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These reforms reflect the Government of Rwanda’s sustained commitment to building a competitive, transparent, and investor-friendly environment that fosters innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.

Transforming land management and urban planning

A major highlight among these reforms is the completion of the High-Resolution Topographic Mapping Project, initiated in 2021 and concluded in early 2025.

Led by the National Land Authority (NLA) in collaboration with the City of Kigali, MININFRA, and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the project established Rwanda’s first set of highly accurate topographic maps.

These maps, developed using advanced technologies such as LiDAR, aerial photography, and satellite imagery, provide detailed representations of both natural and man-made features, including precise elevation data.

The initiative is expected to significantly improve long-term urban and infrastructure planning, particularly in the area of urban mobility, environmental management, and disaster preparedness.

Complementing this effort, the Building Permit Management and Information System (BPMIS) — KUBAKA Portal, launched in April 2025, modernizes the building permit application process, making it faster, transparent, and user-friendly for developers and local authorities.

Digital transformation in land and judicial systems

The National Land Authority (NLA) has launched several digital platforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in land management. One of these platforms is the upgraded Land Information Inquiry Portal, which offers faster access to land ownership details and classifications.

Additionally, the Land Application Tracking System enables applicants to follow their land transactions in real-time and collaborate seamlessly with authorities.

Another key initiative is the Rwanda Land Dashboard, which provides real-time, evidence-based data to support policymaking and ensure transparent decision-making.

Meanwhile, in the justice sector, the introduction of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS Version 2) in April 2025 marked a major step in digital judicial reform.

The system enables coordination of all judicial service providers electronically, significantly reducing costs, saving time, and allowing virtual court proceedings.

Similarly, the Kigali International Arbitration Center (KIAC) rolled out an Online Case Management Software, digitizing arbitration services and enabling Virtual Arbitration, which promotes faster, paperless, and more efficient dispute resolution.

Strengthening intellectual property and trade facilitation

Rwanda also strengthened the protection of innovations through the new Intellectual Property Law, enacted in June 2024, aligning the country with international IP standards and providing stronger safeguards for creators and investors.

In a major trade facilitation reform, the requirement for export licenses was eliminated in 2025. Exporters now only need licenses if required by the importing country, significantly reducing bureaucratic procedures and improving competitiveness.

Additionally, the validity of permits for quality and safety issued by regulatory bodies such as the Rwanda Food and Drug Authority (FDA), Rwanda Inspection and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA), and Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) has been extended from one year to five years—a change that minimizes administrative costs and promotes business continuity. (This excludes pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices.)

Advancing service delivery and private sector efficiency

In May 2025, the Government introduced a Single Unified Portal for RSSB contributions and PAYE declarations for private sector entities. The system reduces the workload of filling multiple annexes and processes declarations for pension, medical, maternity, and tax contributions simultaneously, saving both time and resources.

To further reduce the cost of doing business, the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) also eliminated service fees for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) starting January 2025, boosting local enterprise competitiveness and supporting entrepreneurship.

Enhancing citizen services and utility access

Service delivery was further improved through the introduction of the Online Water Connection Service, launched in June 2025 by WASAC. The platform allows residents and property owners to apply for new water connections, upload documents, and track application status online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to branch offices and reducing processing time.

The 2025 reforms mark a new chapter in Rwanda’s reform journey—one focused on digital transformation, transparency, and efficiency. From land management to justice, trade, and service delivery, these initiatives collectively reinforce Rwanda’s vision of becoming a regional hub for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.

By integrating technology, institutional reforms, and citizen-focused services, Rwanda continues to build a governance model that promotes trust, fosters entrepreneurship, and positions the country as one of Africa’s most forward-looking economies.

This photo shows the bird’s eye view of Kigali Special Economic Zone. Rwanda continues to consolidate its position as one of Africa’s most reform-driven economies.

IGIHE

The hotel is expected to boost Kigali’s reputation as a regional hub for business travel and tourism, offering world-class facilities and modern amenities to both leisure and corporate visitors.

