A statement issued by the US Department of State reveals that Blinken also briefed Kagame on the recent visit of Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland to Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC, where she met with President Felix Tshisekedi.
Tshisekedi held discussions with Nuland on Thursday, August 3, 2023. Afterward, Nuland told the media that the talks centered on security issues in eastern DRC. During this time, she also announced a US$48 million contribution from the US to provide assistance to citizens in eastern Congo.
These discussions come in the wake of repeated statements by the DRC asserting that Rwanda is plotting aggression against it, an accusation firmly denied by Rwanda. Rwanda vehemently dismissed these claims, asserting that such statements by the DRC are merely attempts to justify potential attacks on Rwanda.
The DRC has alleged Rwanda’s involvement in supporting the M23 rebel group, a charge consistently refuted by Rwanda. Rwanda frames the clashes between the Congolese Army and M23 as an internal conflict and advises the neighboring country to address its internal issues internally, rather than externalizing them.
Simultaneously, Rwanda accuses the FARDC of backing, arming, and fighting alongside the genocidal militia group known as the FDLR.
It’s important to note that the DRC has previously provoked Rwanda on multiple occasions and, in collaboration with the FDLR terrorist group, launched rocket attacks on Rwandan territory.
Moreover, Congolese fighter jets have trespassed into Rwanda’s airspace on three separate occasions since 2022.
During the conversations with Kagame, Blinken conveyed the US support for a diplomatic resolution to the tensions between the two nations and urged both sides to take steps to de-escalate the situation.
A recent United Nations (UN) report indicated that the DRC supplied weaponry to armed groups, including the FDLR, to join forces with the Congolese Army (FARDC) in their battle against the M23.
This missive revolves around the trial of Félicien Kabuga, a Rwandan businessman who stands accused of being a key financier behind the heinous Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Kabuga’s alleged involvement in orchestrating acts of genocide and crimes against humanity has cast a shadow of profound gravity over his trial.
Recently, on August 7, 2023, the Appeals Chamber of IRMCT, tasked with presiding over his trial, handed down a verdict of “indefinite suspension” for the proceedings against Kabuga.
This decision has sparked mixed reactions where organizations overseeing the interests of Genocide survivors rose concerns about the potential repercussions of this suspension on the pursuit of justice for the victims and survivors of these unspeakable atrocities.
One such collective, the umbrella organization of genocide survivors’ associations, known as IBUKA, has voiced their profound apprehension.
They express their disquiet over the apparent divergence of the IRMCT from its central mission: to deliver justice to the individuals who suffered and survived the ruthless 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
This apprehension was eloquently stated in their official statement on August 11, 2023, following the decision by IRMCT’s appeals judges to indefinitely halt the trial of Félicien Kabuga, ostensibly due to his purported illness.
Charles Butera, himself a survivor with an intimate understanding of the trauma inflicted upon his community, echoes these concerns in his open letter.
He laments the decision to indefinitely suspend Kabuga’s trial, likening it to driving a painful nail into an already open and bleeding wound endured by the Genocide survivors.
{ {{Below is Butera’s full letter:}} }
{{Open letter to the judges of the Appeals Chamber of the UN Mechanism entrusted with conducting the final trials of the ICTR }}
It is said that François Mitterrand once declared, regarding Rwanda, that “in those countries, a genocide is not too important.”
His bias and support for the genocidal regime of former Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana were well-known, but only a few understood the full extent of his statement. Sadly, the observed facts and the way the famous international community handles the consequences of the genocide against the Tutsi unfortunately prove him right.
The date of August 7, 2023, has now been added to the long list of dark dates that any survivor of this genocide must remember. The judges of the Appeals Chamber of the UN Mechanism entrusted with conducting the final trials of the ICTR have definitively hammered the nail into an open, bleeding wound. They have clearly shown the Tutsi survivors that the hand holding the lever of the powerful justice machinery is far out of their reach and that justice itself can be a “variable science.”
The arrest of the “financier of the genocide,” which took place with great fanfare in France in May 2020, raised hopes that finally the survivors would obtain justice. Unfortunately, this euphoria lasted only a blink of an eye because what was supposed to be a trial has now ended like a deflated balloon in the middle of the game.
The honorable judges who have blown the final whistle even go further by demanding the immediate release of this amnesiac, demented dying man.
