It is particularly effective for relieving extreme fatigue, depression, and other conditions that may affect the brain.
Additionally, the Treadmill was introduced, allowing people to run without leaving their location. It strengthens bones, clears the veins for better blood circulation, and enhances physical endurance. Other machines available include the G-Vibration Plate, Portable Sauna, G-Body Shaker, and G-Advanced Chair, all of which support overall body function.
The nutritional supplements on offer include ‘Best Man Prime,’ which helps men prevent prostate cancer, increases testosterone levels, and boosts sexual desire. The ‘Best Lady Care’ supplement helps women regulate hormones, protect the uterus, and enhance sexual urge.
There is also ‘Best Kids Brain Gummies,’ which aid in children’s development and increase intelligence. Other supplements for different groups include Best Fish Oil, Best Fit & Detox Tea, Best X Power Coffee, and Best Brain Booster, which support various bodily functions.
Marie Rose Uwimana, known as Solina from the radio drama Urunana, shared her experience with nerve issues and low blood pressure, which almost led to paralysis. She said the use of Mega Global Market’s supplements and machines restored her health. “I was very ill and almost ended up in a wheelchair,” she revealed.
After diagnosis, she was found to have nerve issues, low blood pressure, and other brain-related conditions such as unexplained memory loss experiences until she tried the machines and food supplements and a bit of physiotherapy.
Mental health expert Rukundo Arthur cautioned the public to take great care for their health by embracing the use of these machines and food supplements to keep track of physical and mental well-being rather than wait only to recognize the value of health when already ill.
Mega Global Market’s CEO, Dr. Francis Habumugisha, told IGIHE that they plan to open more markets in different parts of the world to help people live healthier lives. He confirmed that those interested in these products can visit their headquarters in Kigali City or purchase them through their online platforms.
He remarked, “During COVID-19, we learnt a strong lesson when people were not allowed to engage in physical exercise. We decided to bring in machines that anyone can use at home, even while doing other household activities.”
He also highlighted the travel services offered to enable people visit various destinations such as Dubai, Europe, Canada, the USA, and many more. Anyone interested in traveling abroad for leisure or study is supported by this company, and the process is expedited.
“Additionally, those who refer clients to us are granted free Visas and can travel abroad at no cost,” he disclosed.
Habumugisha explained that the services provided are backed by contracts signed in the presence of a certified notary, ensuring that if there is any issue with the travel documents, such as Visa denial, the client is refunded easily.
This contribution is part of a long-term initiative that began two years ago through a Memorandum of Understanding between MINUBUMWE, Imbuto Foundation, and LIT, which aims to disburse USD1Million over a ten-year period to promote national unity and civic engagement.
The funds will help strengthen programs aimed at closing the knowledge gap among Rwandans especially the youth and the entire world regarding the Genocide and its aftermath.
One of the primary initiatives benefiting from this support is “Igihango cy’Urungano,” a platform that engages young people in discussions about the country’s history.
To date, over 8,700 youth have participated in these dialogues, with an additional 19,000 attending virtually. The initiative addresses the lingering impact of the Genocide against the Tutsi on younger generations, particularly those born after 1994, who still grapple with its social and emotional consequences.
Jean-Damascène Bizimana, Minister of MINUBUMWE, stressed the importance of this work, particularly for the youth. “When we do not preserve this history in a more sustainable way, especially for the young generation to learn from, we risk not educating them on our past and give critics a chance to distort our history,” Bizimana said.
A significant portion of these donations havesupported the development of the Ntarama Genocide Memorial, one of three key sites, along with Nyange and Murambi, that MINUBUMWE is working to bring to international standards.
Progress at Ntarama includes the completion of designs for visitor pathways, the transcription and translation of ten survivor testimonies, and the preparation of photographs for an upcoming exhibition.
These efforts are part of a larger strategy to elevate Rwanda’s memorial centers while ensuring that they remain accessible for both local and international audiences.
Challenges remain, however, particularly with regard to funding the “Garden of Memory” project at Ntarama, which requires additional resources to complete.
