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Dusengiyumva met with senior faculty and staff to discuss ongoing projects, including partnerships with the University of Rwanda and UMST’s planned expansion in Kigali.

“UMST’s commitment to healthcare and medical training is clear. The City of Kigali is ready to support initiatives that bring more medical services and learning opportunities to our community,” he said.

A highlight of UMST’s plans is the construction of a state-of-the-art hospital and student hostels in Busanza Sector which will provide both medical services and housing for students.

Mayor Dusengiyumva praised these plans, noting that they align well with the city’s vision for community health and education. “Projects like these are essential for Kigali’s future. They ensure access to healthcare and create a supportive environment for medical students,” he noted.

The Mayor of Kigali City, Samuel Dusengiyumva (C) recently made an important visit to the University of Medical Science and Technology (UMST) Kigali Campus.

On his part, UMST Chancellor Professor Mamoun Homeida shared insights on the university’s journey since 1996, as well as its focus on medical education, research, and service in Rwanda.

“Our goal has always been to contribute meaningfully to Rwanda’s healthcare system and to train future medical professionals. This planned hospital and student accommodation are steps toward creating an integrated learning and healthcare environment.” said Prof. Homeida.

Homeida also expressed appreciation for the support UMST has received from the Rwandan government, highlighting that the new facilities will be instrumental in addressing healthcare needs and improving student life. 'Your support has allowed us to invest in Kigali and build a foundation for medical education here,' he said.

UMST Chancellor Professor Mamoun Homeida shared insights on the university’s developmental journey.

The meeting included a campus tour where the Mayor and UMST leadership inspected the school’s infrastructure and equipment, demonstrating their commitment to collaborate in strengthening Kigali’s healthcare capacity and educational resources through joint efforts.

The meeting included a campus tour where the Mayor and UMST leadership inspected the school’s infrastructure and equipment.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The report, titled “From Minerals to Manufacturing: Africa’s Competitiveness in Global Battery Supply Chains,” was conducted through the UK’s Manufacturing Africa programme in collaboration with the Faraday Institution, the UK’s leading research body on batteries and energy storage.

It presents cost-competitive investment opportunities for the battery supply chain in Africa.

Key findings suggest that, with targeted investment and supportive policy frameworks, refining lithium, nickel, manganese, and copper sourced locally in Africa could be up to 40% more competitive than global counterparts by 2030.

With just one high-quality refinery for each of these minerals, Africa could generate an additional USD 6.8 billion in annual revenue and create approximately 3,500 well-paying jobs within the battery supply chain.

In addition to mineral refining, preliminary analysis indicates that countries such as Tanzania and Morocco could potentially manufacture batteries at costs competitive with Europe under certain conditions. For instance, production costs could reach $72/kWh in Morocco and $68/kWh in Tanzania, aligning closely with Europe’s $68/kWh production cost, which benefits from subsidies.

The report also projects battery demand, highlights further opportunities in battery packs, battery assembly, and recycling, and outlines the current landscape of companies engaged in battery value chains across Africa. It offers strategic recommendations for policymakers and investors to drive these opportunities forward.

This report follows the Foreign Secretary’s address at Kew Gardens on September 17, 2024, where he shared plans to collaborate with partners to establish a Global Clean Power Alliance.

During the Lagos event, the Foreign Secretary engaged with investors, development partners, and clean energy firms, including UK-based smart meter company SteamaCo and e-waste management firm Hinckley Recycling.

Both firms are active in Nigeria, where they assembled a second-life battery as a demonstration of their commitment to local sustainability initiatives.

Helen King, Director for Economic Development and Partnerships at the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, underscored that the report encourages investors to view Africa as a prospective battery manufacturer, not merely a consumer.

She reaffirmed the UK Government’s commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable global growth, recognizing that this sector holds significant potential for African job creation and economic development.

'We look forward to engaging with policy makers and investors on taking forward the outcomes of this report and doing the hard work to realize the opportunity it represents,' she emphasized.

