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These disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Roads and other key infrastructure were also severely impacted, particularly in the Northern, Southern, and Western Provinces, leaving over 20,000 people in urgent need of assistance.

As part of the recovery efforts, 1,322 houses are being rehabilitated through the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) project, a collaboration between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank.

According to a report from the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), 537 houses have been fully repaired, 566 are under rehabilitation, and 219 are scheduled for renovation soon.

However, reconstruction of the 2,763 completely destroyed houses has not yet commenced, as authorities continue identifying suitable land for rebuilding.

In addition to housing, 310 families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

This includes construction materials such as 12,667 iron sheets, 1,574 kilograms of galvanized wire, 1,780 kilograms of roofing nails, 423 kilograms of standard nails, and 65 iron sheet caps.

Four schools damaged during the disasters have also been supported with 931 iron sheets, 129 wires, and 77 iron sheet caps for repairs.

Meanwhile, 2,001 people in 16 districts received essential supplies, including hygiene kits, kitchenware, school supplies, and clothing for students.

Road repair efforts and the rehabilitation of the Nyundo Bridge in Rubavu District are well underway.

To address recurring flooding issues, retaining walls are being constructed along the Sebeya River, which is notorious for causing floods during the rainy season.

The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has already built 1.3 kilometers of retaining walls and implemented other flood mitigation measures, including constructing a reservoir with a capacity of two million cubic meters and planting bamboo and other vegetation to slow water flow.

In October 2024, MINEMA announced $26 million in funding secured from the World Bank for rebuilding houses for disaster-affected families.

These funds will be used to rebuild or rehabilitate 6,218 houses. To date, 2,830 houses have been completed, 2,052 are under rehabilitation, and 1,335 are still to be constructed.

Rwanda continues to prioritize disaster recovery and mitigation, with MINEMA emphasizing that relief, response, and mitigation efforts receive substantial investment worth $300 million annually.

The May 2023 disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

IGIHE

According to the NISR’s external trade report, exports to Burundi were valued at $5.18 million in Q3 2023, but fell to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

However, there was an improvement from the second quarter of 2024, with exports increasing from $2.18 million to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

This drop is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

Since then, travel between the countries has been restricted to air travel via the national airline, RwandAir.

Reexports from Rwanda to Burundi experienced an even sharper decline of 59.66%, falling from $4.04 million in Q3 2023 to $1.63 million in Q3 2024.

Compared to the second quarter of 2024, the reexport value also decreased from $2.31 million.

In terms of exports to East African Community (EAC) partner states, the report shows that Burundi ranked second for Rwanda’s domestic exports in Q3 2024, following Uganda, which received exports worth $4.2 million.

The drop in exports from Rwanda to Burundi is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

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This was revealed by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, while presenting to the Chamber of Deputies the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali, a measure that took effect on January 1, 2025.

The announcement was made during a parliamentary session that focused on current environmental challenges and how the Rwandan government is addressing them.

MP Egide Nkuranga, who raised the issues to the plenary, praised the government’s efforts to combat air pollution. He highlighted that in 2022, Rwanda emitted 1,400 Gigatons of greenhouse gases, an increase from over 1,300 Gigatons in 2018. Motorcycles accounted for 47.4% of these emissions, releasing 709 Gigatons.

Despite commending the initiative, the MP raised concerns about how motorcyclists transitioning to electric motorcycles would sustain their livelihoods, whether the changes would disrupt transportation, and what other measures the government has in place to ensure environmental preservation without inconveniencing citizens.

Minister Gasore reassured that petrol-powered motorcycles already licensed for commercial use would retain their licenses and could continue operating, with annual renewals. However, these motorcycles will be required to undergo “contrôle technique.”

He clarified that petrol motorcycles will still be allowed into the country for private use, especially in areas without reliable electricity infrastructure.

Motorcycles were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections.

The Minister emphasized the importance of the decision, citing the rise in air-polluting emissions and its health impacts, such as a 41% increase in respiratory diseases between 2008 and 2019.

Available data indicates a significant increase in deaths caused by respiratory illnesses linked to air pollution. In 2012, 2,227 people died from such illnesses, a figure that surged to 9,290 by 2019.

Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore emphasized Rwanda’s strong measures to address the issue, including enforcing standards on vehicle emissions and introducing new regulations.

He stated, “We have initiated a program to strengthen vehicle inspection centers by establishing a specialized facility to monitor vehicle emissions. This project is expected to be operational by the end of the year.”

A key update involves modernizing the methods used to monitor vehicle emissions, including motorcycles, which were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections. Dr. Gasore highlighted that previously, motorcycle owners only sought inspections when they suspected an issue, but this will no longer be the case.

