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One app for everything essential in Rwanda

Rwandans rely on multiple apps to manage their digital lives with services such as applying for government services, settling traffic fines, paying for utilities, accessing healthcare, ordering food, reading news, and accessing other essential services usually means navigating a fragmented digital landscape.

Each service requires a separate app or platform, leading to cluttered devices, wasted storage, and a frustrating user experience. Difficulty juggling multiple accounts, remembering passwords, and managing security settings across different apps also increases the risk of data breaches.

IremboApp aims to solve these challenges by bringing the most essential services into a single, secure platform. Instead of switching between different apps, users can manage key services in one place, saving time while ensuring their data remains protected.

Starting with the most requested services

The first version of IremboApp, which is available in Kinyarwanda, English and French, focuses on high-demand government services that affect millions of people.

Citizens can apply for birth, celibacy, and marriage certificates or access them securely and easily in the app’s safe box, protected by the phone’s PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID.

Additionally, citizens can easily check and pay for community-based health insurance (mutuelle de santé) in just a few taps.

Finally, most people only realize they have traffic fines when checking manually or getting stopped by the police. With IremboApp, citizens receive an in-app notification when a fine is issued, and they can pay with one tap to avoid late penalties.

IremboApp 1.0 also comes with time-saving personalization and convenience features such as saving their MTN MoMo or Airtel Money number in the app and use it whenever they need to make a payment without repeatedly entering their payment details. They can also save their car details in the app to never miss a traffic fine again.

“IremboApp is a vision for a simplified, personalized, and localized digital future for Rwanda’s consumers,” said Israel BIMPE, CEO of Irembo.

“We are starting with the most popular government services because they impact everyone’s life. But this is just the beginning. We aim to create a comprehensive super app that delivers breakthrough convenience and safety in consumers’ digital lives by putting essential services they need right in the palm of their hands,” he added.

Early users are already feeling the impact

For example, motorcycle taxi riders can use the IremboApp to manage some essential services. With it, everything comes through effortlessly. You can get notified whenever there’s a fine and can pay it easily and at any time.

The good thing is that the app is available in Kinyarwanda, unlike most phone apps, which are commonly either in English or French.

How to get started

IremboApp is available now on Google Play and the App Store. After downloading the app, getting started is quick and easy;

Begin by logging in with your Irembo account or create one using your phone number and National ID. Add your car details (license plate and TIN) to receive real-time traffic fine notifications and pay with one tap. Easily access your certificates or apply for one in a few taps.

IGIHE

Following Rwanda’s announcement to suspend diplomatic relations with Belgium, concerns arose about possible repercussions for citizens, including students, residents, and businesspersons in Belgium.

Many also questioned the impact of this move on Rwanda’s Kwibuka 31 commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, especially as the Rwandan Embassy in Belgium played a key role in organizing memorial events.

In an interview with IGIHE, Nduhungirehe dismissed fears, emphasizing that ordinary citizens will not be affected by the diplomatic fallout.

“Cutting ties with Belgium will have no impact on ordinary citizens. The Genocide commemoration activities will continue, organized by Rwandan communities and survivors’ associations,” he stated.

He also assured Rwandans abroad that the government will continue to provide necessary information and support whenever possible.

On March 17, 2025, the Rwandan government formally notified Belgium of its decision to cut diplomatic relations and ordered Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours.

The decision followed Belgium’s continued disregard for Rwanda’s sovereignty, both historically and in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Rwanda accused Belgium of taking sides in the conflict, spreading misinformation, and advocating for decisions that undermine Rwanda’s security and interests.

This move comes a month after Rwanda terminated a €95 million ($102 million) development cooperation agreement with Belgium for projects planned between 2024 and 2029, leaving about €80 million ($86 million) in unused funds.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, has reassured Rwandans living in Belgium that the recent decision to cut diplomatic ties with the European nation will not affect them.

IGIHE

This statement was released by Angola’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the postponement of planned talks between M23 representatives and the DRC government on March 18, 2025, due to “unexpected circumstances.”

“The Government of Angola, in its capacity as a mediator, is doing everything possible to ensure that this meeting takes place soon, reaffirming that dialogue is the only path to lasting peace in eastern DRC,” the ministry stated.

The postponement occurred after the DRC delegation, led by Transport Minister and former rebel leader of the MLC group, Jean-Pierre Bemba, had already arrived in Angola.

On March 17, M23 had announced that it would no longer participate in the talks due to sanctions imposed by the European Union on five of its top leaders, including its President, Bertrand Bisimwa.

