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In his message, the Pope emphasized the themes of hope, fraternity, and peace, all conveyed through the Eucharist.

The event, which attracted thousands of participants including clergy, religious, and lay faithful from both Rwanda and beyond, provided an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.

The message, which was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Bishop Vincent Harolimana, Bishop of Ruhengeri and delegate of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR) for the Eucharistic Congresses.

In his message, Pope Francis joined the faithful in Rwanda in their “joy” and “thanksgiving,” celebrating the significance of the event.

Reflecting on the conference’s theme, “Let us fix our gaze on Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist: a source of hope, fraternity, and peace,” he described Communion as the “centre of all Christian life” and a “tangible sign of Christ’s love for humanity.”

The Pope encouraged the faithful to live out this message by embracing the call to “give ourselves to others,” fostering collaboration to “build a civilisation of love.”

He further underscored the Eucharist’s role in inspiring Catholics to become missionaries of fraternity and hope, emphasizing the need to address the various “hungers” humanity faces, particularly the “hunger for meaning.”

Looking ahead to the 125th anniversary of Rwanda’s evangelisation and the upcoming Jubilee, Pope Francis urged the faithful to turn to “Christ, the bread of life,” and extend solidarity to those in vulnerable situations.

“We must be tangible signs of hope,” he reminded them, echoing the message of the Bull of Indiction for the Holy Year.

In his conclusion, Pope Francis highlighted the shared responsibility the Eucharist calls for, not only in responding to humanity’s physical needs but also in nurturing a spiritual hope “in the triune God.”

He stressed that the Eucharist’s nature is “essentially relational,” inviting people to live “in community” and break down barriers of “race, language, or cultural tradition.”

Pope Francis has sent his blessings and prayers to the Rwandan Church, offering words of encouragement for the second National Eucharistic Congress.

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According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.

On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.

RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.

These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.

Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.

This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.

This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.

This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.

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Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.

However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.

In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.

He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.

'Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.

“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,' Brammertz stated.

Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.

He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.

Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.

He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.

Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.

Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.

Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023.

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Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed more than five years ago, he is accused of advancing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family.

He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in return for assistance with personal matters.

Netanyahu arrived at the Tel Aviv courthouse around 10:00 a.m., where he was met by a mixed crowd of protesters and supporters. Some expressed support, while others urged him to intensify efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Coalition ministers and lawmakers, responding to a call from Netanyahu’s office the previous night, also attended to show support.

At the start of the session, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, criticized the Israeli judicial system, calling the trial “political persecution.” Hadad described the indictment as “flawed and invalid” and argued that the case should have been dismissed.

Netanyahu began his testimony at approximately 11:30 a.m., opening with the statement, “I have waited eight years for this moment to tell the truth as I remember it.” He described his testimony as “an opportunity to puncture the baseless accusations” against him.

Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for more than 17 years, holds the record as the country’s longest-serving leader.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seen at the Tel Aviv courthouse in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Dec. 10, 2024. (Reuven Kastro/JINI via Xinhua)

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The roadshow is part of the Visit Rwanda campaign across Europe, aiming to highlight Rwanda as a premier destination for travelers and investors.

The campaign began in Paris, France, on December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel, and continued in Brussels, Belgium, on December 10, 2024.

The event is part of a collaboration with the European Union (EU) and the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes members like France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Rwanda.

Through this initiative, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign to highlight its tourism offerings. Representatives from Rwanda’s tourism sector and event organizers will showcase how they provide exceptional services to international visitors.

The event gathered over 50 French companies, with the goal of establishing future partnerships after introducing them to Rwanda’s investment opportunities.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura thanked the attendees and tourism representatives for their participation.

“You are all key partners in advocating for Rwanda’s tourism sector, helping us open doors for visitors eager to experience Rwanda’s wonders. It is your responsibility, as well as that of RDB representatives and tourism agencies, to provide valuable information that will inspire people to visit and promote our country,” he noted.

He went on to describe Rwanda as a land of stunning landscapes, including hills, valleys, and pristine air, home to warm-hearted people who are eager to share their history.

