Category: Uncategorized

To claim that the future belongs to Africa is a reality backed by every socioeconomic indicator. But to turn this potential into progress, Africa must strategically position itself to seize the moment.

The good news is we are making strides, the realization that Africa’s socioeconomic transformation lies in the hands of its people is now widespread.

No one else will do it for us and attempts to develop the continent without ownership and leadership by Africans have not fared well but we understand our challenges and aspirations better than anyone else.

Recent crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and internal political weaknesses have exposed vulnerabilities, including trade imbalances, skyrocketing inflation, and slowed growth.

However, these challenges have also provided valuable lessons. For instance, the inequitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines highlighted the urgent need to invest in local vaccine manufacturing.

Rwanda, in partnership with BioNTech, is playing its part by establishing a cutting-edge mRNA-enabled vaccine manufacturing plant, setting a precedent for the continent.

To secure Africa’s future, Africa must seek solutions from within. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is a testament to this unity, connecting 1.3 billion people across 54 countries with a combined GDP of over $3.4 trillion.

With the political will for reform and steady implementation, the AfCFTA is set to be a game-changer for trade, investment, and economic integration across the continent.

On the global stage, Africa has started to leverage its influence effectively by advocating for a unified position on climate action, reforming international financial systems and amplifying our voices within global platforms.

With this, Africa is demonstrating that it can shape its destiny and Rwanda’s journey offers valuable lessons for our socioeconomic transformation as being driven by ownership.

Developing homegrown solutions rooted in our culture and tailored to our unique challenges alongside partnerships are crucial and most productive when aligned with our vision and goals.

Given the existing challenges, there is need for significant investment in productive sectors to create opportunities for our young population such as expanding energy access, building robust digital financial ecosystems and navigating a fragmented global economic system.

With just five years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, Africa must act decisively navigating a world marked by weakening multilateralism, rising trade barriers, geopolitical tensions, and increasing climate disasters.

Africa must strengthen its global positioning but most importantly, we must resist being instrumentalized and keep the improved wellbeing of our people as the ultimate prize. Africa’s moment is now, we are ready to collaborate and lead.

The Author is Rwanda’s Prime Minister.

Dr. Edouard Ngirente

CAF’s decision follows thorough inspections and assessments conducted by their technical and infrastructure experts. According to the findings, while significant progress has been made in the construction and upgrading of stadiums, training fields, hotels, and healthcare facilities, the current infrastructure is not yet fully prepared to meet the high standards required for hosting the prestigious tournament.

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe expressed confidence in the efforts of the host nation’s leaders — President William Ruto of Kenya, President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, and President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda.

“The progress made so far is commendable. However, additional time is necessary to ensure the highest quality of infrastructure. We are committed to delivering a world-class tournament that celebrates African football.”

The postponement allows the host countries to continue their preparations without the pressure of impending deadlines. Ongoing construction and renovations will now have the required time to meet CAF’s standards, enhancing overall tournament experience for teams and fans alike.

The competition draw for CHAN 2024 initially scheduled for February 2025 will still take place in Nairobi on January 15, 2025. The exact dates for the rescheduled Championship in August 2025 will be announced by CAF in due course.

The football fraternity will have to wait until August to watch CHAN 2024

IGIHE

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in Charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, on Monday, January 13, urged Police officers set to be deployed to the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, to remain professional during their one year tour-of-duty.

DIGP Sano was briefing a female-dominated contingent of Rwanda Formed Police Unit Three rotation Seven (RWAFPU3-7) composed of 160 Police officers, at the RNP General Headquarters, Kacyiru.

The contingent commanded by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Donatha Nyinawumuntu, will replace RWAFPU3-6 deployed in the capital Juba under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

DIGP Sano urged the officers to apply the training they received, emphasizing dedication, professionalism, and exemplary conduct to execute their responsibilities effectively.

