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António, who is visiting as a special envoy of Angola’s President João Lourenço, appointed by the African Union to mediate between Rwanda and the DRC, will hold talks with Rwandan officials.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, confirmed the visit, stating, 'He will arrive in the afternoon as a special envoy for the Luanda Dialogue mediator, President Lourenço of Angola.'

The visit follows the postponement of a meeting initially scheduled for December 15, 2024, in Luanda, which was set to bring together President Lourenço, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi.

This decision came after DRC representatives at the ministerial level refused to engage in dialogue with the M23 armed group, despite previous commitments under the 'Nairobi Process' led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta.

During his Kigali visit, Minister António is expected to discuss resolving the tensions between Rwanda and the DRC through the ongoing Luanda Dialogue mediated by President Lourenço since 2022.

In a statement earlier this week, President Lourenço expressed optimism that a summit in Luanda with Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi would eventually lead to a lasting peace agreement.

However, the DRC’s withdrawal from the planned discussions has undermined previous progress, including agreements to dismantle the FDLR armed group and to lift border restrictions imposed by Rwanda.

The visit follows the postponement of a meeting initially scheduled for December 15, 2024, in Luanda, which was set to bring together President Lourenço, Rwandan President Paul Kagame, and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi.

Angola remains committed to mediating peace efforts in eastern DRC and the broader region, despite challenges. Minister António noted that substantial agreement had been reached, with 99% of the framework for peace finalized, but a last-minute request for postponement stalled the process.

Nduhungirehe highlighted that Angola had informed Rwanda on November 30, 2024, that DRC had agreed to negotiate with M23 under the Nairobi Process, only for DRC to backtrack later.

President Lourenço has since engaged Tshisekedi and Uhuru Kenyatta in further discussions on how to advance talks between the DRC government and armed groups, particularly the M23.

Angola continues to urge all parties to prioritize the well-being of citizens and work toward a lasting resolution to the conflict that has plagued eastern DRC for over three decades.

The DRC government has reiterated its refusal to negotiate with the M23, labeling the group as a terrorist organization. Meanwhile, M23 insists that resolutions impacting them are invalid without their direct involvement in the discussions.

Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete António, is expected in Kigali for discussions aimed at achieving sustainable peace and security in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the Great Lakes region.

IGIHE

Under the agreement, the DRC Government holds a 51% majority stake, while Ethiopian Airlines retains a 49% share and assumes management control.

The partnership includes agreements for aircraft leasing, comprehensive technical support, and staff training, ensuring Air Congo’s operations adhere to international standards.

President Félix Tshisekedi officially inaugurated Air Congo at Kinshasa’s N’Djili International Airport.

President Félix Tshisekedi officially launched the inaugural flight of the new national airline, Air Congo, established through a joint venture between the DRC (51% stake) and Ethiopian Airlines (49% stake).

Air Congo launched operations with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, initially serving seven domestic airports, including Lubumbashi, Goma, Kisangani, Kolwezi, Kalemie, and Mbuji-Mayi.

The airline plans to expand its fleet with four additional Boeing 737-800s within a year and two more over the next two years, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Jean-Pierre Bemba during the launch ceremony.

According to Ethiopian Airlines, the phased growth aligns with its Vision 2035 strategy to establish multiple hubs across Africa, complementing its existing partnerships with ASKY Airlines, Malawi Airlines, and Zambia Airways.

Air Congo launched operations with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

Speaking at the event, Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted the airline’s track record of successful partnerships in Africa, citing collaborations with Togo and Malawi that have advanced the continent’s aviation industry.

The partnership also focuses on capacity building. Ethiopian Airlines will train Congolese nationals as pilots, cabin crew, technicians, and sales staff, ensuring that Air Congo’s workforce is equipped with internationally recognized skills.

Additionally, the airline plans to organize regular, secure, and punctual domestic flights, improve airport facilities, and introduce inter-provincial cargo services, enhancing the country’s transportation infrastructure.

The partnership is part of the Congolese government’s strategy to address challenges in its aviation sector.

In September 2024, Congo Airways, the country’s previous national airline, was stripped of its air transport license due to a lack of operational aircraft.

