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This innovative initiative marks the first time the city will have infrastructure specifically designed for car parking, signaling a significant step forward in urban planning and infrastructure development.

Speaking to the national broadcaster, RBA, Ms. Emma Claudine Ntirenganya, the Director General in Charge of Communication and Public Education at the City of Kigali, highlighted the transformative nature of the project.

'In order to solve the issue of parking in a lasting way, we are planning to establish buildings specifically and strictly designed for parking. This will not only reduce the congestion caused by cars parked in designated areas but also elevate Kigali’s urban standards to align with global cities,' she said.

The new parking complexes are part of a broader effort to enhance Kigali’s urban infrastructure and ease transportation challenges. Ntirenganya also emphasized the importance of improving public transportation as a complementary measure.

'To sustainably solve this problem, we are further streamlining the general public transport system,' she explained. 'If, for example, people are fully served and satisfied by public means, with vehicles operating at designated times and places, there will no longer be a need for everyone to drive to the city in their private vehicles.'

This project adds to the milestones Kigali and Rwanda as a whole have achieved in infrastructure development. Over the years, the city has witnessed the construction of state-of-the-art roads, modern bus terminals, and innovative green spaces, all aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing the city’s reputation as a modern African metropolis.

The government has also prioritized urban planning and smart city initiatives, with Kigali leading the way as a model city in Africa.

The prospect of dedicated parking buildings brings a sense of relief and excitement. These facilities promise pave the way for a more efficient and organized urban experience.

Parking buildings will soon be constructed in a move aimed at addressing the parking shortage in Rwanda’s bustling capital.

Sam K Nkurunziza

This marks her third year with the team, and she has once again been selected to be part of the roster for this year’s competitions. She credited her success to the excellent support from her team, which provides everything she needs to train and prepare without any setbacks.

Reflecting on the previous year, Ingabire expressed her pride in participating in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, a milestone she described as one of her biggest achievements.

Looking ahead to the new year, Ingabire is focused on continuing her strong performance, especially in the World Championship to be held in Rwanda.

“This year, I aim to compete in high-level races. I also want to focus on improving my teamwork skills with my teammates so that we can secure victories together. Personally, I am determined to give my best in the World Championship in Rwanda,” she said.

The World Championship is scheduled to take place in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025.

Ingabire has once again been selected by her team to be part of the roster for this year’s competitions.

It is now three years since Ingabire joined Canyon/SRAM Generation team from Germany.

IGIHE

The Indian federal government urged states to increase surveillance and spread awareness to prevent transmission of the virus, but officials also urged the public not to panic. Many experts have stressed that HMPV has been around for decades and is not as fatal as COVID-19.

'Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years,' Indian Health Minister JP Nadda said in a video statement.

'HMPV spreads through the air, by way of respiration. This can affect people of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months,' he added.

Rajeev Jayadevan, the spokesperson on HMPV from the Indian Medical Association in Kochi, similarly tried to quell concerns, stressing that the virus is common in children.

'There is a lot of public anxiety about the HMPV. It is a common respiratory virus which most children get by the age of 3 or 4. It’s very rare to have a serious problem with this. Most children would have had at least one bout of this infection in their childhood, including all of us,' Jayadevan said.

'This is not COVID. This is not a killer virus. It has been around for many years in all countries, including ours,' Jayadevan explained.

HMPV has been around for decades and is not as fatal as COVID-19.

IGIHE

Omedi and Kiwanuka put pen to paper on a two-year deal each today and also watched APR’s 2:0 League game win against Marines FC on Wednesday January 8, 20204 in Rubavu district.

For long, Omedi has been a centre of transfer speculation and Kitara FC Chairman Deo Kasozi confessed the player had over five suitors.

Last month, the forward was rumored to have completed a move to Singapore only for it to fall through when the two parties failed to agree on contractual terms.

Omedi has been a key figure at Kitara FC since joining them two years ago from Booma FC. He helped the team win the Stanbic Uganda Cup.

On the national team, Omedi was instrumental as Uganda Cranes qualified for AFCON 2025, scoring two goals in the campaign. On the other hand, Kiwanuka has been lethal for SC Villa and helped them to win the Uganda Premier League last year.

Interestingly, the duo was today morning named by coach Paul Put in Uganda Cranes provisional squad for CHAN 2024. The move to APR therefore, automatically rules them out of the tournament.

At APR, they become the third Ugandan player joining defensive midfielder Taddeo Lwanga.

Omedi was instrumental as Uganda Cranes qualified for AFCON 2025, scoring two goals.

