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Local residents reported that the victims were members of vigilante groups and civilians protecting themselves from armed gangs known for kidnapping for ransom.

According to reports, the airstrikes targeted militant groups in the Zurmi and Maradun areas.

Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his condolences to the community.

The military confirmed conducting the airstrikes, claiming they successfully targeted criminal gangs causing havoc in the region.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) acknowledged the loss of civilian lives, stating it was investigating the incident.

They emphasized that the operation had rescued kidnap victims and eliminated bandits but expressed concern over the civilian casualties.

A thorough investigation is underway, and the findings will be shared with the public.

An airstrike by Nigeria’s military in Zamfara State has accidentally killed 16 civilians, who were mistaken for criminal gangs.

IGIHE

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in Charge of Operations, Vincent Sano, on Monday, January 13, urged Police officers set to be deployed to the peacekeeping mission in South Sudan, to remain professional during their one year tour-of-duty.

DIGP Sano was briefing a female-dominated contingent of Rwanda Formed Police Unit Three rotation Seven (RWAFPU3-7) composed of 160 Police officers, at the RNP General Headquarters, Kacyiru.

The contingent commanded by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Donatha Nyinawumuntu, will replace RWAFPU3-6 deployed in the capital Juba under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

DIGP Sano urged the officers to apply the training they received, emphasizing dedication, professionalism, and exemplary conduct to execute their responsibilities effectively.

'You have been selected to represent the country and the RNP on this mission because of your competence. You were given preparatory training for the tasks ahead, in addition to your prior experience in maintaining security within the country. In this mission, continue to work with diligence and good conduct to uphold the trust placed in you,' DIGP Sano said.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and mutual respect among themselves and with colleagues from other contributing countries while respecting diversity.

'In your new assignment, you will work with people from various countries; collaborate with them well, uphold our Rwandan culture and values while respecting the culture and beliefs of others,' the Deputy Police Chief said.

He reminded them that the mission is a “collective responsibility”, urging them to work as a team, follow instructions, and seek guidance when faced with uncertainties.

He concluded by advising them to maintain hygiene, handle the contingent owned equipment well, prioritize their work, avoid distractions like unnecessary use of social media, and to continue projecting a positive image of Rwanda and its police force.

DIGP Sano has urged Police officers on professionalism ahead of South Sudan deployment.

DIGP Sano urged the officers to apply the training they received, emphasizing dedication, professionalism, and exemplary conduct to execute their responsibilities effectively.

The contingent will replace RWAFPU3-6 deployed in the capital Juba under the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

IGIHE

The relentless fires, fueled by extreme drought and powerful winds, have claimed at least 25 lives, with over a dozen individuals still missing.

Communities across the region are grappling with destruction on a massive scale, as the fires have consumed more than 40,500 acres and obliterated upwards of 12,300 structures.

The largest blaze, known as the Palisades Fire, was only 14% contained as of Monday morning.

Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, the second-largest wildfire, was slightly more contained at 33%, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).

As firefighters battle to gain control, residents face yet another challenge: widespread power outages.

More than 80,000 households are in the dark as Southern California Edison preemptively shut off power in anticipation of strong winds expected to hit the area on Tuesday.

A firefighting airplane drops retardant to prevent the wildfire from spreading further on the hills of Mandeville Canyon in Los Angeles, California, the United States, on Jan. 11, 2025. (Photo by Qiu Chen/Xinhua)

IGIHE

According to the European Commission, these measures could negatively impact transatlantic trade and cooperation.

Officials highlighted that allowing EU entities to procure these advanced chips freely aligns with both U.S. economic goals and national security priorities.

The Biden administration’s updated rules on chip exports are seen as part of a broader effort to restrict advanced technology from reaching rival countries like China.

IGIHE

In a press statement on Monday, January 13, 2025, Jasiri said the program targets visionary individuals from Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia who are passionate about creating impactful businesses from scratch.

The program is aimed at tackling youth unemployment in Africa by fostering high-impact entrepreneurship, which Jasiri views as a key driver of job creation and societal transformation. It focuses on minimizing systemic barriers to entrepreneurship through a hands-on, holistic approach.

