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The two feature in the latest episode of The Long Form Podcast, hosted by Sanny Ntayombya, where they shared their impressions of Rwanda, the universal language of financial literacy, and the untapped opportunities for Black investment on the continent.

Discovering Rwanda’s charm

Upon landing in Kigali, Bilal and Millings were struck by Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and efficiency.

'It surpassed my expectations,' Bilal said. 'I knew it was going to be clean, efficient, but I didn’t know it was going to be so beautiful—mountain ranges, hills, lights at night.'

Millings echoed, noting the seamless airport processes and pristine streets, even at night.

'This is a hidden treasure that the world doesn’t know about,' he said, challenging outdated media portrayals of Rwanda like those shown in movies like Hotel Rwanda.

The country’s transformation over the past 30 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi impressed the duo.

Millings remarked, 'Seeing the infrastructure, real estate, businesses, and a tech hub today—it’s remarkable. What does it look like in the next 10, 15 years?'

Rwanda’s rapid growth, driven by strong leadership and a unified vision, positions it as a model for African progress and a magnet for Black investors worldwide.

Earn Your Leisure is renowned for making financial literacy accessible and culturally relevant for Black communities. In Rwanda, Bilal and Millings explored how this mission aligns with Africa’s economic rise.

When asked why a young Black investor from the U.S. should consider Rwanda, Bilal highlighted its stability and low corruption.

'You need confidence, especially in a foreign country,' he said. 'Rwanda has a lot going for itself—low to almost no corruption.' This, paired with a young, dynamic population, makes Rwanda a prime destination for Black capital.

The duo also discussed their investment in Ghana, where they’re developing Sombra City, a diaspora-friendly welcome city.

Bilal explained, 'It’s a model that can be replicated in Rwanda and beyond, creating something that welcomes you and keeps you here.'

The episode also emphasised Pan-Africanism, highlighting the shared history and destiny of African and African-American communities. Millings noted that cultural shifts, through music, social media, and initiatives like Ghana’s Year of Return, have bridged the gap.

'Culture is a door that gets people in, like a Trojan horse,' he said. 'Once inside, they see opportunities and feel comfortable investing.'

Bilal addressed historical barriers, noting that negative media portrayals of Africa, including war, poverty, and danger, were intentional to deter Black investment.

'Social media now lets us see things in real time, countering that narrative,' he said.

This shift, Bilal believes, empowers Black Americans to view Africa as a home for economic and cultural reconnection.

The power of wealth

Bilal and Millings reflected on how wealth shapes the Black experience.

'Having money and being independent allows you freedom—allows you to be you,' Bilal said.

'You don’t have to code-switch or change who you are.' Yet, Millings added, 'Money doesn’t exempt you from being a Black man in America. You’re never fully safe.'

Bilal hopes his children and grandchildren will see this Rwanda visit as a pivotal moment in Africa’s rise.

'I hope they understand the significance of a new world order—the real rise of Africa,' he said. Millings envisioned a future where Rwanda, Ghana, and Kenya become regular destinations for the diaspora, not as tourists but as stakeholders.

'Africa is home,' he affirmed.

Watch the full episode of the podcast below:

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Founded as part of the African Leadership Group’s vision to develop 3 million ethical leaders by 2030, ALX Rwanda operates a state-of-the-art tech hub in Kigali, focused on equipping young Africans with a blend of technical and professional skills to thrive in the digital economy and become future leaders and entrepreneurs, without the barrier of costly traditional degrees.

Vogel’s visit was part of the organisation’s program to bring prominent industry leaders to inspire and empower the next generation of African tech innovators.

The tech guru, widely known as ‘The Godfather of the Cloud’ for his pivotal role in developing Amazon Web Services (AWS), was accompanied by a team that included some members of the tech giant from Africa and beyond.

Speaking at the event, Vogels praised ALX’s scalable model, noting its growth from training 250 students in 2004 to 250,000 across Africa today.

'ALX gives people hope,' he said during a Q&A session moderated by ALX Rwanda Marketing Manager Jacinta Gitau. 'It’s about creating a future for Africa’s youth, whether as software engineers or entrepreneurs, and building a foundation for a successful life.'

Vogels emphasised that ALX’s agile, skills-based approach meets global tech workforce demands more effectively than traditional four-year degrees. He cited his recent trip to Germany, where he noted 80,000 open IT positions as a case in point.

“The ALX model is what I would call a model for modern times of learning,” he asserted.
The CTO challenged the students to apply technology to solve “the hardest problems that there are,” particularly those unique to Africa, such as healthcare, food security, and economic stability.

Citing his documentary series Now Go Build, Vogels highlighted a startup in Indonesia that empowered smallholder farmers by providing digital identities to secure loans, a model he encouraged ALX learners to emulate.

'You understand your own problems best,' he said. 'Africa is a big enough continent to build a really good business while doing good.'

