Nicholas Hitimana, the founder of Ikirezi Natural Products, has pioneered the essential oils industry in Rwanda, recognizing the potential for high-value crops in the country's limited arable land. By growing crops like geranium, which can be harvested up to four times a year in Rwanda compared to twice in South Africa, farmers can significantly increase their income. Ikirezi Natural Products, with 25 hectares of plantations, exports essential oils to various countries for use in the perfume industry. Rwanda's essential oil exports are growing, with a new laboratory established for quality control to meet international standards. The country aims to reduce its trade deficit and increase the value of its exports through this burgeoning sector.

West African leaders, including Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and Ghana's former president John Dramani Mahama, are set to return to The Gambia to persuade President Yahya Jammeh to step down as his mandate expires on January 18. Jammeh, who has been in power for 22 years, is refusing to leave office despite losing the election to Adama Barrow. There are concerns about security, a potential refugee crisis, and a media crackdown in The Gambia. The possibility of using force to ensure a peaceful transfer of power has not been ruled out. Meanwhile, a shortage of judges for Jammeh's Supreme Court case against the IEC is likely to delay the legal proceedings. The US embassy has taken precautions by sending non-essential staff and family members out of the country.

International envoys in Kigali, Rwanda, have agreed on a timetable for phasing out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. This amendment to the 1987 Montreal Protocol is seen as a significant step in combating global warming. The deal was reached after intense negotiations, with developing countries like India concerned about the costs and technology transfer. The phase-out of HFCs, which are thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping heat, could potentially reduce global warming by 0.5 degrees Celsius by 2100. Developed countries will start reducing HFC use by 2019, with different timelines for developing nations. The agreement is legally binding and follows the goals set by the Paris climate agreement.

Rwanda has launched a drone delivery system, designed by California-based robotics company Zipline, to transport blood to 21 clinics in the country's western region. The initiative aims to address the high maternal mortality rates in Africa, exacerbated by the difficulty of transporting blood due to Rwanda's hilly terrain and heavy rains. The drones, known as 'Zips', can travel up to 150 kilometers, carry 1.5 kilos of cargo, and potentially make 150 deliveries a day. The project, which received a $1.1 million investment from UPS and Gavi, is not cheaper than traditional delivery methods but promises to be much faster. A second base is planned for next year to cover the entire country, with hopes to expand the cargo to include vaccines in the future.

The article discusses the plight of Burundian refugees in Rwanda, who have fled their country due to a political crisis sparked by President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial third term. A bar named 'Imuhira', run by a cooperative of Burundian refugees, has become a hub for the community in Kigali, providing employment and a place to maintain their culture and connections. Despite legal permission to work, refugees struggle to find jobs due to saturated markets and employers' lack of awareness. The UNHCR has noted these challenges. The refugees use WhatsApp groups and other means to stay connected and support each other. The article also touches on the skepticism of the refugees towards the Burundian government's claims of peace, citing ongoing repression and human rights abuses reported by the UN and other organizations.

Rwandans are set to vote in a presidential election expected to see Paul Kagame win a third term. Kagame, who ended the 1994 genocide, faces two minor candidates, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana. Critics argue the short campaign period and restrictions on opposition activities demonstrate Kagame's suppression of dissent. Kagame's victory seems certain after a 2015 referendum allowed him to run for a third term, potentially extending his rule until 2034. Despite economic growth and stability under Kagame, human rights groups criticize his authoritarian rule, citing repression of opposition and media. Some believe the presence of Habineza and Mpayimana in the race is merely symbolic, as they pose no real threat to Kagame's power.

World envoys have reached a historic agreement in Kigali, Rwanda, to phase out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners, under the Montreal Protocol. The deal, which aims to reduce global warming, requires rich countries to reduce HFC use sooner than developing nations. The agreement was celebrated by UN Environment Programme chief Erik Solheim and the US Environmental Protection Agency. However, there was some disappointment over the later start date for countries like India and Gulf nations. The deal is seen as a significant step following the Paris climate agreement and could reduce global warming by 0.5 degrees by 2100. The transition away from HFCs may be costly for developing countries, and negotiations were challenging, with US Secretary of State John Kerry among the attendees.

