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According to the EAC Secretariat, the Summit of EAC Heads of State acknowledged that the establishment of a Federation was first agreed upon in 1963 by the EAC’s Founding Fathers—President Jomo Kenyatta (Kenya), Dr. Apollo Milton Obote (Uganda), and Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere (Tanganyika, now Tanzania). However, it was noted that the bureaucrats entrusted with advancing this goal failed to follow up on the matter.

It was noted that Tanganyika and Zanzibar went ahead to form the United Republic of Tanzania, adding that the federation should be extended to transform the region into one as envisaged by the three Founding Fathers.

The Summit members were speaking on November 29, 2024 at the Arusha International Conference Grounds in Arusha, Tanzania during the High-Level Side Event on the EAC’s 25th Anniversary.

The EAC leaders further agreed on the need to fully operationalise the Customs Union and Common Market protocols to enhance intra-regional trade which is still relatively low.

In his remarks, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said that EAC should be celebrating more than 1,000 years of trade interconnectedness within the region instead of focusing on the achievements of the past 25 years only.

President Museveni said that East Africa’s Coastal, Great Lakes and Lake Victoria Basin regions were a Connected Trade Area (CTA) interlinked by trade routes along the current Central and Northern Transport Corridors extending all the way to Mesopotamia in present day Iraq. The partition of Africa into spheres of influence in 1884 by the European colonial powers disconnected the CTA by segmenting it into separate countries.

'The colonial powers succeeded due to the region’s internal weaknesses. We became a DTA — disconnected trade area. Kenyatta, Obote and Museveni took the bold step to form the East African Federation in 1963 in a brave effort to dismantle this DTA,' said President Museveni.

'However, some actors let us down and did not follow up on the three President’s idea of forming a political federation. Tanganyika linked up with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanzania, which played a significant role in liberating southern Africa from the yokes of colonialism,' said President Museveni.

President Museveni said that the formation of the East African Federation would have forestalled Idi Amin’s ascendancy to power in Uganda, solved in good time the problems Burundi and Rwanda, and mitigated the internal conflicts in the Federal Republic of Somalia and South Sudan that caused much suffering to the people of the two countries.

President Museveni affirmed that Uganda was fully committed to promoting free trade in East Africa and was against the practice of banning products, delicensing products to deny them market access or protecting markets to limit competition for locally produced commodities.

On his part, Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto said that a survey taken way back in 2010 indicated that East Africans were fully behind the integration process and supported the establishment of a political federation.

President Ruto hailed the Republics of Burundi, Uganda and Kenya, which have already undertaken national consultations on the drafting of the constitution for the EAC Political Confederation, and thanked Rwanda, South Sudan and Tanzania for having set dates for national consultations on the process.

President Ruto said that EAC was the foremost regional economic community in Africa with intra-regional trade standing between 25 — 28%, which is the highest in Africa.

On trade, President Ruto disclosed that more Partner States were benefiting from the share of intra-regional trade with Tanzania having overtaken Kenya in terms of the volumes of intra-regional trade.

The Kenyan Head of State underscored the importance of peace and security as prerequisites for local and foreign direct investment, adding that it should be a collective responsibility of Partner States to keep the region peaceful and to invest in its stability.

President Ruto said that towards that end, Kenya had provided a forum for South Sudan’s political actors to talk to one another in order to stabilise the country. Kenya was also working with Somalia and Uganda to reduce tension and stabilise the Horn of Africa region.

President Ruto said that Kenya was in agreement with the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s desire to merge the Luanda and Nairobi peace process under the Luanda process, adding that Kenya had no reservations with the Nairobi Process mediator, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, being enjoined to the Luanda process.

Speaking at the event, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan underscored her country’s commitment to promoting environmental conservation and combating climate change through transition to clean energy and an aggressive afforestation programme.

On his part, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said that his country’s entry into the EAC was the culmination of a long desire to join her neighbours in East Africa as part of a robust economic and political entity.

