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Their two-year term officially started on Jan. 1. Thursday is the first working day of the council for 2025 after the Christmas and New Year break.

The five countries replaced Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique and Switzerland.

A flag installation ceremony was held at the United Nations headquarters in New York to mark the start of their responsibilities.

Kazakh UN ambassador Kairat Umarov, who presided over the ceremony, congratulated the five new council members and wished them success in their two-year term.

The flag installation ceremony for new Security Council members was initiated by Kazakhstan in 2018.

Algerian UN ambassador Amar Bendjama, in his capacity as president of the Security Council for the month of January, thanked the outgoing members and welcomed the newcomers.

He said that it is an “immense privilege” as well as “a huge responsibility” to serve in the Security Council, calling on all council members to work tirelessly and effectively to address the challenges facing the world “and uphold the values of multilateralism.”

The permanent representatives of the five new members made short speeches before they installed their respective national flags outside the Security Council Chamber.

The 15-member Security Council has five permanent members — Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States, and 10 non-permanent members elected for two-year terms by the UN General Assembly. Five non-permanent members are replaced every year.

A flag installation ceremony was held at the United Nations headquarters in New York to mark the start of the new members’ responsibilities.

Xinhua

Authorities have labeled the incident an act of terrorism, as Jabbar drove a rented pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street, and later opened fire on police officers.

He died in a shootout with law enforcement, and investigators found weapons, a suspected explosive device in the truck, and other potential explosives in the French Quarter.

The presence of an ISIS flag in the vehicle has prompted further investigations into Jabbar’s possible connections to terrorist organizations. Although he is believed to have aligned himself with ISIS, no clear evidence has emerged regarding foreign involvement or direction in the attack.

Videos made by Jabbar before the incident show him claiming allegiance to ISIS, but authorities are still working to piece together the full details.

Jabbar had served in the U.S. Army for 13 years, including a deployment to Afghanistan in 2009-2010. He left active duty in 2015 and continued in the Army Reserve until 2020, achieving the rank of staff sergeant.

His roles included human resources and information technology. After leaving the military, Jabbar transitioned to a career in real estate, managing a Texas-based company, Blue Meadow Properties LLC.

In 2020, he appeared in a promotional video where he discussed how his military experience had shaped his approach to business, particularly his skills in negotiation and service.

Though Jabbar had some minor legal issues in the past, including a misdemeanor charge for property theft in 2002 and an arrest for driving with an invalid license in 2005, he had no violent criminal history.

His personal life included a divorce in 2022 after five years of marriage, without a child. Jabbar’s actions on New Year’s Day have stunned both the community in New Orleans and the nation, as authorities continue to investigate his motives.

The FBI and local law enforcement are actively working to identify possible accomplices, believing Jabbar did not act alone. “We are aggressively pursuing every lead, including those linked to his associates,” said FBI Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan.

Investigators also found precursor chemicals at Jabbar’s residence in Houston, which are commonly used in explosives, raising concerns that the attack may have been part of a broader plan.

While there is no confirmed link between this attack and other recent incidents, such as a separate explosion near a Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, investigators are exploring all possibilities.

Debris is left along Bourbon Street after a pickup truck was driven into a large crowd in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. on January 1, 2025.

IGIHE

The event, held at the Got Ramogi Hill shrines, also honored former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga with the same title.

The cultural leader, Ker Odungi Randa, conducted the crowning ceremony, presenting the leaders with traditional symbols of leadership, including a ruler’s seat, crown, elder’s cloth, shield, spear, and a whisk symbolizing peace.

The festival celebrated Luo heritage and unity, attracting participants from various East African countries and communities, including Uganda’s Alur, Acholi, Padhola, and Jo Nam groups, as well as other Luo communities from across Africa.

Museveni expressed his gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the festival’s role in fostering East African unity, urging for a stronger push towards an East African Federation to achieve regional prosperity and security.

He emphasized the shared heritage among East Africans, despite colonial-era borders, and called for greater integration.

The three-day festival, themed 'Celebrating the Roots of Our Culture and Heritage.'

Museveni reflected on Africa’s struggles under colonialism and praised historical leaders like Julius Nyerere and Jomo Kenyatta for their contributions to the East African integration process.

He presented Luo cultural leaders with plaques featuring historical moments, including the 1963 declaration by East African leaders to form a federation.

On his part, Ruto applauded Museveni for attending the festival on short notice, calling it a testament to his commitment to regional unity. He emphasized the importance of breaking down artificial borders to enable the free movement of people, goods, and services within East Africa.

He also reaffirmed support for Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union chairmanship, positioning it as a step toward promoting African unity and progress.

