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According to RDF statement, the purpose of the meeting is to review the prevailing security situation, address challenges affecting border communities, and strengthen security along the Rwanda—Uganda border.

The three-day meeting has brought together commanders and staff from RDF Infantry Divisions deployed along the Rwanda—Uganda border, led by Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi, Commander of the RDF 5th Division, and their counterparts from the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division, headed by Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, the Division Commander.

Also in attendance are Rwanda’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Col Emmanuel Ruzindana and Brigadier General Emmanuel Shilling, Uganda’s Defence Attaché to Rwanda.

During the meeting, both delegations assessed the progress made in implementing recommendations from the previous gathering, particularly in combating illegal cross-border activities and addressing other potential and emerging security threats.

In his opening remarks, Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi expressed appreciation to the UPDF delegation, noting that their presence in Rwanda is a clear testament to the shared commitment to maintaining strong and cordial relations between the two defence forces.

He emphasised that the dedication of proximity commanders from both the RDF and UPDF continues to be a cornerstone of regional security and cooperation.

Brig Gen Muhizi underlined that ensuring border security and regional stability is a shared responsibility, requiring joint and coordinated efforts rather than isolated actions.

He noted that the RDF and UPDF have demonstrated the effectiveness of collaborative military engagement through structured information sharing and coordinated tactical responses, founded on trust and mutual commitment.

Given the increasingly complex security landscape, he stressed the importance of adopting a proactive approach.

Maj Gen Paul Muhanguzi, Commander of the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division and Head of the Ugandan Delegation, expressed sincere gratitude to the RDF leadership, particularly the Commander of the RDF 5th Infantry Division and his team, for the warm welcome extended to the Ugandan delegation in Rwanda.

In his remarks, he stated: 'As we pursue the prosperity of our border communities, we remain committed to the vision of our Heads of State and the guidance of our Chiefs of Defence Forces.'

He acknowledged that significant progress has been achieved through these cross-border engagements, especially in intelligence and information sharing, coordinated security operations, joint command efforts, and the implementation of social initiatives benefiting local populations.

The delegation also paid a courtesy call on the leadership of Nyagatare District, where they were welcomed by Matsiko Gonzague, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development.

Matsiko commended the Proximity Commanders’ Meeting, highlighting that it has enabled both countries to address shared border-related issues and foster stronger cooperation between communities across the border, particularly in the area of socio-economic development.

Nyagatare District shares a border with Ruhama District in Uganda.

The delegation is also scheduled to visit the National Liberation Museum Park in Mulindi, Gicumbi District.

The delegations from RDF and UPDF also paid a courtesy call on the leadership of Nyagatare District, where they were welcomed by Matsiko Gonzague, the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development.

IGIHE

From the Bandung Conference in 1955 to today’s China-Africa cooperation frameworks, the relationship has evolved beyond symbolism into one of measurable impact. The question now is not whether Africa and China need each other, but rather why they must stand together more firmly than ever.

The recently concluded Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha, Hunan Province, in June 2025, served as a critical reaffirmation of this strategic alliance.

It brought together over 700 African participants, including 111 ministerial officials, three national leaders, 77 ministers, and 33 foreign ministers.

'I think that is the reason for the high attendance and high-level representation at the Changsha meeting,' said Du Xiaohui, Director of the African Affairs Department at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaking to visiting journalists in Beijing on June 18, 2025.

'Because of the changes in the international landscape, the biggest source of instability has made everyone realise that there is a necessity for the global South, and for China and Africa, to send a message of solidarity,' he added.

This message was clearly articulated in the Changsha Declaration, a document which framed solidarity through four key messages: the severity of global challenges, their root causes, a shared vision of cooperation, and a commitment to action.

One such action is unilateral. 'We are not seeking reciprocity from African countries,' said Du. 'We are unilaterally granting the treatment to African products.'

Africans being given a fish or taught how to fish?

The numbers speak for themselves: Africa is not merely a passive recipient of Chinese aid. It is an increasingly active partner shaping its own destiny. Since the 2024 Beijing Summit, China has committed 360 billion yuan to Africa over three years.

So far, nearly 150 billion yuan—roughly 40 percent—has already been disbursed. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, China-Africa trade reached USD 72.6 billion, an increase of 2.7 percent.

Infrastructure tells an even more compelling story. China has helped Africa build and upgrade more than 100,000 kilometres of roads and 10,000 kilometres of railways. Over 1.1 million jobs have been created in just three years.

