Author: admin

Hydrocarbons, which include oil and natural gas, are critical resources that drive industrialization and economic growth worldwide.

For Rwandans, this discovery represents an opportunity to unlock new sources of wealth, create jobs, and accelerate the country’s journey toward becoming a middle-income economy.

Game-Changer for the Economy

Hydrocarbons have historically been a cornerstone of economic development for resource-rich nations. With the discovery of oil and gas reserves, Rwanda can tap into a multi-billion-dollar industry that could dramatically boost its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

By reducing reliance on imported fuel and developing its own energy resources, the country could soon achieve greater energy independence. This will free up foreign exchange reserves that are currently spent on fuel imports, allowing the government to invest more in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

For Rwandan citizens, the economic ripple effects will be profound. A robust hydrocarbon industry will attract both domestic and foreign investors, creating a thriving business ecosystem.

The revenues generated from oil and gas exports can be reinvested into national development projects, improving the quality of life for millions as well as reduction of domestic taxes.

For example, the proceeds from hydrocarbon production could fund the construction of modern roads, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure, accelerating the realization of Vision 2050, Rwanda’s development agenda.

Job creation and industrialization

One of the most immediate benefits of hydrocarbon discovery is the creation of jobs. From exploration and extraction to refining and distribution, the oil and gas sector demands a skilled workforce across a range of disciplines.

Rwandans will have opportunities to train and work in fields such as engineering, geology, logistics, and environmental management. Additionally, the oil and gas industry will stimulate growth in supporting sectors like construction, transportation, and services, creating even more employment opportunities.

Beyond job creation, the hydrocarbon discovery can catalyze industrialization in Rwanda. Oil and gas are not just energy sources—they are raw materials for manufacturing countless products, including plastics, chemicals, and synthetic materials.

By establishing refineries and petrochemical plants, Rwanda can develop a robust industrial base that produces high-value goods for domestic consumption and export. This will not only diversify the economy but also reduce reliance on imported industrial products, enhancing Rwanda’s trade balance and economic resilience.

Energy security and access

Energy access is a fundamental driver of economic and social development. Despite significant progress in expanding access to electricity, many Rwandans still rely on traditional biomass for cooking and lighting.

The development of hydrocarbon resources can significantly improve energy availability and affordability. By increasing the domestic supply of oil and gas, Rwanda can lower the cost of electricity and fuel, making energy more accessible to households, businesses, and industries.

For rural communities, access to reliable and affordable energy can improve agricultural productivity, enable the use of modern farming equipment, and reduce post-harvest losses.

For small businesses and entrepreneurs, lower energy costs can increase profitability and competitiveness. Moreover, clean energy alternatives such as natural gas can help reduce the environmental and health risks associated with traditional cooking fuels, improving the well-being of millions of Rwandans.

Boosting local businesses

The hydrocarbon industry has the potential to create opportunities for local businesses across various sectors. As oil and gas projects are implemented, local suppliers and service providers can participate in the supply chain, offering goods and services such as transportation, catering, equipment maintenance, and construction.

This will foster the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of Rwanda’s economy.

Additionally, by investing in value addition within the country, Rwanda can retain a larger share of the revenues generated from hydrocarbons. For instance, refining crude oil locally instead of exporting it in raw form will create jobs, enhance technical skills, and add value to the economy. It will also ensure that Rwandans benefit directly from the resources extracted from their land.

Improved infrastructure development

Hydrocarbon exploration and production require significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, pipelines, storage facilities, and ports. These investments will not only support the oil and gas industry but also benefit other sectors of the economy.

Improved infrastructure will enhance connectivity, reduce transportation costs, and facilitate trade, contributing to Rwanda’s overall economic growth.

For citizens, better infrastructure translates to improved access to essential services and opportunities. Farmers in remote areas, for example, will have better access to markets, enabling them to sell their produce more efficiently. Students will be able to reach schools more easily, and healthcare services will become more accessible to underserved communities.

Environmental and social considerations

While the hydrocarbon discovery presents immense opportunities, it also comes with challenges that must be carefully managed. Oil and gas exploration can have environmental impacts, such as habitat disruption, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.

