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The insurance company made a pledge through signing the WIFR Gender Charter.

The event was graced by Annie Nibishaka, Managing Director of Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, Betty Sayinzoga, co-founder of WIFR and Group HR Executive for Sanlam Allianz, members of the management team and staff.

Annie Nibishaka, Managing Director of Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, and Betty Sayinzoga, Co-founder of WIFR and Group HR Executive for Sanlam Allianz, alongside members of the management team and staff at the event.

Speaking at the interactive ceremony, Nibishaka emphasised that joining Women in Finance Rwanda reaffirms Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda’s commitment to championing gender inclusivity, and driving meaningful change through deliberate initiatives and measurable progress.

According to Nibishaka, the insurer reports female representation of up to 34% of the company’s workforce and an impressive 54.5% in leadership positions.

'These statistics reflect our unwavering commitment to building a balanced workforce and ensuring that women receive the support and guidance necessary for their career advancement, even in the face of unique challenges,' Nibishaka stated.

Annie Nibishaka, MD of Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, emphasized that joining Women in Finance Rwanda reaffirms the company’s commitment to gender inclusivity and meaningful change through deliberate initiatives and measurable progress.

The MD further emphasized that empowering women in the workplace is not just a corporate objective but a fundamental principle embedded in the company’s culture.

'At Old Mutual, we firmly believe in the power of inclusion within the workplace. Empowering women and championing gender equality are not just ideals we aspire to—they are guiding principles reflected in our actions, decisions, and everyday commitments,' she added.

By joining Women in Finance Rwanda, Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda aims to strengthen its initiatives that support women’s professional development, mentorship, and leadership training.

Annie Nibishaka, Managing Director of Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, and Betty Sayinzoga, Co-founder of WIFR and Group HR Executive for Sanlam Allianz, sign the WIFR Gender Charter.

Nibishaka expressed optimism that this partnership will open more opportunities for women in finance and help bridge the gender gap in decision-making roles within the sector.

'These partnerships will enable us to leverage valuable opportunities to expand knowledge, support career growth, and celebrate the achievements of our women workforce,' she said.

Betty Sayinzoga, co-founder of WIFR, shared her excitement about Old Mutual’s new membership, recognizing the growing strength of the network.

“The network is getting bigger, with almost 20 members, it’s very important for us to be able to touch each and every company in the finance sector. Our strengths rely on the size of the network we’re building,” Sayinzoga remarked.

Betty Sayinzoga, Co-founder of WIFR, said Old Mutual’s new membership reflects the growing strength of the network.

She also highlighted the significance of the insurance sector’s involvement, noting that industry-specific training opportunities are now available and that the upcoming launch of the WIFR Insurance Chapter will further empower women in the sector.

“For women to have access to training with CISI (Chartered Insurance Institute) and other technical insurance training is very important.

“The success of a woman is not a threat; it’s a blessing for other women. We are not competitors,” she emphasized, reinforcing the collective spirit of WIFR.

The onboarding of Old Mutual Insurance to WIFR comes with several other advantages, including members benefiting from mentorship programs, training, and scholarships.

Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda staff pose for a photo with the company’s Managing Director, Annie Nibishaka, and Betty Sayinzoga, Co-founder of WIFR.

Five staff members of the insurer are among the first cohort of 20 young professionals set to benefit from a nine-month WIFR mentorship program in partnership with Gates Consulting, which is set to kick off later this month (March).

Clementine Muhorakeye, Internal Audit Manager at Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, expressed her excitement about joining the mentorship program.

Clementine Muhorakeye, Internal Audit Manager at Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, is among the beneficiaries of the WIFR mentorship program.

Muhorakeye highlighted the value of learning from successful women in the financial sector, stating, “I’m really eager to interact with my mentor and gain practical experience that will not only benefit our institutions but also the wider community.”

Sonia Umwari, Marketing and Communication Manager at Old Mutual, also looks forward to the mentorship journey.

Sonia Umwari, Marketing and Communication Manager at Old Mutual, is among the 20 beneficiaries of the nine-month mentorship program.

