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  • Ghana marks 69th Independence Anniversary in Kigali, pledges stronger ties with Rwanda

    Ghana marks 69th Independence Anniversary in Kigali, pledges stronger ties with Rwanda

    The event, held at M-Hotel, was the first such reception organized by the High Commission since its establishment in Rwanda in September 2024.

    It brought together diplomats, Rwandan government officials, members of the Ghanaian community and their friends.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Ghana’s resident High Commissioner to Rwanda, Ernest Yaw Amporful noted that the presence of members of the diplomatic corps and officials reflected the strong ties between Ghana, Rwanda and the wider international community.

    Reflecting on Ghana’s history, the ambassador recalled that the country became the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence from colonial rule on March 6, 1957 under the leadership of Kwame Nkrumah, a moment that inspired liberation movements across the continent.

    Nkrumah’s vision of Pan-African unity and his declaration that “Ghana’s independence is meaningless unless it is linked with the total liberation of the African continent” transformed the country into a hub and beacon of hope for freedom movements.

    “Sixty-Nine years ago, Ghana blazed the trail as the first sub-Saharan African nation to break free from colonial rule, igniting a flame of freedom and self-determination across our continent,” he said.

    Amb. Amporful said Ghana remains committed to democracy, peace and sustainable development, adding that the country continues to pursue economic transformation through new initiatives led by President John Dramani Mahama.

    “This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme, ‘Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope’, a theme that speaks not only to Ghana’s aspirations but also to the collective yearning of Africa for economic transformation and a future of dignity and opportunity for all,” he said.

    He also emphasized the historical bond between Ghana and Rwanda, recalling the role played by Ghanaian peacekeepers during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    “They protected and saved lives during the Genocide against the Tutsis, even when ordered to withdraw. That act of courage and humanity forged a bond of trust and empathy between our peoples,” he said.

    The ambassador noted that both countries are working toward their first Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation, aimed at boosting trade, investment and innovation.

    “Let us recommit ourselves to strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations,” Amb. Amporful said, adding that such cooperation would help build prosperity and restore hope for both peoples.

    Amb. Amporful also paid tribute to women, noting that the celebration came just a day after the world marked International Women’s Day.

    “The prosperity of our nations and the hope of our continent rest upon the empowerment of women and girls, whose voices must be heard, whose rights must be protected, and whose dreams must be nurtured,” he said.

    Speaking at the reception, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Fidelis Mironko, congratulated the government and people of Ghana on their 69th Independence Day and reflected on the broader meaning of such anniversaries.
    “I like to think of Independence Day as a call to action for the future. It is a reminder that the courage of our forebears must be matched by our determination today,” he said.

    Amb. Mironko noted that the challenges facing the world today, including climate change, economic shocks and global uncertainty, require countries to work together with unity and strong leadership.

    “As sister nations, Rwanda and Ghana will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in advancing our shared vision of an Africa that is self-reliant, innovative, and globally competitive,” he said.

    Rwanda and Ghana share long-standing relations that have grown over the years through cooperation in areas such as trade, defence and security, tourism, technology, culture and parliamentary exchanges.

    The partnership also carries a strong historical dimension. In 1994, Ghanaian peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) were among the few who remained in the country to help protect civilians during the Genocide against the Tutsi, despite orders to withdraw.

    Diplomatic ties have since deepened. Rwanda opened a resident High Commission in Accra in 2020 to strengthen political and economic cooperation, while Ghana established its High Commission in Kigali in 2024, marking another step in reinforcing relations between the two countries

    High Commissioner Amporful and Permanent Secretary in MINAFFET, Amb. Mironko pose together at the reception, symbolizing the strong ties between Ghana and Rwanda.
    High Commissioner Ernest Yaw Amporful and Permanent Secretary Fidelis Mironko toast to Ghana’s 69th Independence Anniversary at the Kigali reception on March 9, 2026.
    High Commissioner Amporful with Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Fidelis Mironko, during the Independence Day reception at M-Hotel.
    Permanent Secretary Fidelis Mironko congratulated Ghana on its 69th Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared action for Africa’s future.
  • Kagame: Nuclear energy will fuel Rwanda’s industrial growth and climate goals

    Kagame: Nuclear energy will fuel Rwanda’s industrial growth and climate goals

    Speaking at the Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris, France, on Tuesday, President Kagame said Rwanda’s long-term ambition to become a high-income country by 2050 requires a reliable and abundant electricity supply. He noted that nuclear energy will play a central role in diversifying the country’s energy mix and providing the stability needed for sustained economic transformation.

    According to the Head of State, nuclear power offers Rwanda a dependable source of electricity that can support industrial expansion while helping reduce carbon emissions.

