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Local media reports indicate that Sunak’s administration has directed party managers to lobby members of the House of Commons to sit through the night to pass the legislation that has suffered delays due to several amendments proposed by the House of Lords.

Sunak’s latest move follows growing criticism over his failure to 'run the votes round the clock' and have the first flight of migrants depart to Rwanda as part of the government’s plan to deter persons arriving in the UK on small boats across the English Channel.

The PM has expressed his confidence that parliament will finally pass the Bill, which declares Rwanda a safe country, on Monday, after suffering several defeats in the Lords.

'Repeatedly, everyone has tried to block us from getting this bill through, and yet again you saw this week Labour peers blocking us again, and that’s enormously frustrating.

'Everyone’s patience with this has worn thin, mine certainly has. Our intention now is to get this done on Monday. No more prevarication, no more delay, we are going to get this done on Monday, and we will sit there and vote until it is done,' he said on Friday.

The peers defied the government to vote through two more amendments to the legislation on Wednesday night.

The Lords are demanding exemption from removal to Rwanda for Afghans who served alongside British soldiers overseas as well as tighter checks on the safety of Rwanda for asylum seekers.

The scheme was first announced in April 2022 by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government following a deal with Rwandan authorities.

The Bill was introduced to Parliament after the UK Supreme Court ruled that the government’s scheme was unlawful. The judges argued that genuine refugees being removed to Rwanda faced the risk of being returned to their home countries, where they could face harm.

Sunak has expressed his confidence that parliament will finally pass the Bill, which declares Rwanda a safe country, on Monday, after suffering several defeats in the Lords.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

RCB, in a report unveiled on Thursday, April 18, 2024, said this is the highest revenue earned since the inception of the Bureau in 2014.

The institution hosted over 160 events and an estimated 65,000 delegates in 2023. 45 of these events are projected to generate revenues of $32 million (RWF 40.9 billion) over the upcoming years.

Among the notable events successfully bided and hosted by RCB in 2023 were the International Congress on Conservation Biology in July, the Women Deliver Conference, the Basketball Africa League held in May, IRON MAN 70.3 Rubavu race and the 18th edition of the Peace Marathon hosted in June 2023 among others.

In the entertainment and showbiz scene, Rwanda hosted two major events: the Trace Africa Music Awards and Festival, which brought together music, fashion, and arts, giving young and creative talents a global stage to showcase their skills; and The Move Afrika by Global Citizen, which was headlined by the globally renowned artist Kendrick Lamar.

RCB Board Chairman Fred Swaniker expressed his confidence that the sector will continue to thrive in 2024 due to continued unwavering support from the Rwandan government and stakeholders.

'In a very dynamic business landscape, it is important to stay ahead of the trend, and I am confident that the MICE sector will further increase its contribution to Rwanda’s economy through innovation. By investing in talent, infrastructure, and strategic initiatives, we aim to maintain our growth in the global MICE sector,' Swaniker stated.

On her part, Janet Karemera, the Bureau CEO, noted that as part of its growth strategy this year, RCB is focused on enhancing delegates’ experience, strengthening collaboration with key stakeholders, exploring new partnerships, and attracting more business to Rwanda.

The remarks come at a time when the tourism sector is projected to fully recover from the adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, having made a significant rebound in 2023.

According to a survey UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, the sector achieved 88 per cent growth of pre-pandemic levels last year.

Total export revenues from tourism, encompassing passenger transport, reached approximately $1.6 trillion in 2023, nearly 95 per cent of the $1.7 trillion recorded in 2019. Projections suggest a continuation of this positive trend, with estimates indicating a 2 per cent growth in international tourist arrivals above 2019 levels.

Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) hosted over 160 events and an estimated 65,000 delegates in 2023, earning the country $95 million (RWF 121.5 billion) in revenue

Wycliffe Nyamasege

A US official confirmed the attack to CNN, reports that were corroborated by several other international media outlets, including BBC and Al Jazeera.

However, an Iranian official told CNN that their air defenses intercepted three drones, insisting that there were no reports of a missile attack.

