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The route marks RwandAir’s eighth cargo destination across Africa and the Middle East.

Other destinations include Kigali (Rwanda), Nairobi (Kenya), Entebbe (Uganda), Brazzaville (Republic of the Congo), Bangui (Central African Republic), Djibouti, and Sharjah and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

'We are thrilled to introduce Harare, Zimbabwe, as our eighth cargo destination! This milestone inaugural ad-hoc cargo flight highlights our commitment to enhancing connectivity, supporting global trade, and solidifying our position as a leading cargo carrier in the region,' the airline announced in a statement on Wednesday.

RwandAir plays a crucial role in Rwanda’s economy, facilitating the transportation of fresh produce, medical supplies, and other essential goods. The new destinations will enhance market reach, offering cargo services to a wider range of businesses and consumers, thereby driving the diverse and growing economy of both the country and the continent.

In November 2022, RwandAir acquired its first dedicated freighter, significantly improving its cargo services. Previously, the airline relied on passenger planes to transport goods. The Boeing B737-8SF freighter, with a capacity of approximately 23.9 tons and a range of 2,620 kilometers, offers cost-efficient operations compared to other cargo aircraft.

Later, in May 2023, RwandAir further strengthened its cargo services through a partnership with Qatar Airways. This collaboration led to the establishment of a new cargo hub in Kigali, aiming to position the city as a central air cargo hub in Africa. As part of the initiative, Qatar Airways introduced a Boeing 777x freighter to Kigali, enhancing the airline’s capacity for regional and international cargo transport.

The airline’s continued commitment to expanding its cargo services is set to bolster Rwanda’s economic growth and strengthen its position as a vital logistics hub in Africa.

RwandAir cargo plane.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Rwanda, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame and the RPF Inkotanyi, has been a particular target of this strategy. Figures like Paul Rusesabagina and now Victoire Ingabire are the latest tools in a long series of failed attempts to weaken the country’s stability and influence its leadership. However, once again, Western backers are betting on the wrong person at the wrong time.

Victoire Ingabire has been presented by her Western supporters as a political activist, a so-called voice for democracy in Rwanda. Yet, her past affiliations with criminal networks and groups linked to destabilization efforts paint a very different picture.

The attempt to whitewash her image ignores her documented ties to individuals and organizations responsible for violence and chaos. No matter how much effort is put into rebranding her as a 'freedom fighter,' her record will continue to haunt her credibility.

This strategy of amplifying problematic figures has been tried and tested in other parts of the world. For example, in Venezuela, Juan Guaidó was propped up as an opposition leader, attempting to delegitimize a sitting government.

In Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky transitioned from an outsider to a Western-backed leader with CIA connections playing a pivotal role. In Russia, Alexei Navalny became a symbol of anti-establishment forces pushed by Western entities. The goals are clear: regime change or at least applying enough pressure to extract concessions. In Rwanda, however, such tactics are destined to fail.

The key difference between Rwanda and other nations targeted by similar strategies lies in the effectiveness of the government. Under the RPF Inkotanyi, Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation across nearly every sector.

The economy is growing steadily, infrastructure is modernizing at an impressive rate, and healthcare and education systems are improving.

For example, in the health sector, life expectancy rose from 47.5 years in 2000 to 67.5 years in 2021. Over 90% of the population had health insurance by 2014, ensuring better access to healthcare.

In education, primary education enrollment reached 87.3% in 2021/22, while secondary enrollment improved with a net rate of 25.4%. Tertiary education expanded rapidly, with universities and other higher learning institutions growing from one in 1994 to over 30 by 2023.

The economy is growing steadily, infrastructure is modernizing at an impressive rate, and healthcare and education systems are improving.

Kigali City is renowned for green initiatives.

Statistics indicate that GDP has risen by an average of 8.2% annually from 2022 to 2023 and 9.7% in early 2024. Per capita income increased from $127 in 1994 to $909.9 in 2022, reflecting improved living standards.

Similarly, Rwanda’s infrastructure has advanced with electricity capacity increasing plus other major investments in roads and ICT, including a 2,300 km fiber-optic network that has boosted connectivity and digital transformation.

Rwanda’s infrastructure has advanced with electricity connections increasing significantly.

These tangible achievements leave little room for opposition figures to gain traction among the population.

Most Rwandans are not interested in supporting opposition figures when they see consistent delivery on promises from the government. In fact, many ask themselves why they would gamble their country’s future on divisive individuals with questionable agendas when the current government continues to exceed expectations.

