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BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, five major emerging markets with considerable economic potential. It has now evolved into an influential international cooperation mechanism with an expanded membership.

Over the past 18 years, China has upheld the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation and helped drive the BRICS cooperation mechanism to a new level, serving as a constructive force for safeguarding world peace, promoting common development, improving global governance and facilitating democratization of international relations.

This year marks the beginning of greater BRICS cooperation. During the upcoming summit, the first such gathering to be held after the BRICS expansion, Xi and leaders of other BRICS countries are expected to draw a blueprint for the development of its mechanism, inject new impetus into a multipolar world, facilitate economic globalization and democratization of international relations, and open up a new chapter for the solidarity and development of the Global South.

NEW STARTING POINT

“BRICS is an important force in shaping the international landscape. We choose our development paths independently, jointly defend our right to development, and march in tandem toward modernization. This represents the direction of the advancement of human society, and will profoundly impact the development process of the world,” said Xi during the 15th BRICS Summit in August 2023.

Other than the countries that officially joined the BRICS family on Jan. 1, 2024, over 30 countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Türkiye and Azerbaijan have either formally applied for or expressed interest in its membership.

After the expansion, the BRICS countries account for about 30 percent of the global GDP, nearly half of the global population and one-fifth of global trade.

China has been committed to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation with its BRICS partners. In the first quarter of this year, China’s imports and exports to BRICS countries increased by more than 11 percent year on year.

Ahmed Al-Ali, a researcher based in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), said that the BRICS has become an important engine to drive global economic recovery and maintain world peace and stability thanks to its steady economic growth, and equal and extensive cooperation opportunities.

“Ethiopia’s BRICS membership could significantly boost the country’s socio-economic development through various economic opportunities, including increased investment, expanded South-South cooperation and trade partnerships,” said Balew Demissie, a researcher at the Policy Studies Institute of Ethiopia.

China’s cooperation with other BRICS members has strongly defended multilateralism and promoted the democratization of international relations, said Evandro Carvalho, a Brazilian professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, an economic think tank.

The appeal of the BRICS cooperation mechanism comes from its spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation. “BRICS countries gather not in a closed club or an exclusive circle, but a big family of mutual support and a partnership for win-win cooperation,” Xi said during the 14th BRICS Summit in June 2022.

From the “BRICS Plus” cooperation approach proposed in 2017 to the historic expansion of BRICS membership, the mechanism is widely welcomed, with growing influence and appeal.

The BRICS cooperation mechanism respects the interests of all parties involved and is an “attractive platform for cooperation and mutual benefit,” said Elshad Mammadov, an Azerbaijani economics expert.

FRUITFUL ACHIEVEMENTS

At present, the mechanism is at a crucial stage of building on past achievements and ushering in a new era of cooperation. China is working with other BRICS partners, embarking on a new journey of greater BRICS cooperation.

“We should navigate the trend of our times and stay in the forefront. We should always bear in mind our founding purpose of strengthening ourselves through unity, enhance cooperation across the board, and build a high-quality partnership. We should help reform global governance to make it more just and equitable, and bring to the world more certainty, stability and positive energy,” Xi has said.

Applauding more participants and exploring new ways of cooperation within the mechanism, the BRICS countries will also have more opportunities and their roles in the global arena will continue to expand, said Ivan Melnikov, first vice-chairman of the Russian State Duma and chairman of the Russia-China Friendship Association.

China and its BRICS partners have worked together to advance practical cooperation and deepen mutual benefit, setting up projects such as the China-BRICS Science and Innovation Incubation Park for the New Era and the China-BRICS AI Development and Cooperation Center, as well as hosting the BRICS Forum on Partnership on New Industrial Revolution and BRICS Industrial Innovation Contest.

Set up by the BRICS and opened in 2015, the New Development Bank (NDB) aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries.

Meanwhile, people-to-people and cultural exchanges among BRICS countries are in full swing, with popular events such as film festivals, sports games, and co-productions of films and documentaries.

The first special session for BRICS countries of the International Youth Poetry Festival kicked off in the Southeastern Chinese city of Hangzhou in July, attracting 72 poets from BRICS countries.

