TUT joins ICGSD
Tshwane University of Technology – Faculty of Economics and Finance Joins International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD) (TUT joins ICGSD) In a landmark development for African academic collaboration on sustainability, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Faculty of Economics and Finance has officially joined the University of Kigali (Rwanda), the University of Fort Hare (South Africa), and North-West University Business School (South Africa) as a Non Founding- Member and Co-host of the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD). ICGSD Chairs’ committee during ICGSD 2025 The announcement was made by Dr. Ronald Kwena, who was nominated as the Interim Chair of the ICGSD Governing Board, following the successful inaugural ICGSD 2025, which was held in March at the Kigali Serena Hotel in Rwanda. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and business leaders from across the globe to explore pathways for inclusive, climate-conscious, and innovation-driven development on the African continent and beyond. Dr Ronald Kwena, Chair ICGSD Governing Board Dr. Kwena confirmed that the decision to bring TUT on board was made following the enthusiastic participation of Dr. Sindi Mokgopha from Tshwane University of Technology at the Kigali event. “Dr. Mokgopha’s engagement and TUT’s long-standing commitment to green innovation and applied research made it clear that the institution would bring critical value to the ICGSD platform,” said Dr. Kwena. Dr. Sindi Mokgopha from Tshwane University of Technology – ) – Faculty of Economics and Finance The inclusion of TUT as a co-host is expected to significantly expand the scope and impact of the ICGSD network, particularly in supporting youth-led green entrepreneurship, research commercialization, and regional knowledge exchange across Southern and East Africa. As part of the strategic announcements, Dr. Kwena also shared that the ICGSD Committee of Chairs resolved that the next edition of the conference, ICGSD 2026, will be hosted by North-West University Business School and Chaired by Professor Joseph Lekunze, further cementing South Africa’s leading role in advancing sustainability discourse on the continent. Prof Joseph Lekunze – Chair ICGSD 2026 The ICGSD is a pan-African academic and policy platform aimed at accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through partnerships, research, and action-oriented dialogue.
UoK Explores PhD Partnerships in UK Visit
UoK Explores PhD Partnerships in UK Visit: Two senior academic leaders from the University of Kigali (UoK) recently concluded a high-level benchmarking mission to the United Kingdom, aimed at enhancing postgraduate research and academic-industry collaboration. Sponsored by Learn Logistics under the Kühne Foundation, the visit focused on exploring collaborative doctoral training, innovative research practices, and strategic partnerships with the University of Derby and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). Dr. Ronald Kwena, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise, led the visit alongside Dr. Joseph Akumuntu, Faculty Member in Supply Chain Management and Internship Coordinator. Strengthening Doctoral Education and Research at UoK The mission’s core objective was to benchmark internationally acclaimed PhD and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programs in Supply Chain Management. Discussions also included research supervision models, doctoral research support systems, and knowledge transfer partnerships to inform the design of UoK’s own doctoral framework. “This visit was a strategic step towards positioning the University of Kigali as a regional leader in doctoral education, applied research, and innovation,” said Dr. Kwena. “We were particularly keen on exploring models that merge academic rigour with industry relevance.” Engagements at the University of Derby The University of Derby hosted the UoK delegation with a comprehensive program of academic meetings and site tours. Key engagements included: A tour of the Doctoral College, Centre for Supply Chain Improvement, Finance Lab (equipped with Bloomberg and LSEG licenses), and various student support facilities. Meetings with academic leaders including Dr. Nicola Lynch, Head of Derby Business School; Prof. Jose Arturo Garza-Reyes, Head of Research and the Centre for Supply Chain Improvement; and Dr. Polina Baranova, DBA Programme Leader. Highlights included discussions on the structure of PhD by research, PhD by published works, and the blended delivery of a joint PhD programme between UoK and Derby. The partners explored two potential models: a UoK-accredited PhD with academic support from Derby, and a University of Derby PhD delivered through UoK, subject to local and UK accreditation. Focus on Strategic Research, Ethics, and Global Engagement The delegation engaged with Prof. Qile He and Dr. Phil Jones on research ethics, exploring Derby’s digital research management system and the role of its Research Ethics Committee. They also met with Dr. Myra Conway, Associate Provost for Innovation and Research, and Rose Martin, Research Student Office Team Leader. These sessions provided insights into Derby’s research strategy, which prioritizes interdisciplinary research across themes such as zero carbon, data science, and public services. UoK intends to adopt similar strategies in alignment with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and Africa’s Agenda 2063. Martina Williams, Global Engagement Manager, emphasized the university’s growing partnerships in Africa and outlined the roadmap for co-developing a joint PhD program—including lecturer accreditation, shared digital resources, student/staff mobility, and potential for external funding. Applied Learning through the DBA Programme The visit also unpacked Derby’s DBA in Supply Chain Management, led by Dr. Baranova. The program blends professional practice with academic research and includes taught modules that build research capacity in real-world settings. UoK is now evaluating this model as it expands its postgraduate offerings to meet the needs of professionals across East Africa. UoK Explores PhD Partnerships in UK Visit: A Forward-Looking Partnership The benchmarking visit signals a major milestone for UoK as it advances its vision of becoming a hub of excellence in logistics, supply chain, and applied research in Africa. Key next steps include: Developing a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Derby; Designing a joint doctoral supervision framework; Enhancing UoK’s research infrastructure, including doctoral colleges and simulation labs; Participating in international journal editorship and conferences through networks such as the IEOM Society. “The insights gained from this mission will directly inform our efforts to internationalize our doctoral programs, boost innovation, and strengthen industry-academic linkages,” Dr. Akumuntu noted.
