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His trial began on October 7, 2024, and lasted four days. It was based on a complaint filed by three organizations namely; CPCR, Survie, and IBUKA France. Through his book, Onana argued that there was no plan for the Genocide against the Tutsi.

The key issue in the trial was whether the French military’s Opération Turquoise had been conducted with the intention of furthering the genocide against the Tutsi or whether such a plan did not exist.

The trial was attended by many people, including Rwandans on the side of the plaintiffs and the defendant. There were also people from the Democratic Republic of Congo supporting Onana.

Legal expert, Professor Thomas Hochmann, was one of the witnesses for the plaintiffs. Contrary to Onana’s arguments, Hochmann explained that the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), established for the prosecution of crimes committed in Rwanda, had confirmed the existence of a Genocidal plan against the Tutsi.

Professor Hochmann clarified that the tribunal, which operated in Arusha, convicted individuals for committing genocide and for planning it, which serves as evidence that the Genocide took place and was premeditated.
He pointed out that denial of Genocide includes distorting the term in publications, rejecting the findings of courts like the ICTR, as Onana had done.

Lawyer Bernard Maingain explained to the court that it would be impossible for genocide to occur without prior planning.

“How is it possible for 10,000 people to be killed in one day without preparation? How could machetes and other weapons be distributed to people to carry out the killings if it wasn’t planned? Could they have identified and killed all Tutsis, knowing where they lived and their identity, without any preparation?” he wondered.

Maingain, from Belgium, further argued that before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi began, lists had already been made of the Tutsis who were to be killed, emphasizing that this is evidence of premeditation.

Onana arrived in court stating that he had never denied the genocide but had linked it to the shooting down of President Juvénal Habyarimana’s plane. He also claimed that the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) Inkotanyi had blocked Opération Turquoise from proceeding as planned by France.

The researcher used testimonies from witnesses including General (Retd) Jean-Claude Lafourcade, who led Opération Turquoise, Johan Swinenn, former Belgian Ambassador to Rwanda, and Christian Quesnot, former Chief of Staff for François Mitterrand who led France’s operations.

These witnesses stated that Onana’s book aimed to reveal the truth about Rwanda’s history, but they emphasized that the 1994 Tutsi Genocide was not planned.

Quesnot stated that Onana is an honest person who could not deny the genocide, adding that the ICTR never confirmed the existence of a genocide plan. However, he acknowledged that the genocide occurred and blamed the RPA forces for committing crimes against humanity and war crimes.

For his conviction, Onana has been ordered to pay a fine of 1,400Euros with the risk of 115 days in detention if the fine is not paid on time while his publisher, Damien Serieyx, was fined 5,000Euros.

Cameroonian researcher Charles Onana (C) has been convicted for denying the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

IGIHE

Women in the workforce are trained and supported in competing for leadership positions. Graduates are prepared to compete in the job market while women with small businesses are empowered on how to expand their ventures.

“Lift Her Up” was launched in 2022 by Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group, a company that offers business and leadership consulting services.

'A woman has many responsibilities that make her encounter difficult to rise in leadership as a man would. You can see this even with children just finishing school, where the confidence of girl low, even if she has completed her education,' Nkusi said.

The “Lift Her Up” program has three main interventions; the first prepares female graduates to compete in the job market, the second helps women or girls ambitious to start their own businesses while the third supports women and girls in the workforce who seek to advance in their careers. Each year, about 100 women and girls are facilitated through this training.

Gate Consulting Group first assesses the gaps in the development of women and girls and what they want to learn, then connects them with relevant training on a monthly basis.

In the “Lift Her Up” program, prominent female leaders are invited to share examples with their peers, demonstrating what is possible and showing how a young girl or woman can succeed.

Successful women in decision-making positions are invited to share their experiences and guide others on the paths they took and what they need to focus on to advance.

At the close of the third phase of “Lift Her Up,” which had lasted nine months, the CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), Pitchette Kampeta Sayinzoga, and the CEO of Canal+ Rwanda, Sophie Tchatchoua, shared their journeys with participants, discussing how they reached leadership positions.

Marie Aimée Ingabire, who works at Bralirwa and has been receiving training for nine months also shared her experience.

'I have received valuable knowledge, including personal development, professional growth, and leadership. It’s a great program, and we wish it would continue to expand so more women can benefit. You get to know yourself, understand the people around you, work towards goals, and more,' she said.

