Category: Uncategorized

  • Ugandan Police confirm arrest of Sandra Teta #rwanda #RwOT

    Teta Sandra was arrested after allegedly hitting her husband with her car three times, which resulted in injuries to both of his legs. The incident took place on the night of August 6, 2025, at a bar known as Chans in Munyonyo.

    Sources from Kabalagala Police, as reported by The Independent, indicated that Teta Sandra admitted to knocking her husband down but explained that the action followed a heated altercation earlier in the day. She told authorities that Weasel had been verbally abusive and had kicked her and their children out of their home. In response, she sought help from Weasel’s parents.

    Weasel’s parents reportedly advised her to return home and attempt to resolve the issue. However, Teta Sandra explained that upon her return, Weasel continued to mistreat her physically. Later that evening, Weasel went to the Chans bar, and Sandra followed him there. After another confrontation at the bar, she made the decision to drive her car into him.

    The police spokesperson, Patrick Onyango, confirmed Teta Sandra’s arrest and reported that Weasel was taken to Nsambya Hospital for treatment. He added that the initial investigation revealed that the conflict began at home but escalated at the bar. Although Weasel sustained fractures to one of his legs, he is reported to be in stable condition.

    Teta Sandra and Weasel have been living together since 2018 and have two children. However, their relationship has been marked by frequent disputes. In 2022, Teta Sandra left for Rwanda but returned to Uganda in April 2023 and reconciled with her husband.

    In May 2025, Weasel was in Kigali attending a concert by his brother, Jose Chameleone, and mentioned plans to visit his father-in-law’s home at the time.

    Teta Sandra was interrogated at Kabalagala Police Station after her arrest.

    Weasel was admitted at Nsambya Hospital following the incident.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/ugandan-police-confirm-arrest-of-sandra-teta

  • US border chief criticises UK leadership for collapse of Rwanda migration plan #rwanda #RwOT

    Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Homan drew a stark contrast between the UK’s handling of its agreement with Rwanda and the approach being taken by the current US administration under President Donald Trump.

    When asked why the UK was unsuccessful in executing its plan to send migrants to Rwanda, Homan responded bluntly: 'They’re not the United States of America. They don’t have President Trump running the show.'

    The UK’s plan to relocate asylum seekers who entered the country illegally to Rwanda was scrapped in 2024 after the Labour Party came to power. The party argued that the agreement with Rwanda would not effectively address the growing number of migrants arriving in the UK, and that it raised legal and ethical concerns.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer has since faced domestic criticism for having no viable alternative to deter irregular migration, with critics saying his government abandoned the Rwanda scheme without a clear replacement.

    Meanwhile, the US has moved ahead with its own deal with Rwanda, with at least 250 migrants expected to be transferred from the US to Rwanda. The move is part of President Trump’s broader immigration strategy, which includes tougher border enforcement and international partnerships.

    Asked when the first deportees would be sent to Rwanda under the new agreement, Homan kept it brief: 'Working on it,' he said.

    Reports indicated that the number of migrants could exceed the initial 250, depending on future negotiations. Importantly, migrants will not be required to stay in Rwanda against their will as they will have the option to relocate to third countries.

    “Under the agreement, Rwanda has the ability to approve each individual proposed for resettlement. Those approved will be provided with workforce training, healthcare, and accommodation support to jumpstart their lives in Rwanda, giving them the opportunity to contribute to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world over the last decade,” Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo said.

    The United States’ Border Chief, Tom Homan, has criticised the United Kingdom for failing to implement its migrant relocation agreement with Rwanda, attributing the collapse of the plan to a lack of strong leadership in London.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/us-border-chief-criticises-uk-leadership-for-collapse-of-rwanda-migration-plan

  • Trump signs order imposing additional 25% tariff on Indian goods #rwanda #RwOT

    The order, effective 21 days after the announcement, will bring the combined tariffs imposed by the United States on Indian goods to 50 percent.

    Trump on Monday threatened to “substantially” raise tariffs on goods imported from India, citing India’s purchases of Russian oil.

    India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded to Trump’s threat with a statement saying that “the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable” and that India’s oil imports are meant to “ensure predictable and affordable energy costs” for Indian consumers.

    India began importing from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and “the United States at that time actively encouraged such imports by India for strengthening global energy markets stability,” said the statement.

    On July 29, Trump set a 10-day deadline for Russia to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine. The latest punitive tariff on Indian goods is seen as part of the U.S. pressure campaign targeting Russia.

