Witnesses reported that the suspected FARDC soldier fired shots while on the Congolese side of the border, known as Petite Barrière. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident.
Daniel Rugomboka, a resident near the Petite Barrière border post, described the incident, stating that the soldier fired multiple shots, causing damage to a nearby house.
“That soldier came and fired many shots, hitting a neighbouring house. The windows were shattered, and the bullets damaged the fence and the walls,” he said.
Tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have been rife in the recent past, including frequent provocations from the Congolese government. Among these incidents was a Congolese warplane that repeatedly violated Rwandan airspace and was fired upon in January 2023.
In March of the same year, a FARDC soldier was shot dead on Rwandan soil in Rubavu district after crossing the border and opening fire on Rwandan security forces guarding the area.
The Southern African country, known for its arid climate, is facing the worst drought conditions in 100 years, which have left nearly half of its 2.5 million population food insecure.
The United Nations (UN) revealed last week that 84 per cent of the country’s food reserves have been exhausted.
To deal with the food crisis, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism announced in a statement that the government will contract professional hunters and safari outfitters to carry out culls in areas where game numbers are sustainable, including national parks.
“This exercise [is] necessary and is in line with our constitutional mandate where our natural resources are used for the benefit of Namibian citizens,” the environment ministry said.
Among the animals to be killed are 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 60 buffalos, 50 impalas, 100 blue wildebeests, 300 zebras and 100 elands, the second-largest species of antelope.
Already, the government has contributed nearly 57,000 kilograms of game meat from 157 animals to the relief program.
“By reducing wildlife numbers in certain parks and communal areas where we believe the population exceeds the available grazing and water resources, we can better manage the current grazing pressure and water availability,” the ministry added.
The government indicated that the 83 elephants will be identified in conflict areas where human-wildlife interactions can include crop destruction, livestock loss and damage to homes and property, as well as causing injuries or death to people.
The ministry had warned in April 2023 of worsening human-animal conflicts exacerbated by recurring droughts, which have significantly impacted agriculture, livestock, and water resources.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on August 22, 2024.
This center will play a crucial role in supporting the holistic development of children aged 0 to 6 years old. It will provide education, health, nutrition, hygiene, and child protection services, alongside a comprehensive parenting program to ensure a nurturing environment for children at home and in their communities.
Imbuto Foundation Director General Mrs. Elodie Shami, vowed that they will “continue the scale-up initiative of Model ECD Centers in the remaining 13 districts.”
Mount Kigali University founder and chairman, Prof. Simon Gicharu, said the university is proud to contribute 150 million Rwandan francs towards this critical project.
Prof. Gicharu remarked that the partners were, in essence, “laying the foundation for a brighter future for children, communities, and the nation.”
He added: “In addition to providing education, Mount Kigali University actively engages in community-based outreach programmes to drive positive change through mutually beneficial partnerships. Like the roots of a tree that spread to protect it from disaster and support its growth, we follow a similar path by fostering community initiatives that are both extensive and transformative. Some of our projects include helping vulnerable children, youth, and families.”
The groundbreaking event was attended by Masaka sector officials and other government leaders who praised the project as a worthwhile venture that will benefit the community.
Deputy District Executive Administrator, Mrs. Monique Huss said the center is in line with the Government’s drive to develop the country’s people.
Mrs. Huss pointed out that human development is among the five pillars of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, the national strategy that seeks to promote economic growth, prosperity and high quality of life for Rwandans.
“This pillar has three priorities and universal access to high quality education is among them,” she said.
She expressed her belief that the ECD will play a fundamental role in the national quest to achieve that vision “through this kind of collaboration and partnership. We are grateful, for this achievement,” she added.
The Director General of the National Child Development Agency (NCDA) Mrs. Assumpta Ingabire said the new ECD facility will serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for children in this community.
She added that it will “provide them with the tools and support they need to develop cognitively, emotionally, and socially, which are essential elements for their future success.”
While thanking all the partners involved in the initiative, Mrs. Ingabire said it is “a reminder of our responsibility to invest in the early years of a child’s life, because by doing so, we invest in the future of our nation.”
The Masaka District Model ECD&F Center is the latest in collaborative projects undertaken by Imbuto Foundation and Mount Kigali University to ostensibly unlock growth opportunities for Rwandan children.
The two institutions began collaborating in February 2018 when they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Mount Kigali University which was by then known as Mount Kenya University Rwanda, pledged to contribute USD 150,000 to Imbuto Foundation over a five-year period.
The money went towards educating 100 vulnerable children in secondary school. Additionally, under this agreement, the university offered scholarships to five young girls who excelled in their studies.
The two partners renewed their agreement in February 2022 following the expiration of the initial one, with Mount Kigali University raising its annual contribution to $175,000.
Still on training, Prof. Gicharu said that the university closely works with Imbuto Foundation to identify young Rwandans who have completed high school and trained in short courses at Kigali Paramount Hotel.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Prof. Gicharu announced that the university is about to open its hospitality training hotel, Kigali Paramount Hotel.
The new Russian Ambassador, Alexander Polyakov, was confirmed by the Cabinet Meeting on May 22, 2024, succeeding Karen Chalyan, who served in Rwanda from June 2018 until the end of his tour of duty in June 2024.
After presenting his credentials to the President on August 28, 2024, Amb. Polyakov expressed his commitment to strengthening the historical ties between Russia and Rwanda, benefiting the citizens of both nations.
Amb. Polyakov highlighted Russia’s commitment to ongoing projects with Rwanda, including a promising nuclear energy initiative, and the exploration of other areas for cooperation.
“My main task is to take massive efforts to develop existing possibilities of the Russia and Rwanda agenda including the most promising project in the field of nuclear energy as well as finding new possibilities and opportunities in different areas,” he noted.
“We are very much satisfied with relations in terms of military and technical and Russia continues to provide an increasing number of state-financed scholarships to the Rwandan students,” added Amb. Polyakov.
He also mentioned Russia’s recent proposal to establish an intergovernmental Russia-Rwanda commission on cooperation in trade, science, and technology, to alternate meetings between Kigali and Moscow to discuss practical issues and explore future opportunities.
He commended Rwanda’s warm welcome and sent wishes to Rwandans for success and prosperity for Rwandans all their way towards modernization.
Meanwhile, the new Indian Ambassador to Rwanda, Shri Mridu Pawan Das, upon presenting his credentials, pledged to strengthen bilateral relations between Rwanda and India.
“I am delighted to be posted to this wonderful country. Both countries have friendly relations and it will be my endeavor to further strengthen existing friendly relations between India and Rwanda,” he noted.
Ambassador Shri Mridu is among the 12 ambassadors approved by the Cabinet on August 23, 2024, during a meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame.
Italian Ambassador Mauro Massoni, who will have residence in Kampala, was confirmed by the Cabinet on November 29, 2023. He expressed his readiness to boost trade relations between Italy and Rwanda.
“I am here to improve existing relations between Italy and Rwanda. We already have a number of Italian companies here, and my duty will be trying to increase them,” Amb. Massoni said, emphasizing the potential for further economic collaboration.
He also mentioned Italy’s longstanding tradition of offering scholarships to Rwandan students and sees continued support in science and engineering education as a vital way to strengthen the ties between the two nations.
Azerbaijan’s new Ambassador, Ruslan Rafael oglu Nasibov, who will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, also presented his credentials to President Kagame.
He affirmed that the relationship between Rwanda and Azerbaijan has been steadily growing over the past 20 years and expressed optimism about the potential for economic cooperation.
Amb. Ruslan also highlighted that there are many opportunities in the economic field, public service delivery and expressed optimism to make concrete steps very soon.
Other ambassadors who presented their credentials include the new UK High Commissioner, Alison Heather Thorpe, who succeeded Omar Daair after his tour of duty ended in July 2024.
