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Agriculture remains the backbone of Rwanda’s economy, and the Bank of Kigali is playing a crucial role in supporting its modernization. By providing financing solutions to innovative enterprises like Kivu Choice, BK is helping to enhance food production and affordability.

The aquaculture sector, in particular, holds immense potential to provide sustainable, nutritious foods to Rwandans while creating jobs and supporting rural livelihoods. This partnership will enable Kivu Choice to expand its production capacity and make nutritious fish products more accessible to communities across the country.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali described the partnership as a transformative step for Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

“By supporting innovative businesses in aquaculture, we are helping to ensure affordable, sustainable nutritious foods for our people while also driving rural development. At Bank of Kigali, we believe that investing in agriculture is not just about growing food—it’s about fostering inclusive economic growth and building resilience in the communities that depend on it,' she stated.

Kamran Ahmad, Founder and CEO of Kivu Choice, emphasized the importance of the partnership for their mission.

'Our partnership with BK will allow us to significantly expand our equipment and infrastructure capacity so that we can continue to scale at pace to serve more of the market. We’re grateful for the opportunity to work closely together to tackle food and nutrition security; this investment takes us one step closer to making our products accessible and affordable across the entire country,' he noted.

In addition to expanding production capacity for Kivu Choice, this partnership also aims at financing the whole value chain to ensure the wider aquaculture industry benefits from it.

With 350 employees growing to 1,200 in 3 years, over 200 suppliers, and 3000 traders, this partnership will also target supplier and trader financing.

As part of its strategic focus on agricultural financing, Bank of Kigali continues to develop tailored financial solutions that support the sector’s modernization and resilience. From providing accessible financing to agribusinesses to offering customized financial products for farmers, BK ensures that the agriculture industry receives the necessary support to thrive.

About Bank of Kigali Plc

Established in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest financial institution. As a leading commercial bank, it provides a wide range of services, including digital banking, to over 500,000 customers through an extensive branch network and digital platforms. BK is committed to fostering innovation and economic growth through targeted financial solutions for individuals, SMEs, and corporations.

About Kivu Choice Ltd

Kivu Choice is a vertically integrated Aquaculture company based in Rwanda with associated feed mill, hatchery, cage production, distribution, and sales outlets. Founded in 2021, and now producing over 500 thousand fish meals a month, the company is positioning itself as Africa’s fastest growing fish farm, with a mission to democratize access to animal protein by radically increasing affordability and supply across the region.

Kamran Ahmad, Founder and CEO of Kivu Choice and Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali after inking the deal.

Representatives from both sides in a group photo after inking the deal.

The recemony took place on October 10, 2024.

Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali described the partnership as a transformative step for Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

Kamran Ahmad, Founder and CEO of Kivu Choice welcomed the partnership

Kamran Ahmad, Founder and CEO of Kivu Choice and Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali at the ceremony

IGIHE

Mpox broke out in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in May 2022, with several cases reported in neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, the Central African Republic, and Rwanda in recent months. Rwanda also reported its first-ever Marburg outbreak late last month.

In a statement on Friday, October 11, 2024, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the organization had assessed the current Mpox and Marburg outbreaks and determined that no travel or trade restrictions are necessary.

According to WHO, priority should be given to public health measures and collaborative efforts to contain the outbreaks.

“Based on the current Mpox and Marburg outbreak risk assessments, WHO advises that no travel and trade restrictions are needed,” the organization stated.

WHO’s statement follows a condemnation from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) regarding a travel advisory issued by the United States government against Rwanda.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a national public health agency in the United States, issued a Level 3 travel advisory on Monday, October 7, 2024, urging its citizens to reconsider nonessential travel to Rwanda due to the Marburg outbreak.

During a virtual meeting attended by the Rwandan Health Minister and journalists on Thursday, October 10, 2024, Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya termed the advisory unfair. He emphasized that decisions during the ongoing outbreak must be guided by scientific facts to avoid causing panic.

'The decision taken by the US government was not fair, and we believe this is not the treatment that Rwanda and Africa deserve,' he stated.

'By issuing a Level 3 advisory, we are creating unnecessary panic—in Rwanda, in neighboring countries, and even globally,' he protested.

Dr. Kaseya noted that US authorities had committed to consulting the Africa CDC before making such decisions in the future.

'We think this is disrespectful to us. I conveyed this clear message to US senior officials. More importantly, we agreed on a way forward, and I believe I received their commitment that in the future, they will not make such decisions again without consulting us,' he added.

The Africa CDC Director praised the measures implemented by the Rwandan government, stating that the outbreak is under control and there is nearly zero risk of Rwanda spreading the disease to other countries.

“It’s almost zero risk. I say 'almost’ because we cannot say 100% for sure, but I can say that there is a 95% certainty that there is zero risk for Rwanda spreading the disease out of Rwanda. The mechanisms they have put in place to monitor contacts mean no contact can fly out of Rwanda. This is remarkable because they are monitoring these contacts on a daily basis,' he stated.

