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The awards were presented during the EAC Regional Hackathon held in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the 7th Annual Secretary General’s Forum.

The event focused on fostering collaboration for regional growth and integration, under the theme “Towards a Resilient and Fully Integrated East Africa.”

The hackathon attracted over 1,000 innovative solutions, particularly targeting sectors such as tourism, agribusiness, environmental protection, trade, digitalization, and financial services.

Projects presented by the innovators tackled critical issues related to regional economic integration. Each of the eight winning projects, four led by women and four by youth, was awarded €15,000 to help accelerate their impact.

Among the winners was Niyonkuru Kevin from Burundi, founder of SPOTA Company, and Cirhuza Birhaheka Onesphore from DR Congo, who runs AGRIMOD SARL.

Kenya’s Tayba Hatiym of BAUS Taka Enterprise and Rwanda’s Pacifique Niyorurema, who runs Fresco Fruits, were also recognized for their innovative contributions.

Somalia’s Mohamed Osman Abdulkadir, representing Greenlife Agribusiness LTD, and Anok Athor Deng from South Sudan, behind Future of Family Planning, were among the recipients.

Additionally, Faith Kuya from Tanzania, who founded SafeSip Limited, and Munyasa Hellen of Uganda’s Helton Traders Limited also received the award.

During the event, EAC Secretary General Veronica M. Nduva praised the hackathon as a testament to the region’s commitment to inclusive development.

She emphasized that women and youth are the driving forces behind innovation and economic resilience, noting that the hackathon was not just about competition but about fostering collaboration, learning, and growth.

Uganda’s 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, commended the EAC for its leadership, stressing the importance of collaboration in unlocking the potential of youth and women for regional prosperity.

Rwanda’s Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation highlighted the significance of such platforms in empowering the region’s youth and women, noting that the EAC continues to lead by example in fostering economic integration and innovation.

Kenya’s Principal Secretary, Abdi Dubat, spoke about the critical discussions that took place, which illuminated both the challenges and opportunities within the region.

He expressed confidence that shared commitment and collaboration would guide the path to a resilient, integrated East Africa.

Mr. Marius Weist, GIZ’s Component Lead for Organizational Development and Outreach, further emphasized the importance of empowering women and youth to help achieve EAC’s economic goals.

He praised the participants for their creative solutions to the region’s challenges, emphasizing that GIZ’s support would continue to foster an inclusive economy for all.

The forum concluded with several key recommendations aimed at advancing regional integration, including removing barriers to the free movement of goods and services, enhancing youth representation in policy-making, and boosting digital infrastructure in rural areas to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The hackathon attracted over 1,000 innovative solutions, particularly targeting sectors such as tourism, agribusiness, environmental protection, trade, digitalization, and financial services.

Officials from EAC member states who participated in the forum awarding one of the winners. Rwanda was represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe (second from right).

Théophile Niyitegeka

The two-day conference that started on Thursday, December 12, was organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) in partnership with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) under the theme: 'Towards a digital tax administration: Lessons learnt and directions for reform.'

Tax experts delved on adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their systems.

Antoine Sebera, the Government Chief Innovation Officer at the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), emphasized the transformative role of AI highlighting Africa’s rapid digital transformation, with governments leveraging technology to bridge economic disparities, foster inclusion, and enhance public administration by streamlining bureaucratic processes and building trust.

In Rwanda, significant progress has been made in digital governance, with all essential government services now accessible online. The country aims to achieve universal access to e-government services by 2029.

Despite the advancements, Sebera said challenges persist in leveraging technology for tax administration. He observed that fragmented and incomplete data hinder accurate tracking and assessment of digital transactions, necessitating secure data-sharing mechanisms and interoperability. Additionally, deploying advanced tools for monitoring, analyzing, and enforcing tax compliance, he said, requires technological expertise and infrastructure.

'Building capacity in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity is essential in overcoming these obstacles. Particularly, AI has a very big potential to revolutionize digital tax administration and governance in low-income countries,' Sebera said.

'AI can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of tax systems. For example, AI-driven tools can help identify patterns of tax evasion, optimize resource allocation and provide real-time support to the taxpayers,' he added.

He called for international partnerships with organizations and the private sector to address challenges hindering digitalization progress.

Sebera stressed that ethical and regulatory concerns, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and accountability, should not be overlooked.

'Developing countries must establish robust legal frameworks and ethical guidelines to govern the use of AI in public administration. Infrastructure challenges, including reliable internet access, electricity, high-performance computing servers, and data centers must be addressed.

