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In a public notice issued Friday, August 16, the police announced that the road will be used by racing cyclists from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on both days and urged motorists and other road users to bear with the traffic disruption.

Road users have also been urged to cooperate with traffic police officers who will be on-site to direct traffic flow.

'We would like to inform the public that due to the “2024 National Championship” scheduled from 17 to 18 August 2024, the road: Batsinda – Nyacyonga – Marenge back to Batsinda will be temporarily used by racing cyclists from 0900hrs to 1100hrs,' the notice read in part.

'We urge road users to bear with these changes.'

The two-day cycling competition is organised by the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY).

The annual competition was initially scheduled for June 22 and 23 before FERWACY changed the dates.

Several top local cyclists are expected to participate in the race. In last year’s edition, Patrick Byukusenge of Benediction Club and Diane Ingabire were crowned winners in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.

The two-day cycling competition is organised by the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY).

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Maurice Munyabirori, aged 17, once harbored big dreams like other children, hoping to become a medical doctor. But those dreams were shattered the day he arrived in Kigali, lured to the city with a promise of a domestic job.

He recalls that a friend, who was a year older than him promised him work in the city but vanished into the crowd upon arrival at Nyabugogo main taxi park on August 6, 2023. With no means to reconnect, Munyabirori ended up lonely on the street.

Now, he roams the streets of Kigali, struggling to survive, begging for food on a daily routine. He hails from Gasiza Village, Rutovu Cell, Sovu Sector in Ngororero District, Western Province. Despite the hardships, he vividly remembers the day he arrived in Kigali as if it was just yesterday.

Munyabirori’s introduction to street life was brutal. Other street children at Nyabugogo dispossessed him of his belongings and initiated him into their harsh world through beatings. He recalls being taken to a place called Sodeparal, where he and other street kids managed to get food from a family hosting a birthday party.

For him, each day is a struggle. Some days, Munyabirori doesn’t find any food and goes to sleep on an empty stomach. We found him wandering the streets with his friend Babu Niyonkuru, aged 16, from Kimisagara Sector also in Nyarugenge District.

Their friendship is a lifeline; they share whatever they collect. If one doesn’t manage to get food, the other shares a meal bought for Rwf1,000, depending on their catch for the day.
Munyabirori’s identifies his parents as Marceline Ukwizabigira and Jean Claude Rwabigwi, local peasants who had managed to see him complete Primary four at Mwumba A Primary School in Ngororero before being lured onto the streets of Kigali.

'My life on the street is hard, but I have no other choice. I have eventually learnt from fellow street children and adopted their habits. But, my wish is to reconnect with my family and return to school to pursue my future dreams,' he says with resounding zeal and determination.

Munyabirori and Niyonkuru sleep by the Mpazi water drainage, between 10 PM and around 6 AM when they leave to avoid detection or becoming an inconvenience in the neighboring community.

Reflecting on the conditions of their makeshift bed, Munyabirori says, 'It is a nice place; you can also sleep there comfortably,' humorously debating with his friend, who describes it as a mere pile of cartons laid on the ground.

'Rain is not a problem; it can rain on us, and we still survive. We are also used to the coldness at night. The most challenging problem is hunger and the constant worry of finding what to eat,' Munyabirori narrates.

Sometimes, he finds time to clean his clothes and body. They get clothing from donors or buy them with the little money they collect.

Throughout the day, Munyabirori and Niyonkuru walk through different parts of Kigali, including the city center, Giti Cy’Inyoni, Gatsata, Kimisagara, and Nyamirambo. When exhausted, they rest before resuming their daily routine.

When asked why he was sniffing glue, Munyabirori laughed along with Niyonkuru, explaining that it helps them survive street life, passing time and making the days go by faster in addition to raising their spirits. They obtain the glue from traders in Nyabugogo.

Munyabirori, nicknamed “CHUK” by his street community, earned this name after being involved in an accident that saw him admitted to the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK). The car owner took him to the hospital, and upon recovery, he returned to the streets, still bearing the scars.

Niyonkuru, who has been on the street for slightly over a year, hails from Muganza Village in Kimisagara. He left home knowing he would lead a street life, lured by a friend. His mother had divorced his father after lingering quarrels, and he lived alone before abandoning home, tired of the family struggles.

