The two-day humanitarian exercise conducted on 9th and 10th February, was part of the MINUSCA UN Police Week in partnership with Kaga Bandoro District Hospital to save lives.
Dr. Armand Daran Yadakpa from Kaga Bandoro hospital Blood Transfusion Unit, thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for a lifesaving act that will improve the life of patients.
“This human security act is very meaningful and will support victims of road accidents, expecting mothers and children suffering from anaemia and malaria,” Dr. Yadakpa said.
Jeanne D’arc Makemeza Ndongfack, MINUSCA UNPOL Sector Commander also thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for the voluntary act to save lives.
In his remarks, the RWAFPU2-8 Contingent Commander, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Jean Bosco Rudasingwa, commended the existing strong partnership with the local people and authorities in aspects of security and development, particularly in health.
He added that donating blood and other human security activities falls within the protection of civilians mandate.
Rwanda FPU2-8 has previously conducted several human security activities, including free medical outreach and environmental protection, among others.
On December 18, 2023, the office of Pope Francis released a document outlining new guidelines for blessing individuals, including those who identify as homosexuals. While priests are encouraged to offer blessings to homosexuals, the directive clarifies that it does not pertain to sacraments for married couples.
Besides, controversy emerged when Rutayisire was not invited to the GAFCON conference held in Rwanda in April 2023, an organization dedicated to sustaining and reinforcing the teachings of the word of God.
IGIHE interviewed Rutayisire, who addressed the matter and shared his perspective on Pope Francis’s statements about granting freedom to homosexuals.
{{IGIHE:}} Faith appears to be influenced by diverse cultures. Some claim your exclusion from the GAFCON conference in April 2023 was due to disagreements with colleagues on topics like homosexuality. What’s your take on this?
{{Rutaysire:}} Let me clarify a few points. First, in Rwanda, individuals were selected to attend the GAFCON meeting based on diocesan plans, and representatives were allocated to the 12 dioceses. My non-attendance wasn’t a result of intentional exclusion.
Second, GAFCON has consistently opposed homosexuality, and I comprehend that they would have invited me due to my stance against it. Thirdly, it’s important to note that I was not in Rwanda by the time the GAFCON conference took place.
{{Should homosexuals be legally bound?}}
Our Constitution makes it clear, our laws are unquestionable. The law does not punish but also does not allow the union.
The law stipulates a marriage between a man and a woman, let’s put it back there, keep it that way and we won’t have any problems.
{{Do you agree with Pope Francis blessing homosexuals?}}
The Pope said they will not wed them but bless them! I wonder how else to tell them apart? There are times when people do things that make you wonder; if someone comes to the church and blesses them, how is it different from supporting their marriage?
I think that blessing is more powerful than a wedding because when you give a blessing, you agree to the action. If you blessed them then you accepted them, you would as well just wed them.
These are things they put in the middle but the Bible says that the middle way is not allowed. It is whether you are in or out. There is no middle ground. The Pope refused to take one side and that has an effect. The fact that he is respected and an elder does not mean that he can not be wrong. Even adults make mistakes!
{{Nigerian evangelist TB Joshua is said to be fake. How did you receive the testimony given about his actions?}}
It can be true or false. The fact that he committed sins does not mean that the miracles he performed were from Satan. Unless you give me other evidence that contradicts the miracles he was doing.
If you come and tell me that this man sexually abused women and performed miracles, and you tell me that this man stole money and performed miracles, beat children and performed miracles, these three do not remove the fact that he performed miracles because the Bible tells us that if God has given you a gift and you use it, he will leave it to you.
Even if you start to misbehave, God will not take away your gifts. If you pray for a sick person and he gets well, he was calling upon God anyways . God will let his people prosper but will punish him alone.
Again his name is ruined, as now he is in disgrace. There is a time when God lets your name be destroyed while you are still alive, he hits you on his side and devalues you. What he wanted to do with you is over.
Even Samson from the Bible used to beat people who went to commit adultery among the Philistines, it was not necessary for him to commit adultery, but God told him: “Since you chose the way to beat them ,you went to commit adultery, committing adultery will affect you. They tore out his eyes”.
