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Gasamagera made these remarks during a meeting held on September 18, 2025, between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, and members of the National Consultative Forum of Political Organizations.

Ingabire, the founder of DALFA-Umurinzi (an unregistered political party in Rwanda), has been in detention since June. She faces charges of attempting to undermine the government, spreading false information, and planning activities intended to incite public unrest.

Her trial was scheduled to begin on September 2, but she rejected the panel of High Court judges assigned to her case, claiming she did not trust them to deliver justice, since it was the same panel that had previously requested investigations against her in a case involving other members of DALFA-Umurinzi.

On September 11, members of the EU Parliament demanded that Ingabire and others facing similar charges be released immediately, alleging that their cases were politically motivated.

Minister Nduhungirehe described the EU Parliament’s request as contemptuous, though not surprising, since it was not the first time such demands had been made while Ingabire was under detention.

'This did not surprise us,' he said. 'They demanded the immediate release of Victoire Ingabire. Their request was full of contempt. It’s actually the third time: they did it in 2013, 2015, and now again in 2025.'

Gasamagera argued that the EU Parliament’s action was not only disrespectful but also reflected a colonial mindset.

'It is not just arrogance,' he said, 'it is like considering Rwanda as if it were one of your provinces.'

He reminded the forum that when Victoire Ingabire was released in September 2018, it was through a presidential pardon granted by President Paul Kagame after she had admitted her wrongdoing and pledged not to reoffend. Gasamagera stressed that those now calling for her release endorsed her past actions.

'We all know what happened. We know this woman’s behavior, how she asked for clemency, and how she was pardoned after committing to change. That pardon was granted because she promised not to repeat her mistakes. Those who now advocate for her are the same people who stood by her then. But for us, the unity of Rwandans is a principle that cannot be compromised or bargained away.'

Minister Nduhungirehe also highlighted that the EU lawmakers rushed to conclusions while ignoring the basic legal principle that a person is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. He noted that Ingabire has not yet gone through intensive trials, making the EU Parliament’s intervention premature.

The Secretary General of the RPF Inkotanyi, Wellars Gasamagera, has criticized the European Union (EU) Parliament for demanding that Rwanda release Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza, saying such a call reflects misguided belief that Rwanda is one of their provinces.

Minister Nduhungirehe described the EU Parliament’s request as contemptuous, though not surprising, since it was not the first time such demands had been made while Ingabire was under detention.

IGIHE

While smaller, local events have previously been held, this marks the first time a major global promotion is bringing a high-stakes, international tournament to the region, solidifying Rwanda’s role as a growing hub for world-class sporting events.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Elias Schulze, General Manager of PFL Africa, shared his vision for the event, emphasising its potential to inspire Rwandan youth and cement the country’s role as a growing sports hub.

Featuring top-tier fighters from across the continent, the main card includes thrilling matchups across four weight classes: Patrick Ocheme (Nigeria) vs. Abdoul Razac Sankara (Burkina Faso) in the featherweight division; Nkosi Ndebele (South Africa) vs. Simbarashe Hokonya (Zimbabwe) in bantamweight; Shido Boris Esperança (Angola) vs. Octave Ayinda (Cameroon) in welterweight; and Maxwell Djantou Nana (Cameroon) vs. Justin Clarke (South Africa) in heavyweight.

The athletes, described by Schulze as 'proven rock stars,' have advanced through gruelling quarterfinals to compete for a spot in the finals in Benin this December.

'This is really showcasing the exceptional talent that has developed up till now,' said Schulze, describing the high-calibre fighters competing in four weight classes.

Broadcast to 40 million households across the continent via Canal+, SuperSport, and other platforms, the semi-finals will also reach global audiences, putting Rwanda in the spotlight.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Elias Schulze, General Manager of PFL Africa, shared his vision for the event, emphasising its potential to inspire Rwandan youth and cement the country’s role as a growing sports hub.

Perfect stage for MMA

Schulze, who first visited Rwanda in 2006 as an intern, marvelled at the country’s transformation over the past two decades.

'The infrastructure development is enormous,' he noted, praising the government and private sector’s investment in sport and culture. BK Arena, opened in 2019 with a 10,000-seat capacity, is a centrepiece of this progress.

'It rivals venues in Paris, London, or Dallas,' Schulze declared, citing its cleanliness, modern amenities, and ability to host world-class events. 'You won’t know the difference.'

