The day serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength embedded in the country’s history, particularly during the Liberation Struggle that ended in 1994.
{{Categories of heroes}}
Rwandan National Heroes are classified into three distinct categories, each representing a unique level of sacrifice and significance. These categories, Imanzi, Imena, and Ingenzi, pay tribute to individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of Rwanda.
{{Imanzi }}
At the pinnacle of heroism lies the Imanzi category, reserved for those who demonstrated outstanding achievements characterized by supreme sacrifice. Maj. Gen. Fred Gisa Rwigema stands tall in this category, symbolizing the epitome of bravery and dedication.
The Unknown Soldier, an enigmatic figure, represents all the fallen soldiers who gave their lives during the Liberation Struggle. The tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located at the National Heroes’ Mausoleum in Remera, serves as a solemn tribute to those whose remains could not be identified.
{{Imena }}
In the second category, Imena, we find heroes who stand shoulder to shoulder with those in Imanzi, recognized for their extraordinary acts that echo with supreme sacrifice, high importance, and exemplary service. King Mutara Rudahigwa III, Michel Rwagasana, Agatha Uwiringiyimana, Felicite Niyitegeka, and the courageous students of Nyange Secondary School are all celebrated for their remarkable contributions to Rwanda.
{{Ingenzi }}
The third category, Ingenzi, pays homage to individuals whose exceptional ideas and achievements, characterized by supreme sacrifice and great importance, have left an indelible mark on the nation. These heroes stand as beacons of inspiration for their outstanding contributions to the well-being of the country.
As Rwanda commemorates National Heroes Day on February 1, it is a time not only to reflect on the sacrifices made by these extraordinary individuals but also to draw inspiration from their unwavering commitment to the nation.
The categories of Imanzi, Imena, and Ingenzi provide a framework for understanding and appreciating the diverse acts of heroism that have shaped Rwanda’s rich history. Through this commemoration, the nation continues to honor the legacy of its heroes, ensuring that their stories inspire generations to come.
The signature of the new program confirms the longstanding partnership in development cooperation between the Belgian and Rwandan authorities.
Valued at EUR 95 million (approximately Rwf131 billion), the cooperation programme strategically allocates resources across key sectors including agriculture, urbanisation and health, as well as in public finance management.
Building on the results of the ongoing cooperation programme 2019-2024, the new programme aims for continuity and impact. Both countries herewith reinforce their joint commitment to sustainable growth and pressing global challenges.
The new program has been developed in close collaboration over the course of 2023.
Implementation will be ensured jointly by MINECOFIN, technical ministries and agencies, and Enabel, the Belgian development agency. The program will complement another ongoing bilateral cooperation programme on decent work and social protection (EUR 17 million, 2022-2027). Part of a broader Team Europe approach, the programme also aligns with those of other EU development partners.
Commenting on the development, Minister Ndagijimana said: “The latest program represents a crucial stride forward, reaffirming our dedication to vital sectors such as agriculture, health, urbanization, and public finance management—a cornerstone for Rwanda’s socio-economic advancement. This agreement underscores the sustained collaboration between our two nations, a partnership that has consistently delivered tangible progress across diverse sectors of our engagement.”
Director Heidy Rombouts said: “With this new program Belgium and Rwanda renew their longstanding joint commitment to sustainable development. I am proud to stand here as a partner to Rwanda’s ambitious agenda on the access to healthcare, the transformation towards sustainable food systems and the development of climate-smart inclusive cities.”
{{Sectoral focus}}
{{Health: }} Health system strengthening, improving quality healthcare for all. The programme has a particular focus on sexual and reproductive health, as well as the fight against gender-based violence.
{{Agriculture: }} Increasing access to and the consumption of quality food for the growing population within an enabling environment for food system transformation. The programme does so through the development of sustainable, resilient and inclusive agricultural value chains in a context of increasing urbanisation.
{{Urbanisation:}} Supporting the development of sustainable and attractive satellite cities by enhancing the living conditions of its population, especially the most vulnerable. This way, the programme aims to contribute to a socioeconomic and environmental ecosystem that is inclusive and climate-proof.
