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The two-day forum, co-organized by the Government of Rwanda and TradeMark Africa (TMA), will bring together Heads of State, government officials, development partners, academicians, multilateral organizations, and private sector leaders from 14 TMA implementation countries and beyond.

TMA focuses on promoting trade and regional integration across a range of countries, including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Eritrea. These nations form the core of TMA’s efforts to enhance trade facilitation, reduce barriers, and drive economic growth through innovative projects and partnerships.

Held under the theme ‘Digital Trade,’ this year’s forum will highlight transformative digital trade practices and technologies. The forum will be officially opened at the Kigali Convention Centre by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Édouard Ngirente.

According to the organizers, key discussions will explore the interoperability of digital payments, the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) and artificial intelligence in trade processes, and the role of automation in supporting green trade initiatives. The sessions aim to address leveraging technology to streamline trade facilitation, enhance policy frameworks, and foster sustainable development across Africa.

This marks the first time the forum will be held in Rwanda, following previous editions in Kenya (2011, 2012, 2014, and 2019) and Uganda (2018).

David Beer, CEO of TradeMark Africa, emphasized the forum’s significance in advancing Africa’s economic prosperity.

'TradeMark is driven entirely by generating practical results to remove trade barriers and drive up exports within and from Africa. While we have seen serious progress from trade facilitation interventions in the last decade, there is another big step forward to take,' he said.

'The 2024 forum will focus on propagating digitization successes more widely and introducing cutting-edge technologies. We look forward to sharing lessons and presenting innovative ideas to help governments and the private sector further drive down the cost and time of trade.'

The forum is expected to drive Africa’s trade integration, leveraging digital solutions to build sustainable, seamless trade systems that enhance regional and global competitiveness.

This year’s conference will culminate in the development of the Africa Trade Development Forum Kigali Declaration, which will capture the key insights and decisions arising from the event’s discussions.

Additionally, TradeMark Africa (TMA) is set to unveil the Trade Facilitation Flagship Document, a report that outlines emerging trends in Africa’s trade facilitation and showcases innovative technologies designed to streamline and enhance trading processes.

The Africa Trade Development Forum will be officially opened at the Kigali Convention Centre by Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Édouard Ngirente.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The Africa Report is a Paris-based, English-language quarterly magazine focusing on African politics and economics, founded by Patrick Smith two decades ago.

In its first ranking of African cities, the pan-African media platform recognized Kigali as Africa’s second most inviting, livable, and investment-friendly city.

South Africa’s Cape Town and Johannesburg claimed the first and third spots, followed by Morocco’s twin cities of Casablanca and Rabat. Nairobi, Kenya, ranked sixth.

Other cities in the top 10 include Alexandria, Cairo, Abidjan, and Accra. Additional rankings feature Lagos, Dakar, Gaborone, Addis Ababa, Tunis, Lusaka, Cotonou, Oran, Kampala, Abuja, Lomé, Algiers, Douala, Yaoundé, Luanda, Maputo, Harare, Kinshasa, Libreville, and Ouagadougou.

The report highlights progress made by urban centres while identifying areas for growth, using a comprehensive survey of readers and foreign direct investment data to provide insights into Africa’s evolving urban landscape.

Kigali has previously been recognized for its ease of doing business, driven by streamlined regulatory processes, transparent governance, and supportive policies for entrepreneurs and investors.

The Kigali Convention Center has become a hub for international business meetings and conferences.

The city also boasts a clean, orderly environment thanks to initiatives like monthly Umuganda community cleanups and strict waste management systems, earning it a reputation as one of Africa’s cleanest capitals.

In addition, Kigali embraces innovation with tech hubs, smart city initiatives, and a growing startup ecosystem fostering creativity and modern solutions, making it an attractive destination for both business and living.

Kigali is home to BK Arena, a multi purpose indoor venue that hosts a range of events, from sports to concerts.

