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In a message shared on the social media platform X, Kagame expressed his hope that the occasion would bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to all those celebrating.

“Eid Mubarak to all Muslims in Rwanda and around the world celebrating Eid al-Fitr. May this joyous occasion bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness, and prosperity. Let us continue to uphold the values of compassion, unity, and generosity that define this celebration,” Kagame wrote on Sunday night.

#EidMubarak to all Muslims in Rwanda and around the world celebrating Eid al-Fitr. May this joyous occasion bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness, and prosperity. Let us continue to uphold the values of compassion, unity, and generosity that define this celebration.

— Paul Kagame (@PaulKagame) March 30, 2025

On March 30, Muslims in Rwanda joined millions worldwide in marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan after 29 days of fasting. The national Eid prayer gathering took place at Kigali Pele Stadium in Nyamirambo, where a large number of Muslims came together to observe the religious occasion.

As part of the celebrations, the Rwanda Muslim Community carried out a charitable initiative to support those in need.

During Ramadan, the community raised over 33 million Rwandan Francs, which was used to purchase food for underprivileged Muslims. Through this effort, 21,000 tons of food, including beans and rice, were distributed to vulnerable families, ensuring they could also partake in the festivities.

The celebrations will continue on Monday, March 31, which the government has declared a holiday to allow the Muslim community in Rwanda to mark the occasion.

Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and devotion.

President Paul Kagame has extended his heartfelt wishes to Muslims in Rwanda and around the world as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr, emphasizing the importance of unity, compassion, and generosity.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Together, we have drawn a magnificent historical picture of China-Rwanda friendship. At the land of a thousand hills, I have truly felt the deep friendship between the Chinese and Rwandan people, and witnessed the boundless possibilities and vitality of Rwanda. As I am about to leave, I am filled with nostalgia to this land and confidence about a brighter future of China-Rwanda relationship.

Amb. Wang presenting his credential to H.E. President Paul Kagame

As we are marching towards the 54th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Rwanda, our bilateral ties, stronger and closer than ever before, have featured deepened political mutual trust, flourishing practical cooperation and closer people-to-people exchanges. The high level bilateral relationship has brought tangible benefits to the two countries and our peoples.

President Xi met with President Kagame during the FOCAC Beijing Summit in 2024

Ushering in a remarkable new chapter of China-Rwanda relationship through head-of-state diplomacy

In recent years, H.E.President Xi Jinping and H.E. President Paul Kagame have maintained close exchanges, strategically guiding the bilateral relations. In September 2024, I had the honor to welcome President Kagame to attend the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and witness the successful meeting between the two Presidents.

The two Heads of States elevated bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, marking a new milestone in China-Rwanda friendship. The two countries issued a joint statement on the implementation of the three Global Initiatives, injecting new momentum to bilateral cooperation.

Both sides reiterated commitment to mutual support on issues of core interests and major concern, on opposing external interference in each other’s internal affairs and on each other’s independent development paths suited to national realities.

Rwanda reaffirmed its consistent adherence to the one-China principle, which recognizes Taiwan as an inalienable part of China’s territory. China reaffirmed its firm support to Rwanda in safeguarding national solidarity, and combating genocidal ideology and hate speech in all forms. The two sides will continue to support each other in bilateral and multilateral affairs.

Amb. Wang together with H.E. President Paul Kagame inaugurated AnJia Cement Factory

Consolidating the sound foundation of China-Rwanda relationship through inter-party exchanges

The two ruling parties, the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), both enjoy strong leadership and governance prowess, and share similar missions. We both uphold the people-centered approach to governance.

We both implement consultation-based, consensus-seeking democracy with its own characteristics. The two parties have built profound friendship over the years. We have conducted close exchanges and cooperation at all levels and on various fronts.

At the invitation of the Rwandan side, three CPC delegations have visited Rwanda in the past two years to attend major political events, such as the inauguration ceremony of President Kagame for his fourth term and the commemoration the 30th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, which reflects the brotherhood of the two parties.