{{What advice do you have for evangelists?}}
There is no money involved in evangelism. When a person chooses to be a cheater he becomes one. It’s the evangelicals that you see, but fraud is everywhere. Nonetheless, it’s still not right.
It was not expected that a man doing God’s work would engage in fraud. I advise them to serve God, money will come to him. Do what you are called to do and to avoid all evil.
{{Don’t you see that these things take away Christians from God?}}
A Christian who gets discouraged by an evangelist is because of their lack of faith and lack of vision. How on earth does an evangelist take your money? You shouldnt be conned twice.
When it comes to the third time someone lies to you, you are a fool because you should open your eyes and see if what he is telling you is true, especially based on the Bible.
If you are in the Church and the pastor tells you that they are going to build a temple, that is not fraud. If you are told that contributions are meant to build a TV station and the project is implemented, that is not a scam. If you are requested to bring a tithe, it is recommended in the Bible.
If the pastor tells you to bring the money to be blessed, run away and never come back to that church. Quoting the Bible, the scripture suggests that people may perish due to a lack of understanding. It emphasizes that God’s blessings are not commodities to be bought or sold.
Since more than 20 years ago, Rwanda has not stopped showing the desire to develop this sector, and its vision to be the hub of technology in Africa and the world in general.
In this story, we are going to highlight some of the activities and programs of the Government of Rwanda, which continue to make it a leading country in Africa in the process of strengthening technology.
{{C4IR Branch }}
C4IR Rwanda became the inaugural host of the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) department in Africa. Its establishment was sanctioned during the 2020 World Economic Forum, following an accord between the Rwandan government and the forum.
The Rwandan government has opted to leverage this center for the advancement of technology-driven governance, the promotion of artificial intelligence (AI), and the progression of advanced computer science, specifically in machine learning. The department is actively involved in diverse initiatives, such as the formulation of data protection legislation and the National Artificial Intelligence Policy.
{{National ‘AI’ Policy}}
On Thursday, April 20, 2023, the Cabinet convened at Urugwiro Village and sanctioned the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Over the next five years, Rwanda is poised to allocate a budget of $76.5 million, equivalent to more than Rwf84 billion, to advance artificial intelligence across various sectors. The aim is to make significant strides in leveraging AI technologies. Projections suggest that this investment will yield a profit of $589 million for Rwanda during the stipulated period.
{{Data Protection Act}}
In the contemporary, rapidly evolving world, vital services such as financial transactions and daily necessities are increasingly being conducted online, underscoring their significance. To safeguard the sensitive information of individuals availing themselves of these services, legislation has been enacted for its protection.
The National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) are the architects of this law, which places an obligation on individuals with access to personal data to ensure its safeguarding and restrict its usage to the intended purposes.
The primary recipients of this legal framework are data processors, encompassing entities such as hotels, hospitals, educational institutions, banking agents, telecommunication companies, and various other service providers that handle personal data.
These data processors are obligated to adhere to the directives set forth by data controllers, ensuring compliance with the stipulations of the law and emphasizing responsible handling of personal information.
{{The establishment of BionTech and IRCAD}}
The healthcare sector in Rwanda is actively focusing on advancing its technological capabilities. On December 18, 2023, the first unit of the BioNTech vaccine manufacturing facility, situated in the Special Economic Zone in Masoro within the Gasabo District, was inaugurated. The construction of this facility commenced in June 2022.
The vaccines produced in Rwanda will belong to the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) category, a novel approach that originated during the development of COVID-19 vaccines. The official operations of this factory are scheduled to commence in 2025.
In addition to this, IRCAD Africa, an extension of the French Institute for Research, has been introduced. IRCAD Africa provides courses in human surgery incorporating advanced technology.
The primary objective behind the launch of IRCAD Africa is to enhance surgical procedures that involve minimal body intrusion, ensuring painless treatments, reduced bleeding, and shorter hospital stays.