In July, Kigali was ranked among the top five favourite destinations for travellers visiting Africa and the Middle East. It moved up four spots from ninth place in the World’s Best Awards 2024, behind Marrakesh, Cape Town, Jerusalem, and Dubai, respectively.

The awards, organized by Travel + Leisure, a New York City-based travel magazine, consider traveler experiences to rank the world’s top cities based on parameters such as sights/landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value.

Amahoro Stadium in Kigali is a state-of-the-art facility known for hosting major sports events, concerts, and other large gatherings.

In the 2024 edition, voters described Kigali as a beautiful and well-organized hub with friendly and helpful residents.

'Amazingly clean and progressive city! I felt safe walking all over,' wrote one voter. 'There is a wide variety of cuisine available and amazing coffee.'

Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, has been named the second most attractive city in Africa in the inaugural city rankings by The Africa Report and its sister publication, Jeune Afrique.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

A venture that exemplifies AfDB’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation, this initiative has not only elevated Rwanda’s healthcare and education systems but has also set a benchmark for regional growth and excellence.

The vision behind CEBE is rooted in addressing critical gaps in healthcare, particularly in biomedical engineering, e-health, and rehabilitation sciences.

As an integral part of the UR, the center’s objectives align closely with Rwanda’s national development agenda: advancing education, improving healthcare services, and fostering research-based solutions to tackle real-world challenges.

Key infrastructure developments have been the backbone of CEBE’s transformation. A six-story, 6,300-square-meter facility now houses state-of-the-art laboratories, specialized equipment, and academic spaces dedicated to research and learning.

This infrastructure is more than just is a hub of innovation that empowers students, faculty, and researchers to create solutions that improve lives.

A six-story, 6,300-square-meter facility now houses state-of-the-art laboratories, specialized equipment, and academic spaces dedicated to research and learning.

One of the beneficiaries of this initiative, Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, shared her story during the AfDB’s 60th-anniversary celebrations.

“In 2014, I began my journey in prosthetics and orthotics with a vision to empower persons with disabilities. Thanks to the AfDB’s investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,' she said.
Today, Gatsinzi is not just a professional, she is an advocate for dignity and independence, equipped to bring transformative change to her community.

Gatsinzi’s story is one of many, highlighting how access to quality education and resources can empower individuals to drive meaningful change in their communities.

CEBE’s impact extends beyond individuals to influence broader systems. Over 680 professionals; including students, faculty, and health practitioners have benefited from scholarships, training programs, and research opportunities supported by AfDB.

Women constitute 40% of these beneficiaries, highlighting a commitment to inclusivity and gender equity. These professionals are now contributing to Rwanda’s healthcare system, designing assistive technologies, and addressing critical healthcare challenges, particularly in underserved areas.

A vision for growth

Since its establishment, CEBE has achieved remarkable milestones, positioning itself as a cornerstone of Rwanda’s healthcare and education sectors.

Its accomplishments include groundbreaking research, innovative projects, and the creation of specialized training programs among others.

The center has spearheaded over 40 research projects, with several breakthroughs in e-health and rehabilitation technologies. Projects such as digital rehabilitation solutions and mobile health platforms for managing chronic diseases are revolutionizing healthcare delivery in Rwanda and beyond.

On the other hand, CEBE has equipped hundreds of students and practitioners with specialized skills in biomedical engineering, rehabilitation sciences, and digital health.

These individuals such as Gatsinzi’s, are now leading innovations in healthcare, from developing new medical devices to improving patient care systems.

Beyond its physical structure, the center boasts cutting-edge biomedical laboratories and specialized equipment that rival international standards. These facilities not only support education but also foster research that addresses Rwanda’s unique healthcare challenges.

Despite these successes, the journey has not been without challenges. The initial phases of CEBE faced hurdles such as site relocation, delays in procuring specialized equipment, and the unforeseen disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, AfDB’s support and the resilience of the Rwandan government ensured these obstacles were overcome. The project now stands as a testament to perseverance and strategic collaboration.

