The recent ‘Service Excellence Awards’ declared Tung Chinese Cuisine as the prestigious “Restaurant of the Year.” These awards, celebrating their eighth edition, are organized by Kalisimbi Events and its partners.
The Chairman of Century Park Hotel and Residence, Cheung Yiu Tung Billy, ascribes the achievement of Tung Chinese Cuisine as the “Restaurant of the Year” to their unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding services.
“The secret is that we always strive to improve, no matter how skilled one is. We believe there is always room for improvement. This philosophy has been instrumental in our journey to excellence. We work closely together to consistently enhance the quality of our services,” he shared.
In addition to his words of encouragement, Cheung urged the residents of Rwanda to savor the flavors of Chinese cuisine, which are beloved worldwide. He emphasized their ongoing efforts to pique the interest of the local populace in Chinese dishes and welcomed potential clients in Kigali to indulge in culinary delights at Tung Chinese Cuisine.
Tung Chinese Cuisine stands out not only for its culinary prowess but also for its spacious garden, offering a relaxing atmosphere for guests. The restaurant’s garden area provides a perfect setting for leisurely enjoyment and various recreational activities for children.
This issue has escalated to the point where citizens endure excruciatingly long waits, often extending to two hours or more due to a shortage of buses. Frustrated by the wait, some commuters opt to walk or patiently endure the delays.
Consider a Kanombe neighborhood resident working in the city center. They leave work at 5 p.m. but don’t arrive home until 9 p.m., primarily due to the interminable waiting at stations and stops.
Efforts are now in motion to address this problem and revamp the public transportation system. One major hurdle is the inadequate number of vehicles compared to the surging demand. The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) says that at least 305 buses are needed to meet the demand effectively.
In a positive development, 100 new buses will be introduced by the end of the month, with another 100 slated for December. Additionally, the introduction of electric through collaboration with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is under consideration.
Evariste Rugigana, the Director-General of RURA, is optimistic that these measures will lead to a resolution of this issue by year’s end.
Another initiative aims to allow anyone with a seven-seater vehicle to register with RURA for passenger transport, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. Passengers can directly negotiate fares with the drivers. This initiative has already attracted 60 vehicles, and Rugigana emphasizes that the aim is to ensure smoother and more affordable mobility for everyone through direct fare negotiation.
These alternative measures have received applause from users. According to Jean Claude Twajamahoro, “The wait has become shorter thanks to the proliferation of vehicles outside of the typically registered companies.” Chantal Mukahirwa also commends the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.
However, some have pointed out that the fares for private vehicles are higher than those for traditional buses, and they hope for appropriate adjustments. Paul Nkundabagenzi, a driver of such vehicles, believes that fare-setting should remain a matter of negotiation between drivers and passengers, rather than being regulated by RURA.
It’s worth noting the government’s efforts to complete the puzzle. Government subsidies for public transportation have steadily increased over the last six months. In March, the subsidy was Rwf3.09 billion, which slightly increased to Rwf3.2 billion in April, surged to Rwf3.56 billion in May, and reached a peak of Rwf4.4 billion in August. This totals a substantial Rwf21.8 billion invested in the past six months, with the government pledging to continue its efforts to improve the situation.
In August, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) released new guidelines on night-time activities in hospitality establishments, as per the Cabinet resolution of August 1.
Commercial entertainment venues such as bars and nightclubs, are required to close at 1a.m, from Monday to Friday, and at 2a.m, on Saturday and Sunday.
The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga said that although the guidelines are generally respected, there are some bars that continue to violate them.
“Generally, most bars, nightclubs and other hospitality establishments that sell alcoholic beverages have complied with the regulations. However, there are some bars and neighborhood shops that have been turned into bars, which operate beyond the set hours,” ACP Rutikanga said.
He added: “Some bars and other hospitality establishments have been penalised after they were found operating beyond the set time or contrary to the business license. This is a reminder of serious penalties to anyone caught violating these government guidelines.”
He also warned hospitality facilities against operating contrary to the awarded business license.
“There are some facilities that were licensed as restaurants but have been turned into bars. The same goes for supermarkets, shops and liquor stores.”
The Police in partnership with local government authorities, he said, have strengthened enforcement of the guidelines, across the country.
The spokesperson further cautioned against serving alcoholic beverages to minors, which is punishable by law.
By law, it is illegal to serve alcohol to persons under 18 years of age.