He said, “Petrol-powered motorcycles will continue to operate, but the new requirement is that they must meet the standards of contrôle technique. For example, if a motorcycle cannot brake effectively or fails to comply with emission standards, it will not be allowed on the road. It’s the same principle applied to all vehicles—every vehicle on the road must meet legal standards. There are no additional burdens; it’s simply about adhering to the law.”

Motorists were among the stakeholders invited to learn more about the fresh inspection measures.

Overhaul of vehicle inspection systems

Dr. Gasore explained that traditional vehicle inspection methods are also being upgraded. Previously, vehicles were inspected while stationary, with devices inserted into their exhaust pipes to measure emissions. However, this approach failed to provide a complete picture of a vehicle’s emissions under different conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving.

“Under the current system, a vehicle may seem fine on flat terrain but emit significant pollutants when ascending. The new system will provide a more accurate analysis of a vehicle’s emissions. Vehicles will be placed on rollers that simulate driving conditions, allowing for a realistic assessment of their performance,” he explained.

Gasore revealed that vehicle computer systems will be utilized as part of the emissions control strategy. These systems, which already record key metrics, will help identify issues and ensure timely solutions.

Beyond the vehicle inspection program, introduced in 2013, the minister highlighted other efforts to combat air pollution. These include the 2016 law on air quality preservation, 2019 emission standards for vehicles, and the 2021 initiative promoting electric vehicles by offering tax exemptions for electric vehicles, hybrids, and related equipment.

The Chamber of Deputies was briefed on the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali.

'We have also facilitated investors who show interest in setting up electric vehicle infrastructure by providing land free of charge,' Gasore noted.

The measures have significantly contributed to reducing vehicular emissions. Other steps include advanced air quality testing, improving fuel quality inspections, enhancing vehicle testing laboratories, and empowering garages to address emissions-related issues.

Regarding electric vehicle infrastructure, the minister revealed that an initial assessment indicated the need for over 200 charging stations across the country. Feasibility studies have been conducted, and preliminary sites have been identified for immediate implementation.

On the issue of expired electric batteries, Gasore explained that batteries used in transport for 10 years can be repurposed for energy storage, such as solar power, for another decade.

Rwanda already has a facility capable of handling such processes. He added that, after their lifespan, hazardous chemicals in the batteries are safely extracted, while remaining materials are used to manufacture new batteries.

The government is also exploring retrofitting petrol motorcycles by replacing their engines with batteries. An initial investor managed to convert 80 motorcycles before facing financial constraints, but the government is supporting the project to ensure its expansion.

Rwanda has over 100,000 motorcycles, including 46,000 used for transporting people and goods. Of these, 26,000 operate in Kigali, with more than 6,000 already electric-powered.

There is a deliberate effort aimed at reducing air-polluting emissions from motorcycles where for the very first time, they will also be subjected to inspection regulations.

Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore while presenting the new guidelines to the Chamber of Deputies.

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This collaboration will empower Rwandans to access a range of postal services, including the ability to obtain a virtual Post Office address through the user-friendly digital interface, offering greater convenience, accessibility, and efficiency.

By integrating ePoBox into the IremboGov platform, users can now easily create and manage their virtual Post Office addresses from their mobile devices. This digital solution reduces the need for physical visits to Post Offices, allowing individuals, businesses, and innovators to receive official communications, track postal deliveries, and engage with postal services seamlessly digitally.

'We are thrilled to partner with IPOSITA to bring ePoBox to the IremboGov platform. This collaboration not only represents a significant leap forward in our mission to provide digital solutions that simplify access to government services but is a major step in Rwanda’s continued efforts to foster digital inclusion and economic growth,' said Israel Bimpe, CEO at Irembo.

'The integration of ePoBox into the IremboGov platform will revolutionize how Rwandans access and interact with postal services. By enabling people to manage their postal needs digitally, we are making it easier for individuals and businesses to stay connected and manage official communications. This partnership supports Rwanda’s drive to enhance digital postal services and transform the public sector,' said Celestin Kayitare, Director General at the National Post Office (IPOSITA).

The partnership between Irembo and IPOSITA aligns with Rwanda’s vision of a fully integrated digital economy, providing citizens and businesses with access to essential services that are both easy to use and accessible at their fingertips.

About Irembo

Irembo is a technology company founded in Kigali in 2014 to make Rwanda a digital society. In July 2015, the company launched its first product in partnership with the Government of Rwanda, IremboGov. As a Digital Services Partner of the Rwandan Government, Irembo delivers services and innovative digital solutions that enable public agencies to process citizen applications more efficiently and help them access public services more conveniently.

