Category: Uncategorized

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made the declaration on January 7, 2024, as Sudan continues to grapple with a conflict that has plunged the country into one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

“Based on overwhelming evidence, I have concluded that members of the RSF and allied militias have committed genocide in Sudan,” Blinken stated, citing systematic attacks targeting ethnic groups. The acts include mass murders, rape, and the deliberate prevention of civilians from accessing essential supplies.

The RSF, a paramilitary force led by Mohammad Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, along with allied militias, has been accused of ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity, and war crimes since the conflict erupted in April 2023.

What began as a power struggle between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has had catastrophic consequences for civilians. Over 30 million Sudanese require humanitarian aid, with tens of thousands dead and hundreds of thousands facing famine.

The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on Hemedti and seven RSF-affiliated companies based in the United Arab Emirates, citing their roles in acquiring weapons for the RSF.

Additionally, Hemedti has been designated under Section 7031(c) for his involvement in gross human rights violations, including the mass rape of civilians in Darfur. This designation bars Hemedti and his immediate family from entering the United States.

'Hemedti has wantonly ignored international humanitarian law and commitments made in the 2023 Jeddah Declaration and the 2024 Code of Conduct,' Blinken said, referencing agreements aimed at protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid.

Despite the accords, the RSF has continued to commit war crimes under Hemedti’s leadership, including sexual violence and attacks on fleeing civilians.

'The United States does not support either side of this war,' Blinken emphasized, noting that both factions bear responsibility for the ongoing violence and lack the legitimacy to govern Sudan’s future.

In addition to sanctions, the U.S. has pledged $30 million to support Sudanese civil society actors working toward a peaceful and democratic future.

The toll of the conflict on Sudan is staggering. Since April 2023, millions have been displaced, with entire communities destroyed and left without access to basic necessities.

Blinken signalled the potential for further sanctions against RSF affiliates and other actors undermining peace in Sudan, stating: 'We will continue to evaluate additional measures to ensure accountability.'

Humanitarian groups have welcomed the U.S. measures but stress that more international coordination is urgently needed to address the crisis effectively.

The RSF, a paramilitary force led by Mohammad Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, along with allied militias, has been accused of ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity, and war crimes since the conflict erupted in April 2023.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Chadian President Mahamat Deby Itno was inside the palace when the attack occurred, but authorities swiftly contained the situation.

During a live broadcast from within the presidential palace, Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah reassured the public, stating that the situation is completely under control.

The incident coincided with a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who had earlier praised Deby Itno for efforts to reestablish constitutional order.

This attack comes shortly after parliamentary elections intended to restore democracy.

However, the main opposition party boycotted the polls, and analysts suggest the elections may further consolidate Deby Itno’s power.

President Mahamat Déby took over in 2021 following his father’s death during a rebel clash.

He was recently elected to lead Chad in a controversial election, facing allegations of vote-rigging and suppressing opposition voices.

Chad continues to struggle with ongoing violence and terrorism, including threats from extremist groups such as Boko Haram.

President Mahamat Déby took over in 2021 following his father’s death during a rebel clash.

IGIHE

The new medication, designed to reduce the risk of HIV infection among individuals, is being tested at two health centers in Kigali: Gikondo and Busanza.

The pilot phase began on January 3 and is expected to last for a year, during which time the effectiveness and acceptance of the treatment will be evaluated. Based on the results, plans for a nationwide rollout may follow.

Dr. Basile Ikuzo, the Director of the HIV Prevention Unit at the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), explained that the injectable form, known as Cabotegravir (CAB-LA), is administered once every two months.

The treatment offers a significant advantage over the daily oral PrEP regimen, providing a more convenient and discreet option for individuals facing adherence challenges.

'This is not for the general population but specifically for high-risk groups such as female sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), discordant couples, and adolescent girls and young women,' Dr. Ikuzo told The New Times.

The new injection could also help reduce the stigma often associated with daily oral PrEP, particularly among younger people.

Rwanda has seen notable success in its fight against HIV, with new cases dropping from 10,000 annually a decade ago to around 3,000 today.

Dr. Ikuzo emphasized that expanding prevention methods is crucial to continuing this progress.

'This initiative is part of our broader strategy to ensure everyone at risk has access to the best tools for protection,' he added.

Injectable PrEP, like oral PrEP, will be provided free of charge, and the RBC has already begun efforts to raise awareness about this new option. A larger public education campaign is expected to roll out by the end of June, targeting those most at risk.

Rwanda has rolled out a pilot program for long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) as part of renewed efforts to combat HIV/AIDS.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In an interview with RBA, Minister Sebahizi emphasized the importance of key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and mining as pillars of the national economy.

He underscored the ministry’s dedication to strengthening mineral extraction to fuel economic growth.

'There remains significant untapped potential in mining, especially with the entry of new investors who add value to processed minerals. This is why we are focusing on increasing investment in industries to drive production and sustain economic progress,' he said.

