Category: Uncategorized

  • Coach Gaël sets sights on owning a private jet #rwanda #RwOT

    The 37-year-old made the revelations on Password, a youth-focused show on Rwanda National Television that discusses personal development and success. While flipping through videos on his phone of the life he envisions, Coach Gaël revealed a range of exciting plans.

    Among his goals, he wants to establish a centre supporting at least 7,000 orphans and publish several books, with one planned release by the time he turns 40.

    'I want to create a media company that teaches entrepreneurship,' he said. 'And yes, one day, I want to stand by my own private jet. I also hope to own a company that acquires others and maintain a healthy lifestyle through sports.'

    Speaking to the youth audience, Coach Gaël stressed the importance of action alongside dreams.

    'It’s good to have dreams, but you must also take steps to achieve them. In life, when you want something, you stand up and go get it,' he advised.

    Asked about continuing his previous missionary work in India, he said it’s no longer his path.

    'Preaching the Word of God the way I did before? Not anymore. I’ve found a new approach which is motivating young people and others to achieve their goals.'

    Reflecting on his achievements in entrepreneurship so far, Coach Gaël admitted he’s not fully satisfied.

    'The level I’ve reached doesn’t excite me much because there’s still a lot of work ahead. In the next two years, I hope to finish my current projects and move to the next stage.'

    He attributes his success to two key traits: a love of learning and confidence. 'I study constantly to keep up with the latest technology and trends. And I believe that whatever I set my mind to is possible,' he said.

    With a mix of high-flying dreams and grounded advice for young people, Coach Gaël continues to inspire audiences across Rwanda with his ambition and energy.

    Music executive and investor, Karomba Gaël, better known as Coach Gaël, has shared some ambitious goals for the next decade, including owning his very own private jet.

    The 37-year-old made the revelations on Password, a youth-focused show on Rwanda National Television that discusses personal development and success.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/entertainment/article/coach-gael-sets-sights-on-owning-a-private-jet

  • Kigali writes history with the UCI Road World Championships #rwanda #RwOT

    For eight unforgettable days, Kigali became the heartbeat of world cycling. The UCI Road World Championships, in its century-long history, had never before touched African soil. When it finally did, our city was ready. The streets became our stage, the hills our theatre, and the people of Kigali the soul of a spectacle that united nations and inspired millions.

    From the first whistle at BK Arena to the cobbled climbs of Kimihurura and Mur de Kigali (Kwa Mutwe), from the bustling corners of Nyabugogo to the vibrant finish at the Kigali Convention Centre, the spirit of our city was everywhere. Flags waved, drums echoed, and chants carried across the streets. Kigalians, with unmatched energy and discipline, showed the world that this city is not only the home of cycling but also the home of unity, pride, and resilience.

    I will never forget the moment the race commentators saw the fans of Nyabugogo. They fell silent, simply watching. Minutes passed before they remembered their job, and all they could say was, 'Wow.' Later, scrolling through social media, the overwhelming remarks echoed the same amazement: 'They are good people. They smile all the time. Their country is so beautiful, it doesn’t even look like an African country!' But let it be said clearly. Yes, this is Africa. Africa is beautiful. And Africa is able to do excellent things.

    It is impossible to reflect on this triumph without acknowledging the extraordinary leadership of His Excellency, President Paul Kagame. What the world witnessed was not a coincidence but the fruit of a vision that has transformed Rwanda into a nation capable of hosting global events with excellence and dignity. His guidance has given us the confidence to welcome the world, and his relentless pursuit of progress has lifted Kigali onto the global stage.

    The championships were more than a sporting contest. They were a story of how far we have come, of what it means to belong to a city that is green, safe, and full of life, and of how Africa can rise and deliver on the world’s highest standards. The courage of the cyclists, the beauty of our landscapes, and the devotion of our fans told a tale that will live long in the memory of every visitor, every rider, and every spectator across the globe.

    And yet, even as the final podium was raised under the lights of the Kigali Convention Centre, it was clear that this was not an ending. It was a beginning. Kigali Yacu will carry this legacy forward, preserving our iconic cycling routes, inspiring a new generation of riders, and continuing to host events that celebrate not just sport but our shared journey of growth.

    We stand proud, grateful, and determined. Proud of our people, grateful to our President, and determined to keep writing stories that place Kigali, Rwanda, and Africa at the forefront of history.

    The UCI Road World Championships ran from September 21-28, 2025.

    Throughout the race, flags waved, drums echoed, and chants carried across the streets in Kigali.

    Emma Claudine Ntirenganya

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/kigali-writes-history-with-the-uci-road-world-championships

  • Minister Nduhungirehe blasts DRC senior official bragging about ‘Blackwater’ mercenaries #rwanda #RwOT

    He noted that he hopes Rwanda will not again be requested to facilitate the repatriation of mercenaries, as was the case with the Romanian mercenaries who suffered a humiliating defeat earlier this year.