Rwanda has so far confirmed 58 Marburg cases, 13 deaths, and 15 recoveries.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that the organization had assessed the current Mpox and Marburg outbreaks and determined that no travel or trade restrictions are necessary.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The Rwandan Presidency confirmed the development through its X account, noting that both leaders also “exchanged on various strategies to help enhance disease prevention as well as building increased capacity for manufacturing of vaccines and medical kits on the continent.”

Dr. Kaseya is in Rwanda where he is attending the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) business forum, branded ‘Biashara Africa.’

During his visit, he reassured the nation of Africa CDC’s commitment to supporting Rwanda in its fight against the Marburg virus.

In addition to his meeting with President Kagame, Dr. Kaseya also held discussions with Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, commending the government’s proactive approach to controlling the outbreak.

He expressed optimism that the virus would be contained soon, given the ongoing efforts.

Rwanda reported its first case of the Marburg virus on September 27, 2024. As of October 11, 58 people have been infected, with 15 having recovered. No new cases have been reported in the last two days.

Authorities have urged Rwandans to continue following preventive measures, such as avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals and practicing proper hygiene.

In response to the outbreak, the government has also rolled out a vaccination program targeting high-risk individuals, with 346 doses administered so far.

The Marburg virus disease presents symptoms such as severe headaches, weakness, fever, watery diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Anyone experiencing these symptoms or observing them in others is encouraged to report to health authorities immediately.

Beyond addressing the current outbreak, Rwanda remains committed to long-term solutions for pandemic preparedness.

The BioNTech vaccine manufacturing plant, which began its first phase in Kigali in December 2023, is part of these efforts.

Once fully operational, the plant is expected to produce 50 million vaccine doses annually, significantly boosting the continent’s capacity for disease prevention.

President Paul Kagame has met with Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) with whom they discussed Rwanda’s preparedness in containing the spread of the Marburg virus.

IGIHE

The electric Robotaxi also referred to as Cybercab will cost less than $30,000 (approximately Frw 40 million), Tesla CEO and tech mogul Elon Musk revealed during the unveiling ceremony held at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, on Thursday night.

Musk revealed that, unlike traditional ride-hailing services requiring a driver, the Cybercab will operate fully autonomously.

'You could fall asleep and wake up at your destination,' Musk stated.

The Robotaxi will utilize Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, allowing it to autonomously navigate highways, city streets, intersections, and perform tasks like lane changes, parking, summoning, and responding to traffic signals.

Tesla’s self-driving technology relies on a powerful neural network that gathers data from millions of Tesla vehicles, constantly learning from real-world driving conditions to improve the vehicle’s safety and decision-making capabilities.

The Cybercab, a two-seater with butterfly wing doors and no steering wheel or pedals, lacks a rear window. Musk mentioned that Tesla has produced 21 of these vehicles and that 50 fully autonomous vehicles were present at the launch.

Most of the prototypes displayed at the event featured a gold finish. The Cybercab also showcased matrix-style headlights integrated into a front light bar, similar to the Tesla Cybertruck’s design.

While further details were limited, it’s expected that the Cybercab will be Tesla’s first vehicle to feature wireless induction charging as a standard option.

However, some experts believe that the self driving technology still faces hurdles.

Garrett Nelson, a senior equity analyst at CFRA Research, cautioned, 'A car capable of functioning as a self-driving taxi is still several years away, with numerous technological hurdles, safety tests, and regulatory approvals standing in the way.'

Tesla isn’t alone in the race for autonomous taxis. In China, Baidu is testing its own self-driving taxis on public roads. Meanwhile, Waymo, a subsidiary of Google’s parent company, has been operating driverless taxi services, recently reporting over 100,000 weekly rides in cities like San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles.

General Motors’ Cruise resumed its autonomous taxi testing following a previous incident, and Amazon’s Zoox is developing a driverless van without a steering wheel, aiming to launch a paid service soon.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed that, unlike traditional ride-hailing services requiring a driver, the Cybercab will operate fully autonomously.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Every STEM center consists of a computer and electronics laboratory. By working closely with the higher education institutions that host these STEM centers, the organization guarantees that students obtain hands-on training to supplement their theoretical classroom learning.

So far, STEMpower’s presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits, as many who have attended training sessions at the centers explain.

Victoire Irakoze, a 22-year-old mother, dropped out of school at an early age when she got pregnant, and would always find herself ill-equipped for the job market as a result.

However, STEMpower’s free computer literacy program at the Adventist College of Gitwe in Ruhango District has turned around her life after acquiring computer skills. She says that she is now better positioned for job opportunities.

Many people including local community members have benefited from STEMpower initiatives of free-to-attend training programs.

