Rwanda Day 2024 in Washington DC: Are Emerging Opportunities on the Horizon?

Rwanda Day 2024, the 11th edition of the annually celebrated diaspora event, is set to take place on February 2 and 3 in Washington D.C., marking its return after a temporary halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Thousands of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda will gather to reflect on the country's development and explore avenues for their contributions.

This highly anticipated event not only provides a platform for the Rwandan Diaspora community to meet and engage with President Paul Kagame but also serves as a valuable opportunity for the youth in Diaspora. Discussions aligning with the country's agenda include topics relevant to the youth, fostering engagement and offering a space for their ideas and concerns.

The impact of Rwanda Day extends beyond cultural and social aspects. It plays a crucial role in contributing to the economy and emerging job sectors. Through discussions and networking opportunities, participants explore avenues for collaboration, business ventures, and investments, fostering economic growth and innovation. As Rwanda focuses on commemorating significant milestones, including 30 years of rebirth after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, elections, and the 20th edition of Kwita Izina, Rwanda Day remains a catalyst for youth empowerment, economic development, and advancement in emerging job sectors. Over the past decade, the event has consistently been held in various cities in Europe and the Americas, reinforcing its significance in shaping Rwanda's future.

 1. Don't call someone more than twice continuously. 

If they don't pick up your call, assume they have something important to attend to.

2. Return the money that you have borrowed.

even before the person who borrowed it remembers or asks for it. It shows your integrity and character. Same goes with umbrellas, pens, lunch boxes, etc.

3. Never order the most expensive dish on the menu.

 when someone is giving you a lunch or dinner.

4. Don't ask awkward questions like, 

'Oh so you aren't married yet?' Or 'Don't you have kids' or

'Why didn't you buy a house?' Or why don't you buy a car? For God's sake, it isn't your problem.

5. Always open the door for the person coming behind you. 

It doesn't matter if it is a guy or a girl, senior or junior. You don't grow small by treating someone well in public.

6. Pay it forward or afterwards. 

Eg: If you take a taxi with a friend and he/she pays now, try paying next time.

7. Respect different shades of opinion.

Remember, what's 6 to you will appear 9 to someone facing you. Besides, a second opinion is a good alternative.

8. Never interrupt people who are talking.

 Allow them to pour it out. As they say, hear them all and filter them all.

9. Know when to stop.

 If you tease someone, and they don't seem to enjoy it, stop it and never do it again. It encourages one to do more and it shows how appreciative you are.

10. Embrace gratitude.

Say "thank you" when someone is helping you.

11. Empathize Loyalty.

 Praise publicly. Criticize privately. If you want to retain those who are present, be loyal to those who are absent.

12. A compliment goes a long way compared to a criticism.

There's almost never a reason to comment on someone's weight. Just say, "You look fantastic." If they want to talk about losing weight, they will.

13. Respect boundaries.

When someone shows you a photo on their phone, don't swipe left or right. You never know what's next.

14. Mind your own business, if they want to share, they will.

If a colleague tells you they have a doctor's appointment, don't ask what it's for, just say " hope you're okay". Don't put them in the uncomfortable position of having to tell you about their personal illness. If they want you to know, they'll do so without your inquisitiveness.

15. Respect everyone, regardless of their status, ethnicity, or age.

You can't be a good business partner or anything else unless you are a good human being to the core, Treat the cleaner with the same respect as the CEO. Nobody is impressed at how rude you can treat someone below you but people will notice if you treat them with respect.

16. Eye contact and body language.

If a person is speaking directly to you, staring at your phone is rude.

17. The power of silence.

Never give advice until you're asked; sometimes all people need is a listening a ear free of judgments and advice. Knowing this will help you help those in need and you will not be listening to respond but to empathize with the other person.

18. Avoid unnecessary questions.

 When meeting someone after a long time, unless they want to talk about it, don't ask them their age and salary.

19. Mind your business unless anything involves you directly - just stay out of it.

20. Small gestures go a long way.

Remove your sunglasses if you are talking to anyone in the street. It is a sign of respect.

21. Understand your audience.

 Never talk about your riches in the midst of the poor. Similarly, don't talk about your children in the midst of the barren.

22. After reading a good message, try to say

"Thanks for the message".

Appreciation remains the easiest way to get what you don't have.