The judges, still firm in their boots, have based their ultimate decision on the report of distinguished psychologists who have examined every millimeter of the accused’s brain and confirmed his incapacity.
According to other experts, it seems that the accused had been so active in using, even abusing his brain, trying to play and outwit those who were on his trail! This mental exercise spread over two decades unfortunately precipitated the onset of this nasty and terrible premature disease that attacked this 86-year-old deadwood, unfortunately rendering him unable to prove his innocence to the world.
Speaking of age, this reminds me that elsewhere, true judges committed to fairness, peace, and justice do not hesitate to judge and sentence even those who have reached the venerable age of one hundred, accused of serious crimes. Two recent examples come to mind: Josef Schütz, aged 101, was tried and sentenced to five years in prison in 2022 for complicity in murders when he was a non-commissioned officer of the Waffen SS.
While Irmgard Furchner, a former secretary of a concentration camp, aged 97, was also tried and sentenced to two years of suspended imprisonment in 2021 for complicity in murders. Without seeking to minimize the charges against one or the other, I leave it to the readers to compare the charges brought against the centenarians and those against the “financier of the genocide” committed against the Tutsi.
Our illustrious psychologists and judges have rendered a decision that will mark history, and I hope they will have the courage to assume its repercussions. It is very difficult to separate the genocide committed against the Tutsi and the name of Mr. Kabuga, as the two are inseparable.
He is the mastermind and financier of this same genocide, and his involvement weighed heavily. His name evokes the infamous Radio-Télévision des Mille Collines, known for its messages calling for murder. I can bet my finger that without his active participation in financing, planning, equipping, training, his charisma, social status, strategic influence, and his connections with the presidential palace, the genocide would not have reached the same magnitude.
I would have liked the same judges to take a moment and show compassion in order to think about the victims. I can understand that they were misled by the brilliant report of expert psychologists and the nightmarish image of a sleeping monster on the other side of the screen. But honorable judges, what do you say to all those victims killed in both atrocious and indescribable conditions?
The buried remains and those that still lie on the surface cry, mourn, and demand justice. They haunt you! The cries of the octogenarian Tutsi killed at the accused’s age tell you that Mr. Kabuga’s accomplices did not spare them despite their senility and weakened faculties. The crushed and battered babies against the walls cry out and call for justice.
The judge who turns a deaf ear to these cries will no longer be able to sleep, as the noise of these infants prevents it today and forever. And what do you say to the survivors wounded in their hearts and bodies? These raped women, left for dead and infected with HIV, tell you that they hate you. But as believers, they do not wish harm upon you; they simply want you to live long enough to see what they have seen and experience what they have experienced.
As for the orphans picked up among the corpses, they do not hide their anger, but they tell you that this two-tiered international justice only gives them the strength and courage to survive. They tell you that this tendency towards paternalism and dependency will be fought against and abolished forever. These young people regretfully tell you that the United Nations has once again missed a favorable opportunity to restore its image.
After so many failures before, during, and after the genocide, the only chance left was to deliver justice. If they have never made loud claims or taken to the streets to demand compensation, it was not due to forgetfulness or short memory. It was because they still had faith in an organization to whom they had given the benefit of the doubt. The release of the “financier of the genocide” cuts the umbilical cord.
Those who are familiar with the case seem to be the only ones not surprised by your decision. They assert that it perfectly fits into the preconceived architectural plan. Everything went according to plan, without obstacles: you have blessed and implemented the decision of non-prosecution pronounced by our distinguished psychologists.
This is the justice of the powerful. Shame on all of you who have contributed, directly or indirectly, to this degrading charade. How shameful it is to have no shame. In the typical case of Rwanda, this famous organization continues to lose feathers. From its pinnacle to its ground troops, including its judges of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, this organization has never ceased to discredit itself.
It shines through decisional incoherence in all its organs. The Tutsi survivors barely had time to forget the incongruous decisions of Judge Theodor Meron, which left indelible scars on their minds. For those who preferred to erase this infamous name from their heads, let us simply recall that he is the villain who, for two decades, tirelessly worked to exonerate and free criminals or revise their sentences downward. And yet, didn’t Gandhi warn us: “To progress, we must not repeat history, but produce a new one.” The United Nations organization has still not learned anything.
