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Owned by Irene Basil, a Rwandan entrepreneur based in the United States, the factory is poised to play a pivotal role in the country’s industrial growth.

Basil chose Muhanga as the site for the factory due to its proximity to her hometown and the more affordable land prices compared to other industrial zones.

“I am driven to contribute to the development of my home country, especially my native place,” she shared in a recent interview.

The factory spans four sections, with production already underway for toilet paper. Once fully operational, the facility will produce a variety of products, including toilet paper rolls, laundry soap, sanitary pads under ‘Pure’ brand, and corrugated boxes. The toilet paper section alone can produce over 800 packs daily, each containing ten rolls.

The soap production unit is nearly complete, with 80% of the work finished. It is expected to produce up to 24 metric tons of laundry soap daily, with raw materials imported from Indonesia and India. The plant is also focused on sanitary pad production, becoming the first factory in Rwanda to manufacture them.

“Our capacity is set to produce up to 200,000 pads in an 8-hour shift and 500,000 pads in a 24-hour shift with ten pads packaged together,' said Anir Kumar, the plant manager.

Kumar emphasized the scale of the operation, noting, “This factory has been under construction for the last two years. We are now 99% complete. The final steps involve installing machines for soap and corrugated box production, which will be operational in two months.”

The factory’s infrastructure is designed to accommodate a wide range of products, with raw materials sourced from countries including China, Egypt, India, and Russia.

The sanitary pad production line will rely on imported materials such as PP films and pulps, while the corrugated box unit will provide packaging solutions for a variety of products.

“We want to reach every village and improve the hygiene and quality of life for women,” Kumar added, underscoring the factory’s commitment to quality and its potential impact on public health.

With the factory’s opening, Rwanda’s manufacturing sector is set to see a significant boost.

The new facility will reduce the country’s dependence on imports and provide much-needed employment opportunities.

Over 100 permanent jobs and more than 80 temporary jobs are expected to be created.

The construction of the factory is set to cost $30 million due to the expansion of the product range beyond the initial plans, which originally focused on only soap and sanitary products.

The plant is based in Muhanga Industrial Zone.

Somee of raw materials to be used in the production of corrugated boxes at the plant.

Anir Kumar, the plant manager presenting some of manufactured toilet papers.

At the plant, one can see tanks designated for storage of oil to be used in soap manufacturing.

Sanitary products undergo a rigorous process before distribution to the market.

Over 100 permanent jobs and more than 80 temporary jobs are expected to be created.

The plant’s capacity is set to produce up to 200,000 pads in an 8-hour shift and 500,000 in 24-hours.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The competition is set to run from November 28 to December 2, 2024, in the city of Durban.

The five athletes, coached by Christian Kamuzinzi, were flagged off by Rwego Ngarambe, Director General in charge of Sports Infrastructure Development and Management at the Ministry of Sports.

While presenting the Rwandan flag to the team, Rwego encouraged the athletes, reaffirming the nation’s full support and confidence in their abilities.

He urged them to give their best effort and aim for medals in the tournament.

The 2024 Commonwealth Karate Championships will bring together athletes from across the Commonwealth for an exciting display of skill and competition.

Competing nations include England, Scotland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Rwanda among others.

Hosted by Karate South Africa, the event marks a significant milestone as it serves as both a platform for elite karatekas and an opportunity to promote the sport’s growth within the region.

The tournament will feature categories for juniors, seniors, and veterans, showcasing inclusivity across various age groups.

Athletes will compete in Kumite (sparring) and Kata (forms), showcasing diverse styles and techniques.

The event also includes networking opportunities for national karate federations to discuss the development and integration of karate into broader sports systems.

The five athletes, coached by Christian Kamuzinzi, were flagged off by Rwego Ngarambe, the Director General of Sports Development at the Ministry of Sports.

Rwego Ngarambe, the Director General of Sports Development at the Ministry of Sports, urged the team to give their best effort and aim for medals in the tournament.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The agreement was signed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, by Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, and Argentina’s Secretary of Transport, Franco Mogetta.