Hope for a brighter future under Paul Kagame’s leadership remains high, and trust in the government has only grown stronger over time.

Western entities have also tried to infiltrate Rwandan civil society, hoping to sow dissent from within. These efforts, however, have been thwarted by the government’s robust structures and the unity of the Rwandan people.

The iconic Kigali Convention Centre (KCC), is the premium events venue in Rwanda since its opening in 2016 and a hugely popular MICE destination in the East African region.

The RPF Inkotanyi’s focus on inclusivity, good governance, and accountability has made it difficult for foreign actors to create divisions or exploit weaknesses. The effectiveness and popularity of the government leave little room for opposition movements to gain ground.

By choosing to elevate figures like Victoire Ingabire, Western powers are betting on individuals who lack both credibility and grassroots support within Rwanda. Their efforts are not only futile but also reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of the Rwandan political landscape.

The country’s citizens, having experienced unparalleled growth and stability, are unwilling to risk their progress by supporting divisive figures or external agendas.

Moreover, attempts to frame Rwanda as a country in need of external intervention overlook the fact that its development model has become a beacon of hope for many in the region. Rwanda is not Venezuela, Ukraine, or Russia. The dynamics here are different, and the strategies that may have worked elsewhere are unlikely to succeed against the unity and resilience of the Rwandan people.

Victoire Ingabire was released from prison in September 2018 through presidential pardon.

Western attempts to use individuals like Victoire Ingabire to destabilize Rwanda and put pressure on its government are destined to fail. The effectiveness of the RPF-led administration, combined with the trust and optimism of the Rwandan people, ensures that such strategies will not take root.

Rwanda’s progress is a testament to what can be achieved with visionary leadership, and its people remain steadfast in their support for a government that delivers results. The West would do well to respect Rwanda’s sovereignty and focus on partnerships based on mutual respect, rather than tired, ineffective tactics aimed at destabilization.

Kayonga J.

Smyth, who passed away in 2018, was accused of abusing boys in the 1980s and 1990s.

The controversy surrounding Welby’s resignation highlights the challenges facing the Church of England.

Archbishop Laurent Mbanda, leader of the Anglican Church of Rwanda and Chairman of Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), shared his insights on the implications of Welby’s resignation, the challenges within the Anglican Communion, and ongoing issues in Rwanda’s Shyira Diocese.

Leadership transition

Archbishop Mbanda emphasized that Welby’s resignation, while unfortunate, does not leave an insurmountable gap in the Anglican Church.

'Leadership changes, whether planned or sudden, are normal,' he stated. 'The Church of England has systems to address such gaps, and the global Anglican family is praying for Welby and his family.'

The Archbishop stressed that while Welby’s departure marks the end of an era, it does not directly impact GAFCON’s mission.

The movement has previously distanced itself from certain practices within the Church of England, particularly its acceptance of same-sex relationships.

On the prospect of working with Welby’s successor, Mbanda remained firm: 'If the new leader seeks to realign the church with biblical principles, placing God’s word at the center of teachings, we are open to collaboration. However, if they continue down the same path, we will maintain our course.'

Addressing allegations and accountability

The crimes associated with John Smyth have raised concerns about the Church’s accountability and the role of leaders.

However, Archbishop Mbanda clarified that these incidents primarily occurred in England, with Smyth later relocating to Africa.

'So far, we know of no GAFCON leaders who were aware of or involved in these incidents,' he noted, adding that media reports have implicated other figures, such as South Africa’s Anglican Archbishop, but these remain allegations.

For Mbanda, Welby’s resignation demonstrates a recognition of responsibility.

'When a leader steps down to prevent harm to the church or resolve a significant issue, it is an act of courage and accountability,' he affirmed.

'This is not a crisis for the Anglican Church but an opportunity to reflect and strengthen its commitment to integrity.'

Mismanagement in Shyira Diocese

Archbishop Mbanda also addressed the suspension of Bishop Dr. Mugiraneza Mugisha Samuel of the Shyira Diocese over allegations of financial mismanagement.

While some have described the situation as divisive, the Archbishop dismissed such claims, emphasizing that challenges are part of any organization.

'Where people work, challenges sometimes arise. What matters is how we address them,' Mbanda explained.

He assured that the matter is being handled at all levels by those responsible, with steps in place to resolve it effectively.

'There is no issue so significant that it would cause the church to crumble,' he stated confidently.

