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  • Eight Rwandans graduate in PAUWES

    Eight Rwandans graduate in PAUWES

    All eight Rwandans graduated in a group of 47 students from 21 African Countries graduated in the second graduating class PAUWES’ both tracks of its two Master programmes (Engineering and Policy) on Thursday 28th 2017

    Four students graduated with masters in water sciences and others mastered in Energy sciences

    Those mastered in water sciences are Jean Marie Pascal Kwisanga, Anthere Bizimana; Josiane Aboniyo and Diana Umulisa while in energy sciences are Colette Abimana, Gemma Ituze, Jean d’Amour Mwongereza and Michel Rwema
    In the ceremony, the graduating students and their guests were addressed by official representatives of the Algerian government and dignitaries from across Africa and Europe, including Her Excellency Prof. Sarah Anyang Agbor, the new African Union Commissioner for Human Resources, Science and Technology, Tahar Hadjar, the Algerian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and His Excellency Michael Zenner, the German Ambassador to Algeria (Germany is the partner of the project).

    This year’s graduating students willjoin the next generation of African engineers and policymakers committed to addressing the burning issues critical to Africa’s sustainable development.

    They have not only successfully completed their coursework requirements, but have conducted practice-oriented research for their master theses based on a multitude of case studies that address the water, energy, and climate-related challenges Africa is currently facing.

    In order to gain a trans-continental perspective of those same challenges, students have also completed international internships in the private and public sectors at renowned research institutions cross Africa and beyond.

    Besides focusing on their studies, students of the Class of 2017with the support of PAUWES, launched the first-student-lead clubs, the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Club and the Community of Practice (CoP), which have contributed to the overall sense of community and leadership that the institute strives to promote.
    Moreover, this cohort of graduating students represents and fulfills one of the key objectives of the Pan African University (PAU) and PAUWESwhich is to foster anAfrican learning environment of the most qualified and motivated scholars while revitalizing and nurturing the quality of African higher education.

    Not only are 21 African Union member states and eleven female students represented in the Class of 2017, but this diverse cohort of students have had the opportunity to study alongside an international faculty of over 100 professors and researchers from across Africa and the rest of the world.

    Supported by PAUWES, the University of Tlemcen and PAUWES’ key thematic partner, Germany,the university is confident that students of the Class of 2017 are well positioned to become leaders in public administration, policy-making, research, technology, private enterprise, and civil society.

    PAUWES will receive new cohort of 70 students from 31 African countries to join the new class year of 2019

    In the University of Tlemcen where the ceremony was heldThe 8 graduates from PAUWES with Mr Eric Kayoge Rutoni, the Counsellor and Deputy Head of the MissionThe Rwandan Youth Diaspora in AlgeriaUmulisa Diana giving her speech at the the event1-dsc_1030.jpg1-dsc_1373.jpg

  • Rwanda deploys more peacekeeping troops in Central African Republic

    The newly generated Motorised Infantry Company under command of Major Steven Semwaga left Kigali International Airport, on 26 September, around 9:30 a. m.

    The deployment concluded today started with airlifting Contingent Owned Equipment on 16 September 2017.

    On behalf of the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Brig Gen Wilson Gumisiriza, the Head of Peace Support Operation at RDF Headquarters urged the peacekeepers to be good ‘ambassadors’ of Rwanda and keep in mind their core mission of protecting civilians.

    “Be always guided by RDF values and discipline, observe the UN principles that include neutrality and impartiality; safeguard the good image of Rwanda by performing your mission at high standards”, he guided the Peacekeepers.

    Following the United Nations’ request, the Government of Rwanda accepted the deployment of additional force of one Motorized Infantry Company to the already deployed Infantry Battalion deployed in Bangui.

    The additional Force was requested by MINUSCA to reinforce its operations and address security challenges in CAR.

    Rwanda, one of the world’s largest contributors of peacekeepers, first deployed peacekeepers in CAR in 2014.

    Currently, RDF maintains one Infantry Battalion and a Level Two Hospital under MINUSCA. Rwanda troops are specifically charged with providing security for high-ranking government officials and securing key state installations.hhm.jpgThe additional Motorised Infantry Company of 140 troops to reinforce the UN Mission in the Central African Republic

  • GDP grew by 4% in the second quarter 2017

    Industry and manufacturing grew by 6% boosted by agro-processing and production of chemicals, rubber and plastics.

    Wholesale and retail trade decreased by 6% due to overall reduction of imported products on the market.