Raila Odinga echoed these sentiments, calling for the removal of colonial-era borders that hinder regional prosperity. He stressed the importance of intra-African trade, noting that only 15% of African trade occurs within the continent compared to 70% in Europe.

The cultural leader, Ker Odungi Randa, conducted the crowning ceremony, presenting the leaders with traditional symbols of leadership.

Siaya County Governor James Orengo also called for practical steps towards the East African Federation, proposing free movement between Kenya and Uganda as a starting point.

As part of the festival, Ruto officially opened the Lamogi campus of Nyang’oma Technical Training College, a Ksh400 million project aimed at providing educational opportunities.

He announced the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate President Museveni’s presence at the event, symbolizing the celebration of East African unity.

The three-day festival, themed 'Celebrating the Roots of Our Culture and Heritage,' featured cultural displays, including traditional dances, foods, attire, prayers, and folklore.

Participants visited historical landmarks like the Jaramogi Oginga Mausoleum and traditional Luo huts representing the community’s origins.

Later, Presidents Museveni and Ruto inaugurated the newly constructed Jaramogi Oginga Odinga stadium, a 20,000-seat FIFA-standard facility designed to boost sports in Western Kenya.

The stadium hosted a friendly football match between Kenya’s Gor Mahia and Uganda’s Kitara FC, with Gor Mahia winning 9-8 in penalties. Museveni praised both teams for their spirited performances and encouraged East Africans to create wealth through agriculture, ICT, services, and manufacturing.

The Piny Luo Festival underscored the cultural and historical ties binding East African communities while advocating for deeper regional integration and cooperation. The event also served as a platform to promote peace, reconciliation, and shared aspirations for a prosperous future.

There was a friendly game between Kenya’s Gor Mahia and Uganda’s Kitara FC, with Gor Mahia winning 9-8 in penalties.

The newly constructed Jaramogi Oginga Odinga stadium was also inuagurated.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Health benefits

The antioxidants in honey work for the benefit of a healthy heart. From heart disease prevention and keeping blood pressure in control to fighting bad fat, honey is good for your heart.

Honey also works to keep your brain healthy by fighting memory issues, anxiety and any depression troubles. It has multi-nutrients like copper, and riboflavin that keep you fit.

The natural sugar content in honey is good for your health if it is in the right quantity. If suffering from cough and cold, honey is used to combat it and at times, with other natural ingredients.

Honey can be used on your skin for general skincare, and help in healing wounds and cuts. You can call honey a superfood to solve all your troubles.

From time immemorial, honey has been used for its health benefits.

4 ways to use honey

Incorporate honey in your breakfast in simple ways like replacing sugar in milk, coffee, smoothies and tea, in oats as a sweetener, over your toast or pancakes, in warm water as an early morning energizer and so on. Your morning sugar rush is healthily managed.

A small amount of honey applied to your skin for a short while acts as a great moisturizer for dried skin. Mix it with natural ingredients that suit your skin and use it as a face pack for skincare. Apply a small amount of honey to heal your scars and wounds.

You can incorporate honey in healthy lunches and dinners like using it in salad dressings or glazing roasted dishes. You can even make healthy snacks like nutrition or granola bars by including honey in the ingredients instead of sugar.

If suffering from a cold and cough, a spoonful of honey is therapeutic. You can also add it to herbal tea, lemon water or warm water for better benefits. Mix honey with crushed ginger or clove and have a small dose from time to time to cure cough and cold.

A small amount of honey applied to your skin for a short while acts as a great moisturizer for dried skin.

IGIHE

The incidents occurred during a Group D Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier played on October 15, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium, where Rwanda’s Amavubi defeated Benin’s Les Guepards 2-1. This victory placed Rwanda third in the group, level on points with Benin.

After the match, Benin players attempted to confront the referees and some members of Rwanda’s coaching staff. Fortunately, security personnel intervened to prevent further escalation.

Following a disciplinary committee meeting at CAF, it was concluded that Benin violated Article 45 of the governing regulations. As a result, the Benin FA was fined $5,000 for general misconduct and an additional $25,000 for aggression against the referees, totaling to $30,000.

Despite the fine, Benin secured qualification for the tournament to be held in Morocco alongside Nigeria, finishing second in the group with eight points, ahead of Rwanda on goal difference.

After the match, Benin players attempted to confront the referees and some members of Rwanda’s coaching staff. Fortunately, security personnel intervened to prevent further escalation.

Following a disciplinary committee meeting at CAF, it was concluded that Benin violated Article 45 of the governing regulations by doing this.

The incidents occurred during a Group D Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier played on October 15, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium.

