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In a statement released on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, RURA Director General Evariste Rugigana said petrol will retail at Rwf1,629 per litre, down from Rwf1,663, while diesel will remain at Rwf1,652 per litre.

The new fuel prices will come into effect from 7:00 PM on August 7, 2024, for two months.

“These adjustments are based on recent fluctuations in international petroleum product prices,” Rugigana explained.

This marks the second time in a row the price of petrol has decreased since April when RURA reviewed the prices of fuel upwards.

Before the review of the prices in April, a litre of petrol cost Rwf 1,637 while diesel cost Rwf 1,632.

RURA Director General said petrol will retail at Rwf1,629 per litre, down from Rwf1,663, while diesel will remain at Rwf1,652 per litre.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Rwanda is currently in the dry season, which explains the prevailing sunny conditions.

However, Meteo Rwanda predicts an increase in soil moisture during the second and third weeks of August due to anticipated rainfall in those periods.

The first week of August will see typical dry season weather with sunny days, though some regions will experience light rainfall. The forecasted rainfall for August ranges from 0 to 60 millimeters. Specifically, in the western parts of Musanze and Nyabihu districts, the eastern part of the Rubavu district, and a small part of northern Ngororero, rainfall is expected to range between 40 and 60 millimeters.

In contrast, smaller areas such as Nyungwe National Park, Rutsiro district, Ngororero, central parts of Rubavu and Musanze districts, and the northern part of Burera district can expect rainfall between 20 and 40 millimeters. Meteo Rwanda emphasized that this amount of rainfall is typical for August.

Temperature-wise, daytime highs are forecasted to range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, while nighttime lows are expected to be between 6 and 14 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are within the usual range for this time of year.

Additionally, wind speeds are anticipated to increase compared to previous months, especially in the Western Province, where strong winds are expected.

Rwanda Meteorological Agency (Meteo Rwanda) has announced that August 2024 will predominantly feature sunny weather across many parts of the country.

IGIHE

RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, presided over the pass-out ceremony at the Combat Training Centre in Gabiro.

According to the RDF, the comprehensive training covered a wide range of subjects, including Marksmanship Skills, Tactics, Command and Control, Martial Arts, Physical Fitness, and Heliborne Operations.

The pass-out ceremony showcased various demonstrations, highlighting the skills and knowledge acquired by the brigade during their training. Attendees witnessed impressive displays of Tactics, Martial Arts, and live firing exercises, illustrating the brigade’s readiness and capability.

The pass-out ceremony was presided over by RDF Chief of Defence Staff Gen MK Mubarakh.

The Rwandan troops often undergo continuous training aimed at better equipping them to handle their mandate of defending the country and offering military support to other countries through peacekeeping missions.

The troops have also been involved in training other soldiers in countries such as the Central African Republic. Together with the Central African Armed Forces, the RDF trained more than 600 soldiers who were enrolled in the Central African Republic Armed Forces (FACA) on Monday, August 5, 2024, after completing seven months of basic military training.

Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, the RDF Army Chief of Staff, attended the pass-out ceremony, which was presided over by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra at Camp Kassaï military barrack in Bangui city.

While addressing the media, the Central African Republic’s Head of State expressed his appreciation for the successful military partnership between Rwanda and the Central African Republic.

General Zéphirin Mamadou, the Chief of General Staff of the Central African Armed Forces, affirmed that the collaboration between CAR and Rwandan troops will continue to yield positive results.

'This graduation marks the second battalion trained by military instructors from the Rwanda Defence Force, with the ultimate objective of preventing the activities of the enemies of peace. I have no doubt that the skills acquired during this course will help in protecting the country and its people,' Mamadou stated.

The deployment of Rwandan troops in CAR aims to combat armed groups threatening the government and destabilizing the country.

RDF has been one of the largest troop contributors to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) since 2014.

The infantry brigade of the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) graduated on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, after completing a six-month advanced combat course.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Recently, RGB, in collaboration with local authorities, conducted inspections to assess whether churches meet the required standards.

During an interview with IGIHE, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, the CEO of RGB, explained that in nearly two weeks of inspection, more than 13,000 churches were visited to verify their compliance.

Dr. Kaitesi revealed that some closed churches lacked minor requirements that could be quickly addressed, while others required significant adjustments.

Additionally, there were churches operating without proper authorization, with individuals or groups having opened places of worship and erected signs without the necessary permits.

Despite the large number of churches in Rwanda, Dr. Kaitesi emphasized that the issue is not the quantity but whether they meet the required standards.

