Category: Uncategorized

Led by the Target Malaria project at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), the initiative seeks to use 'gene drive' technology to reduce the number of malaria transmitting mosquitoes without relying on traditional tools like insecticide-treated bed nets or indoor spraying.

'We are developing genetically modified mosquitoes that, once released, could drastically lower the population of the vectors responsible for malaria transmission,' says Krystal Birungi, an entomologist with Target Malaria Uganda.

The approach focuses on two genetic modifications; reducing female mosquito fertility and altering the sex ratio of offspring. By engineering mosquitoes to lay fewer eggs or produce mostly male offspring, which do not bite or transmit malaria, scientists aim to gradually suppress mosquito populations in the wild.

'For instance, instead of a mosquito laying 300 eggs, gene editing could reduce that to 10. And instead of an even split between male and female offspring, we aim for about 295 males to just five females. Over time, this significantly reduces the number of biting mosquitoes and disrupts malaria transmission,' Birungi explains.

Uganda remains one of the countries hardest hit by malaria. According to the World Health Organization, the country recorded over 12 million cases and nearly 16,000 deaths in 2023 alone. The disease places a significant financial and health burden on both individuals and the government.

Current malaria control methods, bed nets, antimalarial drugs, and insecticide spraying have proven effective but face limitations due to changing mosquito behavior, resistance, and inconsistent usage.

Charles Ntege, senior entomology advisor at the Ministry of Health’s Malaria Control Program, says the new approach offers promise. 'We need innovations that are less dependent on constant human behavior or expensive maintenance,' he noted.

'Gene drive mosquitoes could operate in the background, reducing transmission without requiring daily human intervention,' he emphasized.

However, the project has sparked concerns among conservationists. Critics worry about unforeseen ecological consequences, particularly how altering the mosquito population could affect species that feed on them, like fish, birds, bats, and frogs.

'In science, we follow the precautionary principle. We don’t yet fully understand how genetically modified genes might affect ecosystems or predators of mosquitoes. Yet, once released, we can’t call them back,' warns Dr. Edward Mwavu, an ecologist at Makerere University.

In response, Birungi assured that the project is proceeding cautiously. 'We’re only targeting three out of about 3,400 mosquito species. The goal is specific and backed by ecological studies. So far, we’ve found no species that depend exclusively on mosquitoes for survival.'

She adds that their work is closely monitored by regulatory bodies, and no modified mosquitoes will be released without thorough risk assessments and public engagement.

Target Malaria is a multinational research collaboration working in Uganda, Mali, Ghana, and Burkina Faso. The project has received over $170 million in funding between 2005 and 2025 to explore genetic solutions to malaria.

The Uganda Virus Research Institute is spearheading a campaign that seeks to use 'gene drive' technology to reduce the number of malaria transmitting mosquitoes without relying on traditional tools like insecticide-treated bed nets or indoor spraying.

IGIHE

A Foreign Ministry statement said that Neguise was thrown out after member states refused to participate alongside him in the conference.

The ministry also condemned statements made by Mahmoud Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, during the event.

'It is outrageous that at an event commemorating the victims of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda, to which the Israeli ambassador in Addis Ababa was invited, [Youssouf] chose to introduce anti-Israel political elements,' it said.

In July 2021, Israel said that it had rejoined the African Union4 as an observer member. Neguise, a former lawmaker for the ruling Likud Party, has been Israel’s ambassador to Ethiopia since August 2024.

In February 2023, an Israeli diplomat was expelled from the 36th African Union summit of heads of state held in Addis Ababa.

The incident came as the Israeli army renewed a deadly assault on Gaza on March 18 and has since killed more than 1,400 people, injured over 3,400 others, and shattered a January ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement in the enclave.

Over 50,700 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza in a brutal Israeli onslaught since October 2023, most of them women and children.

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.

Neguise, a former lawmaker for the ruling Likud Party, has been Israel’s ambassador to Ethiopia since August 2024.

IGIHE

The warning follows China’s announcement of a 34% levy on American goods, a response to Trump’s earlier imposition of similar duties under his 'Liberation Day' policy, which introduced a global 10% minimum tariff and a specific 34% charge on Chinese imports.

Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump gave Beijing a tight deadline to reverse its decision or face what would be one of the most aggressive tariff increases in recent trade history.