The facility carries decades of heritage, having previously operated under international brands including Novotel and Le Méridien before later becoming Hotel Umubano. In 2017, it was acquired by Marasa Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of the global conglomerate Madhvani Group.

Redevelopment has since undergone several phases, including changes in ownership, which delayed its originally planned 2019 opening.

Today, the hotel is transformed. The number of rooms has grown from 100 to 124, with premium additions that include a presidential suite and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

Upon opening, it will employ about 160 permanent staff, the majority of them Rwandan. Half of the workforce will be women, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion.

Swiss excellence meets Rwanda’s warm hospitality

The hotel blends Swiss hospitality standards, synonymous with Mövenpick’s global reputation, with Rwanda’s distinctive culture of warmth in service. Its prime location in Kigali’s diplomatic district positions it perfectly for high-level guests, from international business travellers to government delegations and luxury tourists.

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is part of Accor Group, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with 5,700 hotels across more than 110 countries. Mövenpick itself operates more than 130 hotels in 40 countries.

Designed for modern business and global events

The hotel features a full suite of business and leisure amenities designed for modern travellers. Its coworking and professional spaces, branded as Wojo Kigali, offer an ideal environment for productivity, networking, and corporate engagement.

Guests will also benefit from large conference and meeting rooms, supporting Rwanda’s ambition to become a global destination for high-profile events and exhibitions.

Culinary experiences take centre stage at Raava Restaurant, where diners will enjoy Rwandan dishes alongside a variety of Mediterranean favourites, inspired by the cuisines of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia.

For relaxation and informal meetings, the stylish Elephant Bar and a refined pâtisserie concept preserve the beloved bakery tradition once associated with Hotel Umubano.

For wellness and recreation, the hotel includes two tennis courts, a fully equipped fitness centre, a spa, a children’s play area, and additional facilities tailored for families and long-stay guests.

Many employees returning from the former Hotel Umubano bring a sense of continuity, marrying legacy with a fresh, world-class identity.

General Manager Médiatrice Umulisa Rutayisire says the hotel has been carefully designed to deliver a premium experience that reflects Rwanda’s achievements and aspirations.

'Every detail here was created to help guests feel at ease, inspired, and connected,' she said. 'This is not just a place to stay, it is a place to enjoy Kigali’s refreshing atmosphere in a contemporary way.'

She emphasised the role Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will play in supporting Rwanda’s international visibility.

'We see ourselves as a bridge linking Rwanda with the world, from global investors to leisure travellers. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali stands as a testament to Rwanda’s continued progress and growing leadership in hospitality.'

Rwanda aims to significantly increase revenues from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, from $85 million in 2024 to approximately $224 million (approximately Rwf 325 billion) by 2028. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is expected to contribute strongly to this national objective by serving as a preferred venue for top-tier events and distinguished guests.

With its doors set to open soon, on a date yet to be announced, Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is poised to become a signature landmark, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality and business tourism in Kigali.

Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is a five-star facility.

Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will be among the ten five-star hotels in Rwanda.

The number of rooms has expanded from 100 to 124, with premium additions that include a presidential suite

View of the heated outdoor swimming pool at Mövenpick Hotel Kigali.

Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will provide world-class services.

A glimpse inside one of the rooms at Mövenpick Hotel Kigali.

A bar at Mövenpick Hotel Kigali.

The hotel is equipped with tennis courts.

A view of the children’s play area at the hotel.

IGIHE

FARDC spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa, on October 10, 2025, urged FDLR combatants to surrender either to the Congolese government or to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo (MONUSCO).

He stated that if FDLR fighters refuse to hand themselves over for repatriation to Rwanda, the Congolese army would use force to dismantle the group, in accordance with the Washington peace agreement signed in June.

However, during the third session of the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism (JSCM) held in Washington, D.C., on October 21—22, the Rwandan and Congolese delegations, along with the United States and observers, confirmed that the FDLR had not yet begun disarmament. Despite this, Maj. Gen. Ekenge maintained that the process had already started.

