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Amjad Muhammad Hassan Shaer, head of the counter-intelligence directorate in Hamas’ General Security Apparatus, was killed on Wednesday, the IDF said in a statement.

According to the Israeli army, the directorate is responsible for thwarting espionage and securing senior Hamas officials.

The statement added that over the past day, in cooperation with ground forces, the Israeli Air Force struck dozens of military targets in the Gaza Strip.

Palestine’s official news agency WAFA reported that Israeli warplanes struck a school sheltering displaced civilians in the Gaza City on Friday, killing at least five Palestinians and wounding dozens of others.

Xinhua

Held under the theme “Enabling Healthcare Access through Digital Innovation,” the event brought together industry leaders, insurers, healthcare providers, and government stakeholders to celebrate Smart’s suite of cutting-edge solutions designed to streamline healthcare access across Rwanda and beyond.

The Smart Access app, now available on Google Play, allows users to manage their healthcare needs seamlessly, with features such as biometric verification, real-time insurance information, provider location services, and wellness tracking.

With roaming capability across 12 African countries, members can access healthcare services without pre-authorisation or coverage concerns, making it a vital tool for regional mobility. The platform also supports uninsured patients by enabling them to locate nearby healthcare providers and access educational health content, promoting inclusive access to care.

'Today marks a pivotal moment in Rwanda’s journey toward a digitally empowered healthcare system,' said Cleophas Obiero, Country Manager for Smart Applications International Rwanda.

'Our goal is simple yet powerful: to enable every individual, regardless of where they are, to access quality healthcare with dignity and ease.'

Reflecting on his own experience in 2013, when a hospital visit in Kigali took three hours due to manual insurance verification, Obiero highlighted the app’s transformative impact.

'With Smart Access, you provide your member number, place your fingerprint, and you’re served. Claims are sent instantly, and hospitals are paid on time.'

Operating in 680 Rwandan healthcare facilities and over 9,000 across 12 African countries, Smart Applications manages transactions worth approximately 290 Rwandan francs for 1.7 billion people.

Obiero emphasised the company’s commitment to local innovation, citing how the app eliminates the need for physical insurance cards.

'A child in Burera can now get treatment with just a member number and a fingerprint, without someone travelling from Kigali,' he said.

Harrison Muiru, Group Managing Director of Smart Applications International Limited, praised Rwanda’s progressive approach to digital healthcare.

'Rwanda ranks first in East Africa in the Universal Health Coverage Essential Services Index, thanks to its commitment to digitisation and patient-centred care,' Muiru said, noting Rwanda’s 53% score on the World Health Organisation’s Universal Health Coverage Essential Services Index.

'Rwanda’s conducive environment for digitisation allows us to contribute to patient-centred care,' Muiru added, emphasising compliance with global data privacy and protection standards like HIPAA and GDPR.

He highlighted how Smart Applications has supported this progress by integrating identity management, claims processing, and data analytics into a unified ecosystem that serves insurers, hospitals, and patients alike.

'This digital ecosystem eliminates cumbersome paperwork and lengthy communication processes,' Muiru noted. 'It enables real-time data-driven decision making for better inventory management, underwriting, and ultimately, improved health outcomes.'

The Group Managing Director and his team showcased the company’s broader ecosystem of solutions, including SmartHealth+ (a hospital management ERP), SmartInsure (a medical insurance ERP), SmartAnalytics (real-time data dashboards), and SmartLink, which enables seamless patient access to hospital services.

'Every second, about 80,000 healthcare transactions are managed on our platform,' Muiru said.

Lessons from the app’s 2022 launch in Kenya have shaped its rollout in Rwanda, with a focus on versatility and user-centric design.

'We’ve made the app navigable and empowering, catering to scenarios like a child falling sick at school,' he explained.

Andrew Kulayige, CEO of Britam Insurance (Rwanda) Ltd and Chair of the Association of Insurers in Rwanda, praised Smart’s solutions as a catalyst for increasing insurance penetration, currently at 2%.