Rwanda has made significant strides in advancing women across various sectors. For instance, the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament has 63.75% women, the Senate has 53.8% women, and Rwanda has allocated 30% of parliamentary seats to women, with the possibility for them to compete for the remaining positions. This is also the case in government sectors.

The CEO of Canal+ Rwanda, Sophie Tchatchoua (extreme right), and the CEO of the Rwanda Development Bank (BRD), Kampeta Sayinzoga Pitchette, were the ones who spoke to the women and girls at the conclusion of the third phase of the “Lift Her Up” program.

'We want to promote this initiative, increasing the number of women in all sectors. Additionally, if an opportunity arises, a woman should be given the chance not because she is a woman, but because she is capable. It’s a journey, but we are on the right track,' Nkusi said.

In the first phase for graduates, Gate Consulting Group works with universities to support their alumni. For those wishing to become entrepreneurs, the program has a registration process for those who want to be trained.

For women already working, Gate Consulting Group collaborates with their employers to arrange the necessary training.

Artist Boukouru was the one who entertained attendees at the event marking the conclusion of the third phase of the “Lift Her Up” program.

Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group and the initiator of the “Lift Her Up” program (L) and Mapula Bodibe, the CEO of MTN Rwanda, who also contributed to the training sessions encouraging women to take bold steps.

Salma Habib Nkusi, the CEO of Gate Consulting Group, welcomes various guests at the event concluding the “Lift Her Up” program, which aims to empower women

Salma Habib Nkusi announced that they have already trained 300 women and girls on how to be bold and advance themselves in various ways.

IGIHE

Officially launched on December 6, 2024, the modern facility is located in Gasabo District’s Kimihurura Sector, Rugando area, near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre.

As Rwanda continues to grow as a regional hub, investors are leveraging opportunities to foster development in key sectors such as tourism. T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel aims to enhance this momentum, offering premium services tailored to both local and international clientele.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

The hotel also offers airport transfer services for international guests, ensuring convenience and seamless experiences.

Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a sauna and massage centre, a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

Guests can enjoy a wide array of amenities, including a restaurant with affordable dining options, and other features expected of a high-end establishment.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Daniel Niyomugabo, the General Manager of T-Stone Apartment Hotel, emphasised the hotel’s dedication to delivering exceptional service.

“Our unique value lies in delivering quick and high-quality services. While we acknowledge competition in the area, we are set apart by the quality of our offerings and our prime location. We aim to create a standout experience, ensuring efficient and friendly service unlike any other.'

Niyomugabo added that the hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

Founder and CEO Muhirwa Gashugi expressed the company’s ambition to contribute to Rwanda’s tourism growth, aligning with the government’s efforts to position the country as a premier destination in Africa.

For reservations or inquiries, T-Stone Apartment Hotel can be reached via:

Phone (General Inquiries): +250 795 300 188
Phone (Reservations): +250 795 303 065
Email: [email protected]
Website: T-Stone Apartment Hotel

The hotel, located near the iconic Kigali Convention Centre, was officially launched on December 6, 2024.

The modern facility was officially launched on December 6, 2024.

T-Stone Apartment Hotel provides options for short-term and long-term stays, featuring Executive Suites priced at $200 per night or $2,000 per month.

The hotel offer high-end dining experience.

The hotel’s trained staff are committed to ensuring guests receive top-tier service, from the moment they arrive to the time they depart.

IGIHE

The player left Kigali on Sunday, December 8, 2024, heading to Portugal where he is set to undergo a 10-day trial with Sporting Clube de Braga in the Primeira Liga.

But that’s not all; he will also try his luck in Belgium with Anderlecht, a top-tier team in the Belgian Pro League. If opportunities arise, he may also explore chances with Lille in France, a team that plays in Ligue 1.

Iradukunda is expected to spend a month in Europe and will return to Rwanda in January 2025.
Not only are these clubs interested in him, but Turkish team Antalyaspor, currently in 11th place in the Turkish Super League, has also extended an invitation.

Iradukunda is expected to spend a month in Europe.

The 18-year-old is one of the most talented players in Rwanda’s Premier League. Last season, he was awarded the Best Young Player after an impressive performance.

In the 55 matches he has played in the Rwandan Premier League, he has scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists.

Mukura Victory Sports central defender, Elie Tatou Iradukunda is expected under go trials in Europe.

