Sunday 29 September 2013

Tourism Day marked in Nyungwe National Park

Canopy walk in Nyungwe forest

Canopy walk in Nyungwe forest


TOURISM remains one of the key pillars of the national economy and protecting natural resources and touristic sites is a responsibility of every single individual, the Minister of Trade and Industry, François Kanimba, has said.


He made the remarks on Friday during celebrations to mark the World Tourism Day (WTD held annually on 27 September.


The day, which was marked in Bushekeri Sector of Western Province’s  Nyamasheke District, just at the edge of Nyungwe National Park, was held under the theme: “Tourism and Water: Protecting our Common Future”.


This year’s theme highlights the role of tourism in water conservation and access while also shining light on the actions currently being taken by the sector in order to contribute to a more sustainable water future as well as the challenges ahead.


Kanimba said that Nyungwe was chosen to host the celebrations because it remains Rwanda’s major water reserve.


It is estimated that the Park is the source of more than 70 per cent of Rwanda’s flowing water, making its conservation critical to the country’s future, Kanimba said.


He said the day was an occasion to showcase the importance of conserving Nyungwe National Park while at the same time positioning it as a unique and must-see tourism destination.


“Protecting Nyungwe forest equals to protecting a world valued natural resource,” Kanimba told thousands of residents, conservationists, environmentalists, tourists and officials who braved Friday’s heavy rains to mark the day.


The minister noted that the forest contributes a lot to the socio-economic life of the country, particularly the lives of people living in its surroundings.


He tasked residents to resist the ‘few remaining encroachers’ who continue to threaten the ecosystem within the natural reserve.


Money earner


Nyungwe remains one of the unique, richest, and most diverse eco-systems in the World. The natural rain forest is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species with over 86 mammals that include 13 primates, 285 bird species, and more than 100 tree species some of which are said to be found only in Nyungwe.


Nyungwe is currently on the list of the seven places on the African continent short-listed for the 2013 World Travel Awards-having been nominated  alongside Kalahari Game Reserve (Botswana), Etosha National Park (Namibia), Kruger National Park (South Africa), Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), and Kidepo National Park in Uganda.


The Awards acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across sectors of the tourism industry. Kanimba said the nomination is yet another reason to keep conservation efforts ongoing.


“It is a testimony of the recognition of what has been achieved in preserving the park,” he noted.


Tourism remains the foremost foreign currency earner for Rwanda, according to official figures. The sector generated more than $280(around RWF186billion) last year.


Over a million tourists visited the country in the same period.


“Tourism remains undoubtedly one of the pillars of our economy,” says Rica Rwigamba, head of Tourism at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).


The World Tourism Day was also celebrated with special activities to highlight the role of tourism in communities around the country.


The two-day celebrations, which started on Thursday,  consisted of a series of activities including the inauguration of the newly-accredited  Kitabi College of Conservation and Environment Management (KCCEM), a specialised college mandated with producing skilled labour in environmental conservation and management.


Other activities included a visit to Kitabi Cultural Village which offers community tourism around Nyungwe Park, the laying of a foundation stone to pave way for the construction of a new hotel on the outskirts of the park, and a conservation symposium on progress made in Nyungwe Park over the last 25 years.



Tourism Day marked in Nyungwe National Park

Kagame attends Rwanda Day 2013 in Toronto

Some of the exhibitors at Rwanda Day in Toronto

Some of the exhibitors at Rwanda Day in Toronto


President Paul Kagame yesterday attended the fifth edition Rwanda Day in Toronto, Canada where he addressed over three thousand Rwandans living in Canada and the United States to celebrate their unifying culture and renew their commitment to the country’s progress.


Themed Agaciro: Investing in our Future, the event will focus on the next chapter of Rwanda’s development and how the country will achieve its ambition of becoming a middle-income country by 2020.


Rwanda Day comes shortly after the government announced the second phase of its Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS2), which, over the next five years, targets economic growth of 11.5 per cent per annum and to reduce poverty to under 30 per cent. Through the previous strategy, 1 million Rwandans lifted themselves out of poverty, as the economy grew by more than 8 per cent each year.


This year, the country also launched a landmark Eurobond, which was more than 300 times oversubscribed. It signaled to Rwanda’s intention to become a modern and dynamic economy, which is increasingly interconnected to global markets.


As well as celebrating Rwanda’s social economic transformation, the event also seeks to bring together Rwandans to discuss new ideas about how to sustain this.



Kagame attends Rwanda Day 2013 in Toronto

Saturday 28 September 2013

Three-month TVET awareness campaign launched

Gasana shakes hands with Milton of Global Communities after signing the Memorandum of Understanding. Looking on centre is the Namara of the Private Sector Federation (Courtesy photo)

Gasana shakes hands with Milton of Global Communities after signing
the Memorandum of Understanding. Looking on centre is the Namara
of the Private Sector Federation (Courtesy photo)


Development Authority (WDA) has partnered with Global Communities (formerly CHF International) to create awareness among Rwandan youth about the benefits of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET).


 


The campaign was launched last week at the Private Sector Federation offices where a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Jerome Gasana of WDA and Milton Funes the Country Director of Global Communities. They agreed to launch a comprehensive media campaign that will include media and interpersonal communication with an aim to promote youth entrepreneurship and life skills development in Rwanda, according to a press communiqué.


 


Commenting on the campaign, Milton said that enabling the Rwandan youth to join TVET is part of a wider program of Global Communities to build resilience among vulnerable groups. He said the awareness campaign aims at supporting the government plan to develop skills and productivity among the youth as enshrined in the


Second Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy (EDPRS II).


The process of signing the Memorandum of understanding was successful

The process of signing the Memorandum of understanding was successful


The Director General of WDA, Jerome Gasana, also said that the TVET awareness campaign will not only promote vocational skills, but also emphasize the need for “producing high value Rwandan products.” He said that the target is to reach many Rwandans with messages that encourage them to join TVET and market their products/skills as well.


 


The campaign will comprise of a series of events including a TVET Expo that is to be organized by WDA in collaboration with the Private Sector Federation at the Gikondo Expo Grounds from 28th October to 3rd November 2013.  This was also contained in a separate Memorandum of Understanding signed at the same event between the two institutions.


 


Commenting on the event, Hannington Namara, the head of the Private Sector Federation, said that the cooperation only strengthens an already existing partnership with WDA to organize TVET exhibitions.


 


As part of a wider campaign, this 3rd TVET Expo aims at promoting public awareness on the role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in employable skills development to the general public.


 


“This Expo is expected to bring together exhibitors from various private companies and TVET institutions in the East African region that are engaged in different sectors that include Hospitality and Tourism, Construction and Building Services, ICT, Technical Manufacturing and Services, Agriculture and Food Processing, Art and Craft, Beauty and Esthetics, Renewable Energy and Water Management, according to a communiqué.



Three-month TVET awareness campaign launched

Messi answers questions in tax case

Messi's image faces tax evasion test


Barcelona star Lionel Messi arrived at a court in Catalonia on Friday morning to answer questions relating to tax evasion.


Argentina international Messi and his father Jorge appeared at the hearing in the coastal town of Gava, where Messi lives, near Barcelona after being accused of defrauding the state out of £3.5million by avoiding tax on his image rights.


The prosecution alleges the Messis set up shell companies in Uruguay and Belize to avoid paying tax in Spain.


Both men deny the charge, saying the deals, which took place between 2007 and 2009, were done by Messi’s former agent without their knowledge.


The Messis have since made a payment of £4.2million to the taxman, the alleged unpaid amount plus interest, but it has not stopped the hearing from taking place with Spanish authorities eager to clamp down given the country’s financial problems.


Friday’s hearing will determine whether the case is pursued further.


Even if it is not, the issue has tarnished Messi clean-cut image.


