Author: admin

The DRC is the epicenter of the current resurgence of Mpox, with South Kivu and Equateur provinces being the hardest hit by the outbreak.

Out of more than 16,000 Mpox cases reported in the DRC in 2024, South Kivu leads with approximately 4,600 suspected and confirmed cases. According to local authorities, the province is currently seeing 350 new cases per week.

Dr. Vincent Sanvura, who coordinates the One Health zoonoses prevention project for VSF in the Kahuzi-Biega park region, describes the situation as 'increasingly worrying.'

Dr. Sanvura noted that due to the challenges faced by the health system, hospitals do not provide food or “caretakers”; it is the patient’s family that handles this, raising the risk of contamination and infection even within hospitals.

“When children are ill, they are accompanied by their parents, who all spend the night in the same room, making it easy for the child to infect the mother or relatives who bring food,” Sanvura said.

The doctor revealed that this lack of food in hospitals has even led some patients in quarantine at health centers in Kamituga to escape in search of food.

“This has contributed to spreading the disease elsewhere,' Dr. Sanvura observed.

Mpox is a viral disease that spreads from animals to humans but can also be transmitted through close physical contact. The disease causes fever, muscle pain, and skin lesions. The clade 1 strain responsible for the current outbreak in Africa has a fatality rate of 3.6% and is particularly dangerous for children, according to the Word Health Organisation.

Denis Ripoche, who visited in July to assess the Mpox crisis and the actions of his NGO, VSF, noted that the severe impact on South Kivu is not accidental, given the insecurity in the area, which has resulted in a lot of movement.

“It is a complex crisis zone with multiple constraints,” Ripoche observed.

VSF is combating the spread of zoonotic epidemics among both animal and human populations in the region. This area experiences significant movement: commercial, natural, and currently driven by security constraints, particularly in Greater North Kivu, where M23 rebel groups have been advancing.

Limited diagnostic capacities in the region have also complicated the situation in South Kivu.

'Laboratory diagnostic capacities to detect Mpox cases are severely lacking,” Sanvura said, adding, “Yet this is the most essential component in controlling diseases, especially zoonoses (animal-origin diseases like Mpox). We are therefore unable to conduct analyses even of contact individuals to isolate the pathogen. Asymptomatic individuals circulate, so the virus also spreads within the population.”

So far, 13 countries on the African continent have confirmed cases of Mpox, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Data from the public health agency indicate that from the beginning of 2024 to August 23, a total of 21,466 potential cases of Mpox and 591 deaths have been reported from 13 African Union (AU) member states.

The AU members that have reported Mpox cases so far include Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Gabon, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda.

Some of the interventions Africa CDC has rolled out to address the outbreak include vaccination, which the agency stated earlier this week could begin “in the coming days.”

Additionally, Africa CDC announced the deployment of around 200 epidemiologists and logisticians to all Mpox-affected African countries to support preparedness and response activities.

Mpox is a viral disease that spreads from animals to humans but can also be transmitted through close physical contact.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The upcoming session in Gulu district, scheduled for August 28, 2024, has sparked mixed reactions from both the public and political leaders, highlighting a growing divide in how these sessions are perceived.

Some view them as a vital opportunity for direct engagement with legislators, while others, like the Parliament’s Leader of Opposition in the Museveni Government Joel Ssenyonyi, criticize the initiative as an ineffective and costly endeavour.

Ssenyonyi has been particularly outspoken, labeling the regional sittings as a misuse of public funds and calling on MPs to boycott the events. He argues that the sessions will not address the country’s most urgent issues and accuses the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, of orchestrating a wasteful exercise.

“These sessions are nothing more than a facade, an excuse to squander taxpayers’ money,” Ssenyonyi stated, urging his fellow parliamentarians to reconsider their participation.

In contrast, Bugiri Municipality MP and Justice Forum (JEMA) Party President Asuman Basalirwa has taken a firm stance in support of the sessions.

Dismissing Ssenyonyi’s concerns as mere noise, Basalirwa emphasized that the expenses have been carefully managed by Parliament, with provisions made for transportation and logistics. “This is not about cost; it’s about connecting with the people we serve,” Basalirwa explained, expressing his commitment to attending the Gulu session despite the growing controversy.

As the date approaches, the mixed reactions to the regional parliamentary sessions reflect broader uncertainties in Uganda’s political climate, leaving the public divided on whether these initiatives will bring meaningful change or deepen existing divides.

