rwanda dispatch - issue 39

T h e C o n g o - n i l e T r a i l

iRwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 2011 ⎢

ISSUE 39:05TH - 19TH DECEMBER 2011

hiking The “Congo-nile Trail”

rwanda rises high as world admire iTs home- grown iniTiaTives

The quesTion ofpoliTiCal spaCe Kagame insists Rwandans expRess themselves

NOW COMES OUT

TWICEA M O N T H

1Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 2011 ⎢

Letter of the Month 2From the House 5Presidential News Recap 6News 8Police Diary 9International briefs 11Talking to Ntawukuliyayo 12Banana Republics 14The Question of Political Space 16 Rwanda rises high as world admires 20NEC to continue managing smooth electoral processes 22Rwanda’s Legacy 26King Faisal Hospital 27It is now simpler to pay taxes at RRA 30Dispatch Business 36The Congo-Nile Trail 40Covert Desk 36

Editorial

To express views wriTe To:

p.o Box 7082 Kigali, rwandaTel: 0788304066, [email protected],

Dispatch Team

World could learn from Rwanda’s peacebuilding

initiatives

A few weeks ago Rwanda hosted a high level

meeting on post-conflict peacebuilding. The

reason for Rwanda to host this conference was

that the rest of the world wanted to gain from the coun-

try’s peace initiatives that have seen it recover from the

1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Today Rwanda is one

of the most peaceful countries in Africa and the world

at large.

Despite the different political views, Rwandans have

realised the importance of having a stable a country

where national interests override individual interest. It

is the reason that those who want to divide the popula-

tion along tribal inclinations are avoided and sometimes

asked to repent. Rwandans for example consider nation-

building as key in their daily lives.

It is important therefore that other countries like Ivory

Coast which was represented at the meeting and has just

emerged from a political conflict, could replicate Rwan-

da’s home-grown peace and unity initiatives that have

enabled the country achieve tremendous milestones in

social, economic and political landscapes.

It is no surprise that Rwanda has accumulated a wide

range of experience in peacebuilding to the extent that

the country now contributes to the UN peacebuilding

missions for example in the Sudan. To note here is that

Rwanda has been able to contribute to this noble cause

because at home there’s peace and stability and therefore

the country can send some of its

servicemen in peace operations

elsewhere when approached.

Page 16 -17

Publisher ⎢Shema K. Luyombya

Consulting Editor ⎢Oscar Kimanuka

Political Editor ⎢Gonzaga Muganwa

Finance ⎢Janet Nankinga

Marketing⎢James Nshimye

Writers ⎢George Mangula,

Angela Mutoni,

Photography ⎢Brandfix,

Production ⎢Sserunkuma Moses,

Circulation ⎢ Kazungu S. John

Design and Layout ⎢Brandfix Ltd.

17Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ December 2011 ⎢Rwanda Dispatch16

Cover Cover

THE QUESTION OF

POLITICAL SPACE KAGAME INSISTS RWANDANS EXPRESS THEMSELVES

ical scene. Rice said “Your [Rwanda’s] progress, of course, has been uneven, with economic devel-opment far outpacing political development”. In a speech that so much praised the government and people of Rwanda that one would think it was written by RPF leaders themselves, the call for greater political space stood out.

Ambassador Rice who described herself as a friend and thus had to speak frankly proceeded to state that “Rwanda’s economic vitality has moved the country forward. Social progress has been substantial. Yet, the political culture in Rwanda remains comparatively closed. Press restrictions persist. Civil society activists, journalists, and political opponents of the government often fear organizing peacefully and speaking out. Some have been harassed. Some have been intimidated by late-night callers. Some have simply disap-peared.”

Tellingly, she immediately cited President Kagame’s own words are regards the ongoing Arab revolutions; “the uprising in Libya has already sent a message to leaders in Africa and beyond. It is that if we lose touch with our people, if we do not serve them as they deserve and address their needs, there will be conse-quences. Their grievances will accumulate - and no matter how much time passes, they can turn against you”.

The pointer and what can be regarded as America’s foreign policy expectation of Rwanda was Rice’s clear statement that “the deepening and the broadening of democracy can be the next great achievement of this great country and its remarkable people. In Rwanda, economic devel-opment and political openness can reinforce each other. This is Rwanda’s next great developmental challenge. And, with all that you have achieved over the past 17 years, I am confi dent you will pass this milestone as well”.

Susan Rice is not the only one thinking there is need to expand the political space. In a recent interview carried by the Independent maga-zine, former World Bank top offi cial Dr. Callisto Madavo said “Rwanda has become a very very attractive place for investment and I credit [Presi-dent] Kagame for bringing discipline to Rwan-da’s economy… I think where the jury is out, however, is when it comes to the political dimen-sion. Kagame needs to open the political space. It was ok at the beginning when the country was recovering from genocide to keep a tight grip but time has come to open up.”

The fact that people who regard themselves as admirers of President Kagame and friends of Rwanda are calling for opening up of political space is signifi cant.

This is a signifi cant disagreement because the

government of Rwanda and supporters insist that all the progress outlined above would not have been possible without political development. It is that actually the political leadership working with the people that have guided the whole process.

However to understand why there is such a big difference of opinion on democracy in Rwanda a critical analysis of the context and the construc-tion of the Rwandan state is necessary. The defi -nition of what amounts to political space in Rwanda, is itself contentious among the Rwandan political elite, a clear divide existing between offi -cially recognised political parties and those that are unregistered and largely based in exile.

Therefore the core disagreement is in the nature of participation and who is considered to speaking and participating. Classical modern democracy expects open dissent like demonstra-tions and strikes against certain public policies as a sign of democracy. Thus the harmonious state of consensus based politics where no one seems unhappy is just too unbelievable to many.

President Kagame seemed to imply that free-doms are not about a small group of political elites wanting to say and do whatever they want but the empowered majority population who are participating in issues affecting them.

“[Of] all the more than eleven million Rwan-dans, everyone can speak their mind anytime anywhere because they are being empowered to do so. What can’t be accepted is saying that those who are supposed to be speaking without being answered back are the about 100 or 150

of limited political space. Most of the recent criticisms originate from the lead-up to the presi-dential election of 2010 and the extent of open participation that took place. The failure of critical opposition groups to register and present candi-dates was prominent. The participating parties, that is the dominate Rwandan Patriotic Front [RPF] and allies in government, insist that the necessary space exists. There parties are comfort-ably allied in power to a degree sharing top posi-tions and policy formulation though this is just one side of the political divide.

The irony is that Kagame’s infl uence and domi-nance of post- genocide Rwanda has meant that whatever opposition has emerged has concen-trated on attacking his personality rather than present alternative public policy manifestos.

To observers, the most important question now is whether people are content with the current political order and the amount of freedom it gives or are silently contemplating an alternative? Others argue that if the economic success is real and people are getting richer, it is natural that they will demand a greater say in issues around them and more open debate.

Whereas the economy has been growing on average 8 percent for the last decade, this is not big enough to create mass wealth that can make a successful tradeoff with political involvement. Many people remain poor.

The other point to note is that political space has become an issue because of the passage of time. Children born after genocide will be eligible

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ December 201116

POLITICAL SPACE KAGAME INSISTS RWANDANS EXPRESS THEMSELVES

IIn a lot of commentary about Rwanda, a certain narrative seems to have taken root which describes a country that has achieved tremendous steps in the fi eld of social and economic development but failed to move forward with civil and political rights. It has

become almost standard for many to say that Rwanda has recovered impressively from the ravages of genocide and is recording impressive economic growth but politically remains authoritarian.

President Paul Kagame chose his attendance of Umuganda monthly community work at Nduba sector in the outskirts of Kigali on 26th November to address this, addressing clearly those who doubt the extent of democracy, free expression and human rights in Rwanda. The underscored point being could a country achieve all this progress without being democratic? If there is care and respon-siveness to the interests of the citizens, shouldn’t that be a sign of political development.

While President Kagame did not directly name who he was responding to, the message was clear. Speaking in Kinyarwanda he said to the effect that his government could not be implementing all the pro people policies without being democratic. “When you advance human rights, you are number one globally in promoting equality, advance women who previously had no say and you say that is not democracy. If you tell me that that is not respecting human rights, then you must be sick. If you provide education to all children of Rwanda, they get informed, empowered, well raised and fed as a basis for pursuing their ambitions and say whatever they want to say and then you claim that is not democracy, you must have a problem”.

Citing his government’s vast investment in the promotion of Information Communications Technology [ICT] with the target of every Rwandan having access to the internet, and therefore be able to communicate globally, the president wondered how then can a country be closed. Asking what being closed was, he asked his audi-ence if anyone had been brought by gun point to attend the event or had come at their own free will and would go back home the same way.

Kagame emphasized his thinking thus “the new Rwanda is one of dignity. It is our wish to work with Rwandans to achieve their ambi-tions. That is democracy; that is development; that is the fundamental human rights of everyone; that is where you express yourself anytime anywhere.”

Kagame spoke a few days after United States Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice delivered a speech at Kigali Institute of Science and Technology [KIST] on 23rd November to become the most prominent foreigner to recently call for movement on the polit-

Rwanda’s economic vitality has moved the country forward. Social progress has been substantial.

Yet, the political culture in Rwanda remains comparatively closed. Press restrictions persist.

Civil society activists, journalists, and political opponents of the government often fear organizing peacefully and speaking out.


comparatively closed. Press restrictions persist. Civil society activists, journalists, and political

UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED NATIONS SUSAN RICE

individuals out of the more than eleven million. These even include those who say nothing and others who say the destructive. As we are building Rwanda and you start saying the destructive, we destroy you. This we can’t apologize for, actually we are not doing it enough”.

Analysis shows that the existence of a small but vocal group of virulent anti- government activ-ists in politics and media and how much they should be allowed to participate on the ground in Rwanda is at the core of the persistent image

to vote during the next general election i.e. for lower house of parliament in September 2013. The genocide factor is being canceled out.

What is clear is that the extent of the exercise of universal freedoms of expression, assembly and conscience in Rwanda will remain debated for some time. It is enigmatic that Kagame who displayed such skill as he consolidated power within the RPF and later as the nation’s leader earning unprecedented international respect as an innovative leader and statesman remains dogged by questions about political freedoms.

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 20112

500000: Kilograms of mari-juana seized by the

National Rwanda Police across the country in the year 2010.

547: Suspects that were arrested by the police across the country in

2010 for dealing in illegal drugs.

175: Number of projects that have so far benefited from the Busi-

ness Development Fund launched early this year as guarantee for financial institutions that lend to Rwanda’s small and medium enterprises.

300000: Money in USD dollars Uganda’s Minister

in the Office of the President Kabakumba

Matsiko handed to Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Louise Mushikiwabo to fulfill President Yoweri Museveni’s pledge towards the construction of classrooms at Nyaru-gunga Primary School Kanombe.

400000: The number of energy saving bulbs that

the Energy, Water and Sanitation Authority intends to import as part of the efforts to conserve power consumption in the country.

64: The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency employees terminated

recently as part of an ongoing restructuring process approved by the Cabinet following the Prime Minister’s Order to restructure the institution for better service delivery.

Letter of the month

Quotes

Letter to the editor

“If you cannot give these people to Rwanda for whatever reason, the next question becomes, why don’t you try

them…in the courts of law in your own place?”

President Paul Kagame during a recent press

conference, speaking about the unconvincing refusal

by some countries to hand over key suspects of 1994

genocide against the Tutsi.

“Our brotherly relations have stood the test of time and demonstrated the fact that no matter what challenges our people are one and nothing can break the bonds of

unity and common destiny.”

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs speaking at

the October 9, Uganda independence celebrations for

Ugandans living in Rwanda.

“Rwanda has enormous tourism poten-tial and attractive destinations that are relatively unknown. The ICTP platform is an opportunity … to showcase these

tremendous tourism pleasures and conser-vation initiatives to the world through the joint marketing and media programs of

member countries.”

John Gara CEO of Rwanda Development Board

stating the benefits of RDB becoming a member of

the International Council of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

“It seems the global volatility of food prices is here to stay, and the era of cheap

food is over.”

Bekele Geleta Secretary General, International

Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

in World Disasters Report 2011 warning of the global

rising food prices.

“Rwandans have to be congratulated for what they have achieved. Survivors have had the courage and humanity to find

new ways to reaffirm that values that are common to us all in respect of human life.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Timor Leste, Jose

Luis Guterres during the high level meeting on post-

conflict peace building in Kigali.

Dear Editor, I am a Rwandan national, 24 and living in the countryside Southern Province. I have never travelled outside Rwanda but I hope to visit friends in Tanzania. My friend recently told me that citizens of the East African Community (EAC) can travel across borders freely. However, when I asked another friend, I was told that some travel documents are asked by the immigration officers at border points before one is allowed to crosses to the other side.what are these documents for? I have a national identity card which I thought could allow me visit other countries in the region. I am also confused about what our leaders mean by free movement of

persons. If it is free, then why do I need to have travel documents given that I have my identity card? Isn’t it recognized by the neighbouring countries?I would like someone from responsible government ministry and department to educate me on the issues I have raised because I would like to visit friends in the neighbouring countries. I also want to know the benefits that Rwandans have reaped since the country joined the East African Community. Is it true that Rwanda has made some losses by joining the community and in what areas have we realized the losses? I hope I will get answers through Rwanda Dispatch. Thanks.Alphonse J. Claude, Nyanza

someone educate me about travel documents


Local Briefs

Media key in championing safe motherhood

The Rwandan media practitioners have been urged to promote safe motherhood and family planning in the country. The call was made during a recent media workshop on safe motherhood and family planning organ-ized by White Ribbon Alliance to discuss ways how the media could contribute to this noble cause. White Ribbon Alliance is an international coalition which pushes for change to make pregnancy and childbirth safe for women and newborns around the world. The Chairperson of White Ribbon Alliance, Rwanda, Alphonsine Mukarugema, said that the media’s role is extremely vital in improving maternal health. The Country Director of John Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Jeremie Zoungrana, urged the media to advocate for more midwives and medics in the maternal health sector. He commended Rwandan Parliament for showing the will and being champions of safe motherhood.

Minister calls for local researchers

Health Minister Dr. Agnes Binagwaho has said Rwanda needs dynamic health researchers to be able to source for funds to finance their activities. The minister made the remarks recently at workshop organized

by Imbuto Foun-dation for young medical practi-tioners. The work-shop was aimed at equipping the participants with skills and capacity to carry out exten-sive research and prepare proposals for funds finance their research projects. Dr. Binag-waho said the health sector in

Rwanda had recorded tremendous achieve-ments but said more needs to be done in terms of research. The workshop attracted young student doctors from Kenya, Uganda, Zambia and Rwanda the host.

The Dutch parliament on November 9, 2011 approved a Bill that would extend the possibility of detecting and prosecuting genocide suspects. The Bill that remains to be reviewed by the Senate, allows the Dutch Government to better address genocide and war crimes suspects retroactively and to work closer with international criminal courts.

The proposed bill stipulates that cases dating back as far as 1966 could be dealt with meaning that elements involved in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi will not escape the law should they be caught though the country has sufficient jurisdiction to prosecute

foreigners suspected of international crimes, including genocide but only after October 1, 2003.

