Author: Kalinda Brenda

  • Digital Kwibuka: An Online Space to Pour Our Hearts

    Digital Kwibuka: An Online Space to Pour Our Hearts

    In the past, I was from a class of thought according to which it belonged to the government to plan everything in Kwibuka program which everyone should follow. Never had I thought that I could contribute much in the remembrance program, except by attending the Walk to Remember, the night vigils and other commemoration events where testimonies are shared.

    One year ago, I was lucky to meet a friend who introduced me to an initiative I will never regret to have joined because it helped me make a U-turn.

    The friend found me in the middle of a dilemma, wondering how I would commemorate while gatherings were prohibited in prevention of COVID-19 spread.

    In the middle of my confusion, my friend Samantha Teta shared with me an idea of ‘Digital Kwibuka’, where she suggested how we could create a safe space to let the survivors know that despite the lockdown, they are not alone.

    The platform would also remind them that their extraordinary strength, their forgiving hearts and resilience is the foundation of our new Rwanda.

    I immediately responded with a huge YES to the call and shortly, our mobilization brought in eight more colleagues, who believed in the cause.

    As young people, we all came together with ideas on how to go about it, how to have the space launched online and to our great surprise, it turned out successful and served a bigger purpose.

    The platform became a safe space for several Rwandans to pour their hearts.

    On the first day, we asked people to use #Dearsurvivor hashtag to share comforting messages with survivors and people responded in kind. Through the week, we had different conversations around Kwibuka, educating people about the genocide stages, reviewing books written about the Genocide against the Tutsi among others.

    At the end of the commemoration week, the #Turibuka hashtag was also created where we encouraged people to share the names, pictures and memories of their loved ones that were killed during the genocide. We particularly stressed on the importance of remembering them beyond the brutality done to them.

    We wanted to remember them as people who were here, people who lived and loved, we wanted to remember them in their full dignity.

    A lot of memories, names and photos were shared and it was such a powerful and moving moment to witness how united we stand as a nation.

    The openness in each story was unique and it was welcomed with much love and compassion.  For some survivors, it was the very first time that they had the courage to share their stories. Our team was moved by the unfolding memories we were reading through people’s tweets which encouraged us to continue.

    Twenty seven years after the Genocide, one might think that they have heard it all from Genocide survivors. But that’s not the case, there are millions of stories to be told and I feel honored for being part of this initiative that illustrates the power of storytelling using online platforms.

    This year, we would like to similarly create a safe space for online remembrance to take place. At a time when we are consistently fighting with online genocide deniers, we want to reclaim these cyber spaces to amplify the survivors’ testimonies and engage in post genocide reconstruction work on and offline.

    With that in mind, we will bring back #Dearsurvivor and #Turibuka hashtags to continue sharing solacing messages. In addition to last year’s conversation, we will also hold conversations around denial, the role of religion during and after the genocide against Tutsi among others.

    This year, we will not only drive conversations from Twitter but we are holding zoom and Club house conversations.

    We invite you all to be part of this initiative as we Remember, Unite and Renew.

  • Babyl, RSSB Reach A Deal

    Babyl, RSSB Reach A Deal

    Dr. Diane Gashumba, Minister of Health

    Babyl Rwanda, a digital health provider has today launched partnership with Ministry of health to allow a patient’s diagnosis without the traditional physical appointment with the doctor.

    Since 2016, more than 700,000 subscribers of the online system can grab a phone, download Babyl application that guides you in an interaction with the doctor without leaving your home.

    A patient can also dial *811# and follow instructions until they are connected to the doctor who can listen to them and advise accordingly.

    This diagnosis costs Rwf 500.

    Introduced in Rwanda in 2016, with now more than 700,000 subscribers, Babyl believes that it is high time to seek partners who can help achieve its mission.

    On Wednesday, officials from  Babyl, Ministry of Health and health insurance providers convened in Kigali to discuss how each can bring a vital contribution to the program that is set to save time and money.

    “We are trying to make the service easy for all people to access. We are still in negotiations with different health insurance providers, but starting from next month our customers with health insurances like RAMA, Community Health Insurance (Mutuelle de santé) and BRITAM will start using them,” Tracey McNeil, the CEO of Babyl Rwanda said.

    This partnership with RAMA, an insurance which mainly has a stronghold among public servants will give Babyl subscribers access to drugs in their proximity, because the insurer has contracts with several pharmacies across the country.