Rwanda has made significant progress in digitalizing its tax administration. Notable milestones include the introduction of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) ++ system in 2004, later upgraded to ASYCUDA World in 2012, which halved customs clearance times and saved $6.8 million annually in trade costs, according to the TradeMark East Africa. ASYCUDA is a computerized customs management system that covers most foreign trade procedures.

In 2011, Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) launched the E-Tax system to revolutionize tax filing and payments, reducing errors and administrative burdens. The 2013 introduction of Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs) enhanced VAT compliance and curbed tax evasion. The EBM2 system upgraded in 2017 provide real-time data capture and improved fraud prevention.

'Between 2017 and 2022, VAT collection increased by 61%, and income tax collection has surged by 95%. In 2021, income tax overtook PAYE as the second largest revenue contributor, driven by the use of EBM in every taxable activity, a policy initiated in 2020,' said the RRA Commissioner General, Ronald Niwenshuti.

Studies conducted by RRA and the Tax Administration Research Centre further demonstrate the impact of digital reforms. For example, VAT increased by 5.4% in tax-to-GDP ratio, and EBM2 adoption led to a 12% rise in VAT collection among new users. Firms using EBM-supported goods achieved an average revenue increase of $33,400 compared to non-users.

These advancements reflect Rwanda’s progress toward self-reliance, the RRA CG said. Today, domestic revenue fund over 54% of the national budget, up from 51.2% the previous year. 'This aligns with national strategies such as Vision 2020, Vision 2050, and the National Strategy for Transformation,' Niwenshuti added.

Giulia Mascagni, the Executive Director of the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD), commended Rwanda’s leadership in digital tax transformation.

She highlighted the 10-year collaboration between ICTD and Rwanda, which has facilitated data sharing for rigorous research, policy analysis, and evaluation, contributing to improved revenue collection and taxpayer services.

Mascagni emphasized the importance of digitization in tax administration, which enabled the ICTD to explore emerging trends in digital financial services, mobile money, and their implications for tax administration.

'This conference is an opportunity to learn from one another and lay the foundation for the next decade of progress in digitizing tax administration and government services,' Mascagni concluded.

During the two-day conference, panelists with explore key elements related to Other data management and governance, digital inclusion, digital public infrastructure, improving data quality and integrity, digital payments, data exchange systems; and underscored the need for robust tax ecosystems that foster fairness and innovation.

The ICTD is a global research body on tax and development, particularly in low-income countries, providing governments with robust evidence to help them design and implement more effective and equitable tax systems.

Antoine Sebera, the Government Chief Innovation Officer at the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), emphasized the transformative role of AI highlighting Africa’s rapid digital transformation.

RRA Commissioner General, Ronald Niwenshuti.

Giulia Mascagni, the Executive Director of the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD), commended Rwanda’s leadership in digital tax transformation.

During the two-day conference, panelists will explore key elements related to Other data management and governance, digital inclusion, digital public infrastructure, improving data quality and integrity among others.

The two-day conference that started on Thursday, December 12, was organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) in partnership with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).

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President Paul Kagame, alongside Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), unveiled the “Cross Car”, a racing car made in Rwanda by students from IPRC Kigali.

The event took place Thursday evening, December 12, 2024, at the Kigali Convention Centre, at the ongoing FIA General Assembly scheduled to conclude tomorrow.

The car, built over the past month by the students in collaboration with an FIA technician, was showcased with the participation of key figures, including Christian Gakwaya, President of the Rwanda Automobile Racing Club (RAC).

This “Cross Car” is set to be tested by Dutch Formula One champion Max Verstappen, as part of a FIA community service penalty imposed on him as a punishment for using unacceptable language during the pre-event press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix last September.

President Paul Kagame, alongside Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), unveiled the “Cross Car”, a racing car made in Rwanda by students from IPRC Kigali.

After the unveiling, a reception was held at the Convention Centre, bringing together political leaders, sports celebrities, and other dignitaries, including Steve Harvey, to celebrate the FIA’s 120th anniversary.

The “Cross Car” is a compact, specialized vehicle with several critical features such as a protective racing seat, reinforced safety structures, race-specific tires, and a unique design for driver protection in case of accidents.

Its safety features include a six-point harness system and a window opening for entry and exit. The vehicle is operated with a manual transmission and requires specific skills and training, as it differs significantly from regular rally cars.

The sport of Cross Car racing is growing in Rwanda, with plans to purchase more vehicles and kick-start local championships to further develop the motorsport scene in the country.

President Paul Kagame shares a light moment with Mohammed Ben Sulayem

Steve Harvey joined in the ceremony to celebrate the FIA’s 120th anniversary.