The 26-year-old has overcome a childhood growth issue to become one of the most recognisable – and wealthy – sportsmen on the planet.


A four-time FIFA World Player of the Year, Messi has scored 323 goals in 387 appearances for Barcelona.


PA Sport



Messi answers questions in tax case

Wolves face tough task against Bayern

bayern


VfL Wolfsburg admits they face an uphill task in their bid to try and stop Bayern Munich’s march to the top of the Bundesliga table on Saturday.


Bayern are on a 31-match unbeaten streak in the Bundesliga and last tasted defeat at home to Bayer Leverkusen in October 2012.


Pep Guardiola’s side go into the weekend’s matches in second place in the table, trailing leaders Borussia Dortmund on goals scored before facing the Wolves at the Allianz Arena.


Having blitzed Schalke 4-0 in Gelsenkirchen last Saturday in the league and routed Hanover 96 4-1 in the German Cup on Wednesday, Bayern are showing signs of further progress under Guardiola since he succeeded Jupp Heynckes as head coach in June.


Bayern saw off Hanover with a side featuring the likes of Diego Contento, Xherdan Shaqiri, Daniel van Buyten and Claudio Pizarro as Guardiola rotated his squad before Saturday’s visit of the Wolves and next Wednesday’s Champions League clash away to Manchester City


However, the reigning European champions want more silverware and are endlessly looking for ways to improve, so there was a little frustration with the nature of Wednesday’s performance.


“We shifted down a gear after going 2-0 up and Hanover were immediately right back in the game, we can’t let that happen again,” said Thomas Mueller, who scored twice in the German Cup second-round win.


In contrast, Wolfsburg team manager Mike Schuessler admitted he “didn’t find many weaknesses” after watching Guardiola’s Bayern, while director of sport Klaus Allofs said: “We’ll need a good performance to get a result there.”


Ex-Bayern midfielder Luiz Gustavo will be back in the Wolfsburg side after serving a one-match ban while another former Munich star, Ivica Olic, should be able to play despite carrying an ankle injury and Brazilian midfielder Diego should be fit too.


Bayern have no new injury concerns with Spain midfielders Javi Martinez and Thiago Alcantara working their way back to fitness after minor operations.


Elsewhere, league leaders Dortmund host Freiburg on Saturday with a question mark over left-back Marcel Schmelzer after the Germany defender aggravated a thigh injury in the 2-0 German Cup win over second-division 1860 Munich.


Schmelzer is back in training, “but whether that is enough for Saturday, we’ll have to see,” said Coach Jurgen Klopp, whose team face Marseille in the Champions League next Tuesday.


Dortmund are definitely without right-back Lukasz Piszczek, who is recovering from hip and groin surgery, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, who has a back injury, and captain Sebastian Kehl, who has torn ankle ligaments.


Dortmund dropped their first points of the season in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Nuremberg, while Freiburg have yet to win a match this season after three draws and three defeats.


Bayer Leverkusen boss Sami Hyypia has said there will be changes to his team on Saturday at fourth-place Hanover 96 ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League clash at home to Spain’s Real Sociedad.


However, Australia’s Robbie Kruse is looking to make his second start for the club after netting twice in last Saturday’s 4-1 rout of Mainz.


Ex-Holland coach Bert van Marwijk has taken charge at struggling Hamburg, and the Hanseatic club are looking for only their second win of the season as they go to Eintracht Frankfurt.


HSV are already in the relegation zone after a disastrous start to the season and the 61-year-old van Marwijk was named as Thorsten Fink’s successor on Monday after signing a two-year deal worth €1.4 million a year.


“My mission is to look at the structures in place and clarify the style of play,” said Van Marwijk, who inherits a side who has been routed 5-1 and 6-2 by Hoffenheim and Dortmund respectively this season.


“We have to leave the bottom of the table as quickly as possible.”


Fixtures


Saturday


Borussia Dortmund v Freiburg


Bayern Munich v VfL Wolfsburg


Bayer Leverkusen v Hanover 96


Hoffenheim v Schalke 04


Hertha Berlin v Mainz 05


Eintracht Frankfurt v Hamburg


Sunday


Werder Bremen v Nuremberg


Eintracht Braunschweig v VfB Stuttgart


Sapa-Afp



Wolves face tough task against Bayern

Congolese refugees living in Rwanda benefit from World Vision donation

m_Congolese refugees living in Rwanda benefit from World Vision donation


The Congolese refugees living in Rwanda are expected to benefit from the 50 beds and mattresses donated to Kigeme Hospital by World Vision.


The donation is aimed at catering for the growing number of patients from the refugees as well as the locals within the hospital radius.


George Gitau, the World Vision Country director, during the ceremony on September 23, 2013 said by donating to the hospital they wanted to contribute to improving services there and, in particular, “ensure that children are well taken care of and protected.”


“The hospitals’ bed capacity is 158. The beds have been placed in a newly constructed pediatrics wing, which has been the most overwhelmed section.”


The hospital director, Dr Eric Munezero, said since the refugee camp was setup the hospitals has seen an increase in the number of patients.


Dr. Munezero added that sometimes some wings got overwhelmed that we had to move patients to other sections, often different from what they are being treated for.


According to hospital figures, the number of patients seeking pediatric care grew from 52 in March to 272 in July, 2013.


The Minister for Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs, Seraphine Mukantabana, who officiated at the ceremony, urged the hospital management to make proper use of the equipment to the benefit of the community.


Hon. Mukantabana urged patients and hospital staff to guard the materials jealously so they can last longer.


She added that the Rwandan government and its partners will continue to support the hospital and improve on its capacity to provide quality health care.


Last year, World Vision Rwanda distributed aid worth 10 million Rwandan francs to households in Kigeme refugee camp.


World Vision Rwanda’s Integrated Programmes Director, Russell Dlamini, then, said that World Vision wishes to partner with the Ministry of Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs (MIDIMAR) and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other partners to improve living conditions of refugees mainly in Nkamira and Kigeme camps.


Over 74,200 refugees, 99 percent of Congolese, live in different camps in Rwanda. Most of them fled to Rwanda as earliy as 1997, while others started thronging the country last year, following the mutiny by M23, a rebel group opposed to the governement in Kinshasha.



Congolese refugees living in Rwanda benefit from World Vision donation

Regional experts convene in Kigali to discuss water, climate and development program in Africa

m_Regional experts convene in Kigali to discuss water


A group of regional experts from eight countries met in Kigali for a 5th Technical Coordination Meeting of Water, Climate and Development Programme (WACDEP) in Africa.


The participating experts came from African countries including Cameroun, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Burundi, Rwanda and Tunisia


During the official opening of the meeting, that will take place from 23rd to 28th September 2013 the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ms. Caroline Kayonga said that water sector and natural resources in general are facing non-climatic and climatic challenges.


“The challenges include overpopulation which leads to an imbalance of water demand versus water supply, increasing deforestation, unplanned settlements, inappropriate land use and agriculture practices.”


“As well as environmental degradation and increasing water pollution and contamination of water bodies due to invasive weeds, intensive spoil erosion, sedimentation and poor sanitation facilities,” added Kayonga.


She called upon all participants to join their efforts for climate change adaptation and resilience.


According to the Coordinator of Global Water Partnership, Mr. Alexi Simalabwi, the WACDEP is very important because it responds to the intention and commitments expressed by African Heads of State in the Sharm el-Sheikh Declaration on water and sanitation.


He said that Rwanda is advanced than other eight countries as it has put a lot of measures in terms of establishment and implementing the national climate change strategies.


“It is in this perspective that a national climate change and environment fund was established to mobilize and manage funds to be used in the fight against the climate change and its impacts,” observed Simalabwi.


He said that in Rwanda the WACDEP is being implemented in Bugesera District where communities will benefit from a number of activities.


