The affected batch numbers are 5810315 and 581036 (expiry date: January 31, 2025), 5811390 (expiry date: August 31, 2025), and 5810022 (expiry date: August 31, 2022).
Businesses, pharmacies, and clinics in Rwanda that possess these batches are instructed to return them to their source.
Importers are urged to furnish relevant information within a 10-day timeframe. Meanwhile, reports suggest that these Fluconazole batches are still in use in Kenyan hospitals, with no official statement from the Kenyan Ministry of Health regarding discontinuation.
Fluconazole tablets serve various medical purposes, including the treatment of infections.
Discussions between the leaders occurred in Islamabad, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations, capacity building, and improving trade cooperation.
The meeting also addressed the role of the Pakistani diaspora in Rwanda’s development. The Pakistani Embassy in Rwanda played a crucial role in facilitating this visit, the second of its kind in Rwanda’s history on the Asian continent.
In a related development last August, Rwandan President Kagame received 12 new ambassadors, including Pakistan’s Naeem Ullah Khan. Ambassador Naeem emphasized the longstanding relations and friendship between Rwanda and Pakistan, pledging efforts to strengthen this bond. The two nations have previously signed a cooperation agreement in the health sector and security. Amb. Naeem expressed plans to explore additional areas of collaboration, such as trade and investment.
Amb. Naeem also highlighted specific initiatives, including connecting Rwandan tea exporters with Pakistan, facilitating the exchange of medical professionals, and exploring trade opportunities. He emphasized the potential of Pakistan’s large market for Rwandan products, such as tea, while mentioning Rwanda’s need for rice, a commodity Pakistan is known for producing. Additionally, he identified a reciprocal need for avocados, as Pakistan requires them, and Rwanda has a surplus.
In the pursuit of strengthening economic ties, Amb. Naeem outlined plans to encourage Pakistani investors to invest in Rwanda. Furthermore, there is a proposal to establish an industrial park in Rwanda. Overall, the discussions underscored the commitment to deepening cooperation and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between Rwanda and Pakistan.
This announcement follows a press conference on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, where Burundi’s President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, indirectly suggested the possible re-closure of borders between the two nations.
Ndayishimye accused Rwanda of supporting the RED Tabara group, responsible for a recent attack on Burundi through the Gatumba area on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Despite the rebels entering Burundi from a border unrelated to Rwanda, Ndayishimiye claimed that since 2015, when suspected coup plotters sought refuge in Rwanda, they were assisted in recovery and provided with equipment.
The Rwandan government promptly dismissed these accusations, asserting that the issues between Burundi and Rwanda should not be entangled.
They emphasized the longstanding relationship between the two nations, rejecting any disturbance to it.
Ndayishimiye’s request to Rwanda is to extradite those accused of attempting to overthrow the Burundian government, who sought refuge in Rwanda since 2015—an action Rwanda claims violates international laws governing refugees.
Ndikuriyo acknowledged efforts to engage with the Rwandan government, advocating for the return of those accused. He emphasized that if tried individuals are imprisoned and Rwanda abides by international laws, concerns about harboring criminals would be addressed. Despite existing disagreements, Ndikurio stressed the importance of dialogue.
As the leader of the CNDD-FDD Party, Ndikurio pledged to initiate discussions with counterparts in the RPF Inkotanyi in Rwanda to seek a resolution. He emphasized the need for dialogue, expressing doubt that individuals with significant life experiences would jeopardize the historical relations between the two countries.
These relations were restored in 2021 when borders were reopened. Despite Burundi accusing Rwanda of sheltering coup plotters, it also accused Rwanda of supporting those aiming to disrupt security.
Since 2017, the FLN group has been launching attacks on Rwanda from Burundi. Notably, leaders of the FLN, Paul Rusesabagina and Nsabimana Callixte, revealed that senior soldiers in Burundi aided the group.
Actually, it is only normal to feel pain after losing someone that you deemed as the most precious. Going through a temporal depression, having feelings of anger or shame are just as typical as brushing one’s teeth in the morning.
Though all these are common during a break-up episode, there is a line to what shouldn’t be gone beyond. If you experience symptoms like intense sadness, change in appetite, withdrawal from hobbies, trouble sleeping for at least 2 weeks after a break-up, it might be a sign of depression.
Sometimes even deleting their number doesn’t work because you have already memorized it. You find yourself calling them even when you know you shouldn’t. Or sometimes, you find yourself on the way to their home. This is how break-ups are hard to deal with. However, if you are reading this, I want you to get some tips that can help you deal with a break-up without developing some lethal mental illnesses like depression, self-hatred, etc.