Hakim Kiwanuka has officially signed for Rwanda Premier League side APR FC.

IGIHE

It was in late December 2012, the day had started all well for Niyibizi, with shopping as he looked forward to joining his family to enjoy the festive season.

The joy turned into despair later that evening, when he was involved in an accident as he was going home.

'I lost my leg because of speeding. I think I was just happy that I was going home after months without going there, to enjoy Christmas and the New Year with them, and I forgot that I was on the road, which is shared with many other motorists and pedestrians. This ended up being my last ride,' Niyibizi reckons.

He recalls how carelessness and overexcitement cost him dearly. Having accepted the situation, Niyibizi now urges other road users to avoid making the same life-threatening mistakes.

'Towards the end of the year, people tend to overindulge, but that is dangerous for drivers and motorcyclists. You will regret your whole life when you lose your limb; that is if you don’t die and leave your loved ones heartbroken for something preventable.

“When I see people walking, I feel like I’ve lost something invaluable. My advice to motorists is to stay cautious, not prioritize celebrations over life, avoid speeding, and refrain from drinking and driving. If you lose your life, you leave your family in distress,' says Niyibizi.

Niyibizi now urges other road users to avoid making the same life-threatening mistakes.

Just like Niyibizi, Ernest Ndayishimiye, a former truck driver, recounts the same ordeal.

'It was in November 2011, when I was involved in an accident. I was driving a truck from Kigali to Rusizi and I had an accident in Nyamagabe. I lost my limb, which has since affected my life. Accidents have severe consequences. Economically, I’ve lost a lot having to spend years unable to work. I used to support my family, but now I can’t,' says Ndayishimiye.

Ndayishimiye advises road users to avoid driving under the influence, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and observe speed limits. He also encourages pedestrians to use designated crossings.

Another road accident victim, Alice Mukamurenzi, who lost her leg as a child in 1996 while crossing the road, now plays football and advocates for road safety.

She said: 'I live in Musanze and play football in a team for people with disabilities. I was a child when I was hit by a car while crossing the road, leading to my disability. Whether it was my carelessness or the driver’s speed, the accident happened because of negligence on both sides.'

'Whatever you want to achieve or to celebrate, you will only do it when you are in good health and without any harm. Drive sober, follow traffic laws, and as pedestrians, cross or use the road carefully.'

Ernest Ndayishimiye is a former truck driver.

Road traffic accident (RTA) victims suffer from different types of injuries and disabilities, which can affect their quality of life. They usually face various physical, mental, and social problems. Most traffic accident victims experience difficulties adapting to the new life.

Road traffic accidents are a global concern as they are among the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming over a million lives each year and leaving many others injured.

From January to December 2024, Rwanda recorded around 9,600 road accidents, leading to 350 fatalities. Despite ongoing efforts by international organizations and governments worldwide to mitigate the effects of road accidents, the issue persists.

For the last five years, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has been conducting the 'Gerayo Amahoro' road safety campaign to educate and influence all categories of road users to adopt safer behaviors on road usage.

The campaign focuses on eliminating human behaviors that lead to accidents, fatalities or permanent disabilities, and to increase visibility and enforcement.

Gerayo Amahoro or 'arrive safe’ encourages safe driving behavior, responsive use of the road and to make road safety a choice and culture.

The road security report indicates that road-related fatalities reduced by 50 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Accidents involving cyclists, who are often among the most vulnerable road users, also dropped by 17%, reflecting significant changes in the behaviors of road users.

The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, echoed the message of road safety, urging people to drive safely without jeopardizing public safety.

He advises the public against driving or riding under the influence, and to seek alternative safer means.

'Roads are used by many people, who wish to get to their final destinations safely. So, when you are on the road as a driver, motorcyclist, cyclist, pedestrian or passenger, behave or act in a way that guarantees your safety and that of other people sharing the same road.

'Avoid speeding, using a phone when riding, driving or crossing the road; respect zebra crossing, refrain from drunk driving, wrong or dangerous maneuvers, reckless use of road; all of which increase risks of road crashes, injuries, loss of lives and destruction of property. Make road safety a choice and culture,' ACP Rutikanga says.

For the last five years, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has been conducting the 'Gerayo Amahoro' road safety campaign to educate and influence all categories of road users to adopt safer behaviors on road usage.

IGIHE

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, spoke to reporters after meeting with President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso.

