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This development was confirmed by Rwanda’s Presidency via its X account.

In 2021, a tripartite declaration of intent was signed between OIF, Rwanda’s Ministry of Education, and the French Development Agency (AFD) to develop a national plan for teaching French in Rwanda.

This agreement marked a significant step in improving the quality of French language teaching across various levels of education, from basic schooling to higher education and vocational training, with a focus on enhancing the professional integration of young Rwandans.

Before becoming the Secretary General of the OIF in 2018, Louise Mushikiwabo served as Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

She was re-elected for a second term in 2022 during the 18th Summit of Francophonie Heads of State in Djerba, Tunisia.

Under her leadership, the OIF has undergone reforms to address global challenges such as security threats and environmental issues. Rwanda joined OIF in 1970.

President Paul Kagame has met with Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) for a discussion on the ongoing collaboration between Rwanda and the OIF.

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Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, spoke to reporters after meeting with President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso.

When asked about how China and Africa jointly address climate change, Wang said that President Sassou’s high attention to the issue of climate change reflects the foresight of African leaders, adding that China has always supported Africa in achieving green development as the installed capacity of photovoltaic power plants built jointly has exceeded 1.5 GW, lighting up thousands of homes across the continent.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has proposed that China and Africa should jointly advance modernization that is eco-friendly, which is the common goal of both sides and one of the key tasks of this visit, Wang said.

He said that China will implement the Partnership Action for Green Development, and work with African countries to carry out clean energy projects proposed at the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

China will join hands with Africa to promote international climate governance, Wang said.

Noting that fair and common but differentiated responsibilities should be adhered to, Wang called on developed countries to face up to their historical responsibilities, earnestly fulfill their obligations, and provide financial, technical and capacity-building support to developing countries, especially African countries.

The Africa Solar Belt Program aims to provide CNY 100 million (around US$14 million) in public funds between 2024 and 2027 to supply 50,000 African households with solar home systems.

Xinhua

It was in late December 2012, the day had started all well for Niyibizi, with shopping as he looked forward to joining his family to enjoy the festive season.

The joy turned into despair later that evening, when he was involved in an accident as he was going home.

'I lost my leg because of speeding. I think I was just happy that I was going home after months without going there, to enjoy Christmas and the New Year with them, and I forgot that I was on the road, which is shared with many other motorists and pedestrians. This ended up being my last ride,' Niyibizi reckons.

He recalls how carelessness and overexcitement cost him dearly. Having accepted the situation, Niyibizi now urges other road users to avoid making the same life-threatening mistakes.

'Towards the end of the year, people tend to overindulge, but that is dangerous for drivers and motorcyclists. You will regret your whole life when you lose your limb; that is if you don’t die and leave your loved ones heartbroken for something preventable.

“When I see people walking, I feel like I’ve lost something invaluable. My advice to motorists is to stay cautious, not prioritize celebrations over life, avoid speeding, and refrain from drinking and driving. If you lose your life, you leave your family in distress,' says Niyibizi.

Niyibizi now urges other road users to avoid making the same life-threatening mistakes.

Just like Niyibizi, Ernest Ndayishimiye, a former truck driver, recounts the same ordeal.

'It was in November 2011, when I was involved in an accident. I was driving a truck from Kigali to Rusizi and I had an accident in Nyamagabe. I lost my limb, which has since affected my life. Accidents have severe consequences. Economically, I’ve lost a lot having to spend years unable to work. I used to support my family, but now I can’t,' says Ndayishimiye.

Ndayishimiye advises road users to avoid driving under the influence, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and observe speed limits. He also encourages pedestrians to use designated crossings.

Another road accident victim, Alice Mukamurenzi, who lost her leg as a child in 1996 while crossing the road, now plays football and advocates for road safety.

She said: 'I live in Musanze and play football in a team for people with disabilities. I was a child when I was hit by a car while crossing the road, leading to my disability. Whether it was my carelessness or the driver’s speed, the accident happened because of negligence on both sides.'

'Whatever you want to achieve or to celebrate, you will only do it when you are in good health and without any harm. Drive sober, follow traffic laws, and as pedestrians, cross or use the road carefully.'

Ernest Ndayishimiye is a former truck driver.