Archbishop Mbanda has emphasized that Welby’s resignation does not leave an insurmountable gap in the Anglican Church.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, leader of the Church of England and spiritual head of the global Anglican Communion, announced his resignation last week on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

IGIHE

The draft, put forward by the council’s 10 non-permanent members, demanded an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

The 15-member council voted 14-1 in favor of the resolution, and the United States used its veto as a permanent council member to block it.

Speaking after the vote, Robert Wood, deputy U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said that Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire.

“The resolution would have sent a dangerous message to Hamas that there was no need to come back to the negotiating table,” he said.

The U.S. move to block the resolution drew harsh criticism from most of the members.

Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said it is “shocking” that the United States vetoed an effort to save Palestinian and Israeli lives, though “we should not be surprised.”

He lamented that for months, the United States has obstructed and stood in the way of the council action to address the catastrophic situation in Gaza and played on one side of the conflict to advance its own political objectives at the expense of Palestinian lives.

“It is a sad day for the Security Council, for the United Nations and the international community as a whole,” Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama told the council members.

It has been five months since the adoption of resolution 2735, during which the Security Council remained idle and hand-tied, he added, noting that the draft resolution was far from ideal, but it represented “the bare minimum that should have united us.”

“Today’s message is clear to the Israeli occupying power — you may continue your genocide … with complete impunity. In this Chamber, you enjoy immunity,” Bendjama said.

“To the Palestinian people, it is another clear message — while the overwhelming majority of the world stands in solidarity with your plight, others remain indifferent to your suffering,” he added.

Majed Bamya, deputy permanent observer of the State of Palestine, said that there is “no right” to the mass killing of civilians, starve an entire civilian population, forcibly displace them and annexation.

“This is what Israel is doing in Gaza. These are its war objectives. This is what the absence of a ceasefire is allowing it to continue doing,” he said, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the region.

“It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security,” Malta’s Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after voting.

“It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground,” she added.

Guyana’s Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett said that the suffering of Palestinians must end, adding that her country would continue to work with fellow council members to try to achieve tomorrow what could not be achieved today.

U.S. Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs in the United Nations Robert Wood (C, Front) votes against a UN Security Council draft resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza at the UN headquarters in New York, on Nov. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie E)

Xinhua

The report revealed that China reached a robot density of 470 units per 10,000 employees in 2023, a notable jump from 402 units the previous year. This figure has more than doubled since 2019, demonstrating the rapid growth of automation in the country.

“China has made significant investments in automation technology,” said IFR President Takayuki Ito. He emphasized that China’s progress is remarkable, considering the country only entered the top 10 rankings in 2019.

The global leader in robot density remains South Korea, with 1,012 robots per 10,000 employees in 2023. Singapore ranks second, while Germany now sits in fourth place, with a density of 429 robots per 10,000 workers, according to the report.

Robot density serves as a critical measure of automation levels in manufacturing, reflecting a country’s commitment to technological advancement in industrial production.

Xinhua

In a statement, Ecobank Group revealed that the bond was oversubscribed by more than 2.1 times, reflecting strong investor confidence in the institution’s financial growth and strategy.

The issuance marks a major milestone for ETI, as it is the first public Eurobond issuance by a financial institution in sub-Saharan Africa since 2021.

The bonds, also known as notes, will mature in October 2029 and offer an interest rate of 10.125%, payable semi-annually in arrears to the investors who have lent Ecobank $400 million.

Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Group, emphasized the importance of the bond’s success, saying, 'Our successful Notes issuance demonstrates how Ecobank is blazing the trail for sub-Saharan African financial institutions and corporates in accessing the international capital markets.'

The CEO added that the strong demand for the bond from both international and African investors is a testament to the growing trust in Ecobank’s ‘Growth, Transformation, and Returns Strategy’.

Ecobank Group CEO Jeremy Awori revealed that the bond was oversubscribed by more than 2.1 times, reflecting strong investor confidence in the institution’s financial growth and strategy.

The net proceeds from the bond will be used for general corporate purposes, including refinancing a $350 million Senior Bridge-to-Bond Loan Facility secured earlier in the year. This move is expected to further enhance Ecobank’s financial position and support its strategic initiatives.

Ayo Adepoju, the Group’s Chief Financial Officer, thanked the bank’s partners, including Absa, Africa Finance Corporation, and Standard Chartered Bank, who acted as Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners for the bond issuance.

'We deeply value and appreciate the strong support from our Development Finance Institution partners and bond investors,' he said.

