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The 21st edition of the 2024 Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games, was flagged off by Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday, August 18, 2024. The games feature schools from Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and host Uganda.

Rwandan students will compete in eight sports disciplines during the one-week-long games, which are scheduled to conclude on August 26, 2024. The games are Handball, Basketball, 3×3 Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Rugby, Netball, and Athletics.

The 21st edition of the 2024 Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games, was flagged off by Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

Groupe Scholaire Remera-Rukoma will open Rwanda’s games on the second day, Monday, August 19, 2024, in girls’ football against Alliance Secondary School from Tanzania.

Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare will face St. Augustine MS of Uganda in boys’ Volleyball, while GS St Aloys from Rwamagana will face Kwanthaze SS from Kenya in girls’ Volleyball.

Rwandan students will compete in eight sports disciplines during the one-week-long games, which are scheduled to conclude on August 26, 2024.

In the boys’ Basketball, International Technical School of Kigali (ITS Gasogi) will face Hope Secondary School of Uganda, while G.S. Marie Reine from Rwaza will face Buddo Secondary School also from Uganda (girls).

In 3×3 Basketball category, (ITS Gasogi) will face Uganda’s Kibuli Secondary School (boys), while Association of Parents for Education (APE) Rugunga will face St. Mary’s Kitende of Uganda (girls).

In Handball, ADEGI from Gatsibo will face Mbogo Mixed Secondary School from Uganda in the boys’ category.

Rwanda hosted the 20th edition of FEASSA games at Huye in 2023. The country secured third place, trailing Uganda and Kenya, with a total of 17 medals: four gold, four silver, and nine bronze.

While flagging off the games on Sunday, Museveni thanked the participating countries, stating that the event aims to further unite members of the East African Community.

“The unity of the East African Community extends beyond sports, bringing us together as friends, brothers, and enhancing trade relations,' the Ugandan Head of State said.

FEASSSA President, Justus Mugisha, thanked Museveni for being the first Head of State to officially open these games in their history.

One hundred sixty-two high school students from Rwanda are among the 3,526 participants in this year’s East Africa Secondary School games underway in Bukedea district in Uganda.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

'We are pleased to welcome H.E. Monica Geingos as our first Chancellor. Her vast experience and leadership in support of young people make her the right person to lead our institution. We are grateful for her passion and focus on Africa’s development through economic empowerment of young Africans. This aligns with our mission, and we look forward to seeing her impact,' said Ambassador Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairman of Kepler College’s Governance Council.

Geingos is a qualified lawyer and has made significant contributions to both the private and public sectors. Before her tenure as First Lady of Namibia between March 2015 and February 2024, she was the Managing Director and co-shareholder of Namibia’s largest private equity fund for over a decade.

Most recently, she was the President of Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) where she launched the #WeAreEqual campaign, advocating for gender equity across Africa.

'As the inaugural Chancellor of Kepler College, I am profoundly honored to lead this institution into a new era of transformative education. My vision is to harness the power of knowledge not merely to inform but to inspire profound societal change. By creating a dynamic learning environment that bridges academic excellence with real-world application, we aim to ignite a generation of Pan African innovators and leaders who will drive meaningful progress,' said Geingos.

Beyond her professional achievements, Geingos’ leadership extended to her roles as a co-chair of the Global Council on Inequality, AIDS, and Pandemics, and Chairperson of the Africa REACH Leadership Council.

She has been instrumental in advocating for gender equity and economic inclusivity through her various platforms.

'Mrs. Geingos’ appointment as Chancellor marks a significant milestone for Kepler College. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a unique perspective that will enrich the College’s academic culture and commitment to excellence and inclusivity. I am confident that her leadership will greatly enhance our ability to offer transformative higher education,' said Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita, Vice-Chancellor of Kepler College.

Geingos’ global recognition includes receiving the 'World Without AIDS Award’ from the German AIDS Foundation and being appointed as a UNAIDS Special Advocate for Young Women and Adolescent Girls. In April 2024, she was honored with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Jharkhand Rai University.

