The agreement was formalized on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, in Warsaw.
Rwanda was represented by ambassador to the country, Prof. Anastase Shyaka at the signing ceremony while Poland was represented by Lasek Maciej, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure and the government’s plenipotentiary for the aviation sector.
Lasek described the agreement as a milestone that strengthens ties between the two nations.
“I am convinced that direct connections between Poland and Rwanda will contribute to increased trade, tourism, and stronger bonds between our nations.”
Prof. Shyaka, speaking to IGIHE, highlighted that the agreement will significantly enhance economic and tourism cooperation.
He emphasized that it lays the groundwork for RwandAir and Polish national carrier to establish partnerships, facilitating travel not only between Poland and Rwanda but also with neighboring European countries.
{{Unlimited opportunities}}
The agreement grants airlines from both countries the freedom to operate an unlimited number of passenger and cargo flights.
This initiative aligns with a broader strategy to develop an air network connecting Europe and Africa.
Establishing this direct flight connection marks a significant step forward in strengthening Poland-Rwanda relations and engaging both countries in a path toward sustainable and mutually beneficial cooperation.
As a music teacher at Green Hills Academy, he now spends his days teaching piano and music production to young students, sharing his knowledge and passion for the arts. For Konstantin, Rwanda has become a chosen home, a place where he can explore his interests in music, art, and cultural exchange in a way that feels both fulfilling and impactful.
Known among locals as “Nsengiyumva”, a Rwandan nickname he adopted after hearing it in conversation, Konstantin has embraced his new life with genuine enthusiasm. The name, which initially caught his attention because of its unique sound, has since become a friendly identifier that reflects his commitment to integrating into Rwandan culture.
Although he’s still learning Kinyarwanda, he is determined to improve, believing that language is a key part of understanding the place he now calls home.
Konstantin’s journey in music started long before he arrived in Rwanda. He began playing piano as a child and was involved in choirs and even composed his own songs. His love for music led him to study it professionally in Germany, and over the years, he gained experience in music production, composing for theater, and teaching.
“My decision to come to Rwanda was fueled by a desire to work on cultural projects, and I have since found a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and performers in Kigali,” he explains
In his role at Green Hills Academy, Konstantin teaches students not just about music but also about the importance of creativity and discipline in achieving one’s goals. He encourages his students to think of their dreams as “works in progress,” explaining that goals need dedication and practical steps.
“Music, like life, is all about the little steps that make up the big picture. For me, teaching is about more than imparting technical skills; it’s about inspiring my students to find their voice and their confidence through art,” he says.
In addition to his teaching, Konstantin has become somewhat of a social media personality in Rwanda. His videos, which often feature humorous moments as he attempts to master Rwandan customs or speak Kinyarwanda, have earned him a modest following.
“It all started with a playful video correcting a friend’s pronunciation of his nickname, which quickly went viral. From there, I began sharing more lighthearted content, surprising myself with how much people enjoyed my funny takes on everyday Rwandan life,” he recalls.
Outside of his online presence, Konstantin is deeply engaged in Rwanda’s creative scene. He appreciates the country’s efforts to support the arts, noting how the government and various organizations work to provide opportunities for artists and musicians.
“There’s a strong energy here for the arts, and people genuinely enjoy participating in it. However, there some challenges, particularly the gap between well-established artists and those just upcoming. I believe that with more performance venues, mentorship, and funding, young artists could more easily find their way and make a name for themselves,” he advised.
Konstantin also has strong opinions about the role of values in art. For him, creative work should have purpose and integrity, not just a drive for fame or money. He’s cautious of the global trend of social media sensationalism, particularly when it leads to superficial or provocative content for the sake of attention.
“Art should be meaningful and have a positive impact. If it’s just for show, it loses its value. This perspective aligns with my approach to teaching and my belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for personal and social growth,” he says.
Moving forward, Konstantin hopes to continue contributing to Rwanda’s art scene, helping young artists find their way and encouraging a community of creativity. He’s also eager to keep learning Kinyarwanda, deepening his understanding of the country that has welcomed him so warmly.
“In just a few years, I have gone from being a visitor in Rwanda to becoming an active member of the creative community. Rwanda isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place where I can grow, share, and connect with others through the universal language of music and art,” he emphasizes.
