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In an exclusive interview with Le Figaro, he reflected on his recent meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Qatar and addressed the region’s conflicts and resource challenges.

Tshisekedi and Kagame met in Doha under the mediation of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The talks aimed to ease hostilities between the two nations, but no concrete agreements emerged.

'The meeting was conducted in a good atmosphere. The first step was taken with the support of Qatari envoys. The key issue was ensuring an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Talks must continue to reach a sustainable solution,' Tshisekedi said.

Despite efforts to engage the M23 rebel group in peace negotiations, talks in Angola collapsed after M23 refused to participate, citing sanctions imposed by the European Union on its leaders. Tshisekedi insisted that solutions must come through regional dialogue processes.

'The search for a definitive solution to the Congolese crisis is guided by the Luanda and Nairobi dialogue processes, initiated by the African Union and supported by regional organizations and the United Nations,' he said.

Mineral resources and military reforms

Tshisekedi also addressed concerns about the DRC’s vast mineral wealth and ongoing negotiations with the United States. He rejected fears of rushed deals and emphasized the need for fair trade agreements.

'What I absolutely want to avoid is a sell-off or rushed agreements,' he said. 'The goal is a win-win partnership that allows the DRC to process its minerals locally, create added value, and develop a value chain.

As much as possible, raw material processing should take place here with investors who contribute to building the energy infrastructure that we lack.'

Another major issue is the presence of the FDLR, an armed group accused of harboring former génocidaires from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Rwanda sees them as a security threat, but Tshisekedi downplayed their influence.

'Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration are key. The FDLR is a residual force with no more than 750 fighters. It is insignificant compared to M23,' he stated. Tshisekedi acknowledged the weaknesses of the Congolese army, including corruption and poor pay, but noted ongoing reforms.

'Our army has about 100,000 soldiers,' he said. 'A soldier’s salary was $100 per month, but we have now increased it. A soldier on the frontlines can now earn up to $500 per month.'

He also reaffirmed the DRC’s neutral stance on global conflicts, despite condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 'We are not in conflict with Russia,' he said. 'The DRC is an invaded country, just like Ukraine.'

Despite the ongoing challenges, Tshisekedi remains adamant that the DRC will not be divided. 'I have always believed in the Congolese people’s desire for a united and indivisible Congo,' he asserted. 'I promise you that it will not happen, at least not in my lifetime.'

Tshisekedi and Kagame met in Doha under the mediation of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

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Organized by BioMassters and the World Bioenergy Association, the event focused on the potential of wood pellets as a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal, which have long been the primary sources of energy in Rwandan schools.

Founded in 2020, BioMassters is a forward-thinking Rwandan company on a mission to mitigate climate change by replacing conventional cooking fuels with eco-friendly alternatives.

With a manufacturing plant in Rubavu and a robust retail network in Kigali, the company has already distributed 6,500 stoves, significantly reducing indoor air pollution and promoting a smokeless kitchen environment.

BioMassters also sells two types of household cookstoves: the Red Stove and the “Made in Rwanda” stove, both of which provide convenience for cooks and are clean, smokeless, and efficient.

These gasifier stoves operate on affordable wood pellets, which not only reduces wood usage but also results in low running costs compared to other fuel options on the market.

The event featured a compelling panel debate on the scalability of pellet solutions, drawing insights from various industry experts.

Dr. Christian Rakos, President of the World Bioenergy Association, shared his perspective, underscoring the feasibility and necessity of such transitions for sustainable development.

“The results we’ve witnessed through these initiatives are promising. With the right support and strategic planning, this model can be effectively scaled to benefit more communities across Rwanda and beyond,” he stated.

During the workshop, Claudia Muench, CEO of BioMassters, emphasized the impact of these initiatives: “Our goal is to create a cleaner and healthier environment for our communities that is at the same time affordable. By transitioning to wood pellets made from wood waste in Rwanda, we alleviate harmful emissions and improve convenience for cooks, which ultimately benefits our students and schools.”

The company has already distributed 6,500 stoves, significantly reducing indoor air pollution.

Sylvain Rucyaha, Director at BioMassters, highlighted the impressive results of the school pilot project.

“Our transition to pellet cooking in schools has resulted in a smokeless kitchen environment, significantly reducing indoor air pollution. We’ve also achieved a remarkable reduction in wood usage, improving convenience for cooks and lowering running costs.

