Category: Uncategorized

  • FOCAC Economic Watch: Chinese goods winning hearts in Africa as Sino-African trade surges #rwanda #RwOT

    “Our tricycles, capable of carrying both goods and passengers, are easy to operate and don’t require fuel, making them a hit in many African countries,” said Wang Juxiang, head of the company’s technical department.

    As trade between China and Africa booms, more African consumers are embracing quality Chinese products like smartphones and electric vehicles, creating new growth opportunities for Chinese companies.

    Jiangsu, a manufacturing powerhouse in China, is witnessing a surge in its enterprises exploring new collaborative ventures across the vast African continent.

    According to customs data, Jiangsu’s trade with Africa reached 97.43 billion yuan (about 13.7 billion U.S. dollars) in the first half of this year, marking a 30.3 percent year-on-year increase.

    Keiper Changshu Seating Mechanisms Co., Ltd., specializing in manufacturing key automotive seating components, is among those making significant strides in the African market.

    “In the first half, we exported 222,000 automobile seat parts to South Africa. Our clients are satisfied with the quality of our products,” said Han Tingwen, an engineer at the company.

    With an abundant variety of commodities, convenient and fast logistics, and a good business environment, the city of Yiwu in east China’s Zhejiang Province is often referred to as “the world’s supermarket.”

    The Yiwu International Trade Market, offering 2.1 million types of goods and serving over 200 countries and regions, counts Africa among its top export destinations.

    Thanks to growing China-Africa trade relations, the city’s exports to Africa make up about one-twelfth of China’s total exports to the region in 2023, while its imports from Africa are increasing.

    Currently, over 560,000 overseas merchants make purchases in Yiwu each year, with African traders representing more than 10 percent of that number. Additionally, over 3,000 merchants from Africa reside in Yiwu.

    China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching a record 282.1 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, according to China’s Ministry of Commerce.

    Notably, China’s exports of new energy vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products to Africa in 2023 surged year on year by 291 percent, 109 percent and 57 percent, respectively.

    Beyond traditional sectors such as primary processing industries, Sino-African trade cooperation is expanding into emerging fields like the digital economy, healthcare and financial services.

    Chinese-made products are also enjoying smoother entry into African markets. Wuxi BioHermes Bio and Medical Technology Co., Ltd. in Jiangsu recently shipped a batch of glycated hemoglobin analyzers and test kits to Algeria.

    “In the field of diabetes diagnosis, we’ve miniaturized large lab equipment into portable devices, making transportation easier and more cost-effective for our African clients,” said Liu Yan, the company’s general manager, adding that thanks to expedited customs procedures, the company has shortened its delivery cycle by 15 percent, further solidifying its customer base in Africa.

    “Our personal care products are now sold in over 10 African countries and regions, with related exports growing by 15 percent year on year in the first half of this year,” said Chen Caiming, a foreign trade manager at a biotechnology company in Jiangsu.

    Chen said the company’s products have been well received by African customers, prompting local customs authorities to open a green channel for sea freight exports, which significantly improves shipping efficiency. “Our orders from African clients are already booked through November, and we are confident in our ability to deliver on time without compromising quality.”

    Sang Baichuan, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said the rapid development of Sino-African trade is rooted in mutual benefits and shared interests.

    “This is not only a testament to China’s high-quality development but also plays a significant role in advancing African social progress and improving local living standards,” said Sang.

    “The economic complementarity between China and Africa is robust,” Sang noted. “China possesses mature, applicable technologies and ample financial resources, while African nations have abundant human and natural advantages.”

    “Cementing trade ties between both sides facilitates the optimal use of these strengths and the vast market potential, leading to mutually beneficial and shared development,” he added.

    A visitor takes photos of an electric vehicle of BYD from China during the Festival of Motoring in Johannesburg, South Africa, Aug. 30, 2024. This event is held here from Aug. 30 to Sept. 1. (Xinhua/Zhang Yudong)

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/focac-economic-watch-chinese-goods-winning-hearts-in-africa-as-sino-african

  • FOCAC: Rwanda, Seychelles and Kenya leaders meet to discuss enhanced cooperation #rwanda #RwOT

    Under the theme, 'Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future,' the summit brings together several African and Chinese leaders to evaluate the existing cooperation environment and draw a blueprint for common development and prosperity.
    On Tuesday, Kagame arrived in Beijing to attend the two-day summit slated for September 4 to 6.