Road traffic accident (RTA) victims suffer from different types of injuries and disabilities, which can affect their quality of life. They usually face various physical, mental, and social problems. Most traffic accident victims experience difficulties adapting to the new life.

Road traffic accidents are a global concern as they are among the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming over a million lives each year and leaving many others injured.

From January to December 2024, Rwanda recorded around 9,600 road accidents, leading to 350 fatalities. Despite ongoing efforts by international organizations and governments worldwide to mitigate the effects of road accidents, the issue persists.

For the last five years, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has been conducting the 'Gerayo Amahoro' road safety campaign to educate and influence all categories of road users to adopt safer behaviors on road usage.

The campaign focuses on eliminating human behaviors that lead to accidents, fatalities or permanent disabilities, and to increase visibility and enforcement.

Gerayo Amahoro or 'arrive safe’ encourages safe driving behavior, responsive use of the road and to make road safety a choice and culture.

The road security report indicates that road-related fatalities reduced by 50 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Accidents involving cyclists, who are often among the most vulnerable road users, also dropped by 17%, reflecting significant changes in the behaviors of road users.

The RNP spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, echoed the message of road safety, urging people to drive safely without jeopardizing public safety.

He advises the public against driving or riding under the influence, and to seek alternative safer means.

'Roads are used by many people, who wish to get to their final destinations safely. So, when you are on the road as a driver, motorcyclist, cyclist, pedestrian or passenger, behave or act in a way that guarantees your safety and that of other people sharing the same road.

'Avoid speeding, using a phone when riding, driving or crossing the road; respect zebra crossing, refrain from drunk driving, wrong or dangerous maneuvers, reckless use of road; all of which increase risks of road crashes, injuries, loss of lives and destruction of property. Make road safety a choice and culture,' ACP Rutikanga says.

For the last five years, the Rwanda National Police (RNP) has been conducting the 'Gerayo Amahoro' road safety campaign to educate and influence all categories of road users to adopt safer behaviors on road usage.

IGIHE

Omedi and Kiwanuka put pen to paper on a two-year deal each today and also watched APR’s 2:0 League game win against Marines FC on Wednesday January 8, 20204 in Rubavu district.

For long, Omedi has been a centre of transfer speculation and Kitara FC Chairman Deo Kasozi confessed the player had over five suitors.

Last month, the forward was rumored to have completed a move to Singapore only for it to fall through when the two parties failed to agree on contractual terms.

Omedi has been a key figure at Kitara FC since joining them two years ago from Booma FC. He helped the team win the Stanbic Uganda Cup.

On the national team, Omedi was instrumental as Uganda Cranes qualified for AFCON 2025, scoring two goals in the campaign. On the other hand, Kiwanuka has been lethal for SC Villa and helped them to win the Uganda Premier League last year.

Interestingly, the duo was today morning named by coach Paul Put in Uganda Cranes provisional squad for CHAN 2024. The move to APR therefore, automatically rules them out of the tournament.

At APR, they become the third Ugandan player joining defensive midfielder Taddeo Lwanga.

Omedi was instrumental as Uganda Cranes qualified for AFCON 2025, scoring two goals.

Hakim Kiwanuka has officially signed for Rwanda Premier League side APR FC.

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The Indian federal government urged states to increase surveillance and spread awareness to prevent transmission of the virus, but officials also urged the public not to panic. Many experts have stressed that HMPV has been around for decades and is not as fatal as COVID-19.

'Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years,' Indian Health Minister JP Nadda said in a video statement.

'HMPV spreads through the air, by way of respiration. This can affect people of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months,' he added.

Rajeev Jayadevan, the spokesperson on HMPV from the Indian Medical Association in Kochi, similarly tried to quell concerns, stressing that the virus is common in children.

'There is a lot of public anxiety about the HMPV. It is a common respiratory virus which most children get by the age of 3 or 4. It’s very rare to have a serious problem with this. Most children would have had at least one bout of this infection in their childhood, including all of us,' Jayadevan said.

'This is not COVID. This is not a killer virus. It has been around for many years in all countries, including ours,' Jayadevan explained.

HMPV has been around for decades and is not as fatal as COVID-19.

