Author: admin

Xi made the remarks in his meeting with Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana.

In their small-group talks, he noted that last year Tokayev and him met twice in Xi’an and Beijing respectively, and made new arrangements and plans for the development of China-Kazakhstan relations, leading the “golden 30 years” of rapid development of China-Kazakhstan relations.

The Chinese side has always viewed its relations with Kazakhstan from a strategic and long-term perspective, and regards Kazakhstan as a priority in China’s neighborhood diplomacy and an important partner for cooperation in Central Asia.

Xi said China’s will and determination to maintain and grow bilateral relations stand firm, and will not be changed due to any single incident or transformations in the international situation.

China will always be a good neighbor and partner Kazakhstan can rely on and trust, he added.

The Chinese side, Xi also said, will continue to strengthen cooperation with Kazakhstan in traditional energy such as natural gas, expand new energy cooperation including photovoltaic and wind power, encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in Kazakhstan, and help Kazakhstan convert its resource advantages into development capabilities to achieve green, low-carbon and sustainable development.

Tokayev said Xi’s state visit to Kazakhstan is of historic significance to the development of Kazakhstan-China relations, hailing China as a friendly neighbor, close friend and important strategic partner of his country.

Based on solid good-neighborly friendship and firm mutual support, Kazakhstan-China relations have shown an unprecedented sound momentum of development, he said, noting that major achievements have been made in cooperation in trade, energy, agriculture, minerals and other fields, which have benefited the two peoples and set a good example for state-to-state relations.

Kazakhstan is ready to work with China to further tap the potential of bilateral cooperation in energy, minerals, new energy and connectivity and push bilateral relations to a new height, he said.

The Kazakh side appreciates China’s firm support for Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and will firmly abide by the one-China principle, resolutely fight against the “three forces” and safeguard the common security of the two countries, Tokayev added.

In their big-group talks, Xi said the friendly relations between China and Kazakhstan are rooted in the millennia-old ancient Silk Road, reinforced by 32 years of cooperation after the establishment of diplomatic relations, and have reached the high level of a permanent comprehensive strategic partnership.

Xi reiterated that no matter how the international situation changes, China will remain steadfast in its commitment to the China-Kazakhstan friendship, in its resolve to advance cooperation across the board, in its determination to continue mutual support on issues concerning each other’s core interests, and in its confidence in both countries realizing their development goals.

China and Kazakhstan are both at a critical stage of development and revitalization, Xi said, calling on the two sides to enhance the alignment of their development strategies and exchanges of governance experience, and implement more mutually beneficial cooperation projects to boost the development of their respective countries.

The Chinese side is ready to work with Kazakhstan on boosting economic and trade cooperation, and set a new goal of doubling two-way trade at an early date, he said.

He pledged that China will further expand imports of high-quality Kazakh goods and create new growth drivers for cooperation in e-commerce and digital economy, calling on the two sides to increase the scale of cooperation in production capacity investment, tap the potential of cooperation in scientific and technological innovation, and expand cooperation in electric vehicles, new energy, cross-border e-commerce and satellite communications.

China is willing to work with Kazakhstan to actively promote the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route and build a multi-dimensional connectivity paradigm, Xi said.

He also said that China supports the holding of China tourism year in Kazakhstan in 2025, and has decided to open a second Luban Workshop in the Central Asian country.

Noting that at the airport after arrival, he was moved to hear a group of Kazakh teenagers sing “Ode to the Motherland” in standard and fluent Chinese, Xi said young people are the inheritors of China-Kazakhstan friendship from generation to generation.

He urged the two countries to give full play to the role of the culture centers and the Kazakhstan Branch of Beijing Language and Culture University to strengthen cultural exchanges, enhance mutual understanding between the two peoples, especially the young generation, and strengthen public support for all-round cooperation between the two countries.

China, Xi noted, will assume the rotating presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) following Kazakhstan, saying that the Chinese side stands ready to jointly build an even closer SCO community with a shared future with the SCO member states including Kazakhstan.

