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Health benefits

The antioxidants in honey work for the benefit of a healthy heart. From heart disease prevention and keeping blood pressure in control to fighting bad fat, honey is good for your heart.

Honey also works to keep your brain healthy by fighting memory issues, anxiety and any depression troubles. It has multi-nutrients like copper, and riboflavin that keep you fit.

The natural sugar content in honey is good for your health if it is in the right quantity. If suffering from cough and cold, honey is used to combat it and at times, with other natural ingredients.

Honey can be used on your skin for general skincare, and help in healing wounds and cuts. You can call honey a superfood to solve all your troubles.

From time immemorial, honey has been used for its health benefits.

4 ways to use honey

Incorporate honey in your breakfast in simple ways like replacing sugar in milk, coffee, smoothies and tea, in oats as a sweetener, over your toast or pancakes, in warm water as an early morning energizer and so on. Your morning sugar rush is healthily managed.

A small amount of honey applied to your skin for a short while acts as a great moisturizer for dried skin. Mix it with natural ingredients that suit your skin and use it as a face pack for skincare. Apply a small amount of honey to heal your scars and wounds.

You can incorporate honey in healthy lunches and dinners like using it in salad dressings or glazing roasted dishes. You can even make healthy snacks like nutrition or granola bars by including honey in the ingredients instead of sugar.

If suffering from a cold and cough, a spoonful of honey is therapeutic. You can also add it to herbal tea, lemon water or warm water for better benefits. Mix honey with crushed ginger or clove and have a small dose from time to time to cure cough and cold.

A small amount of honey applied to your skin for a short while acts as a great moisturizer for dried skin.

IGIHE

The incidents occurred during a Group D Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier played on October 15, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium, where Rwanda’s Amavubi defeated Benin’s Les Guepards 2-1. This victory placed Rwanda third in the group, level on points with Benin.

After the match, Benin players attempted to confront the referees and some members of Rwanda’s coaching staff. Fortunately, security personnel intervened to prevent further escalation.

Following a disciplinary committee meeting at CAF, it was concluded that Benin violated Article 45 of the governing regulations. As a result, the Benin FA was fined $5,000 for general misconduct and an additional $25,000 for aggression against the referees, totaling to $30,000.

Despite the fine, Benin secured qualification for the tournament to be held in Morocco alongside Nigeria, finishing second in the group with eight points, ahead of Rwanda on goal difference.

After the match, Benin players attempted to confront the referees and some members of Rwanda’s coaching staff. Fortunately, security personnel intervened to prevent further escalation.

Following a disciplinary committee meeting at CAF, it was concluded that Benin violated Article 45 of the governing regulations by doing this.

The incidents occurred during a Group D Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifier played on October 15, 2024, at Amahoro Stadium.

IGIHE

The forecast highlights the likelihood of average conditions in most regions, with a few areas expected to experience deviations from the Long-Term Mean (LTM).

The detailed forecast provides essential insights for farmers, planners, and citizens preparing for the month ahead.

Rainfall Predictions

Rainfall during January is expected to range between 0 and 180 mm.

'The highest amounts, ranging between 150 and 180 mm, are anticipated in many parts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts, as well as western parts of Nyamaguru and Nyamagabe Districts,' the agency stated.

According to the agency, the regions, including parts of southern Karongi District near Nyungwe National Park, could see slightly above-average rainfall.

Moderate rainfall ranging between 120 and 150 mm is expected in areas such as Rutsiro, Rubavu, Nyabihu, and Huye Districts, while districts like Rulindo, Kamonyi, and Gicumbi will receive between 90 and 120 mm.

Eastern parts of the country, including areas of Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Rwamagana, are projected to experience significantly less rainfall, ranging between 0 and 30 mm.

Temperature Outlook

January’s maximum temperatures are set to range between 18°C and 30°C.

The hottest areas include Bugesera District, several parts of Kigali City, and Nyagatare, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. Cooler temperatures of 18°C to 20°C are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and western Rubavu Districts.

Minimum temperatures will vary between 8°C and 16°C.

'The lowest minimum temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 10°C, are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and Rubavu Districts, as well as parts of northern Burera District,' the report noted.

Meanwhile, areas like Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Kirehe are predicted to experience relatively higher nighttime temperatures of 14°C to 16°C.