Amb. Wang joined Umuganda activity

Boost a mutually beneficial partnership through economic and trade cooperation

Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, the two countries can share the huge potential and opportunities the markets offer, leading to rapid growth in bilateral trade volume. China is Rwanda’s top trading and investment partner.

In recent years, benchmark projects, supported by the Chinese government, have achieved steady progress, such as the renovation and expansion of the Masaka Hospital, the Nyabarongo Hydropower Plant II, and the Smart Education project. Construction is set to start for the 10-kilometer road from Prince House to Masaka.

The Juncao mushroom technology has helped alleviate poverty in Rwanda and boosted nutrition for local families, which has been recognized by all stakeholders including the United Nations. Many Chinese enterprises have taken root in Rwanda’s investment landscape.

In August 2023, President Kagame attended the production kick-off ceremony of Anjia Prefabricated Construction Rwanda Company Ltd., a Chinese invested cement factory, which has boosted the production capacity of cement in Rwanda.

In recent years, Chinese companies have established and invested in a number of local factories in Rwanda, including jacket and shoes manufacturers as well as detergent makers, which have helped generate employment opportunities and income for local communities, accelerating Rwanda’s socioeconomic development and industrialization.

In return, Rwandan companies have made their presence to China’s super-large market, taking their products to high-level platforms including the China International Import Expo and the Guangdong Canton Fair. Made-in-Rwanda products, such as coffee, tea, dried chili, honey, have been successfully marketed to Chinese consumers, increasing their visibility in China.

30 Rwandan students went to study in China under the Joint Training Program Between IPRC Musanze and Jinhua Vocational Technolog

Building an everlasting friendship through closer people-to-people exchanges

Amity between the peoples holds key to sound China-Rwanda relations. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges have had plenty highlights to offer in the past years. For example, Jinhua and Musanze became the first ever pair of sister cities between the two countries, opening a new chapter in local exchanges and cooperation.

Young students at IPRC Musanze are empowered to find their dream jobs thanks to the 'Chinese plus vocational skills' training offered by the Luban workshop based in the college.

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University has delivered service learning project in Rwanda for more than a decade. They helped install solar power generation systems for farmers in remote villages in the Eastern Province of Rwanda, and empower local women by conducting fashion design training, etc.

In the past three years, around 200 Rwandan students have received Chinese government scholarships. A total of nearly 2,000 Rwandan students are studying in China. The Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda has trained more than 5,000 students to learn Chinese and Chinese culture.

In 2024, Rwandan students achieved historically best performance in the 'Chinese Bridge' Chinese Proficiency Competitions, in which Rwandan contestants entered the top 30 in the world and the top 7 in Africa for the first time. During my stay in Rwanda, I have enjoyed to engage with the local communities.

I led Chinese diplomats to join Umuganda, Car-Free Day Walking and Peace Marathon. I supported the Chinese medical teams to deliver free clinic services, conducted field research, and sat with my Rwandan friends to hear their stories with China. It is fair to say, the foundation of China-Rwanda friendship was laid by the peoples, and it is and will be further enhanced by the peoples.

Rwandan student won the first prize in the PLC Application Technology category of the 9th Africa Tech Challenge Season in 2024

A bosom friend afar brings a distant land near. As the Chinese ambassador to Rwanda, I have been asked many times about why China-Rwanda relationship is so successful despite the great geographical distance. The most important reason, I think, is that China and Rwanda share similar histories and experiences which enable us to understand and support each other. We both believe in self-reliance.

We are both steadfast on the development path that suits our own national realities. We are both striving to achieve national modernization. And we both cherish familial bond, history, cultural heritage and the unique national identity they bestowed to us. No matter how the international landscape evolves, the two countries will always respect and support each other on issues of core interests, and develop bilateral relations on the basis of equality, mutual respect and trust, as well as win-win partnership.

