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During the International Conference on Genocide prevention held in Kigali on December 9, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, the center will focus on conducting research on genocide prevention worldwide, a role previously handled by Western international organizations.

The conference brought together diverse participants, including researchers, university professors, representatives of international organizations and other global stakeholders.

It was highlighted the global community lacks full engagement in addressing conflicts that could potentially lead to further genocides if left unchecked. Examples were cited of hate speech and violence targeting the Kinyarwanda speaking Congolese in eastern DRC, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the war in South Sudan.

Minister Bizimana emphasized that as a country that experienced genocide, Rwanda strongly opposes and actively works to prevent any actions that could lead to division or discrimination, which are the root causes of violence and loss of life.

The conference brought together diverse participants.

He explained that Rwanda, in collaboration with the African Union, has established the African Centre for the Prevention of Genocide to serve as a global platform for research and training.

'The center aims to prevent genocide wherever it may arise globally. It will offer training programs for various groups, including diplomats, researchers, teachers, business people, youth, and others. While the center will primarily focus on Africans, it will also engage international participants in efforts to prevent genocide and its ideologies,' he elaborated.

He also noted that while international organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch produce reports on these issues, Rwanda wants the new center to conduct in-depth research that goes beyond the actions of Western nations.

'We want this center to become a hub for expert, comprehensive research that is not limited to Western narratives,' he said.

Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, said the center will focus on conducting research on genocide prevention worldwide.

Dr. Bizimana further stressed the need for collective efforts to combat the ideology of genocide, as the spread of such ideologies remains pervasive across various social groups, including youth.

Ismael Buchanan, a political science and international relations lecturer at the University of Rwanda, stated that hosting this center provides Rwanda with an important platform to contribute to global genocide prevention.

'Having this center in Rwanda would serve as a global lesson, enabling us to exchange knowledge on how to tackle issues like genocide, which often arise from deep-seated conflicts and hate speech, as seen in places like the DRC,' he said.

Adama Dieng, the African Union’s Special Envoy for the Prevention of Genocide, called the center vital not only for Rwanda, a nation that lived through the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, but also for the entire continent.

Adama Dieng, the African Union’s Special Envoy for the Prevention of Genocide, called the center vital not only for Rwanda but also the entire continent.

'This center will serve as a platform for dialogue and reconciliation, promoting peace and healing not only within Rwanda but across Africa,' he said.

'Remembering the painful history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is crucial for building a resilient society. This center will help Rwanda and the region to not only heal but also educate the current and future generations about Rwanda’s and Africa’s history,' he added.

Different participants gave different views on the subject of Genocide prevention.

The International Conference on Genocide prevention was held in Kigali on December 9, 2024.

IGIHE

The anonymous accuser, identified only as 'Jane Doe,' said the assault happened after she was driven to an MTV Video Music Awards after-party.

The federal lawsuit was originally filed in October in the Southern District of New York, listing Combs as a defendant. It was refiled Sunday to include Carter. Texas-based attorney Tony Buzbee, who filed the suit, did not comment.

Carter called the allegations “idiotic” in a lengthy statement Sunday evening and alleged that Buzbee was engaged in unprofessional behavior.

“These allegations are so heinous in nature that I implore you to file a criminal complaint, not a civil one!! Whomever would commit such a crime against a minor should be locked away, would you not agree?. These alleged victims would deserve real justice if that were the case,” Carter said in a statement to NBC News.

A spokesman for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment on whether the office is pursuing the case when shown NBC News’ report on the lawsuit.

In a statement, legal representatives for Combs called the suits “shameless publicity stunts, designed to extract payments from celebrities who fear having lies spread about them, just as lies have been spread about Combs.”

“As his legal team has said before, Combs has full confidence in the facts and the integrity of the judicial process. In court, the truth will prevail: that Combs never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone—man or woman, adult or minor,' the statement read.

