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Kamerhe resigned from this position on September 22, 2025, following pressure from members of the National Assembly who accused him of mismanaging funds and undermining the credibility of the legislative body.

It was expected that the person replacing Kamerhe would come from his party, the UNC, in accordance with the agreement within the Union Sacrée. However, it appears that many politicians, including some long-time members of DRC politics, are vying for this position.

Among the candidates is one from the UNC party, two from Tshisekedi’s UDPS party, and one from each of the other parties within the Union Sacrée.

On October 22, Willy Buhini Mishiki, from the PEP AAP party, opposed the idea of replacing Kamerhe with a member of his own party, arguing that such a move is not in line with democratic principles.

“The Union Sacrée does not have representatives in the National Assembly. Therefore, there is no reason to appoint a single candidate,” he said.

Among the candidates is Christophe Mboso N’Kodia, who served as the President of the National Assembly from 2021 to 2024 and is currently the Second Vice President of the Assembly.

Mboso has expressed his belief that he is the best candidate to lead the Assembly, based on his experience in the institution and in the country’s politics.

President Tshisekedi’s decision as leader of the Union Sacrée could determine who will represent the alliance in this competition, with the potential for the candidate to win.

Twelve politicians from the Union Sacrée, the alliance supporting President Félix Tshisekedi’s government in the Democratic Republic of Congo, are competing to replace Vital Kamerhe as the President of the National Assembly.

IGIHE

Ambassador Thorpe shared that while traveling to Gisenyi for the Commonwealth Games’ King’s Baton Relay, she stopped for a brief moment in Bigogwe, where she successfully milked a cow for the first time.

Bigogwe is located in the western part of Rwanda, in the Nyabihu District. It is a well-known area for cattle farming and the high-quality pasture found on its hills.

This journey gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the importance of cows in Rwandan culture.

Traditionally, farmers explain that cows are not just a source of milk, but also a symbol of wealth, unity, and value among the people. In Rwandan culture, giving a cow to someone is a strong sign of love and partnership.

Visitors to Bigogwe often participate in milking cows. For someone doing it for the first time, it is not as easy as it looks, but they gain essential skills and knowledge.

Ambassador Thorpe shared her experience on social media, posting photos from her time in Bigogwe. She expressed her happiness about milking the cow for the first time, despite the difficulty she faced.

'On my journey to Gisenyi for the King’s Baton Relay of the Commonwealth Games, I stopped in Bigogwe to try milking a cow for the first time. There was more milk on my pants than in the bucket! It was fun, and I learned a lot about the importance of cows in Rwandan culture,' she said.

Ngabo Karegeya, the founder of 'Ibere rya Bigogwe,' who started cow based tourism activities in the area, is known on social media for helping people visit cattle farms and promoting livestock farming.

Karegeya explains that his passion for cattle comes from his mother, who raised him around cows, feeding him milk, and forming a close bond with them.

British High Commissioner Thorpe has shared joy of milking a cow for first time in Rwanda.

Ambassador Thorpe shared her experience on social media, posting photos from her time in Bigogwe.

Traditionally, farmers explain that cows are not just a source of milk, but also a symbol of wealth, unity, and value among the people.

Rania Umutoni

Among them are two appointed by President Paul Kagame: Dr. Uwamariya Valentine and Gasana Alfred, as well as two elected by political parties; Dr. Frank Habineza, president of the Green Party, and Nkubana Alphonse, president of the PSP party focused on social welfare and development. They join Evode Uwizeyimana and Prof. Dusingizemungu Jean Pierre who are beginning their second term after reappointment.

After the swearing-in of the six senators, the Senate of Rwanda now comprises 26 senators, including 13 women and 13 men, which represents 50% women, reinforcing the principle of gender equality.

President Kagame reminded them of their heavy responsibilities where Rwandans expect much greater than the country’s resources, emphasizing the need to strive for excellence in their work.

