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  • Enacting environmental laws, policies is key to a sustainable future- Kagame #rwanda #RwOT

    'Today, global greenhouse gas emissions disproportionately impact Africa and small island developing states, but no country can afford to be complacent. All over the world, temperatures are rising at unprecedented rates, and the quality of the air we breathe is constantly declining, putting us all at risk,' he remarked.

    Commonwealth Magistrates’ & Judges’ Association (CMJA) Annual Conference kicks off in Kigali.

    The theme of this year’s conference is environmental justice. During the five-day event, members are expected to explore how environmental justice can be ensured for all individuals, providing equal access to a healthy and safe environment.

    The conference will also provide a platform to examine the right to a healthy environment, protect vulnerable populations, promote sustainable development, and address systemic inequalities in environmental decision-making and resource allocation.

    Kagame underscored the necessity of environmental laws in combating current challenges. “Indeed, enacting environmental laws and policies is essential if we want to build a clear and sustainable future. Even more important is having a strong and independent judiciary that enforces the law and puts the needs and interests of our people first.”

    He pointed to Rwanda’s journey of judicial reform following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi as an example of how the rule of law can promote peace, security, and development. A key milestone in this process was Rwanda’s ban on plastic bags in 2008, which Kagame noted has had far-reaching benefits.

    “One of the most consequential laws the country passed is the ban on plastic bags. The effect has been tremendous. Beyond the cleanliness of our streets and homes, this decision reinforced the importance of managing our resources without too much dependence on external solutions,' he stated.

    Kagame also emphasized the importance of conservation efforts, particularly the protection of national parks, which serve as critical habitats for endangered species and a source of livelihood for local communities.

    “All over the world, these parks are home to endangered species, who unfortunately continue to be the targets of criminal networks,” Kagame explained.

    “For local communities, this rich biodiversity is a primary source of livelihood. Too often, wildlife crimes involve a wide spectrum of cross-border criminal activities that put our national security at risk.”

    The president called for stronger cross-border collaboration in law enforcement to combat these threats and emphasized the role of an independent judiciary in upholding environmental justice.

    “With independent and experienced judges, there is a lot that can be done to protect our environment and provide justice where it is due.”

    President Kagame concluded by urging the delegates to extensively deliberate on the growing challenges of judicial corruption and case backlogs.

    'Ultimately, the legitimacy of any justice system rests on the trust that citizens have in it. That is the basis of the courts’ ability to ensure respect for due process and respond swiftly and impartially to any disputes. Without this foundation, we cannot create a fairer and more peaceful world,' he concluded.

    President Kagame is the current chairperson of the Commonwealth, an international association of 56 member states. He has held the position for the last two years since Rwanda hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The next meeting will be held in October 2024 in Samoa, the first CHOGM to be held in a Pacific small island developing state (SIDS).

    President Paul Kagame noted that ongoing global warming is a cause for alarm for all countries, including developed nations.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/enacting-environmental-laws-policies-is-key-to-a-sustainable-future-kagame

  • Bralirwa’s ‘Dubai Twagiye’ Ceremony Celebrates Top Coca-Cola Challenge Winners #rwanda #RwOT

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/events/article/bralirwa-s-dubai-twagiye-ceremony-celebrates-top-coca-cola-challenge-winners

  • Sudan’s Higher Education Officials laud Rwanda’s academic excellence #rwanda #RwOT

    'We are here as part of an ongoing mission to follow up on universities where Sudanese students are enrolled. Due to conflicts in Sudan, many of our students have relocated to countries like Egypt, Qatar, Nigeria, Uganda, and Rwanda. We came to ensure they are well cared for academically and socially,' he explained.

    The delegation visited UMST, which offers programs in medicine, medical laboratory technology, and dentistry, with a student body of over 700, almost all of them from Sudan.

    Alnoor praised the university’s facilities, noting that they exceed the standards set back in Sudan. 'To be honest, the building, the environment, and the standards are better than what we see back home. The students we spoke to are happy, they study and graduate on time, which is different from what I have seen in other countries where our students are studying,' he added.

    Prof. Mahamed Muhamed Alnoor,, head of Sudanese delegation and Prof. Samir Shaheen, Vice-Chancellor of UMST sharing a light moment

    The delegation was also highly impressed with Rwanda’s overall hospitality and governance. Alnoor stated, 'Rwanda is not only an inspiration to Sudan but to all other African nations on how to transition from colonial rule to a modern, independent state. All African countries have something to learn from this experience.'

