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  • Rwanda on track to eradicate Mpox, Health Minister reveals #rwanda #RwOT

    Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized that, just as other epidemics have been successfully controlled in the past, it is possible to stop Mpox through coordinated efforts.

    He highlighted the significant measures being implemented to prevent the spread of the disease, noting that individuals who have been treated for Mpox have already recovered.

    “We are confident that Mpox will soon be completely eradicated in Rwanda, with no new cases being reported. The necessary capacity is in place, and all sectors are contributing to these efforts. We urge everyone to seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms and to inform others they have been in contact with so that health authorities can respond swiftly,” Dr. Nsanzimana stated.

    To further prevent the spread of Mpox, the Minister advised those who are infected to avoid crowded places and to take their medication at home until they have fully recovered.

    He also noted that Rwanda has implemented several strategies, including working closely with community health workers who visit households to check for symptoms of Mpox. While some symptoms may resemble those of other illnesses, a medical examination is essential for a definitive diagnosis.

    Symptoms of Mpox typically appear between three and 14 days after exposure and start with a rash that primarily affects the face, hands, and genital areas, though it can spread to other parts of the body.

    The rash evolves into fluid-filled blisters that eventually dry up and scab over as the person recovers. These symptoms are often accompanied by fever, which can vary in intensity, and fatigue. Once symptoms manifest, treatment usually leads to recovery within two to three weeks. So far, no one in Rwanda has experienced prolonged hospitalization or death due to Mpox.

    Mpox manifests in various forms, with Rwanda currently dealing with Grade 1B, similar to the strain found in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In contrast, West Africa is experiencing a more severe Grade 2 variant. The strain in Rwanda is closely related to the one identified in Congo.

    Dr. Nsanzimana also pointed out that in Rwanda, Mpox has predominantly affected individuals involved in sex work or those with frequent sexual activity, as the disease spreads primarily through close physical contact.

    This transmission method differs significantly from that of COVID-19, which primarily spreads through respiratory droplets.

    Statistics indicate that individuals aged 25 to 40 are most susceptible to contracting the disease, likely due to their higher levels of sexual activity. The Ministry strongly urges people to avoid sexual contact, even when using protection, as a preventive measure against Mpox.

    The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, has announced that the Ministry is working closely with national institutions and international health organizations to completely eradicate the Mpox outbreak.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/health/article/rwanda-on-track-to-eradicate-mpox-health-minister-reveals

  • BRD launches second Sustainability-Linked Bond worth Rwf30 billion #rwanda #RwOT

    As per statement issued by the bank on Friday 23rd August 2024, this initiative aligns with global trends towards responsible investment and sustainable development, reinforcing BRD’s commitment to environmental protection and economic growth.

    'This second bond issuance will raise Rwf 30 billion, with an additional option to issue up to additional Rwf5 billion. It is part of BRD’s broader Rwf 150 billion Medium Term Note [MTN] program,' reads part of the statement.

    The Rwanda Capital Market Authority has approved this issuance, highlighting the strong regulatory support for innovative financial instruments that promote sustainability.

    Building on the success of BRD’s first SLB, the bank states, this second issuance will further strengthen its focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. It is also expected to improve access to capital for key sectors such as women-led businesses and affordable housing.

    By tying the bond’s performance metrics to specific sustainability targets, BRD is setting a new standard for responsible investment and positive societal impact. The first SLB, issued last year, was oversubscribed by 110.59%, raising Rwf 30 billion. This success has given BRD the confidence to continue using capital markets to fund its growth initiatives.

    'By issuing our second sustainability-linked bond, we reaffirm our commitment to incentivizing borrowers to set meaningful sustainability targets while maintaining the innovative step-down coupon from the first tranche,' said Kampeta Sayinzoga, CEO of BRD. 'Investors are increasingly looking for opportunities that offer both financial returns and positive societal impact. With this SLB, BRD aims to attract responsible investors who share the principles of sustainable finance.'

    Like the first issuance, this bond is part of the World Bank’s lending operation to the Government of Rwanda through the Access to Finance for Economic Recovery and Resilience Project (AFIRR). The bond structure includes a partial credit enhancement, and it comes with a 7-year tenor.

    The offer will open on September 2nd, 2024, and close on September 20th, 2024, with a minimum subscription of Rwf 100,000. Investors are encouraged to take part in this unique opportunity that promises both financial returns and positive environmental and social outcomes.