“This will include drinking water supply, provision of improved cooking stoves, biogas and solar energy as well as protection of Lake Cyohoha buffer zone in Kamabuye Sector,“ he added.


“By building climate resilience WACDEP contributes to peace building and conflict prevention.”



Regional experts convene in Kigali to discuss water, climate and development program in Africa

Netherlands’ ambassador to Rwanda commends Police forces for efforts to fight Gender Based Violence

m_Rwanda commends Police forces for efforts to fight Gender Based Violence


The Netherlands’ ambassador to Rwanda, Leoni Margarita Cuelenaere has commended Rwanda National police for its efforts applied towards fighting Gender Based Violence.


She made the remarks on September 26, 2013 at Rwanda National Police headquarters Kacyiru, Kigali.


“Nobody should ever be denied their rights; I’m optimistic Rwanda National Police will succeed in this battle against GBV,” the ambassador observed.


Ambassador Cuelenaere commended Rwanda National Police for its efforts to fight GBV.


She pledged continued cooperation and support to further enable Rwanda National Police accomplish its mandate.


The ambassador also pledged to join forces with the R.N.P in a bid to raise awareness on GBV so as to fight GBV.


The Ambassador, who was also accompanied by officials from One-UN-Rwanda, was received by the Inspector General of Police, Emmanuel K. Gasana,


IGP Gasana expressed gratitude to the Dutch government for its continued cooperation and support to Rwanda National Police in various fields.


“I’m happy for your zeal and commitment to assist Rwanda National Police to fulfill its assignments,” said Gasana.


The meeting, a technical team, bringing together RNP, One-UN, the Dutch embassy in Rwanda and other government institutions, was appointed, to make a study on how to decentralise the anti-GBV clinic – Isange One-Stop centre, in all parts of the country.


The centre, which offers free psycho-socio and legal services to gender-based victims, is part of the campaign to fight GBV.


The study would also include establishing these centres in refuge camps. The report is scheduled to be completed in a week’s time.


Netherlands relationship with Rwanda focuses mainly on security and the rule of law, food security and water management. Budgets of €32.4, €163.5 and €30 million have been earmarked for each of these themes for the 2012-2015 period.



Netherlands’ ambassador to Rwanda commends Police forces for efforts to fight Gender Based Violence

Friday 27 September 2013

All Roads Heading To Canada As Toronto Becomes Rwanda Town

President Kagame speaking at Rwanda Day London, May 18, 2013

President Kagame speaking at Rwanda Day London, May 18, 2013


They are coming from all cross North America to meet up with one of Rwanda’s largest diaspora communities globally. Yes, it is Canada. Thousands of Rwandans are descending on Toronto for what could be the largest gathering of Rwandans ever in Canada.


Today Saturday September 28 is Rwanda Day – a time when Rwandans and their friends meet, interact and exchange views on the direction of their country. The event has been held in various other cities, London being the most recent in May. It is also the first time the event is taking place in Canada.


As the day gets underway, all roads will be heading to 45 Carl Hall Road in Downsview Park – an upscale part of Toronto. There will be an exhibition showcasing various aspects of Rwanda. And yes, those at the venue will be able to buy Rwandan art and fashion, coffee or tea and many other Rwandan products. If you are planning on investing in Africa, you could make your decision today to come to Rwanda. There will be all information what you need to be up and operating within a few days.


Perhaps the biggest name in town will be President Paul Kagame. He will speak at the event as has been the tradition over the years when Rwanda Day was introduced. At previous events, President Kagame has left a mark on those who have attended.


After the President’s speech, there will be a question and answer session – allowing for anybody to ask anything they would like addressed. Going by previous sessions, issues have ranged from announcements of plans to launch businesses to concerns over service delivery of some government agencies which affect return of those in the diaspora.


First Lady Jeannette Kagame is a usual personality at Rwanda Day, here, was in London

First Lady Jeannette Kagame is a usual personality at Rwanda Day, here, was in London


There is an estimated 14,000 Rwandans living in Canada, according to Parfait Gahamanyi, Director General of the Rwandan Community Abroad at Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.


Despite the ups and downs of relations between Kigali and Ottawa (Canada’s political seat), it remains one of the closest partner states. There is no direct Canadian government aid to Kigali as the government in Canada considers Rwanda more of a country that has moved away from aid dependence.


Trade between Canada and Rwanda hit $52.8 million in 2012, according to government figures. This was due to the sale of Canadian planes to Rwanda’s national carrier – making Rwanda Canada’s largest trading partner in Central Africa region in the past year.


Excitement rocks the hall at Rwanda Day London

Excitement rocks the hall at Rwanda Day London


During the 1994 genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda, a Canadian general and currently Senator Romeo Dallaire was the commander of the UN force. As a result of what he helplessly saw, Dallaire has turned into Rwanda’s most outspoken friends.


The Canadian Parliament in 2004, declared April 7 as a Day of Remembrance of the genocide victims. And on April 7, 2008, the Canadian Parliament unanimously adopted a resolution to designate April 7 as a Day of Reflection on the Prevention of Genocide.



All Roads Heading To Canada As Toronto Becomes Rwanda Town

Germany ambassador to Rwanda pledges support to Police force’s operations

Germany ambassador to Rwanda pledges support to Police force’s operations


The Germany ambassador to Rwanda Peter Fahrenhotz visited Rwanda National Police (RNP) on September 24, 2013 to discuss Germany’s contribution to the force’s operations.


His visit was also aimed at strengthening the existing bilateral cooperation between Germany and the Rwandan police force.


The Germany support is mainly in training especially in criminal investigation, traffic and forensic science.


The Germany envoy during the discussions at RNP pledged continued cooperation to accomplish the force’s mandate.


Through GIZ, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit the Germany government also supported the construction of the Peace Support Training Centre in Gishari, Rwamagana District, which conducts peacekeeping pre-deployment trainings for local and regional police officers.


The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Emmnauel K. Gasana expressed gratitude to the Germany Government for its continued cooperation support to Rwanda National Police in various fields.


In June 2013 the Germany delegation visited Rwanda and also pledged to support Rwanda in the areas of trainings, skills development and to encourage private investors to come and invest in Rwanda.


The Diplomatic Relations between Germany and Rwanda were established in 1963 and intensified in 1971, 1977 and in 1979 by founding a comprehensive bilateral development and financial aid cooperation.


Development programmes are implemented in Rwanda through Deutsche GIZ and the KfW Development Bank. In addition, Deutsche Welle (DW) radio has been broadcasting in Kigali for the last 40 years.


 


source:http://www.livinginrwanda.com/services/2016/germany-ambassador-to-rwanda-pledges-support-to-police-forces-operations/



Germany ambassador to Rwanda pledges support to Police force’s operations

Bugesera: World Vision to protect traditional trees from extinction

An environment conservation project that is supported by World Vision Organization in Bugesera district is working on maintaining the traditional trees so they do not extinct.


The research carried out on these show they are reducing with time due to human actions of deforestation.


Children being taugh how to grow trees


Rwandan traditional trees are of paramount importance to the people and without proper maintenance program, these traditional trees can extinct from the Rwandan soil. The trees locally known as Imivumu, Imibirizi, Imiko among others will be maintained by this program and others will be grown in the near future.


This environmental conservation project with the support of Nyamata sector residents will maintain the traditional trees and protect them from people that deforest them, burn them or from being eaten by animals.


According to Jean Gapusi a researcher in Rwanda Agriculture Development Board (RAB), “This research has proved that the Rwandan traditional trees are of importance and need to be protected before they are extinct. These trees provide medicine and support climatic changes and boost agriculture.”


Safari Dieudonne Kayitera the coordinator of Environment Conservation Project in World Vision says “we have to sensitize people on the importance of protecting these trees and their effects on the human, nature as well as agriculture.”


