IGIHE recently caught up with Naeem Khan, High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Rwanda, who highlighted the significant progress in the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Reflecting on his two-year tenure in Rwanda, High Commissioner Khan emphasized the growing partnership, particularly in trade, business, and diplomacy.
“The bilateral relationship is improving after high-level visits, including the Honourable President of the Senate to Pakistan, as well as defense authorities like the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff,” he said.
These exchanges have played a crucial role in enhancing cooperation across various sectors, fostering stronger ties between Rwanda and Pakistan.
One notable milestone in the relationship was the opening of Rwanda’s High Commission in Pakistan, marking the first time Rwanda has established an embassy in the country.
High Commissioner Khan considered this as a landmark achievement for both nations and stressed the importance of this diplomatic presence in deepening bilateral relations and enhancing collaboration.
Trade between Rwanda and Pakistan has also seen remarkable growth. “When I arrived here, our bilateral trade stood at $34 million. Today, according to statistics, it has already surpassed $70 million,” High Commissioner Khan shared.
Rwanda’s tea industry stands out as a key area of export, with Pakistan importing over 60% of the country’s tea production.
Additionally, both nations are exploring new markets for products like coffee, beans, lentils, and pulses. With Pakistan’s population of 250 million, there is considerable potential for Rwandan goods in this large consumer market.
High Commissioner Khan also emphasized the potential for collaboration in agriculture, industry, and technology. “Pakistan produces some of the world’s best lightweight tractors, which are ideal for Rwanda’s hilly terrain,” he said, noting that both countries could benefit from stronger ties in this area.
The envoy also pointed to the growing importance of Information Technology. Rwanda is becoming known for its strong digital economy, while Pakistan is positioning itself as a global leader in IT-based solutions, providing further opportunities for collaboration.
Additionally, High Commissioner Khan revealed that Pakistani investors are increasingly viewing Rwanda as a strategic hub, not just for the local market but also for the wider East African region.
“We are working on joint ventures where Pakistani companies will manufacture in Rwanda and then re-export to other countries,” High Commissioner Khan explained, highlighting potential in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Looking ahead, the High Commissioner expressed optimism about the role of bilateral agreements in promoting economic growth.
One exciting prospect is the development of a free industrial zone, which the envoy explained is currently in the early stages.
He explained that they are engaging with relevant institutions to expedite this process, promising to create employment opportunities for the local workforce.
Currently, there are around 500 Pakistanis living in Rwanda, along with their families. They are primarily involved in the car business, hotel and restaurant management, and IT services, while others work in international organizations.
With a longstanding relationship spanning 62 years, Rwanda and Pakistan continue to collaborate across various sectors, including trade, health, and investment, further strengthening their partnership.
In this article, we highlight notable events and achievements in the tech sector over the past 12 months.
{{Launch of Kigali Innovation City}}
After more than a decade of conceptualization, Rwanda, in September, laid the foundation stone for Kigali Innovation City in Gasabo District.
Spanning 61 hectares, the project aims to promote innovation and technology-driven growth. With an estimated cost of $2 billion, the development will host international universities, technology companies, commercial facilities, and more.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Government of Rwanda through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), in collaboration with Africa50, an investment platform focused on infrastructure projects that drive development across Africa.
Kigali Innovation City will feature a state-of-the-art center with specialized bases for Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity. Notably, some buildings will feature solar-powered roofs, and electric vehicles will serve as the primary mode of transportation within the area, further promoting efforts toward environmental sustainability.
Dr. Francis Gatare, CEO of RDB, lauded the project as a major milestone for Rwanda in its quest to establish a knowledge-based and technology-driven economy.
“We are here to celebrate this achievement for our nation, its leadership, and the people of Rwanda, who are committed to building a knowledge-based economy that fosters innovation and sustainable development,” he said.
Once fully completed, the project is expected to generate $150 million annually from the technology developed there and attract $300 million in foreign investment.
{{Rwanda Unveils National FinTech Strategy to Spur Financial Growth
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Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT launched a five-year FinTech Strategy (2024–2029) on November 28, 2024, aiming to foster a robust FinTech ecosystem and position the country as a regional financial hub.
The strategy prioritizes improving financial literacy, expanding access to investment, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and developing digital infrastructure.
“Today marks a significant milestone in Rwanda’s digital transformation journey as we launch our national fintech strategy. This strategy represents not just a policy document but our country’s commitment to positioning Rwanda as a leading fintech hub in Africa,” Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire said during the launch in Kigali.
Rwanda aims to attract 300 FinTech players, generate 7,500 jobs, and raise $200 million in investments by 2029.