Wind Speed Forecast

Moderate to strong winds ranging between 4 and 10 m/s are anticipated nationwide. Strong winds of 8 to 10 m/s are expected in Nyamaguru, Nyamagabe, and parts of Rusizi Districts, while most of the country will experience moderate winds of 6 to 8 m/s.

The report highlights specific zones likely to see higher wind speeds, including parts of Kigali City, Rutsiro, and Nyamasheke Districts. Regions like western Kamonyi, Gicumbi, and Bugesera will experience lighter winds, averaging 4 to 6 m/s.

Notably, while moderate winds can aid pollination and reduce heat stress, stronger gusts pose risks to infrastructure, especially in vulnerable rural areas.

The detailed forecast by the Rwanda Meteorology Agency provides essential insights for farmers, planners, and citizens preparing for the month ahead.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The claims, which have been circulating among certain individuals, suggest that the RIB unfairly accused over 150 people, including Rwandans and foreigners, of being involved in the bank’s fraud, without sufficient evidence or proper legal procedures.

The accusations stem from a 2023 investigation into the misuse of Mastercard prepaid multicurrency cards, a service introduced by I&M Bank.

The bank had marketed the cards as a way for customers to exchange Rwandan Francs into various foreign currencies at favourable rates.

According to RIB, some individuals exploited the system by deceiving others into providing personal information, which was then used to obtain multiple cards and carry out fraudulent transactions. The stolen funds amounted to approximately $10.26 million.

Following the discovery, RIB launched an investigation, and a number of suspects were placed under investigation. Some were arrested, while others fled the country.

A total of 148 suspects have been pursued, and over 2.27 billion Rwandan Francs have been recovered, along with other assets, including properties purchased with the stolen money.

Despite the progress in the case, several individuals have claimed that they were wrongly accused and victimized by the RIB’s actions.

Among the claims, one individual, through a post on X, alleged that the investigation was manipulated by some corrupt officials who abused their power for personal gain.

However, RIB has firmly rejected these allegations, stating that its actions have always been based on law and evidence. The bureau maintains that it followed proper procedures throughout the investigation and that any claims of injustice are being used to deflect attention from the true perpetrators.

'We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all individuals involved in illegal activities are held accountable,' RIB said while reacting to the social media seeking President Paul Kagame’s intervention.

'The allegations of wrongful targeting are baseless and part of a broader attempt to discredit our efforts.'

RIB assures the public that the investigation is ongoing, with continued efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has dismissed allegations that it wrongly targeted suspects involved in a fraudulent scheme linked to I&M Bank Rwanda.

IGIHE

Concerns raised by the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) revealed that in 2023 alone, 228 houses were damaged by fire outbreaks. This trend persisted into 2024, with another 87 houses destroyed between June and August, revealing a significant gap in insurance coverage among property owners.

RHA Director General Alphonse Rukaburandekwe explained that the ongoing assessment seeks to address these gaps and inform future interventions.

“Over the past few months, RHA has initiated a comprehensive data collection exercise to assess the insurance status of buildings across the country. This process is still ongoing, and we are working closely with stakeholders to compile and validate the data,” he told The New Times.

The results of this exercise will clarify the disparity between insured and uninsured properties, enabling policymakers to craft more effective strategies.

Adalbert Rukebanuka, MINEMA’s Director General of Planning, Policy, and Risk Reduction, emphasized the challenges posed by urban living conditions, such as overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.

These factors, combined with limited firefighting resources, exacerbate fire risks in densely populated areas. “Most of the buildings are not insured for fire risks,” Rukebanuka noted.

“Overcrowded settlements with narrow alleyways hinder firefighters, leading to greater damage and loss of life.”

Informal settlements and inadequate public awareness about fire safety contribute to the prevalence of fire-related incidents. To mitigate these risks, the RHA has engaged some insurance companies to streamline insurance access for government institutions.

Regular reminders and follow-ups are expected to ensure compliance with insurance requirements.

The Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) has launched an assessment to evaluate the insurance coverage of buildings nationwide, following a spike in fire incidents that have largely affected uninsured properties.

IGIHE

The concert, dubbed 'The New Year Groove & Album Launch', ushered Rwandans into the new year while showcasing The Ben’s third album, 'Plenty Love'.

