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Even though people may share the same background, siblings may have vastly different life paths, showing just how unpredictable and challenging life can be. In some cases, people with strong faith may still face significant challenges, such as infertility, while others seem to have it all. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and despair.

It is common for individuals to look for answers in unhealthy places when their hopes are dashed, yet these paths often lead to more emotional distress. However, there is another way — a path of faith, patience, and shared strength.

Sandra Kirenga, driven by her own experiences and the struggles she witnessed in others, founded the 'Lady In Waiting', a platform, bringing together over 300 women from different countries who are committed to comforting one another through various means.

To support those walking the same difficult road, her initiative, aims to comfort those who are dealing with infertility and childlessness. The foundation of this platform is built on the Word of God, offering hope and guidance to those who have been waiting for years to conceive.

Kirenga realized that while many of her friends and family struggled with childlessness, others faced similar challenges, whether in marriage or other aspects of life.

“We all have something we are waiting for. Whether it’s a child, a job, or a breakthrough in any other area, we all have something that we desire and pray for,” she says.

Uganda’s Sarah Muhwezi shared how she spent 14 years without having a child but gave birth to a baby boy in her 15th year of marriage.

One of the key goals of her platform is to help women find hope and strength through shared experiences. “Whether you’re waiting for a child or a job, being with others in the same situation helps you find strength and hope,” Kirenga explains.

She created a space where women in similar situations could come together, support one another, and share their strength in times of uncertainty. It’s a place where women can share their struggles and receive encouragement to keep going, even when the wait feels endless.

Kirenga also emphasizes that the pressure from family members and society to “move forward” can add unnecessary stress to the waiting process. She encourages those struggling with infertility or delayed milestones to stand firm in their faith and trust God’s timing.

“We want them to know who they are in Jesus and find strength to withstand the pressures from others. God’s plan for each person is unique, and we must learn to wait for what He has prepared for us,” she says.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 48 million couples globally face infertility, with one in six adults experiencing fertility problems in their lifetime. The road to parenthood can be long and difficult, and many couples find themselves in a seemingly endless cycle of medical treatments, tests, and emotional strain.

In the “Lady In Waiting” gathering, various parents shared testimonies about how one should not be overwhelmed by sorrow, even when facing serious challenges.

At a recent gathering in Kigali, Uganda-based evangelist Sarah Muhwezi shared her powerful testimony. After 15 years of marriage, she and her husband struggled with infertility, trying everything from medical treatments to IVF, but nothing worked.

'It was extremely painful to wait. I felt like I wasn’t producing any fruit, and it caused so much anxiety,' she recalls. But despite the challenges, Sarah remained patient and prayed continuously, supported by her husband, who is a pastor.

“I finally gave birth after 14 years of marriage. My child is now nine months old. Through prayer and patience, I found my answer. It was a difficult journey, but God’s timing was perfect,” Muhwezi shares, her voice filled with gratitude.

Her testimony highlights the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it seems like there is no hope in sight. “Waiting through prayer is the best way to resist discouragement and avoid harmful distractions that may lead to bad decisions,” she advises.

“With God, nothing is impossible. I encourage others facing similar struggles to remain patient and steadfast in their faith,” she added.

This powerful message is a reminder that while the wait may be long, God is always at work, and with patience, faith, and support from others, the strength to overcome even the hardest trials can be found.

Sandra Kirenga, the founder of the Lady In Waiting platform (L), is among those who attended the conference of the members of this platform recently held in Kigali.

Different women are advised how they should not be taken with sorrow but instead follow God’s path and wait for what He has prepared for them.

Members of the Lady in Waiting platform recently gathered in Kigali to discuss how to comfort each another during difficult times.

Women in similar situations come together, support one another, and share their strength in times of uncertainty.

At the Lady in Waiting conference, various books were introduced that offer comfort to those facing different challenges and provide guidance on how to cope with them.

IGIHE

The initiative is part of UR’s curriculum for dental students and serves as a practical application of their training while giving back to the community.

Dr. Ramnath Elangovan, Acting Head of the Periodontology and Community Dentistry Department at UR, explained the scope of the campaign.

'This is part of our curriculum where students go into the community to serve and learn. Last time, we focused on schools in Kigali, such as GS Catholic Remera, GS Kimironko 1, and GS Kimironko 2. This time, we are moving outside Kigali to GS Catholic Nyamata, GS Catholic Nyamata EPR, and GS Kayenzi,' he said

The initiative has gained momentum through partnerships with the Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club and Chemicotech Industries. These partners have provided resources like toothpaste and tooth brushes to support the campaign.

Elangovan noted that this year, his team targets reaching around 3,000 to 4,000 pupils in the schools. The future plan is to expand to border areas, ensuring that every child can benefit from oral health education.

