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  • Minister Nduhungirehe discusses setbacks in peace talks with DRC #rwanda #RwOT

    Speaking to the national broadcaster regarding the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nduhungirehe expressed pessimism if DRC does not change its approach.

    'Yes, we signed the concept of operations that would guide the peace process moving forward. But despite these agreements, when we look at what is happening on the ground, we see that DRC has continued to support and arm groups that pose a direct threat to Rwanda’s security,' he said

    His remarks followed a ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, in Luanda, Angola, where key issues of regional security, including the dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the easing of security measures along the Rwanda-DRC border.

    The meeting, which brought together ministers from Rwanda, DRC, and Angola, was intended to fast track the process however, Nduhungirehe expressed frustration over the lack of tangible progress despite the agreements reached in Luanda.

    The minister pointed to the actions of armed groups close to Rwanda’s border, particularly the M23 and other rebel factions, which continue to carry out attacks against each other despite the agreed-upon ceasefire.
    Nduhungirehe described these actions as a clear violation of the commitments made during the Luanda discussions.

    During the meeting, Ministers from Rwanda and DRC met their Angolan counterpart.

    'After the fifth round of talks, despite the commitments made, we observed over 20 attacks by rebel groups against M23 teritories. This ensured the continuation of retaliatory fighting, which is exactly the opposite of what was agreed upon,' he said.

    'This is why I raised the issue in the meeting. when we agree to commitments, they need to be implemented on the ground,' Nduhungirehe revealed.

    He also commented on recent inflammatory rhetoric from DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, which has further complicated the peace process. On November 17, 2024, President Tshisekedi delivered a speech in the Okatanga region, where he openly stated that if given the chance to amend the constitution, he would seek to overthrow the government of Rwanda.

    'This public call for regime change is particularly concerning as it contradicts the diplomatic efforts underway to ease tensions between the two countries. We are deeply concerned about these statements. Such words are reckless and dangerous, undermining the ongoing peace efforts' Nduhungirehe noted.

    The minister also criticized the DRC’s Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, who in a video published on social media, is seen addressing detainees in the overcrowded Munzenze Prison, in Goma, warning inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame, at the same time mobilizing those willing to fight against Rwandans to reclaim their land.

    'Such statements are not only provocative, but they are a direct challenge to the peace process. These words fuel hate and mistrust, and they make it difficult for us to lower our defense mechanisms,' Nduhungirehe explained.

    DRC Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, addresses inmates in Munzenze prison recently where he warned inmates against collaborating with 'the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame.

    Despite these setbacks, Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to peace, but made it clear that Rwanda will not remove its defense measures until it sees a genuine commitment to peace from the DRC.

    'We want peace, but we are not seeing the will from the DRC. Until there are concrete actions on the ground, we cannot lower our guard,' he warned.

    He called for the DRC government to engage directly with the M23 group to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. He emphasized that such dialogue could help bring stability to the region and ultimately lead to peace.

    'We believe the solution lies in dialogue, including with the M23 group. It’s time for the DRC government to take this bold step and engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to lasting peace in the region,' Nduhungirehe advised.

    Rwanda has also called for greater international support to ensure that the peace agreements are properly implemented and that DRC is held accountable for its actions. 'We are committed to working for peace, but we need to see real actions from DRC. We will continue to safeguard our sovereignty and the safety of our citizens,' he emphasized.

    The situation remains tense, and while both countries have publicly expressed a desire for peace, the path forward will require true commitment to make difficult decisions and fulfill each other’s commitments in order to avoid further escalation.

    Minister Nduhungirehe has cast a shadow of doubt at the fruits of the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the DRC if nothing changes.

    Sam K Nkurunziza

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/minister-nduhungirehe-discusses-setbacks-in-peace-talks-with-drc

  • Lessons from the Kigali Genocide Memorial: A Call to action for Africa #rwanda #RwOT

    Many I spoke to call it luck, surviving by the skin of their teeth; others see their survival as an opportunity to be beacons of hope, voices for the voiceless. Their persistence proves that people can endure unspeakable adversity.

    The Kigali Genocide Memorial stands as a striking memorial to the Genocide mass murders. In addition to being a center for repugnant history, it also functions as a learning center and a space for introspection.

    Its role is also international in scope, advocating reconciliation, healing, and peacemaking via education across borders. In fact, for me visiting this memorial wasn’t just a journey to the past but a reflection of those lessons which Africa should urgently internalize in securing her future.