As Chancellor, Geingos will preside over convocation ceremonies, confer degrees, and represent Kepler College within and outside the academic community.

Kepler College prepares young Africans with global competencies and the mindset to address local challenges. With innovative competency-based education model, it offers high-quality, affordable, and employment-driven higher education at the nexus of management and technology.

It currently provides a Bachelor of Arts degree in Project Management and a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, along with a range of professional development courses designed to equip students with the essential skills for the 21st-century workforce.

Kepler College offers US degrees in partnership with the Southern New Hampshire University program. Through this partnership, over 2,500 students across Kigali and the Kiziba refugee camp in Karongi district have enrolled.

Former Namibian First Lady has become inaugural Chancellor of Kepler College.

Sam K Nkurunziza

She took a six-year break from politics during which she established Bright Stars Foundation Academy, a private educational institution located in Gasabo district.

Kazarwa has now returned with a renewed focus on addressing the nation’s evolving needs through legislative reforms.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Kazarwa shared her vision for the next five years, highlighting her key focus areas, responding to citizens’ criticisms, and outlining her commitment to the Rwandan people.

Priorities

As the new Speaker of Parliament, Kazarwa’s primary goal is to ensure that the legislative body remains dynamic and responsive to Rwanda’s rapid development.

“Our country’s rapid development requires solid, evolving laws that address emerging issues,” Kazarwa stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among members to align their efforts with the government’s broader programs.

Kazarwa’s immediate focus is to review the handover documents from the previous leadership to understand the progress made and identify the starting points for the new term.

She highlighted the importance of examining the government’s wide-ranging agenda and working closely with other institutions to ensure effective governance.

Addressing citizens’ criticisms

Citizens have often expressed concerns that Parliament does not fully represent their interests, particularly on issues such as taxes and rising market prices.

Kazarwa addressed these criticisms head-on, explaining that while taxes are necessary for national development, it is crucial to ensure that they are not overly burdensome.

“Taxes are essential for building infrastructure like roads. Compared to other countries, our taxes are not the highest,” she noted.

Kazarwa stressed the need for continuous education on the importance of taxes and ensuring that public funds are managed transparently.

Regarding the issue of rising prices, Kazarwa acknowledged that these fluctuations can often be attributed to global economic conditions beyond Rwanda’s control.

However, she assured citizens that Parliament is proactive in addressing such concerns by summoning relevant ministers to provide explanations and taking necessary legislative actions.

Parliament’s role in government oversight

Parliament’s effectiveness in holding the government accountable has been questioned by some, who believe that the legislative body could be more active in this regard.

Kazarwa clarified that Parliament follows strict legal procedures when overseeing government activities.

“We prepare reports and forward them to the Prime Minister, and issues are followed up by various parliamentary committees,” she explained.

Kazarwa also highlighted the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in summoning individuals to account for the use of public funds as part of Parliament’s broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.

Promise to Rwandans

Looking ahead, Kazarwa made a solemn promise to the people of Rwanda.

“My promise to Rwandans is that, together with other institutions, we will work for them because they elected us, and we are their voice,” she declared.

Kazarwa committed to ensuring that projects are not delayed, that the President’s promises to the citizens are fulfilled promptly, and that the budget is managed effectively to prioritize and execute essential tasks.

Kazarwa stressed the need for continuous education on the importance of taxes and ensuring that public funds are managed transparently.

Kazarwa committed to ensuring that government projects are not delayed.

Gertrude Kazarwa was elected as the Speaker of Rwanda’s Chamber of Deputies on August 14, 2024.

IGIHE

It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.

The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

From Vision to Reality

The SOLIDACT Foundation’s story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.

SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.

“In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students,” recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. “Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting eight students across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”

Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT, makes his remarks during the launch of the foundation.

As TIP’s impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.