To ensure sustainable development, Rwanda must adopt stringent environmental regulations and best practices in the hydrocarbon sector.

Citizens have a crucial role to play in holding companies and policymakers accountable for responsible resource management. By advocating for transparency and environmental stewardship, Rwandans can help ensure that the benefits of hydrocarbon development are realized without compromising the country’s natural resources and ecosystems.

The Multiplier effect on other sectors

The benefits of hydrocarbon discovery will extend beyond the oil and gas sector. For instance, increased government revenues can support investments in education and skills development, preparing a new generation of Rwandans to participate in the knowledge economy.

Tourism, another key sector for Rwanda, can also benefit indirectly from improved infrastructure and energy access, making the country more attractive to visitors.

Moreover, the development of the hydrocarbon industry will enhance Rwanda’s regional and international standing. As a producer of oil and gas, the country can strengthen its economic ties with neighboring nations and position itself as a strategic player in East Africa’s energy landscape.

This will open up new opportunities for trade and cooperation, benefiting citizens through increased economic activity and regional stability.

For Rwandans, the hydrocarbon discovery is more than just an economic milestone—it is a chance to build a brighter future for the nation. By harnessing this resource responsibly, Rwanda can achieve its development goals, reduce poverty, and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

With a shared vision and collective effort, the benefits of this discovery can be felt across generations, transforming Rwanda into a model of sustainable and inclusive growth.

The writer is an Economist.

The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB) recently announced the discovery of oil reservoirs in Lake Kivu.

Teddy Kaberuka

Speaking at a joint news conference with World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Hassan said that laboratory tests conducted at the Kabaile mobile laboratory in the northwestern Kagera region and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified one person in Biharamulo District as infected with MVD.

“Following rumors of an outbreak of MVD in the Kagera region, the government took several measures, including investigating suspected individuals in the affected areas,” she said.

Hassan said that health authorities worked closely with local community leaders to enhance surveillance, establish emergency response teams, and implement additional safety measures.

“Fortunately, the remaining suspected patients tested negative for other illnesses. This confirmed that the Marburg virus case marks the second outbreak of this disease in our country,” she said.

The WHO released a statement last week, saying that the agency had informed its member states of an outbreak of suspected MVD in Kagera.

In March 2023, Tanzania experienced its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease, a rare and deadly hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola. That outbreak also occurred in the Kagera region, which borders Uganda and Rwanda.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Monday confirmed the country’s second outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in two years.

Xinhua

Due to projected cold weather in Washington, D.C., his inauguration ceremony was held indoors — the first time in four decades.

Trump took his oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. Chief Justice usually administers the presidential oath of office, a tradition that has been followed since the first inauguration.

Trump said in his inauguration speech that American decline ends and “the golden Age of America begins right now.”

In his speech, Trump promised to sign “a series of historic executive orders,” including declaring a national emergency at the southern border, enhancing oil and gas production, revoking electric vehicle mandate. He also promised to immediately begin the overhaul of the trade system and “tariff and tax foreign countries.”

Trump pledged to bring down prices, save auto industry, “restore fair, equal and impartial justice,” and bring law and order back to U.S. cities.

Criticizing Democrats’ DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) programs, the newly sworn-in president said this week, he will also end the government policy of “trying to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life,” and “forge a society that is colorblind and merit based.”

He noted that it will be the “official policy” of the United States government that there are only two genders — male and female.

Trump also pledged to build the strongest military the world has ever seen. “We will measure our success, not only by the battles we win, but also by the wars that we end and perhaps most importantly, the wars we never get into,” Trump said, adding that he will be a peacemaker and unifier.

The president reiterated that he will change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and will take back the Panama Canal.

In addition, Trump said that he will, for the second time, pull the United States out of the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change.

Moments before Trump’s swearing-in, JD Vance was sworn in as the vice president.

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol at noon on Monday.

Xinhua

In a striking departure from tradition, the ceremony will host a notable roster of foreign leaders, making it an unprecedented international affair, as no heads of state have previously made an official visit to the U.S. for an inauguration.