    According to Dr. Diane Gashumba, the Minister of Health, Babyl is making Rwanda’s healthcare service delivery easier.

    “The government of Rwanda is embracing cutting edge technology by partnering with Babyl Rwanda to ensure every citizen can access required health service,” she said.

    “This partnership underlines that proven technology to deliver vital services can be adopted to reach all including those that are not necessarily tech savy,” Gashumba added.

    Statistics from Babyl show that on a daily basis, they receive more than 1500 patients who spend about 5 to 30 minutes with a doctor each.

    Rwanda is the first African country that Babyl has extended its services. It was founded in UK in 2014.

  • Primary, O Level Examination Results Out Tomorrow

    Primary, O Level Examination Results Out Tomorrow

    Isaac Munyakazi , the State Minister for Primary and Secondary Education issuing exams to students in November last year

    The ministry of education will tomorrow – January 9th release Primary and Ordinary Level examination results for 2017.

    The total number of primary candidates who sat for the exams was 237,181. The number increased by 42,502 compared to 194,679 who sat in 2016 while O’ level candidates were 98,268.

    In the last two years, girls have been outshining boys in the national exams.

    In 2015, girls excelled with 54.67 per cent against 45.33 per cent of boys and in 2016, girls represented 55.28 per cent, compared to 44.72 per cent boys.

    While officiating last year’s national exams, the state Minister for Primary and Secondary Education, Isaac Munyakazi told the candidates to be confident, not to panic and make sure they succeed to make their parents and teachers proud.

    “I trust you all read and made enough revision for the exams. So do not panic and do not leave any question unanswered. Make your teachers, parents and the country proud,” he told the candidates.

  • Bye bye 2017: No Longer With Us, May They R.I.P

    Bye bye 2017: No Longer With Us, May They R.I.P

     

    Jean Sayinzoga funerals

    Death is much painful when it involves a colleague, a relative or a friend, but it is even heartbreaking when it takes the loved ones without ‘warning’.

    In 2017, many people who served the community in different capacity died a sudden death leaving relatives, colleagues and the whole country in shock.

    The football fraternity suffered the most after losing two legends in a single night.

    It was on November 15thwhen ex-Amavubi centre Hamad Ndikumana Katauti died. Ndikumana who was an assistant coach at the reigning champions Rayon Sports passed away after complaining of intense chest pain.

    However, his death occurred a week after his divorced wife Irene Pancras Uwoya a.k.a Oprah had remarried and many suspected his death was due to depression.

    The 39-year old legend made 51 appearances for the Amavubi Stars since 1998 and was part of the squad that snatched Rwanda’s maiden participation at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2004.

     

    Late Ndikumana Hamad Katauti

    Ndikumana is survived with a seven-year-old son called Ndikumana Krish.

     

    His death left Rwandans especially those who worked closely with him in total shock.

    “One of his relatives called me last night as Ndikumana wasn’t feeling better. I rushed to check on him but upon arrival, he had already passed away,” said Rayon Sport Team Doctor Charles Mugemana said.

    In the same night, Bonaventure Hategikimana a.k.a Gangi also passed away at Kabutare Hospital in Huye District after a long illness.

    According to her relative Uwamahoro Liliane, Hategikimana was transferred from Rubavu to Huye two months earlier after his health condition worsened.

    The former Musanze FC defender underwent a tumor surgery on his neck in January in Musanze before he was transferred to Gisenyi General Hospital. When the conditions worsened, he was transferred to Huye.

    Earlier before – September 12th, Rayon Sports had had another shock when the team lost its goalkeeper Mutuyimana Evariste.

    Mutuyimana was found dead in his house.

    Many of his fellows in Rayon sports described late Mutuyimana 29, as a team player who was friendly and hardworking.  He had signed for the Rayon Sports side during the 2016/2017 from Sofapaka. He survived by one child.

    Jean Sayinzoga

    A selfless man and a father to so many, Sayizonga Jean who was the Chairperson of the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission passed away on April 16th 2017.

    Mourners who spoke at the burial function at Rusororo cemetery, Gasabo district appreciated his service to the nation. They described him as a humble, diligent, focused, humorous and incorruptible servant.

    Sayinzoga’s burial ceremony was attended by Rwanda senior government officials and First lady Jeannette Kagame.

    The Rwanda Karaté fraternity honored Sayinzoga who is said to have reached the highest rank in the game in Rwanda. Many of the Karaté players said he was an invincible sportsman.