A collage featuring Bugiri Municipality MP and Justice Forum (JEMA) Party President Asuman Basalirwa alongside Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Ugandan Parliament.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Data from the public health agency indicate that from the beginning of 2024 to August 23, a total of 21,466 potential cases of mpox and 591 deaths have been reported from 13 African Union (AU) member states.

The AU members that have reported mpox cases so far include Rwanda, Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Gabon, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda.

Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya, in a letter to African health ministers on Friday, warned that the reported mpox cases and deaths are just the tip of the iceberg, given that mpox is mostly a mild condition. He added that limited surveillance, testing, contact tracing, and reporting have also hindered the continent’s response efforts against mpox.

Kaseya also highlighted the high case fatality rate of mpox, which he noted typically ranges from 3 to 4 percent. Additionally, he expressed concern about the disease’s association with HIV, which poses an extra challenge for Africa.

Kaseya noted that several previously unaffected African countries have recently reported their first imported cases of mpox, and there is a high risk that the virus could spread beyond Africa.

“Even as I wrote this letter, Gabon has confirmed its first case, while Sierra Leone and Malawi are now testing their suspected cases,” Kaseya said.

He insisted that a negative test result in the laboratory does not necessarily indicate the absence of a mpox epidemic. He called for a holistic approach that integrates laboratory testing with clinical assessments and epidemiological data.

“Relying solely on laboratory test results for diagnosing mpox is not advisable. We need a comprehensive approach that includes laboratory testing, clinical assessment, and epidemiological data to accurately diagnose and manage mpox,” he said.

Africa CDC declared mpox a public health emergency of continental security on August 13, 2024. The following day, the World Health Organization (WHO) also declared it a public health emergency of international concern.

Some of the interventions Africa CDC has rolled out to address the outbreak include vaccination, which the agency stated earlier this week could begin “in the coming days.”

Additionally, Africa CDC announced the deployment of around 200 epidemiologists and logisticians to all mpox-affected African countries to support preparedness and response activities. This follows the recent deployment of 24 experts to support the response in the DRC—the epicenter of the outbreak—and other highly affected countries.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has warned about the rapid spread of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, following confirmed cases in 13 countries across the continent.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Durov, holding French citizenship, was arrested on charges allegedly related to Telegram’s refusal to cooperate with French law enforcement, French media reported.

The accusations against Durov include terrorism, drug trafficking, fraud, and money laundering, reports said, adding that Durov could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

The Russian Embassy in France took prompt steps to clarify the situation before the New People party’s representative Vladislav Davankov urged the Russian government to seek Durov’s release, TASS reported.

The Russian Embassy in Paris immediately began working on the case as it is the duty of Russian diplomats to respond to cases involving the detention of Russian citizens abroad, Zakharova said.

Durov was reportedly detained as he exited his private jet after landing at Le Bourget Airport on Saturday night.

Durov founded Telegram in 2013. The messaging app is influential in Russia and has become a critical source of information during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Durov, holding French citizenship, was arrested on charges allegedly related to Telegram’s refusal to cooperate with French law enforcement, French media reported.

Xinhua

In a recent interview with state broadcaster Rwanda TV, Gallo noted that Kigali hosting the BAL games over the past four years has not only energized the local basketball ecosystem but also highlighted Africa’s potential on the global stage.

According to Gallo, Kigali’s state-of-the-art facilities, such as the BK Arena, combined with strong governmental support and a commitment to excellence, have created an ideal environment for nurturing talent and hosting world-class events.

'We were very intentional in making sure that this is where we wanted to come and launch our African product when we did that in the middle of the pandemic because of the conditions that existed here. You have a world-class arena, world leadership that is extremely supportive, and visionary leadership that shared in what we saw that sports can do as a driver of the economy,' Gallo said while commenting about the launch of BAL in Rwanda four years ago.

He observed that the ongoing FIBA World Cup Women’s Qualifiers, coming to the continent for the first time, are happening in Rwanda because “Kigali has really established itself as a hub for global events”.

'When you see a filled arena like we saw in the past games—the two games that I’ve seen the Rwanda team play—for me, that’s a testament to the work that’s been done here by Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) and the entire leadership of this country to make sure that we continue to create platforms where Africa can be showcased at a major level now that we have created this interest,' Gallo said.

Rwanda’s efforts in promoting sports have not only inspired and empowered young athletes but have also driven economic growth through increased tourism and international partnerships.