Amb. Nkulikiyimfura highlighted Rwanda’s wildlife, including gorillas, and its national parks, as well as the inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list, underscoring the country’s cultural richness.

'When you arrive in Kigali, you will find a clean city, regarded as the cleanest on the African continent,' he added. 'We hope you will become passionate ambassadors, encouraging youth to view Rwanda as a prime destination for rest and discovery.'

Ariella Kageruka, Head of Tourism and Conservation Department at RDB, showcased Rwanda’s natural beauty through a video presentation.

She also informed attendees that citizens of organizations like OIF can receive free visas upon arrival at Kigali International Airport.

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Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.

This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.

Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.

In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.

His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.

Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.

He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.

The Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Professor Mohamed Janabi.

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Despite the hardships, Kanyeshuri was determined to build a better life. Upon arrival at the camp, he quickly embraced entrepreneurship as a means of survival, seizing the opportunities Rwanda provides to both citizens and foreigners alike.

'This is not home for me, but one of the things that motivated me to start working here was seeing that Rwanda gives foreigners the chance to work. I started with 100,000 Frw and began offering Mobile Money services,' Kanyeshuri says.

In addition to providing mobile money services, he was selected to participate in a project designed to empower refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps. This initiative offered training on managing profitable projects, with each family receiving a grant of 800,000 Frw, which did not require repayment.

'I was one of the fortunate ones who received that grant in 2023. I used the money and added to it the little I had saved, making it a total of 1Million francs,' he recalls.

He decided to invest in poultry farming after recognizing the challenges that refugees and those living near the camp faced in obtaining eggs.

He decided to invest in poultry farming after recognizing the challenges that refugees and those living near the camp faced in obtaining eggs. Previously, they had to travel to Kibungo to source eggs, thus creating an opportunity for Kanyeshuri.

With the loan, he purchased 1,500 chicks, and after five months of careful nurturing, the birds began to lay eggs. The current egg production rate stands at 80%, meaning that from 1,000 birds, there are 820 eggs produced daily. Each egg is sold for 145 Frw, and he has a steady market for his products.

Today, Kanyeshuri employs five full-time staff, three of whom are refugees, while the other two are Rwandans. 'The poultry farm has provided additional income, including fertilizers, which we collect every two weeks. I have buyers who come and pack it, and they pay me,' he proudly says.

Beyond his poultry business, Kanyeshuri has also ventured into farming, and the combined value of his various projects now exceeds 10 million Frw. 'This business has grown because each bird is worth over 10,000 Frw. So overall, I’ve surpassed that 10 million mark,' he explains.

The project aimed at empowering refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps started in 2022, and it has already reached 1,613 families. Among them, 1,129 refugee families (70%) have received support, while 484 Rwandan families (30%) from neighboring communities have also benefited. The project has a budget of 2.4 million USD, which is intended to be used over a period of three years.

After five months of careful nurturing, the birds are able to start laying eggs.

The supported families are involved in various types of businesses, including agriculture, livestock farming, and commerce. Furthermore, they are linked to financial institutions to access further funding to grow their businesses.

Innocent Habimana, a local resident living near the camp, is another beneficiary of the program. He runs a business selling agricultural inputs and fertilizers, a field in which he had prior knowledge and passion.

After investing 700,000 Frw into his business, Habimana’s venture is now valued at 3Million Frw. 'I have employees that work with me during the planting season, and I pay them for their work,' he says.

This transformative project, funded by Denmark and implemented by UNHCR and Caritas Rwanda, is expected to continue until December 2024, with an extension for Sudanese refugees until the end of 2025. The project operates in Mahama refugee camp, located in Kirehe District, and Kiziba refugee camp in Karongi District.

Innocent Habimana, a local resident living near the camp, is another beneficiary of the program

For Kanyeshuri and others like him, these initiatives represent much more than financial support. They symbolize a path to self-reliance, a way to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope for the future.

As he reflects on his journey, Kanyeshuri expresses his deep appreciation for the support of the Rwandan government.

'Looking at the opportunities we have here, it’s extraordinary. Rwanda provides for everyone and ensures our safety. I work outside the camp now, and no one challenges my right to do so. I’m truly blessed compared to many others in the refugee camps,' he says.