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“We have been through severe economic hardships as we moved from one crisis to another in recent years. But there is hope on the horizon, and today marks the beginning of a new opportunity, an opportunity to redefine our governance and economic strategies. Together, we can reset our beloved nation,” Mahama declared.

The event brought together a large crowd of Ghanaians from all walks of life, including party supporters, as well as African heads of state and international dignitaries.

Mahama stressed the importance of this moment in reshaping the country’s future, emphasizing a bold new approach to governance and economic reforms.

As part of his vision, Mahama vowed to tackle youth unemployment by forging strong partnerships with the private sector to create quality, sustainable jobs.

“In this resounding victory, I see a clarion call, particularly from the youth of Ghana, and this moment is a powerful affirmation that your voices matter and that your future must be our priority,” he said.

Having previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s return to office represents a renewed commitment to lifting Ghana out of economic challenges and driving the country towards a more prosperous and inclusive future. His government aims to reset the nation’s path with clear focus on economic stability and good governance.

President John Dramani Mahama has promised to seize the opportunity for Ghana’s economic and governance transformation.

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Today, young entrepreneurs are making huge investments in the sector, turning it into a competitive and thriving industry.

From offering fancy hairstyles like the undercut, pompadour, buzz cut, and quiff to recruiting top-tier barbers—much like signing star players in football—and employing innovative strategies to attract clients, barbershop owners are redefining the art of grooming.

A barber in action at Kigali Clippers Zone.

Marsha Alain, a barber at the popular Kigali Clippers Zone barbershop, has been in the industry for 18 years and has witnessed a dramatic shift in his clientele. Once he primarily served clients seeking simple trims, but his chair is now filled with young professionals, students, and celebrities, all eager to experiment with the latest styles.

Over the same period, he has also seen a major change in the perception of his work, which has become his family’s main source of livelihood. Additionally, young women are increasingly joining the profession, offering shaving services as well.

The Kigali barbershop scene offers fancy hairstyles like the undercut, pompadour, buzz cut, and quiff, among others.

'The first time I picked up this clipper was in 2006. Things were different then, but now it’s a very good, serious job. I’m enjoying it. I’m working like a star, as you can see. I’m a proud papa—I have a child and a wife, and we’re living well here in Kigali,' he shared during a recent visit to the barbershop in the heart of the city.

“I started shaving when it cost 50 Rwandan francs. Now, the price is 10,000 Rwandan francs, and that’s before any tip or extra charges.”

Alain, who was born in Burundi, lived briefly in Tanzania before settling back in Rwanda, where he discovered his passion for barbering.

He now serves a diverse clientele, ranging from top Rwandan celebrities like musician Mugisha Benjamin, also known as The Ben, to influential figures in Rwanda’s corporate sector and beyond.

Innocent Safari, the assistant manager at Kigali Clippers Zone, believes that the innovative strategies blending luxury with top-tier customer service have set the barbershop apart, despite the intense competition in the city.

'We serve everyone—music directors, government officials, and even children,' Safari shares. 'This is where everyone feels at home, whether they’re getting ready for a music video or a corporate meeting.'

Safari’s role involves ensuring smooth operations in what he describes as a 'huge factory for hair.'

Equipped with walkie-talkies to coordinate across the sprawling space, he explains the level of organization required to maintain their reputation.

'When we started in 2019, we had four barbers. Now, we have over 40, plus trainees who learn our unique style before joining the team.'

More than just haircuts

The barbershop offers a waiting area with a mini-bar and snacks, creating an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. Clients receive personalized consultations to ensure they get exactly what they want. After a haircut, they’re treated to a luxurious wash, ensuring every detail is perfect.

“When you leave here, you don’t just look good—you feel good,” Safari emphasizes, jesting about the beautiful ladies who wash and offer relaxation massages to clients.

For Safari, the service goes beyond aesthetics. 'People are stressed nowadays. Life is hard. When someone comes here, they might be spending their last five dollars. It’s our job to make them feel at peace.'

From high-end equipment to premium products, the barbershop spares no expense. Even during power outages, the team continues to work seamlessly.

'We don’t close until the last client leaves. Sometimes, we’re here until 4 a.m., ensuring everyone gets what they need.'

From high-end equipment to premium products, Kigali Clippers Zone spares no expense. Even during power outages, the team continues to work seamlessly.