The market opening ceremony at the LSE was attended by members of the ETI board and management, celebrating a key achievement in Ecobank’s ongoing expansion and commitment to African financial growth.

With a presence in 35 African countries and a growing international footprint, Ecobank’s latest bond issuance strengthens its position in the global capital markets and supports its long-term growth objectives.

The market opening ceremony at the LSE was attended by members of the ETI board and management, celebrating a key achievement in Ecobank’s ongoing expansion and commitment to African financial growth.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), the parent company of Ecobank Group, successfully issued a US$400 million Senior Unsecured Eurobond on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

She will be laid to rest on November 24, at Rusororo Cemetery after a funeral mass at Centre Christus in Kigali.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Carmen’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her homeland and its natural beauty. Her early years were filled with exploration, as her father often took her to various provinces in Burundi, showcasing the country’s rich landscapes and biodiversity.

These formative experiences ignited a lifelong passion for tourism and laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

After completing secondary school in Burundi, Carmen moved to England, where she spent a decade pursuing her education and building the foundation of her career. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Travel Management, followed by a master’s in Tourism Destination Management, and ultimately a PhD focusing on tourism policy and park management.

Her parents’ encouragement to follow her passion was instrumental, as tourism was not traditionally seen as a promising career path in her community. Carmen’s academic pursuits were complemented by hands-on experience through a vocational training program in England.

Her first role in hospitality, as a housekeeper in a five-star hotel, was the beginning of a journey that would see her rise to leadership positions in the industry.

Carmen’s career was marked by its diversity and global reach. Over the years, she lived and worked in Switzerland, the United States, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other countries, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience.

She managed tour operation companies across East Africa and oversaw an international hotel in Tanzania, always focusing on elevating the region’s tourism standards. Her ability to navigate different cultural and professional environments set her apart as a leader who could bridge local traditions with global best practices.

In 2014, Carmen returned to Burundi to take on the role of Director General at the National Tourism Board. She saw this as an opportunity to give back to her country and to reform its tourism sector.

During her tenure, she worked to restructure the board, making it more aligned with private-sector needs and advocating for policies that would position Burundi as a competitive destination.

Carmen was a fierce proponent of developing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing the quality of tourism products to attract international travelers. While acknowledging Burundi’s challenges, she remained optimistic about its potential, believing in the power of tourism to drive economic growth and national pride.

Between 2015 and 2017, Carmen served as the regional coordinator for the East Africa Tourism Platform, where she championed the integration of East African countries as a unified tourism destination.

She believed in leveraging the unique strengths of each country while fostering collaboration to attract more visitors to the region. Her work in promoting East Africa’s tourism earned her widespread recognition.

In 2017, she was named one of the Top 100 Influential Women in Travel, and a year later, she received the African Women in Tourism Leadership Award. These accolades were a testament to her vision, dedication, and ability to inspire change.

At the time of her passing, Carmen was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team. In this role, she focused on skills development and capacity building, particularly for young professionals in the industry.

She worked tirelessly to create opportunities for African youth, believing that education and training were critical to unlocking the continent’s potential.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carmen was a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She served on the Board of Directors for the Akilah Institute for Women in Rwanda, where she championed initiatives to equip young women with skills in tourism, hospitality management, and entrepreneurship.

Carmen believed that women had a vital role to play in the tourism industry, and she worked to break down barriers and stereotypes that often hindered their progress. Her mentorship extended to countless individuals, many of whom credit her with shaping their careers and aspirations.

Carmen’s vision for African tourism was deeply rooted in promoting the continent’s rich cultural heritage. She emphasized the importance of showcasing Africa’s gastronomy, art, history, and traditions as key components of its tourism offering.

She believed that these cultural assets, when properly packaged and marketed, could create unique and memorable travel experiences. Carmen also urged the African diaspora to reconnect with the continent by becoming tourists in their home countries, investing in local businesses, and promoting Africa globally.

As a mother of two teenage boys, Carmen balanced her demanding career with her personal life, serving as an inspiration for many young women navigating similar challenges.

She often spoke about the importance of planning, organization, and building a strong support system. Her ability to juggle family responsibilities and a thriving career was a reflection of her resilience and determination.

Carmen’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in Africa’s potential. She envisioned a future where African professionals lead globally in tourism and hospitality, where African destinations compete on the world stage, and where the continent’s cultural and natural wealth is celebrated and preserved.