MINUBUMWE has developed a comprehensive memorial plan to guide future contributions and ensure that all key projects receive the support they need.
In addition to physical memorials, Rwanda’s efforts to preserve Genocide memory have gained international recognition. In September 2024, four of the country’s Genocide memorials including Kigali Memorial centre (Gisozi), Nyamata, Murambi, and Bisesero were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, further underscoring their global significance.
Elodie Shami, Director General of Imbuto Foundation, emphasized the critical role of youth in carrying forward the legacy of Rwanda’s history. “It’s crucial to ensure that this information is preserved and disseminated to the youth, who make up more than 65% of the country’s population,” she said.
The donation from Liquid Intelligent Technologies is part of a broader effort to ensure the memory of the Genocide against the Tutsi is preserved for future generations, while also promoting national unity and civic responsibility among Rwanda’s youth.
On his part, Sam Nkusi, Chairman of Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reiterated the company’s commitment in supporting the preservation of the memories of 1994.
“Remembering our history is very important. It’s not just about the money; it’s a duty and responsibility we have as a company and as a people of Rwanda to keep our history alive,” he stated.
Rwanda’s health authorities have emphasized measures to prevent the spread of the disease. These include frequent handwashing and avoiding sexual contact, whether protected or unprotected, due to the high risk of transmission through such interactions.
Julien Mahoro Niyingabira, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, has told IGIHE that the country’s preventive strategies include the possibility of vaccinating the population, with priority given to those at higher risk.
“There is a team in Rwanda currently studying how the vaccination could be rolled out. Should the vaccination process begin, we will inform the public accordingly,” Niyingabira stated.
He further noted that while vaccines have not yet arrived in the country, priority for vaccination will be given to the most vulnerable groups before any nationwide rollout.
“We will not start with the entire population. Certain groups are more vulnerable to infection than others. We will begin with them based on the available vaccines, and as we progress, other groups will also be considered. However, the vaccination program has not yet started in the country,” he emphasized.
Niyingabira explained that cross-border traders in districts like Rubavu and other high-risk groups may be among the first to receive the vaccine.
“First, we need to secure the vaccines, and then the vaccination program can begin. Even when the vaccine arrives, it complements the existing preventive measures, meaning vaccination is one of the strategies we plan for Mpox prevention.”
The vaccines being distributed across African countries are largely provided by the African Union.
The health authorities have assured the public that the capacity to treat the disease is in place. As of now, the four individuals who had contracted Mpox in Rwanda have all been treated and discharged.
In the region, the Mpox outbreak has severely affected the Democratic Republic of Congo, where over 22,000 cases have been reported, with more than 715 fatalities this year alone. The Mpox virus has spread to 22 of the 26 provinces in the DRC, as well as 13 other African countries.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has committed $600 million to a six-month campaign aimed at combating the epidemic in affected regions.
“An RSF attack on Gouz Al-Naqa village of Abu Gouta area in Gezira State killed at least 40 civilians,” the Abu Gouta Resistance Committee, a non-governmental group, said in a statement.
Several corpses remained exposed in the village, as the RSF is preventing displaced villagers from returning to bury the dead, according to the statement.
The committee called on civil society organizations to put pressure on the RSF to allow residents to enter the village and bury the deceased.
The RSF has not yet made any comment about the attack.
The RSF took control of Gezira State in December 2023 after the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) withdrew from Wad Madani, the capital of the state.
Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a violent conflict between the SAF and the RSF. The conflict has resulted in at least 16,650 deaths and displaced millions of people.
Dr. Murigande’s career has been extensive, having served as the former Rector of the National University of Rwanda, Minister of Education, and most recently as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Advancement at the University of Rwanda. Despite retiring, he remains actively involved in education as Chairman of the Board at Kepler College.
In addition to his contributions to education, Dr. Murigande has had a distinguished political career, holding positions such as Rwanda’s Ambassador to Japan, Secretary General of the RPF-Inkotanyi party, and ministerial roles in Foreign Affairs, Transport and Communications, Education, and Cabinet Affairs.