'You have been selected to represent the country and the RNP on this mission because of your competence. You were given preparatory training for the tasks ahead, in addition to your prior experience in maintaining security within the country. In this mission, continue to work with diligence and good conduct to uphold the trust placed in you,' DIGP Sano said.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and mutual respect among themselves and with colleagues from other contributing countries while respecting diversity.

'In your new assignment, you will work with people from various countries; collaborate with them well, uphold our Rwandan culture and values while respecting the culture and beliefs of others,' the Deputy Police Chief said.

He reminded them that the mission is a “collective responsibility”, urging them to work as a team, follow instructions, and seek guidance when faced with uncertainties.

He concluded by advising them to maintain hygiene, handle the contingent owned equipment well, prioritize their work, avoid distractions like unnecessary use of social media, and to continue projecting a positive image of Rwanda and its police force.

DIGP Sano has urged Police officers on professionalism ahead of South Sudan deployment.

DIGP Sano urged the officers to apply the training they received, emphasizing dedication, professionalism, and exemplary conduct to execute their responsibilities effectively.

The contingent will replace RWAFPU3-6 deployed in the capital Juba under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

IGIHE

Local residents reported that the victims were members of vigilante groups and civilians protecting themselves from armed gangs known for kidnapping for ransom.

According to reports, the airstrikes targeted militant groups in the Zurmi and Maradun areas.

Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his condolences to the community.

The military confirmed conducting the airstrikes, claiming they successfully targeted criminal gangs causing havoc in the region.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) acknowledged the loss of civilian lives, stating it was investigating the incident.

They emphasized that the operation had rescued kidnap victims and eliminated bandits but expressed concern over the civilian casualties.

A thorough investigation is underway, and the findings will be shared with the public.

An airstrike by Nigeria’s military in Zamfara State has accidentally killed 16 civilians, who were mistaken for criminal gangs.

IGIHE

The teachers were apprehended on January 8, 2025. Among them is Emmanuel Ushimimana, a 30-year-old teacher at G.S Rugaragara in Mushonyi Sector, Rurara Cell, Rugaragara Village.

The other suspects include Claudine Iradukunda, 28, a teacher at G.S Rundoyi in Ruhango Sector, Rundoyi Cell, Gakaranka Village; Jeannette Nyiraminani, 37, from G.S Rugote in Gihango Sector, Shyembe Cell, Rugote Village; and Marie Goreth Tuyisenge, 34, who teaches at Umubano Primary School in Ruhango Sector, Rundoyi Cell, Rushashu Village.

The fifth individual, Epaphrodite Uwineza, 38, is a teacher at Umucyo Primary School in Mushonyi Sector, Rurara Cell, Gisunzu Village.

According to RIB, these teachers allegedly used forged university degrees to gain benefits such as salary increases, which were intended for teachers with verified university qualifications.

The suspects are currently detained at RIB stations in Ruhango and Gihango Sectors within Rutsiro District. Their case files have been finalized and were scheduled to be forwarded to the prosecution on January 13, 2025.

Forgery, alteration, or the use of falsified documents is a criminal offense under Article 276 of Law No. 68/2018 of August 30, 2018, concerning offenses and penalties in Rwanda.

The law stipulates penalties of five to seven years of imprisonment and a fine ranging from 3 to 5 million Rwandan Francs (Frw), or one of these penalties.

RIB has urged the public to refrain from using forged documents, emphasizing that such actions are punishable by law and offenders will face the law.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has confirmed the arrest of five teachers from different schools in Rutsiro District on allegations of using forged academic credentials.

IGIHE

The relentless fires, fueled by extreme drought and powerful winds, have claimed at least 25 lives, with over a dozen individuals still missing.

Communities across the region are grappling with destruction on a massive scale, as the fires have consumed more than 40,500 acres and obliterated upwards of 12,300 structures.

The largest blaze, known as the Palisades Fire, was only 14% contained as of Monday morning.

Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, the second-largest wildfire, was slightly more contained at 33%, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

As firefighters battle to gain control, residents face yet another challenge: widespread power outages.