The player left Kigali on Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Last season, he was awarded the Best Young Player after an impressive performance.

IGIHE

According to Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

In a detailed response dated December 9, 2024, Karua expressed dismay over the council’s decision, calling it an attack on her integrity and a disregard for Besigye’s constitutional right to legal representation of his choice. She criticized the council for failing to request additional documentation rather than outright rejecting her application.

'The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,' Karua wrote. 'Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.'

Karua also dismissed allegations that she misrepresented herself as a practising advocate in Uganda during a December 2, 2024, court appearance. She clarified that she attended the session as a visiting jurist alongside Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who introduced her to the court as awaiting approval for her temporary licence.

The rejection comes at a critical moment in Besigye’s trial, where he and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.

The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.

The next hearing is scheduled for December 10, 2024, following a request by Besigye’s defence team for an adjournment to allow time for Karua’s application to be processed.

Karua’s protest letter also highlighted what she described as 'disparaging and personalized aspersions' on her character by the council. She urged the council to exercise its discretion under the Advocates Act judiciously and to respect regional cooperation principles, particularly within the East African Community.

Dr. Besigye, a four-time presidential candidate and long-time critic of President Yoweri Museveni, has faced numerous arrests and trials over his activism. His current trial has further heightened tensions in Uganda’s political landscape.

Karua, a former Kenyan Justice Minister, was seen as a significant boost to the defence team, which includes over 50 lawyers and representatives from the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

According to Martha Karua, the council rejected her application citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of her involvement, sparking a strong protest from the seasoned lawyer.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

However, Dr. Habineza who serves as the chairperson of DGPR was notably excluded from the parliamentary list—a decision he describes as carefully considered.

He recently spoke to IGIHE about his political journey, the challenges of the election, and his plans for the future of the Green Party.

Electoral defeat and party realignment

After the election, Dr. Habineza withdrew from the public eye, a move he attributes to his focus on restructuring his party internally.

“When you don’t win, some people feel discouraged, and it’s the leader’s responsibility to reunite and motivate the team,” he explained.

Despite the electoral loss, the DGPR remained resolute in realigning and reorganizing its structures to face future challenges.

Dr. Habineza briefly visited Sweden but returned quickly, to continue with his law studies and party responsibilities.

“During my time in Parliament, I learned a lot, but I hadn’t studied law yet. There were areas where I felt I lacked expertise, particularly in advocating for the Rwandan people. I started studying law while in Parliament, and I’m happy to say that I’m in my second year now. I’ll be finishing next year,” he shared.

Decision to run for president again

Dr. Habineza’s decision to run for president again in 2024, despite his previous defeat in 2017, was a thoughtful one.

He emphasizes that it was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to contribute to Rwanda’s democratic development.

“We realized that although I ran in 2017 and didn’t succeed, we gained valuable insights,” he noted.

According to the 47-year-old, the DGPR’s participation in the election was about presenting a platform for their vision of national leadership.

Reflecting on the 2024 elections, Dr. Habineza observed significant improvements in the election environment.

“In 2024, the security situation was excellent,” he said, noting that local leaders were more receptive and the police provided necessary protection throughout the campaign.

The future

Despite two electoral defeats, Dr. Habineza remains committed to the political process.

“What could prevent me from running again?” he asked, emphasizing that the party’s confidence in him is a strong motivator.

He also draws inspiration from leaders like Abdoulaye Wade of Senegal, who ran for president four times before eventually succeeding.

“Running once or twice doesn’t mean giving up; it means correcting past mistakes through continued effort,” he explained.

Dr. Habineza also indicated that he is open to stepping aside if the party identifies a more capable candidate.

For now, he is focused on strengthening the party’s election strategy, particularly by increasing its representation at polling stations.

“We had plans for this, but our resources fell short,” he admitted. Improving election monitoring will be a key priority moving forward.

Financial challenges

Dr. Habineza discussed the financial challenges his party faced, explaining that five political parties contested the 2018 parliamentary elections and received about Frw100 million each.

“We used those funds to purchase a party house, which we later sold to finance the campaign,” he said.

While the sale of the property came with additional debt, he confirmed that the debts have now been settled.

Looking ahead, Dr. Habineza is hopeful that the party will be reimbursed for campaign expenses, as the law allows political parties that garner more than 5% of the vote to recover part of their costs.

