Category: Uncategorized

  • 4 gunned down in botched bank heist in Uganda #rwanda #RwOT

    According to a statement released by the police on X, four of the robbery suspects were neutralized during the operation. A fifth suspect was severely injured and is currently in critical condition.

    The suspects were already on the police watch list, and authorities suspect they may have been involved in a series of similar robberies that have taken place recently.

    'Police have thwarted a bank robbery at Acacia Mall, neutralizing four suspects involved in a Stanbic Bank heist. A fifth suspect is in critical condition. These individuals were already on the police watch list and are believed to be linked to a series of robberies,' Police said.

    The robbery attempt comes at a time when bank robberies have been on the rise in Uganda, with criminals targeting commercial banks and their clients.

    However, thanks to the swift actions of the Ugandan police, this particular heist was unsuccessful, and the dangerous criminals were brought to justice before they could cause any harm.

    Ugandans online have praised the efforts of the police, with many expressing their gratitude for the quick response and ability to prevent a major crime. Social media users are celebrating the police for their dedication and commitment to keeping citizens safe, and there is widespread appreciation for the police’s timely intervention.

    'Commendable work done today. All gangs of this category should be put out of Action so that our prisons don’t get too congested by people who don’t want to work,' said an X user identified as Edmund Tumushabe.
    The authorities are expected to provide more details soon as investigations continue.

    Ugandan police successfully thwarted a planned robbery at Acacia Mall on Monday January 13, 2024.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/4-gunned-down-in-botched-bank-heist-in-uganda

  • British heavyweight Tyson Fury retires from boxing again #rwanda #RwOT

    The 36-year-old Fury previously announced his retirement after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022 but returned six months later. The Briton has enjoyed two stints as heavyweight champion and holds a record of 34 wins, two defeats and one draw.

    “Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it and I’m going to end with this; Dick Turpin wore a mask,” Fury said.

    Fury shocked long-reigning world champion Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 to win the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles.

    After over two-and-a-half years out of the ring, during which he tackled mental health issues, Fury returned to action in 2018 and became a two-time champion by beating Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC belt in 2020.

    English-born boxer Tyson Fury jabbing Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 18, 2024. Fury has announced his retirement for the second time.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/british-heavyweight-tyson-fury-retires-from-boxing-again

  • Kigali-Muhanga road expansion to commence in December 2025 #rwanda #RwOT

    The project will expand the road segment between Nyabugogo (Kigali) and Ruyenzi (Kamonyi District) to four lanes, with climbing lanes added to facilitate heavy truck movement.

    Additional infrastructure will include drainage systems, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian sidewalks, ensuring a safer and more efficient transport corridor. “We aim to add lanes on uphill sections, allowing trucks to move without obstructing other vehicles,” he explained.

    Kabera emphasized the importance of climbing lanes, which will separate trucks from smaller vehicles on ascents and revealed that expropriation activities will precede construction to clear the path for these upgrades.

    Funding for the $120 million (approximately Frw166 billion) project comes from a loan agreement signed on September 13, 2023, in Busan, South Korea, between the Rwandan government and the Export-Import Bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank).

    The loan, approved by Parliament on November 13, 2024, will be repaid over 40 years with a 15-year grace period and a nominal interest rate of 0.01%.

    The project involves rehabilitating the entire 45-kilometre road, widening 12.2 kilometers to four lanes, and adding 11.9 kilometers of climbing lanes for trucks. These enhancements are expected to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion, supporting Rwanda’s broader infrastructure development goals.

    Expansion works on the Kigali-Muhanga road is set to begin in December 2025

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/kigali-muhanga-road-expansion-to-commence-in-december-2025

  • President Kagame engages with Nigeria’s Tinubu on strengthened bilateral ties #rwanda #RwOT

    The two leaders met in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, an event focused on strengthening global partnerships to address climate change and explore innovative solutions.

    This conference aims to advance the adoption of renewable energy and environmentally friendly technologies to combat climate-related challenges. Participating nations are encouraged to adopt strategies for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

    Rwanda and Nigeria share a strong partnership in areas such as diplomacy, politics, and security. The two countries have working relations in aviation, technical cooperation, and healthcare, where Nigerian medical professionals collaborate with Rwandan counterparts to improve public health.

    These discussions underscore the importance of Rwanda-Nigeria relations, marked by mutual support and shared priorities in various sectors.

    On May 29, 2023, Kagame joined other leaders across the globe at the inauguration of President Tinubu, who won Nigeria’s February 2023 elections with 8.8 million votes, succeeding Muhammadu Buhari after two terms.