    U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order imposing an additional 25-percent tariff on imports from India in response to the country’s purchases of Russian oil, according to a White House statement.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/trump-signs-order-imposing-additional-25-tariff-on-indian-goods

  • Exploring Nyabugogo, a key transit gateway for over 200,000 daily passengers (Photos) #rwanda #RwOT

    Whether you’re starting a journey to another part of Rwanda or simply navigating your way through the city, Nyabugogo is the gateway that connects it all. The energy here is infectious, and there’s always something happening, making it an exciting place to be.

    For those arriving in Kigali for the first time, Nyabugogo offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant spirit. It’s fast-paced, yes, but it’s also full of opportunity and connection. Everything feels within reach, and there’s a sense of excitement in the air—this is Kigali’s gateway, where every journey begins.

    A crossroads for over 200,000 passengers

    The City of Kigali has revealed that over 200,000 people pass through Nyabugogo every single day, making it one of the busiest and most vital transit hubs in Rwanda.

    Located in Kigali Sector, Nyabugogo borders Kimisagara in Nyarugenge District and Gatsata Sector in Gasabo District. It is a dynamic commercial area, bustling with vendors, service providers, and travelers alike. The city estimates that at least 400 individuals work daily in Nyabugogo, engaged in diverse economic activities.

    Nyabugogo is especially known for its vibrant food market, particularly around the well-known Kwa Mutangana. Here, vendors, many of whom have been operating for years, begin their days before sunrise. Shoppers arrive as early as 3 a.m. to buy fresh vegetables and fruits transported overnight from different provinces, often at lower prices than found elsewhere in the city.

    Dorothe Nyirabagwiza, a vendor with eight years of experience at Kwa Mutangana, shared her story: 'This market sustains many of us. Thanks to my business, I’ve been able to live in Kigali and support my three children. I may not live luxuriously, but I’m moving forward because of this trade.'

    One of Nyabugogo’s key draws is its central bus terminal, sometimes referred to as an international station, due to its role in connecting Kigali with Rwanda’s provinces and neighboring countries. Most public transportation companies have offices and fleets operating from Nyabugogo, making it a vital bridge between the capital and other regions.

    For many, Nyabugogo is a one-stop center — a place where one can find nearly anything, from basic household goods to transportation and mechanical services. Prices are often more affordable compared to other markets in Kigali, attracting buyers and sellers from all walks of life.

    'Nyabugogo is our top location. There are always passengers, many of them arriving from outside Kigali or coming here to shop. It’s easy to find customers, affordable goods, and even mechanical services — everything is fast and convenient,' said Elysee Vugugaba, a motorcycle taxi operator.

    However, with its popularity comes challenges. The high volume of people and vehicles makes Nyabugogo prone to petty crime, particularly theft, especially during peak hours when the terminal is overcrowded.

    Still, Nyabugogo remains a central pillar in Kigali’s daily rhythm — a place of opportunity, energy, and constant motion.

    Revamp of Nyabugogo bus terminal

    Nyabugogo Bus Terminal, often referred to as Rwanda’s 'international hub,' is the largest in the country, serving as a critical connection point between Kigali and all provinces, as well as neighboring countries. The City of Kigali has announced plans to upgrade the terminal to meet modern standards, with construction expected to begin by the end of 2025.

    The renovation project is projected to cost between $100 million and $150 million.

    According to Fulgence Dusabimana, the Deputy Mayor in charge of Urbanisation and Infrastructure in Kigali, the upgraded terminal will feature modern and essential infrastructure.

    He noted that the redesigned terminal will include separate sections for City public transport, Inter-provincial buses, and Cross-border/international buses.

    Dusabimana also revealed that the project includes the construction of additional road infrastructure to address the persistent issue of traffic congestion in the Nyabugogo area.
    'There will be roads designed to ease traffic flow in and around the terminal,' he said.

    'You’re aware that traffic jams are common at certain hours, especially during peak travel times. The new infrastructure will help us eliminate these challenges—this includes the construction of overpasses to enhance mobility.'

    He also emphasized that, given the large number of international passengers passing through Nyabugogo, accommodation facilities will be part of the terminal’s redevelopment.

    'Some travelers coming from outside Rwanda may need accommodation nearby. The plan includes lodging facilities to ensure they don’t have to go far to find a place to stay,' he added.

    The revamped terminal is set to become a multi-functional transport and commercial hub, reflecting Kigali’s ambition to modernize public infrastructure and meet the demands of a growing urban population.

    Things to watch out for when visiting Nyabugogo for the first time

    If you are visiting Nyabugogo for the first time, know that you’ve entered one of Kigali’s busiest urban areas. You may encounter many people trying to 'teach you' the city or guide you around — some of whom may not have the best intentions. While Rwanda has modernized and most citizens are now well-informed and urban-minded, a word of caution can still be helpful.