The initiative has gained momentum through partnerships with the Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club and Chemicotech Industries.

He emphasized the significance of targeting children for such programs. 'We believe that what we cannot bend at the age of five, we cannot bend at fifty. Educating children ensures they carry these lessons home to their families, spreading awareness within their communities.'

According to him, the collaboration between UR and the Rotary Club has been crucial to the success of the initiative. 'The sponsorship and support we receive motivate our students to approach their work with confidence and dedication. It inspires us to expand the outreach further,' he noted.

Srinath Vardhineni, President of the Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club, highlighted the role of Rotary in this initiative.

'Working with UR to teach young children about brushing techniques, the effects of sugar on teeth, and overall oral hygiene where over 25 doctors conduct screenings and providing reports on the children’s oral health is a good step in the right direction. We plan to expand the program next year to reach even more children,' he said.

The outreach not only benefits the community but also provides UR students with a deeper understanding of their role as health professionals.

This is part of UR’s curriculum for dental students and serves as a practical application of their training while giving back to the community.

Alexis Nshuti, a final-year Dental Surgery student, shared his perspective. 'As much as this is a certified module in our course, it also teaches us the spirit of giving back to the community. We screen children, provide advice, and make referrals where necessary. It’s satisfying to see that we are contributing to better oral health awareness, especially as upcoming health professional.'

The program has already shown significant promise, with plans for annual expansion and increased funding. 'This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing health challenges. By working together, we can ensure oral health awareness reaches even the most underserved areas,' said Vardhineni.

As the outreach continues, its impact is clear. By educating young children, UR and the Rotary Club are laying the foundation for a healthier generation while instilling in students the value of community service.

UR and Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary club have teamed up for Oral health outreach campaign in schools across the country.

IGIHE

The report, which analyzes private market transactions across the continent, highlights the continued vibrancy of Africa’s private capital landscape.

In Q3 2024, a total of 73 private market deals were recorded, with 39 of them disclosing a combined value of $2.27 billion.

Rwanda stood out in East Africa, contributing to 37% of the region’s private market transactions, making it the second-most active country in the region after Kenya.

Overall, Rwanda emerged 5th on the continent with 15% share of total African deals while Southern Africa accounted for the largest share of private market activity in Q3 2024.

Rwanda was recently ranked as the safest investment destination in East Africa in the ninth edition of the Africa Risk-Reward Index 2024, thanks to the country’s strong security and investment-friendly policies.

Key initiatives include the development of industrial parks, advancements in technology, and the expansion of infrastructure.

The view of Kigali, the capital of Rwanda. Rwanda has emerged among top African destinations for private investment in third quarter of 2024.

IGIHE

Besigye, a renowned opposition figure in Uganda, and his close ally Obeid Kamulegeya are currently in remand following their controversial abduction in Nairobi by Ugandan authorities, who accuse them of engaging in activities that undermine Uganda’s security.

Karua is expected to lead a team of 50 lawyers in mounting a spirited defence for the two men, who were arrested by Ugandan security agents in Nairobi while attending the launch of the former Justice Minister’s book on November 16, 2024.

She takes over the lead role from Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who confirmed the leadership change during a press briefing on Monday.

The star-studded legal team includes representatives from notable organizations such as the Pan-African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ).

'This team is a demonstration of our commitment to justice,' Lukwago stated. 'Hon. Martha Karua has graciously agreed to lead this team, and her extensive legal expertise will be invaluable in this fight against what we believe are politically motivated charges.'

Lukwago also explained that arrangements are underway to obtain a temporary practising certificate required for Karua to participate in legal proceedings in Kampala, in accordance with Uganda’s Advocates Act.

He noted that, as Kenya is part of both the East African Community and the Commonwealth, the process is expected to proceed without hitches.

'We’ve already submitted Karua’s application and are confident it will be finalized swiftly. For now, the legal team will be attached to Lukwago and Company Advocates to ensure seamless collaboration between Ugandan and Kenyan lawyers,' he added.

Besigye and Kamulegeya were arraigned in a military court in Kampala on November 20 and remanded until December 2 on charges related to security, including illegal possession of two pistols and eight rounds of ammunition.

The prosecution told the General Court Martial, chaired by Brig. Freeman Mugabe, that the two committed the offences in Nairobi (Kenya), Athens (Greece), and Geneva (Switzerland).

In the first count, the prosecution alleges that Besigye, Kamulegeya, and other suspects still at large held meetings in Geneva, Athens, and Nairobi between October 2023 and November 2024 to solicit logistical support and identify military targets in Uganda, intending to undermine the security of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

In the second and third counts, the two are accused of illegally possessing firearms, contrary to Uganda’s Firearms Act, at Riverside Apartments in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024. The prosecution claims they were found with two pistols: a Model 27KAL No. 765 and an HB 10414 1953, both classified as restricted weapons under the monopoly of the Defense Forces.