Xi noted that China supports Kazakhstan in hosting the second China-Central Asia Summit next year and is ready to work with relevant parties including Kazakhstan to make the China-Central Asia mechanism better and stronger, and to promote the China-Central Asia cooperation to achieve more new results.

China is willing to work closely with Kazakhstan within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral frameworks, practice genuine multilateralism and safeguard the common interests of the two countries and other developing countries, Xi added.

For Tokayev, he said Xi’s visit to Kazakhstan once again proves that both sides attach great importance to and strongly hope for further enhancement of the permanent comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

Kazakhstan and China, he said, enjoy a solid friendship spanning thousands of years and fruitful cooperation in various fields, adding that in recent years in particular, bilateral ties have entered a new “golden era,” with smooth progress in major cooperation projects and positive results in agriculture, green energy, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, contributing to the well-being of the two peoples.

Tokayev said his country is a reliable friend and partner of China, adding that it is an unswerving strategic priority for Kazakhstan to deepen friendly and strategic cooperation with China.

Speaking highly of China’s diplomatic concept of peace, a series of global initiatives put forward by Xi and China’s important contribution to promoting world peace and development, Tokayev said the Kazakh side is willing to work with China to promote the building of a Kazakhstan-China community with a shared future as well as a community with a shared future for mankind.

Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan looks forward to working with China to earnestly implement the important outcomes of Xi’s visit, continuing to jointly promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, making every effort to achieve the goal of doubling bilateral trade, strengthening cooperation in agriculture, economy and trade, new energy, cross-border e-commerce and electric vehicles, and advancing the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

Kazakhstan welcomes the establishment of culture centers in their respective country and Luban Workshop, said Tokayev said. He called for ensuring the China tourism year in 2025 a success, so as to keep closer bilateral sub-national cooperation as well as people-to-people exchanges in education, culture and other fields.

Kazakhstan will continue to actively participate in building the China-Central Asia mechanism, and closely coordinate with China within multilateral frameworks such as the SCO and the United Nations, Tokayev added.

Following the talks, the two heads of state signed the joint statement between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Kazakhstan, and witnessed the exchange of dozens of bilateral cooperation documents in the fields of economy and trade, connectivity, aviation and aerospace, education and media.

Prior to their meeting, Kazakh fighter jets painted the sky with colored smoke trails to welcome the Chinese president. A group of six jets, while flying over the presidential palace, left behind them colored smoke trails of red and yellow, colors of the Chinese national flag.

In this combo photo, six Kazakh fighter jets paint the sky with colored smoke trails of red and yellow, colors of the Chinese national flag, while flying over the Kazakh presidential palace to welcome visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. Xi held talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Wang Jianhua, Yin Bogu)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev inspect the guard of honor in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. Xi held talks with Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana on Wednesday. Tokayev hosted a ceremony to welcome the Chinese president. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a welcome ceremony hosted by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. Xi held talks with Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hold small-group talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. Xi held talks with Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev hold big-group talks in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. Xi held talks with Tokayev at the presidential palace in Astana on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Source: Xinhua

This prestigious recognition highlights the quality, dedication, and innovation that characterize Silverback Tea, making it a standout in the global tea market.

Gisovu Tea Estate.

Tea has been a significant part of Rwanda’s economy since its introduction in the 1950s. The country’s ideal climate, fertile volcanic soil, and high altitude create perfect conditions for cultivating premium tea. Over the decades, Rwandan tea has gained international acclaim for its unique flavour profiles, vibrant colour, and health benefits.

Named after the majestic mountain gorillas that inhabit Rwanda’s volcanic ranges, Silverback Tea embodies strength, resilience, and the natural beauty of Rwanda. Established to produce high-quality tea that honours its origins, Silverback Tea’s, mission is to share the joy of the finest from Rwanda with the world.