To qualify for the program, applicants must demonstrate a strong drive to address Africa’s most pressing challenges and a readiness to build ventures that deliver measurable societal impact.

'Jasiri minimizes these barriers with a holistic, hands-on approach to entrepreneurship, ensuring that bold innovators can build businesses that benefit society while contributing to an empowered, prosperous African citizenry,' Amandine Kayizali, Recruitment & Selection Manager, said in the statement.

The Jasiri Talent Investor Program offers participants structured support, including a one-month online Jasiri Jumpstart, a three-month intensive residential program, and nine months of hands-on venture creation. The program also emphasizes collaboration, bringing together like-minded individuals to form entrepreneurial teams capable of transforming ideas into impactful ventures.

Since its inception in 2021, Jasiri has supported 227 entrepreneurs who have collectively created 93 ventures, 81 of which remain operational across 42 industries. These ventures have generated over 2,035 jobs and positively impacted more than 12,600 individuals across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and waste management.

The application period for the eighth cohort is scheduled to close on April 5, 2025.

Interested individuals can apply through the link: https://jasiri.org/application.

IGIHE

Founded in 2020, Fitnesspoint has quickly established itself as a leading fitness brand, offering holistic health and wellness solutions.

The new facility, located at the former Sports View Hotel, opposite Amahoro Stadium, replaces Fitnesspoint’s previous branch in Nyarutarama, offering a substantial upgrade in space, amenities, and services tailored to meet growing customer demand.

According to Ole Haugom, Co-Founder and CEO of Fitnesspoint, the reception to the new location has been overwhelmingly positive.

“I feel like people are really liking our gyms, especially this one. Remera has so many different activities. We have very professional equipment and good maintenance. People always come here and can use the equipment they want, which is very important,” he shared during a recent interview with IGIHE.

Haugom, a Norwegian national who established a successful fitness center with over 30 branches in his home country, explained that his focus on high-quality equipment and prompt maintenance stems from observations he made upon arriving in Kigali six years ago.

“When I first came, I saw so many places—hotels and gyms—where machines were marked 'out of order.’ That’s actually why I started importing gym equipment here. We now have technicians and a warehouse to fix things quickly,” he added.

Mahe Ornella, Sales and Marketing Manager at FitnessPoint, noted that the relocation was driven by client feedback and aims to enhance the overall customer experience.

Like its first branch in Kimihurura, FitnessPoint’s new Remera location offers more than just a larger space. The gym now includes a six-foot swimming pool suitable for diving, an expanded aerobics class area that can host up to 60 people, and a dedicated athletic zone for high-intensity training.

The athletic section, located in the basement, features high-performance equipment such as bikes, squat racks, deadlift platforms, and rowing machines.

A specialised spinning class area is also part of this section, enabling athletes to push their limits in a professional setup.

The Remera branch further introduces a martial arts area, with plans to offer self-defence classes for women.

Additionally, a women-only space has been introduced for those who prefer a more private workout environment. The new feature caters to a diverse range of women, including Muslim women and content creators who value privacy.

“This private space is ideal for Muslim women and women content creators seeking a more private workout environment,” Ornella explained.

In line with its holistic approach to fitness, the gym also caters to families. A kids’ playground is being developed to allow parents to work out while their children engage in activities. The kids’ area will be equipped with toys and trampolines to keep the children entertained.

Another exciting addition at the new Remera gym is a dedicated basketball facility. This area is set to host basketball training sessions and will serve as a space for professional athletes to enhance their skills.

Fitnesspoint has also partnered with APR basketball teams, providing them with exclusive access to the gym’s top-tier equipment and training facilities.

Ornella emphasised that the collaboration with teams such as APR is part of the company’s efforts to support professional athletes and promote sports development in Rwanda. Additionally, Fitnesspoint works closely with the corporate sector, helping to encourage team building and wellness among staff members through tailored fitness programs.

Another upcoming addition includes a coffee area, set to open by the end of January, offering health-focused snacks and beverages.

'We will offer smoothies, sandwiches… You know, the gym is not only the thing that’s needed to see your fitness goals; it’s also what you eat. This coffee area was created in response to what many of our clients have been asking for,' she remarked.

