On Monday December 16, 2013, President Paul Kagame delivered the much-awaited State of the Nation address giving a picture of how Rwanda has been in the past year, and prospects for the coming 2014

News of Rwanda brings you the full speech below:

All protocol observed,

We meet today so that we present to Rwandans, friends of Rwanda and our development partners the state of our nation over the past year. It is also an opportunity to convey best wishes for the New Year we are about to start.

First of all, we can take satisfaction that security and stability in our country continue to prevail. Rwandans are safe and secure wherever they are; go about their work freely throughout the country at any time of the day. Visitors both tourists and investors to Rwanda also recognize and appreciate the level of security in the country.

This is the same stability and security we wish for other countries as well. Rwanda’s stability gives us the ability to continue to work on building our nation and develop our economy, as this year’s figures indicate.

The first two quarters of this year show an economic growth of 6.6% and this figure is projected to increase. This rate is by all accounts high compared to other countries on the continent and even globally.

As you all know, we faced big challenges in 2012. Rwanda’s ability to achieve continuous growth despite these challenges is commendable and a sign of the strong economic foundation that is able to withstand challenges.

There is ample evidence for this. To begin with, by the end of November, export revenues grew to 489 million dollars – a 27.2% increase over last year. Moreover, most of the exports are from agriculture, a sector in which the majority of Rwandans are involved.

We are also pleased that the East African Commodities Exchange was launched this year, which will benefit farmers by providing a permanent market for their products.

Our mining sector continues to grow. In the first six months of this year, we registered 30 million dollars in mining revenue compared to 39 million dollars for the whole of 2012. Given this performance, we expect this year’s mining receipts will double.

Rwanda continues to attract significant investments. The World Bank Doing Business report ranked Rwanda second in Africa and 32nd globally, up from 52nd in 2012.

As you know, from our Eurobond offer, we received 400 million dollars, which was oversubscribed 8.2 times. This is proof of the trust Rwanda enjoys in global financial capital markets.  Investment in the first six months of this year stood at 456 million dollars, compared to 538 million dollars for the whole of last year.

Tourism continues to be our top foreign exchange earner. Between January and October this year, Rwanda received over 714 visitors who brought in 217 million dollars into our economy marking 4% increase over 2012.

This year also saw growth in financial services by banks, SACCOs as well as other financial institutions. Between September 2012 and September 2013, bank deposits grew by almost 20% and loans granted increased by 13%.

The insurance industry expanded this year with new institutions entering the Rwandan market, resulting in a 22% increase in their assets.

Agriculture is projected to grow by 5.4% and remains a significant factor in economic growth. The quality of Rwandan tea and coffee continue to be recognized globally.

It is critical that we continue to increase agricultural productivity in the coming years and enhance value addition. We must also further develop the practice of rain harvesting to mitigate the effects of the dry seasons.

The Girinka program continues to change the lives of many Rwandans. One hundred eighty four thousand cows have been distributed so far helping Rwandans lift themselves out of poverty and improving their nutritional needs.

The national electrification and water distribution programs are progressing. However, the pace of these projects remains unsatisfactory. We have to intensify our efforts to ensure that all Rwandans have access to water and electricity.

Construction of new roads and rehabilitation of old ones that will boost local and regional trade is underway. It is on this note that we welcome cooperation between EAC nations to fastrack energy, infrastructure and related projects.

In education, we are encouraged by the increase in the number of students. This year, enrolment increased by 7% in Nursery and Primary schools and 6% in secondary schools.

At university level, the number of students increased from 76,629 last year, to 84,448 this year, equivalent to a 10% increase.

The Government continues to put a lot of emphasis on vocational training and the budget for vocational training went from 10.5 billion Rwf. to 30.5 Billion Rwf.

In the past year, the number of students attending vocational schools increased by 15% at secondary school level and 47% at tertiary level.

It is also worth noting that this year all public universities were merged to create one University of Rwanda. This is aimed at improving the quality of education, pooling and utilizing university resources better and streamlining the planning of university education.

The Government of Rwanda will continue to focus on education because we recognize that education is one of the pillars that will help us attain the development that we want.

In the health sector, we are happy that the number of hospitals and health centers, as well as doctors and nurses working in them increased this year. Examples include Ruhango, Kinihira and Bushenge, which are already operational. High level health centers started operating this year in Kanyinya, Mageragere, Remera and Gatenga.

In terms of capacity building for doctors, the Rwanda Government has entered into a seven-year agreement with several American universities to teach and train Rwandan doctors. In addition to this, 50 doctors have gone for further training in various countries abroad, while 150 others are undertaking their training in Rwanda.

The number of women giving birth in hospitals has increased to 86% this year and the rate of women dying while giving birth has decreased significantly. Ninety five percent of children are immunized at least 12 diseases and child mortality for children under five continues to decrease. We must continue our efforts to ensure continued progress.

Due to Government efforts, in collaboration with concerned agencies, diseases that had become endemic such as malaria, tuberculosis and others have reduced significantly.  For instance, deaths caused by malaria have reduced by 5.5%. Our aim is complete eradication of malaria so that no Rwandan should die from the disease.

Statistics show that 81% of Rwandans have access to health care. We must double our efforts to ensure universal access to health care for every Rwandan.

The justice sector in Rwanda continues to make steady progress. That is why the International community has shown confidence with the extradition of Rwandans who are suspected of committing crimes here so that they can be tried in our own courts. In addition, the European Court of Human Rights declared that the justice system in Rwanda is working well and meets international standards.

I am also pleased to say that an association of professional court bailiffs has been formed. There is no doubt that this is another important step in the development of our judicial system, and this association will be highly beneficial to all Rwandans. We must continue to increase our efforts to expedite court proceedings and maintain the progress we have made.

We cannot fail to mention that overall the state of Governance has improved in our country. Electing leaders at every level of leadership has now become part of our culture.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Rwandans for their high level of participation during the last parliamentary elections. The number of female Members of Parliament elected shows that women are taking an important part in the leadership and development of our country. As the future and the present of our nation, youth have also continued to be empowered.

We have to put more efforts into providing better services at all levels, with particular emphasis on the local level because that is where the population needs it most. Although we may be doing well compared to others, we should strive to do better. What we have achieved shows that we have the potential. I cannot end this address without reminding you all about two things:

The first is a reminder of our participation in different regional and international organizations. These partnerships will bring us great benefits on our path to development.

The second thing is that for us to be able to contribute to those international bodies as well as get some benefits ourselves, we as Rwandans always have to give ourselves value. That is the main purpose of the new initiative Ndi Umunyarwanda. Our support to this initiative remains important. It is the right path towards the development we seek to achieve.

Next year, we will be commemorating the Genocide for the 20th time and we will also celebrate our Liberation. They should both be remembered because they make us who we are and will give us the strength to accomplish even more.

In that respect, I would like to sincerely thank all Rwandans, as well as all our partners, for what we have achieved together in building our country. Together we have faced many difficult challenges and we overcame most of them. There is no doubt that with increased collaboration, unity and collective strength, we will reach many more of our goals in the coming years.

As I said at the beginning, I would like to wish all of you who are here, all Rwandans in general, as well as all of those who live in Rwanda, a happy new year 2014 and a happy end of 2013.

May it be a prosperous and fruitful year for you and your families.

Thank you, have a good evening and may God bless you.

