Category: Uncategorized

Ramazan Twalla, the assistant chief administrative officer for Bulambuli, told Xinhua over the phone that the landslides swept through three sub-counties on Wednesday night, burying around 40 houses.

“I can confirm that nine bodies have so far been recovered this morning. The residents are still digging the soil and we expect to recover more bodies because many houses were buried,” Twalla said.

“We expect the government to send in official search and rescue teams as well as humanitarian assistance in the form of food and temporary shelters,” he added.

The landslides were triggered by days of heavy downpour in the mountainous region, said Twalla.

Xinhua

Dr. Francis Habumugisha, CEO of Mega Global Link welcomed the recognition

Each year, Karisimbi Events honors outstanding public and private companies for their exceptional business practices and customer service. Mega Global Link was among the distinguished winners this year, celebrated for its dedication to supporting Rwandans in studying abroad.

Dr. Habumugisha shared his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it will motivate the team to work even harder.

'This is a meaningful moment for Mega Global Link, Mega Global Market, and Goodrich Business Group,' he said. 'We thank God for giving us the strength, wisdom, and dedication to serve our fellow Rwandans. We are proud to be recognized as a leader in helping people travel abroad.'

He further explained that the company entered the field after witnessing many Rwandans fall victim to scams or misinformation about visa applications. 'We saw that people were being misled, promised visas they couldn’t get, or had their cases mishandled. At Mega Global Link, we are committed to honesty—we tell people the truth. If a particular visa isn’t possible, we say so, and we offer alternative solutions.'

In just one year, Mega Global Link has made a significant impact, assisting Rwandans in traveling for education, work, family visits, tourism, and medical treatment. The company collaborates with countries in Europe, Canada, and the USA.

Currently, Mega Global Link operates in Rwanda, New York, Canada, and Europe. Dr. Habumugisha expressed his pride in the company’s achievements thus far, stating that the goal for 2025 is to help even more people. 'What matters most to us is the joy of knowing we’re making a difference in people’s lives. We provide top-tier service to help our clients achieve their dreams.'

He also revealed that in the coming months, beneficiaries of Mega Global Link’s services will begin sharing their success stories, demonstrating the impact of the company’s work.

Mega Global Link is located in Kigali at Matheus House, on the third floor.

Dr. Francis Habumugisha, CEO of Mega Global Link, expressed pride and excitement about the award.

Dr. Habumugisha (in the middle) shared his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it will motivate the team to work even harder.

Mega Global Link was among the distinguished winners this year, celebrated for its dedication to supporting Rwandans in studying abroad.

Dr. Habumugisha represented the company at the award ceremony.

IGIHE

This recognition came on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, during a visit by World Bank representatives and donors to SAIP II-supported projects in Rwamagana District.

SAIP II is implemented under the Single Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) of the Rwanda Agricultural and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).

Some of the projects visited include the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which utilizes water from the Nyirabidibiri dam for irrigation and greenhouse farming, as well as an avocado farm spanning eight hectares.

Jean Hitimana, the SAIP II manager, revealed that the initiative, along with its predecessor SAIP I, had received a total of $52 million in funding. He emphasized that the project aims to boost agricultural productivity in Rwanda, with a particular focus on crops such as maize, beans, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits.

'The primary goal is to improve nutrition, which is why we are working with farmers on various initiatives, including distributing chickens for egg production, teaching kitchen gardening, and supplying mushroom cultivation kits. These efforts all contribute to improving the diets of local farmers,' Hitimana said.

He added that World Bank officials and other donors were pleased with the positive outcomes their support had produced in the community, urging citizens to maintain the infrastructure in place and use the funding responsibly.

'The donors observed the progress made and were pleased to see that the funding was being used effectively. Farmers shared their progress and outlined their plans for future growth, showing that the funding is continuing to deliver positive results,' he added.

Fidele Dushimirimana, president of the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which farms across 215 hectares in the Mwulire, Rubona, Nzige, and Gahengeri sectors, explained that before the introduction of irrigation infrastructure, farmers relied on unpredictable rainfall, which often led to crop losses.

'Now, we can farm even without rain. We grow crops like chili peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and potatoes, while also practicing crop rotation with maize, beans, and soybeans. Many of us now have a stable income, as tomato farmers, for example, can sell their produce regularly in the market,' Dushimirimana said.

