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The project, located on the shores of Lake Mugesera in Rwamagana District, Eastern Province, is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s efforts to enhance water security.

The loan agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of the project in promoting economic and social progress.

'This agreement reflects ADFD’s commitment to financing infrastructure projects that promote economic and social progress in beneficiary countries. It also underscores our commitment to strengthening and advancing our strategic partnership with the Republic of Rwanda, contributing to the development of key sectors vital to the country’s growth,” he said.

The Karenge Water Treatment Plant project will expand transmission and distribution systems, ensuring clean and sustainable water supplies to critical areas in Rwanda. By incorporating advanced technologies, the initiative aims to improve the efficiency of water systems, address growing demand, and strengthen the nation’s water security.

Ambassador Mirenge expressed Rwanda’s appreciation for ADFD’s support, saying that cooperation with ADFD demonstrates the UAE’s steadfast commitment to promoting sustainable development globally.

“The expansion of the water transmission and distribution systems at the Karenge Water Treatment Plant is a critical initiative to achieve our national objectives of providing clean water to our population and developing robust and sustainable water infrastructure to meet the needs of communities,” the ambassador remarked.

The initiative is also expected to create jobs and elevate the quality of life for Rwandan citizens.

As part of a larger program to ensure Kigali’s self-sufficiency in water supply, the project will include the construction of a water treatment plant with a daily capacity of 36,000 cubic meters, along with expanded distribution systems to key areas of the capital.

The loan agreement was signed by Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, and John Mirenge, Ambassador of Rwanda to the UAE, during a ceremony attended by senior officials from both sides on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, emphasized the importance of the project in promoting economic and social progress.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The forum, themed 'Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa,' brought together African leaders to address key challenges in education and youth employment.

Kagame pointed to the vast potential of Africa’s growing youth population, describing it as a critical driver of economic growth.

'In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce,' he said.

'We cannot let this opportunity go to waste. 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.'

The forum, themed 'Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa,' brought together African leaders to address key challenges in education and youth employment.

The Rwandan Head of State stressed the need to equip young people with skills aligned with modern labour market demands.

'What we need to do is equip these young people with the skills and expertise to meet the demands of the labour market,' Kagame noted, highlighting the partnership with UNICEF for digital skills and connectivity as a promising model.

Kagame also emphasized the importance of increased investment in education, citing Rwanda’s efforts.

'In Rwanda, we have increased the share of education spending in our budget from 11% in the year 2020 to 17.7% in the year 2024,' he stated.

Beyond increased funding, he highlighted the importance of quality reforms, saying, 'The focus should be on quality if we want to see long-term results. This means training and hiring better-qualified teachers, modernizing the curriculum, and encouraging critical thinking rather than rote memorization.'

He further urged African nations to take ownership of their education strategies, reducing dependence on external support.

'Effective partnerships should not be confused with outsourcing responsibility or leadership. It is not a question about being big or small or having sufficient resources; it is about making the right choices. This is well within Africa’s means,' Kagame asserted.

Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani in collaboration with the African Union and UNICEF, the forum aimed to explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children, improve learning outcomes, and prepare youth to tackle Africa’s challenges.

The forum was hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani in collaboration with the African Union and UNICEF.

The president closed with a call to action, urging leaders to create opportunities that discourage risky migration in search of better prospects.

'As we speak, many young Africans are putting their lives in danger to go find better opportunities abroad. This is a sign that we need to do more to empower our youth,' he remarked.

'Africa is our common home, and we must ensure that every African has a future on this continent.'

The forum’s outcomes are expected to inform policies to revamp education systems and boost youth employability, strengthening Africa’s position in the global economy.

Among the leaders present at the forum were President Muhammadu Ghazouani of Mauritania, who hosted the event and currently chairs the African Union; President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria; and Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, and Ted Chaiban, Deputy Director of UNICEF were also in attendance.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Netanyahu faces charges of bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. According to an indictment filed more than five years ago, he is accused of advancing favorable regulations for a telecommunications mogul in exchange for positive media coverage of himself and his family.

He is also alleged to have accepted luxury gifts, including cigars and champagne worth tens of thousands of dollars, from a billionaire Hollywood producer in return for assistance with personal matters.

Netanyahu arrived at the Tel Aviv courthouse around 10:00 a.m., where he was met by a mixed crowd of protesters and supporters. Some expressed support, while others urged him to intensify efforts to secure the release of approximately 100 hostages still held in Gaza. Coalition ministers and lawmakers, responding to a call from Netanyahu’s office the previous night, also attended to show support.