{{Express your emotions}}
Speaking from experience, my first advice is to express your emotions. Hiding how you feel just for the sake of acting strong is the worst thing I have seen, because in the end, you’ll recognize that you were only masking a wound and not patching it. Just as time goes, the wound will get even worse bearing something even worse than the wound itself.
{{Don’t jump into new relationships}}
Secondly, avoid new relationships. Some people say that ‘love wound is healed by a new love’, but that is not a good idea in the slightest. Work on yourself, heal yourself, be complete and make yourself happy again. Before you do all that, do not consider new relationships unless you want another sudden breakup.
{{Reconnect with friends}}
Meet friends. Remember, friends offer free therapy. If you’re blessed enough to have real friends, connect with them. If you find it even possible, make a calendar of plans with them. That will help you to feel surrounded and happy again.
{{Give yourself time to grieve}}
Has someone ever told you to cry it out? That’s because that is really helpful. Do not pretend to be happy when you’re only hurting inside. If you don’t want people to see you, go in your room and cry all you want. That will really lessen the pain in your heart and speed up the recovery.
Even though break-ups are hard to deal with, there is always room for recovering and starting a new life. Remember that the other person is not more precious than you are. Even if it is easier said than done, ‘you were great before they came, you can even be greater’!
President Félix Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, during a campaign rally on December 18, 2023, pledged to seek parliamentary approval for declaring war on Rwanda, once the M23 rebel group attacks Goma town. This statement reflected the President’s consistent rhetoric throughout 2023, envisioning Rwanda as the 27th province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In a recent interview on January 2, 2024, Lt Col Simon Kabera reiterated the security and resilience of Rwanda. He emphasized that the Rwandan Army is impervious to threatening words, with a steadfast commitment to safeguarding citizens. Despite the sowing of hatred rooted in historical events, Lt Col Kabera asserted that efforts to divide Rwandans are futile, as the citizens reject such divisive ideologies.
Lt Col Kabera reassured the public, stating that those attempting to separate Rwandans have no chance of success, as the citizens remain united. He emphasized the army’s broader mission, not limited to border security but extending to the well-being and development of the people. Lt Col Kabera urged the public not to be disturbed by provocations, highlighting the country’s past successes in achieving security amid challenges.
Tourism, recreational activities, and daily life in Rwanda were encouraged to continue without disruption. Lt Col Kabera expressed confidence in the RDF’s ability to fulfill its responsibility in managing the security of Rwandans, citing positive feedback from the Rwanda Governance Scorecard, where security and stability received a high satisfaction rating of 93.63%.
Furthermore, Lt Col Kabera affirmed that people should continue their daily activities, emphasizing collaboration between the military and the public in building the country. The Rwandan Army’s commitment to social welfare was underscored, with examples of annual operations providing medical services and infrastructure development, including the settlement of 120 families in Rugerero Model Village.
Since the enactment of the immigration policy, which grants ministers the authority to detain illegal immigrants and facilitate their deportation to another country, the UK has granted permission for these individuals to stay.
The government has recently confirmed that applications approved under this policy will result in migrants being sent to Rwanda while their claims are processed.
According to The Telegraph, this directive implies that asylum seekers arriving after the issuance of this order in July 2023 will be initially directed to Rwanda during the processing period for approval or rejection.
The governments of Rwanda and the United Kingdom solidified their commitment to collaboration on migration issues and economic development through a revised agreement signed on December 15, 2023, following the Supreme Court’s determination that the initial plan was legally unacceptable.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized that this agreement addresses concerns about Rwanda’s safety for immigrants and asylum seekers.
The approval of Parliament members was a crucial step to confirm Rwanda’s safety. Initial voting by deputies has been favorable, and the pending decision from members of the second chamber of UK’s parliament anticipated in January 2024.
Out of this collective need for healing and remembrance, the Ibuka family emerged. Established in Belgium on August 16, 1994, by Rwandans residing there at the time, Ibuka stands as an organization dedicated to the welfare of Genocide survivors, expanding its reach across continents.
Ibuka’s journey began with Ibuka-Belgium, followed by the establishment of branches in Switzerland, Rwanda, Europe, France, Italy, Holland, Germany, the USA, Senegal, Maine-USA, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Canada in subsequent years.
The inception of Ibuka in Belgium, given Rwanda’s historical ties with the country, was a challenging endeavor that demanded dedication, patience, and relentless effort, with some Rwandans and Belgians sacrificing nights until Ibuka materialized.