{{Improving the quality of education}}
According to Dr. Murigande, the term “quality education” is often used without a full understanding of what it entails or how to achieve it. He likened it to preparing a meal, where quality ingredients are essential for success. In education, the most crucial “ingredient” is the teacher.
“A well-trained, passionate teacher who views teaching as a calling, and is equipped with the necessary tools, can have a significant impact. Even under challenging conditions, a great teacher can deliver excellent results,” he emphasized.
Dr. Murigande also highlighted the importance of effective school management, discipline, and student focus as key factors for improving education. Additionally, he pointed out the impact of teacher-to-student ratios, noting that smaller class sizes allow for more individualized attention, leading to better outcomes.
He challenged the notion that Rwanda’s education system was better in the past, explaining that such comparisons are flawed. For example, Rwanda once had only 50,000 secondary school students in total, meaning that only 5% of primary school graduates advanced to secondary education.
Today, access to secondary education is far more widespread, and the top 5% of current graduates are just as competitive globally as their counterparts from prestigious universities like Cambridge and Oxford.
“What has shaped people’s perception of declining education quality is the democratization of education. As more students enter the system, not all have the same abilities. Our focus now should be on raising the capabilities of all students going through the system,” he stated.
Dr. Murigande suggested several measures to address these challenges, including ensuring that all teachers are well-qualified. He acknowledged that while progress cannot be made overnight, improving teacher quality is essential for long-term success.
He also reflected on past practices where lower-performing students were often channeled into teacher training, but noted that the Ministry of Education has corrected this, now admitting top-performing students into the profession.
Although there are still teachers who entered the system before these reforms, Dr. Murigande advocated for additional training to improve their skills and ensure they can meet today’s educational demands.
{{Leadership changes in the Ministry of Education}}
Dr. Murigande also discussed why the Ministry of Education has experienced frequent leadership changes, with 17 ministers serving in the last 30 years, including the most recent appointment of Joseph Nsengimana.
He attributed these changes to the government’s recognition of education as a cornerstone for national development. “No development is possible without quality education, which produces individuals capable of addressing the country’s challenges and implementing solutions,” he noted.
Given education’s critical role, Dr. Murigande explained that when expectations are not met, the government doesn’t wait passively for improvements. Instead, it acts swiftly, changing leadership in hopes of finding new approaches to deliver better results.
While acknowledging that leadership changes can sometimes cause short-term disruption, Dr. Murigande views them as calculated risks.
“You could leave things as they are, but that might not lead to progress. Change, though disruptive at first, can often bring about the faster results we need once the right solutions are found,” he observed.
The Head of State made these remarks during a Thanksgiving Prayer Breakfast organized by the Rwanda Leaders Fellowship (RLF) at the Kigali Convention Centre.
The event, held under the theme “Foundations of a Grateful Nation,” brought together religious leaders, non-governmental organizations, and government officials to express gratitude for Rwanda’s recent peaceful elections.
Kagame was re-elected as RPF Inkotanyi’s presidential candidate during the July elections this year with 99.18% of the vote, securing another five-year term.
During the thanksgiving event, he extended his appreciation to the organizers and acknowledged the peaceful and smooth conduct of the electoral process, expressing thanks to everyone involved.
Reflecting on the essence of thanksgiving, Kagame observed that it should be intertwined with genuine satisfaction.
“Thanksgiving cannot be an end in itself; it involves a sense of satisfaction. Satisfaction means that everything you expected or desired has been fulfilled. We should express gratitude in a way that reflects our genuine satisfaction with what we are thankful for,” he said.
Kagame also stressed the importance of aligning three key elements—spiritual, political, and cultural aspects—for a nation to stand firm.
He explained that these three elements were essential in rebuilding Rwanda after its darkest moments.
“For Rwanda to recover and reach where it is today, it was through the combination of these three elements. If we are in a good place today, it is because we effectively combined them,” he stated.
The President further clarified that, unlike other nations where religion may intertwine with politics or culture, Rwanda maintains distinct but complementary roles for these elements.
“If we are not careful and fail to understand how these elements should work together to bring positive results, we will face problems,” he warned.