“The problem is not the large number of churches. The issue is whether this number aligns with our desired standards. Are the churches built according to legal requirements? Do the leaders of these congregations have the qualifications mandated by law? These are the questions we should focus on,” she said.

The inspections aimed to ensure the safety of Rwandans attending these places of worship rather than indiscriminately closing churches.

Dr. Kaitesi highlighted that instead of having multiple non-compliant churches, it would be better to build a single, large, compliant church that accommodates all followers in a safe environment, led by qualified leaders.

Addressing claims that the closures were sudden, Dr. Kaitesi clarified that inspections and assessments of churches are conducted annually, and churches were forewarned.

“This is part of our mandate. At RGB, we have a department responsible for faith-based organizations and other registered entities. This department is divided into registration and operational monitoring and inspection. We have always conducted inspections,” she stated.

In 2018, a similar inspection resulted in the closure of over 7,000 churches for non-compliance, with a five-year grace period granted for rectifying deficiencies.

“The five-year period ended in September last year, and in December 2023, we called them to review their status and submit staff qualifications and operational plans. Some did not have strategic plans, so we asked them to improve and provide that information,” Dr. Kaitesi explained.

In May 2024, RGB again wrote to religious organizations requesting information about their church locations, leadership, and educational qualifications.

According to RGB, some organizations were given time to meet the requirements and allowed to resume operations. However, monitoring and engaging religious leaders to address issues identified during inspections continued.

Rwanda Governance Board has announced that 59.3% of over 13,000 inspected churches have been closed due to non-compliance with regulations.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Among those celebrated was Peter Asiimwe from Uganda. He won a big award for his work in helping his community and showing great leadership.

Also in the spotlight was Rwanda’s own Isimbi Alliance, also known as Alliah Cool. She’s a well-known actress and social media influencer who received an award for her efforts in promoting change and entertaining people.

The event wasn’t just about handing out awards. There was a big dinner with lots of food and drinks that reflected the diverse tastes of Africa. Everyone enjoyed themselves, chatting and laughing through the evening.

There was a big dinner with lots of food and drinks that reflected the diverse tastes of Africa.

The entertainment was just as diverse. There were cultural dances and music that got everyone’s attention, showcasing the rich traditions of different African cultures.

What’s even more exciting is that this event will happen in Kigali for the next three years. It’s a big win for the city to continue hosting such important gatherings.

As everyone headed home, there was a strong feeling of unity and hope. The night was not just about recognizing what has been achieved but also looking forward to what can be done in the future.

This event promises to keep highlighting and supporting the leaders who are making a difference across Africa.

Rwandan actress and social media personality Isimbi Alliance popularly known as Alliah Cool received an award for her efforts in promoting change and entertaining people.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The Norwegian firm sold its 54% stake in the project to Fortis Green Fund I Rwanda Holdings Ltd and Axian Energy Green Ltd.

According to the company, the transaction marks Scatec’s exit from the Rwandan market and is part of its broader strategy to optimize its investment portfolio.

'We continue to deliver on our strategy to consolidate our portfolio through divestment of assets in non-core markets, and recycling capital into new investments in renewable energy. We are very satisfied with the closing and would like to thank the teams in Scatec, Fortis, Axian, and other parties involved for a successful transaction.

'We are confident that the new owners will take good care of the solar power plant and continue to deliver clean renewable energy to the Republic of Rwanda for many years to come,' Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog stated.

The buyout supports Fortis Green’s Green Fund I and marks AXIAN Energy’s entry into the Rwandan market.

Fortis Green’s Managing Director, Benito Grimaudo, noted that the acquisition will contribute to development of green energy in Africa. AXIAN Energy’s CEO, Benjamin Memmi, said the acquisition is part of the company’s strategy to diversify its renewable energy assets and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.

The three companies signed the buyout agreement in December 2023, and the deal was scheduled to close before the end of 2024.

The solar power plant, located at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village in Rwamagana, began operations in 2014.

The project includes over 28,000 solar panels on a 50-acre site and has significantly improved access to clean energy in Rwanda, serving approximately 140,000 residents.

The generated power was sold under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with the state-owned utility, Electricity, Water and Sanitation Authority (EWSA).

The solar power plant, located at the Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village in Rwamagana, began operations in 2014.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to a report released by the National Institute of Statistics (NISR), total exports saw a slight increase from US$ 223.73 million in June 2023 to US$ 225.61 million in June 2024, reflecting a modest growth of 0.84%.

However, domestic exports declined by 0.21%, while re-exports increased by 4.15%. Despite this increase in exports, it was insufficient to counterbalance the substantial rise in imports, which surged by 18.39%, raising from US$ 538.23 million in June 2023 to US$ 637.23 million in June 2024.

Several categories experienced significant growth in imports. The value of food and live animal imports increased by 49.62%, rising from US$ 79.23 million in June 2023 to US$ 118.54 million in June 2024.
Similarly, imports of beverages and tobacco grew by 51.83%, and mineral fuels saw a 54.49% increase.

Additionally, imports of chemicals and related products rose by 32.09%, and manufactured goods classified chiefly by material saw a growth of 13.33%.

Examining the export goods by category, food and live animals exports rose by 24.35%, from US$ 19.87 million in June 2023 to US$ 24.71 million in June 2024. In contrast, exports of beverages and tobacco dropped sharply by 33.57%. Crude materials, inedible except fuels, also declined by 19.56%.

On the other hand, the export of chemicals and related products increased by 60.42%, and manufactured goods classified chiefly by material grew by 15.06%.
Rwanda’s main export partners in June 2024 were the United Arab Emirates, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and China.

Exports to the United Arab Emirates slightly decreased from US$ 111.74 million in June 2023 to US$ 107.68 million in June 2024. Exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo grew marginally, while exports to China showed a minor decrease.

China remained a dominant import partner, with imports raising from US$ 105.77 million in June 2023 to US$ 135.22 million in June 2024.
Kenya followed with a dramatic increase in imports, rising from US$ 25.77 million to US$ 130.44 million. Imports from India also grew from US$ 59.45 million to US$ 67.38 million.

In a press briefing last year, the Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda, Soraya Hakuziyaremye, explained that addressing the trade deficit is a long-term journey.

She highlighted measures such as the Made in Rwanda initiative, launched in 2018, which has boosted the production of locally made products, reducing reliance on imports.

Additionally, she emphasized the country’s goal to increase exports, whether from industrial or agricultural products.

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.

IGIHE

A research conducted by the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda (INMR) in 2006 revealed that Rwanda had more than 530 heritage sites. Since the research was conducted about two decades ago, several reforms have been implemented with the aim of better positioning the national heritage sites.

These changes include the merger of INMR with the Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture and Rwanda Archives and Library Services to form the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) in 2020.

Today, the expanded mandate of RCHA includes conserving the sites and collaborating with the private sector to capitalize on opportunities presented by Rwanda’s culture, history, and national heritage to promote the national economy through tourism activities.

With the rise of initiatives such as the Visit Rwanda campaigns, the historic sites in Rwanda continue to witness an influx of tourists who are eager to learn about Rwanda’s history.

This is a highlight of some popular destinations in Rwanda that offer invaluable insights into the country’s rich history, culture, and resilience.

King’s Palace Museum

Located in Nyanza district, Southern Province, the King’s Palace Museum offers a captivating glimpse into Rwanda’s monarchial history. This reconstructed palace beautifully replicates the traditional beehive-shaped dwelling of Rwanda’s former kings.

The palace beautifully replicates the traditional beehive-shaped dwelling of Rwanda’s former kings.

The museum compound is home to a herd of Inyambo cattle, descendants of the king’s prized livestock. These long-horned cattle, originating from the Ankole breed, were integral to royal ceremonies, adorned with lavish jewellery, and trained to follow commands.

While Rwanda transitioned from a monarchy to a republic in 1962, the preservation of Inyambo cattle continues under the care of the Rwanda Agriculture Board.

Long-horned royal cows ‘Inyambo’

Visitors can explore the replica palace, gaining insights into royal life, customs, and governance. The museum also houses artifacts and exhibits that delve deeper into the history of the Rwandan monarchy.

The Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum, formerly the National Museum of Rwanda, is located in Huye district in the Southern Province.

The museum was built with help of the Belgian government and opened its doors to the public in 1989. It is a rich source of information on the cultural history of Rwanda.

The Ethnographic Museum is located in Huye district in the Southern Province.

The museum features seven galleries that showcase a diverse range of historical, ethnographic, artistic, and archaeological artifacts, complemented by visual aids to provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of Rwandan culture.

The exhibits begin with displays on geographical and geological aspects, then artifacts related to hunting, agriculture, animal husbandry, pottery, weaving, and woodwork. The museum also highlights traditional clothing, architectural techniques, and the social significance of cattle.

In the final gallery, visitors can explore traditional customs and beliefs, as well as Rwandan history, culture, poetry, oral traditions, and cosmology.

Environment Museum

Located in Karongi district the periphery of Lake Kivu in the Western Province. This is the first environmental museum on the African continent.

The museum spans two floors and features a traditional herbal medicine garden on the rooftop. It displays herbal plants used to treat various illnesses, including sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhoea.