{{AI Connect Hackathon}}
In September, Irembo, a Rwandan technology company behind the development of the government’s one-stop service platform, hosted its first-ever hackathon on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The 48-hour competition, co-hosted by Irembo and the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), brought together more than 20 teams of talented software developers to create solutions addressing real-world challenges and driving meaningful impact in sectors such as public services, healthcare, education, agriculture, financial inclusion, and cybersecurity.
21-year-old duo, Cedric Izabayo and Libériste Clarence, emerged as the winners of the hackathon, which was hosted in Nyarutarama from Friday, September 27 to Sunday, September 29, 2024.
The young software engineers’ AI project, dubbed Bwenge, was ranked first among 18 projects reviewed by judges, securing them Rwf 5 million in cash prizes and VIP passes to the Global AI Summit on Africa in April 2025.
Bwenge is an AI-powered chatbot that allows any citizen with a phone, even without internet access, to make a call and access digital government services. The winning team integrated the bot with IremboPay, ensuring seamless payments.
Peter Charles Djomga, Director of Software Engineering at Irembo, said the project has the potential to revolutionize access to information, especially for persons with limited internet access.
The second place went to a team of four developers with a technology titled Immersive AI. It’s a platform that enables businesses and individuals to create their own AI workflow agents to automate processes and improve productivity. The project developers included Dirac Murairi, Landelin Gihozo, Julien Barezi and Kevin Nkusi.
Somatek AI clinched the third place. The project was also undertaken by group of four young software developers, who built an AI-powered browser extension that simplifies complex technical documentation. The team, comprising Janvier Ntwali, Laura Celine Ishimwe, Dean Daryl Murenzi, and Leny Pascal Ihirwe, developed the extension to assist the government in its recently rolled-out scheme to train one million coders under the second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) by 2029.
The two teams won Frw2 million and Frw1 million, respectively.
The hackathon underscored Rwanda’s commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence for sustainable development.
{{Digital Innovation in Museums}}
The introduction of virtual reality (VR) technology in Rwandan museums on August 30, 2024, has revolutionized the visitor experience by offering immersive historical and cultural exhibits.
The initiative was launched in partnership with Innorios, a local tech company specializing in the implementation of VR solutions.
The project offers two distinct types of virtual tours: a self-guided 360-degree virtual tour accessible via smartphones and computers and a more immersive VR experience using headsets. With this solution, one can experience facilities such as the Ethnographic Museum in Huye from the comfort of their living room.
“The self-guided virtual tour allows users to navigate through the museum’s exhibits at their own pace. With just a few clicks, visitors can move from one section to another, exploring artifacts in stunning 3D detail,” said Musa Shumbusho, Founder of Innorios, during the launch.
{{Broadband and Connectivity Developments}}
Over the past 12 months, Rwanda has continued its efforts to expand high-speed internet access nationwide, contributing to its Smart Rwanda Master Plan.
Partnerships with global tech firms have bolstered infrastructure for digital services and e-governance. For example, MTN Rwanda, the country’s largest telecommunications company, and Ericsson, on November 5, 2024, announced the completion of the expansion and modernization of MTN’s network in Kigali, Rwanda, to extend network coverage, enhance user experience in the country, and prepare the network for the full rollout of 5G.
With the expansion and modernization, communities in the country are expected to benefit from boosted connectivity and digitization, better access to education and healthcare, and more. These benefits are expected to bolster stronger social connections, stimulate economic development, and empower communities.
{{Hanga Pitchfest 2024}}
The Ministry of ICT and Innovation, in partnership with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), successfully organized the 2024 edition of the Hanga Pitchfest in November in Kigali.
The competition, held annually, supports young entrepreneurs with ideas that could contribute to Rwanda’s development and technological progress.
The Hanga Pitchfest 2024 concluded with five youth-led projects winning a combined total of Frw110 million, aimed at promoting innovative, technology-driven solutions.
This year’s winner, Sinc-Today Ltd, received Frw50 million for its platform that revolutionizes event planning and coordination.
The second and third prizes went to Geuza Ltd (which manufactures assistive devices for people with disabilities) and Afya Wave (focused on producing ultrasound devices for medical use), receiving Rwf 20 million and Frw15 million, respectively.
The competition recognizes projects addressing diverse issues, from waste management to healthcare innovation. Finalists were selected from over 300 entries and awarded based on their potential impact.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente emphasized the importance of empowering Africa’s youth through investment and collaboration to drive sustainable development.
He stressed the need for further investment in technology skills, which are essential for job creation and economic growth in the digital age. Additionally, the government launched the Hanga Hubs initiative, in partnership with the EU, which aims to support entrepreneurs and foster innovation in Rwanda’s districts.