For older cases, the Dutch Genocide Conven-tion Implementation Act applies, whose juris-diction is limited. Former Dutch Minister for Justice Ernst Hirsch Ballin while proposing the amendments of the law said that it was unac-ceptable that an alien who is otherwise guilty of genocide was immune from prosecution, because the Netherlands, before the time of the crime, had no jurisdiction. However, he said he would be cautious in granting retroac-tive effect.

Dutch Parliament approves Bill to indict genocide suspects

Pollution in Rwanda’s urban centres is expected to reduce with the implementation of the new strategy-The Rwanda National Strategy on Climate Change and Low Carbon Development. The strategy addresses causes of climate change. The policy, approved weeks ago by the Cabinet, is expected to ascertain the environmental friend-liness of vehicles and toxic fumes urban centres.

It is part of a wider plan to control the increasing number of cars in Kigali City and other major towns, as well as addressing environmental concerns. The purpose is to reduce the number of cars and create more space for pedestrians, but also to

help contain the challenge of pollution in the country, says Dr Rose Mukankomeje, the Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority. The strategy will also promote public awareness on the use of alter-native clean energy sources, like hydro-power,

geothermal and solar energy. It will also promote technical and voca-tional education in renewable energy through provision of skills.

The Permanent Secretary Caroline Kayonga in the Ministry of Natural Resources says developed economies are the main producers of pollution, but said that Rwanda was committed to play its part in the global campaign against climate change.

New strategy to curb pollution in Rwanda


Local Briefs

Districts to get ICT skilled trainersOvER 59 trainers who completed a recent one-month training in ICT and entrepreneurial skills will be posted to 23 districts across the country to train their colleagues in the same areas.The trainers supported by Digital Oppor-tunity Trust (DOT), an international organisa-tion that creates educational and economic opportunities through offering skills in ICT. The DOT internship programme offers young graduates opportunities with practical skills required on the job market.“The Reach Up is DOT’s economic programme that trains and coaches the community in essential ICT, busi-ness, and life skills. It provides participants with tools and capabilities to help them advance their economic status by building successful, sustainable livelihoods,” Grace Mugabekazi, DOT’s Communication Officer said.

Under a new partnership with the Master-Card Foundation, DOT Rwanda plans to expand the training programme. 180 interns will be deployed to train 35,000 young people in a period of three years thus contributing to the rural economic transformation and human capacity development. Over 2,500 community beneficiaries especially youth and women and 112 interns have gained from DOT’s training and coaching in ICT and entrepreneurship skills with some people launching their own businesses.

RRA targets liquor smugglers RWANDA REvENUE AUTHORITY (RRA) beginning early next year will require liquor manufacturers and importers to affix tax stamps on their products to check the activi-ties of smugglers. The Deputy Commissioner General and Commissioner for Customs Services Department, Richard Tusabe said this recently while meeting importers of wines and liquors at RRA headquarters in Kigali.

RRA has granted a transitional period of two months to all dealers after which it will issue tax stamps to genuine traders.

Already, dealers in cigarettes are required to affix tax stamps on all cigarette products manufactured or imported into the country.

The move is in line with the ministerial order determining and establishing consump-tion tax on some imported and locally manu-factured products. Upon implementation, Rwanda will become the fifth country in Africa to affix tax stamps on liquors and wines after Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt and Morocco.

Rwandan refugees return homeOver a hundred Rwandan refugees mostly women and children returned home willingly from the DR Congo. The refugees were received at the Rwanda-DR. Congo border of Grande Bariere in Rubavu. The returnees said that poor living conditions in Congolese jungles made them to return their homeland. They added that wrong information from some circles further forced them to remain in exile. The refugees were taken to Nkamira camp in Rubavu District from where they will be integrated into their respective home areas. While in the camp, they will be given basic necessities like foodstuffs and other assorted household items.

MINIRENA to plant 67million treesTHE MINISTRY OF FORESTS and Natural Resources (MINIRENA) plans to have at least 67 million trees planted across the country. MINIRENA Permanent Secretary, Caroline Kayonga revealed the plan recently while addressing local and opinion leaders in the Eastern Province. Kayonga says the tree planting process will target the most deforested areas especially in the Eastern Province which she said is the most vulnerable region in the country. As such, it was allocated 20 percent of the trees to be grown between late this year and February next year. The Mayor of Kirehe District, Protais Murayire, whose district will receive a great share of the tree seedlings, said that the mapping process was complete.

A RECENT SURvEY released by Transpar-ency Rwanda showed improvement in public service delivery with at least 70 percent of the respondents commending services they receive from their respective local authorities.

The survey, conducted in three districts that comprise Kigali City used information collected from suggestion boxes installed in the districts. It however indicated that despite the satisfaction, corruption and delays are a significant problem.

The project which targeted 3 districts of Kicukiro, Gasabo and Nyarugenge and 9 sector offices shows that service delivery in Kigali is overall evaluated as very good by 30% of respondents, good according to 24.5% and excellent according to 15.6% while only

16.6% described it as fair and 12.4% labeled it poor.Two major challenges were cited such as delays where only less than half of the respondents obtained the service requested within one day while for around 40% of them, it took several weeks or months and corruption. 11.5% of respondents were asked for a bribe when they sought a service and 31.3% of them did not obtain the service when refused to pay.

The chairperson of Transparency Rwanda Marie Immaculee Ingabire said the high citi-zen’s satisfaction confirms that decentralizing service delivery is a good strategy which should not be reversed. She challenged local authorities to combat corruption and remove the bottlenecks which delay services.

Report commends service delivery in Kigali City


From the House

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) recently grilled top budget managers of state broadcaster, Orinfor, to explain the mismanagement of public funds as cited in the 2009/10 Auditor General’s report.

Poor management of internally gener-ated revenues, in addition to inappro-priate procurement methods, are some of the public financial management regula-tions where the managers were accused of flouting.

PAC Chairperson, Juvenal Nkusi, and other committee members wondered why Orinfor cashbook balances could not be properly reconciled with the bank state-ment. The Director of Administration and Finance (DAF), Alphonse Bizimana, was questioned for failure to adequately super-vise the preparation of financial reports.

During the questioning, Bizimana said Orinfor owes about RwF 2.5 billion to

Rwanda Revenue Authority. But added: “Some of our creditors too are paying us.” He however added that through negotia-tions, some debts were waived.

But MP Jean d’Arc Uwimanimpaye, accused Orinfor of lack of proper debt collection mechanisms, pointing out that the soon- to- be public broadcaster didn’t have even a list of its debtors, something he said amounted to negligence.

Bizimana initially said they had the list but it was not complete. But when pinned and asked to bring it the following day, he acknowledged mistakes and blamed the hitch on lack of capacity on new accounting systems.

Hon. Marie Claire Ingabire could not understand how they could blame their problems on ICT. She said the managers’ claim that lack of expertise in the institu-tion was response for some of the issues raises by senators was not convincing.

PAC pins Orinfor on financial mismanagement

THE MISMANAGEMENT of public funds will be a thing of the past if Government plans to produce 500 professional account-ants in the next three years succeed. Local Government Minister James Musoni while appearing before the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to brief them on what his ministry was doing to ensure proper management of public funds high-lighted the need for more professional accountants in the country.

According to the minister, the Insti-

Auditor General to have extra powers

The lower chamber of Parliament recently voted to examine a proposed draft law that will grant the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) more autonomy in its operations. The endorsement came after Finance Minister, John Rwan-gombwa, managed to convince the House that the proposed legislation was essen-tial. Recently there was debate between the Office of the Auditor General and the Public Service Commission whether the former should allow the latter to have an input in the recruitment of its staff, stating that it could infringe on its inde-pendence and autonomy.

MPs welcome ‘e-Publication’ proposal

Legislators recently commended the government for efforts to ensure that official acts normally published in the Official Gazette are disseminated in faster and digitally format to reach out to more Rwandans. Labelling it “e-Publica-tion,” several MPs said the plan was long overdue when the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Tharcisse Karugarama, tabled a draft proposed law relating to the publication and notification of official acts. The judicial system in the country are undergoing digital revolution, recently the Supreme Court unveils achievements in the ICT as it serves the public especially to ensure faster delivery of justice.

MPS give views on ICT Bill

Members of parliament where among the people who recently gave their view on the upcoming ICT Bill that should streamline the operations of the sector when it finally turns into law. The legis-lators where concerned with key issues such as how the bill intends to deal with pornography, disposal of ICT waste among others. The Bill presented by ICT Minister Ignace Gatare in Parliament is expected to broaden the regulatory issues as opposed to only focusing on telecom-munications.

tute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) help achieve the targets given that it was created to stimulate the increase in numbers of accountants. ICPAR is a professional accountancy organization mandated to regulate the accounting profession in the country. Despite this, capacity gaps in this field exist, leading to loss of public funds in some public institu-tions. It is hoped that the extra account-ants will improve financial discipline in Government institutions.

More accountants will safeguard public funds- Hon. Musoni

Hon. James Musoni


Presidential News Recap

B Y D I S PAT C H R E P O R T E R

President Kagame joins Gasabo residents in Umuganda

President Kagame urges army officers preserve to RDF ideals

President Paul Kagame who is also the Commander –In- Chief of Rwanda’s defence forces recently urged officers of the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) to stick to the ideals, objectives and values of the force, saying it is these that have kept the force strong despite the challenges faced over the years.

President Kagame echoed this during his annual meeting with the RDF top leadership at the Ministry of Defence and RDF head-quarters. The president stressed the central role of RDF in promoting, preserving and defending the nation’s identity.

The Head of State said values, ideals and objectives that give a sense of direction have characterised the institution since its inception further urging the officers to put national interest before their own.

PRESIDENT KAGAME last week partici-pated in the monthly community work- Umuganda, joining residents of Nduba Sector in Gasabo District, in planting trees in Nyacyonga, urging Rwandans to protect the environment.

Accompanying the president were senior government officials as well as the staff of the Office of the President.

President Kagame addressed Nduba resi-dents and appreciated them for taking part in the tree planting exercise.

The Head of State said that Umuganda had awakened Rwandans to realise a lot can be achieved with combined abilities, adding that time for Rwandans to wait for outsiders to for them things is long gone. Using available means to tackle challenges, he said, dignifies Rwandan.

As Rwandans, if we are not careful and accept to be the burden of others, we will find ourselves in a bad place,” he said encour-aging Rwandans to work harder put values

in everything they do. The President noted that the way to avoid dependency and indig-nity is for Rwandans to value work, to work together, as is the practice with Umuganda, and to do the right thing, including planting trees, productive agriculture, building schools for Rwandan children, subscribing to community health insurance, (Mutuelles de santé) and to promote commerce and business in order to generate wealth.

President Kagame emphasized that Umuganda is in line with the philosophy of building a new Rwanda;

President Kagame said that with the new Rwanda, citizens can now say whatever they want to say from anywhere, using means the government has established such as internet infrastructure.

“The new Rwanda is one of dignity for all children, men, women and elderly,” he said adding that there is more to be done as the country moves towards achieving its objectives.

Good Governance crucial for sustainable development-President Kagame

President Kagame has called on devel-oping nations to continue strengthening governance and institutional coordination by establishing regulatory frameworks and ensuring benefits are equitably shared in order to achieve green and sustainable econ-omies. Delivering a recorded video message at the recent Bonn 2011 Nexus confer-ence in Bonn, Germany, President Kagame said it was important to engage women, civil society and the private sector as they both play a critical role. President Kagame advocated for regional and international cooperation and foreign direct investment in ensuring coordinated use of resources. President Kagame said that foreign direct aid carries with it innovative technologies that can be used for sustainable harvesting of water and harnessing energy resources as well as for sustainable farming for food security.

The Nexus Conference brought together stakeholders from the water, energy and food sectors in an effort to improve under-standing of the interdependencies and develop a joint perspective on the common challenges.

President Kagame planting trees during Umuganda with residents of Nduba in Gasabo District- Kigali.



President Kagame says Africa is taking charge of own matters

Presidential News Recap

PRESIDENT PAUL KAGAME and Denis Sassou N’Guesso of Congo said that Africa is tackling its own matters as opposed to the past when the leaders had to wait for solu-tions to come from the western world.

The two Heads of State agreed on this during a joint press conference held at Urugwiro village at the end of President N’Guesso’s three-day state visit to Rwanda.

“There will always be problems and weaknesses and ours will always be work in progress. We will always continue to increase our capacities by coming together and forging relations to enable us confront our problems,” said President Kagame, adding that relationships like that between Rwanda and Congo comes to serve this purpose. “We don’t move forward only because we are in agreement. We cannot all have the same views all the time but we have to move forward in spite of all,” President Kagame added.

President N’Guesso said that: “If you look at the recent past, African nations, through the African Union have been actively involved in finding solutions for problems that have been affecting the continent, citing peacekeeping in Darfur, Somalia and the AU involvement to find solutions for the Libyan crisis.”

President Kagame honoured

PRESIDENT PAUL KAGAME, alongside other African Heads of State, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania will be honoured on December 15, 2011 by the Leon H. Sullivan Foun-dation for their exemplary leadership, a recent press release from the organisers says.

Also to be honoured are former presi-dents, Olusegun Obasanjo (Nigeria), William Jefferson Clinton and George W. Bush of the United States.

Others to be recognised are; former US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice, Hilary Clinton, current US Secretary of State, South African President Jacob Zuma, former US Secretary of State Collin Powel, David O’reilly, Dr. Henry Louis Gates, John Prendergast, Mia Farrow and Dr. Edmund Daukoru.

The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation is an American based institution that empowers underprivileged people worldwide by promoting the principles of self-help and social responsibility.

The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation first honoured President Kagame in 2006 for his exemplary leadership in moving Rwanda forward.

President Kagame has been credited for Rwanda’s faster development through the promotion of health, education, transpar-ency, infrastructure, reconciliation and increased foreign relations.

His good governance practices and positive economic policies have been an example of strong positive leadership for the world.

The leaders will be saluted in Wash-ington D.C. in a star-studded, international affair with key performers from the United States and across the African Continent.

On Rwanda refugees living in Congo, President Sassou N’Guesso said his govern-ment was working closely with UNHCR and will implement the Cessation Clause as stipulated by the international law.

President Kagame said that the continent did not wish to see more problems in the Democratic Republic of Congo beyond what is already there and wished that whoever the winner of the upcoming elec-tions should be, should aim at ameliorating and not escalating the situation and ensure peace and stability for the people.

In a Joint Communiqué read by the Rwandan foreign Minister and signed by both foreign affairs Ministers, the two Heads of State made a commitment for the two nations to strengthen cooperation in areas among others, of commerce, envi-ronment and natural resources, tourism, judiciary, air transport and public service reforms.