He expressed his gratitude to the Rwandan government for facilitating such effective partnerships with donors, which have quadrupled the benefits farmers are experiencing and allowed them to farm sustainably throughout the year.

Josiane Mukansanga, a farmer from Kigarama in the Nzige sector, shared her success story of growing vegetables, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes.

'Previously, we farmed just for subsistence, but now we have access to markets where we sell our produce regularly. In one season, I earned over 300,000 Rwandan Francs, which enabled me to renovate my house and buy livestock,' Mukansanga said.

Oliver Mutesi, the Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources for Rwamagana District, praised the SAIP for its support, including the provision of solar-powered irrigation systems and other vital resources.

She urged the World Bank to continue supporting such initiatives, recognizing the profound impact they have on farmers’ livelihoods. Mutesi also assured that the district would continue to monitor and support farmers in maintaining the infrastructure provided to them.

Currently, the SAIP II is operational in 20 districts across Rwanda, helping farmers increase productivity in crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, vegetables, and fruits.

The project emphasizes improving nutrition, facilitating small-scale irrigation on small plots, and supporting smallholder farmers through infrastructure development and value addition.

Irrigation infrastructure have reduced farmers’ reliance on rainfall.

Farmers also benefit form greenhouse technology to improve yields.

Greenhouses have helped farmers to boost agrocultural productivity.

Farmers yields increased significantly.

Beneficiaries also grow eggplants

Chili is among other crops grown by farmers benefitting from World Bank in Rwamagana.

Farmers showcased agricultural produce during teh visit.

Farmers attest transformed livelihoods, thanks to the support from World Bank.

Officials from the World Bank and its donor partners have commended the successful use of funding in projects including the SAIP II.

Officials from the World Bank interacting with beneficiaries during the field visit.

World Bank officials visiting funded projects in Rwamagana.

Nyirabidibiri dam is used for irrigation of farmers’ crops.

Gwiza Rw34 cooperative is a beneficiary of World Bank’s funding.

The SAIP II is operational in 20 districts across Rwanda, helping farmers increase productivity in crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, vegetables, and fruits.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners, and private sector to reflect on the enduring partnership that has contributed to Rwanda’s transformation.

Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the pivotal role the AfDB has played in the country’s socio-economic growth.

'This moment offers us an opportunity to reflect on our impactful journey and reaffirm our shared visions for a brighter and more inclusive world,' Murangwa said, hailing Rwanda’s progress, calling the country 'a beacon of hope and a model for economic development.'

He acknowledged President Kagame’s transformative leadership and the pivotal role of the AfDB in supporting Rwanda’s recovery and growth after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

The AfDB’s partnership with Rwanda dates back to 1965, with agriculture being the initial area of focus. Over the years, the collaboration has expanded to cover various sectors, including energy, water, sanitation, and infrastructure.

Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning hailed the partnership with AfDB during his keynote address.

'These achievements are a testament to the strength of our partnership and the unwavering commitment of everyone involved,' Murangwa stated.

Today, Rwanda’s portfolio with the Bank stands at $2.21 billion, with 27 projects directly aligned with the country’s National Strategies for Transformation (NST1 and NST2).

One of the key areas of success highlighted at the event was the Bank’s investment in Rwanda’s energy sector. 'These investments have been crucial in improving the standards of living and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,' Murangwa stated.

The country’s electricity access has seen a remarkable increase from 16.8% in 2012 to 74.4% in 2023, with the goal of achieving universal access in the near future.

In addition to infrastructure, the AfDB has supported Rwanda’s efforts in human capital development. A notable example is the establishment of Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU Africa) in Kigali in 2018, which offers world-class master’s programs in fields such as artificial intelligence and engineering.

Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s exceptional relationship with the African Development Bank, noting that it is the only country in Africa to fully utilize all the Bank’s financial mechanisms.

Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s exceptional relationship with the AfDB

'Rwanda is the fifth largest customer of the AfDB on the continent. This underscores the country’s strong partnership with us,' she said.

Sarr discussed key challenges faced by the private sector, particularly the lack of adequate access to finance, technology, and capacity building, especially within the informal sector. She also addressed climate change issues, explaining that the Bank has established a fund to raise climate financing, which will help build more climate-resilient infrastructure.

Moving forward, Sarr stressed the importance of private sector development for Rwanda’s long-term growth, saying that the country’s future economic development will be driven by the private sector to achieve Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation goals.

'We must continue to build on this foundation, especially through private sector development, to secure Rwanda’s future prosperity,' she pointed out.