Prof. Celestin Twizere, the Rector of CEBE explains that the center stands as a shining example of the transformative impact of the AfDB as it addresses critical gaps in healthcare and education.

CEBE focuses on biomedical engineering, e-health, and rehabilitation sciences. With AfDB’s support, the center has grown into a hub of innovation, driving advancements in technology and healthcare.

“Our mission is to empower professionals with the skills to solve real-world problems in healthcare and beyond. With this support, we are building a hub where technology and medicine converge to improve lives and transform communities,” he said.

Hundreds of students and professionals have so far developed groundbreaking research projects and equipped its facility with state-of-the-art technology. These achievements are paving the way for Rwanda to become a leader in healthcare innovation.

Moving forward, Prof. Twizere expresses optimism about the center’s future; “The center aims to bridge the gap between education, research, and healthcare innovation. With continued investment, we envision Rwanda becoming a leader in biomedical engineering and e-health, not just in Africa, but globally,” he acknowledged.

One of CEBE’s most ambitious goals is to address the shortage of specialized infrastructure and certified biomedical professionals in Rwanda.

According to recent government reports, there is a significant gap in the availability of accredited healthcare facilities and skilled practitioners.

CEBE aims to fill this void by training more professionals, developing high-quality research outputs, and fostering collaborations that drive sustainable solutions.

The African Development Bank remains a pivotal partner in this journey. With its continued support, CEBE is poised to become a global center of excellence, attracting talent and investments while contributing to Rwanda’s Vision 2050 goals of creating a high-income, knowledge-driven economy.

A legacy of hope and opportunity

The story of CEBE is a reflection of the AfDB’s 60-year legacy of empowering communities, fostering innovation, and transforming lives. Through its strategic investments, this has not only elevated Rwanda’s healthcare and education sectors but also inspired a generation of change makers ready to shape Africa’s future.

As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, the words of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi resonate deeply.
“The AfDB’s support has given us the tools to make a difference, not just for today, but for generations to come. Thank you for believing in us and for investing in a brighter future for Africa,” she says.

The African Development Bank’s partnership with Rwanda is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision meets action.

As CEBE continues to grow, its impact will ripple far beyond Rwanda, inspiring a new era of innovation and progress across the continent.

IGIHE

Among the many influential participants at this year’s event, Rwanda will emerge as a standout destination with its own dedicated booth. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB), along with over 15 of the country’s top tour operators, will showcase the rich potential of Rwanda as a luxury destination. With a focus on sustainable tourism and a commitment to providing authentic, immersive experiences, Rwanda is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking the best of both adventure and relaxation.

Rwanda’s presence at ILTM 2024 is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a luxury travel hub. The country’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thriving cultural heritage make it a prime location for luxury safaris, exclusive cultural experiences, and high-end accommodations. ILTM offers Rwanda an ideal stage to demonstrate its eco-friendly approach to tourism while attracting a global audience of travel advisors and industry influencers.

One of the key highlights of ILTM is the opportunity for face-to-face meetings with an exclusive group of 1,850 highly qualified luxury travel advisors from around the world.

These carefully selected buyers are experts in the luxury travel sector, providing Rwanda with the chance to build valuable relationships and promote its offerings to a global audience. Additionally, the event attracts some of the most influential personalities in the luxury travel market, including renowned editors, freelancers, and social media influencers.

For Rwanda, this presents an unparalleled opportunity to strengthen its international brand presence and connect with those who can help elevate its status on the global stage.

ILTM 2024 is more than just a business event; it is a celebration of luxury travel, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Riviera. The event features elegant evening networking opportunities where participants can forge lasting connections in a relaxed and picturesque environment. For those looking to maximize their ILTM experience, the event encourages early preparation, including creating a detailed profile and collaborating with an account manager to ensure the most effective exhibition strategy.

In addition to its business opportunities, ILTM also provides a platform to highlight the incredible tourism potential of destinations like Rwanda. As the country continues to develop its luxury tourism sector, the Rwanda team’s participation in Cannes will help cement its place as a rising star in the luxury travel industry.