Safari envisions an even brighter future for Kigali Clippers Zone and the barbershop scene in the city.

'We’re planning to make this a one-stop destination. Imagine a place where you can get a haircut, grab a coffee, and even have your kids entertained in a playground while you relax. That’s where we’re headed.'

Wycliffe Nyamasege

These disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Roads and other key infrastructure were also severely impacted, particularly in the Northern, Southern, and Western Provinces, leaving over 20,000 people in urgent need of assistance.

As part of the recovery efforts, 1,322 houses are being rehabilitated through the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) project, a collaboration between the Government of Rwanda and the World Bank.

According to a report from the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA), 537 houses have been fully repaired, 566 are under rehabilitation, and 219 are scheduled for renovation soon.

However, reconstruction of the 2,763 completely destroyed houses has not yet commenced, as authorities continue identifying suitable land for rebuilding.

In addition to housing, 310 families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

This includes construction materials such as 12,667 iron sheets, 1,574 kilograms of galvanized wire, 1,780 kilograms of roofing nails, 423 kilograms of standard nails, and 65 iron sheet caps.

Four schools damaged during the disasters have also been supported with 931 iron sheets, 129 wires, and 77 iron sheet caps for repairs.

Meanwhile, 2,001 people in 16 districts received essential supplies, including hygiene kits, kitchenware, school supplies, and clothing for students.

Road repair efforts and the rehabilitation of the Nyundo Bridge in Rubavu District are well underway.

To address recurring flooding issues, retaining walls are being constructed along the Sebeya River, which is notorious for causing floods during the rainy season.

The Rwanda Water Resources Board (RWB) has already built 1.3 kilometers of retaining walls and implemented other flood mitigation measures, including constructing a reservoir with a capacity of two million cubic meters and planting bamboo and other vegetation to slow water flow.

In October 2024, MINEMA announced $26 million in funding secured from the World Bank for rebuilding houses for disaster-affected families.

These funds will be used to rebuild or rehabilitate 6,218 houses. To date, 2,830 houses have been completed, 2,052 are under rehabilitation, and 1,335 are still to be constructed.

Rwanda continues to prioritize disaster recovery and mitigation, with MINEMA emphasizing that relief, response, and mitigation efforts receive substantial investment worth $300 million annually.

The May 2023 disasters claimed 135 lives, damaged over 2,100 houses, and completely destroyed 2,763 others.

Families across 14 disaster-affected districts have received various forms of assistance.

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According to the NISR’s external trade report, exports to Burundi were valued at $5.18 million in Q3 2023, but fell to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

However, there was an improvement from the second quarter of 2024, with exports increasing from $2.18 million to $3.03 million in Q3 2024.

This drop is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

Since then, travel between the countries has been restricted to air travel via the national airline, RwandAir.

Reexports from Rwanda to Burundi experienced an even sharper decline of 59.66%, falling from $4.04 million in Q3 2023 to $1.63 million in Q3 2024.

Compared to the second quarter of 2024, the reexport value also decreased from $2.31 million.

In terms of exports to East African Community (EAC) partner states, the report shows that Burundi ranked second for Rwanda’s domestic exports in Q3 2024, following Uganda, which received exports worth $4.2 million.

The drop in exports from Rwanda to Burundi is primarily due to strained relations between the two countries, leading to Burundi closing its land borders in January 2024.

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This was revealed by the Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, while presenting to the Chamber of Deputies the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali, a measure that took effect on January 1, 2025.

The announcement was made during a parliamentary session that focused on current environmental challenges and how the Rwandan government is addressing them.

MP Egide Nkuranga, who raised the issues to the plenary, praised the government’s efforts to combat air pollution. He highlighted that in 2022, Rwanda emitted 1,400 Gigatons of greenhouse gases, an increase from over 1,300 Gigatons in 2018. Motorcycles accounted for 47.4% of these emissions, releasing 709 Gigatons.

Despite commending the initiative, the MP raised concerns about how motorcyclists transitioning to electric motorcycles would sustain their livelihoods, whether the changes would disrupt transportation, and what other measures the government has in place to ensure environmental preservation without inconveniencing citizens.

