In April 2023, Gabon’s Parliament revised the Constitution, reducing the presidential term to five years.
On August 30, the military intervened after former President Ali Bongo’s disputed re-election, citing election result credibility issues.
Gabon, a central African nation, boasts abundant natural resources. It shares borders with Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of Congo while being situated on the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of 2.3 million in 2021, Gabon is sparsely populated, with forests covering 88% of its land.
The country exhibits one of Africa’s highest urbanization rates, with over four out of five Gabonese residing in urban areas.
The cities of Libreville and Port-Gentil are home to 59% of the nation’s population. Approximately half of Gabonese citizens are under 20 years of age, and the fertility rate is four children per woman in urban regions compared to six in rural areas.
By the end of 2024, this strategic effort aims to put a high-speed, cutting-edge smartphone in the hands of over 1 million Rwandans, many of whom will be experiencing the digital world for the first time.
This smartphone is now offered at a highly discounted price of Rwf20,000. Moreover, owners of this smartphone are eligible for unlimited calls and texts, and a 1 GB of 4G data daily, all for a monthly fee of just Rwf1,000.
Airtel smartphone users will experience the new pricing structure, which offers two options. For Rwf3,000 per month, subscribers will receive 1GB of 4G data daily, along with unlimited calls and SMS. If you choose to go with the Rwf5,000 monthly plan, you’ll enjoy a daily allowance of 2GB of 4G data, coupled with unlimited calls and SMS.
This path-breaking offering has been made possible in part through the philanthropic support of Reed Hastings, former Executive Chairman of Netflix, who has generously contributed to smartphone affordability under the initiative, in partnership with Airtel and ConnectRwanda 2.0.
Commenting on the development, Emmanuel Hamez, Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda, said: “Airtel Rwanda is extremely grateful to be able to join forces with the Government of Rwanda’s ConnectRwanda2.0 initiative, to paving the way for a digital revolution. We are immensely proud to be part of this initiative that promises to foster Rwanda’s digital access, starting right here in Kayonza, Eastern Province.”
Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation commended the exciting partnership between Airtel Rwanda and Netflix founder Reed Hastings as a significant milestone towards unlocking smartphone affordability.
“Today, smartphone ownership in Rwanda stands at 27% and the biggest barrier to smartphone ownership has been affordability. The launch of this smartphone financing initiative is a continuation of the Connect Rwanda initiative and it is well aligned with our policy to drive inclusive and accessible broadband connectivity across Rwanda,” she said.
About ConnectRwanda2.0: The initiative represents an ambitious effort by the Government of Rwanda and the industry to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies, narrowing the technological gap and propelling the nation into a more connected and promising future, which includes providing citizens with smartphones as a key component of the digital transformation agenda.
{{About Airtel Africa}}
Airtel Africa is a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, with a presence in 14 countries in Africa, primarily in East Africa and Central and West Africa. Airtel Africa offers an integrated suite of telecommunications solutions to its subscribers, including mobile voice and data services as well as mobile money services both nationally and internationally. The Group aims to continue providing a simple and intuitive customer experience through streamlined customer journeys.
Nfaly Sylla, the Minister of Communications of Guinea, has shared a video on X account capturing the solemn moment when the Guinean flag was raised in Kigali to mark the inauguration of the new embassy.
Minister Sylla expressed profound emotions as he celebrated the sight of the national flag flying proudly above the newly established embassy in Kigali. He also highlighted the deepening connections between Conakry and Kigali, emphasizing the enduring friendship between Rwanda and Guinea.
This inauguration follows the appointment of Souleymane Savané as the first ambassador of Guinea to Rwanda in July, a decision made by the Guinean transitional president, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya.
This diplomatic milestone was preceded by the official visit of Rwandan President Paul Kagame to Conakry on April 17 and 18. During this visit, several bilateral agreements were signed, with the aim of fostering enhanced cooperation between the two countries.
This gathering took place on a Saturday, a day dedicated to spreading the joy of shared meals under the banner of the ’Universal Plate’ campaign. Kigali Marriott Hotel partnered with Esther’s Aid Culinary Art, a renowned cooking school, and succeeded in serving over 400 individuals from the local community.
Nicole Ingabire Munyangabe, the Cluster Director of Human Resources at Kigali Marriott Hotel, shared her insights into the event’s purpose, stating, “Today, as hotel employees, we believed it’s good to share food with our community and provide food to those in need. Marriott’s core values, including the ’Serve360’ inspires us to give back to the community.”