Federal prosecutors in New York criminally charged Combs in September with racketeering, sex trafficking and other offenses, and he is behind bars at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center after he was denied bail for a third time last month. His trial is scheduled for May 5, 2025.

Jay Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs pictured together in 2000.

IGIHE

The player left Kigali on Sunday, December 8, 2024, heading to Portugal where he is set to undergo a 10-day trial with Sporting Clube de Braga in the Primeira Liga.

But that’s not all; he will also try his luck in Belgium with Anderlecht, a top-tier team in the Belgian Pro League. If opportunities arise, he may also explore chances with Lille in France, a team that plays in Ligue 1.

Iradukunda is expected to spend a month in Europe and will return to Rwanda in January 2025.
Not only are these clubs interested in him, but Turkish team Antalyaspor, currently in 11th place in the Turkish Super League, has also extended an invitation.

Iradukunda is expected to spend a month in Europe.

The 18-year-old is one of the most talented players in Rwanda’s Premier League. Last season, he was awarded the Best Young Player after an impressive performance.

In the 55 matches he has played in the Rwandan Premier League, he has scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists.

Mukura Victory Sports central defender, Elie Tatou Iradukunda is expected under go trials in Europe.

The player left Kigali on Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Last season, he was awarded the Best Young Player after an impressive performance.

IGIHE

Officially launched on December 6, 2024, the modern facility is located in Gasabo District’s Kimihurura Sector, Rugando area, near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre.

As Rwanda continues to grow as a regional hub, investors are leveraging opportunities to foster development in key sectors such as tourism. T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

The hotel also offers airport transfer services for international guests, ensuring convenience and seamless experiences.

Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a sauna and massage centre, a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Daniel Niyomugabo, the General Manager of T-Stone Apartment Hotel, emphasised the hotel’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.

“Our unique value lies in delivering quick and high-quality services. While we acknowledge competition in the area, we are set apart by the quality of our offerings and our prime location. We aim to create a standout experience, ensuring efficient and friendly service unlike any other.'

Niyomugabo added that the hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

Founder and CEO Muhirwa Gashugi expressed the company’s ambition to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to position the country as a premier destination in Africa.

For reservations or inquiries, T-Stone Apartment Hotel can be reached via:

Phone (General Inquiries): +250 795 300 188
Phone (Reservations): +250 795 303 065
Email: [email protected]
Website: T-Stone Apartment Hotel

The hotel, located near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre, was officially launched on December 6, 2024.

The modern facility was officially launched on December 6, 2024.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

The hotel offer high-end dining experience.

The hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.

IGIHE

Women in the workforce are trained and supported in competing for leadership positions. Graduates are prepared to compete in the job market while women with small businesses are empowered on how to expand their ventures.

“Lift Her Up” was launched in 2022 by Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group, a company that offers business and leadership consulting services.

'A woman has many responsibilities that make her encounter difficult to rise in leadership as a man would. You can see this even with children just finishing school, where the confidence of girl low, even if she has completed her education,' Nkusi said.

The “Lift Her Up” program has three main interventions; the first prepares female graduates to compete in the job market, the second helps women or girls ambitious to start their own businesses while the third supports women and girls in the workforce who seek to advance in their careers. Each year, about 100 women and girls are facilitated through this training.

Gate Consulting Group first assesses the gaps in the development of women and girls and what they want to learn, then connects them with relevant training on a monthly basis.

In the “Lift Her Up” program, prominent female leaders are invited to share examples with their peers, demonstrating what is possible and showing how a young girl or woman can succeed.

Successful women in decision-making positions are invited to share their experiences and guide others on the paths they took and what they need to focus on to advance.

At the close of the third phase of “Lift Her Up,” which had lasted nine months, the CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), Pitchette Kampeta Sayinzoga, and the CEO of Canal+ Rwanda, Sophie Tchatchoua, shared their journeys with participants, discussing how they reached leadership positions.

Marie Aimée Ingabire, who works at Bralirwa and has been receiving training for nine months also shared her experience.

