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Isheja, a well-known radio host in Rwanda with over 15years experience as a journalist, will deputize Cleophas Barore who was appointed RBA’s Director General in December 2023.

Isheja began her radio career at Huye-based Radio Salus in 2008, joining KFM in 2013 before moving to KISS FM in 2014.

Meanwhile Niyonkuru was dropped in an announcement made in a communiqué released by the Office of the Prime Minister, following a cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on Friday, August 23, 2024.

The communiqué did not provide specific reasons for Niyonkuru’s removal, who was appointed as the Permanent Secretary in a Cabinet meeting on January 30, 2023, succeeding Didier Shema Maboko.

His removal from cabinet comes a week after a broader Cabinet reshuffle by President Kagame, which also saw Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju replaced by Richard Nyirishema as the Minister of Sports.

Among other appointees is Clarisse Munezero, who has been appointed Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Ombudsman, while Antoine Marie Kajangwe has been appointed Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Others include Beatrice Cyiza, who has been named Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, while Mukandutiye Speciose and Francis Karemera have been given roles as members of the Council of Elders.

Cyiza was previously a Director in Environment Ministry, with responsibilities that included addressing climate change, one of the pressing global issues today. She has led various projects and worked with the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA).

Kajangwe, previously held the role of the Director General in charge of Trade and Investment at the same Ministry.

The Cabinet meeting also approved the representatives of countries and international organizations in Rwanda and endorsed the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), which will be implemented from 2025 to 2029.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The addendum to the original Memorandum of Understanding, dated September 10, 2019, was signed on Thursday, August 22, 2024, and ensures that the ETM in Rwanda will continue until December 31, 2025.

Ambassador Charles Karamba, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Rwanda to the African Union, represented Rwanda at the signing ceremony.

In a joint statement, Rwanda, the AU, and the UN refugee agency emphasized that the extension reaffirms their commitment to providing protection and seeking durable solutions for those evacuated, offering them a safe haven in Rwanda.

“The Government of Rwanda reaffirms its unwavering commitment to receive and protect these individuals, as well as others identified as particularly vulnerable and at-risk,” the statement reads in part.

The parties disclosed that the second addendum emphasizes a more transparent selection process for evacuees, ensuring equal opportunities for all potential candidates regardless of nationality, ethnicity, race, gender, age, or any criteria other than their vulnerability.

The agreement also reinforces and strengthens information-sharing and reporting mechanisms between UNHCR, the Government of Rwanda, and the African Union in the implementation of solutions for evacuated individuals. It seeks to expand comprehensive efforts to find alternative durable solutions for evacuees who do not qualify for refugee status and are not willing to request a longer stay in Rwanda, including exploring options such as voluntary return, resettlement, family reunification, and access to other solutions in third countries.

Additionally, the second addendum reiterates the commitment of all parties to undertake bi-annual joint monitoring missions to inspect the entire process, thereby ensuring transparency and continuous improvement of the ETM operations.

As part of the agreement, the African Union Commission committed to continuing to provide high-level political support, capacity development, and resource mobilization, as well as enhancing joint coordination mechanisms.

Meanwhile, UNHCR will continue to provide protection and necessary assistance, including shelter, food, healthcare, and other essential services for evacuees during their stay in Rwanda.

Since the emergency evacuation mechanism was established more than four years ago, a total of 2,355 refugees and asylum seekers from Eritrea, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mali have been evacuated from Libya in 18 flights.

According to the parties, a total of 1,813 refugees have been resettled in third countries, finding a lasting solution to their displacement.

'UNHCR and the Rwandan authorities will continue to conduct individual registration of all evacuated individuals and issue Proof of Registration (POR) documents that allow them to travel within the country and access assistance provided at the center,' the statement added.

Both the AUC and UNHCR have called on other countries to follow Rwanda’s example in providing a safe haven for vulnerable refugees and asylum seekers.

Ambassador Charles Karamba (second from left), Permanent Representative of the Republic of Rwanda to the African Union, represented Rwanda at the signing ceremony.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

He had been serving as the Director for Institutional Matters and Programmes Coordination at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat.

Sebahizi’s appointment was part of a broader cabinet reshuffle that also saw Richard Nyirishema appointed as Minister of Sports, replacing Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, and Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka taking over as Minister of Public Service and Labor from Prof. Jeannette Bayisenge.