Vogel advised students to embrace failure as a learning opportunity, prioritise customer-centric solutions, and consider operational, security, and cost factors from day one.

'Never stop learning, and don’t be afraid to experiment,' Vogels told the students, leaving them inspired to harness technology for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Nimie Chaylone, General Manager of ALX Rwanda and Kenya, underscored the importance of the visit, highlighting its alignment with ALX’s mission to develop world-class tech talent across the continent.

'Hosting Dr. Vogels showcases the high standard of talent we’re producing,' she said. 'One of our alumni today shared that they secured an internship at Amazon in England after taking our AWS Cloud Computing course, a testament to ALX’s global impact.'

Chaylone highlighted ALX’s mission to train 5 million young Africans by equipping them with in-demand skills in software engineering, data science, and cloud computing, supported by partnerships with organisations like the Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, students and alumni presented innovative projects tackling pressing challenges across diverse sectors. Among them was Signverse, an AI-powered platform that translates text and speech into sign language using 3D characters and motion capture technology.

Another standout was Lifeline, a program dedicated to delivering affordable healthcare solutions by improving access to life-saving medications and clinical tests for African patients. Additionally, MediXR showcased its pioneering software, leveraging extended reality technology to transform medical education and training through immersive learning experiences.

Branice Kazira, an ALX Founder Academy alumna and one of the brains behind Signverse, explained that the application aims to address communication barriers faced by the 40 million deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals in Africa. So far, Signverse has achieved a 90% accuracy rate and built a database of 3,200 Kenyan sign language words and phrases.

With over 1,500 users testing its beta version in Kenya, Kazira’s project exemplifies the mission-driven innovation ALX champions.

In a post-event reflection, Kazira, a second-year software engineering student at the African Leadership, termed the session as 'incredibly inspiring'.

'It was incredibly inspiring to learn from people who’ve shaped the global tech ecosystem,' she said. 'Dr. Vogels reminded us of the importance of lifelong learning and approaching challenges with creativity and curiosity.'

She also credited ALX for equipping her with critical soft skills, particularly in communication and presentation, which have been pivotal in shaping her entrepreneurial mindset and confidence as she builds her future in tech.

Teddy Ntawe of Tuza Wellness Center also shared how the ALX program had been a transformative force in his personal and professional journey.

'ALX helped me grow into a bold, agile, and business-minded individual,' he said. 'The biggest shift was in my confidence. I used to be quiet and unsure of myself. I never imagined I could become the outspoken, driven person I am today.'

ALX Rwanda offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to prepare learners for success in various areas. Its technical skills track includes in-demand courses such as Back-End Engineering, Front-End Engineering, AWS Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and AI Career Essentials (AICE), equipping students with the tools to excel in the digital economy.

The professional foundations track focuses on developing essential workplace, communication, and leadership competencies through targeted training. In the creative disciplines, ALX is expanding its offerings to meet the rising demand of the creator economy, with programs in content creation, graphic design, and digital storytelling.

The entrepreneurship track is delivered through ALX Ventures, which supports aspiring business leaders through two specialised programs: the Freelancer Academy (FLA), designed for independent professionals, and the Founders Academy (FA), tailored for those building startups.

Lastly, the Pathway Program serves recent high school graduates seeking scholarships, equipping them with academic foundations, leadership development, and career readiness skills to help them transition into higher education or the workforce with confidence.

Werner Vogels, Amazon’s Chief Technology Officer and Vice President, accompanied by his team, visited the ALX Rwanda Tech Hub at Deco Center in Kigali on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Werner Vogels is widely known as 'The Godfather of the Cloud' for his pivotal role in developing Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Vogel’s visit was part of the organisation’s program to bring prominent industry leaders to inspire and empower the next generation of African tech innovators.

Vogels praised ALX’s scalable model, noting its growth from training 250 students in 2004 to 250,000 across Africa today.

Vogels and his team engaged with students and alumni in a session that showcased the transformative potential of technology education in Africa.

Nimie Chaylone, General Manager of ALX Rwanda and Kenya, underscored the importance of the visit, highlighting its alignment with ALX’s mission to develop world-class tech talent across the continent.

The Amazon CTO was accompanied by a team that included some members of the tech giant from Africa and beyond.

During the event, students and alumni presented innovative projects tackling pressing challenges across diverse sectors.

Branice Kazira, an ALX Founder Academy alumna and one of the brains behind Signverse, was among innovators who showcased tech projects.

Some of the beneficiaries of the ALX Rwanda programmes during an interactive panel discussion.

ALX Rwanda Marketing Manager Jacinta Gitau addresses the visitors and students.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

As governments work to create enabling environments for trade and investment, the private sector brings innovation, agility, and deep market understanding. When these forces are aligned, they unlock opportunities that neither could achieve alone.