Before concluding, I leave you with this: whether you are believers or not, I find this biblical passage appropriate for you: “Cursed is he who disregards the rights of the stranger, the orphan, and the widow!” Deuteronomy 27, 19.
What the Tutsi survivors should remember:
– Let us avoid continuing to rely on external justice – Let us fight to have the executioners on our territory and judge them at any cost.
– The passage of time does not diminish the guilt of the killers.
– Finally, I ask myself the same question as you: what is the purpose of the non-prescriptible crime of genocide if a group of individuals can sit down at any time and decide that an alleged criminal is unfit to stand trial based on easily debatable subjective facts?
According to information obtained by RFI from the report, Guterres expresses deep apprehension about the situation unfolding in the eastern region of the DRC, more than a year after the resurgence of hostilities between the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the M23 rebels.
The recently published report by the UN Group of Experts in August this year highlights that the FARDC sought assistance from other armed groups operating in the eastern DRC to fight M23 rebels.
Contained within the 15-page document dispatched to the UN Security Council, Guterres conveys his concerns over the escalation of armed groups comprising individuals who claim to be acting in self-defense.
These groups, composed primarily of civilians armed with weaponry, have pledged their commitment to confront the M23 rebels. Guterres highlights that this ongoing situation exacerbates security challenges, as inexperienced civilians might attack fellow civilians or even perish in conflicts due to their lack of combat proficiency.
The UN Group of Experts’ report published earlier in June this year pointed out a collaboration between the FARDC and FDLR, a designated terrorist group comprising individuals implicated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This collaboration aimed at countering the M23 rebels. The report further reveals interactions between the Congolese Armed Forces and FDLR, including organized meetings.
As outlined in the report, a coalition named the “Alliance des Résistants de la Patrie (ARP)” was formed by these armed groups in North Kivu Province. Initially, General Janvier Buingo Karahiri, commander of the APCLS armed group, led the coalition, while Guidon Shimirayi Mwisa, in charge of the NDC-R armed group, assumed the role of logistics head in partnership with “General” Dominique Ndaruhutse, also known as Domi, who leads the CMC/FDP armed group. This coalition also encompasses the Mai-Mai Kifuafua armed group situated in Walikale and Masisi.
Rutshuru hosts a collection of coalition members, including Mouvement Patriotique d’Autodéfense (MPA), Collectif des Mouvements pour le Changement/Forces Armées du Peuple Congolais (CMC/FAPC), NDC-R/Bwira under the leadership of Mapenzi, and the FDLR, considered the most potent entity within the alliance.
The UN Group of Experts’ report discloses that the coalition played an active role in assaults against the M23 rebels in the regions of Kitshanga and Rubaya in January and February 2023.
There are allegations against Congolese military leaders for orchestrating the formation of this coalition of armed groups.
These initiatives include the Vision 2020 and the Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS) on a national scale, along with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The nation is also considering additional programs such as the Vision 2050, the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), and Agenda 2063 to align with its long-term aspirations.
Over the years, Rwanda has undergone reforms aimed at transforming the livelihoods of its citizens, yielding noticeable improvements, as evidenced by the rise in life expectancy from 51.2 in 2002 to 64.5 in 2021 and further to 69.6 in 2022. Notably, poverty rates have also seen a decline, with the percentage dropping from 60.4% in 2000 to 38.2% in 2017, and extreme poverty plummeting from 40% to 16% within the same timeframe.
The pursuit of poverty reduction remains a central pillar of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, and the country is committed to eradicating extreme poverty by 2024 under the NST1. The results of the 2022 Housing and Population Census reveal that Rwanda’s population has now exceeded 13 million.
An analysis of the census data concerning poverty reveals that 887,508 individuals live in conditions of extreme poverty, while 3,139,395 are struggling with poverty. This aggregates to a total of 4,026,903 individuals living below the poverty line, which corresponds to 30.4% of the registered population.
A stark disparity between rural and urban areas is evident, with rural regions harboring the larger proportion of individuals in poverty at 3,502,686, equivalent to 37.3%, compared to 13.4% in urban areas. At the provincial level, both the Western and Southern provinces exhibit a similar 35% poverty rate, while the percentage drops to 34.6% in the Eastern Province and significantly lowers to 9.5% in Kigali City.