In an interview with journalist Wendy Bashi from Deutsche Welle, Maj. Gen. Ekenge was asked about progress in removing the FDLR from Congolese territory. He responded: 'FDLR has followed the instructions of the Congolese army.'

He further stated that the group remains in territories controlled by AFC/M23 fighters in Rutshuru, North Kivu Province, claiming the coalition is preventing FDLR members from surrendering to FARDC or MONUSCO.

'They are being stopped by others from laying down their arms. Today, we must ask ourselves where FDLR is. They are in areas controlled by AFC/M23 in Rutshuru. They want to disarm, but they are being stopped from doing so,' said Maj. Gen. Ekenge.

When asked why AFC/M23 would prevent the FDLR from disarming, he said he did not know but emphasised that the Congolese army would continue awareness campaigns urging the group to surrender.

'We are doing what is required of us. We have conducted awareness campaigns within FDLR and continue to do so. I have personally urged them to lay down their weapons. Others should help us in this effort,' he added.

Under the Washington peace agreement, both Rwanda and the DRC agreed to exchange intelligence on the FDLR and its affiliated groups through the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism. The framework includes sharing information about FDLR movements, strength, and the location of its fighters and weapons.

In July 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe revealed that some FDLR members had been integrated into the Congolese army and Wazalendo militias, a move Kigali described as a violation of peace commitments.

'All FDLR information is known to us, their locations and the units where they’ve been integrated. They cannot claim these people are missing. They’ve not only been absorbed into the army but also into the Wazalendo militias,' Amb. Nduhungirehe said.

Rwanda’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) also identified 25 Rwandans linked to terrorist activities, noting that senior FDLR leaders were still operating in Walikale territory as of October 14, 2025.

Among those listed were FDLR President Gaston Iyamuremye, known as Lt. Gen. Byiringiro Victor, and military commander Pacifique Ntawunguka, known as Gen. Omega. Both were reportedly residing in the Buhaya area of Walikale.

Maj. Gen. Ekenge says the FDLR fighters have complied with the orders of the DRC army to surrender.

IGIHE

The initiative was first introduced and implemented at Majete Wildlife Reserve, located about 70 km south of the commercial city of Blantyre.

Brighton Kumchedwa, director of the DNPW, told Xinhua in a phone interview Friday that the lion population at Majete and Liwonde wildlife reserves has increased significantly.

He said the reserves’ carrying capacity is being exceeded, with lions frequently breaking through the fence and entering surrounding communities.

“This has negatively impacted biodiversity, causing a decline in antelope populations due to increased predation. The contraceptives are seen as a temporary measure to manage the population surge,” said Kumchedwa.

He added that the effects of the contraceptives are expected to last for about five years, after which the lions’ reproductive systems will return to active mode. Alternative solutions are being explored for the long-term management of the lion population.

Malawi has recorded a significant number of human-wildlife conflicts, involving animals such as hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and hyenas, which have resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left several others injured between January and October 2025.

Malawi has administered contraceptives to lions to curb growing population.

Xinhua

According to reports by Al Jazeera, at least 53 people have lost their lives and hundreds have been injured after encountering explosive devices left behind during the conflict. Many families are now living in fear, as returning to their destroyed neighbourhoods has become a life-threatening act.

In areas where heavy bombardment occurred, buildings that appear safe often conceal unexploded shells or bombs buried beneath rubble. Humanitarian groups have warned that the danger is widespread and could take months to clear. One aid official said the situation 'turns every step into a risk,' calling for urgent international support for de-mining operations.

While residents attempt to recover what remains of their homes, Hamas has announced an intensified effort to locate the 13 remaining bodies of Israeli captives within Gaza. The group confirmed that it is working with the International Committee of the Red Cross and Egyptian technical teams to search behind Israeli military withdrawal lines.

The ongoing recovery and clearance efforts highlight the devastating human and environmental toll left by the conflict. Aid organisations say that ensuring safety is now the top priority before large-scale reconstruction can begin. For many families, however, the psychological impact is already immense; the relief of returning home has been replaced by fear of hidden dangers and the painful memory of loved ones lost.