At TradeMark Africa (TMA), public-private collaboration is at the heart of our approach. We work with national and local governments, business associations, women’s groups, and regional institutions to co-create solutions that reduce barriers to trade, promote inclusion, and drive sustainability. And the results speak for themselves.

Our model of engagement is geared towards facilitating regional trade and boosting economic growth through market access and digital innovation; policy advocacy and regulatory reforms; capacity building and technical assistance; and standardization and trade facilitation.

When it comes to market access and digital innovation, the iSOKO, Sauti Trade and Market Information and the Tanzanian Mercantile Exchange (TMX) are some of the digital platforms that have resulted from our engagement with public and private entities.

The iSoko platform, for example—a digital marketplace developed to support women traders across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, is a major win when it comes to market access and digital innovation.

Created through partnerships with national chambers of commerce and women entrepreneurs’ associations, iSOKO offers market access, networking opportunities, and real-time trade information to thousands of women, many of whom operate in the informal sector. Accessible via smartphone or even basic mobile phones through USSD, the platform is a real example of what locally relevant, technology-enabled trade can look like.

In Kenya, our collaboration with players in the horticulture sector resulted into the launch of the Sauti Trade and Market Information online platform. The platform has connected more than 1000 Kenyan farmers and traders to export markets. It provides some 428 producers and traders with valuable market insights, helping them secure financing, improve their ability to meet market quality standards, and increase incomes.

The Tanzania Mercantile Exchange (TMX) online trading platform is a game-changer too. It helps Tanzanian farmers, traders, and exporters access domestic and global markets by ensuring fair commodity prices. The platform allows farmers to make informed decisions based on real-time and forecast price trends. In 2022, TMX expanded its online trading system to include cocoa and coffee.

From July 2022 to June 2023, over 1 million kilograms of cocoa were traded, earning farmers approximately $1.9 million. Cocoa prices rose by 34% compared to the previous year. In Kagera, over 46,000 metric tonnes of coffee were sold, and the prices of Arabica and Robusta coffee more than doubled, thanks to the TMX platform.

Our collaborations have ensured many businesses benefit from capacity building and technical assistance, which is essential in addressing challenges related to regional trade and inclusive economic development. Capacity building and technical assistance are crucial for boosting regional trade by strengthening human, and institutional capabilities, which are essential for effective participation in international trade.

In Burundi, over 1,000 women cross-border traders from various regions received training in financial management and entrepreneurship through a programme organised by TMA and Kazozah Keza Association. Following the training, 40 cooperatives were formally registered, and 16 submitted business plans to microfinance institutions.

Fifty key industry players have also been trained on the implementation of East African Standards, with a focus on conformity assessments and mutual recognition. This has enhanced trust and ensured consistent product quality across borders.

The EAC Logistics Sector Skills Enhancement Programme, supported by TMA, has successfully addressed the skills gap in the logistics industry by offering targeted training, a standardised curriculum, and support for small and medium-sized businesses.

As part of the programme, the updated East Africa Customs Freight Forwarding Practising Certificate (EACFFPC) curriculum certified over 100 professionals. A Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework reached another 800 professionals, and an e-learning platform attracted 500 trainees.

In Tanzania, our collaboration with the Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Community Development led to a review of national gender policy and training for over 200 women traders in remote regions.

In Rwanda, partnerships with government and the private sector have enabled 40 firms to access export markets—resulting in over $3 million in new trade flows. Through these engagements, we’re seeing not just increased trade, but more resilient, locally driven solutions that uplift marginalized groups and build economic momentum from the ground up.

The other area where TMA’s transformative model of engagement has borne fruits is in strengthening advocacy for policy reforms. We have contributed immensely to policy advancements to facilitate and enhance regional economic growth.

In Burundi, we successfully advocated for the removal of COVID-19 testing requirements at borders, significantly reducing transport costs and easing the flow of goods. This was achieved through Burundi’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of EAC Affairs.

In a significant win for the steel and iron industry, the EAC Sectoral Council meeting in 2023 approved a proposal championed by TMA to set regional duties on wire rods at 0%, directly addressing the sector’s needs and boosting industrial growth.

But effective collaboration requires more than goodwill—it takes structured dialogue, trust, and aligned incentives. That’s why TMA actively supports policy advocacy efforts. We’ve helped coordinate the submission of policy briefs to the East Africa Community (EAC) Regional Technical Committee, advocating for harmonized product standards that ease the cost of doing business across borders. In the case of the East African soft drinks industry, we supported the review of regulations to reflect technological innovation and stakeholder needs.

This kind of coordination—between governments, private firms, and civil society—is what ensures that regional trade initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) become a reality on the ground. At the recent East Africa Staples Food Trade Dialogue, business forums facilitated by TMA led to supply contracts worth over US$360 million for grains and pulses—proof that trade can deliver when the right actors work together.

