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Ethiopia and Somalia reached an agreement on Wednesday after Turkish-mediated negotiations in Ankara, marking a breakthrough in resolving misunderstandings between the two nations.

Tensions had been escalating between Ethiopia and Somalia after Ethiopia and Somaliland signed an agreement earlier this year allowing Ethiopia access to the Red Sea in exchange for its recognition of Somaliland as an independent state. Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, described the agreement as having no legal force.

“The chairperson welcomes the communique signed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Dec. 11 in Ankara, under the auspices of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan,” the AU said in a statement issued on Thursday.

The AU chief praised “this important act of high responsibility on the part of the leaders of Somalia and Ethiopia.” Faki encouraged them to implement the agreed-upon measures without delay.

Following the agreement, Abiy and Mohamud issued a joint statement emphasizing cooperation and dialogue between the two countries.

Both leaders reaffirmed their respect and commitment to one another’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity and agreed to work together to finalize arrangements which will allow Ethiopia to enjoy access to and from the sea.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, centre, poses with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, right, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, left, following a news conference in Ankara, Turkiye, on December 11, 2024

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François Bayrou has been tasked with forming a new government in the near future. He will lead the French government during challenging economic times, with the budget deficit continuing to rise, from 5.5% last year to 6.6% this year.

Bayrou served as Minister of Education from 1993 to 1997 and as Minister of Justice in 2017. The 73 years old veteran politician who founded the “Mouvement Democrate” party, as Minister of Education during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in is
He is one of the French political figures who deny their country’s involvement in these historical events.

In May 2021 when President Macron visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, he expressed his support for survivors, and offered an apology for France’s failure to protect the Tutsi during the Genocide.

Bayrou was a big critic of President Macron’s statements, arguing that France has nothing to apologize for since, according to him, France had no role in the genocide.
“If evidence emerges, France will acknowledge mistakes, but I don’t like this policy of asking for forgiveness,” he said.

In an interview with France TV in June 2021, he revealed that the information he had, was given to him by former President François Mitterrand, who led France from 1981 to 1995, during their many discussions.

François Bayrou has been appointed as the new French Prime Minister

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The Head of State was speaking at a welcome cocktail held at the Kigali Convention Centre on the evening of December 12, 202.

“I want to thank from the bottom of my heart FIA and Mohammed bin Sulayem [FIA President] and his team for putting all this together and doing Rwanda proud to be able to host you. We appreciate that and I hope for all the time you are going to be here, you are going to enjoy your stay.”

The welcome cocktail was held at the Kigali Convention Centre, attended by conference participants, high-profile guests, and leaders from various sectors in Rwanda.

Among those present were Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, and renowned comedian and actor Steve Harvey.

Before the cocktail reception, President Kagame, together with FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem, unveiled the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa, an innovative project developed through collaboration between Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

Kagame expressed his gratitude to the FIA for supporting the project, highlighting its role in facilitating knowledge transfer and encouraging the development of local talent and skills in various creative fields.

Kagame remarked that the initiative was not just important for Rwanda, but for the entire African continent, as many opportunities had long been overdue.

He acknowledged that while Africa is rich in talent, access to opportunities remains a major challenge.

Kagame emphasized that Africa should not only focus on exporting talent but also become a place where people from other parts of the world are attracted to come, contribute, and help develop the continent’s potential.

On his part, Sulayem praised the close collaboration between FIA and Rwanda in organizing the General Assembly, highlighting that it was the first time the event had been hosted with the head of state personally welcoming the attendees.

He expressed his gratitude to President Kagame for the trust placed in the FIA and thanked all attendees for traveling from around the world to participate.

The evening also celebrated the work of Rwandan artists who created pieces commemorating the FIA’s 120th anniversary. Ishimwe Gad, a student from Rwanda Polytechnic-Kigali College, was awarded first prize for his artwork, which will be displayed at the FIA headquarters in Paris, France.

From December 10 to December 13, 2024, Rwanda is hosting the FIA General Assemblies, which will culminate in the award ceremony at the BK Arena on the evening of December 13.