On Monday, August 19, 2024, Minister Sebahizi was sworn in alongside 21 other cabinet members, the majority of whom returned after reappointment following President Kagame’s re-election to serve a new five-year term.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Sebahizi, shared his ambitious plans for steering the country toward a more balanced and prosperous economic future.

With over two decades of experience in fields related to trade and industry, his return to the ministry (this time as minister) is seen as a homecoming to where his career in public service began.

As Rwanda grapples with challenges such as trade imbalances, market fluctuations, and the need for greater industrial productivity, Sebahizi is focused on building on the achievements of his predecessor while addressing these issues head-on.

Reflecting on his journey, he likened his appointment to a natural progression and expressed his delight at returning home to serve Rwandans after spending ten years working outside the country.

Controlling inflation and market stability

Sebahizi has a clear vision for his tenure, with a strong focus on stabilizing market access, particularly for agricultural produce—a sector that forms the backbone of Rwanda’s economy.

As per 2023 statistics, agriculture accounted for nearly 27% of Rwanda’s GDP and employs over 60% of the workforce, making it a critical area for national development. However, the sector faces significant challenges.

Early July, the Consumer Price Index report from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) indicated that inflation in Rwanda’s urban areas increased by 5% over the past year.

The report shows that inflation in urban centres was driven by an increase in the prices of food and beverages, as well as transportation costs.

Between June 2023 and June 2024, the prices of food and beverages increased by 3.1%, while transportation costs saw a significant increase of 23.2% over the past year.

“My top priority is to build on our achievements and ensure ongoing projects do not stall, while pushing for greater progress. Another key focus is addressing issues in the ministry, particularly in managing the supply chain for agricultural produce. Inconsistent availability and occasional oversupply can strain the market, leading to spoilage and price hikes, which adversely affect farmers. This needs urgent action,” he noted.

To address these issues, the Minister emphasized the need for collaboration with relevant institutions including the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Local Government and ministry of Finance and Economic Planning particularly in fast-tracking the implementation of measures to ensure market stability.

“The government is constantly monitoring the situation and taking measures to prevent inflation,” he assured. One strategy mentioned by the Minister involves working with regional bodies like the East Africa Commodity Exchange to store surplus produce and release it to the market when needed, thereby stabilizing prices.

Tackling trade imbalance

One of the key priorities for the new Minister is addressing the trade imbalance that continues to affect Rwanda’s economy. While Rwanda’s economy has experienced an impressive growth rate of over 8% annually for the past decade, the country’s reliance on imports remains a challenge.

Rwanda’s trade deficit soared to US$ 411.62 million in June 2024, reflecting a 30.88% increase compared to June 2023 and a 13.71% rise from May 2024. This expanding deficit underscores the growing disparity between imports and exports, influenced by various factors including fluctuations in domestic exports and escalating imports.

“There’s a common misconception in Rwanda that trade is synonymous with importation,” Sebahizi explained.

“True trade is about putting our locally produced goods into both local and international markets.” The Minister highlighted the importance of initiatives like ‘Made in Rwanda,’ which aims to reduce dependency on imports and promote locally produced goods. By strengthening local industries and encouraging Rwandans to consume homegrown products, the Minister hopes to improve the balance of trade and bolster the economy.

Harnessing the potential of AfCFTA

Sebahizi is particularly optimistic about the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). With a market of over 1.4 billion people, the AfCFTA offers a unique opportunity for Rwanda and the entire continent to enhance trade and investment.

However, the Minister emphasized the importance of developing local industries to fully capitalize on this opportunity.

“Africa holds immense potential in terms of resources and manpower,” he stated. “The challenge lies in investing in and promoting local industries. By establishing and nurturing local industries, we can ensure that the benefits remain within the continent, creating long-term value for our people.”

Enhancing industrial productivity

Rwanda’s industrial sector has seen significant growth, with the establishment of several industrial parks across the country. These parks are essential to the nation’s economic growth, providing infrastructure for manufacturing and other industries.

However, Minister Sebahizi acknowledges that there is still much work to be done.
“Infrastructure development is an ongoing process,” he noted. “We must prioritize these developments to ensure that we can continue to build a strong, diversified economy.”

In 2023, Rwanda’s GDP reached Rwf 16,355 billion, with the industrial sector contributing 22%.

Prudence Sebahizi with President Kagame after the swearing-in ceremony.

IGIHE

Africa remains one of the few untapped markets for Formula 1 in its recent years of global expansion. In fact, an F1 race has not been held on the continent since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami.