    “We have decided to make nuclear central to our strategy,” Kagame said. “It will diversify our energy mix while providing the stability required for industrial growth and long-term transformation.”

    The president highlighted the importance of building strong institutions, regulatory systems and a skilled workforce to support Rwanda’s nuclear ambitions. He praised the support provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Director General Rafael Grossi, in helping strengthen the country’s nuclear governance framework.

    Rwanda has already made progress in developing human capital for the sector. Kagame noted that hundreds of Rwandans have been trained in nuclear science and engineering through partnerships with leading international institutions. The University of Rwanda has also introduced a new academic programme in nuclear science to build local expertise.

    Recently, the IAEA conducted an Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review in Rwanda and confirmed progress across key pillars required to establish a nuclear energy programme.

    “Our country is prepared to proceed through the agency’s milestone approach to the next stage,” he revealed.

    Notably, Rwanda plans to establish a nuclear research centre in collaboration with Russia. The centre will focus on producing radioactive materials for cancer diagnosis and treatment, improving agriculture through radiation technologies, and advancing industrial testing methods.

    Additionally, Rwanda is preparing to host Africa’s first demonstration of a Dual Fluid nuclear reactor and is exploring small modular reactor (SMR) technology to meet the country’s growing energy demands sustainably.

    In his remarks, President Kagame emphasised the growing potential of emerging nuclear technologies for Africa. In particular, he said SMRs are well-suited to countries with smaller electricity grids and could allow African nations to become early adopters of advanced nuclear systems.

    “I’m confident that Africa will emerge as one of the most important global markets for SMRs in the years ahead,” he said.

    The president called for stronger international cooperation in three key areas: financing, technology partnerships and clear regulatory frameworks. He noted that nuclear energy projects often require specialised financing models that development banks are still unfamiliar with.

    Kagame welcomed recent shifts in international policy, including the World Bank’s decision to lift its long-standing ban on financing nuclear power projects. He also referenced commitments made during COP28, encouraging international financial institutions to include nuclear energy in their portfolios.

    “Now is the time to work together to make this shift a reality in Africa,” he said.

    Looking ahead, Rwanda is preparing to host the 2026 Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NESA) in Kigali this May. Kagame said the summit will bring together leaders from governments, financial institutions and the nuclear industry to advance discussions on Africa’s nuclear future.

    He extended an invitation to global partners to attend the event and support Rwanda’s efforts to harness nuclear energy for development.

    “Rwanda is determined to do what it takes to power our development with nuclear energy,” Kagame said. “We look forward to you being part of this journey.”

    President Kagame said Rwanda’s long-term ambition to become a high-income country by 2050 requires a reliable and abundant electricity supply.
    President Paul Kagame joined Emmanuel Macron, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Mariano Grossi, and other leaders for the opening of the 2nd Nuclear Energy Summit.
  • Rwandan coffee roaster makes global top 100 for the first time

    Rwandan coffee roaster makes global top 100 for the first time

    The international contest was held in Spain during the Coffee Fest Madrid exhibition on February 16, 2026.

    The selection process begins with nominations, where coffee shops are proposed and voted for by people both locally and internationally. The first round of voting accounts for 30% of the total score, while the remaining 70% is awarded in the final stage, which determines the top 100 best coffee shops in the world.

    In January 2026, coffee houses from Rwanda and around the globe competed in the contest, with Rubia Coffee Roasters emerging among the winners and earning the 54th spot worldwide.


    This marks the first time a Rwandan coffee brand has entered the global top 100. Across Africa, only a few countries had coffee roasters featured in the ranking; namely Ethiopia, Egypt, and South Africa.

    Robert Kabandana, Chief Operations Officer at Rubia Coffee Roasters, told IGIHE that winning the award signifies that the coffee meets international standards at every stage, from cultivation to the final cup, reflecting exceptional quality.

    He noted that the recognition highlights the growth of Rwanda’s coffee farming sector and the increasing focus on processing coffee locally. He also emphasized that the achievement comes with greater responsibility.

    “This award has given us extraordinary motivation because the world has recognized our capability,” Kabandana said. “We are planning to open another branch in Kigali, and there are international companies interested in using our brand name in their countries due to the uniqueness we have demonstrated.”

    However, he stressed that while Rwanda’s coffee gaining international visibility is positive, it is equally important to strengthen local processing and expand roasting facilities within the country, as Rubia Coffee Roasters has done with its own roasting plant.

    “We encourage Rwandans to continue supporting coffee farmers so that more value is added locally instead of exporting large quantities unprocessed. When domestic coffee consumption increases, we boost the economy because more revenue stays within the country, creating jobs and increasing tax revenues,” he added.