The DRC Government had faced difficulties in reviving Congo Airways, which was down to a single leased aircraft with an expiring lease. Plans to restructure the airline, including acquiring new Airbus A320 aircraft, had stalled due to funding constraints.

President Félix Tshisekedi officially inaugurated Air Congo at Kinshasa’s N’Djili International Airport.

The partnership also focuses on capacity building. Ethiopian Airlines will train Congolese nationals as pilots, cabin crew, technicians, and sales staff, ensuring that Air Congo’s workforce is equipped with internationally recognized skills.

Air Congo launched operations with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, initially serving seven domestic airports, including Lubumbashi, Goma, Kisangani, Kolwezi, Kalemie, and Mbuji-Mayi.

Ethiopian Airlines plans to expand its fleet with four additional Boeing 737-800s

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a heartfelt plea, Abba asked fans, promoters, and well-wishers to rally around his father, who is battling substance abuse and related health complications.

Abba’s emotional appeal comes as Chameleone remains hospitalized at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala. Doctors have diagnosed him with acute pancreatitis, a severe inflammation of the pancreas often linked to alcohol consumption.

While his management has maintained silence on his condition, Abba has stepped forward to highlight the gravity of the situation.

Speaking candidly, Abba acknowledged his father’s flaws but emphasized the need for compassion and accountability. 'My father is a flawed human being, like all of us, but he is also someone who has brought joy to many through his music. This is not about enabling his struggles but about helping him overcome them,' he said.

He urged fans and promoters to consider the toll of Chameleone’s declining health. 'It’s heartbreaking to see him being booked for performances despite his visible struggles. This isn’t just about money; it’s about his life and well-being,' Abba stated.

Chameleone, a household name in Uganda and beyond, has been instrumental in shaping the country’s music industry. His vibrant career spans decades, earning him a loyal fan base and international acclaim. However, this health crisis marks a turning point, highlighting the urgent need for support from his fans and the broader community.

Abba’s appeal also draws attention to the broader issue of substance abuse in Uganda. According to the Uganda Youth Development Link, 15% of young people aged 13-24 are involved in substance abuse, while the Uganda Alcohol Policy Alliance reports one of the highest per capita alcohol consumption rates in Africa.

Public health experts have emphasized the importance of addressing addiction and its impact on individuals and families. Abba’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of these challenges, urging collective action to support not only Chameleone but others facing similar struggles.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to airlift the critically ill musician abroad for advanced medical care as doctors at Nakasero Hospital work tirelessly to stabilize his condition. Fans across the globe continue to send messages of love and prayers, hoping for his recovery.

'This plea is a call for unity, compassion, and action, reminding us all of the importance of standing by those who have brought joy and inspiration to our lives,' said one of his fans identified as Kulubya on social media.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Hategekimana served as a Gendarme in Nyanza during the Genocide and was accused of orchestrating deadly attacks against Tutsi civilians at Nyamure Hill, Nyabubare, ISAR Songa, and roadblocks in Nyanza.

He was also implicated in the murder of Narcisse Nyagasaza, the then Mayor of Ntyazo Commune, for attempting to help Tutsi escape to Burundi via the Akanyaru River.

In November 2024, Hategekimana launched an appeal, denying all charges and claiming that testimonies against him were fabricated. However, witnesses maintained their accounts, describing his direct involvement in the atrocities.

The Paris court dismissed his claims and reaffirmed the life sentence, emphasizing the gravity of his crimes and his leadership role in promoting genocidal ideology.

Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, welcomed the verdict, stating, 'Justice has been served at the Paris Assize Appeals Court.

Adjutant Philippe Hategekimana, alias Biguma, is unequivocally convicted of being a key perpetrator of the Genocide in Nyanza and its surrounding areas. Those he murdered have received justice.'

Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, welcomed the verdict.

Jean Noé Mwizerwa, President of the Rwandan Community in France (CRF), highlighted the historical significance of the ruling, noting that it ended over 30 years of impunity. 'This verdict closes a chapter of impunity for Hategekimana, who sought refuge in France under a false identity and obtained citizenship over three decades ago,' he said.

