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NASA is now targeting April 2026 for Artemis II, its first crewed moon mission, and mid-2027 for Artemis III, a historic moon landing mission exploring the lunar South Pole region.

Artemis III will be the first mission to return U.S. astronauts to the surface of the moon in more than 50 years.

The agency previously set September 2025 for Artemis II, and September 2026 for Artemis III.

The delay came after NASA concluded the examination of a technical problem happened during the agency’s Artemis I mission in 2022.

The Artemis I flight test, carrying the Orion spacecraft, was launched on Nov. 16, 2022, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The Artemis I mission was the first integrated flight test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, and ground systems.

During the Artemis I mission, the Orion spacecraft experienced an unexpected char loss across its heat shield, according to NASA.

Extensive analysis, including from more than 100 tests at unique facilities across the country, determined the heat shield on Artemis I did not allow for enough of the gases generated inside a material called Avcoat to escape, which caused some of the material to crack and break off.

Avcoat is designed to wear away as it heats up and is a key material in the thermal protection system that guards Orion and its crew from the nearly 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit of temperatures that are generated when Orion returns from the moon through Earth’s atmosphere, according to NASA.

Approximately 200 Avcoat samples were removed from the Artemis I heat shield at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama for analysis and inspection.

“We took our heat shield investigation process extremely seriously with crew safety as the driving force behind the investigation,” said Howard Hu, manager of Orion Program, NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “The process was extensive. We gave the team the time needed to investigate every possible cause, and they worked tirelessly to ensure we understood the phenomenon and the necessary steps to mitigate this issue for future missions.”

Engineers already are assembling and integrating the Orion spacecraft for Artemis III based on lessons learned from Artemis I and implementing enhancements to how heat shields for crewed returns from lunar landing missions are manufactured, to achieve uniformity and consistent permeability, according to NASA.

The Orion spacecraft, built by NASA and prime contractor Lockheed Martin, is currently the only spacecraft capable of crewed deep space flight and high-speed return to Earth from the vicinity of the moon.

On NASA’s Artemis moon exploration missions, Orion will carry the crew to space, provide emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel, and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities.

With the Artemis campaign, NASA plans to land the first woman, first person of color, and its first international partner astronaut on the moon, and establish long-term exploration for scientific discovery and preparation for human missions to Mars.

Artist’s concept of a future moon landing carried out under NASA’s newly named Artemis program.

Xinhua

As part of his visit, CG Murenzi attended the graduation ceremony for the second intake of the Senior Management Development Course in Corrections (SMDCC) on December 6, 2024, at Chikurubi Dam View.

Among the 44 graduates were five senior RCS officers who completed the first-ever intake of this course for Rwanda.

The event, graced by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi, brought together high-ranking government officials and other dignitaries, including Rwanda’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, James Musoni.

The SMDCC, which began in January 2024, equipped Rwandan officers with skills in senior leadership and prison management. They earned diplomas in Entrepreneurship and Leadership from the Zimbabwe Open University, certificates in prison administration and management from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Staff College, and a certificate in ideology from the Chitepo School of Ideology.

'This milestone reflects Rwanda’s commitment to enhancing correctional best practices through regional and international collaboration,' CG Murenzi said.

During the visit, the Rwandan delegation is also scheduled to visit Marondera Female Open Correctional Institution and Mazoe Farm Prison. The facilities serve as models for inmate rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration, particularly through open prison systems. The benchmarking will inform the establishment of halfway social reintegration centres in Rwanda, aimed at easing inmates’ transition back into society.

The collaboration between Rwanda and Zimbabwe in corrections is anchored in a 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Harare. The MoU outlines areas of cooperation, including joint projects, staff training exchange programs, and shared correctional innovations.

In March 2023, Zimbabwe’s Commissioner General of Prisons, CG Dr. Moses Chihobvu, visited Rwanda for a benchmarking mission.

Among the highlights of the visit was Rwanda’s use of biogas technology in correctional facilities, which significantly reduces operational costs. Dr. Chihobvu expressed interest in adopting this innovation in Zimbabwe as part of the ongoing bilateral engagements.