'The Senate allows government institutions to direct their efforts appropriately and conducts necessary evaluations to ensure that all institutions remain aligned. It is your duty to align the country’s long-term goals with the daily lives of Rwandans,' he said.

He continued, 'It is crucial that decisions made reflect the needs of Rwandans and provide solutions to the problems they face.'

Pledge to serve citizens’ interests

Dr. Uwamariya Valentine, who has been appointed as a senator, has held various positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Environment, among other roles.

In an interview with IGIHE, she expressed her gratitude for President Kagame’s continued trust in her, which reinforces the expectation of positive results.

She said, 'I am very grateful because the Head of State has placed his trust in me more times than I can count. I would say he still expects a lot from me. I was very happy when he appointed me, but once everything settles down, you sit and think, 'What is expected of me?’ You feel grateful and immediately think about what you are going to do for Rwandans and Rwanda. To repay that trust is to work well.'

She mentioned that she is ready to implement the duties of the legislative body, including overseeing government activities, passing laws to address citizens’ problems, engaging in debates, and attending consultations.

Dr. Uwamariya said, 'It’s about working together. From where I come from, I believe it won’t be hard to oversee because you are aware of the challenges. We have a unique country, with a unique history, and our approach must be distinct. There is oversight and consultations, and the President has asked us to work in an extraordinary way, focusing on the country’s development and the progress of its people.'

She emphasized the readiness to collaborate with her colleagues, working towards a common goal and following the country’s vision.

Amb. Alfred Gasana, who has previously served as Minister of Internal Security and as Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, also expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Kagame.

He said, 'I deeply thank the President for trusting me once again by appointing me as a senator. It’s a great honor. To repay him is to work with all my intelligence, heart, and strength. The President reminded us to implement the duties entrusted to us. I promise not to disappoint him, and I assure Rwandans the same.'

Amb. Gasana stated that, regarding the responsibilities they are about to undertake, they will focus on the welfare of the citizens.

Alphonse Nkubana, who was appointed a senator, said, 'We are happy to have been given these new responsibilities, and the President has made it clear that we must work according to the wishes of the people. We are here, with strength and wisdom.'

Dr. Frank Habineza, who has previously served as a Member of Parliament, expressed that he would continue his duties of overseeing government activities, assuring that he would continue to advocate for the people.

He said, 'I am happy to continue serving in the legislative body. We deeply appreciate the President for the trust he has placed in us, and the legislature’s role is to represent the people of Rwanda.'

He added, 'I believe you will see me as I was in Parliament. It depends on the duties of the Senate, but it still has the responsibility to speak on behalf of the people, visit them, and when they raise concerns to us, we must find solutions. We will continue to advocate for them even more effectively.'

The new senators’ term will end in October 2030, while 20 others will finish theirs in 2029.
A senator’s term usually lasts for five years, renewable once.

Six new senators who entered the Senate of Rwanda after taking an oath of office on October 24, 2025, have pledged to do their best in fulfilling their duties for the benefit of Rwandans.

Evode Uwizeyimana is a Senator in the Parliament of Rwanda, initially appointed by President Kagame in October 2020. He holds a Master’s degree in Law.

Prof. Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu was recently reappointed for another term in Rwanda’s Senate.

Dr. Habineza is a politician and environmental advocate in Rwanda. In August 2009, he officially entered politics by founding the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda (GDPR), a party focused on democracy and environmental protection.

Alfred Gasana is among new members of Senate.

President Kagame reminded senators of their heavy responsibilities.

IGIHE

Unlike typical real estate projects designed for quick sales, Fortis Green is pursuing a build-to-rent model aimed at fostering long-term community living. Of the total units, 302 apartments, consisting of one-, two-, and three-bedroom options in ground-plus-three buildings, will be retained, owned, and managed by the developer for rental. In addition, 51 single-family homes, including twins, duplexes, or semi-detached units with one shared wall, and 33 townhouses will be available for purchase.