Since its inception in 2021, Hanga Pitchfest has supported over 200 projects and invested over Frw600 million in entrepreneurial development, cementing its role as a key player in Rwanda’s technological and economic future.
Meanwhile, one of the high-level tech events scheduled for this year, the Global AI Summit on Africa, which was originally set for October, was rescheduled to April 2025. The event is being organized by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Rwanda, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum.
According to the organizers, the summit will bring together distinguished government and business leaders, along with experts from academia and civil society, to engage in an in-depth, collaborative dialogue on AI’s transformative role in shaping Africa’s future. The summit will be held under the theme, “AI and Africa’s Demographic Dividend: Reimagining Economic Opportunities for Africa’s Workforce.”
The organizers stated that the event was postponed as part of a strategic effort to broaden perspectives, ensuring the achievement of their collective goal of fostering impactful discussions and forging transformative partnerships that will advance Africa’s AI agenda.
On December 3, 2024, a consultative meeting was held in Kigali, where senior officials from both countries gathered to explore new avenues for collaboration. The Ambassador of Angola to Rwanda, H.E. Eduardo Filomeno Octavio, kick started the discussions by emphasizing the importance of enhanced bilateral economic relations.
“The relationship between Angola and Rwanda is not just about diplomacy, but about concrete cooperation that can benefit both nations,” Octavio stated. He highlighted the significant potential for Angolan investments in Rwanda, particularly in sectors where the country has substantial growth opportunities.
He highlighted recent developments that pave the way for enhanced connectivity, such as the agreement which will allow direct flights between Kigali and major Angolan cities, expected to serve as a catalyst to boost trade and tourism.
“This is just the beginning. We are committed to making Angola a key investment destination for Rwanda,” he said.
Similarly, Michelle Umurungi, the Chief Investment Officer at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), underscored Rwanda’s enthusiasm for building stronger ties with Angola.
“Rwanda has long been a hub for innovation and a gateway to East Africa. We see Angola as an important partner in the region, with tremendous untapped potential,” Umurungi said.
She pointed out that Rwandan investors have yet to fully tap into the opportunities available in Angola, particularly in the areas of agriculture, oil, and infrastructure. “While Rwanda has a strong track record of investments, we are eager to diversify and expand into Angola, especially in sectors like agribusiness and energy,” she added.
Umurungi also noted that both governments are working to address the challenges faced by investors, including improving the ease of doing business and creating a conducive environment for cross-border investment.
“Rwanda’s dedication to exploring new horizons alongside Angola is unwavering and together, we have the opportunity to create a sustainable partnership that will not only benefit our countries but also contribute to Africa’s economic transformation,” she said.
Jeronimo Pongolola, Executive Director of the Agency for Private Investment and Promotion of Exports of Angola (AIPEX), revealed the specific sectors where Angola is seeking foreign investment.
“Angola offers a wealth of opportunities in agriculture, energy, mining, and tourism. Its vast agricultural potential, with 35 million hectares of arable land yet only 15% is under cultivation, makes it an ideal location for investment in crop production, livestock farming, and agribusiness,” he said.
In addition to agriculture, Pongolola revealed more about the opportunities in Angola’s energy sector, particularly in renewable energy, as the country looks to expand its hydropower capacity, which currently accounts for 68% of its energy generation.
“We need partners who can help us enhance our power generation capacity and integrate renewable energy into the grid, as well as the booming mining industry, which is rich in resources like gold, diamonds, copper, and iron ore,” he said.
Angola’s tourism sector is also vibrant with ongoing projects like the Cabo Ledo and Calandula tourist poles that present lucrative opportunities for investment in hospitality and infrastructure.
AIPEX is actively working to create an environment that supports foreign investment through various incentives, including tax exemptions for projects in priority sectors. By focusing on key sectors Rwanda and Angola aim to deepen their economic collaboration and unlock opportunities that will benefit their citizens and the wider African continent.
The motion to remove the martial law order was approved at an urgently convened cabinet meeting, according to multiple media outlets.
Before the meeting, Yoon said in a televised address that martial law troops were withdrawn as the National Assembly demanded the lifting of martial law, vowing to lift the martial law at a cabinet meeting to accept the parliamentary demand.
The president asked the National Assembly to stop paralyzing state affairs by trying to impeach government officials, slash the government’s budget for next year and launch a special prosecutor’s team for investigation into scandals involving the first lady.
Yoon declared the emergency martial law Tuesday night, marking the first martial law declaration since the country’s military dictatorship ended in the late 1980s.