     

    Kunda Theresa

    Late Kunda Theresa(Right) wife to Evangelist Emmanuel(Left) survived with 3 children

    On June 6th sad news were announced that Kunda Theresa, a wife to Emmanuel Kwizera, an International Evangelist had passed away.

    According to her husband, Kunda’s death was not a sudden death because she had prepared her family about her death.

    “In her last days, Kunda was full of peace. She never ceased to smile even when she was under excruciating pain. She taught me a lot but most importantly to believe God even when it’s hard,” Kwizera said.

    Kunda who died of cancer survived with three children, two girls and one boy.

    Pastor Maggie Mutesi

    Known for leading monthly pastors’ prayer meetings at Kigali Serena Hotel, Mutesi was found dead at her home in Gikondo on September 10th.

    The first suspect of her death was her husband since she was found dead on the couple’s marital bed. It is said that the couple had been having family conflicts.

    Mutesi was 37 years old. She is the founder of Heavens Gates Ministries, a Kigali-based Christian ministry.

    Francoise Mukayisenga

    Member of Parliament Mukayisenga Francoise died on 12th June at Kanombe military hospital at age 48.

    Mukayisenga joined Rwanda parliament in 2003 and will always be remembered as a patriot, soft spoken but person hard working person.

    Marie Helene Mukakarangwa

    2017 will be marked as a bad year to Dismas Mukeshabatware, a popular playwright and radio personality who lost his wife Marie Helene Mukakarangwa on November 30th.

    Mukakarangwa succumbed to unknown disease.

  • New Year Resolutions: No More Beer in 2018 – Senderi

    New Year Resolutions: No More Beer in 2018 – Senderi

    Eric Senderi

    As 2017 comes to the end, artists just like others have set New Year resolutions with hope for a better year. KT Press talked to a number of artists and below are excerpts of what they have planned for 2018.

    Afro Beat artist Eric Senderi, known for amusing his fans with unanticipated comments and stage behavior has decided to drink his last glass of beer on Sunday 31st, to bid farewell to alcohol.

    A hard decision to make, he says, but long overdue for a person who needs to live much longer.

    Speaking to KT Press, Senderi whose latest stage name is International Hit  said he has been resisting but it is time to listen to the doctor.

    “The doctor advised me to quit beer to avoid a potential diabetic crisis,” the The Nta Kashi star told KT Press.

    In March 2018, Senderi will celebrate his 40th birthday, which he says, is an advanced age and ought to begin taking life seriously.

    “From what I see, beer is damaging my skin. I like my life and cannot allow beer to finish me.”

    Senderi presents several other reasons that are pushing him out of the bar, but among others is also that “sexual lust at time is high when you have taken a glass or two.”

    Another big decision Senderi has taken is to leave behind ‘friends’ who do not add anything to his life, but rather cost him a lot.

    “When I meet them, I am the only one buying beer, and when we hang out, they send all the bills to me,” said the Nta Cash star.

    “For example, at a time I find myself spending Rwf 50,000 or even more.”

    Senderi said that his friends range from fellow artists, promoters and even entertainment journalists.

    “All of them are not bad friends, but I know whom I will show a red card,” he said.

    Senderi is among several other artists that have been reflecting on a character/behavior they need to adopt to fit well in the music industry in the coming year.

    Odda Paccy, the first female rapper to set foot on the Rwandan music stage said 2017 has been a year of great achievements to her in all aspects of life.

    “I have achieved a lot this year but the two most important is my music projects with WASAFI records, one of the biggest records in East Africa and the completion of my residential house in Nyamata,” she told KT Press.

    In 2018, Pacy wants to take care of herself so as to remain healthy and fit. The way to go, she said, is by losing weight.

    The single mother today weighs 76kgs and she wants to lose at least 15 kg next year. She said it is doable because she has precedents.

    “I want to be healthy and fit in the coming year. Let all my fans join me in this challenge,” she said.

    Jules Sentore, a traditional singer and member of ‘Gakondo Group’ is thankful that the ending year was full of surprises, but he has a lot to do to shape his character to balance his social life and professional life.

    “I want to become a better man and father to my three year old daughter.”

    For Platini Nemeye, one of the Dream Boyz singers, he has an issue with time management, most especially when it comes to time he spends in bed.

    “I sleep seven hours per night. I want to cut it to four. This is a world of competition and if you invest a lot in sleeping, you reap wind,” he said.

