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In a speech delivered to both chambers of the DRC Parliament on December 11, 2024, Tshisekedi acknowledged that the country’s development efforts are under threat with the ongoing insecurity.

He out rightly accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 group, which has been operating since November 2021, and of continuing to control territories such as Rutshuru, Masisi, Nyiragongo, and Lubero, causing mass displacement of civilians.

Rwanda has repeatedly dismissed the accusations as baseless, instead blaming the DRC’s military of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) remnants of perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

President Tshisekedi reiterated his position in late 2023, declaring his intent to take military action against Rwanda if M23 fired at the city of Goma, and even suggested offering support in ousting President Paul Kagame from office.

Despite Tshisekedi’s claims of military success, the M23 rebel group has continued to expand its positions in North Kivu, capturing new territories in Walikale in October 2024 and gaining ground in Lubero, including areas of Kaseghe and Mathembe.

The Congolese Head of State commended the efforts of his armed forces, the Wazalendo militia, and the support of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which deployed additional troops to the North Kivu region for one year.

Tshisekedi also hailed the role of Angola in the ongoing peace talks, led by President João Lourenço as the mediator appointed by the African Union, which has been facilitating dialogue between Rwanda and the DRC since 2022.

Despite support for peace talks in Angola, Tshisekedi expressed skepticism, stating that he does not see negotiations as the sole solution. He emphasized the importance of military reforms, which he initiated in 2023 to improve the effectiveness of the DRC’s armed forces.

President Tshisekedi’s message comes ahead of the scheduled Luanda talks on December 15, 2024, where he is expected to meet with his Rwandan counterpart Paul Kagame with Angola’s João Lourenço as the host.

The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain, as both countries remain at crossroads over the situation in Eastern DRC.

DRC’s Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka took part in the Presidential address.

Tshisekedi addresses both chambers of the DRC Parliament on December 11, 2024.

IGIHE

The dam, whose construction began in 2011 and was completed after nine years, cost $5 billion and has the capacity to generate 5.15 gigawatts of electricity, placing it among the top 20 largest dams in the world. its the biggest in Africa.

The ongoing dispute involves countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Ethiopia argues that the dam will provide electricity to around 60% of its population, who currently live without power. However, Egypt fears that the dam will reduce the flow of the River Nile, which is crucial to its water supply and economy.

Ethiopia maintains that neighboring countries, including Sudan, will benefit from cheaper electricity, and Sudan itself is expected to see significant economic growth by 2060 through the agricultural sector.

Researchers predict Sudan’s GDP could reach $84 billion by that time, thanks to the economic benefits brought by the dam. Other countries, such as South Sudan, Kenya, Djibouti, and Eritrea, are also keeping a close eye on the project.

Egypt has warned that even a 2% reduction in Nile water would leave over 80,000 hectares of irrigated land dry, causing a significant decline in agricultural output.

Since construction began in 2011, the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have tried to mediate negotiations, but these efforts have been futile. Ethiopia was initially prohibited from filling the dam, but it went ahead and began storing water.

On December 7, 2024, during the COP16 climate conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Egypt’s Minister of Water Resources, Hani Sweilem, highlighted the lack of negotiations between the parties before building the dam, warning that the failure to reach an agreement could lead to tensions, economic impacts, and environmental damage.

Sweilem stressed that Egypt was acting in its own national interest and called on Sudan to join in preventing any action that could harm the Nile River. He also emphasized Egypt’s commitment to supporting Sudan in water management initiatives.

Sudanese officials, including Dr. Mona Ali, the Secretary-General of the Sudanese High Council of Environment and Land, acknowledged the negative environmental impact of the dam, particularly in terms of water shortages.

Both ministers agreed on the importance of resolving water-related issues and called for further research into the environmental, economic, and broader impacts of major water projects to ensure that the rights of countries sharing water resources are respected.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), located in Ethiopia has become a source of tension between neighboring countries over its use.

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Balinda reflected on the significant progress that East Africa has made in professionalizing its sports sector, noting that governments, private sector partnerships, and institutions have worked hard to create better infrastructure, opportunities, and training for athletes.

However, he believes that there is still work to be done to elevate the region’s sports potential on a global scale.

“A key factor that will take East African sports to the next level is embracing diversity. Diversity will not only improve the quality of play but also encourage a more inclusive sporting culture,” he said.

