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The newly introduced system enables phone users to make calls without the typical interruptions associated with older technologies. Traditionally, phone calls relied on 2G or 3G networks, which sometimes resulted in poor connectivity and distorted audio.

Additionally, using these older technologies was often more expensive due to the limitations of outdated systems. The company CEO, Emmanuel Hamez, says that this new VoLTE service aims to enhance Airtel’s voice call services.

'This is a significant milestone for Airtel Rwanda as we lead the way in bringing Voice Over 4G to the country, delivering an exceptional calling experience with HD-quality voice, faster call setup, and uninterrupted internet usage during calls. Best of all, there’s no additional cost for switching to our VoLTE service,' he said.

Airtel Rwanda CEO, Emmanuel Hamez, says that this new VoLTE service aims to enhance Airtel’s voice call services.

Hamez added that Airtel’s extensive 4G network, which covers 95% of the country, ensures all Rwandans can access fast and reliable internet. He also assured that Airtel offers affordable 4G-enabled smartphones available, eliminating barriers to accessing the new technology.

The nationwide 4G coverage offered by Airtel provides fast and affordable internet, even in remote areas. VoLTE also reduces calling costs as it allows for quicker, more efficient calls without the additional expenses associated with older 2G or 3G technologies.

Charles Gahungu, the Director of Technology at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), commended Airtel’s innovative efforts, noting that government policies have created an enabling environment for telecom companies to invest in and adopt new technologies.

'This has provided opportunities for telecom companies to embrace and utilize advanced technologies, and we applaud Airtel for seizing these opportunities,' he said.

Charles Gahungu, the Director of Technology at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), commended Airtel’s innovative efforts

Yves Iradukunda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised Airtel for aligning with Rwanda’s vision of adopting cutting-edge technology.

He emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving such milestones, saying, 'We commend Airtel for recognizing our shared objectives and making them their own, working with us to bring these innovations to life.'

Irakudunda also acknowledged the ongoing efforts needed to raise awareness and encourage the use of this new service among the population. He expressed confidence that Airtel customers would experience significant improvements in their calling experience with VoLTE.

Yves Iradukunda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised Airtel for aligning with Rwanda’s vision of adopting cutting-edge technology.

The Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Rwanda, Indrajeet Singh, stated that Airtel is the leading company in introducing innovations

The employees who played a role in making it possible were appreciated.

The event was attended by people from various sectors, who appreciated the efforts of Airtel Rwanda.

The CEO of Ecobank Rwanda, Carine Umutoni (R), was among the attendees at the event.

Airtel Rwanda has become the first telecom company in Rwanda to launch a new technology that allows users to make calls over 4G internet.

IGIHE

The veteran opposition politician was arraigned alongside his ‘comrade,’ Hajj Obeid Lutale, and remanded until December 2 on charges related to security, including illegal possession of two pistols and eight rounds of ammunition.

The prosecution told the General Court Martial, chaired by Brig. Freeman Mugabe, that the two committed the offences in Nairobi (Kenya), Athens (Greece), and Geneva (Switzerland).

In the first count, the prosecution alleges that Besigye, Lutale, and other suspects still at large held meetings in Geneva, Athens, and Nairobi between October 2023 and November 2024 to solicit logistical support and identify military targets in Uganda, with the intent to undermine the security of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

In the second and third counts, the two are accused of illegally possessing two pistols, contrary to Uganda’s Firearms Act, at Riverside Apartments in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024. The prosecution alleges that they were found with two pistols: one model 27KAL No. 765 and another HB 10414 1953, which are ordinarily the monopoly of the Defence Forces.

They also face an additional count of unlawful possession of eight rounds of ammunition.

The defence lodged a primary objection to the charges, arguing that the charge sheet was defective since the alleged offences were committed outside the jurisdiction of the UPDF and Uganda’s army.

'All the acts highlighted in this charge sheet do not constitute criminal offences under the laws of Uganda. The UPDF Act is not applicable in Kenya, Switzerland, or Greece. Unlawful possession of firearms? Firearms Act of which country? The charge sheet is ambiguous in nature. This is a defective charge sheet that should not sustain any criminal proceedings before this tribunal. It’s our prayer that this honourable tribunal strikes out this charge sheet accordingly,' the lead counsel for the defence, Erias Lukwago, told the court.

Lawyer Lukwago further argued that the accused persons had travelled to Kenya lawfully for a legitimate meeting.

The martial court ordered Besigye and Lutale to be remanded to prison until December 2, 2024, when their case will be mentioned.