The National Assembly held a plenary session, passing a resolution to lift the martial law with 18 lawmakers of the ruling People Power Party and 172 lawmakers of opposition parties in attendance and voting in favor.
In accordance with the constitution, the president should lift a martial law when the 300-member parliament demands the lifting with a majority of lawmakers voting in favor.
This marks Rwanda’s eighth participation in the prestigious event, represented by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) leading the delegation of several tour operators, including Wilderness Safaris, Primates Safaris, Uber Luxe Safaris, Rwanda Eco Company Safaris, Songa Africa Tourism Company, Blue Monkey Tours, Africa Journeys, Wildlife Tours, and Palast Tours and Travel.
The primary aim of Rwanda’s presence at ILTM is to highlight the country’s rich and diverse tourist attractions, boosting its profile on the international stage. On the opening day alone, over 160 visitors toured Rwanda’s stand, with an additional 33 visitors, including media representatives, hosted by RDB, bringing the total number of visitors to 193.
Rwanda is also set to benefit from the insights of more than 1,800 industry professionals attending the event. ILTM is renowned for connecting luxury travel buyers, sellers, and partners, and draws participants from regions such as Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, and China. Rwanda participated in the event last year as well.
According to the World Bank’s report on Rwanda’s economic performance, tourism is expected to play a key role in the country’s growth trajectory.
In 2024, the tourism sector is projected to generate $660 million, up from $620 million in 2023. It is expected that Rwanda’s gorilla tourism will account for $200 million of this total, while conferences and related activities will contribute $90 million.
Sports and entertainment tourism are expected to generate $110 million, with business tourism contributing $68 million. Visitors coming for family and friends are anticipated to bring in $86 million, while other types of visitors will add $46 million to the sector.
In 2023, Rwanda welcomed more than 1.4 million visitors, and projections indicate this number will double by 2029, driven in part by the expansion of RwandAir’s flight routes.
{{Below are some photos from the evening of December 2, 2024, marking the official opening of the ILTM.}}
The meeting was confirmed by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, in an interview with IGIHE on December 4, 2024.
According to the Angolan Presidential Office, ministers representing Angola, Rwanda, and the DRC, who are part of the Luanda peace talks, will also attend the meeting aimed at discussing peace and security in the eastern DRC.
This upcoming discussion will build upon a ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, where the three countries agreed to dismantle the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) rebel group and to lift the security measures Rwanda had imposed in 2022.
Following the ministerial agreement, President João Lourenço of Angola, acting as the African Union-appointed mediator, spoke with Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi by phone to discuss the next steps toward peace in the region. Lourenço’s goal is for the two leaders to sign a peace agreement once they have reached a consensus.
The dismantling of the FDLR will occur in three phases. The first phase involves assessing the threat posed by the group, identifying the locations of its bases and weapons. The second phase will involve targeted military operations against the group, and the final phase will focus on repatriating its fighters.
As the FDLR is addressed, Rwanda will lift the security measures it implemented in 2022. A joint security mechanism led by Angola will oversee the entire process.
Minister Nduhungirehe recently noted that the issue of the M23 armed group, which remains a key challenge, was not discussed at the November talks but will be addressed in the upcoming meeting.
In a post on X, President Kagame described the incident as unfortunate and pledged solidarity with the families of the victims during this difficult time.
“My sincere condolences to my brother, President General Mamadi Doumbouya @presi_doumbouya, and to the people of Guinea for the lives lost during the unfortunate incident at the stadium in N’Zérékoré. We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and the people of Guinea,” the post shared on Tuesday night read.
My sincere condolences to my brother, President General Mamadi Doumbouya @presi_doumbouya and to the people of Guinea for the lives lost during the unfortunate incident at the stadium in N’Zérékoré. We stand in solidarity with the families of the victims and the people of Guinea.
The deadly stampede, which occurred in Guinea’s second-largest city, Nzérékoré, was reported to have been triggered by a controversial refereeing decision.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened following chaotic scenes as football fans scrambled to exit the stadium in the final minutes of the game.
The match was part of a tournament held in honour of President Mamadi Doumbouya, who seized power in a coup in September 2021.
This recognition comes after the international body’s acknowledgment of several other Rwandan heritage sites, including four Genocide memorials and Nyungwe National Park, further highlighting the rich cultural and natural heritage of Rwanda.
This momentous event took place on December 3, 2024, during the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
The Intore dance’s inclusion on UNESCO’s prestigious list marks a historic first: it is the first time a Rwandan cultural performance has been inscribed, solidifying the Intore as a significant cultural symbol for both Rwanda and the wider world.