He emphasized that sports are a powerful tool for breaking barriers and creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and gender identities.

By promoting diverse representation, from grassroots to elite competition, he believes that East Africa can continue to nurture talent in a fair and balanced environment.

Balinda also stressed the importance of involving women in sports leadership and decision-making roles, an area where East Africa has room for improvement.

“In order to truly progress, we must ensure that women have equal opportunities to participate and lead within the sports ecosystem,” he said.

As the games continue in Mombasa, the call for diversity and inclusion echoes across the region, urging policymakers, athletes, and communities to work together in building a more inclusive, professional, and sustainable sports sector.

East African countries are increasingly recognizing the value of sports as a vehicle for social change, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement. With more voices advocating for a more inclusive future, the region is poised to continue making strides in the global sports arena.

Rwanda MP, Hon. Dr. RUTEBUKA BALINDA and Mchezo Managing Director for Africa, Ntoudi Mouyelo pose for a photos session during a stakeholders round table orgainzed on the sidelines of the on going East Africa Community Inter Paliamentary Games taking place in Mombasa Kenya.

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Industry leaders gathered to discuss the ongoing impact of solar-powered, rechargeable head torches and mini-grids on mining operations for different mining companies countrywide.

The Illuminating Small-Scale Mining in Rwanda (ISMR) project, led by PACT-Rwanda, is driving the adoption of these sustainable energy solutions as part of broader global efforts to promote resilience and social impact across various sectors, including public health, governance, and energy.

James Mcquilken, the Global Director of Responsible Mining at PACT, explained that the initiative, which began four years ago, aims to bring artisanal miners up to the same occupational health and safety standards as larger mining operations.

'Small-scale miners should have access to safe and decent working conditions. When we visited mines in Rwanda, miners were using handheld torches with poor lighting. This contrasts with the well-lit tunnels of large-scale mines, which use rechargeable head torches. We decided to introduce this technology to improve safety and productivity,' Mcquilken said.

James Mcquilken, the Global Director of Responsible Mining at PACT, explained that the initiative, which began four years ago.

Over the past year, the project has introduced solar-powered head torches and mini-grids at several partner mines. These changes aim to address the challenges faced by miners, particularly the high costs and environmental damage caused by traditional battery-powered torches.

'By providing miners with access to solar energy, we are not only improving working conditions but also reducing their reliance on expensive and environmentally harmful power sources,' he noted.

Moise Mutabazi, the Country Director of Pact Rwanda, highlighted the positive outcomes of the project, which include significant cost savings for small scale miners.

'Miners have saved up to 70% on electricity costs by switching to solar-powered head torches. This has led to greater efficiency in their work, as they can now afford the electricity needed for their operations without overburdening themselves financially,' he said.

One of the key challenges affecting miners in Rwanda is access to finance where to support the adoption of renewable energy solutions, partnerships have been formed with financial institutions like Equity Bank Rwanda. Financial literacy training for miners has been critical in ensuring that they can afford these technologies.

One of the key challenges affecting miners in Rwanda is access to finance where to support the adoption of renewable energy solutions.

The project’s focus on gender inclusivity has also garnered attention. Empowering women-led mining operation through the introduction of solar energy has not only improved working conditions but also empowered female miners.

Polcarpe Nshimirimana, Senior Program Manager at the ISMR project, says that gender equality is a central component of the initiative.

'We cannot afford to leave women behind in this sector. This project has not only provided access to better lighting but also promoted gender equality in the mining sector as a whole,' he said.

The Rwanda Mining Board has also played a key role in ensuring that the initiative aligns with national mining policies. Discussions with the Rwanda Mining Board are underway to scaling these changes to other mining operations across the country.

Moise Mutabazi, the Country Director of Pact Rwanda, is optimistic about the outcomes of this project.

The major focus is to provide miners with the tools and knowledge needed to operate more sustainably while maintaining the financial viability of their businesses. As the sector shifts toward renewable energy, the goal is not just to improve working conditions but also to set a precedent for responsible mining practices across the region and beyond.

Polcarpe Nshimirimana, Senior Program Manager at the ISMR project, says that gender equality is a central component of the initiative.

There are some positive outcomes of the project which include significant cost savings for small scale miners.