In mid-September, over 60 media leaders from more than 40 countries joined the BRICS Media Summit in Moscow, discussing the role of BRICS media in promoting a multipolar world.

People-to-people exchanges have deepened among BRICS countries, and BRICS member states have worked towards a closer friendship, providing a “BRICS model” for promoting exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, said Ahmed Hamadi, a political commentator of the Aletihad News Center of the UAE.

BRIGHT FUTURE

Thanks to the concerted efforts of all parties, the BRICS has increasingly become an important force in shaping the international landscape and safeguarding global stability.

The BRICS cooperation mechanism is now a key venue for emerging markets and developing countries to strengthen solidarity and cooperation and safeguard common interests, thereby serving as the most pivotal mechanism representing the Global South.

China is a significant promoter of BRICS cooperation and a natural member of the Global South. Beijing has all along stood with other developing countries through thick and thin.

While pursuing its own development, China has continuously provided new opportunities for the rest of the world by sharing its development dividends.

“China’s role in promoting the continuous development of BRICS is significant,” said Zukiswa Roboji, a researcher at Walter Sisulu University in South Africa.

The BRICS mechanism effectively promotes solidarity and cooperation among countries of the Global South, and enhances the representation of developing countries in global governance, and China has made positive contributions to raising the global influence of BRICS cooperation, Roboji said.

The genuine multilateralism advocated by China and its efforts in promoting the modernization of the Global South have brought confidence and important strength to the world, said Bunn Nagara, director and senior fellow at Belt and Road Initiative Caucus for Asia-Pacific.

“Today, China is exactly what the countries of the Global South want to be,” said Dilma Rousseff, former Brazilian president and president of the NDB, adding that China’s advocacy of more just and effective global governance is helping the world build a bright shared future.

Xinhua

Gachagua, on Sunday, October 20, 2024, alleged that undercover security agents attempted to poison his food in two separate incidents in Kisumu and Nyeri counties in August and September of this year.

In a summons to Gachagua dated October 21, the DCI termed the allegations serious and directed him to appear before the detectives on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, to record a formal statement to enable investigations into the matter.

'These are serious allegations emanating from a person of your stature and cannot be taken lightly. In light of the seriousness of this matter, we kindly request your presence on October 22, 2024, at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Headquarters, Mazingira Complex-Kiambu Road, to formally record your statement to enable prompt and thorough investigations into the matter,' the summons read in part.

'We understand the sensitivity of the allegations and assure you that this matter will be handled with the seriousness it deserves. Your statement is a crucial component of our investigation.'

Gachagua had claimed that it was after the two failed assassination attempts that an impeachment plot was hatched against him.

“On August 30, undercover security agents entered my room in Kisumu, bugged it, and one of them tried to poison my food, but we were able to detect the scheme. I was supposed to be killed through food poisoning. On September 3 in Nyeri, another team from the National Intelligence Service came and tried to poison food that was meant for me and the Kikuyu Council of Elders,” Gachagua said.

The impeached Deputy President spoke after being discharged from Karen Hospital in Nairobi, where he had been hospitalized with chest pains as the Senate debated his impeachment motion last Thursday.

In yet another political divorce in Kenya, Gachagua accused President William Ruto of being vicious and orchestrating the impeachment against him.

He told the press that the Head of State had illegally ordered the withdrawal of his security and staff despite the High Court suspending the Senate’s resolutions to uphold his impeachment by the National Assembly.

“I don’t understand this level of viciousness toward a man who has been your deputy, a man who helped you become president. Irrespective of what he has done, at his lowest moment in life, when he is literally struggling to stay alive, you unleash such viciousness against him. I bear no grudges against anybody, but I had not seen this in President William Ruto. The man I am seeing now is not the one I thought I knew,” he said, citing constant persecution over the past year and a surprisingly rushed effort to remove him from office.

Gachagua said he doesn’t feel safe, and if anything happens to him, President Ruto should be held accountable.

“Do whatever you want, but please, Mr. President, I beg you, don’t kill us. Don’t kill my children. You have caused me enough pain over the past year. Please, leave me alone,” he added.

“I want the people of Kenya to know that as I go home today, I have no security. It is good that they know that if anything happens to me or my family, President Ruto must be held accountable.”

Gachagua was impeached over allegations of violating the constitution by undermining national unity through ethnic utterances and gross misconduct.

The bitter fallout between Gachagua and Ruto mirrors the current Head of State’s fallout with former President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2018, when he served as Deputy President in the former Jubilee Party administration.

In a summons to Rigathi Gachagua dated October 21, the DCI termed the allegations serious and directed him to appear before the detectives on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, to record a formal statement to enable investigations into the matter.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The election took place during the General Assembly of the Chamber of Deputies on October 21, 2024.

PAP was set up under the 1991 Abuja Treaty to ensure the full participation of African peoples in the economic development and integration of the continent.

The legislative body of the African Union also serves as a platform for people from all African states to be involved in discussions and decision making on the problems and challenges facing the continent.

Each member country in PAP is represented by five national legislators, with a requirement that at least one must be a woman.

The representatives come from different political parties holding seats in their respective national parliaments and are appointed by their parliaments rather than through direct public elections.

For Rwanda, three Deputies and two Senators represent the country in PAP, and their mandate aligns with their tenure in the national legislature.

Deputy Jennifer Wibabara was elected with 77 out of 79 votes. She holds a Master’s degree in project management and has 30 years of experience in both government and non-governmental organizations.

Wibabara expressed her dedication to advancing Africa’s development, inspired by the leadership of President Kagame.

'This parliament represents the people, and we represent them too. I will work diligently and with dedication, following the leadership of our President, who strives for a proud, united, and self-sufficient Africa,' she said.

Deputy Diogene Bitunguramye, who received 78 votes, has served in Rwanda’s Parliament since 2016. He holds a Master’s degree in education and has held various government roles throughout his career.

Deputy Aimée Marie Ange Tumukunde, elected with 74 votes, highlighted her extensive experience resolving citizens’ issues in previous roles.

She committed to using her expertise at PAP to advocate for the welfare and economic development of Africans.

The Pan-African Parliament consists of 275 representatives from African Union member states that have ratified its protocol.

Deputy Jennifer Wibabara was elected with 77 out of 79 votes.

Deputy Aimée Marie Ange Tumukunde committed to using her expertise at PAP to advocate for the welfare and economic development of Africans.

Deputy Diogene Bitunguramye has served in Rwanda’s Parliament since 2016.

IGIHE

According to an RDF statement, the event was attended by the Heads of Departments of the Reserve Force.

Maj Gen Alex Kagame was appointed by President Paul Kagame, the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), on October 15, 2024.

The Reserve Force is one of the four branches of the Rwanda Defence Force.

Maj Gen Alex Kagame recently served as the Joint Task Force Commander of the Rwanda Security Forces (RSF) in Mozambique’s northern province of Cabo Delgado, before he was succeeded by Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha.

Maj Gen Kagame first joined the military in 1987 and was part of the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), the force that liberated Rwanda in 1994 and put an end to the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Throughout his military career, Maj Gen Kagame has commanded various RDF divisions, including Division 2 in the Northern Province, Division 3 covering the Western Province, and Division 4 in the Southern Province. Additionally, he served as the commander of the Republican Guard.

Maj Gen Alex Kagame holds a master’s degree in military science from China, where he also completed a command course.

He also took a military command course in Kenya, which was supplemented with courses in international relations.

Maj Gen Alex Kagame (left) has assumed command as new Reserve Force Chief of Staff.

The event was attended by the Heads of Departments of the Reserve Force.

IGIHE

This year’s edition promises to be an exciting competition as participants, including 19 Rwandan riders, tackle some of the most rugged and scenic landscapes in the country. International veterans and the well-known Silverbacks teams, have joined the race, which tests the endurance, skill, and resilience of cyclists across multiple stages.

The race kicked off on October 21, 2024 with the prologue stage around Mount Kigali, where riders navigated an 8.8 kilometer loop through urban and forest terrain. Starting at Fazenda Sengha, the route offers a challenging mix of surfaces with a 260-meter elevation gain.