Rwanda’s Genocide survivors’ community has protested against the publication of an instruction manual by France’s Ministry of Education, which affirms that the Genocide perpetrated in Rwanda in 1994 was committed by Tutsi against Hutu.

The survivors who subscribe to an umbrella organization (IBUKA) have written up an official letter to the French Minister of Education, Vincent Peillon, requesting him to rectify the forgery of the gloomy episode of the Rwandan history.

A copy of the letter, which was written on December 18, 2013, has also been sent to French President François Hollande and to the Guard of the [National] Symbols, Ms. Taubira.

Below is the letter by Ibuka (Rwanda’s Genocide survivors’ umbrella organization) in France:

It is both with sadness and indignation that France-based Ibuka has learnt that the prestigious institution of CNED [France’s National Center for Distance Learning] has been teaching all over the world, since last summer, that the Genocide perpetrated in Rwanda back in 1994 has been committed by Tutsi against Hutu.

In a document spread by this institution on June 30, 2013 and directed to professors with the title “French 3^rd year. Booklet of reviewed work”, one can read the following, under the title, “Memory can allow to determine the responsibilities and to deliver justice”:

“To this regard, the Genocide against Hutu by Tutsi in Rwanda illustrates well the following […]:  The fact of reviving the memory by reminding the violence of machete-enabled executions, the regime of terror, all that work together to allow for a collective consciousness for historic horror to develop”.

Hence, the document takes a deliberate stance against what has been declared a fact well-known to the public by International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) in 2006: “A Genocide has been committed in Rwanda against the Tutsi ethnic group”.

This revision of history is even worse given the fact that the instruction manual is a source of teaching (learning) for the whole world.

We are often confronted with waves of [Genocide] deniers linking the denial to the thesis of double Genocide. We were, however, far from imagining that an official French institution could also echo that to such an extent.

An instruction manual is not a document one can write up in any way. Meant to help professors, it must rely on up-to-date work (information).

Given the number of books published in France on the Genocide against Tutsi, it’s scary that the National Education dares teach such cruel mistakes!

This instruction manual which violates the memory of victims is a shame for many French young people who, over the last ten years, have published excellent theses about the subject.

From which sources did the National Center for Distance Learning get its information? Has this institution remained using the blackmail propaganda which preceded and accompanied the Genocide? Which specialists have been consulted?

The National Center for Distance Learning can’t get this wrong. A Genocide is not a detail of history. The instruction manual by the National Center for Distance Learning transforms the victims into culprits of Genocide!

They [victims] are outrageously offended. Would you imagine an instruction manual in which it would be written that the Jews would have been the authors [perpetrators] of the Shoah [Holocaust]?

Is it because it has been committed in Africa against Africans that it can be treated with such a level of negligence and taken this lightly? The subject is serious. If one cannot give it the attention it deserves, one would rather keep quiet.

In the name of survivors of the Genocide against Tutsi, in the name of the humanity which has been tarnished by this crime, in the name of the community of French researchers of whom I know the quality of work about the subject, we request you to:

• Retract the circulation of the whole edition;
• Publish, in a reference journal, an announcement to suggest this retraction;
• Put in place, in France, a complete programme of the teaching of the history of the Genocides, including the one against the Tutsi of Rwanda.

Please do accept, Honorable Minister, the assurance of our distinguished consideration and receive our kind regards for the forthcoming end-of-the-year feasts.

Marcel Kabanda

President of Ibuka in France

C/O Secretary General, Ildephonse Ngaruye

These fighters are from the so called anti-Balaka who are Christians reportedly linked to the former president. They have been attacking the rebel-government and civilians raising fears of genocide ()

The African Union has asked Rwanda to provide troops “urgently” to bolster French troops in the Central African Republic where civil war is threatening to tear the country apart.

Rwanda’s foreign minister Louise Mushikiwabo confirmed last night that the continental body was seeking Rwanda’s intervention immediately. The African Union has deployed about 2,500 troops, which are supported by some 1600 from France.

The Central African Republic is descending into chaos since mostly Muslim Seleka rebels ousted President Francois Bozize in March, the latest coup in the country that remains one of the world’s poorest despite resources ranging from gold to uranium.

“Rwanda was asked by AU to contribute troops to the CAR & deploy urgently, and yes, right now the RDF is preparing to go,” said Mushikiwabo, on Twitter, referring to the Rwanda Defense Forces.

There is indication yet as to how many troops from Rwanda will be and when exactly they will be deployed.

Seleka’s rebel-turned-president, Michel Djotodia, has lost control of the country. The primarily Muslim Seleka attacked the CAR’s Christian majority, which in turn sought revenge. Gangs of youths and heavily armed vigilante Christian groups have been attacking Muslims raising fears of a possible genocide.

One of the new infants recorded in the same period (Courtesy photo)

The medical teams treating gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park are reporting what they described as a “gorilla boom” in Rwanda as more than expected number of infants is born.

Gorilla Doctors, a conservationist group, said Tuesday that it has recorded 24 gorilla infants in the past seven months alone. The news was released by the group on social media. On average, it means at least 4 gorillas were born monthly.

This could suggest that by the next gorilla-naming ceremony “Kwita Izina” in June next year, the number will be unusually higher compared to any other period. During this year’s ceremony, some 12 infants were named at the usually lavish annual event in Kinigi, near their habitat.

American Hollywood star Isaiah Washington (3rd from right) was among those who gave names to infants at the 2013 Kwita Izina (courtesy photo)

Since inception, 161 mountain gorilla infants have been named, inspired by the Rwandan naming tradition following the birth of a new baby. It estimated hundreds of gorillas are on Rwanda’s side of the massive area – some even escaping from neighbouring regions.

The gorillas have become a significant source of tourism revenue. Last year, the tourism sector generated $281.8 million compared to $251.3 million the previous year, an increase of 17%. The local people received 5% of this amount through the revenue sharing program. 40% of this went to people living around Volcanoes National Park, 30% to Akagera National Park, and 30% to Nyungwe National Park.

As the Christmas season is being celebrated around the globe and Rwanda in particular, President Kagame has conveyed his greetings to the Rwanda Defence Forces and the National Police, a message in which the president said “the people of Rwanda are grateful for selfless service, sacrifices and continued commitment by their armed forces.

We bring you the full message word by word.  Read below:

On behalf of the Government of Rwanda and on my own behalf and my family, I wish all of you officers, men and women of our Armed Forces and your families, a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2014.

The ending year has been yet another time of distinguished service to the people of Rwanda and our Nation’s interests. Each of you servicemen and women effectively contributed, through your collective work, to delivering the peace and safety Rwandans, residents and foreign guests have continued to enjoy within our national borders. The people of Rwanda are grateful for your selfless service, sacrifices and continued commitment.

The Government and leadership of Rwanda, at the various levels, commend you for successfully achieving your core mission; securing our homeland and deterring hostile activities against our nation. Your contribution to socio-economic activities through various initiatives such as ’Army Week’ and Gender Based Violence programs provided a meaningful input towards achieving our national development goals.

Beyond our national borders, I want to commend you for your consistent record of professionalism, discipline and resilience in addressing regional and global security challenges in line with our Nation’s principles, interests and priorities. Many of you are not able to be with your families and friends during this festive season. Yet, thanks to your selfless service, many vulnerable families are able to survive the flames of violence and persecution. It is that commitment which makes Rwanda’s Defence and Police Forces stand out among the most reliable partners for global peace and security. Most importantly; serving just causes far from home, saving other people’s lives beyond our borders, remind us who we are as a people. It enshrines the lessons we learned from our own history, and reinforces our sense of purpose and direction.