A multi-stakeholder meeting held in Kigali on December 10, 2024.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The funds are included in the 2024/2025 national budget.

Télésphore Ngoga, Conservation Analyst at Rwanda Development Board (RDB), told RBA that the initiative will focus on addressing key challenges such as wildlife encroaching on local communities, providing clean water to residents who currently fetch it from the parks, and reducing overcrowding in schools near the parks.

Since 2005, the government has invested Frw10 billion in projects designed to improve the livelihoods of communities surrounding the national parks, including Volcanoes, Nyungwe, and Akagera parks.

In collaboration with RDB, which oversees tourism, as well as local government entities and nearby communities, more than 880 development projects have been implemented. These include schools, health centers, housing, water infrastructure, and initiatives to boost agricultural productivity.

According to RDB, these efforts not only support environmental conservation but also transform the lives of Rwandans. Many residents near the parks, who previously engaged in harmful activities such as poaching or collecting water from the parks, have since abandoned these practices.

The tourism sector is projected to continue expanding as a key driver of economic growth in Rwanda, with revenues expected to exceed $660 million in 2024, up from $620 million in 2023.

The Government of Rwanda is set to distribute Rwf 4 billion to communities living near the country’s national parks as part of a program aimed at engaging citizens in the conservation of biodiversity.

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In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Kenya’s premier bar association expressed full support for Karua, calling the decision an unjustified attack on her professional integrity and a setback for regional cooperation in legal practice.

'We express our unqualified disenchantment with the derogatory, contemptuous, and high-handed decision taken by the Law Council of Uganda. This decision not only offends the mutual cooperation that exists between the Kenyan and Ugandan bar, but the manner in which it was communicated and the reasons given are ludicrous and distasteful,' LSK stated.

'It is inconceivable that the Law Council of Uganda would hold such little regard for Kenyan practitioners, especially a reputable and long-standing member of the Senior Counsel Bar.'

The Uganda Law Council had declined Karua’s application to represent Besigye and his co-accused at the General Court Martial, citing incomplete documentation and questioning the necessity of Karua’s involvement in the trial.

In its response, LSK has stated its intention to take immediate action to resolve the situation. The society called for an urgent engagement with the Kenyan Attorney General to address the issue and ensure a fair, reciprocal agreement on cross-border legal practice.

LSK also threatened to suspend the admission of Ugandan lawyers to Kenya until Uganda demonstrates a commitment to fostering mutual legal cooperation.

'Kenya has been a leader in promoting regional cooperation in legal practice, but the lack of reciprocity from Uganda is unacceptable,' the LSK statement read. “We must either find a mutually beneficial, reciprocal arrangement or withdraw from one-sided agreements that undermine the dignity of Kenyan legal practice.”

Karua, a former Justice Minister in Kenya and one of the senior lawyers in the country, had earlier also expressed her dismay over the decision.

“The issues raised in your letter could have been addressed if you had asked for any additional documents you required,” Karua wrote in her protest letter to the Uganda Law Council. “Instead, this decision undermines the spirit of regional cooperation and the principle of justice.”

Karua noted that the decision not only attacked her personal integrity but also violated Besigye’s constitutional right to choose his legal representation.

She had hoped to lead a team of 50 lawyers in the case where Besigye and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms. They were controversially apprehended in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024, while attending the launch of a book by Karua.

The duo’s trial has drawn widespread attention, with rights groups and legal experts questioning the jurisdiction of the military court over civilians and the political motivations behind the charges.

Martha Karua had hoped to lead a team of 50 lawyers in the case where Besigye and his ally, Obeid Lutale, face charges related to alleged activities undermining Uganda’s security and the illegal possession of firearms.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to EAC Secretariat, the three-day forum provides a platform for stakeholders to share experiences and propose solutions on enhancing economic integration and social development, regional peace and security, progress on developing the constitution for the EAC political confederation and amending the EAC Treaty to serve the now enlarged EAC.

Participants include representatives from EAC Partner States’ governments, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, professional bodies, academia, EAC Organs and Institutions, development partners, and other interest groups.

Speaking during the forum, the Chief Guest, Mr. Felix Koskei, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service in Kenya, reiterated President William Ruto’s commitment, as the new Chairperson of the Summit of EAC Heads, to steering the region toward increased economic and social integration.