Relations between Rwanda and Burundi have deteriorated, particularly affecting the border town of Akanyaru, where trade has significantly slowed. The tension escalated after Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunziza sought a controversial third term in April 2015, leading to accusations from Bujumbura that Rwanda was supporting Burundian rebels. Rwanda has denied these claims, although UN investigators found evidence supporting them. The strained relations have led to a decrease in cross-border trade, with Burundi suspending food exports and Rwandan traders facing hostility and accusations of being infiltrators. Rwanda's trade minister reported a 40 percent drop in exports to Burundi, and prices for certain commodities in Rwanda have risen as a result. Despite Rwanda's objections to Burundi's trade restrictions under East African common market rules, the situation remains tense with no resolution in sight.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has won a third term in office with a preliminary 98 percent of votes, according to partial results. Kagame, who has been in power since the end of the 1994 genocide, was expected to win the election handily. The national elections commission, led by chairman Kalisa Mbanda, reported a voter turnout of 97 percent from the 6.9 million registered voters. Kagame's opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, received minimal votes. Kagame is seen as a polarizing figure, praised for Rwanda's economic growth and stability but criticized for suppressing opposition and free speech. The election follows a 2015 constitutional amendment that could allow Kagame to stay in power until 2034.

Rwandans are set to vote in a presidential election where incumbent Paul Kagame is expected to win a third term. Kagame's main opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana, had only three weeks to campaign and face an uphill battle against the well-established Kagame and his party, the RPF. Kagame's confidence is bolstered by a 2015 referendum allowing him to potentially stay in power until 2034. While Kagame is praised for Rwanda's recovery post-genocide, human rights groups criticize his suppressive tactics against opposition and free speech. The election is seen by some as a mere formality, with Kagame's victory considered a foregone conclusion by many, including himself.

Rwandans celebrated President Paul Kagame's victory as he was re-elected with 98.63 percent of the vote, securing a third term in office. Kagame has been in power since the end of the 1994 genocide and is known for ruling with an iron fist. The election results showed an overwhelming majority, surpassing his previous wins in 2003 and 2010. The electoral commission's Charles Munyaneza confirmed Kagame's victory based on provisional results. The turnout was high at 96.42 percent of 6.9 million voters. Opposition candidates Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana accepted their defeat. Kagame is seen as a visionary by some for transforming Rwanda with significant economic growth, safety, cleanliness, and low corruption. However, he is also criticized by rights groups for oppressive rule, suppression of free speech, and targeting opposition. Kagame's win follows a constitutional amendment allowing him to potentially rule until 2034.

The funeral of Rwanda's last king, Kigeli V, took place in Nyanza, Rwanda, with hundreds in attendance. Kigeli V, who died in October at the age of 80, was buried in his homeland after a court dispute over his burial site was resolved. The ceremony was held at the old King's Palace, now a museum, and was attended by local residents, Kigeli's family, and Rwanda's culture minister Julienne Uwacu. Kigeli lived in exile in the United States since 1992 and had attempted to return to Rwanda as king, which was not accepted by the government. He was buried near the tomb of his half-brother, Mutara III, with his crown placed on his coffin.

In Rwanda, international envoys are finalizing an agreement to phase out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The move is seen as a significant effort to combat global warming. India and other developing nations have raised concerns about the timeline and financial aspects of transitioning away from HFCs. The European Union's Miguel Arias Canete highlighted the potential impact of the phase-down, which could reduce warming by up to half a degree by the century's end. The amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which previously addressed substances depleting the ozone layer, is expected to be legally binding and is seen as a crucial step towards meeting the goals set by the Paris climate agreement.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame won a third term in office with a landslide victory of 98.63 percent of the vote. Kagame, who has been in power since the end of the 1994 genocide, is both praised for transforming Rwanda and criticized for ruling with an iron fist. The election results confirmed the support Kagame received for a constitutional amendment allowing him to potentially stay in power until 2034. The turnout was high at 96.42 percent of 6.9 million voters. Opposition candidates Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana accepted their defeat. While Kagame's leadership has led to economic growth and a safe and clean Rwanda with little corruption, human rights groups accuse him of suppressing opposition and free speech.

Rwandans are set to vote in a presidential election expected to secure Paul Kagame a third term as president. Kagame, leading the Rwandan Patriotic Front, has been praised for stopping the 1994 genocide and advancing the country's development. His opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana, have struggled to campaign effectively due to restrictions and limited time. Kagame's victory seems assured after a constitutional amendment passed in 2015 allows him to run for a third term, with the possibility of extending his presidency until 2034. Despite Rwanda's economic growth, Kagame's administration has been criticized for suppressing opposition, free speech, and the media, with rights groups accusing him of ruling through fear.

