Taxi drivers warn of billboard dangers on Kigali roads

Taxi drivers in Kigali, Rwanda, have expressed concerns over the placement of commercial billboards, which they claim are causing poor visibility on roads and could potentially lead to accidents. Simple Mutijima, a local driver, highlighted that some billboards prevent drivers from seeing the road clearly and also distract pedestrians. Emmanuel Byiringiro, an inspector with Kigali City, acknowledged the issue, noting that billboards that do not conform to approved sizes and colors can distract traffic. Eric Bizimana, a motorist, mentioned that such distractions have led to drivers being caught for speeding by traffic cameras. The Rwanda Transport Agency has urged the City of Kigali to address these complaints swiftly. The Rwanda National Police reminded drivers to adhere to traffic rules. The city authorities have started removing improperly placed billboards to mitigate the problem.

Sacco members call for mobile banking services

Members of Saving and Credit Co-operatives (Saccos) in Rwanda are advocating for the introduction of mobile banking services to reduce the need for physical visits to their offices. Clients currently face challenges such as long queues and travel time to access financial services. Immaculee Mukarugwiza, a client of Rusororo-Sacco, shares her experience of the inconvenience caused by the lack of mobile transaction options. Ferdinand Ryumugabe, a Ru-Sacco employee, acknowledges the limitations of the current system and the need for technological upgrades to improve service efficiency. The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) recognizes the technological gaps within Saccos and had plans to roll out a new system, but the process was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Clarice Mushimirwa from BNR assures that Saccos will eventually have the same banking systems as banks.

Dairy farmers urged to focus on quality

Rwandan dairy farmers are encouraged to enhance farming practices to boost milk production and quality to meet export standards. Despite increased local consumption, poor quality and limited processing access hinder sales. Milk production rose from 700,267 tonnes in 2015 to 891,326 tons in 2021, but exports fell sharply, leading to significant financial losses. The government is promoting modernization and training farmers in grass cultivation and storage for droughts. Dr. Solange Uwituze of RAB emphasized the dairy sector's role in employment and development. A new factory in Nyagatare aims to increase processing capacity.