M23 argued that these sanctions reinforced the DRC government’s actions aimed at escalating the conflict in the country’s eastern region, as they suggested that the international community was discouraging peace talks.

M23 political spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated, “Under these circumstances, negotiations are not possible. For this reason, our organization will no longer participate in the discussions.”

Meanwhile, on March 18, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, hosted a meeting in Doha with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi to discuss regional security.

The heads of state expressed support for peace initiatives led by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to bring lasting stability to the region, particularly eastern DRC.

They also emphasized that direct talks between M23 and the DRC government should take place soon to address the root causes of the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.

The Angolan government has announced that it is making every effort to bring back the armed group M23 and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government to the negotiating table.

IGIHE

The suspect, identified as Francis Ocaya, alias Lawinyo, allegedly killed his wife, Nancy Adoch, and their children, Robinson Akena, 10, Canon Omara, 5, and Nancy Aloyo, 3, in their home in Tepwoyo West Village, Mucwini West Sub-County, Kitgum District.

'We are at the crime scene in Mucwini West, where a man killed his three children and their mother. We are actively tracking him down,' said Joe Oloya, spokesperson for the Aswa East Regional Police.

An eight-year-old girl, Sandra Lakica, survived the attack with life-threatening injuries and is receiving treatment at Kitgum General Hospital.

According to police, Ocaya allegedly attacked his wife and children with a knife after a heated argument with Adoch. He then reportedly dumped the bodies inside their main house and set it ablaze before fleeing.

'The fire attracted neighbors, who managed to rescue one of the children. However, Ocaya had already escaped,' Oloya said. Authorities are investigating claims that Ocaya later took his own life after committing the murders, though his body has not yet been found.

Security forces were by Wednesday morning still combing nearby bushes in search of him. Local leaders say the killings may have been triggered by Ocaya’s recent HIV diagnosis.

'He had tested positive for HIV and accused Adoch of infecting him. This led to a bitter quarrel that ended in bloodshed,' said Smith Opon, the district councillor for Mucwini West Sub-County.

Opon described the incident as unprecedented. 'We are still in shock. This is the first time a man has wiped out almost his entire family in a domestic dispute,' he added.

The murders have added to growing concerns about rising domestic violence in the Acholi sub-region. The 2023 annual police crime report recorded 119 murders in the Acholi sub-region, translating to an average of nine killings per month.

Kitgum District recorded the highest number of murder cases (34), followed by Gulu (28), Omoro (27), Pader (18), and Nwoya (12). 'The leading causes of these killings include domestic violence, shootings, stabbings, and assaults,' the report noted.

As police intensify their search for Ocaya, authorities are calling for increased awareness and intervention programs to address domestic violence and mental health issues in the region.

IGIHE

The stadium hosted its first official game on Sunday, with the Junior Starlets defeating Uganda’s Teen Cranes 3-0 in a U-17 World Cup qualifier. Despite this milestone, a few finishing touches are still required before the venue undergoes its final inspection ahead of CHAN in August.

The Ministry of Sports has provided an update on the remaining improvements needed before the stadium receives full approval to host the 2024 CHAN matches. While renovations are also ongoing at Kasarani Stadium, officials have confirmed that Nyayo is currently the most prepared venue.

In addition to hosting CHAN, Nyayo Stadium is expected to become the home ground for the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, under newly appointed head coach Benni McCarthy.

The team is set to play crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, beginning with an away match against Gambia on March 20 in Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile, the Football Kenya Federation (KFF) and the Ministry of Sports are in discussions to host the Gabon fixture at Nyayo Stadium on March 23, potentially marking the return of senior international matches to Kenya.

Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum expressed optimism that the stadium could be ready in time for the Gabon match, following the successful hosting of the Junior Starlets vs. Teen Cranes game.

'That is what we are hoping for. But for now, we are still in talks with FKF to see how we can arrange for them to play here,' Tum said when asked about the possibility of playing the fixture in Nairobi.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has already given Nyayo Stadium a preliminary green light, as evidenced by its approval for the Kenya vs. Uganda U-17 match. However, a final inspection is still pending before the venue can be fully cleared for CHAN and other international fixtures.

'CAF are saying the stadium is good to go, and that is why we were allowed to host this game on this ground. They will come later for another inspection,' Tum explained.

One of the final aspects of the renovation is installing a scoreboard, which falls under the second phase of the stadium’s upgrade plan.

However, Tum reassured that all critical facilities, including floodlights, would be fully functional before the Gabon match.

'The only thing remaining is the scoreboard, which is in the phase two plan because, for CHAN, the scoreboard will be there. If you look at the floodlights, they are functioning, so by the 23rd, everything will be ready,' he confirmed.

