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The ceremony took place at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world.

The Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church, represents the Pope’s spiritual and administrative authority. It is a sovereign entity that oversees the global operations of the Church and conducts diplomatic relations with countries around the world.

Ambassador James Ngango presented his Letters of Credence to Pope Francis on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

Prior to the formal presentation of credentials, Ambassador Ngango engaged in important discussions with senior Vatican officials.

On Friday, December 6, 2024, he met with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, for talks focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican, particularly in the areas of education and health. The fruitful discussions underscored the growing collaboration between the two institutions.

Ambassador James Ngango with His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State.

Additionally, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, Ambassador Ngango met with Monsignor Roberto Campisi, the Assessor for General Affairs, where he presented copies of his credentials.

The meeting laid the groundwork for continued diplomatic dialogue and cooperation between Rwanda and the Vatican.

Ambassador James Ngango with Monsignor Roberto Campisi, the Assessor for General Affairs.

Ambassador Ngango resides in Geneva and also represents Rwanda in Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Switzerland, and other Geneva- and Vienna-based international organizations.

The Holy See, the central governing body of the Catholic Church, represents the Pope’s spiritual and administrative authority.

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Organized annually by the BK Foundation in partnership with Inkomoko Rwanda, the initiative supports entrepreneurs in various sectors with funding and mentorship to grow their businesses.

From December 2nd—4th, the top five businesses were recognized and awarded zero-interest loans from Bank of Kigali, ranging from Frw4 million to Frw7 million each.

These loans aim to scale their operations and drive further innovation and social impact. The winners, with business operations in Kigali, Gicumbi, Kayonza, and Musanze, were selected for their creativity and their positive contributions to their local communities.

Many participants from this year’s cohort expressed their intentions to use the funds to invest in equipment, expand their teams, and streamline their operations.

Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation highlighted that BK Urumuri Initiative is committed to fostering economic growth and resilience by addressing key business themes each year.

These loans aim to scale their operations and drive further innovation and social impact.

'This year, we exclusively focused on women-led businesses, offering them the chance to pitch for zero-interest loans from the Bank of Kigali. Many participants highlighted plans to expand their teams, automate operations, and access higher-quality inputs. These women entrepreneurs are driving solutions in traditionally underserved sectors, championing inclusivity and innovation,' she said.

This year’s program engaged 25 women-led businesses, offering tailored business acceleration, interest-free loans, and access to a network of 60,000 MSMEs across East Africa.

Emmanuel Mugabo, Managing Director of Inkomoko Rwanda, emphasized the program’s success: 'The initiative equips entrepreneurs with the skills to grow their businesses, track performance, and create jobs across the country.'

The five winning businesses include those from agriculture, food production, and hygiene.
For instance, Bountiful Farmers Ltd supplies high-quality potato seeds, Hope and Future for Women Development Ltd grows fresh strawberries, and Eastern Alpha Co Ltd produces hygiene products.

Skai Foods is known for its chili sauce and other value-added food products, while N5 Business Group manufactures nutrient-rich porridge and peanut flour.

This year’s program engaged 25 women-led businesses.

Winner Yvette Umutoniwabo, founder of N5 Business Group, shared her success story: 'Through the BK Urumuri program, I learned to track transactions, target markets, and prepare for investments. Now that we have won this loan, it will really help us automate production and double our revenue.'

Since its inception, the BK Urumuri Initiative has supported over 200 businesses. Past participants have seen an average monthly revenue growth of 388% and created, on average, four new jobs per company.

BK Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the BK Group, advances societal progress through education, innovation, environmental conservation, and financial literacy.

Meanwhile, Inkomoko supports entrepreneurs across Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Sudan by providing coaching, training, financing, and market access.

The BK Urumuri Initiative was launched in 2017 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Bank of Kigali and aims to support young entrepreneurs in developing projects with the potential to grow into successful businesses in the future.

Since its inception, the initiative has provided over Frw234 million in interest-free loans to emerging entrepreneurs, contributing to the growth of Rwanda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

A total of Frw25 million in interest-free loans were given through the 8th edition of the BK Urumuri Initiative.