“These solutions are not only renewable, domestic, and affordable, but they are also clean, offering substantial benefits and demonstrating the scalability potential of our approach in transforming school cooking practices with locally produced fuel.'

Dr. Peter Sommerer, Principal of Erlauf Investment GmbH, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of investment in sustainable energy for fostering economic growth and environmental preservation.

“By investing in projects like these, we will be paving the way for a greener, more resilient future,” he remarked.

In attendance were key stakeholders representing different government agencies, international agencies and many other partners. Their participation underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and international cooperation in achieving Rwanda’s ambitious energy goals.

The workshop, themed ‘From Firewood to Modern Bioenergy — Leapfrogging the Fossil Age,’ provided a valuable platform for policymakers, educational institutions, and energy sector professionals to exchange ideas, share insights, and strategize the path forward for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

As Rwanda continues to innovate within the energy sector, initiatives like those spearheaded by BioMassters and the World Bioenergy Association are critical in driving tangible change.

These discussions and insights gathered from the workshop will undoubtedly contribute to reshaping the landscape of school cooking practices across the nation, setting a precedent for other countries to follow.

By focusing on sustainable development and community empowerment, BioMassters is not just changing the way Rwandans cook; it is driving a movement towards environmental sustainability. With plans to expand and increase production capacity in 2025/26, the company plans to play a pivotal role in Rwanda’s energy transformation.

As the world shifts towards more sustainable practices, Rwanda’s commitment, demonstrated through events like this workshop, showcases the nation’s leadership in environmental stewardship and innovative energy solutions.

The impact of these efforts will be felt far beyond the borders of Rwanda, offering a model of success for sustainable development globally.

Claudia Muench, CEO of BioMassters, emphasized the impact of clean cooking initiatives.

Dr. Christian Rakos, President of the World Bioenergy Association, shared his perspective, underscoring the feasibility and necessity of such transitions for sustainable development.

Discussions and insights gathered from the workshop are expected to undoubtedly contribute to reshaping the landscape of school cooking practices across the nation, setting a precedent for other countries to follow.

Sylvain Rucyaha, Director at BioMassters, highlighted the impressive results of the school pilot project.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for policymakers, educational institutions, and energy sector professionals to exchange ideas, share insights, and strategize the path forward for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Dr. Peter Sommerer, Principal of Erlauf Investment GmbH highlighted the critical role of investment in sustainable energy for fostering economic growth and environmental preservation.

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Eric Mahoro, the Permanent Secretary of MINUBUMWE, made this announcement on March 18, 2025, during the official launch of new unity and reconciliation lessons. These lessons are being provided to genocide convicts as they prepare for reintegration into society.

The Genocide against the Tutsi, which ended with the intervention of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), led to the prosecution of over 120,000 individuals. Rwanda used a restorative justice system through Gacaca courts to address those involved in the Genocide.

A study in 2010 highlighted the success of these courts in promoting reconciliation. It found that 83% of those who admitted their crimes sought forgiveness and committed to rejecting genocide ideology. Additionally, 85% of the victims’ families forgave the perpetrators, enabling peaceful coexistence in daily life.

According to MINUBUMWE data, in 2018, there were 27,662 genocide convicts in Rwandan prisons. By 2024, this number had decreased to 17,546, and between August 2024 and January 2025, 509 convicts were released, bringing the total number of remaining prisoners down to 17,037.

'Between March and May 2025, around 192 prisoners will be reintegrated into their families. The remaining convicts will continue to be released as they complete their sentences,' Mahoro explained.

He urged the genocide convicts who are nearing the end of their sentences to reject the ideology of genocide and to share the truth about the past with their children, rather than falsely claiming victimhood.

Currently, genocide convicts approaching release are gathered at two main locations: male convicts at Nyamasheke Prison and female convicts at Nyamagabe Prison. Two months prior to their release, they receive lessons aimed at preparing them for reintegration into Rwandan society, focusing on unity and reconciliation.

A total of 114 Genocide convicts are undergoing training ahead of their release.

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The meeting, hosted by the State of Qatar under the leadership of Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, was a significant step in addressing the ongoing tensions in the region and reaffirming commitments to peace and stability in Eastern DRC.

In a statement released by the AUC on Wednesday, March 19, Chairperson Youssouf commended the leaders for their commitment to dialogue and peaceful resolution of the crisis in Eastern DRC.