Aminu Umar-Saqid, Managing Director of Nigeria’s Sovereign Investment Authority, expressed that with Nigeria’s increasing energy needs, integrating renewable solutions and energy storage into local infrastructure is crucial to bridging the energy gap.

'This report, sponsored by the FCDO under its Manufacturing Africa Programme has been instrumental in calibrating our strategy thus providing a solid base for the development of our initiative,' he stated.

Professor Martin Freer, CEO of the Faraday Institution, pointed out that Africa’s abundance of essential minerals could enable the continent to play a transformative role in the global battery supply chain if it can address the challenges of investment, infrastructure, and workforce capacity.

'The report contains a wealth of information and analysis on the subject that will be valuable to a variety of stakeholders including potential investors in projects in other parts of the battery value chain beyond mining,' he noted.

Kemi Onabanjo, Nigeria Country Lead for the Manufacturing Africa programme, welcomed the report, stressing that turning Africa’s rich mineral resources into jobs and economic growth requires that African economies capture a larger share of the manufacturing process once minerals are out of the ground.

Lithium is one of high value precious stones used in the production of batteries for electronic devices such as phones, computers, and cameras. It is available in African countries including Rwanda.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, CEO of the RSE, applauded Prime Energy’s bold move. 'Green bonds are new in our market in Rwanda, particularly from the SME sector. Prime Energy is pioneering this space, and their proceeds will be reinvested into greening the environment where they operate,' he said.

Highlighting a growing global trend, Rwabukumba remarked that investors are increasingly looking toward greener investments, and this bond is a testament to that shift. The bond’s listing also opens opportunities for those who missed the primary issuance, as the bond is now tradable on the RSE’s secondary market.

Rwabukumba emphasized the significance of this green bond within the context of Rwanda’s broader financial landscape. In recent months, Rwanda has raised over 130 billion Rwandan francs, with local investors contributing more than 90% of the funding.

'It’s something to be proud of. This is the first time in our market’s history that we’ve seen multiple transactions of this scale and frequency, all oversubscribed and involving companies entering the market for the first time,' he said.

Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, the CEO of the RSE says this bold move.

He viewed this green bond as part of Rwanda’s effort to increase its capital market’s share of the GDP, aiming to reach levels seen in countries like Botswana and South Africa, where stock market capitalizations surpass GDP.

Prime Energy’s listing aligns with Rwanda’s ambitious targets under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which includes plans to double national savings rates within five years.

Rwabukumba believes capital markets will play an essential role in achieving this. 'This is something we have not been able to accomplish in decades through traditional banking alone,' he noted, underlining how capital markets provide 'patient capital' and long-term funds crucial for sustainable development.

Mutesi Linda Rusagara, Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of Resource Mobilization and Public Investments also acknowledged Prime Energy’s trailblazing efforts.

'Being a first mover is never easy, so I want to commend Prime Energy. You really could have chosen to seek more traditional financing but you chose to be bold. Today’s bond has shown that the green and sustainable agenda unlocks new types of capital for the private sector,' she stated.

Rusagara emphasized the role of green bonds in attracting fresh capital to Rwanda, assuring the public of government commitment in reducing barriers to sustainable financing to encourage more initiatives such as these.

Mutesi Linda Rusagara, Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of Resource Mobilization and Public Investments also acknowledged Prime Energy’s trailblazing efforts.

Grace Kibuthu Ogola, the Operations Officer for Capital Markets at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), celebrated the listing as a major milestone, attributing its success to Prime Energy’s dedication to environmental responsibility and to all partners involved.

'The listing of this bond is a major milestone for Prime Energy. We are immensely proud of this success, having raised funds from global investors to support sustainable growth,' Ogola said.

She praised the green bond as an instrument that symbolizes Prime Energy’s commitment to sustainability and accountability, which align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

'Our environmental and social strategy aligns with IFC performance standards and specifically supports SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy, SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, and SDG 13 on climate action,' she explained.