Over the coming days, competitors will face even more grueling stages. One of the highlights is the Mount Kabuye stage, a 95 kilometer ride from Nyirangarama to ARCC, with a massive elevation gain of 2551 meters.

The Rwanda Epic Mountain Race is underway

This stage, known for its tough climbs, is expected to challenge even the most seasoned cyclists. Another key stage is the Twin Lakes route, which spans 54.9 kilometers and takes riders through scenic trails and volcanic terrain, finishing at the Musanze Football Stadium.

Another stage of the race will be conducted in the Volcanoes special time regulation for riders will be mandatory in completing complete all 6 laps covering a distance of 29.8kilometers. Riders will be allocated a time penalty for each lap not completed, added to their slowest lap time.

The Rwanda Epic mountain bike race will culminate in the final Gishwati-Rubavu stage, a 65.5 kilometer stretch that ends at the picturesque Rubavu Beach. With rolling trails and a danger zone that covers nearly 40 kilometers, this final stage will push riders to their limits as they race to the finish line.

At the launch of race, Simon De Schutter, the Head of the organizing team said that Rwanda Epic is more than just a test of athletic endurance.

'Over 60 support staff, including four doctors and the Red Cross, are on hand throughout the event to ensure the safety of the cyclists. The race also involves the local community, with over 300 people engaged in various capacities, working closely with local authorities and organizations to make the event a success,' he said.

In addition to the main race, local riders will have the opportunity to compete in the Abanyonzi Race, an open competition in Musanze where they will vie for prizes, further showcasing Rwanda’s growing cycling talent.

Riders compete in various categories, including duo men, duo women, mixed teams, Silverbacks (for combined team ages of 99 years and above), Best Rwandan Team, and Solo. Stage winners and overall champions will be celebrated for their achievements across Rwanda’s diverse and challenging terrain.

The Rwanda Epic has grown into a premier cycling event that not only highlights the physical endurance of the athletes but also showcases the natural beauty of the country.

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rugged trails, the race draws attention to Rwanda’s potential as a cycling destination while promoting sports and tourism.
As the competition progresses, cycling enthusiasts can look forward to constant updates and results, capturing the thrilling journey of these riders as they push themselves through each stage.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The purchase of the treasury bonds began on October 21 and will close on October 23, 2024.

Treasury bonds are a means used by the government to raise funds for national development activities.

Depending on the required funds, the government determines the value of the treasury bonds issued, which are also seen as investment opportunities for individuals looking to save for the long term.

When a person purchases treasury bonds, they are effectively lending money to the government, receiving interest. They will be reimbursed the amount they spent to buy the bonds when the maturity period ends.

The Rwandan government started the program to raise resources through treasury bonds in 2008.

In Rwanda, the main buyers of treasury bonds include financial institutions, insurance companies, and individual investors, who have increasingly participated in this market, especially after a major awareness campaign explaining their benefits that started in 2014.

The Rwandan government has also put significant effort into providing opportunities for treasury bondholders, as they can use them as collateral in banks to obtain loans that promote their development.

The Government of Rwanda, through the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR), has issued treasury bonds valued at Frw 20 billion, which will have a maturity period of seven years.

IGIHE

While the list of attractions is very wide; this article takes you on a journey through some of the must-visit places in Rwanda, presenting a combination of wildlife experiences, historical sites, and stunning landscapes that will leave every traveler in awe.

Volcanoes National Park: Home to the majestic mountain gorillas

At the heart of Rwanda’s tourism lies Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest, near the border with Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This park is the crown jewel of Rwanda, renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which has made the country a sought-after destination for wildlife lovers.

The park covers the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, home to a chain of dormant volcanoes including Karisimbi (the highest at 4,507 meters), Bisoke, Sabinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura.

The experience of trekking through the dense rainforest, rich with the sounds of over 200 bird species and the rare golden monkeys, is something unique to this region.

The intimate encounter with the gorillas is not just a wildlife experience but a deeply moving and transformative moment for many visitors.

In addition to gorilla trekking, the park boasts several other attractions, including the Buhanga Eco-Park, an ancient forest with significant cultural heritage, and the Musanze Caves, formed millions of years ago from volcanic eruptions.

