Blog

  • How Jimmy Carter helped restore Uganda-Sudan relations through diplomacy #rwanda #RwOT

    The peace process, which took place at a time of heightened tension, was critical to stabilizing East Africa. Sudan’s government had been accused of supporting the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), a rebel group waging an insurgency against Uganda.

    Meanwhile, Uganda backed the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) in Sudan’s ongoing civil war.

    For Sudan, the peace talks were an opportunity to improve its international standing. After being designated a terrorist state by the U.S. in 1993, due to alleged ties to Osama bin Laden and the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania, Sudan’s leaders sought to repair their global reputation.

    They turned to Jimmy Carter, hoping his influence could help alter U.S. policy toward Sudan.

    On the Ugandan side, President Yoweri Museveni faced increasing military and economic pressures. His government was dealing with multiple insurgencies and struggling to meet World Bank demands to reduce military spending.

    Museveni saw the peace process as an opportunity to stabilize the region and reallocate resources to other critical conflicts, including the war in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Carter’s involvement was grounded in years of prior engagement with Sudan. As early as 1995, he had brokered a ceasefire between warring factions in Sudan to allow for humanitarian aid.

    His deep understanding of the region’s complexities positioned him as the ideal mediator for the Uganda-Sudan peace talks.

    By 1999, both Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir and Ugandan President Museveni agreed to invite Carter to mediate the negotiations. Despite the challenges posed by Museveni’s support for the SPLA, Carter believed that improved relations between Sudan and Uganda could create a foundation for broader regional peace.

    His strategy involved engaging not just the governments but also armed groups like the SPLA and LRA, aiming to address the root causes of the conflict.

    A significant challenge was Joseph Kony, leader of the LRA. Carter’s attempts to bring Kony to the table faltered, and efforts to arrange meetings between Kony and his parents as a trust-building gesture ended in failure.

    Nevertheless, Carter’s persistence and diplomacy proved effective. In December 1999, his efforts culminated in the Nairobi Agreement, signed by Bashir and Museveni in the presence of Kenyan President Daniel Arap Moi.

    The agreement called for both countries to cease support for each other’s rebel groups, improve the treatment of refugees, and restore full diplomatic ties.

    Carter’s use of the 'single document approach,' which he had previously applied at Camp David, ensured that both parties felt ownership of the agreement. The success of the Nairobi Agreement was a rare moment of cooperation in a region plagued by mistrust and conflict.

    Carter’s work in Sudan and Uganda highlights his lifelong commitment to peace. His ability to bridge divides and foster trust between warring nations left a lasting legacy in East Africa.

    He is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, and his legacy continues to inspire those who work toward peace and human rights.

    The world has paid tribute to Carter, with U.S. President Joe Biden praising him as a leader whose life was measured not by words, but by deeds.

    U.S. President Joe Biden has hailed Jimmy Carter as a leader whose life was measured not by words, but by deeds.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/how-jimmy-carter-helped-restore-uganda-sudan-relations-through-diplomacy

  • President Kagame hosts end of year celebrations (Pictorial) #rwanda #RwOT

    The event, held at the Kigali Convention Centre, was a year-end celebration for 2024. During his address, the President reflected on Rwanda’s key moments throughout the year, both positive and challenging, emphasizing the importance of celebrating achievements and learning from setbacks.

    He highlighted that this year included remembering Rwanda’s tragic history. Despite the pain, he stressed that Rwanda continues to commemorate its past while rebuilding and marking 30 years of liberation.

    “This year, we remembered our loved ones for the 30th time. It was a year of remembrance and rebuilding, alongside commemorating 30 years of liberation,” he said.

    The President also expressed gratitude to those who contributed to the electoral process and addressed the recent Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. He noted that the outbreak has been successfully contained and extended condolences to families who lost their loved ones.

    He commended healthcare workers and all individuals who risked their lives to safeguard others during these challenging times.

    President Kagame underscored that Rwanda’s accomplishments should be celebrated as they are vital for the nation’s growth. However, he cautioned against complacency.

    “As we celebrate, let us remain vigilant, both individually and collectively. We will not allow anyone to disrupt our security—not now, not ever,” he affirmed.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-hosts-end-of-year-celebrations-pictorial

  • Nduhungirehe tells off Congolese army over false RDF soldier claims #rwanda #RwOT

    In a statement on Sunday, December 29, 2024, the Minister called out the Congolese army over “incompetence” both on the battlefield and in spreading what he described as “mediocre fake news.”

