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He spoke at an event to mark CRBC Rwanda Office’s 50th anniversary in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, Saturday evening.

“This anniversary not only highlights CRBC’s long life but also underscores its significant impact on Rwanda’s development, particularly connecting our communities and promoting our economic growth,” said Ngirente.

The CRBC has constructed more than 1,500 km of roads across the East African country, including both completed projects and ongoing ones, according to the prime minister.

These key roadways, he said, have significantly contributed to upgrading Rwanda’s transportation networks, increased market access, and created thousands of jobs while improving the quality of life for Rwandans.

Ngirente noted the partnership has also facilitated technology transfer and skills development, providing local workers with invaluable experience through their involvement in various projects.

In addition, he said the improved infrastructure has attracted foreign investment to Rwanda, making it an increasingly attractive destination for business operations.

“I am confident that the achievements of the past 50 years provide a strong foundation upon which we will build even greater successes in the future. Together, we can continue to build infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also paves the way for a brighter and more sustainable future,” Ngirente said.

The event featured dragon dance, a traditional Chinese dance performance.

Over the past 50 years, CRBC has created over 500,000 jobs in Rwanda, according to information from the Chinese Embassy in Kigali.

It has successively undertaken over 60 major projects, of which, ten are ongoing. It employs over 2,200 local staff members, accounting for more than 96 percent of the whole team, among whom nearly 20 percent are women.

Lin Hang, charge d’affaires ad interim at the Chinese Embassy in Kigali, said infrastructure works by CRBC echoed so well with bilateral relations between China and Rwanda, recently elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

“Through half a century, the world has changed a lot, so has Rwanda, but there’s something not changing, the commitment to each other, CRBC is always there with Rwanda, to best showcase China’s solidarity and brotherhood with our Rwanda people,” she said.

Lin noted that to CRBC, serving the people first and better and making everyone’s dream come true, is their dream, and their belief despite the challenges of living in remote areas due to the nature of their job.

“I have a dream, CRBC will help finish another 30 percent of unraveled roads in Rwanda, and extend the roads to every corner of Rwanda. I also have a dream, to make the first railway with the highest international standard happen in Rwanda,” she said.

Guo Meng, the director general of the China Road and Bridge Corporation Rwanda Office, thanked all the friends who have generously supported the development of their office and the employees who have contributed to its growth.

Zhao Lianzhi, the deputy managing director of CRBC Headquarters, said in response to the Rwandan government’s call for green and sustainable development, the company has expanded its business to focus on people’s livelihoods, enhancing the well-being of the Rwandan people.

“It is about growing together with Rwanda’s economic development. As one of the first Chinese enterprises to enter Rwanda, we have always remained committed to the Rwandan market, even during the most challenging times. As one project after another has been completed and put into use, the economic development along the project routes has also steadily improved. Watching the cities transform day by day, we deeply feel that our work is meaningful, which motivates us to continue our efforts,” Zhao said.

The event to mark CRBC Rwanda Office’s 50th anniversary in Kigali was celebrated on Saturday evening.

Xinhua

The statement was made Saturday by Bankole Adeoye, AU commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, in line with the International Day of Peace, which is annually commemorated on Sept. 21.

The AU commissioner said this year’s edition of the International Day of Peace, which is commemorated under the theme “Cultivating a Culture of Peace,” is being observed amid growing threats of intractable terrorism, insurgency, and armed conflicts in different parts of the African continent.

Adeoye said in some instances of such continental peace and security perils, “the concept of protection of civilians is collapsing and genocide is either real or looming, driven by injustice, intolerance, exclusion, poverty, inequality and climate change challenges.”

He warned that the concerning phenomenon poses “a grave threat to Africa and, indeed, to the global stability, peace, and prosperity.” He also underscored the need to expedite cross-sectoral, inclusive, and locally-owned response efforts that aimed to address conflict and post-conflict situations across the continent, mainly security challenges in the Horn of Africa, the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel, and the Great Lakes regions, among others.

Noting that the 55-member continental organization has prioritized conflict prevention by strengthening early warning mechanisms, preventive diplomacy, inclusive peacemaking, and peace missions, Adeoye called on Africans from all walks of life to redouble efforts in achieving peace through sustainable development, good governance, and the protection of human rights.