“We are optimistic that we’ll receive reimbursement, which we can use to buy another property,” he said.

Dr. Habineza revealed that the party spent over Frw300 million during the 2024 election campaign.

Exclusion of party member from parliamentary list

A recent development that attracted attention was the removal of one of the DGPR’s candidate from the parliamentary list just before swearing-in.

Carine Maombi, who was second on the party’s list, was unexpectedly replaced by Jacqueline Masozera Icyizanye after issues arose regarding her candidacy.

Dr. Habineza explained, “At the last minute, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau informed us that there were issues with her candidacy.”

While the matter is under investigation, he clarified that it has not yet reached the courts, and the party considers the issue resolved for now.

Dr. Frank Habineza has discussed realignment, electoral setbacks and the future of Green Party.

IGIHE

This decision was made as part of efforts to strengthen and unify the work of organizations representing the survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

According to information obtained by IGIHE, these changes had been under discussion for over five years, and the most recent meeting of the leaders of these organizations resulted in this resolution.

In a statement released to the public, IBUKA emphasized its continued commitment to ensuring that the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi is never forgotten.

'After 30 years since the Genocide was halted, the effects of the Genocide are still visible both in Rwanda and abroad. IBUKA continues to take measures to confront and address these challenges. IBUKA, in collaboration with all Rwandans and friends of Rwanda, will ensure that the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi is not forgotten, and will continue to refute those who deny or downplay the Genocide,' reads the statement in part.

'IBUKA will also continue working with the Rwandan government on the important programs of unity and reconciliation as part of efforts to build a Rwanda free from any form of discrimination,' it says.

Following the decision to merge the organizations, the General Assembly elected IBUKA’s leadership. Dr. Philbert Gakwenzire was chosen as President, Christine Muhongayire as First Vice President, Blaise Ndizihiwe as Second Vice President, and Louis de Montfort Mujyambere as General Secretary.

Dr. Philbert Gakwenzire, the new President of the merged Organization.

Aline Mpinganzima became Commissioner for youth, education, and culture, while Janvier Bayingana took on as Commissioner for remembrance, reconciliation, justice and peace building.

Monique Gahongayire was appointed Commissioner for health, social Welfare, and gender promoting whereas Evode Ndatsikira was elected Commissioner for research, development, capacity building, and investment.

IBUKA was founded in 1995 to advocate for the rights of survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, preserve its history, and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. The organization operates in Rwanda and with other independent similar groups based abroad.

These changes affect IBUKA in Rwanda, as the IBUKA organizations in other countries will independently continue their operations as usual, while aligning their efforts with the newly merged organization in Rwanda.
AERG was established by 12 students at what was then the National University of Rwanda in 1996, and it has since expanded its reach.

GAERG was founded in 2003 with the goal of empowering organizations of Genocide survivors, collaborating with other Rwandans to fight against Genocide and other conflicts, and contributing to the development of Rwanda.

IBUKA, strives to preserve the memory of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide against the Tutsi.

IGIHE

The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.

The growth propelled Kenya to the second spot among Rwanda’s top import partners, contributing 19.29% of total imports.

Meanwhile, Tanzania experienced a notable decline, with its exports to Rwanda plummeting by 39.04% month-on-month to $57.38 million, representing just 9.11% of Rwanda’s total imports.

Tanzania’s sharp drop from its previously dominant position indicates a significant shift in Rwanda’s import landscape, as it has long been Rwanda’s primary partner due to its geographical proximity and the role of the Dar es Salaam port.

Kenya’s performance has been attributed to increased trade in key commodities such as food products and manufactured goods, sectors in which it is highly competitive. By contrast, Tanzania’s decline reflects reduced trade volumes in categories like crude materials and other traditional export items.

China remains Rwanda’s top import partner, supplying $142.08 million worth of goods in October 2024. However, Kenya’s surge underscores its growing role in the regional trade landscape.

The shift also highlights Kenya’s robust trade infrastructure and strong bilateral relations with Rwanda. Enhanced trade agreements, improved logistics, and competitive pricing are likely contributing factors to Kenya’s rise.

Other notable import partners include India, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda, Malaysia, Belgium, Egypt, and Japan.

In the export market, the United Arab Emirates led as the largest destination, accounting for 67.44% of exports, despite a 15% month-on-month decline. Other notable export partners include the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Luxembourg, and Uganda.