    Nduhungirehe’s remarks came after the Congolese army paraded a man, identified as Hakizimana Iradukunda Jean de Dieu, as an RDF soldier allegedly captured in North Kivu during operations on December 21.

    “FARDC presents us with a so-called soldier of the RDF who does not know his unit or his commander, and who cannot provide his registration number within the Rwandan army,” Nduhungirehe stated.

    He further highlighted inconsistencies in the man’s testimony, particularly his claimed origins from administrative subdivisions—such as “Murenge” and “Kazabi”—which he said exist in the DRC but not in Rwanda.

    The Minister noted that Rwanda’s administrative divisions include districts, sectors, cells, and villages, none of which align with the alleged origins of the supposed RDF soldier.

    Nduhungirehe also pointed out FARDC’s history of similar allegations. He recalled a February incident when the Congolese army introduced “Ndayambaje Abouba” as an RDF soldier. However, the same individual had previously been presented by FARDC in civilian clothing under suspicious circumstances.

    'Clearly, FARDC, failing to be a war machine on the ground, have become a #FakeNews manufacturing plant!' the Minister declared.

    RDF Dismisses Allegations

    The Minister’s remarks come two days after RDF also dismissed the claims as fake news.

    In a video shared by FARDC, the alleged soldier claimed he was born in Ngororero District and had been stationed in the DRC for over a year. The man also alleged the deployment of four RDF divisions to eastern DRC.

    Rwanda has consistently denied involvement in the conflict in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group has been fighting the Congolese army and allied forces.

    Kigali has repeatedly accused FARDC of harbouring and supporting the FDLR, a militia composed of remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

    The Rwandan government asserts that the Congolese leadership’s persistent accusations are attempts to divert attention from internal challenges and failures to address the concerns of their citizens in eastern DRC.

    This has resulted in strained diplomatic ties between Rwanda and the DRC, withefforts to resolve the stalemate continuing to encounter obstacles.

    Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe has dismissed recent claims by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) about capturing a Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) soldier, terming them as a baseless attempt to spread disinformation.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/nduhungirehe-tells-off-congolese-army-over-false-rdf-soldier-claims

  • Rwanda leads sub-Saharan Africa in order, security, and low corruption in 2024 #rwanda #RwOT

    In the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2024, Rwanda scored 0.63 points in the overall rule of law ranking, leading the region in key areas such as order and security, absence of corruption, and civil justice. The top score is 1.00, indicating stronger performance.

    The index, which assesses the rule of law in countries across the globe, evaluates performance based on eight factors: constraints on government powers, absence of corruption, open government, fundamental rights, order and security, regulatory enforcement, civil justice, and criminal justice.

    Rwanda ranked first in order and security with a score of 0.85, outperforming Mauritius and Namibia, which scored 0.75 each. Guinea, Ghana, Madagascar, and Botswana followed at 0.71, with Tanzania, Senegal (0.70 each), and The Gambia (0.69) rounding out the top ten.

    The country’s ranking in this category reflects its stable and secure environment, which has been crucial for promoting economic growth and social well-being.

    The success is also a direct result of Rwanda’s strategic security partnerships with other nations.

    For example, in December 2024, Rwanda’s National Police signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Federal Police to enhance cooperation on matters of public security and to counter cross-border threats.

    Similarly, Rwanda has forged multiple agreements over the years, including with Qatar (October 2024), Dubai Police (March 2024), and Botswana (January 2024), addressing issues such as terrorism, human trafficking, cybercrime, and organized crime.

    Corruption Rates

    Rwanda also ranked first in Sub-Saharan Africa for the absence of corruption, with a score of 0.68. The performance demonstrates the Rwandan government’s strong anti-corruption frameworks and commitment to transparency.

    Other countries in the top five include Mauritius (0.58), Botswana (0.57), Senegal (0.55) and Namibia (0.52).

    In the civil justice category, Rwanda ranked first with a score of 0.66, ahead of Mauritius, which scored 0.62.

    In addition to its solid performance in civil justice, Rwanda has also made significant strides in criminal justice, ranking second in the region with a score of 0.56. The performance reflects the country’s commitment to a fair and effective judicial system, providing equitable access to justice for its citizens while tackling criminal activities through well-coordinated law enforcement.