Trump, alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance, will take the oath of office on the steps of the Capitol, followed by a day of celebrations, including musical performances, a parade, and inaugural balls.

However, the spotlight will be on the distinguished and unconventional guest list, which includes sitting heads of state, former leaders, and notable political figures from around the globe.

Typically, U.S. presidential inaugurations are domestically focused, attended by American officials, former presidents, and other VIPs, with foreign representation limited to diplomats.

Trump, however, has invited several heads of state and two former leaders to his inauguration, signalling a significant break from protocol.

Many of the invited leaders share ideological alignment with Trump, particularly from right-wing or populist circles, while a few represent diplomatic overtures.

Media reports indicate that an estimated 500,000 guests are expected in total.

Who’s Attending?

The confirmed attendees for President-elect Trump’s second inaugural ceremony include several prominent figures. Argentina’s President Javier Milei, a far-right leader and strong ally of Trump, will be present, with Trump having praised him as a transformative force for Argentina.

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is also expected to attend, though her participation depends on her schedule. Meloni’s potential presence follows her meeting with Trump in Florida in January, which solidified their political rapport.

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has confirmed his attendance, citing his support for Trump’s leadership in the Americas.

Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki, a key figure in European right-wing politics, has also confirmed his presence.

Former President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili, is also expected at Trump’s historic inauguration.

However, several other leaders have faced hurdles preventing their attendance. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a close Trump ally, will not be there due to domestic commitments.

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, often called the 'Trump of the Tropics,' is unable to attend due to a travel ban imposed by Brazil’s Supreme Court, although he has expressed strong support for Trump.

Notable Absences

Notably absent from the guest list are prominent allies from NATO and the European Union, underscoring Donald Trump’s often-contentious relationships with traditional Western powers.

Both UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz were excluded from the event, while far-right figures such as Nigel Farage from the UK and Alice Weidel from Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) were invited.

Despite their previous associations with Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also not be attending. Instead, Modi will send Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar as his representative.

Donald Trump, alongside Vice President-elect JD Vance, will take the oath of office on the steps of the Capitol, followed by a day of celebrations, including musical performances, a parade, and inaugural balls.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The group consists of six females and three males, and the arrests took place on January 17, 2025, as confirmed by Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) spokesperson, Dr. Murangira B. Thierry.

“We have identified nine individuals, including six girls and three boys, who appear in videos circulating on social media showing them engaging in sexual acts. They are under investigation for crimes including drug use, public distribution of obscene material, and engaging in public indecency,” Dr. Murangira stated.

The individuals, aged between 20 and 28, were part of the “Rich Gang” group, where they distributed the explicit videos.

The group includes Ishimwe Patrick, Uwineza Nelly Sany, Gihozo Pascaline, Kwizera Emelyne, Uwase Sariha, Uwase Belyse, Shakira Uwase, Rucyahana David, and Banza Julien.

Emelyne has been trending on social media in recent days after an alleged explicit video of her went viral.

Seven have been arrested, while two are being investigated without detention. They are being held at various RIB stations in Kicukiro, Gikondo, Remera, Kacyiru, and Kimironko as their cases are processed for submission to the Public Prosecution.

The individuals are said to have recorded videos of themselves engaging in sexual acts and shared them with others in exchange for money.

Upon arrest, it was revealed that some of them were using drugs, with several testing positive for cannabis. The levels ranged from 55 to 275, far above the normal range of 0-20.

RIB urges young people to understand that social media platforms should not be used to share obscene content or engage in criminal activities.

Dr. Murangira emphasized, “Recently, some individuals have been creating WhatsApp groups to spread explicit videos. We urge them to stop because such acts are punishable by law, and all social media platforms are considered public spaces.”

IGIHE has learned that similar activities are happening in other groups, such as “Kigali VP HOOKS-UPS,” “VIP Online Sex,” “House Party Show,” and others.

RIB’s preliminary investigation reveals that some individuals have turned the distribution of explicit videos into a business.

