Rwanda Roundup: Green foot print, record breaking tourism boom, COVID-19 warning signs

Rwanda withdraws from Central African bloc over alleged manipulation by DRC

Rwanda announced on Saturday, June 7, that it is withdrawing from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), accusing the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of manipulating the bloc with support from some member states. The decision was made at the 26th ECCAS summit in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, attended by Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente. Rwanda criticised the summit for denying it the rotating chairmanship and excluding it from the 2023 summit in Kinshasa under the DRC's leadership. "Rwanda denounces the violation of its rights," the foreign ministry stated, adding that ECCAS is not living up to its principles.

Health ministry warns of COVID-19

The Ministry of Health has warned of rising COVID-19 infections as Rwanda shifts from the rainy to the dry season. Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, in a post on X on June 9, urged the public to maintain good hygiene and watch for flu, COVID-19, and malaria. He also cautioned about increased malaria risk, advising the elimination of mosquito breeding sites. Covid-19 cases are rising globally, according to the WHO, driven by the NB.1.8.1 variant, which currently poses no higher risk than existing strains. The WHO urged countries to remain vigilant and continue risk-based COVID-19 management.

Rwanda eyes carbon credits to attract green investment

As Rwanda aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, it is exploring using carbon credits as collateral to boost green investments. Jean Claude Uwizeye of the Energy Private Developers Association says the idea is promising but requires banking reforms to allow projected credits to serve as security for loans. Companies like DelAgua Rwanda already generate tradable carbon credits, which could help manufacturers raise funds independently of banks, according to Country Director Monica Keza.

Rwanda is among African nations leading a record-breaking tourism boom

In 2024, Rwanda joined South Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Botswana, and others to drive record-breaking tourism growth in Africa. Strategic investment and sustainability efforts boosted Rwanda’s tourism revenues to CHF 1.9 trillion and nearly 386,000 jobs. The sector is expected to reach CHF 2.1 trillion and over 402,000 jobs by 2025, thanks to Rwanda’s focus on conservation-based, high-value tourism experiences.

Delegates call for farmer-centred solutions at Rwanda agriculture tech forum

At ACAT in Kigali, delegates called for urgent investment in farmer-centred agricultural technologies to empower smallholder farmers. Minister Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe emphasised equipping farmers with knowledge and tools to tackle modern agriculture challenges. AATF’s Canisius Kanangire noted the forum builds on innovation to address climate change, pests, and diseases. ACAT runs through Thursday, bringing together over 800 participants to discuss science, technology, and innovation for agriculture.