Let me take this moment to remember our departed comrades who passed away while in the service of our nation both at home and in missions abroad in 2013. Their sacrifices were not in vain; they will be remembered and emulated by new generations of patriots. As we begin a New Year, I urge you all to maintain and improve the standards of professional conduct, discipline and patriotism you have demonstrated in 2013. Above all, I ask you to uphold our most important attribute; the Rwandan Spirit.

I want you to preserve the core values that enabled us achieve success in 2013 and previous years; selflessness, honour, resilience and humility among others.

The year 2014 will bring new promises and challenges. We will undoubtedly be confronted with more threats and hardships, but I am confident that with our spirit and experience, and resilience, we will prevail. Not only shall we survive those challenges; working together with patriotism and commitment, we shall also achieve greater successes for Rwanda and the larger international community.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

Mu kiganiro cyihariye twagiranye n’umuyobozi w’Akarere ka Nyanza Murenzi Abdallah kuri uyu wa mbere tariki 30/12/2013 habura igihe gito ngo batangire umwaka mushya wa 2014 yavuze ko ubutumwa bw’ingenzi yumva afitiye abaturage ayoboye ari ubwo kubashishikariza kwita ku murimo kuruta uko bari basanzwe bawitaho mu myaka yashize.

Umuyobozi w’akarere ka Nyanza Murenzi Abdallah

Murenzi Abdallah avuga ko abaturage bo mu karere ka Nyanza basanzwe atari abanebwe ariko ngo umwaka wa 2014 barasabwa gukora kurusha uko bari basanzwe bita mu mirimo ibatunze.

Yagize ati: “Ubutumwa bw’ingenzi mfitiye abaturage b’akarere ka Nyanza mu gihe habura amasaha make ngo umwaka urangire wa 2013 ni ubwo kubashishikariza gukomeza gukora ngo batere imbere kuko inzira iracyari ndende mu birebana no kurwanya ubukene”

Muri icyo kiganiro yagize icyo abasaba by’umwihariko agira Ati: “ Gahunda ya “ Ndi umunyarwanda bayigire iyabo hejuru yo kwita mu murimo kuko ibyo wageraho byose wiyumvamo ikindi kitari ubunyarwanda ntacyo byaba bimaze”

Yakomeje atubwira ko muri uyu mwaka wa 2013 urimo usozwa we nk’umuyobozi w’akarere ka Nyanza yishimira by’umwihariko ibikorwaremezo byagezweho birimo ibigo nderabuzima byubakiwe abaturage bo mu mirenge ya Ntyazo na Mukingo.

Nk’uko abisobanura ngo abaturage bo muri iyo mirenge bari bafite ibibazo bitaboroheye byo kwivuriza kure y’aho batuye. Ngo ibyo byatumye akarere gashakisha uburyo bwose bwo kubegereza ibikorwa remezo birimo ibyo bigo nderabuzima n’ibindi.

Ikindi umuyobozi w’akarere ka Nyanza asaba abaturage mu mwaka wa 2014 ni ukwicungira umutekano birinda icyawuhungabanya kigasenya ibyagezweho bakomeje kwishimira ndetse n’ibyo bateganya gukora.

Mu magambo ye bwite yagize ati: “ Umutekano niwo shingiro rya byose utawufite ibyo yakora byose birayoyoka. Akivuga ku birebana n’umutekano yongeyeho ko muri uyu mwaka wa 2013 ibyawuhungabanyije mu karere ka Nyanza byagabanutse ugereranyije n’umwaka wa 2012.

Ngo ibanga ryakoreshejwe nta rindi usibye gufatanyiriza hamwe n’inzego zose yaba abaturage ndetse n’inzego zirebwa nawo.

Umuyobozi w’akarere ka Nyanza Murenzi Abdallah asabira abaturage ayoboye kuzakomeza kurangwa n’iterambere ryihuse mu mwaka wa 2014 kandi bakima amatwi uwaza wese ashaka kubabibamo amacakubiri ashingiye ku byo yaza yitwaje byose ngo abatandukanye.

Akarere ka Nyanza ni kamwe mu turere 8 tugize Intara y’Amajyepfo kazwiho kuba igicumbi cy’umuco nyarwanda kuko mu bukerarugendo kuko uhansanga inzu ndangamateka  nk’ingoro y’umwami Mutara wa III Rudahingwa n’ingoro y’ubugeni yo ku Rwesero.

Different government officials including Minister James Musoni [pictured
here with a black hat] and the MIDIMAR boss, Minister Séraphine
Mukantabana, dance to the traditional tunes along with Rwandans
temporarily living in Kiyanzi refugee camp

Rwanda’s Minister of Local Government (MINALOC), Minister of Disaster Management and Refugee Affairs (MIDIMAR) and Mayors for Rwanda’s 30 districts met on Saturday in Kiyanzi refugee camp in Eastern Rwanda’s Kirehe district to look into ways of relocating Rwandans evicted from Tanzania.

In the one-day visit, the MINILOC Minister James Musoni, told the Tanzania-expelled Rwandan refugees that the aim of the visit was to end their current refugee status because no Rwandan should be a refugee in their home country.

Saturday’s visit, Minister Musoni added, was also in line with sending best wishes to these Rwandan refugees for the upcoming year of 2014, just as Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame did for fellow Rwandans in his recent 2013 state of the nation address.

Minister Musoni further promised these Rwandan refugees that, by January 2014, their refugee status will be no more. They will have settled along with fellow Rwandans.

MIDIMAR Minister Séraphine Mukantabana planting trees in Kiyanzi refugee
camp. The visit coincided with the country’s monthly community work

Minister Mukantabana explained that the government wants Tanzania-expelled Rwandan refugees to integrate in the Rwandan society by 2014 and live as their fellow Rwandans.

This, she said, will also allow their children to be able to go to school with the new school year that will start in January 2014.

Minister Mukantabana added that all the refugee camps hosting Tanzania-evicted Rwandan refugees will close down starting with January 2014 and their occupants will be relocated to different districts of Rwanda.

Joel Mugaragu, one of the refugees in Kiyanzi camp, said he is appreciative of the way he and fellow refugees were welcomed back home. And with the continued support from the government, he said, it shows that Rwanda has a clear, well-defined roadmap.

The latest figures from MIDIMAR suggest that up to 14,253 Rwandans were expelled from Tanzania this year − some 5,827 of whom now live in Kiyanzi and Rukara refugee camps while others have already joined their families in different districts.

Preparations for the commemoration of the genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda have already kicked off as one of the 2014’s biggest events : the 20th commemoration will take place on 7 April in Kigali.

At the sideline of the awaited ceremony, an international conference on Genocide will be held.

The official launching of  ‘KWIBUKA 20’ translated as  (REMEMBER for the 20th time)will be on 7 January this year 2014 at the Kigali-based Gisozi Memorial Center, with the lighting of the torch KWIBUKA (a remembrance torch). (This could be similar to freedom torches in some countries) although the Rwandas will be strictly lighten in remembrance of the genocide against Tutsis.

According to the Rwandan Presidency, a series of activities is scheduled to take place in order to remember one of the world’s worst massacres – Rwanda’s 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.

