He made this disclosure on Monday, 12th February 2023, while attending a session organized on the first day of The World Governments Summit held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The conversation was moderated by CNN’s News Anchor and Correspondent, Eleni Giokos.
During the session, President Kagame was asked to share his stance on winning elections slated for 15th July 2024, considering he had already announced his candidacy.
In response, Kagame emphasized that the choice of who should lead the country is in the hands of Rwandans, based on their experiences.
“Elections are for people to decide whether the people they are electing are qualified for the job, we will see. Voters’ part counts, history counts, and the proof of the pudding is in the eating,” he said.
The upcoming presidential polls in Rwanda will be merged with parliamentary elections to streamline related budgets. This will mark Rwanda’s fourth presidential election since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Campaigns for candidates in both parliamentary and presidential polls are set to commence on Saturday, 22nd June 2024, concluding on 13th July 2024. The previous presidential elections took place on 3rd and 4th August 2017, while the latest polls for deputies were held on 2nd and 3rd September 2023.
On December 18, 2023, the office of Pope Francis released a document outlining new guidelines for blessing individuals, including those who identify as homosexuals. While priests are encouraged to offer blessings to homosexuals, the directive clarifies that it does not pertain to sacraments for married couples.
Besides, controversy emerged when Rutayisire was not invited to the GAFCON conference held in Rwanda in April 2023, an organization dedicated to sustaining and reinforcing the teachings of the word of God.
IGIHE interviewed Rutayisire, who addressed the matter and shared his perspective on Pope Francis’s statements about granting freedom to homosexuals.
{{IGIHE:}} Faith appears to be influenced by diverse cultures. Some claim your exclusion from the GAFCON conference in April 2023 was due to disagreements with colleagues on topics like homosexuality. What’s your take on this?
{{Rutaysire:}} Let me clarify a few points. First, in Rwanda, individuals were selected to attend the GAFCON meeting based on diocesan plans, and representatives were allocated to the 12 dioceses. My non-attendance wasn’t a result of intentional exclusion.
Second, GAFCON has consistently opposed homosexuality, and I comprehend that they would have invited me due to my stance against it. Thirdly, it’s important to note that I was not in Rwanda by the time the GAFCON conference took place.
{{Should homosexuals be legally bound?}}
Our Constitution makes it clear, our laws are unquestionable. The law does not punish but also does not allow the union.
The law stipulates a marriage between a man and a woman, let’s put it back there, keep it that way and we won’t have any problems.
{{Do you agree with Pope Francis blessing homosexuals?}}
The Pope said they will not wed them but bless them! I wonder how else to tell them apart? There are times when people do things that make you wonder; if someone comes to the church and blesses them, how is it different from supporting their marriage?
I think that blessing is more powerful than a wedding because when you give a blessing, you agree to the action. If you blessed them then you accepted them, you would as well just wed them.
These are things they put in the middle but the Bible says that the middle way is not allowed. It is whether you are in or out. There is no middle ground. The Pope refused to take one side and that has an effect. The fact that he is respected and an elder does not mean that he can not be wrong. Even adults make mistakes!
{{Nigerian evangelist TB Joshua is said to be fake. How did you receive the testimony given about his actions?}}
It can be true or false. The fact that he committed sins does not mean that the miracles he performed were from Satan. Unless you give me other evidence that contradicts the miracles he was doing.
If you come and tell me that this man sexually abused women and performed miracles, and you tell me that this man stole money and performed miracles, beat children and performed miracles, these three do not remove the fact that he performed miracles because the Bible tells us that if God has given you a gift and you use it, he will leave it to you.
Even if you start to misbehave, God will not take away your gifts. If you pray for a sick person and he gets well, he was calling upon God anyways . God will let his people prosper but will punish him alone.
Again his name is ruined, as now he is in disgrace. There is a time when God lets your name be destroyed while you are still alive, he hits you on his side and devalues you. What he wanted to do with you is over.
Even Samson from the Bible used to beat people who went to commit adultery among the Philistines, it was not necessary for him to commit adultery, but God told him: “Since you chose the way to beat them ,you went to commit adultery, committing adultery will affect you. They tore out his eyes”.