Some photos showcasing Rwanda’s participation at ILTM Cannes 2024

[email protected]

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

Ruto was appointed at the 24th Summit of EAC Heads of State in Arusha, Tanzania.

Initially, there were expectations that President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo would assume the chairmanship. However, Tshisekedi was absent from the summit and did not send a representative.

Ruto will lead the EAC until the 25th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State next year. The 24th Ordinary Summit convened the region’s leaders to discuss critical issues shaping the future of East Africa.

This summit, held under the theme of the EAC’s 25th Anniversary, also served as a platform to reflect on the achievements of the past 25 years and plan for deeper regional integration.

Key agenda items included strengthening economic resilience, advancing peace and security, and promoting initiatives to boost intra-regional trade and development.

The election of President Ruto was confirmed on Saturday, following a vote by the Heads of State from the seven EAC member countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Sudan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Somalia.

After assuming chairmanship, Ruto took the opportunity to commend President Salva Kiir for his successful leadership of the community over the past year.

“Congratulations, Your Excellency; you made all of us proud,” Ruto said. “Under his leadership, the EAC has made immense strides in deepening integration and achieving progress in key areas that define our shared aspirations. His efforts and dedication deserve our utmost gratitude.”

Ruto also pledged to work closely with other regional leaders to advance the mission and vision of the community.

IGIHE

According to the EAC Secretariat, the Summit of EAC Heads of State acknowledged that the establishment of a Federation was first agreed upon in 1963 by the EAC’s Founding Fathers—President Jomo Kenyatta (Kenya), Dr. Apollo Milton Obote (Uganda), and Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere (Tanganyika, now Tanzania). However, it was noted that the bureaucrats entrusted with advancing this goal failed to follow up on the matter.

It was noted that Tanganyika and Zanzibar went ahead to form the United Republic of Tanzania, adding that the federation should be extended to transform the region into one as envisaged by the three Founding Fathers.

The Summit members were speaking on November 29, 2024 at the Arusha International Conference Grounds in Arusha, Tanzania during the High-Level Side Event on the EAC’s 25th Anniversary.

The EAC leaders further agreed on the need to fully operationalise the Customs Union and Common Market protocols to enhance intra-regional trade which is still relatively low.

In his remarks, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said that EAC should be celebrating more than 1,000 years of trade interconnectedness within the region instead of focusing on the achievements of the past 25 years only.

President Museveni said that East Africa’s Coastal, Great Lakes and Lake Victoria Basin regions were a Connected Trade Area (CTA) interlinked by trade routes along the current Central and Northern Transport Corridors extending all the way to Mesopotamia in present day Iraq. The partition of Africa into spheres of influence in 1884 by the European colonial powers disconnected the CTA by segmenting it into separate countries.

'The colonial powers succeeded due to the region’s internal weaknesses. We became a DTA — disconnected trade area. Kenyatta, Obote and Museveni took the bold step to form the East African Federation in 1963 in a brave effort to dismantle this DTA,' said President Museveni.

'However, some actors let us down and did not follow up on the three President’s idea of forming a political federation. Tanganyika linked up with Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanzania, which played a significant role in liberating southern Africa from the yokes of colonialism,' said President Museveni.

President Museveni said that the formation of the East African Federation would have forestalled Idi Amin’s ascendancy to power in Uganda, solved in good time the problems Burundi and Rwanda, and mitigated the internal conflicts in the Federal Republic of Somalia and South Sudan that caused much suffering to the people of the two countries.

President Museveni affirmed that Uganda was fully committed to promoting free trade in East Africa and was against the practice of banning products, delicensing products to deny them market access or protecting markets to limit competition for locally produced commodities.

On his part, Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto said that a survey taken way back in 2010 indicated that East Africans were fully behind the integration process and supported the establishment of a political federation.