'Rwanda has been at the forefront of looking to promote tourism, inviting visitors to their country with the partnerships they’ve done in other sports. So when they partnered with the NBA, they recognized that they were partnering with the best in class in terms of commercializing and operating a professional sports league,' he added.

To continue promoting economic empowerment and development through sports, the BAL boss emphasized the need to double efforts by building local expertise and continuing to grow talent both on and off the court.

'We’ve got to continue to work to build expertise, develop coaches, and we have a program for that where we send African coaches to intern in the Summer League in Las Vegas. I think there were two coaches from Rwanda who attended again this year,' Gallo explained.

He attributed South Sudan’s basketball team performance at the Paris Olympics to great leadership and consistency.

'I think in terms of governance and administration of the sport, the example of South Sudan shows that if you have leadership that is consistent, committed, and knows how to organize and identify talent both on and off the court, put it together, and prepare, the results will come because the talent has always been here,' he added.

South Sudan had an impressive run at the 2024 Paris Olympics but fell short of qualifying for the men’s quarter-finals after a heartbreaking loss to Serbia. Serbia defeated South Sudan 96-85 in their final Group C match on August 3, 2024.

The South Sudan team, known as the Bright Stars gained recognition as Olympic contenders thanks to the efforts of former NBA All-Star and president of the country’s basketball federation, Luol Deng.

As BAL prepares for season five, Gallo emphasizes the need to continue attracting partners:
'We’ve got to keep attracting partners like Bank of Kigali, MTN Rwanda, and other companies to invest with us and help us achieve the significant ambitions we have for our league and the sport of basketball.

Amadou Gallo, President of the Basketball Africa League, has praised Rwanda as a pivotal partner in advancing basketball across Africa and promoting economic development through sports.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The UAE’s humanitarian initiatives to provide aid to Ukraine are ongoing. The country has successfully mediated seven times between Russia and Ukraine in 2024. The latest mediation in August resulted in the exchange of 230 prisoners from both sides, bringing the total number of exchanged prisoners to 1,788.

As part of its humanitarian initiatives since the beginning of the crisis, the UAE has allocated $105 million to support humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine. This includes sending 14 aircraft with humanitarian aid, operating two ships via Romania, and providing 1,015 tons of medical, food, and relief supplies. Additionally, the UAE has sent 50 fully equipped ambulances to support the Ukrainian healthcare sector.

The UAE has also contributed to Ukraine’s education sector with 7,500 laptops and 10,000 school bags. To address harsh winter conditions and power outages, 4,520 generators were sent. Support has also been extended to Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, Poland, and Bulgaria.

Furthermore, 125 tons of food and medical supplies were transported from the International Humanitarian City in Dubai via two aircraft operated by international organizations based in the UAE.

IGIHE

Rwanda’s economy is projected to grow by 7.2% in 2024, reinforcing its reputation as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies. The country has also achieved impressive rankings in safety, placing it as a role model for other nations.

As Rwanda continues to uphold its identity and seek homegrown solutions for a better future, the well-being of its citizens remains a top priority. The government addresses societal concerns that could impede family development and the nation at large, with the issue of street children being a major focus.

The issue of street children is not unique to Rwanda; globally, there are approximately 150 million street children. Although specific figures for Rwanda are not readily available, as of January 2024, the police reported at least 3,900 young people and children in rehabilitation centers due to illicit drug use and other illegal activities.

Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its children is evident through the efforts of institutions like the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF) and the National Child Development Agency (NCDA). The Rwanda National Rehabilitation Service (NRS) plays a crucial role in monitoring transit centers to ensure compliance with regulations, with the ultimate goal of reuniting street children with their families or sending them to rehabilitation centers where they can acquire life skills.

The country has established 28 transit centers across the nation, including Kigali Transit Center at Gikondo, which provides temporary accommodation for children rescued from street life. At these centers, children are screened to determine their identity and immediate needs, such as medical treatment, hygiene essentials, clean clothing, and bedding. They are then either reunited with their families or guardians or transferred to a rehabilitation center.

Between 2017 and 2019, the Kigali Transit Center screened and reunified 1,261 children with their families, while 2,564 were transferred to the government-operated Gitagata Rehabilitation Center and 18 other private rehabilitation facilities managed by civil society and faith-based organizations. According to the National Rehabilitation Services (NRS), between July 2017 and December 2019, 5,065 children were either reintegrated back into their families or provided with education and skills at the Gitagata center and 18 private rehabilitation centers.