Born in Mataba in 1922, Mpyisi spent his formative years in Gitwe, where he toiled before embarking on a journey of exile that took him through various countries, including Burundi, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kenya. Revered for his impactful and witty oratory, he infused these qualities into his sermons and interviews.
The latest communication from Mpyisi occurred in December 2023 when he responded to unfounded rumors of his demise, attributing them to individuals with ill intentions influenced by malevolent forces. He promptly dismissed the speculations, affirming, “Where can I go when I am in the Lord Jesus?”
Despite acknowledging the inevitability of life’s conclusion, Pastor Mpyisi, a steadfast believer in God, faced death without fear. He confidently declared, “So whether I depart now or tomorrow, blessed are the dead who die in the Lord Jesus,” drawing inspiration from the words of Paul.
He firmly believed that those who departed in the Lord Jesus would experience a resurrection with a new and virtuous nature, liberated from the inclinations towards evil that lead to sin.
{{Stance against peculiar sayings }}
In the vibrant year of 2022, a peculiar saying reverberated among the youth— the ‘no hundred years’ notion. In response, Pastor Ezra Mpyisi eloquently debunked this belief, emphatically disproving it by achieving the remarkable milestone himself. The revelation unfolded amidst a jubilant celebration orchestrated by his family, dedicated to honoring his centennial birthday and expressing gratitude for his pivotal role in shaping the nation and bringing solace to many hearts.
In the midst of the festivity, Pastor Mpyisi seized the moment to address the misconception with finesse. He declared with unwavering confidence, “Those who propagate the idea that one may not live a hundred years stand corrected. This belief, often echoed by the younger generation, is a flawed prophecy. I stand before you at a hundred, a testament that defies their misguided projections.”
{{‘They ousted me from the church’ }}
In the year 2021, a poignant revelation unfolded as he disclosed a six-decade-long commitment to preaching within the hallowed halls of churches. Initially, the pews were filled, and financial contributions flowed abundantly. A chair of honor was bestowed upon him, yet as he began to unveil uncomfortable truths, the atmosphere shifted drastically.
With a heavy heart, he recounted, “They ousted me from the church, stripping me of my pulpit. Once a revered figure, now I am shunned. A mere decade ago, I presided over weddings, partaking in a charade of untruths. I did not unite couples as the Bible dictates. It was only later that I embraced the profound reality, forsaking the dishonest path I once trod.”
{{‘I was forced to embrace faith in God’}}
Mpyisi once recounted to IGIHE the story of his introduction to the Adventist Church, recalling an encounter with someone who urged him to embrace faith in God, albeit against his will.
He narrated, “While we were tending to cattle in Nyanza, they found us and compelled us to join.
Registering was mandatory, and skipping services meant facing repercussions, even physical harm to one’s father.”
A seasoned pastor with a 70-year tenure in teaching the Word of God, Mpyisi admitted, “I acquiesced to becoming an Adventist, and they emphasized unquestioning obedience to their directives.”
In a 2019 National Television interview, Pastor Ezra Mpyisi addressed his past relationship with alcohol. When questioned about whether he had ever consumed alcohol, he acknowledged the prevalence in Rwandan culture during his time but shared, “The time came for me, and I chose to give it up.”
Responding to the notion that alcohol might have a calming effect, he straightforwardly labeled it as “dangerous.”
Reflecting on his younger self, Mpyisi admitted to being a handsome young man with a penchant for pursuing relationships with women. When probed about whether he had been intimate with them, he responded candidly, “Listen, you’re asking the obvious. I reached a point where Jesus healed me from those pursuits.”
{{Stance on witchcraft }}
When questioned about his involvement in Witchcraft, Pastor Mpyisi openly shared that he witnessed his father practicing it during his upbringing. He acknowledged assisting his father in these rituals but emphasized that, in their perspective, it wasn’t considered a sin as it was an integral part of their religious beliefs.
