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Rogers Taitika, a spokesperson of Elgon region police, told Xinhua over the phone that local officials and relatives report that over 100 people are missing in the landslides that happened Wednesday night, burying dozens of houses.

Taitika said 14 bodies have so far been retrieved and about 15 people who were critically injured have been admitted at a local health facility. “The search for victims is still going on but more than 100 people are still missing according to local leaders and relatives,” Taitika said.

The landslides, triggered by torrential rains Wednesday night in the mountainous region, buried 40 houses and partially damaged others, according to the URCS.

Ramazan Twalla, a district official, told Xinhua by telephone that urgent humanitarian assistance, including food and temporary shelter, is needed for the affected families.

The URCS said that heavy rains across Uganda are intensifying the adverse effects of climate change. “As a national society, we remain vigilant, delivering early warning messages through our community radio networks and providing timely support to those affected,” the agency said.

Landslides have become frequent in Uganda during periods of heavy rainfall. In August, more than 30 people lost their lives in a landslide at a garbage dump site in central Uganda, following days of torrential rain. Earlier in May, landslides in the western district of Kasese killed eight people.

Rescuers carry the body of a victim retrieved from the site of a garbage dump landslide at Kiteezi landfill in Kampala, Uganda, on Aug. 14, 2024. The death toll of the garbage dump site landslide in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, climbed to 30 Wednesday, a police spokesperson said here. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua)

Xinhua

This came during the eighth Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa Week (PIDA Week 2024), held on Nov. 25-29 under the theme “Fostering Resilient and Inclusive Infrastructure for Africa’s Sustainable Growth: Leveraging Transformative Financing and Regional Integration” at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital.

Addressing the closing session Thursday, Kamugisha Kazaura, director for Infrastructure and Energy at the AU Commission, underscored the urgent need to address financing and capacity development gaps as a crucial enabler for the realization of major infrastructure development projects in Africa. Noting the critical gap in financing infrastructure projects in Africa, he stressed the need to strengthen public-private partnerships to bridge the gap.

“We need to mobilize domestic as well as international financing. This is very crucial to be able to bridge the financing gap. In order to be able to implement complex development projects, we need the right requisite technical and capacity building,” Kazaura said.

According to the AU, as a continental initiative spanning until 2040, the PIDA aims to address infrastructure deficits across the continent. The PIDA is a continental initiative adopted by all African countries to mobilize resources to transform Africa with modern infrastructure.

Data from the AU show that through PIDA projects, nearly 30 million people in Africa have gained access to electricity, bringing the continent’s overall electricity access rate to approximately 44 percent. Since the start of PIDA, more than 16,000 km of roads and 4,000 km of railway lines have been developed across the continent.

While addressing the opening session Monday, Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the AU Commission, underscored that the African continent is at a critical juncture in its development. He said the structural transformation of African economies, as envisioned in Agenda 2063, the AU’s 50-year continental development blueprint, requires modern, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure.

Faki underscored that the theme of PIDA Week 2024 reflects Africa’s common commitment to building a prosperous and integrated future for all. He said the PIDA remains Africa’s flagship program for developing cross-border infrastructure that promotes integration and sustainability.

Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime noted that a significant amount of investment is needed to meet core infrastructure development in developing countries.

“Half of Africa’s population still lack access to electricity, and millions of people have no access to clean drinking water. On top of that, a few people in the continent have access to all weather road and railway network, and Africa is below the global average almost in all aspects,” Sime said.

He said poor physical and digital infrastructure remains the most formidable challenge to boost intra-Africa trade and spur development. Inadequate financial resources and high investment costs are key impediments to Africa’s infrastructure development.

“We cannot rely solely on traditional financing mechanisms. We must leverage innovative funding sources especially public-private partnerships and international financing options to turn our visions into reality,” Sime said.

Xinhua

This must-attend event is highlighted by its theme, “Economic Events to Promote Tourism,” aiming to establish powerful synergies between the economy and the tourism sector. This year, Rwanda is honored to be the guest country, celebrating its 50th anniversary with grandeur.

Rwanda: A Story of Transformation and Innovation

Rwanda’s selection as the guest of honor at FIDAK 2024 is a testament to the exceptional relationship between Rwanda and Senegal. In a setting where innovation meets sustainability, Rwanda has managed to reinvent itself through a clear vision of its economic development.

Its participation in the fair will be illustrated by exhibitions showcasing its innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture, tourism, and industry, demonstrating how a country can rise with strength and resilience.