A meeting bringing together different stakeholders like the State, Ibuka (Rwanda’s umbrella organization of Genocide survivors), media, friends of Rwanda, among others, takes place on a regular basis to best prepare for this great event, which will be celebrated both on the national and international level.

At the official opening of the 11th edition of Rwanda’s 2013 National Dialogue, President Paul Kagame highlighted that one of the Rwandan values, ‘Ndi Umunyarwanda’ (I am Rwandan), will also feature during the upcoming 20th commemoration of the Genocide against Tutsi.

According to Dr Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu, head of Ibuka, puts it, the ‘Ndi Umunyarwanda’ will benefit Genocide survivors.

‘This concept is one way to do a deep reflection on our past, face off consequences of the Genocide, heal the wounds of the Genocide’, said Dr Dusingizemungu.

‘It is also a way of getting information on the Genocide and fight against it’, he added.

The torch to be lit on 7 January will criss-cross Rwanda’s 30 districts in three months. And the last phase will be in Kigali, on 7 April − the very beginning of the national, Genocide commemoration period.

According to Dr Dusingizemungu, ‘the youth from the districts will be involved in carrying this remembrance torch bacause they are the future of the country’.

At the level of each district, debates are scheduled among local residents – an opportunity to reflect upon all that happened in 1994 and what has been Rwanda’s way forward since that dark period.

This campaign will not, guess what, limit itself to the country level. All of Rwanda’s high commissions across the world will also stage similar events to mark the launching of KWIBUKA 20 or the 20th commemoration of the Genocide against Tutsi.

Dr Dusingizemungu reveals that studies are underway so as to set up a guarantee fund.

‘This 20th commemoration is an opportunity for Ibuka to discuss the launching of International Trust Fund for Survivors. ICTR [International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda] is involved in meetings to help us carry out studies about this fund, to put us in contact with other funds of the kind’, Dr Dusingizemungu said.

‘Activities such as visiting and helping [Genocide] survivors and handicaps are scheduled before 7 April. Medical assistance will especially focus on homes of those who no longer have families’, he explained.

During the three-month Genocide, over a million Tutsis were brutally exterminated by former President Juvénal Habyarimana’s Genocide regime.

Tutsis suffered this unspeakable ordeal as the international community watched helplessly. There was also the United Nations’ Assistance Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR), led by Canada’s General Roméo Dallaire. This very mission even withdrew from Rwanda right in the middle of the Genocide, exposing Tutsis to an imminent risk of dying at the hands of Génocidaires.

It would be up to the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), through its military wing by then, the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), at the time led by Major General Paul Kagame, to put an end to the Genocide with the fall of Kigali in July 1994, after a four-year period of  war.

This four-year liberation war, which started on October 1, 1990, put Habyarimana’s army in disarray and, after its defeat, fled to then Zaïre (now the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC) along with its government.

Mr Patrick Karegeya (extreme left) had formed an alliance with Dr Paulin Murayi, the son-in-law of genocide financier Felicien Kabuga (3rd from right). Dr Murayi was among the founders, and later managers of the renowned hate radio RTLM. This photo is from February 2013 taken in South Africa

Wednesday morning, Rwanda’s former spy chief Patrick Karegeya was found dead in a hotel room in South Africa. It wasn’t long before the finger was pointed at Rwanda. Why not? It seems like the logical explanation. Karegeya fled the regime – and 20 years in jail – claiming he was not safe, and by his own standards he was Kagame’s greatest foe. It seems the case was closed before his body reached the morgue. Kigali is silent.

But who is Karegeya?

It seems Karegeya was no angel. In fact, quite the contrary, he was a ruthless opportunist who would sacrifice the lives of ordinary Rwandans to gain the one thing he wanted most: power. With this in common, allying with FDLR no longer seems surprising.

The enemy of my enemy is my friend

During his time as the chief of external intelligence, Mr. Karegeya began to forge alliances with people like Felicien Kabuga, the man currently on the US most wanted list for financing the genocide against the Tutsi of 1994.

Through two of Kabuga’s children, Donatien Nshimyumuremyi alias Nshima and Seraphine Uwimana who visited Rwanda between October and December 2003, Kabuga was able to regain the rights to family property. Under the directive of Mr. Karegeya, an officer of external Security accredited to the Rwanda Embassy in Belgium Mr Janvier Mabuye granted powers of attorney to both Kabuga’s children.

Mr Karegeya provided all the necessary documentation and protection to the two women. Kabuga’s family obtained ownership of the building next to City Plaza in downtown Kigali, and the building that houses Banque Populaire Muhima branch.

Details obtained from my investigation show that the two women stayed at the Mille Collines and invoice No. 105620 was forwarded to National Security Service (NSS) External Security Organisation (ESO) for payment. The payment was effected from the NSS-ESO account by cheque number 438099 dated February 25, 2004 and signed by Patrick Karegeya.

With Karegeya’s help, Kabuga has been able to continuously evade justice. According to insiders working with International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, investigators uncovered a network involving Mr. Karegeya who always tipped off the fugitive billionaire to run before the agents arrived at his door. Kabuga, the man largely responsible for how efficient the genocide was, is still at large thanks to Karegeya.

So close they are, Kabuga’s son in law Dr Paulin Murayi has been the leader of the Belgium chapter of the Rwanda National Congress since 2012.

Working with FDLR

His links to those who participated in the genocide don’t end there. The UN Group of Experts show that he repeatedly met with high profile FLDR leaders in 2009.

He has been meeting them ever since, in the Congo, in Tanzania, in South Africa.

His objective: overthrew the government by any means necessary. By any means means hand in hand with the group that exterminated over one million people.

It means using grenades to kill the same Rwandans whose rights Karegeya and the RNC claim to represent.

In the case of Karegeya, it was easy to kill people he never fought to save nor protect with his very life.

In fact, this might be a good time to bring up an overlooked fact. Despite his claims to contribution to the liberation struggle, Karegeya was in fact never a Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) soldier.

To the every day Rwandan working to rebuild a nation destroyed by the very people he chose to join, Karegeya is no hero. His cause is far from noble and no one in Kigali is mourning him.

By Fred Mwasa 

It is 10 a.m. on 26 October and there is a meeting to prepare the Rwanda National Congress (RNC) election that will determine the leadership at the national level in South Africa.

An election that brings to light the true dynamics within RNC leadership.

Pitting Karegeya against Kayumba, the election was to unfold as a clear illustration of the common goal that brought these two men together: the quest for power.

Kayumba’s choice is simple; he wants his brother in law to stay in power. He makes it clear, “Kennedy Gihana must not be elected to the RNC Executive Committee.”

Gihana was Karegeya’s choice, whose strategy revolves around attracting new blood to appeal to the kind of members that donot identify themselves with current RNC leaders. Read, members who may have reason to question the sudden switch from RPF members to FDLR allies.

A heated discussion ensues with veiled threats thrown back and forth. A meeting is called to review the causes of disagreement and come to some sort of compromise. The result: Karegeya and Kayumba agree not to attend the election. The next day, in Devonshare Hotel in Johannesburg, Karegeya shows up early. Kayumba does not.

For the next six hours, the same leaders are elected by a dozen attendees, all carefully selected to side with Kayumba.

Not surprisingly, Frank Ntwali is elected chair. Genocide suspect Mr Etienne Mutabazi scoops vice chair, while Mr Kennedy Gihana emerges secretary general from the secret vote.

Not all is well at the top

According to RNC insiders, Mr Karegeya, who considered himself RNC’s cash cow, demanded that his choices pass which angered Kayumba who considered himself the legitimate RNC leader.