Fortis Green Housing officially broke ground on the Masaka Views Eco Estate on Friday, October 24, 2025.

Managing Director Jonathan Shafer said the strategy aligns with market realities and Rwanda’s surging demand for rental housing.

'Our research found that around 95% of homes sold in Kigali are immediately rented out,' he noted. 'Homeownership remains difficult due to financing barriers. So we want to own and operate these units long-term to provide stable, well-managed housing communities.'

The remaining homes, including three- and four-bedroom single-family houses priced between $120,000 and $135,000, target middle-income buyers seeking more flexible financing options. Discussions are ongoing with banks and potential investors to introduce lease-to-own arrangements in future phases.

The entire three-phase project is valued at approximately $25 million (Rwf 36 billion).

Managing Director Jonathan Shafer said the build-to-rent as well as mixed-income property strategy aligns with market realities and Rwanda’s surging demand for rental housing.

Sustainability at the core

Masaka Views is designed as an EDGE-certified eco-estate, promoting lower carbon emissions, energy efficiency, and water-saving techniques. The project includes a living fence, fruit trees, public green spaces, and a community garden to support wellness and environmental engagement.

According to the Managing Director, the Fortis Green Wellness Initiative will provide residents with access to programmes that promote both physical and mental well-being. These will include fitness activities, gardening workshops, and community support services designed to foster a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Masaka Views is designed as an EDGE-certified eco-estate, promoting lower carbon emissions, energy efficiency, and water-saving techniques.

Government sees strategic market opportunity

Speaking at the ceremony, which was also attended by the United States Ambassador to Rwanda, Eric Kneedler, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Chief Investment Officer Michelle Umurungi said the project reflects the country’s urbanisation priorities.

'Housing remains a critical need for our population. Kigali’s rapid urbanisation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. We’re delighted to see investors like Fortis Green Holdings stepping into this opportunity, meeting the growing demand by designing communities that are greener, smarter, and more resilient,' she said, praising Fortis Green for its confidence in Rwanda’s investment environment.

RDB Chief Investment Officer Michelle Umurungi said the project reflects the country’s urbanisation priorities.

The project is financed through a mix of U.S. investment capital and local banking partnerships. Most building materials will be sourced from Rwandan manufacturers to support the local construction ecosystem.

Delivery time

Phase 1 of the development includes the construction of 51 single-family homes, 33 townhouses, and 88 apartments, with the first units expected to be handed over in early 2026. The entire phase is planned for completion within approximately 13 months, after which Phase 2 will begin, keeping construction continuous until the full project is delivered in about two and a half years.

The ground breaking ceremony, which was also attended by the United States Ambassador to Rwanda, Eric Kneedler.

Market demand heating up

Kigali is projected to need over 30,000 new housing units per year, driven by a rising urban population and increasing demand for home financing. Investors say this reality signals strong long-term returns for rental-focused developments.

Early buyer interest supports this view. One future resident, Beatrice Hariri, said flexible payment terms and environmental commitment influenced her decision.

'It’s a welcoming community that aligns with Rwanda’s priorities. The affordability and flexible payment options made it possible for me,' she said.

Early buyer Beatrice Hariri (center) said flexible payment terms and environmental commitment influenced her decision.

As ground breaks in Masaka, Fortis Green plans additional estates both within and outside Kigali, signalling continuation of its long-term strategy.

'We want to create communities that improve lives,' Shafer said. 'Kigali’s growth story is only getting started, and we’re here for the long run.'

The seven-hectare project, located near the upcoming Kigali Medical City, will deliver over 300 modern housing units with a focus on sustainability, affordability, and community living.

Fortis Green Housing officially broke ground on the Masaka Views Eco Estate on Friday, October 24, 2025.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The groups share a common goal: to undermine Rwanda by any means possible. For instance, since its formation, the RNC has attempted multiple operations that disrupted national security.

