasabo District on Friday, was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials, university representatives, university administrators and parents.
Among the graduates, 388 completed their Master’s degrees, while others graduated with Bachelor’s degrees and PGDE
The graduates included 103 in Education, 595 in Business and Economics, 257 in Computer Science and Technology, and 85 in Law.
Prof. Nshuti Manasseh, one of the university’s founders, stated that the university was established with the goal of offering high-quality education by instructing required courses, particularly because it had become apparent that there was a void in this industry.
He added that the quality has increased, as those who started it had received extensive and complete education themselves, which has continued to guide its excellence.
“At that time, there was confusion in the universities due to various reasons. That’s when we decided to bring in education suitable for Rwandans, providing necessary courses for the job market, but also giving students practical lessons.”
Prof. Nshuti reminded the students that Rwandans expect results from their studies, to improve themselves, represent their university well, and contribute to the country’s development.
“For both graduates and current students, learning is a journey. Learning never ends; as you progress, knowledge evolves. Because an educated person strives to increase their knowledge, reaching a level where the country relies on your ideas as an intellectual, strive for that honour.”
Fanny Umunyana, who excelled in Business, Economics, and Finance, expressed confidence in the comprehensive knowledge she received, stating that she would use it to tackle challenges in her field.
She said, “I got the knowledge I wanted, and God helped me to be among the top. It requires nothing but setting goals, avoiding distractions, listening to teachers, and seeking knowledge beyond the classroom. There is no other secret. By collaborating with others, the knowledge I have is a resource that will help me achieve my goals.”
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kigali, Prof. Danson Musyoki, noted that despite various challenges during these times, the values of unity, inclusivity, determination, perseverance, and striving to achieve goals instilled in these students will help them continue to progress in whatever they undertake.
“I urge you, even after graduating, to maintain the values of resilience, determination, and inclusivity, collaborating with others in different sectors. Let all these be guided by the pursuit of success in the areas you engage in. Continue striving to ensure that your future is marked by the values you acquired at the University of Kigali.”
The Vice-Chancellor assured parents that their children received education of international standards, thanking them for their cooperation throughout this period. He also thanked the university staff for their dedicated efforts, ensuring students received up-to-date knowledge.
Among the 1,428 graduates from the University of Kigali, there were 769 female and 659 male students. Prof. Musyoki highlighted that these numbers reflect how the university provides equal opportunities for everyone to access quality education.
This organization states that it collaborates with schools from primary, secondary, and university levels and helps each individual find a good school.
In a statement released by this organization, it said, “For the upcoming term, we inform you that there are available spots for those wishing to study in the term starting in September 2024, with opportunities in Canada, the United States, and Europe.”
The 20% discount on fees will benefit those who apply for services from June 1 to June 30, 2024.
Mega Global Link assures that it accompanies the individual from the first step until they reach the school.
They highlight that the schools they work with offer various courses and in different levels, including undergraduate, master’s, short courses, and PhD programs.
In Rwanda, 576 cases of suicide were recorded between 2021 and 2022. While marking Suicide Prevention Day last year, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) reported that 82 per cent of recent cases involved men.
Dr. Thierry Murangira, RIB’s spokesperson, noted that the leading causes of suicide include incurable illnesses, job loss, and toxic relationships.
This statistic aligns with global trends. WHO reports that men are more likely to die by suicide, with the ratio of men to women being 3:1.
Several questions arise from these statistics. Why are men more prone to suicide? Is it societal pressure, the stigma of seeking help, or the perceived burden of providing for their families? Dr. Murangira mentions that some men might see suicide as a “heroic” act to relieve their families of financial burdens. Yet, this perspective highlights a profound issue in our societal and mental health support systems.
Additionally, the prevalent mental health issue in Rwanda is depression, affecting one out of ten people aged 14-65. With the stigma around mental health still strong, many men might avoid seeking help, leading to tragic outcomes. In a society where men are often seen as the primary providers, the loss of a job or a relationship can be devastating, pushing them towards this irreversible decision.
The methods of suicide also tell a story—hanging, poisoning, drowning, and jumping off buildings—each a desperate act reflecting deep despair. The statistics released in 2019 highlighted that Nyagatare had the highest rate of suicide cases in Rwanda at 7%, followed by Gasabo, Gicumbi, and Rutsiro each at 6%, and Karongi at 5%. The reasons for these suicides were varied, with 2% attributed to failed relationships, 2% to extreme poverty, 2% to debts, and 2% to severe commercial losses.
Rwanda has several l health facilities, with only three specialized mental health centers: Ndera Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Huye Isange Rehabilitation Center, and Icyizere Psychotherapy Center. Additionally, there are mental health departments in four national hospitals: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali (CHUK), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Butare (CHUB), Rwanda Military Hospital, and King Faisal Hospital. In recent years, smaller counseling centers like the Lighthouse Counseling Center and Never Again Rwanda’s Mental Wellness Center have emerged to address these gaps.
Recognizing the importance of mental health, the public sector and civil society have prioritized raising awareness about mental health issues and the availability of professional help. The Rwanda Ministry of Health, through its health sector strategy, has emphasized mental health by implementing a mental healthcare program. This program includes purchasing necessary medicines, hiring and training medical professionals, and decentralizing mental health services from national hospitals to local centers, thereby making these services more accessible to the general population.