Both Munyabirori and Niyonkuru are among the unnumbered street children in Rwanda, a situation that has called for urgent action from the government through designated agencies and insititutions.

In an interview with IGIHE, Assumpta Ingabire, the Director-General of the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), revealed that the number of street children fluctuates based on the interventions in place.

Citing the Child Protection Policy, Ingabire stressed that all children should grow up in safe families where they can enjoy their rights, including education, welfare, health, participation, and protection. Rwanda’s vision is clear: 'No children should live on the street.'

According to her, family-related issues such as conflicts, neglect, and lack of parental responsibility are primary factors contributing to children living on the streets.

To address this issue, NCDA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, conducts periodic awareness and mass mobilization on child rights through media, community forums, and specific sessions with parents, particularly at Early Childhood Development (ECD) facilities and with those who have children on the streets.

At the village level, family friends are responsible for identifying children at risk of going to the streets due to child protection inefficacies within their families. They also identify families in conflict and provide support or refer cases where necessary.

'At NCDA, we provide psychosocial and economic support to some families at risk of separating from their children, empowering them to take care of their children,' Ingabire explained.

NCDA has also implemented a National Child Protection Case Management Framework that outlines how each child protection case should be addressed. It details how child protection actors should collaborate to ensure comprehensive handling of each case until the affected child is rehabilitated and can live a normal life.

Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its children is evident through the efforts of institutions like the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF) in addition to NCDA.

The Rwanda National Rehabilitation Service (NRS) is also tasked with monitoring transit centers to ensure compliance with regulations, aiming to reunite street children with their families or send them to rehabilitation centers where they can acquire life skills.

Rwanda has 28 transit centers across the country, including the Kigali Transit Center at Gikondo, which provides temporary accommodation for children rescued from street life.

Once at the centers, they are screened to determine their identity and immediate needs like medical treatment, hygiene essentials, clean clothing, and bedding. They are then either reunited with their families or guardians or transferred to a rehabilitation center.

Between 2017 and 2019, the Kigali Transit Center screened and reunified 1,261 children with their families, while 2,564 were transferred to the government-operated Gitagata Rehabilitation Center and 18 other private rehabilitation facilities in the country, managed by civil society and faith-based organizations.

According to figures from the National Rehabilitation Services (NRS), 5,065 children at the government-operated Gitagata center and 18 private rehabilitation centers were either reintegrated back into their families or provided with education and skills between July 2017 and December 2019.

Among others, a total of 129 children were rehabilitated from Gitagata Rehabilitation Center (GRC) and reintegrated into their families during the 2021/2022 period.

Between 2022 and 2023, 881 children were rehabilitated from both the GRC and Nyamagabe Rehabilitation Center (NRC), while 882 children were rehabilitated from these centers in the 2023/2024 period.

Overall, 1,892 children have been rehabilitated over the past three years, with a total of 12,000 children reintegrated into families since 2016.

Today, hundreds of former street youth have acquired valuable, life-changing skills in areas such as tailoring, catering, carpentry, welding, plumbing, masonry, and driving. Most have become resourceful, self-sustaining, and law-abiding citizens.

The issue of street children is not unique to Rwanda; globally, there are approximately 150 million street children. Although there are no specific figures for Rwanda, as of January 2024, Police reported at least 3,900 young people and children in rehabilitation centers due to illicit drug use and other illegal activities.

Despite ongoing efforts, the problem persists. This reminds the community of the need for continued and enhanced efforts to address the issue, consolidate gains, and remain proactive in preventing the rise of street children.

Maurice Munyabirori’s dreams were shattered the day he arrived in Kigali, lured to the city with a promise of a domestic job.

Babu Niyonkuru, aged 16, hails from Kimisagara Sector in Nyarugenge District.

Throughout the day, Munyabirori (left) and Niyonkuru (right) walk through different parts of Kigali, including the city center, Giti Cy’Inyoni, Gatsata, Kimisagara, and Nyamirambo. When exhausted, they rest before resuming their daily routine.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Traditionally, the Reserve Force was composed of individuals who had served as regular soldiers and reached retirement age, allowing them to continue contributing to national security for a specified period before full retirement.