    Prof. Samir Shaheen, Vice-Chancellor of UMST and a Professor of Pediatric Orthopedics, also expressed satisfaction with the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda. 'We are happy with Rwanda for warmly receiving us. The students and faculty have integrated well into the community. We’re happy to have chosen Rwanda as our destination,' he said.

    Established less than one year ago, UMST’s is now fully recognized as a cross-border university, accepting students from Rwanda and the surrounding region. 'We have received full support from the Rwandan government and the Higher Education Council. Our admissions will close on September 14,' Shaheen revealed.

    The delegation held consultative meetings in an effort to assess the academic conditions of Sudanese students studying abroad

    In conclusion, Alnoor emphasized the importance of Sudanese students understanding the proper application procedures for foreign universities to avoid any complications. 'Our students here are safe, they study and pass well. I have no doubt that many more will come in the future because the feedback from Sudan is very positive,' he noted.

    With the delegation’s glowing remarks, it is clear that the collaboration between Sudan and Rwanda in higher education is flourishing, providing a solid foundation for future academic partnerships.

    The delegation expressed admiration for the University of Medical Sciences and Technology (UMST) and Rwanda’s academic landscape in general.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/education/article/sudan-s-higher-education-officials-laud-rwanda-s-academic-excellence

  • The Silver Gala: An experience of unforgettable memories #rwanda #RwOT

    As the doors opened, the guests, dressed in some of the most fashionable and extravagant attires, made a grand entrance, setting the tone for the night. The fashion on display was a testament to Africa’s growing influence on the global fashion scene. It was clear that the night would be more than just a celebration — it was a showcase of power, creativity, and talent.

    Kicking off the night in style, the children youths from the Sherrie Silver Foundation graced the stage with their heartwarming performance of “Ndagukunda Afurika” (I Love You Africa), which was creatively performed with the incorporation of flags from various African nations. This moving tribute set the stage for the magic that was to follow.

    Sherrie Silver treated her audience with pure class on Saturday at the Silver Gala

    The performances kept coming, with Aline Sano serenading the audience with her hit songs “None” and “Fake Gee”. The crowd was visibly moved, singing along to every lyric.
    However, the electrifying energy hit the best high when the night’s headliner, Benjamin Mugisha also known as The Ben, took to the stage. Alongside Kevin Kade and Element, the Ben performed his new song Sikosa for their fans for the first time since its release

    His powerful voice and stirring performance left everyone mesmerized. Before this, he took a moment to praise Sherrie Silver, saying, “This is an opportunity to tell you how much I’m proud of you. The work ethic and the big heart are an inspiration for me to always support you.”

    The Ben excited revelers with brilliant performance

    The performances were interspersed with jaw-dropping moments from Sherrie Silver and her dance crew, whose vibrant choreography and stage presence kept the audience on their feet. Every interval performance was met with roaring applause, and it was clear that Sherrie Silver’s dedication to her craft had paid off.

    But the night wasn’t just about the music and dancing — the speeches were equally stirring. Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership University, captivated the audience with his motivational words. 'We are creating the next generation of superstars. As Africa, we will get the respect we deserve if we tell our story in the best way possible. I pledge all my support in this regard,' he said.

    Fred Swaniker, founder of the African Leadership University, captivated the audience with his motivational words.

    His call for more investment in the arts resonated with the crowd, and his promise of support to Sherrie Silver was met with thunderous applause.

    Another standout speech came from Nigerian politician and entrepreneur Peter Gregory Obi, who praised Sherrie Silver’s commitment to nurturing young talent. 'Sherrie’s work is extraordinary. What she’s doing for the youth is inspiring, and I will do everything I can to spread the word about her efforts,' he said, offering his full support to her foundation.

    Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, also took the stage to share his admiration for Sherrie Silver, saying, 'I’ve encountered Sherrie on several occasions, and every time, I’m impressed with the zeal and vigor with which she approaches her work.' His words echoed the sentiments of everyone in the room — that Sherrie Silver is a force to be reckoned with.

    Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, also took the stage to share his admiration for Sherrie Silver

    As the night drew to a close, items were auctioned to raise funds for the Sherrie Silver Foundation, with guests enthusiastically participating in the bidding. The proceeds will go toward supporting young African talent, a cause close to Sherrie’s heart.

    In her own words, Rwanda’s very own Mutesi Jolly perfectly summed up the night. 'Our country has provided opportunities for the youth, and we should seize them. Let’s make the most of these moments,' she said.
    The gala was not just a celebration of talent but also a reminder of the potential Africa holds — a continent bursting with creativity, passion, and promise.

    The Silver Gala was, without a doubt, an evening of unforgettable memories. From the dazzling fashion to the inspiring speeches and breathtaking performances, it was a night that celebrated Africa’s bright future. As The Ben so powerfully said, 'The best way to achieve your dreams is to keep your standards. Let us not lose that no matter what.' What a night to remember!

    The Silver Gala was nothing short of spectacular, leaving guests with memories that will last a lifetime

    The fashion on display was a testament to Africa’s growing influence on the global fashion scene

    Element also performed at the Gala

    Kevin Kande thrilled the audience with his soothing voice

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/entertainment/article/the-silver-gala-an-experience-of-unforgettable-memories

  • Dangote topples Rupert to reclaim title of Africa’s richest man #rwanda #RwOT

    Rupert, the chairman of the Swiss-based luxury goods company Richemont and the South Africa-based company Remgro, made headlines in late August after toppling Dangote, who had topped the list for years.

    However, the latest Billionaires Index published by Bloomberg on September 8, 2024, shows that Dangote has reclaimed the top spot with a total net worth of $13.2 billion, compared to Rupert’s $13.1 billion.

    The Bloomberg Billionaires Index is a daily ranking of the world’s richest people. The figures are updated at the close of every trading day in New York. Another popular ranking platform is Forbes magazine, which ranked Dangote as Africa’s richest man for the 13th year in a row in January this year.

    Before overtaking Dangote last month, Bloomberg reported that Rupert’s net worth had surged by $1.9 billion to $14.3 billion over the past year, placing him 147th globally, 12 places ahead of Dangote.

    The latest ranking, however, shows that both billionaires’ wealth has fallen, with the Nigerian’s fortune dropping by $1.84 billion this year. He currently ranks 159th globally, while the South African ranks 163rd.

    The decline in Dangote’s wealth over the past year has been attributed to Nigeria’s challenging economic environment, where his conglomerate primarily operates.

    Nigeria is grappling with a high inflation rate, which stood at over 30% in August. The removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Tinubu when he assumed office in 2023 is said to have contributed to the high inflation and the sharp fall in the value of the naira, which has significantly affected Dangote, whose wealth is largely tied to assets denominated in the local currency.

    Dangote, 66, made his wealth in the cement and sugar industries. In recent years, he has expanded his empire with investments in oil, gas, and fertilizer plants.

    On the other hand, Rupert and his family are known for their company Richemont, which deals in luxury goods such as jewellery, watches, fashion, and accessories. The company owns various brands, including Cartier, Montblanc, Vacheron Constantin, and IWC Schaffhausen.

    Additionally, the South African’s Remgro Ltd has interests in healthcare, consumer products, financial services, infrastructure, industrial, and media sectors.

    Besides Dangote and Rupert, other African business magnates listed among the top five include Nicky Oppenheimer (South Africa), Nassef Sawiris (Egypt), and Natie Kirsh, with fortunes of $11.1 billion, $9.42 billion, and $9.14 billion, respectively.

    Nigerian businessman and industrialist Aliko Dangote (L) has overtaken his South African counterpart, Johann Rupert, to reclaim the title of Africa’s richest man.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/dangote-topples-rupert-to-reclaim-title-of-africa-s-richest-man

  • Russian forces liberate DPR's Novogrodovka Defense Ministry said #rwanda #RwOT

    Russia's battlegroup Center has liberated the settlement of Novogrodovka in the Donetsk People's Republic, the Defense Ministry said.

    'The settlement of Novogrodovka in the Donetsk People's Republic has been liberated by the battlegroup Center. Russian servicemen defeated the manpower and equipment of the Ukrainian 47th mechanized brigade, 144th infantry brigade, the 49th assault battalion and the 109th territorial defense brigade near Dzerzhinsk, Shcherbinovka, Kleban-Byk, Mikhailovka, Krasnoarmeysk, Grodovka, Galitsynovka and Dimitrov of the Donetsk People's Republic,' the ministry said.