In article 27 of Law N?71/2018 of 31/08/2018 relating to the protection of the child, stipulates that “Any person, who offers a child alcoholic beverages or tobacco commits an offence.” Upon conviction, he/she is liable to a community service for a period not exceeding one (1) month.
In case of recidivism, the penalty is imprisonment for a term of not less than one month but less than three months and a fine of not less than Rwf100,000 and not more than Rwf200,000.
The same law specifies that a person, who sells alcoholic beverages or tobacco to a child, causes or encourages a child to drink alcoholic beverages, to smoke or to go to bars commits an offence.
Upon conviction, he/she is liable to imprisonment for a term between three months and six months and a fine of not less than Rwf100,000 and not more than Rwf200,000.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the event.
The meeting was also attended by other leaders of the CPC and the state, including Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Ding Xuexiang and Li Xi, all of whom are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.
During a speech delivered on behalf of the CPC Central Committee by Cai Qi, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, Cai offered warm congratulations to the meeting and extended sincere greetings to all workers and trade union cadres across the country.
Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, the country’s working class has closely united around the CPC Central Committee, bravely shouldered heavy responsibilities, worked hard, and made important contributions to the Party and the country’s cause that has realized historic achievements and witnessed historic changes, Cai said.
Over the past five years, by adhering to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, trade unions at all levels have strengthened Party building, deepened reform and innovation, performed their duties in the protection of workers’ rights, promoted harmonious labor relations, and mobilized workers in embarking on China’s new journey of building a modern socialist country, Cai said.
Noting that the 20th National Congress of the CPC established the central tasks of building a strong nation and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization, Cai called on the nation’s working class to remain loyal and reliable, and to continue adhering to the noble principles of unity and hard work.
Trade unions at all levels must also remain loyal to the Party’s cause, serve the country’s workers wholeheartedly, build broad unity, and effectively improve the quality of rights protection services, Cai said.
Nearly 2,000 delegates from all walks of life attended the meeting, as well as more than 50 specially invited delegates.
The report, titled “Rwanda’s Repression Across Borders,” is described by Rwanda as a continuation of HRW’s longstanding anti-Rwanda narrative spanning three decades.
Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo expressed firm disapproval through a tweet, labeling the report as entirely biased. The report alleges attacks and persecutions against those with dissenting views, which Rwanda disputes, claiming the opposite is true.
Makolo criticizes HRW’s consistent portrayal of Rwanda in a negative light, suggesting that the organization aims to denigrate the nation without reason. She defends Rwanda’s progress in improving living conditions and respecting human rights over nearly three decades, emphasizing the country’s commitment to its political vision.
“Any balanced assessment of Rwanda’s record in advancing the rights, well-being and dignity of Rwandans over the past 29 years would recognize remarkable, transformational progress. Rwanda will not be deterred from this work by bad-faith actors advancing a politicized agenda,” Makolo tweeted.
HRW’s report relies on testimonies from over 150 Rwandan dissidents residing in various countries. It alleges secret Rwandan military operations in Mozambique since 2021, raising concerns among government opponents. However, the report lacks concrete evidence to support mistreatment claims or Rwandan government involvement in such actions.
One of the testimonies, by Joseph Mazimpaka, claims pursuit by Rwandan agents in Tanzania but lacks legal proof. However, contradictory information suggests Mazimpaka’s past involvement with genocidal forces (EX FAR) and his escape after participating in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
It is not the first time HRW has published biased reports about Rwanda. In 2017, HRW’s claims of state-caused deaths were debunked by Rwanda’s National Human Rights Commission as falsehoods meant to tarnish Rwanda’s reputation.
The presiding judge made the decision to adjourn the trial to 10th October, to allow medical experts to provide additional information regarding Basobose’s health condition. The purpose is to determine whether he is fit to stand trial.
The trial began on October 9, with Basabose absent due to health issues. Basabose’s health concerns were noted in August 2022, with a recommendation to place him in a medical facility due to mental disorders.
Despite these issues, the court decided on June 21, 2023, that the trial would proceed.
Both suspects face charges related to genocide and war crimes, with Twahirwa also accused of rape. The trial is scheduled to continue until December 8.
The Africa Energy Expo, set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from February 20 to 22, 2024, will be the first of its kind. It is designed to facilitate critical discussions, foster collaboration, and drive progress in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) while advancing Africa’s Power Vision goals. The event aligns with the goals established during COP 27 and sets the stage for the relationships and investments critical to COP 28.