    The Frailty of Peace

    Growing up in my rural Kenyan neighborhood, I learned about the genocide in school, but the extent of its barbarity felt alien, and somewhat elusive—perhaps because I was only about one month old when it occurred and about twelve when I first learned it in school.

    Walking through the Kigali Genocide Memorial, however, the reality became unequivocally stark: peace is easily disrupted. Rwanda’s story is a grim reminder that polarization, hate speech, and rampant bias can escalate into a crippling massacre.

    Standing before walls inscribed with names, staring into photos of innocent victims, sent a sobering message about vigilance. Roots of animosity are often planted through careless remarks, policies of exclusion, or orchestrated propaganda campaigns. When cultivated by indifference or culpability, they morph into horrors.

    The Power of Unity

    Remarkably, Rwanda has demonstrated a power of unity and active resolution. This memorial keeps the remembrance of the victims alive as well as enlightens its visitors on the road to restoration for Rwanda.

    With programs in place that facilitate dialogue, rebuilding communities, and holding people accountable as a nation, it is an example to show that even amidst a deeply divided population, reconciliation can be realized.

    This is a lesson most needed on the African continent, which often finds itself torn apart by ethnic, political and tribal dispute. If Rwanda was able to rise from the ashes of genocide, why can’t other nations turn their conflicts into avenues for healing and advancement?

    It takes strong leadership, for sure, but it also requires a united effort to highlight the mutual humanity that binds us together.

    The Role of Education

    The Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as an important educational hub, particularly for young people. By confronting difficult truths, the memorial helps ensure that history is remembered and not repeated.

    Education that promotes empathy, inclusivity and critical thinking must be given top priority for us Africans. To help them strive for a more cohesive future, it is our duty to teach our kids about our shared past, including its triumphs and sorrows.

    My Experience: A Personal Call to Action

    The experience of touring the Kigali Genocide Memorial was both life-changing and profound. In addition to serving as a devastating reminder of the depths of human evil, it also showed how remarkably resilient and forgiving we are when faced with such terrible grief.

    I thought about how I could contribute to “Never Again” for it to become more than just a cliche and a reality that we all live by. I believe the answer lies in fostering dialogue, creating a path to harmony through education and immense support from allies.

    For Africa, this means drawing lessons from Rwanda’s scars and successes to forge sustainable peace. With that said, I deeply appreciate the fact that the Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as a memorial and a call to action for a continent that needs to heal.

    Before it’s too late, let’s take note of these teachings. When we come together, Africa will continue to rise but when remain divided along the lines of ethnicity and hate, the continent will certainly come down crumbling.

    The Author is a Digital Marketing and Communications Consultant based in Nairobi. She is a published author and a thought leader in the intersection of digital media, communications, and consumer behavior.

    Ivy Wangui Mutahi

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/lessons-from-the-kigali-genocide-memorial-a-call-to-action-for-africa

  • Senegal, Chad cut military ties with France; Australia bans social media for under 16s: A snapshot of world’s top stories #rwanda #RwOT

    Senegal and Chad End Military Cooperation with France

    Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has called for the removal of French troops from the West African nation, citing national sovereignty.

    In an interview with international media ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Thiaroye massacre—when hundreds of African riflemen were killed by French forces on December 1, 1944, for demanding their pay—Faye emphasized the incompatibility of military bases with Senegal’s independence.

    'Senegal is an independent and sovereign country, and sovereignty does not accommodate the presence of military bases,' Faye asserted.

    President Bassirou Diomaye Faye assumed office in April.

    Faye also revealed that French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the Thiaroye incident as a massacre in an official letter.

    “It is not enough to recognize it as a massacre; this acknowledgement must pave the way for full collaboration to uncover the complete truth about Thiaroye’s tragic events,” he stated.

    Faye’s remarks coincided with Chad’s announcement on Thursday that it would terminate its security and defence cooperation agreement with France. This move aligns with a regional shift, as nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have recently expelled French forces to redefine their security partnerships.

    Australia Bans Social Media for Children Under 16

    Australia has enacted one of the world’s strictest regulations targeting Big Tech by banning social media access for children under 16.

    Passed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the law requires platforms like Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, as well as TikTok, to block minors from logging in or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million).

    A trial phase for enforcing the law begins in January 2025, with the full ban taking effect in a year.

