While officiating the closing ceremony, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Rwanda, Juvénal Marizamunda said that the exercise has reinforced the notion that through collaboration and mutual support, partner states can overcome any obstacle that threatens the stability and security of our region.
“By engaging in integrated exercises, we have not only honed our operational efficiency but also forged strong bonds of trust and friendship among our military, police and civilian personnel. The problem of ensuring common security has been a matter of concern for all ages but the twenty-first century has defied all the benchmarks as we knew them,” said Marizamunda.
He added that the exercise serves as a testament to partner states’ shared determination to enhance interoperability and consolidate their collective security response mechanisms and procedures.
The exercise aims at enhancing interoperability in joint planning and conduct of operations, practicing EAC Standard Operating Procedures at operational and tactical levels and promoting EAC integration agenda and its awareness among the key objectives.
Five contingents from Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda (which is the host) brought together over 600 army, police and civilian participants.
Critics have questioned the DRC’s response to the situation, pointing out that the country has failed to address its internal problems and instead shifted blame to neighboring Rwanda. In the midst of the fighting with M23, Congo accused Rwanda of backing the rebel group, which subsequently captured different areas and later handed them over to regional forces as part of established mechanisms to restore peace.
Rwanda has consistently refuted these allegations and urged the DRC’s leaders to find a solution without externalizing their problems. However, it appears that the DRC has turned a deaf ear to these pleas, further exacerbating the situation by forming a coalition with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a terrorist group comprised of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The violence perpetrated by this coalition has escalated, leading to targeted killings of members from Congolese Tutsi communities. In addition to the violence against specific ethnic groups, there have been reports of provocations such as bombs being shelled on Rwanda’s territory.
The ongoing collaboration between FARDC and FDLR is a grave concern and a threat to regional security, undermining the efforts made to address the crisis. Despite the hostile environment for independent media in North Kivu, two courageous journalists, Adeline Umutoni and Marc Hoogsteyns from the Kivu Press Agency, managed to enter the tense area and gather invaluable testimonies. These testimonies shed light on an unprecedented collaboration between the FDLR and the FARDC, revealing an even more sinister reality.
19-year-old Lambert Habumugisha testified to the terror instilled by these armed groups, stating, “I lived with my chief ‘Fayida’. We worked for all the present soldiers. If you are suspected of working with M23, they behead you overnight and decimate your entire family.” He also revealed that the FARDC facilitated the strengthening of FDLR military operations through new recruits and the supply of arms.
The situation is further complicated by multiple alliances, particularly between the FDLR, FARDC, and Nyatura. Civilians, who are the primary victims of these conflicts, suffer significant losses, particularly due to the forced recruitment of young individuals by the armed forces.
Hakizimana Rukundo, 20, a former FDLR member, shared his experience of being recruited, stating, “My parents and I fled to Congo to survive. As soon as we arrived, the FDLR recruited us. We cooperated with the FARDC.”
According to Théoneste Ndayambaje,20, another former FDLR member, the forced recruitments are justified by the FDLR as a necessity to protect themselves against external threats, particularly the rebel group M23. “They told us to ensure our security, to make sure no Tutsi lives here,” he reported.
The lives of civilians are disrupted by this violence, as they are subjected to taxation in the form of food or material goods by the FDLR, FARDC, and Nyatura, with the M23 being presented as the common enemy. In the face of this constant struggle for power, North Kivu resembles a complex chessboard where civilians pay the heaviest price.
Dr. Jason Stearns, Director of the Congo Research Group (GEC) and former member of the United Nations Group of Experts on Congo, affirms that the FDLR has maintained a devastating presence in North Kivu for decades. Their genocidal ideology and brutal military tactics have left indelible scars on the region.
Amanda Thomas-Johnson, a researcher at the Center for Conflict, Freedom, and Security Studies, underscores the persistent threat posed by the FDLR to Rwanda and the DRC.
Their ongoing presence continues to destabilize the North Kivu region and poses a significant obstacle to achieving peace and security.