However, the RDF has now introduced two additional pathways for entry into the Reserve Force. The first pathway is designed for young people who meet certain criteria, while the second targets individuals with specialized skills, regardless of age.

Recruited youth will serve in the Reserve Force, ready to be called upon for military duties as needed. The RDF has invited interested young people to register for entry into the Reserve Force, with selected candidates undergoing six months of training at Gabiro Military Academy.

Eligible candidates include those who have completed at least secondary education, with varying age limits depending on their level of education. Secondary school graduates must be no older than 25 years, IPRC graduates no older than 26 years, and bachelor’s degree holders no older than 28 years.

Upon completing their training, recruits will be commissioned with the rank of ‘Private’ and will have opportunities for promotion based on military service regulations.

Youth joining the RDF through the Reserve Force will maintain the flexibility to combine this role with civilian employment, as they will only be called upon for military duties when necessary.

While on military duty, they will be subject to military law, and upon returning to civilian life, they will be governed by civilian laws. During their military service, they will receive a salary and benefits equivalent to those of regular soldiers of the same rank.

No connection with regional insecurity

In a press briefing held on Friday, August 16, 2024, RDF leadership clarified the purpose of this initiative. The briefing, attended by RDF Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga and Col Lambert Sendegeya, in charge of RDF personnel, emphasized that this recruitment effort is not related to recent regional security issues.

Col Sendegeya highlighted that the decision is aimed at providing opportunities for young people who wish to contribute to national security without necessarily joining the regular forces. “The concept of the Reserve Force is not new in Rwandan society. It allows ordinary citizens to support soldiers in protecting the country’s sovereignty,” he explained.

He further elaborated, “These responsibilities require the RDF to continually strengthen its capabilities to address current and future security challenges. This is why we plan to recruit capable and willing youth into the Reserve Force, who can be mobilized when needed to support regular soldiers.”

Addressing questions from journalists regarding any connection between this decision and regional security concerns, Brig. Gen. Rwivanga stated unequivocally that there is no link.

“This initiative is about enhancing the professionalism of our military. We already have a well-prepared force to protect the country’s sovereignty. This recruitment offers an opportunity for those who want to join the military while continuing their civilian careers. It reflects a professional military force […] The regional security issues have nothing to do with this recruitment.”

Brig. Gen. Rwivanga also noted that those joining the Reserve Force due to their specialized skills will not be subject to an age limit. Additionally, Rwandans living abroad with specialized knowledge will have the opportunity to join this service and be called upon to serve when needed.

RDF Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga (left) and Col Lambert Sendegeya, in charge of RDF personnel at the press briefing.

Col Sendegeya highlighted that the decision is aimed at providing opportunities for young people who wish to contribute to national security without necessarily joining the regular forces.

Brig. Gen. Rwivanga said that joining the Reserve Force due to their specialized skills will not be subject to an age limit.

IGIHE

The affected residents are from Nyagitabire Cell, located in Nyagihanga Sector, Gatsibo District in the Eastern Province.

The Mayor of Gatsibo District, Richard Gasana, confirmed the damage, noting that authorities are actively working to assist those affected.

“The residents whose homes were affected are currently being sheltered by their neighbours. We have dispatched a team, including district employees and Red Cross staff, to assess the damage and provide the necessary assistance,” Gasana said.

He also urged residents to securely fasten their roofs as the rainy season approaches, and prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.

The residents were urged to secure their roofs.

The roofs of 29 houses were blown off.

IGIHE

Bishop Philippe Rukamba’s journey began in 1974 when he was ordained as a priest at Kibungo Diocese. After 23 years of priesthood, he was appointed Bishop of Butare Diocese in 1997, succeeding Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi.

His journey began during a challenging period, just a few years after the Genocide against the Tutsi, a time when Rwanda was grappling with profound physical and emotional scars.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE following the announcement of his retirement, Bishop Rukamba reflected on his 27-year journey, navigating his deep commitment to reconciliation and healing in the aftermath of the Genocide.

He expressed a sense of fulfillment in having played a significant role in mending the wounds of the Butare community, an area that endured some of the most callous atrocities during 1994.