“These trees provide us with many home tools like mortar, pestle among others apart from the medicine that is great” says Pelagie Ntawuyirinda a resident of Maranyundo cell in Nyamata sector.


Increasing the number of traditional trees will be of advantage in promoting forestry in the district as well as having an effect on the climate and too much rainfall.



Bugesera: World Vision to protect traditional trees from extinction

Rumor: Meddy and The Ben set to come back

Meddy and The Ben set to come backUnconfirmed reports indicate that USA based artists Meddy and The Ben will jet in the country in the coming few months for a mega concert. The reports continue to point that the duo maybe organizing an emotional concert as part of their tour dubbed Press One Tour. Also in their company will be K8 Kavuyo a member of Press One Entertainment as well.


A local celebrity website rumalex.net is among the first sources to confirm the reports, claiming that an interview with the trio took place. The website is quoted as saying, “Meddy, The Ben and K8 Kavuyo will be jetting in the country on 23rd December, while the concert shall take place two days later.


Meddy and The Ben are arguably among the top artists to ever grace the music scene in the country. The two had colonized almost every radio station while their songs hit the airwaves during their stint in music. They later moved to USA where they went to pursue further studies.



Rumor: Meddy and The Ben set to come back

The Ben/Meddie release song for Mandela

The Ben

The Ben


Rwandan artistes based in America,The Ben and K8 Kavuyo released a special song for South African freedom fight and first ever black president, Nelson Mandela. The song is dubbed Africa mama Land and speaks of African heroes and other beautiful resources the continent has.


While speaking to Rwandashow.com via face book, singer The Ben explained more about the song.


“The song reveals Mandela’s role in fighting for freedom,” says The Ben.


The song also speaks of Rwanda’s security.


The song was recorded under Press One Entertainment , a label owned by The Ben and the rest of Rwandan musicians based in the US.


Despite being in the states, K8 Kavuyo and The Ben continue releasing songs as well as leading on music charts in Rwanda. Their songs  include,I’m in love, Ndi Uwi Kigali and more.



The Ben/Meddie release song for Mandela

Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup scheduled for Nov. 28

m_1380145587CECAFA-Musonye


THE 2013 Cecafa Challenge Cup has been planned to kick off on November 28 to December 12 in Kenyan capital of Nairobi, according to the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations.


The regional body’s Secretary General Nicholas Musonye confirmed the development on Wednesday, saying that they have met with the Kenya FA and set the date for the annual competition, which brings together national sides in the region.


He said the Kenya FA have also confirmed their readiness to host the event, which will have Malawi as the only guest side.


During the Cecafa congress held in Kampala, Uganda, last year Rwanda and Kenya were picked as potential hosts. But the Rwanda FA opted to host next year’s event as a dress rehearsal for the 2016 CHAN competition.


The last time Kenya hosted the championship was in 2009 but attendances were depressingly low.


This year’s event will cost the Kenya Football Association an estimated KSh253m (Rwf1. 9 billion). The Kenya FA is yet to get a sponsor after a three-year deal with East African Breweries Limited (EABL) expired last year.


Former African champions Zambia, Malawi, Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana have been invited as guest teams in the championships that brings together other nations from the East and Central Africa region-Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Djibouti, Eritrea, Sudan, Burundi and Somali.


Uganda are the holders of the Senior Challenge. They beat Kenya 2-1 in the finals in Kampala last year.



Cecafa Senior Challenge Cup scheduled for Nov. 28

Gakenke: local leaders trained on Gender Based Violence

The only way to completely eradicate Gender Based Violence in Rwandan society is to denounce perpetrators to be punished for all people to learn the consequences of their actions. This was said by Josiane Nyiramongi who works for Haguruka Association in Gakenke district.


 local leaders trained on Gender Based Violence


Josiane Nyiramongi


This was during the opening session of the training on Gender Based Violence that will be concluded on Friday the 27th September 2013.


This training is meant to inform the Gender Based Violence committees in the district about GBV and their role in cubing it down. This is so especially since Gakenke district is one of the districts in the country with high levels of GBV cases.


local leaders trained on Gender Based Violence 01


 People in the training


“Our main objective is to completely eradicate GBV in Rwandan communities as these cases are still many in Gakenke district” says Nyiramongi.


Adelphine Mukashema the coordinator of “Umugore Arumvwa” program that prepared this training says, for the GBV to be completely eradicated, people involved have to find a solution to it.


This training was attended by the local leaders, leaders of clubs against GBV and religious and church leaders from Gakenke, Karambo, Nemba and Gashenyi sectors of Gakenke district.



Gakenke: local leaders trained on Gender Based Violence

Rwanda: Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa injects $10m in road project

m_Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa injects $10m in road project


Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) has injected $10 million in offsetting the rehabilitation of Huye-Kitabi road project in Rwanda.


The Huye-Kitabi road rehabilitation project will be co-financed by BADEA, Saudi Fund as well as the OPEC fund to a tune of US$ 36million.


The financing agreement was signed between the BADEA and the government of Rwanda on September 26, 2013.


Speaking at the signing ceremony the permanent Secretary and the Secretary to Treasury (PS/ST) Pitchette Kampeta Sayinzoga noted that construction of the road would enhance access to production areas, facilitate socio- economic development through fostering agriculture and tourism.


“Construction of Huye-Kitabi road will contribute towards our overall goals as stipulated in EDPRS2,” PS Kampeta said.


The director General of BADEA Abdelaziz Khelef said that he is convinced of the importance and usefulness of the Huye-Kitabi road project in developing the economy of Rwanda.


“We hope this project will promote regional integration and contribute to regional trade by providing easy access for land locked countries in the region to the seaports,” Abdelaziz Khelef said.


The project falls within the government program for the development of the transport sector in the country and aims to raise the level of the national road network, expansion and integration of asphalt road in the country.


The project will link administrative areas to economic centers which will contribute to the economic and social development in the country.


Construction of the 53-kilometer road will be implemented by Rwanda Transport Development Authority under the supervision of the Ministry of Infrastructure and is expected to be completed in 2017.


This classified road, which is part of Rwanda’s primary road network, links the capital, Kigali, to the West and South of the country.


It is an international highway, which is also the main access road to the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the supply of most food and manufactured products to Bukavu Region


BADEA’s total commitments to the Republic of Rwanda stand, as of to-date, at approximately US$ 87 million. The cooperation between BADEA and Republic of Rwanda started in 1975 and continued to grow ever since.


Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa and the Government of Rwanda have numerous partnerships where the latter has supported the government in several sectors such as road construction, energy and rural development.



Rwanda: Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa injects $10m in road project

Ngoma: discussing the role of ICT in rural development

The students of Kibungo Institute of Agriculture and ICT (INATEK) held a debate called Social good summit on limitations of use of technology in the development of Rwanda of which lack of electricity is the main cause.


discussing the role of ICT in rural development


The debate time


The use of technology in the rural Rwanda is still limited especially using internet to access information and usage of sites that connect many people like twitter or facebook. A lot of sensitization is yet to be done for local people to be able to advertise their produce on internet.


For the local people to be able to use internet in the local development, electricity will have to be distributed in all rural Rwanda as well as internet services according to Emmanuel Hategekimana a student of INATEK.


“There is still a long way to go in removing the limitations of ICT in development. Getting access to internet is an issue and most areas have no electricity” argues Hategekimana.


 Though most students say lack of electricity is still the main limitation of ICT in development, others say language barrier takes the first place. Most local people are farmers and only understand Kinyarwanda yet most internet gadgets use foreign languages.


 It was however agreed upon that local Rwandans are adapting to the new technology even the non educated fellows. This can be seen in the way people use ATM cards at banks or Mobile Telephones.