After the unveiling, a reception was held at the Convention Centre.

This “Cross Car” is set to be tested by Dutch Formula One champion Max Verstappen.

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The discussions focused on the foundation’s work, particularly in strengthening the health sector in Africa.
A global philanthropic organization, the foundation was established in 1964 by businessman Warren Buffett.

Until 2004, it was known as the Buffett Foundation, but it was later renamed in honor of Warren Buffett’s late wife, Susan Buffett. The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation is mainly involved in charitable activities, particularly in the field of health.

Senait Fisseha, who led the delegation, is the Head of Operations at the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation.
She is also a strong friend of Rwanda, as she resides here, although she is originally from Ethiopia.

Howard G. Buffett, the son of Warren Buffett, who played a role in establishing the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, is a major partner of Rwanda.

This American billionaire has supported the creation of an international model agricultural and livestock school, with a $87.6 million investment for the construction and operations over five years, in addition to another $40 million for its ongoing support.

The Buffett Foundation has been involved in agriculture in Rwanda for some time, having committed to investing $500 million in projects aimed at advancing the agricultural sector in Rwanda since 2015.

The discussions focused on the foundation’s work, particularly in strengthening the health sector in Africa.

The delegation was led by Senait Fisseha, a long-time friend of Rwanda.

President Paul Kagame hosted a delegation from the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, on Thursday, December 12, 2024.

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During an interview with the national broadcaster, Sulayem discussed the preparations and highlighted his own election as FIA President in 2018, emphasizing that he made history as the first president outside of Europe to make it.

“I am the first president of this organization who was elected outside of Europe. This means that the doors are open, and they are open to the entire world. This is where everyone can find their place,' he said.

The history was supposed to continue, as he sought to ensure that these doors would also open to Africa, specifically Rwanda, thanks to the leadership of President Paul Kagame. However according to him, some individuals attempted to block this idea, questioning the country’s security.

“I have learned a lot from President Kagame. He has a wealth of experience, and I can say he doesn’t represent just Rwanda but the whole of Africa. I asked these people, ‘What evidence do you have to suggest that other members should not attend?’” he said.

“If you don’t trust the security there, at least trust the FIA. Concerns about the Marburg virus outbreak were better left to health authorities to address,” he added.

Ben Sulayem also emphasized that people should change the perception that motorsport is only for the wealthy, as the cost of participating is not as prohibitive as some might think.

He gave the example of a car made in Rwanda, demonstrating that there are no excuses for claiming that race cars are too expensive, as they are now more accessible.

This is the first time the FIA General Assembly is held in Africa, and it will also celebrate 120 years of the FIA, with awards presented to outstanding athletes in the federation’s sports.

The President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Mohammed Ben Sulayem says that people should change their perception that motorsport is only for the wealthy.

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The soldiers were part of Operation Turquoise, which was officially intended to protect Tutsi refugees who were being killed. However, instead of protecting them, the French forces assisted the Interahamwe, the defeated soldiers of the ex-FAR, and members of the Rwandan government responsible for planning the genocide massacres.

In 2005, the organizations Survie, IBUKA France, FIDH, LDH, and six genocide survivors from Bisesero had requested the court to order the French government to investigate the role of French soldiers in these killings.

These organizations stated that the French soldiers abandoned the Tutsi refugees in Bisesero, who were killed by the Interahamwe and ex-FAR soldiers between June 27 and June 30, 1994.

They further explained that they have evidence showing that, while the French soldiers knew about the massacre taking place as Tutsi refugees were being killed in Bisesero, they did nothing to stop it, despite having the ability to do so.

In 2018, a French court had decided to halt the investigation into this massacre, but after the March 2021 report by Professor Vincent Duclert, which revealed France’s involvement in the genocide, a new decision was made to resume the investigation. However, the investigation was once again suspended in October 2023.

In September 2024, the Paris Court of Appeal heard the arguments from these organizations and Bisesero Genocide survivors, who called for further investigation into the French soldiers’ role in Operation Turquoise, but the court dismissed their claims.

Eric Plouvier, the lawyer representing Survie, stated that this decision denied justice to the victims of Bisesero and the survivors.

“Investigation must continue. It is not acceptable for the court to make such a harsh decision to deny justice,” said Plouvier.

On the other hand, those involved in the operation, including General (Rtd) Jean-Claude Lafourcade, who led the mission, argued that the investigation should be ended, stating that the French soldiers committed no crimes.

The investigation against French soldiers who were part of the Operation Turquoisewas once again suspended in October 2023.

