No casualty was reported in the incident, as the five-member crew onboard the Boeing 737-400 cargo aircraft operated by the local Allied Air was safely evacuated, the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, which shut down the runway thereafter, said in a statement.
The aviation authorities’ order disrupted flight operations, as several landing and departure schedules were delayed while emergency workers cleared the affected runway.
In a separate statement, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau said it launched a probe into the runway incident, adding an investigative team had been dispatched to the site to conduct an “on-site assessment, recover relevant data, and interview involved parties.
In the sixth-day match, Botswana won the toss and opted to bowl first, which meant Rwanda had to set a target. Rwanda posted a total of 168 runs in 20 overs (120 balls), losing eight wickets. In response, Botswana began their chase for 169 runs with strong early momentum, scoring 80 runs off the first 32 balls without losing any wickets.
However, from the 9th over (ball 49) onward, Rwanda’s bowlers regained control, steadily taking wickets. The match ended with Botswana managing only 143 runs in their 20 overs, with Rwanda dismissing nine of their batsmen.
Rwandan player Rukiriza Emile was named Player of the Match, having taken four wickets for 24 runs from 24 balls. He also contributed 29 runs in the batting innings, including seven runs off four balls.
In another match on Wednesday, Uganda defeated Nigeria by 23 runs. Uganda set a target of 151 runs in their first innings, with Nigeria managing only 128 runs in their chase. Uganda dismissed nine Nigerian batsmen during the match.
The tournament is still ongoing, with Rwanda set to face Uganda at 3:15 PM on Thursday, followed by Botswana taking on Nigeria at 7:30 PM.
Currently, Uganda leads the standings with 14 points, while Rwanda is in second place with 6 points. Both Nigeria and Botswana are tied with 4 points each.
The competition, held in Gahanga, will run until December 14, 2024, and will contribute points to the International Cricket Council (ICC) monthly rankings. In the latest ICC standings, Uganda is ranked 22nd globally, Nigeria is 36th, Botswana is 50th, and Rwanda is ranked 63rd.
For over a decade, EAC member states have agreed on the need to implement a common currency to boost regional economic integration.
The initial target for launching the currency was set for 2024, but the timeline has now been extended by an additional seven years.
Speaking before parliamentarians recently, Rwangombwa highlighted the challenges surrounding the creation of the EAC currency, particularly the unresolved issue of where the EAC Central Bank should be based.
He noted that this disagreement has been a key factor in the delay, pushing the projected launch of the currency to 2031.
“There are several unresolved issues that need to be addressed, and one of the main challenges is that the member states have not yet agreed on the location of the East African Central Bank’s headquarters. However, we are hopeful that the establishment of the currency by 2031 will contribute positively to regional integration,” Rwangombwa explained.
A recent assessment placed Tanzania as the leading candidate to host the EAC Central Bank, with a score of 82.4%. Burundi followed with 78.1%, and Kenya scored 77.3%.
However, several countries in the region, including Kenya and Uganda, have expressed dissatisfaction with the report, claiming that the evaluation process lacked transparency.
Reflecting on the escalating violence and uncertainty following the fall of the Assad regime, the Pope urged the international community to seek a political solution that would bring lasting unity to the country without further exacerbating divisions.
During his weekly General Audience, held on the eve of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Pope Francis spoke about the critical moment Syria is facing in its history.
According to Vatican News, he emphasized the importance of a resolution that would ensure the country’s stability and prevent additional conflict. The Pope also prayed for the people of Syria, hoping that they would soon be able to live in peace and security in their homeland.
In light of Syria’s shifting political landscape, particularly the rise of new leadership following the collapse of the Assad regime, Pope Francis entrusted the nation to the intercession of the Virgin Mary.
He prayed that Mary’s guidance would help Syrians move forward in peace, while also fostering greater cooperation and mutual respect among the country’s diverse religious communities, which include Sunni and Shia Muslims, as well as Christians.
As the situation in Syria continues to evolve, with the rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) gaining ground, Pope Francis called for global prayers not only for Syria but also for peace in other regions affected by conflict, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Myanmar.
He urged the world to unite in prayer, hoping that a path to peace could be found and that stability might return to these troubled areas.
During a press briefing in Geneva on Wednesday, four Special Rapporteurs to the UN Human Rights Council called for greater international accountability for Israel’s actions, which they argue include excessive violence, humanitarian blockades, and the expansion of settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Margaret Satterthwaite, the UN Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, condemned U.S. efforts to undermine the International Criminal Court through “unacceptable” threats, emphasizing that international justice must be applied fairly and without bias. “It’s time to end this double standard,” she stated.
Francesca Albanese, the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Palestine, highlighted the ongoing human rights violations, citing the high number of civilian casualties and attacks on UN personnel as examples of Israel’s systemic violations.
She also criticized the lack of action from the international community, which she believes has allowed Israel to operate with little consequence. “There are never sanctions on Israel,” Albanese remarked.
“Judicial processes are either ignored or circumvented, trade continues, and diplomatic ties remain intact. Member States seem paralyzed or awestruck, many of them still normalizing the occupation.”
Ben Saul, who specializes in human rights and counterterrorism, condemned Israel’s use of counterterrorism rhetoric to justify violence against Palestinians, noting the persistent dehumanization of Palestinians over the past year.
He called for thorough investigations into these actions and the end of impunity, pointing out that Israel’s actions have largely gone unchallenged by powerful states with the ability to influence change. He specifically called out the U.S. for not using its leverage as a key military supplier to Israel to address these violations.
Finally, George Katrougalos, a Special Rapporteur on promoting a just and equitable international order, warned that the continued lack of accountability for Israel’s actions risks creating a global system where some nations are immune to repercussions for violating international law.
The facility, poised to help ensure helmets used by motorbike and moped riders meet national safety standards, has been established with support from the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Located at the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), the laboratory enables conformity assessment of helmets based on the RS 576: 2024 Protective helmets for motorcycle and moped users – Specification, reinforcing the country’s commitment to road safety.
The launch, attended by over 200 participants was officiated by the Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, and FIA Foundation Chairman David Richards.
It featured a guided tour of RSB’s testing laboratory, live demonstrations on proper helmet usage, and insightful discussions on the critical role of safety standards in the transport sector.
At the official launch, Minister Gasore said this laboratory will strengthen the country’s commitment to road safety by ensuring helmets meet quality standards.
“It’s a critical step in protecting lives and reducing road accidents. By collaborating with the FIA and the FIA Foundation, we are not only enhancing safety measures but also reinforcing Rwanda’s position as a leader in promoting sustainable and responsible mobility,” he said.
FIA Foundation Chairman, David Richards CBE noted that the launch of Africa’s first-ever helmet testing facility marks a significant milestone in the continent’s efforts to combat the rising number of motorcycle crash deaths and injuries.
“The FIA Foundation is proud to have supported the Tuwurinde Project in collaboration with local NGOs, government partners, and international development agencies,” he said
He appreciated Rwanda’s efforts in introducing helmet standards and the new regulation to assess the quality of new helmets demonstrates a bigger commitment of adopting best practices in the region.
“This initiative is an important blueprint for other countries across the region, and the world, who are looking for ways to adapt and manage their rising motorcycle fleet,” he emphasized.
As part of the activities embroiled in the 2024 FIA Annual General Assembly underway in Kigali, the Rwanda Automobile Club announced plans to donate 5,000 certified helmets across Rwanda alongside an education program for over 10,000 riders.
In the same regard, FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem revealed that safety is at the heart of the FIA stands and expressed delight to witness the work taking place here in Rwanda.
“As a Federation, we are at the forefront of safety innovation and it is important that we continue working closely with our global communities to improve road safety outcomes,” he said.
On his part, Rwanda National Police Spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga, expressed optimism on the development.
“Road safety remains a priority, and initiatives like ‘Safe Helmet’ play a vital role in protecting lives. We are committed to working alongside RSB and FIA Foundation to ensure all taxi-moto riders in Rwanda have access to certified helmets, contributing to safer roads for everyone.”
On behalf of the Association of Taxi-Motos, Emmanuel Munyurangabo, pledged commitment as people at the front lines of road transport.
“Access to quality helmets not only ensures their safety but also enhances public confidence in using moto-taxis. We fully endorse this initiative and will advocate for its widespread adoption,” he said.
The helmet testing facility launch and donation from the FIA follows the introduction of Rwanda’s first motorcycle helmet standard regulation which was published in 2024. Head trauma is the leading cause of death for motorcycle riders, who make up a third of Rwanda’s road deaths.
Safe, quality helmets reduce the risk of death by over six times and brain injury by up to 74%, according to the World Health Organization. Other Tuwurinde project include UNRSF, UNECA and UNECE.
The initiative aimed not only to raise awareness of the country’s extraordinary landscapes but also to underscore Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural exchange.
The gatherings attracted key players from the tourism industry, including tour operators, travel agents, and industry influencers, who were all invited to explore the multifaceted attractions that Rwanda has to offer.
Following the success of the event in Paris, the campaign continued its momentum in Brussels, further cementing Rwanda’s presence on the European tourism map.
The Rwandan Embassy’s chargé d’affaires a.i., Bucyana André, played a pivotal role in engaging Belgian tour operators, effectively showcasing the diverse experiences Rwanda has in store for European travelers.
Rwanda, long known for its breathtaking landscapes, is making waves as a vital tourism hub in Africa. The country has strategically positioned itself within the tourism sector, which has become a significant contributor to its economy.
In the first half of 2023 alone, tourism revenues surged to $247 million, marking a remarkable 56% increase compared to the same period in 2022. These results reflect the positive outcomes of government measures aimed at revitalizing the tourism industry and reinforcing Rwanda’s appeal on the global stage.
Several forward-thinking policies have been pivotal in driving this growth. One standout initiative is Rwanda’s visa policy, introduced in 2018, which allows citizens from all over the world to visit without the need for a visa. This move has positioned the country as one of the most accessible destinations in Africa, fostering increased international interest.
Rwanda’s world-class infrastructure further enhances its attractiveness. The Kigali Convention Centre, opened in 2016, and numerous high-quality hotels, including major international brands such as Marriott, Radisson Blu, and One&Only, have positioned Rwanda as a premier destination for business tourism.
The successful hosting of high-profile events, such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2022, demonstrated the country’s ability to cater to large-scale international gatherings.
Moreover, Rwanda’s dedication to conservation and ecotourism continues to set it apart.
The Volcanoes National Park, home to more than 1,063 mountain gorillas, is a prime example of the country’s successful protective measures. Akagera National Park, once ravaged by poaching, has seen the successful reintroduction of iconic species such as black rhinos and lions, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
Safety remains another cornerstone of Rwanda’s tourism offering, with a reputation for providing a secure and welcoming environment for visitors. The country’s robust safety measures ensure the free movement of people and goods at all times, offering peace of mind to those seeking adventure in the heart of Africa.
In a further demonstration of regional collaboration, Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda have launched a joint East African tourist visa, making it easier for travelers to explore all three countries with a single entry. This initiative enhances the region’s appeal, simplifying travel for tourists and fostering a sense of shared tourism potential among the East African nations.
The roadshows in Brussels attracted around 30 travel agents at each event, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas and opportunities.
Led by Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, the Rwandan delegation was composed of industry representatives, including Betty Musoni from Primate Safaris, Lambert Hategekimana of Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza of Songa Africa, and Emmanuel Amani from Blue Monkey Tours, among others.
Through a combination of stunning landscapes, sustainable practices, and strategic partnerships, Rwanda is making its mark on the world stage as a leading African tourism destination.
The announcement was made during an extraordinary FIFA Congress on Wednesday. The tournament will be held in 15 stadiums across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and Neom.