The businesses were recognized and awarded zero-interest loans from Bank of Kigali, ranging from Frw4 million to Frw7 million each.

Many participants highlighted plans to expand their teams, automate operations, and access higher-quality inputs.

The initiative equips entrepreneurs with the skills to grow their businesses.

IGIHE

While presiding over the swearing in ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, urged the officials to abide by their oaths as it would help them fulfill the nation’s expectations. He asked them not to betray the trust placed in them by the RDF leadership.

'The nature of the work you do, which involves upholding the law and human rights, requires wisdom, discretion, dedication, and professionalism. We strongly encourage you to embrace technology because it accelerates work and simplifies the preparation of cases,' he cautioned.

Ngirente also advised the newly appointed officials not to use their authority for personal gains but to strive and uphold the integrity of the RDF. He reminded them to continue to educate themselves to ensure their actions keep pace with time.

The event was attended by the Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), General Mubarakh Muganga, the Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and other dignitaries.

Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, presided over the swearing in ceremony.

Other officials who were sworn in for new roles include Lt. Darcy Ndayishimiye and Lt. Thérèse Mukasakindi, who were appointed as judges at the Military High Court, and Capt. Moses Ndoba and Lt. Victor Kamanda, who were appointed as judges at the Military Tribunal.

On his part, Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa vowed to focus on promoting integrity within military ranks, with more severe punishments for violations of the law.

'Integrity is highly significant due to the responsibilities the military holds. Integrity is where we will focus most of our efforts, meaning that when we punish soldiers who violate the law, we do so with the required severity,' he said.

He reaffirmed that justice in Rwandan society is crucial, especially within military ranks, given the power, equipment, and training that soldiers have, saying they must be more vigilant than ordinary civilians to prevent misuse of their authority.

The newly appointed officials were confirmed by a Cabinet meeting held on November 9, 2024.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa takes oath as the President of the Millitary High Court.

All the appointed officials signed their oaths after swearing in.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa vowed to focus on promoting integrity within military ranks.

IGIHE

Among the new appointments are Célestin Nsabimana, who has been selected as a center referee, and Emmanuel Habumugisha, appointed as an assistant referee. They replace Nsoro Ruzindana, who has been a center referee for eight years, and Raymond Nonati Bwiliza, who had been an assistant referee for 12 years, both of whom have been removed from the list.

In another key appointment, Henriette Byukusenge steps in as a new FIFA-approved female center referee, taking over from Mukansanga Salima, who transitioned to a role as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

Célestin Nsabimana has been appointed as a center referee.

This makes a total of 17 referees now officially recognized by FIFA, well-represented across various categories. Rwanda’s representation on the international stage in 2025 will include the following;

Male Center Referees: Abdoul Karim Twagirumukiza, Jean Claude Ishimwe, Samuel Uwikunda, Patience Fidèle Rulisa and Célestin Nsabimana.

Male Assistant Referees: Saïd Hamisi Ndayisaba, Eric Mugabo, Justin Karangwa, Dieudonné Mutuyimana, Didier Ishimwe, and Emmanuel Hamugisha.

Female Center Referees: Aline Umutoni and Henriette Byukusenge.

Female Assistant Referees: Sandrine Murangwa Usenga, Alice Umutesi, Régine Mukayirangwa and Juliette Akimana.

Nsoro Ruzindana is stepping down after a carrier spanning eight years

Raymond Nonati Bwiliza has been an assistant referee for 12 years.

Henriette Byukusenge steps in as a new FIFA-approved female center referee, taking over from Mukansanga Salima.

Mukansanga Salima has transitioned to a role as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).

IGIHE

“Congratulations to my friend President-elect John Mahama on your election victory. Rwanda and Ghana share a strong commitment to progress, and we look forward to working together to strengthen our bilateral ties and advance the vision of a prosperous Africa,” President Kagame posted on X.