UoK Hosts Logistics Workshop
UoK Hosts Logistics Workshop: The University of Kigali Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management successfully hosted a Career Mentorship and Guidance Workshop on May 9, 2025, bringing together leading industry experts to mentor and engage students pursuing degrees in Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Speaking during the opening of the workshop, Prof George Kimathi, the Vice Chancellor, University of Kigali affirmed the University’s commitment to fostering practical skills for its students. The workshop forms part of the University’s commitment to equipping students with practical skills and professional insights aligned with Rwanda’s Vision 2050, the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), and regional frameworks including the African Union Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event featured keynote presentations and expert panels focusing on the future of logistics, employer expectations, customs operations, warehousing, freight forwarding, and job readiness. The opening session was delivered by Mr. Rwigema David, Chairman of the Freight Forwarders Association in Rwanda, who emphasized the strategic importance of logistics in driving economic development and regional integration. Additional speakers included: Ms. Umuhoza Marie Yvonne, ITM Holding – What Employers Want: Skills and Attributes for SCM Jobs Ms. Uwera Jeanette, Rwanda Revenue Authority – Insights into Customs Operations and Warehousing Ms. Myriam Izabayo, Africa Global Logistics – Freight and Forwarding/Warehousing Management Ms. Terhas Legesse, Hire Me Africa – Effective Job Search Strategies An expert panel moderated by Mr. Akili Olivier brought together voices from across the logistics sector including: Mr. Mugambage Mundane, Managing Director, Pioneer Logistics Dr. Martin Gachukia, Academic Registrar, University of Kigali Mr. Jean Claude Ndatumuremyi, Managing Director, Transco Logistics Dr. Akumuntu Joseph, Faculty, University of Kigali Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Kwena Ronald, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Enterprise at the University of Kigali, who reiterated the University’s role in developing industry-relevant, policy-aligned academic programs. “Through initiatives like this workshop, we are actively contributing to national and continental goals. We are building a workforce prepared for the future of logistics and supply chain management in Rwanda, the region, and beyond,” said Dr. Kwena. This initiative is implemented within the framework of the University’s MoU with the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST), aimed at enhancing the integration of applied research, innovation, and industry partnerships in Rwanda. The workshop aligns with multiple strategic priorities: Vision 2050: High-quality, skills-based education for economic transformation NST1: Employable youth and private sector-led development Agenda 2063: A skills revolution underpinned by science, technology, and innovation SDGs: Quality Education (Goal 4), Decent Work (Goal 8), Industry, Innovation (Goal 9), and Partnerships for the Goals (Goal 17) The University of Kigali continues to position itself as a regional leader in applied logistics education and workforce development.
