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The new officers passed out on Friday, October 25, 2024, after completing a nine-month Basic Police Course at the Police Training School in Gishari, Rwamagana District. Among the graduates are 1,777 men and 479 women.

During the ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Interior, the officers demonstrated some of the skills they acquired, including crowd control, shooting, hostage rescues, drills, martial arts, and various self-defence techniques.

The Director of the Gishari Police Training School, CP Robert Niyonshuti, said the officers underwent rigorous training to prepare them for service in the Rwanda National Police.

While 2,135 students initially enrolled, 26 did not complete the training due to various reasons. An additional 147 students trained at the Musanze Police College, where they also began university studies. Some of these graduates will join the Rwanda National Police, while others will serve in the National Intelligence and Correctional Services.

Minister Biruta highlighted that Rwanda’s historical journey has made security a top priority, enabling the country to rebuild and advance significantly over the past 30 years through unity and collaboration.

He stated, 'To continue on this path, it’s essential to maintain a professional police force that is skilled, equipped with modern tools, and has the discipline derived from training like today’s and other programs.'

Minister Biruta acknowledged the general sense of safety in Rwanda but noted that certain crimes, such as drunkenness, theft, assault, drug abuse, and road accidents, still pose challenges.

'There are criminals who continuously learn and adapt their tactics, including using technology to commit crimes. This necessitates ongoing training, increasing the number of officers, and enhancing our resources to prevent and combat all forms of crime,' the minister added.

He praised the Rwanda National Police for its valuable contributions to national security since its establishment, which has also supported Rwanda’s consistently growing economy. He also thanked the parents who allowed their children to undergo this police training, integrating them into a team of dedicated officers.

The minister encouraged the new officers to uphold discipline, professionalism, diligence, integrity, and pride in serving Rwanda and its citizens wherever they may be posted.

Mugisha Steven, who graduated top of the class, expressed pride in joining the Rwanda National Police, saying it has been a lifelong dream.

'My goal now is to work alongside my colleagues, as a young officer, to support others and contribute my energy to the team,' he said.

Mirembe Liliane, the second-ranked graduate, also shared her excitement, stating her commitment to ensuring lasting security in collaboration with her peers.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta, urged the new police officers to exercise high level of discipline and prioritize the welfare of citizens.

The Director of the Rwanda Police Training School in Gishari, CP Robert Niyonshuti, urged the graduates to use the knowledge they gained to safeguard the security of Rwandans.

The Director of the Rwanda Police Training School in Gishari, CP Robert Niyonshuti, urged the graduates to use the knowledge they gained to safeguard the security of Rwandans.

During the ceremony, presided over by the Minister of Interior, the new police officers demonstrated some of the skills they acquired, including crowd control, shooting, hostage rescues, drills, martial arts, and various self-defence techniques.

IGIHE

Reflecting on Rwanda’s two-year term as Commonwealth Chair-In-Office, the Rwandan Head of State noted the particular climate vulnerabilities faced by small island nations like Samoa, which this year became the first Pacific island state to host CHOGM.

'Temperatures are rising, and for small island developing states in the Pacific and the Caribbean, this is literally a matter of survival,' Kagame emphasized.

As the world prepares for the forthcoming COP-29, an annual international conference that addresses climate change, President Kagame stressed the need for genuine commitments, specifically urging wealthy nations to increase climate financing for developing countries without adding to their debt burdens.

'What will make us cross the finish line in the fight against climate change is more finance from wealthy countries. Still, our collective efforts must not stop there,' Kagame stated.

'The terms must be favourable, without pushing developing countries into more debt,” he added.

Rwanda, he noted, continues to back the Sustainable Markets Initiative led by King Charles III, advocating for green investments across Commonwealth countries.

President Kagame also highlighted the need to empower young people, whom he described as the Commonwealth’s comparative advantage—a unique and valuable asset for the 56-member community.

'Creating digital jobs for women and young people should remain at the top of the agenda this year,' he added.