Claire Effiong, the International Director of Esther’s Aid Culinary Arts, emphasized the significance of the occasion, noting, “Today, we are not only indulging in delicious meals but also using the power of food to transform lives. Our mission extends beyond encouraging people to eat; it aims to educate them about consuming nutritious foods that promote their well-being.”
The residents of Kacyiru expressed their gratitude for the hotel’s involvement. Solange Mukamurenzi, sharing her joy, said, “I used to pass by Kigali Marriott while going about my day, but now I am thrilled that we had the opportunity to share a meal with them. They prepared and served meals for us, and it truly brought happiness to our hearts.”
Jean Pierre Iranzi added, “Socializing and communal bonding are integral aspects of Rwandan culture. We are elated that the hotel joined us, not only sharing food but also revealing their culinary secrets.”
Kigali Marriott Hotel, which officially opened its doors on Tuesday, October 4, 2016, goes beyond its role as a provider of hotel and restaurant services.
The hotel is dedicated to making a positive impact to the community. They are actively involved in charitable activities, such as constructing shelters for the less fortunate, participating in community initiatives, visiting individuals with disabilities, providing support to patients, and enrolling vulnerable residents in the Mutuelle de Santé program, among other admirable efforts.
Rwanda, renowned for its top-tier coffee, has already carved its place in the global market. Since 2017, Rwandan coffee has consistently outshone coffee produced by other countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia. In the 2021/2022 fiscal year, Rwanda exported an impressive 15 million kilograms of coffee, resulting in revenues that surpassed $75 million.
Kibirizi coffee enjoys a distinctive reputation in international markets, thanks to the unwavering dedication and rigorous training imparted to the coffee growers responsible for its cultivation.
These farmers receive comprehensive training to fine-tune their farming practices, ensuring a flavor profile that is second to none.
Johnson Busingye, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, expressed his pride in this remarkable achievement, sharing on X account, formerly Twitter “Starting from October 15, 2023, Kibirizi Coffee Factory’s coffee is available in all Waitrose stores, one of the largest and most respected retailers in the UK.”
Behind this story of success lies the dedication of 1,130 committed farmers, each tending to coffee plantations covering less than one hectare of land, supplying the Kibirizi factory.
Paul Turton, the CEO of Pact Coffee, highlights the outstanding nature of Kibirizi coffee, emphasizing that it goes beyond being just a charitable initiative. He underscores that these small-scale coffee farms produce exceptional quality and flavor that distinctly distinguishes it in the English market.
Turton also goes on to explain that the fair pricing of this coffee will directly lead to an enhancement in the living standards of Rwandan farmers. He expresses his enthusiasm for the approach adopted by Waitrose, recognizing coffee as a powerful tool for economic transformation in Rwanda.
For British consumers, the flagship varieties, Bourbon Cream Espresso and Fruit & Nut Espresso, will be available in 200-gram packages, priced at £6.95, equivalent to over 10,000 Rwandan francs.
The BRI has become a pivotal platform, connecting nations and building a shared future. With 151 countries, representing almost 75% of the world’s population and over half of the global GDP, joining the BRI as of January 2023, its potential for global economic growth is nothing short of extraordinary.
Experts project that by 2040, the BRI could increase the world GDP by a staggering $7.1 trillion annually, benefiting world trade by overcoming the frictions caused by inadequate infrastructure.
Over 50 African countries have joined the BRI, embracing the rewards of improved infrastructure, reduced unemployment, and expanded trade opportunities.
Driven by the BRI, Chinese companies have undertaken awe-inspiring infrastructure projects in Africa. Over the past 23 years, they have constructed or upgraded more than 10,000 kilometers of railways, nearly 100,000 kilometers of roads, approximately 1,000 bridges, and 100 ports.
These transformative projects have not only enhanced trade, but they have also created over 4.5 million jobs, breathing new life into African communities.
Through the BRI, China and Africa share their development experiences. Successful projects in different corners of Africa exemplify the positive outcomes of this collaboration. Lives have been transformed, incomes have grown, and prosperity has flourished.
Noteworthy Belt and Road projects in Africa include the development of El Hamdania Central Port in Algeria, the continent’s second deep-water port. The Export-Import Bank of China has played a crucial role by lending approximately US$1 billion to Djibouti, funding almost 40 percent of its substantial infrastructure and investment projects.