Minister Gasore reassured that petrol-powered motorcycles already licensed for commercial use would retain their licenses and could continue operating, with annual renewals. However, these motorcycles will be required to undergo “contrôle technique.”

He clarified that petrol motorcycles will still be allowed into the country for private use, especially in areas without reliable electricity infrastructure.

Motorcycles were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections.

The Minister emphasized the importance of the decision, citing the rise in air-polluting emissions and its health impacts, such as a 41% increase in respiratory diseases between 2008 and 2019.

Available data indicates a significant increase in deaths caused by respiratory illnesses linked to air pollution. In 2012, 2,227 people died from such illnesses, a figure that surged to 9,290 by 2019.

Minister of Infrastructure Dr. Jimmy Gasore emphasized Rwanda’s strong measures to address the issue, including enforcing standards on vehicle emissions and introducing new regulations.

He stated, “We have initiated a program to strengthen vehicle inspection centers by establishing a specialized facility to monitor vehicle emissions. This project is expected to be operational by the end of the year.”

A key update involves modernizing the methods used to monitor vehicle emissions, including motorcycles, which were previously exempt from contrôle technique inspections. Dr. Gasore highlighted that previously, motorcycle owners only sought inspections when they suspected an issue, but this will no longer be the case.

He said, “Petrol-powered motorcycles will continue to operate, but the new requirement is that they must meet the standards of contrôle technique. For example, if a motorcycle cannot brake effectively or fails to comply with emission standards, it will not be allowed on the road. It’s the same principle applied to all vehicles—every vehicle on the road must meet legal standards. There are no additional burdens; it’s simply about adhering to the law.”

Motorists were among the stakeholders invited to learn more about the fresh inspection measures.

Overhaul of vehicle inspection systems

Dr. Gasore explained that traditional vehicle inspection methods are also being upgraded. Previously, vehicles were inspected while stationary, with devices inserted into their exhaust pipes to measure emissions. However, this approach failed to provide a complete picture of a vehicle’s emissions under different conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving.

“Under the current system, a vehicle may seem fine on flat terrain but emit significant pollutants when ascending. The new system will provide a more accurate analysis of a vehicle’s emissions. Vehicles will be placed on rollers that simulate driving conditions, allowing for a realistic assessment of their performance,” he explained.

Gasore revealed that vehicle computer systems will be utilized as part of the emissions control strategy. These systems, which already record key metrics, will help identify issues and ensure timely solutions.

Beyond the vehicle inspection program, introduced in 2013, the minister highlighted other efforts to combat air pollution. These include the 2016 law on air quality preservation, 2019 emission standards for vehicles, and the 2021 initiative promoting electric vehicles by offering tax exemptions for electric vehicles, hybrids, and related equipment.

The Chamber of Deputies was briefed on the rationale behind the decision to halt the licensing of new petrol-powered motorcycles for commercial transport in Kigali.

'We have also facilitated investors who show interest in setting up electric vehicle infrastructure by providing land free of charge,' Gasore noted.

The measures have significantly contributed to reducing vehicular emissions. Other steps include advanced air quality testing, improving fuel quality inspections, enhancing vehicle testing laboratories, and empowering garages to address emissions-related issues.

Regarding electric vehicle infrastructure, the minister revealed that an initial assessment indicated the need for over 200 charging stations across the country. Feasibility studies have been conducted, and preliminary sites have been identified for immediate implementation.

On the issue of expired electric batteries, Gasore explained that batteries used in transport for 10 years can be repurposed for energy storage, such as solar power, for another decade.

Rwanda already has a facility capable of handling such processes. He added that, after their lifespan, hazardous chemicals in the batteries are safely extracted, while remaining materials are used to manufacture new batteries.

The government is also exploring retrofitting petrol motorcycles by replacing their engines with batteries. An initial investor managed to convert 80 motorcycles before facing financial constraints, but the government is supporting the project to ensure its expansion.

Rwanda has over 100,000 motorcycles, including 46,000 used for transporting people and goods. Of these, 26,000 operate in Kigali, with more than 6,000 already electric-powered.

There is a deliberate effort aimed at reducing air-polluting emissions from motorcycles where for the very first time, they will also be subjected to inspection regulations.

Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore while presenting the new guidelines to the Chamber of Deputies.

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