“Butare saw many deaths; in fact, it was the area where the largest number of people died compared to any other former prefectures in Rwanda. It was also the place where many people were imprisoned. The first thing one would notice was sorrow and tears. It was a very difficult time,” Rukamba recounted.

The Bishop comprehended that the region was marked by a large number of orphaned children and grieving adults, which made the task of emotional and spiritual healing all the more crucial.

“It’s about mending people’s hearts, helping those who are suffering, because faith comes from the heart and not anywhere else. I am pleased to see that as my time to retire approaches, people are at peace. There is a youth that thinks differently now, but we have done many things related to healing, helping people to forgive each other, helping people to come to an understanding, helping children to attend school, and healing people to the best of our ability, which has led to a better life,” he shared.

Bishop Rukamba’s legacy also includes the ordination of 115 priests, contributions to the establishment of the Catholic University of Rwanda, and active participation in various initiatives that have significantly improved the lives of Rwandans.

Priestly marriages- absconding from duty

Addressing the issue of priests leaving the priesthood for marriage, Bishop Rukamba likened it to divorce.

He emphasized that those who choose the priesthood do so with a commitment to celibacy and a life dedicated to God.

“When a priest leaves the priesthood, to me, it is like someone divorcing their spouse. There are always people who struggle, and sometimes things don’t work out, and they leave. There is no cause for alarm,” he explained.

'If you look globally, they say, 'it’s good, but if you allow priests to marry, you must also be aware that tomorrow you may face issues of those priests getting divorced. How will you handle it? Can a priest who has divorced his wife continue to be a priest? What will they teach?’”

He acknowledged the challenges faced by priests who marry, especially in denominations like the Orthodox where this is permitted, and noted the complexities that arise when such marriages fail.

Bishop Rukamba stated that even when a priest leaves the priesthood to marry, he remains a priest because the sacrament he received does not end, but he cannot perform priestly duties in the Church. However, the Church now allows them to be married in the Church, though it requires going through a long process.

“It doesn’t prevent them from being Christians, and now the Church even facilitates and advises them how to get married in the Church through proper channels. It takes time to go through all those necessary steps, but it happens when you can’t manage anymore.”

About homosexuality

On the issue of homosexuality, Bishop Rukamba maintained the Church’s stance, asserting that it cannot accept a lifestyle driven solely by pleasure.

“As a Church, we cannot accept that. These people are only seeking pleasure, and this way of life comes from Europe and is their old way. It’s not new. Living solely for pleasure is not something the Church accepts.”

Rwandan law recognizes marriage only between a man and a woman.

Bishop Rukamba also emphasized that the Church only recognizes marriage between a man and a woman, and anyone who has strayed should be helped to return to the right path.

“Marriage is between a man and a woman. This doesn’t mean you should shun someone who has gone astray; they may be a brother, friend, or child, and you should continue to support them, but the path they are on is not the right one.”

Bishop Rukamba confirmed that helping someone who has adopted a homosexual lifestyle to abandon it is not an easy task because it becomes deeply ingrained.

Retired but not tired

He mentioned that although he is retiring, he is not tired yet and will continue his cherished role of teaching in seminaries and other institutions, as he still has the energy to fulfill duties assigned to him.

Bishop Rukamba advised his successor as the Bishop of Butare Diocese to prioritize strengthening the faith of the youth, ensuring they remain steadfast Christians, and to continue supporting families, as these areas face the most significant challenges today.

It is customary for a bishop, upon reaching the age of 75, to notify the Pope of their intent to retire. The Pope has to approve the request, but the retirement only takes effect once a successor has been appointed.

Bishop Rukamba advised his successor as the Bishop of Butare Diocese to prioritize strengthening the faith of the youth.

IGIHE

Luke Lundberg, CEO of Masaka Farms, states that the company employs over 40 Deaf individuals, who make up 60% of the workforce.

Masaka Farms has employed over 40 Deaf individuals, who make up 60% of the company’s workforce.

'Since the company was founded in 2016, we have intentionally provided employment to the Deaf community and now have over 40 Deaf employees,' Lundberg emphasized, affirming the company’s commitment not only to continuing its inclusive workforce culture but also to delivering quality dairy products in Rwanda.

This inclusive workforce has not only enriched the company’s operations but also set an example worth emulating for the entire corporate community.