The foundation’s vision is ambitious yet attainable—to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.

Impact on the Ground: Education, Health, and Community Support

SOLIDACT’S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district, bringing the total number of supported children close to 150.

In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.

These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.

“Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it’s not enough on its own,” Gakwaya explains. “That’s why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures.”

In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.

Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.

The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.

The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.

“We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community,” says Gakwaya. “When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed.”

Building for the Future: The Recreation Center of Excellence

As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.

This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.

“The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support,” Gakwaya explains. “It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally.”

The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.

In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.

“Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future,” says Gakwaya.

Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

'These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,' she said.

Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector, makes her remarks during the launch of the foundation.

A Call to Action: Join the Journey

As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation’s success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation’s mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.

“We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us,” he says. “Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families.”
For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.

A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment

The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.

Attendees cut cake to celebrate the launch of the Solidarity in Action (SOLIDACT) Foundation on August 15, 2024.

As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.

With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation’s work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.

The Solidarity in Action (SOLIDACT) Foundation was launched on August 15, 2024.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The team, comprising experts in various fields, is expected to work hand in hand with other government officials in their ministries to develop and implement policies, manage budgets, handle crises, advise the president and the prime minister, and communicate with the public, among other responsibilities.

In addition to the Cabinet, the Head of State is expected to appoint heads of parastatal institutions from time to time, who also play a key role in the management of various government bodies.

For all these leaders to be resourceful and successful civil servants, several key principles and practices are essential to ensuring strong performance, effective leadership, and job security.

1. Integrity and Ethical Conduct

Integrity and ethical conduct remain at the core of public service, and any leader entrusted with a position in government must adhere to the highest standards, avoiding corruption, nepotism, and other unethical behaviours.

In recent years, several leaders have been forced out of office due to lack of integrity, highlighting the growing intolerance for unethical behaviour in Rwanda’s public service.

On July 25, 2024, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya was dismissed from her position as Minister of Public Service and Labour (MIFOTRA) amid a probe into her conduct.

According to Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), Mujawamariya is being investigated for accountability issues related to her tenure as Minister of Environment between November 2019 and June 2024.

RIB is also investigating Environment Permanent Secretary Patrick Karere and other individuals in the ministry accused of mismanagement of forestry and environmental projects.

President Kagame’s zero tolerance for graft led to the sentencing of former Minister of Youth and Culture, Edouard Bamporiki, to four years in prison in 2022 after he was found guilty of corruption and misusing his office to solicit a bribe.

Additionally, former Eastern Province Governor and Inspector-General of Police, CG (Rtd) Emmanuel Gasana, is currently serving a three-and-a-half-year sentence for abuse of office.

2. Accountability

As explained above and in the highlighted cases, the government of Rwanda has zero tolerance for corruption and other fraudulent activities. To remain compliant, a state officer must be prepared to take responsibility for their actions and decisions, ensuring transparency and honesty in all dealings.

3. Professionalism

Professionalism in civil service is fundamental for effective governance, public trust, and the successful implementation of government policies and programs.

The virtue entails upholding a high level of ethics and integrity, demonstrating a high level of competence and expertise, possessing strong communication skills, managing time effectively, and promoting teamwork and collaboration.

4. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

To be resourceful and successful in their roles, civil servants must consistently strive to ensure that their actions and decisions are compliant with the laws and regulations of the country.

Compliance with laws and regulations is crucial for maintaining the integrity, effectiveness, and trustworthiness of public service, ensuring that a civil servant fulfils their roles in a lawful, fair, and responsible manner.

5. Continuous Learning and Improvement

State officers, such as Cabinet ministers, occupy pivotal roles that shape a nation’s trajectory. To effectively navigate the complexities of governance, continuous learning is indispensable.

In a rapidly changing world, it is essential for key officials to develop a deep understanding of emerging trends, technologies, and global dynamics to formulate effective policies. This can only be achieved through continuous learning and self-improvement.