    Rubia Coffee Roasters was established in 2017 as a small coffee processing shop and added a roasting plant a year later. The company now has the capacity to process between 500 and 600 kilograms of coffee per day. Its products are supplied to hotels and various institutions in Rwanda and exported to countries including Qatar, Egypt, and Dubai.

    The company continues to sell coffee at its outlet in Kimihurura, Kigali. Rubia Coffee Roasters works closely with coffee farmers, purchasing their harvests and providing training on improving quality and productivity. It also supports other businesses in accessing coffee equipment, as a dealer for Italy’s Simonelli Group in Rwanda.

    According to the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), Rwanda’s coffee production and export revenues continue to grow. In the 2024/25 fiscal year, the country produced 21,295 tonnes of coffee, up from 16,979 tonnes the previous year, an increase of 25%.

    Coffee companies ranked among the world’s top 100 are considered globally competitive.
    Mbonyi Kalisa Mathias, founder of Rubia Coffee Roasters, received the award.
    Employees of Rubia Coffee Roasters celebrate the award won by the company.
    The facility processes and prepares coffee using modern equipment and techniques.
    Rubia Coffee Roasters also offers a space where visitors can taste its coffee.
    Rubia Coffee Roasters sells a variety of coffee it processes in-house.
    Rubia Coffee Roasters has the capacity to roast up to 600 kilograms of coffee per day.
    This coffee is grown and processed in Rwanda.
  • President Kagame attends Nuclear Energy Summit in France

    President Kagame attends Nuclear Energy Summit in France

    The high-level meeting brought together heads of state and government, leaders of international organizations, financial institutions, nuclear industry representatives and energy experts to discuss the future of civil nuclear energy.

    Currently, nuclear energy generates about 10 percent of the world’s electricity. Many countries consider it a sustainable solution for increasing energy supply while reducing carbon emissions.

    At the United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Belém, Brazil, in November 2025, Rwanda joined 32 other countries in committing to triple nuclear energy capacity worldwide by 2050.

    President Kagame’s participation in the summit comes shortly after experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited Rwanda from March 2 to 9 to assess the country’s readiness to develop nuclear energy infrastructure.

    The Chief Executive Officer of RAEB, Fidele Ndahayo, said Rwanda has been expanding the peaceful use of nuclear technology, particularly in sectors such as healthcare. He also noted that a university program dedicated to nuclear science has been introduced.

    Last week, Dr. Ndahayo explained that Rwanda had completed a preliminary assessment identifying potential sites where small nuclear reactors could be built. According to the plan, the country hopes to have its first nuclear power plant operational in the early 2030s.

    He added that studies have also been conducted to determine whether the existing electricity transmission network can accommodate power generated by future small modular reactors.

    Rwanda aims to increase its electricity generation capacity to more than 3,000 megawatts, up from the current 447 megawatts. Authorities believe small nuclear reactors could play a key role because they require less land, produce low carbon emissions and generate significant power.

    Feasibility studies estimate that building a nuclear power plant in Rwanda could cost between $5 billion and $6 billion. RAEB says the project would likely require a partnership between the government and private investors.

    Currently, South Africa is the only African country operating a nuclear power plant. However, interest in nuclear energy is growing across the continent. Kigali is set to host the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit on Africa from May 18 to 21, 2026.

    President Kagame was received by his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron
    President Kagame is among heads of state who attended the summit.
    Participants of the summit in a group photo.
  • Gen Muganga says soldiers ready to pay ‘ultimate price’ for citizens’ safety

    Gen Muganga says soldiers ready to pay ‘ultimate price’ for citizens’ safety

    Gen Muganga made the remarks on March 9, 2026, in Ngarama Sector of Gatsibo District, during the launch of three-month Defence and Security Citizen Outreach Programme 2026.

    He explained that the core mission of the Rwanda Defence Force is to protect the country and its people, even if it means paying the ultimate price.

    “Normally, it may not make sense mathematically, but to show how valuable Rwanda’s citizens are, we would accept sending even 1,000 soldiers into battle and have them fall there to protect one Rwandan citizen,” he said.

    Gen Muganga’s statement comes at a time when some countries have been pressuring Rwanda to remove defensive measures deployed along its border. Rwanda says these measures are intended to prevent attacks from the FDLR terrorist group and allied forces.

    Rwanda established the defensive measures following a series of attacks in Musanze District in March, May and June 2022, which Rwanda says involved the FDLR and allied forces from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Authorities say the measures have helped reduce security threats. In January 2025, Rwanda intercepted several rockets fired toward Rubavu town, although the provocations left ten civilians dead.