According to the United Nations, over 6,000 people have lost their lives since tensions escalated in North Kivu. The majority of the victims are innocent civilians trapped in the clutches of this endless conflict.
International cooperation and support, coupled with a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the conflict, are essential for achieving lasting peace in eastern DRC.
Besides, the atrocities committed in North Kivu demand urgent attention and concerted action.
In order to prepare children for the dynamic labor market and equip them with essential technological skills, it is crucial to foster their growth in multiple areas. Additionally, engaging children in extracurricular courses can contribute to their brain development and overall skill set.
Recognizing this need, Active Labs has introduced online robotics courses and physical classes for children. These courses not only provide valuable technological knowledge but also act as a shield against harmful internet content and other distractions that can lead children astray.
Located in the north of Morocco, Active Labs has emerged as a game changer in the field of robotics and programming. Salma Maroufi, the Marketing and Sales Manager at Active Labs, highlighted the center’s offerings during a recent interview with IGIHE. She mentioned that Active Labs provides classes for children aged 7 to 16, where they engage in robotics, coding, and 3D modeling.
“The children work with various robots, learning how to program them using tools like PyTab. They also delve into coding with programming languages such as Python, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript,” stated Maroufi. She further explained that the center offers both on-site and online classes, allowing children to explore the world of technology from the comfort of their homes while enjoying the educational and interactive experience.
Maroufi emphasized that the primary goal of Active Labs is to encourage children to utilize their time effectively by engaging in technology-driven learning experiences, rather than aimlessly scrolling through social media or spending excessive time gaming. By meeting other children and having fun while learning, children can enhance their educational journey. Active Labs also collaborates with schools, providing classes and spreading their educational impact even further.
Active Labs caters to children of all skill levels, ranging from beginners to advanced learners. Maroufi expressed the center’s commitment to lifelong learning, stating, “We have beginner and advanced classes. Children can start as beginners, and the following year, they can progress to the advanced level. Some children have stayed with us for four years, experiencing an annual level up and an advanced program. With the rapid advancements in AI and technology, there is always something new to learn.”
Maroufi proudly shared the achievements of some of the center’s trained children, who have excelled in international robotics competitions.
“We participated in the first LEGO League Challenge, an international robotics competition, where one of our teams presented an innovative project. They created a robot capable of detecting the emotions of special needs children. Through a connected app, parents receive notifications about their child’s emotional state. This outstanding project earned them second place internationally,” Maroufi explained.
The center not only nurtures young talent but also provides a platform for children to explore their own ideas and unleash their imagination. Active Labs encourages children to turn their concepts into reality and supports them throughout the process.
In terms of fees, Maroufi revealed that Active Labs charges approximately $360 per year for each child enrolled in their training programs. Additionally, they offer a three-month program to provide parents with various options.
“For our online classes, such as the Python course, we offer 12 sessions, one per week, totaling three months of training. The fee for this program is 144 euros, which is quite affordable. We coordinate with a group of seven children and provide an animated coaching session through a platform called Work Adventure. It’s similar to Zoom but offers a more engaging and interactive experience,” Maroufi added.
Active Labs was founded in 2016 with a focus on robotics, but their online courses were launched just three months ago.
It was among tech startups that showcased their innovations on the sidelines of the inaugural GITEX Africa Summit held recently in Morocco.
Looking ahead, Maroufi envisions a future where an increasing number of children join Active Labs to enjoy the fun, educational, and beneficial experiences it offers. She anticipates a surge in registrations and a thriving learning atmosphere, as children enthusiastically embrace the opportunities provided by the center’s diverse technologies.
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on innovative technologies, Active Labs serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring more tech startups to introduce innovations that can transform not only the African continent but also the world at large.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes the statement by the spokesperson of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva, which directly condemned the rebel militia regarding its atrocities in West Darfur State,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry called on international and regional organizations to exert more pressure on the RSF by “condemning the violations it committed against the Sudanese people.”