{{What advice do you have for evangelists?}}
There is no money involved in evangelism. When a person chooses to be a cheater he becomes one. It’s the evangelicals that you see, but fraud is everywhere. Nonetheless, it’s still not right.
It was not expected that a man doing God’s work would engage in fraud. I advise them to serve God, money will come to him. Do what you are called to do and to avoid all evil.
{{Don’t you see that these things take away Christians from God?}}
A Christian who gets discouraged by an evangelist is because of their lack of faith and lack of vision. How on earth does an evangelist take your money? You shouldnt be conned twice.
When it comes to the third time someone lies to you, you are a fool because you should open your eyes and see if what he is telling you is true, especially based on the Bible.
If you are in the Church and the pastor tells you that they are going to build a temple, that is not fraud. If you are told that contributions are meant to build a TV station and the project is implemented, that is not a scam. If you are requested to bring a tithe, it is recommended in the Bible.
If the pastor tells you to bring the money to be blessed, run away and never come back to that church. Quoting the Bible, the scripture suggests that people may perish due to a lack of understanding. It emphasizes that God’s blessings are not commodities to be bought or sold.
Since more than 20 years ago, Rwanda has not stopped showing the desire to develop this sector, and its vision to be the hub of technology in Africa and the world in general.
In this story, we are going to highlight some of the activities and programs of the Government of Rwanda, which continue to make it a leading country in Africa in the process of strengthening technology.
{{C4IR Branch }}
C4IR Rwanda became the inaugural host of the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) department in Africa. Its establishment was sanctioned during the 2020 World Economic Forum, following an accord between the Rwandan government and the forum.
The Rwandan government has opted to leverage this center for the advancement of technology-driven governance, the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI), and the progression of advanced computer science, specifically in machine learning. The department is actively involved in diverse initiatives, such as the formulation of data protection legislation and the National Artificial Intelligence Policy.
{{National ‘AI’ Policy}}
On Thursday, April 20, 2023, the Cabinet convened at Urugwiro Village and sanctioned the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Over the next five years, Rwanda is poised to allocate a budget of $76.5 million, equivalent to more than Rwf84 billion, to advance artificial intelligence across various sectors. The aim is to make significant strides in leveraging AI technologies. Projections suggest that this investment will yield a profit of $589 million for Rwanda during the stipulated period.
{{Data Protection Act}}
In the contemporary, rapidly evolving world, vital services such as financial transactions and daily necessities are increasingly being conducted online, underscoring their significance. To safeguard the sensitive information of individuals availing themselves of these services, legislation has been enacted for its protection.
The National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) are the architects of this law, which places an obligation on individuals with access to personal data to ensure its safeguarding and restrict its usage to the intended purposes.
The primary recipients of this legal framework are data processors, encompassing entities such as hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, banking agents, telecommunication companies, and various other service providers that handle personal data.
These data processors are obligated to adhere to the directives set forth by data controllers, ensuring compliance with the stipulations of the law and emphasizing responsible handling of personal information.
{{The establishment of BionTech and IRCAD}}
The healthcare sector in Rwanda is actively focusing on advancing its technological capabilities. On December 18, 2023, the first unit of the BioNTech vaccine manufacturing facility, situated in the Special Economic Zone in Masoro within the Gasabo District, was inaugurated. The construction of this facility commenced in June 2022.
The vaccines produced in Rwanda will belong to the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) category, a novel approach that originated during the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The official operations of this factory are scheduled to commence in 2025.
In addition to this, IRCAD Africa, an extension of the French Institute for Research, has been introduced. IRCAD Africa provides courses in human surgery incorporating advanced technology.
The primary objective behind the launch of IRCAD Africa is to enhance surgical procedures that involve minimal body intrusion, ensuring painless treatments, reduced bleeding, and shorter hospital stays.
This technology is anticipated to significantly impact people’s lives. Furthermore, it facilitates remote surgery, allowing patients to undergo procedures without the physical presence of the surgeon, thanks to technological advancements.