Additional investments include 13.38 billion yuan in new ventures, 55.45 billion yuan in infrastructure financing, and 40.57 billion yuan in credit to African financial institutions.

Rwanda, for instance, has emerged as a standout partner. The country has signed multiple cooperation frameworks with China, from Belt and Road agreements to partnerships in digital education and green development.

China has dispatched medical teams, constructed solar power stations, and helped set up vocational training centres. More importantly, Rwanda has leveraged these tools to fuel its transformation, from developing local manufacturing to becoming a regional leader in digital innovation. Clearly, the fishing rod is being used.

At the heart of this partnership lies a response to global inequities. In recent years, some Western countries have imposed sweeping tariffs—even on Least Developed Countries—and implemented restrictive immigration and remittance policies.

These actions, Du warned, 'will cause a decrease of 0.4% in the GDP of African countries' and risk returning the world 'to a system governed by the law of the jungle, where the strong prey on the weak.'

Against this backdrop, China’s gestures take on deeper meaning. President Xi Jinping’s message to the Changsha meeting announced that China will grant zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent of tariff lines to 53 African countries, covering both LDCs and non-LDCs.

'This is not a restriction,' said Du. 'It is China’s effort in carefully reviewing domestic and international procedures—a method we have developed, something we must do.'

To date, 27 African countries have signed the Comprehensive Agreement on Deepening Economic Partnership Agreement (CATIPA) with China—essentially a modern, high-standard free trade deal. It not only lowers tariffs but also eases non-tariff barriers such as customs clearance, market access, and quality inspections.

Beyond trade, the partnership is expanding into green industries, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, payment systems, and even rule-of-law and security frameworks.

'People say that Africa is lagging behind in technology, but we don’t think so,' said Du. 'China is ready to make China’s opportunities the opportunities of Africa.'

Why do Africa and China need to stand firmly together? Because in a world increasingly fractured by power politics, rising protectionism, and climate emergencies, the two sides offer each other something rare: mutual respect, real results, and a shared vision.

From zero-tariff commitments to cooperation in AI, the partnership is no longer about aid or dependency—it’s about rebalancing global power.

As Du put it: 'We are ready to work with our African friends to be personally involved in and contribute to higher-quality cooperation between our two sides.'

Du Xiaohui, Director of the Department of African Affairs at China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (right) highlighted the urgent need for solidarity between China amid global instability.

Du Xiaohui [right], addressing journalists in Beijing, emphasized that China’s cooperation with Africa is not about reciprocity, but about long-term partnership.

Christian Mugisha

The ceremony, held as part of the Dutch royal palace’s diplomatic engagements, sets the stage for Ambassador Dushimimana to deepen Rwanda—Netherlands cooperation across sectors such as trade, development, and diplomacy.

A seasoned public servant, Dushimimana previously served as a senator and the Governor of Western Province. He was appointed to the ambassadorial role in December 2024.

He replaces Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, who was named Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in June of the same year.

Beyond traditional diplomacy, Ambassador Dushimimana is expected to actively engage with the Rwandan community abroad and foster partnerships with Dutch institutions, with a focus on areas like education, climate action, and inclusive development.

Rwanda and the Netherlands established formal diplomatic relations on October 1, 1964. However, diplomatic engagement between the two countries started earlier, with the first contacts dating back to 1957 when the Heineken Group established a brewery in Rwanda.

Following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the Netherlands was among the first countries to offer humanitarian aid and has since become a reliable partner in Rwanda’s recovery and development.

The Rwandan Embassy in the Netherlands was established on November 1, 2006.

Lambert Dushimimana, presented his letters of credence to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander at Noordeinde Palace in The Hague on Wednesday, marking the formal start of his diplomatic mission.

The new envoy replaces Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, who was named Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in June of the same year.

The ceremony, held as part of the Dutch royal palace’s diplomatic engagements, sets the stage for Ambassador Dushimimana to deepen Rwanda—Netherlands cooperation across sectors such as trade, development, and diplomacy.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Hosted by the Education Collaborative in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, the symposium brought together higher education stakeholders, including education leaders, policymakers, and industry players from across Africa to explore and exchange innovative practices to improve student experiences and graduate outcomes.

The Education Collaborative is a continental initiative spearheading a collective engagement model aimed at improving higher education outcomes in sub-Saharan Africa.

“Within an increasingly interconnected global landscape, higher education must serve as a catalyst for deeper economic, social, and scientific integration,” Rwandan Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana told delegates while opening the forum.