    While in Abu Dhabi, President Kagame is scheduled to attend the 16th edition of the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards, organized by the UAE to honor innovators and organizations creating impactful solutions to climate challenges. Small and medium enterprises and NGOs are among the award recipients.

    The Head of State will also address fellow leaders during the summit’s opening session, a gesture reminiscent of Rwanda’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

    President Paul Kagame on January 13, 2025 held discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on fostering bilateral cooperation.

    Both President Paul Kagame and Nigeria’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu are in the UAEto attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-engages-with-nigeria-s-tinubu-on-strengthened-bilateral-ties

  • Leading automakers showcase cutting-edge innovations at the 2025 Brussels Auto Show #rwanda #RwOT

    This annual motor show brings together leading carmakers from around the globe to display vehicles designed to meet the changing demands of consumers and the industry.

    This year’s exhibition highlighted the rapid technological advancements shaping the automotive sector.

    Manufacturers presented vehicles that incorporated cutting-edge features, emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.

    Eco-friendly cars are becoming a major focus, with both consumers and producers prioritizing greener alternatives.

    Alongside the vehicle unveilings, the event hosted discussions on automotive technology and manufacturing processes, providing a platform for industry leaders to exchange knowledge and expertise.

    The exhibition, which began on January 10, 2025, will run until January 19. It was officially opened by King Philippe of Belgium, joined by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and Brussels Mayor Philippe Close.

    Over 60 automakers participated this year, including industry giants such as Volkswagen, Groupe Renault, and Mercedes-Benz.

    Groupe Stellantis, formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Peugeot-Citroën, also showcased its diverse lineup of brands, including Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat, Jeep, Lancia, Leapmotor, Opel, and Peugeot.

    Other notable participants included Kia, Hyundai, Isuzu, Maxus, MG, KGM, Suzuki, Ford, and Mazda.

    Among the standout vehicles was the Audi RS Q8 2025, a luxury SUV priced at $137,495. The car is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 631 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

    With an 8-speed automatic transmission and 4WD, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

    The Audi RS Q8 2025 also features advanced safety technologies, including lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge safety.

    Others include the KIA EV3, a car unveiled for the first time at the end of 2024. It is fully electric, featuring a motor capable of covering up to 600 kilometers on a single charge.

    The car’s weight ranges between 1,750 and 1,850 kilograms, with a horsepower of 201 and torque of 283, delivering impressive performance and smooth driving.

    Its acceleration is powered solely by the front wheels, allowing it to gain speed quickly. When the accelerator is pressed, the car can reach 100 kilometers per hour in just seven seconds.

    The BMW XM was another highlight of the exhibition. Priced from $159,000, this hybrid car combines electricity and gasoline, featuring both a V8 engine and an electric motor. It can travel up to 50 kilometers on electricity alone.

    The Salon de l’Auto remains one of the premier events in the automotive world, offering an exciting preview of the innovations and technologies shaping the future of mobility.

    The vehicles showcased at this year’s event underline the industry’s commitment to driving forward technological advancements and sustainable design.

    [email protected]

    Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/leading-automakers-showcase-cutting-edge-innovations-at-the-2025-brussels-auto

  • Things to know about the 26th EAPCCO AGM set to take place in Rwanda #rwanda #RwOT

    This pivotal gathering will bring together Chiefs of Police from 14 member countries to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation in combating emerging security threats.

    As the region grapples with increasingly sophisticated and transnational criminal activities, the AGM serves as a critical platform for addressing shared challenges, fostering intelligence exchange, and enhancing the collective capacity of law enforcement agencies.

    The theme of this year’s meeting, 'Strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation to counter terrorism, transnational, organized, and emerging crimes,' reflects the growing need for robust collaboration in tackling complex security issues that transcend national borders.

    The meeting will not only focus on current crime trends but will also explore innovative solutions to enhance regional security and prevent future threats.
    A unified response to regional security challenges

    Founded in 1998 in Kampala, Uganda, EAPCCO was established as a regional response to the increasing threat posed by transnational and organized crimes.

    The organization aims to unite law enforcement agencies in Eastern Africa to combat these shared threats.

    The 14 member countries of EAPCCO include Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Comoros, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Sudan, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Seychelles, and Somalia.

    EAPCCO’s core mission revolves around strengthening cooperation among member states to address regional crime, share vital intelligence, and build capacity to effectively combat emerging threats.

    Over the years, the organization has evolved into a key player in regional security, ensuring that law enforcement agencies remain equipped to tackle challenges that affect the entire region.