'Platforms like Smart Access allow us to reach every corner of this country, offering accessibility, reliability, and flexibility,' he said.

Mendies Mhiribidi, Chairperson of the Rwanda Insurance Brokers Association, called Smart Access a 'human face to insurance.'

She noted its role in reducing fraud and enhancing transparency, allowing members to view benefits, entitlements, and hospital charges in real time.

'Hospitals can’t overcharge or add unnecessary services anymore,' Mhiribidi said.
Urging the public to embrace the technology, she added, 'This innovation simplifies your life and improves your healthcare experience.'

With the Smart solutions and the visionary leadership in the country, the leaders affirmed that Rwanda is well-positioned to leverage Smart’s solutions for medical tourism and universal health coverage.

The company’s AI-driven tools, real-time analytics, and interoperable platforms like SmartLink further enhance operational efficiency, from inventory management to claims processing, aligning with national digital health initiatives.

Integration of AI to enhance service delivery, such as generating and previewing e-claims, is designed to minimise rejections, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

'We are here to work together for smart, secure, seamless healthcare,' Muiru noted, calling for continued collaboration.

The Smart Access app, now available on Google Play, allows users to manage their healthcare needs seamlessly, with features such as biometric verification, real-time insurance information, provider location services, and wellness tracking.

Held under the theme “Enabling Healthcare Access through Digital Innovation,” the event brought together industry leaders, insurers, healthcare providers, and government stakeholders to celebrate Smart’s suite of cutting-edge solutions designed to streamline healthcare access across Rwanda and beyond.

Harrison Muiru, Group Managing Director of Smart Applications International Limited, praised Rwanda’s progressive approach to digital healthcare.

The Group Managing Director and his team showcased the company’s broader ecosystem of solutions, including SmartHealth+ (a hospital management ERP), SmartInsure (a medical insurance ERP), SmartAnalytics (real-time data dashboards), and SmartLink, which enables seamless patient access to hospital services.

Cleophas Obiero, Country Manager for Smart Applications International Rwanda, emphasised the company’s commitment to local innovation, citing how the app eliminates the need for physical insurance cards.

Andrew Kulayige, CEO of Britam Insurance (Rwanda) Ltd and Chair of the Association of Insurers in Rwanda, praised Smart’s solutions as a catalyst for increasing insurance penetration, currently at 2%.

Collins Ngeno, Group Technology Director at Smart Applications, also delivered a presentation on the role of artificial intelligence in advancing digital healthcare solutions.

Innocent Niyonshuti, Head of IT Support Operations at Smart Applications Rwanda, also delivered a presentation on the use of the Smart Link system in Rwandan hospitals.

The team showcased Smart Application’s broader ecosystem of solutions.

Group Marketing Director, Esther Kiringa, was also present.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The average life expectancy for Japanese females dropped 0.01 year from 2023, followed in the global ranking by South Korea at 86.40 and Spain at 86.34, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

Meanwhile, Japanese men’s life expectancy remained unchanged at 81.09, ranking 6th globally after Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Italy and Spain, slipping one place from 2023.

The country’s life expectancy declined in 2021 and 2022 due to the increase in deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic, but rebounded in 2023 when average lifespans for both men and women surpassed those from the previous year for the first time in three years.

Japanese women in 2024 had the highest life expectancy in the world at 87.13 years, remaining in the top spot for the 40th straight year, a health ministry survey showed on Friday.

Xinhua

“Juncao technology offers far more than mushroom cultivation; it is a comprehensive innovation having crop, livestock production, environmental protection, livelihood nutrition and economic empowerment,” said Telesphore Ndabamenye, director general of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board.

He made the remark while attending the closing ceremony of a Juncao technology workshop held on Wednesday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.