“This year’s theme challenges us to reflect, mobilize, and realign around one of the most urgent goals of our time: delivering meaningful, relevant, and transformational learning experiences for African students,” he said.

Running from Tuesday to Friday, the discussions will focus on four topics: recentering student development, reflecting on current practices and identifying areas for improvement, mobilizing resources and coordinating efforts for action, and adjusting national policies and strategies to better implement commitments that serve students’ development.

Rose Dodd, executive director of the Education Collaborative in Ghana, emphasized the need to ensure that every African student can access a university system that “sees them, serves them, and prepares them to lead.”

Rwandan Minister of Education Joseph Nsengimana addressing delegates while opening the forum.

Hosted by the Education Collaborative in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, the symposium brought together higher education stakeholders, including education leaders, policymakers, and industry players from across Africa.

Xinhua

The event, co-organized by the Kingdom of Morocco, the United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect, and their partners, focused on the critical intersection of hate speech and artificial intelligence (AI) in the digital age.

Amb. Ngoga began by expressing Rwanda’s gratitude to the organizers for their leadership in addressing the global rise of hate speech, emphasizing the urgency of countering its spread in an era where AI amplifies its reach.

'Rwanda strongly supports a coordinated global approach to regulating AI and digital platforms rooted in international human rights law,' Ngoga stated, highlighting the need for ethical safeguards to protect vulnerable communities, as outlined in the Global Digital Compact.

Drawing on Rwanda’s painful history, Ngoga underscored the devastating consequences of unchecked hate speech, referencing the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

'Radio broadcasts, newspapers, and state rhetoric dehumanized the Tutsi, paving the way for one of the worst atrocities of the 20th century,' he said.

This experience fuels Rwanda’s deep conviction in the need for robust measures to combat hate speech and prevent its weaponization.

Ngoga also paid tribute to Professor Gregory Stanton for his influential work in genocide studies, which has shaped post-genocide jurisdictions, including Rwanda’s own legal efforts.

Reflecting on his tenure as Rwanda’s former Prosecutor General and his work with the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), Ngoga highlighted the landmark 'media trial' of Ferdinand Nahimana, Hassan Ngeze, and Jean-Bosco Barayagwiza.

This trial, he explained, set a critical judicial precedent in distinguishing between protected free speech and criminal hate speech. 'The Tribunal for Rwanda resolved that problem,' Ngoga said, urging tech companies and global actors to draw on this jurisprudence to address hate speech in the digital realm.

The ambassador emphasized the evolving nature of hate speech, now accelerated by AI-generated content and algorithmic amplification. 'Online hate spreads faster than truth, radicalizes communities, and undermines the foundations of peace we have worked hard to build,' he warned, noting that behind every slur or viral image lie real consequences for real people.

The event aligns with the UN’s broader efforts to counter hate speech, as outlined in the 2019 UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech and the 2021 UN General Assembly resolution proclaiming June 18 as the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. The resolution calls for increased efforts to address discrimination, xenophobia, and hate speech in line with international human rights law.

Echoing this sentiment, UN Secretary-General António Guterres remarked, 'Today, hate speech travels faster and farther than ever, amplified by Artificial Intelligence. Let’s commit to using AI not as a tool of hate, but as a force for good. Let’s stand united in the pursuit of peace, mutual respect, and understanding for all.'

Amb. Ngoga expressed Rwanda’s gratitude to the organizers for their leadership in addressing the global rise of hate speech, emphasizing the urgency of countering its spread in an era where AI amplifies its reach.

IGIHE

The announcement comes as the artist gears up for the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival, where he is among seven artists confirmed to headline the nationwide tour.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, the ‘Mowana’ crooner revealed that the celebration will go beyond the main tour.

'Besides the concert I’m planning in Kigali, I’m also considering taking the celebration across different countries. Spending 20 years making music that people enjoy is not something I take lightly. I want to connect with my fans and celebrate together,' he said.

While he didn’t disclose a specific date for the Kigali concert, King James assured fans that plans are in motion and that more details will be shared after the MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival wraps up.

King James joins a stellar line-up for this year’s MTN Iwacu Muzika Festival, including Riderman, Juno Kizigenza, Ariel Wayz, Kevin Kade, Kivumbi King, and Nel Ngabo.

The festival, known for showcasing homegrown talent, will tour multiple districts, offering fans a chance to enjoy live performances across the country.