    Collaboration and capacity building

    EAPCCO’s main objectives focus on promoting cooperation, enhancing crime management, and strengthening law enforcement across the region.

    This includes fostering joint strategies to combat cross-border and related crimes, disseminating information on criminal activities, and facilitating efficient management of criminal records.

    The organization also places a significant emphasis on training and capacity building, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are well-prepared to meet the region’s evolving security needs.

    Through its various subcommittees and initiatives, EAPCCO continually develops new approaches to address the complex landscape of regional security.

    The organization’s efforts have been instrumental in shaping a more cohesive and effective regional response to emerging crime trends.

    Rwanda won nine out of 13 sports disciplines to emerge the overall winner of the 4th edition of the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO) Games, which concluded on Monday, March 27, 2023 in Kigali.

    Focus areas of the 26th AGM

    The 26th AGM will focus on addressing key crime areas that are increasingly affecting the region, including financial crimes, terrorism, human trafficking, drug trafficking, cybercrime, and intellectual property crimes.

    These areas have become more interconnected and complex, necessitating a coordinated response from member states.

    Reviewing resolutions’ implementation

    At the AGM, Chiefs of Police will review the implementation of previous resolutions and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime.

    The meeting will provide an opportunity to assess the challenges faced in implementing these strategies and identify actionable measures to overcome obstacles.

    Additionally, the meeting will facilitate the approval of new recommendations and resolutions aimed at improving regional cooperation and enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies.

    The AGM will also serve as a platform for sharing best practices and experiences, allowing member countries to learn from one another’s successes and challenges in tackling criminal activities.

    Through these discussions, EAPCCO will continue to refine its strategies, ensuring that law enforcement agencies are better equipped to address both current and emerging threats.

    The organization brings together 14 member countries.

    A showcase of tactical excellence

    This year’s AGM introduces a dynamic new feature: the EAPCCO SWAT Challenge.

    Set to take place from January 29-30, 2025, at the Counter-Terrorism Training Center (CTTC) in Bugesera District, the SWAT Challenge will showcase the operational readiness and skills of police tactical units from EAPCCO member countries.

    Elite law enforcement teams will compete in various exercises designed to test their physical fitness, teamwork, and tactical expertise in responding to security incidents.

    The event will not only serve as a demonstration of the region’s capacity to respond to critical security situations but will also foster knowledge sharing among participating teams.

    The best-performing units will be recognized for their excellence in law enforcement, further promoting a spirit of healthy competition and continuous improvement among the region’s law enforcement agencies.

    EAPCCO Events

    The AGM key events include the meeting of Chiefs of Police—a supreme decision-making authority of EAPCCO—Council of Ministers, and sideline meetings that include the Permanent Co-Coordinating Committee (PCC) composed of directors of Criminal Investigations and Heads of National Central Bureaus (NCB).

    Other sideline subcommittee meetings include those on legal, training, cybercrime, gender and counter-terrorism.

    Each session provides a unique opportunity to share experiences, review progress, and discuss new ways to address challenges facing the region.

    During the AGM, there is always change of chairmanship to the Chief of Police of the host country.

    Rwanda was crowned overall winner of EAPCCO Games in 2023.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/things-to-know-about-the-26th-eapcco-agm-set-to-take-place-in-rwanda

  • Kagame meets Shimelis Abdisa, President of Oromia region in Ethiopia #rwanda #RwOT

    The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President through a statement shared on X, which highlighted that both parties discussed the bilateral relations.

    Shimelis Abdisa has been leading Oromia since April 2019 and has been Chief Staff of the Prime Minister since 2018, Abiy Ahmed, since 2018.

    Oromia is the largest region in Ethiopia, covering more than 350,000 square kilometers and home to nearly 40 million people, approximately a third of Ethiopia’s population.

    The region is located in central Ethiopia, extending to the western part, sharing borders with other parts of the country in the Horn of Africa, excluding Tigray.

    Oromia is known for its fertile land, natural resources, and agricultural production, particularly coffee.

    It is also rich in minerals such as gold, gemstones, and others. However, the region has faced political challenges, natural disasters, and other issues.

    Rwanda and Ethiopia have a strong relationship based on diplomatic respect and cooperation agreements aimed at benefiting their citizens.

    The two countries have signed various agreements, including those focused on cooperation in law enforcement, media, sports, tourism, healthcare, education, and culture.

    Their partnership extends to agriculture, trade, education, and air travel services with agreements between RwandAir and Ethiopian Airlines.