He also stressed the Commonwealth’s potential to harness technology for sustainable development, saying, 'We must rely on the potential for innovation and technology to resolve the daunting challenge of rising unemployment and irregular migration.'

'Artificial intelligence should not become a problem. If we use it responsibly and establish sound policies, we can transcend the realm of our imagination and become even more resilient.'

President Kagame has served as Chairperson of the Commonwealth since June 2022, after Rwanda successfully hosted CHOGM.

During the opening ceremony on Friday, he congratulated Samoa Prime Minister Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa and wished her success as Chair, assuring her of Rwanda’s support.

'It has been a great honour for Rwanda to serve as Chair-in-Office for the past two years,' he stated.

President Paul Kagame has urged leaders attending the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa to turn words into action in the global fight against climate change, warning that 'empty promises can only move the needle for so long.'

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This year, Rwanda will be represented by its Embassy in the Netherlands, the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) and Bella Flowers.

Last year, the Export and Innovation Department of NAEB stated that the trade fair is an opportunity for Rwanda to expand its market to the international scene.

In an interview with IGIHE, Rwanda’s former Ambassador to the Netherlands, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, confirmed that the trade fair enhances the value of Rwandan flowers in different markets.
'We firmly believe that the flower farming and trading sector, which we started less than ten years ago, will continue to grow,' he said.

“As we continue to expand, so will the market for our flowers. This is crucial for the growth of the flower business, especially as we still import flower seeds from other countries. It is important for the government to establish research mechanisms that will allow us to produce our own seeds,” he added.

In an interview with IGIHE, Rwanda’s former Ambassador to the Netherlands Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe confirmed that this trade fair enhances the value of Rwandan flowers globally.

NAEB statistics on flower farming in Rwanda show that over 23 million rose stems and more than 8 million summer flowers were exported from Rwanda in 2022-2023, generating $4.5 million in revenue. Additionally, 98% of these flowers were sent to the Netherlands, with expanding markets in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Last year, Rwandan representatives from different companies involved in flower farming and trading, such as Duhamic-Adri and Bright Harvest, expressed their satisfaction with participating in the event.

The CEO of Bright Harvest, Karemera Annonciathe, said that it was her first time attending the trade fair, and it left her with valuable insights, including discovering new types of flowers that could be grown in Rwanda.

'It was my first time attending this event, and I was impressed to find that flowers are a significant investment. I realized that we are missing out on many varieties of flowers that are on demand at the international market. This motivated me to think about producing new types of flowers in Rwanda,' she said.

The CEO of Bright Harvest, Karemera Annonciathe said that it was her first time attending the trade fair but it left her with valuable insights including discovering new types of flowers that could be grown in Rwanda.

Janvier Ugeziwe, a representative from Duhamic-Adri, was also pleased with how they showcased flowers grown in Rwanda, presenting more than 18 varieties that attracted a large number of buyers.
Statistics show that flower farming generates substantial income for the country, with over $6.85 million earned in the past five years.

Horticulture, including flowers, fruits, and vegetables, brought in over $42.86 million for Rwanda in the 2021/22 fiscal year, with flowers alone contributing $6.85 million.
Rwanda’s Embassy has announced that visitors are welcome to visit Rwanda’s stand, number 5.06, located in “Hall C.”

IGIHE will keep you up to speed on the developments, for the eighth consecutive year regarding Rwanda’s floriculture at the trade fair. The event provides the Rwandan delegation with the opportunity to strengthen trade relations and promote the quality of Rwandan flowers.

Last year, Rwandans representing various companies involved in flower farming and trading, such as Duhamic-Adri and Bright Harvest, told IGIHE that they were very pleased to participate in the event.

These photos depict Rwanda’s vibrant participation in the 2023 event.
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This year, Rwanda will be represented by its Embassy in the Netherlands, the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) and Bella Flowers.