    Passed on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the law requires platforms like Meta’s Instagram and Facebook, as well as TikTok, to block minors from logging in or face fines of up to A$49.5 million ($32 million).

    Unlike similar legislation in France or U.S. states, which allow parental consent for access, Australia’s law is absolute. The move is aimed at addressing social media’s mental health impact on young people and could set a precedent for other governments globally.

    Kenyan Deputy President’s Motorcade Attacked During Burial Ceremony

    Recently impeached Kenya Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was on Thursday forced to scamper for safety after goons invaded a burial ceremony he was attending in Limuru within Kiambu County.

    The attackers indiscriminately assaulted mourners, and Gachagua’s motorcade sustained damage.

    A collage of images showing a vehicle belonging to Rigathi Gachagua, damaged during the ugly incident.

    In a statement shared on X, the former Deputy president condemned the attack, claiming that the State had intentionally withdrawn his security detail to facilitate such an attack.

    “Earlier this week the government withdrew the final aspects of my security that was in place after the impeachment process we are contesting. We did not raise issue with this decision although expectations were that any Kenyan who has served at the level of government that I was privileged to serve at, would be secured by government even after leaving office,” he alleged.

    Gachagua, impeached in October for allegedly undermining President William Ruto and other officials, has contested his removal in court.

    President Kagame Discusses DRC Security Crisis with Angola’s Lourenço

    Rwandan President Paul Kagame and his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, held a phone discussion on Thursday about the security situation in eastern DRC.

    Eastern DRC remains plagued by conflict between government forces and the M23 rebel group, which controls much of North Kivu Province.

    The talks came after a November 27 discussion between Lourenço and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and a roadmap agreement between Rwanda, DRC, and Angola to dismantle the FDLR, a terrorist group in the region.

    The office of President Lourenço, who serves as the African Union-appointed mediator between Rwanda and the DRC, stated that the conversation between the two leaders took place via phone.

    Photos from the call showed Lourenço accompanied by his foreign affairs and security teams, who had recently participated in Rwanda-DRC talks in Luanda.

    Rwanda Unveils National FinTech Strategy to Spur Financial Growth

    Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT launched a five-year FinTech Strategy (2024—2029) on Thursday, aiming to foster a robust FinTech ecosystem and position the country as a regional financial hub.

    The strategy prioritizes improving financial literacy, expanding access to investment, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and developing digital infrastructure.

    “Today marks a significant milestone in Rwanda’s digital transformation journey as we launch our national fintech strategy. This strategy represents not just a policy document but our country’s commitment to positioning Rwanda as a leading fintech hub in Africa,” Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire said during the launch in Kigali.

    Rwandan Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire speaks during the launch of the National Fintech Strategy in Kigali on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

    Rwanda aims to attract 300 FinTech players, generate 7,500 jobs, and raise $200 million in investments by 2029.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/senegal-chad-cut-military-ties-with-france-australia-bans-social-media-for

  • Over 36,000 refugees resettled from Rwanda to third countries in the last 18 years #rwanda #RwOT

    Over 36,000 refugees resettled from Rwanda to third countries in the last 18 years

    The largest camp, Mahama, houses 68,115 refugees,

    The announcement came during a discussion between the Ministry and the Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security on November 27, 2024.

    Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, explained that many refugees in Rwanda’s camps seek resettlement in countries like the USA, Canada, and others. “This year alone, 5,000 refugees have been resettled, bringing the total to 36,000 since 2006,” he stated.

    The recent influx of refugees includes around 15,000 Congolese fleeing the ongoing M23 conflict, bringing the total number of refugees currently residing in Rwanda to approximately 16,000.

    Rwanda continues to support its refugee population through employment programs and the provision of documentation that enables them to compete for jobs across various sectors of the economy.

    Senator Evode Uwizeyimana raised concerns about some refugees who fabricate family connections to be resettled in specific countries, pointing out that those selected for resettlement may struggle to adapt or thrive in their new environments.

    “Some refugees lie about family relationships with those who have already been resettled abroad. These individuals often feel disconnected, with no strong ties to either the host country or their country of origin,” Uwizeyimana said.

    Minister Murasira acknowledged these challenges, emphasizing that individuals preparing for resettlement receive counseling from mental health professionals to ensure a smooth transition despite the difficulties.

    He also noted that Rwanda hosts refugees from diverse regions, which contributes to the large refugee population in the country. However, he encouraged refugees to embrace both their host country and their home country.