    In 2024, Rwanda and Ethiopia signed cooperation agreements in five areas, including political collaboration, business, sports, disaster management, and investment.

    The countries also share a deep connection through their people-to-people exchanges. In April 2024, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed, attended Rwanda’s commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    President Kagame and Dr. Ahmed have held several discussions, including during the 2023 Africa-Saudi Arabia summit, to further strengthen the relationship between the two nations.

    The two leaders also met in 2021 during a two-day visit Dr. Ahmed made to Rwanda.

    President Paul Kagame received Shimelis Abdisa, the President of Oromia on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/kagame-meets-shimelis-abdisa-president-of-oromia-region-in-ethiopia

  • S. Korean President not to attend impeachment trial hearing due to safety concerns #rwanda #RwOT

    Yoon’s lawyer, Yun Gap-geun, expressed fears over potential security risks, citing efforts by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) and the National Office of Investigation (NOI) to arrest the impeached president.

    Yoon’s legal team emphasized that the president would only attend the trial once these safety issues are addressed.

    The constitutional court is set to begin hearings on January 14, with additional sessions planned for January 16, 21, 23, and February 4.

    The impeachment motion, passed by the National Assembly on December 14, 2024, suspended Yoon’s presidential powers for up to 180 days while the court deliberates.

    Yoon, who faces charges related to insurrection, declared martial law on December 3, which was overturned by the assembly.

    Despite a failed attempt to arrest him on January 3, a Seoul court has since extended the warrant for his apprehension.

    Protesters in favor of the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol shout slogans “Immediate Arrest” during a rally near the presidential residence in Seoul, South Korea, Jan. 12, 2025. South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol will not attend the first hearing of his impeachment trial, scheduled for Tuesday, for safety concerns, Yoon’s defense counsel said Sunday. (Photo by Jun Hyosang/Xinhua)

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/s-korean-president-not-to-attend-impeachment-trial-hearing-due-to-safety

  • Death toll reaches 24 as wildfires ravage Los Angeles #rwanda #RwOT

    The National Weather Service issued red flag warnings for severe fire conditions through Wednesday, with dangerously high winds expected to return.

    Sustained winds of 50 mph and gusts up to 70 mph are forecast for the region, particularly on Tuesday, which could make firefighting efforts even more difficult.

    The combination of dry conditions, low humidity, and strong Santa Ana winds is fueling the flames, making this one of the most perilous fire seasons in recent memory.

    Fire crews received additional support on Sunday, with 70 water trucks deployed to help fight the flames. Aircraft also dropped fire retardant along vulnerable hillsides in an attempt to slow the spread of the fires.

    The fires, which began last week, have been exacerbated by the dry conditions and the powerful Santa Ana winds, which have turned them into catastrophic wildfires.

    More than a dozen people are missing in the areas affected by the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire, and authorities are working to confirm whether some of the missing may be among the fatalities.

    With little rainfall in the area for over eight months, the region remains highly susceptible to further fire risks, and officials are bracing for the worst as winds pick up again.

    A house is engulfed by the flames on the site of the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County, California, the United States, on Jan. 7, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua)

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/death-toll-reaches-24-as-wildfires-ravage-los-angeles

  • Manchester United star drags former club to court #rwanda #RwOT

    The Brazilian international moved to United in a high-profile £85m deal, but the negotiations were drawn out, leaving Antony frustrated. During the transfer saga, he reportedly missed training sessions and matches, prompting Ajax to fine him for absenteeism.

    The fines, reportedly amounting to several hundred thousand euros, were deducted from his wages, even after the deal was finalized. Antony has since contested the fines, bringing the matter to the arbitration committee of the Dutch football association.

    The hearings are going on near Utrecht, with the player seeking restitution for what he claims was 'unlawful' behavior by Ajax. According to Dutch outlet AD, Antony first approached the committee six months ago.

    Ajax’s former manager, Alfred Schreuder, addressed the situation at the time, stating: 'I only want players who are fully focused on Ajax. We have talked about it, and I think it is a difficult situation.'

    Antony’s career at Manchester United has been inconsistent since his move. While he made a promising start, scoring on his debut against Arsenal in a 3-1 win, his form has faltered.

    Across three seasons, he has managed just 12 goals in all competitions, with only one coming this season in a League Cup match against Barnsley. The arbitration committee’s decision is expected within a month.

    On 23 February 2020, Ajax signed Antony on a five-year deal but now he has dragged his former bosses to court.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/manchester-united-star-drags-former-club-to-court