President Ruto hailed the Republics of Burundi, Uganda and Kenya, which have already undertaken national consultations on the drafting of the constitution for the EAC Political Confederation, and thanked Rwanda, South Sudan and Tanzania for having set dates for national consultations on the process.

President Ruto said that EAC was the foremost regional economic community in Africa with intra-regional trade standing between 25 — 28%, which is the highest in Africa.

On trade, President Ruto disclosed that more Partner States were benefiting from the share of intra-regional trade with Tanzania having overtaken Kenya in terms of the volumes of intra-regional trade.

The Kenyan Head of State underscored the importance of peace and security as prerequisites for local and foreign direct investment, adding that it should be a collective responsibility of Partner States to keep the region peaceful and to invest in its stability.

President Ruto said that towards that end, Kenya had provided a forum for South Sudan’s political actors to talk to one another in order to stabilise the country. Kenya was also working with Somalia and Uganda to reduce tension and stabilise the Horn of Africa region.

President Ruto said that Kenya was in agreement with the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s desire to merge the Luanda and Nairobi peace process under the Luanda process, adding that Kenya had no reservations with the Nairobi Process mediator, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, being enjoined to the Luanda process.

Speaking at the event, Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan underscored her country’s commitment to promoting environmental conservation and combating climate change through transition to clean energy and an aggressive afforestation programme.

On his part, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said that his country’s entry into the EAC was the culmination of a long desire to join her neighbours in East Africa as part of a robust economic and political entity.

Also present at the event were Burundian Vice President Prosper Bazombanza, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva, Ministers, Members of the Diplomatic Community, Development Partners, among other delegates.

EAC heads of state have agreed to expedite the establishment of a political federation as the fourth and ultimate stage in the EAC integration.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The summit, themed “Promoting Trade, Sustainable Development, and Peace and Security for Improved Livelihoods,” coincides with the EAC’s 25th anniversary celebration.

Upon arrival at the airport, President Kagame was welcomed by Shariff Ali Shariff, the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Work, Economy, and Investment of Zanzibar.

Along with President Kagame, other EAC Heads of State who have already arrived in Arusha include William Ruto of Kenya, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania.

South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit, who also serves as the current EAC Chairperson, is expected to arrive later, while Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye is represented by Vice President Prosper Bazombanza.

It remains uncertain whether Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo will attend, as he did not participate in the extraordinary summit held in June 2024, in protest of President Ruto’s comments regarding the M23 armed group not being Rwandan.

Over the past 25 years, the EAC has significantly expanded, growing from three founding members in July 1999 to eight current member states. While the community strives for political integration, this goal is often hindered by ongoing conflicts among its member states.

Upon arrival at the airport, President Kagame was welcomed by Shariff Ali Shariff, the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Work, Economy, and Investment of Zanzibar.

President Kagame has joined EAC Heads of State for 24th Ordinary Summit.

President Kagame is among EAC heads of state attending the 24th Ordinary Summit which coincides with Silver Jubilee celebration.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The boxes, including banned skin bleaching lotions, had been covered with charcoal bags in an attempt evade taxes.

It was stopped shortly after take-off from the border after information emerged that it had other goods covered under charcoal bags.

The trailer was enroute from Tanzania, and the driver had declared to customs that he was carrying only charcoal bags.

Two people, including the driver and the alleged owner of the smuggled goods, have since been arrested.

Further investigations later recovered other big quantities of vehicle spare parts at the suspect’s home in Kigali.

Jean Paulin Uwitonze, Assistant Commissioner in charge of Taxpayer Services and Communications Division at RRA, while addressing the media on Friday, November 29, in Kigali, said that the importer had evaded taxes amounting to Frw77 million.

He added that these are results of close collaboration with law enforcement agencies against smuggling and fraud, including over 2 tonnes of smuggled second-hand clothes, which were auctioned recently.

The Rwanda National Police (RNP) spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, said that one of the responsibilities of the force is to detect, prevent and fight anything that is against the law, affects the national economy and the wellbeing of Rwandans, including smuggling, a reason why the Revenue Protection Unit was created.