Also present were Ambassador Fátima Yesenia Fernandes Juaréz of Venezuela, who will be based in Kampala, Ambassador Enrique Javier Ochoa Martínez of Mexico, with residence in Nairobi, and Ambassador Genţiana Şerbu of Romania, also based in Nairobi.
Rwanda currently hosts resident ambassadors from 45 countries, while another 72 ambassadors are accredited to Rwanda but with residences in other countries.
As the CEO of Temaco Builders, Tuyisenge is the only Rwandan who has made it to the top 20 finalists in the prestigious Africa Business Heroes (ABH) competition 2024.
He has contributed to the creation of some of Rwanda’s most iconic projects, including the external design of Amahoro Stadium and the development of the Nyandungu ECO Park.
Tuyisenge is now poised to take his success to new heights, bringing pride to his country and setting a powerful example for future generations of Rwandan entrepreneurs.
Temaco Builders began over a decade ago with a small team of inexperienced but dedicated individuals, including Tuyisenge himself. What started as a modest venture has grown into one of Rwanda’s leading construction companies, known for its innovative approaches and commitment to excellence.
“With the construction boom in Rwanda and the support from the government promoting ‘Made in Rwanda,’ we’ve been able to make a significant impact,” Tuyisenge says, reflecting on his company’s journey.
“To date, we’ve paved over 150,000 square meters, served more than 5,500 clients, and trained 400 young individuals. Our focus has always been on delivering top-notch, long-lasting products crafted with innovation in mind.”
Tuyisenge’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning Temaco Builders at the forefront of Rwanda’s construction industry. His ability to foresee and adapt to market trends has allowed the company to not only survive but thrive in a competitive environment.
The work on Amahoro Stadium, for instance, involved not just the execution of a high-profile project but also the integration of new technologies and design principles that set a new standard for construction in Rwanda.
Similarly, the Nyandungu ECO Park project showcases Temaco’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with global trends in environmental conservation and urban development.
The ABH competition, now in its 6th edition, is one of the most adored platforms for entrepreneurs across Africa. This year, over 2,000 entrepreneurs from various sectors across the continent vied for a spot in the competition. After a rigorous selection process, the pool was narrowed down to the top 50, and finally to the top 20, where Tuyisenge now proudly represents Rwanda as the sole finalist.
The ABH initiative is designed to recognize and support entrepreneurs who are making significant impacts in their communities, solving pressing problems, and contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
“The ABH competition has been a journey of learning and growth,” Tuyisenge reflects. “It’s not just about winning; it’s about the exposure, the networking, and the opportunity to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs across Africa. Being in the top 20 is an incredible honor, and it motivates me to push even harder to achieve my goals and make a difference.”
Tuyisenge’s success in the ABH competition is a source of national pride for Rwanda. It highlights the country’s growing reputation as a hub for entrepreneurial talent and innovation. His works are a testament to the potential for Rwandan entrepreneurs to create lasting change.
These projects not only enhance Rwanda’s infrastructure but also embody the spirit of progress and sustainability that is at the core of the country’s Vision 2050 development plan.
As a private-sector youth leader, Tuyisenge has been instrumental in supporting local entrepreneurs through various initiatives. These include TV and radio shows aimed at educating the public about entrepreneurship, training sessions that equip young people with the skills they need to succeed.
“Our goal is to lead the way in innovation, sustainability, and community development. With the support of the ABH competition, we are confident that we can achieve even greater things,” he affirms.
Temaco Builders’ innovative solutions address some of the pressing challenges in the construction industry, recognizing the issues of low-quality paving and sanitation.
The company has developed products that not only meet community needs but also align with global sustainability goals, with a focus on recycling concrete waste materials.
The creation of the Ecoteto toilet chair has provided a dignified solution for individuals with physical limitations in rural areas, further underscoring the company’s commitment to social impact.
