Embassy of Rwanda, 10th anniversary Magazine. The Hague

Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands

Rwanda and the netherlands enjoy excellent relations

president kagame’s visit to the netherlands together, we prosper

10th

anniversary special  

Colophon Congratulations to the Rwandan Embassy

Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda 10th Anniversary Special Edition The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague is accredited to the Netherlands.

Other countries under its jurisdiction are Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovenia.

H.E. Jean Pierre Karabaranga Ambassador Mr Herbert Ndahiro First Secretary Mr Robert Kayinamura First Counsellor

Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda Johan van Oldenbarneveltlaan 9-b 2582 NE The Hague The Netherlands

T +31 (0) 70 392 65 71 E ambalahaye@minaffet.gov.rw W www.netherlands.embassy.gov.rw

Production by Diplomat Magazine graphic design Stefanie Farias printing chief editor

Studio Kliek Gianotten Printed Media Dr. Mayelinne De Lara

Special contribution

Willem Versteegh (Likizo Marketing)

Copyright © 2017. All rights reserved.

Congratulations to the Rwanda Embassy The Netherlands would like to congratulate the Rwandan Embassy on its 10th anniversary. This is a perfect occasion to reflect onCongratulations the outstanding state of Rwandan bilateral relations between the Netherlands and to the Embassy Rwanda. We share a special bond, one we treasure greatly. It is reflected in the many reciprocal visits in recent years by government ministers from our two countries. This book serves as an illustration of this highlighting key events pictures andon anecdotes.

The relationship, Netherlands would like tosome congratulate the through Rwandan Embassy its 10th anniversary. This is a perfect occasion to reflect on the outstanding state of bilateral relations between the Netherlands and Over the past 20 years, Rwanda hasone made progress: GDP has in grown spectacularly, Congratulations to the Rwandan Embassy Rwanda.

We share a special bond, we remarkable treasure greatly.

It is reflected the many reciprocal visits poverty decreased, and child and infant mortality have declined. is serious about of in recenthas years by government ministers from our tworates countries.

This bookRwanda serves as an illustration boosting economic development, attracting investment creating The Netherlands deeply this relationship, highlighting some key events through and pictures and jobs. anecdotes. appreciates Rwanda’s in international peacekeeping operations andanniversary. its efforts toThis boostis a The Netherlands wouldcrucial like torole congratulate the Rwandan Embassy on its 10th stability in the20 Great Lakes Region and Africa as a of whole.

Therelations Netherlands is proud to have perfect to reflect on thehas outstanding state bilateral between the Netherlands and Over theoccasion past years, Rwanda made remarkable progress: GDP has grown spectacularly, accompanied Rwanda on journey.

Rwanda.

Wedecreased, share a special bond, oneinfant we treasure greatly.

It is reflected the many reciprocal visits poverty has andthis child and mortality rates have declined.inRwanda is serious about in recent years by government ministers from our two countries.

Thisjobs. bookThe serves as an illustration boosting economic development, attracting investment and creating Netherlands deeply of Our development partnership ainternational wide range of areas, including aid, trade, the this relationship, highlighting someinkey events through pictures and anecdotes. appreciates Rwanda’s crucial spans role peacekeeping operations and agriculture its efforts toand boost legal system. we are working achieve and stability in Rwanda stability in theTogether Great Lakes Region and to Africa as agreater whole.prosperity The Netherlands is proud to have and the Great Lakes more generally.

Over the pastRegion 20 years, Rwanda has made remarkable progress: GDP has grown spectacularly, accompanied Rwanda on this journey. poverty has decreased, and child and infant mortality rates have declined. Rwanda is serious about We forward developing our relations evenoffurther, we move from boosting economicto development, attracting investment andas creating jobs.

Thedevelopment Netherlands deeply Our look development partnership spans a wide range areas, including aid, trade, agriculturecooperation and the towards a greater focuscrucial on are trade.

The Netherlands looks forward to working with Rwanda asboost an equal appreciates Rwanda’s role in international operations and itsin efforts to legal system.

Together we working to achieve peacekeeping greater prosperity and stability Rwanda and the partner and toRegion many more years of friendship. stability in the Great more Lakesgenerally.

Region and Africa as a whole. The Netherlands is proud to have Great Lakes accompanied Rwanda on this journey.

We look forward to developing our relations even further, as we move from development cooperation Our development partnership spans wide range oflooks areas, including aid, trade, agriculture andanthe towards a greater focus on trade.

Thea Netherlands forward to working with Rwanda as equal legal system. we years are working to achieve greater prosperity and stability in Rwanda and the partner and toTogether many more of friendship.

Great Lakes Region more generally.

We look forward to developing our relations even further, as we move from development cooperation towards a greater focus on trade. The Netherlands looks forward to working with Rwanda as an equal partner and to many more years of friendship.

Bert Koenders Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Bert Koenders Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Bert Koenders Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Lilianne Ploumen Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Lilianne Ploumen Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Lilianne Ploumen Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Minister Bert Koenders

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Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN

embassy of Rwanda

10 Years Anniversary of the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands 10 years of excellent relations

By H.E. Jean Pierre Karabaranga, Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda was established in the Kingdom of the Netherlands in The Hague on the 1st of November 2006. Since then the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda has built relations and partnerships in the Netherlands, not only in The Hague but also throughout all the provinces at all levels from political and economic issues to cultural and academic. The Embassy has provided relevant and up-to-date information about Rwanda, including services related to trade, investment, tourism and consular services.

Rwanda and the Netherlands enjoy excellent relations

In the post Genocide against Tutsis period, the Kingdom of the Netherlands was among the first countries / international partners to respond positively by proving humanitarian aid through emergency and assistance programs in Rwanda. Today, the development cooperation is managed through the Multi-Annual Strategic Plan (MASP). The current and 3rd MASP 2013-2017 total envelop is estimated at EUR 239 million in the sectors of Justice, Food Security and Water Resource Management, Decentralization and Governance, the private sector and NGO’s. The two countries equally enjoy excellent diplomatic relations characterized by exchange of government officials’ visits:

On the Rwandan side

The official visit of H.E. President Paul KAGAME in October 2015 Working visits by Ministers in 2015: Hon. Louise MUSHIKIWABO, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Johnson BUSINGYE, Minister of Justice, Hon. Gerardine MUKESHIMANA, Minister of Agriculture in 2013: Hon. Agnes KALIBATA, Minister of Agriculture and Hon. Albert NSENGIYUMYA, Minister of State for Vocational Training in the Ministry of Education in 2011: Hon. Tarcisse KARUGARAMA, Minister of Justice Working visit of the Committee on Foreign Affairs in Senate and Parliament of Rwanda

On the Dutch side:

Minister Bert KOENDERS in 2008 The members of the Standing Committee of Foreign Affairs in the lower chamber in 2009 Queen Maxima of The Netherlands on 20 April 2010, Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN in February 2013, in October 2014 accompanied by a group of Dutch investors, in May 2016 to attend the World Economic Forum in Rwanda Minister Frans TIMMERMANS on the occasion of Kwibuka20 on 7 April 2014 Dutch Members of Parliament (Standing committee on Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade) in August 2015

Due to such exemplary relations Rwanda recovered quickly and became a success story for fast socio-economic development.

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Rwanda Factsheet GDP growth rate of between 2006-2016.

8%

More than 1

million Rwandans have lifted themselves out of poverty in the 5 years.

UN Human Development Index ranks Rwanda as the world’s fastest

developing country.

In World Bank’s Doing Business Report Rwanda is among the improved the

most economies in world.

Rwanda has demonstrated consistent

strong performance in the World Bank Doing Business Rankings in recent years with good

progress made across all the key indicators.

The 2015 African Retail Development Index developed by AT Kearney, a global consultancy, indicates that Rwanda is the top destination for global

goods and services suppliers in Africa thanks to its focus on reforming the business climate and seeking to attract foreign investment.

The report indicates that, although Rwanda is geographically small, it is more attractive market than African countries with larger economies.

World Economic Forum ranks Rwanda the strongest performer in

Global Gender Gap.

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Rwanda has yet again scored

highly in women empowerment scorecard. According to the Global

In the overall performance, Rwanda is still the best performing country in the East and Central Africa and 3rd easiest place to do business in Africa (1st is Mauritius which ranks 28th globally, 2nd is South Africa which ranks 43rd).

Rwanda is the best place to be a woman in Africa and 6th Globally via Global Competitiveness Report.

most competitive economy in the East African region

Gender Gap Report released by the World Economic Forum ranked Rwanda first in sub-Sahara and seventh worldwide respectively out of 142 countries analyzed.

2nd easiest place to do business in

Rwanda remains the

Sub-Sahara (world Bank report 2017).

Rwanda maintained its position as the

and third in Africa, according to a new Global Competitiveness Index report.

According to the 2014-15 World Economic Forum annual report released,

Rwanda ranks 62nd globally with aggregate 4.3 out of seven.

Gallup Global Emotions Report ranks Rwanda as the safest place to walk at night in Africa and 5th globally.

Rwanda is 4th least corrupt in Africa in The Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2015 by Transparency International and 44th globally.

It is one

of the four African economies in the top 75 most competitive countries

out of 144 surveyed, the others being Mauritius (39th), South Africa (56th) and Botswana (74th).

It also ranked Rwanda is the best

World Bank’s Doing Business Report 2015: Rwanda is among the improved the most economies in world.

Rwanda ranked top

destination for global goods and services suppliers.

“With one of Africa’s fastest growing economies – an annual GDP growth of more than 8 per cent – Rwanda leads the ranking. Although small in land area and just 20 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda has an efficient government and strong macroeconomic indicators that opportunities for international retailers can offer basic packaged goods,” the report says.

place to be a woman in Africa and 6th Globally via Global

Competitiveness Report 2015 at a time when the World Bank has also ranked Rwanda as the Second easiest Place to Do Business on the continent. In Rwanda,

64 percent of the Members of Parliament are women.

UN Human Development Index ranks Rwanda as the world’s fastest developing country. Rwanda has made the most progress, which is all the more impressive given that its level of development fell during the genocide of 1994. Rwandans can now expect to live almost 32 years longer than in 1990, and spend twice as long at school. Rwanda maintains fair ranking in corruption report.

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Trade relations

H. E. Jean Pierre KARABARANGA Ambassador of Rwanda to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

By Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Ambassador

Dutch companies enjoy the business climate in Rwanda and many are successful businesses. The Dutch brewery company Bralirwa / Heineken, Dutch Rabobank in the Rwandan Banking sector and the KLM operates daily direct flights to Kigali. DSM started in Rwanda in 2016 and Unilever acquired shares in a Tea Factory, to name but a few.

Rwandan flowers company Bella Flowers signed a business agreement with the Dutch flower company Van de Wiel Flowers to sell Rwandan flowers to international market.

The socio-economic success story of Rwanda was made possible by the exceptional leadership of H.E. President Paul KAGAME that made Rwanda shift from an almost failed state in 1994 to one of the fast growing economy in World in 2016.

On the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague, I want convey my heartfelt thanks to the Government, the Parliament of The Kingdom of the Netherlands, municipalities and towns, high learning Institutions and many other institutions and organizations in the Netherlands. Most of the achievements couldn’t have been realized without the numerous collaborations with the Dutch government, the Dutch parliament and the countless number of partnerships with public, private, civil society organizations, Rwandan diaspora and friends of Rwanda.

I look forward to continue to work together with all our partners and stakeholders to strengthen the already existing excellent relations between our two countries and explore more opportunities and possibilities for a brighter future.

Happy 10th anniversary! together we prosper

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Key Highlights

in the 10 Years Existence of the Embassy of the Republic Rwanda in The Hague On 5 October 2015 King Willem-Alexander received President Paul KAGAME of the Republic of Rwanda in Wassenaar, the Netherlands.

President Paul KAGAME held a meeting with Her Majesty Queen Måxima of the Netherlands, who is the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development.

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President Kagame’s visit to the Netherlands On 6 October 2015, as he concluded his two days official working visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the President met with Mr Bert KOENDERS, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The President also held discussions with Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN of Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, the President of the Senate Ankie BROEKERS-KNOL and the Speaker of the House of Representatives Anouchka van MILTENBURG. In his meeting with the above mentioned officials, President KAGAME highlighted the strength of Rwanda’s bilateral relations with the Netherlands. He commended the Netherlands as one of Rwanda’s earliest development partners since the end of the genocide against the Tutsi. “The country was rebuilt from scratch, thanks to the resilience of the people of Rwanda and support of partners such as the Netherlands. Rwanda has been developing over the last two decades against many challenges in different areas.”

Commenting on Rwanda’s success on the Millennium Development Goals, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives expressed commitment to continued and strengthened bilateral relations.

1. H.E. President Paul KAGAME met with Mr Bert KOENDERS, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

2. H.E. President Paul KAGAME had a business dinner with private companies in The Hague, also atended by Minister Louise MUSHIKIWABO, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Ambassador Frédérique DE MAN and hosted by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by Minister Sharon DIJKSMA. 3. On the left of H.E. President Paul KAGAME, Speaker of the House of Representatives Anouchka VAN MILTENBURG. On the right, President of the Senate Ankie BROEKERS-KNOL.