Dr. Murangira further stated, “These activities must stop because no one will be able to claim their photos were leaked if it involves connivance.”

The investigation also uncovered that some individuals, including both men and women, encourage others to share explicit content in exchange for large sums of money.

Some even offer phone numbers and invite others to DM them for such content, which constitutes premeditated criminal activity and is punishable by law.

While attending the 30th National Prayer Breakfast, President Paul Kagame emphasized the importance of moral upbringing.

He condemned indecent dressing and stressed that no family or religion advocates for it.

'I observe trends on social media, where young people roam the streets dressed inappropriately, practically naked. What exactly does someone who dresses like that hope to showcase? There is no religion that encourages nudity, nor is there any family that promotes it. But this nudity is not just physical; it also reflects emptiness in the mind, which is the real issue,” the Head of State remarked.

'How can we, as a society, allow such behaviour? As leaders, what responsibilities are we fulfilling if we tolerate such actions? Are we supposed to clothe Rwandans in indecency?'

The crime of distributing explicit content via computers or networks could result in imprisonment for three to five years, along with a fine between one million and three million Rwandan Francs.

Convictions for drug use or pharmaceutical abuse may lead to one to two years of imprisonment or community service.

Eavesdropping, recording, or broadcasting private conversations could lead to imprisonment for six months to one year.

Meanwhile, distributing obscene content via technological means may result in imprisonment for six months to two years.

Kwizera Emelyne among seven arrested for allegedly recording and sharing explicit videos

Gihozo Pascaline is one of the seven individuals arrested after appearing in explicit videos that have been circulating widely on social media.

Ishimwe Patrick alias Bezos created the ‘Rich Gang’ Whatsapp group

Uwineza Nelly Sany was also arrested inn connectionn with circulated explicit videos

Uwase Shakira has been also arrested in connection with appearance in explicit videos.

Uwase Belyse is also among those arrested after circulating explicit videos of themselves.

Uwase Salha has been also arrested.

IGIHE

Speaking on the Italian talk show Che Tempo Che Fa, AP has reported, Francis expressed concern about the impact such policies would have on vulnerable immigrants.

'If true, this will be a disgrace because it makes the poor wretches who have nothing pay the bill for the problem. This won’t do!' he said.

In a telegram sent on Trump’s inauguration day, Francis prayed for America to remain a “land of opportunity” and urged for a society free of hatred and exclusion.

Trump, who prioritized deportations during his campaign, faced criticism from U.S. Catholic leaders.

Cardinal Robert McElroy, incoming Archbishop of Washington D.C., said such policies contradict Catholic teachings about welcoming the stranger.

Similarly, Chicago Cardinal Blasé Cupich described the plans as 'profoundly disturbing.'

Pope Francis has consistently championed the rights and dignity of migrants, asserting that their protection outweighs national security concerns.

Pope Francis has criticized the incoming U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans for mass deportation of immigrants.

IGIHE

The ceasefire ended an Israeli offensive that claimed more than 46,900 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza’s health authorities. The deadly fighting also razed much of Gaza and caused widespread hunger and diseases in the strip.

Among the three released women are Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli and Doron Steinbrecher, a Romanian-Israeli veterinary nurse aged 30, both of whom were abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza outside northern Gaza, and Romi Gonen, 23, who was taken from the Nova music festival.

A live broadcast from Gaza showed the hostages, freed from 471 days of captivity, being transferred from a Hamas vehicle surrounded by armed militants to a Red Cross vehicle, which transported them to Israeli forces.

Members of Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, are seen before the transfer of three Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza City, on Jan 19, 2025. (Photo by Abdul Rahman Salama/Xinhua)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office released photos of the women embracing their mothers at a military compound outside Gaza. Later, helicopters flew them to Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, a suburb of Tel Aviv, where they received medical and psychological care.

The Red Cross earlier informed the Israeli side that their condition was “good.” However, a screenshot of Damari during a video call showed her with a bandaged hand missing two fingers, an injury sustained during her abduction by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. Her mother, Mandy, expressed in a statement her gratitude to supporters, saying, “After 471 days, Emily is finally home.”

