Category: Uncategorized

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, made the revelation on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as the government unveiled new tax reforms approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on Monday.

Rwanda’s current tax-to-GDP ratio remains below the global benchmark of 16%, necessitating strategic reforms to expand the tax base.

The minister emphasized that raising the tax-to-GDP ratio is essential for funding the country’s transformation agenda under the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

Data from the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) show that the government collected Rwf 2.62 trillion in tax revenue during the 2023/2024 fiscal year. The revenue is projected to exceed Rwf 2.97 trillion in the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

Minister Murangwa explained that lower-middle-income countries should maintain a tax-to-GDP ratio of at least 19%, upper-middle-income countries should target 23%, and high-income countries aim for at least 38%.

“In the short term, by the end of NST2, we aim to reach at least 18% or 19%, with further increases in the following years,” he said.

“To achieve upper-middle-income status by 2035, Rwanda will need a tax-to-GDP ratio of around 23%. By 2050, as a high-income country under Vision 2050, this ratio should reach approximately 38%.”

To meet these fiscal targets, the Rwandan government has introduced new tax policy reforms for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, focusing on broadening the tax base, enhancing revenue mobilization, and streamlining tax administration.

“These new tax policy reforms are part of the Government’s medium-term strategy to broaden the tax base, increase revenue mobilization, and streamline tax administration in order to meet Rwanda’s development goals,” Murangwa stated.

Key sectors affected by these reforms include consumer goods, transportation, telecommunications, tourism, and gambling. New levies have been introduced to ensure economic sustainability while driving national transformation.

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a 15% excise duty on cosmetic and beauty products, including makeup, body lotion, and hair products. However, essential pharmaceutical beauty products will be exempted in consultation with the Ministry of Health.

Vehicle owners will also feel the impact of the reforms, as registration fees for all types of vehicles, including electric cars, will be increased. However, the exact figure was not immediately revealed.

Similarly, the fuel levy has been adjusted from a fixed fee of Rwf 115 per litre to 15% of the Cost-Insurance-Freight (CIF) to support road maintenance initiatives.

Mobile phone users will now have to pay 18% Value Added Tax (VAT) on mobile phones, which had been exempted since 2010. The government argues that while the exemption initially helped to boost digital penetration and smartphone affordability, the reintroduction of VAT will allow for more sustainable revenue collection without stifling smartphone access.

A similar VAT exemption introduced in 2012 on ICT equipment will also be revoked, though selected ICT devices will remain tax-free based on consultations with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation.

The gambling industry is set to face higher tax measures, with the tax on Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR) rising from 13% to 40%, and withholding tax on winnings increasing from 15% to 25%. The government said the move aims to encourage responsible gambling while also increasing tax revenues from the industry.

Additionally, the tourism sector will be subject to a new Tourism Levy, which imposes a 3% tax on accommodation costs. This measure aims to fund investments in the country’s tourism and hospitality industry, a critical pillar of Rwanda’s economic growth.

In a bid to encourage green mobility and reduce carbon emissions, the government has maintained a 25% import duty exemption for hybrid vehicles while introducing an age-based excise duty system. Under the new system, hybrid cars less than three years old will be taxed at 5%, those between four and seven years old at 10%, and vehicles older than eight years at 15%.

Additionally, VAT and a 5% withholding tax will be reinstated for hybrid vehicles, while fully electric vehicles will remain tax-exempt to encourage their adoption. However, this measure will only take effect in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

Excise taxes have also been adjusted in other areas. The tax on cigarettes has increased from Rwf 130 to Rwf 230 per pack, along with an additional 36% tax on the retail price.

The excise duty on beer has risen from 60% to 65% of the factory price. For airtime, the tax has been raised from 10% to 12% in 2024/2025, with a gradual increase to 15% in the medium term.

Beyond these direct tax changes, the government has also signalled upcoming policy adjustments targeting financial services, transportation, and ICT in the next financial year.

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, made the revelation on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, as the government unveiled new tax reforms approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on Monday.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Irembo, a leading digital services provider in Rwanda, termed the strategic partnership a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing digital transformation.

By making the RW country domain more accessible, this collaboration aims to simplify the process of domain registration, providing a seamless experience for both individuals and businesses seeking to establish a digital presence in Rwanda and beyond. RW domain registration is now available alongside other services provided on the IremboGov platform.

Through this integration, clients can now purchase RW domains directly on the IremboGov platform, aligning with Rwanda’s vision of building a modern digital ecosystem.

The addition of RW domain services enhances IremboGov’s comprehensive suite of digital services, empowering Rwandans and international investors with an easy-to-use, centralized platform to access essential online services.