1 2

3

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President KAGAME holding keynote speech at Rwanda Day.

Rwanda Day in Amsterdam On 3 October 2015, over 5,000 Rwandans from across Europe and their friends gathered in Amsterdam to interact and discuss their role in Rwanda’s ongoing social economic transformation. The gathering served as a reconnection with Rwanda’s history and was an occasion for Rwandans living abroad to learn about the country’s actual status and be an integral part of shaping its future.

Ambassado

r Jean Pierr e KARABAR

On that occasion H.E. President Paul KAGAME called on Rwandans in different corners of the world to put their hands together to change the course of the country’s history. This, the President said, is because Rwanda’s success depends on Rwandans living at home and abroad, working together and partnering with friends to achieve set goals.

“Rwanda must be a nation that stands tall.

We are on the path of recreating our nation.

Youth must carry this legacy forward.”

Giving an example of the Netherlands, the President stressed that the development of a nation is not based on its size but on the mindset, determination and work ethics of its people. He added that the developed nations, where Rwandans and other Africans migrate in pursuit of a better life, were at the same stage of development as most African nations 50 years ago.

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ANGA welco

mes H.E. Pre

sident Paul

KAGAME

The President listed Rwanda’s internationally ranked achievements including maternal and child mortality, food security, gender equality and access to education. He reiterated that Rwanda’s progress speak for itself: “Facts speak for themselves.The truth cannot be hidden.”

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Rwandan and Dutch companies actively joined the well organized and professional matchmaking process.

Rwanda Business Matchmaking Event in Amsterdam The Rwanda Development Board and the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in cooperation with the Netherlands African Business Council (NABC) organized the Rwanda Business Networking Event on 2 October 2015. The matchmaking session took place on the eve of the Rwanda Day.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA officially opened the matchmaking event and said to the audience that a successful long-lasting cooperation starts with a well organized and professional matchmaking process like this one. The program focused on agri-business and trade, energy, infrastructure and construction, media and ICT, transport, logistics and cars, tourism, education and medical services.

The mission was an effective instrument to serve multiple goals; promoting Rwanda as business destination, strengthening economic relations between the Netherlands & Rwanda and facilitate the creation of business partnerships (trade and investments) between the Rwandan and Dutch private sector.

Mr Francis GATARE, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, said at the event: “Everybody remembers 1994, but since then many good things happened. Doing business is easy in Rwanda, our procedures are clear and simple. Dutch companies, including Heineken, Unilever and KLM are present in the Central African country”.

Panel: Ms D IBO Cooperation MA (moderator and H ead at Mrs VAN HO NABC), Mr GASAMAGER of External Affairs & In ternational OFT (Green A (Presiden DreamCom Developmen pany), Mr Fr t Private Sector Federat t Board) and an ion cis GATARE Mr Yiu TUN (CEO Rwand ), G (investor a in Rwanda) .

together we prosper

Ambassador Frédérique DE MAN addressing participants at the B2B event.

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Minister MUSHIKIWABO’S visit to the Netherlands Minister Louise MUSHIKIWABO of the Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation was in the Netherlands on 29 and 30 June 2015 on an official visit aimed at deepening the bilateral cooperation in international cooperation with the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

On the first day of her visit the Minister and Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA met with honourable guests from governmental institutions and universities in the Netherlands. Several topics were discussed like the collaborations between Rwanda, the Netherlands, the European Union and the African Union.

rt KOENDERS.

O and Minister Be

USHIKIWAB Minister Louise M

The Minister had an extensive meeting at the Dutch Parliament in The Hague with a group of MPs of the standing committee of foreign affairs that was going to visit Rwanda from 17 to 20 August 2015.

The members of this delegation (Mr Joost TAVERNE, Ms Agnes MULDER, Ms Sharon GESTHUIZEN, Mr Jan VOS and Mr Roelof VAN LAAR) had the opportunity to discuss with the Minister on the situation in the region and furthermore about the opportunities for entrepreneurs.

As the Rwanda specialty coffee is trending in the Netherlands a short visit was made to Koffiebranderij Boon in The Hague, which is a specialty coffee roaster that roasts Rwanda coffee beans from Rushashi.

Minister Louise MUSH IKIWABO and Ambassa dor Jean Pierre KARA at the Binnenhof (Du BARANGA tch Parliament) in The Hague.

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Minister Busingye’s visit to the Netherlands The Minister for Justice, Johnston BUSINGYE, was in the Netherlands from 17 to 22 June 2015 on an official visit aimed at deepening the bilateral cooperation in justice and rule of law.

During the visit the Minister chaired the panel on Justice and rule of law, which brought together relevant policy stakeholders from Rwanda and the Netherlands.

The visit included field visits to among others the Netherlands Forensic Institute, the Netherlands Institute for War Documentation (NIOD) and several of the international justice institutions in The Hague.

Minister BUSINGYE also had an interactive meeting with Rwandan Diaspora living in the Netherlands, during which they discussed key elements on policies that would help increase their contribution to their country. The Minister called on the Rwandan Diaspora members to reflect on the progress made by the country, bearing in mind where Rwanda has come from, and challenged them to become active partners in development.

Minister BUSINGYE stressed that it is important for the Rwandans in the diaspora to play a role toward ensuring improved matchup between employability and training that is offered in Rwanda. He said that Rwandans of all walks of life must work collectively to see how they could contribute to Rwanda, economically, politically and in many other ways.

Minister Johnston BUSINGYE and the Dutch State Secretary of Security and Justice, Minister for Migration Klaas DIJKHOFF

Minister BUSINGYE and the Dutch State Secretary of Security and Justice, Minister for Migration Klaas DIJKHOFF and Rwandan and Dutch experts discussed the bilateral justice cooperation.

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Minister Mukeshimana signs Memorandum of Understanding with the Netherlands In June 2015 Minister Gerardine MUKESHIMANA of the Ministry of Agriculture & Animal Resources and Minister Sharon DIJKSMA of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Understanding on bilateral cooperation in plant variety protection and breeders’ rights at sidelines of the ‘No More Food To Waste’ conference in The Hague.

The Rwandan government wants to provide and promote an effective system of plant variety protection, with the aim of encouraging the development of new varieties of plants, for the benefit of further development and economic growth of the Rwanda agricultural sector, specifically the potato sector and the seed sector.

The Minister started with the ‘No More Food To Waste’ Conference and participated in a panel discussion deliberation on food loss, waste and opportunities for action.

Furthermore, she attended a Horticulture Platform meeting with the Rwanda trade delegation where an update was given on the SMART Project in Rwanda.

Minister Gerardine MUKESHIMANA was in the Netherlands from 16 to 19 June 2015 to intensify the economic relations between Rwanda and the Netherlands on developing the agriculture sector through extending business to business contacts and to discuss the Dutch institutional framework on agricultural policies, research and good agricultural practices.

This is a smart greenhouse technology specially developed for Rwanda by a consortium of Dutch and Rwandan private sector companies and research institutes, which will result in increased quality and production of vegetables and a stronger market position.

Minister Sharon DIJKSMA of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Minister Gerardine MUKESHIMANA of the Ministry of Agriculture & Animal Resources signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

The Minister continued her mission and visited Olij Roses, a specialist in growing and propagation of roses.

On the photo: Mr Ruud OLIJ, Minister Gerardine MUKESHIMANA, Mrs Teddie MUFFELS, Agricultural Counsellor at the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda and Mr Robert KAYINAMURA, First Counselor at the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands.

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President KAGAME meets Dutch Minister KNAPEN During the meeting, KNAPEN complimented the President on Rwanda’s achievements in economic progress, poverty reduction, improvements in the investment climate and fighting corruption.

Security and stability in the border region and strengthening the rule of law were also discussed.

Ben KNAPEN, Minister for European Affairs and International Cooperation, met with President Paul KAGAME in the capital Kigali on 15 February 2011.

Visit Inspector General Gasana of Rwanda Police On 10 and 11 March 2015 the Inspector General of Rwanda Police IGP, Emmanuel K. GASANA, visited the Netherlands on invitation from the Amsterdam police. IGP GASANA was accompanied by CPS. Morris MULIGO (Deputy com. CID & Director of Forensic Lab) and CP. Felix NAMUHORANYE (Director of Rwandan National Police Staff College).

The visit’s main purpose was to establish mutual cooperation between Amsterdam police and Rwanda National Police in terms of capacity building and modern police equipment.

IGP GASANA along with his delegation was received by Chief Constable Amsterdam Police Mr Pieter Jaap AALDERSBERG at the Amsterdam police headquarters where they both held bilateral discussions.

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President Paul KAGAME met again on 13 November 2014 with Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN to discuss existing and potential partnerships between the two countries.

Minister PLOUMEN’S Multiple visits to Rwanda In 2012 Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN commended the bilateral relations between Rwanda and the Netherlands. The Minister met with President Paul KAGAME, various government officials, representatives of the European Union, the United States government, the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the International Monetary Fund. She also visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre.

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PLOUMEN said her government wanted to go beyond the traditional aid relationships and partner with the country toward sustainable economic development. She was heading a high-level Dutch delegation, mainly composed investors who said they came to explore investment opportunities in Rwanda.

The delegation included senior executives from at least 30 Dutch companies with interests in agribusiness, logistics, energy, hospitality, horticulture, real estate, among others.

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Reception to celebrate the Netherlands’ election to the UN Security Council 23 June 2016: Prime Minister Mark RUTTE, Astronaut André KUIPERS, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN at the reception to celebrate the Netherlands being elected as a member of the UN Security Council.

RDB, African Parks and the Government of the Netherlands to reintroduce black rhinos into Rwanda On 3 March 2016

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA attended the High-level Round Table session, which was chaired by Minister Martijn VAN DAM, chair of the conference and Minister for Agriculture of the Netherlands. The Ambassador took the opportunity, on behalf of the Rwandan Government and the Rwanda Development Board, to thank the Dutch Government and African Parks for supporting the various initiatives they undertook to ensure that wildlife has a future in Rwanda.

Minister Martijn VAN DAM and Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA

The Rwandan Development Board, African Parks and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs presented a Wildlife Deal on the reintroduction of black rhinos into Rwanda.

This project represents a very prestigious and positive initiative to bring an endangered species back into a safe environment in Rwanda. It restores Akagera National Park to a ‘Big Five’ park and will boost the tourism development in Rwanda. The Wildlife Deal was presented on World Wildlife Day at the Save Wildlife Conference in The Hague, the Netherlands.

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Minister of Youth and ICT, Jean Philibert NSENGIMANA sitting right of Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA.

Launch Global Forum on Cyber Expertise in The Hague

Dutch Members of Parliament visit Rwanda A delegation of the Committee for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Dutch House of Representatives visited Rwanda in 2015.

Minister of Youth and ICT, Jean Philibert NSENGIMANA, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and more than 42 governments, intergovernmental organizations and companies, attended the Global Conference on Cyber Space in The Hague on 16 and 17 April 2015, where the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) was launched.

The GFCE is a key initiative to give political momentum to global cyber capacity building, make available technical expertise as well as new funding to strengthen cyber security, help fight cybercrime, better protect our data and support e-governance.

All countries should benefit from the potential a free, open and secure internet has to offer. The GFCE is a pragmatic, action oriented and flexible platform for policymakers, practitioners and experts from different countries and regions. Goal was to share experiences, identify gaps in global cyber capacities, and to complement existing efforts in capacity building.

Sharon R, MP Sjoerd SJOERDSMA, MP First row: MP Agnes MULDE dĂŠrique FrĂŠ or sad bas Am E, Paul KAGAM GESTHUIZEN, H.E. President D. DE MAN, MP Joel VOORDEWIN

The group, comprising eight Dutch members of parliament, sought to examine the current state of affairs in the Dutch-Rwandan cooperation in the fields of trade and economic development and more about the current political and economic situation.

The Netherlands is credited with playing an important role in facilitating post genocide justice, especially through funding of Gacaca courts which helped Rwanda in carrying out what is seen as one of the most inclusive judicial processes in the world.

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KWIBUKA

KWIBUKA20 commemoration of Genocide against Tutsi

Launch of Kwibuka20 at the Church of our Saviour in The Hague

April marks the commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, an important occasion to remember the lives that were lost, show solidarity with survivors and unite to ensure it never happens again, in Rwanda or anywhere. Over one hundred of history’s darkest days, more than one million Rwandans perished in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It is also a chance to share Rwanda’s story of reconciliation and nation building with the world.

Since its existence in the Netherlands, the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda plans several commemorative events in various towns in the Netherlands every year.

At the 2012 commemoration guest speaker was Justine MBABAZI, author of the book This is Your Time, Rwanda, An Emerging Story of a Bold Nation and its Brilliant Destiny.