More than 80,000 households are in the dark as Southern California Edison preemptively shut off power in anticipation of strong winds expected to hit the area on Tuesday.

A firefighting airplane drops retardant to prevent the wildfire from spreading further on the hills of Mandeville Canyon in Los Angeles, California, the United States, on Jan. 11, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua)

IGIHE

According to the European Commission, these measures could negatively impact transatlantic trade and cooperation.

Officials highlighted that allowing EU entities to procure these advanced chips freely aligns with both U.S. economic goals and national security priorities.

The Biden administration’s updated rules on chip exports are seen as part of a broader effort to restrict advanced technology from reaching rival countries like China.

IGIHE

Founded in 2020, Fitnesspoint has quickly established itself as a leading fitness brand, offering holistic health and wellness solutions.

The new facility, located at the former Sports View Hotel, opposite Amahoro Stadium, replaces Fitnesspoint’s previous branch in Nyarutarama, offering a substantial upgrade in space, amenities, and services tailored to meet growing customer demand.

According to Ole Haugom, Co-Founder and CEO of Fitnesspoint, the reception to the new location has been overwhelmingly positive.

“I feel like people are really liking our gyms, especially this one. Remera has so many different activities. We have very professional equipment and good maintenance. People always come here and can use the equipment they want, which is very important,” he shared during a recent interview with IGIHE.

Haugom, a Norwegian national who established a successful fitness center with over 30 branches in his home country, explained that his focus on high-quality equipment and prompt maintenance stems from observations he made upon arriving in Kigali six years ago.

“When I first came, I saw so many places—hotels and gyms—where machines were marked 'out of order.’ That’s actually why I started importing gym equipment here. We now have technicians and a warehouse to fix things quickly,” he added.

Mahe Ornella, Sales and Marketing Manager at FitnessPoint, noted that the relocation was driven by client feedback and aims to enhance the overall customer experience.

Like its first branch in Kimihurura, FitnessPoint’s new Remera location offers more than just a larger space. The gym now includes a six-foot swimming pool suitable for diving, an expanded aerobics class area that can host up to 60 people, and a dedicated athletic zone for high-intensity training.

The athletic section, located in the basement, features high-performance equipment such as bikes, squat racks, deadlift platforms, and rowing machines.

A specialised spinning class area is also part of this section, enabling athletes to push their limits in a professional setup.

The Remera branch further introduces a martial arts area, with plans to offer self-defence classes for women.

Additionally, a women-only space has been introduced for those who prefer a more private workout environment. The new feature caters to a diverse range of women, including Muslim women and content creators who value privacy.

“This private space is ideal for Muslim women and women content creators seeking a more private workout environment,” Ornella explained.

In line with its holistic approach to fitness, the gym also caters to families. A kids’ playground is being developed to allow parents to work out while their children engage in activities. The kids’ area will be equipped with toys and trampolines to keep the children entertained.

Another exciting addition at the new Remera gym is a dedicated basketball facility. This area is set to host basketball training sessions and will serve as a space for professional athletes to enhance their skills.

Fitnesspoint has also partnered with APR basketball teams, providing them with exclusive access to the gym’s top-tier equipment and training facilities.

Ornella emphasised that the collaboration with teams such as APR is part of the company’s efforts to support professional athletes and promote sports development in Rwanda. Additionally, Fitnesspoint works closely with the corporate sector, helping to encourage team building and wellness among staff members through tailored fitness programs.

Another upcoming addition includes a coffee area, set to open by the end of January, offering health-focused snacks and beverages.

'We will offer smoothies, sandwiches… You know, the gym is not only the thing that’s needed to see your fitness goals; it’s also what you eat. This coffee area was created in response to what many of our clients have been asking for,' she remarked.

The Remera branch also boasts a spacious parking area to ensure the safety and convenience of clients’ vehicles.

Comprehensive Services and Expert Support

In addition to its state-of-the-art equipment, Fitnesspoint ensures that certified trainers are available at both branches to guide clients through their fitness journeys.