    Speaking to diplomats accredited in Rwanda on March 7, President Paul Kagame defended the country’s position, saying the defensive posture remains necessary because the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has not dismantled the FDLR genocidal group.

    A 2025 governance scorecard by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) showed strong public confidence in security and stability in the country, with the security pillar scoring 90.02 percent.

    Gen Muganga has reaassured Rwandan citizens on their safety noting that soldiers are ready to pay ‘ultimate price’.
  • Rwanda Security Forces in Cabo Delgado rehabilitate Macomia Primary School

    Rwanda Security Forces in Cabo Delgado rehabilitate Macomia Primary School

    The ceremony was attended by local administrative authorities from Macomia District, community members, teachers, students from this school, security forces, as well as members of the Rwanda Security Force.

    On behalf of the Rwanda Security Forces leadership, Lt Col Frank Rwabugande, RSF Head Civil and Military Cooperation, highlighted that the support was provided as part of an effort to help promote education for students and to strengthen the collaboration between the Rwanda Security Force and local communities in Mozambique.

    “This school is more than a building; rather a symbol of unity and cooperation that presents the enduring brotherhood and solidarity between the people of Rwanda and Mozambique. It presents shared commitment to peace, security and stability through unity, development and education,” remarked Lt Col Rwabugande.

    He underscored that lasting peace goes beyond military operations and therefore requires empowering communities through the rebuilding of infrastructure, such as schools and markets, to secure a better future for all Mozambican people.

    Tomás Badae, the Administrator of Macomia District, commended the rehabilitation of the school, noting that in previous years the school had not been in use because it had been damaged by terrorist activities. He therefore expressed appreciation to the Rwanda Security Forces for helping to restore confidence among the population.

    He urged teachers, parents and students to take good care of the rehabilitated school.

    The ceremony was attended by local administrative authorities from Macomia District, community members, teachers, students from this school, security forces, as well as members of the Rwanda Security Force.
    The school was handed over on March 9, 2026.
    The facilities were completed within three months and accommodate 150 pupils.
    Mozambican officials with representatives of RSF at the official inauguration.
  • Rwanda showcases gender equality gains at UN women’s commission session

    Rwanda showcases gender equality gains at UN women’s commission session

    Delivering Rwanda’s national statement on March 9, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, said the country remains committed to strengthening women’s rights through inclusive policies, access to justice, and increased participation in governance.

    Uwimana noted that access to justice plays a critical role in achieving gender equality and addressing structural barriers that affect women’s rights and dignity.

    “In Rwanda, access to justice is understood not only as having access to courts, but more importantly, benefitting from policies and legal frameworks that are responsive to women’s realities,” she said.

    The minister highlighted several initiatives Rwanda has implemented to promote the welfare and protection of women and girls. Among them are the Isange One Stop Centres, which provide comprehensive services to survivors of gender-based violence and human trafficking.

    The centres offer free and integrated support, including medical care, psychosocial assistance, legal aid, investigations, referrals to prosecution services, temporary shelter, and reintegration support for survivors.

    Minister Uwimana also pointed to Rwanda’s strong record in women’s representation in leadership and governance.

    Women currently hold 64 percent of seats in the Chamber of Deputies, 46 percent in the Senate, and 55 percent in the judiciary, making Rwanda one of the countries with the highest levels of women’s political representation globally.

    Uwimana added that women are also increasingly visible in emerging sectors such as biotechnology, space science, and climate governance.

    Beyond national borders, Rwanda has extended its efforts to support women and girls affected by conflict. The minister cited the relocation of a girls’ school from Afghanistan to Rwanda in 2021, which enabled the students to continue their education in a safe environment.

    Concluding her remarks, Uwimana quoted Paul Kagame, who in his International Women’s Day message emphasised the role of women in Rwanda’s transformation.

    “We celebrate the foundational role women continue to play in Rwanda’s transformation. Your ingenuity and leadership continue to affirm a simple truth: a nation can only truly progress when inclusion and equality are upheld in every sphere,” Kagame said.

    The annual CSW session brings together government leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives from around the world to review progress and accelerate action toward gender equality and women’s empowerment.

    The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, said Rwanda remains committed to strengthening women’s rights through inclusive policies, access to justice, and increased participation in governance.
  • Luxembourg: Rwandan banking leaders conclude Advanced Banking Leadership Program

    Luxembourg: Rwandan banking leaders conclude Advanced Banking Leadership Program

    Implemented by the House of Training, ATTF in collaboration with the Rwanda Bankers’ Association (RBA), the program marks the graduation of its very first cohort.