In October 2024, Rwanda’s trade deficit stood at $363.65 million, reflecting a 7.37% decrease compared to September 2024 but an 11.89% increase compared to October 2023.

Rwanda’s total exports displayed a mixed performance during the same month. While exports declined by 12.29% month-on-month, they showed a remarkable 45.49% increase year-on-year. Domestic exports followed a similar pattern, with a 15.75% month-on-month decline but an impressive 61.81% rise year-on-year. Meanwhile, re-exports recorded modest growth, increasing by 1.63% month-on-month and 8.87% year-on-year.

Among export sectors, animal and vegetable oils, fats, and waxes stood out with exceptional growth, registering a 42.43% increase month-on-month and a staggering 6347.55% increase year-on-year. Similarly, miscellaneous manufactured articles performed strongly, growing by 23.76% month-on-month and 57.26% year-on-year.

On the imports side, total imports experienced a slight decline of 1.92% month-on-month but rose significantly by 23.99% year-on-year. The food and live animals category contributed notably to this growth, increasing by 19.21% month-on-month and 22.00% year-on-year. Additionally, chemicals and related products exhibited robust performance, with imports rising by 21.42% month-on-month and 35.15% year-on-year.

The October 2024 report highlights a significant shift in Rwanda’s import dynamics, with imports from Kenya soaring to $121.45 million—a staggering 241.55% increase compared to September 2024 and a 361.43% rise year-on-year.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The initiative, organized annually by the BK Foundation in partnership with Inkomoko Rwanda, is aimed at helping small and medium-sized enterprises across various sectors thrive.

In addition to financial support, the winners of the competition receive six months of training, consulting, and business advisory services, which enable them to grow their businesses, create jobs, and secure long-term sustainability.

This year’s edition marked a significant milestone as, for the first time, all five winners were women.

BK Foundation Executive Secretary, Ingrid Karangwayire, highlighted the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs, recognizing their vital role in the country’s development.

The five winning entrepreneurs were selected from 12 participants who recently showcased their projects after completing the six-month training program.

The selected businesses come from a range of sectors and are based in Kigali City, Musanze, Gicumbi, and Kayonza districts.

Emmanuel Mugabo, CEO of Inkomoko Rwanda, explained that the training provided these entrepreneurs with the tools to better manage their resources, streamline their operations, and improve profitability.

Christelle Uwase, who runs a potato seedling multiplication project in Gicumbi District, was awarded a Frw7 million loan.

She expressed her gratitude for the support, stating that the funding would help expand her business and increase the quantity of seedlings produced to meet the growing demand from local farmers.

Alphonsine Uwamariya, who operates a sanitary products business in Kayonza District, also benefitted greatly from the program.

She shared that the BK Urumuri training helped her realize the importance of marketing her business more effectively.

'Before, we didn’t engage in extensive marketing; we waited for customers to come to us. After the training, I learned that I could go out to different places, talk to people about what I do, and promote my business on social media, which has attracted more customers,' Uwamariya explained.

Yvette Umutoniwabo, who runs a mill in Kigali, also expressed her gratitude for the support, stating that the funding would allow her to increase her production capacity.

'This money will help me purchase a machine that will increase the output of my factory, allowing me to increase production from 15 tons per month to 25 tons per month,' she said.

Alphonsine Twizerimana, a vegetable and fruit farmer from Musanze, plans to integrate more technology into her farming practices with the support of the loan. She expects this investment will enable her to increase her monthly output from 250 kilograms to 750 kilograms.

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

Since its inception, the BK Urumuri Initiative has provided over Frw234 million in interest-free loans to emerging entrepreneurs, furthering its mission of fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth in Rwanda.

The BK Foundation has emphasized that the program will continue to support entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and contribute to the country’s economic development.

Christelle Uwase, who runs a potato seedling multiplication project in Gicumbi District, was awarded a Frw7 million loan.

Yvette Umutoniwabo, who owns a food processing company specializing in the production of porridge flour from various cereals said that the funding will allow her to increase her production capacity.

Alphonsine Twizerimana, a vegetable and fruit farmer from Musanze, plans to integrate more technology into her farming practices with the support of the loan.

Alphonsine Uwamariya, who operates a sanitary products business in Kayonza District emerged among winners.

BK Foundation Executive Secretary, Ingrid Karangwayire, highlighted the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs, recognizing their vital role in the country’s development.

IGIHE