Hategekimana, who acquired French citizenship in 2005, was arrested in Cameroon in 2018 and extradited to France. His trial began in September 2021.

According to the Collective of Civil Parties for Rwanda (CPCR), the court’s decision is a testament to ongoing efforts to bring genocide perpetrators hiding abroad to justice.

Richard Gisagara, a lawyer representing the victims, affirmed, 'Philippe Hategekimana, alias Biguma, has been found guilty of genocide and crimes against humanity in his appeal. His life imprisonment sentence has been upheld. Justice has prevailed! My thoughts are with those who perished in Nyanza, Ntyazo, Nyabubare, ISAR Songa, and beyond.'

He said this ruling reinforces the importance of holding individuals accountable for crimes of Genocide, ensuring justice for victims and survivors while deterring future atrocities.

The Paris Court of Appeal upheld the life sentence handed to Philippe Hategekimana, alias Biguma.

IGIHE

Barcelona midfielder Bonmatí was voted The Best FIFA Women’s Player for the second time in a row after the 26-year-old followed up her World Cup-winning year with another trophy-laden 12 months for club and country.

'I am grateful to receive this award. As I always say, this is a team effort. It was a great year, very difficult to repeat. I am grateful to the people who help me to be better every day, from the club, to my teammates, who always help me to be better,' said Bonmatí, who won a domestic treble and the UEFA Women’s Champions League with the Catalan giants in 2024.

Vinícius Júnior scored Real Madrid’s second goal in the final, one of 24 strikes in 39 competitive club appearances in the 2023-24 season, as the Spanish club claimed a record-extending 15th UEFA Champions League title in June.

He was also part of the Brazil squad that reached the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa América quarter-finals in the USA and added the La Liga title, the Supercopa de España and the UEFA Super Cup to the European crown en route to succeeding FIFA World Cup 2022™ winner Lionel Messi as The Best FIFA Men’s Player.

'I don’t even know where to begin. It was so far away that it seemed impossible to get here. I was a kid who only played football barefoot on the streets of São Gonçalo, close to poverty and crime. Getting here is something very important to me,' Vinícius said.

Brazilian Real Madrid star, Vinicius Junior has won The Best FIFA Men’s Player.

'I’m doing it for many children who think that everything is impossible and who think they can’t get here,' added the 24-year-old after receiving the award from FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a gala dinner to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the Aspire Academy in Doha, Qatar, ahead of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2024 final, where Real Madrid will encounter Mexican side CF Pachuca.

Like the two main individual honours, The Best FIFA Men’s Coach, The Best FIFA Women’s Coach, The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper and The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper awards were decided by a vote equally weighted between fans, the current captains and coaches of all women’s/men’s national teams and media representatives.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, who was runner-up two editions ago, was presented with The Best FIFA Men’s Coach award. Ancelotti started as a professional player in 1976.

Meanwhile Emma Hayes was named The Best FIFA Women’s Coach 2024. Hayes led the US women’s national team to Olympic gold at Paris 2024 just weeks after crowning her 12-year stint at Chelsea with the English domestic league title.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti was presented with The Best FIFA Men’s Coach award.

Aston Villa and Argentina keeper Emiliano Martínez came out on top in the vote for The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper, winning the award for the second time, following his triumph in the 2022 edition, largely on the back of his major role in his country’s run to 2024 CONMEBOL Copa América glory.

Placing third in 2020, Alyssa Naeher was crowned The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper. Her saves, notably in the semi-final shoot-out win against Germany, helped to propel the United States women’s national team to Olympic gold.

The Chicago Red Stars player also stood out as her country won the inaugural 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup and her club reached the US National Women’s Soccer League play-offs.

Voting for the new FIFA Marta Award and the FIFA Puskás Award, which honour the best goals scored in women’s and men’s football, respectively, was split equally between fans and a panel of FIFA Legends.

Barcelona midfielder Bonmatí was voted The Best FIFA Women’s Player for the second time in a row.