IGIHE journalist visits Rwanda’s flower stall at the trade fare

Karirima A. Ngarambe

Xi made the remarks when addressing the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin chaired the summit, which was also attended by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the United Arab Emirates’ President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva participated in the summit via video link.

During a small-group meeting, Xi welcomed new members to the BRICS family and invited many countries to become partner countries.

Xi pointed out that the enlargement of BRICS is a major milestone in its development history, and a landmark event in the evolution of the international situation. It is for their shared pursuit and for the overarching trend of peace and development that BRICS countries have come together, he said.

Stressing that the world is undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century, marked by new trends of multipolarity and the risks of a “new Cold War,” Xi said BRICS countries should seize the historical opportunity, take proactive steps, remain committed to the original aspiration and mission of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, conform to the general trend of the rise of the Global South, seek common ground while reserving differences, work in concert to further consolidate common values, safeguard common interests, and strengthen BRICS countries through unity.

“We must work together to build BRICS into a primary channel for strengthening solidarity and cooperation among Global South nations and a vanguard for advancing global governance reform,” Xi said.

He stressed that the more turbulent the world is, the more BRICS countries should uphold the banner of peace, development and win-win cooperation, refining the essence of BRICS and demonstrating its strength. BRICS countries should raise the voice of peace, advocating a new path to security that features dialogue over confrontation and partnership over alliance.

Xi urged BRICS countries to jointly pursue a path of development, advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and stay committed to the principle of common development. He said BRICS countries should consolidate the foundation of cooperation, deepen cooperation in traditional areas such as agriculture, energy, minerals, economy and trade, expand cooperation in emerging areas such as green, low-carbon and artificial intelligence, and safeguard trade, investment and financial security.

The Chinese president then attended a large-scale meeting, made important statements on BRICS’ future development and put forward five suggestions.

“As the world enters a new period defined by turbulence and transformation, we are confronted with pivotal choices that will shape our future. Should we allow the world to descend into the abyss of disorder and chaos, or should we strive to steer it back on the path of peace and development?” Xi said.

He stressed that the more tumultuous our times become, the more firmly we must stand at the forefront, exhibiting tenacity, demonstrating the audacity to pioneer and displaying the wisdom to adapt, adding that China is willing to work with all BRICS countries to open a new horizon in the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation.

“We should build a BRICS committed to peace, and we must all act as defenders of common security,” Xi said. Only by embracing the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security can we pave the way for universal security, he added.

Xi urged the BRICS countries to uphold the three key principles: no expansion of the battlefields, no escalation of hostilities, and no fanning flames, and strive for swift deescalation of the situation in Ukraine.

He also urged BRICS countries to promote an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and make unremitting efforts toward a comprehensive, just and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question.

“We should build a BRICS committed to innovation, and we must all act as pioneers of high-quality development,” Xi said. “We must keep pace with the times and foster new quality productive forces.”

Xi said China has recently launched a China-BRICS Artificial Intelligence Development and Cooperation Center, and will establish a BRICS Deep-Sea Resources International Research Center, a China Center for Cooperation on Development of Special Economic Zones in BRICS Countries, a China Center for BRICS Industrial Competencies, and a BRICS Digital Ecosystem Cooperation Network, welcoming active participation from all interested parties.

“We should build a BRICS committed to green development, and we must all act as promoters of sustainable development,” Xi said.

He noted that China’s high-quality production capacity, as exemplified by its electric vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products, provides a significant boost to global green development.

Xi said China is willing to expand cooperation with BRICS countries in green industries, clean energy and green mining, and promote green development through the entire industrial chain, so as to increase the “green quotient” of our cooperation and upgrade the quality of our development.

“We should build a BRICS committed to justice, and we must all act as forerunners in reforming global governance,” Xi said.

He said the international power dynamics is undergoing profound changes, but global governance reform has lagged behind for a long time, urging BRICS countries to champion true multilateralism and adhere to the vision of global governance characterized by extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits.