Stressing the importance of Juncao technology in advancing agricultural transformation, Ndabamenye said the participation of trainees from diverse economies highlighted the broad applicability of the technology, particularly in addressing the socioeconomic challenges faced by smallholder farmers.

“Juncao technology is regarded in Rwanda as a vital contributor to the country’s inclusive agriculture transformation. It supports our national vision of a professionalized and commercialized farming sector with active participation of both men and women as stated under Rwanda’s vision 2050,” he said.

He reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to integrating Juncao technology into the country’s strategy for food and nutrition security, environmental sustainability, and economic development, in full alignment with continental and global development agendas.

Since Juncao was first introduced to Rwanda in 2006, more than 35,000 local farmers have received training, and over 4,000 households, along with 50 companies and cooperatives, have been supported in engaging in Juncao-related activities.

The July 16-23 Juncao workshop was held at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center, co-hosted by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, and China’s Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University.

As part of the training, participants visited several projects in Huye and Nyanza, gained hands-on experience, and deepened their understanding of Juncao technology’s potential.

Innocent Shayamano, chief agriculture extension specialist and project coordinator from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, said the workshop covered critical areas such as cultivation management of Juncao grass, including all its agronomic aspects.

“This course was relevant and significant for our country. We have seen the opportunities in embracing Juncao technology in terms of using Juncao grass as a substitute for livestock feed. This technology came to transform livelihoods and ensure that rural communities have enough income,” he said.

Chinese Juncao expert Lin Hui said the participants’ active engagement, thoughtful questions, and enthusiasm for applying the acquired knowledge were truly inspiring.

According to Lin, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University of China has organized 388 training courses over the years, benefiting more than 16,000 people worldwide.

According to Li Jiahui, a representative of the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda, the technology has benefited over 100 countries since 2001, helping families lift themselves out of poverty and achieve prosperity.

“It has been proven that Juncao is not merely a technology but a grass of wealth and a grass of happiness. China takes great pride in sharing the technology as part of its commitment to South-South cooperation,” Li added.

Xinhua

After administering the oath, President Kagame commended RIB for the remarkable progress it has made in crime investigation over the past eight years, acknowledging that the institution has become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s security.

“In just eight years since its establishment, RIB has made significant strides in investigating crimes and has become a key pillar of our nation’s security,” he stated.

President Kagame highlighted the growing threats posed by transnational criminal groups who exploit technology to harm people, as well as the increasing cases of economic crimes, including investment fraud.

He explained that new forms of crime have emerged, aiming to deceive and exploit people, which negatively impacts the welfare of citizens. He emphasized the need for greater efforts to combat these challenges.

'We must use all the resources at our disposal to confront these changes and enhance our investigative capabilities, whether through thorough crime research and advanced forensic science, digital forensic, and adopting innovative approaches based on advanced knowledge, including the now prevalent artificial intelligence,' he said.

President Kagame urged RIB to collaborate closely with other institutions to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and fairly, stressing that integrity and professionalism should guide the actions of those working in these institutions.

'I want to emphasize that RIB should continue to work with relevant institutions to ensure that justice is delivered promptly and effectively. Upholding integrity should remain the foundation of all our efforts. Rwandans deserve institutions that serve them efficiently and earn their trust,' he added.

The President also pointed out that leaders of different institutions should demonstrate commitment, diligence, and professionalism to effectively fulfill their responsibilities.

'There should be no room for weakness, inappropriate conduct, or lack of accountability. Professionals should not tolerate such behavior; instead, they should work to eliminate it. Our duty is to ensure that every citizen lives with the assurance that they are adequately protected and that all aspects of daily life proceed as they should, without tolerating any form of malpractice,' he emphasized.

Colonel Kabanda was appointed as the Secretary General of RIB during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on March 26, 2025. Prior to this role, he served as a Prosecutor at the Military High Court.

In this new position, Col Kabanda succeeds Col (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga, who had been leading RIB since its inception in April 2017.