    It added that Russian forces also repelled eight counterattacks by the Ukrainian 32nd, 100th mechanized, 59th motorized infantry, 142nd infantry, 25th airborne brigades and 14th National Guard brigade. According to the ministry, the enemy losses amounted to up to 560 servicemen, a tank, a US-made MaxxPro and two Kozak armored fighting vehicles, two cars, a 152 mm Msta-B howitzer, a 152 mm D-20 gun and three 122mm D-30 howitzers.

    Also the Defense Ministry said that Russian servicemen have hit a temporary deployment site of Ukraine's Special Operations Center South.

    'Over the past day, Russian forces hit the temporary deployment site of Ukraine's Special Operations Center South, workshops of production, assembly and equipment of drones, accumulations of enemy manpower and military equipment in 127 areas,' the ministry said.

    Russian air defenses have shot down four Hammer aerial bombs and 23 Ukrainian drones over the past day, the ministry added.

    'Air defenses shot down four French-made Hammer guided bombs, four US-made HIMARS rockets and 23 drones,' it said.

    Russia's battlegroup Dnepr has eliminated up to 50 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the ministry added.

    'The battlegroup Dnepr defeated the manpower and equipment of the Ukrainian 39th coastal defense, the 37th marine, and the 121st, 124th territorial defense brigades near Gavrilovka, Veseloye, Otradokamenka, Novokairy, Antonovka and Dneprovskoye in the Kherson Region. The Ukrainian losses amounted to up to 50 servicemen, an armored combat vehicle and five vehicles,' the statement said.

    Russia's battlegroup South has eliminated up to 625 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the ministry said.

    'The battlegroup South continued advancing deep into the enemy's defense and defeated the Ukrainian 24th, 54th mechanized, 10th airborne assault brigades, as well as the 12th National Guard brigade near Chasov Yar, Zaliznyanskoye, Grigorovka, Seversk and Katerinovka in the Donetsk People's Republic,' the ministry said.

    According to it, the Ukrainian armed forces lost up to 625 servicemen, a Kozak armored fighting vehicle, eight cars, a Strela-10 launcher, two UK-made 155 mm FH-70 howitzers, a US-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, a 152 mm D-20 gun, two 122 mm D-30 howitzers, a UK-made 105 mm L-119 howitzer, an electronic warfare station, as well as six field ammunition depots.

    Russia's battlegroup East has eliminated up to 130 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the ministry noted.

    'The battlegroup East took more favorable lines and positions, defeated the Ukrainian 58th motorized infantry and 72nd mechanized brigades, as well as the 102nd and 105th territorial defense brigades near Velikaya Novoselka, Zolotaya Niva and Dobrovolye in the Donetsk People's Republic. The enemy lost up to 130 servicemen,' the ministry said, adding that Ukraine has also lost four cars and a UK-made 155 mm howitzer.

    Russia's battlegroup West has eliminated up to 550 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the Defense Ministry said.

    'The battlegroup West has improved its tactical positions, defeating the manpower and equipment of the Ukrainian 14th, 53rd, 54th mechanized, 77th airmobile, 3rd assault brigades, as well as the 114th territorial defense brigade near Kovsharovka, Petropavlovka, Kupyansk-Uzlovoy, Kruglyakovka, Borovaya, Lozovaya in the Kharkov Region and Serebryanka in the Donetsk People's Republic,' the ministry said.

    According to the it, the enemy lost up to 550 servicemen, a US-made M113 armored personnel carrier, a Kozak armored fighting vehicle, six cars, a Polish-made Krab 155 mm howitzer, two 122 mm D-30 howitzers, and a US-made 105 mm M119 gun. Anklav-N and Quertus electronic warfare stations, as well as six field ammunition depots were also destroyed, the ministry added.

    Russia's battlegroup North has eliminated up to 160 Ukrainian servicemen over the past 24 hours, the ministry said.

    'In the Bryansk, Liptsov and Volchansk areas, the battlegroup North defeated the manpower and equipment of the 57th motorized infantry brigade, 82nd airborne assault brigade, 34th marine brigade, the 113th territorial defense brigade, the 3rd National Guard brigade, and the 4th Ukrainian Border Guard Service detachment near Goptovka, Okhrimovka, Sosnovka, and Volchansk in the Kharkov Region. The Ukrainian military lost up to 160 servicemen and a 122 mm D-30 howitzer,' the ministry said.