The arena’s selection for the semi-finals underscores Rwanda’s growing reputation as a rising hub for international sporting events, from the Basketball Africa League to cycling and now MMA.

Schulze credited Rwanda’s visa-free policy for Africans and streamlined processes for international visitors, which facilitate events like PFL’s by enabling fighters and fans from countries like Uganda and Kenya to attend.

'Rwanda has built an ecosystem for sports, not just for East Africa but for the world,' he said.

Inspiring youth through resilience and discipline

A core mission of PFL Africa, inspired by chairman Francis Ngannou’s own journey, is to create a global-quality MMA ecosystem where African athletes can thrive without leaving the continent. Schulze emphasised the sport’s alignment with Rwanda’s ethos of resilience, self-mastery, and discipline—qualities he sees reflected in both MMA fighters and the nation’s post-1994 recovery.

'When I think of Rwanda, I think of getting knocked down but saying, 'Next time, I’ll win,’' he said. 'That’s what MMA is about.'

The event aims to inspire Rwandan youth through community engagement. PFL Africa is collaborating with Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports and local combat sports federations to organise activities during fight week, including gym visits and school programs.

'I was on the phone with Francis [Ngannou] yesterday, and he was talking about how self-discipline is so important, both when you haven’t made success yet and even when you’re successful,' Schulze shared. 'That message of self-mastery and resilience is what the youth need, and we hope to bring it through our athletes, with activities in gyms or schools during fight week.'

Adding a local flavour, the event features fighter James Opio, who grew up in Rwanda before relocating to Uganda. Schulze highlighted Opio’s 'homecoming' as a key draw, urging Rwandans to support him.

'Come out for James, or for rockstar fighters like Ochi, Sankara, and Ndebele,' Schulze said. 'This is the peak of the sport.'

Looking ahead, Schulze envisions Rwanda as the heart of MMA in East Africa, potentially across the continent.

'We want to pull top talent and grow local federations,' he said, describing PFL’s 'pull and grow' model.

By empowering athletes, including women who compete for equal prizes, and fostering inspiring stories like Ngannou’s, PFL Africa aims to make MMA a top sport alongside football and basketball.

'Rwanda has the potential to be associated with the explosion of this sport,' Schulze added.

The semi-finals, with early-bird tickets already selling out, promise an “engaging, dynamic, entertaining” spectacle, according to Schulze. “Come out on October 18,” he urged. “You won’t be disappointed.”

The semi-finals are expected to boost the local economy, with thousands of attendees, including international visitors, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. Schulze noted that 80 people, including 50—60 fighters and their teams, will be flown in, likely with RwandAir, while local vendors at BK Arena will see increased activity.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This will be the first time the global cycling showpiece is held on African soil, marking a historic milestone for Rwanda and the continent.

Organisers expect more than 15,000 visitors, including cycling stars, coaches, officials, fans, and dignitaries. Alongside the competition, guests will rely on Kigali’s hotels, restaurants, and service providers to experience the best of Rwandan hospitality.

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has already listed a number of establishments expected to play a central role in receiving participants and spectators.

In Kigali and beyond, operators say preparations are well advanced. Mutabazi Clément, a manager at RSB, which owns 14th Avenue Wine Bar and Restaurant and Soy Asian Table, confirmed that their venues are fully ready.

'We have redecorated the restaurant with cycling-themed designs in UCI colours so that customers can enjoy the race atmosphere. Our staff have been given sufficient rest to ensure they are ready to deliver during peak service,' Mutabazi said.

In Musanze, Meza Malonga, a high-end restaurant offering African cuisine, has already secured early reservations.

'So far, around 25 guests have booked with us,' said Mushime Théoneste, the manager. 'We also see this as an opportunity to build long-term business connections.'

Hotels and eateries across the capital are reporting similar levels of readiness. At The Rock Bistro, known for its meat dishes, manager Uwitonze Audrey said they have completed all necessary preparations:

'International visitors tend to give quick feedback if something isn’t right. This motivates us to further improve our services while presenting Rwanda positively,' she explained.

At Boho Restaurant in Kimihurura, Head of Business Development Apophia Katukwire said they have trained staff to handle large numbers of visitors and hired additional temporary workers to cope with the expected surge. Similarly, Khana Khazana, an Indian restaurant in Nyarutarama, has expanded its kitchen to serve more people during the event.