President Kagame has applauded FIA for choosing Rwanda to host its General Assembly.

Before the cocktail reception, President Kagame, together with FIA President Mohammed bin Sulayem, unveiled the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa.

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Ishimwe Gad emerged as the winner in a competition inviting students to create artwork reflecting the FIA’s milestone as it celebrates its 120th anniversary.

He was announced as the winner during a cocktail reception at the Kigali Convention Centre on Thursday, December 12, 2024, hosted by President Paul Kagame.

Ishimwe’s artwork, a colourful and dynamic representation of motorsport’s vitality and heritage, will now hold a permanent place at the FIA’s headquarters in the historic Place de la Concorde in Paris.

The achievement elevates his creation to the ranks of internationally acclaimed pieces that celebrate the rich history and promising future of motorsport.

'This is a dream come true,' Ishimwe remarked. 'To have my work displayed in Paris alongside other renowned artists is an honour, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent Rwanda on a global stage.'

The art competition was one of several initiatives tied to the FIA’s anniversary celebrations, blending motorsport and art to promote cultural exchange.

Thursday’s event brought together FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, members of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, and motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.

Adding to the evening’s significance, attendees witnessed the unveiling of the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa. The innovative project was developed through collaboration between Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

This “Cross Car” is set to be tested by Dutch Formula One champion Max Verstappen.

The “Cross Car” is a compact, specialized vehicle equipped with critical features such as a protective racing seat, reinforced safety structures, race-specific tires, and a unique design to protect drivers in case of accidents.

Its safety elements include a six-point harness system and a window opening for easy entry and exit. The vehicle operates with a manual transmission and requires specialized skills and training, as it differs significantly from regular rally cars.

Dutch-Belgian Formula One champion Max Verstappen will test the car.

In his address, President Kagame emphasized the importance of promoting innovation and encouraging young talent in Africa.

'Young people everywhere on the continent, in different fields of sport, show up in large numbers, but they are limited by access to opportunity. I appreciate that the message is loud and clear: instead of Africa exporting talent all the time to other places, it can also be bred, grow, and be seen to stay in Africa,' President Kagame said.

The 2024 FIA General Assembly in Kigali is set to conclude on Friday, December 13, 2024, with an awards ceremony where key figures such as Verstappen will be honoured.

Ishimwe Gad emerged as the winner in a competition inviting students to create artwork reflecting the FIA’s milestone as it celebrates its 120th anniversary.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The awards were presented during the EAC Regional Hackathon held in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of the 7th Annual Secretary General’s Forum.

The event focused on fostering collaboration for regional growth and integration, under the theme “Towards a Resilient and Fully Integrated East Africa.”

The hackathon attracted over 1,000 innovative solutions, particularly targeting sectors such as tourism, agribusiness, environmental protection, trade, digitalization, and financial services.

Projects presented by the innovators tackled critical issues related to regional economic integration. Each of the eight winning projects, four led by women and four by youth, was awarded €15,000 to help accelerate their impact.

Among the winners was Niyonkuru Kevin from Burundi, founder of SPOTA Company, and Cirhuza Birhaheka Onesphore from DR Congo, who runs AGRIMOD SARL.

Kenya’s Tayba Hatiym of BAUS Taka Enterprise and Rwanda’s Pacifique Niyorurema, who runs Fresco Fruits, were also recognized for their innovative contributions.

Somalia’s Mohamed Osman Abdulkadir, representing Greenlife Agribusiness LTD, and Anok Athor Deng from South Sudan, behind Future of Family Planning, were among the recipients.

Additionally, Faith Kuya from Tanzania, who founded SafeSip Limited, and Munyasa Hellen of Uganda’s Helton Traders Limited also received the award.

During the event, EAC Secretary General Veronica M. Nduva praised the hackathon as a testament to the region’s commitment to inclusive development.

She emphasized that women and youth are the driving forces behind innovation and economic resilience, noting that the hackathon was not just about competition but about fostering collaboration, learning, and growth.

Uganda’s 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, commended the EAC for its leadership, stressing the importance of collaboration in unlocking the potential of youth and women for regional prosperity.