He emphasized that their engagement reflected true leadership and a shared recognition that peace, security, and stability are essential for the prosperity of both nations and the wider Great Lakes region.

Youssouf further acknowledged the reaffirmation by both leaders of their commitment to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, as agreed during the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Dar es Salaam on 8 February 2025.

The tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have been longstanding, primarily revolving around mutual accusations.

DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group in its ongoing conflict with the Congolese army, a claim that Rwanda strongly rejects.

Rwanda, in turn, has accused the DRC of harboring the FDLR, a terrorist group linked to the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, alleging that the group seeks to destabilize Rwanda’s security.

The Doha meeting saw both leaders reaffirming their commitment to the Luanda and Nairobi processes, regional peace initiatives aimed at finding lasting solutions to the conflict in Eastern DRC.

In his statement, Chairperson Youssouf also expressed the African Union’s continued support for African-led solutions to African challenges, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.

“The Doha discussions, held in the spirit of constructive engagement, align with the efforts of the Luanda and Nairobi processes and complement ongoing regional mechanisms,” he said.

“We emphasize the importance of continued coordination between the African Union, regional economic communities, and international partners in fostering sustainable peace.”

Youssouf expressed gratitude to the State of Qatar and Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani for their instrumental role in facilitating this critical dialogue.

He also urged all stakeholders to maintain the positive momentum generated in Doha and to work collectively toward the full implementation of the agreements reached.

“The African Union Commission stands ready to support and accompany these efforts in line with its mandate to promote peace, security, and stability across the continent,” concluded Youssouf.

The African Union has welcomed Doha meeting between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi

Théophile Niyitegeka

One app for everything essential in Rwanda

Rwandans rely on multiple apps to manage their digital lives with services such as applying for government services, settling traffic fines, paying for utilities, accessing healthcare, ordering food, reading news, and accessing other essential services usually means navigating a fragmented digital landscape.

Each service requires a separate app or platform, leading to cluttered devices, wasted storage, and a frustrating user experience. Difficulty juggling multiple accounts, remembering passwords, and managing security settings across different apps also increases the risk of data breaches.

IremboApp aims to solve these challenges by bringing the most essential services into a single, secure platform. Instead of switching between different apps, users can manage key services in one place, saving time while ensuring their data remains protected.

Starting with the most requested services

The first version of IremboApp, which is available in Kinyarwanda, English and French, focuses on high-demand government services that affect millions of people.

Citizens can apply for birth, celibacy, and marriage certificates or access them securely and easily in the app’s safe box, protected by the phone’s PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID.

Additionally, citizens can easily check and pay for community-based health insurance (mutuelle de santé) in just a few taps.

Finally, most people only realize they have traffic fines when checking manually or getting stopped by the police. With IremboApp, citizens receive an in-app notification when a fine is issued, and they can pay with one tap to avoid late penalties.

IremboApp 1.0 also comes with time-saving personalization and convenience features such as saving their MTN MoMo or Airtel Money number in the app and use it whenever they need to make a payment without repeatedly entering their payment details. They can also save their car details in the app to never miss a traffic fine again.

“IremboApp is a vision for a simplified, personalized, and localized digital future for Rwanda’s consumers,” said Israel BIMPE, CEO of Irembo.

“We are starting with the most popular government services because they impact everyone’s life. But this is just the beginning. We aim to create a comprehensive super app that delivers breakthrough convenience and safety in consumers’ digital lives by putting essential services they need right in the palm of their hands,” he added.

Early users are already feeling the impact

For example, motorcycle taxi riders can use the IremboApp to manage some essential services. With it, everything comes through effortlessly. You can get notified whenever there’s a fine and can pay it easily and at any time.

The good thing is that the app is available in Kinyarwanda, unlike most phone apps, which are commonly either in English or French.

How to get started

IremboApp is available now on Google Play and the App Store. After downloading the app, getting started is quick and easy;

Begin by logging in with your Irembo account or create one using your phone number and National ID. Add your car details (license plate and TIN) to receive real-time traffic fine notifications and pay with one tap. Easily access your certificates or apply for one in a few taps.

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The Central Bank’s Governor, Soraya Hakuziyaremye, noted that remittances from the diaspora have continued to grow at a positive rate.