The Ben, ultimately achieved his dream of organizing a concert he had envisioned but couldn’t carry out in 2009 with a high attendance from his fans, an occasion marked with emotions and sheds of tears.

The performance was organized in two segments with the first part featuring various artists he had collaborated with on songs, including Bushali, Tom Close, K8 Kavuyo, Otile Brown, Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh, and others.

Green P, The Ben’s sibling, joined the stage along with P-Fla and Fireman, his former Tuff Gang groupmates, to perform the song “Kwicuma,” honoring Jay Polly, a member of their group who passed away in 2021.

Before The Ben took to the stage in his distinctive outfit, several upcoming artists were given the chance to showcase their talents. These included J-Sha, Phil Emon, Shemi, Yampano, and children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation. Attendees of the concert left mesmerized and satisfied with the music and performances.

The night was filled with overwhelming emotion, the audience deeply moved by the significance of the moment.

It was a memorable experience, highlighted by standout performances and emotional moments. It featured a mix of The Ben’s timeless hits and collaborations with various artists. Songs like “Amaso Ku Maso,” “Rahira,” and “Amahirwe Ya Nyuma” took fans back to the early days of his career.

Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, and Element Eleéeh added excitement, with Kevin’s dance moves particularly captivating the audience.

A heartfelt moment came when The Ben broke into tears while thanking his mother and supporters, expressing gratitude for their role in his success. This vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing his genuine connection with his fans.

Cultural pride was evident when “Naremeye” was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben’s artistry.

The spiritual tone of the concert emerged during “Ndaje,” where he reflected on his gratitude for life, hinting at a future focus on faith-inspired music.

Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh and others added excitement.

Throughout the evening, notable guests like Otile Brown and Tom Close shared the stage, while Tuff Gang members paid tribute to the late Jay Polly with an emotional performance of “Kwicuma.” The night also featured crowd favorites like “True Love,” performed with a calm and reflective energy.

The Ben’s ability to blend nostalgia, culture, and spirituality made the concert unforgettable, solidifying his place as a celebrated icon in Rwandan music.

Towards midnight, The Ben and Tom Close concluded the event with the last song, “Thank You,” a collabo between the two. They later sang a short rendition of “Genda Rwanda Uri Nziza” to express their gratitude to the country’s leadership.

The night was filled with overwhelming emotion. The Ben, deeply moved by the significance of the moment, couldn’t hold back his tears, and the audience shared in his heartfelt moment, witnessing the raw emotions of a dream realized.

Cultural pride was evident when “Naremeye” was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben’s artistry.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was a year-end celebration for 2024. During his address, the President reflected on Rwanda’s key moments throughout the year, both positive and challenging, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements and learning from setbacks.

He highlighted that this year included remembering Rwanda’s tragic history. Despite the pain, he stressed that Rwanda continues to commemorate its past while rebuilding and marking 30 years of liberation.

“This year, we remembered our loved ones for the 30th time. It was a year of remembrance and rebuilding, alongside commemorating 30 years of liberation,” he said.

The President also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the electoral process and addressed the recent Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. He noted that the outbreak has been successfully contained and extended condolences to families who lost their loved ones.

He commended healthcare workers and all individuals who risked their lives to safeguard others during these challenging times.

President Kagame underscored that Rwanda’s accomplishments should be celebrated as they are vital for the nation’s growth. However, he cautioned against complacency.

“As we celebrate, let us remain vigilant, both individually and collectively. We will not allow anyone to disrupt our security—not now, not ever,” he affirmed.

IGIHE

The peace process, which took place at a time of heightened tension, was critical to stabilizing East Africa. Sudan’s government had been accused of supporting the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a rebel group waging an insurgency against Uganda.

Meanwhile, Uganda backed the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.

For Sudan, the peace talks were an opportunity to improve its international standing. After being designated a terrorist state by the U.S. in 1993, due to alleged ties to Osama bin Laden and the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania, Sudan’s leaders sought to repair their global reputation.

They turned to Jimmy Carter, hoping his influence could help alter U.S. policy toward Sudan.

On the Ugandan side, President Yoweri Museveni faced increasing military and economic pressures. His government was dealing with multiple insurgencies and struggling to meet World Bank demands to reduce military spending.

Museveni saw the peace process as an opportunity to stabilize the region and reallocate resources to other critical conflicts, including the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Carter’s involvement was grounded in years of prior engagement with Sudan. As early as 1995, he had brokered a ceasefire between warring factions in Sudan to allow for humanitarian aid.

