Rwandair suspends all flights to and from China amid Coronavirus fears

In light of the recent outbreak of the coronavirus in China, RwandAir has made the decision to suspend all flights to and from Guangzhou, China until further notice. This move is set to have significant impacts on both the business sector and individual travelers. The Guangzhou route, operated by RwandAir three times a week using their Airbus A330 aircraft, has been one of the airline's most productive routes. The suspension of these flights not only disrupts the travel plans of individuals but also poses financial challenges for the company, as this route was a key source of revenue. Amidst the concerns surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, Rwanda is also facing challenges and opportunities in its digital economy. Hudson Kuteesa, a journalist at the New Times, highlighted some of the key issues during a recent interview. One of the major challenges identified is the lack of readiness among e-commerce companies operating in Rwanda. While internet penetration in the country is relatively high compared to other African nations, there remains a traditional mindset that impedes the growth of online businesses. Kuteesa pointed out that companies need to conduct thorough studies and build their platforms strategically, rather than hastily entering the market due to the exit of competitors like Jumia. Furthermore, the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) has announced stringent penalties for property tax defaulters. The enforcement of these penalties aims to increase compliance with property registration tax regulations. However, Kuteesa noted that there is a lack of awareness among the public regarding the property tax law, which was enacted in 2018. The postponement of tax clearance deadlines indicates the challenges faced in getting individuals to comply with the regulations. When asked about the effectiveness of the penalties, Kuteesa expressed skepticism, stating that the mindset shift required may not come easily. He highlighted the potential impact of hefty fines on late payments, which could serve as a wake-up call for defaulters. Despite the government's efforts to enforce tax compliance, there is a need for greater public awareness and education on the regulations. On a more positive note, Rwanda is set to host Africa's first drone flying competition next month, signaling the country's embrace of technological advancements. The Global Drone Conference will showcase the innovative use of drones in various sectors, including emergency response and healthcare delivery. Rwanda has been at the forefront of utilizing drone technology for medical purposes, such as delivering blood to remote areas in need of transfusions. The competition presents an opportunity for African countries to learn from Rwanda's experience and integrate drone technology into their own systems. The anticipation for the Global Drone Conference is high, with expectations of valuable insights and knowledge exchange among industry experts. The event is not only a platform for showcasing technological advancements but also a catalyst for promoting innovation in Africa. As the continent gears up to embrace drone technology, Rwanda's hosting of the competition marks a significant milestone in driving progress and development in the digital age.