The Remera branch also boasts a spacious parking area to ensure the safety and convenience of clients’ vehicles.

Comprehensive Services and Expert Support

In addition to its state-of-the-art equipment, Fitnesspoint ensures that certified trainers are available at both branches to guide clients through their fitness journeys.

At least 12 trainers, including floor and private trainers, work per location, assisting members with proper equipment usage and offering personalized training programs.

Uwizeyimana Shaban, one of the personal fitness trainers at the Remera branch, brings six years of experience to the team. The 28-year-old encourages individuals of all ages to prioritize their health and wellness through consistent training and proper exercise techniques.

'Fitness is not just about physical appearance—it’s about improving overall well-being, boosting confidence, and enhancing quality of life. It’s never too late to start your fitness journey,” Shaban says.

“Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, there’s always something new to learn and achieve in the gym.'

The gym also features a dedicated physiotherapist, Fabrice Tuyizere, who assists individuals dealing with health challenges such as fractures or disabilities.

“I design specific exercises tailored to their conditions, addressing issues like back, shoulder, or knee problems,” Tuyizere explains.

As part of its holistic wellness approach, Fitnesspoint also collaborates with certified nutritionist Matt Battle to offer consultations and meal plans tailored to clients’ fitness goals.

Haugom, reflecting on the priorities for the coming years, emphasized the importance of accessible, user-friendly equipment designed for all age groups.

“You just need to have good equipment that anybody can use—functional equipment designed for the human body. Some of the older equipment can be rough to use, but the new ones are more user-friendly. People enjoy using them, even though it’s still a tough workout, of course,” he explained.

Flexible Membership Options and Family-Friendly Services

Fitnesspoint offers flexible membership options to accommodate various needs. An annual membership costs RWF 600,000, while a monthly membership is RWF 80,000. For added convenience, flexible payment plans such as standing orders are available for RWF 55,000 monthly.

The gym also offers corporate packages and has partnerships with financial institutions like the Bank of Kigali (BK), providing discounted rates for annual and short-term memberships paid using BK cards. For those visiting temporarily, Fitnesspoint offers 10-pass cards for a flexible access option.

“We have a partnership with BK. Wherever you come and buy an annual membership, you get a 20% discount. If you buy a one-month or three-month membership, you get a 10% discount when you’re using your BK card. So, it’s a way of trying to cater to all levels of people,' Ornella added.

Fitnesspoint’s new Remera branch sets a high benchmark for modern fitness facilities in Kigali, offering advanced equipment, professional training, and a welcoming community that redefines the fitness experience. Don’t wait to start your fitness journey—visit Fitnesspoint today and subscribe to a membership that fits your goals.

The new facility is located at the former Sports View Hotel, opposite Amahoro Stadium.

The new facility offers a substantial upgrade in space, amenities, and services tailored to meet growing customer demand.

Fitnesspoint’s new branch in Remera.

Fitnesspoint members can find some of the latest and most modern equipment at the new facility.

Fitnesspoint is equipped with a wide range of modern and advanced equipment.

Sports nutrition supplements are available.

Athletes have been provided with their own dedicated space at Fitnesspoint.

Machines for all types of sports are available at Fitnesspoint.

The new facility is equipped with quality and modern treadmills.

The training equipment at Fitnesspoint meets the needs of everyone.

The Remera branch includes an expanded aerobics class area that can host up to 60 people at a time.

A specialized area has been designated for martial arts enthusiasts.

The gym also includes a six-foot swimming pool suitable for diving.

Another exciting addition at the new Remera gym is a dedicated basketball facility. This area is set to host basketball training sessions and will serve as a space for professional athletes to enhance their skills.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The two leaders met in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, during the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, an event focused on strengthening global partnerships to address climate change and explore innovative solutions.

This conference aims to advance the adoption of renewable energy and environmentally friendly technologies to combat climate-related challenges. Participating nations are encouraged to adopt strategies for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Rwanda and Nigeria share a strong partnership in areas such as diplomacy, politics, and security. The two countries have working relations in aviation, technical cooperation, and healthcare, where Nigerian medical professionals collaborate with Rwandan counterparts to improve public health.