Through his teaching, his performances, and his lighthearted videos, Konstantin has found a way to bridge cultures, inspire young minds, and make a lasting impact in a country that has captured his heart.
Whitman announced in a statement on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, that she had submitted her resignation to outgoing President Joe Biden.
“Today, I announced to my team at the U.S. embassy that I submitted my resignation to President Biden. It has been an honour and privilege to serve the American people through strengthening our partnership with Kenya,” she said.
“…Like all U.S. ambassadors, I serve at the request of the President. The American people have spoken, and a new President will be inaugurated in January. I wish him and his new team success.”
The ambassador, who was deployed to Kenya in 2022 under Biden’s Democratic administration, said she was proud of leading a people-centered agenda that saved lives, increased security, and created economic opportunities for both Kenyans and Americans.
“From delivering emergency funding to alleviate catastrophic flooding in 2023 to the ongoing fight against malaria, HIV, and MPOX, the U.S. government prioritizes the health and welfare of our friends in Kenya,” the ambassador added.
She also reflected on the strengthening relationship between Kenya and the United States, saying, “This year, the United States elevated Kenya as its first Major Non-NATO ally in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting the importance our countries place on standing shoulder to shoulder to protect our shared democratic values and enhance security.”
“My efforts also opened the door for more American companies to do business in Kenya. When I arrived in 2022, I focused on expanding these ties with my ‘Why Africa, Why Kenya?’ presentation to American companies and entrepreneurs. Trade, jobs, and U.S. investment in Kenya are at historic highs because of our efforts.”
She further expressed confidence in the future of Nairobi and Washington’s bilateral relationship.
“I have no doubt that our 60 years of partnership will continue to strengthen and serve Americans and Kenyans as we aim to build more prosperous, healthy, secure, and democratic nations,” she said.
With her departure, Amb. Whitman announced that Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard would lead the embassy staff until a new ambassador is appointed by the next administration.
A section of Kenyans had taken to social media to demand her recall after Trump secured a second non-consecutive term in the election held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
The envoy’s diplomatic style seems to have irked some Kenyans, especially her silence on the perceived failures of President William Ruto’s administration and on police excesses, which led to the deaths of more than 60 young people during the [Gen-Z-led protests->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/protesters-storm-kenyan-parliament-as-controversial-finance-bill-is-passed] in June.
She had earlier reaffirmed her commitment to her duties despite the change in leadership in Washington.
“As a U.S. Ambassador, I serve at the request of the President,” Whitman said in response to the online campaign under the hashtag #RecallMegWhitman.
Living in Musanze, Noordman felt inspired in 2020 to make a lasting impact on the community. That year, he founded Susa Gardens, an eco-friendly hotel in the Muhoza sector of Northern Rwanda. The hotel, unique for growing its own food, marked the start of Noordman’s vision for creating positive change.
But Susa Gardens was only the beginning. Noordman soon launched a non-governmental organization to support vulnerable children, particularly those who had dropped out of school.
Musanze, as a 2020/2021 Senate report highlighted, ranked among the top six districts in Rwanda with high dropout rates. Seeing children out of school and on the streets moved Noordman deeply.
When he opened Susa Gardens, Noordman had started sponsoring a few children’s education.
Over the next three years, he expanded his mission by founding the Back to School (BTS) nonprofit organization. BTS’s mission is clear: to help children return to school and support those from low-income families. Today, BTS aids 164 children, many of whom had previously dropped out of school.
BTS’s support goes beyond paying school fees; the organization provides children with school supplies, uniforms, and daily meals, while their parents receive assistance through income-generating projects to help improve their financial stability.
“When children have meals and supplies, they can focus on learning without anxiety. Many of our students excel academically, with several topping their primary school exams this year,” explains Jean de Dieu Twizerimana, who co-founded BTS with Noordman.
The organization’s work involves regular academic monitoring. “Each term, we check their grades, visit their schools weekly, and help resolve any issues with the parents,” Twizerimana added.
{{A hotel with a purpose}}
Beyond serving as an eco-friendly hotel, Susa Gardens channels its revenue into supporting BTS.