Rwanda’s Commissioner General of Correctional Service (RCS), CG Evariste Murenzi, is on an official visit to Zimbabwe as part of efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation in correctional practices, leadership development, and innovative inmate rehabilitation.

The collaboration between Rwanda and Zimbabwe in corrections is anchored in a 2021 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in Harare.

Among the 44 graduates were five senior RCS officers who completed the first-ever intake of this course for Rwanda.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The report, launched at the African Investment Forum on December 4, reveals that the sector reached $1.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to continue expanding rapidly in the coming years.

A key driver of this growth is the $2 billion Bugesera International Airport project, one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in the country.

In addition to the airport project, the report highlights that Rwanda’s construction growth is supported by the implementation of new strategies aimed at boosting key industries, particularly in pharmaceuticals and ICT.

Across East Africa, the construction sector reached $48.1 billion in 2024, accounting for a quarter of Africa’s total construction value.

The region is projected to see this figure nearly double by 2028, reaching $73 billion. Key contributors to this growth include Tanzania’s focus on modern railway construction, Ethiopia’s industrial park developments, and Kenya’s $3.4 billion oil exploration project in South Lokichar, set to commence between 2024 and 2025.

Rwanda’s continued infrastructure development positions it as one of the fastest-growing construction markets in Africa over the next decade.

Bugesera International Airport project is one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in Rwanda.

IGIHE

The announcement was made on December 5, 2024, by Théophile Mbonera, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, during an event hosted by the Legal Aid Forum (LAF) in collaboration with Kenya’s Kituo Cha Sheria, a legal advice center.

The event presented findings from a study conducted between late 2022 and 2023 on the impact of digitization in advancing justice systems in Rwanda and Kenya after Covid-19 pandemic.

The annual number of new cases in Rwandan courts rose from 75,000 in the 2019—2020 period to 89,000 in 2023—2024. This increase highlights how digital tools like IECMS have streamlined judicial processes and enhanced efficiency.

Technology has also played a pivotal role in the operations of mediation committees, known locally as Abunzi, through a system called Ganubutabera. Between June 2023 and June 2024, these committees handled 23,000 cases, achieving an impressive 99% resolution rate.

Despite these advancements, challenges persist, particularly for individuals who are illiterate or live in areas with limited internet access or electricity.

LAF Executive Director Andrews Kananga pointed out that while many Rwandans have embraced digital tools, the study revealed ongoing issues such as literacy barriers, limited connectivity in rural areas, and data security risks associated with using cyber cafés for legal processes.

To address these challenges, the Ministry of Justice has implemented measures such as training individuals to assist citizens in navigating IECMS at cyber cafés. However, concerns about privacy and data protection remain, as sensitive personal information may not always be adequately safeguarded.

The government is also advancing initiatives like the “Byikorere” program, which aims to empower citizens to independently use digital justice platforms. Continuous awareness campaigns and skills training are considered essential to ensure broader access and usability.

Mbonera emphasized the importance of these efforts, noting that cyber café services will remain available until digital tools are fully accessible to all citizens. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of non-governmental organizations like LAF in expanding access to justice.

Over the years, LAF has been instrumental in providing legal aid in 120,000 cases, representing 430 individuals in court, advising 14,000 others, and resolving 1,263 cases through mediation. The organization has also facilitated specialized services such as advocacy and DNA testing in 62 cases.

Rwanda’s continued investment in technology, combined with partnerships with civil society organizations, is expected to further enhance its justice system, ensuring it becomes more accessible and efficient for all citizens.

Théophile Mbonera, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice acknowledged the significant contributions of non-governmental organizations like LAF in expanding access to justice.

LAF Executive Director Andrews Kananga pointed out that many Rwandans have embraced digital tools.

The event presented findings from a study conducted between late 2022 and 2023 on the impact of digitization in advancing justice systems in Rwanda and Kenya.

IGIHE

The victim was reportedly visiting a worker at Rutatina’s farm in Murundi Sector, Kayonza District. The incident allegedly occurred on November 27, 2024, when farm workers, acting under Rutatina’s instructions, attacked the visitor.

Medical reports from the hospital where the victim sought treatment confirm that their condition is steadily improving.

RIB has announced that the case file involving Rutatina and ten of his workers will be handed over to the Prosecution this Friday.