This technology is anticipated to significantly impact people’s lives. Furthermore, it facilitates remote surgery, allowing patients to undergo procedures without the physical presence of the surgeon, thanks to technological advancements.
{{Norrsken House Kigali}}
Norrsken, a company established in Kigali, is dedicated to assisting and supporting entrepreneurs working on technology projects that address societal challenges in Nyarwanda and globally.
Launched with a funding of $20 million, this initiative chose Kigali as its base, anticipating the city’s trajectory toward becoming a hub for modern technology in Africa. The platform serves as a collaborative space for individuals with innovative ideas and tech projects, fostering idea-sharing and providing support for implementation to enhance productivity.
In October 2023, Rwanda hosted the Regional Cybercrime Investigation Center of Excellence at the Rwanda Police Headquarters. Comprising three key divisions, the center focuses on coordinating IT security activities, analyzing data related to cybercrimes, and facilitating the exchange of information. Additionally, it houses a digital forensic lab for monitoring and investigating digital crimes, along with a training section for regional personnel dedicated to combating such offenses.
The technological landscape in Rwanda has witnessed significant progress, with approximately 682 public services now accessible through technology.
The Irembo website serves as a repository for most essential services, attracting 42% of those in need. The country’s journey to becoming a technology hub is further supported by technology-related councils, educational institutions specializing in technology, and ongoing plans for various projects.
One such initiative is the Cassava Technologies project, an investment company planning to construct a data center in Kigali at a cost exceeding Rwf32 billion.
This center aims to store customer data securely. Another upcoming project is the Rwanda Space Agency’s National Geospatial Data Hub, slated for completion in the next five years. This hub will serve as a comprehensive database, collecting and storing geological data, satellite images, and other geospatial information for diverse applications across fields.
Huye District also commends the noteworthy contribution of SPARK MicroGrants, recognizing it as a valuable partner in the successful implementation of performance contracts and other government initiatives.
Despite being situated in Huye District, which lacks high mountains, Kigoma Sector has a unique history as it previously belonged to the former Gikongoro Prefecture in the former Kinyamaka Commune. Although characterized by mountainous terrain, the area experienced delayed development.
Historically, the residents engaged in agricultural activities, yet lacked a stable vision, particularly due to the acidic nature of the local soil. In 2021, the introduction of the SPARK MicroGrants project marked a pivotal moment, aiming to inspire and actively involve the community in their development trajectory.
Two figures in the project, Jean Paul Byukusenge and Ernestine Umuhire, dedicated SPARK MicroGrants employees in Kigoma Sector, play a vital role in supporting residents in Kigoma Sector on their path to development.
Explaining their approach, Byukusenge emphasized, “In this Facilitated Collective Action Process [FCAP], the financial support we provide is preceded by a six-month training. During this period, village members are guided to contemplate their own projects, prepare comprehensive plans, and actively participate in the implementation phase.”
Byukusenge elaborated that once the community selects a project aimed at enhancing the quality of life and development in their village, Spark Microgrants provides a grant of $8,000 (over Rwf8 million) to the partnered village. Additionally, the District extends support equivalent to 5% of the project.
Ernestine Umuhire emphasized that the choice of projects within the village is entirely based on the ideas of the people, ensuring that selected initiatives are beneficial and contribute to their development.
Umuhire highlighted the diverse range of projects undertaken, including the purchase of motorbikes, acquisition of cows, initiation of pig farming, loaning projects and more. She emphasized that these projects are bringing tangible benefits that positively impact the lives of all villagers, irrespective of age or gender.
“Even women, who are traditionally constrained by household duties, actively contribute valuable ideas for the village’s development,” added Umuhire.
The positive transformations witnessed in Kigoma are mirrored in Kabingo Village, where village members express Gratitude to the FCAP model in their village. Appolinarie Mukanyabyenda, Kabingo village leader, credited SPARK Microgrants for awakening their perspectives and providing a platform for collaborative planning.
Mukanyabyenda explained that through guided meetings and advice from the community based facilitators (CBFs), the community analyzed their challenges, rediscovered their capabilities, and identified areas requiring intervention. She stated, “Entering the FCAP program allowed us to truly understand our village from every perspective. Knowing our position, we set the vision for ourselves.”