The celebration also featured the story of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, a beneficiary of the AfDB’s investments in education and skills development. Gatsinzi, who began her career in prosthetics and orthotics in 2014, shared her personal journey.

'Thanks to the AfDB’s investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,' she said. Today, Gatsinzi advocates for the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities, using her expertise to drive change in her community.

Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi is a beneficiary of the AfDB’s investments in education and skills development

Gatsinzi’s story is one of many that highlight the AfDB’s impact on human capital development. Thousands of professionals, including students, healthcare workers, and faculty members, have benefited from AfDB-supported training programs, scholarships, and research opportunities.

Notably, 40% of these beneficiaries are women, reflecting the Bank’s commitment to gender equity and inclusive growth.

The AfDB’s role in Rwanda’s development has been transformative, and with the shared vision for a sustainable future, the partnership is poised to continue its success.

This 60th anniversary not only marked a celebration of the past but also set the stage for the future, with a continued commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development for Rwanda.

The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners and the private sector.

A cake was cut in celebration of the milestone of the 60 year partnership between Rwanda and AfDB.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Owned by Irene Basil, a Rwandan entrepreneur based in the United States, the factory is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s industrial growth.

Basil chose Muhanga as the site for the factory due to its proximity to her hometown and the more affordable land prices compared to other industrial zones.

“I am driven to contribute to the development of my home country, especially my native place,” she shared in a recent interview.

The factory spans four sections, with production already underway for toilet paper. Once fully operational, the facility will produce a variety of products, including toilet paper rolls, laundry soap, sanitary pads under ‘Pure’ brand, and corrugated boxes. The toilet paper section alone can produce over 800 packs daily, each containing ten rolls.

The soap production unit is nearly complete, with 80% of the work finished. It is expected to produce up to 24 metric tons of laundry soap daily, with raw materials imported from Indonesia and India. The plant is also focused on sanitary pad production, becoming the first factory in Rwanda to manufacture them.

“Our capacity is set to produce up to 200,000 pads in an 8-hour shift and 500,000 pads in a 24-hour shift with ten pads packaged together,' said Anir Kumar, the plant manager.

Kumar emphasized the scale of the operation, noting, “This factory has been under construction for the last two years. We are now 99% complete. The final steps involve installing machines for soap and corrugated box production, which will be operational in two months.”

The factory’s infrastructure is designed to accommodate a wide range of products, with raw materials sourced from countries including China, Egypt, India, and Russia.

The sanitary pad production line will rely on imported materials such as PP films and pulps, while the corrugated box unit will provide packaging solutions for a variety of products.

“We want to reach every village and improve the hygiene and quality of life for women,” Kumar added, underscoring the factory’s commitment to quality and its potential impact on public health.

With the factory’s opening, Rwanda’s manufacturing sector is set to see a significant boost.

The new facility will reduce the country’s dependence on imports and provide much-needed employment opportunities.

Over 100 permanent jobs and more than 80 temporary jobs are expected to be created.

The construction of the factory is set to cost $30 million due to the expansion of the product range beyond the initial plans, which originally focused on only soap and sanitary products.

The plant is based in Muhanga Industrial Zone.

Somee of raw materials to be used in the production of corrugated boxes at the plant.

Anir Kumar, the plant manager presenting some of manufactured toilet papers.

At the plant, one can see tanks designated for storage of oil to be used in soap manufacturing.

Sanitary products undergo a rigorous process before distribution to the market.

Over 100 permanent jobs and more than 80 temporary jobs are expected to be created.

The plant’s capacity is set to produce up to 200,000 pads in an 8-hour shift and 500,000 in 24-hours.

Théophile Niyitegeka

This was revealed during discussions between MINEMA and the Senate’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security on November 27, 2024.

Rwanda has been hosting refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the past two years, particularly at the Nkamira refugee camp, where individuals seeking refuge have been granted asylum-seeker status. However, due to limited capacity, many have been relocated to other camps across the country.

Minister of Emergency Management Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira stated that Rwanda currently accommodates over 135,000 refugees, including nearly 15,000 who have arrived since the escalation of the M23 conflict. However, these refugees have not yet been granted official asylum status.

“We are currently hosting around 14,000 to 15,000 refugees who fled the DRC after the M23 conflict. They have not yet received asylum status. While Nkamira camp currently hosts about 4,000 refugees, the camp lacks the capacity to accommodate the full influx, so they have been relocated to other camps while holding refugee-seeker status,” Murasira explained.