Additionally, a total of 129 children were rehabilitated from the Gitagata Rehabilitation Center (GRC) and reintegrated into their families during the 2021/2022 period. Between 2022 and 2023, 881 children were rehabilitated from both the GRC and Nyamagabe Rehabilitation Center (NRC), with 882 children undergoing rehabilitation in the 2023/2024 period. Over the past three years, 1,892 children have been rehabilitated, contributing to a total of 12,000 children reintegrated into families since 2016.

Today, hundreds of former street youth have acquired valuable life skills in areas such as tailoring, catering, carpentry, welding, plumbing, masonry, and driving, allowing them to become resourceful, self-sustaining, and law-abiding citizens.

In an interview with IGIHE, Assumpta Ingabire, the Director-General of the NCDA, highlighted that the number of street children fluctuates based on the interventions in place. She emphasized that all children should grow up in safe families where they can enjoy their rights, including education, welfare, health, participation, and protection. Rwanda’s vision is clear: 'No children should live on the street.'

Family-related issues such as conflicts, neglect, and lack of parental responsibility are primary factors contributing to children living on the streets. To address these issues, the NCDA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, conducts periodic awareness and mass mobilization on child rights through media, community forums, and specific sessions with parents, particularly at Early Childhood Development (ECD) facilities and with those who have children on the streets.

At the village level, family friends are responsible for identifying children at risk of going to the streets due to child protection inefficacies within their families. They also identify families in conflict and provide support or refer cases where necessary. Ingabire explained that the NCDA provides psychosocial and economic support to some families at risk of separating from their children, empowering them to take care of their children.

The NCDA has also implemented a National Child Protection Case Management Framework that outlines how each child protection case should be addressed. This framework ensures that child protection actors collaborate comprehensively to handle each case until the affected child is rehabilitated and can live a normal life.

This photo shows former street kids’ football team posing for a photo before a training session at Gitagata Rehabilitation Centre in Bugesera District in 2017. Photo by The New Times

Théophile Niyitegeka

During a farewell ceremony held at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda on Friday 23rd August 2024, China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun, congratulated the scholarship recipients, encouraged them to seize the opportunity and make the most of their time in China.

'By acquiring cutting-edge knowledge and applying it in practice, you will benefit greatly in your future careers. Most importantly, you will be able to use what you learn in China to better serve Rwanda, a country with a bright future,' he emphasized.

Amb. Wang highlighted the similarities between China and Rwanda, particularly in their shared commitment to education as a key driver of development.

He urged the students to take this chance to experience China firsthand and not rely solely on hearsay or disinformation from Western media.

'Travel more in China and gain a true understanding of the country, a civilization with 5,000 years of history. By doing so, you will be well-equipped to serve as goodwill ambassadors between China and Rwanda,' he added.

The cooperation in education has long been a significant aspect of China-Rwanda relations. Since the 1980s, over 1,500 Rwandan students have completed their studies in China with scholarships provided by the Chinese government.

'These alumni have become key contributors in various sectors of Rwanda, further deepening our educational cooperation,' noted Amb. Wang.

Reflecting on the “China-Africa Talent Training Cooperation Plan” introduced by Chinese President Xi Jinping last August, Amb. Wang expressed optimism about expanding educational collaboration between the two nations.

In July, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was held in Beijing. One of the key outcomes was the Resolution on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization.

Amb. Wang mentioned that Rwandan students will witness, or even participate in, the transformative changes brought about by this important meeting during their stay in China, which could offer valuable insights for Rwanda on its own modernization journey.

Eng. Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor in the Ministry of Education who also graced the event, emphasized that these scholarships reflect the strong and growing partnership between Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China in education.

'This cooperation has transcended various sectors, with education standing as a shining example of our shared commitment to mutual development and progress. The Chinese government scholarship is a testament to this enduring partnership, opening doors for our young men and women to pursue academic excellence in one of the world’s most culturally rich civilizations,' he affirmed.

'You have been chosen not just as students but also as ambassadors of Rwanda. As you embark on this journey, you carry with you the hopes and aspirations of your families, communities, and nation,' Gatabazi added.

Christine Mutesi, Division Manager of Accreditation, Standards and Qualifications Framework at Higher Education Council (HEC), encouraged the students to develop confidence, aim higher, and return with the knowledge needed to contribute to national development.

Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Head of International Military Cooperation at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), extended his appreciation for the friendship between the militaries of both countries, highlighting China’s significant contribution to the RDF’s mission and achievements.