Our quieter but transformative model of public-private collaborations has also left indelible marks across the region when it comes to standardization and trade facilitation. We have worked with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) to establish three food and non-food testing laboratories in Gulu, Mbale, and Mbarara to improve the quality of goods and reduce counterfeit products.

This collaboration has seen testing times decreased from 25 to 14 days, and certified products traded increased from 849 to 3,554. UNBS also reduced document processing times by 79% and cut transaction costs by 45%, making it easier for Ugandan businesses to comply with standards and access new markets.

In Kenya, the Food and Safety Bill 2023, developed by the Ministry of Health, alongside several public and private partners herald major reforms that will aligning Kenya’s food safety regulations with the East African Community’s (EAC) Food Safety Framework and other international standards.

In Tanzania, TMA has worked with the government to update standards to align with national priorities, such as Tanzania’s Vision 2025 and Zanzibar’s Blue Economy. Nationwide surveillance of capsicum has opened new export opportunities in Europe and China.

Additionally, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries has updated key documents to meet international standards, helping improve Tanzania’s export capabilities.

Successful public-private sector engagements on standardization and trade facilitation have also been witnessed in Rwanda where the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) has enhanced standards and conformity services.

Automation has reduced the time required to purchase Rwanda’s standards from124 hours to just 4 hours. This improvement has helped agri-food enterprises meet key food safety standards, supporting the growth of Rwanda’s tourism industry, which generated over $64 million in revenue in 2022.

These initiatives underscore the success of TMA’s transformative public-private collaboration model rooted in shared purpose, mutual benefit, and inclusive growth. When the right actors are involved, you can bet right with such engagements and use trade as a lever for economic growth and poverty reduction.

A common thread that cuts through our public-private collaborations is the involvement of various national governments, local governments, business associations such as national chambers of commerce and trading, and the inclusion of women and youth groups in the initiatives. This is part of TMA’s broader strategy of supporting sustainable and resilient trade.

Public-private collaboration is not always headline-grabbing, but its effects ripple across communities, industries, and borders. When done right, it builds institutional capacity, embeds change, and amplifies the voices of those often left behind in trade—women, youth, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

East Africa’s trade future will not be shaped by government alone, nor by the private sector in isolation. It will be built through collaboration—strategic, inclusive, and results-driven. That’s the quiet revolution already underway.

Anataria Uwamariya, the author of hthe article is the Director, Business Competitiveness, TradeMark Africa

Anataria Uwamariya

The fifth-generation mobile technology offers significantly higher speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity compared to previous generations, enabling faster and more efficient internet access across multiple sectors.

The launch event took place on June 10, 2025, with MTN officials highlighting the transformative potential of 5G in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and innovation.

MTN Rwanda CEO Monzer Ali emphasised the broad impact 5G is expected to have on national development:

'A doctor based in Rwanda could perform surgery on a patient located anywhere in the world, thanks to the low latency and speed of the 5G network.'

He thanked the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) for their collaboration in enabling MTN to roll out this advanced technology in Rwanda.

MTN first announced the availability of its 5G network on May 15, 2025, initially launching at Kigali Heights/Kigali Convention Centre (KCC). The rollout is now expanding to more than 51 sites across Kigali and Kamonyi District in Rwanda’s Southern Province.

The 5G network will prioritise high-traffic areas such as stadiums, conference venues, educational institutions, and technology hubs, to ensure high-impact deployment.

Monzer reiterated that 5G is expected to play a vital role in supporting Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional technology hub, stating:

'5G has immense potential to drive economic growth by accelerating innovation, enhancing service delivery, and enabling smart infrastructure.'

Rwanda currently ranks third in Africa for internet speed and is among the top 16 countries globally in this regard.

Market data shows that the adoption of 5 G-compatible devices, such as smartphones, is growing at a rate of 10% to 15% annually.

Ndoli Didas, General Manager of Enterprise Business at MTN Rwanda, clarified that there will be no changes to the existing internet prices that apply to 4G.

'We are not introducing separate pricing for 5G. The same data bundles used for 4G will apply. What changes is the speed and the quality of experience, depending on the device and service use.'

However, he noted that accessing the 5G network requires compatible devices.

He also pointed out that the technology will support innovations such as drone-based irrigation in agriculture, showcasing how 5G can contribute to smart farming and increased productivity.

The CEO of MTN Rwanda, Monzer Ali, stated that the 5G internet will play a significant role in driving national development, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and technology.

Acting Chief Technology Officer, Issa Nkusi, stated that the 5G internet will be rolled out beyond Kigali soon.

Ndoli Didas, General Manager of Enterprise Business at MTN Rwanda, stated that there will be no changes to the existing internet prices that applied to 4G.

MTN officials during the recent media briefing.

IGIHE

This commitment was once again brought to life during the 2025 Associate Appreciation Week (AAW), a global initiative that honours the dedication, passion, and hard work of Marriott associates.