    Once the offer opens, the Prospectus and Pricing Supplement will be available for download on BRD’s website: https://www.brd.rw. Hard copies may be requested or obtained free of charge at BRD’s offices.

    BRD is Rwanda’s foremost development finance institution, dedicated to supporting the country’s socio-economic development by providing long-term financing to key sectors of the economy.

    Established in 1967, BRD has been instrumental in financing projects that drive Rwanda’s growth, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, affordable housing, and export sectors. BRD is committed to sustainable development and continues to innovate in providing financial solutions that support Rwanda’s Vision 2050.

    The first SLB, issued last year, was oversubscribed by 110.59%, raising Rwf 30 billion.

    Théophile Niyitegeka

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business/article/brd-launches-second-sustainability-linked-bond-worth-rwf30-billion

  • Samuel Dusengiyumva re-elected as Kigali City Mayor #rwanda #RwOT

    Dusengiyumva first assumed the role of Mayor on December 15, 2023, after his predecessor, Pudence Rubingisa, was appointed as the Governor of the Eastern Province. In the recent election on August 22, 2024, Dusengiyumva was the sole candidate, receiving strong backing from six councilors representing Kigali City’s three districts.

    Having led Rwanda’s capital for nine months, Dusengiyumva was sworn in as a member of the Kigali City Council on the same day. He emphasized that his five-year term will focus on resolving infrastructure challenges, including roads and water supply, particularly in underserved areas.

    Fulgence Dusabimana was elected as the Vice Mayor in charge of Urbanization and Infrastructure, receiving 258 votes (68%), defeating Frank Gatera, who garnered 123 votes (32%). Urujeni Martine was re-elected as the Vice Mayor in charge of Socio-Economic Affairs with 360 votes.

    Urujeni, who has served in this role for two and a half years, reflected on the challenges they have faced, including domestic conflicts, street children, and over 3,000 street vendors who were provided with proper working spaces. She confirmed that in this term, they will focus on uplifting the underprivileged and supporting persons with disabilities by increasing their allocated budget and advancing youth development.

    Jean Claude Musabyimana, the Minister of Local Government, commended Kigali City’s leadership for its role in various initiatives, particularly the successful management of the July 2024 elections and maintaining a clean, secure capital that welcomes all.

    He urged the newly elected councilors and leaders to address the challenges faced by residents, especially those with limited means. “Those elected should remember that we have the responsibility to help the citizens we represent, particularly vulnerable groups, so that everyone can contribute to the development of the country, especially Kigali City,” he said.

    Musabyimana highlighted the importance of supporting those with limited means to advance themselves. “Fortunately, we have a program to help citizens sustainably develop, not just to survive, but to lift them out of poverty. You have the responsibility to advocate for them and educate them so that everyone can take advantage of available opportunities available as the country continues to rebuild,” he added.

    Before his election as Mayor of Kigali, Samuel Dusengiyumva served as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) from November 2019.

    He holds a law degree from the former National University of Rwanda, where he studied from 2001 to 2005. His career includes roles such as legal advisor in the National Service for Gacaca Courts, Country Manager of the One Laptop Per Child program, and legal advisor at the Regional Center on Small Arms, among others.

    The Kigali City Council, now comprising 12 councilors, includes Rose Baguma, Frank Gatera, Liliose Larisse Nyinawinkindi, Aimé Tsinda, Muhammed Semakula, Urujeni Martine, Samuel Dusengiyumva, Flavia Gwiza, Christian Mugenzi Kajeneri, Marie Grace Nishimwe, and Jack Ngarambe.

    Historically, Kigali’s roots date back between 8000 and 3000 BC, evolving from the creation of the country of Gasabo, which later expanded to form present-day Rwanda. The city itself, founded in 1907 by German Richard Kandt, has a 116-year history marked by gradual infrastructure development.

    Since 1975, Kigali City has been led by 12 mayors, including Francois Karera (1975-1990), Col Renzaho Tharcisse (1990-1994), Rose Kabuye (post-Genocide), Protais Musoni (1997-1999), Marc Kabandana (1999-2001), Théoneste Mutsindashyaka (2001-2006), Aissa Kirabo Kacyira (2006-2011), Fidèle Ndayisaba (2011-2016), Monique Mukaruliza (2016), Pascal Nyamulinda (2017-2018), Marie Chantal Rwakazina (2018-2019), and Pudence Rubingisa (2019-2023).