 This debate was discussed by students of Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Rwanda National University (UNR), INATEK and Kigali National Library through Google+. It was held on Monday the 23rd Sept 2013 and was prepared by UNDP.



Ngoma: discussing the role of ICT in rural development

Toronto to host Rwanda Day

Toronto to host Rwanda Day


Toronto will for the first time host Rwanda Day on September 28, 2013 in Canada.


The event will bring together Rwandans and friends of Rwanda living around the world to reaffirm their core national value of Agaciro celebrate the country’s progress and discuss ways of being part of Rwanda’s social-economic transformation.


Presiding over the event will be President Paul Kagame, who always has a powerful message to deliver to participants, inspiring and challenging Rwandans living abroad to do their part to see Rwanda progress.


“Rwanda Day is not a day only, it is the spirit that brings us together, looking for the common good of the country and working together to achieve this,” said President Kagame at the recent Rwanda Day in London.


The event gives an opportunity for Rwandans to meet, interact and exchange views on their country and how they can contribute to the vision of a modern, unified and prosperous nation.


The day begins with a tour from various private sector and government exhibitors who answer questions ranging from: How can I buy and register land? Can I invest in real estate? How can I open a Rwandan bank account? As well, participants can buy Rwandan art and fashion, coffee or tea and many other Rwandan products.


According to Parfait Gahamanyi, Director General of the Rwandan Community Abroad in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event will be held under the theme “Agaciro: Investing in Our Future.”


He explained that Canada is especially important as there are many Rwandans living there. “We don’t have exact figures but there are between 13, 000 and 14, 000 Rwandans living in Canada. Holding the event in Toronto means the Agaciro message will reach many more Rwandans.”


The continuing relationship between Rwanda and Canada includes trade, judicial capacity building and cooperation within multilateral organisations such as the Commonwealth.


Trade between Canada and Rwanda hit $52.8 million in 2012. This was due to the sale of two Canadian planes to Rwanda – making Rwanda Canada’s largest trading partner in the Central Africa, that year.


In matters regarding the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the Canadian Parliament in 2004, declared April 7 as a Day of Remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. And on April 7, 2008, the Canadian Parliament unanimously adopted a resolution to designate April 7 as a Day of Reflection on the Prevention of Genocide.


This fifth Rwanda Day event follows other events previously held in Chicago, Paris, Boston and London.


For more info: rwandaday.org or follow on Twitter: @RwandaDay Facebook:www.facebook.com/Agaciro



Toronto to host Rwanda Day

Basketball league gets underway

Basketball league gets underway


Basketball generic.jpg


The national basketball league continues on Friday evening with CSK taking on Kigali basketball club at Amahoro stadium.


Other matches due on Saturday include; RAPP taking on APR before defending champions Espoir take on 30 Plus while UGB will play APR later in the evening.


On Sunday, APR will open up against CSk while Espoir will face KBC in the afternoon, all at Amahoro stadium.



Basketball league gets underway

10,000 students back on full govt bursary

10000 students back on full govt bursaryThe Ministry of Education yesterday released new figures of students who will benefit from the university bursary scheme, reinstating over 10,000 who had been scrapped off the beneficiaries’ list.


Those reinstated on full scholarship represent at least 80 per cent of the 13,000 students who had appealed against a decision to remove them from the scheme, which had gone into force at the beginning of this month.


Effective the academic year 2013-14, which started on September 2, government rolled out a cost-sharing policy for tertiary education, leaving those from “well off” families to pay for their tuition, while others from moderately rich families had to raise half, while the other half would be paid by government.


The determination of which category a student was put in was based on the already existent social classification programme, commonly known as Ubudehe.


In a news briefing yesterday, the Minister of State in charge of Primary and Secondary Education, Mathias Harebamungu said that, 13,216 students had raised complaints.


The committees that visited every family of the students billed 10,298 (81 per cent) as deserving full bursary coverage and living allowance.


Also, 2,388 (18 per cent) of the complainants were found to be capable of raising half the tuition, Rwf 300,000 and meet their living allowances, according to Harebamungu.


Ninety-two students lost the appeal, and were told to pay full tuition after the review of their individual cases. In implementing the policy, government harmonised tuition in all public learning  institutions, putting it at Rwf600,000 annually.


“Our government is very generous, we considered all the cases even those that complained after the deadline of filing complaints which was September 10,” said Harebamungu, adding that now all petitioners should go to their respective schools to register for the new academic year.


They can also, starting today, get the decision regarding their petition from the website of Rwanda Education Board.


The deadline for registration for the academic year is September 30, but Harebamungu said registrars will even work during the week-end to register the 30 per cent of the students in public universities who had not yet turned up.


“There is no need for more appeals, because committees were fair enough and students got enough time to appeal.”


The genesis


The new policy was first discussed during the National Dialogue of 2011.


In the meeting, the education and finance ministries were tasked to develop a mechanism that will ensure a cost-sharing arrangement between government and parents who can afford tertiary education of their children.


The rationale was to allow government to attend to other pressing issues like infrastructure development and research at public institutions of higher learning.


To enforce this, the ministries used Ubudehe classification programme that was set up in 2007 to inform poverty reduction strategies in the country.


Under the programme categories one and two will be granted the full tuition fees and living allowance.


Students whose families were found in categories three and four are required  to raise half, while those in categories five and six are billed to be from well off families which can fully meet their children’s tertiary education needs.


Many complaints have arisen since June, when students learnt about their categories, with many saying they would not afford the charges because their families are poor.


Optimism


Government instituted a case-by-case review process and by September 9, at least 6,000 had filed complaints in different government institutions.


The review was carried out by district-level committees chaired by district vice mayors in charge of social affairs and they had completed the process by Wednesday, which they presented to the education ministry.


By press time, most students contacted did not know about their fate but were optimistic.


According to Wellars Bakundukize, a student from Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), “while visiting my family, the committee had quite short time, but I hope I am among those who have been reinstated because I truly deserve full scholarship.”


Yesterday, Bakundukize had come to school from his home in Nyamasheke District but the results had not yet reached his school.


Government had projected to save Rwf10bn through this system and Harebamungu said they are soon working out an arrangement with banks that will be giving loans to the students, which will ease the recovery process after the students have completed school and started working.


Study loans are given out in the hope that the beneficiary will pay back upon getting a job after university.


But this has not always been the case with Rwanda Education Board saying the majority of former beneficiaries have yet to refund the money.


Currently, of the estimated 38,000 students in various public universities, about 26,000 benefit from this bursary arrangement.


The students from families which had been deemed capable of footing their university education had also petitioned the Senate.



10,000 students back on full govt bursary

Agaciro collections hit Rwf20 billion

Agaciro collections hit Rwf20 billionUp to Rwf19.7 billion has been collected by the managers of Agaciro Development Fund (AgDF), one year after the fund was launched.


The initiative, which was launched in August last year, is Rwanda’s first sovereign fund, based on voluntary donations by Rwandans of different walks of life, towards the development of the country.


The collection mark was announced on Wednesday, by Vianney Kagabo, the fund’s director general, who said that the pledges are over Rwf26 billion.


Kagabo, who was yesterday receiving a contribution of Rwf2,661,000 from staff members of the MTN Rwanda call centre, said that they are still looking for a strategic sector  where the money will be invested in ventures that are beneficial to Rwandans.


“Although the projects (where to invest) have not been identified yet, we intend to invest the money in projects that contribute greatly to the development of the country,” he said on the sidelines of the event that took place at The Bank of Kigali headquarters in downtown Kigali.


At the event, James Onyango, the MTN Rwanda call centre head said the telecommunication company is aware of its corporate social responsibilities and focus to the development of this country.


“The largest number of our staff are students. We give them an opportunity to learn customer care values so that even after they graduate and decide to go elsewhere, they become responsible citizens,” he said.