Rwanda’s Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation highlighted the significance of such platforms in empowering the region’s youth and women, noting that the EAC continues to lead by example in fostering economic integration and innovation.

Kenya’s Principal Secretary, Abdi Dubat, spoke about the critical discussions that took place, which illuminated both the challenges and opportunities within the region.

He expressed confidence that shared commitment and collaboration would guide the path to a resilient, integrated East Africa.

Mr. Marius Weist, GIZ’s Component Lead for Organizational Development and Outreach, further emphasized the importance of empowering women and youth to help achieve EAC’s economic goals.

He praised the participants for their creative solutions to the region’s challenges, emphasizing that GIZ’s support would continue to foster an inclusive economy for all.

The forum concluded with several key recommendations aimed at advancing regional integration, including removing barriers to the free movement of goods and services, enhancing youth representation in policy-making, and boosting digital infrastructure in rural areas to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The hackathon attracted over 1,000 innovative solutions, particularly targeting sectors such as tourism, agribusiness, environmental protection, trade, digitalization, and financial services.

Officials from EAC member states who participated in the forum awarding one of the winners. Rwanda was represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe (second from right).

Théophile Niyitegeka

This project was developed in collaboration with Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

The event, held on Thursday December 12, 2024 at Kigali Convention Centre also saw the presence of President Paul Kagame and the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Harvey’s visit coincides with the ongoing General Assembly of the FIA, which will conclude on Friday, December 13, 2024. This marks his second visit to Kigali, following his first trip in November 2024.

During that earlier visit, Harvey engaged in discussions with President Kagame on potential investment opportunities in Rwanda’s events and entertainment sectors.

At the time, Harvey took to social media to share his admiration for Rwanda and President Kagame, saying, 'We had the pleasure of sitting and meeting His Excellency my brother President Paul Kagame. I was truly inspired by his strength and humility. A testament to Rwanda’s resilience and acts of forgiveness.'

Known for his work on The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Family Feud, Celebrity Family Feud, and his long-running role as the host of Miss Universe, Harvey’s career spans decades.

From his stand-up comedy days in the 1980s to his rise in the 2000s with The Original Kings of Comedy, he has become one of America’s most beloved personalities.

A memorable moment from the occasion was captured in a photo featuring Harvey alongside Francis Gatare, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

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The signing ceremony was held during the 2024 FIA General Assemblies in Kigali.

The UAOA campaign highlights the need for collective action among governments, technology platforms, and sporting organizations to ensure safer digital spaces for athletes, fans, and stakeholders.

At the signing, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said that their presence in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular its growing influence in motorsport.

'We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa, and in Rwanda, is bright,' he noted.

Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema noted that the step aligns with Rwanda’s values of inclusivity and accountability.

'We are proud to join the ‘United Against Online Abuse’ campaign and contribute to fostering a safer digital environment in sports,” he stated.

The President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), Mohammed Ben Sulayem arrived in Rwanda on Monday to attend the federation’s General Assembly, scheduled for Friday, December 13, 2024.

Since then, he has participated in various activities including engagement with young girls at the BK Arena for the “Girls on Track” program welcoming over 100 young women from schools across Kigali.

The girls took to the track in karts for the first time as well, challenging themselves on the simulators, trying their hands at different sporting challenges.

On Thursday, Sulayem along with President Paul Kagame unveiled the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa at Kigali Convention Centre.

This project was developed in collaboration with Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

American comedian and television host Steve Harvey Harvey also attended the event, marking his second visit to Kigali in one month.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem (L) signed the UAOA Charter along with Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema (R).

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem (L) and Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema (R)exchanging documents after signing the UAOA Charter.

Rwanda has become the first African country to sign the United Against Online Abuse_(UAOA) Charter, an initiative led by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) to address online abuse and hate.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The two-day conference that started on Thursday, December 12, was organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) in partnership with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) under the theme: 'Towards a digital tax administration: Lessons learnt and directions for reform.'

Tax experts delved on adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their systems.