“We all thrive on the economy of the country, which can be affected by such fraudulent businesses. These operations are meant to protect legal businesses, protect Rwandans from substandard and harmful products, which can be brought into the country through such unlawful means,” ACP Rutikanga said.

He added that individuals engaged in smuggling and fraud are the same people, who sometimes attempt to de-campaign the national policy on the use of EBM.

“There are some people, who want to thrive on such fraudulent businesses and when they are identified, they try to use the media; they will not succeed. We also urge the media to background checks not to be used by such people,” he added.

He cautioned that attempts to use such shortcuts to get rich can lead to business downfall.

Dr. Thierry Murangira, the spokesperson for Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) said that the dossier for the two suspects has been transferred to prosecution.

“Smuggling and fraud carry severe penalties, including a prison sentence of five years and a fine of 50 percent of the total value of the smuggled goods, or one of these penalties,” Dr. Murangira said.

The vehicle spare parts are among smuggled goods at the RRA stores in Kigali Special Economic Zone in Masoro, Gasabo District, seized over the past few months, mainly wines and spirits, and second-hand clothes.

Meanwhile, Uwitonze said that RRA conducts stock analysis in businesses.

“It is through stock analysis that we discover smuggled liquors, forged tax stamps, and tax seals traders taken from cheaper liquors to expensive ones so as to evade taxes,” Uwitonze said.

The trailer was stopped shortly after take-off from the border after information emerged that it had other goods covered under charcoal bags.

IGIHE

Speaking to the national broadcaster regarding the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nduhungirehe expressed pessimism if DRC does not change its approach.

'Yes, we signed the concept of operations that would guide the peace process moving forward. But despite these agreements, when we look at what is happening on the ground, we see that DRC has continued to support and arm groups that pose a direct threat to Rwanda’s security,' he said

His remarks followed a ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, in Luanda, Angola, where key issues of regional security, including the dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the easing of security measures along the Rwanda-DRC border.

The meeting, which brought together ministers from Rwanda, DRC, and Angola, was intended to fast track the process however, Nduhungirehe expressed frustration over the lack of tangible progress despite the agreements reached in Luanda.

The minister pointed to the actions of armed groups close to Rwanda’s border, particularly the M23 and other rebel factions, which continue to carry out attacks against each other despite the agreed-upon ceasefire.
Nduhungirehe described these actions as a clear violation of the commitments made during the Luanda discussions.

During the meeting, Ministers from Rwanda and DRC met their Angolan counterpart.

'After the fifth round of talks, despite the commitments made, we observed over 20 attacks by rebel groups against M23 teritories. This ensured the continuation of retaliatory fighting, which is exactly the opposite of what was agreed upon,' he said.

'This is why I raised the issue in the meeting. when we agree to commitments, they need to be implemented on the ground,' Nduhungirehe revealed.

He also commented on recent inflammatory rhetoric from DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, which has further complicated the peace process. On November 17, 2024, President Tshisekedi delivered a speech in the Okatanga region, where he openly stated that if given the chance to amend the constitution, he would seek to overthrow the government of Rwanda.

'This public call for regime change is particularly concerning as it contradicts the diplomatic efforts underway to ease tensions between the two countries. We are deeply concerned about these statements. Such words are reckless and dangerous, undermining the ongoing peace efforts' Nduhungirehe noted.

The minister also criticized the DRC’s Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, who in a video published on social media, is seen addressing detainees in the overcrowded Munzenze Prison, in Goma, warning inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame, at the same time mobilizing those willing to fight against Rwandans to reclaim their land.

'Such statements are not only provocative, but they are a direct challenge to the peace process. These words fuel hate and mistrust, and they make it difficult for us to lower our defense mechanisms,' Nduhungirehe explained.

DRC Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, addresses inmates in Munzenze prison recently where he warned inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame.

Despite these setbacks, Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to peace, but made it clear that Rwanda will not remove its defense measures until it sees a genuine commitment to peace from the DRC.

