On Friday, December 6, 2024, the United Nations (UN) confirmed the emergence of this unknown epidemic in the DRC.
Authorities have recorded nearly 31 fatalities out of 406 reported cases, with the first infections traced back to late October. The outbreak has been most severe in Panzi and Kwango, located approximately 700 kilometers southwest of Kinshasa.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Dr. Edouard Ngirente, emphasized the country’s vigilance.
“The Ministry of Health and the Rwanda Biomedical Centre [RBC] are monitoring the situation daily. We are committed to safeguarding the lives of Rwandans. Together, we have successfully managed outbreaks such as COVID-19, Monkeypox, and Marburg. While we cannot rule out the possibility of the disease reaching Rwanda, we are prepared to respond as we did in the past,” he said.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified key symptoms of the disease, including headache, cough, fever, breathing difficulties, and anemia. The cause of the outbreak remains unknown pending laboratory test results.
The World Health Organization (WHO) evaluates the effectiveness of national regulatory authorities in overseeing the quality of medicines and other medical products. Countries are rated from Level 1 to Level 3, depending on their capacity.
Maturity Level 3, awarded by WHO, is given to countries with advanced, modern, and effective systems for controlling the quality of medicines and vaccines.
The Rwanda FDA underwent this evaluation between December 2022 and October 2024. On December 5, 2024, WHO officially announced that Rwanda had achieved Maturity Level 3.
Prof. Bienvenu explained that reaching Maturity Level 3 required substantial effort and capacity building, noting that “the Government of Rwanda has made this possible.” He emphasized that this achievement highlights Rwanda’s commitment to protecting the public health of its citizens.
“With this recognition, medicines and vaccines produced in Rwanda can now enter the international market. This opens the door for pharmaceutical industries to set up operations in Rwanda, with confidence that their products will be globally accepted,” he said.
Currently, a BioNTech factory in Rwanda has started producing vaccines locally, and other companies have expressed plans to establish operations in the country in the near future.
Prof. Bienvenu also pointed out that reaching Maturity Level 3 means that Rwanda’s FDA is trusted and recognized for its ability to exchange information and collaborate with other countries and institutions. This includes sharing not only data but also all documents related to medicines and vaccines.
He added, “Rwanda will be able to make decisions regarding the quality of medicines and vaccines that will be used as a benchmark by other countries, just as we will rely on decisions made by other countries.”
In total, 18 countries worldwide have achieved Maturity Level 3 for regulating medicines and vaccines, including eight in Africa.
CHAN 2024 is set to begin on February 1, 2025. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) had initially awarded co-hosting rights for CHAN 2024 to three countries from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) zone: Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.
However, with Kenya struggling to meet the necessary requirements, Rwanda is being considered as a replacement co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.
Kenyan media reports indicate that CAF delegates visited Kenya last week and expressed dissatisfaction with the state of preparations.
The delegates reportedly issued a deadline of December 31, 2024, for Kenya to complete the required work or lose its hosting rights.
Currently, Kenya has no approved stadiums for the tournament. Kasarani Stadium, one of the proposed venues, is only 30% complete, while Nyayo Stadium lags even further behind. Both are unlikely to be ready by the December deadline.
In contrast, Rwanda’s infrastructure is well-prepared for hosting. Stadiums such as the Amahoro Stadium, Kigali Pelé Stadium, and Huye Stadium all meet CAF’s standards and are capable of hosting CHAN matches. Rwanda had previously hosted the entire tournament in 2016, demonstrating its capability.
If Rwanda is confirmed as a co-host, it will join Tanzania and Uganda in organizing the competition. However, no official statement has been made by Rwandan authorities regarding this development.
Meanwhile, Rwanda’s national team, Amavubi, is gearing up for two final qualifying matches for CHAN 2024 against South Sudan, scheduled for December 22 and 29, 2024.