This newfound clarity enabled Kabingo Village to utilize the grant effectively. They invested in pig farming, distributing pigs to over 50 residents and saving over Rwf3 million. The savings were then utilized to provide loans to locals engaged in various development projects.
Cyprien Ntakirutimana, a resident of Kabingo Village, shared his success story. After receiving pigs from Spark Microgrants in 2022, he diligently raised them, leading to successful breeding and the subsequent sale of piglets. With the proceeds, he purchased a cow, which he still owns today.
Ntakirutimana didn’t stop there; he utilized a loan from their village to establish a shop, demonstrating the ripple effect of community-driven development initiatives.
He expressed, “I’m thriving now because my business is growing with just a 2% interest rate. I’m truly succeeding in business and turning a profit. I recently bought a plot of land in the village and built a house. I haven’t been living here for long, but I’m improving, thanks to Spark.”
Sebanani Innocent, another resident of Kabingo, shared his story of progress. Working at a barber shop in an area with limited electricity, he took initiative upon learning about the SPARK grant.
Sebanani requested a loan of Rwf30,000 from the village to purchase a solar-powered hair clipper.
Operating as a barber for five months, he offers affordable haircuts, charging Rwf100 for children, Rwf150 for boys and men, and Rwf200 for women. Sebanani serves 10 to 15 clients a day without the need for electricity expenses, using solar power.
Sebanani expressed his ambition to establish a modern barber shop, hire additional barbers, and continue contributing to the development process.
Overall, SPARK grants have enhanced agriculture in various villages, providing livestock to generate compost and foster healthy crop growth. Increased production has improved living standards, ensuring children have access to milk and other necessities in both Kigoma and Gishamvu sectors in Huye, where SPARK has current interventions.
Huye District administration highly commends SPARK MicroGrants for its impactful approach, beginning with the transformation of beneficiaries’ mindsets.
Mayor Sebutege Ange of Huye District acknowledged that SPARK support has reached 85 villages in Kigoma and Gishamvu sectors, leading to noticeable economic changes in the community. He emphasized the uniqueness of SPARK’s approach, where projects are derived from the ideas of the people, fostering collaboration and community-driven development.
Mayor Sebutege highlighted the commendable aspect of SPARK in uniting all residents, regardless of age or socio-economic status, to collectively embark on the journey of development.
He noted that wherever SPARK intervenes, the district’s performance standards rise, with residents gradually saving and gaining means to subscribe to Mutuelle de Santé. The project serves as a model, demonstrating that poverty eradication among residents is indeed possible.
The SPARK MicroGrants project, originally initiated in the United States of America, has been operational in Rwanda for nearly 14 years. Presently, it operates in six districts across Rwanda, including Huye, Gicumbi, Gakenke, Burera, Musanze, and Nyabihu. Additionally, the project extends its impact to other countries such as Uganda, Malawi, Burundi, Ghana, and Liberia.
The prosecution detailed Kazungu’s alleged crimes, revealing that from April to September 5, 2023, he resided in a Kicukiro District house where bodies were discovered. The intervention stemmed from issues with the landlord, leading to a search uncovering human remains.
Upon arrest, Kazungu confessed to killing and burying 13 people in the house, identifying some victims. Evidence and testimonies illustrated inhumane acts, torture tools, and victims’ accounts of brutality.
The prosecution validated rape charges through a victim’s testimony. Kazungu admitted burying bodies in his kitchen, with accompanying photos. Theft, threats, and victims’ imprisonment charges were supported by written testimonies and evidence of stolen property.
Additional charges included the destruction of a rented house, forgery, and unauthorized access to victims’ phones. Kazungu pleaded guilty, expressing remorse and asking for forgiveness. He denied poverty as a motive, acknowledging the impact on families and the Rwandan community.
While the prosecution seeks a life sentence and a fine of Rwf 10 million, Kazungu pleads for leniency, vowing not to commit further crimes and recognizing the damage caused to families and the Rwandan community.