When pressed on whether he now viewed it as a sinful practice, he vehemently denied any remorse. He explained, “I don’t regret my actions back then because, within our context, it wasn’t deemed sinful. However, my perspective has evolved, and I now regret it because I’ve come to understand what is morally superior. While Rwandans labeled it witchcraft, religious individuals termed it prayer. In essence, it’s the same; only the names differ.”
{{Establishing religious denominations as business ventures}}
In 2016, at the age of 94, Pastor Mpyisi underscored the surge in religious denominations in Rwanda, attributing it to the founders pursuing their personal interests, often financial gain.
He expressed, “It’s all about their interests. Having a religion becomes a pathway to wealth. It’s akin to a business. It’s about money! Their goal is riches, and the way these religious denominations are structured, people join in, and as they do, money flows in. True religion should be singular because God is one.”
{{Attending a wedding of a traditional healer with ‘magical power’}}
Pastor Ezra Mpyisi exhibited a remarkable level of innovation throughout his life. While Adventists typically do not endorse beliefs in witchcraft, he ventured beyond conventional boundaries by attending the wedding of a traditional healer with magical power, Rutangarwamaboko. His intention was to illustrate that such practices are not inherently sinful but rather rooted in Rwandan tradition.
He argued, “Consider our own marriage customs—did we not traditionally marry before consummating the union? This is ingrained in Rwandan culture. So, what defines a Christian marriage? Is there a distinction between cultural practices and sin? Do Christians not wear rings? Are rings inherently Christian? Some even incorporate rituals using a plant, Umwishywa.So, where does the differentiation lie?”
Continuing his discourse, Pastor Mpyisi challenged established norms, questioning, “Did God use a ring when officiating Adam and Eve’s marriage? Did he incorporate that plant or veil? Did they go to a temple? It suggests that all these symbols are mere constructs. What God intended was the union, recognizing ‘this is your wife, this is your husband,’ and abiding in harmony without worldly conflicts.”
He concluded by asserting that elements like rings, elaborate ceremonies, and church weddings are human fabrications, not intrinsic to God’s definition of marriage.
According to him, God’s marriage is characterized by understanding and peaceful coexistence between spouses, transcending worldly conventions.
{{‘RPF Inkotanyi did a great work’}}
During the screening of the film “Sogokuru,” depicting his life story, Pastor Ezra Mpyisi expressed heartfelt gratitude to his grandchildren who played a role in its creation.
Additionally, he didn’t forget to extend his thanks to the Inkotanyi, the individuals associated with the Rwandan Patriotic Front, who facilitated his return to the country after his period of exile.
He remarked, “Surrounded by these individuals brought together by the efforts of my grandchildren here in Rwanda, the Inkotanyi performed a miracle by reuniting us. In a gathering like this, I would like to emphasize the search for a sacred place, for it is in Heaven where Jesus has gone to prepare for us.”
Reflecting on his past, Pastor Ezra Mpyisi candidly admitted in 2020 that one of his deepest regrets was misleading people for many years by preaching inaccurate teachings he had been erroneously taught himself.
He shared, “For years, I propagated misinformation. What brings me solace is that, at the age of 98, God protected me, and in those final years, I delved into the Bible, realizing my errors. I sought the truth and discovered that Rwandans, too, have a profound knowledge of God.”
{{‘White people conned us with sugar’}}
During the era of colonial influence, Rwandans faced challenges in associating with the white settlers, but the missionaries employed cunning strategies to win the allegiance of the locals. According to Ezra Mpyisi, beyond the compulsory attendance of school, the missionaries enticed Rwandans with gifts like salt and sugar.
He recounted, “Instead of imparting Biblical teachings, they offered us their salt, and we were given sugar to consume. They coerced us, offering salt and sugar, and despite the empty sustenance, we developed an affinity for them.”
Pastor Ezra Mpyisi drew attention to a contemporary issue, attributing the rise in teenage pregnancies to parental irresponsibility. He emphasized that merely dressing to cover one’s nakedness is insufficient in teaching a child.