Xi said BRICS countries must ensure that global governance reform is guided by the principles of fairness, justice, openness and inclusiveness, and enhance the representation and voice of developing nations in global governance.

Xi said BRICS countries should promote the connectivity of financial infrastructure, apply high standards of financial security, expand and strengthen the New Development Bank, ensuring that the international financial system more effectively reflects the changes in the global economic landscape.

“We should build a BRICS committed to closer people-to-people exchanges, and we must all act as advocates for harmonious coexistence among all civilizations,” Xi said.

Stressing that it is important that BRICS countries promote the spirit of inclusiveness and harmonious coexistence among civilizations and enhance the exchange of governance experiences among BRICS countries, Xi said he is delighted to see that the initiative for BRICS digital education cooperation has become a reality, and China will implement a capacity-building program for BRICS digital education, open 10 learning centers in BRICS countries in the next five years, and provide training opportunities for 1,000 local education administrators, teachers and students.

China is willing to work with BRICS countries to open a new horizon in the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and jointly promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi concluded.

Under the theme of “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” the participating leaders exchanged in-depth views on BRICS cooperation and major international issues of common interest.

The leaders made positive comments on the development of BRICS institutions and the important role they have played in addressing global challenges, expressing the belief that BRICS countries, with their large population, rich resources, huge development potential, growing appeal and international influence, have become a model of multilateralism.

They called on BRICS countries to uphold the BRICS spirit, strengthen solidarity and coordination, deepen the strategic partnership within greater BRICS, enhance cooperation in politics and security, economy, trade and finance, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world, a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and sustainable development of the world, and further increase the voice and representation of the Global South in international affairs, and promote the building of a more just and equitable international order.

The leaders vowed to safeguard multilateralism, uphold the core role of the United Nations in the international system, and support the United Nations in playing an important role in global governance such as artificial intelligence.

They also expressed commitment to peacefully resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, support all efforts conducive to a peaceful settlement of crisis, and respect the legitimate security concerns of all countries.

The leaders agreed to promote reform of the existing international economic and financial architecture and build the New Development Bank into a new type of multilateral development bank for the 21st century.

They also commended the UN General Assembly for adopting relevant resolutions on the China-proposed International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, calling for respect for the diversity of world civilizations and strengthening exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations.

The Kazan Declaration of the 16th BRICS Summit was issued and the establishment of BRICS partners was announced at the summit.

During the summit, the BRICS leaders also heard reports on the work of President of the New Development Bank Dilma Rousseff and other heads of BRICS institutions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping addresses the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024.

Leaders of BRICS countries pose for a group photo during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, Oct. 23, 2024.

Xinhua

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations between their nations, as confirmed by Rwanda’s Presidency.

President Kagame arrived in Samoa’s capital on Tuesday evening, where he was welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio.

Following his arrival, President Kagame met with Samoa’s Prime Minister, Afioga Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and Samoa.

Kagame also met with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston Browne. The two leaders focused on fostering stronger diplomatic ties and exploring new areas of collaboration across various sectors.

In addition to these discussions, President Kagame attended the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) hosted by King Charles III.

The initiative focuses on sustainable development and climate action, key issues on this year’s agenda.

The Commonwealth, which consists of 56 member countries from all continents, includes 33 small states, of which 25 are island nations. By 2023, the Commonwealth’s population had grown to approximately 2.5 billion people.

President Kagame has served as Chairperson of the Commonwealth since June 2022, after Rwanda successfully hosted CHOGM that year.

This year’s meeting marks the end of Rwanda’s two-year chairmanship, with Samoa set to take over as Chair-In-Office.

Additionally, a new Secretary-General for the Commonwealth is expected to be elected during this year’s summit, replacing Patricia Scotland, who has held the position since March 2016.

CHOGM 2024 is a historic event, being the first-ever meeting held in a Pacific Small Island Developing State and the first since Gabon and Togo officially joined the Commonwealth, raising the total membership to 56 nations.