These unique geological formations further add to the allure of this natural wonder.

Volcanoes National Park covers the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, home to a chain of dormant volcanoes including Karisimbi.

Akagera National Park

For travelers craving the traditional African safari experience, Akagera National Park in the eastern part of the country offers an entirely different landscape.

This park, named after the Akagera River, is Rwanda’s only savannah reserve and is home to the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.

The park has seen a resurgence in recent years, thanks to successful conservation efforts, and now hosts a wide array of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, baboons, and antelope species.

One of the highlights of visiting Akagera is a boat trip on Lake Ihema, where travelers can observe large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds in their natural habitat.

The park’s stunning savannah plains, interspersed with lakes and wetlands, provide the perfect setting for game drives, whether self-guided or through a tour operator.

Akagera also offers night drives and camping experiences for those seeking deeper immersion into Rwanda’s wilderness.

Elephants are among the ‘Big Five’, visitors can see in Akagera National Park can.

Nyungwe National Park

Nyungwe National Park is one of Africa’s oldest and most pristine rainforests, located in the southwestern part of Rwanda.

Spanning over 1,019 square kilometers, Nyungwe is a treasure trove of biodiversity and is considered one of the most important forest conservation areas in the region.

Visitors can embark on chimpanzee trekking, one of the park’s star attractions, or encounter troops of the rare colobus monkeys, which are often seen leaping through the treetops.

For adventurous visitors, the park offers the famous Canopy Walk, a suspension bridge hanging high above the forest floor, providing breathtaking views of the jungle canopy.

Nyungwe is also known for its extensive network of hiking trails, some of which lead to beautiful waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.

With its lush greenery and diverse fauna, this park is a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those looking for a serene escape into the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

Visitors to Nyungwe National Park can enjoy a thrilling walk across a suspension bridge, suspended high above the forest floor, offering stunning views of the lush jungle canopy.

Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Situated in the western part of Rwanda, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a relatively new addition to Rwanda’s network of protected areas.

Comprising two separate forests—Gishwati and Mukura—the park covers 34 square kilometers of lush terrain. The forests lie on the ridge that divides the Congo and Nile water catchment areas, contributing to the region’s unique biodiversity.

Gishwati-Mukura is home to a small population of chimpanzees, which live alongside golden monkeys and blue monkeys, making it a haven for primate enthusiasts.

The park also boasts an impressive birdlife, with over 200 species recorded, including several endemic to the Albertine Rift.

Visitors to this park can participate in community-based activities such as cultural performances, tea plantation tours, and learning from traditional healers who use medicinal plants found in the forests.

Situated in the western part of Rwanda, Gishwati-Mukura National Park is a relatively new addition to Rwanda’s network of protected areas.

The King’s Palace Museum: A step back in time

For those interested in Rwanda’s rich history, a visit to the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, Southern Province, is a must.

This museum offers an immersive experience into Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy, with a beautifully reconstructed royal palace that reflects the grandeur of the kingdom’s traditional architecture.

The palace is a thatched dwelling shaped like a beehive, offering a glimpse into how Rwanda’s kings lived before the colonial era.

For those interested in Rwanda’s history and the significance of cattle in the Rwandan culture, the royal herd of long-horned cattle, known as “Inyambo,” can still be seen grazing near the palace.

The King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza offers an immersive experience into Rwanda’s pre-colonial monarchy, with a beautifully reconstructed royal palace that reflects the grandeur of the kingdom’s traditional architecture.

Ethnographic Museum

Located in Huye (formerly Butare), the Ethnographic Museum was a gift from Belgium’s King Baudouin in the late 1980s. Today, it houses one of Africa’s most impressive ethnographic collections.

The museum features seven galleries that display a wide range of historical, ethnographic, artistic, and archaeological artifacts. Through these exhibits, visitors gain a deep understanding of Rwandan culture, with visual aids enriching the experience.

The exhibits begin with geographical and geological presentations, followed by items related to traditional practices such as hunting, agriculture, animal husbandry, pottery, weaving, and woodwork.

The museum also showcases traditional clothing, architectural methods, and the social significance of cattle in Rwandan society.