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Rwandans are preparing to vote in a presidential election where incumbent Paul Kagame is expected to win a third term. Kagame's dominance is evident with the widespread presence of his party's, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), campaign materials, while the opposition has had limited visibility. Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana are seen as having no realistic chance of victory. Kagame's confidence is bolstered by a 2015 referendum allowing him to potentially stay in power until 2034. While Kagame is praised for Rwanda's recovery post-genocide, there are concerns about political repression and the silencing of dissent. The election is viewed by some as a mere formality, with Kagame's victory all but assured.

Rwandans participated in a presidential election anticipated to secure Paul Kagame a third term as president. Voters across the nation, known as 'the Land of a Thousand Hills,' cast their votes amidst a backdrop of national colors. Kagame, leading the Rwandan Patriotic Front, faced two minor opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana. Despite limited campaigning time and resources, opposition candidate Habineza remained positive. Kagame, praised for transforming Rwanda post-genocide, faces criticism for authoritarian practices, including suppression of dissent and media. Rights groups and local journalists have expressed concerns about the lack of genuine electoral competition. Kagame's previous constitutional amendment allows for potential extended rule until 2034. Results are expected shortly after polling closes.

Nicholas Hitimana, the founder of Ikirezi Natural Products in Rwanda, has pioneered the production of essential oils in the country, recognizing the need for high-value crops on limited arable land. With 25 hectares of plantations, his company produces essential oils like geranium, patchouli, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, exporting them to various countries for use in the perfume industry. The article highlights the economic benefits of this venture for local farmers and Rwanda's economy, noting the country's export of 14 tonnes of essential oils last year. Rwanda has also invested in an essential oil laboratory to ensure quality control and meet international standards, with the support of organizations like TradeMark East Africa. The global market for essential oils is growing, and Rwanda aims to capitalize on this by focusing on quality over quantity.

Rwandans are preparing for a presidential election where incumbent Paul Kagame is expected to win a third term. Kagame's opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana, had only three weeks to campaign and face significant obstacles. Kagame's confidence is bolstered by a 2015 referendum allowing him to potentially stay in power until 2034. While Kagame is praised for Rwanda's recovery and growth, human rights groups criticize his repressive rule. Local journalist Robert Mugabe and political analyst Christopher Kayumba provide contrasting views on the election, with Mugabe calling it a 'coronation' and Kayumba highlighting Kagame's popularity and role in ensuring stability post-genocide. The election is seen as a formality with Kagame's victory considered a foregone conclusion.

In Ivory Coast, e-commerce is gaining popularity, especially during the holiday season. This trend is attributed to an increasingly connected population and a growing, active middle class.

In Ivory Coast, the kidnapping and murder of a 4-year-old boy named 'Bouba' has heightened fears of ritual killings, particularly of children, linked to traditional beliefs and maraboutage. The incident has led to increased vigilance in communities and skepticism towards neighbors. The crimes are believed to peak in the first quarter of the year and are thought to be connected to major social and political events, such as upcoming local elections. While some attribute the crimes to politicians seeking power, evidence remains anecdotal. The prevalence of animist beliefs, even among Christians and Muslims, is suggested to underlie these practices. The role of social media in highlighting these issues is also noted, with some experts suggesting that the perception of an increase in ritual crimes may be due to greater societal awareness rather than an actual rise in such incidents.

A landslide on Mount Sugar Loaf in the Regent suburb of Freetown, Sierra Leone, has caused significant destruction, wiping out dozens of homes. Residents have volunteered to recover bodies, with little hope of finding survivors. The military, led by Captain Yayah Brima, is conducting search operations and emphasizing the urgency of removing bodies to prevent health hazards. Over 500 displaced individuals are sheltering in an elementary school, facing overcrowding and inadequate protection from rain. The Red Cross and other charities are distributing basic necessities, although the process has been somewhat disorganized, leading to chaotic scenes. A new building has been requisitioned to alleviate the overcrowding at the school.

Rwandans celebrated President Paul Kagame's overwhelming victory as he was re-elected for a third term with 98.63 percent of the vote. Kagame, who has been in power since the end of the 1994 genocide, is seen as a polarizing figure, hailed by some as a visionary and by others as a despot. The election results showed a higher win percentage than his previous elections in 2003 and 2010. The high voter turnout of 96.42 percent reflects the support for Kagame, who has been credited with Rwanda's economic growth and stability, despite allegations of suppressing opposition and free speech. Opposition candidates Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent Philippe Mpayimana accepted their defeat and expressed intentions to continue in politics. Kagame's victory follows a constitutional amendment that could allow him to stay in power until 2034.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has won a third term with approximately 98% of the votes, according to partial results. With 80% of the votes counted, Kagame had already secured over 5 million votes, surpassing the necessary majority. National elections commission chairman Kalisa Mbanda indicated that the final results are expected to remain consistent. Voter turnout was estimated at 97% of the 6.9 million registered voters. Kagame's opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, received minimal votes. Kagame, who has been in power since the end of the 1994 genocide, is seen as a polarizing figure, praised for Rwanda's economic growth and stability but criticized for suppressing opposition and free speech. His victory follows a 2015 constitutional amendment that could allow him to stay in office until 2034.