The Belt and Road initiative has brought significant advancements, bridging Ethiopia and Djibouti through the Addis Ababa–Djibouti Railway and Ethiopia-Djibouti Water Pipeline. Furthermore, Djibouti has witnessed numerous infrastructure developments, including a military base and ships deployed from China’s South Sea Fleet.
In Egypt, the Belt and Road has introduced various projects, such as a Chinese industrial zone in the Gulf of Suez, an electric train system for the new capital, and investments in the Western Sahara. Kenya experienced a transformative moment when Premier Li Keqiang signed a cooperation agreement in May 2014 to construct the Mombasa–Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, Kenya’s most significant infrastructure project since independence, costing US$3.2 billion.
Among others, Nigeria witnessed commercial operation of the Abuja-Kaduna railway line in July 2016, constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), representing one of Nigeria’s first standard gauge railroad railway modernization projects.
Sudan received China’s assistance in establishing its oil industry and providing agricultural support for the cotton industry. In Tanzania, a momentous $2.2-billion contract was signed with a Chinese company in December 2022, aiming to build a railway line connecting the Indian Ocean port of Dar es Salaam to Mwanza on Lake Victoria, with future links to Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, and Uganda.
Chinese companies have contributed to Uganda’s development by financing two major hydroelectricity projects – the Karuma Hydropower Project and Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station, with loans from the Export-Import Bank of China covering approximately 85 percent of the funding, while the government of Uganda provided the remaining 15 percent.
Rwanda has also experienced significant transformation due to Chinese investments, particularly in infrastructure facilities. Projects like the Integrated Polytechnic Regional College (IPRC) Musanze, Masaka District Hospital, and road upgrades, including the 13km Bugesera Airport highway and flyover in Kicukiro district, have contributed to Rwanda’s economic and social development.
The Belt and Road Initiative continues to drive remarkable progress in Africa, forging strong ties between China and African nations, while fostering economic growth and cooperation across the continent.
The primary objective of this program is to enhance the entrepreneurial acumen of young individuals by helping them conceptualize, manage, and expand their promising and inventive ideas. This marks the official completion of the first phase of the program on October 13, 2023. This Horticulture project is slated for completion by 2025, with numerous young entrepreneurs set to receive training on bolstering horticulture practices to increase yields, enhance product value, and tap into lucrative markets.
During the closing ceremony, Fred Mugisha, the Chief Finance and Operations Officer at AEE Rwanda, underscored the significance of engaging youth in agriculture as a means to bring in fresh, capable hands and instigate positive transformations. Mugisha expressed gratitude to the European Union, Tearfund, and all project partners, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Youth, NAEB, RYAF, districts, and other collaborating institutions and organizations working towards the development of Rwanda. He also acknowledged the commitment of the participating youth to embrace professional agriculture.
Graduates of the training program are eager to implement the knowledge they have gained into their projects. Additionally, they are poised to use the Rwf1 million funding to expand their agricultural products. For example, Emelyne Mukamugema, a chili farmer, highlighted how the program enhanced her understanding of chili processing, enabling her to produce chili powder and chili oil. She plans to utilize the financial support to expand her operations, acquire essential equipment, and seek additional funding from partners to bring her vision to fruition.
Nzamutashya Jean Pierre, specializing in sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture, emphasized the importance of selecting the right project, developing a business plan, managing, and collaborating with supportive partners. Pierre aspires to extend his impact globally by sharing his newfound knowledge with farmers worldwide, aiming to improve their farming practices, businesses and lives.
The entrepreneurs have been trained in four distinct categories: six of them focused on value addition, particularly for chili, while two received training in modern agricultural practices that conserve soil and adapt to climate change. An additional five entrepreneurs received training in compost production and pesticide making, and another five were educated in the use of modern and automated irrigation technology.
Uwiringiye Simeon, the project’s Manager at AEE Rwanda, underlined the training’s goal of making a difference in the realm of vegetable and fruit farming by equipping passionate young individuals with the requisite knowledge. He urged the trained youth to persist in their endeavors and assured them of continued support and monitoring. He also called upon project partners to support these youth in utilizing their newfound knowledge productively.
Simeon expressed gratitude to Agri Research Unguka Ltd, YEAN, IPRC Gishari, and Nyarutarama Business Incubation Center for their invaluable contributions to the project, as well as RYAF and the districts of Gasabo, Bugesera, Rwamagana, and Kayonza for their ongoing support.