Between March 2010 and January 2013, these activities were widespread. During this period, Kayumba Nyamwasa and Patrick Karegeya, leaders of the RNC, appointed individuals to recruit at least 100 former FDLR members to support their terrorist operations.

On several occasions, IGIHE has interviewed people affected by these frequent attacks.

During the trial of Lt Joel Mutabazi, the involvement of the RNC led by Kayumba Nyamwasa, in the plot was highlighted. It was revealed that in June 2013, members of the RNC and FDLR met at the Mamba Point Bar in Kampala, Uganda, to plan attacks in Kigali during the parliamentary elections scheduled for September, as well as other attacks planned for the Christmas and New Year period.

Among the grenades thrown in Kigali in 2010, one exploded at 'Kwa Rubangura' in downtown Kigali, while another grenade was thrown at 'Chez Venant,' where taxis bound for various parts of the city were waiting. A third grenade was thrown at the Nyabugogo bus terminal.

On the afternoon of August 11, 2010, seven people were injured when grenades were thrown at Kwa Rubangura in downtown Kigali.

On May 15, 2010, another grenade attack in downtown Kigali killed two people and severely injured approximately 32 others. Grenade attacks were not limited to Kigali; other areas, including Nyamagabe, Gisagara, Muhanga, Huye, and Rubavu, were also targeted. In Muhanga City, at a location known as 'Jacques,’ a grenade exploded on January 24, 2010, injuring 16 people, some of whom later died in hospital.

Personal accounts of victims

Barahira Rwema Issa and Mukayiranga Annonciata were among those injured by grenades in Kigali during 2010. While not all injuries were severe, victims continue to suffer from shrapnel-related pain and permanent scars.

Rwema was injured by a grenade at 'Kwa Rubangura' on February 19, 2010, while about to board a vehicle to return to Muhanga. He recalls: 'I had just dropped off a passenger and was about to go home to Muhanga when I asked if I could leave. As I was leaving Rubangura, I was walking near the SP station, where bus companies like Horizon operate. That’s when I heard a loud noise and saw a flash of light—the grenade exploded.'

Mukayiranga was injured on July 11, 2010, while running errands for her brother’s upcoming wedding.

She explained: 'The first taxi came, but people rushed and took it from me. I went back and stood there, then decided to take a motorcycle around 1:30 PM. When the motorcycle arrived, a girl nearby handed it to me. That’s the last thing I remember. Then, there was a sudden blast. People fell to the ground. When I regained consciousness, I saw the motorcycle on the ground and the girl bleeding heavily. She must have been cut in half.'

Rwema added, 'It was terrifying. I didn’t even know I had been hit by grenade shrapnel in my back. I felt a burning sensation, and someone at Horizon told me I was bleeding heavily. He helped me near my spine.'

Mukayiranga recounted, 'Right after the explosion, there were many injured people. I didn’t realise I was hurt until someone near the BK headquarters told me. I rushed to CHUK for treatment for my leg wounds and received a tetanus shot. I felt dizzy, thinking it was fear, but later realised my shoes were slippery because they were filled with blood. There were so many wounded people, I couldn’t tell the exact number.'

Attacks by FLN in 2018

In 2018, the FLN carried out attacks in areas near the Nyungwe Forest, looting populations, killing civilians, and destroying infrastructure. These attacks occurred on various dates, including June 3, June 19, July 1, July 13, and November 15, 2018.

The vehicle of the Nyabimata Sector Executive Secretary was set ablaze by the FLN.

Reports indicate that some individuals within the Burundian government supported these attacks, although they were carried out covertly. The group killed citizens, looted shops and livestock, kidnapped people, injured others, and destroyed homes and vehicles.

Josephine Mukashyaka, from Nyabimata Sector in Nyaruguru District, lost her husband, Fidèle Munyaneza, in these attacks.

'My husband was the breadwinner of our home. He was my pride and the pride of our children. Life is hard now because he is no longer here,” she said.