Brazil’s Marta won the inaugural award bearing her name for the last of her 119 international strikes while Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho won the FIFA Puskás Award for his sensational overhead kick against Everton in the Premier League in November 2023.

The winner of the FIFA Fan Award, based entirely on the votes of registered users of FIFA.com is Guilherme Gandra Moura. A devoted fan of Vasco da Gama, the young Brazilian suffers from a rare genetic condition known as epidermolysis bullosa.

He was placed into a coma after falling ill with pneumonia, waking 16 days later, and the touching video of his reunion with his mother went viral. He was helped in his recovery by Vasco da Gama’s then-star player Gabriel Pec. He met the team and was chosen as mascot for a match in August 2023 after having left hospital.

Internacional’s Thiago Maia earned the FIFA Fair Play Award, which was decided upon by an expert panel, for his efforts to help people suffering in the Rio Grande do Sul region of Brazil after it was hit by devastating floods in late April and early May 2024.

For the first time, fans participated in the vote for The Best FIFA Men’s 11 and The Best FIFA Women’s 11, choosing from a list of 77 nominees for each line-up, with their choices weighted equally with those of an expert panel.

The Best FIFA Men’s 11 2024: Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa/Argentina), Rúben Dias (Manchester City/Portugal), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid/Spain), Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid/Germany), William Saliba (Arsenal/France), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England), Rodri (Manchester City/Spain), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid/Germany), Erling Haaland (Manchester City/Norway), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona/Spain), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid/Brazil)

Vinicius receiving the award from FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a gala dinner to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the Aspire Academy.

Bonmati followed up her World Cup-winning year with another trophy-laden 12 months for club and country.

IGIHE

While delivering the sentencing on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, Eldoret High Court Judge Justice Reuben Nyakundi said Biwott expressed cruelty for shooting her spouse 12 times.

The judge said there was no evidence that the accused person was in self-defense since nothing proved that her spouse had provoked her.

Nyakundi said the police officer abused her firearm, knowing fully well that it was not in order as per the law.
He said her act has tormented the deceased’s family, especially his aging mother who is now depressed and psychologically disturbed.

“Lilian, you had all what it takes to avoid the death of your husband, father to your children who are now orphaned but you choose to travel the wrong route,” said the judge.

He said cases of gender based violence and femicide have been on the rise in the country and thereby there is need for harsher punishment. “The premeditated way that the act was committed was gruesome” noted Nyakundi.

Police Constable Lilian Biwott during a past court arraignment for the murder of her husband.

IGIHE

In line with the upcoming election of the next AUC chairperson for the 2025-2028 period, which is slated to take place in February 2025 during the AU Summit, the three candidates, Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato, took part in a live debate recently.

During the televised debate broadcast live, the three candidates elaborated on their vision and strategies for implementing the Agenda 2063, the AU’s 50-year continental development blueprint, and driving Africa’s transformative vision for a prosperous, united, and peaceful Africa.

In his address, Youssouf underscored that strengthening the AU’s Peace and Security Council into a more proactive organ, operationalizing the African Standby Force, mobilizing resources to ensure stable financing of the union, boosting intra-African trade, and promoting the free movement of goods and people across Africa are among his major priorities if elected.

'The place of Africa on the international stage will be one of my priorities. The Africa that we want is the Africa of peace, integration and prosperity. If I’m given the chance of being the chairperson of the commission, I will do my best to make sure that our continent shines on the international stage,' Youssouf said.

The three candidates stressed their resolve to advance the transformative role of the AU in addressing Africa’s existing and emerging development and security challenges.

According to the AU, the February 2025 election process will be based on the principle of inter-regional rotation of the commission’s senior leadership positions. The Eastern Africa region will submit candidates for the role of chairperson, while the Northern Africa region will submit candidates for the role of deputy chairperson.

The remaining three regions (Central, Southern and Western Africa regions) will submit at least two candidates for the six portfolios of commissioners.

Odinga, on his part, underscored his conviction to strive for the realization of the founding fathers’ vision for a united Africa in the creation of the Organization of African Unity, the predecessor of the AU, in 1963.