Also present at the event were Burundian Vice President Prosper Bazombanza, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva, Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic Community, Development Partners, among other delegates.

EAC heads of state have agreed to expedite the establishment of a political federation as the fourth and ultimate stage in the EAC integration.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Rwanda is among the beneficiaries of the regional financial institution’s initiatives, including financing infrastructure projects and supporting private sector development.

The agriculture sector has received multimillion-dollar funding from the AfDB since the launch of its first project in 1974. As of November 2024, the institution had supported 46 projects to aid the Rwandan government’s efforts to enhance food security. Three projects are currently active, supported by $16.77 million in funding.

Through the multi-million dollar Bugesera Agricultural Development Support Project (PADAB) and the Inland Lakes Integrated Development and Management Support Project (PAIGELAC), the Bank has not only revolutionized farming and fisheries but also fostered resilience, uplifted livelihoods, and strengthened food security.

In the arid plains of Bugesera, farming was once a gamble with nature. The arrival of PADAB, however, turned this challenge into an opportunity.

An investment of $14.8 million between 2006 and 2013 introduced modern irrigation systems covering over 700 hectares in Bugesera. This has enabled farmers to grow crops year-round, significantly increasing yields of maize, beans, and vegetables.

Beyond irrigation, the rehabilitation of 260 kilometers of feeder roads has been a game-changer. Farmers can now transport produce to markets more quickly and at lower costs, reducing losses and increasing profits.

Through the multi-million dollar Bugesera Agricultural Development Support Project (PADAB), AfDB has transformed people’s livelihoods.

Additionally, training sessions on high-yield seeds and sustainable practices have made smallholder farmers more productive and resilient.

Anne, a farmer in Bugesera, is one of many beneficiaries. Once dependent on unpredictable rains, she now harvests surplus vegetables to sell at the market. 'I can now afford school fees for my children and invest in better farming tools,' she says.

PADAB has helped Anne and many others shift from subsistence farming to sustainable livelihoods.
On the other hand, Rwanda’s lakes have long been a lifeline for fishing communities, but overfishing and environmental degradation posed a serious threat to this vital sector.

PAIGELAC stepped in to revive inland fisheries, combining infrastructure upgrades, environmental conservation, and community training to ensure long-term benefits.

The construction of modern landing sites, cold storage facilities, and ice plants has drastically reduced spoilage, enabling fishers to supply high-quality products. Environmental restoration efforts, including watershed protection and reforestation, have safeguarded ecosystems, ensuring that fish stocks remain plentiful.

Nadine, a fish processor and entrepreneur, epitomizes this empowerment. After joining a PAIGELAC-supported training program, she expanded her business and now exports smoked fish to neighboring countries.
'This project changed my life,' she shares.

In the arid plains of Bugesera, farming was once a gamble with nature but now things have changed.

With her earnings, Nadine has built a home and educated her children, inspiring others in her community to follow her lead. Dnd just like her, thousands of women have also received training, loans, and tools, enabling them to lead agribusinesses and improve their families’ quality of life.

For François, a fisherman on Lake Muhazi, the results have been life-changing. 'With training and access to better facilities, my income has increased. I can now support my family and save for the future,' he says.

Since PAIGELAC’s inception, Rwanda’s fish production has grown to 17,000 tonnes annually, lifting thousands out of poverty.

As the regional multilateral financial institution celebrates 60 years, it has, through its initiatives, touched the lives of more than 700,000 Rwandans, supported 696 agribusinesses, and made significant strides in improving food security.

The Bank’s focus on sustainability and inclusivity ensures that its projects not only address immediate challenges but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity. This is a pivotal role in supporting Rwanda’s vision to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income country by 2050.

The agriculture sector has received multimillion-dollar funding from the AfDB since the launch of its first project in 1974

IGIHE

The launch of this initiative took place during a key workshop held in Addis Ababa from November 27 to 29, 2024.

