Bayern Munich’s new five-year sponsorship deal with Rwanda is stirring controversy, as critics accuse the club of engaging in “sportswashing” by partnering with a country with a questionable human rights record. The partnership, announced last month, aims to boost soccer development and tourism in the East African nation but has drawn immediate criticism.

The deal with Rwanda replaces Bayern’s previous sponsorship agreement with Qatar, which ended in June amid fan protests over the Gulf nation’s human rights record. The club’s annual general meeting in 2021 saw heated scenes, with fans condemning the Qatar partnership and demanding transparency. Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, reportedly did not renew the deal, citing Bayern’s reluctance to distance itself from the protests.

Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen defended the club’s new partnership with Rwanda, denying accusations that the deal serves to deflect attention from the country’s alleged abuses. Speaking at the European Club Association general assembly in Berlin, Dreesen stated that the primary focus of the deal is on developing soccer and promoting tourism in Rwanda.

“I don’t see this as sportswashing,” Dreesen said. “We’re committed to supporting soccer in Rwanda, and the country is looking to promote tourism. This partnership is about creating opportunities, not covering up any wrongdoings.”

However, the deal has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations. Wenzel Michalski of Human Rights Watch called it a “very, very bad choice,” while Nick McGeehan from FairSquare Projects expressed surprise that Bayern would replace one controversial partnership with another.

“The troubling actions of Rwandan-backed militias in the Democratic Republic of Congo this year make it clear that Bayern is jumping from one controversial situation to another,” McGeehan said.

Bayern’s fan base is also divided. Christian Nandelstädt, a fan interviewed by Deutsche Welle, predicted that protests will likely occur again at the club’s games. Meanwhile, Alex Salzweger, from the Bayern fan group Club No. 12, noted that fans are planning to consult experts on Rwanda before deciding on any action but expects the topic to be raised at the club’s annual general meeting.

Rwanda’s government has faced criticism for prioritizing high-profile sponsorship deals over domestic investment. Despite this, Clare Akamanzi, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, has defended the deals, arguing that such investments are crucial for the country’s economic growth and development.

Bayern did not disclose the financial details of the Rwanda deal, but the country already has sponsorship agreements with Premier League team Arsenal and Qatar-backed French champions Paris Saint-Germain. Rwanda has been accused of using these deals to divert attention from human rights issues, including stifling political opposition and alleged human rights abuses.

Dreesen emphasized that Bayern’s involvement in Rwanda will bring tangible benefits, including the development of youth soccer and combating poverty through tourism. He also acknowledged that the partnership brings financial benefits to the club, but insisted that Bayern is delivering value through its contributions to the country’s soccer infrastructure.

As the club prepares for its annual general meeting in November, Dreesen remains open to addressing any concerns from Bayern’s members, acknowledging the democratic nature of the club’s governance.

“We’ll see if there are critical questions at the AGM,” Dreesen said. “If so, I will answer them openly and transparently. We’ll have to wait and see if there’s another uproar.”

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has issued a stern warning to Catholic pilgrims, criticizing certain religious practices that he claims glorify poverty. His comments, made during a youth conference on Wednesday, have sparked widespread discussion.

Kagame expressed concern over young Rwandans participating in lengthy journeys to pilgrimage sites, which he associated with a mindset of poverty. “I learned that many young people wake up early and walk for days to visit a place associated with poverty,” he remarked. “When you pray, you should be asking for what can improve your life and lift you out of poverty.”

The president, a Catholic himself, strongly condemned the idea of revering poverty. “No one should worship poverty. If I hear of people going on these journeys to worship poverty again, I will send trucks to round them up and only release them when this mentality is gone,” he warned.

While Kagame’s comments stirred speculation about specific pilgrimage sites, such as Kibeho—a town known for reported visions of the Virgin Mary—the Rwandan government clarified his remarks. Yolande Makolo, a government spokesperson, stated that Kagame did not mention Kibeho in his speech. Instead, he was likely referring to an informal religious gathering in the Rutsiro district, emphasizing the importance of ambition and hard work over “cult-like rituals.”

Kibeho, located in southern Rwanda, has become a popular pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of visitors each year. However, the Catholic Church has yet to respond publicly to the president’s remarks.

Christianity is the predominant religion in Rwanda, with Catholics comprising nearly half of the population. Kagame’s comments have prompted discussion on the role of religion and poverty in the country, but the broader implications of his speech remain to be seen.