Masaka Farms employees busy at the dairy factory.

Serge Ndabikunze, an Assistant Production Manager at Masaka Farms, confirms that the lives of employees with disabilities have significantly improved since joining the company located in the Kigali Special Economic Zone.

'Some of us are now able to rent houses, and those who were living in difficult conditions are now able to improve their lives. Thanks a lot to Masaka Creamery,' Ndabikunze revealed.

Masaka Farms is committed to delivering quality dairy products in Rwanda.

Masaka Farms values the skills and contributions of hardworking employees like Ndabikunze, who play a vital role in ensuring the quality and innovation of their products. The company promotes continuous development for these employees by offering advanced training and educational opportunities.

The company’s commitment to an inclusive work environment has not only made it a household name but also earned it several prestigious awards, including the UNHCR Gold Seal for Gender Equality and recognition as Disability Advocate of the Year.

Masaka Farms is committed to delivering quality dairy products in Rwanda.

As Masaka Farms continues its impressive growth, Brand Marketing Specialist Peace Tumusiime told IGIHE that the company is rebranding to reflect its growth, innovation, and commitment to offering high-quality products.

The rebranding will include a new logo, updated packaging, and the introduction of new flavours to their line of dairy products. Currently, the company produces yoghurt (flavoured, plain, and Greek), fresh cream, sour cream, mascarpone, butter, cow ghee, and fermented milk products.

Masaka Farms yogurt on supermarket shelves.

'The rebrand represents an evolution of the company’s identity as it expands its product range beyond dairy,' Tumusiime revealed.

She added, 'The updated brand aims to connect more deeply with consumers by showcasing a fresh, modern look and emphasizing quality, inclusivity, and local heritage.'

Masaka Farms dairy products on supermarket shelves.

IGIHE understands that the rebranding is also a strategic move to strengthen Masaka Farms’ presence in the market, ensuring that its products resonate with both existing and new customers.

With the rebranding, Gilbert Abagiraneza, Sales and Business Development Manager at Masaka Farms, assures that the company will continue delivering new and high-quality products traditionally imported from abroad.

Luke Lundberg, CEO of Masaka Farms, states that the company employs over 40 Deaf individuals, who make up 60% of the workforce.

Masaka Farms has set the standard by fostering an inclusive workforce that includes persons with hearing impairments, women, and other marginalized communities.

Masaka Farms produces yogurt (flavoured, plain, and Greek), fresh cream, sour cream, mascarpone, butter, cow ghee, and fermented milk products.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This country is trying to think about its wounds linked to its encounter with the world of colonizers, neo-colonialists and their pawns in the world.

It is on permanent alert and knows how to defend itself because, on its path, it faces the pawns of neo-colonialism or their obligors in Africa. These pawns sow insecurity, divisions, tribal and ethnic hatred.

Because divide and rule is the modus operandi of colonialism, two weapons are usually employed; corruption and impunity. As thus, Rwanda is facing various challenges, including international organizations whose appellation, their Trojan horse, hides their harmfulness.

Nevertheless, in its search for originality, Rwanda takes into account the West and the East in a win-win context while observing the limits of Western-style democracy where political parties lead to a dead end.

As in Belgium, where the inability to form a government sometimes lasts more than a year and where minority parties make the law, the lack of a parliamentary majority in France leads to a dead end or compromises.

In the United States, two parties alternate without solving the fundamental problems of crime while elsewhere in the world, these are far-right parties or pseudo-democratic alternations.

Some actually act like mafias who share the cake in a mode of pseudo-democratic alternation in a give-and-take phenomenon. We are witnessing the peak of an ideological, identity and moral crisis in the West.

Unfortunately the West is infecting other continents, because it remains the reference at the religious and worldview level where those who want to seek other ways are misunderstood by conservatives and fought by interposed pawns.

Good enough, some in the West are beginning to understand that the solution can come from elsewhere, particularly in this diverse youth of all colors, including black Africans and others.

Indeed, their talents are exploding in all fields, including the Olympic Games but the solution could also come from the model of some countries whose way or strategy intrigues or arouses interest.