My story in Rwanda in the past three years, is just an epitome of the earnest friendship between China and Rwanda, which is higher than mountains. As I’m drawing a period to my tour of duty here, I would like to thank so many friends here that have supported me during this journey.

First and foremost, my deepest gratitude goes to President Xi Jinping and President Kagame for their insightful guidance and support to China-Rwanda relations. My appreciation also goes to my brothers and sisters from the party, government, military, business, media and other fields for their valuable assistance to the Chinese Embassy and myself.

I would also like to thank Chinese communities here for their contribution to the China-Rwanda friendship. Last but not least, my thanks go to my colleagues from the Embassy who have worked day and night with me. I hope that you will continue your good work to promote further growth of bilateral relations.

The China Medical Team to Rwanda set up a free clinic for hernia at Masaka Hospital

The decades-old Umuganda culture in Rwanda encourages joint efforts and mutual help for common goals. A Chinese saying conveys a similar message. It goes like, 'People with one mind and heart have the power to move a mountain.'

In a world of increasing inter-connection and inter-dependence, countries are faced with many unprecedented common challenges.

It is important for China and Rwanda to join hands for mutual benefits and common development and to build a community with a shared future. I believe, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Kagame, with the joint efforts of our two governments and peoples, China-Rwanda relations will embrace an even brighter future.

Wish all the best to Rwanda. May prosperity, happiness and health always be with Rwandan people. May the friendship between China and Rwanda last forever and keep flourishing.

The heartfelt message above was penned by Ambassador Wang Xuekun as he concludes his tour of duty in Rwanda, where he has served with dedication since May 2022.

Wang Xuekun

In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” when Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s leadership, adding that the comments were “not going in the right location.”

“If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault — which it might not be — but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” Trump said.

“That would be that if you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States,” he said. “There will be a 25 percent tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil.”

Trump noted that the tariffs on Russia would come within the next month if Moscow does not sign up to a ceasefire with Ukraine.

Trump said Putin knows he is angry, but he has “a very good relationship” with Putin and would speak to the Russian leader again this week.

During a phone conversation on March 18, Trump and Putin agreed that the peace in Ukraine “will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire.”

In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump said he was “very angry” and “pissed off” when Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized the credibility of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s leadership, adding that the comments were “not going in the right location.”

Xinhua

According to Li, there was a widespread consensus in China that the U.S. trade war would persist under any administration—whether led by Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, or Donald Trump.

Speaking at a recent public lecture titled The Prospect of a New Stage of China’s High-Quality Development, Li addressed the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, asserting that a full-scale trade war is now unfolding.

The event, attended by both local and international journalists, provided insights into China’s strategic response and its focus on advancing high-quality economic development.

Escalating Trade Conflict

Since January 2025, the trade conflict between the United States and China has intensified. During his second term, the Trump administration incrementally increased tariffs on Chinese imports, starting with a 10% duty on February 4, followed by a rise to 20% on March 4.

These measures were part of a broader strategy to pressure China on issues such as intellectual property rights and what the U.S. perceives as unfair trade practices.

In response, Beijing has refrained from matching U.S. tariff increases one-for-one but has instead adopted a targeted and multifaceted retaliation strategy.

Chinese authorities have imposed tariffs of 10—15% on select U.S. agricultural products, affecting key exports like soybeans, chicken, and wheat. Additionally, China has implemented non-tariff measures, including suspending import licenses for certain U.S. firms and launching anti-circumvention investigations aimed at limiting U.S. access to its industrial supply chain.

'China has been preparing for this for the past six to seven years. Everybody in China knew that the U.S. trade war would continue under any administration—Biden’s, Harris’s, or Trump’s. We knew this war was coming, and now it has arrived in full scale. We are looking at more tariffs, more policies, and more restrictions on Chinese goods,' Li stated.

Li emphasized that China’s government remains patient and is willing to work toward mutual benefits for both the Chinese and American people.

'We are waiting for the Trump administration to present constructive proposals. Naturally, China must respond to tariff policies, but overall, I would argue that among the world’s major economies, China is perhaps the most patient.'