She also highlighted that funds from foreign investment also increased considerably, reaching $573 million in 2024, up from $458 million in 2023.

Looking at the trend over recent years, remittances from the Rwandan diaspora stood at $274 million in 2020, rising to $379 million in 2021 and $461 million in 2022.

By 2023, the figure had reached $505 million, reflecting consistent growth in the flow of funds from abroad.

Remittances from the Rwandan diaspora reached $502 million in 2024, slightly down from the $505 million recorded in 2023.

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This remarkable growth was driven by strong performances across various sectors of the economy, signaling resilience and growth amidst global challenges.

The figures released by NISR on Wednesday also show that the services sector was the largest contributor to the GDP, accounting for 48% of the total. Agriculture followed with 25%, while industry contributed 21% while net direct taxes accounted for 7%.

The growth was seen throughout the year, with the first quarter growing by 9.7%, the second by 9.8%, the third by 8.1%, and the final quarter showing a growth of 8%.

Looking at the individual sectors, agriculture experienced a 5% increase. This was largely attributed to a good harvest in both agricultural seasons, with food crop production rising by 5%. Season A saw an 8% increase, while Season B recorded a 2% increase.

However, the production of export crops decreased by 1%, with modest increases in coffee and tea offset by declines in other cash crops such as pyrethrum and sugarcane.

The industry sector experienced a notable boost, growing by 10%. Mining and quarrying activities increased by 12%, construction activities also saw a 12% increase, and manufacturing activities grew by 7%.

The growth in manufacturing was particularly driven by significant increases in the production of metal products, machinery and equipment (up 20%), non-metallic mineral products (up 15%), and chemicals, rubber, and plastic products (up 15%). Other areas like textiles, clothing, and leather also saw a 10% increase in manufacturing, while food processing grew by 2%.

The services sector also showed remarkable growth, with a 10% increase overall. Wholesale and retail trade surged by 18%, while transport activities rose by 9%, including an 18% growth in air transport and a 10% increase in land transport.

Other service areas performed well, with hotels and restaurants seeing an 11% growth, information and communication services up by 25%, and financial services growing by 7%. Public administration services increased by 10%, while health services grew by 15%, and education services saw a 5% rise.

This photo shows the aerial view of kigali Special Economic Zone in Masoro.

Théophile Niyitegeka

At the event, held in Cheongju, South Korea, under the theme, 'Building bridges for Korean reunification: Establishing legal and practical frameworks for peace', close to a thousand domestic and international leaders gathered, outlining a comprehensive plan for a nationwide peace and unification initiative.

Spearheaded by HWPL, a UN ECOSOC-accredited international NGO, the 'Together: connecting Korea' campaign, involving approximately 170 civic groups, aims to foster communication and harmony across Korean society.

The newly formed committee will focus on expanding socio-cultural exchanges between North and South Korea and establishing a robust foundation for future unification.

HWPL Chairman Lee Man-hee said, 'The expeditious path to unification lies in the implementation of free movement. It is imperative that we pursue unification through constructive dialogue without force. Our country must become a testament to peace. We should work together thereby future generations can be happy and our wishes can come true'

Ven. Seok Yeonhwa, Chairman of the Supreme Patriarch of the World Buddhist Sangha Council, detailed the committee’s future plans.

'We will unite people’s hearts through campaigns, expand the public understanding and support for unification through education, and conduct research on post-unification social and economic integration.'

Kim Yeong-geun, the 32nd Rector of Sungkyunkwan emphasized the critical role of civilian exchanges, calling for 'a legal and institutional framework to ensure their continuity, regardless of political shifts.'

A cornerstone of the event was the presentation of a draft of 'The Constitution Establishing a Unified Korea' by Professor Ciarán Burke of Friedrich-Schiller University Jena.

Developed by the HWPL International Law Peace Committee, this draft establishes legal foundations for a unified Korea, including denuclearization goals and a peace system that protects citizens’ rights and welfare.

'This initiative will be furthering the cause of Korean unification, of future stability, and ensuring that the region and the world is likely to remain a more peaceful place,” said Prof. Ciarán Burke.

Korean Unification Musical Performance 9th Annual Commemoration of the DPCW.

Ven. Seok Yeonhwa at the 9th Annual Commemoration of the DPCW.

Chairman Lee addresses at the 9th Annual Commemoration of the DPCW.