The ceremony, graced by Lauchringen Mayor Thomas Schäuble, President of Ibuka Germany Judence Kayitesi, and Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany Igor Cesar, included the official laying of a wreath of flowers.
President of Ibuka Germany, Judence Kayitesi, described the day as “historic for German Remembrance,” emphasizing the significance of inaugurating the memorial as preparations for the 30th commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi get underway.
She remarked, “Today, it’s possible to come to this place to remember and plant flowers commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Genocide Against the Tutsi.”
Amb. Igor highlighted Germany’s commitment to globally acknowledging the memory of the Genocide, emphasizing its importance as a universally remembered historical event.
He underlined the inaugural memorial in Germany as a crucial step in preventing the recurrence of such atrocities anywhere in the world.
The event also featured discussions where participants shared their testimonies.
Rwanda currently has more than 20 Genocide memorials across various countries, spanning Europe, Canada, and Africa. These memorials contribute to the global awareness of the necessity to preserve the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Besides, these memorials play a crucial role in supporting Genocide survivors residing in different countries, providing a space for remembrance and conveying a powerful message urging global efforts to prevent similar acts of extreme cruelty.
Many of these memorials were established through the advocacy of Ibuka organizations based in France.
These memorials are situated in various locations, including Cluny, Dieulefit, Bègles, Chalette-sur-Loing, Paris (Jardin de la Mémoire à Paris), as well as those at ‘Place Aminadabu Birara’ in Garges-lès-Gonesse, Lutterbach, Strasbourg, and Toulouse.
In Belgium, there exists a monument in Brussels known as “La Stèle Commémorative, érigée en mémoire des victims du génocide perpétré contre les Tutsis au Rwanda en 1994,” located in the municipality of Woluwe Saint-Pierre. In the Charleroi region, a memorial named “Plaque commémorative du génocide perpétré contre les Tutsis au Rwanda entre le 7 Avril et et le 4 Juillet 1994 au Rwanda” stands.
The city of Mons hosts a monument titled “Stèle commémorative en mémoire des victimes du Génocide Perpétré contre les Tutsis et des dix militaires belges de la Mission de paix des Nations Unies au Rwanda en 1994,” while Liège has a monument called “La Stèle commémorative du génocide des Tutsis du Rwanda.”
In England, four monuments are located in the cities of Plymouth and Liverpool, with another memorial planned for Newcastle City next year. The first memorial was established in Liverpool in 2013, followed by a tree in Nottingham City Gardens in 2014, the Plymouth Memorial in 2015, a tree planted in Dumfries House in Scotland in 2022, and a memorial in Manchester in 2023.
Among those who actively participated in these initiatives are top officials. Notably, there is a tree considered a memorial, planted by King Charles III when he was a Prince. It was planted at Dumfries House in Scotland in commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Starting January 24th and running until February 14th, this limited-time offer is designed to accelerate your financial goals. As a SPENN user (business or individual), you will secure a 12% bonus on the amount deposited on your account from now until February 14th and maintaining it for the next 12 months. On top of depositing funds on your SuperSaver account and locking it for 12 months, the user is required to make 36 transactions for 12 consecutive months, including bill payments and/or airtime – effortlessly enhancing your savings. That’s 3 transactions per month!
{{Reward:}}
At the end of the 12 months, witness your savings grow by 12% as a bonus of the total amount deposited during the promotional period. This is not just a promotion; it’s a strategic move to supercharge your savings and maximize returns.
SPENN is thrilled to extend this special offer as a token of gratitude for your unwavering trust in our services. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to optimize your financial goals.
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The visit was wrapped up on the evening of Thursday, February 8, 2023 where they were seen off at Kigali International Airport by a delegation including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta; the Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya; the Minister of Trade, Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome; and the Chief of Defence Staff for the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Gen Mubarakh Muganga, among others.
{{Below are activities that marked his working visit to the Country of Thousand Hills:}}
{{Signing of MoUs}}
The Head of State arrived in Rwanda on the evening of Tuesday, February 6. Throughout his stay in the country, he engaged in several activities, including a closed-door meeting with his counterpart, Paul Kagame.