Mr. Koskei commended EAC’s achievements in intra-regional trade, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.

“Let’s encourage jointly working together. The joint hosting of AFCON 2027 will foster unity among Partner States, and build on future initiatives such as joint infrastructure projects, peace, security efforts and social integration programs. These milestones remind us of what we can achieve when we work together,” he noted.

He emphasized that accountability to citizens and efficient use of resources are crucial for regional integration. While commending EAC’s clean audit record and financial management, he called for enhanced transparency and citizen participation through various regional platforms.

He highlighted the Community’s efficiency improvements through institutional strengthening and citizen-focused initiatives like the East African Passport.

'Since the 2016 launch of the EAC e-Passport, member states’ nationals have enjoyed free travel across the region without separate visas or travel documents. Visa exemptions for EAC citizens have enhanced mobility, while efforts continue to harmonize immigration and visa policies in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia,' he noted.

Mr. Koskei further added that the EAC Single Tourist Visa, introduced in 2014, allows tourists to move freely between Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, with plans to include more member states.

'Harmonized work permits and Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) enable professionals like accountants and engineers to practice across member states,' he stated.

On her part, the EAC Secretary General, Veronica Nduva, highlighted the Community’s significant progress over 25 years, particularly in implementing the Customs Union, Common Market, and Monetary Union protocols.

“These frameworks have allowed for the liberalization of intra-regional trade, reduced barriers to business, and enhanced the movement of goods, services, and people,” she noted.

The Secretary General emphasized progress through initiatives like the Electronic Single Window System and East African Electronic Passport.

“The reduction of transit times for goods, particularly from Mombasa to Kigali, from 21 days to 3 days today, exemplifies the impact of our integration efforts,” she added.

One Stop Border Posts (OSBPs) have streamlined customs procedures, reducing border crossing times by 70% and generating annual savings exceeding USD 63 million. Transit times from Mombasa to Kampala have decreased from 18 days in 2007 to 4-5 days currently.

Nduva noted that the Electronic Single Window (ESW) System has simplified customs and trade documentation, while Regional Trucking Initiatives, including a Centralized Monitoring Centre, have enhanced goods tracking and response to emerging issues.

Significant infrastructure upgrades along the Northern Corridor have improved goods flow between Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan.

“These efforts have yielded impressive results in regional trade. Intra-EAC trade grew from $6.2 billion in 2017 to $13.8 billion in 2023. The EAC’s merchandise trade with the rest of the world also rose from $65.3 billion in 2017 to $109.4 billion in 2023,” she added.

Trade between the EAC and Africa grew from $19.4 billion in 2017 to $24.4 billion in 2023, boosted by participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The forum aims to share good practices and lessons from 25 years of regional integration through presentations, recorded stakeholder testimonies (documentaries), and exhibitions.

The meeting will submit clear and practical recommendations to the Secretary General for consideration by the EAC Council of Ministers.

Participants of the tthree-day forum include representatives from EAC Partner States’ governments, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, professional bodies, academia, EAC Organs and Institutions, development partners, and other interest groups.

IGIHE

In his message, the Pope emphasized the themes of hope, fraternity, and peace, all conveyed through the Eucharist.

The event, which attracted thousands of participants including clergy, religious, and lay faithful from both Rwanda and beyond, provided an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.

The message, which was signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Bishop Vincent Harolimana, Bishop of Ruhengeri and delegate of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda (CEPR) for the Eucharistic Congresses.

In his message, Pope Francis joined the faithful in Rwanda in their “joy” and “thanksgiving,” celebrating the significance of the event.

Reflecting on the conference’s theme, “Let us fix our gaze on Jesus in the sacrament of the Eucharist: a source of hope, fraternity, and peace,” he described Communion as the “centre of all Christian life” and a “tangible sign of Christ’s love for humanity.”

The Pope encouraged the faithful to live out this message by embracing the call to “give ourselves to others,” fostering collaboration to “build a civilisation of love.”

He further underscored the Eucharist’s role in inspiring Catholics to become missionaries of fraternity and hope, emphasizing the need to address the various “hungers” humanity faces, particularly the “hunger for meaning.”

Looking ahead to the 125th anniversary of Rwanda’s evangelisation and the upcoming Jubilee, Pope Francis urged the faithful to turn to “Christ, the bread of life,” and extend solidarity to those in vulnerable situations.