    Dusengiyumva became the 11th mayor of Kigali City after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    Samuel Dusengiyumva has been re-elected as the Mayor of Kigali City.

    Théophile Niyitegeka

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/samuel-dusengiyumva-re-elected-as-kigali-city-mayor

  • Rwanda secures €200 million loan to boost sustainable development #rwanda #RwOT

    According to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning (MINECOFIN), on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the loan, secured on semi-concessional terms, will be directed towards various projects, including urban economic development in two secondary cities and one district town, Government-funded modern irrigation (GFI), and the Sustainable Agriculture Intensification and Food Security Project (SAIP).

    The ministry noted that these initiatives align with Rwanda’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, reflecting the country’s unwavering commitment to building a sustainable and resilient future.

    The successful acquisition of this funding was made possible by a positive second-party opinion from S&P Global Ratings, a credit rating agency on Rwanda’s ESG framework.

    Lauding the approval, the ministry said, 'This endorsement underscores Rwanda’s dedication to responsible governance and sustainable development, further enhancing its credibility as a borrower committed to upholding ESG principles.'

    Rwanda has made significant strides in developing a robust ESG framework aimed at attracting investments and achieving sustainable development goals. This innovative approach aligns with the country’s long-term vision, particularly given the limited concessional financing available from traditional development partners.

    With an ambitious goal of reaching upper middle-income status by 2035 and becoming a high-income country by 2050, Rwanda understands the importance of securing sustainable financing to realize this vision.

    The ESG framework serves as a comprehensive set of standards, assessing Rwanda’s management of environmental impact, social policies, and governance practices. It offers valuable insights for investors, policymakers, and international organizations into Rwanda’s commitment to sustainability, ethical business practices, social responsibility, risk management, innovation, competitiveness, and long-term stability.

    By strengthening its ESG framework, Rwanda aims to create new opportunities for investment, bolster its reputation as a nation dedicated to sustainability and responsible business practices, and enhance its overall competitiveness and long-term sustainability.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-secures-eur200-million-loan-to-boost-sustainable-development

  • Africa should not bear the cost of Mpox epidemic alone – Dr. Richard Mihigo #rwanda #RwOT

    This comes days after WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern based on the ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has spread to at least 13 other African countries, with several imported cases in Europe and Asia.

    In a recent opinion piece published in the French magazine Jeune Afrique, Dr. Mihigo questioned why Africa has been left to struggle with repeated Mpox outbreaks for decades, despite the infection being caused by a virus known for many decades, unlike recent health emergencies such as COVID-19, which was first reported in China.

    Dr. Mihigo called for concerted efforts to eradicate the outbreak of the viral disease, which had also been declared a public health emergency of continental security by Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    The World Health Organization (WHO) on August 14, 2024, announced that the mpox outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other countries in Africa are a public health emergency of international concern.

    He emphasized that increased collaboration between different countries, the private sector, and research bodies is necessary to lower the cost of vaccine production and immunization, thereby improving access to vaccines in low-income countries, which are often the most affected.

    'Continental and global public health institutions, including financial partners, must contribute. Significant investments in research and development for local pharmaceutical industries are still necessary. The accumulation of patents, technologies, and vaccines in one part of the world is a counterproductive tactic. On the other hand, the creation of platforms and mechanisms for inter-state solidarity is necessary,' Dr. Mihigo explained.

    For the collaborations to materialize, Dr. Mihigo said, WHO and Africa CDC have a 'crucial role to play'.

    'Africa should not face this epidemic alone. Nor should it bear the human cost of a disease we can and must eradicate on its own. By acting today, we can not only contain and eradicate monkeypox but also prepare our health systems to face tomorrow’s health threats,' DR. Mihigo stated.

    Dr. Mihigo argued that systematic vaccination efforts have been halted since the eradication of smallpox in 1977, even though smallpox vaccination provided cross-protection against monkeypox.

    According to him, there are about 200,000 vaccine doses available worldwide for the Mpox virus, a figure that is far too low considering the actual needs.

    To address the threat that Mpox poses, he explained that several million vaccine doses are necessary to meet the demands of the East African region alone.

    At the same time, Dr Mihigo emphasized the need to strengthen local health systems to handle emerging diseases.

    'Developing a comprehensive strategy to combat this disease by strengthening capacities and empowering our health systems must be our priority,' he observed.