The Ghana Electoral Commission officially announced on December 9, 2024, that Mahama secured 56.55% of the vote, while his opponent, Mahamudu Bawumia, the candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and current Vice President, garnered 41.6%.

Prior to the official results, Bawumia graciously conceded defeat, offering his congratulations to Mahama for his win.

Mahama, who served as Ghana’s Vice President from 2009 to 2012 and President from 2012 to 2017, is set to assume office on January 7, 2025.

He will replace outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo, who has held office since 2017.

The relationship between Rwanda and Ghana is marked by strong cooperation across various sectors, including air transport, defense and security, private sector partnerships, tourism, culture, finance, and trade.

Rwanda opened its embassy in Ghana in 2020, while Ghana reciprocated by opening its embassy in Rwanda in 2024.

President Kagame has promised cooperation with Ghana’s president-elect.

Mahama is set to assume office on January 7, 2025.

IGIHE

Addressing reports suggesting Kenya’s unpreparedness and the possibility of Rwanda stepping in as a replacement co-host, Murkomen stated that such claims are unfounded.

“The truth is that we are hosting CHAN from February 1 to February 28, 2025. While the schedule and team allocations are yet to be finalized, we are burning the midnight oil to ensure our facilities are ready,” Murkomen told Kenya’s NTV on Monday night, insisting that plans are in top gear to expedite the arrival of essential materials by air to meet the tight deadline.

Currently, Kenya has no CAF-approved stadiums for the tournament. Kasarani Stadium, one of the proposed venues, is only 30% complete.

He acknowledged the challenges posed by delays in infrastructure development, particularly at the Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, but assured the public that efforts are underway to meet the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) requirements.

“I receive updates three times a week from contractors, who have assured us they will do everything humanly possible to meet the deadline,” he stressed.

Murkomen also highlighted Kenya’s commitment to hosting CHAN and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), clarifying that the bids for the two tournaments are independent of each other.

“Unfortunately, some have conflated the two. For CHAN, we committed to providing two stadiums, and we are on track to fulfil this obligation,” he explained.

Kenya’s Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen inspects renovation works at Kasarani Stadium.

In response to reports claiming CAF’s dissatisfaction and the potential relocation of CHAN matches, Murkomen stated: “There has never been a discussion about shifting hosting rights from Kenya to any neighbouring country. CAF officials are in constant communication with us, and their feedback has been constructive. President Patrice Motsepe will visit Kenya next week to inspect progress, which underscores their support.”

Murkomen acknowledged Kenya’s historical struggles with sports infrastructure but framed the current situation as a wake-up call.

“We need nearly Ksh7 billion (about Rwf70 billion) to bring our facilities up to the required standards. Despite competing national priorities, we are mobilizing resources and working with contractors to ensure readiness,” he said.

The minister also praised CAF for their collaborative approach and urged Kenyans to remain optimistic and patriotic.

“This is a critical moment for our nation to reclaim its place as a leader in African sports. Hosting CHAN and AFCON will leave a lasting legacy for our sports infrastructure and inspire future generations,” he noted.

Murkomen’s reassurances come amid heightened public scrutiny and concerns over Kenya’s ability to deliver on its hosting commitments.

CHAN 2025 is scheduled to begin on February 1, 2025. CAF initially awarded co-hosting rights for CHAN 2025 to three countries from the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) zone including Tanzania and Uganda.

With Kenya struggling to meet the necessary requirements, reports emerged over the weekend that Rwanda was being considered as a replacement co-host alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

Kenyan media reports indicate that CAF delegates visited Kenya last week and expressed dissatisfaction with the state of preparations. The delegates reportedly issued a deadline of December 31, 2024, for Kenya to complete the required work or lose its hosting rights.

Currently, Kenya has no CAF-approved stadiums for the tournament. Kasarani Stadium, one of the proposed venues, is only 30% complete, while Nyayo Stadium lags even further behind.