A Focus on Sustainable Tourism

FIDAK 2024 will highlight sustainable tourism, a sector in which Rwanda excels. As a popular destination committed to environmental protection and species conservation, Rwanda will have the opportunity to share its model of responsible tourism.

Throughout the fair, seminars and discussions will explore best practices for reconciling economic development and ecological preservation, thus inspiring other African nations.

Rwanda’s selection as the guest of honor at FIDAK 2024 is a testament to the exceptional relationship between Rwanda and Senegal

Exhibitions and Cultural Events

Rwanda’s presence at FIDAK will be enriched by exhibitions, seminars, and cultural performances. Visitors will discover the rich cultural heritage of Rwanda, including its crafts, cuisine, and music.

Conferences will also be organized to discuss Rwanda’s achievements in economic development, tourism, and local production, serving as a model for other countries in search of sustainable development.

Strengthening Links Between Nations

Rwanda’s participation in FIDAK 2024 also underscores the importance of cross-border cooperation in Africa. Rwanda and Senegal share a common vision focused on economic growth, regional integration, and knowledge exchange. These interactions will not only promote the development of both countries but also enhance the progress of the entire African continent, stimulating intra-African trade.

An Invitation to Innovation and Engagement

FIDAK 2024 will serve as a platform of opportunities for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs from Rwanda and beyond.

By showcasing their innovative initiatives, participants will have the chance to connect, strengthen their networks, and benefit from a collective growth dynamic. Rwanda, as the guest of honor, embodies this aspiration perfectly: the drive to move forward together.

The International Dakar Fair 2024 promises to be a landmark event where Rwanda, as the guest of honor, will showcase its economic and cultural achievements.

This event will provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the future of tourism and economic development in Africa while reinforcing the fraternal ties between Rwanda and Senegal. Get ready to discover an inspiring Rwanda and explore the many possibilities that this continental gathering has to offer.

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Karirima Ngarambe A.

The program, currently being piloted at Volcanoes National Park, allows tourists to make symbolic financial contributions during real-time interactions with mountain gorillas through digital wallets, similar to accounts provided by mobile money platforms like MoMo. The funds can be used to protect gorilla habitats and enhance their well-being.

So far, 20 mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park have been successfully integrated into the system, enabling the apes to “pay” for essential conservation services like hiring park rangers who protect them.

Developed by Africa-based startup Tehanu, the initiative also incentivizes local communities to participate in wildlife conservation. For example, residents near the park can earn income by undertaking ecosystem-supporting tasks like photographing wildlife, recording animal sounds, or reporting sightings of specific species.

Gorilla tourism remains a key revenue stream for Rwanda, with visitors paying a minimum of $1,500 per person for gorilla trekking permits, which grant access to the park and an hour spent with the gorillas.

Jonathan Ledgard, the CEO and co-founder of Tehanu, told a local daily that the initiative not only enhances conservation funding but also deepens the connection between visitors and Rwanda’s iconic primates, offering a new dimension to eco-tourism in the region.

'By integrating both wildlife and humans into the financial system, the interspecies money initiative aims to create a circular economy that fosters mutual prosperity,' Ledgard told The New Times.

He added: 'In Kigali, you can send money to your village using Momo. Now imagine a bat, a tree, or even a gorilla being able to receive and spend money, all for services that benefit them.'

In developing the digital platform, Tehanu leveraged artificial intelligence to understand the specific needs of the gorillas.

Gorilla tourism remains a key revenue stream for Rwanda, with visitors paying a minimum of $1,500 per person for gorilla trekking permits, which grant access to the park and an hour spent with the gorillas.

In 2023, the number of tourists visiting gorilla sites reached a historic high, growing by 29.4% to 25,927 visitors, according to an April report by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).

The tourism sector also saw impressive growth, generating $650 million (Frw 832 billion) in revenue, marking a 35% increase compared to 2022.

Tehanu estimates that Rwanda’s mountain gorilla population has a financial value of approximately $1.4 billion, equivalent to about 10% of the country’s GDP.

So far, 20 mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park have been successfully integrated into the system, enabling the apes to “pay” for essential conservation services like hiring park rangers who protect them.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Leaders and experts from the agriculture and food security sectors gathered to discuss innovative solutions and strategies to strengthen global food security and build resilient food systems.

The summit brought together 21 ministers and government officials responsible for global food security, as well as leading experts and scientists from around the world. Discussions focused on current challenges, future opportunities, and the importance of ensuring food systems are resilient and sustainable to address future crises.

Organized by ADNEC in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the summit highlighted the alarming statistic that over 733 million people worldwide suffer from hunger, a crisis that threatens peace, stability, and human dignity.