Rwandan Traditional medicinal Plants exhibited at Museum of Environment.

A large portion of the museum is dedicated to educating both domestic and foreign tourists on the significance of a sustainable environment and how they can contribute to it.

Rwanda Liberation Museum

The Rwanda Liberation Museum, also known as Umulindi w’Intwari, is located in Gicumbi District, Northern Province.

Rwanda Liberation Museum in Gicumbi.

This historic site commemorates the Rwandan liberation struggle that culminated in the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It houses various artefacts, documents, and multimedia displays recounting the journey from pre-genocide events to the liberation struggle led by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and subsequent rebuilding efforts.

At the site, visitors can also explore the former command bunker (trench) of the then-RPF commander, who is now President Paul Kagame.

Museum for Campaign Against Genocide

Campaign Against Genocide Museum is housed within the Parliament building in Kigali.

The building was the epicenter of the liberation struggle and the museum was erected in its precincts to offer deeper learning of the political events that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Campaign Against Genocide Museum is located within Parliament building in Kigali.

The museum tells the story of the Rwandan Patriotic Army’s 600-man battalion that was based at the Parliament to protect RPF-Inkotanyi dignitaries who were monitoring the implementation of the Arusha peace accord negotiated with Juvénal Habyarimana’s regime.

However, the implementation of the accord was interrupted after the shooting of President Habyarimana’s plane shortly before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi which claimed more than a million lives.

The museum showcases the role of RPA in ending the Genocide and restoring peace.
It provides a comprehensive overview of the Genocide against the Tutsi, including its planning, execution, and aftermath.

Additionally, the museum emphasizes Rwanda’s journey towards healing and reconciliation. It serves as a stern reminder of the past and a catalyst for building a brighter future.

Rwanda Art Museum

Situated in Kigali, The Rwanda Art Museum is a vibrant cultural hub showcasing contemporary art from Rwanda and beyond.

Previously known as the Presidential Palace Museum, this unique space offers a glimpse into the dynamic world of Rwandan creativity.

The Rwanda Art Museum showcases contemporary art from Rwanda and beyond.

The museum aims to foster appreciation for both traditional and modern art forms. It also serves as a platform for artists to connect and share their work.

Rwesero Art Museum

The Rwesero Art Museum, located in Nyanza district, stands as a unique cultural institution.
Originally constructed as a palace for King Mutara III Rudahigwa, it was repurposed into an art museum after the king’s untimely death before occupancy.

Rwesero Art Museum in Nyanza.

The museum houses a diverse collection of Rwandan art, showcasing the nation’s artistic talent and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other creative expressions.

The museum’s location within a former royal palace adds a historical dimension, allowing visitors to appreciate the interplay between Rwanda’s past and present.

Kandt House Museum

The Kandt House Museum, situated in the heart of Kigali, offers a captivating journey through Rwanda’s rich history.

The museum is named after Richard Kandt, a German physician, explorer, and writer believed to be the first European to have thoroughly documented the geography and wildlife of Rwanda. The facility sits at his former residence.

A large section of the museum is dedicated to showcasing Rwandan life in all aspects — social, economic, and political way before and the colonial times.

A snake and crocodile exhibition at the facility is regularly held to help educate the general public about human-wildlife interaction.

Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

Located in Nyabigoma, Northern Province, Iby’iwacu Cultural Village offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Rwandan culture and traditions.

Iby’iwacu Cultural Village offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Rwandan culture and traditions.

The village provides an authentic experience of rural Rwandan life, and many tourists flock to the site to share in the local people’s home and heritage treasures, including their lifestyles, activities, artefacts, and ways of living.

Ndaba Rock

Ndaba Rock is a captivating natural landmark located in Karongi district in the Western Province. The rock’s name is derived from a legendary tale of greed and misfortune.

It is believed that a man named Ndaba lost his life while attempting to retrieve honey from a cave inside the rock. The man’s demise gave the site its name and added to its mystique.

Ndaba Rock and waterfalls offer a spectacular view.

Beyond its mythical allure, Ndaba Rock offers stunning natural beauty, including cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In the past two years, Imara Properties has successfully delivered 5,000 square meters of prime villas and apartments, contributing to Kigali’s housing market. As the city experiences unprecedented urban growth, the demand for quality housing is soaring, spanning all market segments.

David Benazeraf, Managing Director of Imara Properties, attributes the company’s accomplishment to its commitment to quality and community.

'We are dedicated to creating not just homes, but thriving communities where residents can enjoy a high quality of life,' he states.

As the city experiences unprecedented urban growth, the demand for quality housing is soaring, spanning all market segments.