After five months of careful nurturing, the birds are able to start laying eggs.

Kanyeshuli’s combined value of his various projects now exceeds 10 million Frw.

Eggs from Patrick Kanyeshuri’s poultry farm.

Kanyeshuri’s chicken house where employs five full-time staff, three of whom are refugees,

Habimana runs a business selling agricultural inputs and fertilizers.

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At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp, where both refugee children and local Rwandan students are benefiting from this digital revolution.

The tech-driven learning program, launched in 2021, is part of a broader effort by the Rwandan government, in collaboration with international partners like the UNHCR, World Vision International, and ProFuturo, a Spanish-based organization.

The initiative aims to bring digital learning to schools in districts like Kirehe, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Gisagara, Karongi, and Gicumbi.

Currently, the program reaches 15 schools near refugee camps, benefiting over 16,000 students, including both refugee and Rwandan children in grades 4 to 6. The program provides students with tablets loaded with educational software, offering them a unique opportunity to learn in ways that were not possible before.

At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp.

More than 500 teachers have been trained to use these digital tools, enhancing their teaching methods and improving student engagement.

Ange Brinella Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE, shared how the use of technology has transformed her learning experience.

“Before, teachers would write on the board, and sometimes it was hard to understand. But with tablets, we can see visual explanations of the subjects. We use them for Kinyarwanda, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies,” she said.

Nick Rafael Ishimwe, another Grade 6 student, added, “When we used to take tests on paper, it would take weeks for the teacher to grade them. Now, we take the tests on the tablet, and we see our results immediately. It makes learning more effective.”

Nick Rafael Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student says that they no longer have to take tests on paper.

Teachers have also noticed improvements in how students are engaging with lessons. Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher, explained that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.

“I prepare exercises on the computer, and each student can access them right away. After completing the exercises, they are graded instantly. This allows me to see who is making progress and who needs help,” he says.

The use of technology has also had a positive effect on student motivation. “When I tell the students that we will be using technology, no one wants to miss class. They are excited to engage with the tools,” said Nibitura.

Since the introduction of the program in 2022, academic performance has improved. “The first sign of success is when a student powers on the device, logs in, and starts learning on their own,” said Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director.

Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director is happy that the students can power on the device, log in, and start learning on their own.

“Last year, 57 students graduated from primary school, and all of them passed. Ten of them received confirmation to continue their studies at secondary schools,” he reveals.

Despite the program’s success, there are still challenges, particularly with the number of tablets available. “In Grade 6, there are four classrooms with tablets, but only 96 tablets for the entire school. We hope to get more so that every student can benefit,” Ntamunoza said.

The ProFuturo program has equipped the schools with tablets containing Rwanda’s national curriculum, along with computers and other technological tools. Three computer labs have been built in Mahama, Nyabiheke, and Kiziba refugee camps, and teachers have received training on how to use these tools to enhance their teaching methods.

Ange Brinella Ishimwe is also a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE.

This tech-driven learning program is not only improving education for refugee children but also fostering integration between refugees and the local population.

Through these digital tools, students are gaining the skills necessary to succeed in a digital world, while also helping to bridge the gap between refugee and local communities. With continued support, this initiative has the potential to provide every child in Rwanda, regardless of their background, with a brighter, tech-enabled future.

Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher say that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.

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While presiding over the swearing in ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, urged the officials to abide by their oaths as it would help them fulfill the nation’s expectations. He asked them not to betray the trust placed in them by the RDF leadership.

'The nature of the work you do, which involves upholding the law and human rights, requires wisdom, discretion, dedication, and professionalism. We strongly encourage you to embrace technology because it accelerates work and simplifies the preparation of cases,' he cautioned.

Ngirente also advised the newly appointed officials not to use their authority for personal gains but to strive and uphold the integrity of the RDF. He reminded them to continue to educate themselves to ensure their actions keep pace with time.

The event was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), General Mubarakh Muganga, the Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and other dignitaries.

Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, presided over the swearing in ceremony.