Additionally, continuous learning enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, which are crucial for managing crises.

6. Effective Communication

Any civil servant seeking to be successful in their role must develop strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to articulate their ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.

This includes communicating the success of one’s initiatives to the public and taking responsibility for any failures.

7. Teamwork and Collaboration

To excel in governance, a good leader must work well within teams, respect other officials’ contributions and encourage a collaborative work environment.

By fostering a cooperative environment, government agencies can enhance their ability to address complex challenges, improve service delivery, and achieve shared objectives.

8. Innovative Thinking

Any leader seeking to succeed in their undertakings must be open to new ideas and approaches, actively seeking innovative solutions to challenges and continuously improving processes within their department.

9. Customer-Oriented Service

A civil servant’s primary role is to serve the public. To succeed in this, one must be responsive to the needs of citizens, delivering services efficiently and courteously.

This includes actively listening to feedback, adapting to changing circumstances, and maintaining a high standard of professionalism. Building trust through transparency and integrity is also essential for fostering positive relationships with the community and ensuring effective public service.

10. Strong Work Ethic

Successful civil servants often show dedication through their work through diligence, discipline, and the consistent delivery of quality results.

Commitment to one’s work can inspire junior officers to strive for greater achievements and, in the long run, improve the overall performance of a ministry or department.

11. Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of public service. It underpins the trust between the government and its citizens.

Civil servants are required to protect sensitive information and uphold confidentiality, especially when handling government data or citizen information.

12. Adaptability and Flexibility

The public sector is dynamic, and a good leader must be able to adapt to change as needed. Additionally, flexibility in handling unexpected situations is crucial for navigating the complexities of public administration effectively.

13. Leadership and Initiative

As a leader, you are required to exhibit exceptional leadership by proactively taking initiative, steering others with vision and purpose, and making well-informed decisions that advance the interests of government and serve the public effectively.

14. Time Management

To enhance productivity, as a leader, you need to manage your time well by prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines. It’s important to note that proper time management not only supports strategic planning but also promotes work-life balance.

15. Respect for Hierarchy and Protocol

Respecting hierarchy and protocols ensures smooth and respectful interactions between colleagues and superiors.

16. Focus on Results and Outcomes

Focusing on results and outcomes is a crucial aspect of effective leadership. As a leader, your primary objective should be to achieve tangible results that advance the goals of your department or ministry.

This means setting clear, measurable targets and directing your efforts toward achieving these specific outcomes. By concentrating on concrete achievements, you ensure that your initiatives and strategies are not only well-planned but also yield meaningful impacts.

17. Resource Management

Effective resource management is fundamental to successful leadership. As a leader, you are entrusted with various resources—financial, human, and material—that are critical to the operation and success of your department or ministry. Wise management of these resources involves ensuring that they are used efficiently and responsibly.

18. Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution is an essential skill for effective leadership, particularly in managing disagreements and issues that arise in the workplace. As a leader, developing strong conflict-resolution skills enables you to address and resolve disputes calmly and effectively, ensuring that the workplace remains productive and harmonious.

19. Commitment to National Vision

To be an effective leader, it is essential to align your work with Rwanda’s national vision and strategic goals. This means understanding and integrating the country’s long-term development objectives into your daily responsibilities and decisions. By doing so, you contribute to the broader mission of advancing national prosperity and achieving sustainable development.

20. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

To excel as a leader, you must be culturally aware and promote inclusivity, ensuring that all citizens are treated fairly and equitably, regardless of their background. This will promote a progressive society where every individual feels appreciated.

Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente was reappointed by President Kagame on Tuesday, August 3, 2024, after serving seven years in the position.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a stirring and impassioned speech while addressing the newly sworn in parliament on August 14, 2024, Kagame castigated efforts in place to confront a conflict that has cast long shadows over the region for decades.