“These youth sat down and told us they want to contribute to the development of the country through Agaciro, we are proud to see them sweat for the country at this young age.”


Kagabo commended MTN for their support  to the fund and said that the gesture shows how Rwandan youth are committed to the development of their country.


According to Bona Uwera, a graduate at Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, working at the call centre, contributing to this fund shows how dedicated Rwandans are to develop the country.


She said that if Rwandans don’t stand together to develop Rwanda, even donors will not be encouraged to help.


“We are one country and one people; it is our utmost responsibility to develop it,” Uwera said.


Agaciro is a Kinyarwanda word loosely translated to mean “dignity”.



Agaciro collections hit Rwf20 billion

Nyungwe Park hosts World Tourism Day celebrations

Nyungwe National ParkA two-day exercise organised to mark the World Tourism Day ends today with various activities aimed at highlighting the role of tourism in the communities.


The celebration, held under the theme: “Tourism and Water: Protecting our Common Future” is taking place in Nyungwe National Park, in the south-western part of the country.


This year’s event has been packaged with a series of activities, including the accreditation of the Kitabi College of Conservation and Environment Management (KCCEM), a specialised college mandated with producing skilled labour in environment conservation and management.


Located on the outskirts of Nyungwe National Park, KCCEM targets mid-career conservation professionals and offers courses in conservation and tourism studies.


Students at the college come mainly from Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya and DR Congo.


Other activities lined up to mark the day include a Symposium on the Conservation of Nyungwe National Park, a visit to Kitabi Cultural Village and the laying of a foundation stone to pave way for the construction of a new hotel on the outskirts of the park.


The 2013 World Tourism Day, which climaxes with an event at Groupe Scolaire Gisakura, is being celebrated “with a focus on successful 25 years of partnership with its stakeholders in supporting the conservation of Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda’s major water reserve,” the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) said in a statement.


The day is celebrated on September 27.


Its purpose is to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).


This year’s theme highlights tourism’s role in water access and shines a spotlight on the actions currently being taken by the sector in order to contribute to a more sustainable water future, as well as the challenges ahead, the organisation said in a post on its official website.


In a video post, Taleb Rifai, UNWTO Secretary General, described this year’s celebrations as a “truly unique opportunity to put the spotlight on water, the most valuable and precious human asset and resource.”


“Tourism is one of the largest economic sectors in the world and must take a leadership role to ensure that companies and destinations invest in adequate water management throughout the value chain,” Rifai said.


“We need to continue to devise innovative solutions to ensure tourism’s contribution to sustainable access to water worldwide. Unless we do so, the quality and quantity of available freshwater will continue to drain, threatening the delicate ecosystems enjoyed by all-tourism included,” Rifai warns, observing: “Water underpins our lives. Let’s protect our common future.”


With over 280 bird and 13 primate species and spreading over 1,000 square kilometres, Nyungwe National Park is one of the most acclaimed biodiversity rainforests in Africa. The park also boasts a diverse ecosystem from rainforest, bamboo, grassland, swamps, rivers, butterflies, moths and insects.



Nyungwe Park hosts World Tourism Day celebrations

Govt, Arab bank sign $10m road construction deal

Govt, Arab bank sign $10m road construction dealGovernment yesterday received a concessional loan of $10 million (approx. Rwf6.7 billion) from the Arab Bank for Economic Development (Badea) to finance the rehabilitation of Huye-Kitabi road in Southern Province.


The construction of the 53- kilometre road will be supervised by the Ministry of Infrastructure and it’s expected to be completed by 2017.


The project which will cost over $35 milion, will also obtain further support from the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) a Saudi government agency that extends bilateral aid to developing countries, predominantly through grants and soft loans.


Other funds will come from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting countries (OPEC) fund for international development. The construction works are expected to commence in six months, according to officials.


Yesterday’s agreement was signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Secretary to the Treasury, Pichette Kampeta Sayinzonga, and Abdelaziz Khelef, the Director General of Badea.


Addressing the media after the signing, Khelef said the infrastructure project would facilitate trade between Rwanda and regional countries like Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo.


“Your priority is our priority; our target is to contribute towards the socio-economic development of Rwanda as well as to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and this road will ease transportation of goods within the region,” he said.


The bank’s cooperation with Rwanda dates back to 1975 and it has since injected over $8m in different infrastructure projects in the country.


Kampeta commended the bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s economic development, adding that the agreement was a symbol of the bilateral ties between the two.


Increase in trade 


“The road will help us in exporting goods especially tea and it will be key towards promotion of tourism across borders,” said Kampeta.


Statistics released in August this year indicate that Rwanda’s informal cross-border trade increased by 15.6 per cent to $46.8m (Rwf26.2b) during the first half of the year up from $40.5m (Rwf22.6b) over the same period last year.


Notably, formal trade with the East African Community improved through a reported narrowed deficit of $190m from $208m, mainly due to the declining import ratio against increasing exports.


Badea is a financial institution owned by 18 Arab countries members of the League of Arab States (LAS).



Govt, Arab bank sign $10m road construction deal

Gatsibo Local Authorities being trained on Women Rights

The rights and the law that protects women in Gender balance concept in Rwandan families were taught to the people in GBV committees in Gatsibo district.



Gatsibo Local Authorities being trained on Women Rights

The GBV committee members in the training


The committees acting on the eradication of Gender Based Violence in Muhura, Gatsibo, Kageyo, Kiramuruzi and Murambi sectors are in 4 days training.


The 4 days training is about causes GBV and effects of Gender Imbalance in families and how to eradicate gender inequality in Rwanda. The training started on this Tuesday the 24th Sept 2013 in Kabarole sector in Gatsibo district. It was prepared by Rwanda Women’s Network on the support of CARE International Rwanda and funded by European Union.


According to Adelphine Mukashema the coordinator of ‘Umugore Arumvwa’ program in CARE International Rwanda says this training is meant to inform committees that reach out to and support people.


The Gender Based Violence cases in Gatsibo district has slightly reduced compared to before as Jean Bosco Ntuyahaga who is in charge of Gender Balance and Family Promotion in the district explains.


“Because of the sensitization program that has been going on, GBV cases have reduced compared to before” says Ntuyahaga.


‘Umugore Arumvwa’ program was officially introduced in Gatsibo district by Rwanda Women’s Network in July 2014. This program operates in Gatsibo and Gakenke districts of Rwanda on the financial support of EU and CARE International Rwanda.



Gatsibo Local Authorities being trained on Women Rights

Ngororero: local residents get access to clean water

Residents of Nyamuza village in Kagano cell in Sovu sector in Ngororero district are being commended for pulling off the project of providing water to all people without waiting for outside support but through their own hard work.


local residents get access to clean water

The outlay of Nyamuza village


 With Nyamuza village still being rebuilt, shortage of water was an issue that needed urgent solution. This was so until one resident Azalias Hagumintwari brought together all residents and found solution to their water shortage problem.


With Azalias Hagumintwari campaigning, 20 residents supported his endeavors and channeled water from the nearest source in about 550 meters to the village. After channeling this water to the village, the residents built the house to protect the water and the water was only available to people who paid for it.


This encouraged people to pay for the services. Up to now, this water is accessible to 45 people in a cooperative and for one to join this cooperative; a membership fee of Rwf8000 is paid.


local residents get access to clean water 01

The water house for water safety


 According to Joseph Mundanikure the executive secretary of Sovu sector says residents of Nyamuza village should be taken an example of by all residents who sit and wait for a certain organization to provide them with what they need most.


Most residents of Sovu sector still fetch water from Rivers and unclean water sources but they can bring purified water near them if they take an example of Nyamuza village. Nyamuza village has about 70- families.