    Rwanda, Seychelles, and Kenya enjoy strong and productive bilateral relations, which have grown through collaboration in various sectors such as trade, tourism, environmental conservation, and regional security.
    The recent meetings between the three heads of state highlights a common commitment to strengthening these ties.

    Rwanda and Seychelles have focused on sustainable development and tourism, with both countries being recognized for their efforts in environmental conservation.
    They have also collaborated in education, health, and the blue economy, with a shared interest in eco-tourism has further deepened the relationship between the two nations.

    In 2018, the governments of these countries also signed agreements related to air transport, and during President Kagame’s visit to Seychelles in last year, additional agreements were signed to promote health, the military and security, tourism, agriculture, and the removal of visa requirements.

    Rwanda and Kenya have a longstanding partnership, especially through their membership in the East African Community (EAC). The two countries work closely on infrastructure projects like the Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP), which aim to improve trade and transportation in East Africa.

    The partnership has been reinforced by agreements signed at various times, including 10 agreements signed in April 2023 to promote agriculture, education, correctional services, diplomatic training, technology, health, youth, and cooperative development.

    These nations’ shared goals, aimed at fostering sustainable development and strengthening regional cooperation, ensure that the partnerships between Rwanda, Seychelles, and Kenya will continue to thrive, benefiting both their economies and the broader region.

    Presidents Ramkalawan and Ruto are among the more than 20 heads of state who came to Rwanda to support President Kagame’s inauguration ceremony, which took place at Amahoro Stadium on August 11, 2024.

    At this year’s summit, leaders are expected to adopt two outcome documents, the Declaration and the Action Plan, to build major consensus between the two sides and chart a path for implementing China-Africa cooperation in the next three years.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/focac-rwanda-seychelles-and-kenya-leaders-meet-to-discuss-enhanced-cooperation

  • Youth commend transformative impact of CyberRwanda platform #rwanda #RwOT

    The event was also a lively occasion, featuring various entertainment activities that resonated with the youth, including performances by artists Davis D and Shemi. The youth also displayed their talents through captivating performances in dance and fashion modeling.

    Local Musician Davis D also made an appearance.

    CyberRwanda, a digital platform dedicated to improving the health and well-being of young people aged 12 to 24, offers reliable information on sexual and reproductive health, alongside other resources designed to support their holistic development. In their testimonials, several youths highlighted the accuracy and relevance of the information they gained from the platform, which has empowered them to navigate adolescence with greater responsibility.

    Athanase Nikobizaba, a 21-year-old who started using CyberRwanda in 2022, shared how the platform provided him with critical information he previously hesitated to seek from his parents, proving to be immensely beneficial.

    Local Artist Shemi was among those who entertained the youth as well

    “Before I discovered this platform, I used to hear myths from other boys, like having sex would clear acne or that girls should engage in sexual activities to avoid certain issues. CyberRwanda debunked these myths and provided credible information on how to handle such situations,” he said. “I’ve also learned that every youth, regardless of disability, has potential, thanks to the entrepreneurship tips available on the platform.”

    Similarly, Solange Uwimana, who started using CyberRwanda in 2021 at the age of 19, expressed how the platform helped her adopt healthier behaviors during adolescence. “I used to be shy about buying sanitary pads during my periods, but now I do it without embarrassment. I also learned how to interact with people of the opposite sex in a healthy way, understanding the importance of abstinence until I am mature enough,” she shared.

    There are designated places where the youth received information privately from experts.

    Uwimana added that before discovering CyberRwanda, it was challenging to access such essential information as many parents hesitate to discuss sexual and reproductive health with their children, fearing it might encourage premature sexual activities.
    She encourages other youth to use the platform, noting that it offers a wealth of valuable resources, including educational stories, videos, and a space for asking questions, advice and help.