He noted that over 20 RDF personnel are preparing to attend various courses in China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) training institutions, reflecting the dynamic and growing partnership.

The number will add to the more than 300 RDF personnel, including generals, who have graduated from Chinese academic and training institutions since 2007.

The PLA has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the ideals of justice, individual rights, and creating a better future for people worldwide.

'Because these values align with those we cherish in the RDF, we are pleased to partner with the PLA in building the capacity of our personnel and leaders. We are convinced that the knowledge our personnel gain will benefit and prepare them to contribute even more to the professional journey of our armed forces,' Brig Gen Karuretwa noted.

Emmanuel Kamanzi, head of the China-Rwanda Alumni Association who studied in China from 2009 to 2012, shared his experiences and urged the students to learn from the Chinese people’s hard working spirit and discipline, which has been central to the development of their country.

On behalf of scholarship recipients, Janvier Bikorimana, who will pursue a master’s degree in public administration, extended heartfelt thanks to the Chinese and Rwandan governments for making their academic pursuits possible.

The longstanding relationship between Rwanda and China spans 75 years, marked by substantial cooperation. China remains one of Rwanda’s primary sources of imports.

Chinese Embassy staff welcoming guests at the farewell reception venue.

Chinese Defence Attaché to Rwanda, Senior Capt Li Dayi welcomed RDF personnel.

The farewell ceremony was held at the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda on Friday 23rd August 2024.

More than 300 RDF personnel, including generals have graduated fromm Chinese academic and training institutions since 2007.

China’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Wang Xuekun, congratulated the scholarship recipients, encouraged them to seize the opportunity and make the most of their time in China.

Amb. Wang urged the students to take this chance to experience China firsthand and not rely solely on hearsay or disinformation from Western media.

Chinese Defence Attaché to Rwanda, Senior Capt Li Dayi at the farewell reception ceremony.

It was glamor as Chinese Embassy in Rwanda bid farewell to 71 Rwandan students who have been awarded scholarships by the Chinese government.

Amb. Wang highlighted the similarities between China and Rwanda, particularly in their shared commitment to education as a key driver of development.

Eng. Pascal Gatabazi, Chief Technical Advisor in the Ministry of Education who also graced the event.

Christine Mutesi, Division Manager of Accreditation, Standards and Qualifications Framework at Higher Education Council (HEC), encouraged the students to aim higher, and return with the knowledge needed to contribute to national development.

Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Head of International Military Cooperation at the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), extended his appreciation for the friendship between the militaries of both countries.

Emmanuel Kamanzi, head of the China-Rwanda Alumni Association urged the students to learn from the Chinese people’s hard working spirit and discipline, which has been central to the development of the Asian country.

Janvier Bikorimana extended deep appreciation to the Chinese and Rwandan governments for making their academic pursuits possible.

Some participants of the event received door prizes.

Holders of numbers drawn at random received prizes at the farewell reception.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Isheja, a well-known radio host in Rwanda with over 15years experience as a journalist, will deputize Cleophas Barore who was appointed RBA’s Director General in December 2023.

Isheja began her radio career at Huye-based Radio Salus in 2008, joining KFM in 2013 before moving to KISS FM in 2014.

Meanwhile Niyonkuru was dropped in an announcement made in a communiqué released by the Office of the Prime Minister, following a cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on Friday, August 23, 2024.

The communiqué did not provide specific reasons for Niyonkuru’s removal, who was appointed as the Permanent Secretary in a Cabinet meeting on January 30, 2023, succeeding Didier Shema Maboko.

His removal from cabinet comes a week after a broader Cabinet reshuffle by President Kagame, which also saw Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju replaced by Richard Nyirishema as the Minister of Sports.

Among other appointees is Clarisse Munezero, who has been appointed Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Ombudsman, while Antoine Marie Kajangwe has been appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Others include Beatrice Cyiza, who has been named Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, while Mukandutiye Speciose and Francis Karemera have been given roles as members of the Council of Elders.

Cyiza was previously a Director in Environment Ministry, with responsibilities that included addressing climate change, one of the pressing global issues today. She has led various projects and worked with the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA).

Kajangwe, previously held the role of the Director General in charge of Trade and Investment at the same Ministry.

The Cabinet meeting also approved the representatives of countries and international organizations in Rwanda and endorsed the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which will be implemented from 2025 to 2029.

Sam K Nkurunziza