To maintain transparency, Prime Energy has set up a dedicated Green Bond Committee to monitor the allocation of funds, promising an annual Green Bond Report on its website to ensure accountability to investors and stakeholders.

Grace Kibuthu Ogola is the Operations Officer for Capital Markets at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Looking forward, both the RSE and Prime Energy see this green bond as a cornerstone for Rwanda’s sustainable financial future. It is seen as paving the way towards creating a greener and more sustainable future as this green bond is expected to inspire further eco-friendly financial ventures in Rwanda.

Prime Energy’s green bond, Rwanda’s first of its kind, reflects the nation’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development. This landmark listing positions Rwanda as a leader in the regional green finance movement and sets a high standard for future sustainable investments.

Prime Energy, a pioneering hydropower producer, has broken new ground in Rwanda’s capital market with the listing of its green bond on the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE).

Sam K Nkurunziza

The three-day showcase, featured at Stand C5.06 under the Rwandafresh brand, highlights 16 varieties of Rwanda’s finest floral offerings.

And we’re off! Rwanda is showcasing its unique and diverse flower varieties at the International Floriculture Trade Fair #IFTF2024 in Amsterdam, taking place from 5-7 November. The @Rwandafresh stand is exposing 16 varieties of roses from @BellaFlowersRw. Meet us at stand C5.06! pic.twitter.com/0lWNQo7mv7

— 🇷🇼 Rwanda in The Hague 🇳🇱 (@Rwanda_TheHague) November 5, 2024

This year marks Rwanda’s eighth consecutive appearance at the world’s premier flower exhibition. Now in its 14th edition, the event serves as a significant milestone, spotlighting Rwanda’s expanding influence in the global flower market.

Represented by Bella Flowers and supported by the National Agriculture Export Development Board (NAEB), Rwanda’s delegation aims to engage the global market, enhance brand visibility, and attract a broader clientele.

“IFTF 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for Rwanda to establish meaningful connections with buyers worldwide,” says Janet Basiima, Division Manager of Export Markets Development & Innovation at NAEB.

“It’s a chance to elevate our industry on a global scale and highlight the quality of Rwandan flowers.”

Gedion Demissie, Senior Advisor from Bella Flowers, echoes this sentiment, sharing that IFTF is a strategic platform for building relationships with new clients across Europe and Asia, positioning Rwandan flowers as a distinguished choice globally.

'Our goal is to make Rwandan roses a symbol of excellence in the global flower market. By embracing eco-friendly practices and empowering our local communities, we are building an export model that not only meets market demand but also enhances Rwanda’s reputation as a sustainable and innovative player in agriculture,' explains Demissie.

'The international community can now enjoy premium, sustainably-grown Rwandan roses, backed by a dedicated industry that embodies Rwanda’s values of quality, integrity, and environmental stewardship.'

The 2024 trade fair features 151 premier flower growers from 13 nations around the world, representing a 10% increase from last year’s lineup of 137.

Rwanda’s premier floriculture is on display at the International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF) in the Netherlands, taking place from November 5 to 7, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The first accident occurred in Kavura Village, Nyarusange Cell, Muhazi Sector, Rwamagana District, when a truck moving from Tanzania struck a pedestrian crossing the road.

Speaking to IGIHE, SP Twizeyimana Hamduni, spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police in the Eastern Province attributed it to overspeeding.

“The truck hit a man estimated to be around 30 years old, who died instantly. His identity remains unknown, and his body was immediately transported to Rwamagana Hospital,” SP Twizeyimana reported.

The second incident happened in Nyagatare District, in Kibuga I Village, Gakirage Cell, Nyagatare Sector, involving a fatal collision between a motorcyclist and a bicycle.

SP Twizeyimana explained that the accident occurred around 7 p.m., when a 30-year-old motorcyclist collided with a bicycle ridden by a 20-year-old.

'The motorcyclist died on the spot, while the cyclist sustained serious injuries. The accident is believed to have been caused by the failure to maintain a safe distance, as both were moving in the same direction,' he noted.