Karegeya accused Kayumba of being camera hungry even though RNC was losing momentum and becoming disorganized by the day. Kayumba responded that Karegeya was a womanizing traitor who leaked secrets to the government of Rwanda through Gihana. Kayumba believed that this is what contributed to his attempted murder.

A compromise was reached after a long discussion between the two but Kayumba advised the executive committee that Gihana should never access any RNC documents. The Kayumba bloc now holds meetings without Gihana.

Tensions continue

A few months later, on Saturday, 21 December, a meeting dubbed Ingando and coinciding with RNC 3^rd anniversary was held in Pretoria. With both men in attendance, people complained that they were not satisfied with the executive committee and mentioned being threatened by Kayumba not to vote for anyone but Ntwali. The meeting quickly degenerated into chaos.

Karegeya was said to be surprised. He called Ntwali a “total disaster” for RNC. Mr Karegeya wondered why Mr Ntwali as leader did not make any effort to solve the divisions by approaching each individual personally to understand their grievances. He said good leaders must know how to handle crisis otherwise they will be stoned to death. Mr Karegeya said the manner in which Ntwali had handled the matter is a “total failure”.

He said the executive should have dealt with the conflict before the Ingando as that had caused the meeting to discuss issues that should have been handled earlier by the executive.

According to our sources, Karegeya left the meeting, claiming he had another important meeting that he described as being in “RNC’s actual interest.” This was the last time Karegeya was seen with Kayumba.

Last Wednesday, Karegeya was killed. Very soon after, Kayumba was in the news expressing with deep sadness his intention to carry on the very same torch the two men fought over a few days before Karegeya’s death.  One might consider this the political equivalent of crocodile tears.

Could Kayumba and his bloc be counted among those with motives to take Karegeya out? One certainly would not rule it out.

A saying goes: he who benefits from a crime most likely committed it. Any good investigator knows this…

Vulnerable residents are set to get houses in model villages after youth joined district administration to make 1, 602 bricks to build houses.

Brick laying was done on December 28^th 2013 during the monthly community work in Ruragwe cell, Nyagahinga village in Karongi district.

The move is meant to provide shelter for the vulnerable residents in Rubengera sector in Karongi district.

Jean Baptiste Rutebuka, Inspector of Police in Karongi district discussed on gender based violence issue with the residents after community work.

He asked residents to avoid gender based violence by reporting those who practice it and drug users to strengthen the security.

Out of 30 poor residents in Rubengera sector, over 20 people have already been given new houses in Nyagahinga village.

Le matin de Mercredi, le premier janvier 2014, l’ancien Patron du service de renseignement du Rwanda, le colonel Patrick Karegeya a été retrouvé mort dans la nuit du 31 décembre dans une chambre de l’Hôtel Michelangelo en Afrique du Sud.

Karegeya avait fui le Rwanda craignant pour sécurité. Il s’était transformé en ennemi juré du Président rwandais, Paul Kagame, et de son gouvernement par le biais de ses diatribes à travers les medias. Mais désormais il s’attaquait personnellement à Kagame.

Les enquêtes de la police sud africaine ont commencé immédiatement et jusqu’à maintenant il n’y a aucune information sur les causes de sa mort ou ses assassins. Sans même attendre les résultats préliminaires de l’enquête, juste après avoir découvert son cadavre le matin du premier janvier, ses amis de RNC se sont répandus dans les medias. « C’est le Rwanda qui est derrière la mort de Keregeya…». Visiblement, l’on dirait que ces parties de l’opposition avait planifié cette propagande bien avant même le crime…

Sa femme, Umuganwa Léa Kayumba, d’une voix calme sur les ondes de la BBC, affirmait que c’est le Rwanda qui a tué son mari. «  Je le savais, il n y a pas de surprise….»

Mais il n y a pas eu de réactions officielles de la part du gouvernent rwandais sur cette affaire, sauf quelques messages de la Ministre Louise Mushikiwabo sur son compte twitter.

Mushikiwabo réagissait sur les provocations des enfants de Karegeya qui accusait toujours le Rwanda d’être à l’origine de la mort de leur père.

Mushikiwabo répondait en disant que le Rwanda est très bien dirigé malgré les défis ….. », ajoutant que Karegeya collaborait avec le commanditaire du génocide, Félicien Kabuga.

Mushikiwabo a été très claire tout en rappelant son boulot.  « …ceux qui se sont déclarés ennemis du Rwanda ne figurent pas sur la liste de sympathie du gouvernement rwandais. Le gouvernement ne peut pas s’engager dans la diplomatie émotionnelle…il faut laisser les enquêteurs faire leur boulot ».

Karegeya, un opportuniste aux ambitions politiques irréfléchies

Selon les anciens amis de Karegeya, cet ancien espion de Kigali, « était caractérisé  par des ambitions politiques sans limites et irréfléchies ». Le fait d’être promu au rand de patron de renseignement d’un pays respectueux comme le Rwanda lui a permis de tenter en vain d’exécuter son plan de longues dates.

« Ce plan n’est autre que celui de chercher par tous les moyens à être Président de la République du Rwanda dont il a toujours rêvé », révèle son ancien compagnon de lutte qui a préféré garder l’anonymat.

Il est vrai que n’importe qui peut songer à s’aventurer en politique mais « devenir président implique beaucoup de choses comme le patriotisme, la sagesse, la capacité, le respect des principes de la démocratie… », explique un ancien officier militaire rwandais.

Au contraire, selon ces mêmes sources, « il était juste un opportuniste sans scrupules capable de sacrifier des vies innocentes pour obtenir les seules choses qu’il désirait le plus, le pouvoir et l’argent ».

Après s’être rendu compte que l’on ne devient pas Président facilement, « il s’est transformé en homme riche par tous les moyens à son pouvoir ».

Sa  mort, un soulagement pour tous ceux qui craignent les actes de terrorisme

Mais cet homme a toujours eu des difficultés pour exécuter ses plans. Tous les éléments des FDLR qui se sont infiltrés dans le pays pour déstabiliser et tuer les Rwandais innocents ont été presque tous appréhendés avant même de commencer leur sale besogne. D’autres qui ont essayé de lancer des grenades qui ont tués des vies innocentes dans certains coins de la ville de Kigali créant la panique générale ont finit par être arrêtés.

Ce n’est pas seulement Kigali qui était visée, mais aussi d’autres grandes villes comme Muhanga (Gitarama), Huye (Butare),…ont subit les mêmes actes de terrorisme.

Comment un homme pareil qui envisageait de devenir Chef d’Etat peut tuer la population qu’il est supposé vouloir protéger. On comprend pourquoi sa mort n’a suscité aucune émotion particulière au sein de la population rwandaise.

« Je pense que les grenades vont cesser, on n’a plus besoin de morts ici, on a déjà perdu des millions… », fait savoir Jérôme Nahimana, un habitant de Kimironko, un quartier qui a été visé plus de deux fois par les grenades des hommes de Karegeya.

Un commerçant de Nyabugogo, un autre endroit très fréquenté , cible des grenades n’est pas content de sa mort. « Je ne voulais pas sa mort…j’ai toujours voulu qu’il soit arrêté et jugé de ses crimes ici, je me souviens des blessés et des morts à cause des grenades. Malheureusement pour moi et heureusement pour lui, il est mort ».