She reflected on the challenges she faced as a woman climbing the corporate ladder and her hope of learning from her seniors while also helping others learn from her challenges, noting, “The biggest challenge was challenging the status quo. I had to prove my value beyond being judged for being a woman.

As curtains came down on the event, Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda formally joined a growing list of insurance companies committed to advancing the gender parity agenda in the sector. Other members include Mayfair, Sanlam, Zep-Re, and dozens of financial institutions that have joined the foundation since its launch in 2023.

Recent partnerships have also expanded to leading financial sector players, such as Bank of Kigali, BRD, NCBA Rwanda, KIFC, Access to Finance Rwanda, EcoBank, I&M Bank, Umwalimu Sacco, Coopedu, and many others.

Betty Sayinzoga (left), co-founder of WIFR and Group HR Executive for Sanlam Allianz, presented the membership trophy to Annie Nibishaka, Managing Director of Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda, during the ceremony held on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Old Mutual Insurance Rwanda staff pose for a photo with the company’s Managing Director, Annie Nibishaka, and Betty Sayinzoga, Co-founder of WIFR.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The update was revealed on March 7, 2025, during the commemoration of National School Feeding Day.

Rwanda is celebrating a decade since the launch of the school feeding program, which initially targeted secondary school students before expanding to include primary schools.

When the initiative began, it had a budget of Frw4 billion. Over time, funding has significantly increased, reaching Frw90 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.

Education Minister Nsengimana Joseph noted that before the program’s introduction, many students faced challenges such as long commutes, requiring them to go home for lunch and return late, which hindered their learning.

He emphasized that since the program started in 2014, students no longer encounter such obstacles, and many who had dropped out due to food insecurity have returned to school.

“When this program was introduced, we saw many students who had left school come back. It has played a crucial role in ensuring that all children have access to education and can focus on their studies,” he said.

He added that the initiative has also encouraged parents to enroll their children in school on time. Previously, some parents delayed school enrollment due to concerns about their children going hungry, increasing the risk of dropouts.

Gloria Umurerwa, a parent, said the program has significantly reduced the burden on families who previously struggled to provide lunch for their children.

“Now, I can go about my daily work without worrying about my child’s lunch. Knowing they are well-fed at school brings peace of mind. This initiative has been a great relief for many of us,” she said.

The national celebration took place at G.S Kigali, where schools that efficiently managed their budgets and implemented sustainable initiatives, such as growing their own fruits and vegetables, were recognized.

Top-performing schools at the district level received Frw800,000, while those excelling at the provincial level were awarded Frw2 million.

The national celebration of school feeding day took place at G.S Kigali.

Education Minister Nsengimana Joseph noted that before the program’s introduction, many students faced challenges such as long commutes, requiring them to go home for lunch and return late, which hindered their learning.

Education Minister Nsengimana Joseph noted that before the program’s introduction, many students faced challenges such as long commutes, requiring them to go home for lunch and return late, which hindered their learning.

Over time, funding has significantly increased, reaching Frw90 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.

IGIHE

The arrested suspects have been identified as Zayirwa Jean Marie Vianney (30), Havugiyaremye Innocent (37), Ndayishimiye Phenias (34), Habimana Rachid (31), and Ukwigize Obedi (30).

The incident occurred in Gasabo District, Remera Sector, Nyarutarama Cell, specifically in Gishushu Village.

The suspects are facing charges including forming or joining a criminal gang, theft using force or threats, and aggravated theft.

RIB Spokesperson, Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, confirmed that the crime took place on January 29, 2025.

“On January 29, 2025, a Chinese national reported a robbery in which more than Frw50 million, two laptops, a mobile phone, a checkbook, and a passport were stolen,” stated Dr. Murangira.

Following investigations, RIB arrested the five suspects and recovered part of the stolen funds.

Among the recovered items were Frw7,597,700, $17,212, 110 Chinese Yuan, 39,900 Burundian Francs, and various other currencies. The total value of the recovered funds exceeded Frw31.5 million. Additionally, the victim regained possession of his laptops, mobile phone, and camera.

The suspects are currently being held at the RIB station in Kicukiro. Their case was officially submitted to court on February 19, 2025.

