Author: admin

As he briefed the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) recently, the Director General of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), Telesphore Ndabamenye, explained that the projects, which will irrigate up to 4,000 hectares of land, include Mpanga, Mahama I, and Mahama II.

Ndabamenye highlighted that the Mpanga project, which has an $18 million budget, will irrigate 650 hectares. However, its implementation has been delayed due to the lack of electricity necessary to operate the water pumps that will draw water from the Akagera River.

'The engines needed to initiate the trials are expected to arrive in August, with operations scheduled to commence in October 2025,' he noted.

The Mahama I project, which will irrigate 1,225 hectares at a cost of $27 million, and Mahama II, covering 1,900 hectares at a cost of $32 million, are both expected to be completed by December 2025.

Ndabamenye explained that the variation in project costs is due to factors such as the size of the land to be irrigated, the nature of the soil, and the power requirements for water pumping.

In addition to these projects, Rwanda is also pursuing two other major initiatives. One, funded by the World Bank, is the CDAT project, which will irrigate 11,000 hectares and is expected to be completed by 2027.

The other, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), is KIIWP2, which will cover 2,200 hectares and is scheduled for completion by 2028.

To achieve its goal of irrigating 500,000 hectares of land to combat climate change, Rwanda will require substantial investment and swift implementation of these projects.

Funding for these initiatives has been provided through loans from the Export-Import Bank of India (India Exim Bank), as well as other domestic financing sources.

These irrigation projects are expected to boost Rwanda’s irrigated land area from the current 70,000 hectares to 130,000 hectares by 2029, supporting sustainable agricultural growth and enhancing food security.

The $77 million irrigation projects will be implemented in Kirehe District.

IGIHE

He invested in infrastructure projects, particularly in real estate developments that have completely transformed the face of the country.

In a youth-focused program on Rwanda Television called 'Password’, Dennis Karera shared how he ventured into business, the various roles he undertook in the army that liberated the country, and also offered advice to young people.

Karera’s story begins in Uganda, where he was born as a refugee, like many other Rwandans who were exiled because of the bad governance that existed in Rwanda at the time.

After enduring the hardships of exile, Karera, together with other energetic young men, decided to join the Ugandan army as a way to learn how they could one day fight for rights to return to their homeland.

'We felt that it wasn’t enough to simply be refugees where we were, living there unhappily. So, we decided to join the Ugandan army, saying to ourselves, 'Let’s go and learn how we might find a way forward.’'

'We went and became soldiers while we were still very young. We joined the war, most of us aged 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25, driven by the conviction that we could not continue living as refugees.'

He explained that the struggle to liberate the country was not easy, but that as challenges increased, they gained new knowledge and became even more determined, because they had a purpose and a goal to fight for.

'There were many challenges. We were young, but should we have given up just because we were young? The idea was: you are there, so fight for this cause, and indeed, that work was done. Honestly, if we hadn’t been young, I doubt we would have had the same courage,' he said.

Kigali Heights, built by Denis Karera, was recently purchased by the Rwandan company Yyussa.

In 1992, a meeting was held in Volcanoes National Park, where military operations were being coordinated. It was a gathering to pool ideas and discuss what would be done after defeating the enemy. Everyone had an opportunity to share what they thought they could contribute in order to achieve complete liberation for the country.

After the struggle to liberate the country and stop the Genocide against the Tutsi, there followed another battle, that of building the development of a nation that had been devastated.

Many of those who played a role in the country’s liberation initially worked in various government positions, while others chose to invest in different sectors.

Karera also worked for the government in different roles, including in security services, the Ministry of Education, and others, although from time to time he also engaged in business activities.

In 1997, he requested a bank loan of 70 million Rwandan francs (Frw), presenting a project he wanted to implement and explaining how it would have a positive impact on society.

Although it was uncommon for an individual to seek such a large loan at the time, he was eventually approved and received the funds in phases, and the venture turned out to be successful.

'Within two years, the project was doing extremely well. I repaid the millions and was left with resources to continue growing my businesses,' hennoted.

Through Savannah Creek Development Company, Karera is building modern buildings in Nyarutarama, in the areas formerly known as Kangondo and Kibiraro.