The strategy focuses on strengthening integrated health systems, with a special emphasis on the prevention and control of major health threats like HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

In his opening speech, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, expressed the significance of the event, stating, “It is indeed an honour to address you today and to participate in this important workshop with the expectation that we come out of it stronger with strategies and renewed commitments for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria, Hepatitis and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on the continent.”

Delegates from all 55 African Union Member States gathered at the workshop, where they reviewed and endorsed the Africa CDC’s blueprint for 2024—2027.

This plan is not only a reflection of the continent’s commitment to addressing urgent health concerns but also aims to integrate prevention and control strategies into the national health systems of all African countries.

The challenges in Africa are severe, with infectious diseases continuing to have a disproportionate impact. The continent accounts for 94% of global malaria cases and 95% of malaria-related deaths.

Moreover, it carries 40% of the world’s burden of NTDs, with every African country facing at least one endemic NTD. Despite this, the region faces significant barriers to progress, including underfunding, weak health systems, limited research, and poor access to treatment.

Dr. Kaseya, addressing these challenges, called for a unified effort to change the current health narrative in Africa. “We need to brace up to change this narrative by intensifying our efforts to find lasting solutions for the control and eventual elimination of these diseases,” he said, reinforcing the need for urgency and commitment in the battle against these widespread health threats.

The workshop focused on several key objectives, including validating strategic priorities for disease prevention and control across HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB, hepatitis, and NTDs. It also aimed to engage stakeholders to strengthen multisectoral collaboration and finalize a detailed implementation plan, complete with clear monitoring and evaluation indicators.

Another crucial element discussed was the establishment of sustainable partnerships to support long-term health system strengthening across the continent.

This initiative aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Africa CDC’s “New Public Health Order,” which emphasizes boosting Africa’s self-reliance in health security.

Political leadership will play a critical role in driving these efforts forward, and several African leaders have taken on specific health-related initiatives.

Among them are Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who will serve as the Champion for Pandemic Preparedness and Response; Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, Champion for Health Workforce and Community Development; Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Champion for Cholera Elimination; and William Ruto of Kenya, Champion for Local Manufacturing.

As the workshop came to a close, delegates produced a validated strategic priorities document and a costed implementation plan, which will serve as a roadmap for improving health responses across Africa.

Dr. Kaseya remarked on the transformative role of Member States in this endeavor, stating, “The involvement of Member States is transformative. Together, we will create a more resilient, integrated, and inclusive health future for Africa.”

This strategic blueprint represents a critical step toward tackling the health challenges that have long plagued the continent, with the Africa CDC leading the charge for a healthier and more resilient Africa.

Delegates from all 55 African Union Member States gathered at the workshop, where they reviewed and endorsed the Africa CDC’s blueprint for 2024—2027.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Speaking to the national broadcaster regarding the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nduhungirehe expressed pessimism if DRC does not change its approach.

'Yes, we signed the concept of operations that would guide the peace process moving forward. But despite these agreements, when we look at what is happening on the ground, we see that DRC has continued to support and arm groups that pose a direct threat to Rwanda’s security,' he said

His remarks followed a ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, in Luanda, Angola, where key issues of regional security, including the dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the easing of security measures along the Rwanda-DRC border.

The meeting, which brought together ministers from Rwanda, DRC, and Angola, was intended to fast track the process however, Nduhungirehe expressed frustration over the lack of tangible progress despite the agreements reached in Luanda.

The minister pointed to the actions of armed groups close to Rwanda’s border, particularly the M23 and other rebel factions, which continue to carry out attacks against each other despite the agreed-upon ceasefire.
Nduhungirehe described these actions as a clear violation of the commitments made during the Luanda discussions.

During the meeting, Ministers from Rwanda and DRC met their Angolan counterpart.

'After the fifth round of talks, despite the commitments made, we observed over 20 attacks by rebel groups against M23 teritories. This ensured the continuation of retaliatory fighting, which is exactly the opposite of what was agreed upon,' he said.

'This is why I raised the issue in the meeting. when we agree to commitments, they need to be implemented on the ground,' Nduhungirehe revealed.