Silverback Tea Company estates comprise some of the top Rwandan tea gardens namely Rugabano Tea Company Pvt Ltd, Gisovu Tea Company, and Pfunda Tea Company. Each of these companies has a unique attribute suited for the production of high-quality tea that is rich, flavorful, complex, and full of character.

Gisovu Tea Factory awarded the 1st Factory of the Year 2024 trophy.

Awards and Recognition

Some of the notable awards and recognition that Silverback Tea company has received include:

1. Rugabano Tea Company PvT Ltd: Currently holds the highest average made tea selling price in Rwanda as of April 2024, at 4.09 USD per Kg, according to NAEB’s data.

2. Gisovu Tea Company Ltd: Awarded the 1st Factory of the Year 2024 trophy during the International Tea Day Celebrations in Rwanda.

3. Pfunda Tea Company Ltd. D1: Recognized as the Best D1 in its category during the National Tea Tasting event, facilitated by NAEB, and awarded a trophy.

4. Gisovu Tea Company Ltd. PF1: Recognized as the Best PF1 in its category during the National Tea Tasting event, facilitated by NAEB, and awarded a trophy

5. Pfunda Tea Company Ltd: Honored to host the International Tea Day Celebrations in Rwanda.

6. Gisovu Tea Company Ltd: Recognized by the East Africa Tea Trade Association (EATTA) as the top producer in terms of average price per year in 2023, according to the EATTA annual report.

7. Pfunda Tea Company Ltd: Ranked 8th top producer in terms of average price per year in 2023 by EATTA.

8. Gisovu Tea Company Ltd: Recognized by EATTA for having the highest-priced tea in 2023, at 6.84 USD per Kg, an achievement shared with another top Rwandan garden.

9. All Silverback Tea Gardens: Recognized by the Gender Monitoring Office of the Republic of Rwanda, the Private Sector Federation, UNDP, and UN Women for promoting gender accountability through the Gender Equality Seal Certification Programme.

Quality and Sustainability

Silverback Tea’s commitment to quality begins at the very source—the tea gardens. The company employs sustainable farming practices to ensure that the tea is not only of superior quality but also environmentally friendly. The handpicked leaves are processed using traditional methods combined with modern technology, preserving the rich flavours and aromas that distinguish Silverback Tea.

One of the key reasons Silverback Tea has garnered such high praise is its distinctive flavour profile. The tea is known for its bright, brisk character with a harmonious balance of sweetness and astringency. The high-altitude growing conditions impart unique notes of floral and citrus, making each sip a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed as a morning energizer or a calming evening brew, Silverback Tea which is rich in theanine offers a versatile and exquisite taste.

Tea farmers from Gisovu during the International Tea Day event.

Recognition by NAEB

The National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) plays a crucial role in promoting Rwanda’s agricultural products on the global stage. Each year, the NAEB evaluates the country’s agricultural exports, recognizing the finest products that meet stringent quality and sustainability standards.

Impact on the Local Community

The company’s success translates into economic benefits for the farmers, providing better livelihoods and supporting community development projects. Silverback Tea invests in local education through ECDs and infrastructure, tea tasting events which are open tea enthusiasts fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for its workers and their families.

Delegates taste Silverback Tea during the International Tea Day 2024.

Availability in Local Markets

Silverback Tea has expanded its availability in local markets. Tea enthusiasts can now purchase Silverback Tea at several prominent retail locations, including Simba Supermarket, Tuma250, The Hut Supermarket, Silverback Kigali office and other supermarkets across Rwanda. This increased accessibility allows more people to enjoy the unique flavors and superior quality of Silverback Tea.

For those seeking a tea that is not only delightful in taste but also rooted in a story of dedication and excellence, Silverback Tea stands as the finest choice.

'Silverback tea greatly appreciates the business friendly climate of Rwanda which allows us to thrive and focus on delivering the highest quality tea,' stated Mr. Rudra Chatterjee, the Chairman of Silverback Tea Company Ltd.

