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The project will expand the road segment between Nyabugogo (Kigali) and Ruyenzi (Kamonyi District) to four lanes, with climbing lanes added to facilitate heavy truck movement.

Additional infrastructure will include drainage systems, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian sidewalks, ensuring a safer and more efficient transport corridor. “We aim to add lanes on uphill sections, allowing trucks to move without obstructing other vehicles,” he explained.

Kabera emphasized the importance of climbing lanes, which will separate trucks from smaller vehicles on ascents and revealed that expropriation activities will precede construction to clear the path for these upgrades.

Funding for the $120 million (approximately Frw166 billion) project comes from a loan agreement signed on September 13, 2023, in Busan, South Korea, between the Rwandan government and the Export-Import Bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank).

The loan, approved by Parliament on November 13, 2024, will be repaid over 40 years with a 15-year grace period and a nominal interest rate of 0.01%.

The project involves rehabilitating the entire 45-kilometre road, widening 12.2 kilometers to four lanes, and adding 11.9 kilometers of climbing lanes for trucks. These enhancements are expected to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion, supporting Rwanda’s broader infrastructure development goals.

Expansion works on the Kigali-Muhanga road is set to begin in December 2025

IGIHE

The 36-year-old Fury previously announced his retirement after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022 but returned six months later. The Briton has enjoyed two stints as heavyweight champion and holds a record of 34 wins, two defeats and one draw.

“Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it and I’m going to end with this; Dick Turpin wore a mask,” Fury said.

Fury shocked long-reigning world champion Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 to win the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles.

After over two-and-a-half years out of the ring, during which he tackled mental health issues, Fury returned to action in 2018 and became a two-time champion by beating Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC belt in 2020.

English-born boxer Tyson Fury jabbing Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 18, 2024. Fury has announced his retirement for the second time.

IGIHE

According to a statement released by the police on X, four of the robbery suspects were neutralized during the operation. A fifth suspect was severely injured and is currently in critical condition.

The suspects were already on the police watch list, and authorities suspect they may have been involved in a series of similar robberies that have taken place recently.

'Police have thwarted a bank robbery at Acacia Mall, neutralizing four suspects involved in a Stanbic Bank heist. A fifth suspect is in critical condition. These individuals were already on the police watch list and are believed to be linked to a series of robberies,' Police said.

The robbery attempt comes at a time when bank robberies have been on the rise in Uganda, with criminals targeting commercial banks and their clients.

However, thanks to the swift actions of the Ugandan police, this particular heist was unsuccessful, and the dangerous criminals were brought to justice before they could cause any harm.

Ugandans online have praised the efforts of the police, with many expressing their gratitude for the quick response and ability to prevent a major crime. Social media users are celebrating the police for their dedication and commitment to keeping citizens safe, and there is widespread appreciation for the police’s timely intervention.

'Commendable work done today. All gangs of this category should be put out of Action so that our prisons don’t get too congested by people who don’t want to work,' said an X user identified as Edmund Tumushabe.
The authorities are expected to provide more details soon as investigations continue.

Ugandan police successfully thwarted a planned robbery at Acacia Mall on Monday January 13, 2024.

Sam K Nkurunziza

This was announced by the State Minister at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera, while addressing the Committee on Governance and Gender affairs in the Chamber of Deputies. He was clarifying on issues raised by the Office of the Ombudsman.

One of the concerns highlighted by the Ombudsman was the delayed compensation of citizens for land and property affected by infrastructure projects such as roads, water systems, electricity installations, and other initiatives.

Minister Kabera assured the Members of Parliament that the issue is well understood and that efforts are being made to resolve it urgently, with a clear plan to address it by June 2025.

He explained that in the 2024/2025 fiscal year, the energy sector had around 20,000 compensation cases valued at Frw6.8 billion of which payments exceeding Frw1.8 billion had already been made.

For water-related projects, 19,000 cases required payments amounting to Frw11.8 billion. Out of this, Frw10.4 billion had been disbursed, while compensation worth Frw1 billion is still pending.

Regarding transport infrastructure, such as roads, 10,907 individuals were owed over Frw18.8 billion in compensation, but slightly more than Frw10 billion had been paid.

In the housing sector, 252 properties valued at Frw10.2 billion were involved, with 117 of these, worth more than Frw2.5 billion, already compensated, while the remaining funds are still being sourced.

'We are doing our best to ensure that by 2025, this issue will be resolved. Last week, we held discussions with the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning. We want to put in more effort to solve compensation issues and other related challenges,' Kabera said.