The BBC reported that blasts were heard in the central province of Isfahan but noted that the target of the attack remains unclear.

The strike came against the backdrop of Iran’s support for the Palestinian Hamas militant group, whose assault into Israel on October 7, 2023, triggered Israel’s invasion of Gaza.

Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles against Israel on Saturday night in a retaliatory attack, which the country attributed to an Israeli raid on the Iranian consulate in Syria that killed seven senior military personnel.

On Sunday, the country urged Israel not to retaliate, saying 'the matter can be deemed concluded.” Iran, while acknowledging its commitment to resolving the conflict amicably, warned that any further provocations would result in a severe response.

'The Islamic Republic of Iran will not hesitate to exercise its inherent right of self-defense when required. Should the Israeli regime commit any military aggression again, Iran’s response will assuredly and decisively be stronger and more resolute,' Iran’s Mission to the United Nations warned, even as it accused the United Nations Security Council of failing to stop Israel’s aggression.

Israel’s army declared the Iran attacks “foiled” on Sunday, insisting that it had shot down 99 percent of the drones and missiles with the help of the United States and other allies.

Iran’s attack received condemnation from United States President Joe Biden that resulted in further sanctions on the country on Thursday.

Biden, in a statement, said the sanctions target 'leaders and entities connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran’s Defense Ministry, and the Iranian government’s missile and drone program that enabled' the April 13 attack on Israel.

'As I discussed with my fellow G7 [Group of Seven] leaders the morning after the attack, we are committed to acting collectively to increase economic pressure on Iran,' the US president said.

'And our allies and partners have or will issue additional sanctions and measures to restrict Iran’s destabilizing military programs.'

UN Secretary-General António Guterres had also condemned Iran’s attack on Israel, warning that the serious escalation of the conflict between the two countries poses a real danger of a regional war.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

On April 13, 2024, the commemoration brought together members of the Rwandan community and their allies in Liège. Notable attendees included André Bucyana, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Rwandan Embassy in Belgium; Willy Demeyer, the Mayor of Liège; and Anne-Marie Ikirizaboro, the head of URGT.

Representatives from various organizations that support genocide survivors, as well as Michaël Bisschops from “Les Territoires de la Mémoire,” were also present.

Anne-Marie Ikirizaboro underscored the importance of the commemoration, emphasizing it as a remembrance of the severe persecution of the Tutsi community based on their identity.

“They were targeted and killed solely because they were Tutsi. Countless lives were lost, and the exact locations of many such atrocities remain unknown. Those responsible continue to walk free, shielded by nations that have provided them asylum. This reality offers little solace to us, the survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi, as we endeavor to reconstruct our lives with unwavering resolve,” she explained.

Ikirizaboro added that the 30th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi also involves nurturing the children who are descendants of the survivors.

The event also highlighted the resilience of survivors through the unveiling of “Un génocide en héritage.”

This book presents 11 impactful testimonies compiled by URGT, Celida asbl, and SPF Égalité des chances, with contributions from Donatille Karurenzi and Dr. Bernard Wilkin.

André Bucyana expressed gratitude to both the organizers and attendees for their dedication to remembering the genocide annually in Liège. He stressed the vital role of documenting history to prevent the recurrence of such atrocities.

Mayor Willy Demeyer commended the Tutsi survivors in Liège for their resilience and organizational efforts. He noted the significance of public memorials, like laying flowers at the Genocide Memorial near the National Resistance Monument in central Liège, in preventing the repetition of such tragedies.

The commemoration was also enriched with cultural expressions, including musical performances by the Marine Cadet Music ensemble and poetry readings, adding emotional depth to the occasion.

With the introduction of the testimonial book “Un génocide en héritage” to the public, the event served as an essential educational tool, reminding the world of the harsh realities faced by survivors and their unyielding spirit.

Walk to remember and laying of wreaths at the memorial

Commemoration talks

André Bucyana, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of Rwandan Embassy in Belgium

Willy Demeyer, the Mayor of Liège delivered a speech.