{{Norrsken House Kigali}}
Norrsken, a company established in Kigali, is dedicated to assisting and supporting entrepreneurs working on technology projects that address societal challenges in Nyarwanda and globally.
Launched with a funding of $20 million, this initiative chose Kigali as its base, anticipating the city’s trajectory toward becoming a hub for modern technology in Africa. The platform serves as a collaborative space for individuals with innovative ideas and tech projects, fostering idea-sharing and providing support for implementation to enhance productivity.
In October 2023, Rwanda hosted the Regional Cybercrime Investigation Center of Excellence at the Rwanda Police Headquarters. Comprising three key divisions, the center focuses on coordinating IT security activities, analyzing data related to cybercrimes, and facilitating the exchange of information. Additionally, it houses a digital forensic lab for monitoring and investigating digital crimes, along with a training section for regional personnel dedicated to combating such offenses.
The technological landscape in Rwanda has witnessed significant progress, with approximately 682 public services now accessible through technology.
The Irembo website serves as a repository for most essential services, attracting 42% of those in need. The country’s journey to becoming a technology hub is further supported by technology-related councils, educational institutions specializing in technology, and ongoing plans for various projects.
One such initiative is the Cassava Technologies project, an investment company planning to construct a data center in Kigali at a cost exceeding Rwf32 billion.
This center aims to store customer data securely. Another upcoming project is the Rwanda Space Agency’s National Geospatial Data Hub, slated for completion in the next five years. This hub will serve as a comprehensive database, collecting and storing geological data, satellite images, and other geospatial information for diverse applications across fields.
The visit was wrapped up on the evening of Thursday, February 8, 2023 where they were seen off at Kigali International Airport by a delegation including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta; the Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya; the Minister of Trade, Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome; and the Chief of Defence Staff for the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Gen Mubarakh Muganga, among others.
{{Below are activities that marked his working visit to the Country of Thousand Hills:}}
{{Signing of MoUs}}
The Head of State arrived in Rwanda on the evening of Tuesday, February 6. Throughout his stay in the country, he engaged in several activities, including a closed-door meeting with his counterpart, Paul Kagame.
Subsequently, both leaders presided over the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering trade and economic cooperation.
Additionally, the MoUs covered collaboration in green technologies, environmental engineering, geology, and energy efficiency. The leaders jointly addressed the press to communicate the outcomes of their discussions.
The agreements were signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Vincent Biruta and Andrzej Szejna, Polish Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his remarks, Kagame acknowledged the positive outcomes of collaboration in education, citing the presence of Rwandan students in Polish universities.
He emphasized the importance of developing the sectors covered by the signed agreements to enhance resilience in the face of global challenges.
“We have accomplished a lot together, the diplomatic presence in our respective countries will only serve to accelerate and solidify the good progress we are making,” he said.
President Duda, recognizing the hardworking societies of both countries, expressed Poland’s interest in credible partnerships with African nations that share common values.
He highlighted the deepening ties, especially with an increasing number of Rwandan youth studying in Poland, extending an invitation for interested Rwandans to enroll in military studies.
{{Poland-Rwanda Business Forum}}
During his three-day visit to Rwanda, President Duda participated in the Poland-Rwanda Business Forum along with his counterpart, Paul Kagame.
During the forum, it was disclosed that Polish investments in Rwanda have reached a notable milestone, amounting to an impressive 72.3 million US dollars (Rwf92 billion).
This disclosure came on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, where Jeanine Munyeshuli, Minister of State for Public Investment and Resource Mobilization shared insights with attendees from both nations.
Munyeshuli highlighted that Poland and Rwanda possess distinct capabilities and resources that can be leveraged for mutual gain.
In his address, President Kagame acknowledged the shared potential between Rwanda and Poland, highlighting Rwanda’s conducive investment environment.
He underscored the country’s commitment to innovation, having overcome challenges by prioritizing the needs of its citizens—a strategy he deemed the best investment made.