At both Kigali Marriott Hotel and Four Points By Sheraton Kigali, the celebration was nothing short of extraordinary, filled with meaningful moments, heartfelt recognition, and a strong sense of community.

The Associate Appreciation Week is a cherished tradition across Marriott international worldwide, designed to express gratitude to the associates who are the heartbeat of the organisation.

At each Hotel, a week full of fun and recognition was dedicated to employees.

At Kigali Marriott Hotel, Associate Appreciation Week took place from 26 to 30 May, and at Four Points by Sheraton Kigali, it was held from 2 to 6 June 2025.

“This week is about what you do on daily basis, it’s not an easy job, it’s not an easy role, it’s not an easy industry. You people come in every day, putting smiles on your faces and making sure every guest and every associate is well taken care of. Thank you very much for what you do, you are what makes this Hotel, a Hotel otherwise, this will be an empty building,” said Aditya Chacko, Cluster General Manager of both hotels.

“I thank you every single day. This week is just to highlight and just to give you a thank you for an extra for what we have for you. As a leader standing in front of you at Four Points By Sheraton Kigali, I am honestly proud of each of you. We are family, we come together, we execute together, and we support one another. Enjoy this week and all activities prepared for you, said Samir Ramdial, Hotel Manager at Four Points By Sheraton Kigali.

The week was thoughtfully designed to include a variety of engaging activities, team-building events, and celebratory gatherings. Each day carried a unique theme and purpose, all aimed at recognising the invaluable contributions of the associates and reinforcing the Hotel’s culture of appreciation and mutual respect.

'Thank you for making Associate Appreciation Week an incredible celebration of the vibrant community we’re a part of at Marriott International. Across the globe, our teams came together to share meaningful moments — whether it was gathering to enjoy a treat, volunteering to give back to our communities, or recognising the dedication behind recent achievements,” said Tony Capuano, CEO, Marriott International Inc.

“Your positive energy and deep connection to each other and to our company’s timeless values shone through in every smile, every high five, and every unforgettable moment you continued to create for our guests.'

The week began with TakeCare Day, a celebration centred on wellness and recognition. The hotel’s Executive Committee and department leaders took time to acknowledge the individual and collective achievements of associates, highlighting the dedication that fuels the hotel’s success.

The atmosphere was festive and uplifting, with special lunch stations hosted by leadership, offering a delightful culinary experience that brought everyone together in a spirit of gratitude and celebration.

On Day 2, the focus shifted to community service and social impact with Spirit to Serve/ Serve 360 Day. This day embodied Marriott’s global 'Serve 360' initiative, encouraging associates to give back to the community.

Both Hotels organised differently a blood donation drive, allowing associates to contribute to a life-saving cause. The day also featured team-building games and themed dress-up activities that added a fun and engaging twist.

A highlight of the day was the hotel’s partnership with UNICEF in the 'One Egg per Child' campaign, aimed at fighting child stunting. The event was held at the ECD Center in Mageragere ( Kigali Marriott Hotel) and at the ECD Center in Batsinda (Four Points By Sheraton Kigali).

Culture and Unity Day, celebrated on Day 3 at Kigali Marriott Hotel and on Day 2 at Four Points By Sheraton Kigali was a vibrant tribute to the hotel’s diverse workforce. Associates proudly showcased their cultural heritage through traditional attire, music, dance, and cuisine.

The day served as a powerful reminder that diversity is not only a source of strength but also a wellspring of creativity and innovation. It was a day of learning, sharing, and celebrating the unique backgrounds that enrich the workplace and foster a sense of belonging among all team members.

Day 4, known as Winners Day, brought out the competitive spirit in the most joyful way. The hotel hosted the finals of its inter-departmental volleyball championship, drawing enthusiastic participation and support from all corners of the hotel.

The semi-finals of the talent show also took place, showcasing a wide array of talents including singing, traditional dancing, poetry, and visual arts. The energy was electric, and the performances were a testament to the incredible creativity and passion of the associates.

The week concluded with a grand celebration on Day 5, marked as the Closing Day and Staff Party. The festivities took place in the beautiful Malaika Garden at Kigali Marriott Hotel and at Kigali Universe for the Four Points by Sheraton team.

The event was a fitting finale to a week filled with appreciation and joy. Associates gathered for an evening of music, laughter, and heartfelt recognition. Awards were presented, memories were shared, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable. It was unforgettable nights, celebrating not just the achievements of the past week, but also the enduring spirit of the Marriott family.

Here are photo highlights from the events.

IGIHE

'I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far,' Musk posted on X, the platform he owns, on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.

The post marks the first conciliatory gesture from Musk after days of highly public clashes that drew headlines and shook political and financial circles alike.

The feud erupted after Musk labelled Trump’s newly passed tax and spending bill a 'disgusting abomination,' urging Americans to lobby their representatives to 'kill the bill,' which he warned could lead to a recession later this year.