Marie Émilie Cahay also performed at the commemoration event.

Michaël Bisschops from “Les Territoires de la Mémoire,” also attended commemoration talks.

Lina Mukandori performed a poem

The event was moderated by Mujawamariya Christine

Innocent Mugwaneza performed at the event

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Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

A team of five Rwandan soldiers was welcomed by General Muhoozi and the Director of Ugandan Military Intelligence, Major General James Birungi, at the military base in Mbuya on April 17, 2024.

They discussed the cooperation between the armies of both countries as well as regional security, particularly concerning the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

General Muhoozi received the Rwandan soldiers shortly after nearly a month of being appointed the Chief of Uganda’s Defence Forces, succeeding General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi.

When relations between the two countries were previously strained, General Muhoozi played a significant role in revitalizing them in early 2021 by visiting Rwanda, which proved fruitful as it restored good relations.

The son of President Yoweri Museveni often emphasized that Rwanda and Uganda are brotherly nations, and thus should trade and visit each other without hindrances.

He also stated that cooperation should not stop there but that the militaries should also collaborate to address security threats to them and the region.

General Muhoozi last visited Rwanda in April 2023, where President Kagame and Mrs. Jeannette Kagame hosted him at a dinner to celebrate his birthday.

At that time, President Kagame thanked him for his role in rejuvenating the relationship between Rwanda and Uganda.

He said, 'We see peace between our countries. You can have peace without being friends, but now I think we have both. We are friends and we have peace. Thank you, General Muhoozi, for your role in this, for being the bridge that connected both sides.'

In 2022, when General Muhoozi celebrated his birthday, he invited President Kagame to the festivities in Kampala, Uganda, marking a significant symbol of the restored relations between Uganda and Rwanda.

Major General Nyakarundi led a group of Rwandan soldiers to Uganda.

General Nyakarundi was welcomed along with his delegation.

Esther Muhozi

The witness stated that they knew Bomboko before 1994 and often saw him with the leaders of the Interahamwe.

He revealed that he frequently observed them holding many meetings as they planned the Genocide against the Tutsi, boasting about it everywhere.

When asked about the guns it was claimed Nkunduwimye possessed, the witness confirmed seeing him with a small gun and a Kalashnikov.

He told the court that during their evacuation, they were transported in a Red Cross vehicle as if they were injured, and they particularly struggled at a checkpoint led by Bomboko, as he stopped them and held them up for a long time.

When the prosecutor asked if he knew which party Bomboko belonged to, the witness replied that he was in the MRND.

He described Bomboko as part of what they called the ‘Death Squad’ because he was more extreme than the Interahamwe.

The prosecutor then asked how it differed, to which he responded that the Death Squad was a group of selected killers tasked with murdering Tutsis, and they did so cruelly.

He said, 'The Interahamwe manned the checkpoints, they would participate in attacks and kill, but there was a special group trained to kill many people and to do so cruelly.'

The witness noted that during the 30th commemoration of the genocide against the Tutsi, Bomboko was often mentioned as one of the leading figures in its execution.

Another witness, aged 64, said they worked for the United Nations and had survived at the Hotel Milles Collines.

Asked about people who frequented the Hotel Milles Collines during the genocide, he mentioned that among those he saw was Emmanuel Nkunduwimye. He observed Bomboko in the Hotel Milles Collines at least eight times.

Nkunduwimye, also known as Bomboko, was accused of being a notorious murderer.

Esther Muhozi

This message was part of Richard Collins’ address to the youth, urging them to learn from history and keep in mind their country’s expectations of them.

This came during an event on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, when employees of Kigali Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton Kigali commemorated the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi.

“The progress of a country is in the hands of its youth. Particularly the youth in Rwanda, because they are truly remarkable. I travel extensively, but what I’ve seen among the young people here working towards advancing their country, exceeds their self-interest,” Richard stated.

“This is my fourth year visiting the Memorial, and what constantly amazes me is how forgiveness, unity, and resilience have characterized the Rwandan people and how they have learned from their history to reach a better place,” he added.