The Head of State outlined Rwanda’s focus on developing key sectors like health, tourism, and sports, aspiring to become the preferred destination for investors, both regionally and internationally.
Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda remarked on the consideration of Rwandan investments by Polish companies, citing the appeal of the local market’s security and stability.
He pointed out that Rwanda offers sought-after stability, high-level management, excellent investment conditions, abundant natural resources, and a population known for its ambition and hard work.
{{Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial }}
During his visit to Rwanda on February 7, 2024, President Andrzej Duda of Poland visited Kigali Genocide Memorial, where he was deeply moved by witnessing how hatred, when allowed to thrive, could bring about the complete destruction of a nation.
At the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, President Duda paid his respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi which took lives of more than 1 million victims. In the memorial’s guest book, he expressed profound sorrow for the events that unfolded in Rwanda in 1994.
In his written statement, President Duda conveyed that the people of Poland stand in remembrance of the millions of innocent lives lost during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
The visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial offered a poignant lesson on the dangers of divisive ideologies fueled by external influences that saw neighbors turning against each other, and the social fabric torn apart.
President Duda emphasized the historical significance of the Genocide, pointing out that it serves as a universal lesson, illustrating that allowing hatred to fester can lead to the complete destruction of a nation.
However, he commended Rwanda for its resilience, highlighting the remarkable role that justice and forgiveness played in the country’s reconstruction.
{{Touring tin processing plant }}
On the second day of his three-day visit to Rwanda, President Andrzej Duda of Poland also toured the LuNa Smelter plant, a tin processing facility in Rwanda. He highlighted the plant as a prime example of successful investment supported by Poland and emphasized its significant benefits for Rwanda and the region.
LuNa Smelter Ltd, operational in Jabana in the Gasabo District since 2018, has the capacity to melt 360 tons of cassiterite per month. The facility employs 50 permanent staff and additional casual workers.
The processed tin metals derived from these precious stones serve various purposes, including metal welding, battery manufacturing for certain vehicles, glassmaking, and the production of telephones and computers, among other applications.
{{Visit to Kibeho Holy Land and Visually Impaired Children}}
On the third day of his stay in Rwanda, the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda made a historic visit to the Kibeho Holy Land, located in Nyaruguru District.
President Duda explored Kibeho, renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary, on Thursday, February 8, 2024. His visit was met with a warm reception from various officials, including the Governor of the Southern Province, Kayitesi Alice, and the Mayor of Nyaruguru District, Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka.
Leaders in the Catholic Church of Rwanda, including the Archbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, and the Bishop of Gikongoro Diocese, Hakizimana Célestin, also extended a warm welcome to President Duda.
Kibeho holds significance as one of the most renowned places in the world within the Catholic Church due to the Virgin Mary’s apparitions in this area.
The first apparition occurred on November 28, 1981, when the Virgin Mary appeared to a girl named Alphonsine Mumureke, who was studying at the ‘Mère du Verbe’ school in Kibeho.
Subsequently, the Virgin Mary appeared to other girls including Anathalie Mukamazimpaka and Marie Claire Mukangano, both students at the same school at the time. This annual pilgrimage site attracts thousands of devout pilgrims each year.
Father François Harerimana, the Director of the Virgin Mary Sanctuary in Kibeho, recently told IGIHE that President Duda’s visit marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Head of State to explore the sacred grounds, further enhancing the area’s reputation.
On the same day, President Duda visited the School and Education Centre for Visually Impaired Children in Kibeho supported by Poland.
Over the years, Rwanda and Poland have strengthened bilateral relations in areas such as higher education, defense, agriculture, trade, and investment. Notably, there are currently over 1,500 Rwandan students studying in Poland.
The diplomatic ties between the two nations have deepened, with Rwanda opening an embassy in Warsaw in 2021, reciprocated by the establishment of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kigali in December 2022, further enhancing the rapidly evolving cooperation between the two countries.
President Duda concluded his visit to Rwanda on Thursday evening. He left the Country of Thousand Hills for Tanzania where he was welcomed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the State House in Dar es Salaam.