    'It is time for Africa to place health at the heart of its development. This requires better resilience of health systems, adapted to local contexts, including socio-cultural, economic, and environmental determinants.'

    He observed that the resurgence of Mpox outbreak also calls for the emergence of an intra-African and international public health pact.

    'The WHO Africa office, for which I am a candidate for leadership, must play a pivotal role in redefining, in collaboration with the concerned countries, health priorities,' he stated.
    The Regional Committee of the WHO African Region will vote to nominate the next Regional Director in a closed-door meeting during its 74th session from 26th to 30th August 2024 in Congo Brazzaville.

    Dr. Mihigo is running against Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao from Ivory Coast, Dr. Boureima Hama Sambo of Niger, Senegalese Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall and Tanzanian Doctor Faustine Engelbert Ndugulile.

    Dr. Richar Mihigo has called for concerted efforts to eradicate the outbreak of Mpox.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/africa-should-not-bear-the-cost-of-mpox-epidemic-alone-dr-richard-mihigo

  • A glance at gross salaries for new Cabinet members #rwanda #RwOT

    Although their tasks are challenging, they are not expected to perform miracles. The principle of compensation for work done is firmly rooted in the belief that those who work deserve to be paid, a notion even reflected in the biblical saying, “He who does not work shall not eat!”

    To ensure that these officials remain focused and are not tempted by corruption, their remuneration has been clearly stipulated by the laws of Rwanda.

    For Rwanda’s top political leaders, from the President to Members of Parliament, salaries have long been established under Presidential Order No. 004/01 of 16/02/2017.

    This order defines the salaries and fringe benefits for high-ranking state officials and outlines the modalities of their allocation.

    According to this order, the Government of Rwanda will allocate at least 79.4 million Rwandan Francs (Rwf) every month for the salaries of the 21 Ministers and nine State Ministers who have recently taken office.

    The Cabinet will support President Kagame in delivering on the promises made to the citizens over the new five-year term. The order not only specifies the salaries of senior officials but also clarifies the specific benefits provided to both elected officials and those appointed by the President.

    The top five leaders in the country receive different gross monthly salaries. The President of the Republic is entitled to a salary of Rwf6,102,756, while the President of the Senate, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, President of the Supreme Court, and Prime Minister each receive a monthly gross salary of Rwf4,346,156.

    In addition to his salary, the President of the Republic is entitled to a fully furnished residential house, five permanent official vehicles with all maintenance costs paid by the state, an office entertainment allowance, and modern communication equipment paid by the state.

    Furthermore, the President receives Rwf6,500,000 per month for residence and guest entertainment allowance, with household expenses including water and electricity covered by the state, along with continuous security at work, home, and any other place.

    Other senior officials, such as the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, and the Prime Minister, are each entitled to a fully furnished residential house, one official vehicle with maintenance expenses covered by the state, Rwf600,000 for office entertainment allowance, modern communication equipment at work and home, Rwf600,000 per month for residential guest entertainment allowance, state-covered water and electricity bills, and continuous security at work, home, and anywhere else as deemed necessary.

    Ministers in the Government of Rwanda receive a monthly gross salary of Rwf2,534,861, which is also the salary allocated to the Vice Presidents of the Senate and the Vice Speakers of the Chamber of Deputies. State Ministers receive a monthly gross salary of Rwf2,434,613, and Members of Parliament receive a gross monthly salary of Rwf1,774,540 each.

    Considering the top five political leaders, ministers, state secretaries, and members of parliament, the government will disburse over Rwf235 million each month, excluding additional specific benefits beyond their salaries.

    21 Rwandan ministers and nine ministers of state in a group photo with President Kagame after taking their oaths of office on Monday.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/a-glance-at-gross-salaries-for-new-cabinet-members

  • UN migration agency seeks 18.5 mln USD to help mpox-affected migrants in Africa #rwanda #RwOT

    Amy Pope, director general of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), said the funds will also be used to provide healthcare services to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host communities in the region.

    “We must act swiftly to protect those at the highest risk and to mitigate the impact of this outbreak on the region,” Pope said in a statement issued in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

    She said the spread of mpox disease, which has emerged as a public health emergency of international concern amid a surge in cross-border transmissions, is a critical concern, especially for vulnerable migrants, highly mobile populations, and displaced communities often overlooked in such crises.

