Rwanda: 60 Years of Impact - AfDB's Role in Building Skills for a Healthier Future in Rwanda

The African Development Bank (AfDB) celebrates its 60th anniversary in Rwanda, highlighting its significant contributions to the nation's development, particularly in the health sector. The Center of Excellence in Biomedical Engineering and e-Health (CEBE) in Huye District, aligned with the University of Rwanda, empowers young professionals with specialized skills in biomedical engineering and e-Health. This initiative addresses immediate healthcare challenges and builds a sustainable future foundation. Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi's journey exemplifies the impact of AfDB's investment in skills development, enhancing her qualifications and commitment to empowering persons with disabilities. AfDB's efforts are seen as a profound investment in Africa's future, nurturing a generation of innovators and compassionate leaders. The Bank's projects, like CEBE, demonstrate its commitment to long-term development, resilience, and innovation, shaping a healthier future for Rwanda and the continent.

Rwanda Launches National Fintech Strategy to Drive Growth and Innovation

Rwanda has launched its National Fintech Strategy, aiming to develop a robust fintech ecosystem, enhance financial inclusion, and position the country as a leading fintech hub in Africa. The strategy, developed collaboratively by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and Access to Finance Rwanda, will guide fintech development from 2024 to 2029. Key stakeholders, including Minister Paula Ingabire and Jean Bosco Iyacu, emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation. The National Bank of Rwanda's Governor, John Rwangombwa, highlighted the success of the Fintech Heritage Sandbox in supporting fintechs. The strategy reflects Rwanda's commitment to integrating emerging technologies into the financial sector while balancing innovation with market stability.

Rwandan Students Take Part in Huawei Digital Talent Camp in China

Five Rwandan university students participated in the Huawei LEAP Digital Talent Study Camp in Shenzhen, China, focusing on advanced technologies like AI and 5G. Supported by Huawei, the program aims to enhance technical skills and leadership among Rwandan students, aligning with Rwanda's Vision 2050 for a technology-driven economy. Huawei's Managing Director in Rwanda, Jin Jinqing, and the Ministry of Education's Chief Technical Advisor, Pascal Gatabazi, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in developing Rwanda's future workforce. Student Belyse Uwihirwe expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to gain industry exposure and contribute to her community.

Africa Soft Power Summit Returns to Kigali for Third Time

The Africa Soft Power Summit is set to return to Kigali for its third consecutive year, focusing on Africa's growth and the sectors driving this transformation. The summit will feature key events such as the African Women's Leadership Conference and the Creative and Innovation Industries Conference, aiming to advance gender discourse and explore the relationship between creativity and commercial viability. The event will bring together leaders from various sectors to discuss real-world issues in Africa, offering networking opportunities and highlighting African creativity through various activities.

How Rwanda's E-Commerce Sector Grew in 2023

Rwanda's e-commerce sector experienced significant growth in 2023, driven by increased internet and smartphone adoption, consumer awareness, and the expansion of companies like Vuba Vuba Africa. New regional players like Wasoko and MPost have entered the market, indicating confidence in the local economy. Business owners like Pappy Biganza of Afia Pharma and Yvette Uwimpaye of Murukali reported growth in revenues and expansion into business-to-business models. The Ministry of Trade and Industry noted the potential for e-commerce to provide businesses with access to wider markets and operate cost-effectively. The number of e-commerce platforms with the Trust Seal from the Rwanda ICT Chamber's Digital Business Institute grew, and Rwanda's global e-commerce ranking according to UNCTAD improved.

Rwanda's Youth Navigate Challenges of Commemorating the 1994 Genocide

As Rwanda marks the 29th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the country's youth are confronted with challenges, including restrictions on entertainment activities during the commemoration period. The youth also bear the emotional burden of the genocide, with many grappling with a disconnection from their history due to the loss of family members. Manzi Ntare Nkaka, a young artist, uses creative expression to explore his family's untold history. Sharon Bayingana, another young Rwandan, has initiated the 'Our Past' movement to educate the youth about the genocide. Claver Irakoze, a survivor, writes books to help explain trauma to future generations and to aid in his own healing process.

Rwanda's Youth Navigate Challenges of Commemorating the 1994 Genocide

As Rwanda marks the 29th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the country's youth are confronted with challenges, including restrictions on entertainment activities during the commemoration period. The youth also bear the emotional burden of the genocide, with many grappling with a disconnection from their history due to the loss of family members. Manzi Ntare Nkaka, a young artist, uses creative expression to explore his family's untold history. Sharon Bayingana, another young Rwandan, has initiated the 'Our Past' movement to educate the youth about the genocide. Claver Irakoze, a survivor, writes books to help explain trauma to future generations and to aid in his own healing process.

DRC declares Ebola outbreak over due to vaccine

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has declared the end of an Ebola outbreak in the eastern province of North Kivu, which infected 12 people and resulted in six deaths. The outbreak was contained through the use of Merck’s Ebola vaccine, administered to over 1,600 contacts and contacts of contacts, with significant support from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF).