President Tshisekedi, on December 11, 2024, addressed both chambers of the Congolese Parliament, accusing Rwanda of repopulating North Kivu by replacing Congolese citizens with foreign nationals.
In an interview with DW, Minister Nduhungirehe expressed surprise at President Tshisekedi’s remarks, calling them dangerous and fueling xenophobia against Congolese Tutsi communities in Eastern DRC.
He questioned the logic behind the claim that Rwandans would leave their peaceful country to settle in North Kivu, a region where security is severely compromised by ongoing armed conflicts and violence from over 200 militia groups, including the FDLR and Wazalendo.
“It doesn’t make any sense to claim that Rwandan citizens would leave a country in peace for a war zone, where civilians are facing daily violence and ethnic persecution by a hundred local militias, including the Wazalendo, and by the FDLR genocidaires, supported by Kinshasa,” he noted.
Minister Nduhungirehe also deemed Tshisekedi’s statements irresponsible, especially on the eve of the Luanda talks scheduled for December 15.
These talks, aimed at addressing the security crisis in eastern DRC and the region, will be led by Angola’s President, who is also serving as the African Union (AU)-appointed mediator.
Both Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame are expected to participate in the discussions, with Angola emphasizing the potential for a lasting peace agreement.
Amb. Nduhungirehe clarified that the primary focus of the talks will be to ensure the DRC government is committed to engaging in direct negotiations with the M23, which represents the marginalized Congolese Tutsi community.
According to United Nations reports, over 1.45 million internally displaced persons have returned to North Kivu.
Rwanda has consistently rejected accusations from the DRC that it supports the M23 rebel group, calling such claims unfounded.
Instead, Rwanda has accused the DRC government of collaborating with the FDLR in the ongoing conflict in North Kivu, a group which poses a threat to Rwanda’s security.
This landmark initiative brings together a diverse range of stakeholders, including public sector representatives, private businesses, civil society organizations, and development partners, all united in their efforts to address the country’s critical water security issues.
The launch of the MSP is a significant milestone in the implementation of the Prime Minister Order N°031/03 of November 30, 2022, which governs the National Water Consultative Committee (NWCC).
The NWCC is made up of two main bodies: a high-level Policy Consultative Committee and the MSP, which focuses on technical coordination, strategic planning, and fostering collaborative action to address Rwanda’s growing water resource challenges.
The MSP is designed to support Rwanda in achieving water security for economic growth and sustainable development. One of its key objectives is to facilitate dialogue among stakeholders from different sectors to co-design solutions for pressing water-related challenges.
Additionally, it aims to enhance coordination across public, private, and civil society sectors, ensuring a holistic and unified approach to managing the country’s water resources. The MSP also seeks to pilot innovative interventions, such as the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) initiative, which will reward communities for conserving ecosystems that help manage water resources.
The operationalization of the MSP has been supported by the 2030 Water Resources Group (2030 WRG), a global initiative hosted by the World Bank Group. The launch event also marked the signing of a historic partnership framework between the Rwanda Water Resources Board, Rwanda Mountain Tea Ltd, ARCOS Network, and IUCN for a PES pilot project at the Giciye Catchment.
Speaking at the launch, Beatrice Cyiza, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, expressed her optimism about the MSP’s role in advancing Rwanda’s water security efforts.
“The launch of this platform marks a new chapter in Rwanda’s commitment to water security and sustainability. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we are building a foundation for collaboration, innovation, and practical solutions to our water challenges. This is a collective victory for Rwanda’s development agenda,” she said.
Dr. Emmanuel Rukundo, Director General of the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB), highlighted the transformative potential of partnerships in addressing water challenges.
“Through initiatives like the Payment for Ecosystem Services pilot, we are not only addressing water security but also creating economic and environmental benefits for communities. This partnership framework is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together,” he said.
With increasing pressure on water resources from population growth, urbanization, and climate change, Rwanda’s approach to water security is critical for its sustainable development. The MSP offers a collaborative space for stakeholders to address the complex challenges surrounding water management through shared knowledge and joint action.
The platform will bring together a broad range of key institutions, with the Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) serving as the chair of the MSP.
Other participating entities include WASAC Group, the Rwanda Energy Group (REG), the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), and the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).