Nearly 7 million Rwandan voters are called to the polls for the presidential election on August 3 and 4. Three candidates are competing: incumbent President Paul Kagame of the FPR, Frank Habineza of the DGRP, and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. The article presents their visions for the country.

The article discusses Rwandan President Paul Kagame's leadership, highlighting his achievements and controversies. Kagame is credited with stopping the 1994 genocide and driving Rwanda's economic growth, with Kigali becoming a modern capital city. He is admired by many for his decisive leadership and has been tasked with reforming the African Union. However, Kagame also faces criticism for being authoritarian, with allegations of suppressing opposition, media repression, and involvement in violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite international criticism, Kagame maintains a strong stance on his leadership style, emphasizing the need for a strong leader in the aftermath of the genocide. The article also touches on Kagame's background, his rise to power, and the upcoming election where he seeks a third term after a constitutional amendment.

Rwanda is aiming to diversify its tourism offerings while focusing on the high-end market, as evidenced by the doubling of the gorilla trekking permit fee to $1500. The country, praised for its stability and economic progress post-genocide, is looking to extend tourists' stays beyond the average four days. Efforts include promoting cultural and sports tourism, as well as becoming a prime safari destination with the reintroduction of lions and rhinoceroses to Akagera National Park to complete the 'Big Five'. However, concerns arise over the potential loss of revenue for the industry and government due to the increased permit fees.

Nicholas Hitimana, the founder of Ikirezi Natural Products, has pioneered the essential oils industry in Rwanda, recognizing the potential for high-value crops in the country's limited arable land. By growing geraniums and other plants for essential oils, farmers can significantly increase their income compared to traditional crops like beans. Ikirezi Natural Products, which employs 70 farmers, exports its oils to various countries for use in the perfume industry. Rwanda's essential oils sector is growing, with the country exporting 14 tonnes in the previous year. The establishment of an essential oil laboratory in Kigali, funded by TradeMark East Africa, aims to ensure quality control and help Rwandan companies access international markets. The global market for essential oils is expected to grow, and Rwanda is positioning itself to compete on quality rather than volume.

In Rwandan culture, eating in public was once considered uneducated, and food was almost a taboo subject, with meals taken exclusively within the family sphere. However, society is evolving, and mentalities are changing.

African Union member states are discussing institutional reforms at a meeting in Kigali, Rwanda. The reforms, presented by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, aim to address criticisms of the African Union's bureaucracy, inefficiency, donor dependency, and lack of credibility. Key proposals include focusing on priority areas, realigning institutions, and achieving financial and political sovereignty, notably through a 0.2% import tax. The implementation of these reforms is a priority, with concerns raised about existing free trade agreements and the World Trade Organization's regulations. The next African Union summit in Addis Ababa will further debate the reform process.

Rwanda has initiated an investigation into the roles of twenty French officials in the 1994 Rwandan genocide, potentially straining diplomatic relations with France. The investigation, announced by Prosecutor General Richard Muhumuza, follows allegations of French involvement. France has historically been accused by Rwanda of complicity in the genocide, particularly for ignoring signs of the impending massacre and for training the soldiers and militiamen who carried out the killings. The French Ministry of Defense has referred to previous statements denying the military's participation in the genocide. The contentious relationship between the two nations has been exacerbated by France reopening an investigation into the assassination of Rwandan President Juvénal Habyarimana, which is seen as the trigger for the genocide. French officials argue that the responsibility for failing to prevent the genocide should be shared internationally and accuse Rwandan President Paul Kagame's regime of using the issue to deflect from human rights violations in Rwanda.

The international community has agreed on a timeline for the gradual elimination of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. The legally binding Kigali amendment to the Montreal Protocol was reached after extensive negotiations, with developed countries taking the lead. The agreement is seen as a significant step in combating climate change and sends a positive signal ahead of COP22 in Marrakech. Despite some criticisms, particularly regarding India's slower transition schedule, the move is expected to reduce global warming by 0.5°C by 2100 and avoid emissions equivalent to Japan's annual CO2 output by 2030. Funding for the transition has been confirmed, with further discussions planned for late 2017.