The tour is set to kick off on July 5, 2025, in Musanze, before moving to Gicumbi on July 12 and Nyagatare on July 19. It will then head to Ngoma on July 26, followed by Huye on August 2. The performances will continue in Rusizi on August 9, with the final show taking place in Rubavu on August 16, 2025.

Renowned Rwandan singer King James has announced plans for a special concert in Kigali to celebrate 20 years in the music industry, a milestone he describes as both humbling and worth sharing with his fans.

IGIHE

As part of a familiarisation trip with East, South, and Northern African journalists, I was about to dive into a world so different, yet so welcoming. From the moment we landed in Mumbai, the energy of India greeted us with open arms, and the eagerness of the people to know more about Africa was truly heartwarming.

The first few days in Mumbai and New Delhi were an eye-opener. The chaos, the traffic, the markets buzzing with activity — it was like stepping into a whirlwind of life. But what stood out the most was the warmth of the people. Every conversation was a discovery. Whether it was the taxi drivers asking about life in Africa or the local shopkeepers sharing their stories, there was always an eagerness to learn and share. I couldn’t help but be captivated by their curiosity and openness. They were genuinely interested in knowing more about our cultures, our struggles, and our achievements.

But there was one thing that had been at the back of my mind throughout the trip — the Taj Mahal. It wasn’t just a monument; it was a symbol of love, history, and the grandeur of India. Everyone I spoke to had told me about the magnificence of the Taj, but hearing about it and seeing it were two entirely different things. I was curious, excited, and determined to see it for myself.

The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth.

On June 14, 2025, the day we had all been waiting for had arrived. We were going to Agra, home to one of the most iconic structures in the world. We boarded a bus from New Delhi, and as we set off on the five-hour journey, I couldn’t contain my excitement.

The landscape changed from the bustling streets of New Delhi to the quieter, rural roads that led us towards Agra. Along the way, I marvelled at the sights — the fields, the small towns, and the endless horizon.

Everywhere I looked, there were tourists — some taking photos, some sitting quietly, reflecting on the beauty around them.

As we got closer to Agra, the heat began to intensify. It was about 40 degrees Celsius, and the air felt thick, almost like you could touch it. Despite the scorching heat, my excitement only grew. There was something about this building — something that drew people from all corners of the world to stand before it in awe. And today, I was going to be one of those people.

When we finally arrived, the first thing that struck me was the sheer scale of the Taj Mahal. From a distance, it stood tall and magnificent, a stunning marble wonder gleaming under the sun. The intricate details, the symmetry, and the soft hues of the white marble — everything about it was mesmerising. But what really took my breath away was the feeling of standing in front of a piece of history so rich, so powerful, it felt almost surreal.

There was a sense of reverence, a respect for the monument and its history that was palpable.

The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. The story of their love was etched into every corner of the monument. As I stood there, I couldn’t help but imagine the love, the devotion, and the pain that went into creating such a magnificent structure. It was hard to believe that it had taken over 20 years and thousands of workers to complete this architectural marvel. The Taj Mahal was more than just a monument; it was a testament to the enduring power of love.

I walked around the complex, taking in every detail. The marble floors were cool under my feet, the walls adorned with delicate carvings, and the gardens surrounding the Taj were lush and well-kept.

The flowers, the calligraphy, and the precious stones embedded in the walls — everything was so meticulously crafted, it felt like stepping into a dream.

Everywhere I looked, there were tourists — some taking photos, some sitting quietly, reflecting on the beauty around them. But it wasn’t just the building that captivated me; it was the energy of the place. There was a sense of reverence, a respect for the monument and its history that was palpable.

As I made my way closer to the mausoleum, the intricate designs on the marble became even more impressive. The flowers, the calligraphy, and the precious stones embedded in the walls — everything was so meticulously crafted, it felt like stepping into a dream. The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the water beneath it added to the surreal beauty of the scene. It was like nothing I had ever seen before.

The reflection of the Taj Mahal in the water beneath it added to the surreal beauty of the scene. It was like nothing I had ever seen before.

Despite the sweltering heat, I never felt tired. The beauty of the Taj Mahal, the history behind it, and the atmosphere of the place were so captivating that the heat didn’t seem to matter. I found myself lost in the grandeur of it all, walking through the gardens, pausing to take in the view, and simply soaking in the moment. It felt like I was part of something timeless, something that had been standing for centuries and would continue to stand for many more.