Ambassador Mukantabana praised the signing as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.

“This milestone is not only an achievement for our aviation industries but also a symbol of the strong and growing ties between our nations,” she said.

Both Rwanda and Argentina share a history of strong cooperation and are now focused on further expanding and deepening their collaboration across political, economic, commercial, and cultural areas for mutual benefit.

Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana signed the agreement on behalf of Rwanda.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. Secretary of Transport, Franco Mogetta represented Argentina at the signing ceremony.

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This was revealed during discussions between MINEMA and the Senate’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security on November 27, 2024.

Rwanda has been hosting refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the past two years, particularly at the Nkamira refugee camp, where individuals seeking refuge have been granted asylum-seeker status. However, due to limited capacity, many have been relocated to other camps across the country.

Minister of Emergency Management Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira stated that Rwanda currently accommodates over 135,000 refugees, including nearly 15,000 who have arrived since the escalation of the M23 conflict. However, these refugees have not yet been granted official asylum status.

“We are currently hosting around 14,000 to 15,000 refugees who fled the DRC after the M23 conflict. They have not yet received asylum status. While Nkamira camp currently hosts about 4,000 refugees, the camp lacks the capacity to accommodate the full influx, so they have been relocated to other camps while holding refugee-seeker status,” Murasira explained.

He also mentioned that the total number of people seeking asylum in Rwanda, including those from other countries, exceeds 16,000. Refugees in various camps receive cash assistance to purchase essential items, while those at Nkamira are provided with food supplies.

Among the camps, Mahama hosts the largest number of refugees, with 68,115 individuals.

Other camps with significant refugee populations include Kiziba (14,350), Kigeme (14,868), Mugombwa (11,980), and Nyabiheke (11,480). According to MINEMA statistics, more than 9% of refugees in Rwanda live in urban areas, where they are able to meet their basic needs.

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that the DRC has over 7.2 million internally displaced persons.

By September 30, 2024, the number of displaced people from North Kivu—due to the activities of various armed groups, including the FDLR militia and the Wazalendo group—had reached 1.78 million. In the 18 months leading up to September 2024, approximately 865,000 internally displaced persons had returned to their homes.

MINEMA has announced that nearly 15,000 Congolese refugees have fled to Rwanda due to the ongoing conflict between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group.

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Makolo’s remarks were in response to a viral video of Congolese Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, who was captured inciting inmates at Munzenze Prison in Goma against Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese Tutsis, whom he referred to as 'Banyarwanda.'

In the shocking video, the minister called for violent actions against the Rwandan Head of State and those associated with Rwanda. He was also heard promising to free prisoners who help identify 'traitors' and 'foreigners,' who would then be “arrested and killed.”

Makolo termed the minister’s violent rhetoric a reflection of the constant tensions Rwanda has to deal with daily.

'How sick is the DRC justice system? So sick that the DRC justice minister Constant Mutamba wore a mask to stem the stench of rot in the Munzenze prison in Goma, a stone’s throw from the Rwandan border, while he spewed, in Kiswahili, hate speech and incited the prisoners to hunt, denounce, and kill 'Banyarwanda,’ including the President of Rwanda, in exchange for freedom. This is what Rwanda has to deal with every day. This is why Rwanda’s defensive measures remain in place,' the spokesperson wrote on X, while taking a swipe at DRC’s justice system.

Rwanda has in the past put in place defensive measures citing constant threats from the FDLR group, which comprises remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

The FDLR militia group has been accused of collaborating with the Congolese government to persecute Congolese Tutsis, many of whom have sought refuge in Rwanda. The persecution led to the rise of the M23 rebel group in 2012, which said it was fighting for the rights of the Tutsi minority in eastern Congo.

The fight between the government forces and the rebels has heightened tensions in the region as the Congolese leadership accused Rwanda of supporting M23. Rwanda denies the claim.