Une dame qui fait le commerce ambulant au centre ville espère que les grenades vont s’arrêter. « Non seulement les gens meurent quand les terroristes de Karegeya nous lancent des grenades mais aussi la panique est généralisée et ça prend du temps pour revenir à la normale. Entretemps le commerce tourne au ralenti et nos enfants meurent de faim ».

Karegeya s’est allié aux génocidaires pour aboutir à ses fins

Il n’est pas surprenant de voir cet homme jadis qui était parmi ceux qui ont arrêté le génocide basculer dans le camp des FDLR pour satisfaire sa cupidité, et par le fait même d’être attiré par l’appât du gain.

Ces FDLR sont qualifiés par la communauté internationale de « génocidaires et terroristes » opèrent en toute tranquillité a partir du territoire congolais, surtout dans les régions du Nord et du Sud Kivu. Ces derniers après avoir tué plus d’un million de Tutsi au Rwanda pendant le génocide, continuent leur idéologie génocidaire en RDC par des crimes de toutes sortes selon différents rapports.

Quand il était à la tête du renseignement, son désir de s’enrichir lui a poussé à protéger le commanditaire du génocide, Félicien Kabuga. Rappelons que cet homme le plus recherché après Oussama Ben Laden par la justice internationale est sur la liste américaine et sa capture ou sa tête vaut des millions de dollars.

En Octobre et Décembre 2003, Karegeya a permis à deux enfants de Kabuga, Donatien Nshimyumuremyi alias Nshima et Séraphine Uwimana de venir au Rwanda discrètement dans le but de permettre à Félicien Kabuga d’accéder à ces biens. Karegeya avait donné toute la documentation et assuré la protection nécessaire à ces derniers. Ce n’était pas gratuit, chaque geste fait en faveur de Kabuga était régulièrement rémunéré en termes de milliers de dollars.

C’est ainsi qu’ils ont obtenu une procuration émanant de Janvier Mabuye, officier rwandais de sécurité externe auprès de l’ambassade du Rwanda en Belgique. Ce dernier a agi sous les ordres de Karegeya.

C’est dans ce cadre que la famille de Kabuga avait pu récupérer ses propriétés comprenant des immeubles dont l’une se trouvant au centre ville de Kigali, à côté de City Plazza et un autre abritant la Banque Populaire de Muhima.

Selon toujours des sources indépendantes, ces deux enfants ont passé leur séjour au grand Hôtel de Mille Collines en toute tranquillité jouissant de la protection offerte par Karegeya. Non seulement Karegeya avait trahit le pays mais aussi il a même osé  transmettre les factures de toutes les dépenses  aux services de sécurité nationale. C’est notamment la facture  No. 105620 qui a été transmise au NSS et le chèque numéro 438099 du 25 Février 2004, signé par Patrick Karegeya.

Sa façon de travailler avec les génocidaires ne s’arrête pas là. Selon les enquêteurs travaillant avec le Tribunal Pénal International du Rwanda (TPIR), ils ont découvert un réseau impliquant Karegeya. Ce dernier a aidé Kabuga à s’échapper alors qu’il était sur le point d’être arrêté.

Selon toujours cette source, Karegeya a toujours averti le fugitif milliardaire et commanditaire du génocide pour prendre le large avant qu’il ne soit appréhendé par les agents à ses trousses. Kabuga a toujours joui de la liberté de ses mouvements grâce à Karegeya.

Le fruit de cette étroite collaboration s’est manifesté lors de la création du parti le Rwanda National Congress (RNC), dont le gendre de Kabuga, le Dr Paulin Murayi dirige sa branche de Belgique depuis 2012. Karegeya et son parti, le RNC bénéficie toujours du soutien financier direct de Kabuga. Le Dr Murayi est parmi les fondateurs de la Radio Télévision des Milles Collines (RTLM), qui a semé la haine ethnique avant et pendant le génocide.

Son opportunisme s’agrandi jusqu’à s’allier avec les véritables exécutants du génocide, les FDLR. Selon le Groupe d’experts des Nations Unies, Karegeya a eu des réunions a maintes reprises avec les hauts cadres decce mouvement dans plusieurs pays africains comme la RDC, la Tanzanie et l’Afrique du Sud  en 2009.

Son objectif était toujours de renverser le gouvernement actuel par tous les moyens nécessaires. L’on sous-entend l’utilisation des Intarahamwe qui ont exterminé plus d’un million de personnes.

Comme les enquêtes avancent, il ne faut pas écarter les pistes de la criminalité qui sevit en Afrique du Sud. Différents rapports montrent que l’Afrique du Sud est un pays où n’importe qui peut se faire tuer quand pour un petit rien. Les crimes crapuleux sont monnaie courante. « J’ai vécu 4 ans en Afrique du Sud, l’insécurité règne dans ce pays. Tout le monde cherche de l’argent, la criminalité est très forte. Même ton garde du corps peut te tuer quand on lui donne de l’argent ».

Rwanda’s Louise Mushikiwabo and Minister Fred Teevens sign the migration agreement in Kigali

Rwanda and the Ntherlands have entered into an agreement to help the two countries have mutual support in the field of migration and combating illegal migration between the two countries.

The agreement was signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Louise Mushikiwabo on behalf of the Rwanda government and State Secretary of security and justice and Minister for Migration of Netherlands, Fred Teevens on behalf of the Netherlands.

Speaking after the sighing, Minister Mushikiwabo commended the partnership between Rwanda and Netherlands, especially in justice sector.

“We appreciate the continually growing bilateral relationship between our two countries. Justice is a special sector in Rwanda given our tragic history. We have been seeking a balance between justice and reconciliation. The contribution of Netherlands government in rebuilding and reforming Rwandan justice sector has been very much meaningful to Rwandans,” she said.

Minister Mushikiwabo also stressed the need to keep working with Netherlands more in other sectors such as business, investment, trade.

In his remarks, Minister Teevens said that the Netherlands government appreciates the cooperation with Rwanda and vows to do more especially in migration field, “we did a lot together in justice field and I think we can also do more in migration field” said Teevens.

He also said that he appreciates the investment opportunities in Rwanda for Dutch companies and that they are looking forward for cooperation in other fields such as agricultures and trade.

Minister Fred Teevens who is on a three-day official visit, also visited Gisozi memorial center. Reading the message left, he said.

“It is very impressing and shocking to see what happened over here in Rwanda. Let us be sure that this never happen again in the world and in Rwanda. I will never forget what I saw”.

He had an opportunity to meet with other Rwandan officials including the Minister of Justice Johnston Busingye.  While in Rwanda, Minister Teevens will visit Mpanga prison in Nyanza District, the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) and the Nyamata Genocide Memorial.

Mu gihe kuri uyu wa 7 Mutarama 2014 aribwo hacanwa urumuri rw’icyizere mu rwego rwo gutegura icyunamo cyo kwibuka abazize jenoside yakorerewe abatutsi, mu karere ka Ngororero batangiye kwitegura kwakira urwo rumuri ndetse bategura n’aho ruzacanirwa kugeza icyunamo kirangiye.

Mu nama yahuje ubuyobozi bw’akarere n’inzego zitandukanye kuri uyu wa 6 Mutarama, hemejwe ko urwo rumuri ruzashyirwa hafi y’ahiciwe abana b’abanyeshuri bigaga mwishuri ryisumbuye rya Nyange, bakaza kwicwa bazira ko banze kwitandukanya bakurikije amoko nk’uko babisabwaga n’abacengezi.