Organized by The Informa Markets, a global exhibition and conference organizer, the event is endorsed by the Rwanda Ministry of Infrastructure and supported by the Rwanda Convention Bureau. The Africa Energy Expo and the Africa Energy Leadership Summit are pivotal gatherings of African decision-makers addressing the continent’s energy infrastructure gap.
Commenting on the development, Candy Basomingera, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) expressed delight for selecting Rwanda to host the Africa Energy Expo in February 2024 and extended warm welcome to participants.
“This event is not just about energy; it’s about powering Africa’s future. Our country is known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, making it the ideal destination to advance access to modern, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions in Africa.
To the guests and delegates who will be attending the Africa Energy Expo 2024, we look forward to welcoming you to Kigali and ensuring that you have a memorable experience,” Candy Basomingera, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Convention Bureau.
Gen. Caesar, the Chief Technical Advisor in charge of Energy at Rwanda’s Ministry of Infrastructure, acknowledged the energy challenges facing Africa and expressed optimism about leveraging the platform to find concrete solutions.
“As Rwanda proudly hosts the inaugural Africa Energy Expo, we are fully aware of the persistent energy challenges across our continent, with 43% of the African population lacking electricity access and 970 million people still in need of clean cooking solutions.
Rwanda has made remarkable progress in our pursuit of universal electricity access, achieving an access rate of 70%, with 20% of this success attributed to off-grid solutions such as solar home systems and mini-grids. These initiatives are not only extending access but also fostering the growth of renewable energy sources. Through the Africa Energy Expo, we are transforming these challenges into concrete solutions,” he said.
The event boasts a diverse and influential lineup of speakers, each representing a distinct facet of Africa’s dynamic energy ecosystem.
According to Azzan Mohamed, Informa Markets Group Director- Energy Portfolio, EMEA, Africa Energy Expo is primed to foster essential relationships and catalyse strategic investments within the energy sector.
“It aims to connect regulators, utilities, and governments with policymakers while also establishing an enabling framework for resource sharing between African nations,” he noted.
{{Pan-Africa representation of energy industry players}}
The Africa Energy Expo is a truly pan-African event at which the entire value chain of stakeholders across Africa’s energy sector will be represented. Leading exhibitors from across Africa and beyond will showcase the latest products and solutions, focusing on five vital sectors: Renewable and Clean Energy, Conventional Power Generation, Smart Solutions, Transmission and Distribution, and Backup Generators and Critical Power solutions.
Taking place alongside the Africa Energy Expo is the Africa Energy Leadership Summit. Themed ‘Investments, integration, infrastructure, and governance for the energy transition,’ the Summit aims to forge partnerships that will accelerate targeted interventions and focus on advancing a just, fair, and sustainable energy transition, embodying Africa’s commitment to bridging its energy infrastructure divide.
In addition, the Africa Energy Expo features exhibitors’ workshops and an Entrepreneurs Forum. This forum offers business skills training for new market entrants, youth, entrepreneurs, and industry mentors, providing an opportunity for project owners and stakeholders to network, mobilize resources, and address crucial issues around policy and projects in an enabling environment.
In addition, interactive deep dive sessions on hot-button topics will enable peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, allowing stakeholders across the value chain to define the solutions that will drive the sector forward.
{{Collaborating for the benefit of the African energy sector}}
“Informa Markets’ hosted buyer programme and Investor Club are key features of our energy events. Our dedicated team facilitates conversations, business deals, and MOUs worth billions of US dollars between energy stakeholders in Africa on a daily basis, and we look forward to doing so at the Africa Energy Expo as well,” says Mohamed.
Africa Energy Expo springs from the success of a 48-year legacy in building events, connecting the right buyers, facilitating dialogue, and supporting economic growth across the Middle East and Africa.
“Our leading energy events boast a 95%+ exhibitor satisfaction rating – in revenue terms, this translates into USD1.86 billion in total business per flagship edition, delivering USD1.3 million in average sales per exhibitor in the Middle East region, and USD900 million by exhibitors across Africa.
With a proven record across events like Middle East Energy Dubai, Nigeria Energy, and Egypt Energy, we’re bringing this success to Rwanda to help move the continent towards its energy goals,” Mohammed explained.
{{In Africa, for Africa}}
Rwanda, renowned for its sustainable development initiatives, impressive pre-pandemic GDP growth, and resilient recovery from global challenges, is the perfect backdrop for the Africa Energy Expo. Positioned at the heart of Africa, its central location and ease of access are conducive to a pan-African energy event.
Moreover, Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability, outlined in the country’s Vision 2050, aligns with Africa Energy Expo’s goals of promoting a sustainable energy future.