Nyayo National Stadium nears full approval ahead of CHAN 2024.

IGIHE

'It’s bound in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,' he said not long before departing the International Space Station to return to Earth.

After being asked what his 'life lesson or takeaway from these nine months in space' was, astronaut Barry Eugene 'Butch' Wilmore replied, 'Well, I can tell you honestly, my feeling on all of this goes back to my faith. It’s bound in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.'

'He is working out his plan and his purposes for his glory throughout all of humanity, and how that plays into our lives is significant and important, and however that plays out, I am content because I understand that,' Wilmore continued.

'I understand that He’s at work in all things, some things are for the good, go to Hebrews chapter 11, and some things look to us to be not so good. But it’s all working out for His good, for all those that will believe,' the astronaut added. 'And that’s the answer.'

Wilmore and fellow astronaut Sunita 'Suni' Williams, who launched into space on the first piloted test flight of Boeing’s Starliner on June 5, 2024, ended up stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) orbital laboratory for 286 days, when they were only supposed to be on a ten-day trip.

After the Starliner had faced problems, Elon Musk’s SpaceX reportedly worked on a plan with NASA to fly Wilmore and Williams back to Earth.

As of Wednesday March 19, 2025, the two astronauts had finally completed their long-awaited journey back to Earth on a SpaceX capsule, thanks to the combined drive and ambition of President Donald Trump and Musk to 'go get them.'

Wilmore and fellow astronaut Sunita 'Suni' Williams launched into space on the first piloted test flight of Boeing’s Starliner on June 5, 2024.

IGIHE

He made these remarks during the Africa Universities Summit, held in Rwanda, which aimed to explore ways universities can contribute to the continent’s development. The summit was organized by Times Higher Education.

Nsengimana stated that universities are the engine of national development and should ensure that graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions.

'The universities you represent are more than just institutions of higher learning; they are engines of innovation, self-reliance, and economic growth. The future of Africa depends on strong partnerships within the continent and beyond,' he said.

He stressed that African universities should not only be centers of knowledge but should also engage in research that brings about transformative and sustainable development.

'The goal is not to create individuals who rely on others but to empower them to be self-sufficient, ensuring that Africa’s institutions become the driving force of their own development. Sustainable development is not a choice; it is a necessity. Universities must integrate sustainability principles into their curricula, research, and operations.'

The Minister highlighted that universities should conduct research aimed at addressing Africa’s unique challenges.

He also pointed out that technology in education presents an opportunity to expand access to quality learning.
'The technological changes we are witnessing are transforming all sectors, including education. While there are challenges, technology offers opportunities to provide quality education for all, without exclusion.'

He noted that addressing the digital divide is crucial and that solutions must be found to benefit both urban and rural areas.

Minister Nsengimana further highlighted a major gap between the knowledge imparted by universities and the skills required by the labor market, stressing the urgency of building a strong education system. He urged universities to collaborate with industries to develop curricula and courses that align with market needs.

'There is a gap between the knowledge taught in schools and what is required on the job market. This needs urgent attention. Universities should work closely with industries to develop academic programs that align with labor market demands, ensuring better employment opportunities and fostering innovation across various sectors.'

He reiterated that universities should conduct research aligned with Africa’s sustainable development goals and the well-being of its people, asserting that a strong higher education system can significantly contribute to Africa’s development.

Nsengimana also emphasized that the advancement of higher education in Africa depends on unity, strategic transformations, innovation, and collaboration for collective progress.

Nick Davis, the Regional Director for Africa and the Middle East at Times Higher Education, stated that since 60% of Africa’s population is youth, this should be seen as an opportunity for development.

He stressed that collaboration is key to Africa’s progress, with quality education, technology, and innovation forming the foundation for its growth.

Dr. Edward Kadozi, the Director General of the Higher Education Council (HEC), also highlighted the importance of strengthening technical, vocational, and hands-on education.

He noted that this approach would help create jobs, supply skilled workers for the growing industries across African countries, and reduce youth unemployment.

Africa Universities Summit was held in Rwanda.

The Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana, has called for the need for universities to focus on research that drives sustainable development.

Nick Davis is the Regional Director for Africa and the Middle East at Times Higher Education.

IGIHE

The event welcomed representatives from various religious affiliations, including Catholics, Muslims, Anglicans, and other special guests, highlighting the spirit of inclusivity during the holy month of Ramadan.

Speaking at the iftar, H.E. AlQahtani expressed his appreciation to the attendees and emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering peace and understanding.

