Her impactful speech was delivered at the recently concluded Women Deliver Conference held in Kigali, Rwanda, from 17th to 20th July 2023.
Melinda attended the conference virtually on its third day, participating in a panel discussion focused on the challenges hindering gender equality and the necessary actions to accelerate progress.
“I get frustrated when some leaders say to my face that, ‘we can’t afford to live up to the promises we’ve made to women and girls around the world in times like this,’ not realizing that it’s precisely in ‘times like these’ that we need to tear down barriers that stand in the way of this general role,” she exclaimed.
Despite the ongoing challenges the world faces from the pandemic, climate change, and the war in Ukraine, Melinda strongly believes that supporting women and girls will lead to more resilient communities and countries.
“I want leaders to understand that if they truly care about pandemic preparedness, hunger, or their National GDP, then they must genuinely care about the health and well-being of women and girls,” she emphasized.
Melinda firmly advocates for the empowerment of women, recognizing that “when women have power over their bodies and their money, they transform societies.”
Over the years, through the ‘Gates Foundation,’ Melinda has collaborated with the Women Deliver Forum to pursue a world where every woman and girl can achieve their full potential. The Gates Foundation strategically invests in health innovations and nutrition tailored to meet women’s unique needs because “healthy women are the backbone of flourishing communities.”
Melinda Gates remains optimistic that with the support of over 200,000 partners, including women, significant progress will be made in creating a world that’s better simply because it’s equal.
The agreement was inked by Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, Rwanda’s Minister of Trade and Industries, and Denis Christel Sassou Nguesso, Congo-Brazzaville’s Minister of International Cooperation. The memorandum of understanding aims to streamline trade processes and facilitate economic growth by focusing on strategic areas of collaboration.
The development was reached during President Nguesso’s two-day state visit to Rwanda where he visited Kigali Genocide Memorial, addressed members of Parliament, and toured Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA), among other activities.
So far, bilateral engagements between both countries at different times have resulted in the signing of 33 agreements and a memoranda of understanding.
Among the notable achievements were the bilateral air service agreement that allows RwandAir to operate direct flights to Congo-Brazzaville, the ratification of the double taxation avoidance agreement, and the ratification of a visa waiver between both countries. These agreements will help strengthen economic ties and promote people-to-people interactions.
Vincent Biruta, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, highlighted the importance of monitoring progress on the signed agreements and ongoing economic projects. This systematic approach will ensure accountability and effectiveness in implementing the initiatives.
The Congolese President, Denis Sassou Nguesso, emphasized the crucial role of the AfCFTA in promoting economic development on the African continent. He stressed the need for free movement of goods and people to catalyze prosperity in the region. President Nguesso also called for concrete and tangible results from the cooperation efforts, emphasizing that signing agreements should not be mere formalities, but rather actions that yield real benefits for citizens.
Meanwhile, President Kagame expressed his commitment to building on this newfound cooperation between Rwanda and Congo-Brazzaville. He asserted that both nations should work together to lead the way in driving progress and achieving their shared development goals.
The Rwandan President’s visit to Congo-Brazzaville in April 2022 had already set the stage for mutual prosperity and strengthened the friendship between the two countries.
The agreement signed under the AfCFTA represents a significant milestone in regional economic integration between Rwanda and Congo-Brazzaville.
The office was officially opened on July 19, 2013, to bring port services closer to Rwanda-based clients without having to travel to Mombasa to follow up on their cargo or queries.
This, according to the authority, helped clients reduce the cost and time of doing business and also access customer support at the office.
The Kigali Liaison office was established to bring port services closer to the Rwanda clients without having to travel to Mombasa to follow up on their cargo or queries. This helped clients reduce the cost and time of doing business and also access customer support at the Liaison office. The Liaison office implements a Marketing Strategy based on three pillars, namely Customer Engagement, Business Development, and Stakeholder Management.
The presence of Kigali office for the last 10 years has supported the growth of Rwanda market and enabled the utilization of Single Customs Territory (SCT) regime of cargo clearance to have an end-to-end process by Rwanda Clients from 2014.