Completed Projects: A Testament to Quality and Community

Imara Properties has earned a reputation for completing projects on time and with constant communication with owners. Notably, all of its projects have been sold out before completion, highlighting the demand for properties.

The developments in Rebero, in particular, showcase Imara Properties’ approach to community-focused design. Isange Estate Rebero (Phase 1) consists of 15 villas with shared common spaces and a swimming pool, delivered in July 2022.

Isange Estate Rebero (Phase 1) consists of 15 villas with shared common spaces and a swimming pool, delivered in July 2022.

Residents have praised the development, with one homeowner commenting, “Nice design and great professionalism in responding to concerns.”

Building on this success, Isange Phase 2 was fully handed over in January 2024 with a swimming pool and fitness room, delivered on time after just 14 months of construction.

The timely completion and seamless handover process have reinforced Imara Properties’ reputation for reliability and efficiency. Currently, some units from this phase are available for rental, providing more opportunities for residents to join this thriving community.

Looking Ahead: Exciting New Developments

Imara Properties is not resting on its laurels. The company has several new projects in the pipeline, each promising to enhance Kigali’s urban landscape further.

Isange Apartments Kibagabaga: Set for completion in mid-2025, this project will feature 11 premium apartments and studios. Located on a tarmac road close to shops and Kibagabaga Hospital, the development will include a swimming pool and a rooftop shared fitness area. Booking rate has already reached 50% of available units.

Ituze Village Kanombe: Offering flexible living spaces, this project will feature four-bedroom houses that can be customized into two or three-bedroom layouts, catering to diverse family needs.

Isange Phase 3 in Rebero: this phase will introduce 20 premium 3 and 4-bedroom villas, continuing the tradition of quality and community that defines Imara Properties with modern design, premium finishes, a swimming pool, fitness, and children’s playground.

Benazeraf emphasizes the company’s forward-thinking approach, 'Our projects are designed with the attention to detail, ensuring that every resident feels at home from the moment they move in.'

A Growing Legacy in Kigali

Imara Properties has quickly become synonymous with quality and community in Kigali’s real estate market. As Kigali continues to grow and evolve, the company’s developments offer more than just housing—they provide a sense of belonging and community. By managing the common areas and maintaining constant service, Imara Properties ensures that its developments remain desirable and well-maintained.

In a city where the demand for housing is constantly rising, Imara Properties is setting a standard for what modern urban living can be. Their projects are not just about providing a place to live but about creating environments where residents can thrive. As David Benazeraf succinctly puts it, they build more than properties, they build communities.

www.imara-properties.com
[email protected]

IGIHE

In a statement released on Monday, August 5, 2024, Nderitu said there are still more than 1,000 Genocide fugitives from Rwanda at large, 30 years after committing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Some of the perpetrators of the Genocide against the Tutsi have taken refuge in different countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), France, Belgium, the US, Netherlands, and Canada. Some of these countries have in the past been accused of lack of goodwill to prosecute or extradite the fugitives.

The UN official also noted that thousands of suspected war criminals from the former Yugoslavia have yet to face justice years after being involved in the 1995 genocide in Srebrenica.

'Only when all perpetrators have been held into account will we be able to uphold the expectations that all victims rightly possess: that their voices are heard and their suffering acknowledged, and that there is justice for the crimes committed against their loved ones,' Nderitu stated.

The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda was fueled by decades of ethnic violence and claimed the lives of more than a million people.

On the other hand, the Srebrenica genocide occurred during the Bosnian War in 1995. The Bosnian Serb army systematically executed over 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys in and around the town of Srebrenica, which had been declared a UN safe area.

Nderitu noted that while some of the perpetrators of the atrocities have been brought to justice by courts in Rwanda and the former Yugoslavia, there is a need to ensure that those
who continue to evade justice abroad are also brought to book.

The UN Special Adviser emphasized the crucial link between accountability and preventing future atrocities, warning that lack of accountability for past crimes can lead to recurring violations.

'The wheels of justice must keep turning, the voices of victims must continue being heard, and all perpetrators must be held to account for their actions,' she emphasized.

She also highlighted the need to continue promoting healing and reconciliation once the perpetrators are held to account for their crimes and verdicts issued.

'Justice is an essential prerequisite for healing and reconciliation, but it is not sufficient,' Nderitu noted, adding that both leaders and individual citizens have a role to play in preventing a repeat of past crimes such as the genocides.

Alice Wairimu Nderitu, the United Nations (UN) Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, says there are still more than 1,000 Genocide fugitives from Rwanda at large, 30 years after committing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Wycliffe Nyamasege