'We want peace, but we are not seeing the will from the DRC. Until there are concrete actions on the ground, we cannot lower our guard,' he warned.

He called for the DRC government to engage directly with the M23 group to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. He emphasized that such dialogue could help bring stability to the region and ultimately lead to peace.

'We believe the solution lies in dialogue, including with the M23 group. It’s time for the DRC government to take this bold step and engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to lasting peace in the region,' Nduhungirehe advised.

Rwanda has also called for greater international support to ensure that the peace agreements are properly implemented and that DRC is held accountable for its actions. 'We are committed to working for peace, but we need to see real actions from DRC. We will continue to safeguard our sovereignty and the safety of our citizens,' he emphasized.

The situation remains tense, and while both countries have publicly expressed a desire for peace, the path forward will require true commitment to make difficult decisions and fulfill each other’s commitments in order to avoid further escalation.

Minister Nduhungirehe has cast a shadow of doubt at the fruits of the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the DRC if nothing changes.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The launch of this initiative took place during a key workshop held in Addis Ababa from November 27 to 29, 2024.

The strategy focuses on strengthening integrated health systems, with a special emphasis on the prevention and control of major health threats like HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis (TB), hepatitis, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

In his opening speech, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, expressed the significance of the event, stating, “It is indeed an honour to address you today and to participate in this important workshop with the expectation that we come out of it stronger with strategies and renewed commitments for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria, Hepatitis and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on the continent.”

Delegates from all 55 African Union Member States gathered at the workshop, where they reviewed and endorsed the Africa CDC’s blueprint for 2024—2027.

This plan is not only a reflection of the continent’s commitment to addressing urgent health concerns but also aims to integrate prevention and control strategies into the national health systems of all African countries.

The challenges in Africa are severe, with infectious diseases continuing to have a disproportionate impact. The continent accounts for 94% of global malaria cases and 95% of malaria-related deaths.

Moreover, it carries 40% of the world’s burden of NTDs, with every African country facing at least one endemic NTD. Despite this, the region faces significant barriers to progress, including underfunding, weak health systems, limited research, and poor access to treatment.

Dr. Kaseya, addressing these challenges, called for a unified effort to change the current health narrative in Africa. “We need to brace up to change this narrative by intensifying our efforts to find lasting solutions for the control and eventual elimination of these diseases,” he said, reinforcing the need for urgency and commitment in the battle against these widespread health threats.

The workshop focused on several key objectives, including validating strategic priorities for disease prevention and control across HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB, hepatitis, and NTDs. It also aimed to engage stakeholders to strengthen multisectoral collaboration and finalize a detailed implementation plan, complete with clear monitoring and evaluation indicators.

Another crucial element discussed was the establishment of sustainable partnerships to support long-term health system strengthening across the continent.

This initiative aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Africa CDC’s “New Public Health Order,” which emphasizes boosting Africa’s self-reliance in health security.

Political leadership will play a critical role in driving these efforts forward, and several African leaders have taken on specific health-related initiatives.

Among them are Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, who will serve as the Champion for Pandemic Preparedness and Response; Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, Champion for Health Workforce and Community Development; Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, Champion for Cholera Elimination; and William Ruto of Kenya, Champion for Local Manufacturing.

As the workshop came to a close, delegates produced a validated strategic priorities document and a costed implementation plan, which will serve as a roadmap for improving health responses across Africa.

Dr. Kaseya remarked on the transformative role of Member States in this endeavor, stating, “The involvement of Member States is transformative. Together, we will create a more resilient, integrated, and inclusive health future for Africa.”

This strategic blueprint represents a critical step toward tackling the health challenges that have long plagued the continent, with the Africa CDC leading the charge for a healthier and more resilient Africa.

Delegates from all 55 African Union Member States gathered at the workshop, where they reviewed and endorsed the Africa CDC’s blueprint for 2024—2027.

Théophile Niyitegeka