According to Li, China has long anticipated and prepared for this phase of the trade war. He pointed out that trade with the U.S. now accounts for just 3.4% of China’s GDP, a figure he suggests is not substantial enough to derail the country’s broader economic trajectory.

With this in mind, he downplayed the impact of escalating tariffs and restrictions, framing them as challenges that China is well-equipped to navigate.

U.S. and Chinese Priorities

Li noted that President Trump is primarily focused on three key issues: tackling immigration, boosting job creation in key swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, and addressing the U.S. federal fiscal challenges.

Conversely, China’s strategic priorities center on maintaining social and political stability, peacefully resolving the Taiwan issue, and sustaining economic growth.

'These three concerns are not diametrically opposed to Trump’s top priorities. In economics, when two parties have different objectives, there is room for collaboration, negotiation, and communication. I remain hopeful that the Chinese government and the Trump administration will eventually find common ground and resolve seemingly unresolvable issues,' Li stated.

Li predicted that the world would be economically and financially divided into three major blocs.

He likened the division to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, with the first bloc consisting of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico forming a relatively self-sufficient trade zone. The second bloc, according to him, would be Europe, which is now highly interconnected.

The third and largest economic bloc would consist of China, ASEAN countries, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations, and Africa.

'As a result, we will see a significant increase in Chinese investment and technology flowing to African and Belt and Road countries. This will foster mutual economic benefits between China and these economies. In my view, the world is shifting toward a relatively divided structure with three distinct economic blocs,' he concluded.

Amid escalating trade tensions, Li Daokui (right) discusses China’s resilience and commitment to high-quality economic development.

Journalists from around the world gathered at a public lecture where Li Daokui discussed China’s strategic approach to the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.

Li Daokui (right) highlighted why Beijing remains confident in weathering the storm.

Reporters from various countries attended Li Daokui’s lecture on the shifting landscape of China’s development.

Local and international journalists gathered to cover Li Daokui’s insights on various issues, including China’s strategic response to the U.S.-China trade war.

Christian Mugisha

Odinga, who arrived in Juba on Friday for discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Machar, revealed that while he met with Kiir, he was not permitted to visit the detained vice president. His six-hour visit yielded little public information apart from official images taken at the presidential palace.

Upon his return from Entebbe, Uganda, on Saturday, Odinga disclosed that Kiir had briefed him on the killing of General Majur Dak and other soldiers in the northern town of Nasir on March 7.

Kenya’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, Raila Odinga, during a meeting with President Salva Kiir on Friday, March 28, 2025.

The South Sudanese government reported that the general and his team were attacked while attempting to board a United Nations helicopter for evacuation.

As a result of the attack, Kiir’s government placed Machar under house arrest, citing ongoing investigations into the incident.

'I had a lengthy discussion with President Kiir, who told me about the challenges they are facing—that a General and 10 other people were killed in the town of Nasir in the Upper Nile, and this is what they are investigating,” Odinga explained.

Machar’s appointment as First Vice President was the result of a fragile peace deal brokered in 2018 to end years of civil war.

Following their meeting, Odinga requested permission to speak with Machar but was denied. Instead, he was advised to consult with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, leading to his visit to Entebbe, where he briefed Museveni on the developments.

'I reported to him [Museveni] what I had found in South Sudan, and after a lengthy discussion, he said he would get in touch with President Kiir,' Odinga stated.

Odinga, a seasoned Kenyan politician, told the press in Nairobi that he would only return to Juba if granted direct access to Machar.

'They said that when I want to go back to Juba, they will allow me, but I have said that I will only return when I meet with Mr. Riek. I don’t want to disclose right now when I am going back,' he asserted.

Back in Kenya, Odinga intends to brief President William Ruto, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh on the South Sudan situation.

He also called for international intervention to prevent further escalation.