The Bureau has advised citizens to avoid taking justice into their own hands, as such actions are punishable by law. Instead, Rwandans are encouraged to report any grievances to the relevant authorities.

Maj Gen (Rtd) Rutatina retired from the Rwanda Defense Force in 2016, where he previously served as the Head of Military Intelligence (J2).

Maj Gen (Rtd) Richard Rutatina has been arrested.

IGIHE

The state-of-the-art facility, located in the Nyamyumba Sector of Rubavu District, was opened on Friday, December 6, 2024, during a ceremony graced by Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, alongside Joan Wiegman, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Rwanda, and Alison Thorpe, UK High Commissioner.

The port is poised to revolutionize trade and connectivity, particularly between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Gasore hailed the port as a 'key milestone' in Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and regional integration. He emphasized that Rubavu Port would play a pivotal role in improving community livelihoods by boosting trade and creating job opportunities.

Rubavu Port boasts impressive capabilities, with a capacity to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually. The two-hectare facility includes cargo and passenger terminals, a wastewater treatment plant, a petrol station, and accommodations for staff.

Since its pilot phase began in June 2024, the port has been fully operational, with traders already benefiting from its modern infrastructure. The facility also provides significant employment opportunities for Rubavu residents, engaging cooperatives of porters to load and unload cargo.

Rubavu Port operates as a One-Stop Border Post, offering seamless services from agencies such as the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), Rwanda Revenue Authority, and Rwanda National Police Marine Unit. Beyond facilitating trade, it caters to tourists exploring the scenic attractions of Lake Kivu in Rwanda’s Western Province.

The port is part of the broader National Strategic Transformation (NST1) plan, which includes the construction of three additional ports on Lake Kivu—Rusizi, Karongi, and Nkora. Once completed, these ports are expected to further ease the transport of goods and passengers, solidifying Rwanda’s position as a regional trade hub.

According to the National Institute of Statistics, the DRC is Rwanda’s second-largest export destination, with $16.2 million worth of goods exported in June 2024 alone.

Traditionally reliant on land routes, the launch of Rubavu Port marks a significant shift toward utilizing Lake Kivu for maritime trade, unlocking new opportunities for regional economic integration and growth.

Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore hailed the port as a 'key milestone' in Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.

The state-of-the-art facility, located in the Nyamyumba Sector of Rubavu District, was opened on Friday, December 6, 2024.

The inauguration of Rubavu Port marks the beginning of a transformative era for maritime trade on Lake Kivu with promises of enhanced regional connectivity and economic growth.

Rubavu Port boasts impressive capabilities, with a capacity to handle 700,000 tons of cargo and 2.7 million passengers annually.

Since the port’s pilot phase which began in June 2024, the facility has been fully operational, with traders already benefiting from its modern infrastructure.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The agreement was signed on Thursday, December 5, in Kigali between the Inspector General of Police (IGP) CG Felix Namuhoranye and his visiting counterpart of The Gambia, Gen. Seedy Muctar Touray.

Gen. Touray and his delegation arrived in Rwanda on December 1, for a week-long visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two police institutions.

The cooperation pact guides the two institutions to work together in activities related to fighting transnational crimes and terrorism, exchange of information, training and expertise, among others.

During the bilateral meeting on Monday, December 2, IGP Namuhoranye said that the friendship and collaboration between the RNP and Gambia Police Force is a significant step forward and an opportunity for both sides to strengthen relations, expand their partnership, share knowledge and experience, and to find appropriate solutions to the evolving security challenges.

Gen. Touray also said that this partnership is in the right direction as government of The Gambia is on a journey to reform its security institutions, including Gambia Police Force.

He added that cooperation with the RNP presents an opportunity to learn from each other, particularly learn from Rwanda’s experience in international peace and security operations.

The agreement was signed on Thursday, December 5, in Kigali between the Inspector General of Police (IGP) CG Felix Namuhoranye and his visiting counterpart of The Gambia, Gen. Seedy Muctar Touray.

IGIHE

The launch is expected by January 2025 and will be spearheaded by the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC). It will mark a major step forward in the country’s efforts to curb new infections and offer innovative treatment solutions for individuals at high risk of contracting the virus.