    Rwanda was also ranked among the top countries in several other categories, including constraints on government powers, open government, fundamental rights, and regulatory environment, all contributing to its top score of 0.68 in the rule of law.

    In the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index 2024, Rwanda scored 0.63 points in the overall rule of law ranking, leading the region in key areas such as order and security, absence of corruption, and civil justice.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-leads-sub-saharan-africa-in-order-security-and-low-corruption-in-2024

  • Rwanda confirms hosting IVI Africa vaccine office #rwanda #RwOT

    The Rwandan government confirmed its commitment to host the IVI regional office through Presidential Order No. 091/01, issued on December 26, 2024, and published in the Official Gazette on December 27, 2024.

    The agreement to establish the office in Rwanda was initially signed in June by Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, and the Director General of IVI, Dr. Jerome H. Kim, marking a significant step toward advancing vaccine research, development, and manufacturing across the African continent.

    The two parties formally ratified the agreement on November 25, 2024, officially confirming Rwanda as the host country for the IVI Africa office.

    The agreement includes 21 provisions, including tax exemptions on goods and services such as equipment, vehicles, machinery, and other materials exclusively used by IVI. However, items sold to individuals or businesses will not qualify for tax exemption.

    Another key aspect of the agreement is its emphasis on building local capacity for pharmaceutical production, aiming to promote self-reliance in health matters across Africa. This initiative also seeks to improve public health outcomes and foster technological advancements in the sector.

    As part of this strategic effort, the IVI Africa Regional Office will play a pivotal role in advancing vaccination initiatives, driving technological innovation, and supporting sustainable vaccine manufacturing in Rwanda and other African countries.

    The move comes as a BioNTech vaccine manufacturing plant is also under construction in Rwanda, further cementing the country’s position as a key player in the global vaccine ecosystem.

    IVI is a non-profit organization committed to ensuring that vaccines are available and accessible worldwide. It collaborates with governments, research institutions, and the vaccine industry to achieve this mission.

    Since its founding in 1997, IVI has been instrumental in developing, testing, and distributing vaccines across the globe.

    Rwanda’s selection as the host of IVI’s Africa Regional Office was confirmed in February 2024, following a rigorous evaluation process that reviewed proposals from five countries.

    The decision was hailed by both IVI and the Rwandan government as a critical step toward addressing vaccine equity across the continent.

    With its global headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, and regional offices in Sweden and Austria, IVI’s new African office represents a significant advancement in its mission to ensure safe and affordable vaccines reach the people who need them most.

    The agreement to establish the office in Rwanda was signed Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, and the Director General of IVI, Dr. Jerome H. Kim

    Participants at the signing of the cooperation agreement between Rwanda and the International Vaccine Institute.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-confirms-hosting-ivi-africa-vaccine-office

  • Kenya on the spot over state-linked abductions #rwanda #RwOT

    During his election campaign two years ago, Ruto criticized the previous administration of President Uhuru Kenyatta for alleged abductions and extrajudicial killings, vowing to end such practices. However, recent events have raised concerns about the fulfilment of the pledge.

    Since the Gen-Z-led protests in June, which forced the government to shelve plans to introduce additional taxes, dozens of young people have been reported missing, with human rights groups accusing the police of being behind their disappearances. The police continue to deny these claims.

    In the latest wave of abductions, some of which have been captured on camera by witnesses and surveillance footage, at least three young people were recently abducted after sharing AI-generated images of Ruto in a casket that some considered offensive.

    Among those abducted is popular cartoonist Kibet Bull, whose real name is Gideon Kibet. His images of the president went viral.

    Kibet disappeared after meeting opposition senator Okiya Omtatah on Christmas Eve.

    Kibet’s younger brother, Ronny Kiplangat, who has also been missing for several days, is believed by their family to have been used as bait by security forces to lure Kibet.

    '(Kibet) boarded a matatu after my driver dropped him off in the city centre. As they have done with others, they must have blocked the matatu and snatched him from it,' said Omtatah, who harbours presidential ambitions for the 2027 elections.

    'If you look at the attitude of the police, they know what is happening. The state is simply allowing it or acquiescing to it.”