The President cautioned against overstepping boundaries in politics, religion, or culture, noting that Rwanda’s tragic history of extremism was caused by crossing such limits. He advised that simplicity in handling these domains can lead to achieving goals with greater ease.
Kagame also called attention to the exploitation of the public in the name of religion, stressing the need to guard against scammers under religious pretexts. He reaffirmed the importance of religious values while underscoring that such values should not be manipulated for personal gain.
The Rwanda Leaders Fellowship, an organization committed to instilling Godly values in leadership, expressed its own gratitude during the event.
Moses Ndahiro, Chairman of RLF, praised the peaceful elections that allowed Rwandans to freely vote for their leader, and thanked the participants for their attendance at the prayer breakfast.
Preacher Lambert Bariho, another RLF member, highlighted the importance of maintaining a culture of thanksgiving even in challenging times.
Drawing from the Bible, specifically Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians 5:16-18, Bariho reminded attendees of the biblical teaching , stressing that gratitude should not only be reserved for times of abundance but also during challenges, as there is always something to be thankful for, no matter the circumstances.
Bariho expressed optimism for Rwanda’s future, asserting that the country, under President Kagame’s leadership, has moved past its darkest days, and that the challenges ahead will never again compare to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The resolution was made during the 2024 ISO General Assembly, held in Cartagena, Colombia, from September 9 to 13, 2024.
ISO is an independent, non-governmental organization that develops international standards for various industries. These standards provide guidelines for businesses, industries, and governments to ensure quality, safety, and efficiency in their operations.
The organization draws members from around the world. The Rwanda Standards Board is a member of ISO.
The ISO General Assembly is the annual meeting of all ISO member countries. It is an important platform for member countries to share their views, collaborate on standards development, and contribute to the global standardization system.
Rwanda Standards Board Director General Raymond Murenzi welcomed the decision to host the next AGM, stating, “It is indeed our honour and pleasure to host you next year in the beautiful, safe, green, and clean City of Kigali, at the heart of the hospitable and remarkable Rwanda.”
At the Ministerial Round Table, the role of governments was a major focus. Leaders stressed the need for better coordination and integrated solutions to tackle food system challenges. Governments were identified as key enablers of food systems transformation, with a strong push for enhanced collaboration with the private sector.
The Forum also saw the launch of the Africa Agriculture Status Report (AASR), a key document from AGRA. The report outlined important recommendations on investing in policy, infrastructure, and agro-parks, providing a roadmap for future development.
Discussions about the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) highlighted the need for a new agreement in the post-Malabo era. Delegates agreed on the importance of a robust successor agreement with effective coordination and accountability mechanisms.
Governments were urged to support the new agreement and improve the sharing of analytical insights to boost investment and collaboration. Nutrition and health were key topics, with a focus on improving access to healthy, affordable food.
The link between climate change and nutrition was highlighted, stressing the need for more investment in nutrition security. Initiatives such as school feeding programs were recognized as valuable investments in reducing poverty and food insecurity.
The Forum also addressed gender equality and youth engagement. There was a strong call for increased support for women-led agriculture and effective implementation of gender-responsive policies.
The potential of youth was emphasized, with calls for more investments in youth-led innovations and equitable access to education.
Dr. Canisius Kanangire, the Executive Director of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) discussed the role of technology in agriculture. He highlighted the importance of digital solutions tailored to local needs to improve productivity and sustainability.
Kanangire noted that affordability, accessibility, and maintenance are key challenges, and stressed the need for collaboration and investment in infrastructure.
AATF’s efforts to promote digital technologies, such as mobile apps and remote sensing, were showcased. These technologies aim to help smallholder farmers with farm management, weather information, and e-extension services.
The Forum emphasized the need for public-private partnerships to make these technologies more accessible and affordable.
In summary, the African Food Systems Forum underscored the importance of innovation, accountability, and collaboration in transforming Africa’s food systems.
With a commitment to addressing these issues, the Forum set the stage for meaningful progress in improving food security and nutrition across the continent.