IGIHE

'By nature, Rwanda’s security posture has always been defensive, not offensive. We prioritize cooperation and working together and we only act when trouble is brought on us,' he said.

The Head of State was speaking before thousands of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda gathered at the newly renovated 45,000 seater Amahoro stadium to mark 30 years of Liberation.

The national celebrations were marked with a military parade by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police, cultural dance by the national cultural troupe Urukurereza, and performances by different artistes.

It is this army that first encountered most Rwandans after the Genocide when the situation in the country was still extremely tense and dangerous. Yet, the forces did everything in their power to treat all Rwandans with professionalism and humanity, setting the tone of everything that followed.

Even today, they remain close to the community, and invest in projects that matter to the country’s development, such as infrastructure and medical services.

Subsequently, Rwandans have attained values and courage, an endpoint of the liberation struggle that has put citizens at the center of government action.

In that spirit, President Kagame expressed gratitude to those who liberated the country and honored those who sacrificed their lives in the process.

'On July the 4th, we express our thanks to those who liberated Rwanda, and remember those who gave their lives. Our army and security forces are a powerful symbol of unity and safety,' he said.

Three decades ago, the venue for these celebrations was the site of refuge and rescue. From the surrounding neighborhoods, Rwandans flowed to Amahoro stadium for safety.

Today, strides have been made, offering the freedom and the opportunity for Rwandans to live the lives they want. It is therefore not surprising that wherever life takes them; they will never forget their duty to uphold the good politics that have been built.

In his address, Kagame emphasized that Rwandans today are better and stronger than ever before, a reason to keep marching forward to continue growing Rwanda’s uniqueness.

'Even though Rwandans have made huge strides towards this mindset, we must remain vigilant. I am addressing this message in particular to Rwanda’s young people, especially those born over the last thirty years,' he said.

'This country is yours to protect, defend, and make prosperous. It is worth repeating that real liberation only begins when the guns fall silent. We began that stage thirty years ago, and we are counting on you, the liberation generation, to take us further,' he called out to the youths.

The President reminded the world that where there is a need for humanitarian action, Rwanda will not be absent emphasizing that the only real answer to any humanitarian crisis is to fix the root cause of the political problem.

He lashed out at critics who even try to spoil what has been established saying that those negative efforts produce no results.

According to him, the solid foundation upon which Rwanda was rebuilt is the driving force to remain principled and consistent, a product of hard work and civic values that will define the next generation of Rwandans.

President Paul Kagame addressing the gathering at Amahoro Stadium during Liberation Day celebrations on 4th July 2024

The crowd stood up in honour as the the National Anthem was sang at the national Liberation Day celebrations

The Army band positioned in a 30-format potrait signifying the 30 years since Rwanda’s Liberation

A team of RDF officers arrives at Amahoro stadium with national instruments including the national flag

Sam K Nkurunziza

Travel is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s economic growth and employment, with the sector contributing a record $620 million in revenue to GDP in 2023, a substantial 36% increase from 2022 according to the Rwandan Development Board. Travel and tourism remain the largest source of foreign exchange earnings, and according to a forecast by World Travel and Tourism Council, will contribute 10% to Rwanda’s GDP by 2033, creating over 200,000 new jobs.

Capuano applauded Rwanda’s rapid progress and President Kagame’s leadership in supporting the travel sector. “Rwanda is undergoing an economic transformation, and we are proud to be a part of it,” said Capuano. “We are dedicated to positioning Rwanda as a premier global travel destination and will continue to showcase the country’s breathtaking natural beauty, national parks, and dynamic cultural attributes to attract visitors. Additionally, we are committed to delivering career opportunities locally and supporting sustainable development.'

Marriott’s presence in Rwanda dates to 2016, when it opened the Kigali Marriott Hotel – one of the country’s largest properties — further enhancing Kigali’s reputation as a hub for conferences and conventions. The company’s second property, Four Points by Sheraton Kigali, has also played a pivotal role in fueling economic growth, supporting local employment, and attracting tourists to the region.