At the start of the session, Netanyahu’s attorney, Amit Hadad, criticized the Israeli judicial system, calling the trial “political persecution.” Hadad described the indictment as “flawed and invalid” and argued that the case should have been dismissed.

Netanyahu began his testimony at approximately 11:30 a.m., opening with the statement, “I have waited eight years for this moment to tell the truth as I remember it.” He described his testimony as “an opportunity to puncture the baseless accusations” against him.

Netanyahu, who has served as Israel’s prime minister for more than 17 years, holds the record as the country’s longest-serving leader.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is seen at the Tel Aviv courthouse in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Dec. 10, 2024. (Reuven Kastro/JINI via Xinhua)

Xinhua

Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023, following an extensive investigation by intelligence agencies.

However, the Cape Town court is still reviewing his case to determine whether he should be handed over to the IRMCT, which issued a warrant for his arrest. The mechanism intends to transfer him to Rwanda for trial.

In his report to the United Nations Security Council on December 10, 2024, Brammertz highlighted the ongoing efforts of the IRMCT to bring to justice those responsible for genocide crimes, both in Rwanda and Yugoslavia.

He specifically addressed the situation concerning Kayishema, who has been detained in South Africa for over a year and a half, with his transfer to the Mechanism still pending.

'Fulgence Kayishema still remains in South Africa, where he is contesting his transfer to the Mechanism’s custody in Arusha and ultimately to Rwanda for trial. He has further announced his intention to seek revocation of the transfer of his case to Rwanda.

“Concluding this matter depends on South Africa fulfilling its international obligations to hand Kayishema over to the Mechanism,' Brammertz stated.

Kayishema, who had evaded capture for years under various aliases, including posing as a Burundian and Malawian citizen, is facing charges related to genocide and crimes against humanity.

He is accused of conspiring to exterminate the Tutsi population in Kivumu Commune, where he played a key role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including the notorious attack on the Nyange Parish.

Brammertz also provided updates on other ongoing cases, such as those involving Gerard Ntakirutimana, Kayishema, and Félicien Kabuga.

He emphasized the rejection of Ntakirutimana’s appeal, which was based on new evidence suggesting potential tampering of witness testimonies.

Brammertz reiterated that his office would maintain its commitment to the integrity of investigations, despite efforts to manipulate testimony.

Brammertz also underscored the continued efforts to apprehend remaining genocide fugitives, noting that over 1,000 individuals involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are still at large, with investigations into crimes in Yugoslavia also ongoing.

Kayishema, once one of the most wanted fugitives by the IRMCT for his role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, was apprehended in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 24, 2023.

IGIHE

According to the statement issued on Tuesday evening, hospitality establishments including hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs will be allowed to extend their operating hours until 2:00 AM from Monday to Thursday.

On Fridays, weekends, and public holidays, they are permitted to remain open throughout the night. These extended hours are designed to create a vibrant atmosphere for festive celebrations while maintaining a regulated environment that respects the needs of others.

RDB has also emphasized the importance of complying with noise pollution regulations, which aim to ensure a peaceful environment for those in need of rest.

These regulations will also apply to private events. RDB encourages self-regulation among business owners and individuals. The Board, in collaboration with other government bodies, will monitor the implementation of these guidelines and hold those in violation accountable.

Additionally, the RDB has reminded hospitality establishments of the rules concerning alcohol consumption. Serving alcohol to individuals under 18 years of age is prohibited, and visibly intoxicated individuals must not be served alcohol. The public is urged to drink responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.

This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Under this new policy, non-essential businesses were required to close by 7:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 PM on weekends.

This move was made to improve the organization and management of nighttime activities while reducing noise pollution. The government also noted that this decision aligns with its broader efforts to combat alcohol abuse, particularly among the youth.

This temporary change in operating hours follows Rwanda’s decision in 2023 to regulate the closure times of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.

IGIHE

The roadshow is part of the Visit Rwanda campaign across Europe, aiming to highlight Rwanda as a premier destination for travelers and investors.

The campaign began in Paris, France, on December 9, 2024, at the Kimpton St Honoré Hotel, and continued in Brussels, Belgium, on December 10, 2024.

The event is part of a collaboration with the European Union (EU) and the Forum of French-speaking Countries, which includes members like France, Belgium, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Rwanda.

Through this initiative, Rwanda seeks to leverage the “Visit Rwanda” campaign to highlight its tourism offerings. Representatives from Rwanda’s tourism sector and event organizers will showcase how they provide exceptional services to international visitors.