    Resettlement to third countries remains a key solution for refugees who are unable to integrate into their host country or return to their countries of origin.

    As of the latest statistics, Rwanda is home to over 135,000 refugees. Mahama camp, houses 68,115 refugees, while other camps such as Kiziba, Kigeme, Mugombwa, Nyabiheke, and Nkamira shelter a combined total of over 67,000 refugees.

    Mahama camp, houses 68,115 refugees.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/over-36-000-refugees-resettled-from-rwanda-to-third-countries-in-the-last-18

  • Marking the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism #rwanda #RwOT

    As we join the international community in marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the 16 Days of Activism, it is vital to shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by women worldwide, including from Israel and Rwanda, and reaffirm our collective commitment to eradicating this pervasive issue.​​

    More than 400 days have passed since Hamas abducted hundreds of civilians from Israel. To date, 101 hostages, including women and children, remain in captivity in the Gaza Strip.

    These hostages have been denied Red Cross access, and absolutely no contact with them has been allowed.​​ These precious human beings, including women and daughters, endure unimaginable isolation and suffering.

    In this context, we recall that the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Sexual Violence in Conflict has reported that there is clear and convincing information that some of the hostages have been subjected to various forms of sexual violence including rape and sexualized torture and that there are reasonable grounds to believe that such violence is ongoing.

    ​​This enduring tragedy – which has unfolded over 400 days – underscores the need for urgent action to be undertaken by the international community, in line with the global commitments we have all endorsed under UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.​​ ​​

    This landmark resolution calls on us to safeguard women and girls in conflict and prevent their victimization.​​ So long as the hostages remain in custody, and continue to be brutalized by Hamas, we are witnessing the utter failure of the international community to uphold the principles on UNSCR 1325, including the protection of women and girls. We are not only failing Israeli women; we are failing humanity as a whole​​.

    We urge you to join in the humanitarian call for the immediate release of all of the hostages being held captive in Gaza by the Hamas terrorist organization, including women, children, husbands and fathers, the elderly and the sick and wounded.

    Their plight is a universal concern that transcends politics, bound by our shared commitment to human rights and justice. Let us act together to uphold the dignity and safety of all women and children — as well as all of humankind — affirming the world’s resolve to combat violence against them in every form.

    We ask that you take action in your circles of influence — vis-à-vis world decision makers, local leaders and civil society — to orange the world and free the hostages. Let us hope and pray that by the time that next year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is commemorated, all of the hostages being held in Gaza will be reunited with their loved ones, safe and sound in their homes. But their release depends on the actions of each and every one of us. Not apathy and indifference.

    Rwanda has made remarkable strides in promoting gender equality, with an unwavering and vocal commitment of HE the president. Despite these advancements, GBV remains a pressing concern.

    According to the UNHCR Rwanda GBV Situational Analysis Dashboard for example, over 10,000 cases of GBV were reported in the first half of 2024.

    These figures remind us that while progress has been made, the fight against GBV requires sustained efforts and innovative solutions and we all need to work together to eradicate this phenomenon

    With hope and determination,

    Einat Weiss

    Ambassador, State of Israel to Rwanda

    Einat Weiss is the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Rwanda.

    Einat Weiss

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/marking-the-international-day-to-eliminate-violence-against-women-and-the-16

  • Rwanda, Egypt’s foreign ministers explore new avenues for strengthening bilateral ties #rwanda #RwOT

    According to Egypt Today, the two ministers explored ways to deepen collaboration in key sectors, including health, trade, economic cooperation, and capacity building. They also discussed the exchange of expertise through training programs facilitated by the Egyptian Agency for Partnership for Development.

    The ministers expressed a shared desire to convene a joint committee between the two countries at the earliest opportunity and to organize a business forum during the committee’s proceedings. This forum would aim to foster stronger ties between the private sectors of both nations.

    Additionally, the ministers reviewed progress on the “Egypt-Rwanda Magdi Yacoub Heart Center,” a significant initiative that expands the reach of one of Egypt’s leading heart treatment centers to Rwanda. The center is expected to be a major healthcare facility in Rwanda and the wider African region.

    In the broader context, the two officials also discussed developments across the African continent. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the African Union’s institutions and promoting sustainable development in line with Agenda 2063. They also pledged mutual support for nominations in regional and international forums.

    Rwanda and Egypt share a rich history of diplomatic relations. The Egyptian Embassy in Kigali was established in 1976, and Rwanda re-opened its embassy in Cairo in March 2015. The two countries have forged strong ties across multiple sectors, including political, economic, cultural, and development cooperation.

