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The report revealed that China reached a robot density of 470 units per 10,000 employees in 2023, a notable jump from 402 units the previous year. This figure has more than doubled since 2019, demonstrating the rapid growth of automation in the country.

“China has made significant investments in automation technology,” said IFR President Takayuki Ito. He emphasized that China’s progress is remarkable, considering the country only entered the top 10 rankings in 2019.

The global leader in robot density remains South Korea, with 1,012 robots per 10,000 employees in 2023. Singapore ranks second, while Germany now sits in fourth place, with a density of 429 robots per 10,000 workers, according to the report.

Robot density serves as a critical measure of automation levels in manufacturing, reflecting a country’s commitment to technological advancement in industrial production.

Xinhua

The draft, put forward by the council’s 10 non-permanent members, demanded an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

The 15-member council voted 14-1 in favor of the resolution, and the United States used its veto as a permanent council member to block it.

Speaking after the vote, Robert Wood, deputy U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, said that Washington had made clear it would only support a resolution that explicitly calls for the immediate release of hostages as part of a ceasefire.

“The resolution would have sent a dangerous message to Hamas that there was no need to come back to the negotiating table,” he said.

The U.S. move to block the resolution drew harsh criticism from most of the members.

Russia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, said it is “shocking” that the United States vetoed an effort to save Palestinian and Israeli lives, though “we should not be surprised.”

He lamented that for months, the United States has obstructed and stood in the way of the council action to address the catastrophic situation in Gaza and played on one side of the conflict to advance its own political objectives at the expense of Palestinian lives.

“It is a sad day for the Security Council, for the United Nations and the international community as a whole,” Algerian Ambassador Amar Bendjama told the council members.

It has been five months since the adoption of resolution 2735, during which the Security Council remained idle and hand-tied, he added, noting that the draft resolution was far from ideal, but it represented “the bare minimum that should have united us.”

“Today’s message is clear to the Israeli occupying power — you may continue your genocide … with complete impunity. In this Chamber, you enjoy immunity,” Bendjama said.

“To the Palestinian people, it is another clear message — while the overwhelming majority of the world stands in solidarity with your plight, others remain indifferent to your suffering,” he added.

Majed Bamya, deputy permanent observer of the State of Palestine, said that there is “no right” to the mass killing of civilians, starve an entire civilian population, forcibly displace them and annexation.

“This is what Israel is doing in Gaza. These are its war objectives. This is what the absence of a ceasefire is allowing it to continue doing,” he said, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the region.

“It is deeply regretted that due to the use of the veto this council has once again failed to uphold its responsibility to maintain international peace and security,” Malta’s Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said after voting.

“It represented the bare minimum of what is needed to begin to address the desperate situation on the ground,” she added.

Guyana’s Ambassador Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett said that the suffering of Palestinians must end, adding that her country would continue to work with fellow council members to try to achieve tomorrow what could not be achieved today.

U.S. Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs in the United Nations Robert Wood (C, Front) votes against a UN Security Council draft resolution that calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza at the UN headquarters in New York, on Nov. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie E)

Xinhua

In a statement, Ecobank Group revealed that the bond was oversubscribed by more than 2.1 times, reflecting strong investor confidence in the institution’s financial growth and strategy.

The issuance marks a major milestone for ETI, as it is the first public Eurobond issuance by a financial institution in sub-Saharan Africa since 2021.

The bonds, also known as notes, will mature in October 2029 and offer an interest rate of 10.125%, payable semi-annually in arrears to the investors who have lent Ecobank $400 million.

Jeremy Awori, CEO of Ecobank Group, emphasized the importance of the bond’s success, saying, 'Our successful Notes issuance demonstrates how Ecobank is blazing the trail for sub-Saharan African financial institutions and corporates in accessing the international capital markets.'

The CEO added that the strong demand for the bond from both international and African investors is a testament to the growing trust in Ecobank’s ‘Growth, Transformation, and Returns Strategy’.

Ecobank Group CEO Jeremy Awori revealed that the bond was oversubscribed by more than 2.1 times, reflecting strong investor confidence in the institution’s financial growth and strategy.

The net proceeds from the bond will be used for general corporate purposes, including refinancing a $350 million Senior Bridge-to-Bond Loan Facility secured earlier in the year. This move is expected to further enhance Ecobank’s financial position and support its strategic initiatives.