About IPOSITA

The National Post Office, also referred to as IPOSITA, is a Public Institution operating in Rwanda’s service industry since 1922.

The institution mainly exists to provide national and international postal services to meet institutional, social and individual needs.

IPOSITA also provides financial and counter services acting as a crucial bridge between the online and offline economy.

About ePoBox

ePoBox is Rwanda’s Virtual PO Box Service, which allows anyone with a phone number to obtain a postal address.

Service Availability on the upgraded IremboGov Platform

The upgraded IremboGov platform now offers three ePoBox services:

1. Register an ePoBox Address
2. Renewal of an ePoBox Address
3. Change ePoBox Postal Office

IPOSITA represents a significant technological advancement, providing a revolutionary approach to mail delivery. This integration demonstrates Rwanda’s commitment to digital governance.

Key Features and Benefits

● Mobile as Your Address: Convert your phone number into a personalized ePoBox.
● Affordable Pricing: Individuals are required to pay 8,000 RWF annually, while businesses and institutions must pay 15,000 RWF per year.
● Quick Activation: Set up your ePoBox within one business day.
● Nationwide Access: Reliable postal delivery for both individuals and businesses across Rwanda via the IremboGov platform.

Users will benefit from streamlined logistics and postal operations through a reliable, scalable solution that improves customer service.

User-Friendly Registration

● For Individuals: A simple, fast registration using your ID number, name, and birthdate.
● For businesses: Instant registration is done using your tax identification number (TIN).

Why ePoBox?

ePoBox brings convenience and control to your mail management with these features:

● Instant SMS Alerts
Stay informed with real-time notifications sent directly to your phone. You’ll be alerted whenever mail or a package is waiting at the Post Office, ensuring you never miss an important delivery.
● Flexible Mail Management
Take charge of your mail with options that fit your lifestyle. Whether you prefer doorstep delivery or collection from a convenient location, ePoBox puts you in control.

What can I use ePoBox for?

Once you have your ePoBox, the possibilities are endless. One can use it to:

● Access all postal services, which include sending and receiving mail and parcels.
● Access government documents seamlessly, including obtaining very soon driver’s licenses, logbooks, passports, and title deeds.
● Access E-commerce solutions and shop with ease on local platforms like RwandaMart and international giants like Amazon and Alibaba.
● Access financial services such as bank accounts and conduct financial transactions hassle-free.

Join the Digital Revolution: Register for ePoBox today.

Experience the future of postal services today. Sign up for ePoBox through the IremboGov platform at https://new.irembo.gov.rw/, or dial USSD *801*631#.

IGIHE

Through a series of posts on social media platform X, Minister Nduhungirehe condemned the international community’s rush to condemn the M23 rebel group without addressing the underlying issues fueling the conflict, particularly the persecution of the Congolese Tutsi community.

The recent surge in criticism of M23 followed the group’s capture of Masisi, a strategically important town in North Kivu Province. In reaction, the European Union issued a statement calling on them to evacuate Masisi and surrounding areas.

However, Nduhungirehe, in his posts, highlighted what he sees as the international community’s double standards by failure to acknowledge the deeper causes of the conflict.

'Most of the statements from various countries and international organizations accuse Rwanda of supporting M23, using biased and simplistic language, and mentioning the violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,' Nduhungirehe stated.

'It is disappointing that none of these statements recall the facts. Large parts of Masisi were under the control of FDLR, a foreign armed group that has been occupying Congolese territory for years.'

FDLR, a militia composed of remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, has been a persistent presence in eastern DRC, targeting Congolese Tutsi communities.

These militias have carried out numerous atrocities, contributing to the longstanding insecurity in the region. Nduhungirehe pointed out that international statements have never condemned this occupation or the violations committed by these militias, which continue to displace and terrorize the local population.

'It seems as though a Rwandan Genocidal force has more legitimacy on Congolese soil than the Congolese community itself, which the group is trying to exterminate,' he added.

Nduhungirehe’s comments reflect a general sense of frustration with the international community’s tendency to overlook these critical historical and security dynamics.

Furthermore, the Minister raised concerns about the presence of European mercenaries in the region, who, in his view, are supporting a military coalition that includes not only the Congolese army (FARDC) but also the FDLR, Nyatura, Wazalendo militias, and Burundian forces.

'The issue of European mercenaries deployed to eastern DRC to support government forces in violation of international law has yet to be addressed. The EU and its member states, where these mercenaries originate, continue to remain silent and inactive on their criminal activities,' he said.