The summit also emphasized the vital role of the Islamic Organization for Food Security in tackling these challenges, noting significant progress in 41 member states through initiatives focused on governance, sustainability, and resource mobilization.

A proposal was made for a dedicated Food Security Day for members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, offering a platform for ongoing action and reflection to improve food security systems.

Focus on Africa

A key highlight of the summit was the focus on sustainable agri-food systems in Africa, particularly in West Africa, where approximately 73% of farming households have improved their resilience to climate shocks.

Held for the first time in the region, the summit took place under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, as part of Global Food Week, which ran from November 26—28 at ADNEC Abu Dhabi. The event also featured the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition, the Abu Dhabi Date Show, and the Abu Dhabi Coffee Platform.

Key recommendations

Summit participants stressed sustainability as a key pillar of food security. Recommendations included more efficient resource utilization, the adoption of renewable energy in agriculture, and support for value-added food production. The importance of diversifying export markets and attracting foreign direct investments to stimulate economic growth was also emphasized.

The empowerment of women in agriculture was a central theme, with participants recognizing the critical role women play in advancing economic sustainability within the food sector.

Despite the challenges posed by greenhouse gas emissions, the summit also highlighted opportunities for a transition to clean energy. A six-pillar framework—encompassing inclusivity, incentives, information, investments, institutions, and innovation—was proposed to drive an effective and inclusive transformation in global food systems.

Innovative solutions

The summit showcased cutting-edge solutions to feed the growing global population, emphasizing the need for investments in advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to ensure reliable food supplies for future generations.

Call for global action

The summit concluded with a strong call for global collaboration across food value chains to overcome current challenges and build resilient food systems. Participants stressed the urgent need for international cooperation to create a fair, resilient global food system that guarantees sustainable and healthy food for all.

UAE’s leadership praised

Participants praised the UAE’s leadership in food security, with the summit reaffirming the nation’s commitment to addressing this critical global issue.

The UAE’s Ne’ma initiative, aimed at transforming consumer behavior and reducing food waste, was also commended.

The summit reinforced the importance of investing in scientific research, promoting crop diversification, and adopting sustainable practices, all of which are essential for building resilient food systems and ensuring reliable, sustainable food supplies for future generations.

UAE Minister of Economy, Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri delivering remarks at the summit.

Renowned Amercian comedianand TV host Steve Harvey attended the summit. He traveled to UAE after his visit to countries including Rwanda.

The summit brought together 21 ministers and government officials responsible for global food security, as well as leading experts and scientists from around the world.

IGIHE

The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners, and private sector to reflect on the enduring partnership that has contributed to Rwanda’s transformation.

Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, delivered a keynote address that highlighted the pivotal role the AfDB has played in the country’s socio-economic growth.

'This moment offers us an opportunity to reflect on our impactful journey and reaffirm our shared visions for a brighter and more inclusive world,' Murangwa said, hailing Rwanda’s progress, calling the country 'a beacon of hope and a model for economic development.'

He acknowledged President Kagame’s transformative leadership and the pivotal role of the AfDB in supporting Rwanda’s recovery and growth after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.

The AfDB’s partnership with Rwanda dates back to 1965, with agriculture being the initial area of focus. Over the years, the collaboration has expanded to cover various sectors, including energy, water, sanitation, and infrastructure.

Yusuf Murangwa, Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning hailed the partnership with AfDB during his keynote address.

'These achievements are a testament to the strength of our partnership and the unwavering commitment of everyone involved,' Murangwa stated.

Today, Rwanda’s portfolio with the Bank stands at $2.21 billion, with 27 projects directly aligned with the country’s National Strategies for Transformation (NST1 and NST2).

One of the key areas of success highlighted at the event was the Bank’s investment in Rwanda’s energy sector. 'These investments have been crucial in improving the standards of living and creating a foundation for sustainable economic growth,' Murangwa stated.

The country’s electricity access has seen a remarkable increase from 16.8% in 2012 to 74.4% in 2023, with the goal of achieving universal access in the near future.

In addition to infrastructure, the AfDB has supported Rwanda’s efforts in human capital development. A notable example is the establishment of Carnegie Mellon University Africa (CMU Africa) in Kigali in 2018, which offers world-class master’s programs in fields such as artificial intelligence and engineering.

Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s exceptional relationship with the African Development Bank, noting that it is the only country in Africa to fully utilize all the Bank’s financial mechanisms.

Aissa Toure Sarr, AfDB Country Manager for Rwanda, highlighted Rwanda’s exceptional relationship with the AfDB

'Rwanda is the fifth largest customer of the AfDB on the continent. This underscores the country’s strong partnership with us,' she said.