The event, recently held in Kigali, brought together a diverse group of aviation professionals, government officials, and industry stakeholders to celebrate a joint mission and vision for the future of African aviation.
AATSA is focused on enhancing the role of air transport in Africa’s economic and social development. The company aims to address critical issues like high travel costs, limited connectivity, and inadequate infrastructure that have long hindered the continent’s aviation sector.
By developing, promoting and thus championing innovative solutions, AATSA envisions playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of air travel across Africa.
“Africa faces significant challenges in air transport. We struggle with expensive flight tickets, limited routes, and a shortage of trained personnel. But we also have immense potential. Our goal is to overcome these challenges and foster a more efficient and sustainable aviation ecosystem in Africa” said Barry Kashambo, AATSA’s Executive Chairman.
One of the key issues highlighted during the event was Africa’s relatively small share of global air traffic. Despite the continent’s vast size and growing population, Africa accounts for less than three percent of the world’s air traffic, a stark contrast to its potential. The leadership of AATSA aims to reverse this trend.
“Africa was once a giant in air transport. We need to reclaim that position and ensure that Africa gets the share of global air traffic that it deserves. This launch is just the beginning of a long-term effort to transform our aviation sector,” Kashambo said.
He mentioned that Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and agreements with several key aviation partners across the continent and these agreements are expected to pave the way for greater collaboration between AATSA and other stakeholders, driving progress towards a more interconnected and efficient African air transport network.
Silas Udahemuka, the Director General of Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to fostering innovation in aviation.
“I want to congratulate AATSA on this significant milestone. Rwanda is a country that embraces innovation, and we are excited to see this initiative take off. With the expertise of this team, I am confident that we will reach new heights in African aviation,” Udahemuka said
He also acknowledged the challenges facing the industry, particularly the issue of sustainable aviation fuel but expressed optimism about AATSA’s ability to collectively lead the way in addressing these concerns.
On his part, the Ambassador of Angola to Rwanda, H.E. Eduardo Filomeno Octavio, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of air transport to Africa’s economic development.
“Air transport is a critical pillar of globalization. It connects countries, continents, and cultures, driving trade, tourism, and business. However, Africa unique challenges that have prevented it from fully integrating into the global aviation ecosystem will be solved through initiatives like these,” Octavio said.
The high costs of air travel within the continent are one of the biggest barriers. For example, it is often cheaper to fly from Rome to Paris than from Kigali to Nairobi, despite the latter covering a shorter distance.
By general consensus, there is an urgency in addressing the high cost of air travel in Africa making flights more affordable and accessible thereby improving the continent’s connectivity and competitiveness on the global stage.
Africa needs to see air transport grow rapidly, becoming stronger, more resilient, and sustainable. With Rwanda at the helm and the launch of Africa Air Transport Solutions Associates, the future of African aviation promises to be bright.
The trial of Charles Onana has been ongoing in France since October 7, 2024. The charges against Onana are based on his book Rwanda, la vérité sur l’Opération Turquoise: Quand les archives parlent (“Rwanda, the Truth About Operation Turquoise: When the Archives Speak”), published on October 30, 2019.
In the book, Onana argues that there was no planned Genocide against the Tutsi and that the Genocide itself did not occur.
Onana denied the allegations during the trial, though he called upon witnesses who testified, many of whom spoke out against him. Instead of defending Onana, the witnesses described some of the actions they took in Rwanda.
After the trial concluded in November 2024, Charles Onana’s defense lawyer, Richard Gisagara, told IGIHE that the prosecution had taken the floor and requested the court to find Onana guilty of the charges, stressing that society fully supported the lawsuit.
“The prosecution, as the complainants have stated, agrees that what Onana did is a crime, that he violated Article 21 of the 1881 law, and should therefore be convicted,” said Gisagara.
“They have not requested any specific penalties, stating that the court should decide on the punishment. However, they have supported the complainants, showing that the prosecution represents society at large. The complainants are individual citizens, but to this moment, we had not received the backing of the entire society,” he added.