Hospitality operators agree that the championships will not only generate significant revenue but also provide an opportunity to showcase Rwandan cuisine and service excellence to a global audience. Many believe the event will reinforce Rwanda’s position as a premier destination for international conferences and sporting events, while leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Located along the race route in Kimihurura, 14th Avenue Wine Bar and Restaurant expects its guests will enjoy front-row views of the cycling competition.

Atelier du Vin, which features both a bar and restaurant, is among the venues set to host visitors.

Amata n’Ubuki Restaurant in Nyarutarama expects to generate significant revenue from hosting visitors during the UCI Road World Championships.

Khana Khazana Restaurant has expanded its kitchen to accommodate a larger number of guests.

Jollof Kigali is among the facilities selected to welcome visitors during the UCI Road World Championships.

Repub Lounge in Kimihurura is preparing to offer quality service to visitors during the UCI Road World Championships.

The Hut Restaurant is among the establishments that will host visitors in Kigali.

The Rock Bistro in Rebero will also welcome visitors attending UCI.

IGIHE

The team arrived in Kigali on Thursday, September 18, 2025, aboard the national carrier, RwandAir.

'Murakaza neza i Kigali! This morning, we had the pleasure of flying the @BritishCycling team from London to compete in the UCI Road World Championships, proudly hosted in Rwanda from 21—28 September 2025. Join us in wishing them the very best in the races ahead!” RwandAir shared the news on X.

The championships, taking place from September 21 to 28 in Kigali, will feature thirteen races and bring together 1,400 participants from 109 countries and teams. A total of 917 riders are registered to compete for the coveted rainbow jerseys.

In the men’s category, the Elite Road Race will see the largest field with 219 riders, followed by the Men’s Junior Road Race with 172 participants. The Men’s Under 23 Road Race and the Team Time Trial Mixed Relay will feature 149 and 117 riders, respectively. Among women, the Elite Road Race has 129 confirmed riders, while the Women’s Junior and Under 23 events will host 91 and 107 participants. Individual time trials across categories will see competitors ranging from 53 to 103 riders per race.

Rwanda has registered 54 riders, placing it among the top six delegations. Other notable delegations include Spain (67), Italy (66), Canada (63), and Great Britain (34).

The event is expected to attract massive global attention, with 700 accredited journalists from 124 countries covering the races. Some 80 television broadcasters will air the competition worldwide, reaching an estimated 330 million viewers.

The British team arrived in Kigali on Thursday, September 18, 2025, aboard the national carrier, RwandAir.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

M Hotel, one of Rwanda’s leading hotels, has stepped up its readiness to welcome guests who will arrive for the championship. The hotel has also introduced a range of new offers and services designed to enhance the experience of visitors during this historic event.

Michael Ho, M Hotel’s Operations Manager, explained that preparations have been ongoing for months to ensure world-class service.

'We have spent more than two months preparing to welcome our guests during the championship period, in line with the tradition of excellence at M Hotel,' Ho said.

To make the event even more enjoyable for guests, the hotel has unveiled special promotions, including discounts on food and beverages.

M Hotel has long established itself as a top destination for high-profile visitors. It has hosted distinguished guests attending major international gatherings in Rwanda, such as the 2022 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and the 73rd FIFA Congress.

The hotel is particularly renowned for its fine dining options, including the Panda Restaurant, which meets international standards, and two stylish bars—the 'Lark' lobby bar and the 'Heron' pool bar. Its modern kitchen, run by professional chefs, offers a wide variety of expertly prepared dishes.

Management has also invested in staff training to ensure exceptional service throughout the championship period.

M Hotel features 114 rooms, including both standard and VIP options, fully equipped with amenities to meet guests’ needs.

The hotel also boasts 11 conference rooms, with capacities ranging from six to 500 people, each equipped with amenities to host meetings and events smoothly.

With these preparations and innovations, M Hotel aims to be a key hub of hospitality during the UCI Road World Championships, ensuring visitors enjoy both the thrill of world-class cycling coming to Africa for the first time, and Rwanda’s renowned warmth in service.

M Hotel is among leading hospitality establishments in Rwanda.

To make the event even more enjoyable for guests, the hotel has unveiled special promotions, including discounts on food and beverages.

M Hotel features a variety of modern dining spaces.

The hotel has also introduced a range of new offers and services designed to enhance the experience of visitors during this historic event.

