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KIGALI, Rwanda – Heifer International, a global development organization dedicated to eradicating hunger and poverty, has announced the expansion of its Mechanization for Africa Initiative to Rwanda. This initiative aims to boost productivity and income for smallholder farmers in collaboration with the Government of Rwanda and Hello Tractor, a leading agricultural technology company.The Mechanization for Africa Initiative is a continent-wide program designed to transform agricultural practices for smallholder farmers. By introducing modern mechanization technologies and innovative financing models, the initiative seeks to reduce manual labor burdens, increase productivity, and create jobs for young people.In Rwanda, the initiative is being rolled out in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources and Hello Tractor. This partnership combines the government’s expertise in agricultural development with Heifer International’s experience in community-driven development and Hello Tractor’s innovative technology solutions.The initiative’s expansion to Rwanda builds on successful implementations in Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, demonstrating Heifer International’s commitment to community-driven development across Africa. The Rwanda expansion is tailored to local needs, leveraging broader insights from the continent-wide program.Key Components of the InitiativeTractor Financing: Fifteen tractors will be delivered to farmers under a flexible pay-as-you-earn model, allowing repayment over five years.Maintenance and Support Hub: A dedicated hub in Kayonza District will provide maintenance and support services for tractor owners.Training and Capacity Building: Farmers will receive training on tractor operation, maintenance, and agricultural best practices.Innovative Financing Model: The pay-as-you-go financing model, developed by Hello Tractor, facilitates easier access to essential equipment for smallholder farmers.Impact and Achievements125,501 smallholder farmers reached56,008 hectares cultivated160 tractors financed and deployed2,464 direct jobs created31% women financed“Smallholder farmers are the backbone of Africa’s food systems, contributing up to 80 percent of food production in sub-Saharan Africa,” said Surita Sandosham, President and CEO of Heifer International.“By introducing mechanization tailored to local needs, we seek to partner with governments to reduce the burdens of manual labor-particularly for women and the elderly-while boosting productivity for farmers, job creation for young people, and food security in the country.”“Farmers are our livelihood’s source; we must support them. Let’s work together to transform agriculture. Entrepreneurs, seize this opportunity, learn to use tractors, and support farmers in your communities and across Rwanda,” said Hon. Minister Eric Rwigamba, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources.The Mechanization for Africa Initiative is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in transforming agricultural practices for smallholder farmers. By working together, Heifer International, the Government of Rwanda, and Hello Tractor aim to enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, create jobs, and promote food security in Rwanda.Relatedhttps://www.pmldaily.com/news/regional/2024/09/heifer-international-expands-mechanization-initiative-to-rwanda.html

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Ugandan Citizen Abducted, Held in Secret Detention for Three Months, Sparks Outrage and Calls for Justice

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A disturbing new case of unlawful detention has surfaced, highlighting the ongoing human rights crisis in Uganda. A Ugandan citizen was reportedly abducted and held in a secret facility, known as a “safe house,” for three months, only to be released without charge or explanation. This incident, reported by NTV Uganda, has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for accountability regarding human rights abuses in the country.
While the details surrounding the abduction remain unclear, reports indicate that the individual was taken without due process and held incommunicado—an action that has long been condemned by human rights organizations. The victim’s release, with no charges filed and no clear justification, has angered activists and citizens, who view this as yet another case of egregious abuse of power by the state.
“This is a recurring pattern,” said one human rights activist. “Abductions, secret detentions, and unexplained releases have become all too common in Uganda. These acts violate fundamental human rights and erode public trust in the justice system.”
The use of “safe houses,” unregistered detention facilities reportedly operated by security forces, has been a focal point in numerous allegations of torture and illegal imprisonment. Despite repeated calls from both local and international organizations for their closure and accountability for those involved, little action has been taken to address these violations.
This case underscores the urgent need for reform within Uganda’s security apparatus and greater accountability for human rights abuses. Observers hope that drawing attention to these injustices will spur concrete action to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the protection of basic human rights.
As frustration mounts, calls for both domestic and international pressure to hold the government accountable for such crimes grow louder. “One day, there must be accountability for all these crimes against our people,” stated one social media user, reflecting the sentiments of many Ugandans.

Ugandan Citizen Abducted, Held in Secret Detention for Three Months, Sparks Outrage and Calls for Justice

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NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests

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National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi has accused Ugandan security forces of using excessive force to disrupt a planned NUP gathering. The allegations were detailed in a statement shared on Twitter, following an event held to honor children of NUP supporters who were killed, disappeared, or detained for their political beliefs.
According to Kyagulanyi, security personnel, under the command of an officer identified as Asiimwe, carried out a preemptive operation early in the morning upon learning of the NUP’s plans. The forces allegedly stormed the premises, arrested workers, and deployed tear gas to disperse those present.
“The criminals under the command of one Asiimwe deployed early morning, arrested our workers, and threw tear gas into our premises. They’ve cordoned off the premises and blocked all people from accessing the place,” Kyagulanyi wrote.
Among those reportedly arrested were Saava Peter, Mudenya Samson, and Turyasingura Samson. Kyagulanyi claimed the detained workers were subjected to beatings and interrogated about their political affiliations, with security operatives labeling them as terrorists.
“These JATT operatives asked the workers who they support politically, branding them terrorists and criminals—their only crime being that they work with us. You can imagine the indignity!” Kyagulanyi lamented.
This incident adds to the growing tension in Uganda’s political climate, where opposition parties frequently accuse the government of stifling dissent. Despite the challenges, Kyagulanyi ended his statement with a message of defiance and optimism, proclaiming, “UGANDA WILL BE FREE.”

NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests

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Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum

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Sudan has demanded an official apology from Uganda over “offensive and dangerous” comments made by the chief of Uganda army staff, who threated to invade Khartoum, the Sudan Tribune has reported.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and CDF of the Ugandan army, posted two comments on the X platform on Tuesday in which he threatened “to capture Khartoum” with the support of the US President elect Donald Trump after he takes office. The posts were deleted later.
“The government of Sudan demands and official apology from the Ugandan government for the offensive and dangerous comments of the army commander,” Sudan’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the Sudan Tribune said it has seen.

Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum

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