    Yvonne Uwera, YLabs’ Project Manager, explained that the outreach was organized to engage more youth and raise awareness about the platform’s reliable resources on sexual and reproductive health and development.
    “We want more youth to be aware of CyberRwanda and the services it offers, as it’s a platform designed specifically for them, by their peers,” said Uwera.

    Yvonne Uwera stated that youths were engaged to further raise awareness about CyberRwanda.

    She added that since its launch six years ago, the platform has supported many young people in navigating adolescence, and they plan to expand their reach by partnering with more youth centers.
    Following the outreach in Bugesera, similar initiatives will continue in Kigali City and Nyanza District.

    CyberRwanda, initiated by YLabs and funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), was launched in 2018. The platform currently partners with 13 youth centers across the country, disseminating its services to the target beneficiaries.

    The information available on this platform is contributed by over 1,000 youth and stakeholders, including parents, teachers, leaders, health experts, and others.
    Given the transformative power of reliable information, CyberRwanda’s role in empowering the next generation, is vital.

    Various CyberRwanda staff delivered different messages to the youth.

    As the platform continues to grow and reach more youth, it holds the promise of shaping a healthier, more informed future for Rwanda’s young people.
    The impact of initiatives like these extends far beyond the present, laying the foundation for a generation that is better equipped to make informed decisions, contribute to their communities, and build a brighter future.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/social/article/youth-commend-transformative-impact-of-cyberrwanda-platform

  • (FOCAC) Guest Opinion: Sowing new seeds for China-Africa agricultural cooperation #rwanda #RwOT

    The Happiness Herb

    Developed by the National Engineering Research Center for Juncao Technology of the Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (FAFU) of China, Juncao technology has revolutionized mushroom cultivation for smallholder farmers by using dried, chopped grasses instead of traditional wood-based methods.

    With personal commitment and support from Chinese President Xi Jinping, Juncao technology has been introduced to over 100 countries and regions worldwide, and African countries have widely applied this promising, environment-friendly technology.

    It helps small-scale farmers develop a low-cost mushroom industry, provides sustainable livelihood options for family farmers and rural entrepreneurs, and offers a new way for developing countries to create jobs, eradicate poverty, and improve people’s well-being.

    In Rwanda, where Juncao is known as “the happiness herb,” experts from FAFU have collaborated with the local government to promote Juncao technology and other agricultural innovations at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center in the southern city of Huye. This innovation is more about mushroom cultivation.

    Benefiting over 4,000 Rwandan farmers and creating more than 30,000 jobs along the value chain, Juncao technology has helped promote food security, foster sustainable agricultural practices, and expedite the transition toward a greener economy.

    China is a beehive of activities especially during the ongoing FOCAC Summit

    A good example of Juncao technology is to be found in the Musanze district in Rwanda, where farmers have reported a significant increase in their income by selling mushrooms grown on Juncao substrates. The additional income has enabled them to invest in better education and family healthcare. Higher demands for protein-rich foods in communities have been met. What’s more, the by-products of mushroom cultivation are used as organic fertilizer to improve land capability.

    Greater potential to be unlocked

    Apart from Juncao, agricultural cooperation between China and Africa has been highly productive in many other areas:
    Enhancing food security. China produces about one-fifth of the world’s food on 9 percent of its arable land. Africa, with 65 percent of the world’s uncultivated land, imports nearly 30 percent of its food from other continents. China’s practices in this area have proven to be valuable to Africa, and agricultural cooperation offers a path to ensuring food security for over 1.4 billion Africans.

    By sharing modern technologies and high-yield crop varieties, China has helped Africa increase agricultural productivity significantly.
    In Uganda, where over 70 percent of the population rely on agriculture for livelihood, the China-Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations-Uganda South-South Cooperation Program was launched in 2012 to build capacity on poverty reduction and improve food security.

    Rice Farming in Africa has greatly benefited from the continent’s cooperation China

    Along with the introduction of new seeds and assistance from Chinese agricultural experts, rice yields in project areas have increased by approximately 400 percent, with per hectare yields rising from 1.5 tons to about 7.5 tons in a decade. In addition, China-funded training courses are being offered to local farmers in Uganda, Tanzania, Madagascar and other countries, to more than 1,500 African agricultural technicians, and to over 200 PhD candidates from 38 African countries.