Ayo Adepoju, the Group’s Chief Financial Officer, thanked the bank’s partners, including Absa, Africa Finance Corporation, and Standard Chartered Bank, who acted as Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners for the bond issuance.

'We deeply value and appreciate the strong support from our Development Finance Institution partners and bond investors,' he said.

The market opening ceremony at the LSE was attended by members of the ETI board and management, celebrating a key achievement in Ecobank’s ongoing expansion and commitment to African financial growth.

With a presence in 35 African countries and a growing international footprint, Ecobank’s latest bond issuance strengthens its position in the global capital markets and supports its long-term growth objectives.

The market opening ceremony at the LSE was attended by members of the ETI board and management, celebrating a key achievement in Ecobank’s ongoing expansion and commitment to African financial growth.

Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (ETI), the parent company of Ecobank Group, successfully issued a US$400 million Senior Unsecured Eurobond on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The veteran opposition politician was arraigned alongside his ‘comrade,’ Hajj Obeid Lutale, 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, Lutale, 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, with the intent 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 two pistols, contrary to Uganda’s Firearms Act, at Riverside Apartments in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024. The prosecution alleges that they were found with two pistols: one model 27KAL No. 765 and another HB 10414 1953, which are ordinarily the monopoly of the Defence Forces.

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

The defence lodged a primary objection to the charges, arguing that the charge sheet was defective since the alleged offences were committed outside the jurisdiction of the UPDF and Uganda’s army.

'All the acts highlighted in this charge sheet do not constitute criminal offences under the laws of Uganda. The UPDF Act is not applicable in Kenya, Switzerland, or Greece. Unlawful possession of firearms? Firearms Act of which country? The charge sheet is ambiguous in nature. This is a defective charge sheet that should not sustain any criminal proceedings before this tribunal. It’s our prayer that this honourable tribunal strikes out this charge sheet accordingly,' the lead counsel for the defence, Erias Lukwago, told the court.

Lawyer Lukwago further argued that the accused persons had travelled to Kenya lawfully for a legitimate meeting.

The martial court ordered Besigye and Lutale to be remanded to prison until December 2, 2024, when their case will be mentioned.

Reports of Besigye’s arrest went viral on Tuesday night following revelations by his wife that he had been abducted from Nairobi and was being held in a military detention facility.

Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), condemned the detention and called for her husband’s immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while he was in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' Byanyima said in a post on X. She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

Human rights groups in Nairobi have questioned the circumstances surrounding Kizza Besigye’s abduction, accusing Kenyan authorities of complicity in the act.

Reports of Kizza Besigye’s arrest went viral on Tuesday night following revelations by his wife that he had been abducted from Nairobi and was being held in a military detention facility.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The newly introduced system enables phone users to make calls without the typical interruptions associated with older technologies. Traditionally, phone calls relied on 2G or 3G networks, which sometimes resulted in poor connectivity and distorted audio.

Additionally, using these older technologies was often more expensive due to the limitations of outdated systems. The company CEO, Emmanuel Hamez, says that this new VoLTE service aims to enhance Airtel’s voice call services.

'This is a significant milestone for Airtel Rwanda as we lead the way in bringing Voice Over 4G to the country, delivering an exceptional calling experience with HD-quality voice, faster call setup, and uninterrupted internet usage during calls. Best of all, there’s no additional cost for switching to our VoLTE service,' he said.

Airtel Rwanda CEO, Emmanuel Hamez, says that this new VoLTE service aims to enhance Airtel’s voice call services.

Hamez added that Airtel’s extensive 4G network, which covers 95% of the country, ensures all Rwandans can access fast and reliable internet. He also assured that Airtel offers affordable 4G-enabled smartphones available, eliminating barriers to accessing the new technology.

The nationwide 4G coverage offered by Airtel provides fast and affordable internet, even in remote areas. VoLTE also reduces calling costs as it allows for quicker, more efficient calls without the additional expenses associated with older 2G or 3G technologies.

Charles Gahungu, the Director of Technology at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), commended Airtel’s innovative efforts, noting that government policies have created an enabling environment for telecom companies to invest in and adopt new technologies.

'This has provided opportunities for telecom companies to embrace and utilize advanced technologies, and we applaud Airtel for seizing these opportunities,' he said.