    It’s advisable to have clear communication with the person who is supposed to receive you. Agree in advance on your departure and arrival times, so they can be there to meet you.

    This will help you avoid getting lost or falling into the hands of people who may try to take advantage of your confusion.

    If your host isn’t present or you have to continue your journey alone, avoid being distracted by the many sights and sounds around you. Stay focused on your travel route and proceed without delay. If you are transferring to another location, make your move promptly and don’t linger unnecessarily.

    Be cautious of strangers who approach you offering help or information, no matter how friendly or helpful they may seem. Politely decline such offers because it’s often difficult to distinguish between someone with good intentions and a potential scammer. Giving such people your attention could lead to being misled or even robbed.

    Keep your valuables safe and secure. This includes items like mobile phones, laptops, cash, or any other important belongings. Make sure they are stored discreetly and out of easy reach, as this will reduce the chances of being targeted by opportunistic thieves.

    Lastly, don’t stay too long in the area—especially if you’re unfamiliar with it. While your curiosity may tempt you to explore more, it’s better to move on with your journey. You can always return later with someone who knows the place well or once you’re more familiar with the surroundings.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/exploring-nyabugogo-a-key-transit-gateway-for-over-200-000-daily-passengers

  • Volcano canopy walkway, residential units for over 200,000, and eco-parks: Musanze’s masterplan for 2050 #rwanda #RwOT

    The Rwandan government has set ambitious plans for the area, aiming to develop it into a stable and vibrant tourism center, with infrastructure supporting both tourism and economic development, particularly in business.

    This vision complements the construction of world-class hotels, such as Wilderness Bisate, Wilderness Sabyinyo, Singita Kwitonda Lodge, One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, and Amakoro Songa Lodge, nestled beneath the Virunga mountains. Additionally, hotels in the town, such as Fatima Hotel, Classic Hotel, Virunga Hotel, and Hotel Muhabura, contribute to the region’s appeal.

    With ongoing transformations, projections for the next 25 years indicate that Musanze will have been transformed into a thriving urban center, one that many would envy—comparable to the sought-after cities of Europe or America.

    To achieve this vision, Musanze’s development requires a comprehensive master plan for land use and organization, aligned with the 2050 vision.

    This plan was approved under Ministerial Order No. 006/25/10/TC on July 28, 2025. The projects planned for the region focus on promoting tourism while benefiting the local population and ensuring that infrastructure development meets the needs of residents and visitors alike.

    A new city vision

    Musanze is home to some of Rwanda’s most stunning natural wonders, including Volcanoes National Park, which houses the mountain gorillas, Lake Ruhondo, the Buhanga Ecopark (a royal forest), and the Musanze caves. The Musanze aerodrome serves as an essential infrastructure for tourism, with plans to expand the facility to accommodate more visitors with ease.

    The region will also have the 'Ruhengeri Convention Centre,' a new facility designed to host national and international conferences, complementing the Kigali Convention Centre.

    Musanze already has district-level hospitals, 17 health centers, 32 health posts, and six private clinics, with plans to expand health services further. By 2050, the region will have two hospitals, and every sector will have two health centers.

    Canopy walkway in Volcanoes National Park

    Similar to the canopy walkway in Nyungwe National Park, which allows visitors to walk through the trees while observing wildlife, a new canopy walkway will be built in Volcanoes National Park.

    This will enable visitors to explore the park and observe various wildlife, including gorillas, buffaloes, monkeys, and chimps, without the physical strain of hiking up steep slopes.

    Byangabo business center

    The Byangabo center, located 12 kilometers from Musanze town, is a bustling market with strong trade connections to Nyabihu and Rubavu districts in the Western Province.

    This market significantly contributes to Musanze’s economy. The area, covering 448.9 hectares in the western part of the city, will see the construction of a wood furniture workshop to increase employment opportunities.

    As the population continues to grow, plans are underway to expand the market and build a bus station to accommodate travelers along the Musanze-Rubavu highway.

    Kinkware and Kampara in Nyakinama

    Kinkware and Kampara, covering 620 hectares, are located 7 kilometers from Musanze’s city center. These areas host key institutions like the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Rwanda Polytechnic (RP) Musanze College.

    These areas will continue to develop with upgraded infrastructure, including road improvements and modern markets, supporting small-scale businesses and the mining sector.

    Musanze’s planned residential units

    In line with the district’s 2050 vision, Musanze plans to build modern residential units across its 15 sectors. A total of 200,750 houses will be constructed, including 112,500 in the city, 13,250 in the surrounding centers, and 75,000 in rural areas.