They also face an additional charge of unlawful possession of eight rounds of ammunition.

Karua, alongside several rights groups in Uganda and Kenya, has been at the forefront in condemning the charges, which they argue are politically motivated.

Besigye, a four-time presidential contender, has been arrested numerous times for leading anti-government protests in Uganda and charged with inciting violence.

In the latest incident, Ugandan security agents allegedly tracked him to Nairobi following intelligence reports that he was planning to meet with arms dealers as part of a plot to target President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power since 1986.

Karua is expected to lead a team of 50 lawyers in mounting a spirited defence for the two men, who were arrested by Ugandan security agents in Nairobi while attending the launch of the former Justice Minister’s book on November 16, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

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

During the discussions, both sides reviewed a document outlining the plan for dismantling the FDLR, a group that Rwanda has repeatedly stated threatens its security. The document also details how Rwanda will lift the security measures it had previously imposed due to concerns over its security.

After agreeing on this plan, both parties signed the document. The Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, 'Since both parties have agreed on this matter, the Ministers decided that discussions on unresolved issues should continue as soon as possible.'

The signed document was prepared by security experts from the three countries, who met in late August and early September of this year. These activities are part of a project initiated by Angola, based on decisions made by the countries’ ministerial representatives during their meeting in Luanda on October 12, 2024.

Rwanda and DRC have inked a deal to end FDLR threat and restore stability in the region.

The security experts from the three countries first met in Luanda on August 7 and 8, 2024, to discuss a way forward. They later reconvened in Rubavu in late September to prepare a report on how to dismantle the militia.

The Luanda talks began in 2022, when tensions escalated in the relationship between Rwanda and the DRC. Early that year, the DRC accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, while Rwanda accused the DRC of supporting the FDLR. Both countries deny these allegations.

Rwanda’s involvement in the Luanda talks is due to the insecurity in the DRC, which has affected bilateral relations. The discussions are based on mutual accusations of support for armed groups and the need to repatriate Congolese refugees who have fled to neighboring countries, including Rwanda.

The agreement was signed on behalf of Rwanda by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe.

Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete António,who acted as the mediator.

This step was taken after discussions between the two parties in Luanda, Angola.

IGIHE

The campaign aims to foster political commitment and collective action to eliminate all forms of GBV, including sexual violence, rape, physical-psychological abuse, and harmful traditional practices. It seeks to bring together different actors to share knowledge, support local initiatives, and create sustainable solutions.

Under the theme 'Altogether, Fight Against Violence Against Women', the campaign focuses on empowering the population of Haute-Kotto by raising awareness about preventing GBV, supporting victims, and promoting the rights and essential activities of women and girls.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Osong Esapa, the Deputy Head of Office in Sector East, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in eradicating GBV.

“Leaders at all levels must make an effort to support and educate the population to eliminate the culture of gender-based violence,' he said.

The event brought together UN officials from sector headquarters, members of Rwanda Battle Group VI, local leaders, NGOs, and women and girls from Bria town, demonstrating strong community participation and commitment to the campaign’s objectives.

The 16-day campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) was launched in Bria, Haute-Kotto Prefecture, CAR.

Rwandan female peacekeepers and partners at the launch of the campaign against Gender-Based Violence in CAR.

The campaign aims to foster political commitment and collective action to eliminate all forms of GBV.

IGIHE

With over 14 years of experience managing Marriott hotels across Asia and Africa, Aditya is tasked with overseeing all operations at both properties. His mission is to enhance service quality and provide an exceptional guest experience.

Aditya’s journey with Marriott began in 2010 through the Marriott International Voyager Program, a leadership training initiative for recent graduates. His first role was in Mumbai, India. He later moved to Oman, where he served as the Front Office Manager at Marriott Resort Salalah.

Aditya’s first posting in Africa brought him to Rwanda, where he served as the Director of Rooms at Kigali Marriott Hotel. After 18 months, he moved to Ghana to contribute to the launch of Accra Marriott Hotel in the same capacity.

He later took on the role of Director of Operations at Lagos Marriott Hotel in Nigeria, where his leadership during the hotel’s opening led to his promotion to General Manager within a year.

During his tenure in Lagos, Aditya achieved remarkable success, including leading the hotel to win several prestigious awards: 'Hotel of the Year 2023,' the 'J.W. Marriott Award of Excellence 2024,' and the 'Debbie Marriott Harrison TakeCare Award 2024.'

He also increased the hotel’s revenue by 20% and reduced operational costs by the same margin.

Known for his strategic vision and leadership, Aditya is also passionate about travel, exploring new cuisines, and playing golf.

Staff at Kigali Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton have expressed enthusiasm about his appointment, highlighting his proven ability to drive excellence in hospitality.