    His comments came in response to a social media post by Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo Bihango, the DRC’s Vice Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Security, Decentralisation, and Customary Affairs, who appeared to confirm and even boast about the deployment of foreign mercenaries by a private security firm linked to former U.S. Navy SEAL officer Erik Prince.

    In a post shared on X on Monday, Shabani shared an image of ocean water with the caption 'Blackwater' alongside the DRC flag. The firm associated with Erik Prince has been widely reported to provide mercenaries to support the Congolese army, including guarding strategic mineral sites and fighting against the M23 rebels.

    Reacting to the post, Nduhungirehe said it was 'only in DRC' that a senior government official could publicly brag about the deployment of mercenaries, despite international law prohibiting the practice under the 1977 OAU/AU Convention and the 1989 United Nations Convention.

    He recalled that in late January 2025, more than 280 Romanian mercenaries fighting alongside the Congolese army in Goma were routed by M23 rebels and later granted safe passage through Kigali before flying back to Europe.

    'Following the humiliating defeat of Romanian mercenaries in Goma… the Government of DRC has this time hired Colombian mercenaries through Erik Prince’s private security firm, once known as Blackwater,' Nduhungirehe said.

    The minister stressed that Congo’s continued reliance on mercenaries undermines peace efforts, running against the Washington Peace Agreement and the Doha Declaration of Principles, which were intended to help the DRC achieve lasting stability.

    'And I hope that Rwanda will not again be requested to facilitate the repatriation of another bunch of mercenaries,” he concluded.

    The exchange comes amid growing fears of renewed escalation in eastern Congo, where M23 accuses the Congolese army and its allied forces and militias of targeting civilians in the eastern DRC.

    Minister Nduhungirehe noted that he hopes Rwanda will not again be requested to facilitate the repatriation of mercenaries, as was the case with the Romanian mercenaries who suffered a humiliating defeat earlier this year.

    Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has strongly criticised the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) reliance on foreign mercenaries amid its conflict with the AFC/M23 rebel coalition.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/minister-nduhungirehe-blasts-drc-senior-official-bragging-about-blackwater

  • Francis Ngannou expected in Kigali for PFL Africa semi-finals #rwanda #RwOT

    On October 18, 2025, Kigali’s BK Arena will host the PFL Africa League semi-finals, where some of the continent’s top fighters will compete for a place in the grand finals scheduled for December.

    In a video shared on the league’s social media platforms, Francis Ngannou, who serves as Chairman of PFL Africa, confirmed he will be present in Rwanda.

    'I am calling all of you to join us in Kigali at BK Arena on October 18, where Africa’s MMA [Mixed Martial Arts] takes center stage,' Ngannou said. 'Come witness greatness, watch our warriors rise, and be part of history. Don’t miss it — be there with us.'

    A total of 22 fighters will face off across different divisions, including Heavyweight, Bantamweight, Welterweight, and Featherweight.

    This marks the first time for Rwanda to host a continental-level mixed martial arts event. Among the featured bouts, James Opio will represent Rwanda, facing Isaac Omeda from Uganda.

    The event, being held in Africa for the first time, is organized by the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA) through the Professional Fighters League Africa.

    Renowned mixed martial artist and professional boxer Francis Ngannou is expected in Kigali to participate in the highly anticipated Professional Fighters League Africa (PFL Africa).

    A total of 22 fighters will face off across different divisions, including Heavyweight, Bantamweight, Welterweight, and Featherweight.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/francis-ngannou-expected-in-kigali-for-pfl-africa-semi-finals

  • Israeli PM apologizes to Qatar for deadly airstrike; Qatar reaffirms mediation role #rwanda #RwOT

    The apology came during a trilateral phone call with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani and U.S. President Donald Trump.

    According to a statement from Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, Netanyahu expressed regret over the incident and pledged that such an event would not recur.

    Al Thani strongly condemned the strike, emphasizing that the protection of Qatari citizens and residents was “an absolute priority” and reaffirming Qatar’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The statement also underscored Qatar’s continued commitment to mediating an end to the Gaza war.

    On Sept. 9, Israel carried out airstrikes on Doha, claiming they targeted senior Hamas leaders based in the city. Hamas said its delegation was in Doha at the time to discuss a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal.

    The strikes killed five Palestinians and one Qatari security officer, drawing widespread international condemnation. The attack followed a pattern of Israel’s “decapitation strikes” in the past two years against leaders of Hezbollah, Hamas, Yemen’s Houthis, and Iran’s military.

    Speaking from the United States, Netanyahu told his Qatari counterpart that Israel “had no plan to violate your sovereignty again in the future,” a pledge he said he also conveyed to Trump.

    “I want to assure you that Israel was targeting Hamas, not Qataris,” he added. Netanyahu also endorsed Trump’s proposal for a trilateral mechanism with Qatar to address outstanding disputes.