    The IOM said the required funds will be used to enhance the capacity to respond to the needs of migrants, IDPs, and host communities by supporting infection, prevention, and control measures, particularly at borders.

    The UN agency said the funding will be used to build the capacity of national healthcare workers and front-line responders and enable the identification of high-risk areas to ensure effective monitoring of the disease and reduce its spread across borders.

    Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus that is spread through close contact, including fever, swelling of the lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle aches, skin rash, and back pain.

    The rapid spread of the new strain of the disease led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern on Aug. 14.

    According to the WHO, there are over 15,000 suspected cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo alone, including 537 deaths. Other cases have been confirmed in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, and Uganda.

    The IOM said it is concerned about migrants, IDPs, and highly mobile populations in the region, who tend to be at far greater risk of infection due to their living conditions and mobile and transitory lifestyles, which can greatly limit their access to health and medical care.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/health/article/un-migration-agency-seeks-18-5-mln-usd-to-help-mpox-affected-migrants-in-africa

  • RURA announces stringent measures to curb SIM swap fraud #rwanda #RwOT

    Sim Swap fraud is a type of identity theft where a malicious actor gains control of a victim’s mobile phone number by persuading or tricking a mobile network operator to transfer the SIM card associated with that number to a new device.

    Once the scammer has control of the phone number, they can intercept calls and text messages, including those used for two-factor authentication (2FA). This allows the fraudster to gain access to the victim’s online accounts, such as banking, mobile money, email, and social media, potentially leading to financial loss and other types of identity theft.

    To address such cases, RURA has outlined several measures aimed at preventing future incidents.

    In a notice to the general public on Wednesday, August 21st, 2024, the authority said SIM card registration or swaps are to be conducted only at permanent premises designated by mobile telecom companies and any SIM card involved in fraudulent activities will be immediately blocked, along with any other SIM cards registered to the ID of the suspected fraudulent individual.

    Further, any telecom personnel/agents involved in fraudulent activities will have their business credentials revoked and their SIM cards deactivated.

    Issuing or lending a SIM card registered under your ID to another person has been prohibited as it may be used in fraudulent activities.

    RURA also announced that bulk Short Message Services (SMS) have been reviewed to enhance service delivery, stating that only telecom companies and licensed aggregators are permitted to send bulk SMS.

    The authority further urged mobile users to be vigilant against unsolicited messages, calls requesting money or pretending to be from telecom or government personnel, especially those instructing you to dial certain phone numbers to avoid blocking your phone.

    RURA reminded the general public to regularly check the SIM cards registered under their IDs by dialing *125# and following the instructions to self-deregister any unrecognized or undesired SIM cards.

    The general public has also been urged to report any fraudulent activities to relevant telcos for assistance.

    “In the event of any fraudulent activity, please contact your service provider by dialing the toll-free number 100, which is available for both MTN and Airtel. Alternatively, you may visit their respective service centers for further assistance,” RURA advised.

    “For additional support, please contact RURA at the toll-free numbers 3988 or 2222.”

    Sim Swap fraud is a type of identity theft where a malicious actor gains control of a victim’s mobile phone number by persuading or tricking a mobile network operator to transfer the SIM card associated with that number to a new device.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rura-announces-stringent-measures-to-curb-sim-swap-fraud

  • How AI has revolutionized China Daily’s newsroom operations #rwanda #RwOT

    China Daily, a Chinese state-run publication, is at the forefront of media innovation, utilizing AI to streamline newsroom operations and enhance content generation.

    During a recent visit to the China Daily offices in Beijing, IGIHE learned that the company has integrated AI into its digital news app, responding to the rising global consumption of digital news compared to traditional newspaper reading.

    A team from IGIHE visited China Daily offices in Beijing during a recent trip to China.

    The mobile application allows readers to access daily stories on the go. AI algorithms in the app help tailor news recommendations to individual readers’ interests. An AI-powered translation tool also facilitates the dissemination of news to a global audience.

    Additionally, China Daily has a virtual journalist powered by cutting-edge AI technology. Dubbed Yuanxi, she can perform a wide range of tasks, including scanning and analyzing various news sources in real-time, providing the company with up-to-date news trends and information.

    Yuanxi has the ability to process vast amounts of information in real-time, scanning multiple sources, analyzing trends, and generating reports far faster than a human could. This accelerates the news-gathering and reporting process, allowing China Daily to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving news landscape.