Antoine Sebera, the Government Chief Innovation Officer at the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), emphasized the transformative role of AI highlighting Africa’s rapid digital transformation, with governments leveraging technology to bridge economic disparities, foster inclusion, and enhance public administration by streamlining bureaucratic processes and building trust.

In Rwanda, significant progress has been made in digital governance, with all essential government services now accessible online. The country aims to achieve universal access to e-government services by 2029.

Despite the advancements, Sebera said challenges persist in leveraging technology for tax administration. He observed that fragmented and incomplete data hinder accurate tracking and assessment of digital transactions, necessitating secure data-sharing mechanisms and interoperability. Additionally, deploying advanced tools for monitoring, analyzing, and enforcing tax compliance, he said, requires technological expertise and infrastructure.

'Building capacity in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity is essential in overcoming these obstacles. Particularly, AI has a very big potential to revolutionize digital tax administration and governance in low-income countries,' Sebera said.

'AI can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of tax systems. For example, AI-driven tools can help identify patterns of tax evasion, optimize resource allocation and provide real-time support to the taxpayers,' he added.

He called for international partnerships with organizations and the private sector to address challenges hindering digitalization progress.

Sebera stressed that ethical and regulatory concerns, such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and accountability, should not be overlooked.

'Developing countries must establish robust legal frameworks and ethical guidelines to govern the use of AI in public administration. Infrastructure challenges, including reliable internet access, electricity, high-performance computing servers, and data centers must be addressed.

Rwanda has made significant progress in digitalizing its tax administration. Notable milestones include the introduction of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) ++ system in 2004, later upgraded to ASYCUDA World in 2012, which halved customs clearance times and saved $6.8 million annually in trade costs, according to the TradeMark East Africa. ASYCUDA is a computerized customs management system that covers most foreign trade procedures.

In 2011, Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) launched the E-Tax system to revolutionize tax filing and payments, reducing errors and administrative burdens. The 2013 introduction of Electronic Billing Machines (EBMs) enhanced VAT compliance and curbed tax evasion. The EBM2 system upgraded in 2017 provide real-time data capture and improved fraud prevention.

'Between 2017 and 2022, VAT collection increased by 61%, and income tax collection has surged by 95%. In 2021, income tax overtook PAYE as the second largest revenue contributor, driven by the use of EBM in every taxable activity, a policy initiated in 2020,' said the RRA Commissioner General, Ronald Niwenshuti.

Studies conducted by RRA and the Tax Administration Research Centre further demonstrate the impact of digital reforms. For example, VAT increased by 5.4% in tax-to-GDP ratio, and EBM2 adoption led to a 12% rise in VAT collection among new users. Firms using EBM-supported goods achieved an average revenue increase of $33,400 compared to non-users.

These advancements reflect Rwanda’s progress toward self-reliance, the RRA CG said. Today, domestic revenue fund over 54% of the national budget, up from 51.2% the previous year. 'This aligns with national strategies such as Vision 2020, Vision 2050, and the National Strategy for Transformation,' Niwenshuti added.

Giulia Mascagni, the Executive Director of the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD), commended Rwanda’s leadership in digital tax transformation.

She highlighted the 10-year collaboration between ICTD and Rwanda, which has facilitated data sharing for rigorous research, policy analysis, and evaluation, contributing to improved revenue collection and taxpayer services.

Mascagni emphasized the importance of digitization in tax administration, which enabled the ICTD to explore emerging trends in digital financial services, mobile money, and their implications for tax administration.

'This conference is an opportunity to learn from one another and lay the foundation for the next decade of progress in digitizing tax administration and government services,' Mascagni concluded.

During the two-day conference, panelists with explore key elements related to Other data management and governance, digital inclusion, digital public infrastructure, improving data quality and integrity, digital payments, data exchange systems; and underscored the need for robust tax ecosystems that foster fairness and innovation.

The ICTD is a global research body on tax and development, particularly in low-income countries, providing governments with robust evidence to help them design and implement more effective and equitable tax systems.

Antoine Sebera, the Government Chief Innovation Officer at the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), emphasized the transformative role of AI highlighting Africa’s rapid digital transformation.