    Like many young Kenyans, Kibet was once an ardent supporter of President Ruto but has, in recent years, become a critic of the government, accusing it of corruption, failing to address unemployment, and not fulfilling its promises to turn around the economy.

    Both the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have denied abducting or arresting the trio. However, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in October for allegedly sabotaging President Ruto’s administration, insists the government is behind the abductions.

    Addressing the press in Nairobi on Friday, Gachagua claimed that the abductions were being carried out by a secret unit, not under the command of the Inspector General of Police.

    According to Gachagua, the unit, with officers drawn from various departments, operates from a building in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

    'There’s a building in Nairobi, the 21st floor in the city centre, where the unit operates from, led by a certain Mr. Abel. Abel is a cousin to a very senior official in this government,' Gachagua revealed.

    The former Deputy President threatened to expose more details about the secret unit if the abducted individuals are not released.

    He added that Kenyan citizens are angry with Ruto’s administration, saying, 'Killing our children will not quell the anger of the Kenyan people.'

    'Abducting young people is not a solution; you must address the cause of discontent. Why are people aggrieved with this administration?'

    A few hours later, President Ruto, accompanied by opposition leader Raila Odinga—whose allies have joined Ruto’s Cabinet in a broad-based government formed after the Gen-Z protests—promised to end the abductions.

    Odinga had criticized the state-linked abductions of critics, saying the country cannot tolerate a “gangster state.”

    Widely recognized as Kenya’s second liberation hero, Odinga was a victim of the brutal regime of the late President Daniel Arap Moi during the fight for multiparty democracy in the 90s. He warned that allowing the abductions to continue could risk taking the country back to the dark days of “Nyayo Torture Chambers”.

    Ruto acknowledged the concerns but also warned the youth to be “disciplined.”

    'What has been said about abductions, we will stop them so Kenyan youth can live in peace, but they should have discipline and be polite so that we can build Kenya together,' Ruto said at a stadium in Homa Bay, in the west of the country.

    In addition to the abductions of young Kenyans, the abduction of Uganda’s opposition chief Kizza Besigye in Nairobi by Ugandan security agents recently also drew widespread condemnation.

    Besigye and his close associate Hajj Obeid Lutale were picked up in Nairobi while attending the launch of a book written by former justice minister Martha Karua and whisked back home, where they were locked up in a military facility before being produced in a martial court.

    The duo faces charges of undermining national security and illegal possession of firearms.

    Various rights groups and lawyers have criticized Kenya’s complicity in the abductions, saying it tarnishes Kenya’s image as a democratic safe haven. They accuse its authorities of failing to prevent or investigate the incident, thereby jeopardizing regional stability and the rule of law.

    Since the Gen-Z-led protests in June, which forced the government to shelve plans to introduce additional taxes, dozens of young people have been reported missing, with human rights groups accusing the police of being behind their disappearances. T

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/kenya-on-the-spot-over-state-linked-abductions

  • Scores dead in South Korea’s worst plane crash in decades #rwanda #RwOT

    Jeju Air flight 7C2216, a Boeing 737-800 arriving from Bangkok, crashed during a belly landing after its landing gear malfunctioned, reportedly due to a bird strike.

    The crash occurred just after 9 a.m. local time, when the aircraft skidded down the runway, collided with a wall, and erupted into a massive fireball. Video footage captured flames and thick smoke engulfing the plane, with only the tail section remaining somewhat intact.

    'Only the tail part retains a little bit of shape, and the rest of the plane looks almost impossible to recognize,' said Muan fire chief Lee Jung-hyun during a press briefing.

    The crash occurred just after 9 a.m. local time, when the aircraft skidded down the runway, collided with a wall, and erupted into a massive fireball.

    Rescuers managed to save two crew members from the tail section, both suffering from medium to severe injuries. Despite this, authorities have shifted from rescue to recovery operations, as the force of the impact made survival unlikely for others.

    'We are searching nearby areas for bodies possibly thrown from the plane,' added Lee.

    Preliminary investigations suggest a bird strike may have caused the landing gear to malfunction. One passenger reportedly texted a relative before the crash, saying, 'A bird is stuck in the wing. Should I say my last words?'

    The crash is the worst involving a South Korean airline since the 1997 Korean Air disaster in Guam, which killed 229 people.

    Acting President Choi Sang-mok visited the scene, pledging full government support for recovery efforts.