The final gallery delves into traditional customs, beliefs, history, culture, poetry, oral tradition, and cosmology. Additionally, there is a highly regarded craft center on-site, offering visitors a chance to explore local craftsmanship.

Huye Ethnographic Museum houses one of Africa’s most impressive ethnographic collections.

Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu, Rwanda’s largest lake, is nestled along the country’s western border, forming part of Africa’s Great Rift Valley.

Surrounded by dramatic mountains and covering an area of 2,700 square kilometers, the lake offers a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure.

The lakeside towns of Rubavu (formerly Gisenyi) and Karongi are popular with travelers seeking peaceful retreats after exploring the national parks.

Rubavu, located near the Volcanoes National Park, is an ideal spot to unwind after gorilla trekking, with its lakeside hotels and restaurants offering breathtaking views of the water.
Karongi, further south, is a charming town known for its scenic beaches and rolling hills covered in pine and eucalyptus trees.

Visitors can enjoy boat rides, kayaking, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere of the lake.

For those who prefer a more active experience, the Congo Nile Trail offers one of the most scenic hikes in the country, stretching 227 kilometers along the lake’s shoreline.

Surrounded by dramatic mountains and covering an area of 2,700 square kilometers, Lake Kivu offers a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure.

Rugezi Marsh: A haven for birdwatchers

Rugezi Marsh, located in the northern part of Rwanda, is a vast wetland covering over 6,700 hectares.

It is a vital habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, particularly bird species.

The marsh is a designated Ramsar site, recognized for its importance in wetland conservation.

For birdwatchers, Rugezi Marsh offers an unparalleled opportunity to spot some of Rwanda’s rarest bird species, including the elusive white-backed duck and other waterbirds.
In addition to birdwatching, visitors can take a boat ride on Lake Nyagafunzo, located at the southern edge of the marsh, to observe the area’s rich aquatic life.

Recent research has uncovered a wealth of new species in Rugezi Marsh, making it a fascinating destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers alike.

Tourists visiting Rugezi Marsh can a variety of bird species.

Kibeho Holy Land: A sacred pilgrimage site

Located in Nyaruguru District of Southern Province, Kibeho is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic world.

The area gained international recognition following the apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1981, witnessed by several young girls.

Today, thousands of pilgrims visit Kibeho each year, especially on November 28th, to commemorate the first apparition and spiritually connect with 'Mother Mary’.

For those seeking a spiritual journey, Kibeho offers a unique experience filled with prayer, reflection, and the deep sense of peace that permeates this sacred land.

Kibeho Holy Land attracts thousands of local and international pilgrims every year.

Nyandungu Ecopark: An urban conservation success

Nyandungu Ecopark, located within Kigali, is a testament to Rwanda’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

This urban wetland, which was restored and inaugurated in 2022, spans over 120 hectares and serves as a green haven within the city. The park features walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and viewing platforms, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Nyandungu is home to over 100 bird species and a variety of local plants, providing visitors with a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The park’s medicinal garden and the Pope’s Garden are particularly notable, offering insight into Rwanda’s traditional healing practices and its Catholic heritage.

Nyandungu Eco-Park is among top recommended places for nature lovers.

Kandt House Museum

The museum is named after Richard Kandt, the first colonial governor of Rwanda under German rule, who governed in the early 1900s. Today, the Kandt House Museum in Kigali is divided into three main sections.

The first section showcases Rwandan life before the colonial era, exploring its social, economic, and political dimensions.

The second section delves into Rwanda’s colonial experience, beginning with the Berlin Conference of 1884, which led to German rule until 1916.

After World War I, Belgium took over governance under the League of Nations mandate.

This section also highlights Richard Kandt’s life in Rwanda.

The third section focuses on the history of Kigali, chronicling its evolution before, during, and after the colonial period. Kigali became Rwanda’s capital upon gaining independence in 1962.

Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep connection with nature and history, Rwanda’s attractions promise to leave you with unforgettable memories.

The Kandt House Museum in Kigali is divided into three main sections.

Volcanoes National Park is home to mountain gorillas.

Volcanoes National Park leaves indelible memories.