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The event, attended by Rwanda’s Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, representing the Government of Rwanda, along with development partners from the UK and the Netherlands, and Trademark Africa, marked the official commencement of operations for Rubavu Port. The port had been operating under a pilot phase since June 2024 by the consortium of contractors, JV Century Engineering Contractors – Yojaka India.

The state-of-the-art facility in the Nyamyumba Sector, Rubavu District, promises to enhance regional trade connecting all the adjacent towns with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while boosting regional economic exchange opportunities.

The inauguration of Rubavu Port was attended by Rwanda’s Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, alongside Joan Wiegman, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner.

Driving this transformative project was EPC Africa Group, through its subsidiary Century Engineering Contractors (CEC). Contracted by Trademark Africa in partnership with the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the project was funded by Netherlands-backed Invest International and the UK government, in collaboration with the Government of Rwanda.

As a trusted civil engineering and electromechanical contractor, CEC leveraged its expertise in marine construction expertise which allowed it to deliver the two-hectare facility to the global standards.

“EPC Africa CEO Ferdy Turasenga with other officials during the launch of Rubavu Port.

Speaking during the inauguration of the facility, EPC Africa Group CEO, Ferdy Turasenga said the company managed to deliver the Rubavu Port project on schedule, despite the significant challenges they faced at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

'We are very grateful and happy today that we have handed over this historical project, the first of its kind in our country and perhaps in the sub-region of the Great Lakes region. We are thankful to the client.

“We started this project at the beginning of 2020 when COVID just knocked on the door of the world. It was a global shock, but we kept the resilience Spirit to this date,' the CEO remarked during the opening ceremony graced by Joan Wiegman, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner.

Rubavu Port was developed by EPC Africa Group, through its construction arm Century Engineering Contractors.

The facility includes two modern terminals, one for cargo and another for passengers. The cargo terminal features advanced infrastructure, such as a wastewater treatment plant, a petrol station, and two quays capable of simultaneously handling 2X60m length vessels with a capacity of 500 deadweight tons each. The passenger terminal is equipped with modern offices and enhanced security checkpoints.

Rubavu Port is designed to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually. It provides an essential waterways link between Rwanda and the DRC, offering a cost-effective alternative to road transport and streamlining cross-border exchanges and trade.

Rubavu Port promises to enhance regional trade connecting all the adjacent towns with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while boosting regional economic exchange opportunities.

Key commodities such as cement, beverages, and agricultural products are now transported more efficiently, reducing long queues at border delays which is going to benefit passengers and traders.

The pilot phase already demonstrated the port’s impact, with businesses reporting smoother logistics and reduced transport costs. The port has also created employment opportunities, with around 150 workers currently involved in daily operations—a number projected to grow as trading activity increases.

Century Engineering Contractors (CEC) engineers at work.

Rubavu Port is part of Rwanda’s ambitious Lake Kivu Harbour Transport Project, which also includes planned facilities in Rusizi, Karongi, and Nkora. The ports aim to further bolster trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.

EPC Africa Group, through its construction arm 'Century Engineering Contractors', is also implementing the Rusizi project, continuing its contribution to Rwanda’s infrastructural transformation.

EPC Africa Group is also building Rusizi Port through its construction arm Century Engineering Contractors.

Beyond its work on Rubavu Port, EPC Africa Group operates several other subsidiaries that contribute to its diverse portfolio. These include Energicotel Plc, which specializes in the development, maintenance, and operation of power plants across Africa; Afrilott, focusing on commodity trading, procurement and logistics; and EPCA Development, which offers expertise in the design, supervision, and maintenance of commercial infrastructure projects, including the construction of modern and low-cost houses.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This initiative aims to support innovation in financial services while ensuring careful regulation to prevent potential risks.

CMA notes that, given the rapid pace of technological advancements globally, the financial sector in Rwanda stands to benefit immensely from these innovations. However, the Authority warns that without proper regulation, such technology could bring about unforeseen challenges.

Jerome Ndayambaje, a specialist in technology and innovation at CMA, spoke about the potential for the market to evolve over the next five years, driven by Fintech developments.

He highlighted how innovations could improve the efficiency of financial services, speed up processes, and extend access to a broader audience.

Key issues under discussion include whether Fintech can foster a savings culture, simplify investment processes, and facilitate easier access to financial products in the capital markets. More so, there’s a question of whether these technologies can assist the private sector and government in raising capital for business expansion.

The 'Fintech Regulatory Sandbox’ is designed to help in trial financial technologies with a small group of users over a set period (usually one year) to assess their viability and impact before scaling them up.