He also commented on recent inflammatory rhetoric from DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, which has further complicated the peace process. On November 17, 2024, President Tshisekedi delivered a speech in the Okatanga region, where he openly stated that if given the chance to amend the constitution, he would seek to overthrow the government of Rwanda.

'This public call for regime change is particularly concerning as it contradicts the diplomatic efforts underway to ease tensions between the two countries. We are deeply concerned about these statements. Such words are reckless and dangerous, undermining the ongoing peace efforts' Nduhungirehe noted.

The minister also criticized the DRC’s Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, who in a video published on social media, is seen addressing detainees in the overcrowded Munzenze Prison, in Goma, warning inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame, at the same time mobilizing those willing to fight against Rwandans to reclaim their land.

'Such statements are not only provocative, but they are a direct challenge to the peace process. These words fuel hate and mistrust, and they make it difficult for us to lower our defense mechanisms,' Nduhungirehe explained.

DRC Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, addresses inmates in Munzenze prison recently where he warned inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame.

Despite these setbacks, Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to peace, but made it clear that Rwanda will not remove its defense measures until it sees a genuine commitment to peace from the DRC.

'We want peace, but we are not seeing the will from the DRC. Until there are concrete actions on the ground, we cannot lower our guard,' he warned.

He called for the DRC government to engage directly with the M23 group to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. He emphasized that such dialogue could help bring stability to the region and ultimately lead to peace.

'We believe the solution lies in dialogue, including with the M23 group. It’s time for the DRC government to take this bold step and engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to lasting peace in the region,' Nduhungirehe advised.

Rwanda has also called for greater international support to ensure that the peace agreements are properly implemented and that DRC is held accountable for its actions. 'We are committed to working for peace, but we need to see real actions from DRC. We will continue to safeguard our sovereignty and the safety of our citizens,' he emphasized.

The situation remains tense, and while both countries have publicly expressed a desire for peace, the path forward will require true commitment to make difficult decisions and fulfill each other’s commitments in order to avoid further escalation.

Minister Nduhungirehe has cast a shadow of doubt at the fruits of the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the DRC if nothing changes.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Many I spoke to call it luck, surviving by the skin of their teeth; others see their survival as an opportunity to be beacons of hope, voices for the voiceless. Their persistence proves that people can endure unspeakable adversity.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as a striking memorial to the Genocide mass murders. In addition to being a center for repugnant history, it also functions as a learning center and a space for introspection.

Its role is also international in scope, advocating reconciliation, healing, and peacemaking via education across borders. In fact, for me visiting this memorial wasn’t just a journey to the past but a reflection of those lessons which Africa should urgently internalize in securing her future.

The Frailty of Peace

Growing up in my rural Kenyan neighborhood, I learned about the genocide in school, but the extent of its barbarity felt alien, and somewhat elusive—perhaps because I was only about one month old when it occurred and about twelve when I first learned it in school.

Walking through the Kigali Genocide Memorial, however, the reality became unequivocally stark: peace is easily disrupted. Rwanda’s story is a grim reminder that polarization, hate speech, and rampant bias can escalate into a crippling massacre.

Standing before walls inscribed with names, staring into photos of innocent victims, sent a sobering message about vigilance. Roots of animosity are often planted through careless remarks, policies of exclusion, or orchestrated propaganda campaigns. When cultivated by indifference or culpability, they morph into horrors.

The Power of Unity

Remarkably, Rwanda has demonstrated a power of unity and active resolution. This memorial keeps the remembrance of the victims alive as well as enlightens its visitors on the road to restoration for Rwanda.

With programs in place that facilitate dialogue, rebuilding communities, and holding people accountable as a nation, it is an example to show that even amidst a deeply divided population, reconciliation can be realized.

This is a lesson most needed on the African continent, which often finds itself torn apart by ethnic, political and tribal dispute. If Rwanda was able to rise from the ashes of genocide, why can’t other nations turn their conflicts into avenues for healing and advancement?

It takes strong leadership, for sure, but it also requires a united effort to highlight the mutual humanity that binds us together.