    Muneza Christopher a.k.a Christopher who quit KINA Music label in the beginning of this year is now thinking twice to end a crisis that followed this decision.

    “Let’s enter a new year with  a promise to work hard, good music, more concerts and consistency,” he said.

    Kate Payton, a model, designer and owner of KABASH house says 2017 was a good year to her, and 2018, she said, will be even better.

    “This coming year, I want to end renting on anything,” she said adding that she will start the New Year with her own sewing machines.

  • Prince Harry to Oversee Rwanda’s Akagera Park

    Prince Harry to Oversee Rwanda’s Akagera Park

    Prince Harry, right, and Roy Hensberg help translocate a rhinoceros in Malawi with African Parks

    African Park, the non-profit organization which manages big parks including Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, has appointed Prince Henry of Wales as their new president.

    “In this position, Prince Harry will be working with us in various capacities to further our mission in managing national parks on behalf of governments, and to advance wildlife conservation across Africa and around the globe,” reads a communiqué from Peter Fearnhead, CEO African Parks on Wednesday.

    African Parks is a non-profit conservation organization that takes the direct responsibility of rehabilitating and managing protected areas in Africa in partnership with governments and local communities.

    Prince Harry has a particular interest in wildlife protection. African Parks indicates that in July 2016, the member of UK Royal family was Part of the African Parks’ Team that helped with one of the largest elephant translocations in history, in Malawi.

    “He is deeply passionate about protecting Africa’s wildlife and wild places, and it is a tremendous honour that he has chosen African Parks to solidify his commitment to conservation.”

    African Parks Network signed with Rwanda Development Board (RDB) a 20-year renewable agreement for the joint management of Akagera National Park in 2009.

    In 2010 the Akagera Management Campany was found as the joint management body for Akagera National Park.

    Ever since the new manager started park transformation to add Rwanda in the family of the Big Five countries.

    Seven lions were reintroduced in Akagera Park from South Africa in July 2015, making them the first big cats in Rwanda after the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.

    One of the ten Black Rhinos introduced in Akagera National Park in Rwanda

    In May 2017, around 20 Eastern black rhinos from South Africa were also reintroduced in Akagera National Park after an absence of 10 years.

    They joined elephants and leopards to attract more tourists.

    The Job Awaiting Prince Harry in Akagera

    Since the last two years, Akagera’s population of animal species has been increasing immensely according to the new census released by Akagera National Park.

    From the 2017 aerial census, Akagera has a total of 12,142 animals including 100 elephants, 2,879 buffalo, 88 giraffes, 214 elands, 39 Roan, 1,033 waterbucks, 1,901 Zebra, 888 Topi, 55 sitatungas, 1,773 impala, 783 warthog, 1,643 hippopotamus, and 500 crocodiles.

    However, compared to the previous aerial census released in 2015, the population decreased from 12,275 to 12,142 animals.

    According to the report, the population of species like eland, roans, warthog, and waterbuck decreased despite the increase of elephants, hippopotamus, buffalo, zebras, giraffe, and crocodiles.

    In defense to the decrease; Sarah Hall, the Tourism and Marketing Manager of Akagera Management Company told KT Press that “It is likely due to poor counting conditions caused by cloud and rain that affected the visibility,”

    “Some areas of the park had recently burned down which causes a dark background against which animals have to be counted, typically this reduced visibility for some species and made spotting and counting difficult,’ she explained.

    Unlike the previous years, this year Akagera management used AS 350 B3 helicopter for this survey which is much larger than the R44 used for all previous surveys and capable of carrying as many as six people.

    Each census zone was surveyed separately on a different day. The terrestrial zone took two days to complete and it took a total of 27.9 hours of airtime spent actively to complete the survey.

    Prince Harry was Part of the African Parks’ Team that helped with one of the largest elephant translocations in history, in Malawi.
  • Hot Christmas around the Corner

    Hot Christmas around the Corner

    Kigali city streets decorated as Christmas mood grows

    The festive season mood is on a high in the city of Kigali, with more innovative concerts, shows, shopping than never before.

    Legendary artistes are starting this Friday to heighten the mood with a series of live concerts for those remaining in the confines of the city.

    First on the line-up is legendary folk singer Cécile Kayirebwa and Burundian superstar Jean-Pierre Nimbona ‘Kidum’ alongside Rwanda’s most acclaimed traditional dance troupe InganzoNgari. They are set to perform during ‘Rwanda Konnect Gala’ slated for this Friday at Gikondo Expo Grounds.