Partnerships with Key stakeholders like the Ministry of Infrastructure (MININFRA), Ministry of Trade and industry (MINICOM), Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), Private Sector Federation (PSF), Rwanda Freight Forwarders Association (RWAFFA), and Business Management Organizations among others have also been forged to improve trade facilitation.
Other key achievements include empowering clients to use cargo tracking software, KWATOS, and SAP Biller Direct portal for cargo clearance and payment of port charges. KPA also engaged in Corporate Social Initiative such as participation in Umuganda events (monthly community clean-up exercise) and issuing community-based health insurance to vulnerable members in the society among others.
Speaking at the celebration held at Marriott Hotel Kigali on Friday 21st July 2023, the Chairman of Kenya Port Authority (KPA), Benjamin Tayari disclosed that the authority is implementing plans to upgrade ports cargo handling facilities, support the development of special economic zones, and ensure the development of hinterland infrastructures to ease cargo offtake from the port as well as eradicate non-tariff barriers along the northern corridor.
“As we celebrate ten years since we opened the Kigali office, let us take count of the milestones we have achieved and the essence of the symbiotic relationship that has enabled us to come this far. While we may have experienced some challenges along the way, we have even better reasons to work harder, going forward to grow our region,” he stated.
The Managing Director of KPA, Capt William Ruto, commended the Government of Rwanda for unwavering support and cooperation over the past decade.
“It is through visionary leadership and commitment to fostering regional integration that we have been able to forge this fruitful partnership. The establishment of our office in Kigali has been a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations,” he noted.
Ruto underscored that the presence of KPA in Rwanda over the past ten years has not only served as a gateway for goods coming into and leaving Rwanda but has also acted as a catalyst for the development of a robust logistics network in the region.
“Prior to the establishment of this office, we had continued to witness a growth of imports to Rwanda through the Ports of Mombasa, which increased to 247,730 tons in 2012 from 216,306 during the period. Exports also increased from 9,787 tons to 12,508 tons during the period,” he revealed.
As Ruto explained, the KPA office in Kigali helps to execute documentation and cargo tracking for consignments that are at the Port of Mombasa.
Equally, clients can directly pay to the Kenya Ports Authority either through cash bank deposits or online payments from the comfort of their offices.
According to Ruto, the office has so far contributed to the reduction of time taken on responses to queries such as the status of cargo and verification of port charges.
“In 2022, our transit traffic posted a significant growth of 7.3 percent to record 10.23 million tons against 9.54 million tons recorded in 2021. It is impressive to note that among the transit markets, Rwanda recorded the highest growth of 132.7 percent or 245,104 tons after registering 429,857 tons in 2022 against 184,753 tons in 2021. The figures are a testament to the importance of this office on our overall business,” he stated.
Abiel Abimana, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, graced the occasion as the guest of honor and emphasized the significance of KPA’s 10th anniversary, particularly highlighting the importance of the Kigali liaison office. He expressed appreciation for the authority’s efforts in bringing services closer to Rwanda, leading to reduced transport costs and improved trade.
Abimana praised KPA for its dedication to supporting the implementation of a single customs territory, which has resulted in notable improvements in customs clearance processes.
He emphasized the crucial role that transport infrastructure and services play as key drivers of economic growth while acknowledging the challenges faced in the region, especially concerning logistics and transport.
The Permanent Secretary advocated for a more frequent forum that brings together concerned stakeholders to address barriers and challenges encountered by the business community.
Fred Seka, the CEO of Gorilla Logistics and Chairperson of the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Association (FEAFFA), acknowledged the shared journey of growth in Rwanda’s economy with KPA. He recalled the challenges they encountered in the past, particularly concerning the use of the Port of Mombasa, and expressed gratitude for the joint efforts of Rwandan and Kenyan governments in overcoming these obstacles.
Seka highlighted the positive impact of integrating the East African Community and establishing KPA’s office in Rwanda, facilitating smoother business operations, including efficient handling of shipments and bills at the Port of Mombasa.