After concluding his government service, he reflected on how he could contribute both to his personal growth and the country as a whole. While initially considering continuing his previous activities, he decided that expanding them would be a more impactful approach.

In 2008, he embarked on a project valued at 500 million Rwandan francs. He applied for a loan from the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), secured the funding, and successfully executed the project, which progressed smoothly.

After a short period, he returned to the bank to request a loan of Frw 1 billion, embarking on a major project to construct the Crown Conference Hall in Nyarutarama. Located near the Tennis Club and Golf Course, this venue hosts a wide range of meetings and events.

He continued expanding his business ventures, and in 2011, he sought out business partners. Starting with an initial investment of Frw 1 billion, he and his partners successfully raised about $40 million, which they used to embark on groundbreaking projects. This led to the construction of Kigali Heights, a landmark development in the city.

Inaugurated in 2016, the building was later sold to Yyussa, a Rwandan-owned company, for approximately $31 million (equivalent to over Frw 43.8 billion).

Karera also shared that he remains active in business and, along with his partners, now manages investments worth at least $200 million (over Frw 280 billion) across various sectors.

One of the most promising projects currently underway is being developed by Savannah Creek Development Company, which is modernizing the Kangondo neighborhood. The project will feature 600 residential units, including apartments and unique housing structures that reflect Kigali’s distinctive architecture.

The housing units will be designed in a range of styles, such as Tuscan, Classical, Mediterranean, Contemporary, and Apartment designs, to cater to the purchasing power of different buyers. The project is expected to cost at least $60 million.

The buildings being constructed in Nyarutarama are modern in design and construction.

Businessman Denis Karera emphasized that young people should be bolder and more courageous.

Advice to young people

Karera also emphasized that when you perform well, it gets noticed, helping to build a strong reputation and open doors of opportunity. He encouraged young people to dedicate themselves fully to everything they do.

He explained that having a clear vision of who you want to become from a young age is crucial, as it helps you stay focused on your goals.

'Let me offer some guidance to young people: start preparing now for the person you want to become in the future. Begin to envision yourself and ask, 'Who are the people doing the things I see and hear about?’ To expand your knowledge, you need to listen attentively.
Today, there are many distractions, unlike in our time when we didn’t even have mobile phones,' he said.

Karera urged young people to continue broadening their knowledge through reading diverse books, as reading expands the mind. He also suggested educational trips and engaging in meaningful conversations as valuable ways to learn.

Karera further reminded young people to uphold truth and integrity, avoiding anything that could undermine their dreams.

Denis Karera addressing the audience at the inauguration of Kigali Heights.

Crown Conference Hall, located in Nyarutarama, is one of Denis Karera’s projects.

President Kagame attended the official inauguration of the Kigali Heights building in 2016.

IGIHE

Nyungwe National Park has introduced new aerial experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery from above, places that are otherwise unreachable by foot, deep within the dense forest.

To solve this, the park has introduced new aerial experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery from above, places that are otherwise unreachable by foot, deep within the dense forest. While the famous Canopy Walk has long been a favorite, a new activity—ziplining—is redefining how tourists interact with Nyungwe’s natural wonders.

Ziplining is a thrilling experience where visitors glide above the forest suspended on secure cables, offering panoramic views and a new perspective of the park. Though new to Nyungwe, ziplining has existed globally for centuries, traced back to 250 BC in China or India, where merchants used ropes strung between mountains to move goods efficiently. Today, that same principle powers adventure, science, and tourism.

In Nyungwe, the zipline features three routes named after local wildlife, like the chimpanzee. The longest route stretches 1,020 meters, and the entire journey totals 1,850 meters. The experience begins in Gisakura, where trained guides welcome visitors and ease their nerves, especially for first-timers. They explain the safety procedures, provide harnesses, and ensure tourists are securely fastened before launch. The guides lead the way, preparing the landing area in advance, which is equipped with brakes to reduce speed and ensure a safe finish.

Though rare, a rider may stop mid-air. In such cases, guides are trained to reach the person using hand trolleys and safely escort them to the end.

According to one foreign technician involved in building the zipline, 'Many fear falling, but it’s virtually impossible. These cables can hold several tons. It’s completely safe.' He praised Rwanda’s commitment to quality, calling Nyungwe’s zipline one of the best in Africa, thanks to its length, views, and strategic location.