On Saturday, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) issued a statement calling for immediate action to end the killing of civilians who were fleeing El Geneina, the capital city of West Darfur State.
The statement said horrifying accounts of RSF-backed armed “Arab” militia killing people were heard from those fleeing El Geneina into Adre in Chad.
The OHCHR urged immediate action to halt the “wanton killings,” adding that “people fleeing El Geneina must be guaranteed safe passage and humanitarian agencies allowed access to the area to collect the remains of those killed.”
The statement calls on the RSF leadership to “immediately, unequivocally condemn and stop the killing of people fleeing El Geneina, and other violence and hate speech against them on the basis of their ethnicity.”
According to the Sudanese Doctors Syndicate, more than 1,000 people were killed in El Geneina in attacks by armed militias.
Sudan has been witnessing deadly armed clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas since April 15, which left over 3,000 people dead and more than 6,000 injured, according to the Sudanese Health Ministry.
About 2.5 million people have been displaced inside and outside of Sudan, according to an OHCHR update on Wednesday.
The police and witnesses said the attackers raided the villages around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, dragged the victims from their houses, and tied their hands and legs with ropes behind their backs before executing them.
According to the police report, the victims of the Saturday night attack on Salama and Juhudi villages are all men, including a student. Witnesses said the student had come home for a half-term break.
The police said a group of over 30 men in military regalia, armed with guns, machetes, and knives, struck early in the evening. They then ordered those present to lie down and not to raise the alarm as they led women to different rooms and later let them free.
The attackers killed the five men and stole some food items, chicken, and goats before setting a store ablaze. “The assailants disappeared toward the forest,” the police said.
Lamu County Commissioner Louis Rono said security teams rushed to the scene moments later, but no arrests were made.
Lamu County has been in the spotlight for some years due to increased scathing attacks by al-Shabaab militants that have left hordes of security officers and civilians dead.
President Ruto highlighted the remarkable achievements made by the EACRF in the troubled eastern region of the DRC within a short span of time. Kenya, along with Burundi, Uganda, and South Sudan, plays a leading role within the EACRF.
In an interview with France 24, Ruto responded to the backlash from DRC leaders who have criticized the EACRF’s intervention, particularly accusing them of failing to combat the M23 rebel group.
During his visit to Botswana in May this year, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi expressed concerns that there seems to be harmony between M23 and the EACRF forces, except for the Burundian forces.
He questioned the relevance of the current mandate and suggested a thorough evaluation to be conducted at the end of the EACRF’s mandate in June. Consequently, Tshisekedi sought support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to assist in the fight against M23.
However, during the recent EAC summit held in Bujumbura, the mandate of the EACRF was extended for an additional six months.
President Ruto has reiterated the commitment of the EAC to stand by the Congolese people, despite the criticism from their leaders. He emphasized that the challenges in DRC are specific to the region and that the EAC took the initiative to deploy its own resources and restore peace.
He acknowledged that the EACRF’s efforts may not be fully recognized, but he highlighted the notable accomplishments made in recent months, including the cessation of hostilities by the M23 and the inclusion of the rebellion in a disarmament process.
EAC countries recently visited the base where M23 fighters will be housed after surrendering their weapons.
Despite acknowledging the ongoing challenges,Ruto expressed the EAC’s unwavering determination to restore peace in eastern DRC and conveyed his satisfaction with the progress achieved so far.
The Russian Ministry of Defense denied information about the Russian Armed Forces striking the rear camps of the Wagner PMC, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed about the situation and that all necessary measures were being taken.
A correspondent of Xinhua News Agency witnessed several police cars parked in or around the compound of the center, with several law enforcement officers on duty. Neighborhoods are currently calm.
A criminal case is being initiated against Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner private military group, for incitement to armed insurrection, the Public Relations Center of the Russian Federal Security Service said earlier on Saturday, calling on Wagner PMC fighters not to carry out Prigozhin’s orders and to take measures to detain him.