Belgium has declined to accept Vincent Karega as Rwanda’s ambassador-designate, a move that is expected to heighten tensions between Kigali and Brussels. Karega’s appointment by President Paul Kagame in March was intended to fill the position left by Dieudonné Sebashongore, but four months later, Belgium has officially rejected him, marking a significant shift in the diplomatic relationship between the two countries.

Rwanda’s government spokesperson, Yolande Makolo, expressed disappointment over Belgium’s decision, calling it “unfortunate.” She suggested that Belgium may have been influenced by pressure from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and activists linked to “negationist” groups, hinting at underlying political dynamics between the nations.

Although Belgium has not made an official statement, reports indicate the decision was leaked to Jambo News, a media outlet associated with Rwandan exiles, whom Kigali accuses of promoting extremist views and genocide denial.

Karega previously served as Rwanda’s ambassador to the DRC but was recalled in November 2022 amid escalating tensions between Rwanda and the DRC. At the time, Kinshasa accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim Kigali denied, countering that the DRC harbors the FDLR, a rebel group linked to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide. The diplomatic friction led to Karega’s withdrawal from the DRC, and his proposed new posting in Belgium was seen as part of Rwanda’s broader diplomatic efforts.

The rejection of Karega’s accreditation has sparked debate, with some analysts arguing that Belgium bowed to external pressures from Rwandan and Congolese activists in Europe. These groups have been vocal in opposing Rwanda’s role in regional conflicts and played a significant role in lobbying for Karega’s rejection.

Belgium’s recent moves suggest a shift in its foreign policy, focusing more on solidifying relations with the DRC. The country has taken steps to strengthen its ties with Kinshasa, including advocating for European sanctions against Rwandan and Congolese military officials and providing funds to support the DRC’s 31st Rapid Reaction Brigade through the European Peace Fund.

The decision to block Karega’s appointment marks a turning point in Rwanda-Belgium relations, further complicating the regional dynamics involving Rwanda, the DRC, and European powers.

The African Development Fund has approved a $101 million loan to support Rwanda’s Sustainable and Resilient Water and Sanitation Program. The policy-based operation is designed to improve water governance, enhance access to water, and strengthen sanitation services across the country.

The program will focus on improving legal, policy, institutional, and regulatory frameworks within Rwanda’s water and sanitation sector, ensuring more efficient delivery of basic services. The initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for over 13.2 million Rwandans by providing better access to safe water and reliable sanitation services.

“This program will benefit millions of Rwandans, offering lasting access to essential water and sanitation services while also improving water resource management and governance,” said Osward Chanda, the Bank’s Director for Water Development and Sanitation, at the Board meeting where the loan was approved.

Several Rwandan government agencies, including the Ministries of Finance and Economic Planning, Infrastructure, and Environment, as well as the Water and Sanitation Corporation, the Rwanda Water Resources Board, and the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority, will oversee the implementation of the program from this year until 2026.

This initiative is part of Rwanda’s larger Vision 2050 development plan, which aims to transform the country into a middle-income economy by 2035. The African Development Bank’s (AfDB) support for the program is also aligned with its broader Country Strategy for Rwanda (2022-2026) and the Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy, which focuses on inclusive growth and green development.

The program will contribute to three of the AfDB’s key priorities, known as the “High 5s”: improving the quality of life for Africans, ensuring food security, and advancing industrialization.

This latest project is one of many supported by the AfDB’s Water Development and Sanitation Department, as the institution continues to back Rwanda’s efforts in achieving sustainable development.

Sending Migrants to Rwanda Costs More Than Keeping Them in the UK

According to the government, the cost of sending a migrant to a “safer” country like Rwanda can be £63,000 higher than keeping them in the UK. The British parliament is currently conducting an analysis of the economic impact of the law on illegal immigration, which has revealed that the expense of sending one person amounts to £169,000 (over 250 million Frw).

However, authorities might not agree to the £106,000 (£160 million) cost of settling migrants in England. The government argues that sending migrants to other locations would create intimidation, dissuading individuals from attempting to enter the country without proper documentation.

While the Home Secretary’s office maintains that there is no cost for individuals fearing illegal entry, there remains uncertainty about the level of threat posed by this untested policy. The agency also acknowledges the unreliability of the gap between the cost of repatriating a migrant and keeping them in the UK, attributing this to rising house prices.