Notably, the 2012 census had previously identified the Western and Eastern provinces as having the highest poverty rates at 42% each. At the district level, Gisagara, Nyanza, Rutsiro, Nyamagabe, Ngororero, Nyaruguru, Gatsibo, Nyagatare, and Ngoma have poverty rates ranging between 37% and 45%. In districts such as Nyamasheke, Rubavu, Rusizi, Burera, Karongi, Kirehe, Nyabihu, Kayonza, and Ruhango, the poverty rate falls within the range of 32% to 36%.
Conversely, districts like Rulindo, Muhanga, Rwamagana, Musanze, and Gakenke boast poverty rates below 30%.
Within Kigali City, Kicukiro showcases the lowest rate of poverty at 6.7%, followed by Nyarugenge at 9% and Gasabo at 11.1%. The census data also sheds light on the characteristics of these poverty-stricken populations, often characterized by factors such as residing in homes with light roofing structures and having limited educational attainment, often stopping at the primary school level or not attending school at all.
The report further identifies a majority of them as widows, divorcees, or members of households prone to disputes. Internet access is scarce in these households, and they tend to have larger families.
The report suggests that many rely on subsistence agriculture with limited yields, possess average knowledge, and frequently relocate in search of means of sustenance. Notably, individuals aged 30 to 44 constitute the majority of the population living in poverty. The National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) posits that this age group’s vulnerability to poverty could be associated with establishment of independent households.
The recent Labor Force Survey of February 2023 reveals that the working-age population (16 years and above) reached 7.9 million, of which 3,803,942 individuals were employed, 792,115 were unemployed, and 3,380,192 individuals were not part of the labor force.
This 2023 edition will take place on the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District, joining the communities living around the home of the endangered mountain gorillas in the ultimate celebration of nature and conservation.
The ceremony will see the naming of 23 baby mountain gorillas born in the last 12 months. 374 baby gorillas have been named since the beginning of the naming ceremony first held in 2005.
This year’s participants, to be announced closer to the event, will include prominent partners, conservationists, both international and local figures, dignitaries, and friends of Rwanda. The celebration aims to highlight Rwanda’s conservation achievements, particularly its successful approach to gorilla tourism characterized by low volume and high value. This strategy has not only facilitated the thriving of the gorilla population but also provided enhanced trekking experiences for visitors.
Current tourism statistics reveal that Rwanda’s revenue from tourism amounted to US$247 million during the first half of 2023, reflecting a notable 56% surge compared to the US$158 million reported during the same period in 2022.
Commenting on the development, Clare Akamanzi, CEO of RDB said: “We are thrilled to return to Kinigi this year for the 19th Kwita Izina Gorilla Naming ceremony. Our celebration marks the remarkable progress achieved in both tourism and conservation, notably the majestic mountain gorillas. Last year, gorilla tourism stood out as the best-performing segment, and the trend indicates that 2023 is poised for further growth, propelling us beyond recovery and closer to our national targets. This translates to greater benefits for communities, enriched experiences for tourists, and a thriving gorilla population, all thanks to the active engagement of stakeholders in their daily conservation.”
Akamanzi also emphasized Rwanda’s diversification of tourism revenue streams, promoting additional attractions and new offerings like the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events (MICE) and sports tourism sectors.
The upcoming Kwita Izina ceremony in the next month will also spotlight the Rwandan government’s initiatives to uplift the livelihoods of park communities while advancing wildlife conservation through the Tourism Revenue Share Program. This program, launched in 2005, aims to guide investments in areas surrounding Rwanda’s national parks by directing 10% of park revenues back to the communities.
Since its inception, the Tourism Revenue Share Program has channeled over Rwf10 billion (around US$9 million) into more than 1,000 community-based projects surrounding Akagera, Nyungwe, Volcanoes, and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks.
This year, RDB is launching two community projects: a maternity unit and a conservation unit for potato seeds, aimed at providing maternal healthcare and quality seeds in Muganza Sector, Nyaruguru District, Southern Province.
Moreover, RDB, in collaboration with the African Leadership University, will host the 2023 Business of Conversation Conference from August 29th to 31st, 2023.
Various events are planned as part of this year’s Kwita Izina celebrations, including the Rhino Velo Race in Akagera National Park, familiarization tours across the country for international tour operators and travel media, and a Kwita Izina concert.