Palestinians celebrate the ceasefire deal with Israel in Gaza City, on Jan 19, 2025. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

In Gaza, celebrations erupted in the streets, with people chanting and waving the flag of Palestine. Displaced residents began returning to their homes in northern and southern regions, only to find much of the infrastructure reduced to dust.

Under the ceasefire agreement, Israel is set to release 90 Palestinian detainees on Sunday, primarily women and children from the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Over the next six weeks, Hamas is to release 33 hostages in phases, including women, children, men over 50, the sick, and the injured.

Deceased hostages are expected to be returned in later stages. Israel estimates that about half of the 98 hostages still held in Gaza are alive, though Hamas has not provided confirmation.

This photo taken on Jan. 19, 2025 shows that an ambulance carrying released Israeli hostages arrived at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, Israel. (Xinhua/Chen Junqing)

In Tel Aviv, large crowds gathered at Hostage Square to celebrate and demand adherence to the agreement. Families and friends of the hostages were seen following the news of their release, cheering and bursting into tears as the women were transferred to Israeli forces.

Netanyahu called the release “a great moment, an exciting moment…,” adding that the three “went through hell.”

Meanwhile, Israel Defense Forces Spokesman Daniel Hagari, speaking at a press briefing, warned the military was boosting forces in the West Bank and remaining prepared for military action if Hamas violates the truce.

Palestinians return to the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah on Jan. 19, 2025. The Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement in Gaza came into effect on Sunday, after more than 15 months of deadly fighting. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Abu Ubaida, spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, said on Sunday that Al-Qassam and other Palestinian factions are committed to the ceasefire deal.

“We, along with other resistance factions, declare our full commitment to the ceasefire agreement, but this remains contingent on the enemy’s adherence,” Ubaida emphasized in a televised statement.

Also on Sunday, the first humanitarian aid trucks entered Gaza from Egypt, Palestinian sources confirmed.

Based on the ceasefire agreement, about 600 trucks loaded with humanitarian aid, including 50 fuel trucks, will enter Gaza every day to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The deal, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, aims to end the fighting between Israel and Hamas that was triggered by Hamas’ cross-border assault on Oct. 7, 2023, which resulted in the killing of 1,200 people in Israel and the kidnapping of about 250 others.

People gather in a square to welcome the return of first three Israeli hostages released from the Gaza Strip after the ceasefire took effect, Tel Aviv, Israel, on Jan. 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Zhuolun)

Xinhua

Central to his agenda is the initiation of mass deportations, aimed at removing millions of undocumented immigrants.

Reports indicate that deportation orders are among more than 100 executive orders the incoming Head of State is expected to issue to tackle illegal immigration, shake up the U.S. economy, and refocus domestic and foreign policy goals.

'When President Trump takes office on Monday, there is going to be shock and awe with executive orders — a blizzard of executive orders — on the economy, as well as on the border,' John Barrasso, a senator from Wyoming and the majority whip, intimated to British media.

Steve Bannon, who served in Trump’s first administration, said, 'These days of thunder starting next week are going to be incredibly, incredibly intense.'

The proposed large-scale deportation efforts are expected to affect all undocumented communities, including those from African nations. While African immigrants constitute a smaller percentage of the undocumented population, they still face the threat of detention and removal, leading to family separations and community disruptions.

The logistical challenges of such an expansive operation raise concerns about due process and the humane treatment of detainees.

Many African immigrants find themselves living in the U.S. without legal status due to a variety of factors. For some, the journey begins with overstaying visas after entering the country legally for tourism, education, or business.

Others arrive fleeing conflict, political instability, or economic hardship, often without the proper documentation to apply for asylum or refugee status. Some African migrants also face long delays in the processing of their immigration applications, leaving them vulnerable to falling out of status. These individuals often seek better opportunities for their families, hoping to escape poverty or violence.

While the majority of African immigrants contribute positively to the U.S. economy and society, their undocumented status makes them particularly vulnerable to deportation, further exacerbating their already precarious situations.

During his campaign, Trump frequently criticized Democratic immigration policies, portraying them as lenient and detrimental to national interests.