He applauded the accomplishments achieved over the past decade, such as reduced transit times, streamlined customs processes, and the expanded reach of the border to the Port of Mombasa. Seka praised the dedication of Captain William, the Managing Director of KPA, and the Kenyan government in their commitment to enhancing infrastructure.
He extended his gratitude to the Rwandan business community for their unwavering support and cooperation with the KPA office in Rwanda. Seka also called for efficient customer service and prompt resolution of issues, further strengthening business relations.
“The termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative will have a series of consequences, ranging from an increase in global food prices, famine in some regions, to potential new waves of migration,” Erdogan told reporters on his flight back to Türkiye.
“I believe we will ensure the continuation of this humanitarian movement by discussing the issue in detail with Mr. Putin,” he said.
The statement came after a quartet meeting was held by the delegations of Turkey, Ukraine, Russia, and the United Nations in Istanbul. (Xinhua)
The Turkish president noted that Moscow’s expectations of the grain initiative should also be met.
“We know he also has some expectations from Western countries. Western countries need to take action in this regard,” Erdogan said.
The president said he planned to have a phone conversation first and then discuss the issue face-to-face.
“If Mr. Putin’s planned visit in August takes place, we will discuss these issues in detail. I believe we will ensure the continuation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative before the process is prolonged,” Erdogan said.
Russia has complained that its demands to improve its own grain and fertilizer exports have not been met, and refused to extend the grain deal on Monday.
Russia and Ukraine signed separately with Türkiye and the United Nations the Black Sea Grain Initiative in Istanbul in July 2022, which allowed Ukraine to export its grain and other agricultural products from its Black Sea ports.
The initiative, which was initially valid for 120 days, was extended in mid-November 2022 for another 120 days until March 18, 2023. Russia then agreed to extend the deal for only 60 days. On May 17, Russia agreed to extend the deal for another 60 days.
The 42-year old suspect was intercepted in Ngororero village, Kabeza cell of Ngororero sector following a well coordinated operations by the Police, local leaders and residents.
He had concealed the narcotics in a bag, according to Chief Superintendent of Police (CIP) Mucyo Rukundo, the Police spokesperson for the Western region.
“He was always moving with a bag, which raised residents’ suspicion to be a drug dealer, prompting them to report to local leaders and the Police,” said CIP Rukundo.
Indeed, when Police officers searched him, they recovered 995 pellets of cannabis in his bag leading to his immediate arrest, he added.
The suspect disclosed that he bought quantities of the severe narcotic drug from another big dealers, who sneaks them into Rwanda from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The suspect, who was handed over to RIB at Ngororero station, said he intended to traffic the narcotics to his clients in City of Kigali.
CIP Rukundo lauded the impact of community policing and neighborhood watch in particular, in identifying suspected criminals such as drug dealers.
The law provides an improvement of 20 years to life, for anyone convicted of trafficking and selling cannabis and other narcotics classified as very severe in Rwanda.
Other very severe narcotic drugs include heroin and cocaine.
During the conference, IGIHE spoke with some of the conference participants and captured their key takeaways.
Lilliane Umutoni, a participant from Rwanda who attended a session on ‘The Power of Choice: Fostering Partnership to Realize Bodily Autonomy’ hosted by UNFPA, expressed deep gratitude for the conference.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have attended this conference. Until today, I wasn’t aware of my own power to positively impact someone else’s life. I now realize that from where I stand, I can make a difference and my pledge is to empower a girl somewhere, in whatever way possible,” she shared.
Line Aggernaes, a senior advisor in sexual and reproductive health and rights from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, hailed the decision to host the conference in Africa.
She appreciated the diversity among the participants and acknowledged that often, despite holding numerous conferences and meetings and raising funds to support gender rights and SRHR, there remains uncertainty about whether those in need receive the necessary support.
“Being here today, seeing the real people at the grassroots, talking to them, and understanding their needs and aspirations is truly enlightening,” Line expressed.