At a regional level, the two Heads of State made a commitment to follow closely the evolution of the DR Congo elections and noted that the International Heads of State Summit for the Great Lakes Sub-region scheduled for Kampala on December 25 would be good opportunity to revisit the security situation in the region. The late Dr. Leon H. Sullivan


New Congo Nile Trail officially launched in Gisenyi RWANDA DEvELOPMENT BOARD (RDB) last week launched the spectacular 227km undu-lating tourist trail, the Congo Nile Trail, Rwanda’s latest tourism product to bolster the tourism sector. The trail bridges the western Rwanda corridor passing through five districts with Rubavu as the starting point all the way to Rusizi.

“Tourism is Rwanda’s number one foreign exchange earner so we must capitalize on this by diversifying and bringing more products on the market for tourists,” said Rica Rwigamba, RDB’s head of tourism and conservation.

Rwanda targets to earn USD 216 million this year compared to USD 200 million collected last year. The trail has many attractions such as coffee and tea routes with twelve coffee washing stations, three tea factories and natural beaches along the shores of Lake Kivu.

The launch of the snaking trail follows other products launched recently including the birding routes in Bugesera, Eastern Province and cultural products in Nyanza, Southern Province.

According to Rwigamba, the trail which mainly runs in rural areas will boost the economic life of the local people, leading to sustainable growth. A tourist on foot will take 10 days to complete the trail. That cycling takes 6 days while 4x4 driving takes a day.

The local people are still expected to promote to continue with the campaign to promote and maintain the tourist attractions. Nelson Mbarush-

imnana, the Executive Secretary of Rubavu Advi-sory Council urged residents to embrace the trail and exploit the opportunities it offers.

“We … must establish businesses along this route in order to benefit economically,” he said. But Rwandans as well are encouraged to experi-ence the same trail instead of leaving it to the foreigners.

The Congo Nile Trail is an exciting ten day hiking experience, which covers a wide range of fascinating attractions on Lake Kivu shores, with a distance of 227 Kilometers stretching from Rubavu to Rusizi via Karongi and Nyamasheke

US envoy applauds Rwanda for remarkable progress

News

The US Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Susan Rice on her recent visit to Rwanda applauded the country for the progress made in the last 17 years under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.

Ambassador Rice made the remarks while speaking at the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST). “I was in Rwanda in December 1994, just 6 months after the geno-cide and I am still horrified by what I saw then,” she said.

The Ambassador was addressing a crowd of over four hundred university students from across Rwanda as well as professors, members of the civil society and government officials.

She at the same time commended the role by Rwandan women in the country’s recon-struction process, appreciating the fact that the country is among a few with majority women in parliament. She also acclaimed the sustained economic and business reforms that Rwanda has implemented to ease investment as part of efforts to decrease dependence on foreign aid.

She further appreciated Rwanda for peace keeping and peace building in various parts of the world. She paid tribute to fallen Rwandan peacekeepers, saluting their bravery.

Ambassador Rice was in Rwanda for a four-day visit where she met government officials, business and civil society as well as the commu-nity. She took part in Umuganda, the monthly community works in Musanze district in Northern Rwanda.

“We … must establish businesses along this

route in order to benefit economically,”NELSON MBARUSHIMNANA, THE

ExECUTIvE SECRETARY OF RUBAvU ADvISORY COUNCIL


districts. The trail offers among other attractions the best coffee and tea experiences, with scen-eries beautiful beyond imagination

The Congo Nile trail includes eight amazing base camps, two extra ordinary paths and four bonus diverse sub trails, which are all, added value that make up this breath taking hiking experience a life time.


€11 million hydropower plants to trasform rural lives

News

Districts ready plans ahead of December deadlineTHE HEAD OF HOUSING, Urban Plan-ning and Development Division at Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA), Edward Kyazze, says 17 districts have readied their local development plans ahead of schedule though 13 others are yet to do so while December target comes closer. Development or master plans guide districts as they grow into urban centres. RHA requires all the 30 districts of Rwanda to have completed their

19-11-2011: Police officers and citizens joined hands in the tree planting campaign in Ndera sector, Gasabo district as part of the force’s ongoing tree planting drive across the country. The campaign is in line with government’s vision of ensuring that 30% of the country is covered by by forests by 2030.

18-11-2011: 28 police officers today completed a two weeks training in strategic planning and management at Police Head Quarters in Kacyiru. The course was organ-ised by Rwanda National Police and funded by Private Sector Capacity Building Secretariat through Rwanda Institute of Administration and Management.

18-11-2011: 750 members of Commu-nity Policing Committees, cell leaders, repre-sentatives of local defense forces, village secu-rity personnel as well as RDF reserve forces commonly known as were sensitized on general security issues.

The Rwanda National Police tree planting drive continued in Kaduha cell, Munyaga sector Rwamagana district. A total of 25,200 tree seed-lings were planted on a twelve and a half hectare surface.

16-11-2011: Police officers started a three week Senior Investigating officer Course at Kigali Institute of Education. The training is organized by Rwanda National Police and funded by the Belgium Technical Cooperation (BTC) with the British Government.

14-11-2011: The Police Council, the highest Police organ which meets quarterly, met to review and design ways to improve on service delivery, force welfare and maintain maximum security during the coming festive season.

12-11–2011: Six police officers and five army officers from Rwanda National Police and Rwanda Defense Forces respectively completed a three day workshop on weapons tracing system that was conducted at RNP headquarters in Kacyiru.

11-11-2011: Rwanda National Police held a three day retreat in Gashora, Bugesera district. The Retreat strategically focused on managing the security changing environment and reviewed the implementation of the resolu-tion of the fourth Police retreat.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, vISIT:WWW.POLICE.GOv.RW

THE EURO. 11.1million micro hydropower plants launched in the districts of Rubavu and Rutsiro are expected to tremendously change the lives of residents similar to other parts of Rwanda where electricity is available.

The dams to add 3.2 MW to the national grid include Keya in Rubavu District and Cyimbili and Nkora in Rutsiro District.

Residents in the area are excited at the launch of the plants. “Ever since we got connected to electricity, our area has changed. We no longer sleep early, our children do their homework easily in evenings and we listen to radio to know what’s happening around the world without worrying about batteries,” said a 50-year old resident.More than 300 households have been connected, a move that is expected to directly

or indirectly benefit over 100,000 inhabitants. Several health facilities, schools and local admin-istration offices are similarly being connected. With the availability of electricity, there will be indoor lighting and improved access to infor-mation (Tv, radio). Health centres will also be able to keep vaccines in recommended condi-tions, and carry out basic obstetrical and surgery operations. Local residents hope to create more income generating activities and other opportu-nities. The three hydo-electric plants have been constructed through the project co-funded by the Governments of Rwanda and Belgium.

The Government of Rwanda has recognised electricity as an engine to foster socioeconomic development, that has hence become a top priority.

respective local development plans by the end of this year. RHA, he says offers technical and financial assistance towards the imple-mentation of the plans though districts hire consultants to do the job. Some the districts yet to complete their development plans are Gasabo, Burera, NgororeroKicukiro, Rutsiro, Kamonyi, Gisagara, Gicumbi and Ruhangoi. Some of the challenges the districts face in the implementation of the local plans include low capacity among residents to meet the required infrastructural standards and lack of enough basic infrastructural facilities in some districts.


THE CONTRIBUTION of water, sanita-tion and hygiene (WASH) to the country’s economic development cannot be under-estimated, a non government organisation, WaterAid Rwanda says, as it challenges the Government to inject more funds in the sector despite the country’s remarkable progress towards the MDG target.

According to Nshuti Rugerinyange, Wate-rAid’s Country Representative in Rwanda, Government’s expenditure on WASH is still low and falls short of the E-thekwini Declara-tion that requires Governments to spend 0.5 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Lapses in ensuring clean water, sanitation and hygiene cause diseases such as diarrhoea that is a leading cause of death among chil-dren under the age of five every year.

In 2008, 9,305 children in Rwanda died from diarrhoea, says Health Epidemiology reference group of WHO and Unicef, lancet 2010. Though such statistics could have changed, in the two weeks prior to the coun-try’s last Demographic Household Survey, 13.7 percent of children under the age of five had diarrhoea.

The Off-track, off-target , the new report from WaterAid, says minimal spending on WASH sector holds back progress on health, education, gender and economic growth. “A sick person will not go to work, a sick child will not go to school and we shall

have hospitals congested with WASH-related illness,” adds Rugerinyange.

WaterAid, meanwhile, is involved in the water works campaign to urge Governments across the world to do more to tackle the challenges in the WASH sector.

“The campaign aims to show world leaders that taps and toilets are simple, effec-tive and affordable and that investing in these basic human needs is an urgent priority,” Rugerinyange adds.

Regionally, the report says Sub Saharan Africa need to spend at least 3.5 percent of GDP on wash services. But also, it calls on the donor community to double aid flow to WASH as a way of prioritising an additional US$ 10 billion per year. It notes that poor people in Africa are five times less likely to have access to adequate sanitation and over

15 times more likely to practice open defeca-tion than the continent’s rich, hence the call to Governments to target WASH resources to the poor.

The WaterAid report further warns: “The shortfall in WASH services costs sub Saharan African countries around 5 percent of GDP each year.” In 2009 it was estimated at USD 47.7 billion, 100 billion more than the development aid the whole continent received in the same year.

More arguments: 884 million worldwide are without clean water and 2.6 billion without safe sanitation. Millennium Devel-opment Goal (MDG) for water is off-track in Africa, Oceania and Least Developed Coun-tries. Diarrhoea now the biggest killer of children in Africa and responsible for over two million deaths worldwide. And major inequalities in access: rural/urban, richest/poorest, exclusion of marginalised groups, burden falling disproportionally on women and children.

More Interventions needed to promote WASH

The report urges national governments to exercise much stronger leadership, with key institutions fit for purpose. Leadership, it says should be from highest level of govern-ment like Rwanda and strong bottom-up demand from grass roots, like Uganda, with donors in support.

It also advocates for high-level partici-pation and support for the Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) Partnership, the best opportunity in a generation to drive forward the political will, determination and leader-ship needed – next High Level Meeting 20 April 2012, Washington DC. And reform from governments, donors and NGOs to improve the transparency and accountability of budgets and spending.

Target aid on the basis of need: particu-larly Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, Least Developed Countries, fragile and low income countries, and middle income countries where WASH need is high. Off-track coun-tries in Africa and South Asia are advised in the report to spend at least 1% GDP each year on sanitation. It also asks donors to double aid flows to release an extra $10 billion each year to 2015.

The report draws on global research conducted by WaterAid, particularly in Ethi-opia, Ghana, India, Madagascar, Nepal and Tanzania.

B Y G E O R G E M A N G U L A

NGO calls for more investments in water sector

“The campaign aims to show world leaders that

taps and toilets are simple, effective and affordable

and that investing in these basic human needs is an

urgent priority,”

News


International Briefs

Confusion and violence in the DRC general elections

PRESIDENTIAL and parliamentary elections were held in Democratic Republic of the Congo on 28 November 2011, a facultative run-off on 26 February 2012 was shelved with a change in election laws. The government passed laws to abolish the second round of the presiden-tial election and to change from proportional to majority representation, which has been strongly criticised by the opposition. Concerns have been raised about the transparency of the elections by a number of international organi-zations.. Criticism has also been raised about the neglect of international organizations, namely the United Nations and the European Union in their support for the elections in the DR Congo. On 8 November, 2011 opposition leader Étienne Tshisekedi declared himself president saying the majority of people turned

against President Kabila. The elections whose results expected to be announced on December 6, were held under what observers said ‘diffi-cult conditions’. There were reported incidents of violence throughout the country and chaotic voting leading to loss of lives.

Candidate vital Kamerhe has urged Congo-lese to denounce the election results that he says are in favour of the incubent Joseph Kabila, adding that ballots had been marked ahead of the poll. Some voters were prevented from entering polling stations. Three other candidates also have urged the Congolese not to accept any results, saying technical problems and fraud meant they would not be credible. However, Kabila’s main rival, Etienne Tshisekedi, did not join their call. His party said it was confident he would win. Ivory Coast’s former president Laurent

Gbagbo was handed to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague days ago to answer charges against him. In October, ICC judges gave prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo the green light to probe post-election war crimes and crimes against humanity committed by forces loyal to both Gbagbo and new Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara. In Paris, a lawyer for Gbagbo called the ICC arrest warrant “illegal” and said it would only serve to exacer-bate tensions in the west African country right before the elections. The former leader also faces charges on home soil for “economic crimes”, allegedly committed during the political crisis that left 3000 people dead after his refusal to accept defeat in November 2010 elections.

THOUSANDS OF FLESH-eating piranhas have infested a Brazilian river beach popular with tourists, biting at least 15 unwary swim-mers. One of the bathers lost the tip of their toe during a fren-zied attack. Officials in the city of Caceres said it was the first time piranhas had been seen at Daveron beach, on the Paraguay River. The aggressive razor-tooth fish began schooling there about three weeks ago. But authorities said the beach would remain open because it is an important draw in Brazil’s Pantanal region, known for its ecotourism. Each year, Caceres, in the western state of Mato Grosso, hosts what local officials bill as Brazil’s biggest fishing festival, a week-long event that draws 200,000 people for fishing tournaments and concerts. The city has seen far fewer people than normal use the beach because of the attacks.

Flesh-eating piranhas invade Brazilian beach

Khartoum blocks South Sudanese oil exports

The Khartoum government has blocked South Sudanese oil exports through its Red Sea port due to a dispute over transit fees, Oil Minister Ali Ahmed Osman saidlast week. Sudan wants South Sudan to pay the fees of the port and some other fees. The total amount of fees owed is $727 million. In August, a southern oil cargo was briefly detained at Port Sudan, also because of the row over duty payments, before being allowed to sail. Khartoum said the author-ities in Port Sudan, the landlocked south’s only export terminal, had blocked a 600,000-barrel southern oil cargo after Juba refused to pay the duties. Just weeks before the south seceded, President Omar al-Bashir threatened to deny Juba access to the north’s oil infrastructure -- its pipelines, refinery and export terminal -- if no deal was reached prior to partition.The newly-independent country, which seceded from the north in July, depends on oil for 98 percent of its income.

Gbagbo charged

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ November 201112

Interview

B Y D I S PAT C H T E A M

Talking To nTawukulirYaYo The new number Two

Dr. Jean Damascene Ntawukuliryayo is one of the prominent politicians in rwanda who have played a key role in the country’s peace, unity and reconciliation processes. He is a member of the social Democratic party (psD) and has held three ministerial posts in the rwandan Government before. in october this year, Ntawukuliryayo was elected president of the rwandan senate the country’s number two position, replacing Dr vincent Biruta who successfully ended his eight-year term of office. Ntawukuliryayo ran for 2010 presidential elections on psD ticket, receiving 5% of votes to come second behind rwandan patriotic Front’s president paul Kagame who clinched the presidency with 93.4% of the votes cast to earn his last term as stipulated by the Constitution.rwanda Dispatch chatted with the patriotic politician whose party, the psD, he says, will lead rwanda in the near future by taking the presidency, probably counting on the fact that president Kagame retires at the end of his current term 2010-2017. read more especially on how he intends to steer the August House for the next eight years.

13Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ November 2011 ⎢

Interview

What should Rwandans expect of the new senate?