{{About Kwita Izina}}
The Kwita Izina gorilla naming ceremony is modeled off a centuries-old tradition in which Rwandans name their children in the presence of family and friends. For three decades before the first official gorilla naming ceremony, park rangers and researchers named Rwanda’s mountain gorilla babies to monitor each gorilla in their family and habitat.
In 2005, Rwanda began officially naming mountain gorillas in what has become a global celebration of nature. By giving a name to these majestic animals, they are given the value they undoubtedly deserve.
The ceremony is, first and foremost, an opportunity to thank the communities that live around the gorilla habitat, Volcanoes National Park, research partners, vets and the dedicated conservationists, rangers and trackers who protect the gorillas daily.
Over the last fifteen years, more than 350 mountain gorillas have been named. Today, Kwita Izina forms part of an ambitious strategy to preserve Rwanda’s natural heritage and further expand the role of tourism in the country’s transformation. As a result of the naming ceremony, Rwandans from all walks of life understand the intrinsic value of gorillas and their contribution to the country’s economic prosperity. Rwandans have become gorilla guardians.
Overall, Rwanda has emerged as a conservation and sustainable tourism leader on the continent.
For instance, while in the 2010 Census, there were 480 mountain gorillas, the 2016 Census report indicated 604 individuals in the Virunga Massif. These efforts have contributed to the increase in mountain gorillas worldwide (1,063) and are categorised as no longer critically endangered.
Mugabowagahunde, previously served as the Executive Director of Research and Policy Development at the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement. He takes over from Dancilla Nyirarugero, who held the position since March 2021. Meanwhile, Nyirarugero has joined the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission as a commissioner.
Additionally, President Kagame appointed Dr. Patrice Mugenzi as the Director General of Rwanda Cooperative Agency (RCA), succeeding Jean-Bosco Harelimana, who was removed due to managerial failure in January.
The new appointment of the governor comes after the recent dismissal of several officials in Northern Province, including the provincial executive secretary and three district mayors.
The dismissals resulted from a multi-sectoral investigation that found these officials failed to uphold national unity and followed the resignation of the district Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development over a gathering of the Abakono clan that was deemed sectarian.
The event, which saw the installation of Abakono clan chief, attracted over 600 people from all parts of the country and included, among others, government officials, local leaders and leaders in private and security sectors of different capacities.
The event was criticized as sectarian, and the newly-installed chief of Abakono clan, Justin Kazoza, subsequently apologized and renounced his title.
The agreement was signed in the Jordanian capital Amman during the second round of strategic dialogue between the two countries, according to the report.
The agreement was signed by Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
Additionally, they signed two memoranda of understanding on the training of diplomats as well as population and urban development.
Dr. Biruta said the new agreements, together with the one signed in February on visa exemptions for diplomats, would facilitate communication and boost tourism, trade and investment between the two countries.
He also announced Rwanda’s decision to establish a diplomatic mission in Amman, underlining the country’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Jordan in various fields.
The two sides also exchanged views on global and regional issues of mutual interest and strengthening anti-terrorism cooperation in line with the Aqaba Process initiative, which was launched in 2015 by King Abdullah II of Jordan.
Safadi underlined the importance of an upcoming meeting in Rwanda under the Aqaba Process initiative to discuss anti-terrorism issues in Africa.
Also on Wednesday, King Abdullah II met Biruta and they discussed means of expanding cooperation between the two countries, especially in trade, tourism, investment, agriculture, and defense, according to a statement by Jordan’s royal court.
Opinion & Public, is a leading multilingual Francophone and West African public relations firm. The CIGC is set to become an annual platform for public sector communication professionals to exchange ideas, delve into the latest trends, and redefine their approaches.
The theme for the debut event is “Fostering Trust between Youth and Government,” with the conference attracting prominent government communication experts from around the globe.
In an interview with IGIHE, Kwame Senou, the Founder and Senior Adviser of Opinion & Public BCW, shed light on the conference’s highlights.
He explained that attendees should anticipate insightful presentations, hands-on workshops, and engaging discussions covering a range of topics such as crisis communication, youth engagement, countering misinformation, and leveraging new media.