    Made in Rwanda, Egyptian Expo

    Twice in a row this year, both expos are back. The official Made in Rwanda Expo ended early this December, but love for Rwandan art and designer shoes and clothes has seen another similar expo set at the Car-Free-Zone to allow more Rwandans buy and use Rwandan products this seasonal shopping.

    After a week-long shopping of old 2017 Western fashion stocks at the Mr. Price, Kigalians have another chance to look at oriental offers. The Egyptians and Middle East, which was also here mid this year is back this weekend at Amahoro stadium, for those who want another taste of gifts –jewelries, bags, shoes, belts, wallets and many other products made from leather.

    Rwanda’s Mr. Muscle home show

    Jean de Dieu Ntabanganyimana alias ‘Jay D’, a Rwandan who was recently crowned as Mr. Africa has organized Big Slash Pool Party to celebrate this first of the kind crown and share a glass with friends and fans who love body building mixed with fashion.

    Jay D will have DJ Miller spinning the music disc and alongside comedian Arthur Nkusi who will be cracking jokes at the ParkInn hotel swimming pool on Saturday December 23rd.

    It is time that people get their swimming costumes and also show off their body shapes. In other words, beauty will meet music, fashion and comedy,

    I’m a turntable

    Whoever claimed Kigali as a city with no professional DJ’s should not miss the Turn Table Party.

    More than 10 DJ’s of Kigali will be mixing different songs of various genres at Golden Tulip in Nyamata on Saturday.

    If you want to enjoy good music of high quality don’t miss, DeeJays Toxic, Marnaud, Infinity, Shooter, Karim, Pius, Qadir and many more showing off their skills.

    Patient Bizimana Christmas Bonanza

    It’s not yet Christmas but technically people will be drilling as the famous gospel singer Patient Bizimana will be performing at 4G Square, an open internet hub in Kigali.

    Bizimana will help people enter into the mood with his gospel like Menye neza, Iyo neza, Ndaje, Ubwo buntu among other songs that have made hit in the country.

    On the other side Christus Vincit choir singers will on Christmas, 25th launch their first album at their Centre Christus parish in Remera.

    This is not specifically for only catholic believers because everyone who will attend will be blessed by their voices and songs.

    Holiday Cheer Concert

    Songbird Knowless Butera and Bruce Melody, the first Rwandan who appeared on Coke Studio Africa will join their vocal talents to sing and entertain their fans.

    Recently, these duo featured in a new collabo song ‘Deep in love’ which will be the highlight of the event on Saturday 23rd at Kigali Convention Center.

    According to Melody, Christmas is not only about celebrating the birth of Jesus but also loving people.

    “We will be celebrating love including the love of God. The concert will also be a way of wishing a merry Christmas and happy new year to our fans,” he said.

    Riderman

    Uburyohe Concert

    Gatsinzi Emery famously known as Riderman, Igisumizi, Rusake and many other names is sharing Christmas with his fans on December 25th at Petit Stade where he will be launching a mixtape album entitled ‘Filme’.

    “There is no perfect gift I would give to my fans other than spending that day with them. I will make sure all Hip Hop fans have a blast one,” he said.

    Riderman will be joined by other local artists like King James, AmaG the Black, Queen Cha, Social Mula and many more.

    Pre-Christmas Party

    DJ Pius the hitmaker of Agatako and Play it again, one of the most played songs in 2017 is meeting his fans in Pre-Christmas party after a long time without being seen on stage.

    Pius will on Sunday 24th share his music with his fans at Sun City Club in Nyamirambo.

    “I hope you come in bigger numbers to have fun and share with me,” Pius told his fans on Instagram.

    Heaven’s Gate and Hell’s Flames

    It’s already Christmas excitement! The Christian Life Assembly (CLA) church in Nyarutarama is presenting a breathtaking drama that prepares people’s heart ahead of the birth of Jesus.

    The event started Wednesday 20th and will go on until 24th and during the performances; the actors re-tell bible stories of how heaven and Hell are incarnated amongst us.

  • Goodbye 2017: First Lady boosted Boys’ Mentorship Agenda

    Goodbye 2017: First Lady boosted Boys’ Mentorship Agenda

    President Paul Kagame and First Lady cut a cake with children in early Christmas celebration

    Born twenty six years ago, Egide Niyonshuti lost his father at a tender age of three. He was raised by his mother and it has been a tough journey growing up.