Charles Gahungu, the Director of Technology at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), commended Airtel’s innovative efforts

Yves Iradukunda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised Airtel for aligning with Rwanda’s vision of adopting cutting-edge technology.

He emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving such milestones, saying, 'We commend Airtel for recognizing our shared objectives and making them their own, working with us to bring these innovations to life.'

Irakudunda also acknowledged the ongoing efforts needed to raise awareness and encourage the use of this new service among the population. He expressed confidence that Airtel customers would experience significant improvements in their calling experience with VoLTE.

Yves Iradukunda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, praised Airtel for aligning with Rwanda’s vision of adopting cutting-edge technology.

The Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Rwanda, Indrajeet Singh, stated that Airtel is the leading company in introducing innovations

The employees who played a role in making it possible were appreciated.

The event was attended by people from various sectors, who appreciated the efforts of Airtel Rwanda.

The CEO of Ecobank Rwanda, Carine Umutoni (R), was among the attendees at the event.

Airtel Rwanda has become the first telecom company in Rwanda to launch a new technology that allows users to make calls over 4G internet.

IGIHE

'There is a line that must not be crossed,' President Kagame said during the 17th Unity Club Forum.

He pointed out that some individuals who were pardoned have repeatedly ignored cautionary advice, leaving the government no choice but to consider stricter measures.

Although he did not explicitly mention her name, his remarks clearly alluded to Ingabire, reflecting growing national frustration with her actions.

Misplaced international recognition

In a recent development, James Cook University in Australia invited Ingabire to speak on “Justice and Political Reforms in Rwanda,” describing her as a 'champion of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.'

This characterization has sparked widespread criticism from those familiar with her past, questioning how someone with a documented history of genocide denial and divisive politics could be elevated to such a status.

Ingabire’s controversial history is well-documented. In 2010, during a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, she infamously called for recognition of a so-called “Hutu genocide,” remarks that were widely condemned as denial of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Her actions during and after her imprisonment have consistently undermined the spirit of reconciliation and unity in Rwanda.

Despite requesting clemency while in prison, Ingabire later publicly denied doing so, even though her written appeals for a pardon remain on record. Following her release, she resumed political activities through her unregistered party, FDU-Inkingi, which has been linked to individuals and groups involved in destabilising Rwanda.

A legacy of division

Far from promoting inclusivity, Ingabire has been accused of advancing an agenda rooted in ethnic division. In 2019, during a meeting in Kirehe District, she allegedly directed her supporters to recruit new members but explicitly excluded Tutsis. Witnesses reported that she focused her recruitment efforts on unemployed Hutu youth, further fueling concerns about her divisive rhetoric.

To obscure scrutiny, Ingabire rebranded her political platform, renaming FDU-Inkingi as DALFA-Umurinzi in late 2019. Critics, however, argue that the underlying ideology of her party remained unchanged. This was evident when affiliates of her former party were implicated in an attack carried out on October 4, 2019, in Musanze District that claimed the lives of 14 innocent civilians.

Victoire Ingabire’s rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

Manipulating global platforms

Since her release, Ingabire has leveraged international media and institutions to criticize Rwanda, portraying the country’s political and judicial systems as repressive. While positioning herself as a victim of political persecution, her rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

In an October interview on a YouTube channel, she criticised Rwanda’s legal system and claimed it was the reason the UK delayed deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda. She also dismissed calls from Rwandan citizens for stronger security measures as 'warmongering,' ignoring the broader national interest in safeguarding stability.

Ties to armed groups

Ingabire’s connections to armed groups have repeatedly come under scrutiny. Her former party, FDU-Inkingi, has been linked to the Coalition of Democratic Forces (CDF), an offshoot of the genocidal FDLR militia. Court testimonies and evidence have highlighted her involvement in funding and planning activities designed to disrupt Rwanda’s peace.

Ingabire has publicly praised the Wazalendo militia, a group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite its well-documented atrocities, including attacks on civilians, she has described the group as defenders of their rights and resources.

She has also been named in various UN Group of Experts reports on the DRC for her connections with the infamous FDLR. Notably, the 2009 report documented that Ingabire and her party, FDU-Inkingi, maintained regular contact with FDLR leaders.