SP Twizeyimana urged all road users to adhere to traffic regulations, avoid speeding, maintain safe distances, and refrain from distractions like using mobile phones while driving.

He also emphasized the importance of avoiding any behavior, including drunk driving, that could lead to accidents.

The bodies have been taken to Rwamagana and Nyagatare hospitals for postmortem.

IGIHE

Harris entered the presidential race after President Joe Biden withdrew in July, following a disastrous debate with Trump that inflamed concerns about his age.

The former senator from California and Democratic candidate was the latest entrant in a race that now includes five candidates, though it’s widely seen as a two-horse contest between her and the outspoken Republican candidate.

The other three presidential hopefuls from third parties remain relatively unknown outside the U.S. But who are they, and what do they stand for?

Chase Oliver

The 39-year-old politician is running for the U.S. presidency on the Libertarian Party ticket.

As the youngest candidate in the race, Oliver describes himself as a champion of individual rights against the growing power of the state.

Oliver previously ran for a U.S. Senate seat from Georgia in 2022, where he garnered 2% of the vote.

As the youngest candidate in the race, Oliver describes himself as a champion of individual rights against the growing power of the state. His political activism began with opposition to the Iraq War during George W. Bush’s presidency, and he joined the Libertarian Party after attending Atlanta’s Pride Festival in 2010.

His running mate is Mike Ter Maat, a former police officer in Broward County who served from 2010 to 2021 as a registered Libertarian.

The Libertarian Party typically secures around 3% or less of the national vote, though its members could still play a pivotal role in swing states.

The party, founded in 1971, advocates for minimal government intervention in both economic and personal affairs. As one of the largest third parties in the country, it emphasizes individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and personal responsibility.

Jill Stein

The 74-year-old physician is running on the Green Party ticket, making her second stab at the presidency after her first attempt in 2016.

Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein speaks during a rally in Dearborn, Michigan, US, October 6, 2024.

Stein launched her current campaign accusing Democrats of repeatedly betraying their promises 'for working people, youth, and the climate,' while stating that 'Republicans don’t even make such promises in the first place.'

The Green Party is a progressive political party focused on environmental sustainability, social justice, grassroots democracy, and nonviolence.

Established in 1984, the party emerged from the global Green movement, which began in Europe in the 1970s. It positions itself as an alternative to the Democratic and Republican parties, particularly on issues of environmental protection and economic inequality.

While the Green Party rarely wins significant representation in national elections, it plays a crucial role in advocating for progressive issues, influencing policy discussions, and occasionally affecting election outcomes, especially in close races.

Cornel West

The 71-year-old American philosopher, scholar of African American studies, and political activist is running as an independent candidate. He has taught at prestigious institutions, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and Union Theological Seminary.

The 71-year-old philosopher pledges to end poverty and guarantee housing.

Initially, West ran as a Green Party candidate but announced in October that he would run as an independent, stating that people 'want good policies over partisan politics.' His campaign aims to attract progressive, Democratic-leaning voters.

At the top of his campaign pledges is ending poverty and guaranteeing housing.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Anti-government protests have rocked Mozambique’s capital since the October 9 presidential election, in which the ruling Frelimo party secured victory. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane has called for street demonstrations to contest Daniel Chapo’s 70.7% election win.

Amid the ongoing protests, claims surfaced on social media suggesting that Rwandan troops deployed to fight terrorists in Cabo Delgado had joined local security forces to quell the protests, allegations that the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) swiftly dismissed as false.

In a recent statement, the EU affirmed the RDF’s position, insisting that “No evidence has been put forward to support the claims that Rwandese troops are present in Maputo.”

The EU, which supports the Rwandan troop mission in Cabo Delgado through facilitation and equipment, also dismissed reports that it was funding Rwandan security forces to violently repress the protests.

“As a friend and partner of the people of Mozambique, the European Union supports the country in restoring peace, security, and stability across Cabo Delgado through an integrated approach combining efforts in the areas of peace and security, development, and humanitarian aid.