Carmen Nibigira’s life was a testament to the power of education, vision, and perseverance. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the tourism sector, a legacy of empowerment for women and youth, and a profound love for her continent.

While her passing is a great loss, her spirit and work will live on in the hearts of those she touched and the industry she helped transform. Her contributions will continue to inspire and guide future generations. Fare Thee Well!

Sam K Nkurunziza

'There is a line that must not be crossed,' President Kagame said during the 17th Unity Club Forum.

He pointed out that some individuals who were pardoned have repeatedly ignored cautionary advice, leaving the government no choice but to consider stricter measures.

Although he did not explicitly mention her name, his remarks clearly alluded to Ingabire, reflecting growing national frustration with her actions.

Misplaced international recognition

In a recent development, James Cook University in Australia invited Ingabire to speak on “Justice and Political Reforms in Rwanda,” describing her as a 'champion of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.'

This characterization has sparked widespread criticism from those familiar with her past, questioning how someone with a documented history of genocide denial and divisive politics could be elevated to such a status.

Ingabire’s controversial history is well-documented. In 2010, during a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, she infamously called for recognition of a so-called “Hutu genocide,” remarks that were widely condemned as denial of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Her actions during and after her imprisonment have consistently undermined the spirit of reconciliation and unity in Rwanda.

Despite requesting clemency while in prison, Ingabire later publicly denied doing so, even though her written appeals for a pardon remain on record. Following her release, she resumed political activities through her unregistered party, FDU-Inkingi, which has been linked to individuals and groups involved in destabilising Rwanda.

A legacy of division

Far from promoting inclusivity, Ingabire has been accused of advancing an agenda rooted in ethnic division. In 2019, during a meeting in Kirehe District, she allegedly directed her supporters to recruit new members but explicitly excluded Tutsis. Witnesses reported that she focused her recruitment efforts on unemployed Hutu youth, further fueling concerns about her divisive rhetoric.

To obscure scrutiny, Ingabire rebranded her political platform, renaming FDU-Inkingi as DALFA-Umurinzi in late 2019. Critics, however, argue that the underlying ideology of her party remained unchanged. This was evident when affiliates of her former party were implicated in an attack carried out on October 4, 2019, in Musanze District that claimed the lives of 14 innocent civilians.

Victoire Ingabire’s rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

Manipulating global platforms

Since her release, Ingabire has leveraged international media and institutions to criticize Rwanda, portraying the country’s political and judicial systems as repressive. While positioning herself as a victim of political persecution, her rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

In an October interview on a YouTube channel, she criticised Rwanda’s legal system and claimed it was the reason the UK delayed deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda. She also dismissed calls from Rwandan citizens for stronger security measures as 'warmongering,' ignoring the broader national interest in safeguarding stability.

Ties to armed groups

Ingabire’s connections to armed groups have repeatedly come under scrutiny. Her former party, FDU-Inkingi, has been linked to the Coalition of Democratic Forces (CDF), an offshoot of the genocidal FDLR militia. Court testimonies and evidence have highlighted her involvement in funding and planning activities designed to disrupt Rwanda’s peace.

Ingabire has publicly praised the Wazalendo militia, a group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite its well-documented atrocities, including attacks on civilians, she has described the group as defenders of their rights and resources.

She has also been named in various UN Group of Experts reports on the DRC for her connections with the infamous FDLR. Notably, the 2009 report documented that Ingabire and her party, FDU-Inkingi, maintained regular contact with FDLR leaders.

In 1998, Victoire Ingabire was appointed as the Netherlands coordinator of the RDR, a so-called “political party” formed in the Mugunga refugee camp in the former Zaire by members of the genocidal government. As a leader of the RDR, Ingabire’s primary objective was to deny the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Unchanging patterns of defiance

Since her arrival in Rwanda in 2010, Ingabire has consistently pursued a narrative of defiance, often dismissing national reconciliation efforts. Her continued disregard for the law and national values has strained Rwanda’s commitment to fostering a culture of tolerance and forgiveness.

Her actions highlight the challenges of addressing individuals and groups that exploit international platforms to destabilise Rwanda. Despite the strides Rwanda has made in rebuilding from its tragic past, Ingabire’s rhetoric and affiliations serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threats to national unity.

As Rwanda navigates these challenges, it remains crucial to prioritise national stability while ensuring accountability for those who undermine peace and security. Ingabire’s case underscores the importance of vigilance and the collective responsibility to safeguard the nation’s hard-earned progress.

Victoire Ingabire’s rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

IGIHE