Ngororero: local residents get access to clean water

Thursday 26 September 2013

No end in sight on harmonisation of tuition fees in EAC universities

Students at KIST. The harmonisation of tuition fees is among the EAC plans to overhaul the regional education sector by synchronising different areas like curricula and examination boards. The New Times/File

Students at KIST. The harmonisation of tuition fees is among the EAC plans to overhaul the regional education sector by synchronising different areas like curricula and examination boards. The New Times/File


Plans to have all East African Community universities charge students from the other partner states the same tuition fee as locals remains a distant dream.


This means that students hoping to benefit from the initiative will have to wait longer due to lack of a uniform policy on the amount of tuition.


The harmonisation, once implemented, would mean that a continuing student in Rwanda could go to, say, Uganda and enroll in the university there, transfer their credits, and pay the same tuition as they have been paying back home.


According to Prof. Mayunga H. Nkunya, the executive secretary for the inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the problem is not with the partner states but with individual universities.


“They hike tuition fees because of lack of funding from the government and this scares away students. So unless such issues are addressed, we will never achieve harmonisation,” Nkunya said in an interview.


He observed that governments do not allocate enough funds to universities which is among the causes of increasing tuition fees.


IUCEA is a regional body created to coordinate and regulate all EAC universities’ operations while promoting internationally higher education standards and systems for sustainable regional development.


The body comprises over 70 higher education institutions within the five-state bloc.


The official, however, said that they had prepared a position paper with proposed solutions to be presented to EAC  education ministers for further deliberation.


The main purpose of having a synchronised tuition fees is to eliminate unnecessary competition among the regional institutions.


Dr Mwikamba Kaibui, from Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology-Kigali Campus,  said a mechanism is needed to have a common education system to eliminate suspicions of incompetence among graduates.


“We need to have a unified syllabi and put in place atleast a system where students do entry exams before joining the university to make sure all the students are on the same level,” he said.


Emulating NUR


Article 102 (e) of the EAC Treaty stipulates that partner states shall harmonise curricula, examination and certification.


Prof Manasse Mbonye, the acting rector of the National University of Rwanda (NUR),  said students from other EAC partner states are treated the same way as the nationals including paying the same tuition fees.


He, however, said that a few learning institutions in the other EAC partner states such as the University of Burundi, have since moved to reciprocate, when it comes to Rwandan students.


At NUR, all EAC students pay uniform tuition of Rwf600,000 per annum.


At Makerere University,  Uganda, nationals in Bachelor of pharmacy pay over Sh1.3m (approx Rwf340,000) while international students, including those from the other EAC partner states, pay Sh2.2m (Rwf570,000).


“I think in the spirit of teh intergration process, universities in the EAC region should have a flat fee for students from across the EAC region,” Mbonye said.


During a meeting of heads of EAC universities in Kigali last year, Prof. Keto Mshigeni, the vice chancellor of Hubert Kairuki Memorial University in Tanzania, pointed out that it would be difficult to harmonise the education system since governments only focus on public institutions, leaving private operators on the sidelines.


“Our private universities are underfunded. Governments are focusing on their institutions and we are also dealing with ours; therefore it will be hard to harmonise all these systems,” he said then.



No end in sight on harmonisation of tuition fees in EAC universities

Supreme Court to rule on PLWDs poll dispute today

m_dsa

Rusiha at the Supreme Court yesterday. The New Times/Timothy Kisambira


The Supreme Court will today decide whether or not Gaston Rusiha legitimately won the parliamentary seat reserved for people with disabilities (PLWDs) last week.


On Friday, Severin Gisaza Rwamucyo, Rusiha’s closest challenger, petitioned court claiming that the defendant had bribed his way to victory.


He also accused Rusiha of influence-peddling.


Rusiha is currently the president of the Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPDs), and Rwamucyo charges that the former abused his position in bid to win over voters in the September 18 poll.


Rusiha and Rwamucyo were among 15 contestants who were in the running for the Lower House seat and were voted for by members of an Electoral College representing people with disabilities.


The Electoral College was composed of 241 voters, with Rusiha collecting 100 votes (41.84 per cent) and Rwamucyo 63 votes (26.36 per cent).


On Wednesday, last week, the National Electoral Commission (NEC), in its preliminary results, declared Rusiha as winner of the contest but did not include his name in the list of the MPs-elect unveiled during the announcement of the final results on Friday.


Yesterday, Chief Justice Sam Rugege read out Rwamucyo’s written submission in which he accused Rusiha of entrusting Emmanuel Ndayisaba, the NCPDs executive secretary, of bribing the voters with view to sway them in his boss’ favour.


In his submission, Rwamucyo also charged that Rusiha had sent a letter to representatives of the council at the provincial level directing them to vote for him.


He also alleged that Rusiha sent money to voters using various channels, including mobile money and Tigo cash platforms.


Rusiha rejected all the allegations in his own written submission, also read out by CJ Rugege.


Neither Rwamucyo nor Rusiha were allowed to speak in court yesterday in keeping with the rules concerning such petitions.


The plaintiff did not challenge the conduct of the elections, according to state attorney Epimaque Rwango.


Court will deliver its verdict today at 4p.m and its decision will be final.



Supreme Court to rule on PLWDs poll dispute today

Kagame pushes for end to trade barriers

m_1380156325Kagame-UNGA


A global environment free from trade barriers, conducive for investments, and characterised  by mutual respect among nations is needed to make the world a better place, President Paul Kagame has said.


The President made the remarks yesterday while addressing the 68th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, USA.


This year’s General Assembly is being held two years to 2015 deadline for the UN’s Millennium Development Goals.


For President Kagame, the developing world will need to make its voice louder and shape the world debate to ensure that policies and actions that directly respond to the needs of the people are undertaken.


“One of the failings of aid has been the lack of attention to country specific context in the agreements. So now is the time for the developing world to make their voice heard, to shape the debate and to ensure policies and programmes are demand-driven,” Kagame said.


He advised governments to empower their citizens with enough confidence to take part in their countries’ development processes.


The President lauded the UN’s MDGs for having inspired world leaders’ initiatives that have lifted a billion people out of poverty, sent more children to school, and made healthcare more accessible to the sick over the last 13 years.


But the transformation is not yet complete, the President observed, calling upon global leaders to do more to build a better world.


“As we think about the post-2015 agenda, we must have the courage to go beyond business as usual,” he said. “Together we must now take an honest look at the MDGs, to say this worked and that didn’t and commit to forge a new global partnership, founded on mutual responsibility and trust.”


President Kagame noted that there must be a greater focus on the role of the private sector and recognition of its power to create prosperity and called upon global leaders to end all kinds of trade barriers between countries.


“We need a global environment without trade barriers and that facilitates investment in infrastructure. In particular, greater investment is needed in roads, railways and airports, to connect domestic markets to regional and global ones,” he noted.


The President, who had also earlier talked investment opportunities on the African continent at an Invest Africa panel in New York, said that developing countries need critical investments in energy.


“Electricity – something so taken for granted in the developed world – is still a luxury for far too many people and businesses,” he said.


ICC “openly biased against Africans”


President Kagame also spoke about the work of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which he accused of flouting the principles of international justice by showing “open bias against Africans”.


“Instead of promoting justice and peace, it has undermined efforts at reconciliation and served only to humiliate Africans and their leaders, as well served the political interests of the powerful,” the President told the General Assembly.


He particularly pointed at the ongoing trial of top Kenyan leaders, which he said undermines the country’s efforts to reconcile and move forward.


“Nowhere have the shortcomings of the ICC been more evident than in the ongoing trial of the leaders of Kenya.


“People of this country have shown eagerness to heal wounds of the past, reconcile and move on. That is why they elected their present leaders,” Kagame said.


He added, “These efforts to reconcile their communities and move forward should be supported – not undermined. National judicial capacity to fight impunity must be developed and supported”.