“The revenue from Susa Gardens helps us support the children, though it’s not enough for everyone who needs help. There are children who pass exams but cannot afford to attend boarding schools, hence continuing studies under the Nine Years Basic Education program,” noted Twizerimana.
The founders aim to expand their efforts into other districts to reduce Rwanda’s dropout rates.
According to the Ministry of Education, Rwanda’s primary school dropout rate was 9.5% in 2019/20, decreasing to 7.1% in 2020/21. Yet, the dropout rate remains a pressing issue.
Gédéon Ntamugabumwe, a father of seven in Muhoza, is one of the parents BTS has supported. After his wife’s passing in January 2023, he struggled to provide for his children alone. BTS’s support, especially for his sixth-grade child, relieved some of his burdens.
“When children are helped, their parents are helped too. Now, instead of paying Frw10,000 for school supplies, I can use that money to support other kids.”
Parents like Ntamugabumwe are also organized into savings groups, where they are encouraged to save within their means and receive guidance on small businesses. “If I start selling eggs, it becomes easier to have money for monthly expenses. Even if it’s small, it helps you buy seeds or farm supplies,” Ntamugabumwe shared.
Twizerimana emphasized that they continue to seek additional sponsors to expand their work so that more children can return to school and build brighter futures.
David Ssengozi, 21, alias Lucky Choice, and Isaiah Ssekagiri, 28, were arraigned in court on Monday, November 11, 2024. Magistrate Stella Maris Amabilis directed that the suspects be detained at Kigo Prison pending their next court appearance on Wednesday.
Police accuse the young men of hate speech and spreading malicious information against the first family and musicians linked to the governing National Resistance Movement (NRM).
The duo denied the charges on Monday.
The prosecution alleges that the suspects committed the offences with 19-year-old Julius Tayebwa, who had previously been brought before court and remanded.
According to the prosecution, the suspects posted information on TikTok intended to “ridicule, degrade, demean, and promote hostility” against the first family and others.
The latest arrests come barely two months after police spokesman Rusoke Kituuma warned that insulting the president, whom he termed the “fountain of honour,” was an offence.
Kituuma issued the warning while commenting on an investigation into a TikToker known as Lucky Choice, who was accused of similar offences, arrested, and later released.
In July, a 24-year-old man was sentenced to six years in prison for insulting the first family through a TikTok video.
Edward Awebwa was charged with hate speech and spreading “misleading and malicious” information against Museveni, First Lady Janet, and Muhoozi, who is the head of the Ugandan army.
Though Awebwa pleaded guilty and asked for forgiveness, the presiding magistrate noted he did not appear remorseful and that the language used in the video was “really vulgar.”
Magistrate Amabilis ruled, “The accused deserves a punishment that will enable him to learn from his past so that next time he will respect the president, the first lady, and the first son.”
Speaking at the launch of the 6th Annual CIMERWA Golf Tournament, set for November 30 at Kigali Golf Club, Kumar clarified that while a few senior positions were streamlined due to overlapping roles, the majority of the workforce has been retained, with new employment opportunities created both directly and indirectly.
Kumar described the decision as necessary to eliminate duplicate roles after the acquisition but stressed that it was not a mass layoff as some reports have suggested. “Most of the staff are still with us, and since taking over Prime Cement, we’ve achieved tremendous growth, a result that wouldn’t be possible without our team,” Kumar noted.
“We absorbed nearly all plant staff from Prime Cement, and only a few senior staff at the head office were let go due to role duplication. It was a tough decision, but we felt it was the best course for the company’s future,” he explained.
Kumar highlighted that CIMERWA has continued to expand its workforce since the acquisition, with the company now employing more than 4,200 people directly and indirectly, including 650 positions created in the local community.
“Our first priority is always for Rwandans, whether in logistics, services, or other business opportunities. This is a core aspect of our growth strategy, with a commitment to local hiring and supporting Rwandan service providers” Kumar said.
In addition to addressing the disparities engulfed in the company’s human resource, Kumar detailed CIMERWA’s recent growth in production operations, with a 200% increase since May, significantly reducing the need for imported cement and supporting Rwanda’s trade balance
“Our export business has shown robust growth, helping the country minimize trade deficits and making Rwanda more self-reliant in meeting its cement needs,” Kumar stated.