He acknowledged recurring obstacles, such as citizens not having proper documentation for their properties, which complicates land transfer processes. Additionally, some projects commence before adequate funding is secured.

'On our side, we must focus on better planning. Where possible, we should leverage technology or find other solutions,' he added.

During a recent media briefing, President Kagame addressed the issue of citizens being displaced without proper compensation or experiencing delays in receiving it. He noted that the delays often stem from multiple factors, including errors by both citizens and authorities, but assured that the matter is being addressed urgently.

Members on the Committee on Governance and Gender affairs in the Chamber of Deputies demands that compensations must be promptly executed.

Why are citizens displaced without receiving compensation?

MP Germaine Mukabalisa questioned why citizens are not properly compensated before being relocated for infrastructure projects.

'There was a resolution that no citizen’s property should be affected without prior compensation, but this still happens. What is being done to ensure that citizens with proper documentation are not displaced without receiving their rightful compensation?' she asked.

She further emphasized that even though infrastructure projects benefit society, citizens without proper compensation are left in dire situations.

'It’s true that we all benefit from the road, but when you put yourself in the shoes of a farmer whose field was taken for the road, and that field was their sole livelihood for five years, how do they survive? Why can’t we adopt the principle that no infrastructure project should displace citizens without compensation?' she questioned.

The Director General of the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), Imena Munyampenda, explained that some projects begin before the government has all the necessary funds, which hinders the timely compensation of affected citizens.

However, he assured that efforts are being intensified to ensure that projects are only implemented after citizens have received their compensation.

State Minister at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera has confirmed that pending compensation must be completed by June 2025 at the latest.

IGIHE

This annual motor show brings together leading carmakers from around the globe to display vehicles designed to meet the changing demands of consumers and the industry.

This year’s exhibition highlighted the rapid technological advancements shaping the automotive sector.

Manufacturers presented vehicles that incorporated cutting-edge features, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Eco-friendly cars are becoming a major focus, with both consumers and producers prioritizing greener alternatives.

Alongside the vehicle unveilings, the event hosted discussions on automotive technology and manufacturing processes, providing a platform for industry leaders to exchange knowledge and expertise.

The exhibition, which began on January 10, 2025, will run until January 19. It was officially opened by King Philippe of Belgium, joined by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Brussels Mayor Philippe Close.

Over 60 automakers participated this year, including industry giants such as Volkswagen, Groupe Renault, and Mercedes-Benz.

Groupe Stellantis, formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Peugeot-Citroën, also showcased its diverse lineup of brands, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Leapmotor, Opel, and Peugeot.

Other notable participants included Kia, Hyundai, Isuzu, Maxus, MG, KGM, Suzuki, Ford, and Mazda.

Among the standout vehicles was the Audi RS Q8 2025, a luxury SUV priced at $137,495. The car is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 631 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

With an 8-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

The Audi RS Q8 2025 also features advanced safety technologies, including lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge safety.

Others include the KIA EV3, a car unveiled for the first time at the end of 2024. It is fully electric, featuring a motor capable of covering up to 600 kilometers on a single charge.

The car’s weight ranges between 1,750 and 1,850 kilograms, with a horsepower of 201 and torque of 283, delivering impressive performance and smooth driving.

Its acceleration is powered solely by the front wheels, allowing it to gain speed quickly. When the accelerator is pressed, the car can reach 100 kilometers per hour in just seven seconds.

The BMW XM was another highlight of the exhibition. Priced from $159,000, this hybrid car combines electricity and gasoline, featuring both a V8 engine and an electric motor. It can travel up to 50 kilometers on electricity alone.

The Salon de l’Auto remains one of the premier events in the automotive world, offering an exciting preview of the innovations and technologies shaping the future of mobility.

The vehicles showcased at this year’s event underline the industry’s commitment to driving forward technological advancements and sustainable design.

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Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President through a statement shared on X, which highlighted that both parties discussed the bilateral relations.

Shimelis Abdisa has been leading Oromia since April 2019 and has been Chief Staff of the Prime Minister since 2018, Abiy Ahmed, since 2018.

Oromia is the largest region in Ethiopia, covering more than 350,000 square kilometers and home to nearly 40 million people, approximately a third of Ethiopia’s population.

The region is located in central Ethiopia, extending to the western part, sharing borders with other parts of the country in the Horn of Africa, excluding Tigray.

Oromia is known for its fertile land, natural resources, and agricultural production, particularly coffee.