Gasana, currently facing charges of soliciting and receiving bribes and abusing power for personal gain, was granted permission by Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) to be temporarily released to participate in his son’s wedding in December last year.
Havugiyaremye emphasized that this action is in accordance with Article 27 of the Correctional Services Law, defining conditions under which a prisoner can be released from custody.
According to the mentioned article, a prisoner may be allowed to leave the prison “at any time the prison administration has determined that there is no legal risk.” Havugiyaremye highlighted that such permissions are not unique to Gasana and have been granted to others in the past, asserting that it is a standard practice regulated by the law.
The Commissioner General of RCS, CGP Evariste Murenzi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that giving permission to a detained person is a routine procedure. He clarified that applicants must submit a written request, which is then assessed by RCS management for approval.
The Commissioner General emphasized that the process is open to anyone else in need of permission, provided they follow the proper application and review procedures outlined by RCS management.
Munyeshuli highlighted that Poland and Rwanda possess distinct capabilities and resources that can be leveraged for mutual gain.
In recent years, Rwanda has emerged as a promising destination for foreign investments, particularly in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.
Conversely, Poland stands out with its diversified economy and expertise in various industries.
Rwanda Development Board (RDB) data reveals the registration of at least four Polish projects in Rwanda, valued at 72.3 million dollars. These initiatives have generated over 330 jobs in crucial sectors like health, energy, ICT services, and construction.
Discussing the Rwandan government’s efforts in diverse sectors such as agriculture, technology, and eco-friendly economic activities, Munyeshuli sees an opportunity for Polish investors to engage in mutually beneficial collaboration.
In addressing potential areas of investment, she suggested that Polish investors could explore opportunities in agriculture, food processing, and modern livestock farming.
Emphasizing that investment in Rwanda extends beyond financial figures, Munyeshuli stressed the importance of finding solutions to citizens’ problems, particularly through job creation and valuable experiences.
In his address, President Kagame acknowledged the shared potential between Rwanda and Poland, highlighting Rwanda’s conducive investment environment.
He underscored the country’s commitment to innovation, having overcome challenges by prioritizing the needs of its citizens—a strategy he deemed the best investment made.
The Head of State outlined Rwanda’s focus on developing key sectors like health, tourism, and sports, aspiring to become the preferred destination for investors, both regionally and internationally.
Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda remarked on the consideration of Rwandan investments by Polish companies, citing the appeal of the local market’s security and stability.
He pointed out that Rwanda offers sought-after stability, high-level management, excellent investment conditions, abundant natural resources, and a population known for its ambition and hard work.
On February 7, 2024, the governments of Rwanda and Poland formalized their collaboration through a signed agreement covering various sectors, including agriculture, security, mining, and technology.
The joint press briefing followed a closed-door meeting between the two leaders and the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) for trade and economic cooperation, as well as collaboration in green technologies, environmental engineering, geology, and energy efficiency.
The agreements were signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Vincent Biruta and Andrzej Szejna, Polish Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Kagame acknowledged the positive outcomes of collaboration in education, citing the presence of Rwandan students in Polish universities. He emphasized the importance of developing the sectors covered by the signed agreements to enhance resilience in the face of global challenges.
“We have accomplished a lot together, the diplomatic presence in our respective countries will only serve to accelerate and solidify the good progress we are making,” he said.
President Duda, recognizing the hardworking societies of both countries, expressed Poland’s interest in credible partnerships with African nations that share common values.
He highlighted the deepening ties, especially with an increasing number of Rwandan youth studying in Poland, extending an invitation for interested Rwandans to enroll in military studies.
To streamline the implementation of agreements and ongoing economic projects, Kagame and Duda are set to engage in a roundtable discussion with Polish and Rwandan business leaders.
They aim to explore potential opportunities and address challenges, fostering further bilateral relations.
Both leaders expressed optimism about the forum, emphasizing its role in leveraging sector-specific opportunities in both countries. Rwanda, positioning itself as a gateway to Africa, anticipates utilizing Poland as a gateway to expanding and diversifying its export market into more European countries.