He remarked, “Parents displaying signs of irresponsible behavior, with stained fingers and mouths, cannot effectively guide their children. How can they instill wisdom in their offspring?”
{{‘There’s no issue in betrothing pregnant women’}}
Some churches impose restrictions against betrothing pregnant girls, subjecting them to tests even on the day of the betrothal ceremony. When asked about his perspective on marrying a pregnant girl, Pastor Mpyisi promptly asserted that it presents no issue for him.
He elaborated, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing faithfulness. Finding individuals who embody fidelity can be challenging, and regardless of pregnancy, Pastor Mpyisi expressed his willingness to betroth them, emphasizing equality in all aspects.
He underscored the potential repercussions of refusing betrothal based on pregnancy, highlighting the potential harm to the household. His perspective extends beyond pregnancy, as he believes in evaluating individuals based on their commitment to fidelity, rather than passing judgment on their circumstances. He questioned, “How can a son ascertain if his father committed adultery?”
{{‘The consumption of meat aligns with the act of taking a life’}}
Pastor Ezra Mpyisi highlighted the belief that God initially provided perishable, raw food for humans, emphasizing that the need for food storage, prolonged preparation, and cooking arose as a consequence of sin.
He articulated, “God’s original provision did not include meat consumption. The act of killing is not aligned with God’s nature, and consuming meat necessitates killing. Personally, I partake in meat consumption, recognizing my status as a descendant of Adam, who, through sin, altered the original order of sustenance.”
{{‘Running after men makes people grow old prematurely’ }}
Pastor Mpyisi noted that, aside from harboring hatred, engaging in promiscuous behavior—men pursuing women and vice versa—is another factor that contributes to premature aging.
He remarked, “A man behaving recklessly ages prematurely, akin to a goat. Consuming alcohol and indulging in foods not provided by God also hastens the aging process.”
{{‘Pastors steal’ }}
Over the past four years, the pastor highlighted a disconcerting reality that, despite God’s commandments explicitly prohibiting theft and continuous teachings by pastors against it, instances of stealing persist within certain religious circles.
He observed, “Consider, which religions can you point to where stealing doesn’t occur, even though they preach against it? They claim to fight for righteousness, yet some steal from the tithe, even those who hold the esteemed title of pastors.
The tithes and offerings intended for God end up in the hands of Popes, Priests, and Bishops, with the promise that they will pray for your path to heaven. Yet, no one can intercede for another’s journey to heaven. It is a direct connection with God that enlightens and teaches an individual, and such divine guidance is not a commodity to be bought or sold.”
{{‘Mary is not the mother of Jesus’ }}
In 2019, Pastor Ezra Mpyisi challenged the belief that Jesus was born of Mary, asserting that such claims are erroneous since the origin of God remains unknown.
He expressed, “Mary is the daughter of Adam, a creation of God. How could Adam, who himself was created, give birth to God? Therefore, Jesus is not the Son of God; rather, he is God.”
{{‘I do not believe in religion’}}
In 2019, Pastor Mpyisi asserted his unwavering belief in God over any specific church affiliation. He demonstrated resilience, expressing that he wasn’t daunted by the prospect of being disassociated from the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
He declared, “In the eyes of God, only an individual possesses the authority to restrict themselves, and no one else can do so. If someone were to hinder me from reading the Bible, only then would they succeed in isolating me.”
{{‘The Bible has satanic expressions’ }}
The pastor disclosed his belief in the Bible while also acknowledging the presence of what he perceived as satanic expressions inserted by individuals.
‘Understanding normalcy is difficult when you’re dealing with your own issues’
Pastor Mpyisi highlighted that one of the reasons for the breakdown of relationships is the lack of self-awareness, with people expecting perfection in others while not recognizing their own imperfections.
He explained, “It’s common to hear individuals seeking a partner who has maintained purity, yet they themselves have a history of multiple relationships. Before looking for the ideal partner, first, understand and heal yourself.