In reality, Rwanda does not rival anyone. It is simply looking for its own way, based on Peace and Security, fighting poverty and unemployment. It is trying to create knowledge industries, schools of the future and reference hospitals for its people.

If some countries come to look for the model there, Rwanda opens the door to them, without hesitation. It is worth noting, moreover, that it attracts international conferences and tourists.

Moreover, a true democracy is distinguished by countervailing powers and not by the number of political parties. In Rwanda, the countervailing powers are essentially the Churches with assured freedom of worship, associative movements, NGOs, trade unions, to mention but a few.

While in the West, abstention during elections is breaking records, in Rwanda, the enthusiasm amazes observers.

Elsewhere in Africa, clashes during elections are common but in Rwanda, it is communion and festive celebration during elections. The reason is simple; the President of the Republic is perceived as the one who does justice and the protector of his people. He travels through Rwanda to listen to the people’s grievances many at times.

He travels the world during Rwanda Day, and across continents, to listen to the observations and opinions of the Diaspora in order to grasp or understand the problems and harvest alternative Solutions.

Elsewhere in Africa, corruption and impunity are the rule while in Rwanda, the Leadership combats the two scourges.

In the West, especially in the USA, the elders are running and entrenching themselves in the administrations but in Rwanda, the young and the ladies take over the Government and Parliament.

Let’s cite one example among many others: The Minister of State for Education is a young woman who has signed agreements with the Tampere University of Applied Sciences and Finest Bay Area Development Oy in Finland to stimulate and support the education of young people in applied sciences and entrepreneurship.

Projects for future generations are designed by young leaders in all sectors such as the African Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Kigali, Carnegie Mellon, Africa Leadership University, among others.

In Rwanda, decentralization ensures the “five common goods” which are; Health, Education, Housing, Food and Justice.

These five “common goods” are the fundamental bases of a participatory democracy, in which the leadership is based on locally designed solutions and traditional Values.

Finally, the third element ensuring the success of Rwanda is the sixth Province which is the Rwandan Diaspora- structured and organized in several countries to offer permanent investments.

It ensures above all the defense of Rwanda throughout the world with a dynamic network. And as the old adage goes, “the bird that does not fly ignores where the harvest is” meaning the Diaspora brings solutions designed elsewhere by adapting them to Rwandan realities.

Among such tremendous achievements is, IRCAD Africa, an institute of “training and continuous education” in minimally invasive surgery, covering the five specialties of Surgery, where all the fifty-five African countries come to train.

Other innovations include Kigali Lab, Unleash Rwanda, Hills Connect, and the Rwanda Business Forum organized by the Rwandan Diaspora in Finland with Finn partnership and the “Finest Future” institution.

It is the gray matter that develops Rwanda and not the raw materials stolen from neighbors. It is the leadership with vision that develops a country more than its underground wealth.

In a win-win geo-strategy and geopolitics, Rwanda does not want to depend on anyone. It subscribes to a strategy of openness and integration of foreigners with the option of Rwandan naturalization, without distinction of race or ethnicity.

Whatever the criticisms and imperfections, the will to take charge predominates in Rwanda with this permanent search for unity, peace and security.

Thus Rwanda, continues its march towards its destiny with courage, resilience and dignity.

Dr. Twahirwa Setako J is an African Thinker.

Rwanda’s stunning beauty attracts international tourists.

Dr. Twahirwa Setako J

The officers received their training at the Rwanda Military Academy GAKO, in a partnership between RDF and Qatar Armed Forces.

In a statement, the RDF emphasized that the joint initiative highlights the strong bilateral ties between Rwanda and Qatar and their mutual commitment to enhancing security capabilities.

The officers received their training at the Rwanda Military Academy GAKO, in a partnership between RDF and Qatar Armed Forces.

RDF noted that the training was aimed at equipping personnel with advanced skills to effectively handle emerging security challenges, safeguard high-profile individuals, respond to terrorism threats, and manage riots, all to contribute to security and stability within Rwanda, in mission areas, and to strengthen regional security efforts.

The RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. MK Mubarakh, who presided over the pass-out ceremony, congratulated the new trainees for their dedication and discipline, which contributed to their success throughout the course.

The pass-out ceremony was presided over by RDF Chief of Defence Staff Gen MK Mubarakh.

