The presence in eastern DR Congo of the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, unresolved historical grievances and blaming Rwanda for the M23 rebellion have led to diplomatic rift between the two countries, according to the Rwandan Parliament. This was said on Wednesday, June 5, as an ad hoc house committee set up to investigate the role of colonial legacy in conflicts in the Great Lakes Region and its impact on DR Congo-Rwanda tensions presented its findings to a Plenary Session. According…
SOMA INKURUCategory: English News
RSSB to launch Rwf30bn equity investment facility for SMEs
Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) is set to launch a Rwf30 billion equity investment facility for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in a move to address the financing gap to growth and scalability. The development was announced by Regis Rugemanshuro, the chief executive of RSSB, who indicated that the proposed Fund will be domiciled and operate in Rwanda. He said the target is to launch it before the end of 2024. “If we were only looking for returns, there are many funds that are already doing that,” he said, noting…
SOMA INKURUThey laud the benefits attributed to the conservation of Birunga Park
By Diane NKUSI NIKUZE Rwandan Government established policies and measures meant to protectand conserve and countering the decrease in biodiversity, as a result, its enshrined in the Vision 2050, where its anticipated that Rwanda will be driven by an economy which will be environment friendly, and resilient to climate change. Its in that context that the residents of Nyange and Kinigi Sectors in Musanze District formed different Cooperatives, and among them include the ex-poachers, and today they are proud of the benefits they attribute to the protection the biodiversity in…
SOMA INKURUHow can Africa claim its place on global stage?
At the just-concluded Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, a complex question was posed. The question asked whether Africa should be at the table or on the menu, and whether this was a critical moment to shape a new future for Africa. There was, at least, consensus that Africa has to be at the table, which means that it is an vital moment for the continent to establish itself as an independent and influential force on the global stage. But this consensus did not come without an even more intricacy. Rwanda’s…
SOMA INKURUThe miraculous benefit of selenium micronutrient against HIV and SARS-COV-2
Selenium is a micronutrient that is found in our bodies in small amounts but plays a supporting role in regulating the body’s immune system, fight inflammation, reduce intravascular coagulation, support detoxification and fight viral replication. Selenium works by inhibiting a protein found in the cytoplasm called Nuclear-factor kappa-B (NF-kB). When NF-kB is released from its inhibitor I-kB, it increases both inflammation and viral replication. With the help of sufficient selenium naturally, cells lock it safely away in the cytoplasm to prevent it from causing these two negative effects that occur…
SOMA INKURUThe Complexities of WASH: Challenges and Opportunities for a Sustainable Future
The Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) sector plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being of communities around the world. However, the sector faces numerous challenges that hinder its potential to provide universal access to clean water, adequate sanitation, and hygiene practices. Despite these obstacles, the WASH sector also presents several opportunities for transformative change, making it a vital area for global investment and innovation. Challenges in WASH Water Scarcity and Accessibility Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a significant challenge in many parts of the world. Climate…
SOMA INKURURwanda hosting AMA headquarters could be a game-changer for health in Africa
Rwanda and the African Union signed a host agreement for the African Medicines Agency (AMA), a specialised regulatory body for medical products, in June 2023. The establishment of AMA is a significant step towards enhancing healthcare infrastructure and advancing medical innovation. It marks a pivotal moment not only for Rwanda but for the entire continent, signifying a commitment to bolstering pharmaceutical regulation, promoting access to quality medicines, and fostering collaboration. Setting up the AMA headquarters in Rwanda carries profound implications for the future of healthcare across Africa. As the continent grapples…
SOMA INKURUEMPOWERING EVERY VOICE: THE JOURNEY OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES IN RWANDA
By Diane NKUSI NIKUZE In the heart of Rwanda’s social tapestry lies a community often overlooked, yet essential in the narrative of progress: children with disabilities. The findings from the 2022 Rwandan census provide a revealing insight into their journey, illuminating both the challenges they face and the strides made towards inclusive empowerment. Prevalence of Disabilities The 2022 census paints a picture of resilience within Rwanda’s diverse landscape, identifying 391,775 individuals aged 5 years and above living with disabilities. These figures, accounting for 3.4% of the population, showcase the varied…
SOMA INKURUIllicit Financial Flows and Tax Abuses in Agribusiness: A Reality Undermining the Economy
The agriculture and agribusiness sector is a key pillar of the Rwandan economy, contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment. However, despite government efforts to stimulate the growth and sustainability of this strategic sector, illicit financial practices and tax abuses continue to erode the country’s economic potential. This phenomenon, while difficult to quantify precisely, remains a major concern for authorities, economic experts, and the farmers themselves. Illicit Financial Flows: A Persistent Reality Illicit financial flows in Rwanda’s agribusiness sector include practices such as tax evasion, embezzlement…
SOMA INKURUReintegration of ex-genocide convicts: a journey of healing, reconciliation
As Rwandans continue to observe a week of mourning to mark 30 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the nation is also reflecting on the journey of rebuilding and reconciliation across various spheres. Among the aspects of this journey is the reintegration of individuals who were convicted of participating in the genocide and have since completed their sentences. Over the years, Rwanda has implemented various programs and initiatives to facilitate the reintegration process, aiming to foster healing and reconciliation within society. Institutions like DiDe (Dignity in Detention) have…
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