New Launch of the Preparatory Committee for Peaceful Unification on DPCW.

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Participants expressed their hope for world peace and Korean unification by writing 'Peace Letters' to support the DPCW. They also filmed a video under the theme 'We Are One for Korea', sending a peace message to global citizens.

On 14 March 2016, HWPL proclaimed the DPCW, which was drafted with the participation of international law experts from 15 countries. This declaration, comprised of 10 articles and 38 clauses, aims to restore the spirit that served as the basis for the establishment of the United Nations and to achieve sustainable peace by promoting the universal values of the global community. The DPCW embodies the principles and measures for preventing and resolving conflicts and sustaining a peaceful global society.

The commemorative event followed a well-organized program, beginning with an introduction about HWPL and the DPCW. Subsequently, participants recorded the 'Together Challenge' video to share a message of peace. They also wrote Peace Letters, expressing their hopes for the unification of the Korean Peninsula. The event concluded with the registration of 200 new members to HWPL.

After signing an MOU with the Islamic College of Thailand in 2022, HWPL has continued to engage in cultural exchange and volunteer activities, such as the Korean Teaching Class at the school. Last year, the organization provided peace education training for teachers and helped establish the school as the first in Thailand to introduce peace education across all classes.

Chollada Suawong, a teacher at the Islamic College of Thailand, said, 'We have carried out various HWPL activities at school, such as peace education, a peace walk, a peace drawing contest, and a Korean language exchange class. This was the first time we wrote peace messages for Korea’s unification and supported the DPCW, making it a truly memorable experience.

“Young generations need to learn how to respect and love one another and how to build peace in society. HWPL’s peace activities are always excellent for fostering these values.'

An official of HWPL mentioned that the support for Korean Peninsula unification at this commemorative event is especially significant, as Thailand has historically maintained a close relationship with Korea.

This includes its participation in the Korean War, during which Thailand sent approximately 12,000 soldiers as part of the Allied forces to help restore peace in Korea.

This coming May, the school is set to host the 12th anniversary of the HWPL World Peace Declaration and a Peace Walk event. These activities are expected to promote a culture of peace in Thailand.

Approximately 625 teachers and students, recently gathered at the Islamic College of Thailand to commemorate the 9th anniversary of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War.

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The stadium hosted its first official game on Sunday, with the Junior Starlets defeating Uganda’s Teen Cranes 3-0 in a U-17 World Cup qualifier. Despite this milestone, a few finishing touches are still required before the venue undergoes its final inspection ahead of CHAN in August.

The Ministry of Sports has provided an update on the remaining improvements needed before the stadium receives full approval to host the 2024 CHAN matches. While renovations are also ongoing at Kasarani Stadium, officials have confirmed that Nyayo is currently the most prepared venue.

In addition to hosting CHAN, Nyayo Stadium is expected to become the home ground for the Kenyan national football team, Harambee Stars, under newly appointed head coach Benni McCarthy.

The team is set to play crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, beginning with an away match against Gambia on March 20 in Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile, the Football Kenya Federation (KFF) and the Ministry of Sports are in discussions to host the Gabon fixture at Nyayo Stadium on March 23, potentially marking the return of senior international matches to Kenya.

Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum expressed optimism that the stadium could be ready in time for the Gabon match, following the successful hosting of the Junior Starlets vs. Teen Cranes game.

'That is what we are hoping for. But for now, we are still in talks with FKF to see how we can arrange for them to play here,' Tum said when asked about the possibility of playing the fixture in Nairobi.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has already given Nyayo Stadium a preliminary green light, as evidenced by its approval for the Kenya vs. Uganda U-17 match. However, a final inspection is still pending before the venue can be fully cleared for CHAN and other international fixtures.

'CAF are saying the stadium is good to go, and that is why we were allowed to host this game on this ground. They will come later for another inspection,' Tum explained.

One of the final aspects of the renovation is installing a scoreboard, which falls under the second phase of the stadium’s upgrade plan.

However, Tum reassured that all critical facilities, including floodlights, would be fully functional before the Gabon match.

'The only thing remaining is the scoreboard, which is in the phase two plan because, for CHAN, the scoreboard will be there. If you look at the floodlights, they are functioning, so by the 23rd, everything will be ready,' he confirmed.

Nyayo National Stadium nears full approval ahead of CHAN 2024.

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