Kumar also underscored CIMERWA’s ongoing investment in environmental and community initiatives, including a shift toward sustainable practices within the cement industry. “We’re aware of the environmental impact of cement production and are doing what we can to minimize carbon emissions. Compared to last year, we’ve increased our alternative fuel usage from 15% to over 30%. This shift allows us to reduce emissions while ensuring we continue to meet high-quality standards,” he said.
As the company addresses the ongoing employment adjustments, it also continues to invest in sports development through the CIMERWA Annual Golf Tournament, now in its sixth year.
Eugene Mukabwa, the Vice-Captain of the Kigali Golf Club, highlighted the positive impact of CIMERWA’s sponsorship on the event, which will see over 100 golfers across six categories.
“Thanks to CIMERWA’s support, this tournament has improved year after year. It’s a public event and a great opportunity for golfers of all levels,” Mukabwa said.
CIMERWA’s annual investment of USD150,000 (over 200million Frw) to USD200,000 (over 270million Frw) in the tournament is part of its broader vision for supporting health, wellness, and community engagement in Rwanda.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 13, the RDF said, “Rwanda Defence Force deeply regrets the tragic incident that occurred in a bar in Rusharara Cell, Karambi Sector of Nyamasheke District, where Sgt Minani Gervais (39 years), allegedly fatally shot five civilians in the early morning hours of 13 November 2024.”
Reports indicate that after the soldier ordered a drink, he attempted to pay the bar owner via Mobile Money. However, the owner refused, insisting on cash payment.
Following an argument reportedly involving many local residents, Sgt. Minani was permitted to go to the military camp to bring cash. He returned in his military uniform, carrying a gun, and allegedly opened fire on the people present.
The RDF also confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and assured the public of necessary legal action against him.
The lawmakers, Matthew Green, a Member of Parliament for Hamilton Centre, and Sarah Jama, a Member of Provincial Parliament for Hamilton Centre, questioned authorities’ contradictory statements regarding the circumstances under which the 43-year-old Rwandan national was fatally shot.
Hamilton Police initially claimed that the deceased had exchanged fire with officers responding to a 911 call near his apartment in Ontario. However, a subsequent statement from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) indicated that it did not appear Kabera had discharged a firearm during the incident.
“His (Kabera’s) death was a violent death at the hands of police, and we join with the community in demanding truth and justice. Reports initially released by the Hamilton Police Service (HPS), which suggested that Erixon had exchanged gunfire with police at the time of his death, have been proven false, according to information from the province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU),” the MPs stated.
“Reports of ‘suspicious activity’ in the area prior to his death also appear to be questionable and racially charged. We agree with the Kabera family that ‘the reversal of crucial facts, a full day after telling the entire world otherwise and painting an image of violence, is deeply outrageous and unnerving,’” the MPs added.
The MPs issued a joint statement after meeting with the devastated family of the deceased on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, to share their condolences.
They accused Hamilton Police of racially targeting Black individuals, asserting that “this is not the first time that Hamilton Police have been directly involved in the serious harming or killing of a Black Hamiltonian.”
“Hamilton Police have also, by their own account, disproportionately used force against members of the Black community during public interactions. Hamilton Police Services must be held accountable for their actions.”
The lawmakers noted that there are many unanswered questions regarding the killing that must be addressed in a timely and transparent manner.
“Why did the Chief of Police allow false information to be released about Erixon carrying a weapon? Why was the Chief so quick to highlight the gun-related injuries of his officers when, according to the SIU report, Erixon did not shoot at police? Why won’t video footage from the hallway where this incident took place be released to the family? Why did Erixon’s family first learn about his death through an online post from HPS? What ‘suspicious activity’ in the neighbourhood led to Erixon’s violent death in his own home? And why won’t the names of the officers involved be released to the public?”
In their quest for justice, the Rwandan community in Canada has organized a vigil to honour Kabera’s life and call for accountability.
The night vigil and march will be held at City Hall on Thursday, November 14, at 6:00 PM.
At the time of his death, Kabera was working as a Resource Officer with the Canada Revenue Agency.