The event gathered over 50 French companies, with the goal of establishing future partnerships after introducing them to Rwanda’s investment opportunities.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura thanked the attendees and tourism representatives for their participation.

“You are all key partners in advocating for Rwanda’s tourism sector, helping us open doors for visitors eager to experience Rwanda’s wonders. It is your responsibility, as well as that of RDB representatives and tourism agencies, to provide valuable information that will inspire people to visit and promote our country,” he noted.

He went on to describe Rwanda as a land of stunning landscapes, including hills, valleys, and pristine air, home to warm-hearted people who are eager to share their history.

Amb. Nkulikiyimfura highlighted Rwanda’s wildlife, including gorillas, and its national parks, as well as the inclusion of traditional dances in UNESCO’s cultural heritage list, underscoring the country’s cultural richness.

'When you arrive in Kigali, you will find a clean city, regarded as the cleanest on the African continent,' he added. 'We hope you will become passionate ambassadors, encouraging youth to view Rwanda as a prime destination for rest and discovery.'

Ariella Kageruka, Head of Tourism and Conservation Department at RDB, showcased Rwanda’s natural beauty through a video presentation.

She also informed attendees that citizens of organizations like OIF can receive free visas upon arrival at Kigali International Airport.

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Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

Suluhu was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for newly appointed leaders in Zanzibar where she expressed her confidence in Janabi’s qualifications and extensive experience in healthcare.

This nomination follows the passing of Faustine Ndugulile, who had been elected to the role earlier this year.

Janabi, a highly regarded cardiologist and the current executive director of Muhimbili National Hospital, brings a wealth of experience to the table.

In addition to his leadership at the hospital, he also serves as an advisor to the president on health and medical affairs.

His nomination comes after a thorough review of five potential candidates by the Tanzanian government.

Ndugulile, who had been selected as WHO Regional Director for Africa at the 74th WHO General Assembly in August 2024, was set to begin his term in March 2025.

He passed away on November 7 while receiving medical treatment in India. His death has left a void in the leadership of WHO’s African regional office.

The Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Professor Mohamed Janabi.

IGIHE

At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp, where both refugee children and local Rwandan students are benefiting from this digital revolution.

The tech-driven learning program, launched in 2021, is part of a broader effort by the Rwandan government, in collaboration with international partners like the UNHCR, World Vision International, and ProFuturo, a Spanish-based organization.

The initiative aims to bring digital learning to schools in districts like Kirehe, Gatsibo, Nyamagabe, Gisagara, Karongi, and Gicumbi.

Currently, the program reaches 15 schools near refugee camps, benefiting over 16,000 students, including both refugee and Rwandan children in grades 4 to 6. The program provides students with tablets loaded with educational software, offering them a unique opportunity to learn in ways that were not possible before.

At the heart of this transformation is GS Paysannat LE, located in the Mahama Refugee Camp.

More than 500 teachers have been trained to use these digital tools, enhancing their teaching methods and improving student engagement.

Ange Brinella Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE, shared how the use of technology has transformed her learning experience.

“Before, teachers would write on the board, and sometimes it was hard to understand. But with tablets, we can see visual explanations of the subjects. We use them for Kinyarwanda, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies,” she said.

Nick Rafael Ishimwe, another Grade 6 student, added, “When we used to take tests on paper, it would take weeks for the teacher to grade them. Now, we take the tests on the tablet, and we see our results immediately. It makes learning more effective.”

Nick Rafael Ishimwe, a Grade 6 student says that they no longer have to take tests on paper.

Teachers have also noticed improvements in how students are engaging with lessons. Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher, explained that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.

“I prepare exercises on the computer, and each student can access them right away. After completing the exercises, they are graded instantly. This allows me to see who is making progress and who needs help,” he says.

The use of technology has also had a positive effect on student motivation. “When I tell the students that we will be using technology, no one wants to miss class. They are excited to engage with the tools,” said Nibitura.

Since the introduction of the program in 2022, academic performance has improved. “The first sign of success is when a student powers on the device, logs in, and starts learning on their own,” said Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director.

Alex Ntamunoza, the school’s director is happy that the students can power on the device, log in, and start learning on their own.

“Last year, 57 students graduated from primary school, and all of them passed. Ten of them received confirmation to continue their studies at secondary schools,” he reveals.