Subsequently, both leaders presided over the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering trade and economic cooperation.
Additionally, the MoUs covered collaboration in green technologies, environmental engineering, geology, and energy efficiency. The leaders jointly addressed the press to communicate the outcomes of their discussions.
The agreements were signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Vincent Biruta and Andrzej Szejna, Polish Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In his remarks, Kagame acknowledged the positive outcomes of collaboration in education, citing the presence of Rwandan students in Polish universities.
He emphasized the importance of developing the sectors covered by the signed agreements to enhance resilience in the face of global challenges.
“We have accomplished a lot together, the diplomatic presence in our respective countries will only serve to accelerate and solidify the good progress we are making,” he said.
President Duda, recognizing the hardworking societies of both countries, expressed Poland’s interest in credible partnerships with African nations that share common values.
He highlighted the deepening ties, especially with an increasing number of Rwandan youth studying in Poland, extending an invitation for interested Rwandans to enroll in military studies.
{{Poland-Rwanda Business Forum}}
During his three-day visit to Rwanda, President Duda participated in the Poland-Rwanda Business Forum along with his counterpart, Paul Kagame.
During the forum, it was disclosed that Polish investments in Rwanda have reached a notable milestone, amounting to an impressive 72.3 million US dollars (Rwf92 billion).
This disclosure came on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, where Jeanine Munyeshuli, Minister of State for Public Investment and Resource Mobilization shared insights with attendees from both nations.
Munyeshuli highlighted that Poland and Rwanda possess distinct capabilities and resources that can be leveraged for mutual gain.
In his address, President Kagame acknowledged the shared potential between Rwanda and Poland, highlighting Rwanda’s conducive investment environment.
He underscored the country’s commitment to innovation, having overcome challenges by prioritizing the needs of its citizens—a strategy he deemed the best investment made.
The Head of State outlined Rwanda’s focus on developing key sectors like health, tourism, and sports, aspiring to become the preferred destination for investors, both regionally and internationally.
Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda remarked on the consideration of Rwandan investments by Polish companies, citing the appeal of the local market’s security and stability.
He pointed out that Rwanda offers sought-after stability, high-level management, excellent investment conditions, abundant natural resources, and a population known for its ambition and hard work.
{{Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial }}
During his visit to Rwanda on February 7, 2024, President Andrzej Duda of Poland visited Kigali Genocide Memorial, where he was deeply moved by witnessing how hatred, when allowed to thrive, could bring about the complete destruction of a nation.
At the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, President Duda paid his respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi which took lives of more than 1 million victims. In the memorial’s guest book, he expressed profound sorrow for the events that unfolded in Rwanda in 1994.
In his written statement, President Duda conveyed that the people of Poland stand in remembrance of the millions of innocent lives lost during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
The visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial offered a poignant lesson on the dangers of divisive ideologies fueled by external influences that saw neighbors turning against each other, and the social fabric torn apart.
President Duda emphasized the historical significance of the Genocide, pointing out that it serves as a universal lesson, illustrating that allowing hatred to fester can lead to the complete destruction of a nation.
However, he commended Rwanda for its resilience, highlighting the remarkable role that justice and forgiveness played in the country’s reconstruction.
{{Touring tin processing plant }}
On the second day of his three-day visit to Rwanda, President Andrzej Duda of Poland also toured the LuNa Smelter plant, a tin processing facility in Rwanda. He highlighted the plant as a prime example of successful investment supported by Poland and emphasized its significant benefits for Rwanda and the region.
LuNa Smelter Ltd, operational in Jabana in the Gasabo District since 2018, has the capacity to melt 360 tons of cassiterite per month. The facility employs 50 permanent staff and additional casual workers.
The processed tin metals derived from these precious stones serve various purposes, including metal welding, battery manufacturing for certain vehicles, glassmaking, and the production of telephones and computers, among other applications.
{{Visit to Kibeho Holy Land and Visually Impaired Children}}
On the third day of his stay in Rwanda, the President of Poland, Andrzej Duda made a historic visit to the Kibeho Holy Land, located in Nyaruguru District.