An overthinker is someone who tends to dwell on their thoughts and worries to an unhealthy degree. Because they are constantly second-guessing themselves and considering all possible outcomes, they may struggle to make decisions or take action.

If you  happen to have difficulty in this area, here are some healthy factors to help you overcome it: 

 

 

1. The problem is rarely the problem

You and your thoughts are responsible for 99% of the damage.

in reality, what actually happens, and the outcome are responsible for 1% of the harm.

Most of the time, the problem isn't the problem. It is the way you approach the problem.

You mght have no control over what happens around you, but you certainly do have control over how you react to it.

2. Avoid Self-rejection

Do you believe you are unworthy of such an opportunity? In any case, apply for it.

Do you believe your article is inadequate? Regardless, publish it.

Do you believe they will not respond to your e  mail? Send it nevertheless.

Never rationalize yourself into self-rejection.

3. Silence and time

The truth is that most problems can be solved with less thought rather than more.

The majority of the answers you seek can be found in isolation, leisure, and with a clear mind.

Don't try to solve a problem if you can't solve it.

4. An important question

When you begin to blame yourself for past mistakes or picture danger lurking around every corner, ask yourself:

"Is there anything I can do right now to change the past or influence the future in a positive way?"

Take action if the answer is affirmative.

If the answer is no, accept it and let it go.

You must either act or let it go; anything else is self-harm.

5. The power of now

You will not overthink your way to a brighter future.

You're not going to reason your way out of a bad situation.

Because tomorrow is not guaranteed, all you have is right now. 

And what you do NOW can make your past right and your future better.

Make peace with yesterday, let go of tomorrow, and seize the now.

live in the moment, focus on the now.

6. Fact check your own thoughts

In your mind, your ideas will construct scenarios that represent your insecurities, concerns, and worries.

As a result, it's critical to always double-check your own ideas before accepting them, because in highly emotional situations, your mind will tell you lies.

Fact check yourself.

7. Acceptance is peace

No amount of worry can affect your future, and no amount of regret can change your past.

Acceptance leads to peace:

-Accept your flaws.

-Accept the unknown.

-Accept the inexorable.

You don't have to understand, tolerate, or even forget anything, but you must accept it if you desire serenity.

Practice mindfulness.

8. Health starts in your mind

You can go to the gym, eat healthily, practice yoga, drink water, and take supplements, but you will never be genuinely 'healthy!' unless you tackle the negativity in your thinking.

our health is not assessed by scales, muscular size, or waist circumference.

The quality of our thoughts and the calm of our mind are indicators of true wellness. Health begins in the mind.

Change your mindset.

All of this is to say that things improve when you allow yourself to believe in yourself, give yourself  a break and have an optimistic attitude.

You might think, “I use public wi-fi all the time, and I’ve never had a problem!” Sure, not that you know of, at least. The worrisome truth is—in tandem with the growing remote-worker population—cyberattacks are also on the rise and anyone using public wi-fi is at risk. In a Global Risk Report published in 2020, cyberattacks were named the fifth top-rated risk for companies across public and private sectors, and those attacks are expected to climb in ranking soon. The FBI reported 791,790 complaints of suspected internet crime in 2020—which is 300,000 more than reported in 2019—and estimated the financial toll at more than $4.2 billion. Protecting yourself from the risks of public wi-fi has never been more imperative. This is essential for businesses and individuals in virtually every industry, although some are much more vulnerable than others.

The widespread availability of public Wi-Fi has revolutionized the way we connect to the internet, making it easier than ever to stay online no matter where we are. However, as convenient as public Wi-Fi can be, it also poses significant risks to users' privacy and security. In this article, we will explore the risks and shortcomings of using public Wi-Fi and how unsecured networks can leave users vulnerable to cybercrime.

Risks of using public Wi-Fi:

Public Wi-Fi networks are generally unsecured, which means that anyone who is connected to the same network can potentially intercept and read the data being transmitted between devices. This opens the door to a variety of cybercrimes, such as interception attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, snooping, and malware infection.

 *Interception attacks* occur when a cybercriminal intercepts the communication between two devices and alters it to their advantage. For example, they could intercept a login credential, such as a password, and use it to gain access to sensitive information.

 *Man-in-the-middle attacks* are similar to interception attacks, but involve the attacker inserting themselves into the middle of the communication between two devices. The attacker can then eavesdrop on the communication or modify it to their advantage.

 *Snooping of data* occurs when a cybercriminal monitors the network traffic to obtain sensitive information such as login credentials or financial data. They can then use this information for their own malicious purposes, such as identity theft or financial fraud.

 *Malware infection* is another risk of using public Wi-Fi. Cybercriminals can use unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to distribute malware, such as viruses or ransomware, to unsuspecting users. Once the malware infects a device, it can steal data, encrypt files, or hijack the device.

 _Shortcomings of using public Wi-Fi:_ 

The security measures implemented by public Wi-Fi providers are often inadequate to protect users from cyber threats. This is due to the limitations of securing a public network, such as the large number of users, diverse devices, and lack of control over user behavior.

Public Wi-Fi providers often rely on simple encryption protocols, such as WEP or WPA, which are no longer considered secure. In addition, many public Wi-Fi networks do not require users to enter a password or any other form of authentication, making it easy for cybercriminals to gain access to the network.

Another shortcoming of using public Wi-Fi is the lack of control over user behavior. Users may unwittingly compromise their own security by connecting to a fake network, downloading malicious software, or clicking on phishing links.

 _Best practices for using public Wi-Fi safely:_ 

There are several best practices that users can adopt to reduce the risks of using public Wi-Fi:

Use a virtual private network (VPN): A VPN encrypts all internet traffic between a device and a server, making it difficult for cybercriminals to intercept or read the data.

Avoid sensitive activities: Users should avoid logging into sensitive accounts, such as banking or email, while using public Wi-Fi. If they must do so, they should use two-factor authentication and check for the padlock symbol in the browser address bar.

Keep software up-to-date: Users should keep their devices and software up-to-date to ensure they are protected against known vulnerabilities.

Disable auto-connect: Users should disable auto-connect to public Wi-Fi networks to avoid connecting to a fake network.

When you think of successful tech entrepreneurs, you might picture a Silicon Valley wunderkind with a computer science degree from Stanford. But in Africa, some of the most inspiring and innovative founders are self-made entrepreneurs who started from humble beginnings.

Take the story of Aliko Dangote, for example. Before he became Africa's richest man, with a net worth of over $11 billion, he sold sweets and chewing gum on the streets of Kano, Nigeria. He eventually went on to build a business empire that spans industries from cement to sugar to telecommunications.

Or consider Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu, who grew up in a poor neighborhood in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She founded the footwear brand soleRebels, which has since expanded to over 20 countries and is on track to reach $100 million in revenue by 2025.

These bootstrapped entrepreneurs are not only inspiring, but also crucial to the growth of Africa's tech ecosystem. With limited access to traditional financing, many entrepreneurs have had to rely on their own savings and ingenuity to get their businesses off the ground.

And yet, despite the odds, many have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. In fact, a recent report by the African Development Bank found that 22% of African startups were profitable, with an average annual revenue growth rate of 17%.

So, what makes these entrepreneurs so successful? For one, they often have a deep understanding of the local market and its needs. Many of them have started businesses that address specific pain points in their communities, from affordable housing to mobile payments to e-commerce.

In addition, bootstrapped entrepreneurs tend to be scrappy and resourceful. They know how to stretch a dollar and make the most of limited resources. And because they don't have the luxury of relying on outside investors, they often have to be creative in finding alternative sources of funding, such as grants or crowdfunding.

Of course, bootstrapping isn't without its challenges. It can be difficult to scale a business without outside investment, and many entrepreneurs struggle with limited access to mentorship and business support services.

But as more and more entrepreneurs like Dangote and Alemu prove, it's possible to build a successful business from scratch, even in the face of adversity.

So, the next time you're feeling discouraged about your own entrepreneurial journey, remember the inspiring stories of Africa's bootstrapped entrepreneurs. They prove that with hard work, perseverance, and a little bit of creativity, anything is possible.

Tunisia, a small country in North Africa, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tech startups. But over the past few years, the country has experienced a boom in entrepreneurship and innovation, with a growing number of startups disrupting traditional industries and solving unique local challenges.

One of the most exciting areas of growth in Tunisia's tech scene is in the fintech sector. In a country where nearly half of the population is unbanked, startups like Paymee and Expensya are helping to bring financial services to underserved communities. Paymee, for example, allows users to make payments and transfer money using their mobile phones, while Expensya helps businesses manage their expenses and streamline their accounting processes.

Another area of innovation in Tunisia is in the field of education technology. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing schools to close and shift to online learning, startups like GoMyCode and Edumetric have stepped up to provide digital learning solutions for students and teachers. GoMyCode offers coding bootcamps and tech courses online, while Edumetric provides a platform for teachers to create and share educational content.

Tunisia's tech startups are also making waves in the travel and hospitality industry. With tourism being a major source of income for the country, startups like Trip4Care and Wibees are helping to attract more visitors and enhance the travel experience. Trip4Care offers medical tourism services, while Wibees is a platform for booking unique and authentic experiences with local hosts.

Of course, Tunisia's tech scene still faces its share of challenges, including a lack of funding and a shortage of skilled talent. But with the government and private sector investing more in innovation and entrepreneurship, the future looks bright for Tunisia's startups.

In conclusion, Tunisia may be small in size, but it's big on ideas and innovation. From fintech to edtech to traveltech, the country's startups are pushing boundaries and driving progress. Who knows – the next big tech unicorn could be born in Tunisia.

In recent years, e-commerce platforms have gained significant traction in Africa, driven by increased internet penetration, a growing middle class, and a rise in mobile phone usage. According to a report by Jumia, Africa's leading e-commerce platform, the continent's e-commerce market grew by 40% in 2020, despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Western e-commerce giants like Amazon and Alibaba have made strides in the African market, local platforms have emerged to cater to the unique needs and challenges of African consumers and businesses.

One of the biggest challenges for e-commerce in Africa is logistics and infrastructure. Many parts of the continent lack reliable postal services or transportation networks, which can make it difficult to deliver goods to customers. To address this challenge, African e-commerce platforms have developed innovative solutions, such as partnering with local delivery services, using motorbikes for last-mile delivery, and offering pickup points in local shops.

Another challenge is trust and payment security. Many Africans are hesitant to use online payment systems, and credit card penetration is relatively low. To build trust and promote adoption, African e-commerce platforms have introduced payment options like mobile money, cash on delivery, and pay-on-pickup.

African e-commerce platforms have also adapted to the unique cultural and linguistic diversity of the continent. Many platforms offer language options beyond English and French, such as Swahili, Yoruba, and Hausa, to cater to local language preferences.

In terms of market share, Jumia is the leading e-commerce platform in Africa, with a presence in 11 countries and over 6 million active customers. However, other local platforms like Konga, MallforAfrica, and Takealot are also gaining traction in their respective markets.

Compared to Western platforms like Amazon and Alibaba, African e-commerce platforms have some key differences. For example, African platforms tend to focus more on consumer goods and daily necessities, rather than luxury goods or electronics. Additionally, African platforms often serve as a marketplace for third-party sellers, rather than selling products directly, which can make it easier for small businesses to enter the market.

However, African e-commerce platforms still face stiff competition from Western giants like Amazon and Alibaba, which have significant resources and experience in the e-commerce industry. For example, Amazon recently launched Amazon Prime in South Africa, offering free and fast shipping to customers.

Despite the challenges and competition, African e-commerce platforms have significant potential to grow and create new opportunities for businesses and consumers. With innovations in logistics, payment security, and language options, African e-commerce platforms can continue to cater to the unique needs and challenges of the African market.

In conclusion, the growth of e-commerce platforms in Africa has been a remarkable success story, and a testament to the innovative spirit and entrepreneurship of Africans. As these platforms continue to evolve and expand, they will play an increasingly important role in driving economic growth and improving access to goods and services across the continent.

https://www.amazon.com/ 

https://www.alibaba.com/?src=sem_ggl&field=UG&from=sem_ggl&cmpgn=9922923274&adgrp=97780323582&fditm=&tgt=kwd-934428634720&locintrst=&locphyscl=9070182&mtchtyp=e&ntwrk=g&device=c&dvcmdl=&creative=598857653490&plcmnt=&plcmntcat=&aceid=&position=&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxYOiBhC9ARIsANiEIfZj2Mudlfc5s_-ifYjqppDBqRa1jnQ8YSaS4M5I4uxmaVy6Qgb6yrMaAqb9EALw_wcB

South Africa is known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and world-class wine. However, few people know that technology is playing a vital role in the country's wine industry. In recent years, South African winemakers have been using a range of cutting-edge technologies to produce better-quality wine, reduce waste, and improve their yields.

One of the main areas where technology is making a difference is in vineyard management. By using sensors to monitor the soil, temperature, and moisture content, winemakers can make better-informed decisions about when to irrigate, fertilize, and harvest their grapes. Drones are also being used to collect data on vine health and monitor the spread of diseases and pests.

In addition, winemakers are using technology to improve the winemaking process itself. For example, some are using digital tools to track the fermentation process and ensure that the wine is of a consistent quality. Others are using 3D printing to create customized wine barrels that are more efficient at storing and aging the wine.

These innovative approaches are not just improving the quality of South African wine. They are also helping winemakers reduce waste and increase efficiency. By using technology to optimize their production processes, winemakers can reduce their energy consumption and water usage, which is not only good for the environment but also for their bottom line.

Overall, technology is transforming the South African wine industry, enabling winemakers to produce better-quality wine more sustainably. As the industry continues to innovate and adapt, consumers can expect to see even more exciting developments in the future.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_African_wine

On April 3, the Rwanda National Police's Department of Testing and Licensing stated that successful applicants and those who currently hold legal licenses would receive an electronic provisional license. The new method went into effect on April 3 and will be available through the online platform Irembo.

IremboGov, Irembo’s pioneer product, a Rwandan digital platform, was launched in July 2015 and has since digitized 98 public services, making it easier for over 8 million Rwandans and foreigners to access them.

Check for more info: MINICT: Irembo kicks off the phased migration of all services to its brand-new platform.

In July 2020, a new Irembo 2.0 version was launched as an improved version whose features are all new, including a simple and more user-friendly interface. Since then, it has been able to launch new services, hence the addition of the electronic provisional driver’s license service.

Officials claim that anyone who successfully passes the provisional driving test will be able to pay for and access their driving license digitally. "Those who already have a provisional driving license can make a payment through Irembo and download it without further charge," they specified.

This, however, is only applicable to those who want provisional driving permits. The temporary driving permit, meanwhile, is only good for two years.

More information on Police beginning issuing electronic provisional driver's licenses (msn.com)

  

Nairobi, Kenya, is quickly becoming a fashion capital of the world, with a new generation of designers and entrepreneurs using technology to disrupt the traditional fashion industry. With e-commerce, 3D printing, and other cutting-edge technologies, these fashion-forward thinkers are creating innovative and sustainable fashion brands.

One example of this trend is Kiko Romeo, a fashion label founded by designer Ann McCreath. The brand has gained worldwide recognition for its use of African prints and textiles, as well as its commitment to ethical and sustainable production. Kiko Romeo's designs are sold both online and in physical stores, using e-commerce to reach a global audience.

Another company making waves in the industry is Closet49, an online marketplace for pre-owned designer fashion. By allowing users to buy and sell high-end fashion items, Closet49 is promoting sustainable and circular fashion, while also giving consumers access to luxury brands at a more affordable price.

In addition to e-commerce, 3D printing is also changing the game in Nairobi's fashion industry. Designer Wambui Kibue has used 3D printing technology to create unique and sustainable jewelry pieces for her brand, Kipato Unbranded. The brand's designs are made from recycled brass and bone, and the use of 3D printing allows for precise and intricate designs.

But the tech disruption doesn't stop there. The African Fashion and Design Week, held annually in Nairobi, showcases even more innovative uses of technology in fashion. From augmented reality fashion shows to AI-powered styling assistants, the event is a hub for the latest tech advancements in the industry.

By embracing technology and innovation, Nairobi's fashion industry is not only creating new opportunities for designers and entrepreneurs, but also promoting sustainability and ethical production practices. It's an exciting time for the city, as it becomes a global leader in fashion and technology.

1. "KikoRomeo: The Ethical African Fashion Brand to Have on Your Radar" (https://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/article/kiko-romeo-african-fashion)
2. "Closet49: How this online marketplace is making luxury fashion affordable" (https://www.cnn.com/2019/07/23/africa/closet49-kenya-sustainable-luxury-fashion/index.html)
3. "Meet Wambui Kibue, The Kenyan Designer Making Sustainable Jewelry With 3D Printing" (https://afrotech.com/meet-wambui-kibue-the-kenyan-designer-making-sustainable-jewelry-with-3d-printing)
4. "African Fashion and Design Week" (https://www.afdwng.com/)

These links can provide you with more information about Nairobi's fashion industry, the companies mentioned in the article, and other similar initiatives.