Rwanda Roundup: IMF funding, UK home secretary, genocide survivors at Paris trial

$184.9 million in funding from IMF

Rwanda will receive $184.9 million in funding from the IMF, comprising $95.9 million from the Resilience and Sustainability Facility and $89 million from the Standby Credit Facility. This funding follows a review of Rwanda's implementation of these instruments, aimed at addressing climate shocks and balance of payment needs. Despite external challenges, Rwanda's economy shows resilience, with GDP growth projected at 8.3% for 2024, bolstered by strong performances in services and construction. Inflation remains stable within the central bank's target range, and the Rwandan Franc's depreciation has facilitated necessary external adjustments. While macroeconomic policies align with program objectives, the IMF noted slower-than-expected fiscal consolidation, leading to a rising public debt-to-GDP ratio.

Election of Pan-African Parliament representatives

Rwanda has elected three deputies and two senators to represent the country at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). Deputies Diogene Bitunguramye, Aimee Marie Ange Tumukunde, and Jennifer Wibabara were elected on October 21, followed by Senators John Bonds Bideri and Pelagie Uwera on October 22. The PAP, established under the 1991 Abuja Treaty, aims to promote African participation in economic development and address continental challenges. Each member country is represented by five legislators, including at least one woman. The Rwandan representatives will serve a five-year mandate while continuing their national duties.

Former UK home secretary’s expenditure during Rwanda trip

James Cleverly's in-flight catering for a one-day trip to Rwanda last December cost £655 per person, totalling £9,803 for 15 people. The round trip, which included chartering a private jet for £165,561, was for Cleverly to sign a deportation deal amid concerns about Rwanda's safety. Cleverly, now the shadow home secretary, incurred additional catering costs totalling £22,324 during a July 2023 trip to multiple countries, with a £1,488 average per head. His successor, David Cameron, spent £20,809 on catering for trips in February 2024. Critics, including the UK’s Labour representatives, highlighted the inefficacy of the Rwanda scheme, pointing out that it failed to deter channel crossings despite the significant expenditure.

Bilateral Air Services Agreement with Liberia

Rwanda and Liberia have signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) to enhance connectivity and economic cooperation between the two nations. The agreement was formalised at the International Civil Aviation Organisation event in Kuala Lumpur on October 21, 2024. It will allow each country's airlines to operate scheduled flights, improving travel times and convenience, particularly for students and facilitating trade and tourism. Key commitments include maintaining high aviation safety standards and fostering economic collaboration.

Genocide survivors recount 1994 mass killings at a Paris trial

At a Paris trial, Rwandan genocide survivors recounted the horrific mass killings from 1994, where over 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were murdered. Angélique Uwamahoro, then 13, described walking through bodies to survive, while another survivor detailed the brutal methods of attacks. The accused, Eugène Rwamucyo, a former doctor, faces charges of genocide and crimes against humanity but denies wrongdoing. He allegedly spread anti-Tutsi propaganda and supervised mass graves. This trial is part of a series addressing the genocide in France, with another doctor recently convicted and sentenced. Rwamucyo could face life in prison if found guilty.