“We urge all Africans, especially women and youth, to actively engage in policy-making and peace-building initiatives. Together, let us build on the African values of Ubuntu (an African traditional philosophy of “I am because we are”), solidarity, dialogue, and cooperation and to concretely build peace,” Adeoye said.

This photo taken on Feb. 14, 2024, shows the headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

Xinhua

In an official report issued on September 20, 2024, CPDG expressed its satisfaction with the conduct of the elections, which were held on September 16 and 17, 2024, across the country.

Founded in 2015, CPDG is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting peace, good governance, democracy, and development. The organization has consistently deployed election observers to monitor elections across Africa, particularly in French-speaking Central Africa and English-speaking East Africa.

For the senatorial elections in Rwanda, CPDG deployed 42 election observers to 25 polling sites in districts and the City of Kigali, as well as 22 additional sites representing higher learning institutions.

In their post-election report, CPDG highlighted the exceptional preparation and management of the elections by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

The report noted: “The National Electoral Commission demonstrated expertise and professionalism in organizing and managing the senatorial elections of September 16 and 17, 2024. This was evident in the timely voter education, preparation of election materials, and ensuring transparency in the voting process.”

One of the standout features of the election was the impressive voter turnout, with over 98% of registered voters in the electoral college participating. According to CPDG’s report.

“The voter turnout was remarkable, exceeding 98% of registered voters. This success can be attributed to the voter awareness campaigns and the facilitation provided by the Electoral Commission, in collaboration with local authorities,” the report said.

The organization also praised the smooth operation of polling stations, noting that the voting process commenced on time and election materials were delivered without delay. “In most polling stations, voting began at 9 AM as scheduled, and election materials were delivered on time and kept secure throughout the process,” CPDG stated.

Furthermore, the report emphasized the integrity of the voting and counting processes.

“The secrecy of the vote was respected at all polling stations and monitored by both international and national observers. Vote counting began immediately after the voting process ended and was conducted in an open and transparent manner.”

CPDG also highlighted the role of election observers, both national and international, in ensuring the fairness of the elections.

“Based on reports from its observers at polling stations across the country, CPDG is pleased to announce that the senatorial elections were conducted peacefully, transparently, and freely, with full respect for laws and human rights. This reflects a significant step in consolidating democracy and enhancing citizens’ participation in the electoral process.”

The organization’s commendation of the 2024 senatorial elections underscores Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic practices and ensure that its citizens are actively engaged in shaping the nation’s governance.

For the senatorial elections in Rwanda, CPDG deployed 42 election observers to 25 polling sites in districts and the City of Kigali, as well as 22 additional sites representing higher learning institutions.

Sam K Nkurunziza

In a statement shared on his X handle, Muhoozi expressed that this decision came after divine intervention.

'I would like to announce that I will not be on the ballot paper in 2026. Almighty God told me to focus on His Army first. So, I fully endorse President Yoweri Museveni in the next elections,' Muhoozi stated.

This announcement has sparked a range of reactions across Uganda, with some expressing full support while others voiced skepticism.

Among the prominent figures to endorse Muhoozi’s decision is Balaam Barugahara, the State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Barugahara took to social media, praising Muhoozi for his loyalty and endorsing President Museveni for another term in office.

'My leader General, I fully declare my unwavering support for General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s endorsement of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s candidacy in 2026. As our esteemed leader, your guidance is invaluable, and I pledge to stand firmly behind your declaration. We look forward to President Museveni’s final term and eagerly await General Kainerugaba’s leadership in the 2031 elections when Mzee finally retires. May God bless you, our leader, for respecting divine guidance,' Barugahara wrote.

Other reactions on X painted a mixed picture. One user identified as Jaafar Karamagi expressed faith in Muhoozi’s future leadership.

'We are patiently waiting and praying for the right time for our next president,' reflecting hopes for his potential candidacy in the future.

However, David Bagonza, another X user, criticized Muhoozi’s shifting stance, saying, 'Always shifting goal posts with no strong objectives. It’s like a circus.'

Muhoozi’s endorsement of his father for the 2026 elections raises questions about Uganda’s political future, especially given speculation about his presidential ambitions.

With Museveni approaching his current term, many now wonder what role Muhoozi will play in Uganda’s political landscape after 2026.