The conference also pledges a distinctive networking opportunity, enabling participants to connect with like-minded individuals and explore innovative and effective communication strategies with industry leaders. Notable speakers include Alex Aiken, Executive Director of the United Kingdom Government Communications Services, and Annie Mutamba, co-founder of Africa Communications Week, alongside other seasoned communication professionals.
{{Conference’s ideation }}
In a world increasingly embracing the digital revolution, African governments are working harder than ever to maintain their status as trustworthy sources of information. Over the past decade, changes in public sector operations and the surge in digital platform usage by citizens have elevated communication demands.
According to Kwame, the CIGC provides an excellent platform for participants to engage with industry luminaries, explore how public sector communication can bolster trust among young people and their governments, and acquire pertinent skills to achieve this goal.
“We’re thrilled to host this annual event and eagerly welcome government agencies, public institutions, international organizations, media, and educational institutions to join the conference,” he enthused.
{{Participation }}
As Kwame indicated, approximately 150 communication officials, top diplomats, business directors, and academic scholars in public governance are expected to attend. Attendees will have the chance to interact with over 50+ government officials, top diplomats, business directors, and academic scholars in public governance. They can engage with experienced speakers on current issues to strengthen existing business objectives.
{{Envisaged outcomes and impact }}
Kwame also elucidated that the conference’s primary objectives revolve around several key pillars. The event aims to foster capacity-building and developmental opportunities through immersive workshops and engaging dialogues.
“Moreover, we’re dedicated to nurturing a collaborative ecosystem that not only generates business prospects but also encourages innovation among esteemed industry experts,” he emphasized.
The conference is set to receive substantial media exposure through reputable media outlets and journalists in attendance, resulting in the dissemination of numerous stories across traditional, online, and social platforms.
Kwame underscored that the decision to organize this conference stems from a profound commitment to establish a robust information infrastructure supporting world-class communication practices within Africa’s public sector.
“Considering these goals, the overarching message we intend to convey to governments is two-fold. Firstly, while there’s an imperative to enhance communication strategies across key stakeholders, it’s equally crucial to recognize and prioritize communication with one of the most pivotal demographics – the youth. This strategic emphasis on engaging the youth underscores the fundamental essence of our theme and echoes the pivotal role they play as stakeholders,” he articulated.
Kwame asserted that, essentially, the conference serves as a potent platform to emphasize the significance of effective and inclusive communication, particularly with the youth. He believes that through this effort, the firm aims to strengthen the bonds of trust between governments and the younger generation, fostering a more connected, informed, and harmonious society.
{{Background}}
Opinion & Public BCW stands as a premier multilingual Francophone and West African public relations firm.
It represents WPP’s BCW brand in Ivory Coast. The firm’s mission revolves around facilitating impactful conversations that shape and influence public opinion, empowering organizations to attain their objectives in the African context.
With its comprehensive array of services, the firm offers tailored communication strategies to ensure client messages resonate with their intended audiences.
From thorough research and analysis to media relations management, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, and content creation, Opinion & Public BCW provides a holistic approach to guide brands through the intricacies of organizational communications and reputation management.
Besides, the firm boasts a team of experts equipped with the insights and tools necessary to make informed business decisions, driven by the goal of effecting meaningful change in people’s lives.
Opinion & Public BCW is predominantly owned by THOP The Holding Opinion and Public, a UK-registered communications group.
{{Genesis of establishment}}
Kwame revealed that Opinion & Public BCW emerged with dual objectives in mind. Firstly, its founders aimed to bridge the gap between Francophone and Anglophone Africa, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration. Additionally, the firm aimed to serve as a valuable resource for multinational companies seeking to operate or introduce their offerings to the Francophone African market.
“In addition, a significant focus of our mission has been to empower governments with the knowledge and tools required for effective communication strategies. We recognize the vital role that proficient communication plays in connecting governments with their diverse audiences, ensuring that their messages resonate and foster understanding,” he stated.
Kwame also shed light on the firm’s aspiration, where it seeks to drive exponential growth for the agency on the continent while concurrently expanding its range of services. “We are committed to consistently securing awards and pioneering innovative initiatives to further enhance our achievements,” he concluded.