Gisagara also noted that based on previous cases involving Holocaust denial, where individuals who denied the Holocaust using similar rhetoric as Onana were convicted, he believed Onana could also be found guilty. “For my part, I believe we have a good chance of seeing him convicted,” he emphasized.
Experts note that France has distanced itself from individuals accused of denying or trivializing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In April 2024, the French prosecution announced that it was investigating 40 cases involving suspects accused of genocide crimes, with significant efforts being put into bringing these cases to trial.
Félicien Kabuga, a key financier of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was arrested in France in May 2020 after decades on the run. He is accused of funding genocidal militias and using media to incite violence against the Tutsi. His capture marked a major victory in the pursuit of justice for genocide victims.
Kabuga’s arrest in Paris, after an international manhunt became a major boot in prosecuting genocide perpetrators. His trial in The Hague, alongside ongoing cases like Charles Onana’s, are a cornerstone in the global fight against genocide denial and the quest for accountability.
The petition stems from allegations of Besigye’s abduction by Ugandan security personnel in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, with claims of Kenyan authorities’ complicity.
Prominent lawyers Andrew Karamagi, Godwin Toko, and Anthony Odur lodged the petition, challenging the legality of the abduction plus Besigye and Lutale’s subsequent trial in a Ugandan military court.
The petitioners argue that the abduction and trial of the two suspects who were in Nairobi to attend the launch of a book by Kenyan lawyer and politician Martha Karua violate international and regional legal standards, including the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community (EAC). They condemn the use of military tribunals for trying civilians, asserting that it undermines judicial independence and fairness.
The lawyers contend that the abductions tarnish Kenya’s image as a democratic safe haven, accusing its authorities of failing to prevent or investigate the incident, thereby jeopardizing regional stability and the rule of law.
The General Court Martial in Makindye, Uganda, where Besigye and Lutale face charges of undermining national security and illegal possession of firearms, has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Observers argue that the military court lacks impartiality and jurisdiction over civilians.
The latest developments come days after Besigye and Lutale were remanded to Luzira Prison for an additional eight days on December 2, 2024. The adjournment followed a request by their defence team, seeking time to secure a temporary practicing certificate for Karua, who is expected to lead the defence.
The next court date in Uganda has been set for Tuesday, December 10, 2024, while the EACJ proceedings are anticipated to gain momentum in the coming weeks.
In a press briefing on Sunday, 8 December 2024, just a day after the general elections, Bawumia admitted that Mahama had won the presidency, based on provisional results from the NPP’s internal tallies.
Although the Electoral Commission has not yet made an official declaration, Bawumia’s concession has been widely seen as an acknowledgment of Mahama’s victory.
According to Bawumia, the NPP’s internal results showed that Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) had not only won the presidential race but also secured a majority in the parliamentary elections. Although some seats were still being tallied, Bawumia expressed confidence that the overall result would not change.
In his statement, Bawumia said, “The people of Ghana have spoken, and they have voted for change at this time. We respect that decision with all humility.” He added that he had already called Mahama to congratulate him on his victory, a call which Mahama confirmed in a post on social media, stating.
“This morning, I received a congratulatory call from my brother Mahamudu Bawumia following my emphatic victory in the Saturday election. Thank you, Ghana,” he said.
Mahama’s NDC had earlier claimed an early victory based on provisional results from their agents stationed in all 276 constituencies. Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC’s National Communications Officer, declared at a party press conference on Sunday.
“From the results we have so far from our internal collation, it is clear that Ghanaians have rejected eight years of corruption, eight years of state capture.” He emphasized that the people of Ghana had voted for change, adding that the NDC had secured an “unprecedented, historic victory.”
Despite the early claims, it is only the Electoral Commission (EC) that has the constitutional mandate to announce the final results of the election. As of 8:00 am on Sunday, the EC had yet to receive all the results at its National Collation Centre, according to an official statement.