Reports of Besigye’s arrest went viral on Tuesday night following revelations by his wife that he had been abducted from Nairobi and was being held in a military detention facility.

Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), condemned the detention and called for her husband’s immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while he was in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' Byanyima said in a post on X. She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

Human rights groups in Nairobi have questioned the circumstances surrounding Kizza Besigye’s abduction, accusing Kenyan authorities of complicity in the act.

Reports of Kizza Besigye’s arrest went viral on Tuesday night following revelations by his wife that he had been abducted from Nairobi and was being held in a military detention facility.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, revealed on Tuesday night that she had learned her husband was being held at a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Byanyima, the Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), condemned the alleged detention and called for her husband’s immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while he was in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' Byanyima said in a post on X. She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

The motive behind Besigye’s alleged abduction and detention remains unclear.

While in Nairobi, the four-time presidential contender had been booked to stay at the Wardi Paradise Hotel and Suites in Hurlingham, a neighbourhood about a 15-minute drive from the Riverside Drive apartment in Westlands.

An official at the hotel told Uganda’s Daily Monitor that Besigye had not returned to the hotel since leaving on Saturday to attend Karua’s book launch.

Ugandan Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, speaking to the Daily Monitor, could neither confirm nor deny Besigye’s detention.

“I’m currently in Soroti as part of President Museveni’s entourage. I’m not aware that he is being held by the government. I’m still cross-checking with our security agencies. In any case, why would he be arrested? The government is not in the habit of arresting citizens and keeping them incommunicado forever. If he’s arrested, then he will be arraigned in court and charged accordingly. However, we are also cross-checking with our security agencies and colleagues in Kenya because we were told he had travelled there for a book launch before he disappeared,” Dr. Baryomunsi said.

It is believed that Besigye was trailed and abducted before being driven to Uganda, almost 500 kilometres away.

The Spokesperson for the National Police Service in Kenya, Dr. Resila Atieno Onyango, has, however, denied claims that the Ugandan politician was abducted in Nairobi.

Some media reports in Kampala say that Dr Besigye was found in a hotel negotiating for arms with a foreign country. According to Soft Power news, an impeccable security source is said to have intimated that he was found undermining national security with foreigners and will be arraigned before the General Court Martial today.

Kizza Besigye was once an ally of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni during the Ugandan Bush War (1981—1986) and the following few years.

Before their fallout, Besigye served as Museveni’s personal physician during the war and later held various positions in Museveni’s government, including Minister of State for Internal Affairs and National Political Commissar. However, their alliance began to fracture in the late 1990s over political disagreements, particularly concerning governance and democracy in Uganda.

Besigye officially broke ties with Museveni in 1999, becoming a leading opposition figure. As the leader of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) political party, the 68-year-old unsuccessfully contested for the presidency against Museveni in 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016.

He has been arrested numerous times for leading anti-government protests in Uganda and charged with inciting violence.

This latest incident comes months after 36 Ugandan activists associated with Besigye were arrested in Kisumu, Kenya, in July and taken back to Uganda. They were subsequently charged with treason and remanded to Kitalya prison. They have since been released on bail after pleading not guilty to the charges.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye is missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This small but ecologically diverse country is home to over 700 recorded bird species, including some of the continent’s most sought-after and rare birds.

From lush montane rainforests and tranquil wetlands to rolling savannahs and shimmering lakes, Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

What sets Rwanda apart is its accessibility and safety. The compact size of the country allows travelers to explore multiple birding hotspots within a short time frame, while its excellent infrastructure and expert local guides ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder chasing rare species or a beginner eager to explore, Rwanda is a destination that promises unforgettable encounters with its vibrant avian life.

Here are Rwanda’s top birdwatching sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s exceptional biodiversity.

1. Nyungwe National Park

Nestled in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a tropical montane rainforest renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Home to over 300 bird species, it offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

The Red-collared Babbler is the park’s crowning jewel. Other must-see species include the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Grauer’s Warbler, and the colorful Regal and Purple-breasted Sunbirds.

With well-maintained trails and expert guides, Nyungwe provides an enriching birding adventure. For the lucky few, rarities like the Congo Bay Owl and Shelley’s Crimsonwing might make an appearance.

Nyungwe National Park offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

2. Akagera National Park

In the east, Akagera National Park blends savannah, wetlands, and woodland habitats, creating a vibrant ecosystem for over 400 bird species.

Known for its traditional “Big Five” safari experiences, Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife, with highlights including the range-restricted Red-faced Barbet and the majestic Shoebill.

A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a must for spotting waterbirds like the African Finfoot. Night drives add a layer of excitement, with the potential to see Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and nightjars.

Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife.

The African Fish Eagle is similar in appearance to the American Bald Eagle.The chances of observing this beautiful raptor are very high and expect to find pairs nesting close to water sources in Akagera National Park.

3. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, famed for its Mountain Gorillas, also hosts an impressive avian population, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics.

For birders, the Scarlet-tufted Sunbird is a unique attraction, best spotted on a trek to Mount Bisoke’s summit. Nearby lakes and Buhanga Eco-Park further enrich the birdwatching opportunities.

The Sunbird is among unique attractions in Volcanoes National Park.

Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Rwanda’s newest national park, Gishwati-Mukura, is a symbol of conservation and biodiversity.

Located in the mountains above Lake Kivu, it hosts over 230 bird species, including the Black-fronted Duiker.

The ongoing rehabilitation of this park promises even greater birdwatching potential in the years to come.

Visiting Gishwati-Mukura National Park leaves indelible memories for birdwatchers.

5. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu’s tranquil shores are a refreshing stop for birders. The lake supports large populations of White-breasted Cormorants and Pied Kingfishers, while hotel gardens in Karongi and Rubavu provide sightings of species like the Double-toothed Barbet and Yellow-bellied Waxbill. The Kinunu area is particularly rewarding for spotting common terrestrial birds.

Lake Kivu offers a great bird watching experience.

6. Wetlands

Rwanda’s wetlands cover 10% of the country, offering habitats for numerous bird species.

Key sites like Rugezi Marsh, Akanyaru, and Nyabarongo Wetlands are designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International.

In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.

The marsh supports populations of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and Grey-crowned Cranes.

In the Bugesera District, wetlands and lakes offer accessible birding with sightings of Papyrus Gonolek, White-backed Duck, and Lesser Jacana.

Researchers recently 127 bird species in Rugezi Marsh, 28 of which are new to the region.

7. Kigali: Urban birding at its best

Even Rwanda’s bustling capital, Kigali, offers remarkable birding opportunities. Nyarutarama Lake, known locally as “Lover’s Lake,” and the recently inaugurated Nyandungu Ecopark are urban oases for birdwatchers.

Species like African Swamphen, Narina Trogon, and Bat Hawk are commonly spotted, making Kigali an excellent starting point for any birding itinerary.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village is a must-visit, offering a unique blend of conservation and education.

Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Rwanda offers an unforgettable journey into the world of avian beauty.

Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park is a recreational space and wildlife habitat in the City of Kigali. It is home to different bird species.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village in Kabuga, Kigali City is a must-visit.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Steve Harvey Visits Rwanda

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

Reports of Harvey’s visit emerged on Tuesday after he was seen at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where he paid his respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

On Wednesday, Harvey confirmed on his popular Steve Harvey TV Instagram account that he was in Kigali and had met President Paul Kagame. The TV star praised Kagame’s strength, humility, and Rwanda’s remarkable journey of resilience and forgiveness.

“We had the pleasure of sitting and meeting His Excellency, my brother, President Paul Kagame. I was truly inspired by his strength and humility—a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and acts of forgiveness,” he wrote.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, their discussions focused on potential areas of investment and partnership in various sectors including events and entertainment.

During his visit, Harvey is expected to explore various parts of the country, including a trek to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in the Northern Province. He is also set to meet several prominent figures in Rwanda.

Charges Dropped in Olga Kayirangwa’s Death Case

Two men detained over the mysterious death of Olga Kayirangwa have been released due to insufficient evidence, the judiciary confirmed on November 19, 2024.

Kayirangwa, 25, died on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali.

Judiciary spokesperson Harrison Mutabazi stated that prosecutors had withdrawn the case against Fred Nasagambe and Gideon Gatare, halting criminal proceedings.

Kayirangwa, 25, passed away on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali. While the prosecution initially claimed she died there, the suspects argued she passed away at DMC Hospital following a medical emergency. Nasagambe said Kayirangwa collapsed in his bedroom after using the bathroom, prompting him to call Gatare, a pharmacist, for assistance.

The suspects had been in custody since October, following a 30-day remand order by Kicukiro Primary Court. Their release request had been denied on November 18, citing additional evidence, including testimony from a domestic worker who alleged that Kayirangwa appeared lifeless on a bed.

On November 19, prosecutors sought their release, citing insufficient grounds for prosecution. Article 91 of Rwanda’s criminal procedure law allows releases when no basis for prosecution exists. The court granted the request, officially freeing the two men.

Date Set for Carmen Nibigira’s Burial

Carmen Nibigira, a prominent figure in East Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector, will be laid to rest on November 24, 2024.