Describing himself as an ardent 'Pan-Africanist and optimist,' Odinga promised to advance the continent’s progress through the promotion of quality education, health, value-addition, intra-African trade, and infrastructure development, among others.

'Africa is moving forward, but there is work to do, and I have what it takes to get us where we want to go. What remains now is action, and what I want to promise to the African people is that I’m going to lead from the front to ensure that we achieve the vision of the founding fathers of our continent,' he said.

Outlining his priorities, Randriamandrato highlighted the need to harness Africa’s robust potential to drive holistic economic development. He affirmed his commitment to augmenting the 55-member continental organization’s role in facilitating continental socioeconomic development if elected.

'We have our own house, the African Union, and there is an Africa, which is dynamic and moving forward. I am here before you today because I think it is indispensable, and it is a must to have the quality, competence and conviction (to lead the AU). I think that I have those qualities,' he said.

In February 2024, a Panel of Eminent Africans, composed of five personalities — one per region — was appointed to oversee the pre-selection of candidates for the eight positions.

According to the AU, the televised debate allows African citizens and other stakeholders to put forward questions to the candidates on how to propel the continent’s growth and ensure that Africa achieves its goals for integrated and sustainable development and becomes a major player in the global arena.

Experts have underscored the crucial need to advance the transformative role of the AU in addressing Africa’s existing and emerging development and security challenges.

Moussa Faki Mahamat, current AUC chairperson, who African leaders elected to lead the Pan-African bloc in January 2017 during the 28th AU Summit, is fast approaching an end to his second-term tenure at the helm of the AU Commission.

Djibouti’s Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Kenya’s Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato, took part in a live debate recently.

Xinhua

The Head of State was speaking at the inauguration of the World Health Organization (WHO) Academy on Tuesday, 17 December 2024 at the WHO Academy campus in Lyon, France.

This hybrid event brought together WHO Member States and local, national, and international partners to highlight the importance of lifelong learning in the health sector and provide an opportunity to experience the Campus facilities in action.

In his remarks, President Kagame expressed gratitude to the WHO and its Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, for this significant milestone, emphasizing the importance of the WHO Academy in enhancing global health education.

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical gaps in health systems worldwide, particularly in Africa.

President Kagame acknowledged that the ongoing health challenges make it necessary to focus on advancing science, technology, and learning opportunities for health professionals.

'The COVID pandemic showed us the importance of training Africa’s health workforce. New health challenges have continued to arise since then,' he remarked, underlining the growing need for skilled healthcare workers to respond to emerging threats.

He went on to highlight Rwanda’s ambitious goal of quadrupling its health workforce in the next four years, noting that the WHO Academy will be key in achieving this target.

'The WHO Academy will be instrumental in helping us achieve this objective and we intend to make full use of it,' he said, signaling Rwanda’s strong commitment to harnessing the Academy’s resources for the benefit of its health sector.

The Government of Rwanda has set a target to expand the healthcare workforce through the 4×4 program, aiming to increase the number of healthcare workers from over 25,000 in July 2024 to more than 58,000 by 2028.

This initiative will improve the doctor-patient ratio, with one doctor serving 1,000 patients, compared to the current ratio where one doctor is responsible for a significantly larger population.

President Kagame also emphasized the importance of international partnerships to build sustainable health systems.

'We owe it to our people to deliver consistent, affordable, high-quality healthcare,' he said, adding that Rwanda is eager to benefit from knowledge transfer in fields like biotechnology.

The WHO Academy aims to help Member States address critical gaps in health workforce training by leveraging new technologies and applying the latest advancements in adult learning.

The Academy will offer high-quality courses to health and care workers, decision-makers and the WHO workforce, both online and in-person.

Located in the bio-district of Gerland in Lyon and funded by France, the WHO Academy Campus is an eco-friendly facility designed to foster innovation and collaboration.

It features a world-class simulation centre and will serve as a hub for learners, trainers, academics, and researchers from around the globe.

President Paul Kagame has highlighted WHO Academy’s anticipated contribution to Rwanda’s health sector.

IGIHE

Starting from December 23-24, 2024, and December 30-31, 2024, passengers will board buses at designated locations in addition to the Nyabugogo Terminal.