Motorsport officials have scheduled talks with Rwandan officials for September to discuss the country’s bid to host an F1 event.

Amid Rwanda’s push to make history as the first East African country to host the event, Hamilton believes it is the right time for a race to return to Africa. He made these remarks ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, scheduled for Sunday, August 25, 2024.

'We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from,' Hamilton stated.

'No one gives anything to Africa. There’s a huge amount of work that needs to be done there. I think a lot of the world that haven’t been there don’t realise how beautiful the place is, how vast it is,' he added.

The 39-year-old Mercedes driver dismissed the excuse that there are no ready tracks, stating that F1 can utilize and build on what is available. He also noted that Africa stands to benefit immensely from tourism during and after the races.

'I think having a grand prix there, it would really be able to highlight just how great the place is and bring in tourism and all sorts of things. Why are we not on that continent? And the current excuse is that there’s not a track that’s ready, but there is at least one track that’s ready there.

'In the short term, we should just get on that track and have that part of the calendar and then work on building out something moving forward,' he explained.

He lauded Rwanda’s interest in hosting an F1 event saying, 'Rwanda is one of my favourite places I’ve been to actually'.

'I’ve been doing a lot of work in the background. I’ve spoken to people in Rwanda, I’ve spoken to people in South Africa. But that’s a longer project, Rwanda. It’s amazing that they’re so keen,' he added.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali confirmed the meeting with Rwandan officials earlier this. He described Rwanda as a ‘serious’ candidate for hosting a future Grand Prix and praised the Rwandan authorities for presenting a solid plan.

'They are serious,' said Domenicali. 'They have presented a good plan and actually we have a meeting with them at the end of September. It will be on a permanent track.'

Domenicali’s comments followed a visit by representatives from the Rwanda Development Board to the Monaco Grand Prix in May, where they met with officials from the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton says there is no excuse for motorsport officials to continue ignoring Africa as Rwanda sets its sights on hosting the international racing competition.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a letter seen by IGIHE, addressed to district leaders on August 22, 2024, and signed by the Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, the ministry ordered the suspension of more than 40 religious organizations listed in the annex of the letter.

The decision was based on a letter from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) and ongoing inspections of religious denominations, which revealed that some should be halted.

The letter states, “I am writing to request the suspension of the organizations and activities listed in the annex of this letter, as well as any other organizations operating illegally across the country.”

The annex includes well-known religious denominations in Rwanda, such as the Lutheran Church in Africa, which operated in various provinces, particularly in the Eastern Province.

Other organizations listed include Philadelphia Church, Umugeni wa Kristo, Abagorozi, Abakusi, Abanywagake, Abarokore, Abavandimwe Church, Agape Sanctuary, Assemblies of Lord, Bethel Miracle Church, Intumwa n’Abahanuzi, Isoko Ibohora, Ivugurura n’Ubugorozi, Redeemed Baptist Church, Salvation Church, and others.

This action follows the recent suspension of other churches in Rwanda, including Umuriro wa Pentekote and Ebenezer Rwanda, for allegedly spreading divisive messages among Rwandans.

Additionally, RGB, in collaboration with local authorities, had previously conducted inspections that led to the temporary closure of nearly 8,000 churches for failing to meet required standards.

Celestin Seburikoko, the head of the Lutheran Church in Africa’s Rwanda branch, confirmed the suspension to IGIHE. He acknowledged that they were aware of the requirement to be officially registered and that they had already initiated the process, although they had not yet received legal status.

“This does not surprise me because I know that every organization or activity in the country must be recognized, and we had complied with all requirements. We applied for the necessary documents, but there were some corrections requested, which I had prepared but had not yet submitted [to RGB].”

Seburikoko also mentioned that he intends to inquire whether they can continue the registration process or if they are permanently shut down, as they had been granted a temporary permit that has now expired.

The Lutheran Church in Africa started operating in Rwanda in 2015 and has 2,037 congregants across the country.

The decision to suspend the religious organizations was based on a letter from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) and ongoing inspections of religious denominations, which revealed that some should be halted.

IGIHE

As per statement issued by the bank on Friday 23rd August 2024, this initiative aligns with global trends towards responsible investment and sustainable development, reinforcing BRD’s commitment to environmental protection and economic growth.

'This second bond issuance will raise Rwf 30 billion, with an additional option to issue up to additional Rwf5 billion. It is part of BRD’s broader Rwf 150 billion Medium Term Note [MTN] program,' reads part of the statement.