He stated, “We’re a dumping ground. We’re like a garbage can for the world. That’s what’s happened.”

Such rhetoric not only stigmatizes immigrants but also fosters an environment of fear and hostility, disproportionately affecting African diaspora communities.

At least 11 million undocumented migrants live in the U.S., with about 8 million working in sectors including agriculture and hospitality. They range from those who have never had a visa to those who have overstayed.

Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, said the first to be targeted would be those deemed 'public safety threats and national security threats.'

Sources who spoke to BBC’s U.S. partner CBS intimated that raids to detain and deport migrants living in the U.S. without permission are set to begin on the first full day of Trump’s administration.

Termination of Birthright Citizenship

Another policy under consideration is the termination of birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. This change would directly affect African diaspora families, potentially rendering U.S.-born children stateless and limiting their access to essential services and opportunities.

The controversial policy is facing resistance from civil rights groups. The groups argue that citizenship by birth can only be changed by a constitutional amendment. This would require a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress and ratification by three-quarters of state legislatures — a high bar, given that Republicans control just over half of the seats in the House and Senate, and less than two-thirds of the state legislatures.

Additionally, Trump is likely to cut back on the annual cap for refugee admissions from the 125,000 set by President Joe Biden. Biden had raised the numbers from the historic low of 15,000 set by Trump during his first administration.

In response to these impending challenges, African diaspora organizations and allies are mobilizing to provide support and advocate for humane immigration policies.

Efforts include legal assistance, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with broader immigrant rights movements to resist policies that undermine the dignity and rights of immigrant communities.

As America navigates this new era, the resilience and advocacy of African diaspora communities will be crucial in confronting these obstacles and striving for a more inclusive and just society.

Reports indicate that deportation orders are among more than 100 executive orders the incoming Head of State Donald Trump is expected to issue to tackle illegal immigration, shake up the U.S. economy, and refocus domestic and foreign policy goals.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

A report by United Nations experts released on December 27, 2024, revealed that DRC forces had established a significant base in Lumbishi, located in Kalehe Territory.

Since May 2024, the Congolese army, in collaboration with armed groups like the FDLR, launched attacks in Lumbishi, targeting M23 positions in Masisi Territory, such as Ndumba. Lt. Col. Ndjike told the media that the forces stationed in North and South Kivu launched “Operation Caterpillar” to prevent M23 fighters from expanding their positions in the two provinces.

Following intense clashes on January 18, 2025, M23 fighters captured Lumbishi and advanced to Numbi and Shanje on the morning of January 19, as reported by Kalehe Territory Administrator Thomas Bakenga.

'After taking Lumbishi, they proceeded to Numbi and Shanje, both in Kalehe Territory,' Bakenga said.

As M23 fighters took control of Lumbishi, residents welcomed them with joy, expressing relief at their arrival. They also voiced complaints about crimes committed by the Congolese government forces, the FDLR, and allied militias.

M23 informed Lumbishi residents that they had driven out the FDLR, predominantly composed of remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, putting an end to the community’s suffering caused by the terrorist group.

This included dismantling illegal roadblocks, ending unlawful taxation, stopping sexual violence, preventing child recruitment into armed forces, and addressing other grievances that had plagued the area.

M23 controls Lumbishi and surrounding areas.

IGIHE

The appreciation was voiced on January 16, 2025, as the four-year project officially came to an end during a ceremony that celebrated its achievements.

The event included testimonials from beneficiaries, coffee exhibitions, and tastings, and it was graced by coffee industry stakeholders, TechnoServe staff, and various partners, including representatives from the Government of Rwanda.

The Rwanda INC project, implemented in six districts, was funded by the European Union (EU) with a contribution of €2 million and JDE Peet’s, which provided €500,000.

It sought to enhance Rwanda’s coffee value chain by enabling farmers, washing stations, and service providers to access critical information and financing, ensuring they could produce high-quality coffee for local, regional, and international markets.

TechnoServe’s presence in Rwanda spans over 15 years, during which the organization has empowered more than 80,000 farmers and entrepreneurs.

The Rwanda INC program is one of over 15 projects TechnoServe has implemented in the country, making a profound impact on the coffee sector.

In addition to distributing over 1.9 million coffee seedlings, it supported more than 11,000 coffee farmers.

The initiative also trained 53 young professionals in collaboration with the Coffee Quality Institute, fostering their growth in the coffee sector.

Additionally, 50 Coffee Washing Stations received support to improve their quality and operational efficiency, further strengthening Rwanda’s coffee production capabilities.

Dr. Olivier Kamana, the Permanent Secretary at MINAGRI, praised TechnoServe for its critical role in advancing the nation’s coffee industry.

He highlighted the productive collaboration between TechnoServe and the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), noting the development of quality and sustainable guidelines that will benefit the coffee sector for years to come.

'The decision to transfer ownership of the Digital Farmer Extension Monitoring System to NAEB demonstrates your commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of these interventions,' he noted.

Dr. Kamana reaffirmed the government’s dedication to building upon the achievements of the Rwanda INC project and pledged to expand its successful interventions to other Coffee Washing Stations across the country.

The impact of the project extended to individuals and businesses across the coffee sector.

Christine Vuguziga, co-founder of Ngoma Coffee Washing Station in Nyamasheke District, described how the project transformed her operations.

'The project enabled us to plant 40,000 new coffee trees, which grow faster and adapt to climate changes. We also use a digital application that helps our agronomists address farmers’ issues, resulting in better yields,' she said.

Similarly, Manasseh Hategekimana, a graduate from IPRC Huye College in crop production, expressed his gratitude for the training he received through TechnoServe and the Coffee Quality Institute.

'Before the training, I didn’t see coffee farming as a viable career for youth. But after gaining skills and earning a Professional Certificate, I got employed immediately.

“Today, I’m an agronomist at the Land of Thousand Hills Coffee Company. I encourage more young people to explore opportunities in coffee farming and processing because it’s a lucrative industry,' Hategekimana shared.

Sophie Duchanoy, TechnoServe Rwanda’s Country Manager, reflected on the project’s success in elevating the value of Rwandan coffee in local and international markets.

She expressed her deepest gratitude to the EU, JDE Peet’s, and the Government of Rwanda for their trust and support, which enabled the program to achieve its goals.

'By supporting farmers, washing stations, and service providers, the program has facilitated access to critical information and financing needed to produce high-quality coffee for local, regional, and international markets,' she noted.

Amparo Gonzalez Diez, team leader of the Agriculture and Rural Development section at the EU delegation to Rwanda, commended the project for its emphasis on youth involvement and modern practices while pledging the EU’s continued support for Rwanda’s coffee sector.

Although the Rwanda INC project has concluded, TechnoServe remains active in Rwanda through the ReGenerate Rwanda project, funded by the Swedish Embassy.

This initiative aims to sustainably increase incomes for 30,000 individuals living in poverty in the Western and Southern Provinces.

By collaborating with private sector partners, the project seeks to develop innovative business solutions that address unmet demands for essential products and services.

With a focus on inclusivity, the project integrates women and youth as key drivers of transformative growth, advancing regenerative economic models that promise to build a sustainable future for Rwanda’s coffee industry and beyond.

Sophie Duchanoy, TechnoServe Rwanda’s Country Manager, reflected on the project’s success in elevating the value of Rwandan coffee in local and international markets.

Coffee value chain stakeholders shared insights into ongoing efforts to maintain high quality standards.

Amparo Gonzalez Diez, team leader of the Agriculture and Rural Development section at the EU delegation to Rwanda delivering her remarks.

Participants of the event also tasted Rwandan coffee.

Dr. Olivier Kamana, the Permanent Secretary at MINAGRI, praised TechnoServe for its critical role in advancing the nation’s coffee industry.

Participant of the event in a photo of souvenir.

Manasseh Hategekimana, a graduate from IPRC Huye College in crop production, expressed his gratitude for the training he received through TechnoServe and the Coffee Quality Institute.

Théophile Niyitegeka