RIB has extended its gratitude to individuals who provided crucial information leading to the arrests. Dr. Murangira reiterated RIB’s commitment to combating crime.

“RIB reminds individuals engaging in criminal activities that they will not succeed. We, alongside other law enforcement agencies, remain committed to fighting crimes such as forming or joining criminal gangs, theft using force, and robbery. We encourage the public to report any suspicious activities. Criminal acts will not be tolerated, and offenders will be brought to justice,” he stated.

According to Article 224 of the Rwandan Penal Code, forming or joining a criminal gang carries a prison sentence ranging from seven to ten years.

Theft involving force or threats, as per Article 168, is punishable by a prison term of five to seven years and a fine between Frw3,000,000 and 5,000,000.

Simple theft, under Article 166, is subject to imprisonment of one to two years, a fine between Frw1,000,000 and 2,000,000, or six months of community service, or a combination of these penalties.

RIB has extended its gratitude to individuals who provided crucial information leading to the arrests.

IGIHE

A total of 438 trainees completed the program, which covered key military skills, including enemy detection, combat strategies, map reading, and field training.

The graduation ceremony, held at Camp Kasai Military Camp, was attended by high-ranking officials, including RDF Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi and CAR’s Prime Minister Félix Moloua, who served as the guest of honor. The soldiers had undergone six months of intensive training.

Among the graduates was 19-year-old Wassialo Nzeti, who joined the military due to her country’s ongoing security challenges. She emphasized the critical role of youth in nation-building.

“When there is security, the nation prospers. The training we received was far superior to what was previously available in our military,” she said.

Nzeti particularly valued lessons in map reading, combat tactics, and weapons handling.

“I will remain in the military because I am passionate about security matters. I will also encourage others to join since security is the foundation of everything. What I admired most about RDF is their discipline, dedication, and professionalism.”

Another graduate, Wanda Choisi, praised the training for its focus on discipline and practical skills.

“One of the most valuable lessons was map reading. Before this training, I had never studied it, but now I have mastered it, and it will be crucial in my duties.”

The newly trained soldiers have been assigned to a specialized unit responsible for rapid response in critical situations.

Maj Gen Nyakarundi expressed confidence in their ability to apply their training effectively to protect CAR.

“I trust that the skills you have acquired will be used to confront threats rather than harm the citizens you are sworn to protect. Today, you stand before us as soldiers committed to defending your country with courage,” he noted.

Maj Gen Nyakarundi acknowledged the rigorous nature of the training, emphasizing that discipline and hard work were essential in preparing them to become competent soldiers.

He also extended gratitude to the leadership of both Rwanda and CAR, as well as the military commanders of RDF and FACA, for their support in making the program a success.

Maj Gen Nyakarundi reaffirmed RDF’s commitment to training CAR soldiers, noting that 159 personnel had recently undergone advanced training, with another cohort set to begin training in the coming month.

Among the 438 graduates, 38 were women, reflecting a growing role for female soldiers in CAR’s military.

IGIHE

How did the world’s second-largest economy perform in the past year? What are its major development goals and policy directions for 2025? In the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency, guest speakers shared insights on the nation’s commitment to achieving its growth target while advancing high-quality development.

STEADY PROGRESS AMID CHALLENGES

China’s GDP expanded by 5 percent last year to 134.9 trillion yuan (about 18.8 trillion U.S. dollars) and contributed about 30 percent to global economic growth, according to the government work report.

Huang Lianghao, an official with the Research Office of the State Council, described the achievements as “hard-won and extraordinary.”

“China promoted growth within a reasonable range and effectively improved the quality of its economy,” noted Huang, also a member of the drafting group for the government work report, highlighting a 3.4-percent reduction in carbon emissions per GDP unit.

“In 2024, China’s economy demonstrated resilience and the effectiveness of overall reform,” said national lawmaker Yuan Yuyu, chairman of Medprin Regenerative Medical Technologies Co., Ltd., a Guangzhou-based biotech firm.

Last year, the number of newly established business entities in China exceeded 20 million.

“The rapid development of enterprises vividly reflects the advancement of the country’s high-quality development and the steady growth of new quality productive forces,” noted Yuan.