The President said the UN General Assembly and the Security Council “need to look at this as well as the wider issues of universal jurisdiction that have already been tabled before them”.


Both Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto face charges related to the 2007-08 post-election violence in the East African country and the latter has since made two trips to the Hague-based court for trial.


The African Union has on several occasions also accused the ICC of bias, with several members pushing for the withdrawal of the African block from the July 1, 2002 Rome Convention that established the ICC.



Kagame pushes for end to trade barriers

Europe's oldest hotel chain opens Rwanda branch in 2014

This is one of Kempinski Hotels chain (Courtesy photo)

This is one of Kempinski Hotels chain (Courtesy photo)


Kempinski Hotels, Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group has announced it will set up a hotel chain in Rwanda – as part of its Africa expansion plans that include several other countries.


Speaking at a press conference at the new Villa Rosa Kempinski in Nairobi, President and CEO of Kempinski Hotels, Reto Wittwer told reporters today September 26 that Kigali is one of the places on the Hotel Groups radar.


Wittwer said the group was “moving forward” to open a high end hotel in Rwanda by the end of next year (2014).


Other upcoming openings in Africa in 2014 include the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in Accra, Ghana and the Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski in Cairo, Egypt set to open early in the year. The other chain is a newly signed 450 key hotel in the future capital of Equatorial Guinea, Oyala.


“African hospitality traditions lay a great foundation for our global expansion here in Africa, and around the globe,” said Wittwer.


“Kempinski places a great emphasis on recruiting and retaining the best talent in the industry and the quality of candidates we are encountering in places like Kenya and Ghana, gives us great confidence that we will be able to deliver the service that we have built our reputation on over the past 116 years that Kempinski has been in operation.”


With two new properties opened in Kenya in 2013, Kempinski looks to add five more hotels to its African portfolio in the next year. Also targeted is DR Congo, where the chain hopes to have plans complete by end of next year.


In Rwanda, Kempinski Hotels will be just one of an ever increasing list of global brands that are lining up to hope facilities in Rwanda. Among them is Marriot which is in the final stages of establishing a top end 250-room hotel.


The Park Inn by Radisson is also already on its way to Kigali, as globa; brands rush here to eat up on the booming tourism industry. Up to 700,000 visitors were recorded last year – which has often left a huge strain on the few top hotels.


Founded 1897 in Geneva, Switzerland, Kempinski as Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group, says on its website that it is “committed to providing our guests with memorable journeys inspired by exquisite European flair”.



Europe's oldest hotel chain opens Rwanda branch in 2014

Wednesday 25 September 2013

Tubaye Umwe video premiered

Tubaye Umwe video premiered


Local Afro beat music duo Dream Boys released a new video of their Tubaye Umwe song.


Dream Boys is made up of Platin Nemeye and Mujyanama Claude who hail from Kina music studio.


While speaking to Tukabyine.com, Claude Mujyanama explained in details about the video.


“It’s a love song educating couples that togetherness is a strong pillar in building love,” he says.


Dream Boys has featured various local artistes and regional musicians including Eddy Kenzo from Uganda.


The singers also boast of songs like Bella, Tubaye Umwe, No One and more.


Source:http://www.tukabyine.com/news/5569/tubaye-umwe-video-premiered/



Tubaye Umwe video premiered

Rapper Paccy releases new song dubbed Umusirimu

Rapper Paccy releases new song dubbed Umusirimu


Rwanda’s celebrated female hip hop star Oda Paccy drops a new song Umusirimu that exposes boys who lie about their real life style in the name of love.


The Miss President hit maker explained in details about the new song to Rwandashow.com on Monday while promoting the song.


“The song reveals some of the tricks boys use to lure girls into marriage, especially lying about property they don’t own,” says Paccy.


Paccy says her song urges youths to work hard and not dwell on dreams and laziness.


The mother of one also plans to release her second album launch late this year, with ready videos and audios.


Paccy boasts of songs like Miss President, Umusirimu, Boom Boom and Touch my body featuring Urban Boys.


 


Source:http://www.tukabyine.com/english/5565/rapper-paccy-releases-new-song-dubbed-umusirimu/



Rapper Paccy releases new song dubbed Umusirimu

Muyoboke denies calling Nizzo illiterate

Muyoboke denies calling Nizzo illiterate


Famed music manager Alex Muyoboke has denied he ever called Nizzo an illiterate musician. Muyoboke has told tukabyine.com that since parting ways with Urban Boyz crew, he has always tried to move on with his life where he is pondering on setting up a management label for different artists.


Reports had emerged that the father of one had uttered the words during Young Grace’s birthday party when Muyoboke, as a word of advice, told Young Grace that “she should concentrate on her studies” more than anything else. Different sources had reported that Muyoboke was quoted issuing the remarks to Young Grace as a caution to the female star, and that he warned her not to follow Nizzo’s route of illiteracy.


But Muyoboke has come out to strongly refute the allegations, saying, “I never said such words to anyone privately, leave alone in a public place like that. I had a good professional relationship with them (Urban Boyz), so there’s no need of badmouthing them.” In response, Nizzo had questioned the rationale behind a university graduate being employed by an illiterate musician. Efforts to contact Nizzo were fruitless as tukabyine.com tried to reach him through the phone but he could not be reached.


 


source:http://www.tukabyine.com/news/5562/muyoboke-denies-calling-nizzo-illiterate/



Muyoboke denies calling Nizzo illiterate

Kid Gaju releases new song

Kid Gaju releases new song


Upcoming Afro beat singer Kid Gaju released a new song dubbed Ngabira Agatabi featuring rapper Jay Polly.


The Tokazamani hit maker had earlier promised his music fans a new single and it’s finally here.


The new song speaks about the dangers of drugs especially among the youth.


“The song advises youth to quit and not engage in drug use for  it ruins their future,” Kid Gaju explains.


The song is on Kid Gaju’s soon to be launched album dubbed” ibyiza by’abagore”, literally translates as “the purpose of women.”


Kid Gaju tasted the lime light in June 2013 when his song Mama Bebe topped music charts across the country.


The singer has also featured various regional artistes like Goodlyfe and Toniks.


Kid Gaju boasts of songs like Tokazamani, Mama Bebe, Ibiyobyabwege and his new single Ibyiza Byabagore.



Kid Gaju releases new song

Nyanza: Genocide Students survivors build house for each other

The students’ survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis have built a house  in association AERG Urugwiro from COSTE/ ITH- Hanika Institution in Nyanza district built a house for their fellow.


On this Sunday the 22nd September 2013, AERG Urugwiro members constructed a house for a fellow member who was having difficulties with her family members.   


 


Untitled3

AERG students at work


 


The student Florence Mugiraneza is a genocide orphan who lives with her maternal aunt whose husband made it a point to abuse her every moment reminding her she is a burden to the family. When Mugiraneza informed her fellow students of the psychological abuse she was going through, they contributed to the cause of building her a home.


Florence Mugiraneza’s house was constructed in her parents’ old home that had grown into wilderness in Gasharu village in Butara cell in Kigoma sector in Nyanza district.


For Ezekiel Ngirinshuti the coordinator of AERG Urugwiro, the students prepared this project to support their fellow who was abused by her adoptive family. “The students built a house for her, a kitchen and a toilet.”


Florence Mugiraneza appreciated the support by her fellow students. “I at least have a place to call home; I will no longer be abused for being adopted. I am going to anticipate holidays like my friends, something I never thought before with joy.”


The students in AERG Urugwiro say they live as a team and one person’s problem affect all of them, they solve it together and when it proves to be complicated, they seek help from others.


 




 



Nyanza: Genocide Students survivors build house for each other

Twitter Delicious Facebook Digg Stumbleupon Favorites More