'I have received valuable knowledge, including personal development, professional growth, and leadership. It’s a great program, and we wish it would continue to expand so more women can benefit. You get to know yourself, understand the people around you, work towards goals, and more,' she said.

Rwanda has made significant strides in advancing women across various sectors. For instance, the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament has 63.75% women, the Senate has 53.8% women, and Rwanda has allocated 30% of parliamentary seats to women, with the possibility for them to compete for the remaining positions. This is also the case in government sectors.

The CEO of Canal+ Rwanda, Sophie Tchatchoua (extreme right), and the CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), Kampeta Sayinzoga Pitchette, were the ones who spoke to the women and girls at the conclusion of the third phase of the “Lift Her Up” program.

'We want to promote this initiative, increasing the number of women in all sectors. Additionally, if an opportunity arises, a woman should be given the chance not because she is a woman, but because she is capable. It’s a journey, but we are on the right track,' Nkusi said.

In the first phase for graduates, Gate Consulting Group works with universities to support their alumni. For those wishing to become entrepreneurs, the program has a registration process for those who want to be trained.

For women already working, Gate Consulting Group collaborates with their employers to arrange the necessary training.

Artist Boukouru was the one who entertained attendees at the event marking the conclusion of the third phase of the “Lift Her Up” program.

Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group and the initiator of the “Lift Her Up” program (L) and Mapula Bodibe, the CEO of MTN Rwanda, who also contributed to the training sessions encouraging women to take bold steps.

Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group, welcomes various guests at the event concluding the “Lift Her Up” program, which aims to empower women

Salma Habib Nkusi announced that they have already trained 300 women and girls on how to be bold and advance themselves in various ways.

IGIHE

His trial began on October 7, 2024, and lasted four days. It was based on a complaint filed by three organizations namely; CPCR, Survie, and IBUKA France. Through his book, Onana argued that there was no plan for the Genocide against the Tutsi.

The key issue in the trial was whether the French military’s Opération Turquoise had been conducted with the intention of furthering the genocide against the Tutsi or whether such a plan did not exist.

The trial was attended by many people, including Rwandans on the side of the plaintiffs and the defendant. There were also people from the Democratic Republic of Congo supporting Onana.

Legal expert, Professor Thomas Hochmann, was one of the witnesses for the plaintiffs. Contrary to Onana’s arguments, Hochmann explained that the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), established for the prosecution of crimes committed in Rwanda, had confirmed the existence of a Genocidal plan against the Tutsi.

Professor Hochmann clarified that the tribunal, which operated in Arusha, convicted individuals for committing genocide and for planning it, which serves as evidence that the Genocide took place and was premeditated.
He pointed out that denial of Genocide includes distorting the term in publications, rejecting the findings of courts like the ICTR, as Onana had done.

Lawyer Bernard Maingain explained to the court that it would be impossible for genocide to occur without prior planning.

“How is it possible for 10,000 people to be killed in one day without preparation? How could machetes and other weapons be distributed to people to carry out the killings if it wasn’t planned? Could they have identified and killed all Tutsis, knowing where they lived and their identity, without any preparation?” he wondered.

Maingain, from Belgium, further argued that before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi began, lists had already been made of the Tutsis who were to be killed, emphasizing that this is evidence of premeditation.

Onana arrived in court stating that he had never denied the genocide but had linked it to the shooting down of President Juvénal Habyarimana’s plane. He also claimed that the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) Inkotanyi had blocked Opération Turquoise from proceeding as planned by France.

The researcher used testimonies from witnesses including General (Retd) Jean-Claude Lafourcade, who led Opération Turquoise, Johan Swinenn, former Belgian Ambassador to Rwanda, and Christian Quesnot, former Chief of Staff for François Mitterrand who led France’s operations.

These witnesses stated that Onana’s book aimed to reveal the truth about Rwanda’s history, but they emphasized that the 1994 Tutsi Genocide was not planned.