    Both countries are active members of regional organizations such as the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) Agency, the African Union, and the Nile Basin Initiative.

    The Egypt-Rwanda Joint Commission, which was established in 1989, has seen significant collaboration. In 2009, the second round of the Joint Commission led to the signing of ten cooperation agreements spanning agriculture, education, health, industrial development, and other sectors.

    Notably, Egypt played a pivotal role in facilitating the construction of the Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Centre, which is set to become the first dedicated cardiac hospital in Rwanda and Sub-Saharan Africa. The $20 million facility, currently under construction in Masaka, Kicukiro District, is expected to be completed in 2025.

    In August 2024, the Rwandan government agreed to allocate land for the establishment of an Egyptian logistics hub. In return, Egypt committed to providing land for Rwanda to enhance trade and investment opportunities.

    Additionally, Rwandan and Egyptian officials recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the supply of medical equipment and devices for the heart center once it is completed.

    These developments reflect the ongoing strengthening of relations between Rwanda and Egypt, underscoring a shared commitment to mutual growth and cooperation across multiple sectors.

    Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe (left), and his Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdel Aati (right), held a phone call on Thursday during which they discussed new avenues for strengthening bilateral ties.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-egypt-s-foreign-ministers-explore-new-avenues-for-strengthening

  • President Kagame discusses security situation in eastern DRC with Angola’s Lourenço #rwanda #RwOT

    Eastern DRC has been plagued by conflict for the past three years, marked by clashes between a coalition of government forces and the armed M23 rebel group, which controls significant areas of North Kivu Province.

    The office of President Lourenço, who serves as the African Union-appointed mediator between Rwanda and the DRC, stated that the conversation between the two leaders took place via phone.

    From photos shared on social media, it appears that during the call, President Lourenço was accompanied by members of Angola’s foreign affairs and security teams, who had recently represented Angola in the Rwanda-DRC talks held in Luanda on November 25, 2024.

    This dialogue followed another discussion President Lourenço held with DRC’s Félix Tshisekedi on November 27.

    These engagements came shortly after Rwanda, DRC, and Angola’s envoys agreed on a roadmap to dismantle the FDLR, a terrorist group operating in the region.

    The agreement to dismantle the FDLR is structured into three phases, to be completed within three months.

    The first phase involves a thorough 15-day assessment of the FDLR’s threat level, pinpointing its bases, and evaluating its arsenal. This stage aims to establish a clear understanding of the group’s capabilities and operational reach.

    Following this, the second phase will see the launch of coordinated military offensives targeting the FDLR and its affiliates. These operations will be conducted alongside joint evaluations overseen by Angola’s security leadership, ensuring a comprehensive and unified approach to neutralizing the group.

    The final phase focuses on repatriating FDLR combatants back to Rwanda and reintegrating them into civilian life. Concurrently, efforts will be directed toward mending Rwanda-DRC relations, which have been strained since early 2022. This phase underscores the broader objective of fostering long-term peace and stability in the region.

    Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, clarified that the M23 issue was not a primary focus of the November 25 talks. He noted that subsequent meetings would address M23-related concerns.

    'We agreed to meet again to find solutions to this issue. As a country, we have highlighted three security concerns between Rwanda and the DRC: dismantling the FDLR, lifting our defensive measures, and resolving the M23 matter,' he said.

    President Lourenço aims to facilitate direct dialogue between Kagame and Tshisekedi once their countries’ ministerial-level envoys finalize actionable solutions to restore peace and security in eastern DRC.

    The office of President Lourenço, who serves as the African Union-appointed mediator between Rwanda and the DRC, stated that the conversation between the two leaders took place via phone.

    From photos shared on social media, it appears that during the call, President Lourenço was accompanied by members of Angola’s foreign affairs and security teams, who had recently represented Angola in the Rwanda-DRC talks held in Luanda on November 25, 2024.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/president-kagame-discusses-security-situation-in-eastern-drc-with-angola-s

  • AfDB@60: Exploring contributions to Rwanda’s energy sector #rwanda #RwOT

    The Rwandan government understands this too well, and its partnerships with the African Development Bank (AfDB) over the past six decades have continued to transform the country’s energy sector, putting Rwanda on the world map as one of the fastest-growing economies.