This year’s discussions will address critical global challenges, including economic, environmental, and security issues.

Leaders are also expected to focus on enhancing resilience, boosting trade, fostering innovation, and empowering the Commonwealth’s youth to build a more peaceful and sustainable future.

The main CHOGM event will take place on October 25, 2024, preceded by side meetings such as the Youth Forum, the Women’s Forum, and the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on October 24.

Both leaders met in Samoa on the sidelines of the CHOGM 2024.

President Kagame has held talks with the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.

President Kagame was flanked by officials Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the united Kingdom, Johnston Busingye during the meeting.

IGIHE

Historically, Rwandan football was more modest, with foreign players from neighbouring countries making their mark in the 1980s and 1990s. Most of these players came from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and a few from Uganda.

Notable figures include the late Jean-Marie Ntagwabira, who played for local clubs in the 1980s before becoming a celebrated coach, and Hassan Gasana, a prolific striker from Burundi known for his goal-scoring prowess at APR FC in the late 1990s.

Other prominent names were Shabani Nonda and Bokota Kamana Labama from the DRC, along with Uganda’s Ibrahim Mugisha, a revered goalkeeper for APR FC and Rayon Sports during the 1990s and early 2000s.

In recent years, Rwanda has emerged as a hub for sporting excellence, investing in modern infrastructure to bolster its sports scene, particularly football.

With the government’s investments in state-of-the-art infrastructure, including Amahoro Stadium, Rwandan football clubs are increasingly elevating their game and scouting for talent beyond regional borders.

By tapping into the talent pool, especially from West Africa—known for strong national teams and football talent—the clubs have improved the competitiveness of the league while also fostering collaboration and growing local talent.

IGIHE recently spoke with Police FC striker Peter Agblevor and La Jeunesse FC Central defender Isaac Eze, who shared their motivations for joining the Rwandan League and their experiences playing professional football in Rwanda. The two players hail from Ghana and Nigeria, respectively, two of the continent’s leading football powerhouses.

Watch the interview below:

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Home to over 10 million Uygur Muslims and 47 ethnic groups, it’s a true cultural melting pot, shaped by its history as a vital hub of the ancient Silk Road.

From the awe-inspiring Taklamakan Desert to the serene beauty of Kanas Lake, and the vibrant city of Urumqi, Xinjiang is a treasure trove for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Whether it’s the fiery Flaming Mountains or the peaceful grasslands dotted with traditional yurts, the reality on the ground is a province full of life, color, and captivating stories that go far beyond the misconceptions.

Ready to discover a side of Xinjiang the world rarely shows? Here are 15 interesting facts about Xinjiang:

1. Urumqi, the world’s most remote city from the Sea

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang which recently hosted the 6th World Media Summit, holds the distinct honor of being the city furthest from any sea or ocean in the world.

It is located about 2,500 kilometers from the nearest coastline. Despite its geographical remoteness, Urumqi is a major city in western China and a vibrant center of culture, commerce, and tourism.

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang which recently hosted the 6th World Media Summit.

2. A land of ethnic diversity

Xinjiang is home to 47 different ethnic groups, with the Uygurs being the largest group, making up about 48% (over 10 million) of the population.

However, many other ethnicities also call this region home, including Han Chinese, Kazakhs, Hui Muslims, and others.

This rich mix of cultures gives Xinjiang its unique character, as these groups coexist while maintaining their own distinct traditions, languages, and religious practices.

Xinjiang is home to 47 different ethnic groups.

3. Silk Road Legacy

Xinjiang’s history is intertwined with the famous Silk Road, an ancient trade route that connected China to Europe and the Middle East.

This route that passed through this province facilitated not only the exchange of goods but also ideas, religions, and cultures.

Cities like Kashgar became vital trading hubs, where merchants from distant lands met to trade silk, spices, and other goods. This historic connection to the Silk Road has made Xinjiang a melting pot of cultures and religions.