Despite the program’s success, there are still challenges, particularly with the number of tablets available. “In Grade 6, there are four classrooms with tablets, but only 96 tablets for the entire school. We hope to get more so that every student can benefit,” Ntamunoza said.

The ProFuturo program has equipped the schools with tablets containing Rwanda’s national curriculum, along with computers and other technological tools. Three computer labs have been built in Mahama, Nyabiheke, and Kiziba refugee camps, and teachers have received training on how to use these tools to enhance their teaching methods.

Ange Brinella Ishimwe is also a Grade 6 student at GS Paysannat LE.

This tech-driven learning program is not only improving education for refugee children but also fostering integration between refugees and the local population.

Through these digital tools, students are gaining the skills necessary to succeed in a digital world, while also helping to bridge the gap between refugee and local communities. With continued support, this initiative has the potential to provide every child in Rwanda, regardless of their background, with a brighter, tech-enabled future.

Vincent Nibitura, a mathematics teacher say that the use of technology has made it easier for him to track students’ progress.

IGIHE

Despite the hardships, Kanyeshuri was determined to build a better life. Upon arrival at the camp, he quickly embraced entrepreneurship as a means of survival, seizing the opportunities Rwanda provides to both citizens and foreigners alike.

'This is not home for me, but one of the things that motivated me to start working here was seeing that Rwanda gives foreigners the chance to work. I started with 100,000 Frw and began offering Mobile Money services,' Kanyeshuri says.

In addition to providing mobile money services, he was selected to participate in a project designed to empower refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps. This initiative offered training on managing profitable projects, with each family receiving a grant of 800,000 Frw, which did not require repayment.

'I was one of the fortunate ones who received that grant in 2023. I used the money and added to it the little I had saved, making it a total of 1Million francs,' he recalls.

He decided to invest in poultry farming after recognizing the challenges that refugees and those living near the camp faced in obtaining eggs.

He decided to invest in poultry farming after recognizing the challenges that refugees and those living near the camp faced in obtaining eggs. Previously, they had to travel to Kibungo to source eggs, thus creating an opportunity for Kanyeshuri.

With the loan, he purchased 1,500 chicks, and after five months of careful nurturing, the birds began to lay eggs. The current egg production rate stands at 80%, meaning that from 1,000 birds, there are 820 eggs produced daily. Each egg is sold for 145 Frw, and he has a steady market for his products.

Today, Kanyeshuri employs five full-time staff, three of whom are refugees, while the other two are Rwandans. 'The poultry farm has provided additional income, including fertilizers, which we collect every two weeks. I have buyers who come and pack it, and they pay me,' he proudly says.

Beyond his poultry business, Kanyeshuri has also ventured into farming, and the combined value of his various projects now exceeds 10 million Frw. 'This business has grown because each bird is worth over 10,000 Frw. So overall, I’ve surpassed that 10 million mark,' he explains.

The project aimed at empowering refugees and local Rwandans living near refugee camps started in 2022, and it has already reached 1,613 families. Among them, 1,129 refugee families (70%) have received support, while 484 Rwandan families (30%) from neighboring communities have also benefited. The project has a budget of 2.4 million USD, which is intended to be used over a period of three years.

After five months of careful nurturing, the birds are able to start laying eggs.

The supported families are involved in various types of businesses, including agriculture, livestock farming, and commerce. Furthermore, they are linked to financial institutions to access further funding to grow their businesses.

Innocent Habimana, a local resident living near the camp, is another beneficiary of the program. He runs a business selling agricultural inputs and fertilizers, a field in which he had prior knowledge and passion.

After investing 700,000 Frw into his business, Habimana’s venture is now valued at 3Million Frw. 'I have employees that work with me during the planting season, and I pay them for their work,' he says.

This transformative project, funded by Denmark and implemented by UNHCR and Caritas Rwanda, is expected to continue until December 2024, with an extension for Sudanese refugees until the end of 2025. The project operates in Mahama refugee camp, located in Kirehe District, and Kiziba refugee camp in Karongi District.

Innocent Habimana, a local resident living near the camp, is another beneficiary of the program

For Kanyeshuri and others like him, these initiatives represent much more than financial support. They symbolize a path to self-reliance, a way to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope for the future.

As he reflects on his journey, Kanyeshuri expresses his deep appreciation for the support of the Rwandan government.

'Looking at the opportunities we have here, it’s extraordinary. Rwanda provides for everyone and ensures our safety. I work outside the camp now, and no one challenges my right to do so. I’m truly blessed compared to many others in the refugee camps,' he says.