His deep understanding of the region’s complexities positioned him as the ideal mediator for the Uganda-Sudan peace talks.

By 1999, both Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and Ugandan President Museveni agreed to invite Carter to mediate the negotiations. Despite the challenges posed by Museveni’s support for the SPLA, Carter believed that improved relations between Sudan and Uganda could create a foundation for broader regional peace.

His strategy involved engaging not just the governments but also armed groups like the SPLA and LRA, aiming to address the root causes of the conflict.

A significant challenge was Joseph Kony, leader of the LRA. Carter’s attempts to bring Kony to the table faltered, and efforts to arrange meetings between Kony and his parents as a trust-building gesture ended in failure.

Nevertheless, Carter’s persistence and diplomacy proved effective. In December 1999, his efforts culminated in the Nairobi Agreement, signed by Bashir and Museveni in the presence of Kenyan President Daniel Arap Moi.

The agreement called for both countries to cease support for each other’s rebel groups, improve the treatment of refugees, and restore full diplomatic ties.

Carter’s use of the 'single document approach,' which he had previously applied at Camp David, ensured that both parties felt ownership of the agreement. The success of the Nairobi Agreement was a rare moment of cooperation in a region plagued by mistrust and conflict.

Carter’s work in Sudan and Uganda highlights his lifelong commitment to peace. His ability to bridge divides and foster trust between warring nations left a lasting legacy in East Africa.

He is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, and his legacy continues to inspire those who work toward peace and human rights.

The world has paid tribute to Carter, with U.S. President Joe Biden praising him as a leader whose life was measured not by words, but by deeds.

U.S. President Joe Biden has hailed Jimmy Carter as a leader whose life was measured not by words, but by deeds.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The year was marked by several high-profile initiatives, collaborations, and projects aimed at tackling climate challenges and advancing the nation’s goals of reducing emissions, conserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable urban development.

From groundbreaking climate talks with Germany to cutting-edge waste management projects, Rwanda’s environmental journey in 2024 highlighted both local and global engagement.

This round-up brings together the key milestones, offering a comprehensive view of how the country continued its pursuit of a green, sustainable future.

Rwanda and Germany launch quarterly Kigali climate talks

One of the most significant developments in Rwanda’s environmental sector in 2024 was the launch of the Kigali Climate Talks in May.

This quarterly series, a collaboration between Rwanda and Germany, was inaugurated by Rwanda’s then Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, and German Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann.

The talks aimed to foster dialogue on climate change, sustainability, and joint action.
The first session focused on Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, with discussions centred on the financial, technical, and capacity-building reforms needed to achieve Rwanda’s climate goals.

This quarterly series, a collaboration between Rwanda and Germany, was inaugurated by Rwanda’s then Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, and German Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann.

Dr. Mujawamariya reaffirmed Rwanda’s strong commitment to global climate targets and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, youth, and international partners in realizing the nation’s vision of carbon neutrality by 2050.

The talks will continue to provide a platform for actionable solutions, deepening the Rwanda-Germany climate partnership.

Rwanda inaugurates first municipal waste valorization facilities

In June, Rwanda took another significant step towards environmental sustainability with the inauguration of its first municipal waste valorization facilities at the Nduba dumpsite.

This initiative, part of the ‘Waste to Resources Project,’ aims to revolutionize the country’s approach to waste management by transforming waste into valuable resources.

The facilities consist of critical equipment and infrastructure built as part of a collaborative project titled, Waste to Resources Project: Improving Municipal Solid and Hazardous Waste Management in Rwanda.

Funded by Luxembourg’s Ministry of Environment and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the project includes a waste sorting facility capable of processing 100 tons of waste daily, and a bio-waste treatment plant that turns organic waste into fertilizers.

Over the past few years, Rwanda has also implemented household waste sorting programs, awareness campaigns, and reverse vending machines in Kigali to promote recycling.

The waste valorization project not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 15,000 tons annually but also creates green jobs, advancing Rwanda’s vision of a zero-waste circular economy by 2035.

Rwanda, Sweden forge climate cooperation

In September, Rwanda strengthened its international climate partnerships by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden.

This agreement focused on implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to collaborate on carbon markets and trade carbon credits to achieve more significant emissions reductions.