Urumuri rw’icyizere ruzagera mu turere twose tw’Igihugu

Abari bitabiriye iyo nama basanga urwo rumuri ruzafasha mu kuzirikana kubyabaye, harebwa cyane cyane imbere hazaza hatagira amacakubiri ahubwo harangwa mo urukundo n’amahoro.

Mu mwaka ushize wa 2014, Umunyabanga nshingwabikorwa wa komisiyo y’igihugu y’intwari  ambasaderi Kamali Kalegesa n’abandi bayobozi barahasuye maze barebera hamwe uko habungwabungwa amateka yaho ntasibangane.

Bimwe mu byemezo byafashwe harimo gutunganya aho hantu kuburyo hasurwa, kuhashyira irimbi rusange ryashyingurwa mo intwari zose zahatakarije ubuzima, n’ibindi.

Kuri ubu, umwe mubahiciwe niwe ushyinguye aho hantu ariko kubufatanye bw’inzego zitandukanye n’imiryango y’abahaguye, barimo kwiga uburyo n’abandi bahashyingurwa. Biteganyijwe ko urumuri rw’icyizere ruzagera mu karere ka Ngororero kuwa 10 Mutarama uyu mwaka.

Umuyobozi w’akarere ka Ruhango Mbabazi Francois Xavier atangiza icyiciro cya kabiri cy’urugerero

Igihembwe cya kabiri cy’urugerero cyatangijwe n’intore zigera 1471 kuri  uyu wa mbere tariki 06/01/2014, uyu muhango wiswe Intore mu zindi wabaye mu mirenge icyenda igize Akarere ka Ruhango.

Intore z’Imparanirakurusha za buri kagari zagaragarije intore zasanze, imihigo  yazo maze zirayakira ziyigira iyazo  zikazafatanya kuyishyira mu bikorwa.

 Mu kagari ka Nyamagana mu murenge wa Ruhango, umuhango  w’intore  mu zindi wabereye imbere y’umuyobozi w’akarere ka Ruhango Mbabazi  F. Xaver , wagize ubutumwa aha izi ntore ziri ku rugerero ndetse n’intore zisanzwe zatojwe mbere.

Yagize ati “Intego y’urugerero ni ukurera abanyarwanda no kubatoza indangagaciro na kirazira ziranga umunyarwanda. Ibyo intore zitozwa ku rugerero ni ibizakomeza kuzifasha mu buzima  bwa buri munsi”.

Yakomeje agira ati “aya ni andi maboko akagari kungutse aje kubunganira ngo bafatanye mu byo basanzwe bakora buzuze inshingano ziri mu mihigo yabo. Abayobozi rero murasabwa gufasha izi ntore mu kubahiriza gahunda y’ibikorwa no kubahuza n’abafatanya bikorwa babo aribo baturage mu midugudu”

Umuyobozi kandi yasabye ababyeyi b’izi ntore kuzabashyigikira mu bikorwa byabo kandi bakanashishikariza imiryango kubashyigikira no kugaragaza ubufatanye.

Akaba yashimye imihigo izi ntore zagaragarije izindi ntore zasanze mu kagari, avuga ko ubuyobozi n’abaturage nibabashyigikira nta gushidikanya ko impinduka zizagaragara bityo asaba izi ntore kuzarangwa n’ubufatanye na discipline ndetse no kunoza umurimo.

Imwe mu mihigo izi ntore zagaragaje harimo gukora isuku mu Mujyi wa Ruhango, gukora uturima tw’igikoni, kubaka rondereza, gusukura urwibutso, gushishikariza abaturage gufata ibyangobwa by’ubutaka n’inindi.

Kimwe n’ahandi hose mu gihugu, mu karere ka Rutsiro na ho hatangijwe ibikorwa by’intore zo ku rugerero tariki 06/01/2014, by’umwihariko intore z’umurenge wa Mushubati zizwi ku izina ry’Insigasiramuco, zikaba zasabwe kuzarangwa n’imyifatire iranga intore, ababyeyi na bo basabwa guha izo ntore umwanya kugira ngo urugerero ruzagende neza.

Mu gutangiza ku mugaragaro igikorwa cy’urugerero mu murenge wa Mushubati mu karere ka Rutsiro, intore zagaragaje imihigo zahize zikaba zizeye ko zizayesa nta gushidikanya. Nyuma yaho banitoreye abagize komite izabahagararira mu gihe bazaba bari ku rugerero.

Umunyamabanga nshingwabikorwa w’umurenge wa Mushubati, Munyamahoro Patrick yavuze ko izo ntore bazitezeho umusaruro ushimishije, nk’uko byagaragaye mu ntore zazibanjirije.

Ati “aba rero bagiye gukomereza aho abandi basozereje, ubu rero twumva tubitezeho umusaruro ufatika, wo guhindura imyumvire y’abaturage kuri gahunda nyinshi za Leta zigamije guteza imbere umuturage.”

Umunyamabanga nshingwabikorwa w’umurenge wa Mushubati kandi yakomeje asaba ababyeyi bafite abana bazakora urugerero ko babaha umwanya uhagije kugira ngo urwo rugerero ruzagende neza.

Ibi yabivuze kubera ko ari imwe mu mbogamizi zabayeho ubushize, aho ababyeyi bamwe na bamwe batumvaga akamaro k’urugerero bigatuma batoherezayo abana babo. Kugira ngo icyo kibazo gikemuke, ubuyobozi bw’umurenge bwiyemeje ko ku wa kane tariki 09/01/2014 abaturage bose ba buri kagari bazateranira hamwe, bagasobanurirwa iyo gahunda y’intore zigiye gutangira urugerero n’akamaro k’ibikorwa bagiye gukora.

Bamwe muri izo ntore zo ku rugerero bavuze ko icyo gikorwa bagiye kukigira icyabo kandi ko biyemeje kuzafatanya n’abandi baturage kugira ngo umusaruro wifuzwa uzagerweho.

Nzabanita Gedeon, intore ihagarariye izindi mu murenge wa Mushubati, yavuze ko imihigo bahize bagomba kuyigira iyabo, bagafatanya n’abaturage haba kubashishikariza ndetse no kuberekera, kugira ngo bose hamwe bafatanyije babashe kuyigeraho.

Intore 78 z’insigasiramuco z’umurenge wa Mushubati ni bo bagomba kwitabira urugerero.

The Kwibuka Flame is held by two twenty year old Rwandans symbolizing the resilient Rwandan spirit at the launch – the flame will travel trough the 30 districts of the country

Activities for the twentieth commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsis, formally commenced on January 7, 2014, with the lighting of the Kwibuka (remembrance) Flame, and a website, that will engage both Rwandans and the world to keep the memory of genocide.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Louise Mushikiwabo launched the 20th commemoration-dubbed-Kwibuka20 – at Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre, located in Gisozi.

The flame will pass through all the 30 districts of Rwanda and signify the beginning of events to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi that claimed over a million people, while the website, (kwibuka.rw) will be a resource for anyone, anywhere in the world, to engage in commemoration-related activities and organise their own events.

As Rwanda starts activities for the twentieth commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsis, the government has called on its people and the world to join hands in keeping memory of the one million lives lost in 1994 and engagement in the fight against genocide in Rwanda and elsewhere.