As Rwanda’s representative in the top 20 of the ABH competition, Tuyisenge’s journey highlights the country’s growing reputation as a hub for entrepreneurial talent.
His work on Rwanda’s major projects coupled with his innovative approach to construction, positions him as a leader not only in Rwanda but across Africa.
His story is one of visionary leadership, transformative impact, and the promise of a bright future for Rwandan entrepreneurship. His success is a testament to the power of innovation and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of Rwandan entrepreneurs.
Since 2019, six Rwandan entrepreneurs have received a total of $485,000 in funding from the Alibaba initiative, the organizers of this event.
They include Albert Munyabugingo, founder of Vuba Vuba; Francine Munyaneza, founder of Munyax Eco; Yvette Ishimwe, founder and CEO of IRIBA Water Group, and Kevine Kagirimpundu, co-founder and CEO of UZURI K&Y.
The only Rwandan to have come closest to winning the overall crown is Christelle Kwizera, founder of Water Access Rwanda who finished third in the 2019 edition.
This year, the semifinal will take place in Cairo, Egypt in October and the grand finale will be held in Kigali in December 2024.
Dr. Mihigo lost to Tanzanian Dr. Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile in a vote conducted by African member states during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo.
In a heartfelt message shared on his X account on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, Dr. Mihigo described the opportunity to represent Rwanda in the race as a “lifetime experience”.
He further extended his deep appreciation to President Paul Kagame for his unwavering support throughout the process that culminated in the elections on Tuesday.
“It was a lifetime experience to run for the election of @WHOAFRO Regional Director position. The outcome is not what was expected; however, I’d like to sincerely thank HE @PaulKagame for his full support throughout this process,” Dr. Mihigo wrote.
Other candidates in the race included Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo, fronted by Niger, and Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall of Senegal.
Dr. Ndugulile’s nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The newly appointed Regional Director will replace Dr. Matshidiso Moeti. He will serve a five-year term and be eligible for reappointment once.
{{
Strong candidate}}
Dr. Mihigo was considered a strong candidate for the post due to his rich career profile and extensive education in the medical field.
The 57-year-old has held numerous positions, including advisor roles at WHO, UNICEF, and GAVI (the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization). He also served as an advisor at USAID-Rwanda, working in various health sectors.
He currently serves as the Senior Director of Programmatic and Strategic Engagement at the African Union/Africa CDC. He has held this position at GAVI, The Vaccine Alliance, in Geneva, Switzerland, since March 2024.
In an interview with IGIHE, Manzi shared his investment journey in Rwanda, his current progress, and his vision for the future.
{{IGIHE: What inspired you to establish [Manzi Finance->https://manzifinance.com/contact-us]?}}
Manzi Aloys: I once attempted to start a business and approached traditional banks for support. They initially agreed to help, but as the project progressed, they rejected my request. This experience isn’t unique to me; others have faced similar challenges.
I realized there was something lacking in Rwanda’s financial services; decisions tend to be delayed, and there’s a need for modernization. We aim to offer quick services, where if you have a project you want to implement, we can quickly give you our feedback. If we find it unfeasible, we promptly advise you to seek other institutions.
Another aspect is that small entrepreneurs often struggle to secure loans. Having been an entrepreneur myself, I understand the challenges, and I’m now providing solutions that our clients appreciate. We are continually improving our services so that everyone can benefit from them.
{{Why did you choose to invest in Rwanda?}}
I started running projects in Rwanda in 2014, establishing the Manzi Foundation to help the underprivileged and combat poverty. Sometimes, fighting poverty requires helping people become self-sufficient. I found it necessary to engage in activities that create jobs, contributing to Rwanda’s development.
Living abroad and forgetting your roots is a mistake because if you don’t know where you come from, you won’t know where you’re headed. I love Rwanda and desire to see it become one of the world’s leading countries, and the only way to achieve that is for Rwandans to take the lead in building it. That’s what motivated me to invest in Rwanda.
