News

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, Kigali, Rwanda played host to a dynamic gathering of young CEOs and business professionals at a significant event aimed at discussing and promoting the importance of financial literacy. The event,  brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to tackle pressing challenges and opportunities in the business world around the theme “Awareness & Understanding the Importance of Financial Literacy,” The day was marked by the official launch of a nationwide financial literacy program, a significant step towards empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Los Angeles County is currently grappling with a series of devastating wildfires that have left a trail of destruction, claiming at least ten lives and razing entire neighborhoods to the ground. The situation has been exacerbated by an incident where a firefighting aircraft collided with an unauthorized drone, adding to the complexity of the emergency response.

On Thursday, amidst the chaos of the wildfires, an aerial firefighting plane collided with a drone flying over the restricted airspace of the Palisades Fire. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the incident, stating that the firefighting aircraft managed to land safely but was grounded thereafter. The FAA has launched an investigation into this unauthorized drone activity, emphasizing that flying drones in restricted zones during such emergencies can critically delay fire response efforts, potentially costing lives.

In a shocking incident in Mombasa, a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer was killed by a mob after he fired shots into the air during a heated argument over a boda boda fare.

The tragedy unfolded on Friday at Likoni Primary Vyemani Grounds, where the officer, whose name has not yet been released, was dropped off by boda boda rider Antony Otieno. Upon arrival, instead of paying for the ride, the officer began making numerous phone calls. When Otieno demanded his payment, the situation escalated quickly.

In Nairobi and Mombasa, human rights activists were taken into custody on Monday during protests against the recent wave of abductions. The demonstrations were a call for the immediate release of those who have been kidnapped.

In Nairobi’s bustling city center, well-known activist Julius Kamau was arrested. He was loudly protesting the increasing abduction cases when he was detained, shouting, “Why are you arresting me? Stop abductions in Kenya!”

The police in Nairobi used anti-riot measures to break up the crowd on Kimathi Street, stopping the protests from spreading further.

Rulindo, Rwanda – The Ineza Foundation brought the spirit of Christmas to Shyorongi Sector with a joyous celebration for local children. The event, held on Tuesday evening, brought together children, parents, and local leaders for an evening of entertainment, encouragement, and community building.

The highlight of the celebration was undoubtedly the children’s performances. Youngsters showcased their talents with enthusiasm, captivating the audience with their singing, dancing, and other creative expressions. “We are so happy today! It’s not every day we get to perform in front of so many people,” shared Angel Umutesi, a participant in the Shyorongi community library’s reading program.

The Female Engagement Team of Rwanda Battle Group VI, serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), launched a 16-day campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) in Bria, Haute-Kotto Prefecture.

The campaign, which began on Monday, November 25 as part of the global 16 Days of Activism, was held in collaboration with local communities, other UN peacekeepers, and national and international NGOs.

It aims to eliminate all forms of GBV, including sexual violence, rape, physical and psychological abuse, and harmful traditional practices.

President Paul Kagame has been awarded the prestigious title of African of the Year for 2024, a recognition that underscores his significant contributions to driving transformative change and fostering sustainable development across the African continent. This esteemed accolade not only highlights Kagame’s leadership but also serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of millions of people in Rwanda and beyond.

The award was presented on October 24, 2024, during the illustrious All Africa Business Leaders Awards (AABLA) ceremony held in South Africa. This annual event, which celebrates outstanding achievements in business and leadership across the continent, is organized in partnership with CNBC Africa. The recognition of President Kagame at such a high-profile event further emphasizes the importance of his role in promoting economic progress and stability within Africa, particularly in a time when many nations are striving to overcome various challenges.

An innovative solution is being rolled out in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park where AI would be used to conserve mountain gorillas and at the same time empower communities around the park.

Dubbed “interspecies money,” the system allows mountain gorillas in the park to raise money for their conservation through digital wallets powered by AI-facial recognition. Last week, the initiative was named among the top ten implausible-sounding scenarios for 2025 by The Economist.

The Advisory Council of Rusizi District in Rwanda’s Western Province has appointed Alfred Habimana as the interim mayor after the resignation of Anicet Kibiriga on November 23, 2023, due to personal reasons. Habimana previously served as vice-mayor for economic development since May. Kibiriga, who had been in office since November 2021, resigned alongside Anne Marie Dukuzumuremyi (vice-mayor for social affairs) and Jeanne d’Arc Niyonsaba (district council member and head of the National Women’s Council).

The Global Food Security Summit, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, concluded on November 27, 2024 with a strong call for enhanced international cooperation to address the escalating global hunger crisis.

Leaders and experts from the agriculture and food security sectors gathered to discuss innovative solutions and strategies to strengthen global food security and build resilient food systems.

The summit brought together 21 ministers and government officials responsible for global food security, as well as leading experts and scientists from around the world. Discussions focused on current challenges, future opportunities, and the importance of ensuring food systems are resilient and sustainable to address future crises.