    “My father died when I was 3 years. My mother did not have an income I was left with nothing,” he told KT Press, adding that his father was a victim of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    Niyonshuti narrated that he always felt the need of having a father or brother to count on… “but I was never lucky to have any. My mother was all I had and life continued that way,” he said.

    Pushed to the edge by challenges in life, Niyonshuti joined Genocide survivor students association (AERG) created in 1996, dedicated to provide financial help, moral support and ensuring that survivor students overcome the challenges caused by the 1994 tragedy.

    The association paid for his tuition until college where he studied childhood development studies.

    One morning when he was at his home in Rwamagana district, Niyonshuti was called by AERG informing him that he had been selected to join Imbuto Foundation Mentorship forum for Young Men themed ‘Strong and Dignified’.

    This forum was launched last year by the Chairperson of Imbuto Mrs Jeannette Kagame to address challenges faced by young men as a result of post-traumatic stress disorder, caused by their experiences during the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.

    “I was surprised,” he told KT Press. For Niyonshuti, Imbuto was for girls.”

    A few days later, Niyonshuti was invited to Kigali Serena Hotel to a forum where he would also meet others selected by Imbuto Foundation.

    “It was my first time to enter Serena Hotel. I felt a very important person being received. I met over 200 young men from different places and we were introduced to a mentorship forum for young men,” he explained.

    On the third day, we were guided, inspired, supported and encouraged on different aspects of life.

    “They would decide which mentor to pair you with depending on your interests. My mentor is a communicator,” Niyonshuti told KT Press.

    Life after forum

    For the past ten months since Niyonshuti left the mentorship forum, he has more hope and a clear vision.

    “My mentor took up responsibilities he was never given. He calls me to know how am doing, he supports my ideas, he advices me and most importantly he at times helps me financially,” he said.

    Niyonshuti was mentored on personal conduct including dress code and self-confidence which he believes are major.

    “I used to think that a better job was only an office job but later realised a small idea can create a job. My mentor tasked me to come up with viable project before end of year,” he added.

    Niyonshuti is among over 200 young men who are benefiting from the Imbuto Foundation’s mentorship program.

    For the last decade, Imbuto Foundation has been supporting and empowering thousands of vulnerable Rwandan communities through health, education, youth and economic empowerment activities.

    Awarding Best Performing Girls (BPGs)

    Imbuto Foundation is mostly known for its annual awards and rewards to girls that excel in academics. Since 2005, over 4,000 Best Performing Girls have been rewarded.

    In this year’s campaign, Imbuto foundation rewarded 202 girls from primary and ordinary levels and 25 girls from advanced levels.

    During the awarding ceremony, The First Lady encouraged these girls to accomplish their potentials, excel in studies and aspire to become great people.

    “When you have commitment with courage and vision, there is nothing at all that can make you fail,” she said.

    Imbuto Foundation annually awards and rewards to girls that excel in academics

    First Lady pledges to support youth

    During the Transform Africa Summit in March, Mrs. Kagame offered her full support to young Rwandans investing in projects that deal with health issues.

    “Our duty is to empower youth with life-saving information and encourage them to take the lead in curbing health issues,” she said.

    In February, the First Lady, under Imbuto Foundation’s iAccelerator program awarded 4 health projects; Umbrella, Girls District, Tantine and Tubivugane television Show with $10,000 each to implement their projects.

    The program seeks to reward best young entrepreneurs, who have projects that bring solutions to pressing sexual and reproductive health challenges

    On the same issue, Mrs. Kagame urged parents to give children ample time to ensure their decent education, growth and excellent school performance.

    She said this during the launch of the Campaign on Governance and Family Promotion in October 2017.

    “Our dearest children, remember your future depends on choices you make. Avoid those that lead you into vices. We shall repeat this until we bring down alarming figures of pregnancies,” Mrs Kagame said.

    This year has seen Mrs Kagame in a couple of events encouraging, empowering and supporting girls.

    In November, she attended the Maranyundo Girl’s high school first graduation where she said that she is living the life of her dreams where girls are having a platform to education.

    “Not only do we focus on making education accessible to girls in all primary and secondary schools but we also emphasize the value to a range of subjects mainly sciences,” she said.

    Celebrating women’s success

    In July, Mrs Kagame commended women for venturing into activities that seemed difficult after the difficult times of the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    This was during the 25th anniversary of Pro-Femmes Twese Hamwe, an umbrella of women civil society organizations.