Marie Chantal Ingabire, from Kibeho Sector, lost her husband, Anathole Maniraho, leaving her with two children. On the night of Tuesday, June 19, 2018, the group attacked the Nyabimata Sector offices, injuring the Sector Executive Secretary and burned his car.

During the same attack, they killed Fidèle Munyaneza, Anathole Maniraho, and a local resident, Joseph Habimana. The Nyaruguru District authorities reported that the attacks occurred between 07:30 PM and midnight.

In 2021, the FLN attempted another attack on Rwanda via Nyungwe. However, their fighters were neutralised.

In 2021, discussing FLN fighters who were killed while attempting to destabilise Rwanda’s security, Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga stated that the RDF 'took the necessary action' and warned that the same would happen to anyone else who tried to threaten the nation’s security.

FDLR and RUD Urunana attacks

Since 1994, FDLR attacks on Rwanda have been continuous, primarily targeting the northwestern regions along the DRC border. Their objective has consistently been to return to Rwanda and resume the genocide agenda they fled from.

In October 2019, RUD-Urunana fighters attacked Musanze District, targeting Kinigi and Musanze Sectors. Fourteen people were killed, 18 were injured, and community infrastructures, including homes, were destroyed.

In March, May, and June 2022, FDLR forces, reportedly collaborating with DRC military units, shelled Musanze District using mortar bombs. In January 2025, they shelled Rubavu District, killing 16 people.

IGIHE

The statement said the UN chief took note of the decision of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union to immediately suspend the country from participation in all activities of the union, its organs and institutions, until constitutional order is restored in the country.

“The Secretary-General encourages all the Malagasy stakeholders, including the youth, to work together to address the underlying causes of instability in the country,” the statement said.

Guterres also reiterated the availability of the United Nations to support national efforts toward the attainment of that goal, in collaboration with the African Union, the Southern African Development Community and other international partners, the statement added.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a Malagasy military officer, announced on Tuesday that state power in Madagascar had been taken over by a military council comprising members of the army, gendarmerie and national police, and the country’s constitution had been suspended.

Protests erupted in Madagascar in late September, initially triggered by widespread power outages and water shortages. Some demonstrations turned violent and soon escalated into calls for the president’s resignation. The protests took a new turn on Saturday, with an army regiment declaring its support for and protection of the protesters.

Xinhua

Under the deal, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was designated to locate the prisoners, verify related information, and facilitate their transfer between the two sides.

However, a month later and despite Qatari mediation, no prisoners have been released. Instead, both parties continue to trade accusations of violating the ceasefire in North and South Kivu provinces.

On October 13, 2025, representatives from the DRC Government and AFC/M23 reconvened in Qatar to discuss compliance with the ceasefire and the modalities for the prisoner exchange, ahead of the next phase that is expected to lead to a peace accord.

The ceasefire implementation has since been given structure, with both sides agreeing to establish a joint monitoring mechanism composed of mediators and observers.

But progress on the prisoner issue has stalled. The list of detainees remains incomplete, the locations of some prisoners are unknown, and several cases are still under judicial review. As a result, an exchange cannot yet proceed.

Following agreement on the ceasefire monitoring mechanism on October 14, talks began to address the outstanding challenges surrounding prisoner release. The discussions are expected to last about ten days.

Mediators and observers, including representatives from the United States and the African Union, have intensified pressure for tangible results, especially after the parties failed to meet their initial target of signing a peace agreement by August 2025.

AFC/M23 has submitted a list of prisoners it wants freed by the DRC Government. The list includes its members, such as Eric Nkuba Shebandu, a former adviser to Corneille Nangaa, along with others accused of belonging to the movement.

The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the AFC/M23 rebel alliance signed an agreement in Doha on October 14, 2025, establishing a joint ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism aimed at consolidating peace efforts in the country’s volatile east.

IGIHE

“I have just concluded my telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, and it was a very productive one,” said Trump on Truth Social.