    A new model village, Cyahafi, will be built near the Virunga mountains and Sabyinyo. It is expected to accommodate current residents and newcomers, featuring modern homes and amenities such as a designated commercial area and public facilities like schools.

    Population growth and development projections

    According to the 2022 national census, Musanze is home to 476,522 people. Projections indicate that by 2035, the population will reach 607,163, and by 2050, it is expected to grow to 803,000.

    A new canopy walkway is expected to be built in Volcanoes National Park.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/volcano-canopy-walkway-dwelling-units-for-over-200-000-and-eco-parks-musanze-s

  • Ghanaian ministers among 8 killed in helicopter crash #rwanda #RwOT

    Minister of Defense Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Murtala Muhammed were killed in the crash, Julius Debrah, chief of staff at the Presidency, announced at a press briefing.

    “I have the unpleasant duty to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter this morning around the Adansi area in the Ashanti Region,” Debrah said.

    Other victims include Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed Limuna, National Vice Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress Samuel Sarpong, and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate.

    Three crew members onboard, namely Peter Bafemi Anala, Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Ernest Addo Mensah, were also confirmed deceased.

    “The president and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and servicemen who died in service to the country,” Debrah added.

    As the country mourns, the government has ordered all national flags to be flown at half-mast until further notice.

    The Ghanaian government has confirmed that Minister of Defense Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Murtala Muhammed were killed in the crash.

    Three crew members onboard were also confirmed dead in the helicopter crash.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/ghanaian-ministers-among-8-killed-in-helicopter-crash

  • Putin, U.S. special envoy discuss Ukraine, bilateral ties: Kremlin aide #rwanda #RwOT

    “As for the topics covered, then, first of all, of course, it is the Ukrainian crisis. And the second topic is the prospects for the possible development of strategic cooperation between the United States and Russia,” Ushakov said, adding that the talk was “very useful and constructive.”

    Ushakov said that further details will follow after Trump is briefed on the outcome.

    Witkoff previously visited Moscow on April 25 and St. Petersburg on April 11, holding talks with Putin both times.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) holds talks with U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Aug. 6, 2025. (Kremlin Press Office/Handout via Xinhua)

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/putin-u-s-special-envoy-discuss-ukraine-bilateral-ties-kremlin-aide

  • Zimbabwe bans second-hand clothes and night vending #rwanda #RwOT

    Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe made the announcement during a strategic engagement with Harare City Councillors and municipal officials on Monday. He emphasised that informal trade has severely undermined the viability of formal businesses in Harare’s central business district.

    'The proliferation of street and night vending has destroyed the viability of formal businesses in our city,' Minister Garwe stated.

    'The government has therefore moved to ban the importation and sale of second-hand clothes, as well as all forms of street vending.'

    According to Garwe, informal trading spaces have not only disrupted regulated commerce but have also become hotspots for illicit drug activities and other underground dealings, posing threats to public health and national security.

    To ensure effective enforcement, the Minister urged Harare City Council to collaborate closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). He also called for a humane and community-sensitive approach when implementing the new directive, referencing past incidents in which vendors were mistreated during clean-up campaigns.

    'Enforcement should not be about being tough or brutal,' he said. 'Let us engage with vendor associations and educate the public while upholding law and order.'

    In addition to the crackdown on informal trading, Garwe pressed city authorities to urgently address Harare’s worsening traffic congestion, which he described as 'unacceptable.'

    He encouraged the reinforcement of municipal by-laws to improve the capital’s overall functionality and flow.

    'Restoring order in our city is not optional,' he added. 'We must act now to preserve the integrity of formal businesses and the safety of our communities.'

    The ban is expected to impact thousands who rely on vending for their livelihoods.

    The Zimbabwean government has announced a ban on the importation and sale of second-hand clothing, as well as all forms of street and night vending in the capital, in a move it says is aimed at restoring order and reinforcing formal economic systems.

    Rania Umutoni

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/zimbabwe-bans-second-hand-clothes-and-night-vending

  • Amb. Nzabamwita highlights Umuganura’s role in national unity and prosperity #rwanda #RwOT

    This gathering, which highlighted Rwanda’s deep cultural traditions, was an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Umuganura, both in Rwanda’s past and present.

    During his address, Ambassador Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita emphasized that Umuganura is far more than just a harvest festival. He explained that it is a centuries-old tradition that serves as a day of thanksgiving, where Rwandans express gratitude for their blessings and recognize the country’s achievements.