Before leaving, I took one last look at the Taj Mahal. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the marble, and I knew that this experience would stay with me forever. The Taj Mahal wasn’t just a building; it was a symbol of love, a piece of history, and a reminder of the incredible beauty that can be created when passion and devotion come together.

As we made our way back to the bus, the reality of what I had just witnessed began to sink in. India had lived up to every expectation I had, and more. The Taj Mahal was everything I had imagined and so much more. It was a place where history, beauty, and love converged, and I was fortunate enough to witness it firsthand.

My time in India had been a journey of discovery, not just of a new country but of myself. It was a reminder that there is so much beauty and wonder in the world, waiting to be explored, experienced, and cherished. And for me, the Taj Mahal was the perfect ending to an unforgettable journey.

Iradukunda Serge

Rwanda’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, James Musoni, has said that the people of Zimbabwe are grateful for President Paul Kagame’s role in helping the country raise its voice in the fight to have economic sanctions lifted.

In 2000, under the leadership of Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe made the decision to repossess land that had been allocated to white settlers during colonial times, returning it to Black farmers.

The move sparked diplomatic tensions between Zimbabwe and countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the European Union (EU).

These nations swiftly imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe, with the United States implementing economic sanctions in 2001, followed by the EU and other countries in 2002. These sanctions severely crippled Zimbabwe’s economy and remain in place to this day.

However, in 2017, during and after his tenure as Chairperson of the African Union, President Kagame actively advocated for the lifting of those sanctions, amplifying Zimbabwe’s voice on the global stage.

In a recent interview, Ambassador Musoni told RBA that President Kagame’s efforts had a significant impact, resulting in the removal of some sanctions, and that the remaining ones could also be lifted in the near future.

'They thank President Kagame for his efforts in advocating for the removal of the sanctions imposed on them. His voice has consistently stood out, calling for an end to these sanctions on Zimbabwe. Progress has already been made — some sanctions have been lifted and others are in the process,” he said.

'His role is deeply appreciated. You hear this in government circles, among private sector players, and from ordinary citizens,” he added.

Relations between Rwanda and Zimbabwe took a major step forward in 2019 when both countries opened embassies and began signing various cooperation agreements.

Since 2022, the two nations have signed trade agreements, with entrepreneurs from both sides commending the benefits that have emerged from their collaboration.

Zimbabwe has also sent over 150 teachers to Rwanda through bilateral agreements on workforce exchange, and Ambassador Musoni confirmed that more teachers are expected to arrive from Zimbabwe this September to contribute further to Rwanda’s education sector.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, James Musoni, has said that the people of Zimbabwe are grateful for President Paul Kagame’s role in helping the country raise its voice in the fight to have economic sanctions lifted.

IGIHE

Reports indicate that this project is a key part of Mali’s broader mining reforms, led by President Assimi Goïta’s government, which aim to retain more value-added processing within the country.

By keeping more gold processing local, Mali hopes to develop its workforce and retain more economic benefits from its gold industry.

The state will hold a 62% stake in the refinery, while Yadran Group will own 38%. The refinery is set to become a regional hub, processing gold not only for Mali but eventually for neighboring countries like Burkina Faso as well.

This project aligns with a growing trend across the Sahel region, where countries are revising mining laws to ensure that more value-added processing takes place domestically.

Mali’s move reflects the urgent need for African countries to process their raw materials locally, rather than exporting them for others to reap the profits.

Mali initiated the construction of a new state-controlled gold refinery in collaboration with Russia’s Yadran Group on June 17, 2025.

IGIHE

The agreement was formalised on Tuesday, June 17, at the OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 in Vienna, Austria, where Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, and OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa announced the deal.

The financing allocated for the 2025—2028 period will be channelled into key sectors identified as critical to Rwanda’s long-term growth. These include agriculture and food systems (with a focus on irrigation and post-harvest management), renewable energy—particularly solar power—transport (notably in the aviation sector), and environmental restoration.

The framework is designed to support Rwanda’s development priorities, including the expansion of quality infrastructure, improved access to essential basic services, and the promotion of entrepreneurship and private sector growth.

The agreement is part of a broader theme at this year’s forum, 'A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow,' highlighting global commitments to inclusive and climate-resilient development pathways.

The OPEC Fund for International Development is a development finance institution established by OPEC member states in 1976. It provides financing to support the economic and social progress of developing countries.

The agreement was formalised on Tuesday, June 17, at the OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025 in Vienna, Austria, where Rwanda’s Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, and OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa announced the deal.

Wycliffe Nyamasege