IGIHE

The forecast highlights the likelihood of average conditions in most regions, with a few areas expected to experience deviations from the Long-Term Mean (LTM).

The detailed forecast provides essential insights for farmers, planners, and citizens preparing for the month ahead.

Rainfall Predictions

Rainfall during January is expected to range between 0 and 180 mm.

'The highest amounts, ranging between 150 and 180 mm, are anticipated in many parts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts, as well as western parts of Nyamaguru and Nyamagabe Districts,' the agency stated.

According to the agency, the regions, including parts of southern Karongi District near Nyungwe National Park, could see slightly above-average rainfall.

Moderate rainfall ranging between 120 and 150 mm is expected in areas such as Rutsiro, Rubavu, Nyabihu, and Huye Districts, while districts like Rulindo, Kamonyi, and Gicumbi will receive between 90 and 120 mm.

Eastern parts of the country, including areas of Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Rwamagana, are projected to experience significantly less rainfall, ranging between 0 and 30 mm.

Temperature Outlook

January’s maximum temperatures are set to range between 18°C and 30°C.

The hottest areas include Bugesera District, several parts of Kigali City, and Nyagatare, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. Cooler temperatures of 18°C to 20°C are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and western Rubavu Districts.

Minimum temperatures will vary between 8°C and 16°C.

'The lowest minimum temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 10°C, are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and Rubavu Districts, as well as parts of northern Burera District,' the report noted.

Meanwhile, areas like Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Kirehe are predicted to experience relatively higher nighttime temperatures of 14°C to 16°C.

Wind Speed Forecast

Moderate to strong winds ranging between 4 and 10 m/s are anticipated nationwide. Strong winds of 8 to 10 m/s are expected in Nyamaguru, Nyamagabe, and parts of Rusizi Districts, while most of the country will experience moderate winds of 6 to 8 m/s.

The report highlights specific zones likely to see higher wind speeds, including parts of Kigali City, Rutsiro, and Nyamasheke Districts. Regions like western Kamonyi, Gicumbi, and Bugesera will experience lighter winds, averaging 4 to 6 m/s.

Notably, while moderate winds can aid pollination and reduce heat stress, stronger gusts pose risks to infrastructure, especially in vulnerable rural areas.

The detailed forecast by the Rwanda Meteorology Agency provides essential insights for farmers, planners, and citizens preparing for the month ahead.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The claims, which have been circulating among certain individuals, suggest that the RIB unfairly accused over 150 people, including Rwandans and foreigners, of being involved in the bank’s fraud, without sufficient evidence or proper legal procedures.

The accusations stem from a 2023 investigation into the misuse of Mastercard prepaid multicurrency cards, a service introduced by I&M Bank.

The bank had marketed the cards as a way for customers to exchange Rwandan Francs into various foreign currencies at favourable rates.

According to RIB, some individuals exploited the system by deceiving others into providing personal information, which was then used to obtain multiple cards and carry out fraudulent transactions. The stolen funds amounted to approximately $10.26 million.

Following the discovery, RIB launched an investigation, and a number of suspects were placed under investigation. Some were arrested, while others fled the country.

A total of 148 suspects have been pursued, and over 2.27 billion Rwandan Francs have been recovered, along with other assets, including properties purchased with the stolen money.

Despite the progress in the case, several individuals have claimed that they were wrongly accused and victimized by the RIB’s actions.

Among the claims, one individual, through a post on X, alleged that the investigation was manipulated by some corrupt officials who abused their power for personal gain.

However, RIB has firmly rejected these allegations, stating that its actions have always been based on law and evidence. The bureau maintains that it followed proper procedures throughout the investigation and that any claims of injustice are being used to deflect attention from the true perpetrators.

'We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all individuals involved in illegal activities are held accountable,' RIB said while reacting to the social media seeking President Paul Kagame’s intervention.

'The allegations of wrongful targeting are baseless and part of a broader attempt to discredit our efforts.'

RIB assures the public that the investigation is ongoing, with continued efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has dismissed allegations that it wrongly targeted suspects involved in a fraudulent scheme linked to I&M Bank Rwanda.

IGIHE

Concerns raised by the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) revealed that in 2023 alone, 228 houses were damaged by fire outbreaks. This trend persisted into 2024, with another 87 houses destroyed between June and August, revealing a significant gap in insurance coverage among property owners.

RHA Director General Alphonse Rukaburandekwe explained that the ongoing assessment seeks to address these gaps and inform future interventions.

“Over the past few months, RHA has initiated a comprehensive data collection exercise to assess the insurance status of buildings across the country. This process is still ongoing, and we are working closely with stakeholders to compile and validate the data,” he told The New Times.