The drug, known as long-acting cabotegravir (CAB-LA), is a new form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It offers an alternative to daily oral PrEP, requiring only a bi-monthly injection following two initial doses spaced four weeks apart.

Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, CAB-LA has been described as a “safe and highly effective prevention tool” for individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection.

According to Dr. Basile Ikuzo, Director of the HIV Prevention Unit at RBC, the drug will initially be introduced on a pilot basis at two health centres.

“We aim to assess client acceptability and determine if it can be a new intervention. If the feedback is positive, we plan to scale it up across the country,” Dr. Ikuzo said in a recent interview with The New Times.

Rwanda’s adoption of CAB-LA also addresses the challenges of adhering to oral PrEP. Many individuals find it difficult to maintain a daily pill routine, making long-acting injectables a more convenient and reliable option.

The rollout will initially target high-risk groups, including female sex workers and discordant couples. Currently, over 10,000 individuals in Rwanda use oral PrEP, representing 30% of those identified as high-risk. The new initiative aims to expand access to prevention services and further lower HIV prevalence among vulnerable groups.

The introduction of CAB-LA aligns with Rwanda’s commitment to meeting and surpassing the UNAIDS “95-95-95” targets, which aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV are diagnosed, 95% of those diagnosed receive antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on treatment achieve viral suppression.

Rwanda has made notable progress in addressing HIV/AIDS, with prevalence rates among high-risk groups showing a steady decline. For instance, HIV prevalence among female sex workers has decreased from 45% a decade ago to 35%. Overall, the HIV prevalence rate among Rwandans aged 15-64 stands at 3%, according to the 2019 Rwanda Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (RPHIA).

The Ministry of Health has emphasized the importance of maintaining preventive measures while embracing new solutions.

Minister of Health, Dr. Nsanzimana Sabin, believes that long-acting injectables could alleviate the burden on individuals who require lifelong HIV treatment.

“This approach offers a practical alternative to the daily regimen, ensuring better adherence and improving quality of life,” Dr. Nsanzimana said during a previous address.

The drug, known as long-acting cabotegravir (CAB-LA), is a new form of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). It offers an alternative to daily oral PrEP, requiring only a bi-monthly injection following two initial doses spaced four weeks apart.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Click this link to view the list of graduands and read the message from the Vice-Chancellor: Mount Kenya University 26th Graduation

IGIHE

Kigali has recently witnessed a growing urban mobility problem and a high volume of traffic requiring significant adjustments to urban transport design and systems.

Congestion and long queues are prevalent at most major junctions, increasing operating costs, travel times, disruption, and traffic conflicts.

Through 'Kigali Urban Transport Improvement Project', Rwanda seeks to put an end to that and improve the efficiency, inclusivity and safety of road transport mobility.

The funds to support this initiative were agreed at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan on 2 December.

The lack of an inclusive urban mobility system, such as dedicated bus lanes, a non-motorised transport system and limited integration between different public transport networks, exacerbates transport problems and has led citizens to opt for motorbike taxis, the number of which is increasing in urban areas, putting users at risk of accidents.

According to Aïssa Touré Sarr, the African Development Bank’s Country Manager for Rwanda, the project will focus on improving three of the seven crucial junctions identified as bottlenecks so as to have more efficient, sustainable and user-friendly urban transport infrastructure.

'Ultimately, the investments should make it possible to mitigate the current and future challenges of urban mobility in Kigali and pave the way for a just transition to a more sustainable and efficient urban transport system, thereby transforming into a low-carbon sector,' she said.

The project provides for the construction of prioritised junctions with provisions for public transport (bus lanes) and non-motorised traffic at the three junctions in question.

It also includes the building of infrastructure to help uplift the social status of communities in Kigali, including the upgrading of bus stops, and safe and well-lit public transport stations that are convenient for nursing mothers and pregnant women, and that will protect waiting bus travellers from the rain.

Pavements and pedestrian crossings to accommodate all citizens, including people with disabilities, will be installed to improve mobility and safety.

The 2022 Population Census indicates that the city of Kigali, which boasted a population of 1.7 million that is expected to grow to 3.8 million by 2050.

Part of the funds will be allocated to infrastructure to help uplift the social status of communities in Kigali, including the upgrading of bus stops.

IGIHE