Diplomatically, both nations reciprocated by opening embassies, with Rwanda inaugurating its Embassy in Warsaw in 2021.
As part of his agenda, President Duda will pay respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and visit the School and Education Centre for Visually Impaired Children in Kibeho and the Polish Mining Company, LuNa Smelter in Kigali.
In related international engagement, Polish President Andrzej Duda’s visit to Rwanda follows stops in Kenya and precedes a visit to Tanzania. This aligns with Poland’s international mission initiated in 2017 to foster relations with African countries.
This announcement, made on February 6, 2024, coincided with his presentation of the report from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB).
The report highlighted that the current service delivery stands at 78.8%, falling short of Rwanda’s goal within the seven-year plan to achieve 90% good service delivery by 2024.
Musabyimana discussed the existing programs designed to alleviate citizens from poverty, acknowledging their limited reach in comparison to available resources.
This has led to dissatisfaction among those not reached, who perceive it as a denial of services by concerned leaders, thereby causing a surge in discontentment with local government services.
Musabyimana attributed these limitations to the country’s capacity, acknowledging that, of the 315,327 people currently in poverty-alleviation programs, additional individuals are gradually being included as resources become available.
Addressing anomalies in the selection process for beneficiaries, Musabyimana acknowledged well-known issues among leaders in choosing households for assistance.
He emphasized the need for addressing these issues and noted that some leaders engaging in improper practices are being punished. He also highlighted the problematic attitude of some individuals who expect constant assistance, leading to issues when it is not feasible.
To enhance accuracy and transparency in the provision of information on impoverished households, Musabyimana announced a shift to digital record-keeping. This initiative aims to reduce errors and enable better tracking to ensure that those selected for support are deserving recipients.
The Minister outlined plans to increase the government’s capacity to improve citizen welfare, expand outreach to all those in need, and encourage active participation in poverty-alleviation programs. He acknowledged the challenges of limited resources, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations.
The poverty alleviation program, launched in November 2023, involves a two-year commitment for participants.
The government collaborates with partners, and depending on increased means, additional individuals may be included. Participants make agreements regarding their expected progression out of poverty, setting annual goals and adopting strategies for implementation.
While Rwanda has made significant strides in poverty reduction, with rates declining from 60.4% in 2000 to 38.2% in 2017 and extreme poverty dropping from 40% to 16% over the same period, poverty alleviation remains a key focus of Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
The nation is committed to transforming lives by eradicating extreme poverty by 2024 through the implementation of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1).
Analysis from the 2022 National Population and Housing Census reveals that 887,508 individuals are living in extreme poverty, with an additional 3,139,395 in moderate poverty, totaling 4,026,903 people, which comprises 30.4% of the population.
Rural areas bear the brunt of poverty, with 3,502,686 individuals (37.3%) affected, compared to 13.4% in urban areas.
At the provincial level, both the Western and Southern provinces exhibit similar poverty rates of 35%, with the percentage dropping to 34.6% in the Eastern Province and significantly lower to 9.5% in Kigali City. Notably, the 2012 census identified the Western and Eastern provinces as having the highest poverty rates at 42% each.
At the district level, poverty rates vary, with districts like Gisagara, Nyanza, Rutsiro, Nyamagabe, Ngororero, Nyaruguru, Gatsibo, Nyagatare, and Ngoma experiencing rates ranging between 37% and 45%.
Conversely, districts such as Rulindo, Muhanga, Rwamagana, Musanze, and Gakenke boast poverty rates below 30%. Within Kigali City, Kicukiro showcases the lowest poverty rate at 6.7%, followed by Nyarugenge at 9% and Gasabo at 11.1%.
Individuals aged 30 to 44 constitute the majority of the population living in poverty, with the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) attributing their vulnerability to poverty to the establishment of independent households.
Regarding government services like Mutuelle de Sante, subscriptions are increasing alongside capacity building. Out of the 1,264,467 individuals expected to pay for themselves in the 2023/2024 financial year, 1,057,600 have already paid 100%, equivalent to 83.6% of those required to subscribe for Community Based Health Insurance (CBHI).