STRATEGIC REFORMS FOR SUSTAINED GROWTH

As 2025 marks the final year of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), experts believe that the around-5-percent growth target proposed in the government work report balances what is needed and what is possible.

Huang emphasized the target’s alignment with employment stabilization, risk prevention, and the country’s development goals through 2035.

“It not only demonstrates the government’s precise grasp of the general principle of pursuing progress while maintaining stability amid a complex economic environment, but also conveys a profound strategic consideration for medium- and long-term high-quality development,” said national political advisor Jin Li, vice president of Southern University of Science and Technology.

Huang expressed confidence in China’s economic fundamentals despite external pressures, citing positive factors such as burgeoning technological breakthroughs and expanding domestic demand.

Regarding employment, the report sets a goal of creating over 12 million new urban jobs and an around-5.5-percent surveyed urban unemployment rate. Huang underscored reforms in vocational training to address structural labor mismatches, while Jin stressed educational reforms to cultivate talent for emerging industries.

Yuan advocated for deeper industry-academia collaboration: “Universities hold talent resources while enterprises possess application scenarios. Bridging them will accelerate technological breakthroughs.”

PEOPLE-CENTERED POLICY ORIENTATION

More funds and resources will be used to serve the people and meet their needs, according to the government work report. China will raise the minimum basic old-age benefits for rural and non-working urban residents by 20 yuan and ensure an appropriate increase in the basic pension benefits for retirees. It will also continue to deepen the reform of public hospitals to better serve the public interest.

Highlighting healthcare commitments, Yuan said as health has become increasingly significant to the people, companies have the responsibility to provide more innovative products, drugs and medical apparatus and lower the costs to meet the people’s needs.

The government also plans 300 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds to support consumer goods trade-in programs.

“The concerns of the public are the key issues highlighted in the government work report. It proposes various measures to benefit the people and enhance their well-being,” said Huang.

Xinhua

China has set targets of keeping the surveyed urban unemployment rate at around 5.5 percent in 2025, and creating over 12 million new urban jobs, according to a government work report unveiled Wednesday.

Despite steady economic recovery, China’s job market remains under pressure, particularly with 12 million college graduates this year, Huang Lianghao, an official with the Research Office of the State Council, said on the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

To expand employment opportunities, Huang highlighted key measures outlined in the government work report, including fully leveraging employment-related policies, supporting labor-intensive industries in creating jobs and stabilizing employment, and striking a balance between the application of new technologies and job relocation for employees.

Beyond job availability, more should be done to address structural employment mismatches, he said.

“Many individuals struggle to find suitable positions, while businesses grapple with hiring the right talent,” Huang noted, emphasizing the need to solve the problem.

He highlighted large-scale vocational skills training, saying that this will not only enhance the job-seekers’ competence but also generate new jobs, boost labor productivity, and drive industrial upgrading.

Xinhua

“This year’s government work report emphasizes prioritizing people’s livelihoods,” Huang said, adding that a series of measures for education, social insurance, and medical and health services will be introduced to meet the people’s needs.

On social insurance, the country has pledged to allocate more financial support to increase basic pension benefits for urban and rural residents, provide child care subsidies, and strengthen care for functionally impaired elderly people, according to the government work report, which was unveiled on Wednesday.

Economic development and livelihood improvements provide mutual reinforcement, particularly amid economic headwinds and insufficient effective demand, he said.

“Through policies to enhance living standards, the government aims to promote a positive interplay between improvements to people’s lives, demand expansion and economic growth,” he added.

Xinhua

Domestic demand is a “home market that will not move away,” and its growth will increase the country’s market capacity and bolster economic circulation, according to Huang Lianghao, an official of the Research Office of the State Council.

Huang made the remarks while discussing this year’s government work report, which was submitted to the national legislature for deliberation on Wednesday. Domestic demand will be made the main engine and anchor of economic growth, according to the report.

“We should adopt a comprehensive approach and identify key areas to unleash all potential of domestic demand,” the official said.

Increasing spending power is one of the key measures to boost consumption outlined in the report. According to Huang, this is the most fundamental task aiming to ensure that people have enough money to spend.