    Finance Minister, Claver Gatete said that they expect Q3 and Q4 to perform well due to the booming construction activities and an encouraging agricultural season B.

    “Drivers of growth will be services, agriculture and changing landscape of industry sector driven by Made-in-Rwanda” he said.

    Industry sector demonstrated slow growth of 1% due to 4% decrease in construction works compared to Q2 last year.

    According to NISR, 6% growth in Agriculture is attributed to good harvest in season A that grew by 4% and 22% increase in export crop performance.

    “In Q2 GDP at current market prices was estimated at Rwf1,869 billion up from Rwf1,636 billion in Q2 of 2016,” said NISR Director General Yussuf Murangwa.
    In service sector, hotels and restaurants grew by 9% while administrative and support services increased by 21%.

    Good harvests of tea (28% growth) and coffee (8%) significantly contributed to the growth of exports.
    NISR Director General Yussuf Murangwa.

  • First wild Rhino born in Rwanda in over a decade

    The announcement falls on World Rhino Day, September 22nd, and comes only four months after 18 Eastern black rhinoceroses were successfully trans-located from South Africa into the park.

    Ineza (the mother of born rhino) was brought over from South Africa with her older male calf, which now at two and a half years of age has left his mother and found his own territory and independence in Akagera.

    “The first rhino calf to be born in over a decade is a profound moment for Rwanda and its people, a country that is leading in its commitment to the conservation of endangered species,” said Jes Gruner, Akagera National Park Manager.

    “The collaboration with the RDB in the restoration of the park over the past six years has made bringing back the Eastern black rhino, one the rarest subspecies on the planet, possible in Rwanda. Through our management and protection and collaboration with local communities, we’re working to safeguard the growth of an important population of rhinoceroses for the region,”Gruner added.

    After six years of securing the park and essentially eliminating poaching, in May this year, Akagera National Park re-introduced 18 Eastern black rhinos from South Africa

    njk-2.jpgIneza's child rhino was first seen in August of this year

  • South Korean summit discusses culture of peace

    Hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international NGO under UN ECOSOC, the 3rdAnnual Commemoration of the WARP Summit addressed global peace-building measures through the establishment of collaborative governance among governments, civil society, and international organizations. Development in peace campaigns and projects was endorsed in many parts of the world through the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW) proclaimed in 2016 to advocate international cooperation to establish peace as a norm and culture.

    Mr. Man Hee Lee, Chairman of HWPL, emphasized strengthening the international law for peace advocated by the DPCW. “The most urgent need is cessation of war. The DPCW drafted by experts in international law offers practical approaches to preventing conflicts. If leaders love their people, they should work together to implement peacebuilding measures.” He added, “A world without wars applies to every person in the globe, which means that every individual’s dedication as a messenger of peace to peacebuilding will make a peaceful world.”

    At the ‘5th HWPL International Law Peace Committee Meeting’, Rt. Hon. Hrant Bagratyan, Former Prime Minister of Armenia, said, “Not only this declaration and HWPL’s peace work are beneficial to a specific level of society but are definite tool to bring peace to all of us. Without having the limit to one sector, more people raised their voice for urging what is necessary at our time”, calling for the cooperation of every sector of the society to implement the DPCW into a legally binding document.

    In the Peace Education Development Forum for Spreading a Culture of Peace, Hon. Maria Eugenia Barrios Robles de Mejía, Vice Minister of Ministry of Education in Guatemala, said, “We could contribute in the promotion of the culture of peace in the world. We would help the citizens of tomorrow be more tolerant of each other and that a dialogue or discussion is the way to accept their differences and solve their conflicts. You and I are responsible for promoting the culture of peace to the next generations.”

    Also, the ‘Conference for Global Peace Media Network’ with 90 journalists from about 50 countries sought freedom of the press in relation to the role of journalism in the foundation of a global media network for peacebuilding. “Journalism plays a significant role in delivering the collective voice of the global community for the same, common goal of peace. Now is the time for connecting the local and the national by the governance of peace.” said Mr. Ian Seo, Chief Manager of International Press Department of HWPL HQ, introducing the initiative of the peace media network platform of HWPL.
    Chairman Lee's Speech at the 2017 Conference for the Implementation of the DPCWChairwoman of IWPG Nam Hee Kim's Speech at the Peace Education Development ForumFull Shot_5th HWPL International Law Peace Committee MeetingEntrance of HWPL Chairman and IWPG Chairwoman at the 3rd Annual Commemoration of the Sep. 18th WARP SummitPeace parade expressing the harmonious world of peacePeace parade expressing 10 articles and 38 clauses of the DPCWSpecial performance titled Arirang of Peace celebrating the 3rd WARP SummitTogether for peace as messangers of peace, the slogan of the 3rd WARP Summit performed by IPYG youth membersFull Shot_2017 Conference for the Implementation of the DPCW

  • Akagera National Park earned $200,000 in July

    Currently, Akagera has 18 rhinos and 19 lions.