'Any country that retaliates with further tariffs will be met with significantly higher tariffs from the U.S.,' he declared, singling out China for what he called 'decades of abusive trading practices.'

Should the threat materialise, combined U.S. duties on Chinese goods would soar to a staggering 104%, accounting for previous rounds of tariffs including a 20% charge implemented in March and the recent 34% increase.

The Chinese embassy in Washington fired back, labelling the move as “economic intimidation” and a “textbook example of protectionism.”

Spokesperson Liu Pengyu said Beijing would not bow to pressure and vowed to defend its economic interests through “firm countermeasures.”

Trump’s stance has rattled global financial markets, which have been jittery since the introduction of sweeping tariffs earlier this month.

Stock indices across Asia and Europe recorded sharp losses on Monday, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng experiencing its worst single-day drop since the late 1990s. U.S. markets also opened in the red, continuing a week-long slide driven by fears of a deepening trade standoff.

Despite growing anxiety among investors and trade experts, Trump doubled down, suggesting that negotiations with countries seeking exemptions or revisions to tariffs would proceed—but on U.S. terms.

'We’re not backing down,' he told reporters outside the White House, adding that other nations must come forward with 'fair and balanced proposals.'

He also revealed that trade discussions had begun with both Japan and Israel, while accusing the European Union of building barriers intended to disadvantage the U.S.

'They were set up to hurt American trade,' Trump claimed, dismissing recent EU offers to negotiate reciprocal tariff cuts.

Critics argue that the administration’s tariff campaign is likely to drive up consumer prices. According to an analysis from the Yale Budget Lab, American households may already face an additional $3,800 in annual costs due to rising import duties—excluding the potential 50% tariff hike.

Still, Trump maintains that tougher trade policies are necessary to level the playing field. 'It’s not just about tariffs—it’s about fairness,' he said. 'America has been taken advantage of for too long.'

Currently, China’s top exports to the U.S.—which include electronics, computers, and consumer goods—stand to be most affected by the proposed hike. Meanwhile, American products hit by Chinese tariffs include key exports like grains, aircraft, and pharmaceuticals.

The warning follows China’s announcement of a 34% levy on American goods, a response to Trump’s earlier imposition of similar duties under his 'Liberation Day' policy, which introduced a global 10% minimum tariff and a specific 34% charge on Chinese imports.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Speaking on April 7, 2025, as Rwandans living in China gathered to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, Kimonyo noted striking parallels, warning that history appears to be repeating itself.

The event, held at the Rwandan Embassy in Beijing, brought together members of the Rwandan community, friends of Rwanda, diplomats, and other invited guests.

Kimonyo expressed concern that the international community has not drawn enough lessons from past atrocities. 'I feel like with a lot of confidence, I can state without fear of contradiction, that we seem not to have learnt enough lessons,' he noted.

'What is happening in our neighborhood in the eastern DRC, is the mirror image of what happened in Rwanda during the times that led up to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,' he added.

Ambassador Kimonyo noted that after the Genocide against the Tutsi was stopped, the perpetrators fled to various neighboring countries, including Uganda and Tanzania, where strict measures were enforced to prevent the entry of individuals with weapons.

In contrast, he pointed out, the DRC (then Zaire) willingly welcomed the genocidaires, allowing them to settle with their arms, which later contributed to the ongoing instability in the region.

'DRC allowed the soldiers, the militias, intact in their command formation, and crossed over with the same ideology and enough logistics to carry out similar killings in Rwanda and whoever they thought was a Tutsi,' he explained.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, James Kimonyo, has expressed concern that the international community has not drawn enough lessons from past atrocities, particularly the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

From then, he said, they regrouped and started causing havoc in eastern Congo as well as mobilized the populations to begin the ethnic killings in DRC beginning with the Tutsi found in Congo.

Last year, Alice Nderitu, who was the United Nations Secretary General Special Representative of Genocide, described the situation in Eastern DRC as a warning sign of a threat of fragility and proof of the enduring presence of the conditions that allow large-scale hunting and violence.

She reminded the United Nations, that the presence of these militias is a recipe for another genocide.

Kimonyo criticized the international community for failing to uphold its responsibilities in the region. He pointed out that despite the presence of over 17,000 peacekeeping troops representing various international actors in the region, little action has been taken to address the ongoing crisis.