“It is a pleasure for me to welcome you to this interfaith iftar dinner during Ramadan, one of the holiest months of the Islamic calendar,” he said, adding how the gathering reflected the multicultural fabric of the UAE, where more than 200 nationalities of different faiths live together in peace and harmony.

“We in the UAE believe in the importance of bringing people together during the month of Ramadan, reflecting our principles of compassion, generosity and coexistence,” he added.

H.E. AlQahtani also underscored the UAE’s dedication to promoting the values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and dialogue, stressing that these values are crucial not just during Ramadan but throughout the year.

“Ramadan is an opportunity for a new beginning, a time to recalibrate, reflect, and renew,” he said, concluding by extending his warm wishes for a blessed Ramadan to all.

Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Clementine Mukeka, also addressed guests, commending the UAE Embassy’s efforts to foster dialogue and unity.

“On behalf of everyone here, I would like to thank Your Excellency Ambassador AlQahtani and the entire team for organizing such a wonderful event,” she said.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s own journey toward reconciliation after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, Mukeka also emphasized the power of unity and dialogue in fostering lasting peace.

“In Rwanda, we have seen firsthand the power of unity. Today, Rwanda is a living example of what’s possible when we work toward a shared goal of peace, healing, and progress,” she said, reiterating Rwanda’s readiness to build bridges and partnerships with countries around the world, based on the principles of peace and cooperation.

“As we reflect on the values of Ramadan, let us remember that these aren’t just for this month. They’re values we can carry with us every day, in how we treat one another and in the actions we take to make the world a better place,” she added.

Abdellatif Oulad Aouid, head of the Islamic Cultural Center in Kigali, also spoke at the event, reflecting on the long-standing partnership between the center and the UAE. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation in supporting educational and humanitarian programs in Rwanda.

“The Islamic Cultural Center is a model of tolerance and coexistence, hosting more than 700 students under the guidance of 45 teachers, without any religious, gender, social, or other discrimination,” he said.

He also commended the cooperation between the Islamic Cultural Center and the UAE Embassy in promoting values of solidarity and tolerance through initiatives such as iftar programs, supporting vulnerable communities, and encouraging academic excellence.

“On this occasion, I extend my sincere gratitude to Your Excellency for your continuous support and to the Rwandan authorities for their cooperation. We look forward to furthering our humanitarian efforts together,” he said.

The event was a celebration of the shared values that unite people across cultures and faiths, where guests shared conversations over a traditional iftar meal, fostering a spirit of community and mutual respect.

The UAE Embassy’s Interfaith Iftar Dinner served as a powerful reminder that dialogue, understanding, and compassion can foster a more peaceful and inclusive world.

Different religious leaders and dignitaries from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the values of unity, tolerance and coexistence.

His Excellency Ambassador Hazza AlQahtani speaking at the occasion.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Clementine Mukekareceiving a gift from His Excellency Ambassador Hazza AlQahtani.

IGIHE

According to a joint stament released by Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting which took place in Qatar on March 18, 2025, welcomed the progress made in the Luanda and Nairobi processes, and the joint the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Dar es Salaam on February 8, 2025.

A photo released by Qatar showed Sheikh Tamim seated between the two presidents, with President Kagame on the left and President Tshisekedi on the right.

The statement emphasized the commitment of the countries involved to cease hostilities without further delay, as previously agreed at the said summit.

“The Heads of State then agreed on the need to continue the discussions initiated in Doha in order to establish solid foundations for lasting peace as envisioned in the Luanda/Nairobi process, now merged and/or aligned,” reads part of the statement.

According to the statement, President Kagame and Tshisekedi Tshilombo, thanked the State of Qatar and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, for their hospitality and for organizing this fruitful meeting, ‘which helped build confidence in a shared commitment to a secure and stable future for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region’.

Qatar has gained recognition as a mediator in several global conflicts, most recently collaborating with Egypt and the United States to address the ongoing war between Hamas and Gaza.

The meeting between the two leaders was previously undisclosed and surprised many.

Although talks between both parties had been planned for Qatar in January 2023, they were initially canceled when the DRC side refused to participate, citing other commitments. At that time, President Tshisekedi had also declined a meeting with President Kagame, despite a request from French President Macron.

President Kagame had recently stated that if he were to meet with President Tshisekedi again, he would tell him that he was not fit to lead the DRC.

Kagame also expressed his frustration with Tshisekedi’s approach to discussions, saying that agreements made during talks are often reversed or forgotten soon after.

A photo released by Qatar showed Sheikh Tamim seated between the two presidents, with President Kagame on the left and President Tshisekedi on the right.

IGIHE