In contrast, Rwanda’s infrastructure is well-prepared. Stadiums such as Amahoro Stadium, Kigali Pelé Stadium, and Huye Stadium all meet CAF standards and are capable of hosting CHAN matches. Rwanda previously hosted the entire tournament in 2016, demonstrating its capability.

State-of-the-art Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda.

The stadium was renovated at a cost of $160 million, which saw the capacity expanded from 25,000 to 45,000.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The decree also announced other changes within the Military Tribunal where Lt Col Gerard Muhigirwa has been appointed as Vice President.

Among others, Lt Darcy Ndayishimiye and Lt Thérèse Mukasakindi have been appointed as Judges in the Military High Court.

The appointments were confirmed during a Cabinet meeting on November 9, 2024, after a review of military personnel proposals submitted by the Minister of Defence.

Prior to his new appointment, Brig Gen Karuretwa served as the Director of International Cooperation within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) following his tenure as Head of Operations in the RDF’s Second Division in the Northern Province.

He has a long history of service, having spent 10 years in various roles within the Presidency.

From July 2011 to March 2016, he served as the President’s defence and security advisor, and from November 2013 to July 2021, he was the Principal Private Secretary to the President of the Republic.

Brig Gen Karuretwa joined the military in 1992. He holds a degree in Law from the National University of Rwanda (2000) and a Master’s in International Law from The Fletcher School, Tufts University, USA.

Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa has been appointed as the President of the Military High Court.

IGIHE

The program, set to be implemented in partnership with Gate Consulting Group, was unveiled during WIFR’s end-of-year dinner in Kigali on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The event was organised to reflect on and celebrate the organisation’s achievements over the past year.

Dozens of representatives from leading institutions across banking, insurance, and related sectors attended the glamorous and highly interactive dinner. Organisations represented included Bank of Kigali, NCBA, BPR, I&M Bank, EcoBank, Old Mutual, ZEP-Re, One Acre Fund, Rwanda Finance, Access to Finance Rwanda, Urwego Bank, Mayfair Insurance, and Old Mutual among others.

Amanda Musiimire, who served as the MC for the event, engages Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers Association, during the highly interactive dinner.

Speaking at the event, Salma Nkusi, CEO of Gate Consulting Group, praised the partnership with WIFR, saying, “It was an easy collaboration because we both shared the same vision of supporting women’s development.”

According to Nkusi, the mentorship program is designed to bridge leadership gaps by overcoming existing barriers.

“While formal education is invaluable, this program opens up opportunities for employees to network, learn from leaders, and navigate challenges, all while becoming more strategic about their growth,” Nkusi stated.

From left to right: Women in Finance Rwanda Foundation Vice Chair Belinda Bwiza, Founding Chair Lina Higiro, and Gates Consulting Group CEO Salma Nkusi pose for a photo during WIFR’s end-of-year dinner in Kigali on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

Nkusi’s decision to pursue a mentorship program, dubbed 'LiftHerUp’ two years ago, was influenced by her personal career journey as a woman and the valuable lessons she has learned over the years.

“I felt like what I missed, I really want to give it to younger women. One of our key goals is to shift mindsets, helping women realize that they have a voice and can contribute meaningfully at the table,” added the CEO.

In the new partnership, at least 20 women from WIFR’s membership will be onboarded into the nine-month program starting in March 2025. They will benefit from carefully crafted activities and interventions aimed at preparing them for career growth, unlocking their full potential, and building a pipeline of future women leaders.

WIFR’s end-of-year dinner was organised to reflect on and celebrate the organisation’s achievements over the past year.

According to a 2023 report from the World Bank, labour force participation in Rwanda stands at 55.1% for women and 66.4% for men, reflecting a gender gap in employment rates.

Nkusi acknowledged the government’s efforts in increasing women’s participation in the workforce and emphasized the need to boost the number of women in key decision-making positions, particularly in privately owned institutions, where the gap remains huge.

Lina Higiro, the Founding chair of WIFR, encouraged attendees to enrol in the mentorship program as mentors or mentees to build meaningful connections for their career growth.