This expert, who has helped build ziplines in over 10 countries, including South Africa, Ghana, and the DRC, said Nyungwe stands out. 'Visitors will immediately notice the difference. The air is fresh, and the scenery is unique,' he said, revealing that construction costs exceeded $1 million.

He expressed confidence in the Rwandan team trained to manage and maintain the facility, saying, 'They know what to do. They’re skilled technicians who can solve any issue.'

The zipline is expected to boost tourism to Nyungwe National Park, with projections of up to 9,000 visitors in the next five years.

Right next to the canopy walk

Just a short walk from the zipline is the Canopy Walk, a 170-meter-long suspended bridge that rises 70 meters above ground. Before crossing, guides explain safety and techniques, then lead the group, sharing insights about the surrounding flora such as the symbolic Igishigishigi tree.

From the bridge, you can spot birds feeding on nearby trees and take breathtaking photos. Guides help with ideal angles and safe photo spots. The bridge supports up to eight people and can carry up to four tons.

The round trip from the bridge back to the visitor center takes around 40 minutes on foot, with the path offering encounters with native plants, animals, and trees, each explained in detail by the guides.

In 2021, Nyungwe’s economic value was estimated at $4.8 billion. In 2024, Rwanda’s tourism revenue reached $647 million, up 4.3% from the previous year. The number of visitors to Nyungwe alone rose by 20% compared to 2023.

This shows how Nyungwe continues to attract local and international tourists, with discounted prices encouraging Rwandans to explore their own natural heritage.

Above all, Nyungwe is a powerful reminder of the deep bond between people and biodiversity.

Nyungwe National Park has introduced new aerial experiences that allow visitors to enjoy the scenery from above.

Ziplining is a thrilling experience where visitors glide above the forest suspended on secure cables, offering panoramic views and a new perspective of the park.

The longest route stretches 1,020 meters, and the entire journey totals 1,850 meters.

In Nyungwe, the zipline features three routes named after local wildlife, like the chimpanzee.

The canopy walkway

The round trip from the bridge back to the visitor center takes around 40 minutes on foot, with the path offering encounters with native plants, animals, and trees, each explained in detail by the guides.

Just a short walk from the zipline is the Canopy Walk, a 170-meter-long suspended bridge that rises 70 meters above ground.

From the bridge, you can spot birds feeding on nearby trees and take breathtaking photos.

IGIHE

The Bank’s presence at the event reflects its continued efforts to build meaningful connections with the diaspora and offer convenient, tailored financial solutions that support long-term investment ambitions in Rwanda.

As part of its engagement, I&M Bank will provide on-the-ground support for account opening, showcase investment opportunities in Rwanda’s growing real estate sector including mortgages, construction loans, and plot acquisition financing—and introduce attendees to its high-interest savings accounts and one-on-one advisory services.

These offerings are designed to help diaspora clients secure and grow their assets back home, with greater ease and confidence.

This initiative aligns with I&M Bank’s broader mission to increase financial accessibility and promote prosperity among Rwandans living abroad. Over the past few years, the Bank has conducted similar outreach programs in Europe and several African countries, strengthening its role as a trusted financial partner for diaspora communities.

Speaking ahead of the convention, Yves Kayihura, Head of Retail Banking at I&M Bank, emphasized the importance of removing barriers for diaspora clients.

'For many Rwandans living abroad, the desire to invest or build back home is strong, but navigating the process can be challenging. Our role is to make that experience easier, more transparent, and ultimately rewarding,' he said.

By participating in the Rwanda Convention in Dallas, I&M Bank reaffirms its commitment to customer-centric banking and its promise to bring services closer to where Rwandans live, work, and dream, no matter how far from home.

Speaking ahead of the convention, Yves Kayihura, Head of Retail Banking at I&M Bank, emphasized the importance of removing barriers for diaspora clients.

IGIHE

“Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions to finalize the 60 Day CEASEFIRE, during which time we will work with all parties to end the War,” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.

“The Qataris and Egyptians, who have worked very hard to help bring Peace, will deliver this final proposal,” said Trump.