The situation was exacerbated after the Congolese political and military leadership, including President Tshisekedi, repeatedly declared their intention to invade Rwanda and change the country’s elected government by force.

Yesterday, there was progress in the ongoing peace talks between the two countries after an agreement was reached, outlining how the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) militia will be dismantled.

The agreement also includes Rwanda lifting the security measures it had put in place due to concerns over its security arising from the political tension in eastern DRC.

The signing of the agreement followed discussions between the two parties in Luanda, Angola. Rwanda was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, while the DRC was represented by Foreign Minister Therese K. Wagner. The meeting was also attended by Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete António, who acted as the mediator.

Yolande Makolo’s remarks were in response to a viral video of Congolese Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, who was captured inciting inmates at Munzenze Prison in Goma against Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese Tutsis, whom he referred to as 'Banyarwanda.'

Wycliffe Nyamasege

“Under the deal reached today, effective at 4 a.m. tomorrow local time, the fighting across the Lebanese-Israeli border will end,” Biden said in remarks delivered from the White House Rose Garden.

“This is designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities. What is left of Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations will not be allowed,” he added.

“Over the next 60 days, Israel will gradually withdraw its remaining forces, and civilians on both sides will soon be able to safely return to their communities and begin to rebuild their homes,” Biden said.

Israel, the president said, “retains the right to self defense” in the event that “Hezbollah or anyone else” breaks the newly announced deal, which was approved by the Israeli cabinet on the same day.

In a U.S.-France joint statement announcing the ceasefire deal, the two countries said the “announcement will create the conditions to restore lasting calm and allow residents in both countries to return safely to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line.”

The Blue Line is a demarcation line drawn by the United Nations on June 7, 2000 that is intended to separate the Israeli and Lebanese armies.

Biden in his remarks said the deal “supports Lebanon’s sovereignty, and so it heralds a new start for Lebanon.” He said no U.S. troops will be deployed to southern Lebanon.

Toward the end of his speech, Biden also alluded to the situation in Gaza, saying, “Just as the Lebanese people deserve a future of security and prosperity, so do the people of Gaza. They too deserve an end of the fighting and displacement.”

Biden said the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal “brings us closer to realizing the affirmative agenda” he has been pursuing for the Middle East region throughout his presidency, one that fulfills the Palestinian people’s legitimate aspirations for establishing a state of their own, shields Israel from terror threats and achieves the full normalization of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.

“I believe this agenda remains possible, and in my remaining time in office, I’ll work tirelessly to advance this vision for an integrated, secure and prosperous region,” Biden said.

The Israeli military drastically stepped up its strikes on Beirut hours before the government in Tel-Aviv approved the ceasefire deal, killing at least 25 people on Tuesday, according to a tally counted by CNN based on health ministry figures.

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks to the press at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Nov. 26, 2024. Biden said Tuesday the U.S.-proposed 60-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which is “designed to be” permanent, will take effect at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday local time (2:00 a.m. GMT). (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

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The event, coordinated by OAZIS Health in collaboration with Vet connect, IVSA Rwanda, Kundwa health and AMR Initiative, highlighted the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and stewardship in the context of the One Health approach.

Welcomed by Dr. Jean Bosco Ntivuguruzwa, acting Deputy Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine representing Nyagatare head of campus. He emphasized the University of Rwanda’s commitment to combating AMR by educating future leaders.

“The University of Rwanda is committed to producing future leaders who will drive impactful efforts against antimicrobial resistance. As ambassadors of change, you are called to promote awareness and catalyse meaningful actions within your communities. Your contribution to combat AMR includes raising the awareness in your community regarding the prudent use of antibiotics, respect hygiene practices, and proper waste disposal,” said Ntivuguruzwa.

He added that students hold the potential to be at the forefront of innovative solutions to AMR. He encouraged them to maintain a multidisciplinary team work to improve their creativity, acquire interdisciplinary knowledge, and nourish their passion to develop transformative strategies that will shape a healthier future for all.