After five months of careful nurturing, the birds are able to start laying eggs.

Kanyeshuli’s combined value of his various projects now exceeds 10 million Frw.

Eggs from Patrick Kanyeshuri’s poultry farm.

Kanyeshuri’s chicken house where employs five full-time staff, three of whom are refugees,

Habimana runs a business selling agricultural inputs and fertilizers.

IGIHE

Hosted by UAE Ambassador H.E. Hazza Al Qahtani, the celebration brought together prominent Rwandan officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the UAE expatriate community to honor the UAE’s journey and its robust ties with Rwanda.

In his keynote address, Ambassador Al Qahtani highlighted the UAE’s remarkable transformation since its founding on December 2, 1971, under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Reflecting on the nation’s rapid progress, he stated, 'Today, we celebrate not only the UAE’s success but also the unity and vision of our leadership.'

The Ambassador noted the UAE’s evolution into a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and diplomacy, citing its role as host of COP28 and its strong advocacy for sustainable development and climate action.

Ambassador Al Qahtani highlighted the UAE’s remarkable transformation since its founding on December 2, 1971.

The Ambassador also emphasized the UAE’s expanding international presence, with 103 embassies and 20 consulates worldwide, as well as its growing influence through platforms such as BRICS and the G20 summit.

'The UAE’s commitment to fostering global partnerships has made it a key player in renewable energy, technology, and sustainable development,' he said.

Strengthening Economic Partnerships

The UAE’s economic relationship with Rwanda was a focal point of the celebration. Bilateral trade between the two nations reached USD 1.3 billion, with Dubai’s non-oil exports to Rwanda amounting to USD 143.8 million last year.

Rwanda’s exports to Dubai exceeded USD 514.5 million, showcasing the mutually beneficial trade relationship.

Ambassador Al Qahtani highlighted the UAE’s significant investments in Rwanda, which have totalled over USD 248 million.

Hosted by UAE Ambassador H.E. Hazza Al Qahtani, the celebration brought together prominent Rwandan officials, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the UAE expatriate community to honor the UAE’s journey and its robust ties with Rwanda.

These investments span critical sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and technology. Notably, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has been instrumental in financing key infrastructure projects in Rwanda, including the Kigali Airport expansion and the Rubengera-Muhanga Road. Both projects are seen as vital to Rwanda’s economic development and regional connectivity.

'We are committed to continuing our cooperation with Rwanda,' said Ambassador Al Qahtani, pointing to ongoing discussions for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). 'This agreement will further enhance trade and investment opportunities, driving mutual economic growth.'

Rwanda’s Commitment to Collaboration

Representing the Rwandan government, Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation Hon. Olivier Nduhungirehe delivered warm congratulations to the UAE on its National Day. He reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties, emphasizing the UAE’s pivotal role in Rwanda’s development.

'We are proud to be a close partner of the UAE. The UAE’s investments have played a crucial role in Rwanda’s transformation, and we look forward to exploring even more areas of cooperation,' Nduhungirehe stated.

He acknowledged the UAE’s support in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and education, noting that these contributions have significantly propelled Rwanda’s growth. ',' he added.

UAE Ambassador H.E. Hazza Al Qahtani pictured with Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation Hon. Olivier Nduhungirehe.

The Minister highlighted shared priorities between the two nations, including renewable energy, innovation, and sustainable development. He pointed to the resolutions of the inaugural Joint Committee for Cooperation held in March 2024, which established a framework for expanding collaboration in renewable energy, education, and technology.

A Vision for the Future

Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of the bilateral relationship, emphasizing its potential to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. Ambassador Al Qahtani reiterated the UAE’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s development goals, while Minister Nduhungirehe highlighted the shared vision of progress through innovation and partnership.

As part of the celebration, attendees were treated to a showcase of UAE culture, including traditional Emirati music, dance performances, and cuisine, which underscored the UAE’s rich heritage. The event also featured a presentation on the UAE’s achievements in areas such as renewable energy, smart technology, and education, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to global progress.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Kigali marked the UAE’s 53rd National Day.

The celebration underscored the depth of the UAE-Rwanda partnership and the opportunities for future collaboration. As Rwanda continues to pursue its ambitious development goals, the UAE is expected to remain a key partner, contributing expertise, investment, and support across various sectors.

The UAE’s National Day celebration in Kigali not only commemorated the nation’s achievements but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships with Rwanda and beyond. As both countries look to the future, their partnership promises to drive economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development for years to come.

Sam K Nkurunziza