Experts warn that rebuilding Gaza will take far longer than expected unless explosive-clearance operations are fully supported and coordinated.

'It is not just about rebuilding houses, it is about rebuilding a sense of safety,' a humanitarian worker said.

The search for the missing captives, coupled with the ongoing risks from unexploded bombs, paints a grim picture of Gaza’s fragile recovery. Despite the ceasefire, civilians continue to live amid fear, loss and uncertainty, as the remnants of war continue to claim lives long after the fighting has stopped.

Residents of the Gaza Strip returning to their homes after months of fighting are facing a new and deadly challenge: unexploded bombs and other remnants of war scattered across the region.

Rania Umutoni

The U.S. president accused Canada of 'fraudulent behaviour' and announced the suspension of trade talks between the two countries. His response came shortly after a televised ad aired in Ontario, featuring excerpts from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 speech warning against protectionism.

The advertisement, which was released by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office, appeared during major sports broadcasts and urged closer economic cooperation between Canada and the United States. However, President Trump claimed the ad misrepresented Reagan’s message and described it as an attempt to 'interfere' with U.S. trade policy.

Premier Ford defended the campaign, saying the intention was to highlight the long-standing friendship between the two nations. 'Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together,' Ford said after sharing the full, unedited version of the former president’s speech on social media.

While Canada’s federal government did not produce the ad, Washington’s reaction has already heightened tensions. The new tariffs, reported to affect up to 35 percent of Canadian goods, add fresh pressure to bilateral trade, which had already been strained by existing restrictions. Canada has also hinted at retaliatory measures if the duties remain in place.

Observers say the dispute underscores how political messaging can trigger real economic consequences. Despite the two nations’ long partnership, the latest tensions mark a new challenge in North American relations, with potential effects on key industries and cross-border trade.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said he is adding 10 percent to U.S. tariffs on goods imported from Canada, following a political advertisement released by Ontario’s government that criticised American trade policies.

Rania Umutoni

“Israel is an independent state. We will defend ourselves with our own forces, and we will continue to control our destiny,” Netanyahu told ministers at the start of his weekly government meeting.

“We do not seek anyone’s approval for this. We control our security,” he added.

Referring to plans for the deployment of international peacekeeping forces in Gaza, Netanyahu said Israel would decide which countries could deploy troops there. “We have made it clear that Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us, and we will continue to act accordingly,” he said.

His remarks followed a week of a diplomatic blitz of visits by senior White House officials aimed at reinforcing the fragile ceasefire in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that Israel would not seek permission to launch strikes in Gaza or Lebanon, even after agreeing to ceasefire arrangements.

Xinhua

The order was released on Saturday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to “ensuring the sustainable development and utilization of mineral resources, and to promote the growth of the national economy through value addition and industrialization.”

The president said the purpose of the order is to prohibit the export of raw minerals, promote local value addition, and ensure that the country’s mineral resources contribute to national economic development and prosperity.

According to the executive order, the prohibition took effect on October 21, 2025.

“The exportation of raw minerals from Malawi is hereby prohibited. This prohibition shall apply to all minerals extracted in Malawi, including but not limited to uranium, rare earth elements, niobium, graphite, tantalum, bauxite, coal, limestone, gemstones, heavy mineral sands, vermiculite, phosphate, pyrite rutile, gold, diamonds, copper, etc,” reads the order dated Oct. 23, 2025, and signed by Mutharika.

Any person or entity found in violation of the executive order will be subject to penalties, fines, and other sanctions as provided for by the laws of Malawi, according to the order.

The prohibition, however, exempts minerals that have been processed, refined, or value-added in Malawi in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the mining sector.

Mutharika said the implementation of the executive order will be reviewed and monitored regularly to assess its impact on the economy, industry, and the environment, with the ministry responsible for mining expected to submit reports to the president on its progress.

Malawian President Peter Mutharika has issued an executive order banning the export of raw, unprocessed minerals as the country gears itself up to develop its wide range of mineral resources.