The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced his decision to step back from contesting the 2026 presidential elections.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni

Sam K Nkurunziza

Covering an area of 6,736 hectares across the Gicumbi and Burera districts, Rugezi Marsh is one of Rwanda’s most vital wetlands. It serves as a crucial water source for the Burera and Ruhondo lakes, which supply water to the Ntaruka and Mukungwa hydroelectric power stations.

In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.

Despite its ecological importance, the species inhabiting the marsh were not fully documented until the recent research initiative launched in 2023.

Among the new discoveries are two species recorded in Rwanda for the first time: a butterfly known as the Hydrilla Leafcutter Moth and climbing plant species, Zehneria tridactyla.

Researchers documented 197 plant species, including 109 previously unrecorded in the marsh. They also identified 127 bird species, 28 of which are new to the region.

The marsh hosts an array of aquatic life, with 82 newly identified invertebrate species, 14 amphibian species (eight of which are newly discovered), and 13 reptile species (10 of them previously unknown).

Regarding mammals, 53 species were recorded, including 22 species of bats. Three fish species were also found, one of which is newly discovered. The study also unveiled 149 species of arthropods, including 49 butterfly species, all previously undocumented in the Rugezi Marsh.

Laure Rurangwa, a lead researcher with expertise in bird species, emphasized the significance of this thorough biodiversity study.

She pointed out that it marks the first time such an in-depth investigation has been carried out in Rugezi, stressing the need for ongoing research to better understand the genetic composition of these species, which will contribute to global conservation initiatives.

Rurangwa also mentioned the possibility of discovering species entirely new to science as genetic analysis continues.

Dr. Olivier Nsengimana, Executive Director of the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA), underscored the importance of this research, particularly the conservation of cranes, a species of special concern in Rwanda.

The Rugezi Marsh is home to nearly a quarter of the country’s crane population, which has grown from 487 in 2007 to 1,293 today, thanks to continued conservation efforts.

Faustin Munyazikwiye, Deputy Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), highlighted the critical role the marsh plays in Rwanda’s environment and energy sectors.

He recalled the 2001-2002 power shortage caused by a decrease in water levels at the Ntaruka power station, later traced back to the drying of Rugezi Marsh.

Restoration efforts were successfully completed by 2010, and today the marsh is thriving, with ongoing collaboration between authorities and local communities to protect the area and provide sustainable livelihoods for those living nearby.

Rugezi Marsh is one of Rwanda’s most vital wetlands

Fourteen amphibian species were also discovered in Rugezi Marsh

Researchers also identified 127 bird species in Rugezi Marsh.

IGIHE

“Yes, the number has risen. Two more cases have been reported, bringing the total to six,” Niyingabira told IGIHE.

The first case was confirmed in July, with the initial four cases involving individuals who had recently traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which is facing a severe outbreak. DRC has reported over 22,000 Monkeypox cases and more than 715 deaths so far this year.

In response, Rwanda recently launched its first phase of a vaccination campaign, aiming to vaccinate 10,000 people. This initiative focuses on high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, cross-border traders, hospitality staff, and others likely to be exposed to the virus.

Sources indicate that the vaccination of 10,000 individuals is expected to be completed within one week.

Across Africa, 2,912 new Monkeypox cases have been reported within a week, including 374 new infections and 14 deaths. The spread of a new variant, referred to as clade 1b, has raised concerns, with cases detected in the DRC, Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda.

On September 13, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the use of the MVA-BN vaccine for Monkeypox. This vaccine had already been authorized in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.

Developed by Danish pharmaceutical company Bavaria Nordic A/S, the vaccine is administered to individuals aged 18 and older in two doses. The second dose is given four weeks after the first. In Rwanda, the current vaccination campaign is administering a single dose of 0.5 ml.

Research indicates that the first dose of the vaccine provides 76% protection against Monkeypox, with the second dose increasing protection to 82%.

Symptoms and treatment of Monkeypox

Monkeypox symptoms usually appear three to 14 days after infection. The virus typically causes a rash that starts on the face, hands, and genital areas, but it can spread to other parts of the body. The rash consists of fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry up and form scabs as the individual recovers.

In addition to the rash, patients often experience fever, which may be mild or severe, and fatigue.

With appropriate treatment, most patients recover within two to three weeks after symptoms first appear.

Rwanda recently launched its first phase of a vaccination campaign, aiming to vaccinate 10,000 people.

IGIHE