The event featured a testimony by Dusenge Dahlie Arlette, who works at the Kigali Marriott Hotel. She shared with her colleagues how her parents were killed, how she survived a machete wound to her cheek and also discussed her journey of rebuilding, supported by organizations established for survivors.

Pastor Antoine Rutayisire, who spoke at the event, noted that remembering also means recognizing the divine intervention that saved them, the soldiers who sacrificed themselves to stop the genocide being perpetrated against the Tutsi and those who saved others. He also recalled the poor leadership that led Rwanda into a profound tragedy, “From which many lessons were drawn,” and hailed the leadership that moved Rwanda beyond those dark times.

He added, 'Let’s respect everyone we meet everywhere. Remembering is also about becoming better people, distinct from who we once were. You, the new generation, learn from our mistakes and do not repeat them, which is why we remember and provide you with detailed information about what happened.”

The senior management of Kigali Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton Kigali announced that in their ongoing efforts to rebuild Rwanda, they are committed to transforming the country into a tourism hub, encouraging investment, and contributing to its economy through job creation.

Dusenge Dalia Arlette sharing testimonies with her colleagues at the event.

Employees arriving at Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Artist Musinga performing at the event.

Employees at Kigali Marriott and four Points by Sheraton Kigali paid homage to over 250,000 victims laid to rest at Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Employees at Kigali Marriott Hotel and Four Points by Sheraton have been urged to contribute to Rwanda’s development.

The lighting of the flames of hope was also lit at the commemoration event.

Pastor Rutayusire reminding participants that remembering is essential.

Matthias Widor, the General Manager of Kigali Marriott Hotel & Four Points by Sheraton Kigali.

Richard Collins, the Area Vice President for Sub-Saharan Africa, has called on all employees of the Kigali Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton Kigali, to recognize that the development of their country lies in their hands.

Esther Muhozi

Combining cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and luxurious comfort, the new Teramont sets a new benchmark in the SUV segment.

Commenting on the development; Niels Wichmann, Brand Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars said, “Volkswagen is thrilled to introduce the new Teramont into our model range in Rwanda. With its dynamic performance, cutting-edge technology, and versatile design, the Teramont sets a new standard for premium SUVs.”

The new Teramont boasts a spacious and luxurious interior, featuring premium materials, ergonomic design, and state-of-the-art connectivity options. The Teramont Trendline comes standard with electronically controlled air conditioning system and auxiliary heater, leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel including a Multi-colour Digital Cockpit, App-Connect and a Mobile phone interface.

The Trendline offers a host of innovative features designed to enhance both performance and comfort. From its regenerative braking system to its advanced safety technologies such as Anti-locking Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with trailer stabilisation, rear view camera system, LED headlamps including the Electromechanical parking brake with Auto hold and hill hold assist, every aspect of the Teramont is engineered to provide a seamless driving experience.

Park Distance Control, Seat trim covers in leatherette, power seats in front with seat heating and driver seat memory feature including multi-function steering wheel, Discover media navigation system and LED headlamps with cornering lights are some of the features that come standard on the Highline.

“Our goal with the Teramont was to design a vehicle that not only excels in performance but also prioritises the comfort and convenience of its occupants. With its refined design, advanced technology, and unparalleled driving dynamics, the Teramont redefines the SUV segment,' concluded Wichmann.

The new Teramont is available in two trim options: the Highline, equipped with a 2.0-liter TSI engine producing 162 kW of power and 350 Nm of torque, and the Trendline, featuring a 3.6-liter FSI V6 engine delivering an impressive 206 kW of power. Both variants come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a 4MOTION four-wheel-drive system. According to the management, pricing will be available closer to launch even though dates have not been disclosed.

Photos of the new Teramont to be introduced in Rwanda

IGIHE

President Ruto, in a press statement on Thursday night said, Ogolla was among nine people killed in the crash that occurred at around 2:20 pm. There were two survivors in the crash.

'I am deeply saddened to announce the passing on of General Francis Omondi Ogolla, the Chief of Kenya Defence Forces,' President Ruto said.

'The Chief of Defence Forces onboard the Kenya Airforce helicopter had left Nairobi in the morning to visit troops deployed in the North Rift under the operation Malisha Uhalifu and to also inspect the ongoing school renovation works in the region,' he added.

The chopper crashed before bursting into flames, killing Ogolla and the eight military personnel shortly after takeoff from the Recruits Training School in Uasin Gishu County, where he was scheduled to inspect constriction facilities at the institution.

'This is a very sad moment for me as the commander in chief of defence forces. It’s a tragic moment for the KDF fraternity and it’s a most unfortunate day for the nation at large,' President Ruto stated.

He said a team of investigative officers from the Kenya Air Force has been dispatched to probe the cause of crash, even as he announced a three day of national mourning in honour of the fallen General.

Gen. Ogolla’s death comes nearly a year after he was sworn in as Kenya’s military boss on April 29, 2023.

He took over the CDF mantle from Gen. Robert Kibochi whose term ended after 44 years in the military.

Prior to assuming the CDF role, Ogolla served as the Commander of the Air Force and Vice Chief of Defence Forces.

Gen. Ogolla joined the Kenya Defence Forces on April 24, 1984. He was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant on 6 May 1985 and posted to Kenya Air Force.

He trained as a fighter pilot with United States Air Force (USAF) and as an instructor pilot at the Kenya Air Force (KAF).

The late military boss also trained in other fields including imagery intelligence, counter terrorism and accident investigation.

He rose through the ranks to become a Major General and was appointed as the Commander of the Kenya Air Force on July 15, 2018, a post he held for three years before former President Uhuru Kenyatta promoted him to the rank of Lieutenant General and appointed him as the Vice Chief of Defence Forces.

Previously, he held various appointments in Training, Command and Staff including Deputy Commander Kenya Air Force, Base Commander Laikipia Air Base, Commanding Officer of Tactical Fighter Wing, Chief Flying Instructor at Kenya Air Force Flying Training School and Operations Desk Officer at Kenya Air Force Headquarters.

He also served in the former Yugoslavia as an Observer and Military Information Officer from 1992 to 1993, as chairman of Military Christian Fellowship from 1994 to 2004 and co-Chair of Association of African Air Chiefs between 2018-2019.

The late army General is survived by his wife Aileen, two children and a grandson.

Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla dies in chopper crash

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to the United Kingdom-based research firm, Kigali retained its sixth position in the 2024 rankings, the same as Cape Town, which was named the airport with the best staff in the continent.

Durban’s King Shaka Airport, situated in South Africa, recorded an improvement to emerge as the second airport with the best staff in 2024, having finished third in the 2023 rankings.

Mauritius dropped to third place, while Casablanca in Morocco retained the fourth position.

Additionally, Seychelles, which was ranked seventh last year, recorded a remarkable improvement to be ranked among the top five airports with the best staff in the region.

Marrakesh Menara Airport in Morocco and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi took the seventh and eighth positions, while Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia and Morocco’s Rabat were ranked ninth and tenth, respectively.

Skytrax said the rankings are based on customer feedback and take into consideration the combined quality of staff service, including attitude, friendliness, and efficiency, delivered across front-line positions at an airport.

Narita International Airport in Japan won the top award for the World’s Best Airport Staff service in 2024, ranking ahead of Munich Airport (Germany) and Incheon International Airport (South Korea), which were ranked second and third, respectively.

Kigali shines

This is not the first time Kigali International Airport has been recognised for its exemplary service.

Last year, Skytrax recognized Kigali as the third best regional airport and the fifth cleanest airport in Africa.

Formerly known as Kanombe International Airport, Kigali is the main airport in Rwanda located in the capital Kigali.

The government is currently building another mega-airport in Bugesera District, Eastern Province, which will be the biggest and the main air gateway for all destinations in the East African country.

The new airport situated about 40 kilometers south of Kigali is expected to be completed by late 2026, at an estimated cost of $2 billion (RWF 2.6 trillion).

Wycliffe Nyamasege