'The situation requires international attention. I am happy that the UN is getting involved in what is happening in South Sudan. I believe this is a situation that warrants intervention by the international community,' he remarked.

Although South Sudanese authorities have not directly linked Machar to the killings, they claim that some of his supporters, including militia groups allegedly affiliated with him, may have played a role in the attack.

Machar’s appointment as First Vice President was the result of a fragile peace deal brokered in 2018 to end years of civil war. He was reinstated in 2020 as part of a power-sharing arrangement with President Kiir after previous attempts at cooperation had collapsed into renewed conflict.

The deal aimed to unify rival factions and establish a transitional government, but tensions between Kiir and Machar have remained high, with periodic clashes threatening to unravel the agreement.

The Kenyan government recently appointed Odinga as its special envoy to South Sudan amid rising tensions following Machar’s arrest on March 26.

President Ruto, who has been actively involved in mediation efforts within the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region, made the appointment after consulting with regional leaders, including Kiir, Museveni, and Abiy Ahmed. Ruto stated that Odinga was tasked with engaging all parties to de-escalate the conflict and provide feedback on the situation.

Machar’s detention, which also included his wife, Angela Teny, the country’s Interior and Coordination Minister, has drawn international condemnation. The United States was among the first to demand his immediate release, adding to growing pressure on Kiir’s administration.

In his media briefing on Saturday, Odinga expressed optimism that the ongoing investigations will be resolved swiftly to restore stability in the fragile nation, which has long been plagued by conflict and political rivalries.

Kenya’s Special Envoy to South Sudan, Raila Odinga, arrived in Juba on Friday, March 28, 2025, for discussions with South Sudanese President Salva Kiir after Vice President Riek Machar was placed under house arrest.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

President Xi Jinping highlighted the country’s rapid development and social stability over the past seven decades, attributing these achievements to the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the efforts of the Chinese people, and support from foreign businesses.

Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to openness, stating that foreign investment has been integral to the nation’s economic expansion, job creation, and technological advancement.

He assured that China’s welcoming stance toward foreign capital remains unchanged, offering vast market potential, policy stability, and a secure business environment.

Outlining China’s focus on high-quality development, Xi emphasised green, digital, and smart transformation as key priorities, positioning the country as an ideal destination for investment. He also reiterated China’s commitment to fair competition, legal protections, and equal treatment for foreign enterprises.

Calling for multinational companies to support economic globalisation, Xi urged them to uphold the multilateral trading system and contribute to global supply chain stability.

The meeting, attended by over 40 global CEOs—including leaders from FedEx, Mercedes-Benz, Sanofi, and HSBC—underscored China’s role as a stabilising force in the global economy.

Meanwhile, business leaders praised China’s progress and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investments in the country.

President Xi Jinping met with international business leaders at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on March 28, 2025, praising their contributions to China’s economic growth.

The meeting, attended by over 40 global CEOs—including leaders from FedEx, Mercedes-Benz, Sanofi, and HSBC—underscored China’s role as a stabilising force in the global economy.

President Xi affirmed that foreign investment has been integral to the nation’s economic expansion, job creation, and technological advancement.

Christian Mugisha

A total of 1,644 people died, 3,408 were injured, and 139 remained missing in a powerful earthquake in Myanmar, according to the Information Team of the State Administration Council on Saturday night.

The earthquake hit the southeast Asian country on Friday, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, the northeastern Shan state, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw among the hardest-hit regions.

A Chinese rescue team arrived at Yangon International Airport in Myanmar on Saturday afternoon to assist in disaster relief efforts.

This photo taken on March 29, 2025 shows a damaged building after an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar.

A damaged building in Mandalay, Myanmar, following an earthquake.

The earthquake hit the southeast Asian country on Friday, March 28, 2025.

This photo shows rescue operations underway in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 29, 2025.

Quake-affected people sit on the ground in the open after an earthquake in Mandalay, Myanmar, March 29, 2025.