In addition to his job, he was deeply involved in the Rwandan community, serving as Vice President of the Rwandan Community Abroad in Toronto and as an advisor for the Rwandan Canadian Healing Center.
He is survived by his wife and three children, aged 10, 13, and 17.
The send-off ceremony in honor of the Commissioners, Senior, Junior and other ranks, held at the RNP General Headquarters in Kacyiru, was presided over by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta.
Minister Biruta thanked the retirees for their contribution to national security and development.
“Rwandans thank you for what you have done for the country; “You played a crucial role in building a safer Rwanda that we all enjoy today, and Rwandans thank your sacrifice,” Minister Biruta said.
As they join other Rwandans in their communities, he urged them to continue to set an example, work with them, support local leaders and security organs to sustain what has been achieved.
Minister Biruta took time to also thank their families for their patience, bearing the nature of their work and covering the vacuum in their absence.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) CP Felix Namuhoranye commended the retirees for serving and retiring with respect and integrity.
“You served with a patriotic spirit, sacrificed for the betterment of your country and worked tirelessly to make our it secure and have lasting peace. Your exemplary service and values will always be remembered,” IGP Namuhoranye said.
“You are retiring but you are not tired; the country still needs you in other national duties, and we will continue to work together as always,” he added.
As they start a new life outside active service, IGP Namuhoranye urged them to maintain the patriotic character and dedication they exhibited throughout their service, and to continue to be agents of change wherever they will be.
He also thanked officers, who retired before, for their continued contribution to Rwanda’s development.
Retired Commissioner of Police (CP) Denis Basabose, who spoke on behalf of the retirees, said that this is a great day in their life.
“We are happy and proud of the value and honor we have been given as we start a new chapter outside active service. We thank President Paul Kagame for giving us an opportunity to serve our country,” CP (Rtd) Basabose said.
He pledged commitment to continue striving for a peaceful and safe country, and that they will always be ready to serve in other duties whenever called or required.
The pressure on Welby intensified last week, especially after he initially declined to take full responsibility for not reporting the abuses in both England and Africa back in 2013.
This reluctance fueled public frustration, highlighting concerns over a perceived lack of accountability within the church. By Tuesday, Welby acknowledged his role in the delays.
“It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatizing period between 2013 and 2024,” Welby said in the statement.
“I believe that stepping aside is in the best interests of the Church of England, which I dearly love and which I have been honored to serve,” he added.
Welby’s departure is expected to impact the Anglican Communion globally. While each national branch has its own leadership, the Archbishop of Canterbury is seen as the senior figure among equals in the 85-million-strong global community, which includes the U.S.-based Episcopal Church.
Before this controversy, Welby was already a polarizing figure. A former oil executive turned priest, he became known for his mediation efforts in conflict zones such as Nigeria. Despite his skills in diplomacy, he faced challenges in uniting the Anglican Communion, which has clashed internally over issues like LGBTQ+ rights and women’s roles in church leadership.
The recent resignation follows a damning report by the Makin Review, commissioned by the Church of England to investigate abuse allegations against John Smyth, a prominent lawyer.
Smyth, who died in 2018, was accused of physically, sexually, and psychologically abusing approximately 30 young men and boys in the U.K. and over 80 in Africa from the 1970s onward.
The 251-page report concluded that Welby did not report Smyth to authorities when he was informed in August 2013, shortly after becoming Archbishop. The report suggested that earlier reporting could have prevented further harm to victims.
Welby explained that he had been misinformed about police involvement and, though regretful, accepted responsibility for not ensuring the investigation was pursued as “energetically” as it should have been.
Just a day before his resignation, Welby’s office stated he had chosen to remain in his position, even as he expressed horror over the extent of Smyth’s abuses.
Some church members, including Newcastle’s Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley, deemed his continued leadership “untenable.” Additionally, a petition calling for Welby’s resignation began circulating among members of the General Synod, the national assembly of the Church of England.
The most vocal calls for his resignation came from Smyth’s victims, with Andrew Morse, one of those abused, suggesting that Welby’s stepping down could help begin the process of healing the damage caused by the church’s broader mishandling of historical abuse cases.
This resignation adds to ongoing scrutiny of the Church of England’s historical response to sexual abuse within its ranks.
