Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.
However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.
In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.
He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.
“Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.
“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,” Brammertz stated.
Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.
He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.
Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.
He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.
Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.
Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.
According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.
On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.
RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.
These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.
Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.
This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.
This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.
The promotional event for the “Visit Rwanda” campaign kicked off on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel in Paris and continued on December 10 at the Amigo Hotel in Brussels, Belgium.
The event aimed to showcase Rwanda’s tourist attractions and investment potential in the country’s growing tourism sector.
This initiative aligns with the cooperation agreements within the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes Rwanda alongside nations such as Belgium, France, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.
Through this partnership, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign, providing a platform for stakeholders in Rwanda’s tourism sector to highlight how they deliver exceptional services to visitors.
The event in Paris gathered around 50 tourism professionals, eager to explore potential collaborations with Rwanda after learning about the country’s opportunities in the sector.
Rwanda’s delegation was led by Kageruka Ariella, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, who was joined by representatives from various Rwandan tour operators: Musoni Betty from Primate Safaris, Hategekimana Lambert from Rwanda Eco Company, Daniella Gaza from Songa Africa, and Musonera Mugisha Davidson from Wildlife Tours Rwanda.
RwandAir, represented by Higiro Déogratias, was also present, along with other key participants such as Amani Emmanuel from Blue Monkey Tours, Denis Lefebvre from Palast Tours & Travels, Nsengiyumva Barakabuye from Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, and Ndandari Philbert from Respafrica Tours.
The event was officially opened by Nkulikiyimfura François, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, who praised the attendees and tourism agency representatives for their contributions to promoting Rwanda’s tourism sector.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura stated, “You are all partners, and we are pleased to advocate for the tourism sector in Rwanda, which will open more doors for visitors eager to explore the beauty of Rwanda. You have the responsibility to provide information that highlights Rwanda and encourages potential visitors to come.”
He highlighted Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, its clean cities recognized as the cleanest in Africa and its rich cultural heritage, including the gorillas, national parks, and the recent inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.
“The moment you arrive in Kigali, you will find a city that is not only beautiful but also welcoming, with warm-hearted people eager to share their stories,” he added.
Ambassador Nkulikiyimfura also expressed hope that the event would inspire attendees to become enthusiastic ambassadors for Rwanda, guiding their clients and peers to experience the country’s wonders. He invited them to imagine enjoying a sunset over the volcanoes while savoring Rwandan coffee or tea.
Ariella Kageruka, Head of the Tourism Department at RDB, also addressed the attendees, presenting Rwanda’s tourist attractions with visual aids and explanations.
She reminded the audience that citizens of member countries of the OIF, African Union, and Commonwealth can obtain a visa upon arrival at Kanombe Airport at no cost.
Kageruka encouraged the guests to engage with Rwandan tourism stakeholders, creating new connections and discovering the treasures Rwanda has to offer.
The evening’s festivities included traditional Rwandan performances by the Intore, adding cultural depth and vibrancy to the event.
Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.
This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.
Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.
His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.
Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.
He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.
At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp, where both refugee children and local Rwandan students are benefiting from this digital revolution.
The tech-driven learning program, launched in 2021, is part of a broader effort by the Rwandan government, in collaboration with international partners like the UNHCR, World Vision International, and ProFuturo, a Spanish-based organization.
The initiative aims to bring digital learning to schools in districts like Kirehe, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Gisagara, Karongi, and Gicumbi.
Currently, the program reaches 15 schools near refugee camps, benefiting over 16,000 students, including both refugee and Rwandan children in grades 4 to 6. The program provides students with tablets loaded with educational software, offering them a unique opportunity to learn in ways that were not possible before.
More than 500 teachers have been trained to use these digital tools, enhancing their teaching methods and improving student engagement.
Ange Brinella Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE, shared how the use of technology has transformed her learning experience.
“Before, teachers would write on the board, and sometimes it was hard to understand. But with tablets, we can see visual explanations of the subjects. We use them for Kinyarwanda, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies,” she said.
Nick Rafael Ishimwe, another Grade 6 student, added, “When we used to take tests on paper, it would take weeks for the teacher to grade them. Now, we take the tests on the tablet, and we see our results immediately. It makes learning more effective.”
Teachers have also noticed improvements in how students are engaging with lessons. Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher, explained that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.
“I prepare exercises on the computer, and each student can access them right away. After completing the exercises, they are graded instantly. This allows me to see who is making progress and who needs help,” he says.
The use of technology has also had a positive effect on student motivation. “When I tell the students that we will be using technology, no one wants to miss class. They are excited to engage with the tools,” said Nibitura.