First of all, Rwandans should know what the senate is meant for and its vision. In the same way, it is up to us in the senate to continue explaining what we do in making laws and overseeing the Government.

We shall continue to do research on specific issues like fundamental rights as written in Article 9 of the Constitution . The senate will also continue fighting the geno-cide ideology, promoting equity and justice and building a democratic nation. Rwan-dans should also expect us to expedite busi-ness faster in a good way and with added value.

What do you plan to make the public aware of the role of the senate?

The reality is that most members of the public do not know the mandate of the senate. We found this when I was still in the Chamber of Deputies. What we have decided to do is to involve the public and private media on specific issues in press conferences. We shall continue with the Open Day where people come to parliament to witness what we do. Parliament is setting up a radio that will air what is happening in standing committees in the morning and plenary sessions in the afternoon. We plan to visit all districts, one by one, during Umuganda. We hope these programmes will help people know what we are doing.

What plans does parliament have to work with the private media?

As an open parliament, we have to open doors to all media. As parliamentarians, I don’t see the reason to refuse establishing collaboration with the private media. Parlia-ment is also interested in the media covering its events. And of course as parliament we buy newspapers of the private media on top of public media. The media can as well look for business in parliament.

Senatorial elections have gone through a democratic process. But there are other people who think they were not open enough like in other countries. What is your view on this?

The setting has been that we follow the constitution. Those who want this to be changed will have to wait until we revise

the constitution. We otherwise cannot do it today. However it is not right to argue that because a certain model is being used in another country, it should also be taken like that in Rwanda. Ours is in respect of the constitution.

Is the president of the senate a token of thanks for the PSD for working well with the RPF or it is just by sheer coincidence?

To begin with, people have to know that the election of the senators is by law and not decided by registered political parties. It is also important for people to know that His Excellency the President nominates some members to the senate. It should also be known that as a member and president of the PSD, I was elected based on the consti-tution and we are proud that we achieved this. People have to know that PSD has played a big role in this country. There is nothing abnormal that for the second time it happened like this. It is part of the power sharing as agreed by political parties in this country.

You came second during the presiden-tial elections and you were the first to concede defeat. Wouldn’t one say this is the time for the RPF to pay back?

In Rwanda, people have to know that going into elections doesn’t mean you are going to win. You have to expect a loss as well. The process which we went through is provided by the constitution. The election process was free and fair and as such, I had to concede defeat. As Rwandans, we should have a culture of accepting defeat especially when elections have been free and fair like it was during presidential elections last year. I believe that one day, the PSD will lead this country. I should also say that the PSD will continue to compete for seats at all levels of leadership.

Debate is emerging as to whether Rwanda should maintain indirect election of senators. At what time do you think Rwanda should introduce universal suffrage model as opposed to electoral colleges?

Those advocating for universal suffrage should wait until when there is a review of the constitution. People should know that before the Electoral College system was

adopted, many consultations were carried out and people voted for this system in our constitution. When time comes for the revi-sion of our constitution, people can raise such issues and we shall discuss them.

Do you think the senate is independent enough to make the Executive accountable?

The Organic Law of 2005 guides parlia-ment on Government oversight and it is from here that we derive our independ-ence. If we fail to do this job, then we take the blame. The law allows to follow what Government is doing for the people through the different programmes. In exer-cising our independence, we also listen to explanations of ministers and other officials and where necessary, we give recommen-dations. Sometimes we go on the ground to prove whether what officials tell us is indeed actual. All in all, I can tell you that the senate has the independence it needs to do its work.

Dr. Jean Damascène NTAWUKULIRYAYO was born on 08/08/1961 is married with three children

Education:Has a Ph.D Pharmacy from the University of Ghent in Belgium:1981-1986: was at the National University of Rwanda1974-1980: attending high school;1968-1974: attending Primary school; Role in Public service: Since 10/10/2011: President of the Senate06/10/2008 - 06/10/2011: Deputy, Vice President Chamber of Deputies in charge of finance and Administration2004-2008: Minister of Health2002-2004: Minister of Infrastructure08/02/1999-2002: State Minister in charge of higher education and technological research1997-1999: Vice Rector at National University of Rwanda1995-1996: Lecturer at NUR1986-1989: Assistant lecturer at NUR

Published papers:Has written at least 13 International papers in the field of pharmacy and has attended several conferences in his academic fieldHe is fluent in all the official languages in Rwanda

Hobbies include sports (Basketball, Football, Volley ball, Cycling, Footing) and music

QUICK FACTS


ALSO CONTINUOUSLY in the news is the other long failed state of Somalia. Many weeks since Kenya’s incursion into Somalia, a major break-through is yet to happen despite the supposed blockade of Kismayu port. The supposed govern-ment in Mogadishu, the Transitional Federal government [TFG] remains unable to use the much regional support to consolidate power across the country and re- establish authority.

Meanwhile the rising hostility towards Omar al Bashir led North Sudan among countries supportive of South Sudan’s cause particu-larly Uganda point to the drawing of battle lines for the disputed territories that remain centre of conflict since partition. Bashir, who is currently priding in helping rebels topple Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi, he remains at the centre of a country whose existence is contested as many African tribes resist Arab hegemony.

The challenges of Somalia, Congo and Sudan are just example of the wider structural chal-lenge that African faces. These failed giants of Congo and Sudan which posses some of the world’s unexploited fertile lands and unrivalled hydro power potential. Given the infrastructure challenges, one wonders why our states don’t combine resources for joint projects that could energize the development process.

Everyone knows how a railway network is desperately needed but most we hear is rhetoric and projects that aren’t getting off the ground. The ‘fierce urgency’ that one would expect is

Banana Republics

B Y G O N z A N G A M U G A N W A

By reading this article, results could be trickling in regarding the winner of Dr Congo presidential poll of 28th November the second democratic one since the fall of Mobutu ssese seko. A Congolese election was always going to be interesting. A country that has survived all types of exploitation and humiliation remains with some of the most enduring and patriotic peoples in Africa. some commentators have said that despite the absence of the state to provide any services, the Congolese still love their country intensely and usually organise themselves to provide basic services like primary education and health care with the assistance of the church here and there. Congo remains regarded largely as a failed state even though there are changes taking place with infrastructure projects emerging in some parts of the country.

Africa’s many failed states, up to when?

nowhere and it is not about lack of resources; some countries like Angola, Equatorial Guinea has the necessary reserves to finance infrastruc-ture projects beyond their borders.

These examples of failed states and foreign interference that is predicted to even increase in the coming years because of the West’s competi-tion with emerging economies i.e. China, Brazil, India etc for resources available in Africa is reason to rethink the survival strategy.

Whereas there is enough ground to argue that African states should not have failed even though most were not firmly grounded at the onset of independence, this column takes the view that

failure was guaranteed from the start. At one stage, an intriguing argument seemed

to hold among a section of black-nationalist figures that Africans and black people in general were too simple to pursue complicated projects essential for development of the industrializa-tion route. While not fighting this celebration of simplicity former Senegalese President and

writer Leopold Senghor and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere of Tanzania among others, instead prop-agated differing brands of African socialism. The reasoning was that Africa was so much behind it couldn’t compete and had to find its own way. This ideological attempt to not only respond to colonialism but develop a model for African development is the last significant one the conti-nent saw.

It is undeniable that most of the ruling elites are in comfort zones and would do nothing to rock the boat that grants them the finest of life-styles that little labor and thought can deliver. This explains why even promising projects like the East African community integration process is progressing behind schedule. What is clear is that there has been lack of genuine ambition that seeks to alter the super structure through which we are organised and therefore provide organ-ised communities- if they may be called that- that can compete globally on the same level with the emerging world giants know as BRICS.

All this brings fore the question whether Africa can really advance to the next level and achieve transformation given the current nation-state makeup or dramatic changes have to take place.

What is clear is that the nation state bestowed on us by the Bismarck led Berlin conference of 1884 has failed. 50 years since independence that none has led transformation is testament of this.

At independence, African nationalists largely sought to end colonial rule but not create new nations reflective of particular identities with only unsuccessful attempts by the likes of Kwame Nkrumah for grand African unity. Other federa-tions like that between Mali and Senghor did not last long and the continent settled primarily within the borders dictated by the colonialists at Berlin 1884. Since then, attempts to alter borders have been through secessionist movements

complaining of marginalization but factoring in the current global political-economic order going big is the way forward.

What are the next attempts and how far will the East African federation lead the way. This will remain a subject of discussion by this column for a long time. EMAIL: [email protected]

These examples of failed states and foreign interference that is predicted to even increase in the coming years because of the West’s competition with emerging economies i.e. China, Brazil, India etc for resources available in Africa is reason to

rethink the survival strategy

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ December 201116

Cover

the question of

poliTiCal spaCe Kagame insists Rwandans expRess themselves

In a lot of commentary about Rwanda, a certain narrative seems to have taken root which describes a country that has achieved tremendous steps in the field of social and economic development but failed to move forward with civil and political rights. It has

become almost standard for many to say that Rwanda has recovered impressively from the ravages of genocide and is recording impressive economic growth but politically remains authoritarian.

President Paul Kagame chose his attendance of Umuganda monthly community work at Nduba sector in the outskirts of Kigali on 26th November to address this, addressing clearly those who doubt the extent of democracy, free expression and human rights in Rwanda. The underscored point being could a country achieve all this progress without being democratic? If there is care and respon-siveness to the interests of the citizens, shouldn’t that be a sign of political development.

While President Kagame did not directly name who he was responding to, the message was clear. Speaking in Kinyarwanda he said to the effect that his government could not be implementing all the pro people policies without being democratic. “When you advance human rights, you are number one globally in promoting equality, advance women who previously had no say and you say that is not democracy. If you tell me that that is not respecting human rights, then you must be sick. If you provide education to all children of Rwanda, they get informed, empowered, well raised and fed as a basis for pursuing their ambitions and say whatever they want to say and then you claim that is not democracy, you must have a problem”.

Citing his government’s vast investment in the promotion of Information Communications Technology [ICT] with the target of every Rwandan having access to the internet, and therefore be able to communicate globally, the president wondered how then can a country be closed. Asking what being closed was, he asked his audi-ence if anyone had been brought by gun point to attend the event or had come at their own free will and would go back home the same way.

Kagame emphasized his thinking thus “the new Rwanda is one of dignity. It is our wish to work with Rwandans to achieve their ambi-tions. That is democracy; that is development; that is the fundamental human rights of everyone; that is where you express yourself anytime anywhere.”

Kagame spoke a few days after United States Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice delivered a speech at Kigali Institute of Science and Technology [KIST] on 23rd November to become the most prominent foreigner to recently call for movement on the polit-

17Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ December 2011 ⎢

Cover

the question of

poliTiCal spaCeical scene. Rice said “Your [Rwanda’s] progress, of course, has been uneven, with economic devel-opment far outpacing political development”. In a speech that so much praised the government and people of Rwanda that one would think it was written by RPF leaders themselves, the call for greater political space stood out.

Ambassador Rice who described herself as a friend and thus had to speak frankly proceeded to state that “Rwanda’s economic vitality has moved the country forward. Social progress has been substantial. Yet, the political culture in Rwanda remains comparatively closed. Press restrictions persist. Civil society activists, journalists, and political opponents of the government often fear organizing peacefully and speaking out. Some have been harassed. Some have been intimidated by late-night callers. Some have simply disap-peared.”

Tellingly, she immediately cited President Kagame’s own words are regards the ongoing Arab revolutions; “the uprising in Libya has already sent a message to leaders in Africa and beyond. It is that if we lose touch with our people, if we do not serve them as they deserve and address their needs, there will be conse-quences. Their grievances will accumulate - and no matter how much time passes, they can turn against you”.

The pointer and what can be regarded as America’s foreign policy expectation of Rwanda was Rice’s clear statement that “the deepening and the broadening of democracy can be the next great achievement of this great country and its remarkable people. In Rwanda, economic devel-opment and political openness can reinforce each other. This is Rwanda’s next great developmental challenge. And, with all that you have achieved over the past 17 years, I am confident you will pass this milestone as well”.

Susan Rice is not the only one thinking there is need to expand the political space. In a recent interview carried by the Independent maga-zine, former World Bank top official Dr. Callisto Madavo said “Rwanda has become a very very attractive place for investment and I credit [Presi-dent] Kagame for bringing discipline to Rwan-da’s economy… I think where the jury is out, however, is when it comes to the political dimen-sion. Kagame needs to open the political space. It was ok at the beginning when the country was recovering from genocide to keep a tight grip but time has come to open up.”

The fact that people who regard themselves as admirers of President Kagame and friends of Rwanda are calling for opening up of political space is significant.

This is a significant disagreement because the

government of Rwanda and supporters insist that all the progress outlined above would not have been possible without political development. It is that actually the political leadership working with the people that have guided the whole process.

However to understand why there is such a big difference of opinion on democracy in Rwanda a critical analysis of the context and the construc-tion of the Rwandan state is necessary. The defi-nition of what amounts to political space in Rwanda, is itself contentious among the Rwandan political elite, a clear divide existing between offi-cially recognised political parties and those that are unregistered and largely based in exile.

Therefore the core disagreement is in the nature of participation and who is considered to speaking and participating. Classical modern democracy expects open dissent like demonstra-tions and strikes against certain public policies as a sign of democracy. Thus the harmonious state of consensus based politics where no one seems unhappy is just too unbelievable to many.

President Kagame seemed to imply that free-doms are not about a small group of political elites wanting to say and do whatever they want but the empowered majority population who are participating in issues affecting them.

“[Of] all the more than eleven million Rwan-dans, everyone can speak their mind anytime anywhere because they are being empowered to do so. What can’t be accepted is saying that those who are supposed to be speaking without being answered back are the about 100 or 150

of limited political space. Most of the recent criticisms originate from the lead-up to the presi-dential election of 2010 and the extent of open participation that took place. The failure of critical opposition groups to register and present candi-dates was prominent. The participating parties, that is the dominate Rwandan Patriotic Front [RPF] and allies in government, insist that the necessary space exists. There parties are comfort-ably allied in power to a degree sharing top posi-tions and policy formulation though this is just one side of the political divide.

The irony is that Kagame’s influence and domi-nance of post- genocide Rwanda has meant that whatever opposition has emerged has concen-trated on attacking his personality rather than present alternative public policy manifestos.

To observers, the most important question now is whether people are content with the current political order and the amount of freedom it gives or are silently contemplating an alternative? Others argue that if the economic success is real and people are getting richer, it is natural that they will demand a greater say in issues around them and more open debate.

Whereas the economy has been growing on average 8 percent for the last decade, this is not big enough to create mass wealth that can make a successful tradeoff with political involvement. Many people remain poor.

The other point to note is that political space has become an issue because of the passage of time. Children born after genocide will be eligible


Yet, the political culture in Rwanda remains comparatively closed. Press restrictions persist.

Civil society activists, journalists, and political opponents of the government often fear organizing peacefully and speaking out.

UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR TO THE UNITED NATIONS SUSAN RICE

individuals out of the more than eleven million. These even include those who say nothing and others who say the destructive. As we are building Rwanda and you start saying the destructive, we destroy you. This we can’t apologize for, actually we are not doing it enough”.