Quesnot stated that Onana is an honest person who could not deny the genocide, adding that the ICTR never confirmed the existence of a genocide plan. However, he acknowledged that the genocide occurred and blamed the RPA forces for committing crimes against humanity and war crimes.

For his conviction, Onana has been ordered to pay a fine of 1,400Euros with the risk of 115 days in detention if the fine is not paid on time while his publisher, Damien Serieyx, was fined 5,000Euros.

Cameroonian researcher Charles Onana (C) has been convicted for denying the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

IGIHE

He committed the crimes on November 13, 2024, when Minani opened fire at a bar in the Rushyarara Trading Center, Rubyiruko Village, Nyamasheke District.

The victims were identified as 17-year-old Denis Benemugabo, 20-year-old Onesphore Habumugisha, 44-year-old Zephanie Sindayiheba, 35-year-old Jonas Muhawenimana, and 51-year-old Ezra Nsekambabaye.

Prior to the shooting, Minani had reportedly argued with the bar owner over an unpaid bill.

Witnesses testified that Minani, who had been granted a 10-day leave from duty, went to the bar, where he fired 60 rounds from an SMG-3945 firearm after the disagreement.

The trial, held publicly in Rubyiruko village, was attended by both civilians and military personnel.

Minani’s legal representative, Lawyer Jean Claude Murigande, withdrew from the case, citing rejected claims of mental illness.

The court dismissed this argument, referencing a medical report that confirmed Minani was mentally fit.

The prosecution requested a life sentence, which was upheld by the court, considering the brutal nature of the killings.

Minani confessed to the crimes, expressing remorse and asking the court to take into account the violence he had endured prior to the incident.

The tribunal determined that the killings were premeditated, with Minani leaving the bar to retrieve a weapon, demonstrating intent to commit an act of revenge.

Additionally, it was found that Minani violated military regulations by using a weapon without authorization from his superiors and by stealing military equipment.

Despite the defense’s request for leniency, the court held that the extreme cruelty of killing five people warranted a harsh sentence.

Sgt Minani sentenced to life imprisonment for killing five civilians. The trial, held publicly in Rubyiruko village, was attended by both civilians and military personnel.

IGIHE

According to Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

In a detailed response dated December 9, 2024, Karua expressed dismay over the council’s decision, calling it an attack on her integrity and a disregard for Besigye’s constitutional right to legal representation of his choice. She criticized the council for failing to request additional documentation rather than outright rejecting her application.

'The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,' Karua wrote. 'Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.'

Karua also dismissed allegations that she misrepresented herself as a practising advocate in Uganda during a December 2, 2024, court appearance. She clarified that she attended the session as a visiting jurist alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who introduced her to the court as awaiting approval for her temporary licence.

The rejection comes at a critical moment in Besigye’s trial, where he and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.

The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.

The next hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, following a request by Besigye’s defence team for an adjournment to allow time for Karua’s application to be processed.

Karua’s protest letter also highlighted what she described as 'disparaging and personalized aspersions' on her character by the council. She urged the council to exercise its discretion under the Advocates Act judiciously and to respect regional cooperation principles, particularly within the East African Community.

Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous arrests and trials over his activism. His current trial has further heightened tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.

Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister, was seen as a significant boost to the defence team, which includes over 50 lawyers and representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

According to Martha Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

However, Dr. Habineza who serves as the chairperson of DGPR was notably excluded from the parliamentary list—a decision he describes as carefully considered.

He recently spoke to IGIHE about his political journey, the challenges of the election, and his plans for the future of the Green Party.

Electoral defeat and party realignment

After the election, Dr. Habineza withdrew from the public eye, a move he attributes to his focus on restructuring his party internally.

“When you don’t win, some people feel discouraged, and it’s the leader’s responsibility to reunite and motivate the team,” he explained.

Despite the electoral loss, the DGPR remained resolute in realigning and reorganizing its structures to face future challenges.

Dr. Habineza briefly visited Sweden but returned quickly, to continue with his law studies and party responsibilities.