Sarr discussed key challenges faced by the private sector, particularly the lack of adequate access to finance, technology, and capacity building, especially within the informal sector. She also addressed climate change issues, explaining that the Bank has established a fund to raise climate financing, which will help build more climate-resilient infrastructure.

Moving forward, Sarr stressed the importance of private sector development for Rwanda’s long-term growth, saying that the country’s future economic development will be driven by the private sector to achieve Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation goals.

'We must continue to build on this foundation, especially through private sector development, to secure Rwanda’s future prosperity,' she pointed out.

The celebration also featured the story of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, a beneficiary of the AfDB’s investments in education and skills development. Gatsinzi, who began her career in prosthetics and orthotics in 2014, shared her personal journey.

'Thanks to the AfDB’s investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,' she said. Today, Gatsinzi advocates for the dignity and independence of persons with disabilities, using her expertise to drive change in her community.

Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi is a beneficiary of the AfDB’s investments in education and skills development

Gatsinzi’s story is one of many that highlight the AfDB’s impact on human capital development. Thousands of professionals, including students, healthcare workers, and faculty members, have benefited from AfDB-supported training programs, scholarships, and research opportunities.

Notably, 40% of these beneficiaries are women, reflecting the Bank’s commitment to gender equity and inclusive growth.

The AfDB’s role in Rwanda’s development has been transformative, and with the shared vision for a sustainable future, the partnership is poised to continue its success.

This 60th anniversary not only marked a celebration of the past but also set the stage for the future, with a continued commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development for Rwanda.

The occasion brought together key figures from the government, development partners and the private sector.

A cake was cut in celebration of the milestone of the 60 year partnership between Rwanda and AfDB.

Sam K Nkurunziza

This recognition came on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, during a visit by World Bank representatives and donors to SAIP II-supported projects in Rwamagana District.

SAIP II is implemented under the Single Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) of the Rwanda Agricultural and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).

Some of the projects visited include the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which utilizes water from the Nyirabidibiri dam for irrigation and greenhouse farming, as well as an avocado farm spanning eight hectares.

Jean Hitimana, the SAIP II manager, revealed that the initiative, along with its predecessor SAIP I, had received a total of $52 million in funding. He emphasized that the project aims to boost agricultural productivity in Rwanda, with a particular focus on crops such as maize, beans, potatoes, vegetables, and fruits.

'The primary goal is to improve nutrition, which is why we are working with farmers on various initiatives, including distributing chickens for egg production, teaching kitchen gardening, and supplying mushroom cultivation kits. These efforts all contribute to improving the diets of local farmers,' Hitimana said.

He added that World Bank officials and other donors were pleased with the positive outcomes their support had produced in the community, urging citizens to maintain the infrastructure in place and use the funding responsibly.

'The donors observed the progress made and were pleased to see that the funding was being used effectively. Farmers shared their progress and outlined their plans for future growth, showing that the funding is continuing to deliver positive results,' he added.

Fidele Dushimirimana, president of the Gwiza Rw34 cooperative, which farms across 215 hectares in the Mwulire, Rubona, Nzige, and Gahengeri sectors, explained that before the introduction of irrigation infrastructure, farmers relied on unpredictable rainfall, which often led to crop losses.

'Now, we can farm even without rain. We grow crops like chili peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and potatoes, while also practicing crop rotation with maize, beans, and soybeans. Many of us now have a stable income, as tomato farmers, for example, can sell their produce regularly in the market,' Dushimirimana said.

He expressed his gratitude to the Rwandan government for facilitating such effective partnerships with donors, which have quadrupled the benefits farmers are experiencing and allowed them to farm sustainably throughout the year.

Josiane Mukansanga, a farmer from Kigarama in the Nzige sector, shared her success story of growing vegetables, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes.

'Previously, we farmed just for subsistence, but now we have access to markets where we sell our produce regularly. In one season, I earned over 300,000 Rwandan Francs, which enabled me to renovate my house and buy livestock,' Mukansanga said.

Oliver Mutesi, the Director of Agriculture and Natural Resources for Rwamagana District, praised the SAIP for its support, including the provision of solar-powered irrigation systems and other vital resources.

She urged the World Bank to continue supporting such initiatives, recognizing the profound impact they have on farmers’ livelihoods. Mutesi also assured that the district would continue to monitor and support farmers in maintaining the infrastructure provided to them.

Currently, the SAIP II is operational in 20 districts across Rwanda, helping farmers increase productivity in crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, vegetables, and fruits.