'Aditya is an exemplary leader with a strong vision for advancing hospitality services. We are confident that his leadership will keep our hotels at the forefront of Kigali’s hospitality industry,' said a representative.

In his new role, Aditya plans to focus on delivering customer-centric services, fostering innovation, and

promoting community development initiatives.

Aditya Chacko has been appointed as the General Manager of Kigali Marriott and Four Points by Sheraton

Aditya Chack (in the middle) warmly welcomed the appointment

A welcome ceremony for Aditya Chack was organized recently.

IGIHE

Organized by the Rwandan community in Brighton in collaboration with the National Association of Rwandese Communities in the UK (NARC-UK) and the Rwandan Embassy in the UK, the event featured a retreat and cultural celebration attended by dignitaries and community members alike.

The retreat was attended by Rwanda’s Ambassador to the UK, Johnston Busingye, along with leaders from 14 Rwandan community organizations under NARC-UK.

Reflecting on the retreat’s purpose and outcomes, Ambassador Busingye described it as a crucial platform for unity and progress.

“This retreat was an excellent opportunity to bring together representatives from across the UK. It had been over five years since the last event of this kind. The aim was to reflect on where we’ve come from, where we’re heading, and how we can work together to meet the expectations of the communities we represent,” Busingye said.

He added that discussions focused on key topics such as Rwanda’s development agenda, trade, diaspora remittances, vocational contributions, and fostering unity among Rwandans.

The celebration portion of the event featured cultural showcases, including traditional Rwandan music, dance, and cuisine, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

Brighton City Mayor Mohammed Asaduzzaman joined as a special guest and lauded the Rwandan community’s efforts.

He viewed the event as a platform to celebrate the richness of Rwandan culture while promoting unity and understanding among the diverse communities in Brighton.

Event organizer Wibabara Ange highlighted the importance of passing down cultural traditions to younger generations.

“What we’re doing is connecting our children with their roots and showing them our beautiful culture, so they can embrace it as their own. We hope to make this an annual event, bringing together Rwandans and friends of Rwanda in Brighton,” she said.

Jabo Butera, Chairperson of NARC-UK, praised the dedication of attendees who traveled from across the UK to participate.

“I deeply appreciate the commitment of Rwandans who set aside their weekend to come together, engage in discussions, and celebrate,” Butera said.

NARC-UK, which has been active for nine years, is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary next year, reflecting on its achievements in uniting and empowering the Rwandan diaspora community in the UK.

Amb. Busingye described the retreat as an excellent opportunity to bring together representatives from across the UK.

Wibabara Ange highlighted the importance of passing down cultural traditions to younger generations.

Jabo Butera, Chairperson of NARC-UK, praised the dedication of attendees who traveled from across the UK to participate.

Participants cutting a cake at the event to celebrate unity.

Brighton City Mayor Mohammed Asaduzzaman joined as a special guest and lauded the Rwandan community’s efforts.

The event was also attended by some of UK journalists.

Amb. Johnston Busingye, Wibabara Ange who is among organizers of the event and uri mu the Mayor of Brighton Mohammed Asaduzzaman posing for a photo of sosuvenir.

The event also featured Rwandan traditional performances.

Egide Ruhashya and Patrice Shema were among participants of the event.

Amb. Johnston Busingye during an interview with IGIHE.

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Karirima A. Ngarambe

The immunity, granted through a gazette notice on October 4, 2024, had earlier been defended by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who cited the foundation’s 'significant' contributions to development as the basis for the special status.

However, on Monday morning, the court issued orders suspending the privileges pending the hearing and determination of a case filed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), which seeks to have the status declared null and void. The LSK has raised concerns over the legality of granting such privileges to a private entity.

The special status afforded the foundation’s officials immunity and protection while conducting its operations in Kenya. The government’s decision sparked public controversy and raised questions about power and accountability. Typically, such privileges are reserved for diplomatic missions.

While defending the government’s decision earlier this month, Mudavadi insisted that the privileges were granted after careful consideration of the foundation’s philanthropic contributions to Kenya.

'We take the concerns of our citizens seriously. I wish to clarify the rationale behind our decision: diplomatic privileges and immunities are tools, not trophies. They are meant to facilitate the seamless operation of organizations advancing the public good, much like the foundational principles of the Vienna Convention,' Mudavadi stated.

He further explained that the foundation, as a charitable trust addressing poverty, disease, and inequality in over 140 countries globally, qualified under Section 11 of the Privileges and Immunities Act to receive such benefits.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, one of the world’s largest private philanthropic organizations, was founded in 2000 by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and his then-wife, Melinda French Gates. Its headquarters are based in Seattle, USA.

A past photo of President William Ruto when he hosted American businessman Bill Gates at State House Nairobi on November 15, 2022.

Wycliffe Nyamasege