The bill, which includes major tax cuts and increases to defense spending, passed the House last month and is now under Senate consideration.

Tensions escalated further when Musk suggested Trump was named in unreleased government files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The White House dismissed the claim, while Trump responded by calling Musk 'disrespectful' and threatened to terminate his companies’ government contracts, valued at around $38 billion, much of which goes to SpaceX.

Musk’s attacks included reposting calls for Trump’s impeachment and claiming that the president owed his 2024 election victory to Musk’s support and donations.

Musk, who previously served as co-head of the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and was a top donor to the 2024 Trump campaign, appeared to delete many of those posts over the weekend.

Trump, for his part, declared their relationship “over” and said he had no interest in speaking with Musk again, telling CNN, 'I don’t know what his problem is… I haven’t thought too much about him in the last little while.'

The fallout shocked Washington and Silicon Valley alike. Former Trump strategist Steve Bannon called for Musk, who was born in South Africa, to be deported. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance and several senior Republicans expressed hope that the two powerful figures could reconcile.

In the wake of Musk’s walk-back, Tesla shares rose 2% in premarket trading, reflecting investor relief over the potential de-escalation of a political rift that had also spooked markets.

While Musk didn’t specify which posts he regretted, his recent actions suggest a softening stance. He deleted the post referencing Epstein, as well as one endorsing Trump’s impeachment.

Over the weekend, he signalled agreement with investor Bill Ackman’s call for reconciliation, replying, 'not wrong,' to a suggestion that the two men should 'make peace.'

Musk also appeared to back the administration’s tough response to protests in Los Angeles, posting American flag emojis in response to VP Vance’s remarks condemning the unrest.

Adding to the drama, Musk’s father, Errol Musk, told Russian media over the weekend that Elon had made a 'mistake' in taking on the president.

'Trump will prevail. He is the president,' Errol said, predicting the feud would be 'over tomorrow.'

While it remains to be seen whether the truce will hold or the rivalry will reignite, Musk’s change in tone signals a possible end, at least for now, to one of the most explosive political clashes of 2025.

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has publicly expressed regret over a series of incendiary social media posts aimed at President Donald Trump, signalling a potential cooling of tensions after a spectacular fallout between the two influential figures.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

There’s a quiet revolution underway in Rwanda – one that doesn’t announce itself with fanfare or towering infrastructure, but with the tap of a hammer in a carpentry workshop, the hum of welding tools in a vocational school, and the quiet resolve in the eyes of a young woman mastering coding skills in Nyabihu.

At stake is nothing less than the future of work in Rwanda. By 2050, Africa’s working-age population is expected to double to over 1 billion people (World Bank, 2022). In Rwanda, approximately 65% of the population is under the age of 30, with an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 youth entering the job market each year – a sharp rise from previous years.

This demographic momentum presents both a pressing challenge and a powerful opportunity for inclusive growth (National Strategy for Transformation, 2025—2029). Yet formal employment opportunities remain limited, and many graduates are finding that a diploma alone is not a ticket to economic mobility.

That’s why Rwanda’s drive to build a dynamic, demand-responsive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system matters. But as the recent Rwanda Future Skills Forum reminded us, this is about more than filling labour market gaps. It’s about ensuring that skills development becomes the foundation for inclusive, dignified, and forward-looking livelihoods.

Across the continent – from Ghana’s artisan cooperatives to Kenya’s dual apprenticeship networks-there’s a growing consensus: technical excellence and equity are not mutually exclusive. They are mutually reinforcing. Ghana’s 'MyTVET' campaign, for instance, elevated the visibility and quality of vocational education while prioritising access for women, rural youth, and persons with disabilities. The result? A broader base of learners entering stronger, market-aligned programs.

Rwanda is making similar strides. The rollout of competency-based curricula and the growing involvement of private sector actors are already yielding results. But we must continue to challenge a stubborn misconception: that excellence belongs to the few, and inclusion comes at its expense. True transformation means ensuring that the daughter of a farmer in Nyagatare and the son of a mechanic in Huye both see TVET not as a second-tier option – but as a launchpad opening up a wide range of opportunities.

The how matters. No single actor can do it alone. In Senegal, the Fonds de Financement de la Formation Professionnelle et Technique (3FPT) has demonstrated how a tripartite model – where employers, training providers, and government share responsibility for financing and quality – can contribute to more responsive systems. In Kenya, the PropelA Dual Apprenticeship Programme is showing what collaboration can look like in practice.

The programme brings together vocational training centres, sector associations, and leading businesses to jointly design and deliver training. Apprentices spend nearly 70% of their time in real work environments, and the early results are telling: graduates are not only more employable – they are more confident, adaptable, and industry-ready.