Minister Mushikiwabo said that Rwanda seeks to remember, in order to reflect on the lives lost as well as what the country and its people have been through. She said that in the last twenty years, Rwandans have experienced pain and challenges, but have also seen progress and opportunity.

She noted that remembrance is a must for Rwandans and the world too, but stressed the Never Again notion, so that genocide never happens again.

“We do so not to inspire pity or guilt, but rather because the lessons of 1994 have resonance far beyond Rwanda’s borders. We invite the world to remember with us.

She also said that Kwibuka20 is a time to join in solemn remembrance, to reflect on the past twenty years, and to turn attention to the challenges that lie ahead.

“It is a time to recommit ourselves to the simple but powerful idea: Never Again. Not just for Rwanda, but for the world. But for Never Again to be a reality – and not just words — Never Forget must also be our creed.”

Why remember

Rwanda believes that it’s important to keep memory of the lives of the one million Rwandans who perished in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi as a sign of respect, showing solidarity with survivors and uniting to ensure it never happens again – in Rwanda or elsewhere and it is also a chance to learn about the country’s story of reconciliation and nation building.

“We must never forget what happened here, and why. We must never forget how the world stood by, capable of intervening to prevent or reduce the slaughter, but unwilling to do so. We must never forget the million lives lost, the countless lives destroyed.

Mushikiwabo, who is also a government spokesperson says that in remembering Rwandans find powerful inspiration to build a strong, hopeful society capable of resisting the re-emergence of state-sponsored hatred, pernicious foreign influence and violence that destroyed Rwandans twenty years ago.

Progress made

Though Rwanda has gone through hardships caused by the aftermath of genocide, 20 years down the road the country has made progress and this is because Rwandans decided to take the path of peace and reconciliation, instead of revenge, as a way of rebuilding the nation again.

Through the Gacaca courts, Rwanda has taken on a measure of justice to resolve cases of genocide, but community based efforts of unity and reconciliation, supporting survivors have also been in put in place- and most recently initiated national campaign- Ndi Umunyarwanda (I am a Rwandan)

Theodette Abayisenga , a genocide survivor at Nyange School Class of 1994, who refused to separate herself from other students on ethnic grounds gives a touching testimony of what it means to be Rwandan.

She says “We are all Rwandans, that is what is important. As students, we refused to accept to be separated on ethnic grounds, and some of my friends were killed in front of me. Today I am handicapped because of genocide, but feel able and proud because ‘I am Rwandan’, ready to serve other handicapped persons without ethnic sentiments or looking at the cause of my present physical status…I am proud” she narrates.

Rwanda’s foreign minister says that Rwandans cannot escape the past, and should not try. “We are bound to our history but, with honest and compassionate reflection, we are not bound to repeat it. In fact, it is only in memory we can find the seeds of renewal.

Commemoration activities

This year is particular and distinct as Rwandans start commemorating genocide for the 20th time ahead of the official Genocide commemoration that starts on April 7^th.

The period between now and 7 April will focus on preparing the 20th Commemoration, dialogue and concrete action to support survivors.

The discussions will also centre on building the Rwandan Spirit through the Ndi Umunyarwanda program.’’

Up until April 7, community discussions will take place in each of the 30 district, and in the Rwandan Diaspora to offer Rwandans friends of Rwanda the opportunity to reflect on the events of 1994 as well as the country’s journey since.

The Kwibuka Flame, which was lighted using traditional techniques, symbolizes remembrance as well as the resilience and courage of Rwandans over the past twenty years.

The flame will shine amidst these communities and passed on from one community to another in the next days until it returns to Kigali at the official annual kick off of the 100 days of genocide commemoration countrywide.

Patrick Karegeya allegedly died last week in a Johannesburg hotel

The South African police agency, The Hawks, which has been handling investigations into the death of Rwandan exile Patrick Karegeya, has dismissed reports in SA media that three people had been arrested in Mozambique.

In interview with South African state broadcaster SABC, Hawks spokesperson, Paul Ramaloko cautioned against mentioning names of people as suspects in the case.

Reports in a South African daily “New Age” earlier today suggested three suspects were arrested in Mozambique yesterday.

Ramaloko told SABC it is a very sensitive case:

“People must be very careful when mentioning individual names out in the public. We are receiving a lot of sensitive information regarding this case and we have to verify it all,” said Ramaloko.

“At this stage, no arrests have yet been made. Our teams are working closely with their Rwandan and Mozambican counterparts and as soon as we receive more information we will brief the media at the appropriate time.”

The New Age paper had quoted a person from IRS Investigation, a private investigations firm. However, there is no explanation how a private firm is involved in a case that is already being handled by the official state institutions.

The outgoing British High Commissioner to Rwanda Benedict Llewellyn-Jones during a farewell visit to President Paul Kagame at Urugiro Village

The British government has named William Gelling the new High Commissioner to Rwanda. Gelling comes to replace Benedict Llewellyn-Jones who has been in Kigali for the last three years.

According to a statement from the British government, Jones will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

The new High Commissioner was up to recently the Private Secretary to the Foreign Secretary, advising him on the Middle East, Africa, the UN and the Commonwealth.

He previously also led the team dealing with negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme; was posted to Baghdad as Liaison Officer between the British Embassy and the Multinational Military Headquarters among many other appointments

Gelling received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2013 for services to British foreign policy.

On his appointment as British High Commissioner to Rwanda, Mr Gelling has said: “I am delighted to have been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Rwanda.”

He added that it was a privilege to have the opportunity to strengthen relations between the UK and Rwanda at such an important time.

“I look forward to building on the growing links between the two countries to further our shared economic, political, and security interests,” he said

Meanwhile, the outgoing High Commissioner Llewellyn-Jones paid a farewell visit to President Paul Kagame at his Urugwiro village office where he promised more cooperation between his government and the government of Rwanda

He said he would continue to raise awareness among his countrymen to uphold the relationship that the two peoples are enjoying. He said that after visiting Nyanza district during his stay in Rwanda, he realised that there is huge potential for exchange between the two countries.

The outgoing High commissioner emphasized that there is good bilateral relationship between the two countries, but also between the people of UK and Rwanda.

He also said that he was happy with how Rwanda utilized the aid that was given to it by the UK especially in the areas of education and health where the number of school going children tremendously increased and also maternal and child deaths reduced.

Mozambican Police has denied rumours that it arrested suspects in the murder of Patrick Karegeya

Authorities in Mozambique have denied reports that they have arrested Rwandans suspected of assassinating Rwandan fugitive and former head of external intelligence Patrick Karegeya in South Africa last week.

Mozambique National Police Spokesman, Pedro Cossa told South Africa’s The Star newspaper on Wednesday that his government “categorically” denies any knowledge of the reported detention in Maputo, particularly of Francis Gakwerere.

Reports have been circulating across foreign media of arrests of Rwandans in connection with the murder of Patrick Karegeya.

On Wednesday, another South African newspaper, The New Age quoted a private investigator Chad Thomas as saying that Gakwerere and two other Rwandan nationals had been arrested in a Maputo hotel for the murder of Karegeya, who was found dead in Sandton hotel in South Africa on New Year’s Day.

Government denies arrests

A Mozambique government spokesman, Deputy Justice Minister Alnerto Nkutumula, said he knew nothing about any arrests of Rwandan suspects.

He added that he had made a routine check of prisons – which his ministry controls – and found no Rwandan detainees.

The remarks were also supported by Mozambican foreign ministry saying it ‘it knows nothing about the arrests.