In addition to Saudi Arabia’s victory, FIFA revealed that Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will jointly host the 2030 World Cup, with special centenary games taking place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, marking the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup.
Uruguay held the first World Cup in 1930. The decision to award the 2034 and 2030 tournaments was unanimous, with no competing bids.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the increased number of teams, stating that it would enhance the quality of the tournament while allowing more countries to participate.
This global expansion signifies FIFA’s commitment to bringing football to a wider audience, with 2034 set to be another milestone for the sport’s international appeal.
In a speech delivered to both chambers of the DRC Parliament on December 11, 2024, Tshisekedi acknowledged that the country’s development efforts are under threat with the ongoing insecurity.
He out rightly accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 group, which has been operating since November 2021, and of continuing to control territories such as Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, and Lubero, causing mass displacement of civilians.
Rwanda has repeatedly dismissed the accusations as baseless, instead blaming the DRC’s military of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
President Tshisekedi reiterated his position in late 2023, declaring his intent to take military action against Rwanda if M23 fired at the city of Goma, and even suggested offering support in ousting President Paul Kagame from office.
Despite Tshisekedi’s claims of military success, the M23 rebel group has continued to expand its positions in North Kivu, capturing new territories in Walikale in October 2024 and gaining ground in Lubero, including areas of Kaseghe and Mathembe.
The Congolese Head of State commended the efforts of his armed forces, the Wazalendo militia, and the support of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which deployed additional troops to the North Kivu region for one year.
Tshisekedi also hailed the role of Angola in the ongoing peace talks, led by President João Lourenço as the mediator appointed by the African Union, which has been facilitating dialogue between Rwanda and the DRC since 2022.
Despite support for peace talks in Angola, Tshisekedi expressed skepticism, stating that he does not see negotiations as the sole solution. He emphasized the importance of military reforms, which he initiated in 2023 to improve the effectiveness of the DRC’s armed forces.
President Tshisekedi’s message comes ahead of the scheduled Luanda talks on December 15, 2024, where he is expected to meet with his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame with Angola’s João Lourenço as the host.
The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, as both countries remain at crossroads over the situation in Eastern DRC.
The dam, whose construction began in 2011 and was completed after nine years, cost $5 billion and has the capacity to generate 5.15 gigawatts of electricity, placing it among the top 20 largest dams in the world. its the biggest in Africa.
The ongoing dispute involves countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Ethiopia argues that the dam will provide electricity to around 60% of its population, who currently live without power. However, Egypt fears that the dam will reduce the flow of the River Nile, which is crucial to its water supply and economy.
Ethiopia maintains that neighboring countries, including Sudan, will benefit from cheaper electricity, and Sudan itself is expected to see significant economic growth by 2060 through the agricultural sector.
Researchers predict Sudan’s GDP could reach $84 billion by that time, thanks to the economic benefits brought by the dam. Other countries, such as South Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti, and Eritrea, are also keeping a close eye on the project.
Egypt has warned that even a 2% reduction in Nile water would leave over 80,000 hectares of irrigated land dry, causing a significant decline in agricultural output.
Since construction began in 2011, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have tried to mediate negotiations, but these efforts have been futile. Ethiopia was initially prohibited from filling the dam, but it went ahead and began storing water.
On December 7, 2024, during the COP16 climate conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources, Hani Sweilem, highlighted the lack of negotiations between the parties before building the dam, warning that the failure to reach an agreement could lead to tensions, economic impacts, and environmental damage.
Sweilem stressed that Egypt was acting in its own national interest and called on Sudan to join in preventing any action that could harm the Nile River. He also emphasized Egypt’s commitment to supporting Sudan in water management initiatives.
Sudanese officials, including Dr. Mona Ali, the Secretary-General of the Sudanese High Council of Environment and Land, acknowledged the negative environmental impact of the dam, particularly in terms of water shortages.
Both ministers agreed on the importance of resolving water-related issues and called for further research into the environmental, economic, and broader impacts of major water projects to ensure that the rights of countries sharing water resources are respected.