    Jeju Air expressed deep regret, with CEO Kim Yi-bae stating, 'We will do everything we can to deal with this accident,' while Boeing extended condolences, promising to assist in the investigation.

    Authorities are working to identify victims, many of whom are believed to be South Korean nationals, along with two Thai passengers.

    Preliminary investigations suggest a bird strike may have caused the landing gear to malfunction.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/scores-dead-in-south-korea-s-worst-plane-crash-in-decades

  • Rwanda’s CHAN 2024 qualification hangs imbalance despite South Sudan win. #rwanda #RwOT

    The match began cautiously, with both teams focused on maintaining their defensive structures. South Sudan, known for their resilience, matched Rwanda’s intensity in the early exchanges.

    Despite the slow start, Arsène Tuyisenge tested South Sudan’s goalkeeper Juma Jenaro with a direct shot in the 10th minute, earning Rwanda their first corner of the match.

    Amavubi’s midfield trio—Jean Bosco Ruboneka, Gilbert Mugisha, and Jean Claude Niyomugabo—controlled the tempo, forcing several saves from Jenaro. Didier Mugisha came close to opening the scoring in the 20th minute, missing a rebound from the post with only the goalkeeper to beat.

    As the first half progressed, Rwanda continued to dominate possession, but South Sudan’s defense held firm. In the 35th minute, Gilbert Mugisha’s free kick struck the woodwork, and Didier Mugisha was quick to capitalize on the rebound, tapping the ball past Jenaro to give Rwanda a 1-0 lead.

    Rwanda had a golden opportunity to double their advantage in the dying moments of the first half. A South Sudanese defender handled the ball in the penalty area, and the referee awarded a penalty. However, captain Kevin Muhire’s effort was saved by Jenaro, leaving the score at 1-0 heading into halftime.

    The second half began with Rwanda attacking with renewed vigor. Muhire redeemed himself in the 55th minute, weaving through South Sudan’s defense to slot home Amavubi’s second goal. The home crowd erupted in celebration as Rwanda seemed poised to secure a convincing win.

    Rwanda’s CHAN 2024 qualification hangs imbalance despite South Sudan win.

    Despite trailing 2-0, South Sudan refused to back down. Substitute David Sebit capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 81st minute, firing a powerful shot past Adolphe Hakizimana to make it 2-1. Amavubi pushed forward in search of a third goal, but missed chances from Ruboneka and others to keep the score line unchanged.

    The Tunisian referee added three minutes of stoppage time, but neither side could alter the outcome. Rwanda’s victory marked a valiant effort but fell short of the desired aggregate result, leaving fans both hopeful and uncertain about their team’s CHAN 2024 prospects.

    Aggregate deadlock and CECAFA rankings

    The 2-1 win brought the aggregate score between Rwanda and South Sudan to 4-4, but South Sudan was eliminated on the away goals rule after conceding more goals at home in the first leg, which ended 3-2 in Juba.

    In the CECAFA region rankings, Sudan emerged as the top team with six points after a dominant 4-1 aggregate victory over Ethiopia. Rwanda and South Sudan each finished with three points, while Burundi remained at zero points with their second match against Uganda still pending.

    The CECAFA region is allotted four slots in the CHAN finals. Three of these are automatically taken by the host nations—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—leaving only one slot for the remaining countries to contest.

    With Sudan securing the top spot, Amavubi’s fate now lies in the hands of CAF, which is yet to decide on replacements for Libya and Tunisia, who withdrew from the tournament.

    Rwanda will have to await CAF’s decision to know whether they will play in next year’s CHAN competitions.

    Hopes for CAF’s decision

    Although Rwanda missed out on direct qualification, there is still a glimmer of hope. CAF must fill the void left by Libya and Tunisia’s withdrawal, and Rwanda could be considered as one of the replacement teams.
    Caretaker coach Jimmy Mulisa, who stepped in for head coach Frank Spittler during his holiday absence, expressed mixed feelings after the match.

    'The boys gave everything on the pitch today. We are proud of the win, but unfortunately, the aggregate result was not in our favor. Now we wait and hope for good news from CAF,' Mulisa said.

    Amavubi’s victory over South Sudan showcased the team’s potential, with standout performances from players like Kevin Muhire and Didier Mugisha. However, the missed penalty and defensive lapses highlighted areas that need improvement if Rwanda is to compete at the highest level.