IGIHE

The officers led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Epiphanie Umutanguha served in Malakal, Upper Nile State, where they contributed to efforts aimed at restoring peace, protecting civilians, and promoting community well-being.

At Kigali International Airport, the contingent was received by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Teddy Ruyenzi, Commissioner for Community Policing, on behalf of the Rwanda National Police (RNP) leadership.

ACP Ruyenzi commended their professionalism, discipline, and commitment throughout the mission.

'Rwanda National Police leadership welcomes you back from the year-long duties outside the country. You are now required to carry on with the same values in your service to Rwandans,' ACP Ruyenzi said.

SP Umutanguha, the Deputy Contingent Commander, outlined the duties of the unit during its deployment in South Sudan.

These included escorting VIPs, conducting daily patrols in and around the Protection of Civilians (PoC) site, manning gates at Points of Separation (POS), supporting cordon and search operations, and escorting humanitarian aid convoys, particularly food distribution.

She further emphasized the contingent’s engagement in activities beyond security duties.
“Rwanda’s strong community collaboration is also a driving force in our peacekeeping duties. So, we engaged in community initiatives primarily centered on sanitation and hygiene to contribute to public health and community involvement,” stated SP Umutanguha.

The returning contingent was replaced by RWAFPU 1-10, led by ACP Corneille Murigo.

Rwanda Formed Police Unit (RWAFPU 1-9), contingent returned home on Thursday, July 24, after a successful one-year peacekeeping duty under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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The transformation began in the early 2000s, when Rwanda was still grappling with limited resources. Children often walked long distances with packed meals, returning home late after lessons. Some spent up to 10 hours a day commuting. It wasn’t just the children—teachers, too, faced similarly difficult journeys to reach remote schools.

During a recent address to Parliament, former Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente reflected on those challenges. He recalled that in some regions, students walked nearly 19 kilometers daily to attend classes.

'A seven or eight-year-old child walking such distances couldn’t attend school every day. One day in class meant the next had to be spent recovering,' he noted.

In response, the government launched an ambitious classroom expansion program. By 2020, over 22,000 classrooms had been built across the country.

The goal was twofold: reduce the distances children had to walk and ease overcrowding in schools. While some areas still experience high pupil-to-teacher ratios—with some classrooms holding more than 100 students—the national average now stands at 56 students per teacher.

Ntare Louisenlund School is one of the newly built schools, among many others, that have enabled children to access quality education close to home.

A recent household living conditions survey (EICV 7) by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda shows that the average primary school student now walks 19 minutes to school. Urban students average 17 minutes, while rural students take around 20.

Beyond distance, the quality of education has also improved. More teachers have been hired, and digital learning tools introduced. Internet connectivity has reached more schools, and early childhood education—once reserved for wealthier families—has expanded significantly. Since 2021, over 4.3 million children receive a daily school meal, helping keep students in class and focused.

Bringing healthcare closer

Rwanda has also made major strides in healthcare access. In 2009, the government began rolling out basic health posts in every administrative cell. Today, there are 1,294 health posts, 520 health centers, and 57 hospitals across the country.

Gone are the days when patients in critical condition or expectant mothers had to rely on makeshift stretchers. Rwanda now operates a fleet of 510 ambulances that can reach patients within an average of 14 minutes of being called.

The EICV 7 survey indicates that Rwandans now walk an average of 46 minutes to reach a health center.

Dr. Ngirente noted that proximity has made a significant difference. The number of households located within 30 minutes of a health center rose from 22% to 30%.

'What matters is that someone in need can reach basic care quickly and then be referred to a higher-level facility if needed,' he said.

Currently, 75% of Rwandans can access a health post within half an hour. The government plans to further improve outcomes by quadrupling the number of doctors and deploying physicians to health centers to expand advanced care.

Already, 92 upgraded health posts now offer services like maternity care, dental care, and eye health.