In Rwanda, our dual apprenticeship pilots have drawn on these lessons. But to scale them sustainably, we must strengthen trust among partners, let the private sector do-design and co-steer the system, embed real-time feedback loops, and provide training institutions the autonomy to innovate. After all, the future of work is fluid. Our systems must be too.
Flexibility isn’t a buzzword – it’s a lifeline.

As AI, climate adaptation, and digital platforms reshape entire industries, our curricula, standards, and assessment models must evolve. Nigeria’s challenge with fragmented certification systems shows how costly inflexibility can be. In contrast, Kenya’s decade-long journey to strengthen its TVET Authority offers a model of steady, adaptive reform.

Still, even the best policy designs can falter if rushed. Building robust skills systems requires a long view. Trainers in TVET schools as well as instructors in companies need time to be onboarded and upskilled. Institutions need time to mature. Employers need time to see the value of investing in apprenticeships. Change moves at the speed of relationships – and relationships are built on trust.

Most importantly, we must embrace iteration. Rwanda’s dual apprenticeship model is not a final product – it’s a learning process. One that will be refined, challenged, and improved by the very learners, trainers, and employers who breathe life into it. That’s not a sign of failure. It’s a marker of relevance.

Ultimately, the task ahead is not just to design better training programs, but to strengthen the national and local systems that sustain them – systems that are inclusive, adaptive, and anchored in real economic opportunity.

The Rwanda Future Skills Forum was a timely reminder that meaningful transformation does not happen in isolation. It requires sustained collaboration, long-term investment, and a shared belief in the potential of every learner. We are not merely preparing young people for the jobs of today – we are equipping them to shape the future itself. And that is work worth doing well. TVET is not a fallback plan. It is Rwanda’s best bet.

Roman Troxler is the Country Director of Swisscontact Rwanda

Rwanda is improving infrastructure in TVET schools to make them more accommodating for female students.

By Roman Troxler

'This comes in light of the UAE’s wise leadership’s interest and significant support for equipping young Arab talent with advanced tools and skills in storytelling related to humanitarian and development work, enhancing community solidarity, and shedding light on pioneering humanitarian efforts and significant development contributions that positively impact the lives of millions of people across the world.

His remarks came on the occasion of the launch of the “Impact Makers” initiative by the International Humanitarian Affairs Council, under the directives of Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in cooperation with the New Media Academy. The initiative includes several educational programs and training workshops specializing in digital media related to various humanitarian and development fields.

He stressed the need to empower individuals to create positive and impactful humanitarian content that addresses various humanitarian issues, and to raise community awareness of these issues through the use of storytelling skills and appropriate media strategies to support institutional and community efforts with multiple humanitarian dimensions.

This is particularly true for humanitarian projects, initiatives, and programs targeting communities in need and the most affected and needy populations. These projects aim to provide access to basic education and health services, as vital priorities of paramount importance in achieving development and prosperity and ensuring security and stability.

The initiative targets journalists, camera crews, and content creators specializing in humanitarian affairs, who possess a passion for creating digital content about humanitarian, development, and charitable initiatives and programs. The initiative aims to enhance their ability to understand, write, and distribute press releases that reflect humanitarian efforts, as well as various storytelling methods and audio and visual translation techniques, to suit various journalistic formats and publishing media.

The initiative aims to attract digital content creators from the UAE, across the Arab world, and friendly countries around the world to join several specialized digital media training programs, enabling them to acquire the skills and tools necessary to produce creative content on humanitarian, developmental, and charitable initiatives and programs worldwide.

It also attracts official spokespersons representing humanitarian donor institutions and charitable organizations in the UAE to train them on corporate reputation strategies and media crisis management.

It’s worth noting that the educational programs and training courses develop the skills of diverse influencers, enabling them to deliver meaningful humanitarian content using advanced methods that contribute to delivering a humanitarian media message to a wide audience.

The New Media Academy continues to support content creators and social media influencers, enabling them to deliver their messages in a professional manner that contributes to the development, advancement, and growth of societies. Among these programs is the “Impact Makers” initiative, which will enrich the content creators’ content and meet the aspirations of their followers to benefit from what they provide.

The Impact Makers Initiative includes five training programs, starting with the “Skills of Official Spokesperson, Media Appearance, and Crisis Management” program, the “Humanitarian Impact Journalism” program, the “Humanitarian Impact Content Makers” program, in both Arabic and English versions, and the “Humanitarian Impact Content Makers – in partnership with the Arab Youth Center” program.

International Humanitarian Affairs Council launched the “Impact Makers” initiative

IGIHE

This figure indicates that the group, formed by the remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, remains active, despite the DRC government’s previous claim that it no longer poses a threat.

Speaking to IGIHE, Brig Gen Rwivanga stated that the FDLR fighters are estimated to be between 7,000 and 10,000, and that 'they always blend in with civilians whenever they are attacked.'