With reason and conviction, The Head of State dismantled the falsehoods and that have long painted Rwanda as the villain in this tragic saga, asserting with unwavering clarity that the DRC’s problems must not, and cannot be blamed on Rwanda.

'Let me speak plainly about these issues of regional insecurity, the war that has gripped the eastern part of DRC, the simmering tensions that have pitted neighbors against each other, these are not new problems,' Kagame said.

'I addressed them the other day at the inauguration, and I address them again now: the true root of these conflicts lies not in Rwanda, but in the mire of interests and hypocrisies that refuse to confront the real causes,' he asserted.

Kagame peeled back the layers of distortion that have clouded the truth for so long describing a narrative that has been twisted and turned to serve the interests of a few, while the many suffer.
'It is a story that was told not to illuminate the truth, but to obscure it by shifting the blame away from those who must be held accountable,' he observed.

The president questioned those that allege Rwanda’s exploitation of the DRC’s resources through the supposed support of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) rebels.
'They say the FDLR returned to Rwanda only to be sent back to the DRC, to exploit their riches. But I ask, what riches? What resources are they speaking of, when the people they claim to defend live in conditions worse than my own citizens?' he wondered

He acknowledged that many of these fighters came back to Rwanda and everyone knows who they are and also addressed the concerning misrepresentation of the refugee situation in the region.
'You acknowledge that there are people who need to be resettled, yet you refuse to engage with the very refugees who are at the heart of the insecurity in this region and then you turn around and blame Rwanda? This is not just wrong, it is unacceptable!' Kagame said.

'It is clear that they have no real interest in resolving this conflict. They do not seek peace, but rather, they seek to maintain the chaos from which they benefit,'

Reflecting on a discussions held with some delegates at his inauguration, Kagame questioned why Rwanda is continually asked to clean up the mess that others have created.
But let me remind you, Rwanda’s liberation and progress was not handed to us as a gift. We fought for it, we bled for it, and we earned it,' he said

He emphasized that security is a matter of survival for Rwanda and good neighborliness cannot come at the country’s expense, or anyone else’s. He said that the problems in the DRC is not Rwanda’s to solve, and this constant narrative should not be used as a scapegoat.

'We will continue to protect our people, our interests, without fear, and without hesitation,' he stressed

Sam K Nkurunziza

A unanimous decision was taken by regional leaders who attended that there was need to continue fostering political and economic stability to accelerate regional integration and industrialization.

The one-day summit drew participants from all 16 member states including Angola, Botswana, Comoros, DR Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rwanda is not a member of SADC.

During the event, Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, took over the SADC chairmanship from his Angolan counterpart, Joao Lourenco. He called on the region to unite and collaborate to advance the development agenda for the benefit of SADC citizens.

The SADC region, Mnangangwa explained, must deploy innovative strategies across all sectors of the economy to spur regional value chains, particularly focusing on value addition and beneficiation of the abundant mineral and natural resources in the region.

He stressed the need for the SADC region to fiercely protect its sovereignty and economic independence. He assured that, during his tenure, the SADC would actively pursue and implement projects and programs aimed at advancing regional development.

At the same time, the new SADC chair expressed gratitude to the regional bloc for its support during the two decades of Western sanctions against Zimbabwe, noting that many countries in the region resisted pressure from Western nations to abandon the southern African country.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to personally thank you all for the many years of your unwavering solidarity, support, and unbreakable fraternal relations with the Republic and people of Zimbabwe. This has been against the continued heinous sanctions imposed on our country, Zimbabwe, by some Western countries,” Mnangagwa said.

“We are aware that various forms of undue pressure may have been exerted on you over the years to abandon us, yet you have remained resolute in the true spirit of our liberation wartime mantra that an injury to one is an injury to all,” the president emphasized.

Several countries and organizations have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe over the years, mainly due to alleged human rights violations, political instability, and governance issues. Most of the countries and bodies have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwean officials and government entities in the country. The sanctions include travel bans and freezing of personal assets.