Analysis shows that the existence of a small but vocal group of virulent anti- government activ-ists in politics and media and how much they should be allowed to participate on the ground in Rwanda is at the core of the persistent image

to vote during the next general election i.e. for lower house of parliament in September 2013. The genocide factor is being canceled out.

What is clear is that the extent of the exercise of universal freedoms of expression, assembly and conscience in Rwanda will remain debated for some time. It is enigmatic that Kagame who displayed such skill as he consolidated power within the RPF and later as the nation’s leader earning unprecedented international respect as an innovative leader and statesman remains dogged by questions about political freedoms.


Kagame doesn’t want third term but debate won’t go away

NOT SURPRISINGLY, the question of succession come the expiry of President Kagame’s second and final term in 2017 is taking centre stage in any discussion in and about the country. At almost any given opportunity, whoever is interviewing President Kagame poses the question of whether he will respect the constitution and retire on time. This is despite his clear pronouncement that he intends to retire and want no role in amending the consti-tution.

At a recent briefing to visiting American editors, Kagame at some stage he said that he wasn’t stupid to think of wanting to be a life president. Most crucially he stated that “I will not be president in 2017”. All these categorical statements that have been made since immediately after re-election have someone managed to attract more debate and speculation rather than completely clear the air.

Kagame is quoted as saying that he did not want the third term issue to dominate the remainder of his term. This is impor-tant because a discussion and politicking by either side of the third term divide could divert needed attention towards implementing the manifesto for which Kagame was re-elected.

Like in any political situation, there are different interests at play. Undoubtedly there are beneficiaries of the existing order who view a third term as their only guar-antee to sustained success and any change could potentially lead to demise of their fortunes.

The leading pro third term voice is Musa Fazil Harerimana the minister for internal security and head of a political party of unknown consequence called PDI. Fazil one of those individuals in cabinet not because of any particular technical competence but rather because they represent a supposed

B Y G O N z A N G A M U G A N W A

constituency and has overtime showed willingness for sycophantic praise, would certainly be a loser in a different order.

Commentary

and turned down the post in 1994 as evidence of no intentions to cling on to the job. This however could point to a similar trend where it is others pushing for his stay in office, not directly originating from him, which leads to the same result anyway.

Because Kagame was the military commander of RPF, he held practical clout a similar reason people still expect him to still hold the levers of power for a long time. This is a pointer to where the whole succession issue could be headed. For instance it won’t be unusual for Kagame to leave office and still remain the most influential person in the country. Kagame’s overwhelmingly dominant presence on the political scene is actually the reason succes-sion debate will remain a staple.

Given the moral standing and cred-ibility as a former head of state who had successful reign, he would influence the choice of successor to fit his vision and continued implementation of policies to advance thus. A close following of the Pres-ident on Twitter where he is regularly asked about third term, there is a pointer towards being influential without necessarily being president.

With about six years to go, it is still too early to say what will happen in 2017 and whether the political circumstances will still be the same. The difference will however come when there are clear patterns like active glooming of a successor like how Nelson Mandela did with Thabo Mbeki in South Africa.

Significant will be watching the

Given the moral standing and credibility as a former head of state who had successful reign, he would

influence the choice of successor to fit his vision and continued implementation of policies to advance thus.

Even within the business community, subtle voices are being heard aimed at gauging the environment before open campaigns begin to have the constitution amended. Kagame has severally cited the fact that he never wanted to be president

dynamics within the RPF and other allied political parties that are active in Rwanda. From media coverage so far, this is a subject where there is open divergent views, some-thing that is uncommon among officially recognised political organization.

Musa Fazil Harerimana


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PARTICIPANTS at the recently concluded high level meeting on post-conflict peacebuilding in Kigali have recommended that Rwanda’s initiatives implemented in nationbuilding be included in the UN Peacebuilding Commis-sion’s (PBC) work, via a global platform for lessons sharing between nations coming out of conflict.

The recommendation comes after the country shared her experiences on using home grown approaches to stabilise and develop the country after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. President while opening the meeting said Rwanda was ready to share these experi-ences with countries that are interested.

Ambassador Eugene Gasana, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to UN, and current

Chair of the PBC says: “The PBC should build on existing mechanisms within the UN system to facilitate the deployment of expertise from Rwanda, other African countries and coun-tries from the global south, such as the civilian capacity mechanisms.”

Rwandan initiatives recommended were: Gacaca courts, power sharing, National Dialogue, Ingando, Reconcilation clubs, Ubudehe, among others.

The innovative approaches to statebuilding and socio-economic development, according to country’s Foreign Minister, Louise Mushiki-wabo are part of the best practices drawn and modernized from Rwandan traditions. They have become major drivers of the country’s development.

Minister Mushikiwabo further commends Rwanda’s new openness to regional and inter-national collaboration: “We had lived since our independence in the early 60s in a country where there was no encouragement to open up even to our neighbourhood - a sort of para-noia to openness...We have opened our borders by integrating in the East African Community, opening embassies in West Africa and have gone to Asia to look for ways of improving the lives of our citizens.”

Some foreigners also who take pride in Rwanda’s home-grown approaches to address local challenges. Ugandan social researcher, Frederick Golooba-Mutebi, says that Rwanda sets the best example in Africa to use uncon-ventional innovative initiatives to deliver services to the citizenry. “Critics of post-genocide Rwanda who claimed that Rwanda’s transformation was limited to the urban areas prompted me to carry out research and what I found out was different in areas of health, access to water and sanitation. I was able to see evidence of clear transformation even in the furthest areas of rural Rwanda,” Mutebi says.

Aid effectivenessOn Rwanda’s strategic use of aid, the Perma-

nent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Kampeta Sayinzoga says that the coordination mechanism and mutual accountability system established between donors and the government that have led to aid effectiveness. In 2001 World Survey, Rwanda alongside Tanzania were the only two coun-tries given an ‘A’ rating by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) for aid effectiveness. This according to analysts boosts donor confidence.

Committed leadershipThe European Union Head of delegation in

Rwanda, Ambassador Michel Arrion praises Rwanda’s committed leadership in delivering positive results to the people.

“Rwanda has an extremely committed leadership from the top to the grassroots – committed to the stability and security of the country, which is of primary importance for a country like Rwanda, but also to its devel-opment. It is a fair and equitable development,

rwanda rises high as world admire iTs home- grown iniTiaTives

Analysis

PEACE & STATE BUILDING THE RWANDA EXPERIENCE


and this is extremely important. The benefits of development are equally and fairly distributed not only in Kigali but in the provinces, and benefits the poorest fringes of the population.”

Social transformation Ambassador Arrion cited vision 2020

Umurenge programme and mutuelles de santé system as two examples of social protection programmes that have had a profound impact on the welfare of Rwandans. The mutuelles or health insurance is moving towards 100 coverage as most of the citizens have been covered with some areas so at 100% coverage.

Country prioritiesBella Bird, the World Bank Country Director

for North and South Sudan says that based on Rwanda’s successes realised through local initi-atives, there is need for international develop-ment partners to understand the history and the context of countries coming out of conflict if their aid is to deliver positive result. Rwanda, she says set her own priorities and has got it right.

What peers saySome states are so appreciative of Rwanda’s

positive story. This is best summarised in the words of Deputy Prime Minister of Timor Leste, Jose Luis Guterres: “Rwandans have to be congratulated for what they have achieved. Survivors have had the courage and humanity to find new ways to reaffirm that values that are common to us all in respect of human life. The question of reconciliation is fundamental.”

Replicating Rwanda’s initiativesRecognising the results of home initia-

tives, the African Development Bank has now pledged to take Rwanda’s statebuilding process to other post-conflict countries. More so that the meeting proposed the establishment of a peer to peer exercise to share learning on the importance of self driven and the country- owned state building processes show how Rwanda got it well on various fronts. No wonder the outcome of document will be shared with conflict affected states to draw on the lessons learned from Rwanda’s experience in the practical implementation of the “New Deal” at the next High-Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness to take place in Busan, Republic of Korea between November 29 and December 3, 2011.

Analysis

Notable quotatioNs from the meetiNg

“The PBC should build on existing mechanisms within the UN system to facilitate the deployment of expertise from Rwanda, other African countries and countries from the global south, such as the civilian capacity mechanisms. The Government of Rwanda will continue to share its expertise in each of the areas addressed during the High-level Event with countries on the PBC agenda and other countries emerging from conflict.”

“We had lived since our independence in the early 60s in a country where there was no encouragement to open up even to our neigh-bourhood - a sort of paranoia to openness. It was a traumatic expe-rience to apply for a passport in the past but now you can do this online. We have opened our borders by integrating in the East African Community, opening embassies in West Africa and have gone to Asia to look for ways of improving the lives of our citizens. One of the revolutions of this country is the education system, which before was

discriminatory, but has now brought about a major change in our society”.

“Critics of post-genocide Rwanda who claimed that Rwanda’s transformation was limited to the urban areas prompted me to carry out research and what I found out was different in areas of health, access to water and sanitation. I was able to see evidence of clear transformation even in the furthest areas of rural Rwanda”.

“When we started after the genocide we were accused of being dreamers and many donors did not believe that we could do what we did. Over time we have proven that being ambitious as a post conflict nation is a good thing and something that should not be laughed at because these targets can be achieved, not necessarily with a lot of aid

money but also with political will”.

“There is a lesson that other countries could take away from Rwanda. We often hear that international development partners like the World Bank and others do not relate to the experiences of countries coming out of conflict, that we bring our frameworks and models – yes we do, and throw labels like ‘kangaroo courts’ on what turns out to be a real effective local justice mechanism and we don’t necessarily understand. “

BELLA BIRD, THE WORLD BANK COUNTRY DIRECTOR FOR NORTH AND SOUTH SUDAN

AMBASSADOR EUGENE GASANA, RWANDA’S PERMANENT REPRESENTATIvE TO UN

RWANDA’S FOREIGN MINISTER, LOUISE MUSHIKIWABO

FREDERICK GOLOOBA-MUTEBI, A RESEARCHER FROM MAKERERE UNIvERSITY

PERMANENT SECRETARY IN THE MINISTRY OF FINANCEAND ECONOMIC PLANNING, KAMPETA SAYINzOGA

UMWEZI No 87 19 - 28 Kanama, 201120 KWAMAMAZA


NATIoNAl ElECToRAl CoMMISSIoN

The National Electoral Commission of Rwanda

(NEC) is mandated by the constitution

to manage elections in Rwanda. Since its formation in 2000,

NEC has over the years managed successful

elections including the August 2010 Presidential

elections and the just concluded September,

2011 senatorial elections. Rwanda Dispatch interviewed the

Executive Secretary, Charles Munyaneza on

the senatorial elections and below we bring

you his responses to different topics.

neC To ConTinue managing smooTh eleCToral proCesses

Genesis of senatorial elections in Rwanda

In 2003 Rwanda had elections for both chambers of parliament, thus the chamber of Deputies and the senate. Specifically for the senate, constitutionally the senate has got an eight-year term of office. In 2011 we were supposed to have another around of senatorial elections because the eight years were done. That is why at the beginning this of year NEC

drafted an electoral calendar and was discussed and passed by Cabinet on June 1, 2011 and elections were held September.

Going by the electoral calendar NEC started preparing in terms of whatever we were supposed to prepare in terms of educating the public on senatorial elections but specifi-cally the electoral colleges because these were indirect elections. We had to register the voters, the electoral college which was mainly for the senators who were supposed to be elected from




Submitting names to the Supreme Court

After the nominations NEC submitted the candidates to the Supreme Court because by law it is the Supreme Court that is supposed to approve senatorial candidates. After the Supreme Court approved, they again gave NECthe approved candidates and NEC announced the names of those candidates. Out of the 62 candidates that had we submitted to the Supreme Court they were three candidates who were not approved the Supreme Court because they did not fulfill certain require-ments especially the academic requirements.

Candidates supposed to campaign

After this NEC announced candidates who were supposed to campaign and before they started campaigning one of them withdrew his candidature for personal reasons as he wrote to us. so we had 58 candidates running for elections. We had 9 candidates in Kigali City for one senator. We had 5 in the Northern Province where we were supposed to have two senators. We had 16 candidates for the southern Province where we were supposed to

have three senators. In the Western Province we had 9 whereas we were supposed to have three senators. We had 13 in Eastern Province where we were supposed to have three senators.

CampaignsThe campaign started as usual. According

to the law, these candidates were supposed to campaign before the electoral colleges as it was not the general public that was supposed to elect them. NEC organized campaign meet-ings whereby we invited the electorate. At each district level, NEC gathered district councils and part of sector councils and invited candi-dates to come and campaign before them. We did the same in the public and private insti-tutions of learning. There were five candidates for public institutions and one candidate for private institutions.

The process went on smoothly with a very good number of people coming up to witness the campaigns. Though the candidates were supposed to campaign in front of the elec-toral colleges, the campaigns were open to the general public because once elected the senators are supposed to represent the whole population and not only the provinces or universities where they were elected.

the provinces. NEC had to register members of the district council but also the bureau of sector councils who are supposed to partici-pate in electing the senators who are supposed to represent the four provinces and Kigali City. But also NEC had to register lecturers in public and private universities and institutions which were supposed to participate in electing sena-tors who were supposed to represent these institutions. We registered everybody who was supposed to be registered.

BudgetingNEC had to look for money to run these elec-

tions. Incidentally we had planned and budg-eted for it in the current 2011/12 budget. We had budgeted close to RwF. 420 million and Government gave us that money as provided for in the current budget.

Nominating candidatesThe exercise started on August 1 and ended

August 16, 2011. By the time NEC closed the nomination process it had received 62 candi-dates in all. Thus, those who were supposed to campaign in the provinces and Kigali City and higher institutions of learning.




NEC held senatorial elections for two consecutive days, on 26th and 27th of September. On 26th we had elections for sena-tors from provinces and Kigali City. On 27th we had elections for senators from public and private universities and other higher institu-tions of learning.

Voter turn- upI can say there was a very good turn up

in terms of candidates compared to 2003. vote turn up in provinces and Kigali City was 97.7%. We had 85.6% for private universi-ties and higher institutions of learning. voter turn-up in public institutions was the lowest with 74.2%. One of the reasons for the low turn up in public institutions is that elections were held at the time when they were in holi-days,. It was not easy for lecturers to come back to their respective institutions to cast their votes as required by law. Some had gone out of the country and others had gone for further training.

On high number of candidates

Our senate has 26 members and out of those only 14 elected members and others either are appointed by H.E the President and the Forum of Political Parties. Having 62 candidates vying of only 14 senatorial seats was a good progress in terms of competitive electoral process. Apart from the candidate who withdrew his candi-dature, the rest campaigned up to the last day and NEC was happy for this because each of the candidates was sure he/she would win.

Women candidatesThis time there was a good number of

women candidates. Out of 62 we had 19 women candidates. This an equivalent of around 34% compared to 66% for men. In any case women’s participation at this level was above the 30% requirement in the Rwanda’s legal instruments.