Among the passengers were 35 African journalists, visiting for the first time to explore its vibrancy after successfully covering the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing from September 4th to 6th. Stepping off the plane, the domestic flight clearance was swift, and within moments we were on shuttle buses headed to our accommodations.
A defining feature upon arrival in China is the sheer scale of infrastructure development, and Chongqing is no exception. The city’s breathtaking blend of modern development, clean green streets, and impressive architecture against a backdrop of natural beauty makes you feel as if you’ve found the ‘promised land.’
Chongqing is renowned for its spicy food, one of the top descriptors for the area, but its charm goes far beyond cuisine. With a history spanning thousands of years, it is one of China’s four municipalities directly under the central government control, alongside Beijing and Shanghai. Situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, the city is surrounded by mountains, leading to the construction of extensive tunnels to ease transportation.
In the city center, the domed Great Hall of the People stands majestically over People’s Square, while nearby, the Three Gorges Museum showcases ancient artifacts and the history of the Three Gorges Dam construction. Chongqing spans a vast area, with jurisdiction over 38 districts and counties, covering 82,400 square kilometers and housing over 32 million residents, 93.23% of whom are Han Chinese, alongside ethnic groups such as the Tujia and Miao.
Known as the “Mountain City” and the “River City,” Chongqing boasts a humid subtropical monsoon climate, with early springs, hot summers, rainy autumns, and mild winters. The Yangtze River, stretching 691 kilometers, winds its way through the city, joined by the Jialing and Wujiang rivers. Chongqing’s landscape is predominantly mountainous, with mountains covering 76% of the terrain.
Chongqing is not just a historical and cultural city; it holds strategic importance for China’s development. It was the first inland city to open to foreign trade in 1981 and was officially established as a city in 1929. The Chengdu-Chongqing Twin-Hub Mega-Region and the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor are critical to the city’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative, connecting over 480 ports in 120 countries worldwide.
The city’s rapid industrial development has transformed it into a manufacturing powerhouse. It is among the top automotive production hubs in China and is the world’s largest producer of laptops. Chongqing is striving to build a modern manufacturing system centered around intelligent vehicles, next-gen electronics, and advanced materials. It also leads in innovation hubs in smart technology, life sciences, and green technologies.
Chongqing’s transportation infrastructure is equally impressive, featuring a multimodal network of rail, road, water, and air transport. With over 1,000 kilometers of high-speed rail, 4,000 kilometers of expressways, and an extensive river shipping system, it serves as a comprehensive transportation hub. In 2023, Chongqing’s GDP reached RMB 3.01 trillion (over US$424 bilion), reflecting a 6.1% growth.
Beyond its economic achievements, Chongqing is home to numerous cultural and natural treasures. The Mountain City Alley Traditional Style Area, a historical site in the city center, features preserved traditional buildings like the Catholic Charity Hall and the Changle Yongkang Stone Ancestral Gate.
Another notable landmark is the Liziba Station, China’s first through-building metro station that showcases Chongqing’s architectural ingenuity. Liziba Station is located in Yuzhong District. It is designed to improve the efficiency and convenience of urban transportation but has become a sight to behold.
Applying multiple technologies, the monorail enables trains to run through buildings without causing the structures to shake.
It cleverly achieves its functionality based on the complex terrain, which embodies the wisdom of the Chongqing people and ultimately stands among testaments to Chinese people’s prowess and great zeal to always foster innovations.
For a panoramic view of the city, the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street and the World Financial Center (WFC) Huixianlou Observation Deck offer breathtaking vistas of Chongqing’s urban landscape, including the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers.
The WFC Observation Deck, unveiled in 2017, offers a stunning view of Chongqing’s iconic landmarks, including the intersection of two rivers, the Grand Theatre (a performing arts venue in central Chongqing), and Nanbin Road’s nightscape.
Located on the 73rd to 75th floors, it is China’s highest open-air observation deck. Nearby, the historic Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, built in 1947 and transformed into Western China’s first commercial pedestrian street in 1997, remains a vibrant hub with a commercial area of 160,000 m², earning recognition as one of China’s top business centers.