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List is a global effort to safeguard traditions that are passed down through generations. The list aims to preserve practices, knowledge, and skills that define a community’s cultural identity. Currently, 678 elements from 140 countries are included, showcasing the diverse cultural practices and traditions from across the globe.
{{Intore: More than just a dance}}
The Intore dance is a powerful expression of Rwandan culture, performed by a troupe of dancers who recreate the movements of warriors in battle. Dancers form lines that represent the ranks of soldiers preparing for combat, with each movement reflecting strength, courage, and the struggle against an unseen enemy. The rhythm of traditional drums and horns guides the dancers, who wield spears and shields in synchrony with their energetic leaps and footwork.
Accompanying the dance are songs and poems that celebrate themes of victory, power, and national pride, adding a rich auditory layer to the performance.
Today, the Intore dance is widely practiced across Rwanda. It is a prominent feature in national cultural events and festivals, often performed alongside the national ballet in performances that are cherished by both locals and tourists. In addition to state-sponsored events, the dance is celebrated by smaller regional troupes that are found throughout the country. Schools and universities regularly organize training sessions, ensuring that the art form is passed on to younger generations.
The practice is also transmitted within families and communities, further embedding the Intore dance into the social fabric of Rwandan life. Whether at weddings, public celebrations, or during the harvest festival, the dance serves as a vibrant symbol of unity, victory, and cultural pride. It remains a popular form of entertainment and an expression of strength during important national moments.
The inclusion of Intore on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List not only protects the dance from potential extinction but also underscores its role in fostering social cohesion and national identity.
The highly anticipated concert will take place at BK Arena and promises to keep fans entertained well into the night.
The event marks Ruger’s return to Kigali after two years. The ‘Asiwaju’ hitmaker’s last performance in the Rwandan capital was on February 19, 2022, at a concert held at Canal Olympia in Rebero.
The memorable show also featured performances by Rwandan artists, including Gabiro Guitar, Okkama, Kenny K-Shot, Ish Kevin, Ariel Wayz, Gustave Fuel, and Afrique.
Victony, who is making his debut in Kigali, was initially slated as a guest artist for Davis D’s Shine Boy Fest concert held last weekend. However, last-minute changes saw Nasty C being invited instead.
The 23-year-old, born on January 5, 2001, in Orsu, Imo State, effortlessly blends rap and singing. He is known for hits like Soweto, Kolomental, and Stubborn (a collabo with Asake), among many others.
On the other hand, Ruger is currently one of Nigeria and Africa’s most prominent rising stars. The 25-year-old’s career took off after signing with D’Prince’s Jonzing World Record label.
The two-year pilot project aims to assess the prevalence of TB and the effectiveness of efforts to combat the disease, with plans for expansion to other sub-Saharan African countries.
Dr. Kabayiza Jean Claude, the study’s lead researcher, highlighted that the research would provide a comprehensive overview of TB in the region and help identify strategies to address the rising cases.
“Despite improvements in medication availability and the decline of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, we have seen a significant increase in TB cases in both Rwanda and sub-Saharan Africa. This research will help us understand why these numbers are climbing,” Dr. Kabayiza said.
The study aims to collect data from all TB patients treated in Rwanda since the introduction of treatment services. Researchers will specifically focus on 240 patients with multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), exploring factors such as medication adherence and co-existing health conditions.
“We want to understand their experiences, treatment adherence, and other health challenges they may face. This data will be pivotal in shaping future strategies,” Dr. Kabayiza added.
The research will span 16 hospitals across Rwanda, with a focus on gathering data from TB patients. Among these, 240 MDR-TB patients will undergo tests to identify the factors contributing to the rise in TB cases.
The study will employ the “OMOP CDM” technology to collect and store data, which will be accessible to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) for further analysis.
Professor Dr. Twagirumukiza Marc, a medical lecturer at Ghent University, commended Legacy Clinic for its pioneering role in this research, praising its commitment to advancing healthcare.
“Collaborating with international organizations ensures that we gather reliable data, which can inform decision-making and improve healthcare policies,” he said.
Healthcare professionals from participating hospitals expressed the importance of accurate data collection.
Muhawenimana Janvière, data manager at Ntarama Health Centre, emphasized, “By using technology to centralize data, we ensure its completeness and reliability. This will enable authorities to take informed action.”
Xavier Nkundimana, IT officer at Muhima Hospital, noted that the research will provide policymakers with essential data to guide efforts toward eliminating TB.
The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) reported that between 2022 and 2023, the country recorded 9,417 new TB cases, including 90 multi-drug-resistant cases. This marked a significant increase from the previous year, when there were only 5,538 new TB cases.