M Hotel offers guests elegant rooms and relaxing spaces designed for comfort.

IGIHE

The agreement was concluded in Beijing during a meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and Admiral Dong Jun, China’s Minister of National Defence, on the sidelines of the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum.

The 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, China’s leading annual security and defence dialogue, is held at the Beijing International Convention Center from September 17 to 19.

This year’s theme is 'Safeguarding the International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development Together.'

The forum brings together more than 1,800 participants, including government officials, military representatives, scholars, and observers from over 100 countries and international organizations.

Its programme features plenary and parallel sessions, high-level dialogues, youth seminars, closed-door academic meetings, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges designed to foster mutual understanding.

Discussions focus on safeguarding the legacy of the World Anti-Fascist War, defending the post-war international order, and exploring effective approaches to conflict resolution.

Speaking at the opening, Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun reaffirmed China’s commitment to world peace and welcomed all participants.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building in safeguarding the international order and advancing global development.

Longstanding partnership

Rwanda and China share 76 years of diplomatic relations, characterized by close collaboration in various sectors. Economically, trade between the two nations reached a record US$670 million in 2024, with China maintaining its role as Rwanda’s leading source of foreign direct investment.

Military cooperation has also grown steadily. In August 2024, Rwanda hosted a Chinese delegation led by Lt Gen Huang Xucong, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the PLA Central Theater Command.

The four-day visit included discussions with Minister Marizamunda and RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, on ways to further strengthen ties between the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

At the celebration of the 98th anniversary of the PLA on July 11, 2025, Maj Gen Alex Kagame, Chief of Staff of the Rwanda Reserve Force, praised China’s contribution to RDF’s professionalization and capacity building.

'I wish to reiterate that Rwanda’s commitment deepens our cooperation and promotes mutual understanding. With that in mind, the upcoming signing of an MOU on defence cooperation will further strengthen our defence capabilities,' he said.

Over the past decade, more than 300 RDF officers have graduated from Chinese military institutions, with many more currently pursuing training in China.

Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement on September 17, 2025, marking a new milestone in their bilateral relations.

The agreement was formalized in Beijing during a meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and Admiral Dong Jun, China’s Minister of National Defence.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said the party intends to bring back the plan during a recent interview with GB News, where he responded to questions about the scheme’s effectiveness.

Asked how many migrants had been sent to Rwanda while Conservatives were last in government, Philp noted that none were removed due to a protracted legal battle that delayed the process, except for four who moved voluntarily.

Philp added that preparations were completed and the government was ready to begin removals in July 2024. However, the plan was halted two weeks before its scheduled launch by Keir Starmer and the Labour Party.

“And the reason no one ended up going to Rwanda is that the scheme was cancelled by Keir Starmer and Labour, two weeks before it was due to start.”

The next UK general election is scheduled for 2029, and Philp indicated that if the Conservatives return to power, the Rwanda migration scheme could be reinstated.

“We’re definitely going to bring that back,” he added.

The UK’s Labour government formally scrapped the plan last year to remove migrants who enter the UK illegally for further processing, citing legal and ethical concerns. Since then, it has faced mounting pressure for not offering a credible alternative to manage irregular migration.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration remains under scrutiny domestically for the absence of a replacement policy.

Meanwhile, the European Union is reportedly warming up to a similar scheme, and the United States has also signed an agreement with Rwanda to address its own migration challenges.

A first group of seven migrants from the US arrived in Rwanda in mid-August under a bilateral agreement to resettle up to 250 migrants. The Rwandan government has stated that all individuals will receive support, including accommodation, healthcare, and workforce training, to help them integrate into Rwandan society or potentially relocate to other countries.

On August 6, U.S. Border Chief Tom Homan defended the agreement while openly criticising Britain’s failure to follow through on its own arrangement with Rwanda.

“They’re not the United States of America. They don’t have President Trump running the show,” Homan said, blaming what he described as weak leadership in London for the UK plan’s collapse.

The UK’s Labour government formally scrapped the Rwanda plan last year following the exit of Rishi Sunak’s administration.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Since the group took control of Goma late January, the operating hours of the La Corniche border post had already been extended, running from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

However, the Governor of North Kivu Province appointed by AFC/M23, Bahati Musanga Erasto, announced that starting from Friday, September 19, 2025, the crossing will operate from 6:00 a.m. until midnight.