People visit the ancient city of Kashgar, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in February, 2024.

4. Sharing borders with eight ountries

Geographically, Xinjiang shares borders with eight countries, more than any other region in China.

These countries include Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.

This location makes Xinjiang a key strategic area for China and contributes to the rich cultural and economic exchanges that have shaped the region’s history.

5. A unique time zone difference

Though all of China officially runs on Beijing Time, Xinjiang operates on its own unofficial schedule due to its distance from the capital.

Xinjiang is two hours behind Beijing, and locals often adjust their routines accordingly.

People typically start work at 11 a.m., eat lunch at 2 p.m., and leave work at 7 p.m., with daylight lasting until well into the evening in the summer months.

The night view of Ürümqi, the capital of Xinjiang Province.

6. China’s largest provincial region

Spanning 1.66 million square kilometers, Xinjiang covers one-sixth of China’s total territory.

The region’s vastness is mirrored by the diversity of its geography, which includes deserts, mountains, grasslands, and lakes.

Bayinbuluk is the second-largest grassland in China, offering a glimpse of
nomadic life with yurts, grazing herds, and Swan Lake, home to thousands of swans and
migratory birds.

It also has the longest international borders of any province in China, making it a crucial gateway to Central Asia.

Bayinbuluk is the second-largest grassland in China

7. The land of extreme landscapes

Xinjiang is a region of contrasts when it comes to its landscapes. It is home to the Taklamakan Desert, China’s largest shifting desert and the second-largest in the world, known as the “Sea of Death.”

On the other hand, it also boasts K2, the second-highest mountain in the world at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) above sea level.

Furthermore, the region contains Aydingkol Lake in Turpan, the second-lowest point on Earth at 155 meters (509 feet) below sea level.

K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world.

8. One of China’s main fruit-producing regions

Xinjiang’s unique climate—long sunny days and significant temperature differences between day and night—makes it an ideal place for growing fruits.

The region is famous for its Hami melons, Turpan seedless grapes, Korla pears, and Ili apples.

It also produces cotton, lavender, and other agricultural products like tomatoes, mutton, beef, and jujube. This agricultural richness has made Xinjiang an essential part of China’s food supply.

Xinjiang is one of China’s main fruit-producing regions.

9. A hub of religious diversity

Thanks to its long history and diverse population, Xinjiang is a region where multiple religions thrive.

Islam, which is the dominant religion among the Uygurs, coexists with Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Eastern Orthodoxy.

This religious diversity is reflected in the region’s architecture, with mosques, Buddhist temples, and Christian churches all present in the region.

Islam, which is the dominant religion among the Uygurs.

10. Traditional cuisine

Xinjiang’s cuisine reflects the cultural influences of its various ethnic groups. The region is known for its hearty meat dishes, especially lamb.

One of its most famous dishes is “Polo,” a pilaf made with rice, lamb, carrots, and various spices.

Another beloved dish is “Dapanji,” a spicy chicken stew often served with hand-pulled noodles. For vegetarians, Xinjiang offers dishes like mung bean salad and vegetable Polo, proving that the region’s cuisine caters to all tastes.

11. Kanas Lake and its legendary monster

In northern Xinjiang lies Kanas Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by Siberian forests and rolling grasslands.

The lake’s beauty has inspired legends, including the tale of a mysterious lake monster similar to the Loch Ness Monster. For decades of years, legends of an enormous water monster in the lake have captured the imagination of locals and visitors.

Whether or not the monster exists, Kanas Lake remains a top destination for travelers, offering breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting.

Kanas Lake is located in Xinjiang

12. It has the longest airline routes in China

Xinjiang currently has 16 airports, the most of all provinces and regions in China. This is naturally because of the fact that it is the largest province-level division of China.

The region’s vast distances make air travel essential, and the government has invested heavily in building roads, airports, and railways to ensure Xinjiang remains well-connected to the rest of China and beyond.