Ndayambaje explained that this testing phase ensures that emerging technologies address existing challenges and do not cause harm to investors or the financial market.

By offering a controlled environment for experimentation, the sandbox helps in understanding the operational dynamics, benefits, and risks of new technologies. Successful innovations that demonstrate value and mitigate risks are then granted permission to operate within the broader market.

The CMA introduced this program in 2023 to provide a platform for companies in the financial technology sector to test their innovations and services, fostering Rwanda’s goal of becoming a hub for financial technology and investment.

Ndayambaje stated that this initiative aligns with Rwanda’s ambition to become a leading center for both investment and financial technology in the region.

The sandbox also serves as a platform for technology companies to expand both within Rwanda and internationally, offering a conducive environment for growth. It helps establish a culture of saving and investing, enhances service delivery, and ensures broader access to financial products for all Rwandans.

However, challenges were noted by participants in the sandbox, particularly in integrating their technologies with those of various stakeholders in the financial sector.

CMA considers these challenges manageable through continued awareness campaigns and collaboration with key partners during the testing phase.

The 'Fintech Regulatory Sandbox’ is a critical step toward modernizing Rwanda’s financial market, improving access to capital, and facilitating financial inclusion across the country.

The Capital Market Authority (CMA) has emphasized the importance of the 'Fintech Regulatory Sandbox’ in driving the growth of Rwanda’s financial technology sector.

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This initiative aims to develop a sector that employs over 400,000 Rwandans, with 69% of households in Rwanda relying on agriculture for their livelihoods.

The program focuses on increasing and processing the production of tea, vegetables, and fruits, particularly avocado and pepper, expanding and processing potatoes, boosting poultry and pig production, and increasing beef production.

Investors were introduced to the opportunities to promote a revolution in agriculture, increase production, create jobs for women and youth, expand irrigated land, and develop modern agricultural systems.

The program is linked to a five-year strategy to accelerate agricultural development (PSTA 5), which will cost Frw 7.063 billion.

Regarding tea production, MINAGRI has announced a need for an investment of $289 million to help process and develop tea-growing regions.

At least 300 million tea seedlings are required, and tea farming will be expanded to 17,000 hectares, along with building a tea processing factory in the Nyamagabe District, a region known for tea cultivation.

The tea development project must also be accompanied by road construction for better access to the farms.

The investment will benefit over 85,000 people, with production expected to rise from the 39,008,978 kilograms Rwanda harvested in 2022/2023, yielding $107 million.

Regarding animal husbandry, MINAGRI sees investment opportunities of $169.8 million, primarily in increasing poultry and pig production to boost meat and egg output.

Plans include establishing modern poultry farms, animal feed mills, modern livestock pens, and storage for animal feed, benefiting over 123,000 people and 69,953 poultry and pig farmers.

For expanding and processing potato production, Rwanda requires $63.8 million to expand farming areas and add processing facilities to meet both local and international market demands.

The project will include developing virus-free potato varieties, creating certified storage facilities, and building modern potato processing plants. Over 41,000 potato farmers and processors, along with 245,000 others in the value chain, are expected to benefit directly.

This initiative aims to address gaps in potato farming, as Rwanda currently needs 1.5 million tons annually, while it harvests 865,000 tons per year.

In terms of vegetables and fruits, particularly avocados and peppers, Rwanda requires an investment of $222.3 million, including $40.5 million for avocado farming and $181.8 million for pepper production.

Although exporting peppers and avocados internationally is a recent development for Rwanda, it has made significant progress in the past decade. In 2022/2023, Rwanda exported 3,200 tons of avocados, earning $6.5 million, compared to $440,000 from 10 years prior. The goal is to export over 14,000 tons of avocados in the next five years.

Pepper also plays a significant role in Rwanda’s exports, particularly to Asia and Europe. In 2022/2023, Rwanda exported 2,000 tons of pepper, generating $6 million, and the target is to increase exports to $48 million by 2029 through PSTA 5.

Rwanda also requires $40.2 million to improve cattle farming for meat production.

The government has selected the Gako and Gabiro areas as suitable locations for this investment, with plans to establish a modern slaughterhouse, leather processing facilities, and a system to provide livestock feed, among other developments.

An investment of $289 million is needed to develop tea farming in Rwanda.

Rwanda has a growing market for pepper in Asia, especially in China and European countries.

Rwanda needs $63.8 million to invest in potato farming.

Rwanda indicates that it needs an investment of $222.3 million to develop vegetable and fruit farming, particularly avocados and pepper.

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