The Role of Education

The Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as an important educational hub, particularly for young people. By confronting difficult truths, the memorial helps ensure that history is remembered and not repeated.

Education that promotes empathy, inclusivity and critical thinking must be given top priority for us Africans. To help them strive for a more cohesive future, it is our duty to teach our kids about our shared past, including its triumphs and sorrows.

My Experience: A Personal Call to Action

The experience of touring the Kigali Genocide Memorial was both life-changing and profound. In addition to serving as a devastating reminder of the depths of human evil, it also showed how remarkably resilient and forgiving we are when faced with such terrible grief.

I thought about how I could contribute to “Never Again” for it to become more than just a cliche and a reality that we all live by. I believe the answer lies in fostering dialogue, creating a path to harmony through education and immense support from allies.

For Africa, this means drawing lessons from Rwanda’s scars and successes to forge sustainable peace. With that said, I deeply appreciate the fact that the Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as a memorial and a call to action for a continent that needs to heal.

Before it’s too late, let’s take note of these teachings. When we come together, Africa will continue to rise but when remain divided along the lines of ethnicity and hate, the continent will certainly come down crumbling.

The Author is a Digital Marketing and Communications Consultant based in Nairobi. She is a published author and a thought leader in the intersection of digital media, communications, and consumer behavior.

Ivy Wangui Mutahi

Senegal and Chad End Military Cooperation with France

Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has called for the removal of French troops from the West African nation, citing national sovereignty.

In an interview with international media ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre—when hundreds of African riflemen were killed by French forces on December 1, 1944, for demanding their pay—Faye emphasized the incompatibility of military bases with Senegal’s independence.

'Senegal is an independent and sovereign country, and sovereignty does not accommodate the presence of military bases,' Faye asserted.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye assumed office in April.

Faye also revealed that French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the Thiaroye incident as a massacre in an official letter.

“It is not enough to recognize it as a massacre; this acknowledgement must pave the way for full collaboration to uncover the complete truth about Thiaroye’s tragic events,” he stated.

Faye’s remarks coincided with Chad’s announcement on Thursday that it would terminate its security and defence cooperation agreement with France. This move aligns with a regional shift, as nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have recently expelled French forces to redefine their security partnerships.

Australia Bans Social Media for Children Under 16

Australia has enacted one of the world’s strictest regulations targeting Big Tech by banning social media access for children under 16.

Passed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the law requires platforms like Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, as well as TikTok, to block minors from logging in or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million).

A trial phase for enforcing the law begins in January 2025, with the full ban taking effect in a year.

Passed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the law requires platforms like Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, as well as TikTok, to block minors from logging in or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million).

Unlike similar legislation in France or U.S. states, which allow parental consent for access, Australia’s law is absolute. The move is aimed at addressing social media’s mental health impact on young people and could set a precedent for other governments globally.

Kenyan Deputy President’s Motorcade Attacked During Burial Ceremony

Recently impeached Kenya Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was on Thursday forced to scamper for safety after goons invaded a burial ceremony he was attending in Limuru within Kiambu County.

The attackers indiscriminately assaulted mourners, and Gachagua’s motorcade sustained damage.

A collage of images showing a vehicle belonging to Rigathi Gachagua, damaged during the ugly incident.

In a statement shared on X, the former Deputy president condemned the attack, claiming that the State had intentionally withdrawn his security detail to facilitate such an attack.

“Earlier this week the government withdrew the final aspects of my security that was in place after the impeachment process we are contesting. We did not raise issue with this decision although expectations were that any Kenyan who has served at the level of government that I was privileged to serve at, would be secured by government even after leaving office,” he alleged.

Gachagua, impeached in October for allegedly undermining President William Ruto and other officials, has contested his removal in court.

President Kagame Discusses DRC Security Crisis with Angola’s Lourenço

Rwandan President Paul Kagame and his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, held a phone discussion on Thursday about the security situation in eastern DRC.