“The European Union absolutely refutes the grave and groundless allegations that the EU is financing the Rwandese army in Mozambique to violently repress protests in Maputo,” the EU stated.

The EU warned against misinformation saying, “The European Union cautions against the spread of misinformation and calls on all parties to observe calm, restraint, and a sense of responsibility.”

Through the European Peace Facility (EPF), the European Union equips the Rwandan Defence Forces with protective individual equipment and covers the costs of transporting military staff to fight the insurgency in Cabo Delgado.

“EPF support takes place in full compliance with international law, in particular international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and its implementation is subject to rigorous safeguards, controls, and monitoring mechanisms,” the EU added.

Rwandan forces are helping Mozambique’s army fight militants who launched an armed uprising in 2017.

Rwanda deployed its security forces to Mozambique in 2021 after the insurgency escalated, with the militia employing violent tactics, including attacks on civilians and security forces and destruction of property.

Since 2021, Mozambique has also received military support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), but SADC forces began withdrawing in April 2024 as their mandate ended.

A man holds a Mozambican flag during a protest against the results of the 2024 presidential elections in Maputo on November 2, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 7th CIIE and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum.

Running from Nov. 5 to 10, the 7th CIIE has attracted 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions. It also sets a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the event.

More than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are set to be unveiled during the expo, which experts believe is a strong indication of global companies’ confidence in the Chinese market and their commitment to further development in China despite a sluggish global economic recovery.

The opening ceremony of the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum is held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Gang)

Xinhua

“China has an important and attractive market, and the CIIE is incredibly big and diverse. It’s a wonderful opportunity for African businesses to tap into the Chinese market and understand what’s happening in the global market,” said Philip Myburgh, group head of trade at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, in an interview with Xinhua ahead of the 7th CIIE due from Tuesday to Sunday in Shanghai.

Given that Africa sometimes takes a backseat or gets overshadowed by larger economies at global events, Myburgh said they expect more exposure to and attention from the international community.

“We are certainly getting a stronger presence at the CIIE, with the Africa pavilion bringing all made-in-Africa products together,” he said, adding that it’s encouraging to see more emphasis on Africa.

Standard Bank, which has participated in the CIIE since its inception, has hosted many promotional events to strengthen the connection between Africa and China, said the expert.

“We are seeing more diversity and stronger demand for African products showcased in the CIIE, and we are expecting more transactions, more interest, and more deals being signed this year,” he added.

During the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in September in Beijing, China committed to further opening its market to African agricultural products, with two protocols signed for the export of greasy wool and dairy products from South Africa to China.

In Myburgh’s opinion, the FOCAC marks a highlight of the China-Africa relationship as many infrastructure and funding projects were announced, and more partnership agreements signed. Meanwhile, the CIIE is a practical showcase of the theoretical and political commitments made at the FOCAC.

Myburgh said China’s efforts to promote high-level opening-up are welcomed by African countries and will boost Africa’s economic recovery and growth.

China plays an important role in helping African countries diversify their economies and boost growth, and has become a key off-taker for African products and a provider of critical technologies for the industrialization and sustainable development of the continent, he said.

Noting that Africa could benefit from more foreign exchange, Myburgh said exports to China could be a critical contributor to Africa’s economic growth.

It’s also crucial for African countries to learn from China when it comes to renewable energy and technologies to save water and conserve energy, said Myburgh, adding that the CIIE has offered a platform for Africans to learn from and collaborate with more important stakeholders.

People pose for photos at the booth of South Africa at the 6th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China’s Shanghai, Nov. 6, 2023. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

Xinhua

This photo taken on Nov. 4, 2023 shows Lujiazui in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang)

This photo taken on Nov. 2, 2024 shows the overbridge at the west entrance of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

This photo taken on Nov. 2, 2024 shows the overbridge at the west entrance of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

A panoramic drone photo taken on Nov. 2, 2024 shows the west entrance of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE), in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Liu Ying)

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