Representing the Ministry of Agriculture in the event, Mukamugena Alice, an expert in horticulture value addition and market department at Minagri, emphasized the ministry’s role in daily monitoring of such activities. She stressed the importance of collaboration with various agencies to ensure that these projects reach their full potential. She lastly said that MINAGRI will continuously point out possible opportunities that the youth can grab.
The AEE Rwanda disclosed that an initial investment of around Rwf35 million was made in the first phase of the training program.
At Wisdom School, every child is warmly welcomed, as the school is dedicated to helping students achieve academic milestones.
The school’s management places a strong emphasis on education rooted in the Bible, Rwandan culture, and international standards. At Wisdom School, no child fails because they receive quality instruction to foster outstanding performance. Equipping students with knowledge and ensuring their understanding empowers them to apply wisdom effectively, helping them tackle the challenges of our ever-changing world.
Evariste Bizimana, the head of the Sciences Department at Wisdom School, emphasizes the practical know-how provided to students. This approach ensures that students not only grasp their lessons but also know how to apply this knowledge in their future endeavors. Graduates of Wisdom School are equipped with the skills to create their own opportunities both while at the school and beyond.
“At Wisdom School, we instill an entrepreneurial spirit in our students. We aim to raise individuals who won’t burden their families or their country but will instead contribute to solving the challenges faced by the nation and the world as a whole. Choosing Wisdom School for your child ensures a brighter future,” he added.
The school strongly discourages students from limiting themselves to locally accredited curricula and encourages them to explore internationally accredited options while fostering a culture of research.
Elie Nduwayesu, the Director of Wisdom Schools Rwanda, expresses gratitude to parents who have entrusted their children to the school and encourages others to follow suit. He assures parents that their children will receive a well-rounded education suitable for global standards. Students who graduate from Wisdom School are confident individuals who can make a positive impact in Rwanda and beyond.
Wisdom Schools Rwanda offers a comprehensive range of Science, Nursing, and Accounting/Accounting options. Students are instructed in Kinyarwanda, English, French, Swahili, and Chinese, which equips them with international language competencies.
To accommodate the growing demand from parents, Wisdom Schools Rwanda has opened additional branches in Nyamasheke, Karongi, Ngororero (Western Province), Runda/Kamonyi (Southern Province), and Muyumbu, Fumbwe/Nyagasambu, Kayonza, Kiramuruzi, and Kabarore (Eastern Province). These branches complement the existing locations in Nyabihu, Rubavu, Burera, and Musanze, where Wisdom Schools Rwanda is headquartered.
Wisdom School welcomes students from around the world, and parents are encouraged to visit the schools for more detailed information. You can also find additional information on their website at www.wisdomschoolsrwanda.com or contact them via phone at 0784188101, 0782406217, 0788768880, 0788992098, or 0783336661.
It’s not that I intend to intrude, but some things are simply unavoidable. How can you tell your eyes not to wander?
Until I figure that out, let me share my thoughts on this matter.Serving oneself as much food as desired is perfectly fine, but not finishing it is a problem we can no longer ignore.
Traditionally, dining etiquette told us never to “clean our plates”, as leaving some food was considered polite. However, times have changed, and the consequences of wasting food are significant.
A report by the World Resources Institute reveals that “one third of food produced globally is lost or wasted, resulting in economic losses of an estimated $1 trillion a year and roughly 37% per capita in sub-Saharan Africa.”
Alarming statistics continue to emerge. A statement by Oxfam on September 20, 2023, indicated that one person dies of hunger every four seconds. These facts cannot be ignored.
Oxfam is a global movement of people, working together to end the injustice of poverty.
Wasted food has a severe environmental impact too. If wasted food were a country, it would be the third-largest producer of carbon dioxide globally, following the United States and China. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 22% of landfill waste is food, which, during decomposition, releases methane—a potent greenhouse gas even more harmful than carbon dioxide.
September 29th is recognized as the “International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste.” This day reminds us of the critical role sustainable food production plays in promoting food security, nutrition, and environment sustainability.
So, the next time you serve yourself food, remember to “bite what you can chew.” Avoid loading your plate with more than you can finish. By doing so, you not only avoid wasting precious resources involved in preparing that food but also show consideration for those who are less fortunate.