Since the introduction of the program in 2022, academic performance has improved. “The first sign of success is when a student powers on the device, logs in, and starts learning on their own,” said Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director.
“Last year, 57 students graduated from primary school, and all of them passed. Ten of them received confirmation to continue their studies at secondary schools,” he reveals.
Despite the program’s success, there are still challenges, particularly with the number of tablets available. “In Grade 6, there are four classrooms with tablets, but only 96 tablets for the entire school. We hope to get more so that every student can benefit,” Ntamunoza said.
The ProFuturo program has equipped the schools with tablets containing Rwanda’s national curriculum, along with computers and other technological tools. Three computer labs have been built in Mahama, Nyabiheke, and Kiziba refugee camps, and teachers have received training on how to use these tools to enhance their teaching methods.
This tech-driven learning program is not only improving education for refugee children but also fostering integration between refugees and the local population.
Through these digital tools, students are gaining the skills necessary to succeed in a digital world, while also helping to bridge the gap between refugee and local communities. With continued support, this initiative has the potential to provide every child in Rwanda, regardless of their background, with a brighter, tech-enabled future.
Despite the hardships, Kanyeshuri was determined to build a better life. Upon arrival at the camp, he quickly embraced entrepreneurship as a means of survival, seizing the opportunities Rwanda provides to both citizens and foreigners alike.
“This is not home for me, but one of the things that motivated me to start working here was seeing that Rwanda gives foreigners the chance to work. I started with 100,000 Frw and began offering Mobile Money services,” Kanyeshuri says.
In addition to providing mobile money services, he was selected to participate in a project designed to empower refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps. This initiative offered training on managing profitable projects, with each family receiving a grant of 800,000 Frw, which did not require repayment.
“I was one of the fortunate ones who received that grant in 2023. I used the money and added to it the little I had saved, making it a total of 1Million francs,” he recalls.
He decided to invest in poultry farming after recognizing the challenges that refugees and those living near the camp faced in obtaining eggs. Previously, they had to travel to Kibungo to source eggs, thus creating an opportunity for Kanyeshuri.
With the loan, he purchased 1,500 chicks, and after five months of careful nurturing, the birds began to lay eggs. The current egg production rate stands at 80%, meaning that from 1,000 birds, there are 820 eggs produced daily. Each egg is sold for 145 Frw, and he has a steady market for his products.
Today, Kanyeshuri employs five full-time staff, three of whom are refugees, while the other two are Rwandans. “The poultry farm has provided additional income, including fertilizers, which we collect every two weeks. I have buyers who come and pack it, and they pay me,” he proudly says.
Beyond his poultry business, Kanyeshuri has also ventured into farming, and the combined value of his various projects now exceeds 10 million Frw. “This business has grown because each bird is worth over 10,000 Frw. So overall, I’ve surpassed that 10 million mark,” he explains.
The project aimed at empowering refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps started in 2022, and it has already reached 1,613 families. Among them, 1,129 refugee families (70%) have received support, while 484 Rwandan families (30%) from neighboring communities have also benefited. The project has a budget of 2.4 million USD, which is intended to be used over a period of three years.
The supported families are involved in various types of businesses, including agriculture, livestock farming, and commerce. Furthermore, they are linked to financial institutions to access further funding to grow their businesses.
Innocent Habimana, a local resident living near the camp, is another beneficiary of the program. He runs a business selling agricultural inputs and fertilizers, a field in which he had prior knowledge and passion.
After investing 700,000 Frw into his business, Habimana’s venture is now valued at 3Million Frw. “I have employees that work with me during the planting season, and I pay them for their work,” he says.
This transformative project, funded by Denmark and implemented by UNHCR and Caritas Rwanda, is expected to continue until December 2024, with an extension for Sudanese refugees until the end of 2025. The project operates in Mahama refugee camp, located in Kirehe District, and Kiziba refugee camp in Karongi District.
For Kanyeshuri and others like him, these initiatives represent much more than financial support. They symbolize a path to self-reliance, a way to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope for the future.
As he reflects on his journey, Kanyeshuri expresses his deep appreciation for the support of the Rwandan government.
“Looking at the opportunities we have here, it’s extraordinary. Rwanda provides for everyone and ensures our safety. I work outside the camp now, and no one challenges my right to do so. I’m truly blessed compared to many others in the refugee camps,” he says.