Travelers using the Southern Corridor from districts such as Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Nyamasheke, Karongi, Ngororero, Gisagara, Rusizi, Rutsiro, and Nyaruguru will board buses at Nyamirambo’s Pele Stadium.

Passengers traveling along the Eastern Corridor to Rwamagana, Kayonza, Gatsibo, Nyagatare, Ngoma, and Kirehe will board buses at the Kabuga Terminal.

For those using the Northern Corridor from Gicumbi or traveling to Nyagatare via Gicumbi, Rulindo, Musanze, Rubavu, Burera, Gakenke, and Nyabihu, buses will depart from the Nyabugogo Terminal.

RURA further stated that passengers heading to Bugesera will board at Nyanza in Kicukiro. Travelers are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to avoid delays.

Staff from the City of Kigali and relevant agencies will be on hand to assist passengers throughout the holiday period. RURA also urged travelers to remain patient with any challenges that may arise during this busy season.

The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has announced new transportation arrangements designed to ease passenger flow and reduce congestion at Nyabugogo Bus Terminal during the year-end holidays.

IGIHE

The suspects were among eight individuals paraded before the media on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at RIB headquarters in Kimihurura.

Addressing the press, RIB Spokesperson Dr. Thierry Murangira revealed that the arrests followed investigations into three other land fraud suspects earlier this month.

Among those accused is a 54-year-old man and a woman posing as his wife. The land in question belongs to the man and his legal wife, who currently resides abroad. Unable to sell the property alone, the man allegedly conspired with another woman to forge his wife’s national ID by replacing her photograph with that of the impersonator.

The fraudulent scheme was exposed when the prospective buyer became suspicious and reported the matter to RIB. By that time, the buyer had already paid part of the purchase amount. The agreed price was RWF 24 million, of which RWF 9.8 million has been recovered.

The two suspects face charges of using forged documents, fraudulently managing marital property, and obtaining someone else’s property through deception.

Dr. Murangira urged notaries to be more cautious, citing the prevalence of similar fraud cases.

'There are many schemes, as seen here, where Kayirebwa falsely claimed to be Kayiranga’s wife, bypassing the legal spouse to sell the land. Notaries must thoroughly verify all documents, particularly those provided by sellers,' he said.

He further cautioned buyers to conduct proper due diligence before finalizing land transactions.

'Money is hard to earn and should not be wasted. Buyers must ensure they are investing in legitimate and beneficial property,' Dr. Murangira emphasized.

The operation also saw the arrest of a woman accused of stealing $4,000 (approximately Frw5.6 million) and 3,300 Indian Rupees (Frw54,000) from her foreign employer. After the theft, she reportedly gave $2,900 to a man she lives with while keeping the remainder for herself.

Investigations revealed that the employer had left his wallet unsecured, allowing the woman to access the funds. Following the theft, the man reportedly advised her to flee to Ngoma District, where she was later apprehended. RIB recovered all the stolen money.
Dr. Murangira discouraged keeping large sums of cash at home, warning that it creates unnecessary risks.

'Banks are the safest place to store money. Keeping large amounts of cash at home invites temptation and theft,' he said.

The suspects face charges of theft and concealing property obtained through crime.

Additionally, RIB paraded four individuals suspected of involvement in phone theft. The bureau recovered 280 stolen phones worth Frw62.5 million. The phones have since been returned to their rightful owners, while investigations to apprehend additional suspects remain ongoing.

Among the suspects arrested is a 54-year-old man and a woman posing as his wife, linked to the illegal transfer of land.

This woman (right), who worked for a foreign employer, is accused of stealing $4,000 and giving part of the money to the man (left) she was living with.

The suspects linked to theft of mobile phones.

RIB Spokesperson Dr. Thierry Murangira revealed that the arrests followed investigations into three other land fraud suspects earlier this month.

Dr. Thierry Murangira, the spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), stated that keeping large sums of money at home is not advisable.

Some of the stolen money has been returned to its rightful owners.

RIB has returned 280 stolen phones, valued at 62.5 million RWF, to their rightful owners.

IGIHE