The RDF boss urged the officers to use the acquired skills and knowledge to effectively discharge their duties.

'I take this opportunity to congratulate you on this milestone. There is no doubt that you will now perform better and fulfill your duties,' he said, further expressing his appreciation to the Qatar Armed Forces for sharing their skills with RDF personnel and for the strong collaboration between the two countries.

RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. MK Mubarakh, urged the officers to use the acquired skills and knowledge to effectively discharge their duties.

Capt Abdulla Al-Marri, the Chief of Training, praised the RDF for strengthening the partnership between Qatar and Rwanda through collaborative efforts like the just completed training program.

The ceremony was also graced by RDF generals, senior and junior officers, along with a delegation from the Qatar Armed Forces.

One hundred personnel from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Military Police, on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, completed a six-week intensive training program focused on counter-terrorism, VIP protection, and anti-riots.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The Ultra-modern complex will rise between Kigali Convention Centre and the Parliament building, offering an array of shops and amenities tailored to meet the needs of locals and visitors alike.

Inzovu Mall, will feature a four-star hotel, a supermarket, and a wide range of commercial spaces, with over half of the building’s capacity already secured by potential tenants.

Covering an impressive 40,000 square meters, Inzovu Mall will house a 95-room hotel, office spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, banks, clinics, entertainment venues, and more.

The CEO of Duval Great Lakes Ltd, Vicky Murabukirwa, explained that the project was conceived in response to Rwanda’s status as one of Africa’s top tourist destinations and the continuing demand for high-quality accommodations near Kigali Convention Centre.

Among its many features, the mall will include a 3,000-square-meter supermarket and numerous retail shops offering clothing, watches, and other goods.

“You’ll be able to step right from the hotel into the mall without going outside,” Murabukirwa noted, highlighting the convenience the development will offer.

A basement parking area will accommodate over 450 vehicles, ensuring ample space for visitors. Murabukirwa also emphasized their focus on attracting international brands to Inzovu Mall, such as Lacoste, while also promoting locally made products. Currently, nearly 52% of the commercial spaces have attracted interest from tenants, with contract finalizations underway.

The hotel within Inzovu Mall, named Odalys, will be affiliated with Groupe Duval. This French hotel chain, which operates in various European cities, is now expanding into French-speaking African countries. Murabukirwa expressed confidence in the hotel’s success, citing its prime location near the Convention Centre and Rwanda’s growing reputation as a premier tourist destination.

The Inzovu Mall project is set to contribute significantly to the local and national economy, from the construction phase through to the operation of new businesses within the mall.

With around 13,000 shops planned, the development will generate tax revenues, support infrastructure projects, and create jobs for Rwandans.

The project is estimated to cost $70 million. The first customers are expected to move into the mall by December 2025.

Inzovu Mall will incorporate sustainable practices, including solar power, water recycling systems, energy-efficient lighting, and other environmentally friendly measures, aligning with government policies and modern standards.

Murabukirwa also highlighted the advantages of investing in Rwanda, pointing to the country’s security, good governance, and business-friendly laws. He expressed gratitude to the Rwandan leadership for their support in bringing this ambitious project to life.

The construction of the complex building is on track.

Inzovu Mall, will feature a four-star hotel, a supermarket, and a wide range of commercial spaces.

The artistic impression of Inzovu Mall.

IGIHE

Celebrated on August 15 every year, the day commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up into Heaven, body and soul, at the end of her earthly life.

In Rwanda, the day is particularly special to the members of the Catholic Church, as thousands of pilgrims often throng the Kibeho Holy Land, renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

Thousands of pilgrims often throng the Kibeho Holy Land to seek blessings. The area is renowned for the apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

The 'Holy Land,’ situated in the Nyaruguru District of Southern Province, rose to prominence four decades ago following reported apparitions of Mary to three high school girls.

Alphonsine Mumureke was the first to claim that she saw a Lady of incomparable beauty, who presented herself as ‘Nyina wa Jambo’ (Mother of the Word), while in the cafeteria of the Catholic boarding school Kibeho College, Rwanda, on November 28, 1981. The 16-year-old girl said that she immediately recognized the Lady as the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Alphonsine Mumureke said that she saw a Lady of incomparable beauty, who presented herself as ‘Nyina wa Jambo’ (Mother of the Word).