This decision follows a Ministerial Order No. 002/MoH/2024, issued on November 29, 2024, which amends Ministerial Order No. 002/MoH/2019 (April 8, 2019), setting the conditions under which a medical doctor can legally perform an abortion.
Article 5 of the new Ministerial Order, published in the Official Gazette on December 9, 2024, outlines the criteria that must be met for healthcare providers to offer abortion services and expands the list of authorized facilities.
“Abortion is performed in a public or a private health facility authorized by the Ministry in charge of health to operate as a hospital, a health center or a polyclinic. However, the Ministry in charge of health may authorise a clinic that fulfils the requirements to carry out abortion services after assessment of the requirements” states Article 5 of the Order.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in reproductive health have long highlighted that the complexity of legal abortion services often restricts access, particularly when these services are only available in larger hospitals, making it difficult for many women to obtain the care they need.
Legal grounds for performing an abortion include cases where the pregnancy is the result of rape, incest, or forced marriage, where the pregnancy poses a danger to the woman’s health or the fetus, or when the woman is a minor. Abortions are also permitted when the pregnancy threatens the health of the woman or the fetus she is carrying.
With over 512 health centers across Rwanda, the country plans to ensure that all of these centers are staffed with qualified doctors within the next three years, which will increase the availability of comprehensive healthcare services.
The Health Development Initiative Rwanda (HDI Rwanda) has expressed strong support for these recent changes.
In a post shared on X , the organization stated, “This development is a significant step toward safeguarding the health of women and girls, particularly by addressing the harmful effects of illegal abortions, which have resulted in serious injury or death for many women.”
“This decision will enhance access to safe, reliable, and timely health services for women and girls in need of these critical services,” HDI Rwanda added.
According to data from the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), a total of 4,378 women and girls received medical abortions between 2020 and 2023, citing various reasons.
The RBC report shows that 60% of those who accessed abortion services were victims of sexual violence, 32% had abortions due to health risks to the woman or fetus, 3% were minors, 2% were impregnated by a close relative, and 1% were victims of forced marriages.
The law stipulates that, except when the pregnancy poses a risk to the woman’s health or the life of the child, an abortion should only be performed if the pregnancy is no more than 22 weeks along.
Hosted by UAE Ambassador H.E. Hazza Al Qahtani, the celebration brought together prominent Rwandan officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the UAE expatriate community to honor the UAE’s journey and its robust ties with Rwanda.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Al Qahtani highlighted the UAE’s remarkable transformation since its founding on December 2, 1971, under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Reflecting on the nation’s rapid progress, he stated, “Today, we celebrate not only the UAE’s success but also the unity and vision of our leadership.”
The Ambassador noted the UAE’s evolution into a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and diplomacy, citing its role as host of COP28 and its strong advocacy for sustainable development and climate action.
The Ambassador also emphasized the UAE’s expanding international presence, with 103 embassies and 20 consulates worldwide, as well as its growing influence through platforms such as BRICS and the G20 summit.
“The UAE’s commitment to fostering global partnerships has made it a key player in renewable energy, technology, and sustainable development,” he said.
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The UAE’s economic relationship with Rwanda was a focal point of the celebration. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached USD 1.3 billion, with Dubai’s non-oil exports to Rwanda amounting to USD 143.8 million last year.
Rwanda’s exports to Dubai exceeded USD 514.5 million, showcasing the mutually beneficial trade relationship.
Ambassador Al Qahtani highlighted the UAE’s significant investments in Rwanda, which have totalled over USD 248 million.
These investments span critical sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and technology. Notably, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has been instrumental in financing key infrastructure projects in Rwanda, including the Kigali Airport expansion and the Rubengera-Muhanga Road. Both projects are seen as vital to Rwanda’s economic development and regional connectivity.
“We are committed to continuing our cooperation with Rwanda,” said Ambassador Al Qahtani, pointing to ongoing discussions for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). “This agreement will further enhance trade and investment opportunities, driving mutual economic growth.”
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Representing the Rwandan government, Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation Hon. Olivier Nduhungirehe delivered warm congratulations to the UAE on its National Day. He reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties, emphasizing the UAE’s pivotal role in Rwanda’s development.
“We are proud to be a close partner of the UAE. The UAE’s investments have played a crucial role in Rwanda’s transformation, and we look forward to exploring even more areas of cooperation,” Nduhungirehe stated.
He acknowledged the UAE’s support in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and education, noting that these contributions have significantly propelled Rwanda’s growth. “,” he added.
The Minister highlighted shared priorities between the two nations, including renewable energy, innovation, and sustainable development. He pointed to the resolutions of the inaugural Joint Committee for Cooperation held in March 2024, which established a framework for expanding collaboration in renewable energy, education, and technology.