The countries and bodies that have imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe include the United States of America, the European Union (EU), United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

In 2019, SADC declared October 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day, during which member countries engage in various activities to demonstrate solidarity with Zimbabwe and advocate for the unconditional removal of sanctions.

The 44th Ordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government was held on Saturday, August 17, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a notice to the public, the authority stated that White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, are no longer allowed to be produced, distributed, or sold on the Rwandan market.

The directive follows inspections that established the two companies were illegally operating as food processing facilities and did not comply with safety requirements set by the Rwanda FDA.

'Rwanda FDA orders immediate closure of both facilities and a complete halt to the production, sale, distribution and use of their food products, including but not limited to Discovery White Vinegar and HLAAL White Vinegar, produced by Tamu Tamu Heat Spices LTD and Cheetah Group LTD, respectively,' reads a statement issued by FDA on August 17, 2024.

'For the sake of protecting public health, the general public is informed that the two products indicated above (all lots) are not allowed to be produced, distributed, and sold on the Rwandan market.'

The two banned vinegar brands.

The Rwanda FDA has urged consumers who have purchased the products to immediately stop using them and dispose of them properly.

Additionally, the public has been cautioned against consuming other products produced by the affected companies.

'The general public is also informed that all other food products processed by the aforementioned facilities are likewise prohibited from entering the Rwandan market,' the authority said.

Rwanda FDA was established in February 2018 to safeguard public health by regulating human and veterinary medicines, vaccines and other biological products, processed foods, poisons, medicated cosmetics, medical devices, household chemical substances, tobacco, and tobacco products.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The UAE’s efforts in Sudan range from humanitarian relief to medical support and reconstruction.

IGIHE

The Africa Soft Power Summit was recently hosted in Kigali by a panel that included some of Africa’s most enterprising minds in the business of sports.

The panel moderated by Michelle Moore, MA BA, featured Nkechi Obi, CEO of Sport Nigeria LTD/GTE, Natasha Camy, Co-owner of the Cape Town Tigers (BAL contenders), Founder & CEO of Referee Ready Academy, Kyle John Schofield Director, QA Venue Solutions (BK Arena) and Michael Finley Head of Basketball Business Development at NBA Africa.

Some of the key take away points on how to power the sports economy through innovation and inclusion are some of the following:

Connectivity: The more people have access to devices, the more content they can consume. This is a game changer because better content means better proof of concept and model across the continent.

Data: There needs to be a significant data gap in the sports business. Investment is driven by data, meaning more data on the market will strengthen the value proposition for sports investments in Africa. We need to share more insights across different facets of the sports business to make the landscape more competitive and drive growth.

Taxes: Having a sports event to tour different cities is excellent business; however, taxes contribute almost 60% of the cost. Strategic partnerships across borders would make it more affordable for business and bring sports experiences closer to the fans across borders.

Value chain: A value chain across Africa is vital for the growth of sports businesses in Africa. Investment, capacity building, and manufacturing are the pillars on which this value chain will be built across the continent. Because of the value chain, BAL, for example, can offer the same quality experience in different cities on the continent.

Supporting startups: NBA has created demand on the continent! How can we open a portal for startups to provide homegrown solutions to problems around the BAL and other sports in Africa.

Capacity Building: Training, hands-on work opportunities and exposure are essential to having a local workforce and entrepreneurs to meet the demand for sports businesses to thrive.

Shifting the focus from athletes alone We focus on athletes without venues, facilities, capacity development, and infrastructure. Athletes require a value chain that can help them fully optimize their careers.

Community Impact: Sports should involve and support the communities. Programs that facilitate knowledge exchange, upskilling and access to income-generating opportunities in sports are the impact-driven approach sports businesses should consider.

The writer is the Marketing and Communications Director at Global Events Africa, a marketing and communications professional with several years of experience spanning various sectors.

Paul Atwine