Nibigira passed away in Kenya on November 16, 2024, following a short illness.

A funeral mass will be held at Centre Christus in Kigali at 2:00 p.m., followed by burial at Rusororo Cemetery at 4:00 p.m.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Nibigira dedicated more than 24 years to advancing the hotel and tourism industry. At the time of her passing, she was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team.

Kizza Besigye Reported Missing in Nairobi

Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been reported missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024.

Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, disclosed on Tuesday night that she had learned her husband was being held at a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye is missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, condemned his alleged detention and demanded his immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while attending Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch in Nairobi. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' she posted on X.

She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

The motive behind Besigye’s alleged abduction and detention remains unclear.

Zelensky Rules Out Elections Again

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated that elections will not occur until a “just peace” is achieved.

Speaking in parliament on November 19, 2024, while presenting his Internal Resilience Plan, Zelensky stressed that the Constitution prohibits elections during wartime. He dismissed calls for polls as detrimental to national unity and urged prioritizing Ukraine’s collective interests over political ambitions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a past function.

Zelensky’s term expired in March 2024 but was extended due to martial law imposed in 2022.

The war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a large-scale invasion. Tensions between the two nations had escalated for years, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support of separatists in Eastern Ukraine.

Trump Picks WWE Co-Founder for Education Role

United States President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, co-founder of WWE and his former transition co-chair, as education secretary.

Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

McMahon, a trusted ally, previously led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first presidency and has been a significant donor to his campaigns.

Announcing the decision on Truth Social, Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

This nomination follows Trump’s recent selection of Mehmet Oz to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

IGIHE

The G20 leaders renewed their commitment to work towards sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and reducing food loss and waste, and recognized the interdependence of countries in achieving food security and nutrition, food safety, and sustainability through open trade policies consistent with WTO rules.

They reiterated their commitment to the United Nations Development Agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to help developing countries better integrate into the global industrial, value and supply chains and accelerate their industrialization and modernization process.

The leaders also acknowledged the impact of corruption on sustainable development, reaffirming their shared commitments and dedication to lead by example in the global efforts against corruption and related illicit financial flows.

They reiterated the central coordinating role of the World Health Organization (WHO) in the global health architecture and voiced support for drafting a WHO convention, agreement, or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, with full respect for sovereignty of individual states.

The leaders emphasized the critical role of quality education and training, including digital education, as an enabler for sustainable and socio-economic growth, recognizing culture’s power and intrinsic value in nurturing solidarity, dialogue, collaboration and cooperation.

They called for support of open and inclusive dialogue on the return and restitution of cultural property, including illegally exported property.

The leaders also reaffirmed the importance of open and mutually beneficial international cooperation in research and innovation, according to the declaration.

The G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders’ Declaration was adopted at the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit which kicked off on Monday.

The 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit kicked off on Monday in Rio de Janeiro.

Xinhua

DCG Ujeneza encouraged them to remain focused on the mission mandate with discipline and professionalism.

The Deputy Police Chief was also briefed by the Contingent commanders on their operations, and inspected the Contingents-Owned Equipment (COE).

On Monday, November 18, DCG Ujeneza met with the MINUSCA Head of Police component, Commissioner of Police (CP) Christophe Bizimungu, and pledged Rwanda’s commitment to international peace, particularly in CAR.

Rwanda maintains four Police contingents under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in CAR (MINUSCA). They include three Formed Police Units (FPU) and a Protection Support Unit (PSU).

Rwanda FPU-1 and PSU operates in the capital Bangui while FPU-2 is deployed in Kaga-Bandoro, some 300kms out of the capital. Rwanda FPU-3 is also deployed in Bangassou.

The FPUs specialize in public order management, protection of civilians, delivery of humanitarian assistance, escort duties and protection of UN facilities.

The PSU is largely charged with ensuring protection for high profile government and UN officials, including the Prime Minister, President of National Assembly, Minister of State in charge of Justice, and MINUSCA Head of Police component, among others.

Rwandan Police has been serving in CAR since 2014.

DCG Ujeneza interacting with Rwandan Police peacekeepers in CAR.

DCG Ujeneza poses for a group photo with Rwandan Police peacekeepers and the mission management team in CAR.

DCG Ujeneza encouraged Rwandan Police peacekeepers in CAR to remain focused on the mission mandate with discipline and professionalism.

Rwanda maintains four Police contingents under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in CAR (MINUSCA).

IGIHE

Xinhua

At Session II of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for building a world economy characterized by cooperation, stability, openness, innovation, and eco-friendliness.

Xinhua