Shaille Chaundhary, a campaigner with ‘Dalit Lives Matter’ from Nepal, was impressed by the passion African women exhibited for their rights. She stated, “Experiencing Africa firsthand and witnessing the passion African women have for their rights is truly inspiring. Seeing things from their perspective changes how we perceive the continent.”
Caroline Bigirimana, an advocate for sexual and reproductive health and research from Burundi, was delighted to connect with fellow women who share the same cause. “It’s heartening to see girls and women gaining access to knowledge about their bodies and the choices available to them,” she shared.
Even Abraham Famanou from Chad, a male participant, recognized the transformative power of the conference. He admitted that his understanding of gender equality and his role in promoting it has evolved. “I’ve come to understand that as a man, I play a crucial role in gender equality and combating gender violence. From now on, I’ll value and respect everyone regardless of their gender,” he asserted.
The Women Deliver Conference which was concluded on 20th July 2023 featured side events, conferences, and sessions focusing on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), gender equality, LGBTQ+, youth involvement, and other related topics. Additionally, participants had opportunities to network during breaks, and they were entertained with art, music, movies, comedy, and games at various booths.
The conference’s impact has been profound, igniting a sense of empowerment, solidarity, and a deeper commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s rights worldwide. The participants’ collective efforts and shared experiences during these five days in Kigali will undoubtedly pave the way for transformative changes in the quest for a more equitable and inclusive world.
He was addressing a joint session of Rwanda’s parliament on the first day of his visit to Rwanda on Friday 21st July.
“I salute Rwanda, a country which, after the tragedy of the Genocide, courageously rose up to rebuild its unity, and cohesion, restore peace and security, and place itself with determination on the path of development,” said Nguesso referring to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi which devastated Rwanda.
After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, RPA Inkotanyi soldiers played a vital role in establishing a non-divisive leadership that promoted unity, reconciliation, and inclusive development among Rwandans under the leadership of President Paul Kagame. Despite facing a serious economic collapse, Rwanda has managed to transform into a resilient country, becoming a role model for many others in various aspects of life.
President Nguesso also emphasized critical areas of development that should receive attention to achieve prosperity across the African continent. He highlighted Africa’s vast resources, including minerals, gas, water, and human resources, which hold the potential to enable the continent’s prosperity. However, he emphasized that achieving prosperity requires maintaining peace and working towards collective autonomy for industrial development. He encouraged greater collaboration among African countries to secure a larger share of global industrial production.
According to President Nguesso, the future of the African continent depends on transformative approaches towards utilizing its natural resources effectively, adding value to them. He also emphasized the importance of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA), which can contribute to a united, independent, and prosperous Africa.
Africa boasts significant global mineral reserves, petroleum and gas wealth, vast arable land areas, and an abundance of raw materials, making it a substantial reserve of natural resources on the planet. Moreover, the continent possesses a substantial hydro power potential, estimated at 300 gigawatts, largely underexploited, thanks to its rivers such as the Congo, Nile, and Zambezi.
President Nguesso also highlighted the potential for harnessing solar energy, which is eco-friendly, and expressed optimism that the development of Africa is well within reach.
According to Rwanda’s Presidency, the award bestowed to Sassou-Nguesso on July 21, is a recognition of his “exceptional leadership and dedication to building a more stable and prosperous Africa.
Sassou-Nguesso is in Rwanda for a three-day state visit that began on Friday 21st July 2023. Kagame decorated his counterpart during a State Banquet on the first day.
The National Order of Honour is awarded to a Rwandan or foreign Head of State or Head of Government, the head of an international organisation or a high-ranking official who has distinguished himself or herself by acts promoting the interests in political, economic, and social welfare at national or international level.
The awarding ceremony of National Orders is governed by the Presidential Order determining the nature, awarding and declaration of national orders.
Apart from Agaciro, other National Orders are: National Order of Friendship (Igihango), National Order of Performance (Indashyikirwa), National Order Of Culture (Indangamirwa) and National Order Of Bravery (Indengabaganizi).