Upon their arrival at Kigali International Airport, the guests were warmly welcomed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
As part of his broader mission to strengthen ties with African nations, President Duda is visiting Rwanda following his stop in Kenya and will proceed to Tanzania on February 8.
During his stay in Rwanda, President Duda will engage in bilateral discussions with President Paul Kagame, overseeing the signing of cooperation agreements between the two nations. A joint media briefing will follow.
In addition, President Duda will participate in a Rwanda-Polish business forum and tour the LuNa smelter, the largest Polish investment in Rwanda’s mining sector.
He will also visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The President’s itinerary includes stops at ‘Our Lady of Kibeho’ and the Educational Institute for Blind Children in Kibeho, established in collaboration with the Polish government.
Over the years, Rwanda and Poland have strengthened bilateral relations in areas such as higher education, defense, agriculture, trade, and investment. Notably, there are currently over 1,500 Rwandan students studying in Poland, marking the largest contingent of international students from a single country.
The diplomatic ties between the two nations have deepened, with Rwanda opening an embassy in Warsaw in 2021, reciprocated by the establishment of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kigali in December 2022, further enhancing the rapidly evolving cooperation between the two countries.
The ‘Rwanda Bribery Index’ report by Transparency International Rwanda in December 2023 highlighted the Traffic Safety Police Department as the most corrupt, with a rate of 16.4%.
The report also identified corrupt practices within Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), where a total of Rwf 3,860,000 out of Rwf4,527,000, was offered to secure the release of individuals in RIB custody.
The prosecution and the judiciary were ranked second and third, with staff receiving average bribes of Rwf200,000and Rwf153,000, respectively.
Addressing reporters on January 30, 2024, ACP Emmanuel Karasi, Commissioner for Inspectorate of Services and Ethics in Rwanda Police, acknowledged the existence of corruption in these institutions. He emphasized the need for cooperation to effectively combat it.
Karasi stated, “We all agree that we still have a long way to go. It requires us to cooperate and admit that corruption exists. If we deny it, it means that it will be difficult to put efforts to fight it.”
To prevent corruption, ACP Karasi emphasized the importance of cooperation and information sharing, noting that tackling corruption requires joint efforts from both those corrupting and those receiving bribes.
The Deputy Ombudsman in charge of Preventing and Fighting Injustice, Abbas Mukama announced various reforms aimed at preventing and fighting corruption in these institutions.
He highlighted the establishment of the National Advisory Council for Anti-Corruption a month ago, led by the Minister of Justice, to provide direction, report every six months, and address corruption loopholes.
Mukama expressed confidence in the advisory council’s ability to offer solutions and create policies to combat corruption effectively.
Judiciary Spokesperson, Mutabazi Harrison announced the establishment of an inspection body and a special inspector dedicated to addressing corruption and injustice within the courts.
He clarified that court audits aim to identify, prevent, and report corruption without compromising the independence of the courts or their staff.
Additionally, Mutabazi announced the appointment of a special inspector to monitor corruption and injustice on a daily basis.
To handle economic crimes more effectively, a special chamber was instituted, separating them from civil and criminal cases. Mutabazi explained the need for specialized treatment due to the intricate nature of serious crimes like corruption and embezzlement.
He highlighted Rwanda’s unique system of case review on grounds of injustice, emphasizing its importance in ensuring accountability and preventing impunity. Mutabazi emphasized that this process allows for the reconsideration of cases, even after legal procedures have been exhausted.
Reforms in the Supreme Council of the Judiciary include enhanced decision-making authority without the possibility of appeal.
In the Rwanda Investigation Bureau, Deputy Secretary-General Consolée Kamarampaka outlined the role of the Inspection unit in monitoring the release and imprisonment of individuals, ensuring decisions are made collaboratively.
Further judicial reforms focus on fighting corruption, including the prescription of outdated practices, modernizing court technology for quicker trials and staff performance monitoring, implementing the ‘Clear the Courts’ program, and establishing anti-corruption committees at all levels.