Nyabikenke Hospital has relieved residents of Muhanga and Kamonyi, who previously had to travel to Gakenke for medical treatment.

Transport and market access

On average, it takes 49 minutes for a Rwandan to walk to the nearest bus stop. Urban dwellers average 21 minutes, while rural residents may walk over an hour.

In Kigali, the average walking time to public transport is 22 minutes. It rises to 54 minutes in the Southern and Northern provinces, and up to 1 hour and 5 minutes in the Western Province.

While gaps remain in public transport—especially regarding scheduling—many of the long queues at bus stops and terminals have eased following the government’s procurement of 200 new buses.

Private firms have also introduced electric buses aligning with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and pollution.

Market access has improved as well. Rwandans now walk an average of 48 minutes to reach their local market. In urban areas, that journey takes 27 minutes, while in rural communities, it can take as long as 57 minutes.

In Kigali, the average walking time to public transport is 22 minutes.

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Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, is being tried in absentia after the Senate voted on May 22 to lift the immunity he held as a lifetime senator. The decision opened the door for prosecutors to formally bring charges against the former head of state.

The military prosecution accuses Kabila of playing a key role in supporting the M23/AFC rebel coalition, which has taken control of Goma since January and Bukavu since February this year.

Investigators say their case is supported by witness testimonies and physical evidence gathered from rebel-controlled areas. Prosecutors also allege that Kabila met with rebel leaders and played an active role in shaping their political and military strategies.

Although Kabila has denied the accusations, the government insists he is a central figure in the rebellion. In March, Kabila dismissed the claims as politically motivated and said if he were truly behind the insurgency, the rebels would have made even more gains.

Kabila returned to the country in May after more than a year in exile across several African nations, including South Africa. He travelled to Goma and Bukavu, where he held meetings with various community and political groups. His supporters described the visit as a step toward peace. However, authorities in Kinshasa saw it differently, accusing him of using the meetings to legitimise the rebel movement.

Before his return, Kabila released a 12-point proposal that he said could help bring peace to the DRC. His plan included disbanding armed groups, engaging in national dialogue, reaching out to neighbouring countries, and ending authoritarian rule.

Despite these public gestures, the government views Kabila’s actions as a direct threat to national stability.

Kabila is not expected to appear in court, but officials say the hearings will continue in his absence. The trial marks the first time a former Congolese president has faced prosecution before a military court.

Joseph Kabila, who led DRC from 2001 to 2019, is being tried in absentia after the Senate voted on May 22 to lift the immunity he held as a lifetime senator. The decision opened the door for prosecutors to formally bring charges against the former head of state.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The update was shared by Dr Festus Maniriho, who heads the FIP-PRODAR project, a $18 million initiative aimed at environmental conservation, with a focus on agroforestry—planting trees alongside crops.

The project, which runs from 2023 to 2028, is being implemented in eight districts: Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, and Gakenke. By its completion, it aims to restore up to 60,000 square kilometres of land.

Dr Maniriho attributed the milestone to the government’s commitment and support from development partners in addressing the impact of climate change.

'More than 31% of Rwanda’s total land is now covered with trees, including agroforestry. This demonstrates how seriously the country is investing in environmental protection,' he said.

The most commonly planted tree species for timber include eucalyptus, grevillea, and alnus. The government continues to distribute seedlings to communities to encourage expansion of forested areas.

In Gisenyi Sector, part of Rubavu District, forestry officer Tuyisenge Aaron said there are over 600 documented forest plots covering approximately 194 hectares, primarily planted with eucalyptus trees. Despite its urban setting, Gisenyi maintains a substantial forest cover, managed through six cooperatives that oversee proper harvesting and prevent premature tree cutting.

Local residents are also contributing to reforestation efforts. Sibomana Athanase, a farmer from Rugerero Sector, has planted 156 avocado trees on a hillside in Rubavu.

'I expect the trees to generate income, especially since avocados are in high demand. My children will benefit from the harvest, and I’ll sell the rest to cover school fees,' he said.