Dr. Jean Bosco Ntivuguruzwa is the acting Deputy Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at UR Nyagatare campus.

Dr. Nadia Uwera, a Veterinary Doctor and Public Health Specialist, addressed the students during the workshop, emphasizing on the unique position of veterinary professionals in controlling AMR.

“As future veterinary professionals, you have the power to use and prescribe antimicrobials, you are at the forefront of the One Health approach, bridging animal and human health. So, use that power responsibly to protect the health of animals, human health, and the environment,” Uwera said.

She also encouraged the students to embrace best practices in antimicrobial stewardship, stressing the need to move away from outdated habits of irresponsible prescription.

'Fostering a culture of accountability and sustainable healthcare practices is essential for combating AMR,' Uwera added, urging the students to become role models in their communities and fields.

In the same spirit, Dr. Emile Ngabo, the Director of Operations at OAZIS Health, also spoke to the students, stressing the collective responsibility of all health professionals in addressing AMR.

“Antimicrobial resistance is not just a medical or veterinary issue; it is a shared challenge that requires a united front,' he said.

Ngabo stressed that the education students in the campus has a pivotal role to play, the student teachers are essential in promoting responsible antimicrobial use while educating and empowering future generations for a radical behavior change.

Dr. Nadia Uwera addressing the students during the workshop.

The week-long initiative included several activities aimed at raising awareness about AMR.
In addition to the workshop at UR, OAZIS Health launched a media campaign, featuring talk shows on various radio and television stations across the country.

These discussions reached a wide audience, emphasizing the importance of responsible antimicrobial use in both human, plants and veterinary health.

The organization also organized an online campaign that engaged thousands of participants from six countries including Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda, reaching over 8,000 people on various online platforms including social media in collaboration with different regional stakeholders.

The campaign was conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, and local languages like Kinyarwanda, and Kiswahili, ensuring that the message about AMR resonated with diverse audiences across Africa.

AMR is a growing global health threat, with the World Health Organization warning that it is one of the top 10 health threats worldwide. In 2019 alone, more than 1.27 million deaths were attributed to drug-resistant infections.

As Rwanda continues to focus on educating the next generation of health professionals, the role of veterinary students in combating AMR is becoming increasingly critical. This year’s World AMR awareness week activities were conducted under the theme 'Educate, Advocate, Act Now'

The workshop has strengthened a message that the fight against antimicrobial resistance requires cooperation across sectors and borders, with veterinary, environmental and healthcare professionals working together to ensure responsible use of antimicrobials.

Through initiatives like these, Rwanda is taking significant steps toward a future where AMR is managed effectively, safeguarding both human and animal health for generations to come.

Sam K Nkurunziza

Jean Bosco Siboyintore, Rwanda’s National Prosecutor, told the media at a press conference in Kigali that Salman Khan was arrested at the request of the Government of India through the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).

'India submitted a request indicating that Salman Khan is wanted for terrorism charges. While some suspects are already detained in India, he attempted to flee to Rwanda,' Siboyintore explained.

The suspect was tracked down by officers from INTERPOL’s branch in Rwanda and arrested on September 9, 2024. Rwanda then notified the Indian government of his detention.

India submitted a formal request for Khan’s extradition on October 29, 2024. The request was reviewed and approved by Rwanda’s Ministry of Justice on November 12, 2024.

Despite the absence of an extradition treaty between Rwanda and India, Rwandan law permits extradition based on mutual agreements.

'Although Rwanda and India lack a formal extradition treaty, our laws provide provisions for such cases through mutual agreements. Similarly, if Rwanda requests a suspect’s extradition, we expect the same cooperation,' Siboyintore noted.

He emphasized that Rwanda does not serve as a haven for fugitives.

'Rwanda is not a hiding place for criminals. It is not a country where you can commit crimes elsewhere and seek refuge here,' he said.

Siboyintore highlighted that Rwanda extradited Khan, just as other countries have done in cases involving suspects of the Genocide against the Tutsi.