    Since the inception of the regional multilateral development finance institution in 1964, Rwanda’s energy sector has benefited from AfDB financing for 16 energy projects. AfDB’s current project portfolio in Rwanda includes six projects, accounting for a $521.82 million investment in the country.

    With such partnerships from AfDB and other development partners, Rwanda is well on its way to achieving universal electricity access by 2024, with over 74% of households connected as of 2023 up from 16.8% in 2012.

    AfDB’s strategic investments have helped power the remotest villages, ensuring that homes, schools, and health centers benefit from reliable energy. The projects have also led to job creation, both during construction and in industries powered by the new energy infrastructure.

    The energy sector is the driving force behind any nation’s growth and development.

    Scaling Up Electricity Access Program (SEAP)

    The SEAP has been a cornerstone of Rwanda’s journey toward universal electricity access. Over 8,112 kilometers of distribution lines have been established, connecting homes, schools, and businesses to the national grid.

    The program has also provided over 193,000 new on-grid connections, including 2,112 productive use connections for small businesses. The rural electrification rate has surged, lighting up homes and powering economic activities across the country.

    For Jacqueline, a shop owner in Nyamasheke, electricity has changed her life. Before SEAP, her shop closed at sundown due to the lack of power. Today, she runs a freezer to sell cold drinks, generating enough income to send her children to school.

    'Electricity has changed everything,' Jacqueline says, reflecting the life-changing impact of the AfDB’s investments.

    The KivuWatt project has unlocked the vast methane gas reserves of Lake Kivu to generate electricity.

    KivuWatt: Harnessing Methane for Clean Energy

    AfDB’s support for the KivuWatt project has unlocked the vast methane gas reserves of Lake Kivu to generate electricity. With an initial output of 26 MW and plans to expand to 100 MW, KivuWatt provides reliable, climate-friendly power, reducing reliance on wood and diesel.

    This energy has spurred business growth in western Rwanda, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.

    Renewable Energy Investments

    AfDB has been instrumental in driving Rwanda’s push for clean energy. Solar projects have brought light to remote communities, benefitting over 20% of households outside the grid.

    Additionally, small hydropower plants have provided affordable, sustainable energy to thousands, contributing to a renewable energy mix that now accounts for 50% of Rwanda’s energy supply. These investments not only reduce environmental impact but also lower energy costs for businesses and households.

    Emmanuel, a farmer in Bugesera, now irrigates his crops using solar-powered pumps. 'I no longer rely on the rains, and my harvests have tripled,' he shares.

    As the African Development Bank celebrates six decades of partnership with Rwanda, its contributions to the energy sector have proven essential in powering the nation’s growth. AfDB’s investments ensure that energy is not just a service, but a lifeline for development.

    With energy at the core of Rwanda’s Vision 2050, AfDB remains a trusted partner, empowering the nation to build a sustainable, inclusive future.

    The rural electrification rate has surged, lighting up homes and powering economic activities across the country.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/afdb-60-exploring-contributions-to-rwanda-s-energy-sector

  • RDF, UPDF discuss strategies to tackle border security issues #rwanda #RwOT

    Attendees of the 3-day meeting include the Second and Fifth Infantry Division Commanders from RDF, the Second Infantry Division Commander and his delegation from UPDF, and Defence Attachés from both nations. These leaders convened to discuss strategies to combat negative activities impacting the border region.

    Brig Gen Frank Mutembe, RDF’s 2nd Infantry Division Commander, welcomed the UPDF delegation and emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing illicit activities on the border.

    'Such meetings are aimed at discussing challenges our border communities usually face, including drug dealing, illegal border crossing, smuggling, and deforestation,' he noted.

    The head of the UPDF delegation, Brig Gen Paul Muhanguzi, expressed gratitude to the leadership of both armies and their Chiefs of Defence Staff for facilitating the meeting.

    'We continue to thank our Heads of State for creating this enabling environment. It is a great honour to fulfil the vision of our great leaders and review security requirements for our border communities,' he said.

    Before the meeting officially commenced, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to Musanze district officials, joined by the Mayors of Burera and Gicumbi districts, which border Uganda.

    Before the meeting officially commenced, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to Musanze district officials, joined by the Mayors of Burera and Gicumbi districts, which border Uganda.

    The three-day meeting is taking place in Musanze.

    RDF and UPDF gathered in Musanze to discuss strategies to tackle border security issues.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rdf-updf-discuss-strategies-to-tackle-border-security-issues