Akagera National Park is home to many bird species.

Gishwati-Mukura is Rwanda’s newest National Park.

Leopards are among wild animals seen in Akagera National Park.

Lions were reintroduced in Akagera National Park in 2015 following years of extinction.

Akagera National Park has a large number of elephant population.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana revealed the findings during a press briefing in Kigali on Sunday, October 21, 2024, stating that the index case was a 27-year-old man who contracted the virus through contact with bats in a local cave.

Dr. Nsanzimana explained that extensive research, including genomic sequencing, epidemiological investigations, and environmental testing, pointed to a zoonotic origin, meaning the virus jumped from an animal to a human.

“The index case we presented today is a 27-year-old male,” he said, adding that the case shows a close evolutionary relationship to a strain observed during the 2014 outbreak in the region.

“Through our contact tracing, beginning from the hospital, we combined all five elements, which led us, with high precision, to determine that this was of zoonotic origin. This man had been exposed in a particular area of a cave with a specific species of bat that has been sequenced before in the region, confirming the link to the outbreak we are currently dealing with.”

The Marburg virus is a highly contagious disease that causes severe hemorrhagic fever. While outbreaks are rare, they often result in high mortality rates and present serious public health challenges.

According to the Ministry of Health, the outbreak in Rwanda was first identified after the index case was hospitalized at King Faisal Hospital, where he was treated in the intensive care unit. Healthcare workers attending to him soon exhibited symptoms, triggering an investigation into the source of the virus.

“Identifying the index case has been the result of several efforts. We are very happy to have reached this point because in many outbreaks, it is extremely difficult to do so,' the minister added.

With efforts continuing, the Ministry of Health remains focused on controlling the outbreak and ensuring that Rwanda is prepared for future health crises.

“We continue to expand our understanding of these dynamics within a One Health context. We will be providing more details about this index case and how we can prepare for preventing future outbreaks,' Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized.

Since the first-ever outbreak was declared in Rwanda on September 27, 2024, a total of 62 cases, 14 deaths, and 45 recoveries have been recorded. The fatality rate stands at 24%, significantly lower compared to the 88% observed in past outbreaks globally.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who was present at the joint media briefing in Kigali, acknowledged Rwanda’s positive trend in managing the health emergency, as there have been no new cases or deaths in the past week.

The WHO chief highlighted that Rwanda was the first country in Africa to successfully intubate and later extubate patients suffering from the Marburg virus, a significant medical breakthrough.

He attributed the achievements to strategic measures and effective health interventions.

'We believe this is the first time patients with Marburg virus have been extubated in Africa. These patients would have died in previous outbreaks,' Dr. Tedros said, citing a recent incident where two patients successfully recovered.

'This reflects the work Rwanda has done over the years to strengthen the health system, to develop capacity in critical care and life support that can be deployed both in regular hospital care and emergencies,' he added.

Rwanda’s Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana revealed the findings during a press briefing attended by WHO Director General Dr.Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in Kigali on Sunday, October 21, 2024. He stated that the index case was a 27-year-old man who contracted the virus through contact with bats in a local cave.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Dr. Tedros confirmed the conversation through his X account on Sunday.

“I had a fruitful conversation with my brother, President Paul Kagame, regarding Rwanda’s ongoing response to the Marburg outbreak. I expressed my appreciation for his leadership and the effective management of the outbreak response, along with his commitment to end it soon,” he shared.

Dr. Tedros mentioned that they also discussed the significant investments in establishing a local vaccine manufacturing facility in Kigali.

He emphasized that the project is “well underway and making significant progress, leveraging lessons learned from COVID-19 to address the equity challenges faced by Africa.”

Dr. Tedros has been in Kigali to assess Rwanda’s response to the Marburg virus.

The first Marburg cases in Rwanda were reported on September 27, 2024.

According to figures from the Ministry of Health, a total of 4,715 people have been tested.

Out of these, 60 people have been infected while 15 died.

Currently, three patients are receiving treatment, while 44 individuals have recovered, and 1,070 people have been vaccinated against the virus.

President Paul Kagame (left) has held a conversation with the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (right).

IGIHE