Additional stakeholders include the Rwanda Transport Development Authority (RTDA), the Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), the National Land Authority (NLA), and the Rwanda Meteorology Agency (RMA).
The platform also brings in critical private sector partners, such as the CEO of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), as well as civil society representatives, including the Executive Secretary of the Forum of Non-Governmental Organizations on Environment (RENGONF).
The funding was approved by the Executive Board of IMF following the completion of the fourth reviews under the Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility , as well as the second review under the Standby Credit Facility.
These reviews confirm that Rwanda has made significant progress in areas like fiscal consolidation, inflation control, and climate policy integration.
According to the IMF, Rwanda’s economy grew by 8.2% in 2023, driven by strong performance in services, construction, and a recovery in food crop production.
For 2024, the IMF projects growth will remain strong at 8.3%, with a slight decrease to 7% expected in 2025. Growth is projected to remain steady at 7% in 2026, with an increase to 7.2% in 2027 and a further rise to 7.3% in 2028 and 2029.
Despite a positive growth outlook, external challenges, including inflation and a widening current account deficit, have been a concern.
In 2023, inflation rose to 14%, but the IMF projects that, starting in 2024 and continuing through 2029, inflation will stabilize at around 5%.
This is in line with Rwanda’s strong monetary policies and efforts to keep inflation within the central bank’s target range.
The funding will be vital for maintaining Rwanda’s macroeconomic stability and ensuring fiscal sustainability. It will also help the government accelerate domestic revenue mobilization, which is key to expanding fiscal space and improving Rwanda’s ability to respond to economic shocks.
Additionally, the funding will support further reforms aimed at increasing public investment efficiency, reducing fiscal risks from state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and managing financial sector stability.
The IMF has also recognized Rwanda’s progress in integrating climate considerations into its economic policies.
By establishing frameworks to attract climate financing, Rwanda is positioning itself to address climate challenges and promote sustainable investment. The government is developing a green project pipeline to help attract additional climate resources, enhancing the overall impact of the funding.
Mr. Bo Li, IMF Deputy Managing Director, highlighted Rwanda’s economic resilience, noting its strong growth in key sectors and effective monetary policies.
However, he emphasized the continued need for fiscal reforms, improved revenue mobilization, and oversight of state-owned enterprises to ensure long-term economic stability.
He also praised the country’s work in advancing its climate policy, positioning Rwanda as a leader in integrating climate goals with economic development.
“We carried out two military operations, the first of which targeted a military target in the occupied Ashkelon city, while the second targeted a target in the occupied Jaffa city,” Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in the statement, referring to Israeli cities.
“The two operations were carried out with two drones that were able to bypass Israeli air defenses,” he said.
“We also carried out a joint military operation with the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, targeting vital targets in the south of occupied Palestine with a number of drones,” he said.
The Houthi spokesperson didn’t specify the date of those attacks nor identify the targets. There were no comments yet from the Israeli side on the Houthi claim.
The Houthi militant group, which controls much of northern Yemen, has been launching rockets and bomb-laden drones toward Israeli cities and disrupted “Israeli-linked” shipping in the Red Sea since November 2023 to show solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The motion was approved with 204 votes in favor, 85 against, and three abstentions during a historic plenary session.
The first impeachment motion over martial law declaration had been invalidated after a majority of lawmakers from the ruling People Power Party walked out and did not participate in the vote.
With parliamentary approval, the matter will now be reviewed by the Constitutional Court, which has up to 180 days to decide.
During this period, Yoon’s powers will be suspended, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo will serve as acting president. If the court upholds the impeachment, a snap election will be held within 60 days.
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the FIA General Assembly, which took place in Rwanda from December 10 to 13, 2024, coinciding with the 120th anniversary of the founding of the organization.
The FIA Awards ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including President Paul Kagame and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
The Head of State, accompanied by Ben Sulayem, presented two major awards, one of which was for the best driver in Formula One. Max Verstappen received the award for the fourth consecutive year, defeating Lando Norris, who came second, and Charles Leclerc, who finished third.
President Kagame also presented an award to Zak Brown, the CEO of McLaren, for the best team of 2024. McLaren, which includes drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, was recognized for its performance this year.
In total, awards were given across 16 categories, including the World Karting Championship, Rally-Raid, Formula 2, Rally, Formula E, Endurance, and Rallycross.