Eastern DRC remains plagued by conflict between government forces and the M23 rebel group, which controls much of North Kivu Province.

The talks came after a November 27 discussion between Lourenço and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and a roadmap agreement between Rwanda, DRC, and Angola to dismantle the FDLR, a terrorist group in the region.

The office of President Lourenço, who serves as the African Union-appointed mediator between Rwanda and the DRC, stated that the conversation between the two leaders took place via phone.

Photos from the call showed Lourenço accompanied by his foreign affairs and security teams, who had recently participated in Rwanda-DRC talks in Luanda.

Rwanda Unveils National FinTech Strategy to Spur Financial Growth

Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT launched a five-year FinTech Strategy (2024—2029) on Thursday, aiming to foster a robust FinTech ecosystem and position the country as a regional financial hub.

The strategy prioritizes improving financial literacy, expanding access to investment, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and developing digital infrastructure.

“Today marks a significant milestone in Rwanda’s digital transformation journey as we launch our national fintech strategy. This strategy represents not just a policy document but our country’s commitment to positioning Rwanda as a leading fintech hub in Africa,” Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire said during the launch in Kigali.

Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire speaks during the launch of the National Fintech Strategy in Kigali on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

Rwanda aims to attract 300 FinTech players, generate 7,500 jobs, and raise $200 million in investments by 2029.

IGIHE

Over 36,000 refugees resettled from Rwanda to third countries in the last 18 years

The largest camp, Mahama, houses 68,115 refugees,

The announcement came during a discussion between the Ministry and the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security on November 27, 2024.

Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, explained that many refugees in Rwanda’s camps seek resettlement in countries like the USA, Canada, and others. “This year alone, 5,000 refugees have been resettled, bringing the total to 36,000 since 2006,” he stated.

The recent influx of refugees includes around 15,000 Congolese fleeing the ongoing M23 conflict, bringing the total number of refugees currently residing in Rwanda to approximately 16,000.

Rwanda continues to support its refugee population through employment programs and the provision of documentation that enables them to compete for jobs across various sectors of the economy.

Senator Evode Uwizeyimana raised concerns about some refugees who fabricate family connections to be resettled in specific countries, pointing out that those selected for resettlement may struggle to adapt or thrive in their new environments.

“Some refugees lie about family relationships with those who have already been resettled abroad. These individuals often feel disconnected, with no strong ties to either the host country or their country of origin,” Uwizeyimana said.

Minister Murasira acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing that individuals preparing for resettlement receive counseling from mental health professionals to ensure a smooth transition despite the difficulties.

He also noted that Rwanda hosts refugees from diverse regions, which contributes to the large refugee population in the country. However, he encouraged refugees to embrace both their host country and their home country.

Resettlement to third countries remains a key solution for refugees who are unable to integrate into their host country or return to their countries of origin.

As of the latest statistics, Rwanda is home to over 135,000 refugees. Mahama camp, houses 68,115 refugees, while other camps such as Kiziba, Kigeme, Mugombwa, Nyabiheke, and Nkamira shelter a combined total of over 67,000 refugees.

Mahama camp, houses 68,115 refugees.

IGIHE

As we join the international community in marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism, it is vital to shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by women worldwide, including from Israel and Rwanda, and reaffirm our collective commitment to eradicating this pervasive issue.​​

More than 400 days have passed since Hamas abducted hundreds of civilians from Israel. To date, 101 hostages, including women and children, remain in captivity in the Gaza Strip.

These hostages have been denied Red Cross access, and absolutely no contact with them has been allowed.​​ These precious human beings, including women and daughters, endure unimaginable isolation and suffering.

In this context, we recall that the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Sexual Violence in Conflict has reported that there is clear and convincing information that some of the hostages have been subjected to various forms of sexual violence including rape and sexualized torture and that there are reasonable grounds to believe that such violence is ongoing.