“During my time in Parliament, I learned a lot, but I hadn’t studied law yet. There were areas where I felt I lacked expertise, particularly in advocating for the Rwandan people. I started studying law while in Parliament, and I’m happy to say that I’m in my second year now. I’ll be finishing next year,” he shared.

Decision to run for president again

Dr. Habineza’s decision to run for president again in 2024, despite his previous defeat in 2017, was a thoughtful one.

He emphasizes that it was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to contribute to Rwanda’s democratic development.

“We realized that although I ran in 2017 and didn’t succeed, we gained valuable insights,” he noted.

According to the 47-year-old, the DGPR’s participation in the election was about presenting a platform for their vision of national leadership.

Reflecting on the 2024 elections, Dr. Habineza observed significant improvements in the election environment.

“In 2024, the security situation was excellent,” he said, noting that local leaders were more receptive and the police provided necessary protection throughout the campaign.

The future

Despite two electoral defeats, Dr. Habineza remains committed to the political process.

“What could prevent me from running again?” he asked, emphasizing that the party’s confidence in him is a strong motivator.

He also draws inspiration from leaders like Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal, who ran for president four times before eventually succeeding.

“Running once or twice doesn’t mean giving up; it means correcting past mistakes through continued effort,” he explained.

Dr. Habineza also indicated that he is open to stepping aside if the party identifies a more capable candidate.

For now, he is focused on strengthening the party’s election strategy, particularly by increasing its representation at polling stations.

“We had plans for this, but our resources fell short,” he admitted. Improving election monitoring will be a key priority moving forward.

Financial challenges

Dr. Habineza discussed the financial challenges his party faced, explaining that five political parties contested the 2018 parliamentary elections and received about Frw100 million each.

“We used those funds to purchase a party house, which we later sold to finance the campaign,” he said.

While the sale of the property came with additional debt, he confirmed that the debts have now been settled.

Looking ahead, Dr. Habineza is hopeful that the party will be reimbursed for campaign expenses, as the law allows political parties that garner more than 5% of the vote to recover part of their costs.

“We are optimistic that we’ll receive reimbursement, which we can use to buy another property,” he said.

Dr. Habineza revealed that the party spent over Frw300 million during the 2024 election campaign.

Exclusion of party member from parliamentary list

A recent development that attracted attention was the removal of one of the DGPR’s candidate from the parliamentary list just before swearing-in.

Carine Maombi, who was second on the party’s list, was unexpectedly replaced by Jacqueline Masozera Icyizanye after issues arose regarding her candidacy.

Dr. Habineza explained, “At the last minute, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau informed us that there were issues with her candidacy.”

While the matter is under investigation, he clarified that it has not yet reached the courts, and the party considers the issue resolved for now.

Dr. Frank Habineza has discussed realignment, electoral setbacks and the future of Green Party.

IGIHE

According to Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

In a detailed response dated December 9, 2024, Karua expressed dismay over the council’s decision, calling it an attack on her integrity and a disregard for Besigye’s constitutional right to legal representation of his choice. She criticized the council for failing to request additional documentation rather than outright rejecting her application.

'The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,' Karua wrote. 'Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.'

Karua also dismissed allegations that she misrepresented herself as a practising advocate in Uganda during a December 2, 2024, court appearance. She clarified that she attended the session as a visiting jurist alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who introduced her to the court as awaiting approval for her temporary licence.

The rejection comes at a critical moment in Besigye’s trial, where he and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.

The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.

The next hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, following a request by Besigye’s defence team for an adjournment to allow time for Karua’s application to be processed.

Karua’s protest letter also highlighted what she described as 'disparaging and personalized aspersions' on her character by the council. She urged the council to exercise its discretion under the Advocates Act judiciously and to respect regional cooperation principles, particularly within the East African Community.

Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous arrests and trials over his activism. His current trial has further heightened tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.

Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister, was seen as a significant boost to the defence team, which includes over 50 lawyers and representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

According to Martha Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

Wycliffe Nyamasege