Heineken’s theme for the year, “Cheers to the Hardcore Fans,” resonated throughout the night as guests displayed a full range of emotions during the thrilling final. The atmosphere was electric, filled with excitement, tension, joy, and heartbreak, perfectly mirroring the highs and lows of the match.
The event attracted high-ranking dignitaries and influential figures, underscoring its status as one of the biggest and most exclusive gatherings of the year. Attendees enjoyed gourmet food and an endless supply of drinks, ensuring they watched the match in ultimate comfort and style.
The meticulous planning and execution were evident in every detail, from the vibrant décor to the attentive service. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as guests settled into their seats, green Heineken cups in hand, ready to witness football history in the making.
As the match progressed, the collective energy of the crowd ebbed and flowed with each pass, tackle, and goal. It was more than just a viewing party; it was a communal experience that united fans in their shared passion for the beautiful game.
In a night filled with memorable moments, Heineken successfully celebrated and honored the true essence of being a hardcore football fan. The event was not only a testament to the brand’s commitment to football but also a heartfelt tribute to the fans who live and breathe the sport.
Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente announced President Paul Kagame’s decision to drop Munyeshuli from the Cabinet on Monday evening, citing Article 116 of the Rwandan Constitution regarding the appointment of Cabinet members.
“Pursuant to the Constitution of the Republic of Rwanda, especially in its Article 116, today, 3 June 2024, Ms. Jeanine Munyeshuli has been dismissed from her position as Minister of State for Public Investment and Resource Mobilization in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN),” Ngirente announced.
However, the Prime Minister did not disclose the reason for Munyeshuli’s sacking.
Communiqué from the Office of the Prime Minister | Itangazo riturutse mu Biro bya Minisitiri w'Intebe pic.twitter.com/T9HCZp4rmi
— Office of the PM | Rwanda (@PrimatureRwanda) June 3, 2024
Munyeshuli joined the Cabinet in August last year. She was the first person to occupy the new ministerial portfolio following the dissolution of the Ministry of Public Investments and Privatisation and the transfer of its functions to the Finance docket.
Previously, the economist and yoga teacher served as a board member of the AZAHAR Foundation.
Cabinet members in Rwanda are appointed by the President in consultation with the Prime Minister.
Today, driving and logistic mobility are more convenient and efficient in Rwanda, the landlocked country of a thousand hills. In 2023, this economic powerhouse in East Africa reached a significant economic growth of 8.2%.
One of the main reasons behind its robust economic growth is a well-connected and efficient national highway system. Chinese companies are good partners for these projects, such as the upgrading of urban roads in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, by the China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC) under China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC).
The Kigali City Council even awarded the project for its distinguished contribution to the beautification of the city in 2011.
Back in 1974, then Foreign Aid Office under the Chinese Ministry of Communications – the predecessor of China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC) – entered Rwanda’s engineering market.
The 160-kilometer Kigali-Rusumo road completed in 1977 became the main artery connecting Kigali with neighboring Tanzania.
Four decades later, the road remains in good condition, and has even garnered the reputation of the “African Model Road.”
With over 40 years of sound cooperation, Chinese companies have become household names in Rwanda as they undertake 70 percent of the country’s national highway construction. All of the projects have provided secondary benefits such as job creation, knowledge transfer and capacity building.
The highway system is not only connecting Rwanda’s provinces and villages, but also integrating itself with neighboring Burundi, Tanzania, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Finally, it is enhancing regional integration as well as stimulating trade among these countries, especially those who are members of the East African Community (EAC).
{{A road carries mushrooms, a road creates hope}}
For a long time, mushrooms were not on the menu for many Rwandan families, primarily due to old superstitious claims that a farmer who eats a mushroom will lose a cow. Today, mushrooms are not only a staple source of protein and other nutrients, but also generate cash.
Chinese experts in Rwanda say that mushrooms turn a profit quicker than traditional crops grown in the country, earning as much as 80,500 Rwandan francs (about 100 US dollars) per square meter after just eight days, compared to six months needed for sorghum or maize.
At the China-Rwanda Agricultural Technology Demonstration Centers (ATDCs), Chinese agronomists are sharing an efficient mushroom-growing method called “Juncao” or “mushroom grass,” invented by Professor Lin Zhanxi at Fujian Agricultural University in southeastern China in the 1980s.
With this method, mushrooms can grow quickly in agricultural waste and Juncao instead of traditional sawdust, helping preserve Rwanda’s forests.
So far, the Chinese have trained more than 1,000 Rwandans in the method, though it’s still a small and slow-growing industry. But some entrepreneurs in Rwanda and neighboring countries see the potential.
{{A path of pan-Africa rejuvenation}}
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has demonstrated effective leadership and zero tolerance for corruption while strengthening good governance and contributing significantly to global peace and order under the UN and the AU peacekeeping missions. All this shows Rwanda’s strong intentions to boost pan-Africa integration, especially after the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement was signed in Kigali.
For decades, China has worked alongside African countries to contribute to many peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in many parts of the world, including on the continent itself. They’ve also worked together by exchanging experiences on poverty alleviation, infrastructure construction, medical assistance and the development of human resources.
As the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) will host new meetings in Beijing this year, China and Rwanda will strengthen the common idea in preserving Africa’s unity, promoting common development and letting African countries play a larger role in the international arena.