Africa Energy Expo 2024 promises to be a landmark event that unites stakeholders, promotes sustainable energy solutions, and propels Africa toward a brighter energy future.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of mental wellbeing that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community.
It encompasses our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in our lives.
{{What causes Mental Health Challenges}}
According to experts, Genetics and brain chemistry can play a significant role in mental health. Certain genes may increase the risk of developing mental health conditions, while imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can also contribute to disorders like depression or anxiety.
Additionally, environmental Factors like in particular life experiences, such as trauma, abuse, or significant stress, can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues.
Personality traits, coping mechanisms, and thought patterns are also said to influence an individual’s susceptibility to mental health challenges. For example, perfectionism or a tendency to ruminate on negative thoughts can contribute to conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or depression.
{{Common Symptoms of Mental Health Conditions}}
Psychologists name: persistent sadness or mood swings, changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping), increased irritability or anger, withdrawal from social activities, difficulty concentrating or making decisions among the most common symptoms of mental health disorders.
They thus recommend whoever experiences any of the symptoms to seek professional help from therapists, counsellors, or psychiatrists.
Practising self-care is relatively essential for maintaining good mental health. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques like mindfulness or meditation.
Furthermore, maintaining a strong support network of friends and family can provide emotional assistance during difficult times. Sharing feelings and concerns with loved ones can alleviate the burden of mental health challenges.
Authorities and responsible bodies are also urged to increase awareness about mental health and challenge the stigma surrounding it so as to encourage individuals to seek help when needed and promote a more supportive and understanding society.
With bold ambitions to improve citizens’ wellbeing, the Government of Rwanda has not been left behind this cause.
As part of activities to mark this year’s Mental Health Day, Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) in partnership with Solid Minds Rwanda, youth and student led organisations have launched the ‘Youth-Friendly National Mental Health Campaign’ to promote the mental well being of students and young people in Rwanda.
The event held at Olympic Hotel in Kigali Rwanda under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” attracted poets like Junior Rumaga, Rusine Patrick-comedian, different doctors and therapists and is promising to add up to the country’s efforts towards eliminating mental health stigma and other related conditions.
Gen. Landry is in Rwanda since Sunday for a week-long visit.
Discussions between IGP Namuhoranye and Gen. Landry focused on strengthening the existing cooperation in various law enforcement disciplines.
Gen. Landry thanked the Government of Rwanda for the continued support in building the capacity of law enforcement and security agencies in CAR.
“As a country coming out of conflicts, we are happy that Rwanda is facilitating us to build the capacity of our security institutions, including Gendarmerie and the Police, to be able to handle the emerging security threats,” Gen. Landry said.
Rwanda National Police and CAR Police formalized bilateral relations with a memorandum of understanding signed in February, last year, to exchange training and other best programmes, and to enhance professional competence.
The cooperation agreement also provides an arrangement for the two law enforcement institutions to jointly fight transnational organized crime and terrorism, human and drug trafficking, proliferation of small arms and light weapons, information sharing, joint operations, among others.
Rwanda maintains over 700 Police peacekeepers under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in CAR (MINUSCA), including four contingents, and 70 Police Advisors.
The MINUSCA Police component is also headed by a Rwandan, Commissioner of Police CP Christophe Bizimungu.
Law enforcement officers from CAR have also attended various professional and academic training programmes in Rwanda, including the Police Senior Command and Staff Course (PSCSC) offered at the National Police College (NPC) in Musanze District.
The details emerged on Sunday during a talk show aired on RBA, where RNP spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga revealed that 18 agro-suppliers have been arrested for diverting these subsidized inputs.
He explained that some agro-inputs are even smuggled into neighboring countries using fraudulent techniques, such as soliciting fertilizers for uncultivated land.
Gicumbi and Kirehe are among districts where such incidents were reported.
Thierry Murangira, the spokesperson of Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), indicated that these frauds often involved the falsification of documents through the “Smart Nkunganire” system, a government subsidy program for agricultural inputs introduced in 2017.
“Between July 2022 and June 2023, 33 cases were recorded, leading to the arrest of 61 individuals involved in the embezzlement of 57 tons of fertilizers,” he added.
Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, warned over 3,000 agro-suppliers in the country against all forms of fraud.
Emphasizing the importance of subsidies, he recalled that for the 2023 A agricultural season, the government allocated Rwf36 billion, including 5.16 billion for seeds and 30.84 billion for fertilizers, to ensure that the money benefits only genuine farmers.