It’s essential to recognize that expecting someone else to be faultless when you’ve had your own shortcomings is an unrealistic expectation. The more we acknowledge our own imperfections before God, the better equipped we are to understand and accept the imperfections in others.”
The annual report, released on January 30, 2024, sheds light on the global landscape of corruption, providing insights into countries’ efforts in combating corrupt practices. It draws data from 180 countries and territories surveyed in 2023, revealing a troubling trend of increasing corruption levels globally, attributed to insufficient anti-corruption measures.
The report underscores that over two-thirds of countries scored below 50%, indicating widespread corruption at various levels of governance. With the international average standing at a mere 43, many nations have stagnated in their anti-corruption endeavors over the past decade.
Moreover, the report highlights the pervasive nature of corruption and abuse of power within judicial systems worldwide, where the marginalized often face injustice while the privileged exert undue influence.
In Rwanda’s case, its progress in anti-corruption efforts is evident, with a rise from 54th place with 51% points in 2022 to 49th place with 53% points in 2023. Within Africa, Rwanda maintains the fourth position, trailing Seychelles with 71%, Cape Verde with 64%, and Botswana with 59%, all of which have also seen improvements in their rankings.
Transparency International emphasizes that even in countries with favorable scores, challenges persist, including cross-border corruption activities and insufficient measures to combat them.
François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, asserts that combating corruption requires robust justice systems capable of holding wrongdoers accountable and ensuring governmental transparency.
Denmark leads the index for the sixth consecutive year, securing the highest score of 90, followed closely by Finland with 87 and New Zealand with 85.
Notable mentions in the top 10 include Norway, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg.
The United States maintains its position with an unchanged score of 69, securing the 24th spot in the index.
Conversely, Somalia ranks lowest on the list with 11%, trailing behind Venezuela and Syria.
The business forum, held at the Kigali Convention Centre from January 29 to 31, 2023, serves as a platform for collaboration between UK and Rwandan business leaders, investors, government officials, and financial experts to explore opportunities for business partnerships in Rwanda’s growing economy.
The discussions involved prominent figures such as Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Johnston Busingye; the CEO of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Francis Gatare; and Prof. Nshuti Manasseh, Senior Advisor in the President’s Office.
This significant event provides Rwanda with the opportunity to showcase available investment opportunities. Participants engage in discussions covering various sectors, including agriculture, mining, infrastructure, industry, circular economy, and investment.
UK High Commissioner to Rwanda, Omar Daair, expressed that the forum paves the way for UK companies to invest in Africa, starting with Rwanda.
he UK has been collaborating with Rwanda in diverse areas, particularly in community development, through initiatives led by the British Department for International Development (DFID) and UK AID. DFID acknowledges Rwanda’s commitment to poverty eradication and overall development goals.
Rwanda, having joined the Commonwealth in 2009, continued to rebuild its economy and international relations, prioritizing initiatives for poverty eradication and comprehensive development, especially in the aftermath of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Rio Tinto Minerals Development Limited is part of Rio Tinto, a leading global mining and materials company, which operates in 35 countries.
Commenting on the development, Yamina Karitanyi, CEO of Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board revealed that the entry of Rio Tinto marks Rwanda’s resolve to further unlock the potential of the country’s mining sector.
“This development is part of our continued efforts to boost and modernize Rwanda’s mining sector with application of the highest ESG standards,” she noted.
Lawrence Dechambenoit, Global Head of External Affairs expressed delight for the partnership with the Government of Rwanda, and pledged to apply the company’s global experience ‘to accelerate the search for primary lithium deposits in Rwanda’s Western Province’.
Rio Tinto Group is a British-Australian multinational corporation, holding the position of the world’s second-largest metals and mining company.
Its inception dates back to 1873 when a consortium of investors acquired a mining complex along the Rio Tinto river in Huelva, Spain, from the Spanish government.
This initiative, which resembles the Nyandungu Park in Gasabo District, is projected to incur a cost of $80 million (over Rwf101.6 billion). The official launch of the wetland restoration project took place on January 27, 2024, during the community work (Umuganda) event, held at Gikondo wetland in Kicukiro District.