    These efforts have significantly improved crop yields and livelihoods, and continued collaboration and innovation are key to unlocking Africa’s agricultural potential.

    Improving agricultural modernization. In 2023, China launched a plan to support Africa’s agricultural modernization. Practical cooperation measures include establishing additional China-African centers for modern agricultural technology exchange, demonstration, and training. Another 1,000 agricultural science and management personnel will be trained for Africa before 2026.

    In recent years, China has been promoting the mechanization and modernization of local agriculture in multiple African countries. In Uganda, agricultural drones have been introduced to spray pesticides. The pesticides were applied in the form of mist particles and at least 30 percent of crops have been saved. The solution facilitates crop absorption, reduces costs and minimizes environmental impact.

    This technology is now used on government and commercial farms and by individual farmers. In Burkina Faso, the Chinese agricultural assistance project team has organized training for technicians and farmers in rice cultivation, irrigation, and agricultural machinery across 14 provinces, helping local people improve production efficiency and increase yields and income. In the Sinai Peninsula, the Chinese water-saving terrace model has conserved water and preserved soil in mountainous areas.

    Expanding market access. Since the Eighth FOCAC Ministerial Conference in 2021, both China and Africa have been steadily advancing the forum initiatives, including the “green channel” for African agricultural products entering China. Inspection and quarantine processes have been expedited, and tariff exemptions expanded, benefiting Africa’s flower industry, as well as avocado, citrus, coffee and other agricultural products.

    With China’s enormous demand for agricultural products and Africa’s diverse agricultural output, the two sides have strengthened trade exchanges through platforms such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, the China International Import Expo, and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo. Both offline exhibitions and online livestreaming are available to introduce agricultural products from the distant continent to a growing number of Chinese households.

    Seeds of promise

    More inspiring success stories are unfolding in agriculture and other areas of cooperation between China and Africa. With abundant natural resources and a large share of youth in its population, African nations are well poised to achieve food self-sufficiency, an agricultural revolution and all-round development.

    The FOCAC Summit is happening now in Beijing

    China has been synergizing the BRI and the Global Development Initiative with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the development strategies of African countries. As China and Africa undertake the ongoing FOCAC summit 2024, more seeds of promise have already been sown and both China and Africa are looking forward to more fruitful results.

    Yi Xin is a Beijing-based observer of international affairs.
    The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of IGIHE.

    By Yi Xin (Xinhua)

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/focac-guest-opinion-sowing-new-seeds-for-china-africa-agricultural-cooperation

  • Gary Neville reveals 'risky' thing he bought with his very first Man Utd pay cheque as shock wages revealed #rwanda #RwOT

    Gary Neville has revealed what he bought with his very first pay cheque at Manchester United, admitting it was a 'big risk' for him at the time.

    Former United captain Neville, 49, spent the entirety of his professional football career with his boyhood club, making 602 appearances for the Red Devils over the course of 19 hugely successful years.

    He first joined United as an apprentice after leaving school in 1991, before making his senior debut for the club the following year.

    On the latest episode of Stick to Football, brought to you by Sky Bet, Neville opened up on his early years at Old Trafford, revealing he wisely bought property with his first payment from the club.

    'Your own house is the best investment [you could make],' said Neville.

    'To be fair when you think about the fact it's getting harder for anyone to be able to afford a house in the country — which is a different conversation to have — but if you can own your own house, then what a start that is in life.

    'When I got money with my first contract at [Manchester] United, I bought a house. That was a massive thing — it was a house which cost £160,000 and I put down £16,000 as a deposit, and at the time I was taking a big risk.'

    Neville was part of the legendary Class of '92 at United (Image: Getty)

    Neville went on to reveal just how much he was paid by United in his first professional deal.

    'I was on £210 a week and had a four-year deal which went, £210, £310, £410, £510, with a £7,000 signing on,' said the former United right-back.

    'So basically, you're saving up for this signing on fee, and then you put it into a house, and you think, 'Right, I've got to afford the mortgage for four years'.'