The MoU set the foundation for Rwanda and Sweden to develop a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement

Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and the Swedish Energy Agency will work together on capacity building, technical analysis, and the development of work plans to advance both countries’ climate goals.

The collaboration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing role in global climate leadership and Sweden’s commitment to supporting emission reduction efforts in Africa.

Environment Minister Dr. Valentine Uwamariya emphasized that the partnership would help Rwanda meet its NDCs while fostering sustainable development.

Green Climate Fund approves $28 million for Kigali’s green city initiative

Rwanda’s urban sustainability efforts received a boost in October with the announcement of a $28 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

The grant will support the Green City Kigali project, which aims to transform Kigali into a model of sustainable urbanization with climate-resilient infrastructure.

The Ministry of Environment affirmed that the Green City project, which is being implemented by the Rwanda Green Fund , will serve as a model for sustainable urbanization, showcasing climate-resilient, low-emission infrastructure development.

As Kigali grows rapidly, nearly 77% of its population lives in informal settlements vulnerable to climate risks such as flooding and landslides.

The Green City initiative seeks to upgrade these settlements, incorporating sustainable solutions to improve climate resilience.

Over the next five years, the project will position Kigali as a regional leader in climate-conscious urban planning, reducing emissions and improving living conditions for residents.
Rwanda unveils AI-powered 'interspecies money’ for gorilla conservation

In November, Rwanda launched an innovative conservation initiative, “Interspecies Money,” aimed at supporting gorilla conservation in Volcanoes National Park.

This AI-powered platform allows tourists to make real-time, symbolic contributions to conservation efforts through digital wallets.

The funds directly support vital activities such as hiring park rangers and protecting gorilla habitats.

The platform also provides income-generating opportunities for local communities, such as wildlife photography and conservation reporting.

Kigali to phase out petrol-powered motorbikes

Rwanda’s push for clean mobility took a significant step forward in November with the announcement of a plan to phase out petrol-powered motorcycles in Kigali by January 2025.

The policy requires all new entrants into the motorcycle taxi business to use electric motorcycles, while existing petrol-powered bikes can continue operating for the time being.
This transition is part of Rwanda’s broader environmental strategy, aimed at reducing air pollution and improving air quality in urban areas.

The policy requires all new entrants into the motorcycle taxi business to use electric motorcycles, while existing petrol-powered bikes can continue operating for the time being.

The country is already investing in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as battery swapping stations.

The move reflects Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions, and it is expected to reduce carbon emissions while improving air quality in Kigali.

Rwanda leads global call for a treaty to end plastic pollution

Rwanda continued to play a leadership role in global environmental advocacy in November 2024, when it called for a legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution at the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5).

As Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Rwanda urged nations to adopt a treaty that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastic pollution and promotes sustainable alternatives.

During the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) Rwanda advocated for a legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution.

The country also advocated for a Multilateral Fund to help developing nations meet the treaty’s obligations, highlighting the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on vulnerable communities.

Rwanda’s call for a global treaty reflects its long-standing commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.

Rwanda’s call for global action on climate change at COP29

At the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) held in November, Rwanda joined global leaders in calling for urgent action to combat climate change.

Minister Uwamariya stressed the severe impacts of climate change on Rwanda’s economy, noting that the country is already experiencing extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.

COP29 climate talks ran from 11-22 November 2024 in Azerbaijan.

Rwanda’s commitment to reducing emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 was reaffirmed, and the country called for a more equitable climate finance framework to support developing nations.

Rwanda also urged high-emitting countries to accelerate emissions reductions and strengthen efforts to build a low-carbon future for all.

Rwandan ranger Claver Ntoyinkima honoured for conservation leadership

In late November, Claver Ntoyinkima, a Senior Ranger Guide at Nyungwe National Park, was awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his outstanding contributions to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.

51-year-old Claver Ntoyinkima (left) was born near the Nyungwe National Park which he now protects.

Ntoyinkima’s dedication to protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity has earned him international recognition.

His work includes anti-poaching patrols, primate habituation, and guiding scientific research, as well as founding conservation clubs for local youth.

His award was presented by Prince William at the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards in London, where he was celebrated for his tireless commitment to wildlife and community conservation.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Huang Xin, deputy dean of the School of International Education at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology, said, 'Talent training programs and teaching plans for the new group of Rwandan students are being perfected based on the feedback from the first group of students.'