Among the honorees was French driver Michèle Mouton, who received the “Lifetime Award” from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem after 50 years of involvement in motorsport.
The 73-year-old Mouton competed in motorsport until 1986 and now focuses on organizing races.
In his welcoming remarks, Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, the Director-General of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence, appreciated the strong collaboration between the Defence attachés and the Mnistry of Defence (MINADEF), which benefits both Rwanda and their respective countries.
Col Didier Calmant the President of the Rwanda Military Attachés Association from Belgium, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Defence for the informative security updates and the valuable opportunity to engage in discussions on Defence and security matters.
The briefing, hosted by the Ministry of Defence, was attended by 27 Defence attachés and associates from countries including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, Sudan, Ghana, France, Turkey, the USA, China, Belgium, Namibia, Angola, Italy, Qatar, Germany, South Korea, Poland, Sweden, Ethiopia, Russia, Senegal, Denmark, Israel, The Netherlands, the UK, and the European Union (EU).
The Ministry of Defence and Rwanda Defence Force regularly organize briefings to provide Defence attachés, both resident and non-resident, with the opportunity to discuss current Defence and security dynamics at national, regional, and international levels, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between their countries and Rwanda.
On the same day, RDF held an end-of-year dinner to honor Defence attachés accredited to Rwanda. The event took place at the Senior Officers Mess in Kimihurura, Kigali.
Brig Gen Celestin Kanyamahanga, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence (MOD), represented the Minister of Defence as the guest of honor. In his address, he welcomed the Defence attachés and praised their presence as a demonstration of the importance of cooperation.
He emphasized that partnerships with other allies are a crucial aspect of the Rwanda Defence Forces’ professionalization journey.
“We believe that no single country can confront contemporary security challenges. It is therefore paramount for all of us to embrace trust, confidence, and interoperability through defence cooperation as we jointly contribute to global security,” Brig Gen Kanyamahanga noted.
The event, organized by the Department of International Military Cooperation, was attended by Defence attachés, RDF generals, senior officers, and invited guests.
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente presided over the event, commissioning the graduates to the rank of Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP). He also recognized the top three performers: Frederick Ndinzi, Felix Nahimana, and Eric Manzi.”
Dr. Ngirente emphasized the importance of security as a foundation for Rwanda’s development. He praised the Rwanda National Police for collaborating with citizens and other security agencies to fulfil its responsibilities effectively, promoting trust among Rwandans and international partners.
He noted that despite Rwanda’s current state of peace, global threats to security—such as cross-border crimes, drug trafficking, and cybercrimes—require continuous vigilance.
The Prime Minister urged the police to remain prepared, engage with citizens to report crimes promptly and participate in national development activities.
Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the police force by providing equipment, infrastructure, personnel, and training to ensure public safety.
He called on the new officers to uphold integrity, professionalism, and their oath of service, while making the most of their opportunity to serve the nation.
The 12-month training program covered leadership, weapon handling, values, and discipline.
Among the 635 graduates, 527 were men and 108 women. Some of the graduates were already part of the police force, while others came from civilian backgrounds. A few represented other agencies, including the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), and the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS).
The program also featured four weeks of field practice and involvement in the July 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections, which provided hands-on experience.
CP Robert Niyonshuti, the Commandant of Gishari Police Training School, highlighted that two Rwandan trainees had studied at Singapore’s Home Team Academy.
He noted that out of the 641 initial trainees, six did not complete the course due to health and other challenges. He encouraged the graduates to demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct in their duties.
The ceremony was attended by key officials, including the Minister of Defense, Juvenal Marizamunda; Chief of Defense Staff of the Rwanda Defense Force, Gen Mubarakh Muganga; Inspector General of Police (IGP) Felix Namuhoranye; Secretary General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Aimable Havugiyaremye; Minister of Justice, Dr. Ugirashebuja Emmanuel; and other security and national leaders.
The parents and guardians of the graduates also attended to support them on this important milestone.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE following her swearing-in ceremony on December 12, 2024, Justice Mukantaganzwa highlighted her key priorities: tackling the backlog of cases, promoting alternative dispute resolution, and combating corruption within the judiciary.
Upon assuming office, Mukantaganzwa stressed the importance of understanding the judicial system’s structure and personnel, with a goal to address the inefficiencies that hinder the timely delivery of justice.