Your choices regarding food wastage reflect your character. Wasting food implies a lack of empathy, greed, selfishness, and carelessness. Let’s make a conscious effort to change our habits and contribute to a world where food is cherished, not squandered. Together, we can make a difference and work towards a future where no one goes to bed hungry.
“Today is a beautiful day,” Philippa beams, in an exclusive interview with IGIHE ,the indomitable gratitude emanating from her every word. Her vivacity is contagious, as she opens up about her passion and life’s mission. “This is the Pink Wellness House, our haven for patients, survivors, and anyone seeking knowledge about breast cancer. It’s my heart’s project, my way of honoring my sister’s memory.”
She holds up a pink ribbon, a symbol universally recognized as a sign of solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. For Philippa, it carries profound personal significance. “Breast cancer entered our lives through my sister, who, tragically, didn’t survive,” she reflects. “But after her loss, I became a Pink Lady – a grandma pink, Nana pink, and Auntie pink – you name it.”
The story Philippa shares is heartrending. The circumstances of transporting her sister’s body from England to Rwombashi, Congo, encapsulate the emotional turmoil she faced. She couldn’t explain the magnitude of the impact, but she knew it was profound. Her resolve to tackle breast cancer head-on was ignited.
Surviving breast cancer, Philippa realized her privilege lay in her awareness. The knowledge of the disease, its symptoms, risk factors, treatments, and options were her lifeline, something her sister never had the opportunity to grasp. It was a privilege shared by countless women in high-income countries but denied to those in Rwanda, Uganda, and other parts of Africa. The question became her life’s mission: Does your location determine your fate in the face of breast cancer?
A seasoned educator, Philippa decided to turn herself into a walking poster. She donned pink wherever she went, a visual cue for anyone curious about the pink lady. This served as a conversation starter, a chance to inform and educate people about breast cancer. She became a pink ambassador, her story a beacon of hope.
In 2007, Philippa ventured to Rwanda to assess the state of breast cancer awareness and treatment. The shock of discovering the absence of oncologists and proper cancer services compelled her to take action. She met 27 women who had undergone mastectomies, their breasts taken from them. One woman’s breast had been erroneously removed, leaving her with the sick one and once Philippa approached her . Her resolute declaration, “I can’t die as a Rwandan woman without a breast,” was the catalyst for Philippa’s return.
Stigma, silence, and shame were rampant. Philippa realized that awareness was the key to early detection, the key to survival. She and BCIEA took on the role of educators, dispelling myths, such as it is a communicable disease, it will kill you, it is a curse and so much more providing evidence-based information to empower individuals. Three simple words became their mantra: “Kunde” (Love yourself), “Imenye” (Know yourself), and “Isuzumishe” (Get checked).
The Pink Wellness House became a haven for patients and survivors, a place where crafts made with love and care, like knitted knockers, served to rebuild shattered self-esteem. They provided breast prosthesis to help women regain their confidence, bridging the chasm of negative body image that often accompanies breast cancer.
But BCIEA’s reach extends beyond this physical haven. Philippa emphasizes the importance of prevention through her wellness garden, where women learn to cook for their health. .
From a small group of 80’s, BCIEA now reaches thousands. And these people have been impacted through different awareness strategies such as a walk happening on Sunday 15th October 2023, with a Theme {{“Why Do You Walk” }}. Starting From at BK Arena to Green Hills Academy , a walk to raise breast cancer awareness, has become an annual highlight that aims to dispel misconceptions that perpetuate stigma.
In the warm embrace of the Pink Wellness House, Philippa De Cuir’s vision is taking shape. In her unwavering commitment to awareness and education, she offers a lifeline to women, men, and children alike. Philippa’s story is a testament to the power of knowledge, love, and resilience, a story that promises a future where breast cancer is not whispered in hushed tones but openly discussed, where myth and stigma are replaced by hope and healing.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths worldwide. By the end of 2020, 7.8 million women were still living after being diagnosed with breast cancer within the previous 5 years, establishing it as the most common cancer globally.
The WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) aims to decrease global breast cancer mortality by 2.5% annually, potentially preventing 2.5 million breast cancer deaths worldwide between 2020 and 2040.
A reduction in global breast cancer mortality by 2.5% each year would prevent 25% of breast cancer deaths by 2030 and 40% by 2040 among women under 70 years old. The three key strategies for accomplishing these goals are: promoting early detection, ensuring timely diagnosis, and offering comprehensive breast cancer management.