    Speaking to IGIHE Sarah Hall, the tourism and marketing manager at Akagera National Park said that in July the park earned much money than ever before.

    “July 2017 had a big number of tourists compared to other months. It is the month where we earned much money above $200,000 a big amount above what was earned in the entire 2010,” she said.

    Sarah said that in July 2017, the park was visited by 4,978 tourists and 3,879 in August,” she said.

    Under the ongoing campaign to sensitise Rwandans to embrace local tourism through ‘Tembera u Rwanda’ Sarah said that a half of tourists in the park during July and August were Rwandans.

    In the year 2017, Rwanda is targeting to earn $440 million from tourism.
    78i.jpgRhinoceros; One of the recently added breeds

  • UTB constructing Rwf10 billion Rebero premises

    The University of Technology and Business Studies (UTB) has said that it is to embark on construction of a Rwf10 billion campus equipped with sufficient facilities equipment that will see students acquire theory and practical skills in their areas of specialization.

    The university management announced the move on Friday during a press conference.

    According to the management, UTB will have moved in its Rebero, Kicukiro district premises by the end of 2018.
    The UTB Vice Chancellor, Dr Callixte Kabera said that construction activities are set to start this year and end by next year.

    “Construction activities will start in October and we expect that we will have shifted to the Rebero premises by the end of 2018. Rebero campus will be well equipped,” he said.

    The second phase will be to construct hostels which will accommodate 400 students for students from Rwanda and the region; a cultural village and community tourism center which will be for showcasing handicrafts, entertainment and cultural heritage to the tourists.

    The University complex will also have shopping and services center as well as a modern gymnasium that will harbor a variety of sports facilities.

    Since its inauguration in 2008, UTB has well developed and contributed to the socio-economic development of the country.
    A total of 3000 have graduated from the university with 95% of them gainfully employed.

    “Our former students are leading employees and managers in top hotels in the country. Others are working in neighboring countries and others are self-employed. This is an indicator of how important our courses are,” he said.
    UTB also offers 30 scholarships per year to needy students, most of who are orphans, or children of ex-combatants and exceptionally talented students through the Zulfat Foundation, under the auspices of Madam Zulfat Mukarubega, President and Founder of UTB.

    UTB started with 445 students in 2008 and the number has since grown to about 5000 students now at both Kigali and Rubavu campuses.

    UTB Vice Chancellor, Dr Callixte Kabera

  • FIFA President condoles with late Mutuyimana family, Rwanda sports fraternity

    The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) president, Gianni Vincenzo Infantino has conveyed a message of condolences to the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) following the recent passing away of former Amavubi goalkeeper Evariste Mutuyimana.

    Infantino’s message has been delivered by the FERWAFA president, Nzamwita Vincent on Thursday morning.

    “FIFA President, Gianni Infantino has written to FERWAFA over the death of Rwandan goalkeeper Evariste Mutuyimana. He has sent his utmost condolences to Mutuyimana’s family and the FERWAFA family,” Nzamwita said.

    In his condolence message, FIFA boss Infantino said, “It was with great sadness that I learned about the demise of former international goalkeeper Evariste Mutuyimana, this Tuesday, September 12th.

    “Evariste Mutuyimana was influential to Rayon Sports which he joined after a two-year stint in Kenya at Sofapaka Fc. At the international level, he had several selections with the national team, and was recognized as a very joyful, friendly and hardworking player,” Infantino added.

    “Allow me, on behalf of the great international football family and on my own behalf, to address to you, as well as to the entire community of Rwandan football, my most sincere condolences. I would be very obliged to convey to you all my sympathy and support at this time of great sorrow to his family and to his relatives,” added Infantino in a letter addressed to FERWAFA president Nzamwita.

    The former national team (Amavubi) player reportedly collapsed at home in Kimisagara on Tuesday and died. The 28-year-old also played for Police FC and Kenyan Premier League side, Sofapaka FC.