In his statement, Nduhungirehe stressed that the international community’s condemnation of M23 fails to address the root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC, including the systematic persecution of the Congolese Tutsi community, which has endured hate speech, discrimination, and violence for decades.

These communities, many of whom are descendants of Rwandans who migrated to the DRC over a century ago, continue to face marginalization and violence, exacerbated by colonial-era border demarcations imposed by European powers.

Nduhungirehe also pointed out that none of the international statements have called for direct political negotiations between the DRC government and M23 to address the root causes of the conflict.

He emphasized that a lasting solution to the crisis cannot be achieved through finger-pointing or by simply blaming Rwanda and M23. Instead, he argued that dialogue and a genuine approach to resolving the systemic issues in the region are essential.

These remarks come amid continued reluctance from the DRC government to engage in peace talks with M23. The government’s resistance led to the sudden cancellation of a peace agreement signing ceremony that was scheduled for December 15, 2024, in Luanda.

Despite previously agreeing to negotiations, the DRC government declared at the last minute that it would not engage with M23, thus further complicating efforts to address the crisis.

Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has expressed concern over the double standards exhibited by the international community on the DRC crisis.

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In a visit to the Suam Point of Entry/Exit in Endebess Constituency, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki underscored the significance of the border post in bolstering bilateral trade and fostering stronger human connectivity with particularly Uganda, Kenya’s largest trading partner.

'Uganda is not just a friendly and neighboring country; it is Kenya’s biggest trading partner,' Kindiki emphasized during his assessment of the ongoing construction works.

His remarks highlighted the central role Uganda plays in Kenya’s economic landscape, with much of the regional trade in the East African Community driven by the dynamic business interactions between the two nations.

Once completed, the establishment will streamline border management processes by allowing border officers from both Kenya and Uganda to operate from shared facilities. This will not only expedite the clearance of people and goods but also reduce delays that have long hindered smooth trade flows between the neighboring countries.

According to Kindiki, the modernization of the border post aligns with the Kenyan government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ensuring that the country remains competitive in the East African trading bloc.

The project is progressing rapidly, with ongoing construction work that includes the development of state-of-the-art terminal buildings and the expansion of the 45-kilometer Suam-Kitale road.

The successful completion of this project promises not only to boost trade but also to promote greater people-to-people interactions.

'We are aware that this project is a joint venture between Kenya and Uganda. Each side has specific tasks to complete, and we are here to assess the progress on the Kenyan side,' Kindiki said, acknowledging Uganda’s significant progress in developing its side of the border post.

He expressed confidence that the project will soon be ready for commissioning by the heads of state of both countries. While no specific date was given for the official launch, Kindiki indicated that it would take place 'hopefully very soon.'

The Deputy President commended the collaboration between the two nations, highlighting that both governments are working in tandem to ensure the success of the one stop boarder post.

'We have seen good progress on the Ugandan side, and we are equally committed to completing our portion of the project,' he stated, stressing the mutual benefits of the project for both Kenyan and Ugandan citizens.

The Suam OSBP is part of broader regional efforts aimed at enhancing cross-border trade and strengthening economic ties within the East African Community (EAC).

In a visit to the OSBP, the DP reviewed the project’s progress and discussed the next steps to ensure that the project is completed on schedule.

Once operational, the facility is expected to significantly reduce the costs and delays associated with cross-border trade, creating an environment that fosters deeper economic integration and cooperation. The streamlined processes will benefit businesses, especially those engaged in import-export activities, by reducing waiting times and lowering operational costs.

It is expected to play a pivotal role in improving the flow of goods, services, and people between Kenya and Uganda, two of the largest economies in the East African Community.

Accompanying DP Kindiki during his visit were Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omolo and other senior government officials. Together, they reviewed the project’s progress and discussed the next steps to ensure that the project is completed on schedule.

The successful completion of this project promises not only to boost trade but also to promote greater people-to-people interactions, fostering a stronger and more integrated East African region.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Understanding these factors can help choose a suitable fragrance. When one applies perfume, it interacts directly with the skin’s natural characteristics such as the skin’s pH balance.

Depending on whether it is more acidic or alkaline, there is a direct influence on how the fragrance develops throughout the day. People with oily skin tend to have an advantage as natural oils enhance the perfume’s warmer, richer notes, making the scent last longer.

Conversely, dry skin often requires more frequent applications because it lacks the oils needed to hold the fragrance.

The body chemistry, including hormones and natural pheromones, also plays a key role. This unique chemistry acts as a filter, amplifying certain notes while muting others. For instance, someone with stronger natural pheromones might find musky or spicy perfumes more pronounced.