Underscoring Rwanda’s goal of bolstering its core industries, including travel and agriculture, both Marriott properties have worked with community-based organizations to provide career opportunities and source from locally produced goods. These properties have also forged strong collaborations with local schools, non-profit organizations, and universities, equipping youth with hospitality skills in areas like catering and engineering. Since 2019, these initiatives have benefited more than 530 Rwandans, enabling them to participate as professionals in tourism and associated sectors.

Capuano’s visit also included a tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis. In support of Rwanda’s ongoing reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts, Marriott International has committed funding to The Aegis Trust, an organization that works to prevent genocide and support recovery efforts in affected communities.

President Kagame met with Anthony Capuano, Marriott International President and CEO, for discussions on further growing Rwanda’s travel and hospitality sector

IGIHE

This initiative was introduced in February encouraging clients to request for EBM receipts every time they purchase things from local enterprises thereby attaining eligibility to receive a reward equal to 10% of the VAT paid on each EBM receipt.

Speaking during the release of the Financial Year 2023/2024 performance results, Batamuliza Hajara, the Commissioner, Domestic Taxes Department, said a total of RWF 16 billion was registered in sales during the period under review, with the government collecting RWF 2.4 billion in VAT.

Hajara confirmed that 10% of the VAT collected will soon be distributed to 23,675 beneficiaries who have registered their claims with RRA.

During the financial year which ended on June 30, RRA collected RWF 2.62 trillion in revenue from taxes, falling short of its target by RWF 17.8 billion (0.7%). However, the revenue netted represents a growth of 12.3% compared to 2022/23.

Additionally, during the financial year 2023-2024, RRA financed 51.2% of the national budget, up from 48.9% the previous year, 2022-2023.

RRA Commissioner General Niwenshuti Ronald attributed the RRA’s performance to several factors, including the increased use of the EBM system by businesses. The number of taxpayers registered on EBM increased from 84,448 in fiscal year 2022/23 to 117,631 in 2023/4.

RRA also credited the VAT reward program and Voluntary Disclosure Incentives for the positive performance. 1,783 taxpayers participated in the disclosure program, revealing a total of RWF 14.3 billion in previously undisclosed income. So far, RWF 6.6 billion of this amount has been collected.

Niwenshuti also attributed the 12% growth in national revenue to the strong economic growth of 9.1% recorded between July 2023 and March 2024 and the automation of key services which simplified communication and service delivery. This year’s economic growth is projected to be 7.4%.

The Commissioner General also expressed his optimism that RRA will achieve its revenue target of 3 trillion in the current financial year.

'This year, our revenue target is set at an ambitious sum of RWF 3,061.2 billion which is 54% of the national budget of slightly over RWF 5,5 billion and we are very optimistic that we shall achieve it,' Niwenshuti remarked.

Currently, Rwanda’s tax revenue stands at 15% of its total GDP of RWF 16.355 trillion.

The initiative was introduced in February encouraging clients to request for EBM receipts every time they purchase things from local enterprises thereby attaining eligibility to receive a reward equal to 10% of the VAT paid on each EBM receipt.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

As the first public listed company in Rwanda since 2011, shareholders were delighted to participate in a physical meeting to discuss the company’s 2023 business performance and future strategic plans.

Below are the event’s pictorial highlights.

Shareholders registering upon arrival.

Chairman of the Board, Mr. Hubert Eze, delivering the opening remarks.

The published 2023 Annual Report.

Mr. Etienne Saada, Managing Director, presenting the 2023 company performance.

Mrs. Rosette Mutoni, Head of Communication and Corporate Affairs, moderating the AGM.

Mr. David Karuhanga, the Company Secretary, presiding over the proceedings.

Shareholders engaging in a Q&A session.

Shareholders and guests enjoyed light moments at the AGM.

Group photo of the Board of Directors and the Bralirwa Management Team.