Presently, Rwanda is the sole country that has agreed to accept immigrants from the UK, although the implementation process has not yet commenced. Additionally, besides settlement, the policy offers medical and other benefits for UK residents.

The government claims that this policy would deter and prevent 37% of illegal immigrants from entering the UK, with no additional costs incurred. The policy specifically targets those who arrive in the UK by small boats across the Channel/La Manche and subsequently claim asylum. The plan is to arrest and send them to Rwanda or another designated “safe” country.

To send one person to Rwanda or another country, the total cost includes approximately £105,000 (about 160 Frw million) paid to the receiving nation, as well as £22,000 (about 35 Frw million) for flights and accompanying the individual. Estimates indicate that each trip would accommodate 50 individuals, although some trips may carry fewer people.

It is crucial to note that the aforementioned costs are merely a comparison and do not reflect the actual agreement with Rwanda, a country known for its robust economy.

Opposition parties in the UK have dismissed the analysis as “ridiculous” and raised concerns about the government’s lack of awareness regarding the scheme’s full cost. Yvette Cooper, the minister overseeing the administration, suggests that the “real cost” could be higher, as the government fails to account for prolonged detention periods.

Defending the policy, Administration Minister Suella Braverman argues that doing nothing is not an option. She emphasizes that operations encouraging people to risk their lives and pay smugglers to enter the UK illegally burden the British taxpayer.

Currently, the UK spends £6 million per day on housing asylum seekers in hotels. Last year alone, over 45,700 individuals illegally crossed the Channel in small boats. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made it a top priority to curtail such activities and prevent unauthorized entries.

Although Rwanda has agreed to accept immigrants from the UK, the implementation process has yet to commence. In December 2022, the High Court of England deemed the government’s plan legal, but an ongoing appeal could potentially reverse this decision. The bill on illegal immigrants still needs approval from the National Assembly, where it faces significant opposition and the possibility of being defeated in court before becoming law.

Critics argue that the project lacks consistency and violates international law.

Source: BBC

Pastor Théogène Niyonshuti, renowned for his inspirational YouTube talks, has passed away due to a fatal accident, as confirmed by Pastor Isaïe Ndayizeye, the senior pastor of the Pentecostal Church of Rwanda (ADEPR). The news of his untimely demise was received on Friday at 10:00 a.m. (4:00 a.m.) and has left the community in deep sorrow.

The accident occurred in Kabale, western Uganda, where Pastor Théo, as he was affectionately known, was traveling with three friends. Tragically, their small vehicle collided with a bus, resulting in the loss of Pastor Théo’s life and leaving only one survivor, who is currently receiving medical treatment.

The ADEPR church’s leadership expressed their heartfelt condolences and deep sympathies through a message shared on Twitter. They apologized to Pastor Théogène’s grieving family, ADEPR parishioners, friends, and relatives, acknowledging the profound impact of his sudden departure, which took place on Thursday night.

Pastor Théo, a beloved figure among Rwandans, Burundians, and other Kinyarwanda speakers who followed his YouTube talks, had a unique approach to preaching. With his background as a former street child, he skillfully integrated examples from his own life, captivating his audience with a blend of humor and profound wisdom. On some occasions, he delivered his inspiring messages alongside his wife, further touching the hearts of those who listened.

For years, Pastor Théo served as the pastor of Muhima Parish in the ADEPR-Kamuhoza church, located in the vibrant city of Kigali. His remarkable journey from being an orphaned street child to a beacon of hope and love resonated deeply with his congregation.

Pastor Ndayizeme, reflecting on their shared experiences, said, “I had the privilege of knowing him before he became a pastor. His extraordinary talent in evangelism was forged through the crucible of the genocide.”

“He emerged from a life of hardship and found salvation, transforming into a person who embraced love,” Pastor Ndayizeme added, emphasizing Pastor Théo’s incredible journey of personal growth.

Furthermore, Pastor Ndayizeye highlighted Pastor Théo’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. He selflessly took several street children under his wing, ensuring they received an education and a chance for a better future. His unwavering dedication to this cause left a lasting impact on the community he served.

Pastor Théogène Niyonshuti, at the age of 40, leaves behind a grieving wife and four children, who are now mourning the loss of their beloved husband and father. The void created by his absence will be deeply felt, as his legacy of love, resilience, and service lives on in the hearts of those he touched.