He also underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as terrorism, human trafficking, and money laundering.

This is the first extradition request Rwanda has received from India.

A representative from India’s Ministry of Justice commended Rwanda’s cooperation despite the lack of a formal extradition treaty between the two countries. He expressed hope for future agreements.

'Terrorism is an issue that India does not tolerate, and Rwanda shares the same stance. Rwanda’s approach sets a positive example on the international stage,' the Indian representative remarked.

Salman Khan was arrested at the request of the Government of India through the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).

The suspect is reported to have fled India in an attempt to evade justice.

The suspect was tracked down by officers from INTERPOL’s branch in Rwanda and arrested on September 9, 2024.

India submitted a formal request for Khan’s extradition on October 29, 2024.

Despite the absence of an extradition treaty between Rwanda and India, Rwandan law permits extradition based on mutual agreements.

Rwandan security agencies handed over a suspect to Indian authorities on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, for prosecution on terrorism charges.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The news was confirmed by Tanzania’s Parliament Speaker, Tulia Ackson, who expressed sorrow in a Swahili statement.

“It is with great sadness that I have received the news of the death of Kigamboni Member of Parliament and Director-elect of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Africa Region, Dr Faustine Ndugulile,” Ackson stated, extending condolences to Ndugulile’s family and all Tanzanians.

According to media reports, Ndugulile had been undergoing treatment in India. He died just days before taking up his position at WHO. Ndugulile was elected on August 27, 2024, during the 74th WHO Regional Committee for Africa session, succeeding Dr. Matshidiso Moeti.

Selected from a competitive field of candidates, including representatives from Niger, Rwanda, and Senegal, Ndugulile had previously served as Tanzania’s Health Minister under the late President John Magufuli.

He had pledged healthcare reforms and including tackling challenges such as the spread of mpox in Africa.

Dr. Ndugulile (in the middle) was supposed to replace Dr. Moeti (left) in February 2025.

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He shared these remarks ahead of the inaugural Global Food Week (GFW), which began on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi and will run through November 28.

The event, organized by the ADNEC Group and the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), brings together global experts, policymakers, and innovators to discuss urgent food security challenges, including agricultural sustainability and climate change, while exploring sustainable solutions.

In a heartfelt video message, Harvey emphasized the significance of the Global Food Week, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing the global food system.

'Global Food Week is more than just an event; it’s a movement to ensure that no one goes hungry,' he said.

Harvey highlighted Abu Dhabi’s role as a transformative force in tackling global hunger and food security, underscoring the emirate’s commitment to addressing one of the world’s most pressing challenges.

'It’s inspiring to witness Abu Dhabi’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration,' Harvey remarked.

He also commended Abu Dhabi’s leadership, particularly President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for spearheading initiatives that unite the global community in addressing critical issues.

'Abu Dhabi is where the future is happening now,' Harvey added.

Addressing the scale of global hunger, Harvey pointed out, 'Right now, over 800 million people—that’s nearly 1 in 10 folks on this earth—don’t know where their next meal is coming from. And in 2024, with all our resources, technology, and knowledge, that just isn’t right.'

The Global Food Week includes the Global Food Security Summit, where leaders will discuss strategies to ensure equitable access to nutrition.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition, featuring innovations such as robotic farming, lab-grown meat, and other cutting-edge technologies.

Another highlight is the Date Palm Exhibition, celebrating the UAE’s agricultural heritage and its enduring role in food security.

Harvey stressed the unifying power of food, stating, 'Food bridges cultures and unites humanity. This isn’t just about feeding people today—it’s about hope, survival, and ensuring food for generations to come.'

Harvey recently concluded a visit to Rwanda, where he explored the country, visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and met with President Paul Kagame to discuss potential areas of investment and partnership in various sectors including events and entertainment.

Renowned American television host and comedian, Steve Harvey, has praised the United Arab Emirates’ pivotal role in addressing global hunger and advancing food security.

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