He also urged Hamas to accept the deal. “I hope, for the good of the Middle East, that Hamas takes this Deal, because it will not get better – IT WILL ONLY GET WORSE,” Trump added.

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on July 1, 2025. Trump said on Tuesday that Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions to finalize a 60-day ceasefire to end the conflict in Gaza. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

Xinhua

The agreement, brokered by the United States, was expected to usher in a new phase of stability. However, observers say the success of this process depends on follow-up dialogue between the Congolese government, the AFC/M23 movement, and the eastern Congolese communities, especially the Tutsi and other groups that the movement says it is protecting. Final talks are expected to take place in Qatar.

But just three days after signing the accord, Kinshasa launched drone strikes on Minembwe, a highland town in South Kivu inhabited by Congolese Tutsi civilians, namely the Banyamulenge, many of whom are the very people the government is expected to engage in negotiations.

On June 30, as the country marked 65 years of independence, a Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drone bombed a civilian aircraft delivering humanitarian aid to Minembwe. The attack injured several people, including a traditional leader and an 8-year-old child.

The town has long faced isolation, an economic blockade, and a lack of state protection. Residents continue to survive under harsh conditions with little outside assistance. The drone strike did not target AFC/M23 fighters or their allies such as the Twirwaneho self-defense groups, but struck civilians instead, an incident many analysts describe as an attack on hope rather than a military target.

More troubling is the timeline: a full week before the Washington peace agreement was signed, Africa Intelligence reported that the DRC government had already taken delivery of the drones. This suggests that while Kinshasa was preparing to sign for peace, it was simultaneously preparing for war.

These developments raise fundamental questions about the government’s sincerity. How can a state pursue peace while investing in tools of destruction? How can it sit at the negotiating table with the same communities it targets from the air?

Observers say these actions undermine trust and cast doubt on Kinshasa’s commitment to a political solution. What was presented as diplomacy increasingly appears to be a performance aimed at the international community, rather than a genuine effort to achieve peace.

This approach, experts argue, does not reflect statesmanship but rather deliberate sabotage of the peace process.

For lasting peace in the Great Lakes region, political will must replace symbolic gestures. The cycle of violence will not end through drone attacks or coercion. The DRC leadership must abandon militarized responses and embrace inclusive dialogue, seeing its own citizens not as enemies, but as essential partners in building peace.

Because, as recent events have made clear, you cannot bomb your way into peace.

But just three days after signing the accord, Kinshasa launched drone strikes on Minembwe, a highland town in South Kivu inhabited by Congolese Tutsi civilians

Kayitare S.

At the center of this secluded escape was a hotel known as Canard Sauvage, officially owned by a Belgian man named Paul Henrio. Yet, according to locals and those who observed events at the time, the hotel was effectively under the control of Habyarimana himself, along with Colonel Elie Sagatwa (his brother-in-law), Félicien Kabuga, and the then-mayor of the former Muhazi Commune, Nkurunziza.

The hotel was located in what used to be Kabare Sector, in the former Muhazi Commune. Eugène Mutamba, a 54-year-old man who was born and raised in this area, recalls growing up right next to this hotel and occasionally seeing President Habyarimana visit.

'This was Habyarimana’s hotel, shared with others close to him, what we could call a clique. I’ve known it since 1984—1985; we lived just across from it,' Mutamba told IGIHE.

When Habyarimana was present, the hotel was strictly off-limits to the public. 'Whenever he came, we would go stand by the roadside, and our parents would say, 'There goes the President,’ as he passed. Once he arrived at the hotel, no one else could enter. He had a house down the slope here, I don’t know if he ever stayed in it.'

Just nearby, Habyarimana’s son-in-law, Alphonse Ntirivamunda, had a large piece of land. Ntirivamunda, married to Jeanne Habyarimana, fled Rwanda and died in Belgium in 2020 after being accused of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Mutamba, like other locals, said Ntirivamunda acquired the land by force.

'They came and took it. They just measured land and displaced people without compensation. That’s what dictatorship was like. Today, under the Unity Government, that could never happen, a citizen cannot be removed from their land without due process.'

Another resident, Isaie Rusanganwa, shared similar experiences. 'We were peacefully living there when Habyarimana and the white man came, surveyed the land, made us sign papers, and started construction. They even gave us jobs.'