These discussions underscore the importance of Rwanda-Nigeria relations, marked by mutual support and shared priorities in various sectors.

On May 29, 2023, Kagame joined other leaders across the globe at the inauguration of President Tinubu, who won Nigeria’s February 2023 elections with 8.8 million votes, succeeding Muhammadu Buhari after two terms.

While in Abu Dhabi, President Kagame is scheduled to attend the 16th edition of the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards, organized by the UAE to honor innovators and organizations creating impactful solutions to climate challenges. Small and medium enterprises and NGOs are among the award recipients.

The Head of State will also address fellow leaders during the summit’s opening session, a gesture reminiscent of Rwanda’s commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

President Paul Kagame on January 13, 2025 held discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on fostering bilateral cooperation.

Both President Paul Kagame and Nigeria’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu are in the UAEto attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

IGIHE

The project will expand the road segment between Nyabugogo (Kigali) and Ruyenzi (Kamonyi District) to four lanes, with climbing lanes added to facilitate heavy truck movement.

Additional infrastructure will include drainage systems, bicycle lanes, and pedestrian sidewalks, ensuring a safer and more efficient transport corridor. “We aim to add lanes on uphill sections, allowing trucks to move without obstructing other vehicles,” he explained.

Kabera emphasized the importance of climbing lanes, which will separate trucks from smaller vehicles on ascents and revealed that expropriation activities will precede construction to clear the path for these upgrades.

Funding for the $120 million (approximately Frw166 billion) project comes from a loan agreement signed on September 13, 2023, in Busan, South Korea, between the Rwandan government and the Export-Import Bank of Korea (Korea Eximbank).

The loan, approved by Parliament on November 13, 2024, will be repaid over 40 years with a 15-year grace period and a nominal interest rate of 0.01%.

The project involves rehabilitating the entire 45-kilometre road, widening 12.2 kilometers to four lanes, and adding 11.9 kilometers of climbing lanes for trucks. These enhancements are expected to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion, supporting Rwanda’s broader infrastructure development goals.

Expansion works on the Kigali-Muhanga road is set to begin in December 2025

IGIHE

The 36-year-old Fury previously announced his retirement after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022 but returned six months later. The Briton has enjoyed two stints as heavyweight champion and holds a record of 34 wins, two defeats and one draw.

“Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it and I’m going to end with this; Dick Turpin wore a mask,” Fury said.

Fury shocked long-reigning world champion Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 to win the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles.

After over two-and-a-half years out of the ring, during which he tackled mental health issues, Fury returned to action in 2018 and became a two-time champion by beating Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC belt in 2020.

English-born boxer Tyson Fury jabbing Ukrainian fighter Oleksandr Usyk at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 18, 2024. Fury has announced his retirement for the second time.

IGIHE

According to a statement released by the police on X, four of the robbery suspects were neutralized during the operation. A fifth suspect was severely injured and is currently in critical condition.

The suspects were already on the police watch list, and authorities suspect they may have been involved in a series of similar robberies that have taken place recently.

'Police have thwarted a bank robbery at Acacia Mall, neutralizing four suspects involved in a Stanbic Bank heist. A fifth suspect is in critical condition. These individuals were already on the police watch list and are believed to be linked to a series of robberies,' Police said.

The robbery attempt comes at a time when bank robberies have been on the rise in Uganda, with criminals targeting commercial banks and their clients.

However, thanks to the swift actions of the Ugandan police, this particular heist was unsuccessful, and the dangerous criminals were brought to justice before they could cause any harm.

Ugandans online have praised the efforts of the police, with many expressing their gratitude for the quick response and ability to prevent a major crime. Social media users are celebrating the police for their dedication and commitment to keeping citizens safe, and there is widespread appreciation for the police’s timely intervention.

'Commendable work done today. All gangs of this category should be put out of Action so that our prisons don’t get too congested by people who don’t want to work,' said an X user identified as Edmund Tumushabe.
The authorities are expected to provide more details soon as investigations continue.

Ugandan police successfully thwarted a planned robbery at Acacia Mall on Monday January 13, 2024.

Sam K Nkurunziza