In 1998, Victoire Ingabire was appointed as the Netherlands coordinator of the RDR, a so-called “political party” formed in the Mugunga refugee camp in the former Zaire by members of the genocidal government. As a leader of the RDR, Ingabire’s primary objective was to deny the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Unchanging patterns of defiance

Since her arrival in Rwanda in 2010, Ingabire has consistently pursued a narrative of defiance, often dismissing national reconciliation efforts. Her continued disregard for the law and national values has strained Rwanda’s commitment to fostering a culture of tolerance and forgiveness.

Her actions highlight the challenges of addressing individuals and groups that exploit international platforms to destabilise Rwanda. Despite the strides Rwanda has made in rebuilding from its tragic past, Ingabire’s rhetoric and affiliations serve as a stark reminder of the persistent threats to national unity.

As Rwanda navigates these challenges, it remains crucial to prioritise national stability while ensuring accountability for those who undermine peace and security. Ingabire’s case underscores the importance of vigilance and the collective responsibility to safeguard the nation’s hard-earned progress.

Victoire Ingabire’s rhetoric often aligns with narratives promoted by subversive groups against Rwanda.

IGIHE

She will be laid to rest on November 24, at Rusororo Cemetery after a funeral mass at Centre Christus in Kigali.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Carmen’s life was deeply rooted in her love for her homeland and its natural beauty. Her early years were filled with exploration, as her father often took her to various provinces in Burundi, showcasing the country’s rich landscapes and biodiversity.

These formative experiences ignited a lifelong passion for tourism and laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

After completing secondary school in Burundi, Carmen moved to England, where she spent a decade pursuing her education and building the foundation of her career. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Travel Management, followed by a master’s in Tourism Destination Management, and ultimately a PhD focusing on tourism policy and park management.

Her parents’ encouragement to follow her passion was instrumental, as tourism was not traditionally seen as a promising career path in her community. Carmen’s academic pursuits were complemented by hands-on experience through a vocational training program in England.

Her first role in hospitality, as a housekeeper in a five-star hotel, was the beginning of a journey that would see her rise to leadership positions in the industry.

Carmen’s career was marked by its diversity and global reach. Over the years, she lived and worked in Switzerland, the United States, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and other countries, amassing a wealth of knowledge and experience.

She managed tour operation companies across East Africa and oversaw an international hotel in Tanzania, always focusing on elevating the region’s tourism standards. Her ability to navigate different cultural and professional environments set her apart as a leader who could bridge local traditions with global best practices.

In 2014, Carmen returned to Burundi to take on the role of Director General at the National Tourism Board. She saw this as an opportunity to give back to her country and to reform its tourism sector.

During her tenure, she worked to restructure the board, making it more aligned with private-sector needs and advocating for policies that would position Burundi as a competitive destination.

Carmen was a fierce proponent of developing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing the quality of tourism products to attract international travelers. While acknowledging Burundi’s challenges, she remained optimistic about its potential, believing in the power of tourism to drive economic growth and national pride.

Between 2015 and 2017, Carmen served as the regional coordinator for the East Africa Tourism Platform, where she championed the integration of East African countries as a unified tourism destination.

She believed in leveraging the unique strengths of each country while fostering collaboration to attract more visitors to the region. Her work in promoting East Africa’s tourism earned her widespread recognition.

In 2017, she was named one of the Top 100 Influential Women in Travel, and a year later, she received the African Women in Tourism Leadership Award. These accolades were a testament to her vision, dedication, and ability to inspire change.

At the time of her passing, Carmen was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team. In this role, she focused on skills development and capacity building, particularly for young professionals in the industry.

She worked tirelessly to create opportunities for African youth, believing that education and training were critical to unlocking the continent’s potential.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Carmen was a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. She served on the Board of Directors for the Akilah Institute for Women in Rwanda, where she championed initiatives to equip young women with skills in tourism, hospitality management, and entrepreneurship.

Carmen believed that women had a vital role to play in the tourism industry, and she worked to break down barriers and stereotypes that often hindered their progress. Her mentorship extended to countless individuals, many of whom credit her with shaping their careers and aspirations.

Carmen’s vision for African tourism was deeply rooted in promoting the continent’s rich cultural heritage. She emphasized the importance of showcasing Africa’s gastronomy, art, history, and traditions as key components of its tourism offering.

She believed that these cultural assets, when properly packaged and marketed, could create unique and memorable travel experiences. Carmen also urged the African diaspora to reconnect with the continent by becoming tourists in their home countries, investing in local businesses, and promoting Africa globally.