The targeted wetlands cover a total area of 408 hectares and include Gikondo, Rwampara, Rugenge-Rwintare, Kibumba, and Nyabugogo swamps. Each wetland will undergo specialized restoration based on its location.
According to Kabera Juliet, the CEO of REMA, the renovation project is expected to cost $80 million, with Rwanda collaborating with various partners, including the World Bank, to secure $32 million (equivalent to slightly over Rwf40 billion) for the initial phase of this initiative.
She stated that the wetlands will undergo a modernized renovation, eliminating unwanted grass, reclaiming stolen springs, and incorporating sidewalks for pedestrians and cyclists. The plan includes seating areas, the restoration of damaged grass, and the installation of additional water filters. The objective is to enhance the appearance of Nyandungu.
Commencing in the first week of February, the implementation of these improvements is expected to conclude within 18 months. The wetlands will be treated using contemporary water-receiving and filtering methods to facilitate the flow of clean streams.
The rehabilitation aims to eliminate unpleasant odors, eradicate litter such as used bottles, and transform the area into a tourist attraction teeming with biodiversity that was previously diminishing.
The primary focus is on widening the rivers within the wetlands and directing them through modern channels. Reservoirs will be created to regulate water flow speed, preventing potential floods that could jeopardize infrastructure.
Various traditional trees, including those from Gishwati, Mukura, and other rare species found in Kigali, will be added to enhance the educational experience for visitors, allowing them to learn about the diverse trees present in natural forests. While the primary goal is environmental conservation, the wetlands will incorporate various amenities to cater to recreational tourists.
Infrastructure developments in these wetlands will encompass facilities such as libraries with internet access, recreational spaces featuring football fields, bicycle paths, and pedestrian walkways for sports and leisure activities. Additionally, there will be food stalls, exhibitions, children’s games, and more. Dedicated parking areas equipped with solar energy solutions will be available for vehicles. The wetlands will boast four-meter-wide bicycle lanes, benches every 500 meters, sky bridges over artificial ponds, and street lights every 20 meters.
The amenities further include bicycle sheds, large tables for educational purposes, information booths, drinking water stations, benches for sightseeing, and gyms for fitness enthusiasts. Residents will not only find employment opportunities during the wetland cleaning process and subsequent developments but also have a vibrant recreational space funded by visitor contributions.
In Nyabugogo wetland, a sizable lake, filled with filtered water, will be installed to provide water-based recreational activities, offering an alternative to traveling to Rubavu. Additionally, a boat will be available for those who prefer water travel.
The Minister of Environment Jeanne D’Arc Mujawamariya likened wetlands to kidneys, emphasizing their vital role in filtering water and supporting ecosystem health. The minister sees the wetland restoration project as a collective opportunity for employment, services, and a safe recreational environment.
The restoration efforts are expected to directly and indirectly benefit over 220,500 people facing challenges such as disasters, lack of clean water, and other issues resulting from wetland degradation. The master plan for Kigali City until 2050 reveals a 4% reduction in wetland area from 2013 to 2022 due to human activities, currently accounting for 10.6% of the city’s total area.
Kigali City currently has 37 wetlands covering 9,160 hectares, estimated to be valued at over $74 million. The government’s initiatives since 2017, involving the relocation of families and removal of destructive activities, aim to address wetland degradation. A study by the Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS) projects that taking care of Kigali’s wetlands could contribute more than $1.9 billion to Rwanda’s economy by 2025.
This revelation comes as a stark reminder of the extreme cruelty that unfolded in a area known for its significant concentration of scholars at that time. The minister’s talk took place on January 27, 2024.
Dr. Bizimana highlighted the role of the former Butare Prefecture, a focal point of political activities, where hate activities were initiated by Gitera from Save.
Gitera, responsible for drafting the ten commandments of Hutus, set in motion a history of hatred that persisted among the residents, shaping the ideologies of both children and neighbors.
The narrative of hatred, according to Dr. Bizimana, extended even to the medical community, typically associated with preserving health. In Butare during the Genocide, some doctors deviated from their oath, committing acts that contradicted their profession.