{{Where does Manzi Finance stand after more than two years of operation?}}
Manzi Finance is progressing well. Initially, we applied for the necessary approvals to operate as a recognized financial institution, and recently, the National Bank of Rwanda conducted an inspection and granted us permission to operate as an official financial institution.
We are no longer in the trial phase. We have started supporting entrepreneurs, particularly small business owners, and many others who seek our services. We plan to expand our operations to reach other Rwandans in the diaspora. That’s our next goal.
{{What makes Manzi Finance stand out?}}
Manzi Finance offers loans to those looking to build, purchase land, or expand their businesses. We provide funds quickly compared to other financial institutions in Rwanda. That’s our unique feature. We offer swift services, and if we find that someone’s application is not satisfactory, we quickly inform them.
{{What other investment projects are you planning?}}
We are now looking to build houses for people in the diaspora and have launched a company called ‘Black Rock Construction’ to handle this. These houses will meet the preferences of Rwandans in the diaspora.
In the first phase, we will construct these homes in Kanombe, Busanza, building two-storey houses that cater to the needs of those investing in Rwanda without being physically present. We will also manage these houses to ensure they find clients once completed, offering full support to the owners.
We also have a factory in Kayonza that produces fortified maize flour (kawunga), supplying schools, and we plan to bring it to the market for everyone to access in Kigali, other provinces, and even abroad. We’ve obtained the ‘S Mark’ quality certification, and we’re progressing well.
{{What message do you have for other Rwandans living abroad?}}
I would encourage my fellow Rwandans living abroad and those interested in investing in Rwanda not to delay, as the country is secure, and no one would invest without confidence in their safety. The country is in good condition, and Rwandans have faith in the country’s future. This progress can’t be achieved by one person alone; it requires everyone’s contribution.
That’s why my partners and I are committed to continuing to expand our investments because there are benefits, including providing jobs and contributing to Rwanda’s development. Rwanda is secure and has everything needed for profitable investments.
Rwanda was initially known for its iconic attractions, such as the Volcanoes National Park, where tourists visit the mountain gorillas, and other scenic spots like Akagera National Park.
However, over the past 30 years, the country has diversified its offerings, focusing on positioning Rwanda as a premier destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences/Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism. This has been supported by the construction of world-class infrastructure, such as the Kigali Convention Center, and the entry of international hotel chains like Marriott.
In addition to tourism, Rwanda has made strides in other sectors. The sports industry has seen the development of facilities that meet international standards, including the recently renovated Amahoro Stadium, which now boasts a capacity of 45,000 seats, and the BK Arena, known for hosting international basketball games and concerts.
In the education sector, prestigious institutions like Carnegie Mellon University Africa and the University of Global Health Equity in Butaro have established campuses in Rwanda, attracting both local and international students.
The government’s pro-business policies have also facilitated the entry of new international companies into the Rwandan market each year, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
According to the NISR survey for the fourth quarter of 2023, the expenditure of foreign visitors on goods and various services during their stay in Rwanda has almost doubled over the last decade, rising from $338.1 million in 2015 to $458 million in 2019, reaching $563.9 million in 2023.
The survey, conducted at Kigali International Airport and several border points, including Rusumo, Kagitumba, Gatuna, Cyanika, Rusizi I, Rusizi II, Akanyaru Haut, Nemba, Corniche, and Poids Lourds, revealed that foreign visitors in Rwanda spent the equivalent of over Rwf753.8 billion in 2023.
The breakdown of expenditure shows that 24% came from business travelers, 42% from vacationers, and 23% from those visiting friends and relatives. Data collection took place at the end of the trip, providing a comprehensive overview of the visitors’ spending on goods and services acquired during their stay.
Rwandans traveling abroad were also surveyed, revealing that they spent $355.2 million. Notably, 78.1% of the expenditure by foreign visitors in Rwanda came from air travelers, while 57.7% of the expenditure by Rwandans abroad was also attributed to air travel.
The survey also highlighted a significant increase in the number of visitors to Rwanda, rising from 521,000 people in 2021 to 1.4 million in 2023, reflecting the country’s growing appeal as a travel destination.
Dr. Ndugulile was nominated for the coveted role during the 74th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa, held in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, on Tuesday, August 27, 2024.
The vote was taken by all the African member states. Other candidates included Dr. Richard Mihigo, proposed by Rwanda; Niger’s Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo; and Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall of Senegal.
Dr. Ndugulile’s nomination will be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for February 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The newly appointed Regional Director will replace Dr. Matshidiso Moeti. He will serve a five-year term and be eligible for reappointment once.
Ahead of his formal appointment, Dr. Ndugulile expressed commitment to advancing the health of the people in the region.
“I’m truly honoured and humbled to be elected to the position of WHO Regional Director for Africa. I thank Member States for the trust shown in me. I promise to work with you, and I believe that together we can build a healthier Africa,” Dr. Ndugulile said.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, congratulated Dr. Ndugulile on his election as Regional Director for Africa and praised Dr. Sambo, Dr. Fall, and Dr. Mihigo for their campaigns.
“Dr. Ndugulile has earned the confidence and trust of the Member States of the region to be elected the next Regional Director for WHO Africa. This is a great privilege and a very great responsibility,” said Dr. Tedros. “I and the entire WHO family in Africa and around the world will support you every step of the way.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Mihigo congratulated his Tanzanian counterpart on the victory and wished him success in his role.
“Warm congratulations to @DocFaustine on being elected as the new @WHOAFRO Regional Director. Wishing you great success in your new role. Hongera sana!” Dr. Mihigo said in a post on X.
He added, “I wish to thank also all partners and supporters of my campaign—your trust and commitment were greatly appreciated.”
Warm congratulations to @DocFaustine on being elected as the new @WHOAFRO Regional Director. Wishing you great success in your new role. Hongera sana!
I wish to thank also all partners and supporters of my campaign – your trust and commitment were greatly appreciated. pic.twitter.com/vEekp2sPHP
This comes in the wake of complaints that a local contractor recently failed to fulfil waste collection duties, allowing garbage to pile up on the roadside in Nyamirambo Sector, Nyarugenge District.
In a notice to all garbage collection companies on Wednesday, August 28, the City of Kigali urged the companies to adhere to the regulations outlined in their contracts or risk penalties.
“Any company that fails to comply with these regulations, and all other waste management regulations in the City of Kigali, will face penalties,” the notice reads.
The companies are required to adhere to waste collection schedules, avoid piling waste or scattering it on roadsides, and are prohibited from disposing of waste in unauthorized locations.
They are also required to keep waste collection points clean and use insecticides to eliminate pests and foul odours.
Other measures include providing employees with protective equipment such as aprons, gloves, and masks, as well as ensuring that waste collection vehicles are in good condition and meet police technical controls.
“Let’s unite our efforts to maintain a clean and safe Kigali,” the management said.
Kigali is widely recognised as the cleanest city in Africa due to the exceptional levels of hygiene and cleanliness that the city continues to display.
The government of Rwanda and city leadership have implemented regulations and public awareness campaigns to maintain cleanliness and environmental standards. This includes initiatives such as Umuganda, a type of community work where residents engage in various activities to clean the city.
In 2018, Eric Solheim, who served as Executive Director of UN Environment Programme between May 2016 and November 2018, referred to Kigali as the “cleanest city on the planet”, both in terms of lack of street rubbish and its adorable green initiatives.
Many other cities in the region continue to grapple with the garbage problem.
Early this month, more than 30 people lost their lives after a mountain of garbage collapsed in Kampala, Uganda.
The accident occurred on Friday, August 9, 2024, when a large chunk broke off the mound of trash at the Kiteezi landfill on the northern outskirts of Kampala. Dozens of homes near the dumpsite were buried as residents slept.
The incident is believed to have been triggered by heavy rainfall.