    Neville's former teammate Roy Keane went on to reveal that there was a running joke in the United dressing room when players discussed investing in property.

    'Most footballers I know come from working-class backgrounds and then suddenly, you're getting decent money! It's a great gift, to be able to look after people and help them along the way,' said Keane.

    'We'd have a joke in the dressing room — people were talking about mortgages and 'Robbo' [Bryan Robson] said, 'What's a mortgage!?’'

    The post Gary Neville reveals 'risky' thing he bought with his very first Man Utd pay cheque as shock wages revealed appeared first on The Custom Reports.

    Source : https://thecustomreports.com/gary-neville-reveals-risky-thing-he-bought-with-his-very-first-man-utd-pay-cheque-as-shock-wages-revealed/

  • Chinese, African entrepreneurs urged to enhance industrial and supply chain cooperation #rwanda #RwOT

    The call was made on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, during a press briefing in Beijing, to update local and international media on preparations of the upcoming eighth Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs, scheduled for September 6.

    This conference is a key component of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), to run from September 4 to 6.

    It is jointly organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and China’s Ministry of Commerce. Notably, this year marks the first time the conference will be held in person since the COVID-19 pandemic.

    During the briefing, Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, highlighted the significance of this event, which will bring together around 1,000 business representatives from China and African countries.

    In the lead-up to the event, significant consultations have taken place, considering important documents and projects, including the China-Africa Cooperation Vision 2035.

    The participants will discuss issues of economic concern, build consensus for cooperation, and explore opportunities in investment, trade, and industry.

    Zhang emphasized the deepening cooperation between China and Africa in recent years, underscoring the strategic guidance provided by leaders from both regions.

    He affirmed China’s commitment to promoting interconnected economic development with Africa, aiming to deliver shared benefits that contribute to the consolidation of the China-Africa comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and the joint construction of a China-Africa community with a shared future.

    Zhang also pointed out the similarities between Chinese and African business communities, urging entrepreneurs to leverage existing platforms for enhanced cooperation.

    “I encourage entrepreneurs from China and Africa to make full use of economic trade cooperation platforms, such as the China International Supply Chain Expo, to enhance the integration of industrial and supply chains. Together, we can oppose protectionism and maintain stable and smooth industrial and supply chains,” he noted.

    He further emphasized the potential for cooperation in emerging industries, highlighting areas such as the digital economy, green development, and artificial intelligence.

    During the conference, 12 entrepreneurs from China and Africa will deliver speeches focused on promoting the integration of industrial and supply chains, sharing insights and experiences, and discussing cooperation opportunities.

    Besides, the conference’s special attention has been given to the integration of industrial and supply chains and the development of emerging industries among others.

    Since its inception in 2003, the conference has alternated between China and Africa. This year, 48 African countries will be represented, which Zhang views as a testament to the African business community’s enthusiasm for thriving China-Africa economic and trade relations.

    Participating companies will span a range of industries, from traditional sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, and finance, to emerging fields like electronics, telecommunications, and biomedicine.

    FOCAC has evolved into a critical platform for collective dialogue and practical cooperation, with economic and trade collaboration under its framework yielding impressive results.

    In 2023, China-Africa trade volume reached an extraordinary US$282.1 billion, an 11% increase from 2021. Additionally, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeded US$40 billion by the end of 2023, reinforcing China’s role as a leading foreign investor on the continent.

    Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT addressing members of the press.

    Théophile Niyitegeka / Beijing, China

    Théophile Niyitegeka

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/chinese-african-entrepreneurs-urged-to-enhance-industrial-and-supply-chain

  • Exploring Beijing on the eve of 2024 FOCAC Summit #rwanda #RwOT

    From the moment visitors step out of Beijing Capital International Airport, they are welcomed by a vibrant display of African flags lining the streets, alongside summit banners that echo the shared commitment of Africa and China to forging a brighter future together.

    The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as delegates from across the globe converge on the city.

    Besides, security measures have been visibly heightened, with meticulous organization reflecting the importance placed on the summit.