ICGSD 2025 – Conference Proceedings
This issue features the proceedings of the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development, held from 10th to 12th March 2025 at the Serena Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to share insights, innovations, and strategies aimed at advancing sustainability and promoting environmentally responsible development. The presentations and discussions showcased cutting-edge research and practical solutions addressing global challenges in climate change, renewable energy, sustainable cities, and green economies.https://doi.org/10.70970/xmg2gt02
UoK’s Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management Empowers Staff at CILT Africa Forum
University of Kigali Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management Empowers Staff at CILT Africa Forum. The Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management (CALSCM), in collaboration with Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation Germany, proudly sponsored 10 staff members to attend the 18th Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Africa Forum, held in Kigali. This strategic sponsorship forms part of the active Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Kigali and the Kühne Foundation, aimed at strengthening professional capacity, advancing logistics education, and promoting research in supply chain management across Africa. The CILT Africa Forum 2025, hosted in Kigali for the first time, brought together over 500 logistics and transport professionals, academics, policymakers, and students from across the continent. The University of Kigali’s delegation made a strong showing at the event, with two staff members officially awarded the prestigious status of CILT Fellows, in recognition of their leadership and contributions to the logistics and transport sector. In addition, one staff member presented a peer-reviewed paper, contributing valuable insights on innovations in supply chain resilience and sustainability in Africa. Speaking about the milestone, Dr Ronald Kwena, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Innovation and Enterprise at the University of Kigali and Director of the Centre, remarked: “This opportunity has elevated the academic and professional profiles of our staff. The Kühne Foundation’s continued support through our MoU is vital in positioning the University of Kigali as a regional hub for logistics and supply chain capacity development.” Mr. Teferi Gedif FentaView, Country Director for Ethiopia and Regional Lead for Learn Logistics by Kühne Foundation, also attended and held strategic discussions with the University’s leadership to operationalize the MoU further. The engagement focused on future joint activities, including faculty exchange, curriculum co-development, and applied research projects. The University of Kigali remains committed to building strong partnerships that align education with the evolving demands of industry and national development. The presence and recognition of its staff at this high-level continental forum exemplify the University’s growing influence in shaping the future of logistics and supply chain management in Africa.
Empowering the Future of Logistics and Supply Chain Management
As Kigali became the epicenter of digital innovation during the Global AI Summit, the University of Kigali’s Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management (LSCM) simultaneously held a dynamic two-day workshop on Emerging Technologies in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, from April 3–4, 2025, at The Manor Hotel, Kigali. The workshop was hosted by the Centre for Applied Logistics and Supply Chain Management as part of the Memorandum of Understanding between University of Kigali and Learn Logistics by Kuhne Foundation While global thought leaders gathered to discuss the transformative potential of artificial intelligence across sectors, this workshop provided a focused platform for logistics and supply chain professionals to explore how emerging technologies are revolutionizing procurement, warehousing, transportation, and data analytics in supply chain operations across Africa. Day 1 Highlights: Digital Shifts and Smart Logistics The workshop was officially opened by Dr. Kwena Ronald, Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation & Enterprise, who emphasized the University’s commitment to equipping professionals with future-ready skills aligned with Rwanda’s digital transformation agenda. Charles Harerimana of World Vision kicked off technical discussions with a session on Automation in Procurement and Warehousing, presenting impactful case studies of digitized humanitarian logistics operations. Dr. Wilson Musoni, University of Kigali, took center stage with his session on AI Applications in Logistics and Transportation, linking local innovations to global trends being discussed at the AI Summit across town. His presentation underscored the growing synergy between AI and logistics optimization in developing countries. Post-lunch, Pascal Kagarama of Gorilla Logistics delivered an engaging double session on Transport Management and Port Operations Software, showcasing cutting-edge tools reshaping cargo flow and port efficiency in East Africa. Day 2 Highlights: Analytics and Intelligent Decision-Making Dr Songa Jean Bosco of Songa Logistics took the stage with a deep dive into Warehouse and Customs Management Software. His practical insights were well received, especially as he shared live system demonstrations reflecting real-world challenges and solutions. Dr. Martin Gachukia, University of Kigali, then led an insightful session on Procurement Analytics, connecting the dots between big data, procurement efficiency, and performance metrics that supply chain leaders can no longer afford to ignore. The afternoon featured Dr. Akumuntu Joseph, also from the University of Kigali, presenting on Data-Driven Decision-Making in Logistics. His session linked decision science with digital dashboards, AI-driven forecasting, and logistics KPIs, echoing key themes from the broader discussions at the AI Summit. In an interactive wrap-up session, Umar Luzinda and Olivier Akili facilitated a participatory dialogue where attendees reflected on the sessions, shared innovations, and forged future collaborations. The workshop concluded with a vibrant networking session that emphasized cross-sectoral and pan-African cooperation.