One of Chongqing’s most iconic cultural sites is the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 50,000 statues carved into rock formations, reflecting over a millennium of Chinese artistry and religious devotion. These carvings stand alongside other famous rock art in China, such as the Mogao Caves and the Yungang Grottoes.
No visit to Chongqing would be complete without experiencing its famous hot pot cuisine, a spicy culinary tradition that involves dipping fresh ingredients into a boiling broth.
Accompanied by local fruits and juices, the hot pot experience is a sensory delight. The city’s markets offer an abundance of local produce, including pumpkins, taro, maize, sea food and fresh vegetables among others.
As night falls, Chongqing’s streets come alive. Along the Jialing River, locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the glittering lights of the city, the illuminated bridges, and the relaxing atmosphere that invites you to extend your stay.
Chongqing’s beauty, history, and vibrancy offer a truly unique experience for anyone fortunate enough to visit. This city, with its rich blend of culture, industry, and nature, is a testament to China’s development and a gateway to understanding its past, present, and future.
{{Stunning infrastructure}}
{{Monorail traversing buildings }}
{{The Mountain City Alley Traditional Style Area}}
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Dr. Murigande reflected on the nation’s journey and the preparations for the upcoming ‘Rwanda Shima Imana’ gospel crusade, which is making a return after several years of hiatus.
Dr. Murigande, now retired, has held numerous important roles in Rwanda’s political landscape, including serving as the Secretary General of the FPR Inkotanyi, representing Rwanda internationally, and heading various ministries.
He has been appointed as the coordinator of the ‘Rwanda Shima Imana’ National Thanksgiving crusade, set to take place on September 29, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium.
{{Reflecting on 30 years of progress}}
Murigande emphasized that Rwandans from all faiths should take this opportunity to express their gratitude for the peace and stability that have been restored over the last 30 years.
“This year marks a significant milestone—30 years after the Genocide against the Tutsi was halted, 30 years since Rwanda’s liberation, the fourth Presidential elections, and the fifth Parliamentary elections since the Genocide,” he remarked.
He added that this anniversary is a moment for Rwandans to reflect on the nation’s journey toward peace and restoration.
“The peace and security we’ve been able to achieve are no small feat. Many nations that went through similar traumas are still struggling, yet Rwanda has rebuilt itself,” Murigande pointed out.
He reflected on the transformation Rwanda has undergone since 1994, when many Rwandans were refugees scattered across the world. Today, most have returned to contribute to the country’s reconstruction, and Rwanda stands tall on the international stage, with every Rwandan taking pride in their nation.
Murigande stressed that Rwandans should also give thanks for the significant strides made in education, healthcare, infrastructure, electricity, clean water, food security, and other developmental areas that have lifted the country out of isolation.
The upcoming event will feature performances from a host of Rwandan gospel artists, including Israel Mbonyi, Aimé Uwimana, James and Daniel, René Patrick, Christian Irimbere, Prosper Nkomezi, Gaby Kamanzi, Ben wa Chance, Bosco Nshuti, Yvan Ngenzi, Chriso Ndasingwa, and others.
{{Hope for a brighter future}}
Murigande further reflected on Rwanda’s rise from the ashes of the Genocide, noting that it would have been difficult for anyone in 1994 to imagine the country’s current state of stability and respect on the world stage.
“Rwanda was in a very difficult situation; it wasn’t easy to foresee that it would reach this level of development and command the respect it has today,” he stated.
Drawing from his experience as a member of the RPF-Inkotanyi, Murigande recalled the political vision that drove the party’s efforts to transform Rwanda.
“As someone who was part of the RPF, we always believed that if we executed our vision and worked tirelessly, Rwanda could change. That is the foundation we built on to achieve today’s progress,” he explained.
The ‘Rwanda Shima Imana’ crusade, which began in 2012, was created to provide a platform for Rwandans to express their gratitude to God for His blessings.
This year’s edition, set for September 29, 2024, promises to be a significant event in Rwanda’s ongoing journey of gratitude and hope for the future.