    At the China National Convention Center, the summit venue, a hive of activity is already underway. Various pre-summit events and discussions are setting the stage for the main event, while media representatives from around the world finalize their preparations to cover the summit comprehensively. With over 130 international journalists on the ground, the global spotlight is firmly on Beijing.

    The summit, scheduled for August 4th to 6th in the Chaoyang District, will unite representatives from 53 African countries and China under the theme, “Joining Forces to Promote Modernization and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community of Shared Future.”

    Established in 2000, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has evolved into a cornerstone for deepening ties between Africa and China. Held every three years, alternating between China and an African host country, FOCAC has facilitated significant strides in the partnership between these regions.

    The 2021 summit, which was held semi-virtually due to COVID-19, set ambitious targets, including increasing African imports to China to $300 billion. It also marked the formal integration of FOCAC into China’s Belt and Road Initiative, further intertwining the fates of these two regions.

    As this year’s summit approaches, expectations are high. Many view this event as a potential turning point in Sino-African relations. Numerous bilateral agreements are expected to be signed, further solidifying the foundation for a shared future based on mutual respect and collaboration.

    High-profile leaders, including Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, have already arrived in Beijing. Rwanda’s cooperation with China spans multiple platforms, including FOCAC, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and the Joint Economic, Technical, and Trade Committee (JETTCO).

    China remains a leading investor in Rwanda, with over $1.1 billion in investments since 2019, primarily in manufacturing, construction, real estate, and mining. Among China’s ongoing projects in Rwanda is the upgrade of Masaka District Hospital, which will expand into an 837-bed facility and become part of the Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK).

    Apart from Kagame., other leaders from other African nations, such as Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Chad, Gabon, South Sudan, Equatorial Guinea, Seychelles, and the Prime Minister of Cape Verde, have also made their way to Beijing. Those unable to attend in person have sent senior ministerial officials to represent them at this significant triennial event.

    Since its inception, FOCAC has convened several key sessions: the inaugural meeting in Beijing in October 2000, followed by sessions in Addis Ababa, Sharm El Sheikh, and Johannesburg. The 2021 summit, adapted for the pandemic with a videolink between Dakar and Beijing, continued the tradition of fostering closer ties.

    This year’s summit will be marked by the adoption of the FOCAC Joint Declaration and the Action Plan (2025-2027) during the opening ceremony, setting the stage for the next phase of China-Africa cooperation.

    The China National Convention Center where 2024 FOCAC Summit is set to take place.

    Beijing has made gears up to host the 2024 FOCAC Summit, a gathering of global significance.

    Théophile Niyitegeka / Beijing, China

    Théophile Niyitegeka

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/explore-beijing-on-the-eve-of-2024-focac-summit

  • RwandAir achieves 80% revenue growth in 2023 amid post pandemic recovery #rwanda #RwOT

    This increase follows a period of declining revenue for the airline, as it earned RWF 334 billion in 2019, dropping to RWF 300 billion in 2020 and RWF 271 billion in 2021, due to the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the transportation and tourism sectors.

    The report also reveals that the government provided RwandAir with RWF 192.3 billion in 2023. The company CEO, Yvonne Manzi Makolo, told The New Times that the airline experienced an exceptional economic recovery since the easing of the pandemic.

    RwandaAir has achieved 80% revenue growth amid post pandemic recovery

    She stated, 'The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts indicate that air travel will triple in the next 20 years. The opportunities for continued growth are substantial. Our recent development is based on three factors: a significant rise in tourism, investment in cargo transport, and Kigali’s growing role as a hub for various activities.'

    Makolo confirmed that RwandAir has been a key pillar in advancing Rwanda’s tourism, connecting Africa with other continents such as Europe and the Middle East through various routes.

    She said, 'The airline has become a crucial component in the government’s tourism development initiatives; the country welcomed 1.4 million tourists in 2023, nearly tripling the number received in 2021. Besides the regular tourists visiting various parks and cultural sites, Kigali is now the second most popular city for hosting conferences in Africa, after Cape Town. This tourism growth is closely linked to our routes.'

    She emphasized that RwandAir has made Kigali a highly accessible destination for travelers from many countries across different continents.