President Duda explored Kibeho, renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary, on Thursday, February 8, 2024. His visit was met with a warm reception from various officials, including the Governor of the Southern Province, Kayitesi Alice, and the Mayor of Nyaruguru District, Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka.
Leaders in the Catholic Church of Rwanda, including the Archbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, and the Bishop of Gikongoro Diocese, Hakizimana Célestin, also extended a warm welcome to President Duda.
Kibeho holds significance as one of the most renowned places in the world within the Catholic Church due to the Virgin Mary’s apparitions in this area.
The first apparition occurred on November 28, 1981, when the Virgin Mary appeared to a girl named Alphonsine Mumureke, who was studying at the ‘Mère du Verbe’ school in Kibeho.
Subsequently, the Virgin Mary appeared to other girls including Anathalie Mukamazimpaka and Marie Claire Mukangano, both students at the same school at the time. This annual pilgrimage site attracts thousands of devout pilgrims each year.
Father François Harerimana, the Director of the Virgin Mary Sanctuary in Kibeho, recently told IGIHE that President Duda’s visit marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Head of State to explore the sacred grounds, further enhancing the area’s reputation.
On the same day, President Duda visited the School and Education Centre for Visually Impaired Children in Kibeho supported by Poland.
Over the years, Rwanda and Poland have strengthened bilateral relations in areas such as higher education, defense, agriculture, trade, and investment. Notably, there are currently over 1,500 Rwandan students studying in Poland.
The diplomatic ties between the two nations have deepened, with Rwanda opening an embassy in Warsaw in 2021, reciprocated by the establishment of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kigali in December 2022, further enhancing the rapidly evolving cooperation between the two countries.
President Duda concluded his visit to Rwanda on Thursday evening. He left the Country of Thousand Hills for Tanzania where he was welcomed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the State House in Dar es Salaam.
The two primary schools are located inside Malakal Protection of Civilians (PoC) site, which is under the protection of the Rwandan Formed Police Unit contingent.
The items handed to the headteachers by the contingent commander, Senior Superintendent of Police SSP Speciose Dusabe, include 3,000 exercise books and 2,916 pens.
The humanitarian activity was also attended by local leaders, the local Police and other peacekeepers deployed in Malakal Field Office.
The headteachers thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for supporting the vulnerable children, whose families were displaced by violent conflicts.
“We appreciate the support by Rwandan peacekeepers, they are always close to us not only to provide our security but also in our day-to-day lives, including supporting these school children to pursue their education dreams,” said Alibesh Mathew, the headteacher of Intersos primary school.
Yohenes Kimo, the chairman of Malakal Protection of Civilian site Malakal, also thanked the Rwandan peacekeepers for promoting education and other human security activities aimed at improving the well-being of the people of South Sudan.
“The donation of books and pens to these children encourages them to study and the impact of education reaches the family and country at large, that’s why this is not just a small act because these are some of those things that influence and change lives of the young people,” said Kimo.
Jik Agbalokwu Nwoyeocha, the Police commander for Malakal, urged the schools to use the donation to promote education within the camp.
The AU has announced that the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the Heads of State and Government is scheduled to be held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on Feb. 17-18. The 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which brings together African ministers of foreign affairs, will precede ahead of the leaders’ summit on Feb. 14-15.
Meles Alem, spokesperson for the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while briefing the media on Thursday, said more than 34 African leaders and higher officials are expected to take part in the upcoming AU summit, and the number could increase in the coming days.
According to Alem, among the high-level dignitaries are 24 presidents, two prime ministers, a king, five vice presidents, and two leaders represented by their foreign ministers.
He said among notable heads of international organizations who are expected to attend the summit include United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of Arab League Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development Workneh Gebeyehu, as well as heads of different UN agencies and representatives of other organizations.
According to the AU, the upcoming summit will have a number of agendas, which include continental peace and security, trade and integration, education and skills, agriculture and climate change, governance and human rights, as well as gender and youth empowerment.
