The bill, key to the government’s Rwanda plan, passed the House of Commons with 320 votes in favor and 276 votes against on Wednesday. It will now go to the House of Lords, Parliament’s upper chamber, for its first reading.
“The passing of the bill tonight marks a major step in our plan to stop the boats,” said a spokesperson for the prime minister’s office.
In April 2022, Britain reached a deal with Rwanda, under which illegal immigrants and asylum seekers would be sent to the East African country to have their claims processed there. If successful, they would be granted permanent residency in Rwanda rather than being allowed to return to Britain.
However, the scheme has met with resistance. The first flight scheduled to take seven migrants to Rwanda in June 2022 was canceled after intervention by the European Court of Human Rights. Two months ago, Britain’s Supreme Court ruled that the government’s scheme was unlawful.
The British government later introduced emergency legislation known as the Safety of Rwanda Bill that would override domestic and international human rights laws.
A vote on amendments to the bill on Tuesday revealed the division and rebellion facing the prime minister in his governing Conservative Party, as some 60 Conservative MPs voted against the government.
In addition, three Conservative lawmakers, including two deputy chairmen of the party, resigned Tuesday evening over the vote on the amendments.
Keir Starmer, leader of the main opposition Labour Party, said earlier Wednesday that Sunak has been “brutally exposed by his own MPs yet again” and called the government’s plan “a farce.”
The British government said that it has given Rwanda 240 million British pounds (about 304 million U.S. dollars) under the scheme.
Rwangombwa made the disclosure on Tuesday during an interview with CNBC on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland where he expressed particular worry for countries heavily reliant on imports.
Rwangombwa stated, “The issue of the sea is being seen as a challenge and risk to businessmen. If it persists, it might aggravate transport costs, which could increase prices in the market.”
However, he remains optimistic, stating, “I believe these challenges will be overcome.”
During the interview, Rwangombwa shared his areas of interest at the forum. He mentioned attending the session on the financial sector, as he is keen on understanding the impact of technology in that domain.
Additionally, he expressed interest in discussions related to non-bank financial institutions and financial inclusion, aiming to grasp their influence on the financial sector and overall quality of life.
When asked about the future of banks in Rwanda, Rwangombwa acknowledged the numerous challenges the industry faces. He emphasized that banks are actively responding to these challenges, such as climate change, cyber security, and digital revolutions.
He noted that banks are investing heavily in digital operations and striving to reach the lowest levels of the population with banking services. He also mentioned concerns about the transition to a green economy and the impact on financial institution stability.
Rwangombwa stated, “We are all engaged in this and happy to be here and learn from the experts.”
{{Projection of economic performance}}
Governor Rwangombwa provided insights into Rwanda’s economic performance projections. He highlighted the strong global growth rate, with an average of 8% for a considerable period that Rwanda has performed. The projection for 2023 was 6.2%, down from 9.2% in 2022.
He believes that a growth rate of 6.6% is attainable in 2024, provided the risks are mitigated. He acknowledged the impact of agriculture on the economy, stating, “Regardless of the good performance of the economy, agriculture did not perform well in the past two years, which affected inflation. However, the current season is doing well.”
Rwangombwa expressed confidence in Rwanda’s resilience and strength, mentioning the country’s reliance on commercial financing and its alignment with achieving financial goals through Development Finance Institutions (DFIs).
The Rwandan delegation, including Foreign Minister, Dr. Vincent Biruta and Rwanda’s Ambassador to Switzerland, Marie Chantal Rwakazina, participated in these dialogues. Zelensky outlined his strategy for peace in Ukraine during the initial bilateral meeting with Kagame, emphasizing the importance of rallying African nations’ support for Ukraine.
“I informed President Kagame of the Peace Formula. The voice of African states is important to putting it into action. Rwanda’s representative attended the fourth Peace Formula meeting of advisors. This sends an important signal to other African countries,” noted Zelensky on his X account.
The Peace Formula encompasses critical points, addressing nuclear security, territorial integrity restoration, energy security, and the repatriation of prisoners of war and deportees held on Russian territory.
Zelensky highlighted Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts by establishing an embassy in Rwanda and expressed interest in strengthening ties, particularly through agricultural exports.
He estimates that the conflict in Ukraine, ongoing since the Russian invasion in February 2022, could transition to negotiations once Russia ceases its attacks.
In December 2022, Zelensky expressed the desire to establish relations with at least 30 African countries. The commitment materialized in May 2023, during Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba’s visit to Rwanda, resulting in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on political consultations.