As a mother of two teenage boys, Carmen balanced her demanding career with her personal life, serving as an inspiration for many young women navigating similar challenges.

She often spoke about the importance of planning, organization, and building a strong support system. Her ability to juggle family responsibilities and a thriving career was a reflection of her resilience and determination.

Carmen’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in Africa’s potential. She envisioned a future where African professionals lead globally in tourism and hospitality, where African destinations compete on the world stage, and where the continent’s cultural and natural wealth is celebrated and preserved.

Carmen Nibigira’s life was a testament to the power of education, vision, and perseverance. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the tourism sector, a legacy of empowerment for women and youth, and a profound love for her continent.

While her passing is a great loss, her spirit and work will live on in the hearts of those she touched and the industry she helped transform. Her contributions will continue to inspire and guide future generations. Fare Thee Well!

Sam K Nkurunziza

Steve Harvey Visits Rwanda

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

Reports of Harvey’s visit emerged on Tuesday after he was seen at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where he paid his respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

On Wednesday, Harvey confirmed on his popular Steve Harvey TV Instagram account that he was in Kigali and had met President Paul Kagame. The TV star praised Kagame’s strength, humility, and Rwanda’s remarkable journey of resilience and forgiveness.

“We had the pleasure of sitting and meeting His Excellency, my brother, President Paul Kagame. I was truly inspired by his strength and humility—a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and acts of forgiveness,” he wrote.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, their discussions focused on potential areas of investment and partnership in various sectors including events and entertainment.

During his visit, Harvey is expected to explore various parts of the country, including a trek to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in the Northern Province. He is also set to meet several prominent figures in Rwanda.

Charges Dropped in Olga Kayirangwa’s Death Case

Two men detained over the mysterious death of Olga Kayirangwa have been released due to insufficient evidence, the judiciary confirmed on November 19, 2024.

Kayirangwa, 25, died on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali.

Judiciary spokesperson Harrison Mutabazi stated that prosecutors had withdrawn the case against Fred Nasagambe and Gideon Gatare, halting criminal proceedings.

Kayirangwa, 25, passed away on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali. While the prosecution initially claimed she died there, the suspects argued she passed away at DMC Hospital following a medical emergency. Nasagambe said Kayirangwa collapsed in his bedroom after using the bathroom, prompting him to call Gatare, a pharmacist, for assistance.

The suspects had been in custody since October, following a 30-day remand order by Kicukiro Primary Court. Their release request had been denied on November 18, citing additional evidence, including testimony from a domestic worker who alleged that Kayirangwa appeared lifeless on a bed.

On November 19, prosecutors sought their release, citing insufficient grounds for prosecution. Article 91 of Rwanda’s criminal procedure law allows releases when no basis for prosecution exists. The court granted the request, officially freeing the two men.

Date Set for Carmen Nibigira’s Burial

Carmen Nibigira, a prominent figure in East Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector, will be laid to rest on November 24, 2024.

Nibigira passed away in Kenya on November 16, 2024, following a short illness.

A funeral mass will be held at Centre Christus in Kigali at 2:00 p.m., followed by burial at Rusororo Cemetery at 4:00 p.m.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Nibigira dedicated more than 24 years to advancing the hotel and tourism industry. At the time of her passing, she was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team.

Kizza Besigye Reported Missing in Nairobi

Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been reported missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024.

Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, disclosed on Tuesday night that she had learned her husband was being held at a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye is missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, condemned his alleged detention and demanded his immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while attending Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch in Nairobi. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' she posted on X.

She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

The motive behind Besigye’s alleged abduction and detention remains unclear.

Zelensky Rules Out Elections Again

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated that elections will not occur until a “just peace” is achieved.

Speaking in parliament on November 19, 2024, while presenting his Internal Resilience Plan, Zelensky stressed that the Constitution prohibits elections during wartime. He dismissed calls for polls as detrimental to national unity and urged prioritizing Ukraine’s collective interests over political ambitions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a past function.

Zelensky’s term expired in March 2024 but was extended due to martial law imposed in 2022.

The war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a large-scale invasion. Tensions between the two nations had escalated for years, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support of separatists in Eastern Ukraine.

Trump Picks WWE Co-Founder for Education Role

United States President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, co-founder of WWE and his former transition co-chair, as education secretary.

Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

McMahon, a trusted ally, previously led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first presidency and has been a significant donor to his campaigns.

Announcing the decision on Truth Social, Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

This nomination follows Trump’s recent selection of Mehmet Oz to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

IGIHE

This small but ecologically diverse country is home to over 700 recorded bird species, including some of the continent’s most sought-after and rare birds.

From lush montane rainforests and tranquil wetlands to rolling savannahs and shimmering lakes, Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

What sets Rwanda apart is its accessibility and safety. The compact size of the country allows travelers to explore multiple birding hotspots within a short time frame, while its excellent infrastructure and expert local guides ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder chasing rare species or a beginner eager to explore, Rwanda is a destination that promises unforgettable encounters with its vibrant avian life.

Here are Rwanda’s top birdwatching sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s exceptional biodiversity.

1. Nyungwe National Park

Nestled in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a tropical montane rainforest renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Home to over 300 bird species, it offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

The Red-collared Babbler is the park’s crowning jewel. Other must-see species include the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Grauer’s Warbler, and the colorful Regal and Purple-breasted Sunbirds.

With well-maintained trails and expert guides, Nyungwe provides an enriching birding adventure. For the lucky few, rarities like the Congo Bay Owl and Shelley’s Crimsonwing might make an appearance.

Nyungwe National Park offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

2. Akagera National Park

In the east, Akagera National Park blends savannah, wetlands, and woodland habitats, creating a vibrant ecosystem for over 400 bird species.

Known for its traditional “Big Five” safari experiences, Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife, with highlights including the range-restricted Red-faced Barbet and the majestic Shoebill.

A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a must for spotting waterbirds like the African Finfoot. Night drives add a layer of excitement, with the potential to see Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and nightjars.

Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife.

The African Fish Eagle is similar in appearance to the American Bald Eagle.The chances of observing this beautiful raptor are very high and expect to find pairs nesting close to water sources in Akagera National Park.

3. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, famed for its Mountain Gorillas, also hosts an impressive avian population, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics.

For birders, the Scarlet-tufted Sunbird is a unique attraction, best spotted on a trek to Mount Bisoke’s summit. Nearby lakes and Buhanga Eco-Park further enrich the birdwatching opportunities.

The Sunbird is among unique attractions in Volcanoes National Park.

Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Rwanda’s newest national park, Gishwati-Mukura, is a symbol of conservation and biodiversity.

Located in the mountains above Lake Kivu, it hosts over 230 bird species, including the Black-fronted Duiker.

The ongoing rehabilitation of this park promises even greater birdwatching potential in the years to come.

Visiting Gishwati-Mukura National Park leaves indelible memories for birdwatchers.

5. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu’s tranquil shores are a refreshing stop for birders. The lake supports large populations of White-breasted Cormorants and Pied Kingfishers, while hotel gardens in Karongi and Rubavu provide sightings of species like the Double-toothed Barbet and Yellow-bellied Waxbill. The Kinunu area is particularly rewarding for spotting common terrestrial birds.

Lake Kivu offers a great bird watching experience.

6. Wetlands

Rwanda’s wetlands cover 10% of the country, offering habitats for numerous bird species.

Key sites like Rugezi Marsh, Akanyaru, and Nyabarongo Wetlands are designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International.

In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.

The marsh supports populations of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and Grey-crowned Cranes.

In the Bugesera District, wetlands and lakes offer accessible birding with sightings of Papyrus Gonolek, White-backed Duck, and Lesser Jacana.

Researchers recently 127 bird species in Rugezi Marsh, 28 of which are new to the region.

7. Kigali: Urban birding at its best

Even Rwanda’s bustling capital, Kigali, offers remarkable birding opportunities. Nyarutarama Lake, known locally as “Lover’s Lake,” and the recently inaugurated Nyandungu Ecopark are urban oases for birdwatchers.

Species like African Swamphen, Narina Trogon, and Bat Hawk are commonly spotted, making Kigali an excellent starting point for any birding itinerary.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village is a must-visit, offering a unique blend of conservation and education.

Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Rwanda offers an unforgettable journey into the world of avian beauty.

Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park is a recreational space and wildlife habitat in the City of Kigali. It is home to different bird species.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village in Kabuga, Kigali City is a must-visit.

Théophile Niyitegeka