    As the team awaits CAF’s decision, fans remain optimistic that Rwanda will join the CHAN 2024 tournament, set to be hosted in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

    Final Standings in CECAFA Region CHAN Qualifiers:

    • Sudan: 6 points
    • Rwanda: 3 points
    • South Sudan: 3 points
    • Burundi: 0 points (pending second match against Uganda)

    With the CHAN 2024 finals fast approaching, Amavubi’s journey is far from over. Their spirited performance against South Sudan is a testament to their resilience, and should CAF grant them a spot, Rwanda will undoubtedly aim to make a strong impression on the regional stage.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-s-chan-2024-qualification-hangs-imbalance-despite-south-sudan-win

  • Rwanda needs Frw82 billion to purchase solar water heaters #rwanda #RwOT

    These systems are seen as a sustainable solution to meet energy needs while protecting the environment.

    The Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) plan outlines that $52 million (over Frw 71.7 billion) will be used to procure solar water heaters for urban residential buildings.

    This initiative aims to support Rwanda’s commitment to combating climate change.

    The funding will facilitate loans and grants to help individuals acquire these systems, aligning with the country’s green building initiatives.

    Additionally, $8 million (over Frw 11 billion) is needed to reduce reliance on biomass energy sources, such as firewood, and decrease imports of energy-related products.

    Thadée Twagirimana, acting director general in the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Adaptation, explained that procuring solar water heaters is a vital part of Rwanda’s strategy to address climate change. The initiative aims to cut the country’s greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030.

    The energy sector is expected to reduce at least 1,530,000 tons of carbon emissions, with solar water heaters contributing 3% of this reduction.

    Twagirimana emphasized that the majority of Rwandans, 79%, still rely on firewood and charcoal for energy, which contributes to deforestation and health issues. Solar water heaters offer a cleaner and more sustainable alternative.

    Recently, solar water heaters were distributed to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) engaged in agriculture processing, bakeries, and hospitality.

    These systems are projected to cut 1,500 tons of carbon emissions annually and save businesses Frw 3.7 million per month on firewood, charcoal, and other fuels.

    Ernestine Tuyishimire, owner of Buganza Good Wine, reported that her business previously used about five cubic meters of firewood daily, costing Frw 100,000.

    With the solar water heater, the business now only uses one cubic meter of firewood, resulting in substantial cost savings.

    Reports indicate that $1.37 billion will be needed to reduce firewood use among households relying on charcoal, decreasing the dependency rate from 83% to 42% by 2030.

    The Ministry of Environment estimates that $60 million (over Frw 82.8 billion) is required to purchase solar water heaters as part of efforts to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-needs-frw82-billion-to-purchase-solar-water-heaters

  • Senate approves five new ambassadors #rwanda #RwOT

    The appointed ambassadors are Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita, Parfait Busabizwa, Olivier Kayumba, Festus Bizimana, and Dushimimana Lambert.

    The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security in the Rwandan Senate, reviewed the qualifications and capabilities of these ambassadors to ensure they are equipped to effectively represent Rwanda in their respective countries.

    Maj Gen Nzabamwita has been appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia. He holds a Master’s degree in International Law.

    He held various roles where he served as Senior Security Advisor in the Office of the President, Secretary-General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), and as a spokesperson for the Rwanda Defence Forces.

    Parfait Busabizwa has been appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Republic of the Congo.

    He was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth last year and has also served in various leadership positions, including as Vice Mayor of Kigali City in charge of Economic Affairs.

    Olivier Kayumba has been appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Central African Republic.
    He had been serving as an official at the Rwandan Embassy in that country.

    Before his appointment, he served as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Emergency Management.

    Festus Bizimana has been appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to Senegal. He previously worked at the U.S. Embassy and also served as the Vice President of Rwanda Cycling Federation.

    The other appointee, Dushimimana Lambert, is the former Governor of the Western Province.

    He has been appointed Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. He previously served as a senator before becoming a governor. He holds a Master’s degree in International Law.

    Murangwa Hadija, the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security in the Rwandan Senate, stated that the appointees have demonstrated the necessary qualifications and are capable of fulfilling their duties as ambassadors.

    The Senate has approved five ambassadors appointed recently to represent Rwanda in various countries.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/senate-approves-five-new-ambassadors