The loss of such an influential figure is a reminder of the fragility of life, prompting reflection on the impact one can make in their journey. The memory of Pastor Théo’s inspiring talks, his compassion, and his dedication to uplifting others will continue to inspire and guide countless individuals, even in his absence.

Mount Kenya University Rwanda has recently undergone a transformation, emerging with a new name that perfectly reflects its Rwandan identity and heritage. With the authorization of the Higher Education Council of Rwanda, the institution is now known as Mount Kigali University.

This change signifies more than just a new name; it marks a significant milestone in the university’s evolution from a cross-border institution to an independent international center of higher learning.

While the name may be new, the exceptional qualities that have solidified Mount Kigali University as one of Rwanda’s premier international universities remain unchanged. The institution continues to uphold its commitment to delivering high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate academic programs, boasting cutting-edge infrastructure, distinguished faculty members, and a global approach to education. Scholarships, diverse corporate social responsibility initiatives, and a strong track record of graduate employability further contribute to its reputation as a top educational establishment.

It is important to note that the change in name does not alter the university’s ownership. Founded by the esteemed educationalist Prof. Simon N. Gicharu in Kenya, the university expanded its presence to Rwanda in 2010. Initially, it operated from leased buildings along KN4 Avenue and KN3 in Kicukiro. However, it found its permanent home in Kagarama, Kicukiro District, which now proudly bears the name Mount Kigali University.

In recognition of Prof. Gicharu’s exceptional achievements in advancing higher education accessibility in East Africa, he was honored with the Ernst & Young Eastern Africa Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2014. This accolade serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to providing educational opportunities to students in the region.

Over time, Mount Kigali University has made significant strides in enhancing its academic infrastructure. The institution’s facilities for health sciences and hospitality training are now regarded as some of the best among higher learning institutions across Africa.

Notably, the university is currently undertaking the construction of the Kigali Paramount Hotel, a four-star establishment that draws inspiration from prestigious institutions such as the Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) in Switzerland and Utalii College in Nairobi, Kenya.

With its completion, the hotel will become a regional hub for hospitality and tourism management training, contributing to Rwanda’s status as the preferred regional destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.

Mount Kigali University’s commitment to the well-being of the community extends beyond education and hospitality. The institution plans to establish a community health center in Kagarama, offering essential medical services to the local population. This initiative reflects the university’s dedication to serving the needs of its surroundings and making a meaningful impact on society.

In a significant appointment, Dr. Innocent Mugisha, former Executive Director of the Rwanda Higher Education Council, has been named Chairman of the University Council at Mount Kigali University. Drawing from his vast experience in higher education and his previous role as Director of Quality Assurance at the University of Rwanda, Dr. Mugisha brings valuable expertise to further strengthen the institution’s governance and academic standards.

Dr. Mugisha aptly emphasizes the importance of the university’s new name, Mount Kigali University, as a symbol of Rwandan identity and patriotism. It embodies the country’s unique position as the Land of a Thousand Hills, paying homage to the awe-inspiring Mount Kigali.

This historically significant mountain holds deep cultural and historical relevance, serving as the seat of power for King Cyilima I Rungwe in the 14th Century AD. From its summit, the king beheld the vastness of his realm, encompassing the hills and valleys where his subjects resided. The name ‘Kigali’ itself is derived from the combination of ‘Ki,’ a definite article/prefix, and ‘Gali,’ which signifies wide or broad in Kinyarwanda.

Prof. Gicharu, Chairman of the Mount Kigali University Board of Directors, reaffirms the board’s unwavering commitment to allocating additional resources to ensure the institution’s continued delivery of quality education. This dedication is a testament to their vision and determination to nurture the next generation of leaders and professionals.

To commemorate its journey and celebrate its achievements, Mount Kigali University launched a memoir titled ‘Mountain Meets Land of a Thousand Hills’ in February of last year. This captivating book takes readers on a historical voyage, recounting the university’s beginnings in Kenya in 2010 and its subsequent expansion into Rwanda as part of Mount Kenya University. It serves as a testament to the institution’s growth, transformation, and its role in shaping the educational landscape of both countries.

With the change in name, Mount Kigali University embraces a new chapter in its story, combining academic excellence, cultural identity, and a steadfast commitment to Rwanda’s progress. As it continues to evolve and leave a lasting impact on the educational sphere, the institution stands tall, mirroring the majesty and significance of the mountain from which it draws its name.