IGIHE

With the backing of the Rwandan government, Mihigo is among the five contestants eyeing the coveted regional post in elections slated for next month.

Speaking in an exclusive interview recently on Sunny Ntayombya’s podcast, the 57-year-old said that once elected, he will put in place measures to ensure that the African population lives a healthy life so that they can contribute to their own development.

'From various conversations we have had with ministers of finance and economic policymakers, people tend to perceive health as an expenditure only. They claim to always need money for health insurance, hospital bills, etc. but that’s not all. Health is not only an expenditure; health a tool that can positively contribute to the development of a nation,' Dr. Mihigo stated.

He added, 'If you have a healthy population, those people can thrive and contribute more efficiently to the prosperity of their own families, their own communities, and their own nation as a whole. This is my immediate target.'

To achieve this, Mihigo has developed a robust programme on how he would put in place strategic shift to avert this.

The programme includes building resilient health systems able to withstand health crises such as disease outbreaks or pandemics like COVID-19, which have previously exposed vulnerabilities and gaps in global healthcare systems for years.

'We saw how literally everything collapsed during COVID. The responsiveness and preparedness of our systems were really very weak. I want to make sure that we help countries build very robust and resilient health systems based on a primary healthcare system that responds to the needs of the population,' he emphasized.

According to him, a functional primary healthcare system is the foundation of any well-meaning society.

He believes that if people at the grassroots level can access the basic health services needed (both curative and preventive), then Africa will be on track to build a more resilient and functional health system.

Citing instances where Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment, Dr. Mihigo emphasized the need to promote Vaccine manufacturing in Africa.

He also expressed his intent to respond to non-communicable diseases as well as maternal and infant mortality rates.

Beyond fighting diseases, Dr. Mihigo plans to break the gender barriers that exist in the health sector.

'We need to put in place a more robust system that can address gender barriers by borrowing a leaf from Rwanda as a champion of gender equality and inclusion at the continental level,' he emphasized.

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Dr Mihigo, largely lived as a refugee but defied all odds to become a widely considered strong candidate for the WHO job due to his rich career profile and extensive education in the medical field.

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (M.B., Ch.B.) from the Faculty of Medicine, Université de Kisangani, DRC and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in International Health from Boston University School of Public Health, USA, obtained in 2003.

He held numerous positions, including advisory roles at WHO, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Mihigo also served as an advisor at United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-Rwanda.

Locally, he served as the first Medical Director of Nyanza Hospital in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Today, Dr Mihigo doubles as the Senior Director of Programmatic and Strategic Engagement at the African Union/Africa CDC and advisor at the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), a position he has held since March 2024.

He reminisces that the death of his mother due to cervical cancer partly shaped his future in public health, where he has been advocating for immunization to combat various diseases.

'My mother passed away from cervical cancer which is something easily preventable today,' he said, adding, 'This is what has also shaped a bit of my future in public health. I am a renowned specialist in immunization globally.'

The mother, whom he fondly refers to as his heroine, also encouraged him to pursue medicine instead of law.

His competitors for the WHO role include Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo of Niger, Senegal’s Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall and Tanzanian Doctor Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile.

The Regional Committee of the WHO African Region will vote to nominate the next Regional Director in a closed-door meeting during its 74th session from 26th to 30th August 2024 in Congo Brazzaville.

The nominee will then be submitted for appointment by the 156th session of the WHO Executive Board, set for January 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

The newly appointed Regional Director will take office on February 1, 2025, for a five-year term, renewable once.

At IGIHE Ltd, we wish Dr Mihigo all the best.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In some districts where a master plan dictating land use has not been developed, individuals use the land as they wish, leading to activities such as constructing buildings on land designated for agriculture, which can cause future losses.

Residents of Bugesera state that the master plan has become proof that development has reached their area.