Speaking at the occasion, Minister Kuleba disclosed that discussions with Rwandan counterpart Dr. Vincent Biruta encompassed Zelensky’s Peace Formula and food security. Minister Kuleba reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to strengthen relations with African states based on mutual respect and mutual benefits.
Kuleba’s visit to Rwanda followed his trip to Ethiopia on May 24, where he met with various officials, including Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), and Azali Assoumani, the President of Comoros, who currently serves as the Chairperson of the African Union.
The conversation focused on addressing root causes of conflicts, building on discussions from a previous visit by Avril Haines, the Director of National Intelligence, in November 2023.
During Haines’ visit, discussions centered on de-escalating tensions between Rwanda and DR Congo and addressing security concerns in eastern DR Congo, where the government coalition is combating the M23 rebels. DR Congo accuses Rwanda of supporting the rebels, a claim Kigali dismisses, insisting it’s an internal Congolese matter.
Rwanda accuses the Congolese army of collaborating with the FDLR terrorist group, posing a regional security threat. The FDLR, formed by remnants of Interahamwe and the former Rwandan army responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has been linked to hate speech and violence against Congolese Tutsi communities.
Recent incidents include Congolese warplanes violating Rwanda’s airspace and armed soldiers crossing the border. The Rwandan government urges Kinshasa to cease support for the UN-sanctioned FDLR, as the region grapples with ongoing instability, housing over 130 armed groups in eastern DR Congo for nearly three decades.
Within the four months at CND, these forces faced relentless attacks, particularly while transporting essential equipment from Mulindi. One harrowing incident unfolded in Gatsata, where RPA soldiers were ambushed from two directions, forcing them to abandon their vehicle and engage in trench warfare. Tragically, one RPA soldier lost his life, but timely intervention from CND allies drove the attackers away.
Another provocation occurred on January 5, 1994, during the celebration of female members of the Transitional Government. Prior to President Habyarimana’s arrival, his scattered bodyguards, attempted to assert security control. However, their efforts were thwarted as the Inkotanyi had also established a base, sparking a brief but intense conflict that ceased instantly.
In the ensuing months, provocations escalated, as confirmed by Sheikh Abdul Karim Harerimana, a prominent RPF Inkotanyi politician who resided in CND. In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Amb. Sheikh Harerimana recounted a critical incident involving Habyarimana’s military plane flying over CND at a low altitude. It was only through Paul Kagame’s decisive leadership that a message was issued to shoot down the plane.
Sheikh Harerimana detailed the event, stating, “They sent a military aircraft, not for combat, but for routine military transportation. It flew over CND, disturbing our peace. After consultations, a message was sent – if it returned for the fourth time, it might not make it back. The plane heeded the warning and did not return.”
The provocations extended beyond government forces, with members of the CDR party, notorious for violence, also antagonizing the RPA and setting up barriers for its representatives. During negotiations between the RPF Inkotanyi and Juvénal Habyarimana’s regime, Lieutenant General (Rtd) Karenzi Karake, holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel at the time, represented the RPA in the UN peacekeeping mission, MINUAR.
Amb. Harelimana revealed that CDR activists disrupted peace in Kigali during negotiations, engaging in protests, violence, road blockades, and even vandalizing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office.
Sheikh Harelimana described the activists’ escalation to attacking CND and attempting to block local roads, demonstrating their audacity and defiance. The provocation of CDR members against Karenzi Karake occurred as he left to visit the Third Battalion in the CND, resulting in roadblocks that prevented the MINUAR meeting at Lando’s place.
“At that time, MINUAR had a meeting supposed to be held at Lando’s place, and they said to each other, ‘no, the meeting will not take place because the CDR has closed the roads’,” explained Sheikh Harelimana. The incident coincided with Lieutenant Colonel Karenzi Karake’s presence in MINUAR, representing the RPF-RPA. Despite roadblocks, Karake persevered, ensuring the meeting took place.
Wearing the MINUAR uniform, Karake proceeded to Chez Lando but encountered a barrier where CDR activists stopped him. Describing the tense moment, Sheikh Harelimana said, “The bullet was released. Of course, our soldiers started shooting. At the CND where we were ready, the boys started firing.”
Sheikh Harelimana underscored that RPA soldiers not only faced challenges from the CDR but also encountered government soldiers hiding in Gishushu. Despite the intensity of the conflict, the resilience and strategic prowess of RPA soldiers prevailed, ensuring the safe return of Karenzi Karake and his accompanying troops to CND.