The international community has reached an agreement to phase out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners, under an amendment to the 1987 Montreal Protocol. This move is seen as a significant effort to combat global warming, with nearly 200 countries committing to end the production and consumption of HFCs. The deal, which was finalized after extensive negotiations in Kigali, Rwanda, is expected to reduce global warming by 0.5 degrees Celsius by 2100. Developed countries will reduce HFC use by 85 percent by 2036, while two groups of developing countries have different timelines for reduction. The agreement has been hailed by various leaders and environmental groups as a critical step following the Paris Agreement, although some, like India, expressed concerns over the cost and technological challenges involved.

Delegates from around the world are meeting in Rwanda with the hope of reaching an agreement to phase out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. US Secretary of State John Kerry is engaging with major HFC producers like India and China to secure a deal. HFCs, which replaced ozone-depleting chemicals in the 1990s, have been identified as a significant contributor to global warming. The potential agreement could amend the 1987 Montreal Protocol and might slow global temperature rise by half a degree Celsius by the century's end. Negotiations are ongoing, with developing countries concerned about costs and technology related to transitioning away from HFCs. An $80 million fund has been proposed to assist these countries. The outcome of the talks could have a major impact on global efforts to combat climate change.

International representatives, including U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, convened in Kigali to discuss an amendment to the Montreal Protocol aimed at the gradual elimination of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases used in refrigeration and air conditioning. Rwandan President Paul Kagame opened the conference, emphasizing the urgency of addressing HFCs to combat climate change. The amendment could contribute to the goals of the Paris Agreement, potentially reducing global warming by 0.5°C by 2100. Negotiators are also tasked with agreeing on financial support for developing countries to transition away from HFCs.

RwandAir is set to acquire two large Airbus carriers by the end of the year as part of an ambitious expansion program. Currently serving fifteen destinations including Africa and Dubai, the airline is poised to enter the Indian and Chinese markets. The year 2016 is heralded by its leaders as a 'Great Leap Forward'.

Rwanda will increase import taxes on second-hand clothing by 12.5 times and on second-hand shoes by 25 times starting from July 1st. The tax per kilogram of clothing will rise from $0.2 to $2.5, and for shoes from $0.2 to $5. The Rwandan Minister of Finance announced these changes during the 2016-2017 budget presentation last week. The aim is to promote the local industry and to achieve the East African Community's goal of completely banning these second-hand goods by 2019.

In Rwanda, health worker Floride Uwinkesha uses a basic cellphone to log pregnancies into the national database, RapidSMS, which is backed by Unicef. The programme aims to improve maternal health and has contributed to reducing infant and maternal mortality rates. Local volunteers, trained by the government, use the system to track pregnancies and send reminders for prenatal visits. In emergencies, they can send alerts to medical facilities. The system, which also monitors babies up to two years old, has been credited with saving lives, although exact figures are not available. Rwanda has seen significant progress in maternal health, with a reduction in infant and maternal mortality rates since 2009, according to World Bank data.

Preliminary results from Rwanda's referendum indicate a large majority in favor of removing presidential term limits, potentially allowing President Paul Kagame to extend his rule until 2034. Kagame, who has been in power since 2000 following the 1994 genocide, is seen by critics as an authoritarian leader intolerant of opposition and accused of human rights violations. The Rwandan opposition and the United States, a key ally, have criticized the referendum as undemocratic. Kagame's supporters compare him to former Tanzanian President Julius Nyerere, arguing that talented leaders should not be constrained by the Constitution. The move aligns with similar constitutional changes by leaders in East and Central Africa to maintain their power.

The article reports on the alleged recruitment of Burundian refugees, including children, by non-state armed groups within refugee camps in Rwanda. Over 220,000 Burundians have fled to Rwanda to escape a potential new civil war and government crackdown. However, reports suggest that these refugees are being recruited into armed groups, a violation of international law. Refugee International has documented cases and expressed concern over the safety and rights of these individuals. Allegations include the training of recruits in Rwanda, the use of Rwandan military vehicles, and threats against those who refuse to join. The Rwandan government has been urged to stop the recruitment and ensure the protection of refugees. The international community is also called upon to impose sanctions against those involved in these violations.

Rwanda, known as one of the safest countries in Africa, has established a new security agency called Dasso (District Administrative Security Support Organ) to act as a liaison with the police and provide security support at the community level.