It is also rich in minerals such as gold, gemstones, and others. However, the region has faced political challenges, natural disasters, and other issues.

Rwanda and Ethiopia have a strong relationship based on diplomatic respect and cooperation agreements aimed at benefiting their citizens.

The two countries have signed various agreements, including those focused on cooperation in law enforcement, media, sports, tourism, healthcare, education, and culture.

Their partnership extends to agriculture, trade, education, and air travel services with agreements between RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines.

In 2024, Rwanda and Ethiopia signed cooperation agreements in five areas, including political collaboration, business, sports, disaster management, and investment.

The countries also share a deep connection through their people-to-people exchanges. In April 2024, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed, attended Rwanda’s commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

President Kagame and Dr. Ahmed have held several discussions, including during the 2023 Africa-Saudi Arabia summit, to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations.

The two leaders also met in 2021 during a two-day visit Dr. Ahmed made to Rwanda.

President Paul Kagame received Shimelis Abdisa, the President of Oromia on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

IGIHE

This pivotal gathering will bring together Chiefs of Police from 14 member countries to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation in combating emerging security threats.

As the region grapples with increasingly sophisticated and transnational criminal activities, the AGM serves as a critical platform for addressing shared challenges, fostering intelligence exchange, and enhancing the collective capacity of law enforcement agencies.

The theme of this year’s meeting, 'Strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation to counter terrorism, transnational, organized, and emerging crimes,' reflects the growing need for robust collaboration in tackling complex security issues that transcend national borders.

The meeting will not only focus on current crime trends but will also explore innovative solutions to enhance regional security and prevent future threats.
A unified response to regional security challenges

Founded in 1998 in Kampala, Uganda, EAPCCO was established as a regional response to the increasing threat posed by transnational and organized crimes.

The organization aims to unite law enforcement agencies in Eastern Africa to combat these shared threats.

The 14 member countries of EAPCCO include Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Comoros, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Seychelles, and Somalia.

EAPCCO’s core mission revolves around strengthening cooperation among member states to address regional crime, share vital intelligence, and build capacity to effectively combat emerging threats.

Over the years, the organization has evolved into a key player in regional security, ensuring that law enforcement agencies remain equipped to tackle challenges that affect the entire region.

Collaboration and capacity building

EAPCCO’s main objectives focus on promoting cooperation, enhancing crime management, and strengthening law enforcement across the region.

This includes fostering joint strategies to combat cross-border and related crimes, disseminating information on criminal activities, and facilitating efficient management of criminal records.

The organization also places a significant emphasis on training and capacity building, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are well-prepared to meet the region’s evolving security needs.

Through its various subcommittees and initiatives, EAPCCO continually develops new approaches to address the complex landscape of regional security.

The organization’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping a more cohesive and effective regional response to emerging crime trends.

Rwanda won nine out of 13 sports disciplines to emerge the overall winner of the 4th edition of the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Games, which concluded on Monday, March 27, 2023 in Kigali.

Focus areas of the 26th AGM

The 26th AGM will focus on addressing key crime areas that are increasingly affecting the region, including financial crimes, terrorism, human trafficking, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and intellectual property crimes.

These areas have become more interconnected and complex, necessitating a coordinated response from member states.

Reviewing resolutions’ implementation

At the AGM, Chiefs of Police will review the implementation of previous resolutions and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime.

The meeting will provide an opportunity to assess the challenges faced in implementing these strategies and identify actionable measures to overcome obstacles.

Additionally, the meeting will facilitate the approval of new recommendations and resolutions aimed at improving regional cooperation and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies.

The AGM will also serve as a platform for sharing best practices and experiences, allowing member countries to learn from one another’s successes and challenges in tackling criminal activities.

Through these discussions, EAPCCO will continue to refine its strategies, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are better equipped to address both current and emerging threats.

The organization brings together 14 member countries.

A showcase of tactical excellence

This year’s AGM introduces a dynamic new feature: the EAPCCO SWAT Challenge.

Set to take place from January 29-30, 2025, at the Counter-Terrorism Training Center (CTTC) in Bugesera District, the SWAT Challenge will showcase the operational readiness and skills of police tactical units from EAPCCO member countries.

Elite law enforcement teams will compete in various exercises designed to test their physical fitness, teamwork, and tactical expertise in responding to security incidents.

The event will not only serve as a demonstration of the region’s capacity to respond to critical security situations but will also foster knowledge sharing among participating teams.