“Opportunity dances with those already on the dance floor,” quipped Higiro, who currently serves as Regional Head of Business Operations at NCBA Group.

Sylvain Nsabimana, Senior Finance Manager at NCBA Bank Rwanda PLC, also encouraged women to take up the challenge. Having mentored young professionals at NCBA, he believes strongly in the benefits of mentorship in scaling and deepening the sector.

“Young women should step up and take on leadership roles, as they are fully capable of leading institutions,” said Nsabimana, who helps manage WIFR’s finances and accounts.

Meanwhile, during the Saturday dinner, 16 young women were recognized for completing courses undertaken in partnership with different institutions including Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI).

Some beneficiaries of the WIFR scholarship program, who successfully completed courses undertaken in partnership with various institutions, including the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI).

Since its launch in 2023, the foundation has extended scholarships to about 50 staff members in the banking sector.

Clarrise Mukantambara, a Loan Officer at BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, expressed her immense joy after successfully completing the scholarship course.

“Thanks to Women in Finance Rwanda and its co-founder Lina Higiro, I’ve had the opportunity to enhance my skills and grow professionally. The knowledge I’ve gained is invaluable, and I’m excited to apply it in my career,” shared Mukantambara.

Access to Finance Rwanda CEO, Iyacu Jean Bosco, announced that AFR, part of the FSD network, will support the WIFR Research project on the State of Women in the Financial Sector in collaboration with the Central Bank (BNR). He emphasized that this initiative would be the first of its kind in Africa. As part of WIFR’s Data Pillar, the research findings will inform policy-making and enhance accountability in the sector.

Access to Finance Rwanda CEO Iyacu Jean Bosco delivers his remarks during the dinner, announcing that AFR, as part of the FSD network, will support the WIFR research project on the state of women in the financial sector in collaboration with the Central Bank.

Building on this momentum, Tony Francis Ntore, CEO of the Rwanda Bankers Association, commended the foundation’s efforts and expressed a strong commitment to continued partnership.

The evening’s program also highlighted the work of Belinda Bwiza, co-founder of WIFR, who spearheaded the Mentorship Pillar, further advancing the organization’s mission to empower women in the financial sector.

As a gesture of gratitude, the WIFR leadership extended appreciation tokens to key partners, including the heads of the Rwanda Bankers Association, Access to Finance Rwanda, and IGIHE, for their unwavering support. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali, presented the tokens, while Amanda Musiimire served as the MC for the event.

Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali, presents tokens of appreciation to key partners for their unwavering support.

With nearly 15 member institutions signing the WIFR Gender Diversity Charter—a framework for measuring and monitoring progress annually—the Rwandan financial sector now leads the way in promoting accountability for gender equality.

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The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Continental Forum on Education and Youth Employability in Nouakchott, Mauritania, focused on strengthening partnerships in key areas, including education, defence, and security.

The two Heads of State also discussed opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and infrastructure development.

President Kagame arrived in Nouakchott on Monday evening to participate in the forum, organized by the African Union in partnership with UNICEF.

Hosted by Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who also serves as the current African Union Chairperson, the forum is being held under the theme, 'Educating and Qualifying Our Youth for a Prosperous, Integrated, and Dynamic Africa.'

The forum will focus on transforming Africa’s education systems to meet the demands of the 21st century. Key discussions will cover curriculum reform, teacher development, digital technologies in education, inclusive education, and financing mechanisms for educational transformation.

The conference aims to identify best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore sustainable solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children and improve overall learning outcomes.

With the African Union’s theme for 2024 focused on education, the forum will also explore strategies to build resilient education systems that prepare African youth to tackle the continent’s challenges and seize its economic potential.

President Paul Kagame held discussions with his Algerian counterpart Abdelmadjid Tebboune on the sidelines of the Continental Forum on Education and Youth Employability in Nouakchott, Mauritania

The meeting focused on strengthening partnerships in key areas, including education, defence, and security.

The two Heads of State also discussed opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and infrastructure development.

Wycliffe Nyamasege