He added that the fighters are spread across different areas, including North Kivu, South Kivu, and the Kibira Forest in Burundi.

Those based in North Kivu are the ones most involved in destabilising the northern and western regions of Rwanda. The Kibira Forest, on the other hand, has often been used by elements attempting to destabilise Rwanda from Burundi.

In 2021, 15 fighters from the FLN (National Liberation Front), who had crossed into Rwanda through the Kibira Forest and launched an attack in Bweyeye Sector in Rusizi District, were ambushed by the RDF. Some were killed in the operation.

This incident followed earlier attacks in the same area where the fighters had set up roadblocks, resulting in the deaths of innocent civilians.

Brig Gen Rwivanga emphasised that the FDLR has posed a security threat to Rwanda for many years and has launched multiple attacks since 2022, including in Kinigi and Rubavu Districts.

In March and May 2022, the DRC army, in collaboration with FDLR fighters, carried out attacks on Rwandan soil in the sectors of Kinigi and Nyange in Musanze District, as well as Gahunga Sector in Burera District. The attacks injured civilians and damaged property.

During the same period, other incidents occurred, including the abduction of two Rwandan soldiers on patrol—a joint operation carried out by FARDC (the Congolese army) and FDLR.

In May this year, Rwanda received nearly 2,000 Rwandan nationals who had been held hostage by the terrorist group FDLR.

Despite Rwanda repeatedly raising concerns about the threat posed by the FDLR, the DRC has consistently ignored these warnings. This has led to heightened tensions, with Rwanda accusing the neighbouring country of actively collaborating with the FDLR to launch attacks aimed at toppling the Rwandan government.

Brig Gen Rwivanga concluded by stressing that war cannot resolve security issues, and urged the DRC to pursue political and diplomatic solutions and to end its collaboration with the FDLR.

The issue of the FDLR is one of the key concerns that Rwanda has raised with mediators involved in addressing regional security challenges, during discussions held in Doha and Washington. Rwanda maintains that the DRC must end its cooperation with the group, designated as a terrorist organisation by the United States, which continues to undermine the security of both countries.

The Spokesperson of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, has revealed that the FDLR militia group operating in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) currently has between 7,000 and 10,000 fighters.

IGIHE

Speech by Prof. Dirk Vansina on behalf of the City of Leuven

Leuven has long maintained close ties with Rwanda. Rwandan students have studied at KU Leuven, professors have taught there, priests and nuns from our region have worked in Rwanda, and today a Rwandan community resides in Leuven.

We have just heard powerful testimonies. We are gathered here to remember one of the darkest chapters in recent history: the genocide committed against the Tutsi in Rwanda, now 31 years ago. In just one hundred days, between April and July 1994, more than a million people were brutally murdered simply because they existed.

This atrocity was the result of a colonial policy of division, the belief that some groups are superior to others, and the dangerous illusion that all human beings are not equal. But this genocide did not begin with machetes. It began with words — with hate speech and division.

What makes this tragedy even more painful is that the world looked away. The international community failed in its duty, and that failure echoes louder than ever today. Even now, groups are dehumanized. People are deliberately turned into enemies. As was the case then, we hear cries of 'This must stop!' And, as then, the responses are too weak, too late, too hesitant.

That is exactly why it is essential to continue commemorating and learning from the past. That is why an organization like IBUKA is so important. IBUKA means 'Remember,' and you do not let us forget. You give a voice to those who were silenced. You support survivors. You show us that remembering is not about looking back — it’s about looking forward.
Earlier, young women gave testimonies.

They recalled what happened, but they also embodied strength, hope, and life. They are giving birth to a new future, a future better than the past. As a local authority, we also have a responsibility: to provide space for moments of remembrance like this one. Not as a symbolic gesture, but as a true commitment.

I heard the request made by the President regarding the installation of a memorial stone in Leuven. I commit to discussing this proposal with conviction with the mayor and my colleagues. Remembering is essential, but it is not enough. We have a moral obligation to turn memory into action: through education, public policy, vigilance, and dialogue.

Today, you are our guests here in Leuven — a city that chooses dialogue, tolerance, and peace. A city that knows commemoration is not only about the past, but also about facing the future and taking action. A city that takes seriously the signs of racism, hatred, or dehumanization before it is too late.

With education, with concrete projects that bring citizens together, and with support for refugees and newcomers. Peace begins with small things: with children learning to resolve conflict without violence, with youth standing up against hate speech and injustice, with societies refusing to reduce the “other” to a caricature, and with communities that leave no one behind.

Leuven wants to be a city that leaves no one behind. A city where everyone has a place and can thrive as they are.

Kwibuka. Let us remember. Let us keep speaking. For those who are no longer with us. For those yet to come. With the duty to do good and to make the world better.
And let it begin with us.

Leuven: Selected photos from the commemoration ceremony of the victims of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, 1994.

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Karirima Aimable Ngarambe