    The post Russian forces liberate DPR's Novogrodovka Defense Ministry said appeared first on The Custom Reports.

    Source : https://thecustomreports.com/russian-forces-liberate-dprs-novogrodovka-defense-ministry-said/

  • Venezuela opposition leader Edmundo González reportedly leaves country for Spain #rwanda #RwOT

    Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo González has left the South American country after seeking asylum in Spain, according to the Spanish foreign minister.

    'Edmundo González, at his own request, flew to Spain on a Spanish air force plane,' José Manuel Albares said in a statement online, adding that the 'government of Spain is committed to the political rights and physical integrity of all Venezuelans'.

    The surprise departure by the candidate, who Venezuela's opposition and several foreign governments consider the legitimate winner of July's presidential election, comes just days after the government ordered his arrest.

    Venezuelan vice-president Delcy Rodriguez said González, who ran against president Nicolas Maduro in July, left after 'voluntarily seeking refuge in the Spanish embassy in Caracas several days ago'.

    She said the government Maduro, which had ordered the candidate's arrest, decided to grant González safe passage out of the country to contribute to the country's political peace.

    A lawyer for Gonzalez confirmed to AFP the opposition candidate had departed for Spain.

    González, a 75-year-old former diplomat, was a last minute stand in when opposition leader María Corina Machado was banned from running. Previously unknown to most Venezuelans, his campaign nonetheless rapidly ignited the hopes of millions of Venezuelans desperate for change after a decade long economic freefall.

    While Maduro was declared the winner of the July vote, many governments have yet to recognise his victory and are instead demanding that authorities publish a breakdown of votes. Tally sheets collected by opposition volunteers from over two-thirds of the electronic voting machines indicate that González won by a more than 2-to-1 margin.

    Post-election violence in Venezuela has claimed 27 lives and left 192 people injured, while the government says it has arrested about 2,400 people.

    After the election, Venezuelan prosecutors issued an arrest warrant for Gonzalez over his insistence that he was the rightful winner of the election. Prior to leaving the country, he had been in hiding for a month, ignoring three successive summons to appear before prosecutors. He had said that attending the hearing could have cost his freedom.

    His exit from the country comes on a day of rising diplomatic tensions in Venezuela.

    On Saturday the government revoked Brazil's authorisation to represent Argentine interests in the country, including administering the embassy where six other opposition figures are sheltering.

    Venezuela broke relations with Argentina following the disputed presidential election. In a statement, Venezuela said the decision was effective immediately, and was due to proof that the embassy was being used to plan assassination attempts against Maduro and Rodriguez.

    Brazil said it had received the communication that its authorisation had been revoked 'with surprise.' Argentina said it rejected the 'unilateral' decision. Both countries urged Maduro to respect the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

    With Reuters and the Associated Press

    The post Venezuela opposition leader Edmundo González reportedly leaves country for Spain appeared first on The Custom Reports.

    Source : https://thecustomreports.com/venezuela-opposition-leader-edmundo-gonzalez-reportedly-leaves-country-for-spain/

  • Prime Insurance’s medical revenue hits RWF 2.5 billion in six months #rwanda #RwOT

    The management of Prime Insurance noted that their medical insurance has continued to grow over the past three years and expressed a desire to discuss with their partners how to expand collaboration.

    In 2023, Prime Medical Insurance generated RWF 2.1 billion, while by August 1, 2024, it had already earned over RWF 2.8 billion.

    Col (Rtd) Eugène Murashi Haguma, the CEO of Prime General Insurance, emphasized that medical insurance plays a crucial role in the well-being of the population and should be improved to provide clients with quality services.

    He stated, 'Insurance is a way for many people to pool their money together. The money they contribute is not ours; it belongs to our clients. What we aim for is to ensure that people never lack medical care because we manage that money well and provide treatment until the agreed-upon term ends.'

    Mike Byusa, the Business Development Manager at Prime General Insurance, noted that the growth of medical insurance at the company is promising, as it accounted for 20% of the total income in the first six months of 2024.

    He mentioned that discussions with their partners aim to assess how well the services are received, exchange ideas, and determine where to focus efforts for further improvement.