2014 marked the 20th commemoration and began on 14 February with the launch of Kwibuka20 at the Church of our Saviour in The Hague and included several commemorations in April, including a conference and exhibition.

The launch event was held in The Hague at the Church of Our Saviour, led by Father Sjaak DE BOER and included

A Walk to Remember

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speeches from Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Josephine (genocide survivor), Dr. J. P. DUSINGIZEMUNGU, Christian MUNDELE and by Jan PRONK who was the former Dutch Minister for Development Cooperation (from 1989 to 1998).

In 2014 the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague organized on 7 April a Walk to Remember from the Dutch Parliament to the Atrium City Hall in The Hague. Diplomats joined Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Rwandan diaspora and Dutch friends of Rwanda.

The Walk to Remember was followed by the commemoration in the Atrium (City Hall) in The Hague where Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN was the keynote speaker and held an impressive speech.

Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and Mr. Jan PRONK at KWIBUKA20

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KWIBUKA

KWIBUKA20 Speech by Minister Lilianne Ploumen What happened in Rwanda between April and July 1994 was done with the intent to destroy another ethnic group. However you look at it from a legal or moral standpoint the conclusion must be the same. These events constituted genocide.

The international community failed to stop the killing. It was too busy meeting and discussing the legal intricacies of military intervention. By May 1994, one month into the genocide, there could no longer be any doubt about the scale and viciousness of the mass slaughter. Western leaders were fully aware of the horror. Calls came for an intervention. On 6 May 1994, the UN Security Council called for UNAMIR, the handful of UN soldiers left in Kigali, to be expanded to 5,500 troops to stop the genocide.

Not one country heeded the call from the Security Council. As a result, the whole world shares responsibility for the tragedy.

My own country is no exception.

Lilianne PLOUMEN, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation for the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

“Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, It began on the sixth of April 1994 with an outburst of atrocities. In the months that followed the world realised that it was witnessing genocide. The world did nothing to stop it.

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The facts are there for all to see. The genocide was meticulously prepared by the Hutu extremists around the then president HABYARIMANA. Young thugs received military training and radical schooling in the youth movement Interahamwe.

Radio Télévision Libre des Millae Collines broadcast racist propaganda against the Tutsi, calling them inyenzi, or cockroaches, in a deliberate attempt to dehumanise them, to render them dispensable. Thousands and thousands of machetes were secretly imported and distributed. Secret lists were made of Tutsi and their sympathisers.

Houses were marked H or T. Rehearsals were held in remote villages in the Bugesera district, where thousands of people were slaughtered during the night, almost unnoticed.

Ladies and gentlemen, last year I visited the Genocide Memorial Centre in Kigali. It is a peaceful place in a dynamic, bustling city.

A quiet place, where you can reflect as you look at the photographs of those who were killed, as you watch the videos of survivors talking about their ordeal.

While I was looking at the testimonials on display, I realised that all the people standing around me at that moment were part of the events commemorated there.

Every one of them, from the doorman to the museum guide, had in one way or another been a victim of these atrocities themselves.

It was an important day in my life. It is important to stop and think about what happened in 1994. It’s important for us to meet here today and remember those who were so savagely killed. It’s important to pause and reflect on what man is capable of. Because the violence in Rwanda wasn’t unprecedented. Such horrors have occurred

KWIBUKA throughout history and all over the world.

There is a dark trait in humanity that, under the right circumstances or rather, the wrong circumstances we all share.

this case the survivors accept the truth as a basis for living together again. This process was carried out all over the country, in hundreds of villages.

But our shared humanity also tells us that we made the wrong choices. It makes us say out loud that we deeply regret those choices.

That we deeply regret the huge loss of life, the immense trauma felt by Rwandan society, and the pain and sorrow that the survivors of the genocide still feel today. And it makes us try hard not to make the wrong choices again. Rwanda’s recent history was certainly uppermost in people’s minds when it was decided to intervene in, say, South Sudan or the Central African Republic

Reconciliation may not be the right word for what is going on in Rwanda. But even the decision that survivors and killers must live together takes courage. I cannot begin to imagine how painful this process must have been and still is. But the Rwandans took that step. They found a way to deal with the past.

They found a way to make their memories and lives bearable again. Where did they find the strength? I believe they must have come to a profound understanding that there simply was no other way.

When, after months of bloodshed, Rwanda began to emerge from the abyss of genocide, the outlook was bleak. Nearly a million Rwandans had been slaughtered in only three months.

Today, twenty years on, a new generation of Rwandans has grown up in peace and security. For them, a new chapter is being written with the most recent campaign called Ndi Umunyarwanda, or ‘I am Rwandan’. It is a fresh attempt to encourage people to talk about what happened and help them understand the complex social impact of the genocide.

A few million were living in camps in Zaire, now Congo, and Tanzania, near the Rwandan borders, still under the control of Hutu extremists. While UN agencies and NGOs were feeding and sheltering them, they were still actively threatening Rwanda.

Debate within the international community about the future of Rwanda was dominated by fears that the country would tumble back into violence again. What future was there? The odds were stacked high against Rwanda. What had happened could not be undone. Nor could it be forgotten. And it seemed inconceivable that the victims and the perpetrators would ever be able to live with one other again.

Yet that is exactly what the new Rwandan leaders set out to achieve. Despite the devastation, despite the threats and despite the suspicions about the government’s intentions, Rwanda chose to rebuild the country and to tackle the deep divisions of the genocide.

Twenty years after the massacre, Kigali is now one of the safest and cleanest cities in Africa. Today, Rwanda has a population of around 12 million, double what it was shortly after the genocide. Education, health care, literacy and life expectancy have all improved tremendously. I want to pay tribute to the people of Rwanda for what they have achieved in the last twenty years.

Against all the odds, they have managed to give themselves a future once again.

So let me end by looking at this future and voicing my hopes for the Rwandan people. I feel that the biggest challenge is this: Rwandans will have to rediscover confidence in themselves and in one another. The confidence that they can stand

on their own two feet, not only as a society but also as individuals. Free from fear, at peace with their neighbours and with respect for the common human values we all share.

The Netherlands wants to show its friendship by assisting in that process.

We want to contribute to those positive developments. For instance by helping to rebuild the judicial system, as we have been doing over the past years. And by helping Rwanda to take the next steps towards a free society. I want to paraphrase ambassador Karabaranga, who was quoted this morning in a Dutch newspaper. He said: ‘In the end Rwanda wants to move away from dependency and create equal partnerships with friendly countries.’

As a true friend the Netherlands wants to travel alongside Rwanda on its journey to a brighter future, getting to know one another better and learning from each other along the way. We want to accompany the Rwandans on their quest for greater trust and confidence. It is a challenge. But Rwanda has met bigger ones in the recent past.

Ambassador, thank you for hosting the Kwibuka commemorations in the Netherlands. We are honoured that you are here, and that Rwanda has chosen us as a partner for these events under the Kwibuka Flame. The flame that symbolises remembrance, as well as the resilience and the courage of Rwandans over the past twenty years.”

Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN.

Rwanda rebuilt its judicial system, almost from scratch. It resolved to bring the suspects of the genocide to justice. This was no easy task, given that in 1996 over 100,000 suspects were still in jail. And despite the resentment and pain, Rwanda took the bold step to abolish capital punishment.

And despite the widespread thirst for revenge, Rwanda reinstalled the tradition of gacaca, a community justice system involving mediation, confession and acts of contrition. A system in which the victims in

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KWIBUKA20 Ambassador Jean Pierre Karabaranga highlighted in this speech: “In the morning of 7 April 2014, in Kigali in Rwanda, also the world joined Rwandans to show them solidarity.

10 heads of state and governments, the SG of UN, heads of delegations from different countries were present.

The Netherlands was represented by Honourable Frans TIMMERMANS, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and again this shows that Rwandans are no longer alone as it was in 1994. For this I take the opportunity to address my sincere thanks to the Government of the Netherlands.�

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KWIBUKA22 The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands started the 22nd commemoration program in The Hague on 8 April 2016. Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA hosted the official Kwibuka22 commemoration at the Hilton Hotel. The event was attended by more than 250 guests, including officials of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic Community, Friends of Rwanda, Rwandan nationals living in the Netherlands and many others. All guests joined the Walk to Remember that was held prior to the official commemoration.

Mr Christian MUNDELE, Chairman of Ibuka Netherlands.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA said in this speech that: “Rwanda commemorates genocide for the 22nd time, the world celebrates the 71st anniversary of the United Nations charter, in which 194 members pledge ‘never again’ and have committed to establish conditions under

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and his spouse light the candles.

which justice and respect for the obligations arising from tertiaries and other sources of international law can be maintained. Among these treaties are those that have moved the prosecution of genocide, from being an option to being a duty. In this regard, Rwanda reminds countries of their international law obligation of prosecuting these genocide suspects or handing them over to Rwanda to face Justice.”

Kwibuka22 - Messages of hope were given by Kacie KARABARANGA, Thalia MUNDELE and Davina Furaha UMWIZA.

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KWIBUKA22

In cooperation with the International Institute of Social Studies in The Hague several Kwibuka events have been organized throughout the years, where the student body of the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University, Scholars, and the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands have collaborated to remember the innocent lives lost, and show solidarity with survivors and reflect on lessons learned, for looking forward.

Dr. Helen HINTJES holding her lecture

Dr. Helen HINTJES, who’s specialism is the post-genocide politics of peaceful change and refugee issues in the African Great Lakes region and Rwanda in particular, spoke about the three fundamental forms of denial; Literal denial, interpretive denial and implicatory denial. “Genocide denial is a crime in many parts of the world.

Lesser forms of denial, of atrocities and suffering short of genocide, also block the path to future peace”, concluded Dr. HINTJES her lecture.

Mr Christian MUNDELE, chairman of Ibuka Netherlands, holding a speech

Ms Hetty FR A of Rwanda, ta NZANI, a Friend lked about sh aring skills and ch anging lives .

Mr Guy BEAUJOT, a Friend of Rwanda, in his speech ‘Rwanda Never Again’ towards ‘Fighting Genocide Ideology’

Ambassador KARABARANGA with speakers and ISS-students

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KWIBUKA22 On 11 April 2016 the Embassy of Rwanda continued with the KWIBUKA22 program in the Netherlands at the Webster University in Leiden with a commemoration ceremony followed by a lecture

by Ambassador Jean Pierre Karabaranga, who talked about fighting Genocide ideology and denial.

During the lecture, which was streamed live, the Ambassador shed light on the background of the Genocide against Tutsi, genocide ideology, and the eight stages or operational processes of genocide.

Ambassador Jean Pierre Karabaranga with the students of Webster University.

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KWIBOHORA Liberation Day With Kwibohora we celebrate our Independence, the liberation of Rwanda, the end of Genocide by Rwandans and of course our achievements and progress gained. We also pose to look at the journey since 22 years and look to the future with hope, optimism and a renewed commitment to agaciro (dignity), self reliance and shared human values. It is an opportunity to share this story and learn about Rwanda’s vision for a peaceful, prosperous and self-reliant nation. The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda celebrates this every year in The Hague. rre KARABARANGA

Ambassador Jean Pie

In 2015 Kwibohora21 was celebrated at the Carlton Ambassadors Hotel in The Hague with cultural dance performances and a special performance by MASAMBA. In 2016 the 22nd anniversary of liberation was held under the theme ‘Together we prosper’. On 9 July the Embassy of the Republic Rwanda in the Netherlands hosted the Kwibohora22 celebration in The Hague.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, the Embassy team and the Rwanda diaspora committee welcomed guests, including Rwandan nationals living in the Netherlands, Friends of Rwanda and others. The program included a wide variety of entertainment, like a Rwandan music live band, traditional dance performances and a Rwandan culinary experience.

Rwandan a rt

ist MASAM

BA with Am

bassador Je an Pierre K ARABARAN

GA.

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10 Years Anniversary of the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands

Mr Pieter Jan KLEIWEG, H.E. Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, the Ambassador’s spouse and 2 members of the Rwandan Diaspora cutting the anniversary cake.

The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda celebrates a decade of its existence in the Kingdom of the Netherlands in The Hague.

country’s socio-economic development.

Dutch companies enjoy the business climate in Rwanda and many are successful businesses.

The Embassy was established on 1 November 2006 and since then the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda has built relations and partnerships in the Netherlands, not only in The Hague but also throughout all the provinces at all levels from political and economic issues to cultural and academic.

The Dutch brewery company Bralirwa / Heineken, Dutch Rabobank in the Rwandan Banking sector and the KLM operates daily direct flights to Kigali. DSM started in Rwanda in 2016 and Unilever acquired shares in a Tea Factory, to name but a few.

Cooperation at the bilateral level has been reflected in numerous visits exchanges at a high level, political discussions and signed agreements in the fields of economy, rule of law, water management and agricultural cooperation. The embassy is proud that the last 10 years have seen continued growth in bilateral cooperation between Rwanda and the Netherlands as reflected in engagements at both public and private sector levels.

Today, many Dutch companies are established in Rwanda and are enjoying one of the best business climate in world, in the sectors of agribusiness, manufacturing, water, food processing, financial services, energy and real estate and have created jobs and employment thus contributing to the

together we prosper

The most recent positive development is with Rwandan floriculture and horticulture companies signing business agreements with their Dutch partners for exporting Rwandans flowers and other produces to the Dutch and international market. As a matter of fact this week 3 Rwandan flower companies participated for the 1st time at the International Floriculture Trade Fair in Amsterdam.

The anniversary was celebrated on Friday 4 November 2016 at the Hilton Hotel in The Hague with a reception/dinner where next to H.E. Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, guest speaker Mr Pieter Jan KLEIWEG, representing the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed the audience.

“On the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague, I want convey my heartfelt thanks to The Government, The Parliament of The Kingdom of The Netherlands, Municipalities and Towns, High learning Institutions and many other institutions and organizations in the Netherlands. Most of the achievements couldn’t have been realized without the numerous collaborations with the Dutch government, the Dutch parliament and the countless number of partnerships with public, private, civil society organizations, Rwandan diaspora and Friends of Rwanda” said the Ambassador.

H.E. Ambassador KARABARANGA concluded to say that he is looking forward to continue to work together with all of the Embassy’s partners and stakeholders to strengthen the already existing excellent relations between the two countries and explore more opportunities and possibilities for a brighter future.

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East Africa Tourist Visa launched in the Netherlands by the Ambassadors of Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda Tourists visiting the East African countries of Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda find it easy and cheaper after the three countries created one seamless tourist destination with the launch of the East African single joint visa.

The launch was held in The Hague on 11 September 2014 organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda, the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda and the Embassy of the Republic of Kenya. Rwandan Ambassador H.E. Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Ugandan Ambassador H.E. Mirjam BLAAK-SOW and Kenyan Ambassador H.E. Rose MAKENA MUCHIRI officially unveiled the East African Tourist Visa, attended by more than 250 guests.

The new cross-border visa simplifies travel arrangements for holidaymakers, as well as creates a new brand for the whole region and open up opportunities for joint marketing campaigns.

Rwanda, Kenya and Uganda are famed for their wildlife, which will, through the introduction of a joint visa, boost regional travel, adding value to the tourism products of the three countries and highlighting the diversity of East Africa. The introduction of the single tourist visa is a result of a joint initiative and decision made by the Heads of State of the respective countries.

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Rwanda Investment Seminar in Wassenaar A Rwanda Investment Seminar was held in September 2011 at the Wittenburg Castle in Wassenaar. The seminar was an initiative of the Embassy of Rwanda in collaboration with the Rwanda Chamber Foundation (RCF) and was geared to availing to the Dutch business community available investment opportunities in Rwanda.

The Dutch Ambassador in Rwanda, H.E. Frans MAKKEN, was the first speaker and informed the audience about the investment climate in Rwanda and its social, political and economic environment. Mr. Sven PIEDERIET, the Dutch CEO of Bralirwa / Heineken in Rwanda, continued and gave an outline about the culture of ‘doing business’ in Rwanda.

Dr. Daphrose GAHAKWA, Dep. Director General of the Rwanda Agricultural Research Institute (ISAR) and Mr. Alex KANYANKOLE from Minagri pointed out the business opportunities for Dutch companies in agriculture and agro processing.

Several speakers could inform the spectators about their extensive experiences as a Dutch businessman in Rwanda, like Mr. Paul VAN APELDOORN, Chief Commercial Officer for Banque Populaire/ Rabobank in Rwanda or Mr. Co MEIJER, manager for Kadaster.

The chairman of the Netherlands African Business Council (NABC), Mr. Bob VAN DER BIJL, emphasized the differences in culture between The Netherlands and African countries in general.

Investment opportunities in Rwanda at AfricaWorks!

Rwanda exhibited with the aim to strengthen the dialogue between the private and public sector, NGOs and knowledge based institutions in order to form partnerships. H.E. Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA from the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague and H.E. Ambassador Leonie CUELENAERE from the Dutch Embassy in Kigali were present on both days with their teams to meet potential investors and business companies.

together we prosper

The Netherlands African Business Council and the African Studies Centre organized the second edition of the Africa Works! Conference was held on 16 and 17 October 2014.

Rwanda promoted on Africa Day 25 May 2011: Embassy of Rwanda at Africa Day celebration in the Atrium City Hall in The Hague.

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Kwita Izina “Kwita Izina” is Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony. Kwita Izina is inspired by the ancient Rwandan tradition of naming babies soon after they are born.

In 2013, for the very first time in the history of Kwita Izina, there were 2 Dutch celebrities to name the baby gorilla Icyamamare. Ms. Lieke VAN LEXMOND and Mr. Mark VAN EEUWEN brought a TV-crew with them to film everything. They all flew with Turkish Airlines, one of the sponsors of their trip that opened a route IstanbulKigali in 2012.

On 5 September 2015 Rwandans and friends of Rwanda from across the globe gathered at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains in Musanze District, Northern Province to celebrate the 11th annual baby gorilla naming ceremony known as ‘Kwita Izina’. The event saw 24 baby gorillas named. For the first time in the history of Kwita Izina, the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague had the honour to attend together with 3 tour operators (Travel Trend, AV Tours & Safaris, All for Nature Travel) and 3 journalists (De Telegraaf newspaper, travel blog www.droomplekken.nl, Ditjes&Datjes magazine).

Ms. Lieke VAN LEXMOND and Mr. Mark VAN EEUWEN

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H.E. President Paul KAGAME at Kwita Izina 2015

embassy of Rwanda

International

Women’s Day Each year on the 8th of March the world celebrates International Women’s Day; an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality.

ue otel in The Hag the Marriott H at n io tte at de br O le ssador Day ce our H.E. Amba ional Women’s ) Guest of Hon 2016: Internat se Hague. Among ou e sp Th ’s in or s ad or ss ad ba ss . ba Am of Am t with (righ of Tanzania H.E n of African g Ambassador eroon and Dea in m ud Ca cl of in , O N da O MEL s of Rwan e many Friend the guests wer JU. AN SY KA akwa Mrs Irene Mkw

International Wom en’s Day 2015: Ambassador Pierre KARABARANG Jean A wi his spouse and daug th hter.

On the right guest of honor Mrs. Ingrid DE CALU WE.

The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague in cooperation with Ishema (Rwanda Women Association) take this opportunity and celebrate International Women’s Day together with the diplomatic community, International Women’s Contact in The Hague, the Rwandan diaspora and many Friends of Rwanda.

In 2016 the key message at the International Women’s Day by all speakers was the essential role of gender equality in attaining women empowerment.

The event further highlighted the importance of equal representation of women at all levels of government and the integration of gender issues in all aspects of development. tella MUKASHEMA

t of Ishema, Ms Chris

Host in 2015: Presiden

in 2015: Guest speaker imota AKANBI Nigeria Mrs N of or Ambassad .

Ambassadors) (Dean of African

Guest speaker in 2015 : Mrs Barbara COUWEN BERGH, President Internation al Women’s Contact in The Hague. together we prosper

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Rwanda Tourism at Vakantiebeurs Every year in January, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic Rwanda in the Netherlands participate in Vakantiebeurs, an annual Dutch tourism fair that is the Netherlands’ biggest and most important tourism exhibition. The fair attracts more than 120,000 visitors, 1,600 exhibitors from approximately 160 countries and more than 14,000 travel and media professionals.

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At the Rwandan stand, Rwanda’s Ambassador and Embassy personnel interact with the public, meet the media and answer various questions posed about Rwanda’s booming tourism sector.

The Rwanda stand attracts multitudes of people curious to learn more about the country. They are enthralled by the Rwandan dancers who entertain them throughout the event. Freshly brewed Rwandan coffee is also served at the Rwanda stand, much to the delight of the public.

Participating in the Dutch tourism show is part of efforts to draw repeat and new travellers to the Land of a Thousand Hills. The Embassy positions Rwanda as a destination that is more than the famous Gorillas.

2015 - Ambassador KARABARANGA (2nd) and Lennart CLERKX (4th)

Amsterdam Coffee Festival presents Rwanda Coffee From 15 to 17 May 2015 Rwanda was showcased at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival where the audience could taste Rwanda coffee and the best of its complex acidities and diverse flavours. The Amsterdam Coffee Festival in the Netherlands is the event where an innovative subculture of fans experiences coffee, tea, chocolate and food.

The event was organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague in collaboration with This Side Up (importer of coffee) and Sweet Cup (coffee roaster and retailer). “This is an invaluable experience for coffee connoisseurs, ‘urban foodies’, key industry players and of course many other interested parties to discover and enjoy the specialty coffees from Rwanda”, said Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA. After the big success of 2015’s cooperation at the Amsterdam Coffee Festival, on 18-19-20 March 2016 the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda and This Side Up joined forces with White Label Coffee for a new approach to promote Rwandan coffee. The participation was supported by Rwanda National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB).

2016 - Barristas from White Label Coffee serve Rwanda coffee

The Rwandan coffee is imported by several Dutch companies, including This Side Up, a platform that allows coffee roasters in Europe to trade transparently with coffee farmers in Rwanda. The Embassy of Rwanda in collaboration with NAEB, and This Side Up invited several producers from Rwanda to come to the festival, bring the Rwanda best coffees from all over the country with them and tell the full story behind their coffees, find buyers and understand the market in the Netherlands. RTC, Juru, MISOZI, 3 African Sisters, Rwanda Mountain Coffee and Falcon Specialty Coffees are all represented at the Rwanda stand.

Robert KAYINAMURA, First Counsellor at the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague, with Mr Aloys RUBAYIZA of Rwanda Mountain Coffee.

Dutch Museum opens café with Rwandan specialty coffee On 7 May 2015 the Museum of Ethnology in the Dutch town of Leiden opened its own café called Café Abel. In this café it is all about coffee and not only about the special flavours and how it tastes, but important are the stories and the people behind the Rwandan coffee. Visitors can enjoy a photo exhibition in the café with photos of all individuals involved, from the person who works at the coffee plantation in Rwanda to the barrista in the Netherlands who makes the coffee.

The official opening was done by Mr Stijn SCHOONDERWOERD, director of the museum, and Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA. “In 15 years, Rwanda has gone from no specialty coffee to becoming an award-winning origin with increasing worldwide demand. We want to showcase Rwanda as a Remarkable coffee producer and let you taste the best of its complex acidities and diverse flavours”, said the Ambassador.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and Mr Stijn SCHOONDERWOERD making a cup of Rwandan coffee.

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Rwanda at Embassy Festival in the Netherlands The Embassy of Republic of Rwanda, together with other Embassies participated in Embassy Festival 2016 that took place in The Hague in the Netherlands, bringing a vibrant and versatile programme to the city.

The Rwandan Embassy once again put up a special programme for its visitors, including traditional dances and traditional handicrafts were on display.

For the second time Rwanda had found its way to the Embassy Festival, offering a diverse programme. On the stage of the Creative Arena, the cultural program included traditional Rwandan dance performances.

Rwandan culture and coffee successfully featured at Embassy Festival in the Netherlands

Mr Robert KAYINAMURA informing the Dutch audience about Rwanda.

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Diaspora Members of the new elected committee are:

• SAFARI Emmanuel as Chairman, • UMUNYANA Aline as 1st Chairperson, • KABAGEMA Elie as 2nd Chairperson, • MUKABALISA Olive as Secretary, • NGABONZIZA Ambroise as Treasury, • NDABARASA Claude as communication & external relations, • SAFARI Christine in charge of gender affairs, • IRADUKUNDA Innocent in charge of sports and culture, • NIYONGERE Bede in charge of youth and mobilization.

As per the Rwandan Community in Netherlands statue, the new committee will serve a 2 year term. Among the attendants were Dutch Friends of Rwanda, Nigerians, Congolese, Burundians, Ugandans, and Kenyans all who echoed the exemplary organization and achievements of Rwandan Community in Netherlands despite their being in numbers compared to other diasporas.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, who graced the occasion as the guest of honour, thanked for the outgoing committee for their efforts and determination in running the activities of the Diaspora ongoing in the last 2 years. He further thanked the outgoing committee and the Rwandan Community in Netherlands generally for the mutual collaboration with the Embassy during the 2015 Rwanda Day. While addressing the new committee, the Ambassador challenged them to aim higher and achieve what wasn’t achieved by their predecessors.

2012: Mr Guillaume KAVARUGANDA congratulates Rwandan graduates at Wageningen University.

2010: The football team of the Rwanda Youth Association in the Netherlands, also known as Rwayan Football Club, played against the Ethiopian Diaspora football team on Saturday 24 September. The match ended in victory for Rwayan Football Club 3 to nil. Special thanks go to the organizers of the event, the players and to the more than 100 spectators who made the event a cheerful one.

2015: Ambass ador Jean Pier re KARABARAN Rwandan grad GA and uates.

On 30 January 2016 the Rwandan community in Netherlands gathered in the city of The Hague to elect a new governing committee and to wish each other a prosperous new year.

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Sitting volleyball team Rwanda and Team Rwanda Cycling train in the Netherlands The women’s sitting volleyball team from Rwanda trained in the Netherlands from 25 June to 3 July 2016 in preparation for the Paralympic Games in September in Brazil. The team trains under the leadership of the Dutch coach Peter KARREMANS, former coach of both the Dutch men’s sitting volleyball team as the Rwandan Paralympic men’s team. The Dutch coach and the entire volleyball team had the opportunity to meet Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA in The Hague where he could personally wish them a very successful edition of the Paralympics Games in Brazil.

In 2015 the Team Rwanda Cycling quartet attended a month long training camp at the USA national cycling team training facility in Limburg municipality of Sittard-Geleen in the Netherlands.

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA with the President of the Rwanda Cycling Federation Mr Aimable BAYINGANA (second to the right) and the members of the cycling team Rwanda.

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Rwanda’s ranking in reports & indexes World Bank’s Doing Business Report

Rwanda is among the economies improving the most Doing Business 2014.

Understanding Regulations for Small and Medium-Size Enterprises assesses regulations affecting domestic firms in 189 economies and ranks the economies in 10 areas of business regulation, such as starting a business, resolving insolvency and trading across borders. This year’s report data cover regulations measured from June 2012 through May 2013. The report is the 11th edition of the Doing Business series.

Doing Business reform making it easier to do business in Rwanda (ranked 32 in the list).

Rwanda ranked top destination for global goods and services suppliers

The 2014 African Retail Development Index developed by AT Kearney, a global consultancy, indicates that Rwanda is the top destination for global goods and services suppliers in Africa thanks to its focus on reforming the business climate and seeking to attract foreign investment.

The report indicates that, although Rwanda is geographically small, it is more attractive market than African countries with larger economies.

“With one of Africa’s fastest growing economies an annual GDP growth of more than 8 per cent Rwanda leads the ranking.

Although small in land area and just 20 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda has an efficient government and strong macroeconomic indicators that opportunities for international retailers can offer basic packaged goods,” the report says.

together we prosper

World Economic Forum ranks Rwanda the strongest performer in Global Gender Gap

Rwanda again scored highly in women empowerment scorecard. According to the Global Gender Gap Report released by the World Economic Forum ranked Rwanda first in sub-Sahara and seventh worldwide respectively out of 142 countries analysed.

The overall high ranking can be explained

by Rwanda’s strong performance on the Political Empowerment subindex and good performance on Economic Participation and Opportunity subindex.

Rwanda remains the easiest place to do business in Sub-Sahara

Rwanda has demonstrated consistent strong performance in the World Bank Doing Business Rankings in recent years with good progress made across all the key indicators. Following significant changes to the methodology of the World Bank Doing Business Report, Rwanda has been ranked 46th out of 189 countries in the 2015 report.

Rwanda is still the best performing country in the East and Central Africa and 3rd easiest place to do business in Africa (1st is Mauritius which ranks 28th globally, 2nd is South Africa which ranks 43rd).

Gallup Global Emotions Report ranks Rwanda as the safest place to walk at night in Africa and 5th globally

It also ranked Rwanda is the best place to be a woman in Africa and 6th Globally via Global Competitiveness Report 2015 at a time when the World Bank has also ranked Rwanda as the Second easiest Place to Do Business on the continent.

Rwanda remains the most competitive economy in the region

Rwanda maintained its position as the most competitive economy in the East African region and third in Africa, according to a new Global Competitiveness Index report.

According to the 2014-15 World Economic Forum annual report released this week, Rwanda ranks 62nd globally with aggregate 4.3 out of seven.

It is one of the four African economies in the top 75 most competitive countries out of 144 surveyed, the others being Mauritius (39th), South Africa (56th) and Botswana (74th).

Rwanda as the world’s fastest developing country

UN Human Development Index ranks Rwanda as the world’s fastest developing country. Rwanda has made the most progress, which is all the more impressive given that its level of development fell during the genocide of 1994. Rwandans can now expect to live almost 32 years longer than in 1990, and spend twice as long at school.

Rwanda maintains fair ranking in corruption report

Rwanda has maintained good ranking in its stance against corruption among the East African Community peers, according to a new report. The Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2015 by Transparency International shows that Rwanda is the fourth least corrupt country in Africa and 44th globally.

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Credentials The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda is accredited to the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovenia.

Netherlands Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented his credentials to King Willem Alexander on 26 June 2013.

OPCW Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons On 9 October 2013 Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented the credentials letters to the Director General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons/OPCW Ambassador Ahmet UZUMCU. On 12 May 2011 Rwanda acceded to the Executive Council of the OPCW until May 2013. The Executive Council consists of 41 members who are elected by the Conference of State Parties for a term of two years.

From 1 to 3 November 2011 the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Technical Secretariat carried out a Technical Assistance Visit (TAV) to Rwanda.

The Director General thanked the Rwandan Government for their tangible results in the promotion of the total elimination worldwide of chemical weapons.

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Slovenia

Estonia

Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented his credentials to President H.E. Borut PAHOR of Slovenia on 30 June 2014.

22 October 2014: Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented the credential letters to the President of the Republic of Estonia Mr Toomas Hendrick ILVES.

Lithuania

Latvia

18 November 2014: in the city of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented the credential letters to the President of Lithuania H.E. Ms Dalia GRYBAUSKAITE.

27 January 2015: in the city of Riga, the capital of Latvia, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented the credential letters to the President of Latvia Mr Andris BERZINS.

Bulgaria 10 May 2016: Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA presented his credential letters to H.E. Rosen PLEVNELIEV, President of the Republic of Bulgaria in the President’s Palace in Sofia, capital city of Bulgaria.

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embassy of Rwanda

Homegrown solu Rwanda’s steady To reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared identity and responsibility, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices and the result was a set of Home Grown Solutions based on culturally owned practices that could help shape sustainable development programs.

In the regard, in the last 20 years Rwanda Government came up with more than 10 innovations that built on values and systems of Rwandan Culture, from Gacaca, our community courts, which has brought restorative justice and reconciliation to a once divided nation; to Ubudehe, which supports rural communities to collectively solve problems related to poverty; to Imihigo, which enables citizens to keep their leaders accountable, to One Cow per Poor Family program also known as Girinka, to Umuganda and many others, have ensured that no one was left behind.One of the Home Grown solutions that have helped transform people’s lives is Ubudehe. Ubudehe refers to the long-standing Rwandan practice and culture of collective action and

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mutual support to solve problems within a community. Ubudehe was reintroduced into Rwandan life in 2001 as way to better involve communities in their development by setting up participatory problem solving mechanisms.

The program was seen as a way to strengthen democratic processes and good governance through greater community involvement in decision making.

On the other hand, Girinka was initiated in response to the alarmingly high rate of childhood malnutrition and as a way to accelerate poverty reduction and integrate livestock and crop farming. The program is based on the premise that providing a dairy cow to poor households helps to improve their livelihood as a result of a more nutritious and balanced diet from milk, increased agricultural output through better soil fertility as well as greater incomes by commercializing dairy products.

Another Home Grown aspect is Imihigo.

Imihigo is the plural Kinyarwanda word of Umuhigo, which means to vow to deliver. In the modern day Rwanda, Imihigo practice

was adopted as a means of planning to accelerate the progress towards economic development and poverty reduction.

Imihigo has had a strong focus on results, which has made it an invaluable tool in the planning, accountability and monitoring and evaluation processes. In 2006, Imihigo (known also as performance contracts) was introduced to address this need.

Since its introduction, Imihigo has been credited with improving accountability and quickening the pace of citizen centered development activities and programs. The practice of Imihigo has now been extended to ministries, embassies and public service staff.

Another home grown solution is a community service called Umuganda.

The word Umuganda can be translated as ‘coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome. The day is called umunsi w’umuganda, meaning “contribution made by the community which is designed to be a day of contribution and building the country by citizens themselves.

embassy of Rwanda

utions for progress Modern day Umuganda can be described as community work. On the last Saturday of each month, communities come together to do a variety of public works. This often includes infrastructure development and environmental protection.

Rwandans between 18 and 65 are obliged to participate in Umuganda. Expatriates living in Rwanda are encouraged to take part. In justice, Rwanda reconsidered both Gacaca and Abunzi seen as a hybrid form of justice combining traditional with modern methods of conflict resolution. In 2002, Gacaca courts were revived as a way to process the millions of criminal cases that arose following the genocide.

Contemporary Gacaca draws inspiration from the traditional model by replicating a local community based justice system with the aim of restoring the social fabric of society.

In total 1,958,634 genocide related cases were tried through Gacaca. The courts are credited with laying the foundation for peace, reconciliation and unity in Rwanda.

The reintroduction of the Abunzi system in 2004 was motivated in part by the desire

together we prosper

to reduce the backlog of court cases, as well as to decentralize justice and make it more affordable and accessible for citizens seeking to resolve conflict without the cost of going to court.

This conflict resolution mechanism rooted in Rwandan culture was perceived as more accessible, less threatening and therefore more intimate and human. Consequently, the Abunzi started receiving trainings on mediating domestic conflicts, as well as logistical support from both governmental and non-governmental organizations, to improve the quality of their mediation services.

The event is attended by members of the Cabinet and Parliament, representatives of the Rwandan community abroad, local government, media, the diplomatic community and others invited by the President. Those unable to attend in person at Rwanda’s parliament building can participate via telephone, SMS, Twitter and Facebook as well as follow the debate live on television and radio.

On inclusiveness, in Umushyikirano the governed directly engage with their leaders, and in so doing, Rwandans feel part of the decision making that affects their lives. Umushyikirano also serves as a forum for Rwandans to hold their leaders and government to account. The main achievements of Umushyikirano are considered to be the participation of Rwandans in national decision making and the fast tracking of government programs and citizen priorities based on the resolutions tabled each year.

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individual stories about Rwanda

individual stories about rwanda

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individual stories about Rwanda

Frédérique DE MAN, Ambassador Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kigali, Rwanda

Frédérique DE MAN Ambassador Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in kigali, Rwanda The first time I visited Rwanda was in 1996. I was head of the humanitarian aid division of the Dutch MFA. These were difficult times. The Dutch Government was however strongly committed to assisting Rwanda in its reconstruction. It is therefore now such a pleasure for me to be the Dutch ambassador to Rwanda, some twenty years later.

The close and very friendly relationship between Rwanda and the Netherlands has led to numerous and tangible results in sectors like justice, agriculture and water management. Several Dutch companies, multinationals and smaller ones have been investing in Rwanda. Furthermore, many Rwandans have studied in the Netherlands, now forming a powerful resource network.

together we prosper

My embassy is working closely with the Rwandan Government, with civil society and with the Rwandan private sector. We have good contacts with the Rwandan Embassy in The Hague; we share information and we help each other whenever needed. In this way both in the Netherlands and in Rwanda we can work on further strengthening the ties between our two countries and on implementing an agenda that is increasingly moving from development cooperation to an agenda of trade and investments.

“ I would like to congratulate the Rwandan Embassy in The Hague with its 10 years anniversary and I am looking forward to much more close collaboration.”

Frédérique DE MAN Ambassador Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kigali, Rwanda

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individual stories about Rwanda

If you do not remember, you do not know where to go A speech by Jan PRONK

Dutch Minister for Development Cooperation 1989-1998, at the launch of Kwibuka20 on 14 February 2014 in The Hague When the world came to its senses after the end of World War 2 and reports of the horrors of the holocaust stated coming in, the international community reacted with disbelief. Reality proved much worse than even the worst nightmare.

I flew to Rwanda several weeks after the beginning of the genocide in April 1994.

The horror was beyond imagination. I saw terror and fear in Kigali, dead bodies in the villages around, mutilated corpses in the river, an endless flow. Death was everywhere; you could smell it. In those years I had been in Cambodia, Somalia, Liberia, Guatemala, Bosnia and Sudan. In all those countries I had witnessed mass killings, but Rwanda was the worst ever.

Since then I visited the country many times.

I listened to the stories and had the images clearly before my eyes. And more and more one overriding question forced itself on me.

This was not the question: ‘Why did people do this?’, nor: ‘How could this happen?’, but: ‘Why did we not stop this? Why did we fail?” After all we had promised: ‘Never again’.

Sometimes the international community, knowing that mass killings were taking place and wishing to stop them, lacked the capacity to do so. That may have been the case in the early years of the UN, or because of constraints due to the Cold War, but often it was just another poor excuse.

As far as Rwanda was concerned there was no excuse whatsoever. We could have foreseen the genocide since the spiraling of violence and retaliation, which had started around 1960. Those who perpetrate acts

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of genocide or other massive abuses of human rights usually try to commit their crimes out of the public limelight. Not so in Rwanda. We could actually see the killings on TV. The extent of the massacres and their motives were not immediately apparent, but the facts were clear: this was genocide, beyond any reasonable doubt, not a borderline case, even within the narrow definition of the genocide Convention.

What happened in Rwanda was the deliberate, politically motivated massacre of an ethnic group. The international community could not plead ignorance and shoulders part of the responsibility.

A year later I was present at the first commemoration of the Rwandan genocide.

Thousands of bodies were reburied in Kigali, at Rebero Hill. UN equipment was used to transport the coffins and to dig the graves. Survivors carried posters bearing

texts such as “Enterrons les morts, pas la verité”, “Let us bury the victims, not the truth” and: “Where was the UN when they were killed?” Indeed: why didn’t we act, though we knew and though we could?

The Security Council decided to not increase and strengthen the protection force, but to withdraw. Aid was given to people in refugee camps without any effort to separate the murderers from the innocents. It was a history of shame, not only during the early stages of the massacre, but also later on, when the international community turned a deaf ear to appeals for help to prevent new attacks by the FAR and the Interahamwe. The international community did nothing, responded too late, did not implement decisions, which could have saved lives, and, even worse, took decisions which resulted in greater danger.

Minister Lilianne PLOUMEN, Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, Mr Jan PRONK attending Kwibuka20

individual stories about Rwanda It was the ultimate exposure of the UN strategy, as reflected in a cartoon by Alan Moir, comparing the strategies in Somalia (“we can appear to do something and fail”), Cambodia (“we can do something and appear to fail”), Bosnia (“we can appear to do something and appear to fail”) and Rwanda (“we can fail to appear”). No wonder there was such resentment in Rwanda against the international community; no wonder there was bitterness.

Rwanda is a new country now. There are still many problems, but the Rwandan people are looking forward. They try to fundamentally renew their society. Two years ago the Gacaca trials came to an end. It was an effort to dig up the truth, to seek justice and reconciliation, and to heal society. In a

documentary film about Rwanda a woman, who had survived the massacre, says: “If you do not remember, you do not know where to go”. That is the basic message of the Kwibuka memorial ceremonies of this year: Kwibuka, remember, but do so in order to unite and renew.

This appeal does not only concern Rwanda, but world society as a whole. Remember, unite and renew. Remember the catastrophes behind us. Do not forget the people who are no longer with us. We owe it to the people of Rwanda, those who have been killed and those who have survived.

We owe it to all people fearing violence and death somewhere else on this earth, to bear and share a responsibility to protect and to work for justice, peace and healing. Such a

responsibility starts by not looking away, turning a blind eye and shamming deafness, but, instead, listening to the voices of those who have good reasons to be afraid.

Remember, unite and renew. Unite the peoples of the world, whatever their colour, race or religion. Renew the commitment to protect human beings wherever, the commitment not to fail, but to heal the global community of people.

Indeed: if you do not remember, you do not know where, and how to go.”

Leontine VAN HOOFT Green Dream Company It is about 4 years ago that GreenDreamCompany received the result of a survey done by 90 international graduating students, studying International Business at Fontys University.

Our question to them was: which African country should we enter with our new inclusive leisure and hospitality brand, Solomon’s Hidden Treasures? To our surprise Rwanda came out, unanimously.

We did not know Rwanda well, and certainly not as an upcoming tourism destination.

But the results of the survey were confirmed the years after. So we decided to give it a try. What do you do when you enter a new country? You start paying a visit to the Embassy. And so we did.

From that day on we got a close and cooperative relation. Our first trip to Rwanda was guided by the (former) Ambassador UWANYILIGIRA personally and well organized and facilitated by RDB. We travelled around and visited together several locations mapped as leisure and hospitality destination within the tourism master plan, who were offered to us for development by RDB. And we had several meetings with local stakeholders. Several trade missions organized by NABC followed.

We were also matched by Embassy with local stakeholders and business partners in Rwanda and among the Rwandan diaspora, living in the Netherlands, who are still today’s partners, or professionals working with us. Some became true friends.

together we prosper

Our cooperation pleasantly works both ways: last January in preparation of the trip of our design and development team the Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA gave a presentation to the team about tourism developments and about doing business in Rwanda. And we were supporting the Embassy on a television business channel and at the forum of Rwanda Day, in the KIT, Amsterdam.

And of course, we ask the Embassy for diplomatic assistance when needed. And sometimes we do need their support and guidance.

My personal congratulations concern the Ambassador: His Excellency Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, with this excellent team.

Results are never achieved by one person only, is my experience. Without the good support and cooperation of the team and the team spirit, the strong and solid results and good reputation would never been reached.

Last January, enjoying breakfast and a beautiful view with our team at Lake Kivu, I was interrupted by a nice young Rwandan man, asking me to shake my hand. He was one of the Fontys students team....

Mrs. Leontine VAN HOOFT Director/ founder, GreenDreamCompany

The Rwandan Embassy is one of the most progressive and modern Embassies we know. Close to the business, close to the people, dedicated to nowadays Rwanda and to the future.

Seeing the potential of the country and eager to bring Rwanda closer to a better future for all. And well integrated in the Dutch formal and informal society.

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individual stories about Rwanda

Emmanuel SAFARI

Diaspora Looking back at the ten years that we have had an embassy in the Netherlands reminds one of the frequency with which good things seem to fly past. Before the embassy was established in the Netherlands there were several Rwandan organizations that operated independently and without cohesion. The embassy helped to integrate those different organizations into one umbrella organization, which we now know as the Rwandan Community Abroad-Netherlands. This facilitated effective mechanisms of highlighting Rwanda in our communities here in the Netherlands as well as bringing Rwandans who are resident here closer to their motherland.

Since the opening of the Embassy in 2006 we have always felt welcome and at home, thanks to the diplomats and staff who embody the Rwandan spirit that ‘charity begins at home’.

The Embassy has been instrumental in facilitating and communicating current affairs that concern the Diaspora, thereby involving the Diaspora in Rwanda’s path towards sustainable development.

The National Dialogue (Umushikirano) that takes place every December is a good example of the Diaspora’s direct involvement, ownership and contribution to Rwanda’s development. The Rwanda Day 2015 in which thousands of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda descended upon Amsterdam to meet H.E. President Paul KAGAME could not have been such a success without the concerted efforts of the Embassy and other agencies.

We thank the Government of Rwanda for giving us a home away from home, and thank the various diplomats, past and present, who made these last ten years memorable. We wish H.E. Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA and his team many more years of good service and continuous improvement.

Emmanuel SAFARI Chairman, Rwandan community abroad, Netherlands

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Christian MUNDELE Ibuka Netherlands Happy Anniversary to the Embassy of Rwanda in the Netherlands Your Excellency Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, diplomats and all agents of our Embassy.

I share with you the joy of ten years’ anniversary serving the Rwandan’s state and our service here in the Netherlands. I would also to submit to you my appreciations for who you are for us the Rwandans that you represent.

It is a blessing to have you among us, because of you we are living in Rwanda abroad. You unite and guide us in sense of love, we represent and carry Rwanda in our heart wherever we are.

I especially thank the one who chose you for us, because he chose a professional team.

May god bless you and accompany you in this difficult task.

Christian MUNDELE, Chairman, Ibuka Netherlands

individual stories about Rwanda

Guy BEAUJOT

Hurray! Hurray!

Rwanda Embassy in the Netherlands!

It’s a great opportunity to reflect on 10 years of Rwandan Embassy in the Netherlands as it goes hand in hand with the arrival of the first batch of Rwandan participants at UNESCO-IHE, Institute for Water Education in Delft. At that time we were able to organize the first official commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda in the Institute and it was a great honor to do so. Throughout the years we continued this commemorations and for me personally it was the beginning of an intense adventure with Rwanda, its past, present and future. are welcomed at the Rwandan Embassy I will not mention individual names at the risk of forgetting someone but I can guarantee that all staff that I have met in the little Rwanda House at the Johan Van Oldenbarneveltlaan was first class from day one till today. I think the way people

should be an example for other countries’ embassies.

It is extremely important to feel the availability of each staff member; it brings you in the heart of the country that you are representing. The embassy staff

is always willing to help in organizing commemorations, celebrations and parties of all kinds. By its presents on all kind of activities the embassy reflects clearly the ambitions of the far away motherland.

A last minute advice, an introduction to local authorities, moral and practical support for initiatives at the benefit of Rwanda; I had always the feeling that I was ready to go when collecting my visa. For me going to the Rwanda Embassy is already being in Rwanda!

These days I’m heading again for Kigali with the sup-port of the whole diplomatic and administrative staff and it is great to know that when returning to the Netherlands there is always a bit of Rwanda waiting for you!

Up for another ten years!

Guy BEAUJOT

Egon HEINI KLM Rwanda on Board The idea, triggered by the Rwandan Embassy, was quite ambitious, but the beautiful magazine about Rwanda with the adorable gorilla on the cover page made it worth for me to give it a chance!

Could I convince the responsible departments within KLM to promote Rwanda as a final destination on board our flights, knowing that we (KLM) have very strict policies (avoiding extra weight at the aircraft, do not set a precedent for all other providers of magazines, etc.)?

By spreading my enthusiasm about this idea and emphasizing the potential value for KLM, the responsible decision-makers embraced the idea as well. During a month period in 2012, this special magazine was available for our passengers in the World Business Class on every intercontinental flight. It would make our customers aware of the beauty of Rwanda and its business opportunities, and from a KLM perspective, we would certainly welcome interested customers on board our Amsterdam-Kigali flight in the future.

together we prosper

The icing on the cake happened when I was on board our aircraft for a business trip at that time and witnessed that one of the Business Class passengers seemed inspired by the magazine. He even took the magazine with him, when leaving the aircraft. For me a clear affirmation that this promotion project, originated in good harmony between the Rwandan Embassy and KLM, was a great success!

Egon HEINI Director Governments and Industry Affairs KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

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individual stories about Rwanda

International Women’s Contact The International Women’s Contact (IWC), consisting of over 300 members of 60 different nationalities, very much enjoys considering itself a friend of the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda.

Photography: Henry Arvidsson

Our first joint meeting was at a lecture by His Excellency Jean Pierre KARABARANGA given at the IWC on the 10th of November 2014, entitled “Rwanda 20 Years: Together We Prosper”, which was very much valued by our members. As President of the IWC I was a key note speaker at the International Women’s Day, organized by the Embassy on 21 March 2015 whereby I outlined women’s rights worldwide and the special nature of internal relationships of women from all over the world within the IWC. Since this event the IWC maintains the warmest of relationships with the Embassy and particularly with His Excellency Jean Pierre KARABARANGA.

Time and time again it appears that our growing interest in the position of countries that in Western European eyes are far away, produce very informative moments. Interest in Rwanda has been awakened in many IWC members and the various personal contacts show this. Also, the IWC was represented at the annual Commemoration Walk in April.

As President of the IWC I would very much like to take the opportunity to congratulate His Excellency, the Ambassador and his staff on the Embassy’s decade in The Hague.

The IWC is thankful of the support and kindness afforded by the Embassy,

Corno VAN DEN BERG DROOMPLEKKEN The drums are loud. Dancers with long white wigs whip up the spectators’ excitement. Thousands of locals wave the little flags they have just been given. This is Kwita Izina, an annual feast for tens of thousands of people and handful of gorillas. Chances are you’ve never heard of it, nor the gorillas themselves.

This is the annual naming ceremony of the new gorilla babies in Rwanda. Wild animals don’t really need names, but events like this are used to show the world that conservation works. There are only about 900 gorillas left in the mountains of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. That’s all. What a privilege just to be here, to see it, to live it....

Corno VAN DEN BERG, www.droomplekken.nl

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especially by His Excellency Jean Pierre KARABARANGA. I wish you much prosperity in the forthcoming 10 years.

Drs. B. COUWENBERGH President IWC The Hague

Irene VISSER NABC NABC facilitates trade and investment between African and the Netherlands.

Rwanda, now known as one of Africa’s easiest countries to do business, is an important country, for our members and for the Dutch Private Sector in general.

NABC has been involved in many trade missions, events and projects over the years. These events have spurred many trade and in-vestment relations and we are very proud to have been a catalyst in facilitating business between our two countries.

Milestones include a large multi-sectorial trade mission to Rwanda in 2012, that integrated Dutch industry leaders such as Remco Afrique (construction materials), Philips, Koudijs de Heus (animal feed), DHV/Haskoning (engineering and consulting) and Rijk Zwaan (seeds), our participation in the SPARK program where we trained many SME’s through our cooperation with the Rwanda Development Board and Rwanda Private Sector Federation, an incoming Agribusiness delegation led by H.E. Minister of Agriculture Gerardine MUKESHIMANA and recently the participation of the Dutch Pavilion at ESADA (Dairy) in August this year.

Lianne BERTENS Boon Specialty Coffee Roaster Koffiebranderij Boon, a micro roaster who roasts Rwandan coffee Lianne BERTENS, Ad ZWIJGERS

It’s 10 o’clock as the telephone rings.

‘Hello good morning, this is the Rwandan Embassy speaking. Our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Louise MUSHIKIWABO is here for a working visit in Holland and she would like to visit your coffee roastery. Is that ok?”

We have always experienced great cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda here in The Hague. One particular highlight is the Rwanda Business Event and Matchmaking in the Royal Institute for the Tropics we organized jointly in Amsterdam in October 2015.

With minimum means we together managed to mobilize more than 300 Rwandan and Dutch companies, all eager to learn more from each other.

Rwanda is ready for business. Rwanda’s zero tolerance policy against corruption, 24 hour company registration procedures, attractive and easy to understand investment procedures and of course concrete opportunities in Special Economic Zones, Agribusiness, Logistics and Tourism have already translated in many Dutch companies in the country. We certainly encourage Dutch participation in Rwanda in the future and are keen to play a leading role in facilitating further business.

Dear Ambassador KARABARANGA, it has been a pleasure to work with you and your team over the last years. We believe Rwanda is one of Africa’s preferred business destination. Many Dutch companies have experienced this for themselves, resulting in a steady exchange of knowledge, experiences and of course business between our two countries. I hope we can continue this journey in the future, to make our contribution to a stable, sustainable and economically thriving Rwanda.

Irene VISSER Managing Director NABC / Netherlands African Business Council

Of course! We felt honoured. We already have nice contact with the Rwandan Ambassador Jean Pierre KARABARANGA (we even roasted Rwandan coffee together!) but a visit from the Minister…… that is something special!

Around 12 o’clock the Minister, her staff and the Ambassador arrived. We had a nice talk about the importance of specialty coffee from Rwanda and …. she was very interested. As we offered her a Rwandan coffee, roasted in Holland, she asked for the origin of the coffee.

When I told the coffee is from Rushashi she was clearly surprised: “Rushashi?” she asked.

“That’s where my father used to have a coffee plantation before we moved to Kigali! My sisters were born there. Oh I have to tell them”.

And when she took a sip of het coffee she said a bit emotional: ‘here I am, in Holland, and I am drinking coffee from my native soil, the place where I was born’. We were all seized with emotion…

Lianne BERTENS Owner, Boon Koffiebranderij

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individual stories about Rwanda

Ravianne VAN VLIET Moonfish Text & PR When the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague invited me as a guest for the 11th Kwita Izina in the summer of 2015, I was excited, but also a bit reserved. Certainly, going on a gorilla tracking was on my bucket list, but what did I know about this place, other than the horrible images I remembered from the news when I was young?

Surely this small, African country wouldn’t have much to offer as a tourism destination?

Memories that will last a life time Never in my wildest dreams

I was so wrong. Although I travel a lot, both professionally and privately, never has a country surprised me in such a positive way.

Upon arrival in Kigali late at night, I already noticed the easygoing atmosphere outside, and especially how impeccably clean the streets were. How friendly the people, how positive their attitude.

While travelling through the country with my fellow journalists and representatives from the Embassy and the RDB, another thing that hit me was the fertility of the landscape, with endless mountains and green valleys gliding by our car window.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined that Rwanda had such lush rainforests as for instance in Nyungwe Forest National Park, where I got out of my comfort zone and challenged my fear of heights by doing the canopy tour. Which was, of course, great fun. Spotting birds, elephants and hippo’s at Akagera National Park reminded me of the classic image I remembered from being on a safari in Eastern Africa, with its lakes, savannahs and lodges.

Being a guest at the name giving ceremony for the baby gorilla’s was a great experience, and even more amazing was to finally meet one of the mountain gorilla families in the jungle of Volcanoes National Park, early the next morning. Being so close to these magical creatures, even for one hour, was an unforgettable experience.

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Finally and this may sound contradictory one of the highlights of my trip to Rwanda was our visit to the Kigali Memorial Centre, where we were reminded how the world watched by while the 1994 genocide unfolded and an inconceivable number of men, women and children were killed. The reason why I’m calling it one of my highlights, is because it made such a deep and profound impression on me. It was an intensely powerful and moving experience, especially the part that honours the children who fell victim.

I will never forget the images of these young kids, some toddlers and baby’s even, so full of life when the picture was taken. What moved me the most were the intimate details about their favourite toys, their last words and the way they were killed. Our guide, a lovely young man, kept telling us in a soft voice: “I have to ask you to stay strong.” I tried, but I couldn’t stop myself from crying.

Which, I guess, is not a bad thing. Because I should remember, and the world should remember too. But most of all, what stuck with me is that there is always hope. Rwanda seems to have risen from its ashes like a phoenix, and its future looks bright.

Visiting Rwanda was a beautiful and touching experience.

I returned home with memories that will last a lifetime.

Ravianne VAN VLIET Owner, Moonfish Text & PR

individual stories about Rwanda

Karel WERDLER Inholland University Cooperation for tourism and education Between 2010 and 2014 Inholland University of Applied Sciences and some other partners from the Netherlands cooperated within a framework created by the Dutch educational organization Nuffic, which aimed at capacity building of the management and staff of Rwanda Tourism University College (RTUC). After an initial visit of the management of RTUC to the Netherlands all partners agreed on a schedule that aimed at this objective.

From Inholland, various lecturers visited RTUC in Kigali and together with the local staff members developed not just new courses and subjects for teaching, but also introduced new approaches such as project-based learning and competencebased learning and development. After a few visits, Kigali and RTUC became a kind of home for Joost, Karin and Karel and our local colleagues became good friends. In the meantime we also had the opportunity to visit other locations in the country and get to know the actual tourism product.

Rwanda as land of a 1000 hills definitely had more to offer and in cooperation with the Inholland 4th year minor ‘Global Perspectives’ students from the Netherlands came over as well and together with students from RTUC developed additional tourism products.

During the second year of the cooperation eight lecturers from RTUC made a visit tot he Netherlands and received further training and had the opportunity to get to know the Netherlands a little bit. One of the highlights of their visit was the reception by the Ambassador of Rwanda during the Memorial Day in The Hague.

But, the project was not just about capacity building. It also aimed at positioning RTUC as an academic institute in the region. For this objective many staff members were trained in academic writing and research.

In 2014 they had the opportunity to show their academic skills tot he world since Rwanda and RTUC hosted the 8th Atlas Africa Congress. Some 250 delegates from more than 50 countries around the world visited this successful congress and confirmed RTUC’s position as an academic institute. The enthusiasm and commitment of all parties involved made this edition of the Atlas Africa Congress one of the most successful ever and also helped to (re) position Rwanda as a tourism destination that offers much more than gorilla’s.

Speaking for myself and my Inholland colleagues I can only say that this international cooperation was one of the finest ever, thanks to the hard work and hospitality of our Rwandan colleagues who made us feel at home right from the start and also made sure that we will cherish the memories of our visits.

Karel WERDLER Manager External Relations Inholland University

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individual stories about Rwanda

Evert JAKOBS When I touched the soil of Rwanda for the first time, some 14 years ago, I felt as if I had returned home! The country is so beautiful and the people are so friendly. To me this was paradise. The people of Rwanda worked and studied hard in order to build a future for themselves, for their family as well as for their country.

After a wonderful first time in Rwanda (enjoying the national parks, dreaming away watching the breath taking views of the coastline of lake Kivu and the unforgettable encounter with the mountain gorillas) I returned home determined to do something in return for the warm hospitality offered to me.

I decided to build websites for the people; maintained by me and paid by me, for hotels, the national parks and some for starting tour operators. I ended up with about 20 websites about Rwanda. When the Embassy of Rwanda opened their doors in The Hague in 2006, I created their website as well, until the government of Rwanda created their own website and mine was no longer required.

I consider the staff to be my friends and as a friend I even became a wedding photographer for some of them. During the parties of the Rwanda diaspora I experienced that Rwandans, wherever they are, never loose their hospitality. I became a partner in a tour operator company in Rwanda, of which I retired in 2015.

But Rwanda continued to tickle me and I started Mountain Gorilla Safaris for East Africa, with a focus on Rwanda. My friend, Greg Bakunzi, started “RedRocks Rwanda” and he asked me to participate, I help him with the marketing.

What is RedRocks:

“As the local community wanted an opportunity to sell their handmade goods within the camp to tourists, we incorporated the idea as an opportunity to help support local people, as well as providing guests to experience the real Rwandese cultural lifestyle and enable them to purchase locally made products. Through our community based ecotourism initiatives, our guests come into direct contact with local people based on mutual respect. They eat traditional made food, and take part in cultural and ecotourism activities. All activities are eco-friendly and organized by local community, all guides are local and most of the products and services are organic and locally sourced. Red Rocks tries to contribute and support the local community taking into consideration that tourism is one of the fastest growing industry in Virunga Massif and an important source of income and employment to many.”

I congratulate the government and the Embassy of Rwanda in The Hague with their 10 years anniversary and wish them all the best for the future!

Rwanda was and will always be my second home.

Evert JAKOBS Marketing Director Mountain Gorilla Safaris; WildlifeGolf; RedRocks Rwanda

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individual stories about Rwanda

Sophie VOSSENAAR African Parks

Making progress at Akagera National Park!

In 2010 African Parks, a privately run conservation organization, entered into a joint venture with RDB for the management of Akagera National Park, one of the ‘pearls in the crown’ of Rwanda.

It has led to a very pleasant and effective cooperation between the Rwandan Government and African Parks.

In the course of 2013 the enormous loss of elephant and rhino in Africa due to illegal wildlife trafficking gained traction in the media, resulting early 2014 in a high level conference in the UK to address this large and complex issue. Around that time I was in contact with the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs who did not want to attend the party “empty-handed”. Going through the options, the possibility of a financial contribution to Akagera National Park came up. Representation from the Rwandan Government would be required and this was all arranged, in close contact with the Rwandan Embassy.

Fast forward to Spring 2016, when the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs organizes a Save Wildlife Conference in The Hague, with ‘Wildlife Deals’ at the heart of it. Again, we spoke with the Ministry; again, African Parks was able to strike ‘a deal’ for Akagera, and again the Rwandan government had to be involved. The Rwandan Embassy immediately responded, a video message from the CEO of RDB recorded and the Ambassador H.E. Jean Pierre KARABARANGA attended in person. It resulted in a contribution to the reintroduction of black rhino in Rwanda!

We congratulate the Rwandan Embassy on their 10th anniversary and we look forward to making many more deals that will further the development of Akagera National Park and Rwanda.

Sophie VOSSENAAR Director Fundraising Europe African Parks

together we prosper

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individual stories about Rwanda

Ton WILLEMSE Intraservice We got involved with the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in The Hague in 2013. When we co-coordinated for the first time their participation in Vakantiebeurs.

Starting out with a sixteen square meters stand in 2013 they now have grown to triple that size in 2017, showing that Rwanda is rapidly building on becoming a favorable tourism destination for the Dutch.

consumers are looking for. The added value of the activities feathered at their stand (e.g. making of pictures, dance, barista) which let people experience a bit of the real Rwanda leads to promotional bonding which improves every year. It is for a good reason that the dance group performing at the Rwanda stand, was chosen to be the opening act at Vakantiebeurs 2016. In only three years the Embassy managed to make Rwanda an iconic, must-visit participant at Vakantiebeurs.

The Embassy has, in a very active and distinctive way, solidified Rwanda’s presence at Vakantiebeurs. The way they participate is, in our opinion, exactly the way it should be done. Professional and engaging with a positive, lively and real message. They understand how to make the connection between what they have to offer and what trade professionals and

We congratulate the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda with its 10 years’ anniversary and we are proud to have been allowed to assist in the promotion of tourism to Rwanda.

Ton WILLEMSE Managing Director, Intraservice B.V.

Sivan & Kars Afriek Our company is inspired by the local fashion culture in Rwanda and this is where we produce all our garments. We have been working together with tailors in Kigali for over three years now, producing African Print fashion in a stylish cut.

We found that the image many people have of Rwanda is often very biased based on the news and with our brand we aim to change that image. Instead we show an inspiring, beautiful country through our garments and the photography that we use. It is great to see that through fashion we can change people’s ideas about Africa, and Rwanda in particular.

“I love to tell people the yawning story: When you yawn in Rwanda, people ask you if you’re hungry and want to eat something.

This is uncommon in the Netherlands, where we believe yawning is because of lack of sleep. I was so surprised when they asked me whether I was hungry in Rwanda because I was yawning. But then I realized

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both lack of food and lack of sleep has to do low energy levels. It’s only the way to look at it that is completely different and that I find inspiring.” (Sivan)

Congratulations to the Rwandan Embassy to the Netherlands, great to see our two countries working together, strengthening and inspiring each other for so many years.

We love to inspire everyone to visit Rwanda.

Especially because the culture is so different from ours, there is so much to discover and to learn. We advice people to go there and to be open-minded, find beauty in the connections and celebrate differences.

Sivan BREEMHAAR and Kars GERRITS Founders of Afriek

individual stories about Rwanda

Anne MITTERDORFER PUM Unique selling points for motel in Rwanda ‘Many of my recommendations generated immediate results!’

The motel in southern Rwanda wished to stand out from the other motels and hotels in the area, and called in the assistance of PUM. During the first week, I above all assessed the market and observed the comings and goings at the motel in Rwanda. During the market analysis, I found various other similar hotels and motels in the region. By carrying out a SWOT analysis, I was able to identify the position of the motel and a number of unique selling points.

During the second week, I spent most of my time implementing my recommendations, to generate immediate results.

For example, the work was carried out very inefficiently, also in the ‘kitchen’. The kitchen was no more than a charcoal grill, a small work surface and a sink for washing up. At the end of the day, everything was left lying around. Nothing was cleaned until the next day, with a heavy dose of insecticide … On average, the cleaners took more than an hour to clean each room, because they had to run up and down the stairs at least five times to collect the cleaning materials.

Down to work

The kitchen staff were given a clear job description. We created a normal working space and a number of vital items were purchased.

All the ingredients were placed in sealable plastic boxes, to keep out pests. From week one onwards, the staff also ensured that the kitchen was cleaned every evening, instead of waiting until the next morning, and the use of insecticide in the kitchen was reduced. One of my other recommendations was to open Rose’s Pizzeria as soon as possible. There is no other pizzeria in the town, and this could attract many potential customers.

Visible result

Many of my recommendations were put into practice straight away, and generated visible results. I asked the cleaners for example to check the reservations book to see which rooms needed to be cleaned each day. They were then able to collect the cleaning materials, and take them with them upstairs in one trip. This meant they only needed 15 minutes to clean a room!”

Anne MITTERDORFER, PUM

Siemen VEENSTRA Vitens Evides International Through the alumni network of UNESCO-IHE in the Netherlands, Vitens Evides International (VEI) was connected to Water and Sanitation Corporation WASAC and developed their partnership project to improve and sustain water services in Kigali, Rwanda. The project was funded by both partners and subsidized by the Dutch government.

VEI is a joint venture of Dutch water companies aiming to improve and extend access to reliable water services and improve the daily business operations of drinking water companies like WASAC. Through

together we prosper

their operational partnership WASAC and VEI may well contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal 7: providing access to water and sanitation for all!

During World Water Day 2016 James SANU, CEO of WASAC, was accompanied with two lady CEO’s from Dutch Water Companies to share experiences and celebrate in a Water Fair showing innovative technologies and solutions for water loss reduction. James was quite charming and welcomes more lady professionals to the water sector of Rwanda.

is critical on their performance, politics, and the way forward. They do not take things for granted as they on average are well educated. Our recommendation: just go and experience Rwanda!

Siemen VEENSTRA, Regional Director Africa, Vitens Evides International

Rwanda is a wonderful country to work in. The climate, its people, the nature, everything is designed tom please visitors.

At the same time the Rwandan population

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individual stories about Rwanda

Agnes Dinkelman Stillare The way Rwanda has worked up since 1994 is commanding lots of respect, as the Rwandan people had to start from less than zero to rebuild their country.

The Rwandan achievements have become an inspiring example for other African people to also make changes towards their future, considering the amount of requests for assistance coming from several African countries.

I have developed the idea to engage junior and senior Rwandan civil workers and police officers to support the countries that come and ask for assistance. This way Rwanda can establish the move from a country that has a reputation of genocide and violence towards a country being associated with expertise on rebuilding a country and working on dignity for all Rwandans.

The focus of the project is on transparency and anti-corruption policies within governance organizations. The achievements of Rwanda on this topic are amazing, (especially the achievements within the Rwanda National Police) considering the high ranks on the Transparency International Index.

Stillare will works together with Rwandan and European experts to educate and train Rwandan civil servants and police officers to share their knowledge and inspire fellow Africans for sustainable change.

H.E. Jean Pierre KARABARANGA, the Ambassador of Rwanda in the Netherlands and his staff are of great help in the process.

Always ready to connect, I consider the Ambassador himself as one of the big supporters of the project.

Agnes DINKELMAN Founder of Stillare, social engineers in safety, security and stability issues

Marjan Tieberink Karibu Foundation I would like to congratulate you on this special anniversary! As a Friend of Rwanda, as Founder of the Karibu Foundation, which works among the poorest in Rwanda and on behalf of our Board and the Ambassador of the Karibu Foundation, we want to share in your happiness and gratitude!

A special ‘Thank you’ I would like to address to the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda in the Netherlands, H.E. Jean Pierre KARABARANGA. Many times you gave me hope and courage to go on in this beautiful and special country. A country with its charm, but also with its challenges.

For me it is so valuable to know you as a true friend. Thank you so much for that! Also the many members of the team of the Embassy, I know they try to do their best for the Republic of Rwanda. To experience their kindness and commitment is so important and valuable to me!

I want to finalize these words of congratulations and gratitude with the following prayer: ‘May God bless Rwanda and all the people who live in this country and all those who are involved In the betterment of its people. That Rwanda may be a blessing to the world!’

May the Lord also bless you all in your work and in your personal life!

Marjan TIEBERINK Founder and Managing Director Karibu Foundation

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individual stories about Rwanda

Mukomeze Foundation The idea for Mukomeze was planted on 1 January 2004. On this day, we met Jean GAKWANDI for the first time by coincidence at the airport in Kigali. We soon learned that Jean was a survivor of the genocide and the director of Solace Ministries. Since then, Jean and his organization have become a constant factor in our lives. We were very touched by the stories of genocide survivors as well as by the work done by Solace Ministries in Rwanda. A deep conviction that these survivors of the genocide wholeheartedly deserved our support culminated in the establishment of Mukomeze (“empower her”) on 8 May 2008 in the Netherlands, which focuses on the plight and needs of survivors of sexual violence during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Working together with Solace Ministries, survivors of sexual violence have been empowered through sponsorships and projects, in the areas of education, agriculture and income generating projects, amongst other things.

together we prosper

In the Netherlands, we have continuously raised awareness of the plight and needs of Rwandan genocide survivors of sexual violence.

Since 2009 we have annually organized commemoration events in Tilburg as well as other events, such as the book launch of ‘The Men Who Killed Me: Rwandan Survivors of Sexual Violence’ and Mama LAMBERT’S book ‘For those who do not believe in miracles: The resilience of a Rwandan woman who survived the genocide’ (Mama Lambert is the counselor at Solace Ministries). For all these events, the Ambassador and other staff of the Rwandan Embassy in The Hague were present and took actively part in the discussions and by giving speeches. We have always enjoyed our good cooperation and contacts with the Embassy.

We, the board members of Mukomeze (Anne-Marie DE BROUWER, Anke VROOMEN, Freek DEKKERS, Eefje DE VOLDER and Pinar OKUR), wish the Rwandan Embassy in The Hague a wonderful and happy 10th anniversary. We wish you all the best and more for the years to come.

The Mukomeze Foundation, www.mukomeze.nl

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individual stories about Rwanda

Hetty FRANZANI

Two years in Rwanda September 2011 – July 2013 First I like to introduce myself.

My name is Hetty FRANZANI, I am from the Netherlands, living in the northwest part of the country and a retired teacher and deputy head teacher of primary education.

Just after my retirement in 2010, I applied for a job as Education Leadership Adviser (ELA) at VSO (Voluntary Services Overseas), an originally British organization with an important branch in the Netherlands (Utrecht). The motto of VSO is: ”sharing skills, changing lives” and that is exactly my opinion about voluntary work in developing countries. VSO doesn’t offer a big lump sum of money but the organization send out a lot of specialized volunteers with idealistic and flexible minds.

During my whole life I had this dream: to share my skills with colleagues in Africa, Asia or South America and in 2011 this dream came true. I left my family (my daughter and son, their partners and three grandchildren at that time) and I took a plane to Kigali, capital of Rwanda. I signed for a placement for two years.

In Rwanda VSO had also volunteers from England, Ireland, Canada and Australia and they became my replacing family for the coming time. After an “in-service training” of ten days, the DEO (District Education Officer) of the district of your definitive placement came to Kigali to pick you up.

This officer is your direct boss and tells you what they expect from you. I went to Kamony district.

After an “in-service training” of ten days, the DEO (District Education Officer) of the district of your definitive placement came to Kigali to pick you up.

This officer is your direct boss and tells you what they expect from you. I went to Kamony district.

First I made acquaintance with about 20 head teachers from the different primary schools in about four sectors of the district. Even this took a lot of time because the infrastructure in rural areas is not very easy, especially not during times of much rain.

On the back of a moto it is every time an exciting adventure. Besides trainings and workshops for teachers, head teachers and Sector Education Officers I developed popular Time Management Training which was a pilot for the whole country and even the National Police Training in Kigali was one of my customers.

With help of my family, friends and some organizations I succeeded to gather enough money to buy for about 10 schools some bookcases and books to start a modest library.

Even I saved some money to buy solar lamps with an extra plug to charge mobile phones.

After two years I had the feeling I had contribute a little for the developing of this beautiful country and its friendly people.

I am impressed by the way Rwanda put itself together to survive the horrendous past. I think the country is on the right way but there are a lot of things to do and a lot of problems to solve before the time comes that all the goals are reached.

Realistic criticism is a good thing but underlining of the positive developments which are achieved till now is far more better than always repeating how bad some things are going in the aftermath of the genocide.

The country-wide program of reconciliation reaches hardly the international press, the Gacaca, the way the government tried to give the people the feeling justice was done to everybody is hardly explained. Rwanda and the generations who are coming now need not only economic support but in the first place a positive attitude of the world in general.

Hetty FRANZANI

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individual stories about Rwanda

Jolianne HELLEMANS Friends of Rwanda Foundation Since 1989 the Friends of Rwanda Foundation has been working with people of the little town Kirinda. We focus on basic care and education for the poor.

There are a lot of friends and friendly institutions who feel closely involved with the foundation’s work. This often dates back as far as several decades. We have friends who have been active in Kirinda themselves, friends who were born in Kirinda, Rwandans now living in The Netherlands and people who feel involved in the foundation’s work for other reasons.

Every two years we come together on our Friends day. Almost every Friends day we are honored with the presence of the Ambassador of Rwanda in the Netherlands or representative. The Embassy and its

personnel have proven to be Friends indeed of our foundation. This means the Embassy door has been open for questions, discussions about the future of Rwanda and the position of NGO’s. This ‘low profile’ attitude of the ambassadors we have been working with is of an immense value. The bridge we need to be able to continue our collaboration with the people in Kirinda.

We therefore congratulate all the staff of the Embassy with their anniversary and we wish them great Dutch experiences. We hope you keep up building bridges between the two countries!

Jolianne HELLEMANS Chair, Friends of Rwanda Foundation www.vriendenvanrwanda.nl

Nick HULS Erasmus University and Leiden University My name is Nick HULS; I am an emeritus professor of socio-legal studies at Erasmus University and Leiden University. In May 2011 the Government of Rwanda has appointed me as Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Research at the Institute for legal practice and development (ILPD) in Nyanza, where I worked until the end of 2013. During that period I became a critical friend of the country.

Back in the Netherlands I have been engaged in setting up a PhD program at Leiden for experienced lawyers, who plan to write a dissertation next to their job in Rwanda. Furthermore I have become Chairman of the Board of GLIDH, the Great Lakes initiative for development and human rights, a Rwandan organization, based in Kigali.

together we prosper

There has been a close cooperation in the legal domain between Rwanda and the Netherlands and a lot has been achieved.

Nick HULS Emeritus professor of socio-legal studies Erasmus University and Leiden University

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individual stories about Rwanda

Annemiek VAN GIJN All for Nature

In love with Rwanda…

In September 2015 I was invited by the Embassy for the Kwita Izina event in Rwanda. A very special and glorious moment when all newborn gorilla baby’s of that year are named. Rwanda is taking nature conservation seriously and is renowned for the effective way in which they combine the protection of its mountain gorilla’s and ecotourism. During the Kwita Izina ceremony President Paul KAGAME was present together with 10,000’s of local people and the international press.

The mountain gorilla is doing well in Rwanda and its population grew from 250 in 1981 to 480 individuals in recent years. Besides the mountain gorilla, Rwanda has much more wildlife to offer such as chimpanzees and beautiful birding in Nyungwe Forest and lions and elephants in Akagera National Park.

Wildlife combined with sustainability and nature conservation are all ingredients essential for a fabulous ‘All for Nature Travel’ destination. Here your travel money is invested wisely. For inspiration have a look at Kingdom of the Gorilla and Rwanda Ultimate Wildlife Safari on our website.

Annemiek VAN GIJN Founder of All for Nature Travel www.allfornature.nl

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individual stories about Rwanda

together we prosper

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The Rwanda Convention Center was opened in 2016.

Visit the website of the Rwanda Convention Bureau: www.rcb.rw