He also mentioned that the total number of people seeking asylum in Rwanda, including those from other countries, exceeds 16,000. Refugees in various camps receive cash assistance to purchase essential items, while those at Nkamira are provided with food supplies.

Among the camps, Mahama hosts the largest number of refugees, with 68,115 individuals.

Other camps with significant refugee populations include Kiziba (14,350), Kigeme (14,868), Mugombwa (11,980), and Nyabiheke (11,480). According to MINEMA statistics, more than 9% of refugees in Rwanda live in urban areas, where they are able to meet their basic needs.

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that the DRC has over 7.2 million internally displaced persons.

By September 30, 2024, the number of displaced people from North Kivu—due to the activities of various armed groups, including the FDLR militia and the Wazalendo group—had reached 1.78 million. In the 18 months leading up to September 2024, approximately 865,000 internally displaced persons had returned to their homes.

MINEMA has announced that nearly 15,000 Congolese refugees have fled to Rwanda due to the ongoing conflict between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group.

IGIHE

The agreement was signed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, by Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, and Argentina’s Secretary of Transport, Franco Mogetta.

Ambassador Mukantabana praised the signing as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.

“This milestone is not only an achievement for our aviation industries but also a symbol of the strong and growing ties between our nations,” she said.

Both Rwanda and Argentina share a history of strong cooperation and are now focused on further expanding and deepening their collaboration across political, economic, commercial, and cultural areas for mutual benefit.

Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana signed the agreement on behalf of Rwanda.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Secretary of Transport, Franco Mogetta represented Argentina at the signing ceremony.

IGIHE

The competition is set to run from November 28 to December 2, 2024, in the city of Durban.

The five athletes, coached by Christian Kamuzinzi, were flagged off by Rwego Ngarambe, Director General in charge of Sports Infrastructure Development and Management at the Ministry of Sports.

While presenting the Rwandan flag to the team, Rwego encouraged the athletes, reaffirming the nation’s full support and confidence in their abilities.

He urged them to give their best effort and aim for medals in the tournament.

The 2024 Commonwealth Karate Championships will bring together athletes from across the Commonwealth for an exciting display of skill and competition.

Competing nations include England, Scotland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Rwanda among others.

Hosted by Karate South Africa, the event marks a significant milestone as it serves as both a platform for elite karatekas and an opportunity to promote the sport’s growth within the region.

The tournament will feature categories for juniors, seniors, and veterans, showcasing inclusivity across various age groups.

Athletes will compete in Kumite (sparring) and Kata (forms), showcasing diverse styles and techniques.

The event also includes networking opportunities for national karate federations to discuss the development and integration of karate into broader sports systems.

The five athletes, coached by Christian Kamuzinzi, were flagged off by Rwego Ngarambe, the Director General of Sports Development at the Ministry of Sports.

Rwego Ngarambe, the Director General of Sports Development at the Ministry of Sports, urged the team to give their best effort and aim for medals in the tournament.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The event, coordinated by OAZIS Health in collaboration with Vet connect, IVSA Rwanda, Kundwa health and AMR Initiative, highlighted the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and stewardship in the context of the One Health approach.

Welcomed by Dr. Jean Bosco Ntivuguruzwa, acting Deputy Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine representing Nyagatare head of campus. He emphasized the University of Rwanda’s commitment to combating AMR by educating future leaders.

“The University of Rwanda is committed to producing future leaders who will drive impactful efforts against antimicrobial resistance. As ambassadors of change, you are called to promote awareness and catalyse meaningful actions within your communities. Your contribution to combat AMR includes raising the awareness in your community regarding the prudent use of antibiotics, respect hygiene practices, and proper waste disposal,” said Ntivuguruzwa.

He added that students hold the potential to be at the forefront of innovative solutions to AMR. He encouraged them to maintain a multidisciplinary team work to improve their creativity, acquire interdisciplinary knowledge, and nourish their passion to develop transformative strategies that will shape a healthier future for all.

Dr. Jean Bosco Ntivuguruzwa is the acting Deputy Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at UR Nyagatare campus.

Dr. Nadia Uwera, a Veterinary Doctor and Public Health Specialist, addressed the students during the workshop, emphasizing on the unique position of veterinary professionals in controlling AMR.