    From the discussions, he revealed that Prime Insurance identified areas for further enhancement, such as speeding up the reimbursement process for medical claims, accelerating service delivery, and improving communication with partners.

    Umutoni Carine, a representative from a hospital working with Prime Insurance, highlighted that meetings with the company’s management reinforce collaboration and are expected to improve.

    She said, 'It is a good initiative for Prime Insurance to bring us together to exchange ideas. These discussions are beneficial for expanding our cooperation. We talked about suggestions and areas needing more effort, and we hope these will be addressed.'

    Aimé Lambert Kadende Shyaka, an employee at Kipharma Pharmacy, emphasized that both parties should work to strengthen their cooperation, particularly in stabilizing fluctuating medicine prices in the market.

    In the six months ending June 2024, Prime General Insurance earned over RWF 11.6 billion, with RWF 2.5 billion coming from medical insurance.

    Prime Insurance anticipates that by the end of 2024, it will generate over RWF 4 billion from medical insurance services.

    Currently, Prime Medical Insurance offers individual and family medical insurance services, as well as coverage for various organizations.

    Prime Insurance has demonstrated how its medical insurance is advancing.

    Prime General Insurance CEO, Col (Rtd) Eugène Murashi Haguma, in discussion with some of the company’s partners.

    Prime General Insurance’s Business Development Manager, Mike Byusa, has urged partners to enhance operational efficiency.

    Prime General Insurance CEO, Col (Rtd) Eugène Murashi Haguma, highlighted that medical insurance is crucial for the well-being of the population.

    Carine Umutoni praised the collaboration between her organization and Prime Insurance.

    Dr. Peace is among those who provided feedback on areas for further improvement.

    Some contributors have suggested continuing to expand collaboration and have requested that this process be expedited.

    Munyaneza Janvier, representing Frontier Diagnostic Center, indicated that there are aspects of the collaboration that need improvement.

    Everyone expressed satisfaction with the discussions with Prime Insurance regarding the collaboration.

    Partners of Prime Medical Insurance expressed their satisfaction with having the opportunity to discuss.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/prime-insurance-s-medical-revenue-hits-rwf-2-5-billion-in-six-months

  • Maj Gen Ruvusha takes over as new commander of Rwanda Peace-keeping force in Mozambique #rwanda #RwOT

    Maj Gen Kagame handed over command responsibility to Maj Gen Ruvusha on Saturday, September 7, 2024, in a ceremony attended by the incoming and outgoing Task Force Brigade Group Commanders, Police Component Commanders, NISS Coordinators, and other staff officers.

    During the handover ceremony, Maj Gen Ruvusha thanked the outgoing JTFC for the impressive effort with which the force carried out its duties.

    The new Rwandan troops arrived in Mozambique on August 20, 2024. Maj Gen Ruvusha was briefed and given a familiarization tour of the RSF area of responsibility, including Mocimboa da Praia, Chinda, Palma, Afungi, Pundanhar, Macomia, Ancuabe, and Pemba.

    Rwanda Security Forces depart for Mozambique on August 20, 2024.

    The security officer’s deployment is part of Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to supporting Mozambique in countering the insurgency that has plagued Cabo Delgado since October 2017, when armed extremists first launched a rebellion in the region.

    In response to the escalating violence and widespread displacement, Rwanda began deploying its security forces to Mozambique on July 9, 2021. Initially consisting of 1,000 troops from both the Rwanda Defence Force and the Rwanda National Police, the contingent had grown to nearly 2,000 by the end of 2021.

    By late 2022, it was announced that the number of Rwandan troops in Mozambique had increased to about 2,500, reflecting their expanded mandate to pursue and dislodge terrorists from their hideouts.

    Mozambique has also received military support from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) since 2021. However, SADC forces began withdrawing in April this year as their mandate drew to a close.

    Before the intervention of Rwandan troops in 2021, terrorists had claimed the lives of 3,000 civilians, and more than 800,000 people had been displaced. The insecurity also brought all development projects in the insurgent-controlled areas to a standstill.

    Over the past three years, Rwandan security forces, in collaboration with Mozambique’s armed forces, have made significant strides in dismantling the Al Sunna wa Jama’a (ASWJ) terrorist group from their strongholds in Mocimboa da Praia and Palma. This has allowed a substantial number of internally displaced people to safely return to their homes.

    Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha (r) takes over the mandate from outgoing Joint Task Force Commander (JTFC) Maj Gen Alex Kagame, who has led the Rwandan troops in Cabo Delgado for the past year.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/maj-gen-ruvusha-takes-over-as-new-commander-of-rwanda-peace-keeping-force-in

  • The perilous path between protest and riot: A Nigerian dilemma #rwanda #RwOT

    Nigeria is a complex democracy with a history of political instability and economic challenges, though founded on the principles of human rights and fundamental freedoms. Among these enshrined rights is the freedom of peaceful assembly and association, as guaranteed by Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution. This constitutional provision empowers citizens to come together freely, express their views, and advocate for their interests without fear of reprisal. It is a cornerstone of democratic governance, fostering a society where diverse voices can be heard and where citizens can actively participate in shaping their nation's destiny. 

    However, the line between peaceful protest and violent riot is often blurred in Nigeria. While the constitution protects the right to protest, it does not grant citizens carte blanche to infringe upon the rights of others or to engage in destructive behaviour. This delicate balance is frequently undermined by the actions of some protesters who, under the guise of legitimate grievances, resort to violence, vandalism, and looting.

    The history of protests in Nigeria is replete with instances where initially peaceful demonstrations have degenerated into chaotic scenes of destruction. The EndSARS protests of 2020, while initially a legitimate expression of youth discontent with police brutality, tragically escalated into widespread violence and looting. Similar patterns have been observed in previous protests, such as the fuel subsidy removal protests of 2012.

    This recurring trend of protest-turned-riot has far-reaching consequences. It creates a climate of fear and uncertainty, deterring both domestic and foreign investment. No rational investor would be willing to risk their capital in a country where there is a high likelihood of their assets being destroyed during periods of civil unrest. The economic implications of this are devastating, as it hampers job creation, hinders development, and exacerbates poverty.

    Also, local businesses, both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations bear the brunt of the violence associated with these protests. The destruction of property, looting, and disruption of business operations lead to significant financial losses and job cuts. The 2020 EndSARS protests, for instance, resulted in an estimated economic loss of over N700 billion, according to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). This figure represents a substantial setback for the Nigerian economy and highlights the devastating impact of violent protests on businesses and livelihoods.

    Moreover, the actions of these destructive elements undermine the credibility of genuine protesters and their cause. By resorting to violence and lawlessness, they alienate the public and provide ammunition to those who seek to suppress dissent. This is a grave disservice to the democratic process and sets back the struggle for justice and accountability.

    It is essential to recognise that the rights of protesters do not supersede the rights of others. While citizens have the right to express their grievances peacefully, they must do so in a manner that respects the law and the rights of their fellow citizens. This includes the constitutional rights of others to free movement and the right to own movable and immovable properties. Property destruction, looting, and violence are not legitimate forms of protest and must be condemned unequivocally.

    To address this issue, there is a need for a comprehensive approach that involves both the government and civil society. The government must uphold its constitutional obligation to protect the rights of citizens, including the right to peaceful assembly. At the same time, it must also take decisive action to prevent and respond to violence. Security agencies must be trained to handle protests professionally and with restraint, while also being empowered to enforce the law and protect lives and property.

    Civil society organisations also have a crucial role to play in promoting peaceful protest and civic education. They can work with communities to build trust between citizens and the government and to educate people about their rights and responsibilities. Also, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has a vital role in sensitising citizens on the importance of peaceful protest.

    Through public awareness campaigns, workshops, and community engagement programs, NOA can effectively communicate the message that protests should be conducted peacefully and without resorting to violence or destruction. By emphasising the negative consequences of violent protests, NOA can contribute to a shift in public perception and encourage citizens to express their grievances through lawful and constructive channels.

    Ultimately, the success of any democracy depends on the ability of its citizens to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue. When protests devolve into riots, it is the nation as a whole that suffers. It is imperative that Nigerians embrace a culture of peaceful protest and reject violence as a means of achieving their goals. Only then can we hope to build a just and prosperous society for all.

    The post The perilous path between protest and riot: A Nigerian dilemma appeared first on The Custom Reports.

    Source : https://thecustomreports.com/the-perilous-path-between-protest-and-riot-a-nigerian-dilemma/