'And if indeed we have learnt any lessons, why would we allow, 31 years later, people being condemned to death because they are Tutsi or Tutsi affiliated? And unfortunately, the genocide against the Tutsi being distorted to fit into biased narratives?' he wondered.

He noted that the continued dismissal of the situation in eastern DRC and making it look like a conventional scramble for resources, is distorted, and only serves those who benefit from chaos.

The commemoration featured a testimony from Dimitri Sissi, a survivor of the Genocide against the Tutsi, who shared her personal story of survival. The event also included performances of remembrance songs and a poem reflecting on Rwanda’s history, the resilience of its people, and the path forward.

The commemoration began with the lighting of candles in honor of the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi, a symbolic gesture of remembrance, resilience and hope.

The event, held at the Embassy of Rwanda in Beijing, brought together members of the Rwandan community.

Ahead of the commemoration, an exhibition was held at the Embassy premises, showcasing powerful images and historical accounts documenting Rwandan history.

The event was attended by a wide range of individuals, including friends of Rwanda.

The event also included performances of remembrance songs and a poem reflecting on Rwanda’s history.

Christian Mugisha

“Today, France extends its deepest thoughts and support to the Rwandan people. France honors the remarkable resilience of the Rwandan people, who have risen and built a future based on reconciliation and unity,” Macron stated, acknowledging the strength of Rwanda’s recovery.

Macron also reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the memory of the genocide, especially in the face of growing revisionism and intolerance.

“On this day of remembrance, I reaffirm my commitment to keeping the memory of this tragic event alive, in the face of the challenges posed by revisionism and intolerance,” he said.

Macron further stated that the harrowing testimonies of survivors serve as a reminder of the urgent need to combat all forms of hatred.

Since 2019, April 7 has been officially recognized in France as a national day of commemoration for the Genocide against the Tutsi. This day reflects the desire to pass on the lessons of this painful chapter in history to future generations through education, historical research, and justice.

In line with France’s commitment to justice, Macron assured that the country’s legal system continues to pursue genocide perpetrators who reside in France.

“In line with my commitment, justice continues to move forward to prosecute and try the alleged perpetrators of the genocide who reside in France. Several major trials have taken place and justice has been served,” he affirmed.

The French judicial system has prosecuted several individuals involved in the genocide, and many have been convicted.

Among the notable cases are the trials of Capt. Pascal Simbikangwa, Laurent Bucyibaruta (former Prefect of Gikongoro), Dr. Eugène Rwamucyo, Dr. Sosthène Munyemana, Philippe Hategekimana, Octavien Ngenzi, and Tito Barahira, all of whom were found guilty and sentenced to various prison terms.

In 2020, France also made headlines with the arrest of Félicien Kabuga, a key financier of the genocide. Kabuga was arrested and handed over to the United Nations court for prosecution.

France’s efforts to ensure justice extend beyond the direct perpetrators. In 2024, Charles Onana, a French national of Cameroonian descent, was convicted for genocide denial. He was fined €8,400 and ordered to pay €11,000 in damages.

Macron also shared that the French prosecution service is continuing to pursue 40 cases of individuals suspected of involvement in the Genocide against the Tutsi. “These efforts reflect our country’s unwavering determination to fight impunity and forgetfulness,” he said.

French courts continue to handle genocide-related cases, with an average of two such cases being processed each year, further demonstrating France’s commitment to justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s ongoing commitment to seeking justice for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

IGIHE

Speaking during a talk show called Inkuru mu Makuru on the national broadcaster, RBA, he said, 'I once made a statement about celebrities and how many of them are absent when it comes to the fight against genocide ideology. Afterward, someone called me and asked, 'Don’t you think you went too far? Do you really expect celebrities to get involved in that?’'

In response, Murangira challenged that mindset, 'They are enjoying the peace in this country, they are satisfied with the security, they’re earning money through infrastructure that supports their work, do they forget that this peace was built by people who fought against genocide? They, too, should play their part. They shouldn’t just be onlookers coming to harvest the benefits.'

He emphasized that when celebrities remain silent, they are essentially committing an act of cowardice.
'If you have millions of followers, even one statement you make against genocide ideology is a powerful contribution in your own way.'

As for the common excuse that artists and celebrities avoid political matters, Dr. Murangira dismissed that as evading responsibility.