When asked about how China and Africa jointly address climate change, Wang said that President Sassou’s high attention to the issue of climate change reflects the foresight of African leaders, adding that China has always supported Africa in achieving green development as the installed capacity of photovoltaic power plants built jointly has exceeded 1.5 GW, lighting up thousands of homes across the continent.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has proposed that China and Africa should jointly advance modernization that is eco-friendly, which is the common goal of both sides and one of the key tasks of this visit, Wang said.

He said that China will implement the Partnership Action for Green Development, and work with African countries to carry out clean energy projects proposed at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

China will join hands with Africa to promote international climate governance, Wang said.

Noting that fair and common but differentiated responsibilities should be adhered to, Wang called on developed countries to face up to their historical responsibilities, earnestly fulfill their obligations, and provide financial, technical and capacity-building support to developing countries, especially African countries.

The Africa Solar Belt Program aims to provide CNY 100 million (around US$14 million) in public funds between 2024 and 2027 to supply 50,000 African households with solar home systems.

Xinhua

This development was confirmed by Rwanda’s Presidency via its X account.

In 2021, a tripartite declaration of intent was signed between OIF, Rwanda’s Ministry of Education, and the French Development Agency (AFD) to develop a national plan for teaching French in Rwanda.

This agreement marked a significant step in improving the quality of French language teaching across various levels of education, from basic schooling to higher education and vocational training, with a focus on enhancing the professional integration of young Rwandans.

Before becoming the Secretary General of the OIF in 2018, Louise Mushikiwabo served as Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

She was re-elected for a second term in 2022 during the 18th Summit of Francophonie Heads of State in Djerba, Tunisia.

Under her leadership, the OIF has undergone reforms to address global challenges such as security threats and environmental issues. Rwanda joined OIF in 1970.

President Paul Kagame has met with Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) for a discussion on the ongoing collaboration between Rwanda and the OIF.

IGIHE

According to the NISR’s external trade report, exports to Burundi were valued at $5.18 million in Q3 2023, but fell to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

However, there was an improvement from the second quarter of 2024, with exports increasing from $2.18 million to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

This drop is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

Since then, travel between the countries has been restricted to air travel via the national airline, RwandAir.

Reexports from Rwanda to Burundi experienced an even sharper decline of 59.66%, falling from $4.04 million in Q3 2023 to $1.63 million in Q3 2024.

Compared to the second quarter of 2024, the reexport value also decreased from $2.31 million.

In terms of exports to East African Community (EAC) partner states, the report shows that Burundi ranked second for Rwanda’s domestic exports in Q3 2024, following Uganda, which received exports worth $4.2 million.

The drop in exports from Rwanda to Burundi is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

IGIHE

These disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Roads and other key infrastructure were also severely impacted, particularly in the Northern, Southern, and Western Provinces, leaving over 20,000 people in urgent need of assistance.

As part of the recovery efforts, 1,322 houses are being rehabilitated through the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) project, a collaboration between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank.

According to a report from the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), 537 houses have been fully repaired, 566 are under rehabilitation, and 219 are scheduled for renovation soon.

However, reconstruction of the 2,763 completely destroyed houses has not yet commenced, as authorities continue identifying suitable land for rebuilding.

In addition to housing, 310 families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

This includes construction materials such as 12,667 iron sheets, 1,574 kilograms of galvanized wire, 1,780 kilograms of roofing nails, 423 kilograms of standard nails, and 65 iron sheet caps.

Four schools damaged during the disasters have also been supported with 931 iron sheets, 129 wires, and 77 iron sheet caps for repairs.

Meanwhile, 2,001 people in 16 districts received essential supplies, including hygiene kits, kitchenware, school supplies, and clothing for students.

Road repair efforts and the rehabilitation of the Nyundo Bridge in Rubavu District are well underway.

To address recurring flooding issues, retaining walls are being constructed along the Sebeya River, which is notorious for causing floods during the rainy season.

The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has already built 1.3 kilometers of retaining walls and implemented other flood mitigation measures, including constructing a reservoir with a capacity of two million cubic meters and planting bamboo and other vegetation to slow water flow.

In October 2024, MINEMA announced $26 million in funding secured from the World Bank for rebuilding houses for disaster-affected families.

These funds will be used to rebuild or rehabilitate 6,218 houses. To date, 2,830 houses have been completed, 2,052 are under rehabilitation, and 1,335 are still to be constructed.

Rwanda continues to prioritize disaster recovery and mitigation, with MINEMA emphasizing that relief, response, and mitigation efforts receive substantial investment worth $300 million annually.

The May 2023 disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

IGIHE