Xinhua

The ranking is based on the Gallup Global Safety Report 2025, which evaluates citizens’ perceptions of safety and personal security worldwide. Rwanda scored 78% for safety at night, ahead of the UK (76%) and France (73%), and placed 38th globally. The United States ranked 61st with a score of 71%.

The survey revealed that 78% of Rwandan adults feel safe walking alone in their country after dark. On the continent, Rwanda and Algeria shared second place behind Egypt, which scored 82%. In the region, Tanzania scored 68%, Uganda 48%, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo 47%, while Burundi was not included in the survey.

The study covered 144 countries, evaluating public confidence in safety, personal security, and freedom of movement. Globally, Singapore ranked first with a 98% score, followed by Tajikistan (95%), China (94%), Oman (94%), and Saudi Arabia (93%).

In Europe, Norway led with 91%, followed by Denmark (89%), Finland (88%), Iceland (88%), and Switzerland (88%). The lowest-ranking countries included South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini.

Rwandans’ confidence in their safety aligns with findings from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) survey conducted in November 2024. The study found high levels of trust in national security institutions: the Fire Brigade (76.6%), DASSO (86.1%), the National Police (97.1%), and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) (99.0%).

The findings are further supported by the Rule of Law Index 2024, which ranks Rwanda among the safest countries in Africa due to its strong adherence to legal frameworks. Since 2021, Rwanda has consistently ranked at the top in Africa and improved its global standing, reaching 27th worldwide in 2023, up from 33rd in 2021.

Rwanda has been ranked the safest country in Sub-Saharan Africa for people walking alone at night, with its global score surpassing major nations such as the United Kingdom, France, and the United States.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The accolade, part of the publication’s annual Best of the World feature, highlights 25 must-visit locations globally, curated by the magazine’s editors, photographers, and adventurers.

Among the world’s top destinations for 2026, National Geographic also included Banff in Canada, the Dolomites in Italy, Akagera’s Caribbean counterparts like Dominica, the Basque Country in Spain, and Morocco’s Rabat. The selections span continents and offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure, reflecting the magazine’s commitment to showcasing both iconic and lesser-known destinations.

Nestled along Rwanda’s eastern border, Akagera offers a Big Five safari experience in a setting of rolling savannas, lush woodlands, and winding waterways. The park is home to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.

According to National Geographic, Akagera attracts around 50,000 visitors annually, offering a quieter and more intimate safari experience compared to Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara.

Once severely affected by poaching and deforestation in the 1990s, Akagera has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 15 years. The Rwanda Development Board, in partnership with African Parks, has successfully rehabilitated the park’s ecosystems and wildlife populations.

A notable milestone in this recovery was the reintroduction of rhinos from South Africa in 2021, followed by the relocation of 70 additional white rhinos in May 2025, positioning Akagera as a leading conservation hub in the region.

Tourism infrastructure is also expanding, with new and upgraded hospitality options enhancing the safari experience. The southern part of the park, closest to Kigali, saw extensive renovations at Karenge Bush Camp, while the northern Magashi Peninsula welcomed Wilderness Magashi, a high-end safari camp offering tented suites and remote wildlife encounters.

The park also offers diverse activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and hot air balloon rides, providing multiple ways to explore its natural beauty.

The national park’s accolade comes as Rwanda continues to strengthen its position as a premier destination, with the tourism sector generating $647 million in revenue in 2024. The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has set an ambitious target of surpassing $700 million in earnings for 2025, as part of the nation’s strategy to reach $1.1 billion in annual tourism revenue by 2029.

Akagera offers a Big Five safari experience in a setting of rolling savannas, lush woodlands, and winding waterways. The park is home to lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.

A hippo at Akagera National Park.

Lions at Akagera National Park.

Zebras in Akagera National Park.

A giraffe at Akagera National Park.

A leopard in Akagera National Park.

Rhinos are also common in Akagera National Park.

Elephants at Akagera National Park.

There are various species of birds at Akagera National Park.

An antelope in Akagera.

A crocodile in Akagera National Park.

Buffaloes in Akagera National Park.

Wycliffe Nyamasege