At least 12 trainers, including floor and private trainers, work per location, assisting members with proper equipment usage and offering personalized training programs.

Uwizeyimana Shaban, one of the personal fitness trainers at the Remera branch, brings six years of experience to the team. The 28-year-old encourages individuals of all ages to prioritize their health and wellness through consistent training and proper exercise techniques.

'Fitness is not just about physical appearance—it’s about improving overall well-being, boosting confidence, and enhancing quality of life. It’s never too late to start your fitness journey,” Shaban says.

“Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there’s always something new to learn and achieve in the gym.'

The gym also features a dedicated physiotherapist, Fabrice Tuyizere, who assists individuals dealing with health challenges such as fractures or disabilities.

“I design specific exercises tailored to their conditions, addressing issues like back, shoulder, or knee problems,” Tuyizere explains.

As part of its holistic wellness approach, Fitnesspoint also collaborates with certified nutritionist Matt Battle to offer consultations and meal plans tailored to clients’ fitness goals.

Haugom, reflecting on the priorities for the coming years, emphasized the importance of accessible, user-friendly equipment designed for all age groups.

“You just need to have good equipment that anybody can use—functional equipment designed for the human body. Some of the older equipment can be rough to use, but the new ones are more user-friendly. People enjoy using them, even though it’s still a tough workout, of course,” he explained.

Flexible Membership Options and Family-Friendly Services

Fitnesspoint offers flexible membership options to accommodate various needs. An annual membership costs RWF 600,000, while a monthly membership is RWF 80,000. For added convenience, flexible payment plans such as standing orders are available for RWF 55,000 monthly.

The gym also offers corporate packages and has partnerships with financial institutions like the Bank of Kigali (BK), providing discounted rates for annual and short-term memberships paid using BK cards. For those visiting temporarily, Fitnesspoint offers 10-pass cards for a flexible access option.

“We have a partnership with BK. Wherever you come and buy an annual membership, you get a 20% discount. If you buy a one-month or three-month membership, you get a 10% discount when you’re using your BK card. So, it’s a way of trying to cater to all levels of people,' Ornella added.

Fitnesspoint’s new Remera branch sets a high benchmark for modern fitness facilities in Kigali, offering advanced equipment, professional training, and a welcoming community that redefines the fitness experience. Don’t wait to start your fitness journey—visit Fitnesspoint today and subscribe to a membership that fits your goals.

The new facility is located at the former Sports View Hotel, opposite Amahoro Stadium.

The new facility offers a substantial upgrade in space, amenities, and services tailored to meet growing customer demand.

Fitnesspoint’s new branch in Remera.

Fitnesspoint members can find some of the latest and most modern equipment at the new facility.

Fitnesspoint is equipped with a wide range of modern and advanced equipment.

Sports nutrition supplements are available.

Athletes have been provided with their own dedicated space at Fitnesspoint.

Machines for all types of sports are available at Fitnesspoint.

The new facility is equipped with quality and modern treadmills.

The training equipment at Fitnesspoint meets the needs of everyone.

The Remera branch includes an expanded aerobics class area that can host up to 60 people at a time.

A specialized area has been designated for martial arts enthusiasts.

The gym also includes a six-foot swimming pool suitable for diving.

Another exciting addition at the new Remera gym is a dedicated basketball facility. This area is set to host basketball training sessions and will serve as a space for professional athletes to enhance their skills.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a press statement on Monday, January 13, 2025, Jasiri said the program targets visionary individuals from Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia who are passionate about creating impactful businesses from scratch.

The program is aimed at tackling youth unemployment in Africa by fostering high-impact entrepreneurship, which Jasiri views as a key driver of job creation and societal transformation. It focuses on minimizing systemic barriers to entrepreneurship through a hands-on, holistic approach.

To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a strong drive to address Africa’s most pressing challenges and a readiness to build ventures that deliver measurable societal impact.