    As the Ambassador noted, the festival has been celebrated at various levels—nationally, within communities, and in family settings—making it a truly unifying event for the Rwandan people. This was a moment for Rwandans in Russia to connect with their roots and embrace the cultural values of their homeland, even as they live abroad.

    Looking back at the history of Umuganura, Amb. Nzabamwita shared that it dates back to the 9th century, making it a significant part of Rwanda’s cultural heritage. In the past, the King would preside over national ceremonies, while heads of families led the celebrations at the community level.

    The Ambassador emphasized that Umuganura was a celebration of national unity, nationhood, and the vitality of Rwanda’s agricultural production, which has always been a cornerstone of the country’s identity. It was more than just a festival symbolizing a renewal of life and a strengthening of the nation’s agricultural foundation.

    The envoy also reflected on the negative impact of colonialism on the celebration of Umuganura. He explained that during the colonial era, the Belgian colonialists abolished the festival in 1925 as part of a broader effort to dismantle Rwanda’s traditional social structures.

    The colonial powers recognized that to maintain control, they needed to sever the cultural ties that bound Rwandans together, and Umuganura was one of the first traditions to be targeted. This disruption had a lasting effect on the celebration of Rwandan culture, even after Rwanda gained independence.

    Following the liberation of Rwanda by the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), Umuganura was revived as a key cultural event. Amb. Nzabamwita highlighted how the RPF’s leadership, upon bringing peace and stability to the country, recognized the importance of restoring the festival as a symbol of national renewal. In this way, Umuganura became a way for Rwandans to come together and celebrate their individual and collective contributions to the country’s progress.

    The Ambassador explained that Umuganura today serves multiple important functions. Culturally, it preserves the ancient traditions and heritage of Rwanda in a rapidly changing world. Socially, it fosters national unity by bringing together people from all walks of life, creating a shared sense of identity.

    Economically, it highlights the importance of agriculture, which remains a vital sector in Rwanda’s economy, employing 80% of the workforce and contributing significantly to the national GDP. Finally, politically, it reflects Rwanda’s sovereignty, self-reliance, and efforts toward food security, showing the country’s commitment to economic prosperity and independence.

    Ambassador Nzabamwita concluded his address by stressing that Umuganura is not merely a harvest festival, but a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and its hopeful outlook for the future. He emphasized that it is a day of thanksgiving that unites Rwandans, celebrated alongside their friends and partners worldwide.

    The event was especially enjoyable for the youth, who make up a large part of the Rwandan diaspora in the Russian Federation.

    The celebration featured traditional Rwandan meals, cultural performance by the Diaspora Cultural Troupe 'Imena Mu Nganzo', and music performed by the Diaspora Music Band.

    Ambassador Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita emphasized that Umuganura is far more than just a harvest festival.

    The event also featured Rwandan traditional performances.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/amb-nzabamwita-highlights-umuganura-s-role-in-national-unity-and-prosperity

  • EXPO 2025: Irembo showcases over 240 services to visitors #rwanda #RwOT

    The company’s presence at the Expo is part of its broader mission to make service delivery faster, smarter, and more citizen-friendly—leveraging innovation to meet the evolving needs of users across Rwanda.

    Patrick Gategabondo, the Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Irembo, highlighted that with the current season for community-based health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) payments, Irembo is offering on-site assistance to help visitors complete their payments easily.

    'We are here to make this process more accessible, especially during this period when many people are paying for their health insurance,' Gategabondo explained.

    In collaboration with the National Identification Agency (NIDA), Irembo is also facilitating fast-track ID-related services for children and making corrections to personal information like names, birthdates, and photos—services that can now be completed in just three days.

    Visitors to the booth are also guided on how to use the IremboApp, which provides access to a wide range of essential services—not limited to government services alone.

    The app is available in Kinyarwanda, English, and French, and allows users to request documents like birth certificates, certificates of celibacy, and marriage records securely using a PIN code, fingerprint, or Face ID.

    Additionally, users can pay for health insurance (Mutuelle), track their payment status, get real-time traffic fine notifications and pay instantly and save mobile wallet numbers (MTN MoMo or Airtel Money) for quicker transactions.

    Irembo was recognized as the Best Exhibitor at EXPO 2024, a testament to its ongoing commitment to digital transformation and service excellence in Rwanda.

    Patrick Gategabondo, Chief Operations Officer at Irembo, takes Antoine Marie Kajangwe, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry through the company’s services.

    Irembo service delivery starts at 9:00 in the morning.

    Irembo staff are committed to providing excellent service to their customers.

    Irembo team is ready to provide excellent services

    A designated waiting area has been set up for individuals seeking Irembo services.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/expo-2025-irembo-showcases-over-240-services-to-visitors