Huang also called for efforts to address the most pressing issues hindering consumption, as well as to improve the overall consumption experience and boost people’s willingness to spend.

Xinhua

It is necessary to maintain a certain level of economic growth to ensure stable employment, mitigate risks and improve people’s livelihoods, Huang Lianghao, an official with the Research Office of the State Council, said in the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.

Since China introduced a comprehensive package of incremental policies last year, the economy has experienced a significant rebound, and this positive trend has been further consolidated and expanded since the beginning of this year, said Huang.

Over the years, the country has accumulated many positive factors and favorable conditions for growth, he said, adding that new technological breakthroughs are emerging at a faster pace, new industries and growth drivers are accelerating, and domestic demand is expanding rapidly, all of which lay a solid foundation for future development.

Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday announced the annual economic growth target when delivering the government work report to the annual session of the National People’s Congress for deliberation.

According to the report, China will adopt a more proactive fiscal policy and a moderately loose monetary policy, which Huang said will provide strong policy support for economic growth.

The moderately loose monetary policy will help lower corporate financing costs and enhance liquidity, said Jin Li, a national political advisor and vice president of Southern University of Science and Technology.

Emerging industries and consumer sectors, including artificial intelligence, low-altitude economy and digital economy, are expected to receive stronger support, injecting new vitality into China’s high-quality economic development, said Jin.

A view of skyscrapers in Beijing, the capital of China.

Xinhua

The advisory warns of traffic disruptions during the two-day event. 'On March 7, the marathon will kick off with an overnight run known as “The Double Double,” starting at 8:30 PM and continuing until morning. On March 8, the road will remain busy from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM as runners compete in various categories,' the advisory reads.

To minimize inconvenience, police are advising motorists to avoid the RN6 road and instead use the Muhanga-Karongi-Nyamasheke-Rusizi route during these hours. “We encourage the public to plan ahead and use alternative routes to avoid delays,” the statement stated.

Police officers will be deployed along the marathon route to direct traffic and assist road users. Authorities are calling for cooperation to ensure the safety of both participants and motorists. “Our priority is to facilitate a smooth flow of traffic while ensuring the marathon proceeds without incident,” police emphasized.

The Nyungwe Marathon is an annual event that has grown in popularity since its launch in 2012 with just 15 participants. Known for its simplicity, the marathon does not award trophies or track times. Instead, it focuses on the experience of running through the breathtaking landscapes of Nyungwe National Park.

Eric Pohlman, the marathon’s founder, highlighted the event’s unique spirit. “Every year, more people join us after hearing how memorable it is to run between Nyungwe’s tall green trees and beneath its true blue sky,” he said.

This year’s marathon features a variety of categories to accommodate different levels of endurance. The most demanding event, “The Double Double,” spans 106 kilometers and is expected to take approximately 14 hours.

It begins at the West Gate (Kamembe side entrance) and ends 400 meters past the park’s western exit near the RDB visitor center.

The Full Marathon, covering 53 kilometers, starts at the East Gate (Kigali side entrance) and follows the same finish line. The Half Marathon covers 22 kilometers, beginning at the intersection with the road south to Burundi, while the Half Half Marathon is an 11-kilometer run starting near the Bird Lookout Platform.

Cycling enthusiasts are also included in the event. The Half Century Cycle, covering 53.5 kilometers, begins at the Kibati Entrance on the park’s east side. The Full Century Cycle, spanning 107 kilometers, starts and ends near the RDB visitor center on the western side of the park.

In addition to the races, the marathon offers an opportunity to engage with the local community. Participants are encouraged to meet local entrepreneurs who employ community members.

With police ensuring traffic management and the marathon team preparing for a smooth event, organizers are encouraging the public to plan accordingly and follow all traffic guidelines.

The Nyungwe Marathon is an annual event that has grown in popularity since its launch in 2012 with just 15 participants.

This year’s marathon features a variety of categories to accommodate different levels of endurance.

Cycling enthusiasts are also included in the event.

To minimize inconvenience, police are advising motorists to avoid the RN6 road.

IGIHE