Even your diet can subtly affect how a perfume smells on your skin. Foods like garlic, spices, or strong-flavored meals can alter your scent profile, while staying hydrated can help your skin retain fragrance longer.

The environment is another factor to consider. Hot, humid weather intensifies fragrances, making them feel stronger, while colder climates tend to mute certain notes. This is why a perfume might smell different depending on the season or location.

Application techniques also matter. Spraying perfume directly onto your skin allows it to blend with your body’s natural oils, creating a unique scent. If you spray it on your clothes, you lose this interaction, and the fragrance stays closer to how it smells in the bottle.

When shopping for a fragrance, it’s best to test it directly on your skin rather than on paper strips. Fragrances unfold in layers: the initial top notes grab your attention, middle notes develop after a few hours, and base notes leave a lasting impression. Giving the perfume time to develop helps you assess how it truly works with the body chemistry.

Ultimately, choosing a fragrance is about more than just a brand name or fancy bottle. It’s about finding a scent that complements your unique essence and feels like a natural extension of you.

By understanding how skin type, body chemistry, and the environment affect a perfume, you can make more informed decisions and discover a signature scent that’s truly suitable.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Appearing on a talk show hosted by RadioTV10, ACP Rutikanga addressed concerns from some drivers and car owners who believe that speed cameras sometimes confuse their vehicles with others nearby.

'It is not possible, although some people have reported mistakes,' he said.

'The speed camera’s advanced smart technology operates in sync with the vehicle’s running engine. When a vehicle exceeds the speed limit, the engine generates a specific signal that the system detects without error. The camera does more than just capture the license plate; it identifies the engine first, then photographs the vehicle, including its license plate,' ACP Rutikanga explained.

He further clarified that even in cases where multiple vehicles are close together and moving at high speed, the system does not mistakenly prioritize one vehicle over another due to visibility.

'If all the vehicles are speeding, their engines generate distinct signals. The camera captures each one, even if it appears like a single flash. Every speeding vehicle is photographed, along with detailed information about its movement. No one can claim they were hiding behind another car to avoid detection,' he added.

ACP Rutikanga also spoke about motorcycles, noting that riders sometimes assume they can evade detection because speed cameras primarily capture license plates, which are located only at the back of motorcycles.

'It’s true that motorcycles only have license plates on the rear, limiting the angles from which they can be captured. However, speed cameras are not the only tools we use for traffic monitoring,' he explained.

He highlighted that other cameras at intersections record violations from multiple angles, making it possible to track various infractions.

'Some drivers challenge their fines, claiming the speed camera didn’t capture their violation. However, we present evidence from other cameras that prove otherwise,' he said.

ACP Rutikanga also revealed that while the current technology focuses on monitoring vehicle speed, it has the potential to be upgraded to detect additional offenses, such as using a mobile phone while driving or failing to fasten a seatbelt.

'The technology has the capability for such enhancements,' he concluded.

The Spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police, ACP Rutikanga Boniface, has reassured the public about the reliability of speed cameras, popularly known as “Sophie.”

IGIHE

According to reports, the earthquake, centered in Tsogo Township, Dingri County, struck at 9:05 a.m. (Beijing Time). Within a 20-km radius of the epicenter, 27 villages with around 6,900 residents were severely impacted.

Authorities reported 407 people rescued and over 30,000 residents relocated as temperatures in the region dropped to minus 17 degrees Celsius.

In the worst-hit areas of Tsogo and Chamco, many homes were reduced to rubble, forcing residents to seek shelter in open spaces.

Tragic losses were reported in Chamco’s Gurum Village, where 22 people, including 11 children, perished.

Nationwide rescue efforts

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for “all-out rescue efforts” to minimize casualties. More than 12,000 rescuers, including firefighters, police, and soldiers, have been deployed.

Relief supplies, including cotton tents, winter coats, and specialized materials for the cold, have been dispatched to the quake-hit areas.

The government has allocated 200 million yuan (approximately 27.8 million USD) to support relief and post-disaster emergency recovery. Resettlement sites are operational, providing shelter, food, and water. Telecommunications in the hardest-hit areas have been restored.

Dingri County, with a population of over 61,000, lies on the northern slope of the Himalayas, bordering Nepal.

It is home to the northern base camp of Mount Qomolangma. While the Mount Qomolangma scenic area has been temporarily closed, no damage has been reported to Tashilhunpo Monastery in Xigaze.

Rescue efforts and recovery continue in the wake of this devastating earthquake.

Rescuers work at a village in Dingri County in Xigaze, southwest China’s Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 7, 2025. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

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