“Users can now register their RW domains with just a few clicks,” Irembo said in a statement.

RICTA is a non-profit organization with a mandate to manage Rwanda’s RW country code top-level domain (ccTLD).

The new partnership is part of RICTA’s broader effort to promote the adoption of the RW domain, which is essential for establishing trust and authenticity in the digital space.

The RW domain serves as a symbol of Rwanda’s national identity, offering businesses, startups, and individuals a unique opportunity to strengthen their digital presence while supporting the country’s efforts to foster a thriving digital economy.

The collaboration with Irembo is expected to increase the visibility and adoption of the RW domain, making it the domain of choice within and beyond Rwanda.

RICTA has affirmed its commitment to ensuring the growth of Rwanda’s internet ecosystem. The integration with IremboGov is a significant step toward achieving this goal.

By making the RW country domain more accessible, this collaboration aims to simplify the process of domain registration, providing a seamless experience for both individuals and businesses seeking to establish a digital presence in Rwanda and beyond.

IGIHE

At a press briefing in Geneva, WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier explained that “communication has become difficult” due to the severing of traditional channels between the two parties, though he refrained from providing further specifics.

The H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the U.S., which began in April 2024, has led to nearly 70 infections, mostly among farm workers.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stressed that while human-to-human transmission remains unconfirmed and the public health threat remains low, individuals with extended exposure to birds, poultry, or livestock are at higher risk.

The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, which was formalized by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on his inauguration day, has raised concerns about the sharing of critical health data.

Some countries have privately voiced concerns that the U.S. may withhold important information on emerging diseases, which could hinder global efforts to prevent future pandemics.

The situation has become more alarming following the discovery of a second strain of bird flu in dairy cattle in Nevada, heightening fears that the outbreak could spread further.

IGIHE

UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan and Ivorian Minister of Commerce Souleymane Diarrassouba highlighted Africa’s vulnerability to global economic shocks, mainly due to heavy reliance on commodities and infrastructure deficits.

More than half of African nations depend on oil, gas, or minerals for over 60% of their export earnings, leaving them exposed to global market fluctuations. Additionally, trade costs across the continent are 50% higher than the global average, owing to underdeveloped transport, energy, and digital infrastructure.

Grynspan emphasized the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which could create a market worth $3.4 trillion. She urged African countries to implement bold reforms, make strategic investments, and fully realize AfCFTA’s potential to enhance economic resilience and global competitiveness.

Key recommendations from the report include diversifying exports, boosting intra-African trade, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are responsible for 80% of Africa’s jobs ,and establishing early warning systems for trade risks.

Grynspan also lauded Côte d’Ivoire’s economic resilience, noting the country contributes 40% of West Africa’s GDP growth and attracts 30% of the region’s foreign investments.

Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe underscored the role of the private sector as the economy’s engine, accounting for 75% of investments and 26% of GDP.

He outlined government efforts to improve business conditions, such as improving logistics, expanding digital connectivity, and providing targeted funding.

The report highlights Africa’s $194 billion annual infrastructure deficit and proposes solutions like tax incentives for industrialization, regional investment funds, and trade finance mechanisms to support businesses affected by crises.

Grynspan reiterated that Africa’s future lies in regional integration, urging faster implementation of AfCFTA. By adopting strategic reforms, the continent could reduce external dependency, stabilize revenue, and achieve more inclusive growth.

Key recommendations from the report include diversifying exports, boosting intra-African trade, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) , which are responsible for 80% of Africa’s jobs and establishing early warning systems for trade risks.

IGIHE

The call was made during a high-level dialogue on gender equality in education, held on Tuesday at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The event, titled 'Investing in Girls’ Education Systems as a Form of Reparation, Justice, and Sustainable Development for African Communities,' took place on the sidelines of the 38th AU summit.

The gathering focused on the importance of investing in girls’ education as a tool for justice and sustainable development, aligning with the AU’s 2025 theme: 'Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.'

Mohamed Belhocine, AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the need for policy reforms to improve access to education for African girls.

He pointed out that increased financial investment, safer school environments, and gender-responsive data were key to advancing girls’ education across Africa.

“This year, in line with the AU’s theme, we are placing a greater focus on education as a foundation for addressing long-standing inequalities,' Belhocine stated.

A joint report by the AU and UNESCO on the status of girls’ and women’s education in Africa was launched during the meeting. The report provided a detailed analysis of the progress made toward achieving inclusive and equitable quality education.