    Ji Tao, Editor-in-Chief at China Daily, terms the innovations and use of new technology at the Chinese media house as a unique selling point.

    'Don’t leave the paper, just innovate,' he advises, adding, 'Maintaining a neutral stance in reporting is also crucial, ensuring unbiased coverage without taking sides.'

    Shao Xin Yin, journalist and editor at the international news desk, highlights the importance of fact-checking and ensuring authenticity and accurate reporting. “We fact-check at least each story, even if it’s not 100% accurate, for the sake of authenticity,” she adds.

    Since its launch in 1981, China Daily has established itself as one of the leading print press companies in China. With a flagship newspaper that covers a wide range of topics, including business, sports, world pop news, and more, China Daily has become a household name.

    Besides the technology, the management reiterates that commitment to inclusivity and diversity sets the paper apart. The newspaper invites expats to contribute their opinions, providing a unique perspective on global issues.

    China Daily, a Chinese state-run publication, is at the forefront of media innovation, utilizing AI to streamline newsroom operations and enhance content generation.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege, Belinda Namakula

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/how-ai-has-revolutionized-china-daily-s-newsroom-operations

  • Towards a New Chapter for China and Rwanda #rwanda #RwOT

    In 1978, the Third Plenary Session of the 11th CPC Central Committee was convened, launching the reform and opening-up, and socialist modernization. In 2013, the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee marked the beginning of a new journey of comprehensively deepening reform in the new era.

    In 2022, the 20th National Congress of the CPC established the central task of building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects and achieving the Second Centenary Goal, realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through advancing Chinese modernization.

    This year July, in order to implement the strategic plans made through the 20th National Congress, and turn the development blueprint into reality, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee adopted the 'Resolution on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization'.

    In 2021, China built a moderately prosperous society in all aspects and thus achieved the First Centenary Goal. China historically eradicated absolute poverty with 800 million people. China stepped into a new era of economic and social development with new achievements.

    In the past decade, China’s economy grew by an average annual rate of 6.1%, contributing to world economic growth more than 30% on average. The building of a unified national market has been accelerated, so does an all-round, high-level open economy. The domestic and international economic flows have scaled up commodity trade and recorded new highs. Residents’ income has steadily increased. The fundamentals of China’s economy remain robust, and the general trend of high-quality development is still promising.

    In order to achieve the overall goal of further comprehensively deepening reforms, the Resolution adopted 300 more essential reform measures in the fields of economy, politics, culture, society, ecological conservation, national security etc.

    The Resolution regards the reform of the economic system as a driving force. It focuses on high-quality development through fostering new quality productive forces, and on the facilitation of high standard opening-up.

    Forward high-quality opening-up requires strengthening strategic synergies among builder countries of 'Belt and Road Initiative'. It also requires deepening cooperation in economic, trade, production capacity, science, technology, humanities. This will give new and strong impetus into the friendly cooperative relations between China and other countries in the new era.

    The direction one chooses determines its path; the path one takes determines its future. China and Rwanda share similarities in governance philosophies and development process. Both countries insist on seeking truth from facts, moving with the times, adhering to a people-centered approach, continuing to unleash and develop productive forces. On the path to modernization, we explore measures suitable to our country’s national conditions.

    China has long maintained Rwanda’s largest trading partner and largest source of foreign investments. China’s investment in Rwanda is widely distributed in many fields such as infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, education, digital economy, telecommunications among others. This has made great contributions to the growth of local economy.

    In addition, friendship between the two peoples have been reinforced through capacity building projects at both multilateral and bilateral levels, government scholarships, and non-governmental organizations such as Confucius Institute and Rwanda Kung-Fu Wushu Federation.

    The 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit will be held in Beijing from September 4th to 6th. Leaders of China and African countries will once again join hands to draw a new blueprint for the future.

    As an African saying goes, 'if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.' The re-elected president H.E. Paul Kagame swore-in not long ago, and the new cabinet took its office. Standing at a new historical starting point, China and Rwanda will pursue development with reform and transformation. The two sides will continue to deepen political mutual trust, expand pragmatic cooperation, promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges. A high-level China-Africa and China-Rwanda community with a shared future will be built with joint efforts.

    The author, WANG Xuekun is the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda.

    WANG Xuekun is the Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda.

    WANG Xuekun

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/towards-a-new-chapter-for-china-and-rwanda