“We must be tangible signs of hope,” he reminded them, echoing the message of the Bull of Indiction for the Holy Year.

In his conclusion, Pope Francis highlighted the shared responsibility the Eucharist calls for, not only in responding to humanity’s physical needs but also in nurturing a spiritual hope “in the triune God.”

He stressed that the Eucharist’s nature is “essentially relational,” inviting people to live “in community” and break down barriers of “race, language, or cultural tradition.”

Pope Francis has sent his blessings and prayers to the Rwandan Church, offering words of encouragement for the second National Eucharistic Congress.

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However, this potential is accompanied by significant challenges, including high unemployment rates, an outdated education system, and political exclusion. Despite these hurdles, Africa’s youth, particularly Generation Z, are determined to play an active role in shaping their societies.

Unemployment remains one of the most pressing issues facing Africa’s young population. With 40% of the youth unemployed, the situation is dire. The lack of job opportunities not only affects economic stability but also fuels social unrest, crime, and substance abuse.

Observers say that this youth unemployment crisis has far-reaching consequences. When young people are excluded from the job market, they become disillusioned and often turn to protests and uprisings.

The frustration of Generation Z, which constitutes 31% of Africa’s population, is palpable. These young people are demanding more than just promises. They want action. A major part of the solution lies in reforming the education system to better align with today’s economic demands.

At the ongoing African Education and Youth Employability Forum in Nouakchott, Mauritania, President Paul Kagame has called for urgent need to reform Africa’s education systems. He shares the view that Africa’s growing youth population is a critical driver of economic growth, this opportunity cannot simply just go to waste.

'In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce. This generation has the potential of becoming a powerful engine for growth and prosperity—not just for Africa, but for the rest of the world,' he said.

At the ongoing African Education and Youth Employability Forum in Nouakchott, Mauritania, President Paul Kagame has called for urgent need to reform Africa’s education systems.

Experts believe that many African countries still offer curricula that fail to prepare students for the modern job market. Graduates often lack the practical skills needed to thrive in industries that are rapidly evolving due to technological advancements.

It means Africa must invest in industry-based education and ensure that young people graduate with skills that directly correlate with the needs of employers. More importantly, the education system must shift from preparing students for traditional, white-collar jobs to cultivating entrepreneurs.

Aby Agina, a financial journalism expert says that young Africans today are not just looking for employment, they are eager to create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

'But the power of Africa’s youth does not stop at economics. Young people across the continent are also calling for more political engagement. They are rejecting the outdated notion that they are 'leaders of tomorrow. They are the 'leaders of today,' Agina says.

According to him, Rwanda stands out as an example of positive youth integration into governance. With young people holding key positions in both the public and private sectors, Rwanda has demonstrated that youth inclusion is not only possible but also essential for national progress.

Technology has also become a powerful tool for Africa’s youth in driving change. Many young people are using digital platforms to launch businesses, access global markets, and push for social justice.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents a unique opportunity for Africa’s youth to leapfrog traditional barriers to success. Rather than fearing AI as a threat to employment, young people can use it to enhance productivity, conduct research, and improve their businesses.

Social media, too, has become a platform for youth to raise awareness on critical issues, mobilize for social change, and build entrepreneurial ventures. By embracing technology, Africa’s youth can redefine the continent’s economic and social landscape.

The private sector and civil society also have crucial roles to play in empowering Africa’s youth. The private sector is the largest source of employment on the continent, and by creating more job opportunities and supporting youth-focused initiatives, businesses can help tackle the unemployment crisis.

Similarly, civil society organizations are essential in mobilizing young people and providing them with the tools and platforms to advocate for change. Governments must collaborate with these sectors to create a conducive environment where youth can thrive, innovate, and contribute to national development.

The power of Africa’s youth lies in their ambition, resilience, and drive to create a better future. However, to unlock their full potential, African governments, private sectors, and civil society must provide the right opportunities, resources, and platforms for engagement.

If this happens, Africa’s youth can lead the way in driving transformative change—not just in their own countries, but across the continent and globally.

Africa’s future lies with its bold, tech-savvy youth. With the right support, they can drive progress and create a brighter, more prosperous continent for all.

Sam K Nkurunziza