In addition to the aforementioned mayors, the statement reveals that a number of other local government leaders in the Northern Province have also been removed from their positions after investigations exposed their shortcomings in fulfilling their obligations. Notable among those dismissed is Geoffrey Mushaija, the former provincial executive secretary, who has been replaced by Emmanuel Nzabonimpa in an acting capacity.
The three districts affected by these changes have appointed interim mayors: Hamis Bizimana will temporarily lead Musanze, Aimé-François Niyonsenga will serve as the acting mayor of Gakenke, and Jean Baptiste Nshimiyimana has been assigned a similar role in Burera.
Further personnel changes include the removal of Axelle Kamanzi, the vice mayor of Musanze in charge of social welfare, and Innocent Twagirimana, the executive secretary of Kinigi sector.
Various senior staff members within the three districts have also been let go.
These dismissals follow the recent resignation of Andrew Mpuhwe Rucyahana, who stepped down from his position as the vice mayor for economic development in Musanze District for similar reasons.
According to the statement issued by Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente, an investigation found that the officials in question had not adequately upheld their responsibilities to promote and safeguard national unity, a fundamental principle enshrined in the constitution. These actions were triggered in part by a recent gathering held in Kinigi Sector of Musanze District, which brought together individuals from across the country, ostensibly to partake in the installation of the chief of the Abakono clan.
This gathering was met with condemnation from various quarters, including the ruling party RPF-Inkotanyi, for being sectarian in nature. The Prime Minister’s decision to dismiss these officials was carried out in accordance with instructions from the President, who serves as the guardian of the Constitution. This Constitution obliges all government officials, whether elected or not, to uphold the core tenets of the Constitution.
The installation of the Abakono clan chief on July 9 attracted a significant number of attendees from all corners of the country, including government officials, local leaders, and individuals from private and security sectors. However, many individuals criticized the event for setting a concerning precedent in a nation that has a painful history of the Genocide against the Tutsi, an event largely fueled by sectarianism.
Subsequent to the gathering, several participants, including Esperance Nyirasafari, the Vice President of the Senate, issued public apologies and expressed their commitment to avoiding such discriminatory acts in the future. Justin Kazoza, a businessman who was installed as the chief of the Abakono clan, later apologized for his involvement and renounced his newly-acquired title.
Speaking to participants of the ceremony held on 8th August 2023, Kagame’s first lesson was to “have a vision.” He advised the graduates to identify problems, dedicate their attention to solving them, and make those issues their purpose. He stressed that setbacks are inevitable but having a clear vision is the driving force that separates giving up from perseverance.
In his second lesson, Kagame cautioned the graduates about the doubters and naysayers they might encounter on their paths. He urged them to stay true to their convictions and to do what they believe is right, even if it means taking the less-traveled path. Kagame highlighted that true success often requires going against the norm and being prepared for criticism.
Lastly, Kagame emphasized the importance of collaboration and building meaningful relationships.
He stated that Africa’s challenges stem from a lack of productive collaboration and underutilization of collective wealth, not a scarcity of talent or resources. Kagame encouraged the graduates to surround themselves with like-minded individuals who inspire and motivate them to excel. He reminded them not to forget the relationships they have formed during their time at RICA.
Founded by Dr. Howard G. Buffet with the goal of preparing innovators and entrepreneurs in agriculture, RICA celebrated its first graduation ceremony, conferring Bachelor of Science degrees in Conservation Agriculture to 75 graduates.
Speaking to the graduates, Buffet urged them to continue working diligently to make RICA the most successful institution in Rwanda. He also shared essential elements for success, including judgment, anticipation, resilience in the face of failure, and the impact of interpersonal relationships.
Chichi Brave Ntaganira, representing fellow graduates, expressed gratitude for the unwavering commitment of RICA to their success. He acknowledged the challenges they faced as the first batch of students, but credited the school’s support for their achievements. Ntaganira highlighted that 60% of the graduates are already self-employed, running agricultural startups in areas such as service provision and input manufacturing in the seed industry.
Founded in 2019 through a partnership between American philanthropist Howard G. Buffet and the Rwandan government, RICA presents a comprehensive three-year program. This program leads to the attainment of a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Agriculture. Within this program, students have the option to specialize in either Animal Production or Crop Production, Mechanisation, and Food Processing.
RICA also places emphasis on nurturing leadership, entrepreneurship, and communication skills alongside the academic curriculum.