During plea-taking on Wednesday; the accused, Gilbert Ntuyemungu,52, a Rwandan citizen, requested the court to release him on favourable bail terms saying he wanted to reunite with his family in Rwanda. He also argued that he needed treatment for the serious injuries he sustained during the accident that left him confined in a wheelchair.
On Thursday, he was denied bail by Molo Chief Magistrate Hellena Nderitu after the tragic incident occurred at Londiani junction in Kericho County. The court ruled that Ntuyemungu posed a flight risk and and lacked adequate surety to warrant the court to grant him bail.
Ntuyemungu was remanded at Nakuru GK Prison until his case is heard and determined.
Magistrate Nderitu highlighted the lack of evidence suggesting that Ntuyemungu had a fixed abode in Kenya, which could potentially lead him to abscond court proceedings. The absence of a repatriation treaty between Kenya and Rwanda further supported the court’s decision to deny bail, given the seriousness of the charges, which involve the death of 53 people and injuries to 25 others.
During his time in remand at Nakuru GK Prison, Ntuyemungu will be provided with witness statements, exhibits, the charge sheet, and other documentary evidence to aid in his defense.
Ntuyemungu has strongly denied the 90 charges brought against him, including causing death by dangerous driving, causing injuries, and causing damage to 10 motor vehicles on July 3, along Nakuru-Kericho Highway. He maintains that the incident was not caused by reckless driving but rather by an accident resulting from the truck’s brake failure. He claims that he had no motive or intent to harm the victims, whom he considered strangers to him.
However, the investigating officer, Florence Auma, has stated in her affidavit that the accused is facing charges of mass killing due to careless driving and other serious offenses. Auma emphasized the severity of the potential punishment if Ntuyemungu were found guilty and expressed concerns that he might attempt to flee the country.
The objective of the basket fund is to support rural districts by financing relevant local infrastructure projects in order to improve living conditions of the citizens. It will focus on improving access to basic public services, provide employment opportunities, improve resilience to climate change and have positive impact on women.
The eligible districts to benefit from the pro-poor basket fund include: Gisagara; Nyanza, Ngoma, Nyaruguru, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Ruhango, Kamonyi, Rulindo, Gakenke, Burera, Gicumbi, Rutsiro, Nyabihu, Ngororero and Nyamasheke.
Funding will focus on three pillars: improve regulatory and operational framework for Local Economic Development (LED) projects; fund inclusive LED projects in rural districts; and offer technical support and capacity building to local entities.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of State in charge of National Treasury, Richard Tusabe disclosed that pro-poor basket fund comes to complement existing Government of Rwanda social economic development efforts under the ongoing National Strategy of Transformation.
“It will contribute to overall improved wellbeing of citizens in the respective districts through provision and access to services and employment opportunities,” he stated.
Commenting on the development; Ms. Birgit Pickel, Director-General for Africa at the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) said: “We appreciate the existing partnership between two governments, specifically in the areas of good governance. The Basket Fund for Pro-Poor Development is a financing instrument that will help local government entities support the most vulnerable people, have a positive impact on women and contribute to Leaving No One Behind.”
M. Arthur Germond, AFD Country director in Rwanda, said that working together in Team Europe format is the most effective way to address the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
“Through the Pro-Poor Basket Fund, we will foster a strong partnership between with Rwanda to support rural districts, improve livelihoods, and make them more resilient,” he noted.
Key eligible projects to be funded under the new basket fund will include: Water Supply, Sanitation and Health Infrastructure; construction of primary, secondary, nursery and day care centres and provision of scholastic equipment; rehabilitation of health centres, maternity rooms and purchase of equipment; construction and rehabilitation of feeder and access roads to important social and economic infrastructure; and construction of agriculture infrastructure such as radical terraces; post-harvest facilities as well as markets.
Projects that will access the funding will be selected through the Public Planning and Budgeting cycle be in line with the strategic planning of the line ministry, comply with LODA environmental and social management framework; be gender sensitive, be selected based on prioritization at the district level and meet eexisting climate resilient infrastructure guidelines among others.