'Fighting genocide and its ideology is not a political act, it’s a responsibility for everyone. You cannot just enjoy what the country has achieved and forget where it came from, only to then remain silent when someone tries to drag us backward.'

He reiterated that all Rwandans share the responsibility of protecting national unity.
'We all know that national unity is the foundation upon which this country is built. So in your influence, when you have a large following, you, too, must play a role in building a peaceful Rwanda. After all, where will you perform if the country has no peace?'

Murangira made these remarks as the world marks the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

RIB spokesperson has urges celebrities to speak out against Genocide ideology 'not just enjoy the peace others fought for.

IGIHE

He made the call at at the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, held in Berlin on April 7, 2025.

The event brought together dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Rwandan community in Germany to reflect on the genocide and honor the victims.

Amb. Cesar acknowledged the progress Rwanda has made in the past three decades, highlighting the country’s remarkable recovery and ongoing reconciliation efforts.

However, he stressed that the fight against forgetting, distortion, and indifference remains critical.

“Your presence here today is not merely an act of solidarity, it is also a deep sign of compassion and a commitment to stand united against genocide,” he remarked.

The Ambassador also reflected on the deep-rooted causes of the genocide, tracing the origins of ethnic division and hatred to the colonial period.

“The genocide against the Tutsi was the culmination of decades-long ethnic-based hate and ideology of division instigated by colonial administrations,” he stated.

Amb. Cesar discussed the systematic nature of the genocide, during which over one million Tutsis and those who opposed it were killed in just 100 days.

He emphasized that it was a state-sponsored crime, executed with the help of Hutu extremist militias mobilized by local leaders and encouraged by media propaganda, all carried out under the watchful eye of the international community.

Amb. Cesar also highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by genocide ideology, which continues to spread in the region and abroad.

He pointed out that despite Rwanda’s achievements, the narrative of genocide denial and revisionism persists, particularly on social media platforms.

“Genocide denial and genocide ideology is dominated by revisionism. It acknowledges the facts but sabotages and distorts at the same time its meaning,” he warned.

The event saw notable contributions from various speakers, including Dr. Uschi Eid, President of Deutsche Afrika Stiftung.

The ceremony was also marked by the testimony of survivor Ms. Dimitri Sissi, whose powerful words brought a personal and emotional dimension to the commemoration.

In closing, Ambassador Cesar reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to combating genocide ideology and preventing future atrocities.

“We as a country reaffirm our commitment to play our rightful role among the international community in fighting genocide ideology and preventing genocide,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of collective action in ensuring that the horrors of the past are never repeated.

Christian Ngarambe, the Chairperson of Ibuka in Berlin, who represented Judence Kayitesi, President of Ibuka Deutschland, also honored the memory of over a million innocent lives lost in the genocide. He reflected on the enduring resilience of survivors who have rebuilt both their lives and the nation.

'To remember is to preserve history,' Ngarambe stated, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the truth is never distorted or forgotten.

He stressed that commemoration is not only about remembering the past but also about standing firm against genocide denial and revisionism.

“We must remain vigilant, defending the truth with unwavering commitment,” he added.

Ngarambe also highlighted Rwanda’s remarkable progress in rebuilding after the genocide, noting that the country’s strength lies in choosing unity over division and justice over vengeance.

'Out of the ashes of the genocide, Rwanda has chosen unity over division, justice over vengeance, and hope over despair,' he said.

However, he reminded the audience that unity and reconciliation require ongoing effort, urging future generations to continue the work of peace and dialogue.

With a call to action, he emphasized that genocide is not just a Rwandan issue, but a global failure of humanity.

'The lessons of the 1994 genocide must serve as a warning to the world that hatred, division, and indifference can lead to unimaginable horrors,' he stated, urging everyone to fight against discrimination and injustice in all its forms.

Ngarambe ended her speech by urging the younger generation to be the guardians of this history and to ensure that the values of unity and reconciliation continue to thrive.

“Today, we remember. We mourn. But we also commit ourselves to action,” he concluded, calling on all to stand together in the fight against hatred, for truth, dignity, and humanity.

The flame of hope was also lit at the commemoration event.

Rwandan Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar has urged continued vigilance against genocide denial and distortion to ensure that “Never Again” does not become “Again and Again.”

Dr. Elisabeth Kaneza from Elisabeth Foundation facilitated discussions.