The dialogue served as a vital platform for policymakers, experts, and activists to share strategies and best practices to tackle the challenges hindering girls’ education in Africa.

The AU summit will continue through Sunday at the AU headquarters, with key meetings scheduled for the Executive Council and African heads of state and government.

African countries have been called upon to prioritize gender equality in education, with experts and policymakers stressing the need for increased investment in girls’ education.

IGIHE

Since February 1, the country has been seeing over 100 new cholera cases every day, with a high of 295 cases recorded on February 8.

However, the confirmation of cases through laboratory testing remains limited, with only around 20 samples being processed daily.

The outbreak, which started on January 7, has spread across several provinces, with Luanda and the neighboring Bengo province being the hardest hit.

To combat the outbreak, more than 925,000 people have been vaccinated, covering 86% of the targeted population, according to the Health Ministry’s epidemiological report on Monday.

IGIHE

The bus, operated by International Express, was traveling from Kigali to Musanze when it veered off the road and rolled down a hill, approximately 800 meters from the main road.

Rulindo District Mayor, Mukanyirigira Judith, had earlier confirmed 16 fatalities, but the death toll later rose to 20 lives which had been lost in the accident. She said that the bus was carrying 52 passengers when it lost control in the mountainous area.

'The vehicle went off the road and rolled down the slope. We are still investigating the cause of the accident,' said Rwanda National Police spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga.

The Government of Rwanda issued a statement expressing its condolences to the families of the victims. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente conveyed the government’s deepest sympathy and confirmed that the injured were immediately transferred to local hospitals for medical care.

'The Government of Rwanda extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in today’s tragic road accident that claimed 20 lives and left several others injured in Rusiga Sector, Rulindo District,' he said in a statement.

The government has assured continued support for the bereaved and the injured, emphasizing the importance of road safety.

'We remind all road users, especially drivers, to follow the laws and regulations concerning road safety to prevent accidents and save lives,' added the Prime Minister.

A tragic bus accident in Rulindo District has resulted in the deaths of 20 people.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The Rwandan Head of State was warmly received by Dr. Ahmad bin Hassen Al-Hammadi, the Secretary-General of Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at Hamad International Airport, as confirmed by Rwanda’s Embassy in Qatar.

Rwanda and Qatar share a strong, friendly relationship, cooperating in various sectors, which is further cemented through their ongoing diplomatic engagements.

At the end of last year, President Kagame participated in the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate event in the Formula 1 calendar.

In February 2024, President Kagame made another working visit to Qatar aimed at reinforcing the already solid ties between the two countries.

Qatari officials have also previously visited Rwanda; on January 31, 2025, President Kagame hosted Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, Qatar’s Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for discussions on bilateral relations and regional matters.

In June 2022, Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani visited Rwanda as a state guest during a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting held in Kigali. This followed a visit in April 2019 by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar’s Supreme Leader, aimed at advancing bilateral relations.

The two nations cooperate in security, investment promotion, trade, technology, tourism, anti-corruption, and more. Qatar is also collaborating with Rwanda on the Bugesera Airport project, with Qatar Airways holding a 60% stake.

In January 2025, President Kagame noted significant progress in agreements signed with Qatar, especially concerning the construction of Bugesera International Airport and the acquisition of a 49% stake in RwandAir.

President Paul Kagame is in Doha, Qatar for an official working visit.

IGIHE

This statement was made by M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, on February 11, 2025, after leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) called for the airport’s reopening to facilitate humanitarian aid, three days earlier.

“The technical issues, including unexploded bombs and the damaged runway, have created obstacles to reopening Goma’s international airport,” Kanyuka explained.

In addition, EAC and SADC leaders urged M23 to open key roads, such as the Goma-Bunagana, Goma-Lubero, and the route linking Goma to Bukavu through Lake Kivu.

In response, M23 confirmed that all these roads and water routes are accessible, but called on the SADC forces present in the DRC to use the available routes and return to their home countries.

Kanyuka further stated that while M23 supports the decisions made at the summit, especially regarding political talks with the DRC government, M23 must be part of the discussions on how these decisions will be implemented.

He also reminded that M23 declared a ceasefire on February 3, but reported that DRC and Burundi forces were preparing attacks on civilians in areas under M23 control, including Nyabibwe and the Kalehe center. He warned that M23 would retaliate if these attacks continue.

The spokesperson stated that if SADC and Burundi forces want peace in eastern DRC, they must respect the decisions made by EAC and SADC leaders and withdraw from the region.

The M23 armed group has said it can not reopen Goma International Airport due to unexploded ordnance and a damaged runway.

IGIHE