Xinhua

According to Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, the high-level discussions focused on leveraging technology to accelerate development.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean Guy Afrika and members of the Government of Rwanda Steering Committee attended the talks.

'Honoured to welcome H.E Sir Tony Blair, heading a delegation of @InstituteGC senior leadership in Africa, who were in Kigali to meet with the Government of Rwanda Steering Committee. The meeting discussed the partnership between the Tony Blair Institute and the Government of Rwanda, and explored collaborations on technology to accelerate development,” the minister said in a statement.

Blair, who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007, has been actively involved in Rwanda’s development since 2008, when he became an advisor to the government. Through the Africa Governance Initiative (AGI), later integrated into the Tony Blair Institute, his team has worked to improve service delivery, attract investment, and strengthen institutional capacity.

Key areas of partnership have included strategic capacity building, economic transformation, and investment promotion.

The Tony Blair Institute has played a role in advancing Rwanda’s development agenda, supporting initiatives like the Strategic Capacity Building Initiative (SCBI) and aiding in infrastructure and digital economy reforms.

Blair, who has praised Rwanda’s governance model in the past, has actively promoted the country as a leading destination for investment in Africa. His efforts have contributed to initiatives such as the expansion of electricity access and technology-driven economic growth.

Saturday’s meeting underscored the continued commitment to deepening collaboration, particularly in the tech sector, as Rwanda positions itself as a regional leader in digital transformation and innovation.

Further details on new initiatives from the meeting are expected to emerge as discussions progress between the Tony Blair Institute and the Government of Rwanda.

Former British Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair met with Rwanda’s leadership in Kigali on Saturday, March 29, 2025, to strengthen ongoing collaborations between the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and the Government of Rwanda.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean Guy Afrika (in a black suit) attended the talks.

According to Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire (first from right), the high-level discussions focused on leveraging technology to accelerate development.

Blair, who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007, has been actively involved in Rwanda’s development since 2008, when he became an advisor to the government.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Born in Uganda, Pablo’s early passions were drama, music, and dance, but his true ambition was journalism. He admired news anchors for their storytelling abilities and believed in the power of communication.

After pursuing a degree in Mass Media, Journalism, and Creative Writing, Pablo’s dream of becoming a journalist led him to a job in entertainment journalism.

Assigned to cover theatre performances and entertainment events, Pablo found himself in front of Uganda’s National Theatre in 2003, where he was introduced to a group experimenting with comedy. Initially sent by his editor to find a “hook” for a story, Pablo ended up discovering a whole new world of comedy.

'I went to my editor and told her about a comedy group trying something new. She told me to find something more interesting, but in my search for the angle, I got hooked myself,' he recalls.

As he immersed himself in their creative process, Pablo’s wit naturally shone through. The comedy group saw his potential and invited him to join them. His transition from a passive observer to an active participant came quickly, and before long, he was on stage, sharing his humor with the audience.

Pablo’s big break came when he was asked to emcee between performances. Instead of simply announcing acts, he began offering his comedic take on current events, joking about newspaper headlines and finding humor in everyday life.

Audiences responded enthusiastically, and Pablo’s career as a stand-up comedian was born. 'I didn’t even know I was doing stand-up comedy. I was just making people laugh between shows, but they called me a comedian, and I started to embrace it,' Pablo admits.

In 2009, Pablo’s comedy career took a huge leap forward when he won the Stand-Up Uganda competition, securing the title of the country’s funniest person and a prize of $10,000.

With his newfound fame, he launched Pablo Live, a platform for emerging comedians. His goal was to create opportunities for young talent, just as he had stumbled upon his own.

Pablo’s influence wasn’t limited to Uganda. He developed a strong connection with Rwanda, a country whose culture and people he greatly admired. 'The people are warm, and even their language has a way of making you feel good, even when they say they don’t like you. Rwanda is surely the heartbeat of Africa,' he says.

In Rwanda, he saw a growing comedy scene and mentored many young comedians. He advised them on the importance of staying grounded and focusing on their craft, rather than letting success cloud their judgment.