    On the same day, the First lady officiated at the launch of Rwf530-million complex located in Gahanga Sector, Kicukiro District, the first phase of a center of excellence for women’s leadership that comprises offices, meeting rooms, among others.

    International events First Lady attended in 2017

    On September 14, Breakfast meeting in London

    On September 13, Bloomberg Philanthropists Board Meeting in London

    On October 19, Global Citizen Forum – Sveti Stefan Monte

  • Rwanda’s 1st Intake of Fixed-wing Aircraft Course for February

    Rwanda’s 1st Intake of Fixed-wing Aircraft Course for February

    Akagera aviation graduates with their instructors

    Rwandans wishing to learn how to fly a big plane, commonly known as fixed-wing aircraft will not have to think about looking for a visa anymore.

    All is set for Rwanda to start an aviation school in February 2018 where not only military officers but also civilians can enroll.

    “Akagera aviation has been offering training for rotary-wing planes- helicopters, but this time it will open a section of the fixed-wing airplane,” Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, Minister of State in charge of Transport told KT Press.

    “We will train pilots and later on, we shall open aircraft mechanical department and then aircraft service crew,” said Uwihanganye.

    This will bridge the existing gap. RwandAir has 150 pilots and only 25 are Rwandans, including only two captains.

    “We have a target of training at least 200 pilots in the next five years,” he said adding that the availability of more pilots will allow RwandAir to increase the number of destinations to 40 from the current 25.

    Patrick Nkulikiyimpfura the Managing Director of Akagera Aviation Limited told KT Press that registration for February intake has already been closed to 20 students for the inaugural class.

    One intake will take one and a half years, but the school will register new students every year.

    Meanwhile, Akagera Aviation on Thursday graduated 11 pilots who concluded sixteen-month training course on rotary-wing aircraft.

    “It started as a tough journey but since I had taken a bold decision to never disappoint, I remained focused,” said Robert Kayumba who emerged top of his class.

    “My classmates and I used to spend sleepless nights. I am happy that we all made it.”

    The 11 who graduated today comprise the third intake. So far, Akagera aviation has trained 50 pilots, some of them serving in the United Nations peacekeeping missions.

    The graduates have successfully completed their theory and practical tests in aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, flight planning performance, and radio communication.

    They told KT Press that for someone to enroll, good skills in Mathematical Sciences, Physics and Geography are vital.

    However, attitude is also very important when you want to become a good pilot.

    State Min Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye

    Apparently, graduates of the rotary-wing aircraft section would have more ease to embrace further training on the fixed-wing aircraft.

    “Among the remaining skills include a training of 200 to 500 hours,” Joseph Ndayishimiye, director of training and operations at Akagera Aviation Ltd said.

  • Kandt House Turns into Museum of Colonial History

    Kandt House Turns into Museum of Colonial History

    Kandt house

    The Institute of National Museums in Rwanda (INMR) has officially changed the Natural History Museum at Kandt House to Museum of Germany Colonial History.

    In May 2016, Members of Parliament visited the Kandt House which is the remaining symbol of the Germany colonization in Rwanda, yet it was housing the Natural history museum.

    The house belongs to Richard Kandt the first colonial master in Rwanda who governed Rwanda on behalf of Germany until the early 1900s.

    They recommended that the museum be turned into the Museum of Germany Colonial History which should exhibit all the history of Germany in Rwanda.

    “A lot of change is going to be done in this museum. We will insert more pictures detailing the history of Germans in Rwanda plus the bad and the ugly side of the German colonialists from the first day they stepped in Rwanda,” said Amb. Robert Masozera, the Director General of Institute of National Museums of Rwanda.

    This will attract many visitors to the museum and tell more of the Rwandan story.

    Currently, the museum receives around 1200 visitors every year, earning the country Rwf 2million.

    “It has been a loss to many Rwandans because they would not be able to find that history anywhere but this renaming will give a bigger picture of the ancient Rwanda,” Masozera said.

    While officiating at the inauguration event, Dr Peter Woeste the Germany Ambassador to Rwanda said that it was the right time for the museum to serve its purpose.

    “It is good to have a new look which details the history and relation of Rwanda and Germany. Previously, the exhibition was made of a mixture of items, but the renaming will give it a clear line in telling relationship of Rwanda and Germany,” he said.

    Meanwhile, Rwanda has eight museums from only one in 1994. INMR statistics indicate that the increase in historical sites has translated into an increase in museum tourists from 1000 in 1994 to 200,000 in 2017.