But he said they were never compensated. 'After construction began, they made us sign documents, but we never received a single franc. Later, my cousin and I went to ask the mayor, Nkurunziza, why we hadn’t been paid. We told him we were growing desperate.'
According to Rusanganwa, the mayor reacted angrily: 'He told us, 'How dare you question the President? The land belongs to him now. Who do you think you are?’'

Undeterred, Rusanganwa confronted the injustice: 'I asked him, 'Did Habyarimana come all the way from Gisenyi just to take our land? Where did he expect us to go—into the sky?’ The mayor told me, 'Let me show you how I deal with people like you.’ We ran away. Later, I returned and became a worker there, just to survive.'

Rusanganwa said he worked at the hotel and frequently saw Habyarimana, Kabuga, and Sagatwa together.

'I saw Kabuga with my own eyes, with the President and Sagatwa. When they were there, I worked as a helper under military supervision. Our job was just to wash dishes in the lake. You’d only move if a soldier told you to.'

The tide turns

In 1993, as the liberation war intensified, the Canard Sauvage hotel became a training ground for French soldiers sent to protect Habyarimana. When defeat became inevitable, Paul Henrio, who was still listed as the legal owner, fled back to Belgium. From 1993 to 2004, the hotel was abandoned and overtaken by wild vegetation.

Donatien Murenzi, who had grown up nearby but later moved to Belgium, learned that the property had been deserted. In 2004, knowing the history of the area, Murenzi returned to Belgium and purchased the property from Henrio. He later acquired additional surrounding plots from local residents.

'I went to the Rwandan Embassy and made the purchase. When I returned, I expanded the land and took time to design a project,' Murenzi said.

He renamed the site from Canard Sauvage to Muhazi Beach Resort, which has since become a renowned hospitality destination in the Eastern Province.

'The idea to invest here came from the leadership’s encouragement to contribute to rebuilding the country after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, especially by focusing on rural development. Kigali was already growing, so I wanted to create something outside the city.'

He added, 'I chose tourism because I knew the history of this hill in Kabare, surrounded by the iconic areas of Umurambi w’Inyambo, Gakoni, and Kavumu, all connected to Lake Muhazi.'

A new chapter

Today, Muhazi Beach Resort spans seven hectares, with 63 guest rooms overlooking the lake.

It is peaceful, serene, and a world away from the past it once bore witness to. The resort features family suites designed for groups of more than two, each equipped with two bedrooms, a living area, bathroom, and essential amenities.

Spending a night in these suites costs $100. There are also double rooms for two guests, priced at $50 per night, and single rooms available for $30. Each space offers a unique experience, combining comfort with a tranquil view of the lake.

Once marked by forced evictions and military surveillance, this site now welcomes families, travelers, and tourists with open doors.

Rusanganwa said he worked at the hotel and frequently saw Habyarimana, Kabuga, and Sagatwa together.

Eugène Mutamba, a 54-year-old man who was born and raised in this area, recalls growing up right next to this hotel and occasionally seeing President Habyarimana visit.

Murenzi recounting history of the area.

Murenzi recounting history of the area.

Murenzi Donatien during an interview with IGIHE.

The cottage where Habyarimana used to sit with his friends at former Canard Sauvage. That’s how the cottage looked back then, and hasn’t been altered.

Today, Muhazi Beach Resort spans seven hectares, with 63 guest rooms overlooking the lake.

Murenzi renamed the site from Canard Sauvage to Muhazi Beach Resort, which has since become a renowned hospitality destination in the Eastern Province.

The resort features family suites designed for groups of more than two, each equipped with two bedrooms, a living area, bathroom, and essential amenities.

Each space offers a unique experience, combining comfort with a tranquil view of the lake.

[email protected]

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

As temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter this summer, many people notice their skin feeling drier, tighter, or less radiant. The good news is that keeping your skin healthy and hydrated during summer doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple changes to your routine can help you enjoy the season while maintaining your glow.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), maintaining proper skin hygiene, such as gentle cleansing and moisturising, is essential to protect your skin barrier and prevent dryness and irritation, especially during hot weather.

One of the most important things is staying hydrated from the inside out.