The organization’s first significant action took place on April 7, 1995, a poignant date when over a million Tutsis fell victim to the 1994 Genocide. Ibuka-Belgium played a crucial role in subsequent actions, including creating and publishing documents to expose Genocide suspects globally.
Advocacy efforts gained momentum as Ibuka members, guided by Rwandan government initiatives, pursued justice against those denying or trivializing the Genocide against the Tutsi, bringing perpetrators to trial in Belgium and France.
Belgium’s proactive stance in prosecuting Genocide perpetrators became evident, with the Court of Assizes in Brussels hosting trials from 2001 onwards. Notable cases include the Nuns of Sovu, Samuel Ndashikirwa, Etienne Nzabonimana, Bernard Ntuyahaga, Ephrem Nkezabera, and the landmark Fabien Neretse case in 2019. Recent convictions in 2023, such as Twahirwa Séraphin and Pierre Basabose, signify continued efforts to seek justice.
In France, trials against individuals like Captain Simbikangwa, Octavien Ngenzi, Tito Barahira, Claude Muhayimana, Bucyibaruta Laurent, Hategekimana Philippe, and Dr. Sosthène Munyemana resulted in convictions and 24-year sentences, marking a step forward in addressing Genocide-related crimes.
Beyond legal pursuits, Ibuka’s collaborative efforts with authorities, Rwandan Embassies, and city leaders have led to the erection of monuments in various European cities. These memorials serve as poignant reminders of the Genocide against the Tutsi, providing spaces for survivors and the public to reflect on the tragic events of 1994 and engage in discussions to prevent such atrocities from recurring.
In Belgium, monuments like “La Stèle Commémorative” in Brussels and the “Plaque commémorative” in Charleroi stand as enduring tributes. France boasts multiple monuments, including those in Cluny, Dieulefit, Bègles, and Paris’s “Jardin de la Mémoire.” Switzerland recently opened a commemorative site in Lausanne.
Italy contributes to the remembrance efforts with monuments like “Parco Nemorense” in Rome and one in Tradate’s Children’s Park. Turin’s “Piazza delle Vittime del Genocidio dei Tutsi” and Buttigliera d’Asti’s road further emphasize the global commitment to preserving memory.
In England, memorials in Plymouth and Liverpool, along with planned additions, demonstrate the international scope of remembrance efforts. Africa’s sole memorial is in Senegal, located at “La Place du Souvenir Africain.”
These endeavors underscore the ongoing commitment to uncovering the truth about the Genocide against the Tutsi. The collective efforts of Genocide survivors spanning European, African, and American continents continue to bear witness in courts and contribute to over 1000 documents demanding the arrest of Genocide suspects.
As Ibuka marks 29 years abroad, the question lingers: Will the unity forged in the face of adversity prevail in the next 30 years? Looking back, survivors who once endured the Genocide are now elders, using their strength to empower the younger generation. The journey towards lasting unity and remembrance remains a shared responsibility for the global community.
{{During commemoration events held in Belgium, survivors take the moment to share their testimonies.}}
On the morning of January 1, 2024, life in the City of Kigali continued its rhythmic pulse, with individuals resuming their daily pursuits. IGIHE embarked on a journey through diverse corners of Kigali, engaging with residents who, while expressing contentment about the new year, revealed their aspirations and goals for 2024.
Godiose Mukanizeyimana, a business owner in Kimisagara Market, shared his commitment to kickstart the year with work, driven by the belief that a diligent beginning sets the tone for success. Despite acknowledging the challenges of the past year, he remains optimistic, hoping for a positive turn of events in 2024.
In a similar vein, Paul, a motorcyclist, acknowledged the initial scarcity of customers on the first day but expressed a determination to break free from the shackles of rent by the year’s end.
Undeterred by the slow start, he envisioned a year of hard work and divine assistance to achieve his aspirations.
Adeline Musabwasoni, aiming to expand her economic horizons, declared a commitment to hard work and a hopeful outlook for 2024. Reflecting on the challenges of the previous year, she remains resilient, envisioning a future marked by diligence and tangible achievements.
Jean Imanakiza aspires to transform his life by relinquishing alcohol, recognizing its hindrance to personal progress. Focused on health, financial stability, and self-improvement, he intends to redirect the funds previously spent on alcohol towards constructive endeavors, such as home improvements.
The common thread woven through these diverse aspirations is the belief that the first day of the year serves as an auspicious moment to set goals in motion.