“We also spent a great deal of time talking about Trade between Russia and the United States when the War with Ukraine is over,” he said.

“I believe great progress was made with today’s telephone conversation,” he added.

Trump said the two countries agreed to hold a high-level advisors’ meeting next week, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the U.S. delegation, adding that the meeting location is to be determined.

“President Putin and I will then meet in an agreed upon location, Budapest, Hungary, to see if we can bring this ‘inglorious’ War, between Russia and Ukraine, to an end,” Trump said.

The phone conversation came one day ahead of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s scheduled visit to the White House.

Trump and Putin met in the U.S. state of Alaska in August, but no deal was reached. In late September, Trump said on social media that he believes Ukraine, with the support of the European Union and NATO, “is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form.”

Talks between Trump and Putin in Budapest, Hungary, aim to end the Russia—Ukraine conflict, following a recent phone conversation between the two leaders.

Xinhua

The launch event held at the Kigali Convention Center convened high-level representatives from government, financial institutions, the private sector, development partners, and civil society to discuss and re-affirm commitment to the successful implementation of the strategy and to deepening collaboration across the financial ecosystem.

Speaking during the event, Godfrey Kabera, Minister for National Treasury, emphasized that the FSDS will serve as the 'financial engine' to drive the nation’s long-term ambitions under Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

He noted that the strategy is designed to strengthen digital financial ecosystems, promote savings, and facilitate access to resources needed to expand trade and investment.
'Through this strategy, we aim to expand private sector engagement, create quality jobs, and ensure a more inclusive economic growth for all Rwandans,' he said.

The FSDS 2025—2029 aligns closely with Rwanda’s broader goal of positioning itself as a regional financial hub through the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC).

It seeks to transform the financial sector into a powerful vehicle for mobilizing and channeling capital toward key national priorities.

The strategy highlights the importance of improving access to finance, particularly for underserved groups such as women, youth, small and medium enterprises, and the agricultural sector.

By 2029, the strategy targets a doubling of the national savings rate from 12.4% to 25.9% of GDP, alongside deeper financial inclusion and literacy across all segments of the population.

It also aims for more than 70% of private sector financing under NST2 to be mobilized through the domestic financial system, signaling a shift toward greater reliance on local financial institutions to drive growth.

By harnessing digital technologies, reinforcing regulatory frameworks, and fostering public-private partnerships, the FSDS 2025-2029 marks a decisive step in mobilizing the financial resources required to meet Rwanda’s ambitious development targets, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all its citizens.

Rwanda has launched new Financial Sector Development Strategy to accelerate inclusive economic growth.

IGIHE

The event, organized by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in partnership with the Embassy of Rwanda in Germany and the Tourism Chamber, followed successful engagements in Utrecht (Netherlands).

It aimed to connect Rwandan tour operators with European travel professionals and promote new, tailor-made packages for the German market.

In his remarks, Ambassador Igor César described Rwanda, the Land of a Thousand Hills, as a destination where nature, culture, and innovation meet.

He highlighted the country’s rich landscapes stretching from Nyungwe and Volcanoes to Akagera and Gishwati-Mukura National Parks, offering experiences from gorilla trekking and rainforest hikes to savanna safaris and urban exploration in Kigali.

Sustainability was a key theme. Amb. César emphasized Rwanda’s success in wildlife conservation, including the reintroduction of lions and rhinos, which has transformed Akagera National Park into a 'Big Five' destination.

He also underscored the Tourism Revenue Sharing Program, through which over Frw 18.1 billion has funded more than 1,190 community projects around national parks, ensuring tourism directly benefits local communities.

Speaking to tour operators and agents, Amb. César described them as 'storytellers' who shape travelers’ choices and invited them to integrate Rwanda into their itineraries.

With Germany among Rwanda’s top ten tourism source markets, the roadshow reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable partnerships and to positioning itself as one of Africa’s most compelling and responsible destinations.

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe