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As we commemorate the 2013 World Press Freedom Day, Rwanda continues to promote safeguards for freedom and independence of the press and delivering on its pledge to promote accountability and foster public participation and engagement.

James Musoni, Minister of Local Government, also responsible for media environment said today:

�The recently promulgated media related laws particularly the Media law and Access to Information law, are a testimony of Rwanda�s resolve to promote independence of the media and access to information as essential components of good governance and preconditions for durable economic, social and political development�.

Key elements of the new media law include the recognition of self regulation whereby article 4 now provides that the Media Self Regulatory body will regulate the conduct of journalists and establish professional standards. Article 15 empowers the same entity to deal with violation of journalists� rights.

The new law also recognizes the legal right of journalists to collect information; respect for the confidentiality of journalistic sources; to call on any resourceful person to provide information while lifting some restrictions such as prohibitions on the use of unlawful methods to obtain or to disseminate information; neglecting essential information; and distorting ideas contained in an information or a text. To protect the rights of individuals, the law also recognizes the rights of reply, rectification and correction.

There is now no requirement for journalists to hold particular academic qualifications, paving the way for a broader definition of who is a journalist and allowing freelancers to enjoy the same rights as employed journalists. The system of sanctions for the media has been liberalized, including the repeal of �suspension� and �closure of a publication� as penalties.

Minister Musoni emphasized the government�s commitment to supporting the development of a free, dynamic and responsible press:

�We are determined to make use of advances in modern communication technology to reach out to every citizen for engagement and to ensure that Rwandans are connected to each other and the world. Our intention is to support the development of a media environment that is sensitive to our past, responsive to the present and that keeps us accountable as we work to deliver a better future for all Rwandans.�

Source: Republic of Rwanda (www.gov.rw)

Burera district council vice-president, Vincent Uwimana

The vice-president of Burera district council has revealed that agriculture will be focused on in 5 years District Development Plan (DDP) because of the favorable conditions for agriculture.

Vincent Uwimana says that Burera district council is making possible ways to make residents benefit from agriculture in 5 year development plan.

Uwimana explains �We want residents to develop in agricultural sector so that they get enough food for consumption and market.�

He adds that Burera district is rural areas and has no town, which means development is based on agriculture.

Burera district is favourable for Irish potatoes, maize, beans and wheat.

Uwimana asserts that in addition to developing agriculture, infrastructures such as health centres and schools will be availed to improve the residents� standards of living.

All is expected to be achieved through the partnership with district funders and residents.

Source: Rwanda News