In the tapestry of untold provocations faced by RPA soldiers at CND, these episodes exemplify their unwavering dedication to peace and liberation, navigating complex challenges with valor and determination.
The statement released by RDF identified the two soldiers from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as Sgt Asman Mupenda Termite, 30, and Cpl Anyasaka Nkoi Lucien, 28. The arrests occurred in the night leading to Tuesday 16th January 2024, around 1:10 a.m.
“This morning at 01:10hrs, three armed soldiers of the Democratic Republic of Congo armed forces (FARDC) crossed the border from the DRC into Rwanda at Rubavu District [in Rubavu Sector/Rukoko Cell/Isangano Village],” reads part of the statement.
RDF reported that the two soldiers were apprehended by RDF patrols supported by the local neighborhood watch (Irondo).
“The FARDC soldiers had in their possession one AK-47 gun, four magazines with 105 rounds, one protective vest, and cannabis sachets. The third soldier was shot dead when he fired at the patrols,” adds the statement.
Rwanda’s military clarified that no one on the Rwandan side was injured, and further investigations are underway.
Residents in the area where the incident occurred mentioned that the dead soldier was fired upon in Gafuku Village, Gikombe Cell of Rubavu Sector.
Meanwhile, his colleagues were respectively arrested in Isangano Village of Rukoko Cell and Rurembo Village of Byahi Cell in Rubavu Sector. They had crossed the border and were near Byahi Health Center on the road.
This is not the first instance of Congolese soldiers violating Rwandan territory. In March last year, another soldier was shot after crossing the main border in Rubavu.
Despite occasional tensions, Rwanda has played a crucial role in supporting its neighbor, Burundi, during critical times. Here are five pivotal moments highlighting Rwanda’s assistance to Burundi.
{{Debt settlement in the East African Community }}
In December 2008, despite being in the early stages of development, Rwanda, moved by a sense of fraternity, paid off Burundi’s outstanding contribution of 1 million dollars to the East African Community (EAC). This act not only showcased Rwanda’s benevolence but also prevented Burundi from facing disruptions in EAC activities, given its challenges in meeting financial obligations due to an unstable economy.
{{Bujumbura Market Fire}}
In January 2013, a devastating fire engulfed the main market of Bujumbura, Burundi. As Burundian police’s efforts proved futile, the Rwandan army swiftly dispatched two helicopters to help contain the blaze. The market, housing assets worth billions of Burundian francs, suffered severe damage. Rwanda’s prompt response demonstrated its commitment to supporting Burundi during emergencies.
{{Rescue Operation in the Central African Republic}}
On December 25, 2020, Burundian troops in the Central African Republic (CAR) faced an attack by an armed group. The Rwandan special forces, located 70 kilometers away, played a pivotal role in rescuing besieged Burundian soldiers. Despite the challenges, the Rwandan army successfully neutralized the threat, retrieving captured military assets and returning the bodies of fallen soldiers to Burundi.
{{Arrest and Handover of RED Tabara Fighters}}
In September 2020, the armed group RED Tabara engaged in a fierce battle with the Burundian army. Fleeing to Nyungwe Park in Ruheru, Rwandan soldiers apprehended 19 RED Tabara fighters along with weapons and ammunition. In an act of cooperation, Rwanda handed over the captured fighters to Burundi in July 2021, showcasing a commitment to regional stability.
{{Warning of Coup Plot}}
In September 2022, President Ndayishimiye of Burundi faced an attempted overthrow, leading to the removal and imprisonment of General Alain-Guillaume Bunyoni, the former Prime Minister.
Amidst complex geopolitical dynamics, Bunyoni claimed that Rwanda had access to his phone, providing information to Burundi. While neither country confirmed nor denied these allegations, the situation highlighted the delicate nature of regional relationships.
In light of strained relations between Rwanda and the DRC, primarily fueled by insecurity in the eastern part of the DRC, where armed groups, including the M23, clash with the Congolese army, accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 persist. However, the country refutes these allegations and urges the neighbor to solve internal problems without seeking excuses for failure through blame games.
Dr. Awazi, in an interview with IGIHE, underscored the prevailing sense of security felt by the Congolese diaspora in Rwanda.
“I am a free man. If I did not feel at peace, if I did not have the freedom to work, or if I did not feel safe here, [speaking here as a representative of the Congolese community], the over 100,000 Congolese living in Rwanda would not be here,” he explained.