Local observersA good number of local electoral observers

(298) turned up. These were drawn from civil society, political parties, professional institutions like research institutions, foreign embassies accredited to Rwanda and national institutions like the National Unity and Recon-ciliation Commission and the Human Rights Commission. It was a good number such that on average you would find 10 electoral observers.

Smoothness of the process and outcome

On the whole the process went on smoothly as we did everything in time as planned. There was no interruption or interference. We announced the results as we were supposed to do and at the end of it we are very happy that everybody accepted the outcome of the electoral process. Nobody challenged us in court. The process went on as the Constitution prescribes. The new members of the senate were sworn-in on October 10, 2011, exactly eight years when the senators who were elected in 2003 we supposed to end their mandate. We are almost done with the process of evalu-ation of the conduct of this process. We have met the civil society, electoral observers, local government officials and the media and soon will meet other partners including donors. We would like other people to tell us about this process and advise us we can improve it.

Some challengesNEC has started to receive complaints on

some qualifications required for one to run as a senator. Some people think that require-ments in terms of age (40 and above years) and possession of a first degree are so high for them. Also NEC has realised that there were no women candidates for senators to represent public and private universities and other insti-tutions of higher learning. Some people are arguing that the requirement that one must be an associate professor or full professor unfair to women in Rwanda as not many have attained this level. This was the same with private insti-tutions of higher learning where we had only one candidate running. But as NEC, we are going to present these issues to other stake-holders. It should be noted that NEC has no powers to change these standards.

More so, some members of the public don’t know the role of the senate but in partner-ship with the senate, through its civic educa-tion programme NEC will begin sensitization activities so that members of the public can understand the role of the senators and there-fore participate in the electoral process from an informed position.

THE NEW ELECTED SENATORS

BISHAGARA KAGOYIRE THERESE

MUSHINzIMANA APOLLINAIRE

SINDIKUBWABO J. NEPOMUSCENEMUKASINE MARIE CLAIRE BIzIMANA JEAN DAMASCENENIYONGIRA GALLICAN

Southern province

AMB. RUGEMA MICHELMUKABALISA DONATILLESEBUHORO CELESTIN

eaStern province

WeStern province

PROF. BAJYANA EMMANUEL PROF. NKUSI LAURENT

private and public univerSitieS

GAKUBA JEANNE D’ARC BIzIMANA EvARISTEMUSABEYEzU NARCISSE

Kigali northern province

Nobody challenged us in court. The process went on as the Constitution

prescribes.

ITERAMBERERY’UMUGORE(Women Development)

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ITERAMBERERY’UMUGORE(Women Development)

Don't miss


Rwanda’s Legacy

FOR EAST AFRICANS to realise a Political Federation, our leaders need to provide a vision to the masses so that the federa-tion would be realized even if they are no longer serving or alive. The most impor-tant thing now is for our leaders to build strong institutions that can promote unity and cooperation amongst the East African peoples and align them to common aspira-tions.

But we know that some leaders in the region are not interested in the building of such institutions as countries that now form the new East African Community. They believe individuals are more impor-tant than the institutions. This is wrong because leaders come and go. To fight this we could borrow examples from coun-tries where institutions have been working effectively for decades or even centuries.

It’s important to note that the building and strengthening of public institutions in Africa has been slow since the colonial-ists left the continent. In some countries certain programmes and policies have to be implemented at the will of the leader or president. This is wrong for the new East Africa Community that has to compete with other blocs in Africa and the world at large.

The above scenario is a colonial mentality and our leaders should drop it from their

paradigms. Here in Rwanda, we had proac-tive leaders before the coming of colonial-ists. They could discuss with their subor-dinates about activities to be done. The current President is doing the same being through elaborate meetings with the local Rwandans in their localities. This is a real

origin of the EAC launched in 1967 by the three countries of Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda few years after they gained their national independence. The founding leaders had a true and nationalistic vision for the greater East Africa Community. Much as there were some misunderstand-ings, the Late Julius Kambarage Nyerere Mwalimu of Tanzania (RIP), Jomo Keny-atta of Kenya (RIP) and Milton Obote of Uganda(RIP) pushed on until Idi Amin through a coup d’état overthrew Obote and contributed to the collapse of the EAC.

The former leaders were able to put in place services and institution through the -East African Common Services Organi ״zation״ grouping airways, railways and harbors, Posts and Telecommunications, Currency, Customs, Income taxes, to mention but a few. As the organization was controlling those services within those three countries, Nyerere thought it was a good opportunity for the people of East Africa under the unity of those services to go ahead and form the East African Federa-tion arguing that the people of these coun-tries were united by the services and could move and settle freely anywhere as they so wished.

B Y K AY I R A N G A K A L I S A

Let’s build stronger institutions to promote the E.African Political Federation

The formation of a federation is a difficult and long process; sometimes it takes centuries in order to realize this objective. sometimes it involves war as it was the case with the formation of the United states of America. read its history.

liberation. It’s the duty of every Rwandan to now listen and follow the advice and calls of our Head of State as we rebuild our nation and work towards the integration into the EAC. But leaders should also look at encouraging the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan to join. The more members we have, the more powerful we become in terms of resources, defence and negotiations among others.

In one of the previous articles I have written in this column, I highlighted the

Since that East African Common Services Organization was still in force, the three leaders decided to launch a common market later under the umbrella of the East African community. The initiative of unity took off and most of the other African States saw it aas an opportunity to form respective blocks in their regions.

THE WRITER IS A PAN AFRICANIST [email protected] TEL: 0788844309.

The former leaders were able to put in place services and institution through the East

African Common Services Organization grouping airways, railways and harbors, Posts and

Telecommunications, Currency, Customs, Income taxes, to mention but a few.


RBC/KINg FAISAl HoSPITAl, KIgAlI

We all love to live in bliss and superlative comfort—healthy and wealthy. But, more often, diseases strike, accidents occur and life becomes a

nightmare. So, to resuscitate health and joy, medical and paramedical personnel step in. In Rwanda, a medical icon that employs sophistry—both

in medical knowledge and technology—to deny diseases a chance is the RBC/King Faisal Hospital, Kigali. Its prominence in providing for medical consumption and geographical reach has gone beyond its borders, in the process immensely contributing to national and regional health status.

How this has been attained is partly explained hereunder.

King Faisal hospital, Kigali a symbol of medical excellence in rwanda and the region

rwanda biomedical centre



founded with the support of saudi fund for Development, and officially inau-gurated on 1st august 1998 by h.e Paul Kagame (then the Vice President

and minister of Defense) rbC / Kfh,K is a leading health services provider in rwanda. its primary role is to promote, maintain and restore the health of all rwandans and other nationals within the region.

a healthy population guarantees availa-bility of a productive workforce and increased quality of life for all citizens of rwanda. rbC /Kfh,K is committed to upholding these responsibilities, says Dr. alex butera, the ag. Chief executive officer.

the hospital offers a variety of services which include among others a very strong and equipped surgery department with units that include; urology, orthopedic, Cardio-thoracic, Neurosurgery, e.N.t, ophthal-mology and the Dentistry. internal medi-cine has clinics in Nephrology, Cardiology rheumatology, Dermatology, respiratory, Diabetic, hypertension, hepatitis, hema-tology, oncology and endocrinology.

Pediatrics Department has the most advanced Neonatal intensive Care unit-(NiCu) in the region with 6 beds where premature babies from district hospitals, health care centres and private clinics are catered for. “We have a Neonatal intensive care unit that support premature babies even at 25 weeks which is an international standard,” says Dr. alex m. butera.

obstetrics and gynecology Department, handles obstetric care, labor & delivery, antenatal care, Post natal care, treatment of cervical and breast cancer, family planning services and two courses on advance life support in obstetric (also) are organized each year.

of recent, rbC / Kfh,K has had key mile-stones that include the high Dependence unit (hDu) with 7 beds in addition to the six beds in intensive Care unit. the hDu serve as a transition for patients in less crit-ical conditions from iCu to the wards. the haemodialysis unit cares for patients with chronic renal diseases.

the hospital has put in place an oxygen plant and the uninterrupted Power supply system that keeps power supply uninter-rupted 24/7. it supports critical areas like iCu, NiCu, hDu, theaters and laboratory. this comes in to support 2 mega generators.

the hospital set in place the oxygen plant and uninterrupted Power supply system (uPs). the oxygen plant produces 86 Cylin-ders per day, of which rbC/Kfh,K utilizes only 30 cylinders and the rest is supplied to other hospitals in the country, says mr. Josue

(h.m.i.s) for effective financial management, speeding service delivery with a view of becoming a paperless institution in the near future.

the hospital has recorded reduced infant mortality rate from 17% in 2008 to 13% in 2011. more so, the also training statistics has reduced the C-section from 64% in 2007

planning. apart from providing medical care to patients, Dr. alex m. butera says the hospital has other programmes that include teaching both undergraduate and post-graduate students. We do special training for all doctors every thursday afternoon. that’s when the hospital look at difficulty cases of patients and emphasizing evidence-based

RBC / KFH-K has now reached the point of continuous monitoring and evaluating systems that have been put in place to maintain the level of quality achieved and improve even further to achieve a

three year accreditation status by 2013 when their current accreditation lapses.DR. ALEx BUTERA, THE ACTING CEO OF RBC/KFH,K

rubambaNe, the facility and Property maintenance manager at rbC/Kfh,K.

the minister of health Dr. agnes biNag-Waho showed confident that these recent developments at rbC/Kfh,K will improve the quality of care and services rendered to patients will increase and pledged continued government support to the hospital.

the hospital has a PaCs system that makes it possible to assess x-ray from any part of the hospital with a linked computer. the x-ray can be recorded on a CD, given to a patient or the doctor. the hospital has opened a unit to deal with plastic and recon-struction surgery. the hospital has started hospital management information system

to 43 % in 2010 and now 38% in 2011.Due to its high quality services, rbC/

Kfh,K receives patients from the regional countries such burundi, tanzania, uganda, Democratic republic of Congo, ethiopia and eritrea. “i was referred here to have my knee operated and i have found that their services are much better,” an old woman, Josephine muKaNKusi from burundi told this reporter at her hospital bed.

the hospital is a specialist centre for cases that are not handled by other hospitals. every rwandan can excess the services of the hospital through the health insurance system in the country. the hospital handles acute trauma cases but also is involved in family

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at RBC/King Faisal Hospital-Kigali



The Haemodialysis equipment at RBC/KFH,K

medicine. this is done through continuous medical education of continuous profes-sional development.

With the support of the ministry of health, trainings are accessed by other hospitals like university teaching hospital of butare, university teaching hospital of Kigali and KaNombe military hospital. rbC/Kfh,K also does research usually presented in the country, the region and the world at large.

rbC/Kfh,K arranges the teaching of patients about their diseases especially chronic ones. mothers who deliver at the hospital are taught about safe mother-hood and breast feeding in vision of how to reduce infant mortality rate and under-5 mortality rate. the hospital organizes work-shops for doctors in the country and region on the care given to patients. in addition, the hospital supports doctors and nurses to go for training in the region and beyond not only acquire more knowledge and skill in order to improve medical services and practices, but also share experiences with other profes-sionals.

rbC/Kfh,K was awarded international accreditation by the Council for health service accreditation of southern africa (Cohsasa) on february 25, 2011.

the accreditation means rbC/Kfh,K is now internationally recognized as a health facility that guarantees high quality services to its patients, “which is part of the hospital’s vision to become a regional centre of excel-lence in provision of health services and in line with rwanda’s Vision 2020.

Dr. alex m. butera, explaining the process they underwent to realize the histor-ical status, said all the concerned stake-holders endured the challenges to make the dream come true. “Where perseverance reigns success is ultimate,” he says.

Dr. alex m. butera, says rbC/Kfh,K is now in a better position than ever to provide customer-oriented services, calling upon the general public to utilize the services at the hospital.

“We call upon the public to come and utilise the services here,” Dr butera says adding that the hospital’s drive to provide best services in the country and the region still continues. Jean baptiste Ntezimana another patient at the hospital says: “i thank the staff of the hospital for restoring my body systems. i came here unable to pass out urine and stool.” Ntezimana was admitted with spinal fracture.

Dr. alex m. butera further noted “in this modern age, the quality of services is no longer left to providers or suppliers to decide on specifications and standards. the

Doctors and support staff of RBC/KFH.K in a training worshop

focus is on the patients and their needs. it is therefore crucial to strive to meet or rather to exceed these needs and expectations.”

he adds the hospital now meets quanti-fiable benchmarks and operates according to international stand-ards for quality care and safety, he further noted that still the hospital will improve on the grades for future accreditation.

“rbC/Kfh,K has now reached the point of contin-uous monitoring and evalu-ating systems that have been put in place to maintain the level of quality achieved and improve even further to achieve a three year accredi-tation status by 2013 when their current accreditation lapses,” he added. the hospital is the first govern-ment owned hospital in the

region to attain this status.rbC/Kfh,K follows the standards of

World health organization in recruitment of the medical staff and has 38 specialists in different fields, she is known in the region to be strong in surgical discipline and sub-specialty medicine.

the hospital has significantly reduced referrals abroad enabling the government of rwanda to save huge amount of money which is turn used to treat patients with in the country.

as for challenges, the increase of the bed occupancy to 80% average calls for expan-sion of the hospital. the current bed capacity is 160 beds from the 130 beds in 2009. other challenges include hiring specialists, buying modern equipment. all this come at a high cost. Dr. alex m. butera says the hospital will continue to meet the expectations of the clients but also work towards becoming the

centre of excellence in the region through the provision of quality health services.


DoINg BuSINESS SERIES


RDB 2012 DOING BUSINESS REFORMS

iT is now simpler To paY TaXes aT rra

B Y M U H I R E H E R B E R T

The World Bank 2012 Doing Business Report ranks Rwanda at position three as to do business in Africa and second behind Georgia as the most reformed country over the last five years. Globally the country jumped from 58th last year to the 45th this year in ease of doing business. A key reform that contributed to this

milestone is the reduction in the frequency of value added tax and pay as you earn filings by companies from monthly to quarterly.




Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has been undertaking various tax reforms with the aim of facilitating business through

reduced costs of doing business. This has prompted RRA to invest heavily in a number of reforms.

The reforms have been so intense that in the World Bank Doing Business 2012 recently released, the tax indicator shows that Rwanda jumped from the 33rd to the 19th position.

The monthly filing of vAT returns was reformed into a quarterly, making it easier for the small and medium enterprises to prepare their books of accounts properly, and make the payments after thorough audits of their books.

According to the Director, Taxpayer Services Department, Gerald Nkusi Mukubu; “The 1st quarter began on 01/06/2010 and since then, small and medium taxpayers who wish to file their vAT returns continue to register under this new facility whereby RRA has a total of 1,625 taxpayers registered under the vAT quarterly payment system.”