RRA Commissioner General, Ronald Niwenshuti.

Giulia Mascagni, the Executive Director of the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD), commended Rwanda’s leadership in digital tax transformation.

During the two-day conference, panelists will explore key elements related to Other data management and governance, digital inclusion, digital public infrastructure, improving data quality and integrity among others.

The two-day conference that started on Thursday, December 12, was organized by the International Centre for Tax and Development (ICTD) in partnership with Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).

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President Paul Kagame, alongside Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), unveiled the “Cross Car”, a racing car made in Rwanda by students from IPRC Kigali.

The event took place Thursday evening, December 12, 2024, at the Kigali Convention Centre, at the ongoing FIA General Assembly scheduled to conclude tomorrow.

The car, built over the past month by the students in collaboration with an FIA technician, was showcased with the participation of key figures, including Christian Gakwaya, President of the Rwanda Automobile Racing Club (RAC).

This “Cross Car” is set to be tested by Dutch Formula One champion Max Verstappen, as part of a FIA community service penalty imposed on him as a punishment for using unacceptable language during the pre-event press conference at the Singapore Grand Prix last September.

President Paul Kagame, alongside Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the President of the International Automobile Federation (FIA), unveiled the “Cross Car”, a racing car made in Rwanda by students from IPRC Kigali.

After the unveiling, a reception was held at the Convention Centre, bringing together political leaders, sports celebrities, and other dignitaries, including Steve Harvey, to celebrate the FIA’s 120th anniversary.

The “Cross Car” is a compact, specialized vehicle with several critical features such as a protective racing seat, reinforced safety structures, race-specific tires, and a unique design for driver protection in case of accidents.

Its safety features include a six-point harness system and a window opening for entry and exit. The vehicle is operated with a manual transmission and requires specific skills and training, as it differs significantly from regular rally cars.

The sport of Cross Car racing is growing in Rwanda, with plans to purchase more vehicles and kick-start local championships to further develop the motorsport scene in the country.

President Paul Kagame shares a light moment with Mohammed Ben Sulayem

Steve Harvey joined in the ceremony to celebrate the FIA’s 120th anniversary.

After the unveiling, a reception was held at the Convention Centre.

This “Cross Car” is set to be tested by Dutch Formula One champion Max Verstappen.

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The soldiers were part of Operation Turquoise, which was officially intended to protect Tutsi refugees who were being killed. However, instead of protecting them, the French forces assisted the Interahamwe, the defeated soldiers of the ex-FAR, and members of the Rwandan government responsible for planning the genocide massacres.

In 2005, the organizations Survie, IBUKA France, FIDH, LDH, and six genocide survivors from Bisesero had requested the court to order the French government to investigate the role of French soldiers in these killings.

These organizations stated that the French soldiers abandoned the Tutsi refugees in Bisesero, who were killed by the Interahamwe and ex-FAR soldiers between June 27 and June 30, 1994.

They further explained that they have evidence showing that, while the French soldiers knew about the massacre taking place as Tutsi refugees were being killed in Bisesero, they did nothing to stop it, despite having the ability to do so.

In 2018, a French court had decided to halt the investigation into this massacre, but after the March 2021 report by Professor Vincent Duclert, which revealed France’s involvement in the genocide, a new decision was made to resume the investigation. However, the investigation was once again suspended in October 2023.

In September 2024, the Paris Court of Appeal heard the arguments from these organizations and Bisesero Genocide survivors, who called for further investigation into the French soldiers’ role in Operation Turquoise, but the court dismissed their claims.

Eric Plouvier, the lawyer representing Survie, stated that this decision denied justice to the victims of Bisesero and the survivors.

“Investigation must continue. It is not acceptable for the court to make such a harsh decision to deny justice,” said Plouvier.

On the other hand, those involved in the operation, including General (Rtd) Jean-Claude Lafourcade, who led the mission, argued that the investigation should be ended, stating that the French soldiers committed no crimes.

The investigation against French soldiers who were part of the Operation Turquoisewas once again suspended in October 2023.

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