13. Extreme temperatures

Xinjiang is known for its dramatic temperature swings. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop significantly at night after a hot day.

Locals often say that in Xinjiang, you can wear a fur coat in the morning and a t-shirt by the afternoon.

This large daily temperature variation is particularly evident in the Turpan Basin, one of the hottest places in China, where temperatures can reach up to 47.8°C (118°F).

Turpan Basin is one of the hottest places in China.

14. Mineral riches

Xinjiang is home to more than 80% of China’s discovered mineral types,
including nephrite jade, making it an important part of the country’s economy.

Jades are among popular resources in Xinjiang.

15. Tourism boom

In recent years, Xinjiang has become a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from both within China and abroad.

Between January and September 2024 alone, the region welcomed 245 million tourists, contributing over 287.58 billion yuan (around 40.4 billion U.S. dollars) to the economy.

Vistors to Xinjiang receive warm hospitality.

Visitors flock to Xinjiang to experience its stunning landscapes, such as Tianchi Lake, the Taklamakan Desert, and the Pamirs Plateau, Flaming Mountain as well as its vibrant bazaars and rich cultural heritage among others.

Xinjiang’s unique geography, rich history, and vibrant cultures make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the true diversity of China.

Local tourists at a scenic spot of Kanas Lake.

Tourists also experience Xinjiang’s rich culture.

Attendees of the 6th World Media Summit experience camel riding at a desert in Turpan, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Oct. 16, 2024.

Tourists visiting Xinjiang stand chance to learn aspects of local culture.

Bayinbuluk grassland offers a breataking view. It is the second-largest grassland in China

Flaming Mountain is among touristic attractions in Xinjiang.

A visit to Kanas Lake leaves indelible memories.

IGIHE

The center aims to train 10,000 tech experts over the next five years, with a focus on those already working in the technology field, who will receive advanced knowledge using various technological tools. Its goal is to help Rwanda achieve its target of building a technology-driven economy.

Additionally, the center will support the Rwandan government’s plan to train a million people, mainly youth, in technology-related courses like coding over the next five years, and 500,000 others in advanced technology training.

During the center’s official launch on October 23, 2024, the Managing Director of Vuba Technologies Limited, Srimal Rajapaksha, said the center aims to bridge the skills gap between what students learn in school and the skills needed in the job market. Many graduates find themselves lacking sufficient expertise to handle challenges in their fields.

The Managing Director of Vuba Technologies Limited, Srimal Rajapaksha, unveiled some of the equipment at the new center.

“Often, the knowledge provided in schools is purely theoretical and doesn’t sufficiently prepare students for the workplace. We established this center to provide hands-on training, allowing tech experts to learn through practical, work-based experiences,” Rajapaksha explained.

The center is envisioned to become a model for Africa, with tech experts from countries like Malawi, Zambia, and other African nations coming to Rwanda for training. This will help reduce the number of people traveling abroad to seek modern technological education.

Currently, the center is collaborating with government institutions, schools, and private sector companies to foster partnerships aimed at promoting the technology sector. Students who complete the training will receive internationally recognized certificates that validate their acquired skills.

The center offers training in various fields, including networking, data processing and analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), software development, and more. Graduates will also be supported in obtaining internationally recognized certifications after completing their courses.

The Technology Development Center (TDC), a facility dedicated to offering technology-related training, has been officially launched.

In addition to Rwandans, the center is expected to welcome international students from different African countries, with training provided either through technology-based methods or in-person.

With an investment of over 200 million RWF, the school is poised for future expansion into other regions of the country. The planning and development of the center has been underway since 2019.

The Managing Director of Vuba Technologies Limited, Srimal Rajapaksha, stated that the center is well-equipped to help achieve its set goals.

A cake was cut in celebration of the opening of this center.

The Managing Director of Vuba Technologies Limited, Srimal Rajapaksha, stated that this school will also help reduce the number of people going abroad to seek modern technology education.

IGIHE