    Income of the museum’s visit increased to Rwf200 million in 2017 from Rwf1 million in 1994.

  • Bamporiki Hits Hard at Amavubi Losing Streak

    Bamporiki Hits Hard at Amavubi Losing Streak

    Eduoard Bamporiki, the chairman of National Itorero Commission

    The 15th National Dialogue, Umushyikirano is underway at Kigali Convention Center on its second day.

    The enthusiasm is high in this dialogue where Rwandans in all works of life engage with their leaders to lay strategies for nation building.

    Today’s discussions at   is focusing on the role of Rwanda youth at the centre of national transformation efforts.

    While speaking about the role of Itorero in building national unity and instilling the spirit of patriotism among the youth, Eduoard Bamporiki, the chairman of National Itorero Commission said that the youth should always take the advice of the elders seriously.

    Bamporiki said that from the times when Rwanda was ruled by the monarchy, the king always sent his people and made sure they come back with victory.

    “The youth should never aim at less than victory and this should start at early age,” he said.

    Bamporiki pointed out that in that regard of victory, the national football team, Amavubi should stop joking ‘gukina’ and go out to compete for victory.

    “In that way Amavubi will bring joy to Rwanda. They should bring victory,” he said.

    Last week, amavubi returned home from CECAFA challenge cup 2017.

    During the tournament, Amavubi only disappointed.  In four games, Amavubi only managed to win one game with Tanzania, equalized with Libya and was defeated with Zanzibar and Kenya.

    Kenya’s Harambee Stars became champions after beating Zanzibar.

    Rwandans do not remember when their team last won a trophy and, they say, losing has become a trend.

    Every other year the team steps back towards the bottom of the list in the world football association (FIFA) rankings.

    Two years ago, President Paul Kagame who is a football fan said he no longer wants to make any comment about football in Rwanda after several attempts of trying to help the football fraternity in vain.

    Since the latest defeat, Rwandans apparently hope for nothing big from the national team.

  • $20M invested in ‘Tap and Go’ Technology

    $20M invested in ‘Tap and Go’ Technology

    Made in Rwanda initiative bearing fruits

    The Made in Rwanda technology has started earning good returns for the innovators after attracting foreign investors, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has revealed.

    Rwanda has developed three mechanisms to bridge the trade imbalance with the Made in Rwanda, Start in Rwanda and Grow in Rwanda and beyond.

    During the National Dialogue the RDB CEO Clare Akamanzi made revelations that shocked the  audience.

    “Recently a Japanese company bought shares in AC Group’s ‘Tap&Go’ at $20 million, the same price that was paid for Umubano Hotel,” Akamanzi said.

    With Tap & Go cards, public buses passengers do not have to pay cash. This is part of the country’s wider transition into a cashless economy. Holders of ‘Tap & Go cards can top up through agents stationed at all bus terminals with as little as Frw200.

    Previously, commuters were only able to use the Tap & Go cards on 95% of the routes in Kigali. Today, the group said it has covered an extra 2% covering 97% of the routes.

    The next move is to rollout the program upcountry, but before that, the company exported its technology to Cameroon.

    RDB CEO Clare Akamanzi

    The new investor who is interested in the Made in Rwanda ‘Tap and Go’ is  DMM Group, a Japan-based electronic commerce and Internet company with a diversified group of businesses that includes online shopping and video on demand service.

    The company manages DMM.com, an online entertainment site that allows users to purchase goods and services like e-books, games, mainstream DVD releases, and 3D printing. Its subsidiary DMM.com Securities is the world’s second largest forex company in terms of trading volume.

    Another technology that is also selling is the ZippLine a technology that operates drones used in blood delivery in Rwanda.

    Recently, Tanzania adopted the technology, but uses it in agriculture.

    Akamanzi said, the technology will expand to Liberia in the near future.

    Akamanzi also said that, a computer assembling plant Positivo BGH encountered a number of challenges when they started operating in Rwanda but now they have overcome them and will soon start manufacturing Television screens.

    “Transformation is a journey and it is time we safeguard our achievements. It is about being bold,” Akamanzi added.

    This boldness has seen C&H, a Chinese garments company creating 1700 jobs from Rwandans working inside the textile company of which many have been trained in technical skills (TVET).

    Akamanzi said that Rwanda will also focus on encouraging investors in the electronics to tap on the $4 billion market in the global market and $300million in the East African region.

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