'Jasiri minimizes these barriers with a holistic, hands-on approach to entrepreneurship, ensuring that bold innovators can build businesses that benefit society while contributing to an empowered, prosperous African citizenry,' Amandine Kayizali, Recruitment & Selection Manager, said in the statement.

The Jasiri Talent Investor Program offers participants structured support, including a one-month online Jasiri Jumpstart, a three-month intensive residential program, and nine months of hands-on venture creation. The program also emphasizes collaboration, bringing together like-minded individuals to form entrepreneurial teams capable of transforming ideas into impactful ventures.

Since its inception in 2021, Jasiri has supported 227 entrepreneurs who have collectively created 93 ventures, 81 of which remain operational across 42 industries. These ventures have generated over 2,035 jobs and positively impacted more than 12,600 individuals across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and waste management.

The application period for the eighth cohort is scheduled to close on April 5, 2025.

Interested individuals can apply through the link: https://jasiri.org/application.

IGIHE

This was announced by the State Minister at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera, while addressing the Committee on Governance and Gender affairs in the Chamber of Deputies. He was clarifying on issues raised by the Office of the Ombudsman.

One of the concerns highlighted by the Ombudsman was the delayed compensation of citizens for land and property affected by infrastructure projects such as roads, water systems, electricity installations, and other initiatives.

Minister Kabera assured the Members of Parliament that the issue is well understood and that efforts are being made to resolve it urgently, with a clear plan to address it by June 2025.

He explained that in the 2024/2025 fiscal year, the energy sector had around 20,000 compensation cases valued at Frw6.8 billion of which payments exceeding Frw1.8 billion had already been made.

For water-related projects, 19,000 cases required payments amounting to Frw11.8 billion. Out of this, Frw10.4 billion had been disbursed, while compensation worth Frw1 billion is still pending.

Regarding transport infrastructure, such as roads, 10,907 individuals were owed over Frw18.8 billion in compensation, but slightly more than Frw10 billion had been paid.

In the housing sector, 252 properties valued at Frw10.2 billion were involved, with 117 of these, worth more than Frw2.5 billion, already compensated, while the remaining funds are still being sourced.

'We are doing our best to ensure that by 2025, this issue will be resolved. Last week, we held discussions with the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning. We want to put in more effort to solve compensation issues and other related challenges,' Kabera said.

He acknowledged recurring obstacles, such as citizens not having proper documentation for their properties, which complicates land transfer processes. Additionally, some projects commence before adequate funding is secured.

'On our side, we must focus on better planning. Where possible, we should leverage technology or find other solutions,' he added.

During a recent media briefing, President Kagame addressed the issue of citizens being displaced without proper compensation or experiencing delays in receiving it. He noted that the delays often stem from multiple factors, including errors by both citizens and authorities, but assured that the matter is being addressed urgently.

Members on the Committee on Governance and Gender affairs in the Chamber of Deputies demands that compensations must be promptly executed.

Why are citizens displaced without receiving compensation?

MP Germaine Mukabalisa questioned why citizens are not properly compensated before being relocated for infrastructure projects.

'There was a resolution that no citizen’s property should be affected without prior compensation, but this still happens. What is being done to ensure that citizens with proper documentation are not displaced without receiving their rightful compensation?' she asked.

She further emphasized that even though infrastructure projects benefit society, citizens without proper compensation are left in dire situations.

'It’s true that we all benefit from the road, but when you put yourself in the shoes of a farmer whose field was taken for the road, and that field was their sole livelihood for five years, how do they survive? Why can’t we adopt the principle that no infrastructure project should displace citizens without compensation?' she questioned.

The Director General of the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), Imena Munyampenda, explained that some projects begin before the government has all the necessary funds, which hinders the timely compensation of affected citizens.

However, he assured that efforts are being intensified to ensure that projects are only implemented after citizens have received their compensation.

State Minister at the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera has confirmed that pending compensation must be completed by June 2025 at the latest.

IGIHE