    Mutuyimana was rushed to Kigali Teaching Hospital (CHUK) where he was pronounced dead.

    Mutuyimana signed for the Rayon Sports side during the 2016/2017 from Sofapaka. He actively played for Rwanda’s national team Amavubi between 2010-2013.
    Mutuyimana will be burial set for Sunday.
    efcew.jpgcewvf.jpgewfwfefvw.jpg

  • Africa Travel Association to host 41st Annual World Tourism Conference in Rwanda

    Africa Travel Association has announced that is set to host 41st Annual World Tourism Conference in Kigali, Rwanda on August 28-31,2017.

    The conference is aimed at highlighting the opportunities the tourism sector can bring to African economies.

    Hosted by the Africa Travel Association (ATA), a division of the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA), the conference is expected to attract African leaders, international investors and travel professionals. This year will highlight how tourism can spur economic growth and job creation across the continent.

    In less than 15 years Africa’s travel and hospitality sectors have quadrupled in size, and according to the World Tourism Organization, the continent remains one of the world’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, second only to Southeast Asia. The sector’s growth presents enormous opportunities provided it is managed sustainably.

    The conference, hosted by ATA and the Rwandan Development Board (RDB), will particularly focus on the innovative business models, new technologies and strategic partnerships growing the sector, and recognize the countries and businesses leading the way in sustainable tourism.

    President and CEO of the Corporate Council of Africa, Florizelle Liser, said that CCA aims to use the conference to encourage investments and policies that contribute to the sector’s growth.

    “The tourism conference will highlight opportunities in the tourism sector and intersecting sectors such as infrastructure, ICT, health, real estate development, and finance. Through strategic partnerships, we will also offer capacity building workshops for travel professionals of all levels,” she said.

    Adding: “I look forward to working with [RDB CEO] Ms. Akamanzi and her team at RDB to showcase what Rwanda has to offer.”

    This year will be the first time ATA’s Tourism Conference will be hosted in Rwanda, one of East Africa’s premier tourism destinations and one whose sector continues to grow. According to the RDB, Rwanda’s tourism sector generated US$303 million in revenue, in 2014 up from three percent in the previous year.

    On the sidelines of what is expected to be a packed agenda, ATA is working with Facebook to deliver training to SMEs in Kigali. ‘Boost Your Business’ is a training initiative, developed by Facebook and facilitated by Digify Africa, designed to train and upskill small business owners on how to leverage digital tools to grow their businesses. The training will be held on August 26 at the Kigali Serena Hotel.

    The conference also aligns with Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony, a national celebration that that creates awareness of the country’s efforts to protect the mountain gorillas and their habit, the jewel of Rwanda’s tourism crown.

  • KCB Bank-Rwanda appoints acting Managing Director

    KCB Bank-Rwanda has appointed Mr. George Odhiambo to the position of the Acting Managing Director effective Friday August 1st, 2017.

    The commercial bank says that this follows the departure of former Managing Director, Maurice Toroitich.

    Mr. Odhiambo, was the bank’s former Head of Business Development and Client Services. He joined KCB Bank Rwanda in September 2013 after serving as Head of Business Analytics & Transformation at KCB Bank Kenya. He brings to the bank 18 years of experience in Commercial banking.

    The incoming Acting Managing Director says; “I am humbled to take on this responsibility during an exciting and transitional period for both KCB Bank Rwanda and the financial sector in general.”

    “I am particularly pleased to champion the bank’s ambition in facilitating major infrastructure and financial technology development in Rwanda. My aim is to keep this momentum going in both the immediate and long-term.’’

    The Acting Managing Director also congratulated his predecessor, Maurice Toroitich for the commendable service provided during his 9-year tenure.

    “The staff, Management, Board and Iwould like to once again thank Maurice for the business foundation he built from inception and growth successes that the bank achieved during his leadership. The bank is in a strong financial position and we will definitely look forward to seeing more progress in the coming years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” he added.

    According to the official statement, it is revealed that the banks remains committed to deliver on digital payments and investments in Rwanda’s key economic sectors.
    This year KCB Bank Rwanda launched Mvisa and is currently in the process of launching a new mobile credit service to customers.

    Subsequently, the bank derives satisfaction in contributing to landscape changing developments like the construction of Bugesera International Airport, Kigali Heights, Ubumwe Grand Hotel and Park Inn Radisson Blu among others and believes that the best times in helping to shape Rwanda’s economic development are still ahead.