The best-performing units will be recognized for their excellence in law enforcement, further promoting a spirit of healthy competition and continuous improvement among the region’s law enforcement agencies.

EAPCCO Events

The AGM key events include the meeting of Chiefs of Police—a supreme decision-making authority of EAPCCO—Council of Ministers, and sideline meetings that include the Permanent Co-Coordinating Committee (PCC) composed of directors of Criminal Investigations and Heads of National Central Bureaus (NCB).

Other sideline subcommittee meetings include those on legal, training, cybercrime, gender and counter-terrorism.

Each session provides a unique opportunity to share experiences, review progress, and discuss new ways to address challenges facing the region.

During the AGM, there is always change of chairmanship to the Chief of Police of the host country.

Rwanda was crowned overall winner of EAPCCO Games in 2023.

IGIHE

The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for severe fire conditions through Wednesday, with dangerously high winds expected to return.

Sustained winds of 50 mph and gusts up to 70 mph are forecast for the region, particularly on Tuesday, which could make firefighting efforts even more difficult.

The combination of dry conditions, low humidity, and strong Santa Ana winds is fueling the flames, making this one of the most perilous fire seasons in recent memory.

Fire crews received additional support on Sunday, with 70 water trucks deployed to help fight the flames. Aircraft also dropped fire retardant along vulnerable hillsides in an attempt to slow the spread of the fires.

The fires, which began last week, have been exacerbated by the dry conditions and the powerful Santa Ana winds, which have turned them into catastrophic wildfires.

More than a dozen people are missing in the areas affected by the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire, and authorities are working to confirm whether some of the missing may be among the fatalities.

With little rainfall in the area for over eight months, the region remains highly susceptible to further fire risks, and officials are bracing for the worst as winds pick up again.

A house is engulfed by the flames on the site of the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County, California, the United States, on Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua)

IGIHE

Yoon’s lawyer, Yun Gap-geun, expressed fears over potential security risks, citing efforts by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) and the National Office of Investigation (NOI) to arrest the impeached president.

Yoon’s legal team emphasized that the president would only attend the trial once these safety issues are addressed.

The constitutional court is set to begin hearings on January 14, with additional sessions planned for January 16, 21, 23, and February 4.

The impeachment motion, passed by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, suspended Yoon’s presidential powers for up to 180 days while the court deliberates.

Yoon, who faces charges related to insurrection, declared martial law on December 3, which was overturned by the assembly.

Despite a failed attempt to arrest him on January 3, a Seoul court has since extended the warrant for his apprehension.

Protesters in favor of the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol shout slogans “Immediate Arrest” during a rally near the presidential residence in Seoul, South Korea, Jan. 12, 2025. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol will not attend the first hearing of his impeachment trial, scheduled for Tuesday, for safety concerns, Yoon’s defense counsel said Sunday. (Photo by Jun Hyosang/Xinhua)

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The agreement was reached during a meeting in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is on a working visit to Ethiopia.

The leaders held constructive discussions on regional and bilateral issues, aiming to deepen the fraternal bond between their peoples, according to a joint communique released Saturday evening.

Both leaders agreed to “restore and enhance” bilateral relations through full diplomatic representation in their respective capitals. They also emphasized closer collaboration between their diplomatic missions on multilateral and regional matters of mutual interest, the communique said.

Noting that the stability of the region requires the two countries’ strong cooperation based on mutual trust, confidence, and respect, the two leaders pledged to strengthen coordination on improving regional relations and fostering common understanding and shared progress.

The leaders further underscored the need to enhance security cooperation, particularly in countering the threat posed by extremist militant groups in the region. They agreed to direct their security agencies to deepen collaboration in promoting peace and stability, it noted.

Reaffirming their commitment to the Ankara Declaration, the two leaders pledged to expedite technical negotiations outlined in the agreement.

The Somali president’s visit to Ethiopia followed last month’s Turkish-mediated talks in Ankara, which helped resolve misunderstandings and de-escalate diplomatic tensions that had strained relations throughout 2024.

The diplomatic rift had been escalating between the two neighboring countries after Ethiopia and Somaliland reportedly signed an agreement earlier in 2024, allowing Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for its recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared region of Somalia, as an independent state. Somalia said the agreement is legally invalid.

As part of the normalization efforts, Ethiopia’s Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed led a high-level delegation to Somalia earlier this month, reiterating both nations’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

The agreement was reached during a meeting in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is on a working visit to Ethiopia.

Xinhua