The Rwanda Capital Market Authority has approved this issuance, highlighting the strong regulatory support for innovative financial instruments that promote sustainability.

Building on the success of BRD’s first SLB, the bank states, this second issuance will further strengthen its focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. It is also expected to improve access to capital for key sectors such as women-led businesses and affordable housing.

By tying the bond’s performance metrics to specific sustainability targets, BRD is setting a new standard for responsible investment and positive societal impact. The first SLB, issued last year, was oversubscribed by 110.59%, raising Rwf 30 billion. This success has given BRD the confidence to continue using capital markets to fund its growth initiatives.

'By issuing our second sustainability-linked bond, we reaffirm our commitment to incentivizing borrowers to set meaningful sustainability targets while maintaining the innovative step-down coupon from the first tranche,' said Kampeta Sayinzoga, CEO of BRD. 'Investors are increasingly looking for opportunities that offer both financial returns and positive societal impact. With this SLB, BRD aims to attract responsible investors who share the principles of sustainable finance.'

Like the first issuance, this bond is part of the World Bank’s lending operation to the Government of Rwanda through the Access to Finance for Economic Recovery and Resilience Project (AFIRR). The bond structure includes a partial credit enhancement, and it comes with a 7-year tenor.

The offer will open on September 2nd, 2024, and close on September 20th, 2024, with a minimum subscription of Rwf 100,000. Investors are encouraged to take part in this unique opportunity that promises both financial returns and positive environmental and social outcomes.

Once the offer opens, the Prospectus and Pricing Supplement will be available for download on BRD’s website: https://www.brd.rw. Hard copies may be requested or obtained free of charge at BRD’s offices.

BRD is Rwanda’s foremost development finance institution, dedicated to supporting the country’s socio-economic development by providing long-term financing to key sectors of the economy.

Established in 1967, BRD has been instrumental in financing projects that drive Rwanda’s growth, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, affordable housing, and export sectors. BRD is committed to sustainable development and continues to innovate in providing financial solutions that support Rwanda’s Vision 2050.

The first SLB, issued last year, was oversubscribed by 110.59%, raising Rwf 30 billion.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized that, just as other epidemics have been successfully controlled in the past, it is possible to stop Mpox through coordinated efforts.

He highlighted the significant measures being implemented to prevent the spread of the disease, noting that individuals who have been treated for Mpox have already recovered.

“We are confident that Mpox will soon be completely eradicated in Rwanda, with no new cases being reported. The necessary capacity is in place, and all sectors are contributing to these efforts. We urge everyone to seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms and to inform others they have been in contact with so that health authorities can respond swiftly,” Dr. Nsanzimana stated.

To further prevent the spread of Mpox, the Minister advised those who are infected to avoid crowded places and to take their medication at home until they have fully recovered.

He also noted that Rwanda has implemented several strategies, including working closely with community health workers who visit households to check for symptoms of Mpox. While some symptoms may resemble those of other illnesses, a medical examination is essential for a definitive diagnosis.

Symptoms of Mpox typically appear between three and 14 days after exposure and start with a rash that primarily affects the face, hands, and genital areas, though it can spread to other parts of the body.

The rash evolves into fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry up and scab over as the person recovers. These symptoms are often accompanied by fever, which can vary in intensity, and fatigue. Once symptoms manifest, treatment usually leads to recovery within two to three weeks. So far, no one in Rwanda has experienced prolonged hospitalization or death due to Mpox.

Mpox manifests in various forms, with Rwanda currently dealing with Grade 1B, similar to the strain found in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In contrast, West Africa is experiencing a more severe Grade 2 variant. The strain in Rwanda is closely related to the one identified in Congo.

Dr. Nsanzimana also pointed out that in Rwanda, Mpox has predominantly affected individuals involved in sex work or those with frequent sexual activity, as the disease spreads primarily through close physical contact.

This transmission method differs significantly from that of COVID-19, which primarily spreads through respiratory droplets.

Statistics indicate that individuals aged 25 to 40 are most susceptible to contracting the disease, likely due to their higher levels of sexual activity. The Ministry strongly urges people to avoid sexual contact, even when using protection, as a preventive measure against Mpox.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, has announced that the Ministry is working closely with national institutions and international health organizations to completely eradicate the Mpox outbreak.

