Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Exclusive: Ghana's John Mahama on his planned presidential comeback
Resumption of beryllium exportation
Rwanda has resumed beryllium exports after a four-month suspension due to illegal mining concerns. The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board lifted the embargo following inspections and due diligence at various mines. Exporters must comply with strict mineral certification and sourcing regulations, with penalties for non-compliance. In 2023, Rwanda's mineral export revenue rose to $1.1 billion, reflecting a 43% increase from 2022, highlighting the mining sector's importance as a foreign exchange earner and its potential for economic growth through value addition.
Peace agreement with DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have signed a significant agreement aimed at advancing the peace process in the DRC's eastern region, according to ceasefire broker Angola. Since 2021, the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel militia has taken control of large areas, displacing thousands and causing a humanitarian crisis. Although a fragile truce was established in August, the M23 has resumed offensive actions recently. Despite ceasefire violations, diplomatic discussions continued with Angola's mediation, and a committee was formed to monitor these violations. On Monday, November 25 both countries' foreign ministers approved a document outlining the terms for Rwandan troop disengagement, though specific procedures were not detailed.
Hosting of ATP Challenger Tour in 2025
Rwanda will host the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger 75 Tour from February 24 to March 9, 2025, at the IPRC-Kigali Ecology Tennis Club, following the successful ATP Challenger 50 event earlier this year. The tournament will feature a mix of rising talents and experienced players competing for 75 ATP points, enhancing Rwanda's status in sports tourism and promoting tennis in the region. The previous ATP Challenger 50 attracted over 60 professional players, highlighting Rwanda's potential as a significant tennis host nation.
Top nation in Africa for visa openness
Rwanda has retained its position as the top country in Africa for visa openness, according to the 2024 Africa Visa Openness Index (AVOI) report, supported by the African Development Bank and the African Union. The report highlights Rwanda's visa-free regime for most African nations, although Rwandans face visa requirements for 16 countries and visa-on-arrival conditions for another 16. Other leading countries in visa openness include Benin, The Gambia, and Seychelles.
Digitisation agreement with Guinea
Rwanda and Guinea-Conakry have signed a strategic agreement to modernise and digitise Guinea's public procurement system. The initiative, led by the Rwanda Cooperation Initiative, aims to leverage Rwanda’s experience in e-procurement to enhance transparency and efficiency in Guinea’s public finance management. Minister Rose Pola Pricemou emphasised this collaboration aligns with Guinea's vision for technological innovation. The first module of the platform is set for delivery in January 2025, with training workshops already underway to prepare stakeholders. Rwanda's successful e-government procurement system is seen as a model for other African countries.