Asked whether the reform has trans-lated into more revenues, Mukubu notes that increasing revenues was not the immediate aim. “The main objective of introducing vAT quarterly payment was not to increase revenue collection because

Clare Akamanzi, RDB’s Chief Operating Officer, says the reform reduces administrative costs of paying taxes and ensuring a good cash flow for the small and medium enterprises. “With the quarterly tax filings, SMEs don’t have to pay tax advisors monthly but also save the money they would have spent monthly as costs of paying taxes,” she says.

the vAT rate of 18% did not change, it was rather to facilitate SMEs that normally face diverse challenges in filing vAT returns on a monthly basis. It means that vAT regis-tered taxpayers have to keep vAT output for three months and declare it at the end of the quarter.”

He adds that the reform was also to enable SMEs to use the money that would otherwise be paid as vAT (for those three months they hold it) for further invest-ment thus increasing their trade volumes.

The long queues that were a challenge to both RRA and taxpayers were also put at a minimum. Mukubu notes that taxpayers used to spend restless days at RRA offices that culminated into delayed service delivery and time wastage on the side of taxpayers.

Once SMEs have grown, the country expects more revenues due to increased number of SMEs that will have metamor-phosed from informal to formal business entities.

Rwanda Development Board Headquarters




Some of the taxpayers talked to also expressed gratitude about the reform. “In the past whenever the period for filing drew closer, there would be spending a lot of time preparing the accounts. Then there was going to RRA offices and finding there very long queues. Time got wasted, our small businesses could be at a stand-still for those days, and it was in nobody’s favour,” observes Rwanda Ntaramye, who operates a cosmetics shop in Nyarugenge.

RRA has gone ahead and introduced a number of other reforms and working mechanics.

The institution established a call centre (3004) with support from the Investment Climate Facility for Africa (ICF) to facili-tate taxpayers and stakeholders through availing tax information and to enhance customer relations within the institution. Since its establishment, taxpayers get very fast and professional responses to queries and complaints related to domestic taxes and customs issues.

The introduction of e-tax system, an online facility to be used to file and pay taxes in a bid to reduce tax processing and payment is underway. Sensitization campaigns have kick-started. It will begin with two piloting phases that will begin with e-filing while e-payment would follow a month later.

The establishment of the Queue Management System has also reduced long queues at RRA returns reception desks. It also works as a tool to direct taxpayers at the right destination as per their category.

Payments using multiple banks have also been a plus for the taxpayers. The RRA started working with several commercial banks in the collection of revenues in order to improve services to taxpayers; Bank of Kigali, Ecobank, Cogebank and BCR. There were some modification of some legal instruments that govern the tax collection principles.. various tax laws have been modified. These include the vAT law no.25/2010 of 28/05/2010 modi-fying law no.06/2001 on code of vAT, Law no.19/2009 of 30/06/2009 modi-fying and completing law no.26/2006 on consumption tax.

Law no.73/2008 of 31/12/2008 modi-fying and implementing law no.16/2005 on direct income taxes which was modi-fied by law 24/2010 on income tax, Law no.74/2008 of 31/12/2008 modifying

and implementing law no.16/2005 of 18/08/2005 on direct taxes on Income, EAC customs management act 2004

and law no.75/2008 of 31/12/2008 modifying and implementing law no. 26/2006 of 27/05/2006 determining

The main objective of introducing VAT quarterly payment was not to increase revenue collection because the VAT rate of 18% did not change, it was rather to facilitate SMEs that normally face diverse challenges in filing VAT returns on a monthly basis. It means that VAT registered taxpayers have to keep VAT output for three months and declare it at the end of the quarter.

DIRECTOR, TAxPAYER SERvICES DEPARTMENT, GERALD NKUSI MUKUBU




and establishing consumption tax on some imported and locally manufactured products. There was also the introduc-tion of motor vehicle registration fees by law no.14/2009 of 30/06/2009 which would make the payment of the fee once and for all. It should be noted that the modification and complementarities of these legal instruments were done to make it easy for taxpaying community.

RRA is working towards beating the country’s vision 2020 and as a way of embracing ICT for efficiency, the institu-tion is investing in ICT facilities to reduce taxpayers’ expenditures on transport costs and time spent in the process of getting services.

RRA management put ICT among its first priorities with a view to adjust its services to the ever changing business

environment that demands quick and professional services delivery. ICT has been embraced in all RRA operations such as Taxpayer registration, customs services, and domestic taxes which necessitated a continuous ICT reforms.

RRA in collaboration with RDB has developed an easy way of online registra-tion of taxpayers for issuance of the Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Taxpayers can now request and get tax clearance certificates online by simply visiting RRA website while in their offices or even on business missions abroad.

An online tax calculator can be used to compute taxes before making their declarations, thus saving them of the likely mathematical errors. RRA has intro-duced various software’s such as ASSY-CUDDA++ and, SIGTAS, among others, that all simplify tax collection methods.

Interconnectivity with other customs

administrations through has also been put in place. This is an electronic exchange of customs transit data between Revenue Authorities. It reduces delays in cargo clearance by avoiding the duplication of data capturing at the border offices.

The Electronic transit data exchange allows Revenue Authorities to receive advance notification and avoiding dupli-cation of effort in data recapture at the border crossing.

In brief, RRA has automated most of its services with an aim of facilitating business within the country, and much is being done to see that RRA continues to champion business facilitation within Rwanda and the region as a whole.

THE WRITER, HERBERT MUHIRE IS THE COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANTDOING BUSINESS UNIT, RDBEMAIL:[email protected]

Business men queue up at the RRA offices to clear their taxes

Bank of Kigali, where taxpayers can clear their RRA taxes




Starting a business: In order to further eliminate or shorten unnecessary procedures one can now register their business online at http://org.rdb.rw/. In addition, there has been a reduction in business registration fees from Frw 25.000 to Frw 15.000 for those registering physically. The simplified business registration and reduction of registration fees as well as the online services will encourage more businesses to formalise thus contributing to economic growth and wealth creation.

Dealing with construction licenses: The one stop centre for construction licenses that began operations in 2009 has merged all applications and inspections for water, telephone and electricity with all applications and inspections for construction permits for all commercial projects. This has reduced the number of procedures from 14 to 6 and total time it takes to 98 days.

In addition, operations at the districts have been streamlines by introducing a central registry with ghant charts to receive and process applications for small and mid size projects. The aim is to reduce inefficiencies in the system and minimise the administrative burden/costs of compliance of acquiring licenses while encouraging investment in the construction sector that is a key source of growth to the economy.

Registering Property: The National Land Centre has made optional the requirement to notarise the sale agreement for all commercial projects. The sales agreement is now signed at the National Land registry or the District Land officials. This has cut back on the time to formalize title deeds. In addition, the National Land

Administration Information System (LIAS) was completed and launched and is now being populated with land information for Gasabo, Kicukiro and Nyarugenge Districts. This has encouraged businesses to document and formalize their transactions and also have an added effect of easing access to finance since these title deeds can act as collateral in banks.

Getting credit: The licensed private Credit Reference Bureau (CRB Africa) has strengthened its operations to include historical information beyond 2 years. All commercial banks and 8 Microfinance Banks have subscribed to the credit reference bureau and are currently buying credit reports. The credit reference bureau has also mobilised voluntary compliance (telecoms, utilities) to submit data to the registry. The bureau is used as a critical risk analysis tool that banks can utilise in their loan transactions. Credit information helps the banks to lend to businesses that are compliant based on their good track record in financing their loans. This reform is key to addressing access to finance constraints that Rwanda faces. The Collateral Registry for movable interests has been operationalised. This reform is to further encourage the use of moveable property in loan acquisition. The Implementation of Rwanda Integrated Payments Processing System (RIPPS) was completed which enables Automated Transfer System (ATS) for the secure interbank transfer of payments as well as a Central Securities Depository (CSD).

Trading across Borders: Rwanda and Uganda are operating a 24 hour one stop border post at Gatuna in addition to one in Gisenyi on the Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo border. Electronic

scanners were installed at Gatuna, Rusumo and Gikondo while import duties have been revised by Rwanda Revenue Authority. In addition to this, only 3 mandatory documents including Commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading or Airway bill are now required for import duties. These reforms have improved the movement of cargo across borders while boosting trade within the region. This has created the potential for increasing volumes of trade and deepening regional integration within the East African Community.

Paying taxes: Rwanda Revenue Authority has maintained a calculator for PAYE while one for VAT is set for later in April 2010. The Authority maintains the quarterly tax issues forum with the Private Sector Federation and carrying out a tax education and sensitization programme. RRA has also established tax advisory services at the district level while bringing services closer to the Kigali business districts of Nyabugogo, Kimironko and Kicukiro. The reforms in the payment of taxes will lead to a better understanding of tax requirements and reduce compliance costs to businesses. The dialogue with the private sector is aimed at removing room for ambiguity and offers a forum to voice areas for further reform.

Legal Framework: An Arbitration Law was gazetted in January 2011. Public Information Kiosks were established at the Supreme Court and Commercial High Court to avail judicial information to the public easily and efficiently. The proposed legal reforms will ease doing business in the various sectors while giving the private sector confidence to go about their business backed by law.

Resolving insolvency: Currently, there are 11 cases for foreclosure and 7 bankruptcy cases at an appeal level.

Commenting on all these reforms, Rwanda Development Board’s CEO John Gara underscored that: “We do not carry out all these reforms as an end in themselves but as a foundation for a deeper and more comprehensive agenda that will make it much easier for the business community to operate here.”

Rwanda has implemented reforms in the following areas of Doing Business

The RDB awards celebrate excellence in Rwanda’s business community. Investors and exporters from around Rwanda are recognized at our annual gala for their achievements in investing and

exporting and their tremendous contributions to our economy.

This year’s RDB business excellence Awards Gala will be held in Kigali, January 27th, 2012. It is the premier opportunity in Rwanda to network with leaders in Rwanda’s various investment and

export sectors. It is also an opportunity for your business to be recognized as the next top investor or SME; your business could win this year’s prestigious award!

Find out more about the award categories and register at www.rdb.rw/rdbawards/or contact us: Rwanda Development Board(RDB)

Boulevard de l’Umuganda, Gishushu, Nyarutarama RoadP.O. Box 6239, Kigali Rwanda. Email:[email protected]

Cell:+250 788756910 or +250 788353563.

RDB Business ExcellenceAwards 2011Coming back in 2012

The RDB Business Excellence Awards are back, bigger and better!

Please note that registration closes on 30th December 2011

The RDB awards celebrate excellence in Rwanda’s business community. Investors and exporters from around Rwanda are recognized at our annual gala for their achievements in investing and

exporting and their tremendous contributions to our economy.

This year’s RDB business excellence Awards Gala will be held in Kigali, January 27th, 2012. It is the premier opportunity in Rwanda to network with leaders in Rwanda’s various investment and

export sectors. It is also an opportunity for your business to be recognized as the next top investor or SME; your business could win this year’s prestigious award!

Find out more about the award categories and register at www.rdb.rw/rdbawards/or contact us: Rwanda Development Board(RDB)

Boulevard de l’Umuganda, Gishushu, Nyarutarama RoadP.O. Box 6239, Kigali Rwanda. Email:[email protected]

Cell:+250 788756910 or +250 788353563.

RDB Business ExcellenceAwards 2011Coming back in 2012

The RDB Business Excellence Awards are back, bigger and better!

Please note that registration closes on 30th December 2011

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 201136 ⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 201136

“The … US$125 million in IDA commitments for this operation is the largest single development policy financing tranche to Rwanda so far,”

BIRGIT HANSL - WORLD BANK TASK TEAM LEADER.

WORLD BANK has approved USD125 million funding credit line to help the government combat poverty through private sector development, a recent statement from the bank reads. The financing is composed of USD 60 million grant and a credit of USD 65 million from International Development Association (IDA), an arm of the World Bank.

Mimi Ladipo, World Bank Country Manager

Rwanda’s private sector gets WB USD125 million

the 2008-2012 Economic Development and Poverty Reduction Strategy that aims to empower Rwandans economically by fighting poverty especially in the rural areas.

The support is the third in a series of World Bank Poverty Reduction Support operations for Rwanda launched in 2002. It will support the development of policies that facilitate increased private sector investment and involvement and ease constraints to broad- based growth.

Issues of focus will be policy measures aimed at facilitating trade and investments, increasing access to electricity and improved infrastructure services, raising private sector participation in the agricultural sector and increasing the quality and relevance of education to build a skilled workforce.

The support will include; improving service delivery through focused and strategic civil service reform, and strengthening the management of public resources, increased transparency and accountability.

“The … US$125 million in IDA commitments for this operation is the largest

B Y A N G E L A M U T O N I

Mimi Ladipo, World Bank Country Manager

Gov’t to ease access to finance for SMEs

THE MINISTER of Trade and Industry, Fran-çois Kanimba, announced recently that the Government would launch a programme to ease access to finance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to increase their produc-tion and enhance their development. The minister made the remarks in Kigali during a one-day consultative meeting to discuss SME development.

Minister Kanimba said that a survey had been conducted in all districts to determine specific areas. The minister said that SMEs play an important role in a country’s economic develop-ment, adding that the Government would continue to ensure their growth.

He also disclosed that a new project, dubbed, “Hanga Umurimo”, meaning “Start a Business”, would soon be launched to create awareness and convey entrepre-neurial skills to the citizens.

Recent statistic show that the SME sector, including formal and informal busi-nesses, comprises 98% of the businesses in Rwanda and 41% of all private sector employment though the formalized sector has much growth potential with only 300,000 currently employed. Most micro and small enterprises employ up to four people, showing that growth in the sector would create significant private sector non-agricultural employment opportunities.

The sector also has the potential to lower Rwanda’s trade imbalance. Rwanda’s trade deficit has grown from USD 229 million to an estimated USD770 million over the past five years (2005 to 2009). The Government vision is to increase the role of value-added exports to increase export revenue and reduce the import-export gap.

P R O X I M I T Y A C C E S S C O N T R O L S Y S T E M S . S E C U I R T Y C A M E R A S . A L A R M S . A U T O M AT E D G AT E S . I N T E R C O M S

The trusted name in security systemsSEKANYOLYA SYSTEMS LTD

P.O. Box 7470, Tel:+250 589550/1 Cell: +250 788303050, Fax: +250 589 566, E-mail:[email protected] Website:www.sekanyolya.com

single development policy financing tranche to Rwanda so far,” added Birgit Hansl World Bank Task Team Leader.

The Rwanda IDA portfolio comprises eight investment projects with a net commitment of US$ 277 million.

for Rwanda says the focus of the support reflects the key push of the new World Bank Strategy for Africa’s development.

The eighth Poverty Reduction Support Financing (PRSF-8) will assist the Government implement its priorities in


P R O X I M I T Y A C C E S S C O N T R O L S Y S T E M S . S E C U I R T Y C A M E R A S . A L A R M S . A U T O M AT E D G AT E S . I N T E R C O M S

The trusted name in security systemsSEKANYOLYA SYSTEMS LTD

P.O. Box 7470, Tel:+250 589550/1 Cell: +250 788303050, Fax: +250 589 566, E-mail:[email protected] Website:www.sekanyolya.com

⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 201138 ⎢Rwanda Dispatch ⎢ 05-15th December 201138

Business

BK and Enablis launch loans for local SMEs

B Y D I S PAT C H W R I T E R RURA changes see off 64 The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency (RURA) recently terminated the services of 64 employees, bringing down the number of staff to 103. Sources say the changes are part of an ongoing restructuring process approved by the Cabinet following prime minister’s order to restructure the institution.The affected workers will go home with their November salary, with other benefits like health insurance, for the next six months before their contracts are fully terminated. RURA’s acting Director General, Regis Gata-rayiha, says the criteria for the lay –off were based on the requirements for each position, as prescribed by the Prime Minister’s order. With the restructuring, it is hoped the insti-tution will be able to deliver quality services to the public. Meanwhile the Chamber of Deputies recently approved a new proposal for a draft law governing RURA. The new legis-lation will replace the 2001 law regulating RURA. It seeks to give the agency powers to regulate broadcast and internet-based media, and postal services.