Bosco Kayobotsi, Managing Director of Gasabo Gold Refinery Ltd, highlighted the significant growth in gold and silver processing during the 2023/24 fiscal year.

'Our production has grown steadily, with the past two years showing the most substantial rise compared to the previous five years,' he noted.

Data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) shows that the industrial sector’s overall output grew by 14.7% in November 2024 compared to November 2023.

The mining and quarrying sector alone registered a remarkable 45.2% growth, while electricity production increased by 9.6%, and water and sanitation services rose by 12.8%.

Oreste Mukiza, Public Relations and Communication Specialist at the Rwanda Mining Board (RMB), attributed this growth to initiatives supporting the mining sector, such as providing electricity to remote mining sites.

'These electricity provisions enable the use of heavy machinery and advanced technology, making operations more efficient and significantly boosting production,' Mukiza explained.

Research conducted in 2017 identified 52 mineral-rich areas across Rwanda.

The nation’s underground mineral reserves are estimated to be worth approximately $154 billion.

The RMB reported that Rwanda’s mineral exports generated over $1.1 billion in 2023, a 43% increase from $772 million in 2022.

The Minister of Industry and Trade, Sebahizi has vowed to enhance mineral extraction.

IGIHE

This marks her third year with the team, and she has once again been selected to be part of the roster for this year’s competitions. She credited her success to the excellent support from her team, which provides everything she needs to train and prepare without any setbacks.

Reflecting on the previous year, Ingabire expressed her pride in participating in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, a milestone she described as one of her biggest achievements.

Looking ahead to the new year, Ingabire is focused on continuing her strong performance, especially in the World Championship to be held in Rwanda.

“This year, I aim to compete in high-level races. I also want to focus on improving my teamwork skills with my teammates so that we can secure victories together. Personally, I am determined to give my best in the World Championship in Rwanda,” she said.

The World Championship is scheduled to take place in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025.

Ingabire has once again been selected by her team to be part of the roster for this year’s competitions.

It is now three years since Ingabire joined Canyon/SRAM Generation team from Germany.

IGIHE

This innovative initiative marks the first time the city will have infrastructure specifically designed for car parking, signaling a significant step forward in urban planning and infrastructure development.

Speaking to the national broadcaster, RBA, Ms. Emma Claudine Ntirenganya, the Director General in Charge of Communication and Public Education at the City of Kigali, highlighted the transformative nature of the project.

'In order to solve the issue of parking in a lasting way, we are planning to establish buildings specifically and strictly designed for parking. This will not only reduce the congestion caused by cars parked in designated areas but also elevate Kigali’s urban standards to align with global cities,' she said.

The new parking complexes are part of a broader effort to enhance Kigali’s urban infrastructure and ease transportation challenges. Ntirenganya also emphasized the importance of improving public transportation as a complementary measure.

'To sustainably solve this problem, we are further streamlining the general public transport system,' she explained. 'If, for example, people are fully served and satisfied by public means, with vehicles operating at designated times and places, there will no longer be a need for everyone to drive to the city in their private vehicles.'

This project adds to the milestones Kigali and Rwanda as a whole have achieved in infrastructure development. Over the years, the city has witnessed the construction of state-of-the-art roads, modern bus terminals, and innovative green spaces, all aimed at improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing the city’s reputation as a modern African metropolis.

The government has also prioritized urban planning and smart city initiatives, with Kigali leading the way as a model city in Africa.

The prospect of dedicated parking buildings brings a sense of relief and excitement. These facilities promise pave the way for a more efficient and organized urban experience.

Parking buildings will soon be constructed in a move aimed at addressing the parking shortage in Rwanda’s bustling capital.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The Ministry shared this message on its X account, urging the public to take preventive measures during the cold months, as flu cases tend to peak at this time of year.

“Influenza A, which is caused by the Influenza virus, typically affects people during the colder months. The virus is especially common among children under five, pregnant women, and elderly individuals with weakened immune systems,” the Ministry said.

Symptoms of the flu include severe coughing, chills, fatigue, headaches, loss of appetite and thirst, sore throat, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and fever, particularly in children. According to the Ministry, “As of this year, 6.6% of the population has been affected by Influenza A across the country.”

The data shows that the virus was most prevalent between April and July in 2022, and between January and May in 2023. For 2024, the flu is expected to peak from January to March.

The Ministry advises people to take preventive actions such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with others, and seeking medical help if flu symptoms appear. “We encourage everyone to be vigilant and adhere to these health protocols,” the Ministry added.

The University of Kigali Teaching Hospitals (CHUK) echoed these precautions, advising its staff, patients, caregivers, and visitors to take special care during this period of heightened flu activity.

CHUK issued a statement on January 6, 2025, reinforcing the importance of flu prevention measures. By staying alert and taking proper care, the spread of Influenza A can be managed effectively, safeguarding public health during this season.

The public has been urged to take preventive measures during the cold months, as flu cases tend to peak at this time of year.

IGIHE