“I literally didn’t know how to use a computer, and most of the job opportunities I came across required some basic skills on the same. After completing training at this center, I have the basic computer skills, and I am now more confident and optimistic to apply these skills on the labor market,' she explained.

Irakoze is one of the 131 students and community members who completed computer literacy training at College Adventist de Gitwe in the most recent cohort. Her story showcases the organization’s commitment to inclusive education and reviving of shattered dreams.

Emmanuel Tuyisenge is another beneficiary of STEMpower’s training programs whose testament further highlights the practical impact of the organization. The 22-year-old from Kanjongo Sector in Nyamasheke district, always dreamt of becoming an electronics technician, but lacked the financial means to pursue his dream.

In 2022, he heard about STEMpower and enrolled for its free-to-attend training program. After completing training, he opened ‘Emmy Shop of Electronics’, the only electronic repair shop in his village.

'I wanted to utilize the skills I acquired and then noticed there was no one in my area repairing electronic gadgets. My business is now running well, and I hope to expand it as time goes by,' he said.

STEMpower’s presence in Rwanda is already bearing fruits.

Effective teaching methodology

Gervais Tuyizere, a high school student at Murama Secondary School in Ruhango district, also participated in a number of trainings by STEMpower. He says that they have helped him better understand what he was being taught in class.

“The hands-on teaching methodology helps me better understand what I am learning and it becomes easier to remember and apply it. I have since learnt how to install internet connection in my area, and how to do basic computer maintenance, thanks to this training,” he said.

Tuyizere says he envisions becoming an IT engineer and therefore believes the skills he has acquired will be of fundamental importance as he pursues his dream career.

STEMpower has established at least one STEM center in all four provinces of the country and in Kigali city, to reach as many beneficiaries as possible. The facilities are located at University of Rwanda- College of Science and Technology, Nyarugenge district, Ines Ruhengeri in Musanze district; Kibogora Polytechnic located in Nyamasheke district and at the University of Rwanda- College of Education in Kayonza district.

Other learning institutions hosting the centers are Gitwe Adventist College (Ruhango district), East African Christian College in Kicukiro district, Nyabiheke Refugee Camp (Gatsibo district) and University of Tourism, Technology and Business studies situated in Rubavu district.

These centers are not just for students but also serve members of the local community, providing vital skills and opportunities to those who might otherwise be left behind.

The non-profit organization will soon inaugurate a new STEM center at Rwanda Polytechnic College in Kigali as it expands its footprint in the country.

Besides Rwanda, STEMpower has presence in many other Africa’s Sub-Saharan countries such as Ethiopia, South Sudan, Mali, Congo-Brazzaville, Burundi, Uganda, and Kenya among many others.

In total, the organization has established 125 STEM centers which are helping students learn innovation, real-world problem-solving and creativity, thereby empowering them to lift their respective countries from poverty.

Some students who have benefited from STEM trainings have been able to create their own jobs

STEMpower has established at least one STEM center in all four provinces of the country and in Kigali city.

IGIHE

During the liberation war, Dr. Karemera was on the frontlines as a doctor, treating wounded soldiers.

His contributions continued post-war, as he became Rwanda’s first Minister of Health after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

In this role, he made bold decisions, including permanently banning doctors from practicing in Rwanda if they were found guilty of serious offenses. His tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to restoring integrity and trust within the health sector.

A long-time member of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), Dr. Karemera spent 40 years in exile before returning to his homeland.

He frequently spoke about the driving forces behind the RPF’s victory, emphasizing their deep love for Rwanda and their determination to dismantle the oppressive regime.

Reflecting on the RPF’s success, he once stated, 'Our strong will, commitment, and determination to uproot dictatorship in our country gave us strength to defeat the enemy.'

As Minister of Education, Dr. Karemera’s leadership was equally uncompromising. He focused on improving the quality of education and addressing issues of negligence by both teachers and students.

Under his watch, numerous school head teachers were dismissed for poor performance, and students involved in cheating faced severe disciplinary measures, including expulsion or suspension, some lasting up to three years.

In one of his most impactful decisions, Dr. Karemera ordered the annulment and recall of certain high school diplomas, citing irregularities in their issuance.

Former Minister Col (Rtd) Dr. Joseph Karemera has passed on.

IGIHE

Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny

The Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, also known simply as Felicia, is a multi-purpose stadium located in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. It is primarily used for football matches and also has facilities for athletics. It is the home ground of the country's main club, ASEC Abidjan. The stadium has a capacity of 45,000 and is usually the venue for matches of the Ivory Coast national football team.

The stadium is named after the country's first president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who ruled from 1960 to 1993. On 29 March 2009, during a 2010 World Cup qualifier between the Ivory Coast and Malawi, a stampede before the match resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people, when a crowd of people outside the stadium tried to gain access to the already packed stadium.