One of the most important things is staying hydrated from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water each day helps keep your skin supple and fresh. Including juicy fruits like watermelon, pineapple, and oranges in your diet can also boost hydration while providing vitamins and antioxidants that support healthy skin.

Switching your skincare products for the season can make a big difference. Heavy creams might feel too greasy in the heat, so many dermatologists recommend lighter, water-based moisturisers. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera help your skin retain moisture without clogging pores or feeling sticky.

Of course, sunscreen is essential, even if you’re not spending hours at the beach. The sun’s rays can cause dryness, dark spots, and premature ageing. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protects your skin from damage and keeps your complexion looking smooth and youthful. Remember to reapply every couple of hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Hot weather and dust can also cause breakouts or make your skin feel grimy. Washing your face gently twice a day helps remove sweat, oil, and dirt. Choose a mild cleanser that won’t strip away your skin’s natural moisture, and avoid harsh scrubs that could cause irritation.

Switching your skincare products for the season can make a big difference.

Don’t forget the small protective measures: wearing hats, sunglasses, or light scarves can shield your skin from excessive sun and dust exposure, helping prevent dryness and irritation.

Lastly, stress can often show up on your skin, causing breakouts or dullness. Take time to relax, sleep well, and enjoy activities you love. A calm mind can reflect in a healthier glow.

With just a few smart changes, your skin can stay soft, smooth, and radiant all summer long. Whether you’re working, travelling, or relaxing under the sun, taking a little time to care for your skin is an investment in your confidence and well-being.

Remember: your skin is with you for life—treat it with care, and it will thank you with a glow no filter can match.

A few simple changes to your skin care routine can help you enjoy the season while maintaining your glow.

Rania Umutoni

Grossi is in Rwanda for the inaugural Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA 2025), a major event underway in Kigali that brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from over 30 countries to advance nuclear solutions for sustainable development.

During the meeting, President Kagame and Grossi discussed the transformative potential of nuclear energy in driving economic growth across the continent and reviewed the significant strides Rwanda has made toward the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Micro Reactors. These technologies are part of Rwanda’s broader energy diversification plan, designed to boost electricity production while minimising environmental impact.

Also on Tuesday, President Kagame met with Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, who is attending NEISA 2025. Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and aligning on key continental priorities.

Rwanda is positioning itself to be among the few African nations with a nuclear-powered electricity plant by 2030, according to the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board (RAEB). The country has been investing in nuclear energy for nearly seven years, including strategic partnerships with Russia, the United States, Germany, and Canada.

In 2024, Rwanda signed a memorandum of understanding with Nano Nuclear Energy Inc., an American company, to deploy SMRs and microreactors. This followed a 2023 agreement with Dual Fluid Energy Inc., based in Germany and Canada, to test next-generation nuclear technologies on Rwandan soil.

The reactors Rwanda is pursuing require relatively small land footprints, 15 to 50 hectares, and are designed for high output without posing significant risks to nearby populations. These projects are expected to create up to 250 jobs across key operational categories.

RAEB CEO Dr. Fidel Ndahayo on Monday noted that Rwanda has already identified potential sites for the plant and is conducting detailed feasibility studies to evaluate environmental and safety factors.

“We now have a clear vision of our energy needs and how nuclear can address them,” he said.

Rwanda has also prioritised human capital development in this sector. Over 200 students and RAEB staff have been sent abroad for specialised training, with additional cohorts expected to follow in partnership with countries such as Hungary, China, and South Korea. Domestic academic institutions, including the University of Rwanda, are set to launch nuclear education programs to strengthen local expertise.

At the summit’s opening on Monday, Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente emphasised the urgency of scaling up nuclear solutions to meet Africa’s rising energy demand, particularly as the continent’s population is projected to surpass 3 billion within four decades.

With over 600 million Africans lacking access to electricity, Ngirente said nuclear energy is important as a sustainable, low-carbon solution capable of ensuring energy security and supporting climate resilience across the continent.

Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore highlighted that Rwanda expects its first SMR to be in place by 2026, with operational readiness by 2028. He stressed that smaller nuclear plants—producing up to 100 MW—are more practical for countries like Rwanda, both in terms of scale and safety.

NEISA 2025, organised in collaboration with international bodies such as the IAEA, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, World Nuclear Association, and Nuclear Energy Agency, aims to position nuclear power as a central pillar of Africa’s sustainable development and energy independence.