    Designed to support high-potential leaders in advancing to executive roles, the ABLP combines intensive training modules, international case studies, practical workshops and banking simulations. The programme equips participants with skills to navigate a rapidly evolving financial landscape shaped by digital transformation, financial innovation, governance requirements and sustainable finance.

    Participants represented nine Rwandan banking institutions, including:

    BK, BRD, BPR, Ecobank, NCBA, Bank of Africa, I&M Bank, Access Bank and Equity Bank.

    Throughout the programme, participants attended key modules covering digital transformation and fintech, leadership and people management, strategy and internal governance, as well as sustainable finance and ESG principles.

    The programme concluded in Luxembourg, one of Europe’s leading financial centres, where participants took part in the B@NKSIM banking simulation, a practical exercise allowing them to manage virtual banks and make strategic decisions related to risk management, regulation, financial performance and value creation.

    The program concluded with a closing dinner, during which Rwanda’s Ambassador to Luxembourg, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, congratulated participants for successfully completing the demanding program and commended their commitment to strengthening Rwanda’s banking sector.

    The Ambassador also expressed gratitude to the Government of Luxembourg, through the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, for supporting this important initiative.

    According to her, the program highlights the strong cooperation between Rwanda and Luxembourg, while also showcasing the fruitful partnership between the Rwanda Bankers’ Association and the House of Training – ATTF in developing leadership capacity in Rwanda’s financial sector.

    Participants represented nine Rwandan banking institutions.
    Ambassador to Luxembourg, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, congratulated participants for successfully completing the demanding program.
    A delegation of 21 senior executives from Rwanda’s banking sector participated in Luxembourg in the final phase.

    karirima@igihe.com

  • Rwandans in the US gather to explore ways to support national development

    Rwandans in the US gather to explore ways to support national development

    The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the United States shared the update on X, highlighting that the retreat brought together diaspora leaders from across the country to discuss strategies for contributing to national growth.

    The gathering comes just months after the Rwanda Convention USA 2025, held from July 4 to July 6, 2025, at the Irving Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. The event marked a significant reunion for the Rwandan diaspora, coinciding with the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day and U.S. Independence Day, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere.

    At the convention, diaspora professionals connected with Rwandan financial institutions, including Bank of Kigali, Equity Bank, BPR, and the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), which is increasingly involved in investment opportunities.

    Attendees explored avenues to invest in real estate, technology, and other sectors. Cultural celebrations featured traditional dance troupes and performances by popular artists such as The Ben, Meddy, Kevin Kade, and Element EleéeH, showcasing Rwandan heritage to the diaspora community.

    Attendees also accessed government services on-site, including assistance with opening bank accounts and obtaining administrative guidance from Rwandan representatives.

    The 2025 convention attracted thousands of participants, demonstrating the diaspora’s commitment to strengthening ties with their homeland.

    The Washington retreat builds on this momentum, focusing on practical steps to harness the diaspora’s resources, knowledge, and networks in support of Rwanda’s ongoing development, with unity, youth participation, and strategic engagement seen as key drivers for the country’s future.

    The retreat brought together Rwandan diaspora leaders from across the United States to discuss strategies for contributing to national growth.
    The retreat was also aimed at strengthening community unity and promoting youth engagement.
  • New HPV vaccine targets more strains in Rwanda’s cervical cancer fight

    New HPV vaccine targets more strains in Rwanda’s cervical cancer fight

    Hassan Sibomana, Director of the Vaccine Programmes Unit at the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), told The New Times that Gardasil 9 protects against nine HPV types, compared with the previous Gardasil 4, which covered only four. The additional strains allow broader prevention of HPV-related cancers.

    The vaccine is administered in one or two doses depending on age, with two doses recommended for women 29 and older. Sibomana stressed that Gardasil 9 is safe, highly effective, and comparable in safety to its predecessor.

    Currently, the rollout is limited to the four districts to monitor the vaccine’s effectiveness and acceptability before expanding nationwide. Once more doses are available, Gardasil 9 will be accessible at health facilities in the targeted areas, and communities will be informed.

    “With broader coverage, we can accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer. Our target is 90% vaccination coverage, 70% of women screened, and treatment for 90% of those who test positive,” Sibomana said.

    Rwanda has already achieved high HPV vaccination rates among 12-year-old girls, with more than 95% of districts reporting over 90% coverage. The Gardasil 9 rollout aligns with World Health Organization guidelines that extend HPV vaccination to adults, including women who were not covered when the program began in 2011.

    The new vaccine is administered in one or two doses, depending on age, with two doses recommended for women 29 and older.