RDB to assist Rwandan companies export to UgandaThe Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in collaboration with TradeMark East Africa (TMEA) recently launched a programme to facilitate ten dynamic local companies producing top quality products, to join an initiative-MarketLink that will help them tap into the Ugandan market. The initiative is in line with the recently approved National Export Strategy and is the first phase of the implementation of RDB’s Rwandan Export Development Programme, where the institution is involved in searching for companies with the potential to export to Uganda. Eusebe Muhikira, Acting Head of Trade and Manufacturing Division in the RDB, says the programme is practical and hopes many companies from all production sectors will come out to participate. Mark Priestly, Country Director of Trade-Mark East Africa, the donor programme that is funding this pilot initiative says the initia-tive will help develop business ties between manufacturers and buyers in the East African Community. Particularly it aims to capitalize on opportunities for intra-regional trade and business arising from the formation of the EAC Common Market.

Bank of Kigali (BK), the largest financial insti-tution by assets intends to issue loans up to RwF.60 million to deserving clients. The development is an outcome of the partnership agreement between the bank and Enablis East Africa, a non-profit organisation that aims at supporting entrepreneurial talent. The loan program aims to uplift small and medium enterprises affiliated to Enablis. James Gatera, the Managing Director of Bank of Kigali says Enablis will provide a guarantee of 50% of the total amount borrowed.

The the partnership will help improve access to finance for entrepreneurs and ensure sustainability of their businesses through the capacity building and development which comes with the guarantee scheme. According to Charles Sirois, Enablis Global Chair, the

program allows member businesses to receive adequate financing without raising all the collateral that would otherwise be required by the bank.

Gatera has called for more entrepreneurs to join the scheme and take advantage of the opportunities offered under the scheme. Enablis engages with entrepreneurs in South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Argentina and Rwanda. In Rwanda, Enablis has so recruited more than 80 entrepreneur members in during the last year. And the members have benefited from the capacity development program, as well as participa-tion at events that enhance their capacities and grow their businesses. Enablis entrepreneurial network was launched at the G8 meeting in 2002.

Mukaruliza urges Rwandans to exploit EAC opportunitiesThe Minister of the East African Affairs, Monique Mukaruliza, has urged to Rwan-dans to take advantage of the opportunities the East African Community (EAC) presents to its citizens. Minister Mukaruliza made the remarks during the end of the EAC’s Week on November 11, 2011. Rwanda, she said, had signed protocols of integration such as

the Customs Union, Common Market and that currently the country is negotiating a Monetary Union with other partners like Kenya, Burundi, Uganda and Tanzania to establish a single currency which would dras-tically reduce the cost of doing business. The Minister said now Rwandans are now free to carry out business across the whole EAC region as long as they have legal documents. She added it was important for Rwandans interact with their counterparts in the region and learn from their experiences.



B Y M A N G U L A G O E R G E

The Congo-nile Trail an eXCepTional lifeTime advenTure

Biking by Lake Kivu on the “Congo-Nile Trail’, 227 kilometre long, is the rarest experience a tourist, whether biking, riding or moving in a taxi can have in this part of the world. At

1463 metres above sea-level, the spectacular trail snakes in and along the undulating, hilly landscape, repeatedly leaving and returning to the lake’s shore.



The Congo Nile Trail experience is an all inclusive spectacular expedition from the northern Lake Kivu shores to the southern part through the famous Congo

Nile Divide watershed that is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. The 227 kilometres long trail offers the rarest experience to the adventurer, whether biking, hiking or 4x4 driving in this part of the world. At 1,463 metres above sea-level, the spectacular trail snakes along the undulating, hilly landscape, repeatedly leaving and returning to the lake’s shores.

On my expedition, I drove and trekked to expe-rience the trail. Cyclists and bikers, I am told, can have the same experience or even more. However, it is highly recommended one takes safety meas-ures before beginning a ride. The trail is divided in to sections and planned for ten days with one day designated for resting. However, one can make his own programme depending on one’s budget and time.

But it is appropriate to take a camera with you to capture memorable photos, beautiful sceneries and wildlife, coffee, tea and banana plantations, swimmers at beaches, market days, fishers, water-falls, trees, children, playing among others.

The trail sections differ in terms of distances and altitude. For those not on the know, it can be very chilly during the night and carrying with you a jacket is desirable. Similarly, you need tough footwear to mavouvre the rocky terrain.

That done, I take you through the different sections of the trail, but as earlier mentioned, the choice is all yours. Below is a synopsis of the ten day adventure as you hike, bike or drive around the lake.

Day 1: Gisenyi to RwinyoniHere, along with other adventurers, you travel

overland to the village of Rwinyoni, past an agri-cultural community, and northwest of the lake. As we traversed the area, we enjoyed the amazing sunset on the lake shore. The village offers the first campsite where you ca––n observe the nearby features, both natural and manmade. At Gisenyi, you will make out the famous Bralirwa Bay with traditional boats carrying merchandise coupled with the public beach. The base camp at Gisenyi gives you a clear view of both the border towns of Gisenyi and Goma in the DRC. The journey between the two points is estimated at eight kilo-metres.

Day 2: Rwinyoni to KinunuHaving made the first journey, the next section

starts in the morning at Rwinyoni to Kinunu. It is a two hour drive to arrive at the Nkora fishing

in the lake. In the area also is the Nkora mini hydropower station that supplies power to the village and other areas. The trail bisects coffee and banana plantations on the lake shores to Kinunu coffee washing station, where there is a base camp situated on lake shore. Here, tourists enjoy chilly clear air but at this station, you can obtain the full coffee experience right from nursery bed to the cup. Swimming here is possible which we indulge in. You can as well take a boat to the coffee-rich Bugarura Island that gives you a wonderful view of the lake.

Day 3: Kinunu to MusasaIt takes an average of six hours to hike on the

lake shores. In the process, you get to interact with the local community and enjoy the surrounding and scenic views including banana plantations and the Kinunu Catholic Church that is located on top of a hill. What’s more, the trail leads to the Bwimana coffee washing station in Musasa. You can also stop for a picnic on the edge of the lake nearby coupled with overnight camping.

village. This point presents us with views of the surroundings; we nonetheless missed fishermen coming back from the custom overnight fishing by about 30 minutes though we find kids playing

N’kora Market day. Photo: RAC

Back down to the Lake on the way to Musasa. Photo: RAC

Coffee washing tables in Kinunu. Photo: RAC



Day 4: Musasa to Rubengera junction

It’s advisable to wake up early as you will have to trek for minimum of seven hours to get to the Rubengera junction, following the trail between community fields, and crossing River Coko before getting to Kibingo Health Centre. You can have a picnic near Gatunda village whose marketday is on Tuesday. We continue the trail until the main Rubavu-Karongi Road at Mushubati and walk again for almost two hours along the main road to Rubengera. At the Rubengera asphalt junction, taxis to Kibuye town centre are available. There are a number of hotels and guest houses in the town that charge fair rates.

Day 5: This is a day for relaxing. However, one can visit

the surrounding beaches and islands, ride a boat or swim.

Day 6: Kibuye to MugoneroAfter 24 hours of relaxation, this trail will take

you an average of eight hours. The expedition that starts at the crossroads to the university on the methane gas road goes along the lake to Kibuye-Rusizi road. From here, you head to Kamembe before stopping for a picnic at Mubuga village centre. Bikers also have an opportunity to stop for refreshments at Gishyita sector centre. Here you can continue the trail, past Mugonero Health Centre to Kigarama Esperance Orphanage base camp where orphans entertain guests in Rwandan traditional dances. In the area is an overnight camping facility.

Day 7: Mugonero to Karengera

The six-hour trail begins early in the morning from the Orphanage camp. Here, bikers can hike back to the main road and then slope down the edge of the lake to Mugonero Market Centre, following the road to Kibingo, before crossing the Kilimbi River bridge which has a scenic view of the community rice field.The trail ends at the second base camp at Karangera Secondary School. But guides say temperatures here can sometimes be high. Overnight camping is possible at the school’s playground.

Day 8: Karengera to KibogoraAlong this trail, you get the most beautiful

scenic view over the lake which makes this part of the trail the best. Taking seven and 30 minutes along the main road to Kibogora hospital village, bikers and riders can have a picnic at Hanika village centre and then continue to Birembo

village. Between Birembo and Kirambo market, visit the Kumbya Peninsula, a Rwandan natural treasure owned by African Missionaries. After Kirabo market on the lake shores, the journey takes about 30 minutes via Kibogora Hospital. You will take a few minutes to Kibogora Guest House base camp for an overnight camping.

Day 9: Kibogora-to- Shangi

Departure time for this eight hour trail is 6: 30 am. It leads you to the main road near Tyazo market and leads you to Kagano village where you arrive at 9:00 am and Nyamasheke town centre at 10: am. You can relax at Café de I’Ouest bar restaurant where you can simultaneously enjoy a wonderful scenic view of Lake Kivu islands. Departure time at this point is 11:00 am. You can walk down the eucalyptus plantation via Kagano Secondary School,take the pathway to Shangi and reach Shangi village by 4:00pm. From there, follow the road to Kamembe via Shangi Sector headquarters. Within thirty minutes, the track leads you through a small village to the historical village of Shangi. You arrive at Shangi base camp at 5:00PM.

Day 10: Shangi-kamembeIt is advisable to start this trip early morning

as you head to Kamembe where community rice fields along the lake shores are visible. The trail takes you via Nyagahembe River bridge through the wetlands where you cross the Cyunyu Bridge that separates the districts of Nyamasheke and Rusizi. Along this route is Gastsubo village cross-road where you can stop for a picnic and interact with the local people as well. As an agricultural area, you will see many farmers attending to their farms.

On the whole, the Congo Nile Trail is amazing

for all it offers. The villagers along this trail are friendly and charming. This is a wonderful for foreign day-trippers. Children can show you where to buy a bottle of water or yellow bananas. More so, base camps provide great meals accom-panied by milk, juice from natural fruits on top of original Rwandan coffee and tea.

A Campsite on Amahoro Island near Kibuye. Photo: RAC

Islands in the Lake. Photo: RAC

Bats over Napoleon Island. Photo: RAC

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A romantic weekend away, a few days with the family out or a business vacation, we are

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UNDER the East African Community treaty which provided for the Establishment of the common market protocol, the five member states undertook an agreement to develop a collective and coordinated approach to the promotion and marketing of quality tourism into and within the community. The member states are required at the same time to coordi-nate their policies in the tourism industry and establish a framework of cooperation in the sector that will ensure equitable distribution of benefits.

Among others, the Partner States are supposed to develop a regional strategy for tourism promotion where individual efforts are rein-forced by regional action. This is the promotion of the region as a single tourist destination by providing a single visa to tourists who visit any of the countries.

The Single Tourist visa for the region has been advocated for in the corridors of responsible institutions in the region yet on the other hand it appears some countries would want to keep their independence. Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, the countries that make up EAC bloc seem not to be treading on the same path of a single or common visa. But on the ground facts are calling for the speedy intro-duction this kind of visa if we are to beat off competition from Southern Africa.

Speactators following this sector point out that Kenya and Tanzania, the two countries with a wide range of tourist attractions given their big sizes, a range of geographical features and culture are in underground battle for the tourist dollars and it seems the cut-throat competition

Covert Desk

B Y G E O R G E M A N G U L A

The debate on the single tourist visa into ans within the east african community is still marred by politics and unwilling of some member states to forge a common ground for developing the highly profitable tourism sector, a major boast to regions economy.

East African Community and the politics of single tourist visa

between the two giants has somehow affected the region’s desire to have a single visa. This is a disadvantage for the entire bloc and it must be rectified fast by the region’s policymakers.

That is why the recent meeting of the EAC’s sectoral council on tourism and wildlife in Mombasa ended with calls to expedite the long overdue introduction of a common tourist visa for the entire EAC, to boost travel across national borders to neighbouring countries by tourists already in the region, without having to pay multiple visa fees every time. Analysts say that at a cost of USD50 a person, a family of 4 traveling from Kenya to Uganda to Rwanda to Tanzania, one can easily spend several hundred dollars in such fees, a factor often seen as a deterrent to cross-border travel.

More so, American, Chinese and European expatriates in the region are calling for changes in visa services. They are arguing that although they are duly registered in their country of resi-dence, they are also required to obtain a tourist visa when visiting a neighboring country, and many have as a result opted to go for their holi-days to South Africa or as far as Dubai, where most expatriate nationals do not need a visa, and are instead getting free entry.

It can now be seen that the delay in the imple-mentation of the common visa in the region is denying the region tourism revenues as visi-tors opt for regions and countries that offer best visa services to clients. Kenya’s Tourism Minister Najib Balala while addressing participants at the meeting said “Fear of the unknown and unfounded suspicions harbored by some partner states is holding back efforts to take the commu-nity to the next level of integration” before echoing growing calls for the completion of ongoing “preparations and consultations” Balala was hitting at Tanzania much as he did it indi-rectly as the two countries have long-standing issues emerging from the first community.

On the other hand Rwanda says it’s ready for the single tourist visa hence the promo-tion of the region as a single tourist destination. Rwanda has also aligned its Immigration Law to the EAC-immigration requirements while others are yet to do the same. One wonders whether the rest especially the first three EAC members do not see the significance of fast-tracking these initiatives.

That aside, it is expected that the common visa issue will be put on the agenda of the next Heads of State meeting in November. If this does not happen, then it will wait for the next sectoral council meeting due in April next year. But this is bad news for the sector’s private sector that is losing business to other regions.

All facts not notwithstanding, as indicated in the Africa Competitiveness Report 2011, the unexploited natural and cultural endowment in the region has great potential for employment

of the young generation, growth, and poverty reduction. It is argued that as this sector grows, its job creation and income-generating potential rise exponentially. A USD 250,000 investment in the tourism sector in Africa generates 182 full-time formal jobs, according to a study by the Natural Resources Consultative Forum. This is nearly 40 percent more than the same invest-ment in agriculture and over 50 percent more than in mining.

Rwanda says it’s ready for the single tourist visa hence the promotion of the region as a single tourist destination. Rwanda has also aligned its Immigration

Law to the EAC-immigration requirements while others are yet to do the same.

Kicukiro, Sonatube . P.O. Box 7082, Kigali Rwanda, P.O Box 7082, Kigali, Rwanda . Tel: +250788304066, Email: [email protected], www.dispatchrwanda.com

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