Alphonse Nshimiyimana, a resident of Ruhehe village, Batima cell, in Rweru sector, said, 'We used to see master plans being made for big cities like Kigali, Musanze, or other urban areas. But under the broad strategy taken by the government to develop rural areas, the land here will gain value and everything done here will also gain value, thus raising the living standards of the residents.'

Nshimiyimana explained that the master plan helps them understand where to build commercial buildings, factories, and other structures that contribute to community development.

Francine Bamurange, a resident of Ruramba village, Kindama cell, in Ruhuha sector, mentioned that they are ready for changes in construction and housing by separating commercial buildings from residential ones. She said, 'For instance, in the Ruhuha trading center, people both trade and live there, which is problematic. Trading in one place while living in the backyard does not align well. Therefore, in Ruhuha town, people will separate commercial buildings from residential ones. This will also lead to the construction of modern houses with all amenities since they will be outside the main city.'

'This will prevent land from being wasted because all land will be used for its designated purpose as shown in the master plan. Besides, the district is developing, and the master plan will 100% transform the lives of the residents. It will allow us to progress since even without the master plan, just the tarmac road alone has brought significant changes to the residents’ lives.'

The Mayor of Bugesera District, Richard Mutabazi, told IGIHE that, in collaboration with the Belgian Development Agency, Enabel, various activities were carried out, including developing the district’s master plan and setting up an information collection room for different activities using technology.

He said, 'Land use is crucial because when people build haphazardly, they might lack access to infrastructure. For example, roads might not reach where they have been built. People might have built in many places, but when you need a place with greenery and fresh air, you can’t find it. Following the master plan will ensure well-organized construction. Additionally, infrastructure must follow, as the master plan outlines where infrastructure should go, roads should pass, and where playgrounds should be built, making it easier for district budgets and partners to plan without the need to create new plans for everything.'

Mayor Mutabazi emphasized that the master plan is a powerful tool to protect agricultural land from being built on, as people will not abandon houses to seek food. It is essential to protect agricultural land to sustain the population.

Emmanuel Ahabwe, head of the housing development department at the Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), stated that, in partnership with Enabel, residents of Bugesera have been helped not to misuse their land.

He said, 'Previously, there were areas designated for agriculture, but due to their proximity to Kigali, people quickly turned them into whatever they wanted. Now that has changed; they must follow a specific plan. This project, supported by the Belgian government, ensures that.'

Bugesera District borders Kigali City and Burundi. It is home to over 551,000 residents, most of whom engage in cassava, maize, bean, and rice farming.

The National Land Authority (NLA) indicates that the 2023/2024 fiscal year will end with more than 10 approved master plans by the Cabinet, with only six to be developed next year.

Regarding environmental protection, the Kayumbu area has been developed with gardens where people can relax.

Alphonse Nshimiyimana, a resident of Bugesera District says that modification of the development master plan has added value to land in the area

Many locations in the district have subsequently been developed in line with the over all master plan

Infrastructure development such as the Bugesera Industrial Zone are some of the mitigating factors for development in the district

Mr Richard Mutabazi, the Bugesera District mayor is optimistic that the resources in the district will be developed according to plan

In Bugesera district, land monitoring and evaluation is done with the help of modern technology

Some areas in the district have been designated as Agricultural zones as a way of ensuring food security

IGIHE

World over, elections are a constitutional exercise that is generally perceived as a major ingredient in a democratic process.

According to the basic contemporary dictionary, democracy is a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.

Other accounts define democracy as a system of governance in which state power is vested in the people or the general population of a state.

Some scholars say that the 'standard’ view of democracy is, “in brief, the theory that democracy is the rule of the people, and that the people have a right to rule”.

Although democracy is generally understood to be defined by voting, no consensus exists on a precise definition of democracy. So, what exactly is a democracy?

According to the United Nations, democracy provides an environment that respects human rights and fundamental freedoms. It ensures that the freely expressed will of the people is exercised without any interference.

Equipped with this knowledge, common sense dictates that the moment there appears to be interference (whether external or internal), democracy has already been compromised.