The doctor further stated, “I am a doctor. I would have left here and returned home if it were not for the fact that Rwanda has offered us a favorable business environment, provided us with security, and treats us on an equal footing with its citizens. That’s why we continue to stay here.”
Dr. Awazi expressed the desire for Congolese and Rwandan leaders to engage in negotiations for peace, urging a shift away from the current war rhetoric. Acknowledging political interests, he emphasized the need for dialogue between the two neighboring countries.
Referring to President Tshisekedi’s recent remarks about a potential attack on Rwanda, Dr. Awazi highlighted the potential impact on both Rwandans and Congolese residing in Rwanda. He observed an improvement in diplomatic relations, indicating positive signs for dialogue between the two nations.
“I am optimistic that positive developments are underway as evidenced by the effective functioning of the diplomatic mission of Congo in Rwanda. We observed a temporary withdrawal of some diplomats at one point, but today we witness their return, along with the arrival of others. This indicates a significant shift towards fostering dialogue between the two nations.”
Concluding his statements, Dr. Awazi called on the region’s residents to unite for peace, addressing Burundians, Rwandans, Ugandans, and Congolese as brothers. Emphasizing the role of the diaspora in promoting peace, cohesion, and reconciliation, he stated, “We are an essential tool in the fight against ethnic and tribal divisions, and we strive to teach peace and cooperation.”
The DRC diaspora in Rwanda, numbering over 100,000, actively engages in education, health, and social well-being. Bokanga Kyassa Peter, the executive secretary of the diaspora, commended the outgoing committee’s accomplishments, particularly in education, highlighting teacher and student training, educational support for underprivileged children, and the renovation of damaged schools.
In the social domain, initiatives such as subscribing needy individuals for community-based health insurance and distributing food to families during the Covid-19 pandemic showcase the diaspora’s commitment to social welfare.
Using a metaphor, Shingiro described the fluctuating relations as “violent rains and sun destroying fields,” expressing hope for a return to “gentle sunshine or good rain.” The border closure has sparked disappointment among citizens rebuilding trust in bilateral relations.
Political party UPRONA highlighted potential negative effects, with expert Pascal Niyonizigiye warning of mistrust near borders. UPRONA urged dialogue, cautioning against negative impacts on ordinary citizens.
Rwanda, surprised by the border closure, sees it as a hindrance to free movement and bilateral trade, violating East African Community principles. The decision followed ‘unfounded accusations’ by Burundi’s president, accusing Rwanda of supporting the RED-TABARA group in the Gatumba attack—allegations Rwanda denies.
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi date back to the [2015 political crisis.->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-explains-why-burundi-coup-plot-suspects-are-not-deported] Efforts to normalize relations in 2020, marked by Rwanda repatriating fighters to Burundi, now face uncertainty due to the recent border closure. The Rwandan government calls for open dialogue to ease current tensions, reaffirming commitment to regional stability.
In response to the broader implications, the East African Community secretariat urged EAC partner states to resolve disputes amicably, emphasizing good neighborliness and the shared destiny of East African people.
Tanzania’s Zanzibar President Hussein Ali Mwinyi attended the event in the stadium, and he was joined by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Vice President Philip Mpango, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa and other senior government leaders.
Also in attendance were Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and Burundian Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca.
The ceremony was also attended by heads of diplomatic missions and international organizations, cabinet ministers of the Zanzibar government and the United Republic of Tanzania.
The ceremony featured armed forces parades, special performances, military displays, and a symbolic release of balloons and pigeons by individuals born on Jan. 12, accompanied by a special song marking the 60th anniversary of the Zanzibar revolution.
As he addressed participants, President Paul Kagame praised Tanzania’s impressive path to peace and unity.
Kagame acknowledged Zanzibar’s commitment to the spirit of the revolution and its progress in realizing the aspirations of its founders. Reflecting on the historic day, he commemorated the individuals who fought against injustice and highlighted the successful union between Zanzibar and Tanganyika that formed Tanzania.
Emphasizing the collective strength of Africans to address challenges and seize opportunities, Kagame praised the accomplishments of Zanzibar and Tanzania as a source of pride for the East African region. He drew parallels with Rwanda’s refusal to let a tragic past define its identity, stressing the potential of unity.
Furthermore, Kagame extended congratulations to Tanzania’s leadership for maintaining peace, emphasizing that their success is evidence of the ability of African nations to unite.
The climax of the celebrations followed almost a month of activities that included the opening and laying of foundation stones for various social and economic projects by the leaders.