{{Tackling the case backlog}}
One of the most pressing challenges facing Rwanda’s judicial system is the backlog of cases. Mukantaganzwa acknowledged this issue as a major barrier to delivering swift and fair justice.
To address this, she has proposed a categorization of cases to better understand their nature and complexity.
“For example, in civil cases, we can assist the parties in reaching a settlement. Even in criminal cases, some can be resolved through mediation, which can help speed up the justice process,” she said.
The Chief Justice believes that mediation, especially for less serious offenses, could significantly ease the burden on courts.
Mediation, according to Mukantaganzwa, is an effective tool in ensuring that both parties come to an understanding, even if the case is resolved outside the courtroom.
She emphasized that the primary goal is to “resolve the issue and have both parties reconcile,” which would ultimately lead to positive outcomes for society as a whole.
In her view, resolving cases outside the courtroom would not only save time but also reduce the overcrowding in prisons—a problem that is intricately linked to the backlog of cases.
“Not all cases are of the same nature or weight,” she pointed out. Some cases, she noted, are simple and could be resolved much quicker without formal court proceedings.
By promoting alternative dispute resolution methods, Mukantaganzwa believes that a significant portion of disputes could be settled without overwhelming the judicial system.
{{Strengthening public trust and fighting corruption}}
A major theme of Mukantaganzwa’s vision is cementing public trust in the judiciary. The Chief Justice highlighted that one of the core reasons behind public dissatisfaction with the judicial process is the perception of corruption.
To counter this, she emphasized the need for a transparent and unbiased judiciary.
“Corruption is an individual problem, not an institutional one,” Mukantaganzwa asserted.
She made it clear that any judge or judicial employee found involved in corruption would face strict legal consequences, including criminal prosecution and removal from office.
The aim, she explained, is to foster public confidence by ensuring that the judiciary remains free of corruption.
In her view, the fight against corruption must go hand-in-hand with a broader effort to educate the public about the importance of trust and fairness in the legal system.
“Ultimately, the responsibility is to build confidence in the judiciary,” she added. “We must continue to foster trust by ensuring the justice system is transparent, unbiased, and fair.”
{{Leveraging technology}}
While technology has been playing a role in streamlining processes across various sectors, Mukantaganzwa recognizes that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution for the judiciary.
She expressed openness to using technology where it can assist in speeding up case processing but cautioned that technology should not be seen as a magical fix for the backlog.
“The backlog is more related to our mentality as Rwandans,” she explained.
In her view, many cases brought before the courts could be resolved through other means, such as community mediation or restorative justice, without the need for lengthy legal battles.
{{Upholding judicial integrity}}
The Chief Justice also emphasized the critical role of integrity in the judiciary. In her message to those working within the judicial system, she urged them to remain firm in their commitment to fair and transparent justice.
Mukantaganzwa highlighted the national implications of judicial decisions and the importance of making choices that promote unity and public trust.
“We must always ask ourselves, ‘Do the citizens perceive this decision as fair?’” she remarked. For her, the law is the ultimate guide, and decisions must be rooted in it.
She believes that the judiciary’s decisions have far-reaching consequences, and therefore, judges and court personnel must always ensure their actions align with the law, ensuring fairness and justice for all.
François Bayrou has been tasked with forming a new government in the near future. He will lead the French government during challenging economic times, with the budget deficit continuing to rise, from 5.5% last year to 6.6% this year.
Bayrou served as Minister of Education from 1993 to 1997 and as Minister of Justice in 2017. The 73 years old veteran politician who founded the “Mouvement Democrate” party, as Minister of Education during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in is
He is one of the French political figures who deny their country’s involvement in these historical events.
In May 2021 when President Macron visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, he expressed his support for survivors, and offered an apology for France’s failure to protect the Tutsi during the Genocide.
Bayrou was a big critic of President Macron’s statements, arguing that France has nothing to apologize for since, according to him, France had no role in the genocide.
“If evidence emerges, France will acknowledge mistakes, but I don’t like this policy of asking for forgiveness,” he said.
In an interview with France TV in June 2021, he revealed that the information he had, was given to him by former President François Mitterrand, who led France from 1981 to 1995, during their many discussions.