It should be understood therefore, that every independent country should be given the liberty to apply democracy as long as it does not infringe on the rights of its own people.

At the start of this year’s edition of the presidential campaigns almost a fortnight ago, President Paul Kagame reasoned that democracy cannot be uniformly applied across the board because different countries have different geographical and geopolitical setups.

'You cannot guarantee that what is good for people in one area is necessarily good for those in another. This is because we have different morals, cultures and backgrounds,' he said.

He pointed out that no one has a right to downplay others or criticize their efforts in a democratic dispensation as long as what is done suits or benefits the people in that particular area.

'Critics of Democracy and leaderships in developing countries should not prevent the countries from following their development paths, because much as critics have their right to talk they are not necessarily right,' he cautioned.

Kagame clarified that peddling of external influence by foreign countries during elections of what they refer to as 3rd world countries, undermines the true sense of democracy.

'While it is their right to criticize, it doesn’t necessarily make it right. It can even be absolutely wrong. And Imposing on us what they think is right; that is not democracy,' he said.

Just like in Rwanda where elections are periodically organized to elect leaders, the way of governing depends on the will of the people.

In a layman’s understanding, this must be an institution that has been built over a period of time and should include, good governance, freedom of speech and expression plus the right to life and wealth.

And as the old belief suggests, people know their own problems better and can devise means on how best to solve them.
One cannot therefore be more catholic than the Pope himself.

President Kagame enjoyed widespread Support from residents in Nyamagabe District

RPF – Inkotanyi Candidate and incumbent President Paul Kagame interacting with the electorate in Kirehe District

Ecstatic RPF Supporters show support to President Kagame in Nyamirambo in Nyarugenge district

These happy crowds during an election campaign are a true reflection of democracy

By Sam K Nkurunziza

Sa performance lors du débat avec Donald Trump a suscité des discussions parmi les démocrates sur la possibilité de le remplacer en tant que candidat. Biden, dont la voix était enrouée, a dû se reprendre à plusieurs reprises et semblait parfois perdre le fil de ses propos, ce qui contrastait nettement avec l’assurance et l’énergie de Trump.

La réaction au sein du Parti démocrate a été immédiate et anxieuse, les stratèges étant submergés de messages de grands donateurs qualifiant l’événement de “désastre” et appelant à agir.

Ces préoccupations ont été publiquement échoées, rompant avec l’anonymat habituel. Notamment, la propre vice-présidente de Biden, Kamala Harris, a admis qu’il avait démarré lentement, mais a affirmé qu’il avait fini fort.

Au cours de l’histoire, plusieurs présidents américains ont dû faire face à des problèmes de santé significatifs pendant leur mandat, affectant parfois leur capacité à gouverner.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, a été élu pour quatre mandats malgré sa paralysie due à la polio, bien que sa santé se soit détériorée pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale, et il est décédé en fonction.

John F. Kennedy, malgré des problèmes de santé graves, a géré des crises majeures telles que celle des missiles de Cuba. Ronald Reagan a été diagnostiqué avec la maladie d’Alzheimer après sa présidence, mais il a maintenu une popularité élevée pendant son mandat.

Dwight D. Eisenhower a également continué à servir malgré plusieurs problèmes de santé sérieux.

La possibilité de remplacer Biden dépend de sa propre décision de se retirer, avant ou après la convention démocrate prévue à la mi-août, où sa nomination serait formalisée.

Les précédents historiques montrent que la gestion de la santé d’un président peut varier. La transparence, le soutien médical, et les arrangements institutionnels sont cruciaux pour gérer les incapacités temporairement ou permanentes.

Dans le cas de Biden, les préoccupations pourraient remettre en question sa capacité à mener une campagne énergique et à gouverner efficacement. La décision de continuer ou non pourrait dépendre non seulement de son état de santé mais aussi de la perception publique de sa capacité à servir efficacement.

Tite Gatabazi