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Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of the bilateral relationship, emphasizing its potential to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. Ambassador Al Qahtani reiterated the UAE’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s development goals, while Minister Nduhungirehe highlighted the shared vision of progress through innovation and partnership.
As part of the celebration, attendees were treated to a showcase of UAE culture, including traditional Emirati music, dance performances, and cuisine, which underscored the UAE’s rich heritage. The event also featured a presentation on the UAE’s achievements in areas such as renewable energy, smart technology, and education, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to global progress.
The celebration underscored the depth of the UAE-Rwanda partnership and the opportunities for future collaboration. As Rwanda continues to pursue its ambitious development goals, the UAE is expected to remain a key partner, contributing expertise, investment, and support across various sectors.
The UAE’s National Day celebration in Kigali not only commemorated the nation’s achievements but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships with Rwanda and beyond. As both countries look to the future, their partnership promises to drive economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development for years to come.
The ceremony took place at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world.
The Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church, represents the Pope’s spiritual and administrative authority. It is a sovereign entity that oversees the global operations of the Church and conducts diplomatic relations with countries around the world.
Prior to the formal presentation of credentials, Ambassador Ngango engaged in important discussions with senior Vatican officials.
On Friday, December 6, 2024, he met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, for talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican, particularly in the areas of education and health. The fruitful discussions underscored the growing collaboration between the two institutions.
Additionally, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, Ambassador Ngango met with Monsignor Roberto Campisi, the Assessor for General Affairs, where he presented copies of his credentials.
The meeting laid the groundwork for continued diplomatic dialogue and cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican.
Ambassador Ngango resides in Geneva and also represents Rwanda in Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Switzerland, and other Geneva- and Vienna-based international organizations.
Organized annually by the BK Foundation in partnership with Inkomoko Rwanda, the initiative supports entrepreneurs in various sectors with funding and mentorship to grow their businesses.
From December 2nd–4th, the top five businesses were recognized and awarded zero-interest loans from Bank of Kigali, ranging from Frw4 million to Frw7 million each.
These loans aim to scale their operations and drive further innovation and social impact. The winners, with business operations in Kigali, Gicumbi, Kayonza, and Musanze, were selected for their creativity and their positive contributions to their local communities.
Many participants from this year’s cohort expressed their intentions to use the funds to invest in equipment, expand their teams, and streamline their operations.
Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation highlighted that BK Urumuri Initiative is committed to fostering economic growth and resilience by addressing key business themes each year.
“This year, we exclusively focused on women-led businesses, offering them the chance to pitch for zero-interest loans from the Bank of Kigali. Many participants highlighted plans to expand their teams, automate operations, and access higher-quality inputs. These women entrepreneurs are driving solutions in traditionally underserved sectors, championing inclusivity and innovation,” she said.
This year’s program engaged 25 women-led businesses, offering tailored business acceleration, interest-free loans, and access to a network of 60,000 MSMEs across East Africa.
Emmanuel Mugabo, Managing Director of Inkomoko Rwanda, emphasized the program’s success: “The initiative equips entrepreneurs with the skills to grow their businesses, track performance, and create jobs across the country.”
The five winning businesses include those from agriculture, food production, and hygiene.
For instance, Bountiful Farmers Ltd supplies high-quality potato seeds, Hope and Future for Women Development Ltd grows fresh strawberries, and Eastern Alpha Co Ltd produces hygiene products.
Skai Foods is known for its chili sauce and other value-added food products, while N5 Business Group manufactures nutrient-rich porridge and peanut flour.
Winner Yvette Umutoniwabo, founder of N5 Business Group, shared her success story: “Through the BK Urumuri program, I learned to track transactions, target markets, and prepare for investments. Now that we have won this loan, it will really help us automate production and double our revenue.”
Since its inception, the BK Urumuri Initiative has supported over 200 businesses. Past participants have seen an average monthly revenue growth of 388% and created, on average, four new jobs per company.
BK Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the BK Group, advances societal progress through education, innovation, environmental conservation, and financial literacy.
Meanwhile, Inkomoko supports entrepreneurs across Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan by providing coaching, training, financing, and market access.
The BK Urumuri Initiative was launched in 2017 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bank of Kigali and aims to support young entrepreneurs in developing projects with the potential to grow into successful businesses in the future.
Since its inception, the initiative has provided over Frw234 million in interest-free loans to emerging entrepreneurs, contributing to the growth of Rwanda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