​​This enduring tragedy – which has unfolded over 400 days – underscores the need for urgent action to be undertaken by the international community, in line with the global commitments we have all endorsed under UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.​​ ​​

This landmark resolution calls on us to safeguard women and girls in conflict and prevent their victimization.​​ So long as the hostages remain in custody, and continue to be brutalized by Hamas, we are witnessing the utter failure of the international community to uphold the principles on UNSCR 1325, including the protection of women and girls. We are not only failing Israeli women; we are failing humanity as a whole​​.

We urge you to join in the humanitarian call for the immediate release of all of the hostages being held captive in Gaza by the Hamas terrorist organization, including women, children, husbands and fathers, the elderly and the sick and wounded.

Their plight is a universal concern that transcends politics, bound by our shared commitment to human rights and justice. Let us act together to uphold the dignity and safety of all women and children — as well as all of humankind — affirming the world’s resolve to combat violence against them in every form.

We ask that you take action in your circles of influence — vis-à-vis world decision makers, local leaders and civil society — to orange the world and free the hostages. Let us hope and pray that by the time that next year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is commemorated, all of the hostages being held in Gaza will be reunited with their loved ones, safe and sound in their homes. But their release depends on the actions of each and every one of us. Not apathy and indifference.

Rwanda has made remarkable strides in promoting gender equality, with an unwavering and vocal commitment of HE the president. Despite these advancements, GBV remains a pressing concern.

According to the UNHCR Rwanda GBV Situational Analysis Dashboard for example, over 10,000 cases of GBV were reported in the first half of 2024.

These figures remind us that while progress has been made, the fight against GBV requires sustained efforts and innovative solutions and we all need to work together to eradicate this phenomenon

With hope and determination,

Einat Weiss

Ambassador, State of Israel to Rwanda

Einat Weiss is the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Rwanda.

Einat Weiss

According to Egypt Today, the two ministers explored ways to deepen collaboration in key sectors, including health, trade, economic cooperation, and capacity building. They also discussed the exchange of expertise through training programs facilitated by the Egyptian Agency for Partnership for Development.

The ministers expressed a shared desire to convene a joint committee between the two countries at the earliest opportunity and to organize a business forum during the committee’s proceedings. This forum would aim to foster stronger ties between the private sectors of both nations.

Additionally, the ministers reviewed progress on the “Egypt-Rwanda Magdi Yacoub Heart Center,” a significant initiative that expands the reach of one of Egypt’s leading heart treatment centers to Rwanda. The center is expected to be a major healthcare facility in Rwanda and the wider African region.

In the broader context, the two officials also discussed developments across the African continent. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the African Union’s institutions and promoting sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063. They also pledged mutual support for nominations in regional and international forums.

Rwanda and Egypt share a rich history of diplomatic relations. The Egyptian Embassy in Kigali was established in 1976, and Rwanda re-opened its embassy in Cairo in March 2015. The two countries have forged strong ties across multiple sectors, including political, economic, cultural, and development cooperation.

Both countries are active members of regional organizations such as the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Agency, the African Union, and the Nile Basin Initiative.

The Egypt-Rwanda Joint Commission, which was established in 1989, has seen significant collaboration. In 2009, the second round of the Joint Commission led to the signing of ten cooperation agreements spanning agriculture, education, health, industrial development, and other sectors.

Notably, Egypt played a pivotal role in facilitating the construction of the Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Centre, which is set to become the first dedicated cardiac hospital in Rwanda and Sub-Saharan Africa. The $20 million facility, currently under construction in Masaka, Kicukiro District, is expected to be completed in 2025.

In August 2024, the Rwandan government agreed to allocate land for the establishment of an Egyptian logistics hub. In return, Egypt committed to providing land for Rwanda to enhance trade and investment opportunities.

Additionally, Rwandan and Egyptian officials recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the supply of medical equipment and devices for the heart center once it is completed.

These developments reflect the ongoing strengthening of relations between Rwanda and Egypt, underscoring a shared commitment to mutual growth and cooperation across multiple sectors.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe (left), and his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdel Aati (right), held a phone call on Thursday during which they discussed new avenues for strengthening bilateral ties.

IGIHE