With current national capacity at 406.4 MW, Rwanda’s adoption of nuclear energy is expected to significantly boost the country’s electricity generation, supporting industrialisation, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Also on Tuesday, President Kagame met with Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, who is attending NEISA 2025.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The Ministerial Instructions, which came into force on April 23, 2025, were issued by the Ministry of Interior and are rooted in a 2022 Prime Minister’s Order.

Signed by Interior Minister Dr Vincent Biruta, the new rules aim to enhance public safety and ensure accountability in the handling of non-lethal guns and related accessories.

What qualifies as a non-lethal gun?

Under the new regulations, a non-lethal gun is defined as a weapon designed to incapacitate a target while minimising the risk of death, permanent injury, or collateral damage.

This includes any portable barreled weapon capable of firing non-explosive projectiles, or which can be modified to do so. The regulations also apply to accessories such as cartridges, bullet components, propellant powder, and related materials.

Permitted uses of non-lethal guns are strictly limited to the incapacitation of domestic or wild animals, exhibition, sports and games, and other authorised activities approved by the competent authority.

A new permit system

At the core of the new regulatory framework is a comprehensive permit system, with authority divided between the Minister of Interior and the Inspector General of Police. The Minister of Interior is tasked with issuing permits for activities such as the importation, exportation, transit, and trading of non-lethal guns and accessories.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police is responsible for permits related to possession, use, transfer, or borrowing of such items.

Anyone seeking a permit must submit a written application to the appropriate authority, accompanied by a range of supporting documents. These include an application letter clearly stating the type of permit being sought, a copy of the applicant’s identity card or passport proving they are at least 21 years of age, and—if applicable—a local business registration certificate.

Individual applicants are also required to present a medical certificate from an authorised doctor confirming balanced mental health.

In addition, applicants must provide documentation outlining the type and quantity of non-lethal guns and accessories they intend to acquire, evidence of a secure storage facility verified by a competent authority, and a curriculum vitae of personnel trained in handling such weapons.

If the application involves bringing non-lethal guns and accessories into Rwanda, a police clearance from the country of export and a usage or trading permit from the country of residence are also necessary. A tax clearance certificate is mandatory for all applicants.

Authorities are required to process permit applications within 30 days from the date of receipt.

Once issued, permits will specify key information such as the date and place of issuance, validity period, country of origin or destination, end-user, type and quantity of the non-lethal guns and accessories involved, their storage location, and, where applicable, the weapon’s serial number and factory details.

Reporting, storage, and inspections

Permit holders are subject to rigorous oversight. They are required to submit a monthly report to the competent authority detailing how the non-lethal guns and accessories were used.

Any incident involving a non-lethal weapon must be reported immediately to the nearest police station. Furthermore, any imported, traded, or transferred items must be reported to the Rwanda National Police for record-keeping.

The instructions also impose strict storage requirements. Non-lethal guns and accessories must be stored securely and separately, and only managed by personnel with adequate training.

To ensure these standards are upheld, a joint inspection team comprising representatives from the Ministry of Interior and the Rwanda National Police will carry out inspections at least every six months, or as frequently as necessary.

Suspension, revocation, and penalties

The regulations lay out clear grounds for suspending or revoking permits. A permit may be suspended for up to six months if an applicant is found to have provided false or incomplete information, submitted forged documents, failed to comply with the instructions, or if national security concerns arise.

In cases where a permit has been suspended twice, or when the competent authority deems it necessary for security reasons, a full revocation may be issued.

In both cases, the Rwanda National Police is authorised to confiscate the non-lethal weapons and accessories in question. The affected permit holder will be notified in writing, with a clear explanation of the reasons for the suspension or revocation and the duration, where applicable.

Six-month transition period

Recognising that some individuals and entities already possess non-lethal firearms, the regulations include a six-month grace period for compliance. Anyone in possession of non-lethal guns or accessories prior to the signing of the new instructions must bring themselves into full compliance by October 23, 2025.

Signed by Interior Minister Dr Vincent Biruta, the new rules aim to enhance public safety and ensure accountability in the handling of non-lethal guns and related accessories.

Wycliffe Nyamasege