The EC assured the public that once all the necessary data from the regional collation centres was received, the final results would be declared.
“The declaration of final results is based on a process enshrined in law. The pink sheet, signed by presiding officers and party agents at the 40,650 polling stations, will determine the final results,” the EC said.
The outcome of the election marks the end of two terms in power for the NPP, under President Nana Akufo-Addo, who is stepping down after reaching the constitutional limit of two terms.
Bawumia’s concession signifies a shift in Ghana’s political landscape after years of economic challenges, including high inflation, currency devaluation, and a debt default, which led to a $3bn bailout from the International Monetary Fund.
Mahama, 65, who served as president from 2012 to 2017, now has the chance to return to office in what would be a historic victory, as he becomes the first president in Ghana’s Fourth Republic to reclaim the presidency after being voted out.
His campaign focused on promises of economic recovery, tackling corruption, and appealing to Ghana’s youth.
In the wake of his apparent victory, Mahama’s supporters have already begun celebrating, with cheers and blaring horns echoing through the streets of Accra.
The celebrations reflect the high hopes many Ghanaians have for the return of Mahama’s leadership, particularly after the economic struggles the country has faced in recent years.
Though the final official results are yet to be declared, Mahama’s early victory claims have set the stage for a potential change in leadership, with hopes that his return could usher in a new era of stability and growth for Ghana.
The artist teased the concert on social media, revealing that it will be called “The New Year Groove,” and will mark the launch of his new album while ringing in the new year with his fans.
The concert will take place at the BK Arena on January 1, 2025. While he has not revealed the other artists performing at the event, sources close to The Ben told IGIHE that the concert will feature Rwandan artists, particularly those who have collaborated with him on music.
Additionally, there is speculation that Diamond Platnumz, with whom The Ben has collaborated on the song “Why,” may also perform. The two artists have had prior conversations about the possibility of Diamond joining the event, as nothing has changed regarding their plans.
The Ben and Diamond last shared the stage last year during the Trace Awards and Festival in Kigali at the BK Arena, where they performed their collaboration.
The Ben’s new album will be his third, following his debut album “Amahirwe ya nyuma” released in 2009 and “Ko nahindutse” launched in 2016 in Belgium.
The Ben is a household name in Rwandan music, with many hits to his name since he began his music career in 2009, up to his recent releases. His last performance at BK Arena was in 2022 for the “Rwanda Rebirth Celebration Concert,” which followed his 2019 performance at the East African Party event.
The event brought together key players in Rwanda’s wood product sector, including cooperatives, wood processors, traders, service providers, and government bodies. The aim was to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the wood product value chain in Rwanda.
Dr. Athanase Mukuralinda, ICRAF Rwanda Country Director, opened the with a call highlighting the need to create a platform for stakeholders in the wood sector to engage in constructive discussions that would lead to actionable solutions.
He pointed out that the wood product value chain, one of the key areas of focus for the project, holds significant potential.
“By improving climate-resilient production systems, the value chain can provide employment opportunities and income to a wide range of stakeholders, from forest managers and cooperatives to processors and traders,” he said.
This is part of the larger Transforming Eastern Province Through Adaptation (TREPA) project which aims to build a more resilient and equitable wood product value chain, particularly in Eastern Province.
The TREPA initiative focuses on restoring 60,000 hectares of drought-degraded landscapes and strengthening agroforestry systems, ultimately benefiting 75,000 smallholder farmers.
Dietmar Stoian, a lead scientist in value chains, private sector engagement and investments at ICRAF, shared insights into the goals of bringing together various actors involved in the wood product value chain.
He explained that the chain begins in the forest or plantations, where trees are grown and harvested. The wood then undergoes various processing stages, such as turning into sawn wood, fiberboard, or even fuel wood products like charcoal or pellets.