Other officials who were sworn in for new roles include Lt. Darcy Ndayishimiye and Lt. Thérèse Mukasakindi, who were appointed as judges at the Military High Court, and Capt. Moses Ndoba and Lt. Victor Kamanda, who were appointed as judges at the Military Tribunal.

On his part, Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa vowed to focus on promoting integrity within military ranks, with more severe punishments for violations of the law.

'Integrity is highly significant due to the responsibilities the military holds. Integrity is where we will focus most of our efforts, meaning that when we punish soldiers who violate the law, we do so with the required severity,' he said.

He reaffirmed that justice in Rwandan society is crucial, especially within military ranks, given the power, equipment, and training that soldiers have, saying they must be more vigilant than ordinary civilians to prevent misuse of their authority.

The newly appointed officials were confirmed by a Cabinet meeting held on November 9, 2024.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa takes oath as the President of the Millitary High Court.

All the appointed officials signed their oaths after swearing in.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa vowed to focus on promoting integrity within military ranks.

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Organized annually by the BK Foundation in partnership with Inkomoko Rwanda, the initiative supports entrepreneurs in various sectors with funding and mentorship to grow their businesses.

From December 2nd—4th, the top five businesses were recognized and awarded zero-interest loans from Bank of Kigali, ranging from Frw4 million to Frw7 million each.

These loans aim to scale their operations and drive further innovation and social impact. The winners, with business operations in Kigali, Gicumbi, Kayonza, and Musanze, were selected for their creativity and their positive contributions to their local communities.

Many participants from this year’s cohort expressed their intentions to use the funds to invest in equipment, expand their teams, and streamline their operations.

Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation highlighted that BK Urumuri Initiative is committed to fostering economic growth and resilience by addressing key business themes each year.

These loans aim to scale their operations and drive further innovation and social impact.

'This year, we exclusively focused on women-led businesses, offering them the chance to pitch for zero-interest loans from the Bank of Kigali. Many participants highlighted plans to expand their teams, automate operations, and access higher-quality inputs. These women entrepreneurs are driving solutions in traditionally underserved sectors, championing inclusivity and innovation,' she said.

This year’s program engaged 25 women-led businesses, offering tailored business acceleration, interest-free loans, and access to a network of 60,000 MSMEs across East Africa.

Emmanuel Mugabo, Managing Director of Inkomoko Rwanda, emphasized the program’s success: 'The initiative equips entrepreneurs with the skills to grow their businesses, track performance, and create jobs across the country.'

The five winning businesses include those from agriculture, food production, and hygiene.
For instance, Bountiful Farmers Ltd supplies high-quality potato seeds, Hope and Future for Women Development Ltd grows fresh strawberries, and Eastern Alpha Co Ltd produces hygiene products.

Skai Foods is known for its chili sauce and other value-added food products, while N5 Business Group manufactures nutrient-rich porridge and peanut flour.

This year’s program engaged 25 women-led businesses.

Winner Yvette Umutoniwabo, founder of N5 Business Group, shared her success story: 'Through the BK Urumuri program, I learned to track transactions, target markets, and prepare for investments. Now that we have won this loan, it will really help us automate production and double our revenue.'

Since its inception, the BK Urumuri Initiative has supported over 200 businesses. Past participants have seen an average monthly revenue growth of 388% and created, on average, four new jobs per company.

BK Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the BK Group, advances societal progress through education, innovation, environmental conservation, and financial literacy.

Meanwhile, Inkomoko supports entrepreneurs across Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan by providing coaching, training, financing, and market access.

The BK Urumuri Initiative was launched in 2017 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bank of Kigali and aims to support young entrepreneurs in developing projects with the potential to grow into successful businesses in the future.

Since its inception, the initiative has provided over Frw234 million in interest-free loans to emerging entrepreneurs, contributing to the growth of Rwanda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

A total of Frw25 million in interest-free loans were given through the 8th edition of the BK Urumuri Initiative.

The businesses were recognized and awarded zero-interest loans from Bank of Kigali, ranging from Frw4 million to Frw7 million each.

Many participants highlighted plans to expand their teams, automate operations, and access higher-quality inputs.

The initiative equips entrepreneurs with the skills to grow their businesses.

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