The project emphasizes improving nutrition, facilitating small-scale irrigation on small plots, and supporting smallholder farmers through infrastructure development and value addition.

Irrigation infrastructure have reduced farmers’ reliance on rainfall.

Farmers also benefit form greenhouse technology to improve yields.

Greenhouses have helped farmers to boost agrocultural productivity.

Farmers yields increased significantly.

Beneficiaries also grow eggplants

Chili is among other crops grown by farmers benefitting from World Bank in Rwamagana.

Farmers showcased agricultural produce during teh visit.

Farmers attest transformed livelihoods, thanks to the support from World Bank.

Officials from the World Bank and its donor partners have commended the successful use of funding in projects including the SAIP II.

Officials from the World Bank interacting with beneficiaries during the field visit.

World Bank officials visiting funded projects in Rwamagana.

Nyirabidibiri dam is used for irrigation of farmers’ crops.

Gwiza Rw34 cooperative is a beneficiary of World Bank’s funding.

The SAIP II is operational in 20 districts across Rwanda, helping farmers increase productivity in crops such as potatoes, beans, maize, vegetables, and fruits.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Dr. Francis Habumugisha, CEO of Mega Global Link welcomed the recognition

Each year, Karisimbi Events honors outstanding public and private companies for their exceptional business practices and customer service. Mega Global Link was among the distinguished winners this year, celebrated for its dedication to supporting Rwandans in studying abroad.

Dr. Habumugisha shared his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it will motivate the team to work even harder.

'This is a meaningful moment for Mega Global Link, Mega Global Market, and Goodrich Business Group,' he said. 'We thank God for giving us the strength, wisdom, and dedication to serve our fellow Rwandans. We are proud to be recognized as a leader in helping people travel abroad.'

He further explained that the company entered the field after witnessing many Rwandans fall victim to scams or misinformation about visa applications. 'We saw that people were being misled, promised visas they couldn’t get, or had their cases mishandled. At Mega Global Link, we are committed to honesty—we tell people the truth. If a particular visa isn’t possible, we say so, and we offer alternative solutions.'

In just one year, Mega Global Link has made a significant impact, assisting Rwandans in traveling for education, work, family visits, tourism, and medical treatment. The company collaborates with countries in Europe, Canada, and the USA.

Currently, Mega Global Link operates in Rwanda, New York, Canada, and Europe. Dr. Habumugisha expressed his pride in the company’s achievements thus far, stating that the goal for 2025 is to help even more people. 'What matters most to us is the joy of knowing we’re making a difference in people’s lives. We provide top-tier service to help our clients achieve their dreams.'

He also revealed that in the coming months, beneficiaries of Mega Global Link’s services will begin sharing their success stories, demonstrating the impact of the company’s work.

Mega Global Link is located in Kigali at Matheus House, on the third floor.

Dr. Francis Habumugisha, CEO of Mega Global Link, expressed pride and excitement about the award.

Dr. Habumugisha (in the middle) shared his gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it will motivate the team to work even harder.

Mega Global Link was among the distinguished winners this year, celebrated for its dedication to supporting Rwandans in studying abroad.

Dr. Habumugisha represented the company at the award ceremony.

IGIHE

Ramazan Twalla, the assistant chief administrative officer for Bulambuli, told Xinhua over the phone that the landslides swept through three sub-counties on Wednesday night, burying around 40 houses.

“I can confirm that nine bodies have so far been recovered this morning. The residents are still digging the soil and we expect to recover more bodies because many houses were buried,” Twalla said.

“We expect the government to send in official search and rescue teams as well as humanitarian assistance in the form of food and temporary shelters,” he added.

The landslides were triggered by days of heavy downpour in the mountainous region, said Twalla.

Xinhua

“In response to the unfriendly actions of German authorities, which were taken against Russian correspondents … as a mirror measure, it is prescribed to German correspondents to hand over their accreditation certificates and leave the territory of the Russian Federation,” Zakharova said at a media briefing.

She added that Russia will be ready to issue accreditation to new ARD employees after Germany creates conditions for the work of Russian journalists and resumes activities of Channel One’s office.

Earlier in the day, Russian media reported German authorities were closing Channel One’s office in Berlin, requiring a correspondent and a cameraman of the broadcaster to leave Germany in early December.

The broadcaster provided a document by the German authorities, which reportedly stated that “the activities of Channel One represent a significant immediate threat to public order and security in Germany and the EU as they pose a threat to the process of the formation of the public opinion and decision-making in the member states.”

This undated file photo shows the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia in Moscow. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

Xinhua