'All residents of North Kivu, particularly those in Goma, are informed that beginning Friday, September 19, 2025, the main border post will be open daily from 6:00 a.m. to midnight.'

Governor Bahati also instructed border service providers to comply with this new directive.

In July, authorities in Rubavu District noted that traffic across both the main and smaller border posts had significantly increased since M23 took control of Goma. Between 2020 and 2024, an average of 20,000 people crossed the border daily.

In 2025, that figure rose to 43,000 excluding those crossing through Kabuhanga, according to Rubavu District Mayor Prosper Mulindwa.

Users of the main and small border include traders, buyers, workers, visitors, and tourists traveling between the two sides.

The AFC/M23 coalition has extended the operating hours of the main border post between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, linking the city of Goma to Rubavu.

IGIHE

In the second quarter of 2025, GDP at current market prices was estimated at Frw 5,798 billion, a significant increase from Frw 4,979 billion in the same period last year.

The services sector remained the largest contributor to GDP at 50%, followed by agriculture (23%) and industry (21%). Net direct taxes accounted for the remaining 5%.

The agriculture sector grew by 8%, driven largely by a 3% increase in food crop production. Export crop production saw a notable 42% increase, fueled by a 121% surge in coffee production, though tea production declined by 9%.

Meanwhile, the industry sector expanded by 7%, supported by strong performances in mining and quarrying (up 12%), construction (up 5%), and manufacturing (up 7%).

Mining and quarrying activities alone grew by 31%, as reflected in export figures. Within manufacturing, food processing increased by 10%, metal products and machinery by 19%, and chemicals, rubber, and plastics by 24%. Nonmetallic mineral production, including cement, rose by 23%. However, textiles, clothing, and leather manufacturing decreased by 9%, while beverages and tobacco declined by 4%.

In the services sector, 9% growth was registered, with wholesale and retail trade rising by 13%. Transport-related services increased by 5%, though air transport fell by 13% while land transport grew by 10%.

Hotels and restaurants saw a 7% decrease compared to high growth of 18% in the same quarter last year. Positive contributions came from ICT services (11%), financial services (8%), public administration (16%), education (5%), and health services (10%).

The rebased GDP figures offer a clearer and more relevant measure of Rwanda’s economic progress, capturing structural changes and current market conditions to better inform policy and investment decisions.

This revision follows the recent rebasing of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to a 2024 base year, which provides a more accurate and up-to-date reflection of the economy’s structure and performance.

As a result of the rebasing exercise, the GDP level for 2024 has been revised upward by 6% to Frw 19,981 billion, compared to the previously published figure of Frw 18,785 billion. Growth rates from 2024 onward have also been adjusted accordingly.

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, explained that GDP calculation methods are normally revised every three years, but the 2020 update was delayed due to challenges caused by COVID-19.

'The rebasing to a 2024 base year ensures our estimates are grounded in comprehensive and current economic data, enhancing evidence-based planning and investment,' he stated.

Rwanda’s economy grew by 7.8% in the second quarter of 2025, up from 6.5% in the first quarter, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR).

IGIHE

He will also visit their fellow force stationed in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan on 18 September 2025.

Upon arrival, the Force Commander was received by the Rwanbatt-1 Contingent Commander, Lt Col Paul Ndushabandi who briefly took him through on major operations conducted including protection of civilians and provision of force protection to humanitarian assistance.

While interacting with troops, the Force Commander commended their efforts to the UNMISS mandate and their role in fostering peace and stability in the area of responsibility.

He further encouraged them to continue being exemplary ambassadors, a professional and disciplined army, and role models to the community of South Sudan.

“Always be great Ambassadors of your great country, your great Army. Let everybody learn from you, how you rebuild your nation after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to the current condition,” he said.

The Force Commander’s visit concluded with the symbolic planting of a tree.

UNMISS Force Commander has commended Rwandan peacekeepers for fostering stability in operations area.

Upon arrival, the Force Commander was received by the Rwanbatt-1 Contingent Commander, Lt Col Paul Ndushabandi who briefly took him through on major operations conducted.

The Force Commander’s visit concluded with the symbolic planting of a tree.

Lt Gen Mohan Subramanian further encouraged Rwandan contingent to continue being exemplary ambassadors, a professional and disciplined army, and role models to the community of South Sudan.

IGIHE