During the address, Dr. Bizimana shared shocking statistics, revealing that Huye town (formerly Butare) boasted the largest number of doctors in 1994, with approximately 40 of them working at the University Teaching Hospital of Butare-CHUB and Kabutere hospitals.
Astonishingly, three-quarters of these doctors, totaling 26, were convicted of genocide. The minister emphasized the significant involvement of medical lecturers and doctors in the atrocities.
Notably, 31 nurses from Butare faced convictions for crimes despite their sworn duty to treat and protect life. Dr. Bizimana cited a disheartening example of a doctor couple, both working at CHUB, who participated in the genocide and were sentenced.
One chilling example presented by Dr. Bizimana was that of Ndindabahizi Jean Chrysostome, a doctor at CHUB, and his wife, Nduwamariya Jeanne, an otolaryngologist, who both committed genocide.
The minister recounted a horrific incident involving Dr. Nduwamariya, who, as the sole expert in treating ears, throats, and noses, inserted a nail into a child’s ear during the Genocide, illustrating the extreme cruelty exhibited by Butare doctors.
Dr. Bizimana urged the youth to learn from these real-life examples, emphasizing the importance of understanding the country’s history to become exemplary professionals. He called on students to reject any association with the dark past and strive to be positive contributors to society.
Regrettably, two doctors involved in these heinous acts have fled the country and have yet to face legal consequences for their actions. The minister’s revelations serve as a poignant reminder of the need to confront and learn from the atrocities committed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Guang CHONG presided over the ceremony and congratulated Rwandan peacekeepers for the commendable work done. He praised them for the professionalism and dedication to duty.
Sector Commander Sector Unity and Rwanda Country Senior, Brig Gen Emmanuel Rugazora, appreciated Rwanbatt-1 peacekeepers for the outstanding performance in the maintenance of peace and security in South Sudan, despite challenges encountered.
In his remarks, Rwanbatt-1 Contingent Commander, Lt Col Gilbert Ndayisabye, appreciated the support of the UNMISS leadership, the government of South Sudan and friendly contingents in accomplishing mandated tasks.
Rwanbatt-1 started peacekeeping mission in March 2023. They conducted patrols in different areas of South Sudan and community work activities to the benefit of citizens.
CFAO Mobility Rwanda, dedicated to reducing vehicle emissions, has initiated the sale of BYD’s fully electric SUV Atto 3, with plans to introduce additional models such as the Dolphin and Dolphin Mini.
Mugabo Jean Luc, Commercial Director at CFAO Rwanda Mobility, highlighted the relief this initiative provides to Rwandans facing escalating fuel prices, emphasizing the significance of promoting electric cars amidst the ongoing rise in petrol and diesel costs.
BYD’s electric cars, featuring batteries strategically positioned under the vehicle, offer spacious interiors. Buyers receive home charging tools or can utilize designated charging stations. CFAO Mobility underscores its commitment to air pollution reduction, aiming for full success by 2050.
AShu (Remy) Yao, BYD’s Commercial Director for the African region, emphasized the company’s commitment to global impact through technological innovation, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Yao acknowledged BYD’s leadership in the global electric car market.
Rwanda, known for its strides in reducing air pollution through electric vehicles and renewable energy, aligns with the sustainability goals of BYD and CFAO Mobility. Fidèle Abimana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, highlighted the contribution of electric vehicles to the government’s plan to reduce air pollution by 38% by 2030.
Abimana outlined a program encouraging Rwandans to embrace electric vehicles due to emission reduction benefits and affordability, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness compared to traditional fuel usage. The Rwandan government actively engages in discussions with investors to introduce electric passenger cars to the public.
CFAO Mobility Rwanda ensures that its staff is trained to maintain BYD vehicles, providing buyers with a six-year warranty on the car and an eight-year warranty on the battery.
As power generation, automobiles, and various industries contribute to 34% of global emissions, experts anticipate a potential 126% increase in global emissions by 2030.