Mumureke’s claims were initially met with scepticism, with some people dismissing her as crazy or possessed by evil spirits. Others accused her of fabricating the story to gain favour at the school run by the Benebikira Sisters.

Amid the scepticism, two other students at the school, Marie Claire Mukangango and Nathalie Mukamazimpaka, also reported the phenomenon, further deepening the mystery.

From May 1982, the phenomenon was reported outside the college of Kibeho with some visionaries claiming to have seen Mary and others Jesus.

Young visionaries Alphonsine Mumureke, Nathalie Mukamazimpaka, and Marie Claire Mukangango claimed to have witnessed apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

The growing number of visionaries prompted an inquiry by the Catholic Church, led by Mgr. Jean Baptiste Gahamanyi, former Bishop of the Diocese of Butare, to which Kibeho belonged at the time.

As part of the investigations into the reported apparitions, two separate commissions were established by the local Catholic Church. A medical commission began its inquiry on March 20, 1982, while a theological commission was installed on May 14, 1982.

The main mandate of the two committees was to investigate the events with all objectivity, patience, serenity and without taking into account their personal emotions.

While conducting their probe, it’s documented at the Kibeho Sanctuary that the two commissions were guided by instructions given by the Holy See: The “Norms for Judging Alleged Apparitions and Revelations”, published by the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith on February 24, 1978 in Rome. The Holy See is the central governing body of the Catholic Church worldwide.

Given the large number of supposed visionaries, the commissions had to prioritize the first eight cases—those from the first year of the apparitions at Kibeho, which occurred between November 28, 1981, and November 28, 1982.

'This choice, however, was a working hypothesis, not a presumption of authenticity for such a large number of visionaries,' Kibeho Sanctuary explains on its website.

In the months and years that followed, the commissions released reports about the apparitions, and on August 15, 1988, Augustin Misago, the Bishop of Gikongoro, approved public devotion linked to the apparitions at Kibeho.

To promote the already authorized public worship, Mgr. Misago presided over the laying of the foundation stone for the future chapel of the apparitions on the esplanade of the shrine during the first anniversary of the apparitions on November 28, 1992.

On May 31, 1993, the very first official Diocesan pilgrimage to Kibeho took place with the intention of praying for peace in Rwanda. This was at the height of the liberation war between the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) and government forces.

On November 20, 1993, about one year after the laying of the first stone for the Shrine of Kibeho, the Bishop blessed and inaugurated a provisional Chapel in one of the dormitories of Kibeho Secondary School, nicknamed the “dormitory of the apparitions'.

Catholic Church faithful pray in Our Lady of Kibeho shrine.

Sadly, in April 1994, during the Genocide against the Tutsi, Kibeho Parish Church became a site of massacre. Many victims, who sought refuge there, were killed in what should have been a safe haven for them.

After the country’s liberation and the beginning of the nation’s healing journey, pilgrimages started at Kibeho on Christmas Eve of 1995.

Nearly six years later, on June 29, 2001, Bishop Misago declared the authenticity of the Kibeho apparitions, paving the way for even more pilgrimages to the site.

'Yes, the Virgin Mary appeared at Kibeho on November 28, 1981, and in the months that followed. There are more reasons to believe in the Apparitions than to deny them… The Apparitions of Kibeho are now officially recognized… The name given to the Marian sanctuary at Kibeho is Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows,' the late bishop declared in his judgment.

He added, 'That Kibeho become a place of pilgrimage and of encounter for all who seek Christ and who come there to pray, a fundamental centre of conversion, of reparation for the sins of the world and of reconciliation, a point of meeting for ‘all who were dispersed’, as for those who aspire to the values of compassion and fraternity without borders, a fundamental centre that recalls the Gospel of the Cross.”

Today, tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the world visit the site each year to seek blessings.

Pilgrims collect it in jerry cans, have it blessed by the priest, and take it with them when they depart

The Assumption Day celebrations are marked by a Mass and prayers led by devotees. Water from the fountain near the church is said to have miraculous properties. Pilgrims collect it in jerry cans, have it blessed by the priest, and take it with them when they depart.

Wycliffe Nyamasege