IGIHE

According to a report from the National Institute of Statistics, Rwanda exported goods worth $16.20 million to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in June 2024, accounting for 9.55% of all the country’s exports. The DRC stands as the second-largest destination for Rwanda’s exports.

Traditionally, trade between Rwanda and the DRC has relied on land routes. However, since January 2024, Rwanda has developed a state-of-the-art port on Lake Kivu, equipped with 12 pillars designed to accommodate large cargo ships and passenger vessels.

The Mayor of Rubavu, Prosper Mulindwa, has told IGIHE that the port has already begun trial operations, with some Made-in-Rwanda products being transported through it.

“The port will handle 2.7 million passengers annually once fully operational. It also includes a section for tourists visiting sites along Lake Kivu and will facilitate the transport of at least 700,000 tons of goods each year,” Mulindwa stated.

He further added that the port is currently functional and offers uninterrupted services to traders. Additionally, it is providing employment opportunities for Rubavu residents, with four cooperatives of porters involved in loading and unloading cargo. Depending on the volume of goods, about 15 people are engaged during low-volume periods, while over 80 people are involved during peak times.

Mulindwa also confirmed that the port could dock two ships, each up to 60 meters in length, simultaneously. This capability is already in use, with available ships capable of carrying over a thousand tons per trip, accommodating up to 34 semi-trailers.

The port is managed by Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), which has deployed personnel to oversee operations, alongside the Police Marine unit and services from the Rwanda Revenue Authority.

Rubavu port primarily handles goods such as cement produced in Rwanda, general merchandise, and food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for DRC.

Mulindwa mentioned that during the trial phase in July 2024, the port had already handled 26,000 tons of Rwandan cement.

“We are handling various goods, both locally made and imported. Most of our products are destined for Goma, Bukavu, and Minova,” he noted, adding that it is still too early to provide a precise evaluation of the port’s throughput.

The port operates similarly to a One-Stop Border Post, offering seamless services on the Rwandan side, though it will not host foreign government offices. Instead, it will feature services from RTDA, immigration, security agencies, and other border-related services, including Magerwa and the Rwanda Revenue Authority.

Additionally, the port includes a reception area for tourists visiting the scenic spots of the Western Province and storage facilities for goods, allowing traders to store equipment after unloading.

According to the Auditor General’s report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, the Rubavu port was completed at a cost of $9.1 million, which represents a 39.6% increase from the initially planned budget of $6.5 million.

Rubavu District officials have revealed that the newly completed port on Lake Kivu is now operational.

The port includes a reception area for tourists visiting the scenic spots of the Western Province and storage facilities for goods, allowing traders to store equipment after unloading.

Rubavu port primarily handles goods such as cement produced in Rwanda, general merchandise, and food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for DRC.

During the trial phase in July 2024, the port had handled 26,000 tons of Rwandan cement.

The port is managed by Rwanda Transport Development Agency.

IGIHE

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the loan, secured on semi-concessional terms, will be directed towards various projects, including urban economic development in two secondary cities and one district town, Government-funded modern irrigation (GFI), and the Sustainable Agriculture Intensification and Food Security Project (SAIP).

The ministry noted that these initiatives align with Rwanda’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, reflecting the country’s unwavering commitment to building a sustainable and resilient future.

The successful acquisition of this funding was made possible by a positive second-party opinion from S&P Global Ratings, a credit rating agency on Rwanda’s ESG framework.

Lauding the approval, the ministry said, 'This endorsement underscores Rwanda’s dedication to responsible governance and sustainable development, further enhancing its credibility as a borrower committed to upholding ESG principles.'

Rwanda has made significant strides in developing a robust ESG framework aimed at attracting investments and achieving sustainable development goals. This innovative approach aligns with the country’s long-term vision, particularly given the limited concessional financing available from traditional development partners.

With an ambitious goal of reaching upper middle-income status by 2035 and becoming a high-income country by 2050, Rwanda understands the importance of securing sustainable financing to realize this vision.

The ESG framework serves as a comprehensive set of standards, assessing Rwanda’s management of environmental impact, social policies, and governance practices. It offers valuable insights for investors, policymakers, and international organizations into Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability, ethical business practices, social responsibility, risk management, innovation, competitiveness, and long-term stability.

By strengthening its ESG framework, Rwanda aims to create new opportunities for investment, bolster its reputation as a nation dedicated to sustainability and responsible business practices, and enhance its overall competitiveness and long-term sustainability.

IGIHE