Vocational education, as an important bridge to continue the traditional friendship between China and Africa, shoulders the important responsibility of training variety of talents, passing on technical skills, promoting employment and entrepreneurship, and adding youth power to the dream of modernization for China and Africa. At present, China has built the world’s largest vocational education system.

In the system, Luban Workshops shines like a pearl in the international cooperation of China’s vocational education. Currently, more than 30 workshops have been jointly built in Asia, Europe and Africa. And nearly 10,000 students have been trained in academic education and more than 31,000 people received vocational training.

Jinhua’s cooperation with African countries in vocational education is a 'golden card' for China-Africa educational exchanges and cooperation.

On October 7, Rwandan students specializing in e-commerce at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology hosted a livestream sales session in a simulated broadcasting studio.

As the first batch of pilot institutions of 'Future Africa— China-Africa Vocational Education Cooperation Plan' project, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology welcomed the first group of 30 Rwandan students involved in the Future of Africa—Vocational Education Cooperation Plan in April this year. They gained fruitful results during the year in Jinhua.

At Africa Tech Challenge (ATC) Season IX in 2024, MBONIMANA Philimine won the highest score while Tuyihimbaze Israel won the third prize.

In the finals of Industrial Robot Installation and Maintenance Technical Competition Season V(International Group) of the 2024 Belt and Road and BRICS Skills Development and Technological Innovation Competition, Tuyihimbaze Israel, Musengamana Eugene and Iradukunda Abel won the third prize; Umwali Ange Natacha, Ngabonziza Elie and Uwamahoro Alphonsine won the gold medal in the finals of the Finance and Business Circuit (International Group) of the 2024 World Vocational College Skills Competition, while Mbonimana Philimine won the bronze medal in the Equipment Manufacturing circuit (International Group).

Umwali Ange Natacha was also employed as the international communication envoy of Jin Hub and the promotion officer of Jinhua Mountain Cultural Travel, telling the good story of Jinhua to the world.

At present, Jinhua University of Vocational Technology is also preparing the graduation ceremony for these Rwandan students. The students say that they have lived an extremely fulfilling life in Jinhua and hope to become witnesses, beneficiaries, builders as well as story tellers of China-Africa friendship and cooperation.

Umwali Ange Natacha and Hafashimana Patrick say that they will stay in Jinhua after graduation and have signed letters of intent with Zhejiang Wandefu Intelligent Technology Co., LTD. and Jinhua Runxing Technology Co., LTD respectively.

'Most overseas students choose to return to their country after graduation. We have contacted Chinese enterprises in Rwanda through the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda and the Association of Overseas Chinese in Rwanda, and actively helped them realize their dream of returning to China.'

Qian Xiangming, dean of Musanze International College of Jinhua University of Vocational Technology says. He hopes that Rwandan students will innovate and explore 'small but beautiful' cooperation projects when promoting local economic development, and become a link of business exchanges between Jinhua and Africa.

The first batch of Rwnadan students who studied at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology say that they have lived an extremely fulfilling life in Jinhua and hope to become witnesses, beneficiaries, builders as well as story tellers of China-Africa friendship and cooperation.

In the overseas development of vocational education for Africa, in addition to Jinhua University of Vocational Technology, Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College and Zhejiang Guangsha Vocational and Technical University of Construction are highly active as well.

In October 2023, Yiwu Industrial & Commercial College and Morocco Mondiapolis University cooperated in running an overseas branch – Morocco Yiwu Business School, jointly carrying out the training of international trade talents, big data technical talents, and e-commerce talents.

In 2018, Zhejiang Guangsha Vocational and Technical University of Construction gave full play to the industrial advantages of national intangible heritage Dongyang wood carving, and cooperated with the Ministry of Forestry of the Republic of the Congo to recruit the first batch of international students from the country, becoming the first vocational college in Zhejiang province to recruit international students in the field of arts and crafts.

At the end of March this year, it cooperated with Sassu University of the Republic of the Congo to build the 'China-the Republic of the Congo Silk Road College', carrying out all-round cooperation in running schools around personnel training, skills training and cultural exchanges.

Skills acquired from Jinhua University of Vocational Technology capacitate students to become future innovators.

Xinhua