The appeal came after several audio recordings were posted on Prigozhin’s Telegram channel. In these recordings, Prigozhin claimed that his units had allegedly come under attack, accusing Russia’s military leadership of orchestrating the strikes, according to Russia’s TASS news agency.
The Russian Ministry of Defense issued a statement declaring that information disseminated on social networks on behalf of Prigozhin about a strike by the Russian Armed Forces on Wagner PMC rear camps is false.
In addition, the ministry stated that the Russian Armed Forces continue to carry out combat missions on the line of contact with the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) in an area where a special military operation is being conducted.
Kiev is concentrating units of 35th and 36th Marine Brigades UAF in Bakhmut’s direction for offensive actions, “taking advantage of Prigozhin’s provocation on the disorganization of the situation,” said the Russian ministry.
Moscow’s critical facilities have been put under reinforced protection, and security measures in the capital have been increased, according to TASS.
“Due to the oncoming information, counter-terrorism measures, aimed at reinforcement of security measures, are in effect in Moscow. Increased traffic control has been introduced on roads. Restriction of mass events is possible,” said Mayor of Moscow Sergey Sobyanin on his Telegram channel.
As a result of these developments, security measures have been significantly reinforced in Moscow. Vital facilities, state institutions, and transportation infrastructure have been placed under heightened protection, with police and response units on high alert, a TASS news agency report said.
Also on Saturday, Putin had a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan after the reported rebellion of the Wagner private military group. The two leaders discussed the latest developments in Russia, according to a statement by Erdogan’s office.
Collecting a remarkable 50 out of 56 votes, Munyantwali’s election marks a turning point in Rwandan football. This achievement follows his recent appointment as the chairman of Police FC, a role that has undoubtedly contributed to his rising prominence within the sport. Taking over from the outgoing Olivier Mugabo Nizeyimana, who resigned in April citing personal reasons, Munyantwali now assumes the vital responsibility of leading FERWAFA.
The FA’s election proceedings also saw the re-election of Marcel Matiku Habyarimana as the first vice president in charge of Administration and Finance, demonstrating continued confidence in his abilities. Additionally, Richard Mugisha was elected as the second vice president responsible for Technical Development. Both individuals ran unopposed for their respective positions, highlighting the consensus and stability within FERWAFA’s leadership.
Alphonse Munyantwali is no stranger to the world of football, having made significant contributions in various capacities. In 2015, as the Mayor of Nyamagabe District, he played a pivotal role in Amagaju FC’s promotion to the topflight league. Throughout his tenure, the district consistently supported the club, fostering an environment conducive to their success.
With Munyantwali at the helm of FERWAFA, Rwandan football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a new era marked by progress and development. As the newly elected president, he possesses a unique opportunity to shape the future of the sport in the country, working towards fostering a vibrant football culture and nurturing the talent within Rwanda.
As Munyantwali assumes his position, Rwandan football can look forward to an era characterized by strong leadership, strategic vision, and collaborative efforts. Under his guidance, FERWAFA aims to create an inclusive and thriving football ecosystem that not only produces competitive teams but also provides a platform for the nation’s youth to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams.
The election of Alphonse Munyantwali heralds a promising chapter in Rwandan football, one that holds the potential to elevate the sport to new heights. With dedicated leadership, the support of FERWAFA members, and the collective passion of the nation, the stage is set for Rwandan football to flourish and make its mark on the global stage.
The Commandant of PTS, Commissioner of Police (CP) Robert Niyonshuti, while closing the course, said that the peacekeeping pre-deployment training was initiated as a result of the existing partnership between Rwanda National Police (RNP) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), to build the capacity of the RNP officers, who will undertake different tasks in the UN mission areas.
“The pre-deployment training for IPOs presents the essential knowledge in special training materials imperatively required for all peacekeeping personnel—military, police and civilians—to perform effectively in a UN peacekeeping operation.
It also aims at providing a shared understanding of the basic principles, guidelines and policies of UN peacekeeping that guide peacekeepers as they carryout critical tasks to assist countries in the transition from conflict to peace,” CP Niyonshuti said.