The ceremony was also marked by the testimony of survivor Ms. Dimitri Sissi, whose powerful words brought a personal and emotional dimension to the commemoration.

Dr. Elisabeth Kaneza from Elisabeth Foundation facilitated discussions.

Christian Ngarambe, the Chairperson of Ibuka in Berlin reflected on the enduring resilience of survivors who have rebuilt both their lives and the nation.

Prof. Dr. Homolka Walter, Honorary Consular of the Republic of Rwanda to Germany.

Dr Uschi Eid, President of Deutsche Afrika Stiftung also graced the event.

[email protected]

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

President Kagame joined the participants in lighting the Flame of Hope, symbolizing resilience and the strength of the Rwandan people.

The walk was attended by a diverse group of individuals, including young people, artists, social media influencers, journalists, footballers, actors, and various leaders.

The event marked a significant return after it was postponed last year due to weather conditions. Additionally, for four years, the walk was not held due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

April 7th is recognized worldwide as the International Day of Remembrance of the Genocide against the Tutsi, where people across the globe reflect on the horrific events of 1994.

According to a census conducted by the Ministry of Local Government between 2000 and 2002, over 1,074,017 Tutsis were killed over a span of one hundred days, from April 7 to July 1994.

This report, released in 2004, details the places where victims lived, their ages, names, and in some cases, the specific circumstances of their deaths.

IGIHE

The partnership announced on April 7, will focus on training memorial managers and staff to welcome school groups, improving the exhibitions, and creating educational content for schools. This initiative aims to deepen the educational impact of Rwanda’s memorial sites, which are central to preserving the memory of the genocide.

The project will be carried out in partnership with Aegis Trust and the Rwandan Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE).

Commenting on the initiative, Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General, emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

'What happened in Rwanda concerns the whole of humanity. Education and the media were instrumentalized to transform ordinary citizens into killers. We must tirelessly transmit the history of the genocide, out of duty to the victims and to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. Everywhere, we must make education a powerful tool for remembrance, reconciliation, and peace,' she stated.

As part of the initiative, UNESCO will send a team of around fifteen young researchers, multimedia professionals, and Rwandan artists to enhance the exhibitions and improve signage at the memorials. A major focus will be placed on preserving the ‘living memory’ of the genocide by digitizing survivor interviews, producing documentary films, and organizing photographic projects.

In addition, UNESCO will provide training for memorial staff to better host and guide school groups. Staff will be connected with colleagues from other memorials to share expertise and form partnerships with survivor associations and the educational community.

UNESCO will also develop new educational content in Kinyarwanda, English, and French to help teachers prepare for their students’ visits to the memorials. The organization will also collaborate with young Rwandan content creators to lead social media campaigns aimed at promoting the memorial sites and combating historical falsification and online misinformation about the genocide.

IGIHE

In a post shared on X, Arsenal paid tribute to the victims and stood in solidarity with Rwanda.

” 'Kwibuka’ means 'to remember’. Today we mark the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda,” Arsenal wrote.

April 7, officially recognised by the United Nations as the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, commemorates the day in 1994 when the genocide began, an atrocity in which over one million Tutsi were systematically killed over a period of 100 days.

In Rwanda, the April 7 commemoration, known as Kwibuka, which means 'to remember' in Kinyarwanda, is observed as a national day of mourning and marks the start of a week-long period of remembrance and reflection.

It serves as a solemn occasion to honour the victims, support survivors, and reaffirm a global commitment to ensuring that such atrocities never happen again.

Arsenal has been a key partner in Rwanda’s recovery and development efforts through the Visit Rwanda campaign, which promotes tourism and investment opportunities in the country. The partnership began in 2018.

The Rwandan government has consistently called on the international community not only to remember the genocide but also to combat genocide ideology and denial. Arsenal’s act of remembrance sends a strong message about the value of global solidarity in honouring the memory of the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi.

In Rwanda, the April 7 commemoration—known as Kwibuka, which means 'to remember' in Kinyarwanda—is observed as a national day of mourning and marks the start of a week-long period of remembrance and reflection.

Arsenal has been a key partner in Rwanda’s recovery and development efforts through the Visit Rwanda campaign, which promotes tourism and investment opportunities in the country. The partnership began in 2018.

Wycliffe Nyamasege