“The challenge faced by many actors in the value chain is their limited perspective. For example, producers may not understand the needs of the processors, and vice versa. Bringing all stakeholders together helps foster collaboration and a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities at each stage,” he said.
One key challenge identified was the lack of quality wood, which affects both production costs and the ability to add value. Stoian emphasized that overcoming such challenges requires collaboration between private companies, NGOs, and the state.
Speaking about the market dynamics, he noted that there is a significant opportunity for the wood product sector in Rwanda.
“Both fuel wood and timber have a higher demand than domestic supply, with imports filling the gap. However, the challenge remains that some of the imports are cheaper, posing a competitive threat to local producers,” he said.
Stoian called for better collaboration among stakeholders to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality, ultimately turning these challenges into opportunities.
Charles Kayumba, General Manager of Atelier de Mecanique Generale Du Rwanda (AMEGERWA Ltd), a local manufacturer and processor of wood products, also provided valuable input.
He stressed the importance of quality wood products and noted that poor quality often stems from premature harvesting of trees. He emphasized that forest conservation practices are essential to address this issue and ensure a sustainable supply of quality wood.
“Such a platform where stakeholders can share information and insights are crucial for disseminating knowledge and aligning the efforts of all actors in the wood value chain,” he said.
This marks an important step toward strengthening Rwanda’s wood product value chain by fostering collaboration and addressing common challenges. Stakeholders are well-positioned to transform the sector, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and contribute to Rwanda’s broader environmental and economic goals.
It is a starting point for ongoing collaboration, with plans for a larger follow-up consultation in February 2025 to develop an upgraded strategy for the wood product value chain.
After taking over, opposition fighters appeared on state television channels to announce what they described as the fall of Damascus and the end of President Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
A man in military fatigues, flanked by armed fighters, read a statement on air, calling it “Statement No. 1.” He claimed that rebel units had captured Damascus.
Opposition activists said the rebel fighters entered the Syrian capital at dawn Sunday, according to the Britain-based war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
The monitor said hundreds of government soldiers were ordered to withdraw from Damascus International Airport and were seen removing their military uniforms and donning civilian clothing.
Multiple media outlets have reported that al-Assad has left the country, citing rebel forces.
Reporters in Damascus witnessed intense gunshots reverberating through the streets with heavy traffic caused by cars departing the capital.
Civilians took to the streets, waving the “revolution flag,” an older flag used in Syria before the rule of Hafez al-Assad, the late father of Bashar al-Assad.
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi Al-Jallali announced his readiness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the Syrian people.
Opposition military leader Ahmed Al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad Al-Julani, declared Al-Jallali would oversee public institutions until an official transfer of authority is completed.
“We extend our hands to every Syrian citizen committed to safeguarding the country’s resources,” Al-Jallali said in a televised address. “Syria belongs to all Syrians, and I urge everyone to think rationally about the nation’s best interests.”
Al-Julani instructed opposition forces in Damascus to refrain from approaching public institutions and banned celebratory gunfire. “These facilities will remain under the supervision of the former prime minister until they are handed over formally,” he said in a statement.
The opposition celebrated the release of prisoners from Sednaya Prison near Damascus. The prison was emptied as security forces withdrew.
Flight data from the tracking platform FlightRadar24 showed a Syrian Air jet departing Damascus amid reports of opposition control of the capital. Initially heading toward the Alawite-dominated coastal region, the aircraft abruptly changed course before disappearing from radar, raising speculation about a possible evacuation of senior government figures.
Earlier Sunday, opposition fighters secured full control of Homs, a pivotal city and strategic crossroads, after a brief but intense battle. The victory severed connections between Damascus and the coastal strongholds of al-Assad’s Alawite community.
“The fall of Homs marks a historic moment,” Al-Julani said, urging his fighters to show restraint toward those who surrender. Thousands of prisoners in the city were freed as security forces fled, reportedly setting fire to government documents before departing.