He added that the training is in line with the RNP commitment in contributing personnel to peacekeeping missions to maintain peace worldwide and enhance the professionalism and capability to counterbalance security challenges both in the region and beyond.
CP Niyonshuti urged the trainees to fully apply the knowledge and skills acquired from the course in fulfilling their peacekeeping tasks. “Bear in mind the knowledge and skills you acquired in an added value to your daily policing duties.”
The two-week peacekeeping course was conducted by UNITAR in partnership with Rwanda National Police. Police officers acquired skills and knowledge in UN peacekeeping standards such as command, administration, human rights due diligence policy, community oriented policing, and capacity development.
It also looked at monitoring, mentoring and advising, protection of civilians, use force and firearms as well as arrest and detention in peacekeeping operations.
As the country continues to welcome a growing number of travelers, it has recognized the crucial role that high-quality and safe hotel dining plays in elevating the overall tourism experience.
The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) recently embarked on a nationwide campaign to sensitize hotels to ensure high-quality and safe hotel dining, enabling tourists to experience a culinary journey that leaves an indelible impression and fosters memories that extend far beyond their travels.
Jean Bosco Mulindi, director of the RSB Product Certification Unit, told Xinhua in an interview that Rwanda is positioning itself as the hub for services, hospitality, and international conferences, and anyone that visits Rwanda should expect to have safe and quality food.
“It is crucial for hotels to serve safe and quality food so that our visitors are happy with the safety and quality of the food,” he said. “Compliance with standards is a journey. Currently, we have only 17 hotels that are already certified, but we also have more than 60 hotels in the process.”
“We are planning to extend certification to not only hotels but also other services and enterprises dealing in catering services,” Mulindi said.
According to him, the RSB provides technical assistance to the hospitality industry and the entire value chain to ensure a level of compliance that leads to certification and guarantees the safety of food throughout the entire value chain.
“We are focusing on food safety because food is the source of life. When food is not safe, many problems may arise. Rwanda emphasizes the safety of food due to its status as a hub for services in East Africa. We have different campaigns that emphasize safe and quality food,” Mulindi said.
Hesilo Osire, executive chef of Lemigo Hotel, a four-star hotel in downtown Kigali, said that the hotel ensures the safety of food from the delivery point or from the supplier side.
“We make sure to check the origin of the food, including visits to farms. We ensure that the vehicle that transports meat is well calibrated to maintain a safe temperature for the food,” he said.
Osire said that people booking hotels often inquire about ISO and RSB certification, as they want to ensure they consume safe food.
“We strive for zero food poisoning incidents by ensuring the safety and freshness of our food, avoiding long periods in the fridge,” he said.
Herman Mondisha, general manager of Lake Kivu Serena Hotel in Rwanda’s second largest city of Gisenyi, said the establishment ensures the safety of everything served to its customers, following a rigorous process to prevent any contamination throughout the entire value chain.
“For the past three years, the Rwandan government has prioritized the proper handling of the food chain to support tourism,” he said. “Tourism plays a vital role in the economy. The food and services we offer should meet international standards.”
Mondisha explained that at Serena, food safety policies incorporate Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point programs, which are critical in ensuring food safety from purchasing and handling through suppliers, receiving, production, and delivery to clients.
“Since 2020, we have undergone this process, and our unit has received training through RSB. During the training, we realized that while we were doing certain things correctly, there were still gaps,” he said.
“We truly appreciate the Rwandan government’s push for these programs, allowing us to obtain certification and ensuring the safety of our clients who visit us here,” Mondisha said.
Rwanda’s tourism revenues rose to 445 million U.S. dollars in 2022, up 171.3 percent from the previous year, according to the latest RDB figures.
The country attracted about 110,000 visitors to its national parks in 2022, an increase of 142.4 percent from 2021. Rwanda aims to increase tourism receipts to 800 million dollars by 2024.