As Rwandans step into 2024, their dreams light the way forward, creating a tapestry of hope, resilience, and determination. The journey has begun, and the year ahead holds promises of growth, transformation, and the fulfillment of cherished aspirations.
Rwanda boasts a total of 15 banks, including 10 commercial banks and the Development Bank of Rwanda. These institutions not only facilitate savings but also provide essential loans for developmental endeavors, actively promoting economic growth.
Encouraged by a successful campaign urging citizens to use banks instead of unconventional methods to safeguard their money, the banking sector has emerged as one of the country’s fastest-growing segments. Statistics from the Central Bank of Rwanda reveal an 18.1% increase in the banking sector, attributed to rising capital and customer deposits.
As of June 2023, the assets of the 10 commercial banks stood at Rwf5,153 billion, soaring from Rwf4,445 billion in June 2022. By September 2023, the assets further escalated to Rwf5,364 billion, as reported by the Central Bank of Rwanda.
Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers’ Association (RBA), highlighted the sector’s robust development during a December 2023 meeting with Indian investors. He noted a substantial increase of over Rwf211 billion in the assets of the 10 commercial banks from June to September 2023.
Ntore emphasized the stability and strength of Rwandan banks, with a commendable capital adequacy ratio of 21%, exceeding the Central Bank’s stipulated 15%. This stability is reflected in the impressive financial performance, as all banks collectively earned Rwf96.9 billion in the first quarter of 2023, a 30.2% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
The Central Bank’s data revealed a remarkable 40% growth in the number of bank depositors and a 39% increase in borrowers from June 2022 to June 2023. In contrast, microfinance institutions and credit organizations experienced a 15% decrease in loan applicants during the same period.
Ntore pointed out the widespread presence of banks across the country, leveraging technology and collaborations with telecommunication companies. The adoption of digital banking channels is evident, with a 59% increase in mobile money transactions and a 191% surge in remittances through banking channels.
Internet banking also witnessed substantial growth, with a 67% increase in money sent and a significant rise in the number of transfers.
However, I am sure your answer would have changed if the word ‘books’ was replaced by ‘movies’. Does that hit the bell? Did I remind you of your favorite movie scene? While we’re still at it, how many movies have you watched ever since you got a laptop or smartphone? Not a number that you can remember, right?
If we all try to be honest, we can agree on the fact that watching a captivating movie is as sweet as melting a cold strawberry ice cream on a sunny Sunday. Reading a book, on the other hand, is boring, and requires strength and thinking. This is why most of us prefer holding a laptop and lazily watch a movie, than putting our minds into reading something.
Nevertheless, haven’t you ever thought that people who try to read are always a bit wiser? I mean they always have an idea about almost everything, right? According to Benjamin Franklin, “The person who deserves most pity is a lonesome one on a rainy day who doesn’t know how to read”.
Do you think that is based on the mere fact that reading is fun? If that was true, I am sure movies, and not books, would have been the best candidate. If we go into the depths, we will be able to learn about a hundred reasons why books are better than movies in almost every single aspect.
{{Reading improves memory}}
When reading a book, you’ve got a lot to do other than just sitting and painting your eyes on a paper. You have to recall a character, their description and everything about them whenever they are mentioned. This exercise given to our memory helps it to strengthen its capacity. This is why reading is believed to help people who have clinical symptoms related to recalling things.
{{Books form better mental images}}
Just imagine you’re reading a novel. By a simple description as “a tall brown guy with broad shoulders and a lithe body whose smell is evocative of the lavender flowers blooming gracefully on the river side”, the brain can create a more captivating character that is not as easy to depict in visual images. This is why reading is deemed as an active exercise while watching movies is just passive.
{{Expanded vocabulary and grammar}}
Movies can also help you improve your vocabulary, but when it comes to books, that is almost their specialty. Books expose us to new phrases and figures of speech that are almost impossible to notice in a movie. This is because while watching movies, one is attentive to the images in front of them while every word, punctuation and space counts while reading.
{{Sense of accomplishment}}
If you have read a book and ended it, you must understand my feelings on this. Watching your hands as you flip the last page of a book and reflecting on the long journey of reading gives a sense of accomplishment, success and pleasure that just watching a movie can never give.
Movies are, in their own way, appealing and fantastic. However, books are much better in terms of knowledge and experience. I am not telling you to stop watching your ride-or-die movies, because even I can’t, but it is almost time you started considering reading books too. If you give it a try, you’ll learn that books are just blessings in disguise!