Pablo recognizes the power of comedy to spark conversations about serious topics, even though it’s often tricky to find the balance. 'Comedy is a funny way of being serious. We talk about important issues, but in a way that makes people laugh. It’s tricky, especially when it comes to politics,' he says.

Though Pablo has occasionally faced criticism for his jokes, particularly political ones, he has learned to take feedback and adapt. 'I once cracked a political joke that I thought wasn’t offensive, but people from the system told me, 'Pablo, there are other jokes you can tell. Leave politics out of it.’ And I understood.'

Despite these challenges, Pablo remains optimistic about the future of East African comedy. 'With digital platforms, we now have the chance to reach global audiences. African comedy is growing, and it’s evolving in exciting ways.'

He encourages young comedians to keep evolving, saying, 'Comedy is like a living organism. A joke told twice isn’t as funny. You have to stay fresh and always be aware of your audience.'

Pablo’s legacy is already taking shape, seen in the success of comedians he mentored, such as Mercy and Rusine, who have become prominent voices in Rwanda’s comedy scene. 'The seeds we planted years ago are now flourishing. That’s the real reward,' he reflects.

For Pablo, comedy is more than just entertainment; it’s a way to tell stories, challenge norms, and inspire change. His unplanned path from journalism to comedy is proof that life’s most rewarding journeys often come from unexpected places.

Pablo never intended to become Uganda’s top comedian.

Pablo performing at Comedy store UG in Kampala.

Kenneth Kimuli, better known as Pablo recently visited Rwanda and had an exclusive interview with The Perspective Show.

Pablo encourages young comedians to keep evolving.

For Pablo, comedy is more than just entertainment; it’s a way to tell stories.

Sam K Nkurunziza

The decision was reached after two days of high-level talks in Bunia between General Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, and General Ychaligonza Jacques, Director of Operations and Intelligence for the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).

The expanded mission aims to neutralize ADF terrorists and local armed groups that have rejected peace efforts and continue to destabilize the region. 'The aim is to restore peace throughout the Ituri region, which has been plagued by armed violence for years,' said a joint statement issued after the meeting on Friday.

The announcement came as fighting intensified near Fataki, where CODECO fighters clashed with UPDF troops in the village of Bethléem. Local residents reported heavy gunfire and explosions that echoed throughout Fataki, forcing civilians to flee.

The fresh violence followed a brutal attack last week by CODECO militias at the Lodda displaced persons’ camp, where six people, including four children, were killed.

The clashes are part of a broader and increasingly violent confrontation between the UPDF and CODECO. Recently, in a major confrontation in Fataki, UPDF forces repelled sustained attacks by CODECO militants over two days.

According to the UPDF, 242 militants were killed, making it one of the bloodiest engagements of the operation to date. However, the victory came at a cost.

Colonel David Byaruhanga, a senior UPDF officer, died from injuries sustained during the battle. According to UPDF acting spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi, the colonel was wounded by a malfunctioned RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) fired during combat.

The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) has long been blamed for some of the most brutal atrocities in eastern DRC. The Lendu-dominated militia has been responsible for massacres, ethnic killings, village burnings, and the targeting of Hema civilians for over a decade.

The group has recently been linked to a strategic alliance with the ADF, further complicating the security environment.

CODECO’s attacks, especially in Djugu and Mahagi, have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes. Local and international humanitarian organizations are warning of a deepening crisis as violence spreads and access to aid becomes increasingly restricted.

With the inclusion of Bunia in Operation Shujaa’s scope, the DRC and Uganda are signaling a new and more aggressive phase in their fight against armed groups in the Ituri Province.

Originally launched in late 2021 to target ADF strongholds in North Kivu and Ituri, the operation now appears set to tackle a broader range of militias resisting disarmament and reintegration.

The governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda have agreed to expand Operation Shujaa, their joint military campaign, into Bunia, Mahagi, and Djugu territories in Ituri Province.

IGIHE