The Rwanda Rural Rehabilitation Initiative (RWARRI) is among the organisations playing a key role in afforestation, especially in rural areas. In partnership with other stakeholders, RWARRI planted more than 200,000 trees in Rubavu and Rutsiro districts in 2024/2025. These areas border the Sebeya River and Lake Kivu. The organisation now aims to double that number.

'This year, we plan to plant 400,000 trees across over 500 hectares, particularly on hills surrounding Lake Kivu,' said Uwizeye Belange, RWARRI’s Executive Director.

Tree planting is also central to Rwanda’s broader climate action agenda. The country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, and reforestation plays a vital role in capturing carbon emissions.

Looking ahead, the government plans to plant 100 million trees by 2027, including over 6.4 million fruit trees, with a focus on 11 priority districts most in need of forest cover.

Rwanda has exceeded its national reforestation target under the first National Strategy for Transformation (NST1), achieving 31% forest cover, slightly above the initial 30% goal. This translates to 8,165 square kilometres of land now covered with trees across the country.

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President Kagame unveiled a new Cabinet on Thursday, July 24, introducing four new faces, including two new ministers and two new state ministers.

This followed the appointment of Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva on Wednesday as the new Prime Minister, which triggered the formation of a new Cabinet in accordance with the Rwandan Constitution.

Dominique Habimana has been appointed as the Minister of Local Government, while Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye takes on the role of Minister of Environment. Both are joining the Cabinet for the first time.

On the side of state ministers, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye has been named State Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye became the State Minister for Infrastructure.

Another notable appointment in the new list of state officers is that of Nick Barigye as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, a role previously held by the Prime Minister-designate.

The newly announced Cabinet comprises 21 ministers and 10 state ministers, with the majority of them having served under outgoing Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente and retaining their positions.

Using various social media platforms, many of the appointed leaders expressed appreciation for the confidence shown in them and reaffirmed their commitment to serve with diligence and purpose.

Dr. Yvan Butera, State Minister in the Ministry of Health, expressed gratitude for the renewed trust and said he was proud to continue serving Rwanda.

He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that his work, and that of his colleagues, would be rooted in science to advance the health and well-being of the population.

Claudette Irere, State Minister for Education, described her reappointment as a valuable opportunity. She reaffirmed her determination to serve with integrity, clear goals, and strong work ethic to support national progress.

Prudence Sebahizi, the new Minister of Trade and Industry, stated his intention to focus on industrial growth, private sector development, digital trade, and market integration.

He said he looked forward to working with fellow cabinet members to implement the President’s vision of building a strong, competitive, and respected Rwanda.

Dr. Utumatwishima Nepo Abdallah, appointed Minister of Youth and Arts, thanked the President and affirmed his readiness to listen, collaborate, and prioritize young people and artists as key drivers of change.

Newly appointed Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana said he was prepared to fully dedicate himself to his responsibilities and collaborate with all education stakeholders to improve the sector.

Judith Uwizeye, Minister in the Office of the President, noted that she did not take the President’s confidence lightly. She described the role as an opportunity to deliver even greater service to the Rwandan people and pledged to remain tireless and dependable in her work.

Jean-Guy K. Afrika, the new CEO of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), acknowledged the weight of the responsibility entrusted to him.

He pledged to lead with integrity, a deep sense of urgency and purpose. . He also emphasized his readiness to collaborate with senior government officials and RDB staff to promote investment and build a stable, prosperous economy.

Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana reaffirmed his commitment to working with partners to build an inclusive digital healthcare system.

Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, the new Minister of Agriculture, expressed his pride in being given the opportunity to serve again, describing it as a meaningful moment to continue contributing to Rwanda’s development.

The new cabinet, to be led by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, is expected to be sworn in on Friday before the President at Parliament.

The recent appointment of a new prime minister led to the formation of a new cabinet.

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