The results of this exercise will clarify the disparity between insured and uninsured properties, enabling policymakers to craft more effective strategies.

Adalbert Rukebanuka, MINEMA’s Director General of Planning, Policy, and Risk Reduction, emphasized the challenges posed by urban living conditions, such as overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.

These factors, combined with limited firefighting resources, exacerbate fire risks in densely populated areas. “Most of the buildings are not insured for fire risks,” Rukebanuka noted.

“Overcrowded settlements with narrow alleyways hinder firefighters, leading to greater damage and loss of life.”

Informal settlements and inadequate public awareness about fire safety contribute to the prevalence of fire-related incidents. To mitigate these risks, the RHA has engaged some insurance companies to streamline insurance access for government institutions.

Regular reminders and follow-ups are expected to ensure compliance with insurance requirements.

The Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) has launched an assessment to evaluate the insurance coverage of buildings nationwide, following a spike in fire incidents that have largely affected uninsured properties.

IGIHE

The concert, dubbed 'The New Year Groove & Album Launch', ushered Rwandans into the new year while showcasing The Ben’s third album, 'Plenty Love'.

The Ben, ultimately achieved his dream of organizing a concert he had envisioned but couldn’t carry out in 2009 with a high attendance from his fans, an occasion marked with emotions and sheds of tears.

The performance was organized in two segments with the first part featuring various artists he had collaborated with on songs, including Bushali, Tom Close, K8 Kavuyo, Otile Brown, Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh, and others.

Green P, The Ben’s sibling, joined the stage along with P-Fla and Fireman, his former Tuff Gang groupmates, to perform the song “Kwicuma,” honoring Jay Polly, a member of their group who passed away in 2021.

Before The Ben took to the stage in his distinctive outfit, several upcoming artists were given the chance to showcase their talents. These included J-Sha, Phil Emon, Shemi, Yampano, and children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation. Attendees of the concert left mesmerized and satisfied with the music and performances.

The night was filled with overwhelming emotion, the audience deeply moved by the significance of the moment.

It was a memorable experience, highlighted by standout performances and emotional moments. It featured a mix of The Ben’s timeless hits and collaborations with various artists. Songs like “Amaso Ku Maso,” “Rahira,” and “Amahirwe Ya Nyuma” took fans back to the early days of his career.

Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, and Element Eleéeh added excitement, with Kevin’s dance moves particularly captivating the audience.

A heartfelt moment came when The Ben broke into tears while thanking his mother and supporters, expressing gratitude for their role in his success. This vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing his genuine connection with his fans.

Cultural pride was evident when “Naremeye” was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben’s artistry.

The spiritual tone of the concert emerged during “Ndaje,” where he reflected on his gratitude for life, hinting at a future focus on faith-inspired music.

Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh and others added excitement.

Throughout the evening, notable guests like Otile Brown and Tom Close shared the stage, while Tuff Gang members paid tribute to the late Jay Polly with an emotional performance of “Kwicuma.” The night also featured crowd favorites like “True Love,” performed with a calm and reflective energy.

The Ben’s ability to blend nostalgia, culture, and spirituality made the concert unforgettable, solidifying his place as a celebrated icon in Rwandan music.

Towards midnight, The Ben and Tom Close concluded the event with the last song, “Thank You,” a collabo between the two. They later sang a short rendition of “Genda Rwanda Uri Nziza” to express their gratitude to the country’s leadership.

The night was filled with overwhelming emotion. The Ben, deeply moved by the significance of the moment, couldn’t hold back his tears, and the audience shared in his heartfelt moment, witnessing the raw emotions of a dream realized.

Cultural pride was evident when “Naremeye” was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben’s artistry.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was a year-end celebration for 2024. During his address, the President reflected on Rwanda’s key moments throughout the year, both positive and challenging, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements and learning from setbacks.

He highlighted that this year included remembering Rwanda’s tragic history. Despite the pain, he stressed that Rwanda continues to commemorate its past while rebuilding and marking 30 years of liberation.

“This year, we remembered our loved ones for the 30th time. It was a year of remembrance and rebuilding, alongside commemorating 30 years of liberation,” he said.

The President also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the electoral process and addressed the recent Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. He noted that the outbreak has been successfully contained and extended condolences to families who lost their loved ones.

He commended healthcare workers and all individuals who risked their lives to safeguard others during these challenging times.

President Kagame underscored that Rwanda’s accomplishments should be celebrated as they are vital for the nation’s growth. However, he cautioned against complacency.

“As we celebrate, let us remain vigilant, both individually and collectively. We will not allow anyone to disrupt our security—not now, not ever,” he affirmed.

IGIHE