“As future veterinary professionals, you have the power to use and prescribe antimicrobials, you are at the forefront of the One Health approach, bridging animal and human health. So, use that power responsibly to protect the health of animals, human health, and the environment,” Uwera said.

She also encouraged the students to embrace best practices in antimicrobial stewardship, stressing the need to move away from outdated habits of irresponsible prescription.

'Fostering a culture of accountability and sustainable healthcare practices is essential for combating AMR,' Uwera added, urging the students to become role models in their communities and fields.

In the same spirit, Dr. Emile Ngabo, the Director of Operations at OAZIS Health, also spoke to the students, stressing the collective responsibility of all health professionals in addressing AMR.

“Antimicrobial resistance is not just a medical or veterinary issue; it is a shared challenge that requires a united front,' he said.

Ngabo stressed that the education students in the campus has a pivotal role to play, the student teachers are essential in promoting responsible antimicrobial use while educating and empowering future generations for a radical behavior change.

Dr. Nadia Uwera addressing the students during the workshop.

The week-long initiative included several activities aimed at raising awareness about AMR.
In addition to the workshop at UR, OAZIS Health launched a media campaign, featuring talk shows on various radio and television stations across the country.

These discussions reached a wide audience, emphasizing the importance of responsible antimicrobial use in both human, plants and veterinary health.

The organization also organized an online campaign that engaged thousands of participants from six countries including Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda, reaching over 8,000 people on various online platforms including social media in collaboration with different regional stakeholders.

The campaign was conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and local languages like Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili, ensuring that the message about AMR resonated with diverse audiences across Africa.

AMR is a growing global health threat, with the World Health Organization warning that it is one of the top 10 health threats worldwide. In 2019 alone, more than 1.27 million deaths were attributed to drug-resistant infections.

As Rwanda continues to focus on educating the next generation of health professionals, the role of veterinary students in combating AMR is becoming increasingly critical. This year’s World AMR awareness week activities were conducted under the theme 'Educate, Advocate, Act Now'

The workshop has strengthened a message that the fight against antimicrobial resistance requires cooperation across sectors and borders, with veterinary, environmental and healthcare professionals working together to ensure responsible use of antimicrobials.

Through initiatives like these, Rwanda is taking significant steps toward a future where AMR is managed effectively, safeguarding both human and animal health for generations to come.

Sam K Nkurunziza

“Under the deal reached today, effective at 4 a.m. tomorrow local time, the fighting across the Lebanese-Israeli border will end,” Biden said in remarks delivered from the White House Rose Garden.

“This is designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities. What is left of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations will not be allowed,” he added.

“Over the next 60 days, Israel will gradually withdraw its remaining forces, and civilians on both sides will soon be able to safely return to their communities and begin to rebuild their homes,” Biden said.

Israel, the president said, “retains the right to self defense” in the event that “Hezbollah or anyone else” breaks the newly announced deal, which was approved by the Israeli cabinet on the same day.

In a U.S.-France joint statement announcing the ceasefire deal, the two countries said the “announcement will create the conditions to restore lasting calm and allow residents in both countries to return safely to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line.”

The Blue Line is a demarcation line drawn by the United Nations on June 7, 2000 that is intended to separate the Israeli and Lebanese armies.

Biden in his remarks said the deal “supports Lebanon’s sovereignty, and so it heralds a new start for Lebanon.” He said no U.S. troops will be deployed to southern Lebanon.

Toward the end of his speech, Biden also alluded to the situation in Gaza, saying, “Just as the Lebanese people deserve a future of security and prosperity, so do the people of Gaza. They too deserve an end of the fighting and displacement.”

Biden said the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal “brings us closer to realizing the affirmative agenda” he has been pursuing for the Middle East region throughout his presidency, one that fulfills the Palestinian people’s legitimate aspirations for establishing a state of their own, shields Israel from terror threats and achieves the full normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

“I believe this agenda remains possible, and in my remaining time in office, I’ll work tirelessly to advance this vision for an integrated, secure and prosperous region,” Biden said.

The Israeli military drastically stepped up its strikes on Beirut hours before the government in Tel-Aviv approved the ceasefire deal, killing at least 25 people on Tuesday, according to a tally counted by CNN based on health ministry figures.

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks to the press at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Nov. 26, 2024. Biden said Tuesday the U.S.-proposed 60-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which is “designed to be” permanent, will take effect at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday local time (2:00 a.m. GMT). (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

Xinhua