    The interior view of one of the aircrafts operated by RwandAir

    Focus on Air Cargo Transport

    Makolo noted that the airline’s air cargo transport program will continue to be a priority to boost exports. The 2023 report from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) shows that air cargo transport increased by 22.7%, reaching 4,595 tons. The main destinations for cargo include Dubai, the UK, and Belgium.

    She said, 'Promoting air cargo transport is part of government’s strategy to connect Rwanda with the world through trade. Recently, two cargo flights to Dubai and Djibouti were launched and we expect to announce more routes in the near future as new aircrafts are acquired to support this growth.'

    Air cargo flights from Rwanda mainly transport agricultural products to Europe, the Middle East, and the rest of Africa, while imports by air to Rwanda include goods such as medicine and industrial equipment.
    Makolo also mentioned that Kigali International Airport has started receiving a significant number of passengers transiting to other countries, now accounting for 60% of all passengers using RwandAir flights.

    She said, 'We increased our flights to Europe, enhancing connections between Africa and the world, and we also launched daily flights from London starting in May 2024.'
    Makolo affirmed the continued efforts to turn Rwanda inti a central hub for travel in Africa, connecting various regions, and doubling its flight operations within the next five years while providing excellent services.

    RwandAir operates a fleet of 14 aircrafts and is growing stronger

    She added that the airline’s plan to launch new routes is ongoing, with a focus on expanding into new markets that could enhance growth in Africa. Exploring business opportunities is a key focus for advancing tourism, transportation, and trade.

    According to information from RwandAir website, the airline has a fleet of 14 aircrafts that comprises four Boeing 737-800NG, two Boeing 737-700NG, two CRJ900NG, two Bombardier Q-400NG all in dual class configuration, and three Airbus A330s.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/rwandair-achieves-80-revenue-growth-in-2023-amid-post-pandemic-recovery

  • Rwanda, Jordan sign security cooperation agreement #rwanda #RwOT

    On Monday September 2, 2024, Biruta and his counterpart of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, H.E Mazin Abudullah Al Farrayeh, witnessed the signing of the cooperation agreement between IGP Namuhoranye and Maj. Gen. Abeidallah A. Maaytah, the Director of Public Security of Jordan.

    Rwanda and Jordan have established cooperation in security and law enforcement

    The event was also attended by the ambassador of Rwanda to Jordan, Urujeni Bakuramutsa.

    The agreement outlines partnership in capacity building including training, exchange of information and expertise, cooperation in other sectors of security interest such as fighting terrorism, human and drug trafficking and cybercrime among others.

    The agreement outlines partnership in capacity building including training, exchange of information and expertise

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/rwanda-jordan-sign-security-cooperation-agreement

  • President Kagame arrives in China for FOCAC Summit #rwanda #RwOT

    President Kagame is invited to attend the opening ceremony of the FOCAC Summit, after which he will co-chair a high-level parallel session on state governance. The President, accompanied by a Rwandan delegation, will also hold talks with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China and his delegation.

    President Kagame has arrived in China for the FOCAC Summit

    This year’s FOCAC Summit is held under the theme 'Jointly advancing modernization and building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future'.

    Rwanda and China’s cooperation is carried out through FOCAC, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and the Joint Economic, Technical and Trade Committee (JETTCO). China remains among the top contributors to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country.

    Since 2019, RDB registered Chinese investments valued at $1.1 billion. The bulk of registered investments are in manufacturing, construction and real estate, as well as mining.

    Young Jubilant Chinese children at the opening ceremony of the FOCAC Summit

    China is currently supporting the upgrade of Masaka District Hospital, which will increase capacity to 837-bed facility and eventually house the Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK).

    Since 2000, FOCAC has held three summits at head of state level: 2006 in Beijing, 2015 in Johannesburg, and 2018 in Beijing. The FOCAC Joint Declaration and the Action Plan (2025-2027) will be adopted during this year’s summit opening ceremony.

    Rwanda is represented by President Paul Kagame and his delegation at the FOCAC Summit in China

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/president-kagame-arrives-in-china-for-focac-summit