    Israeli media, including state-run Kan TV, reported that the apology was a necessary condition for Qatar to continue its mediation efforts to secure a Gaza ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages.

    Just a day earlier, Netanyahu had defended the strike in a Fox News interview, saying that “any self-respecting country doesn’t give a pass to terrorists.” The apology drew criticism from within Israel’s ultra-right coalition, with some cabinet members reportedly calling it “humiliating” and accusing Qatar of supporting Hamas.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized to Qatar on Monday for a recent airstrike in Doha, a rare concession seen as crucial for the Gulf state to continue its key mediation role in the Gaza conflict.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/israeli-pm-apologizes-to-qatar-for-deadly-airstrike-qatar-reaffirms-mediation

  • Rwanda, Morocco sign Bilateral Air Services Agreement #rwanda #RwOT

    The deal was signed recently on the sidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) General Assembly by Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, and Rwanda’s Ambassador to Canada, Prosper Higiro.

    This milestone expands civil aviation cooperation, creating new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment while further deepening the ties of friendship between the two nations.

    On this occasion, both sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange expertise in areas related to aviation safety, with the goal of ensuring the highest levels of safety and security in international air transport. They also agreed to strengthen coordination within regional and international forums.

    Mr. Kayouh told the media that the signing of this agreement is part of the policy initiated by King Mohammed VI, aimed at connecting the Kingdom with other African countries by encouraging the opening of new air routes.

    For his part, Ambassador Higiro welcomed the agreement, saying it reflects the excellent relations between the two countries.

    Rwanda and Morocco share a longstanding partnership, reinforced through multiple agreements over the years.

    In 2016, King Mohammed VI visited Rwanda, during which the two nations signed 19 cooperation agreements in areas such as banking, diplomatic relations, and investment facilitation.

    One of the agreements allowed diplomatic and official passport holders to travel between the two countries without restrictions.

    In 2019, Rwanda and Morocco signed 12 additional agreements in Rabat, further solidifying their collaboration. Morocco remains a key partner in education, offering numerous scholarships to African students, including Rwandans.

    In 2020, Rwanda’s then-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta, and his Moroccan counterpart signed two agreements, one enhancing government collaboration and another focused on sports development in Africa.

    The deal was signed recently on the sidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) General Assembly by Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, and Rwanda’s Ambassador to Canada, Prosper Higiro.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/morocco-rwanda-sign-bilateral-air-services-agreement

  • EU restores sanctions against Iran #rwanda #RwOT

    The sanctions cover travel bans, asset freezes, and restrictions on trade, finance, and transport. They also include bans on Iranian oil, gas and petrochemical imports, the supply of energy-sector equipment and precious metals, as well as limits on Iranian banks and cargo flights.

    The EU move follows the return of UN sanctions after Britain, France and Germany (the E3) triggered the accord’s “snapback” mechanism on Aug. 28. Under the procedure, unless the UN Security Council votes to extend sanctions relief, pre-2015 UN restrictions automatically resume within 30 days.

    The UN Security Council failed on Friday to adopt a resolution that sought to grant a six-month extension for the nuclear deal between Iran and the six major countries of Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States, as well as Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed the deal.

    Explaining Friday’s vote, Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, said his country was deeply disappointed at the result.

    Geng reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy were the only viable ways to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue and preserve peace in the Middle East.

    In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Sunday that the snapback procedure invoked by the E3 and the United States was “null and void,” citing Washington’s withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 and the European countries’ failure to meet their obligations under the deal.

    He stressed that Iran would continue to defend its sovereign rights and legitimate interests while remaining open to “genuine negotiations on an equal footing.”

    The Council of the European Union on Monday announced that it was reimposing a broad range of sanctions on Iran, citing Tehran’s failure to comply with its nuclear commitments under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/eu-restores-sanctions-against-iran

  • Trump says Israel agrees to White House Gaza ceasefire plan #rwanda #RwOT

    “I also want to thank Prime Minister Netanyahu for agreeing to the plan and for trusting that if we work together, we can bring an end to the death and destruction that we’ve seen for so many years, decades, even centuries, and begin a new chapter of security, peace and prosperity for the entire region,” Trump told a joint press conference at the White House.

    Trump also called on Hamas to accept the terms of the peace proposal.

    U.S. President Donald Trump (L) welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Sept. 29, 2025.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/trump-says-israel-agrees-to-white-house-gaza-ceasefire-plan

  • Visit Rwanda expands global sports reach with Clippers and Rams deal #rwanda #RwOT

    This marks the first time an African tourism brand has secured sponsorships across both the NBA and NFL, further expanding Visit Rwanda’s global sports footprint.

    The new partnerships add to Visit Rwanda’s growing portfolio of sports sponsorships, which already includes collaborations with Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Atlético de Madrid, and an academy partnership with FC Bayern Munich.

    'Sport connects people, uniting communities through shared values of excellence and aspiration. Through sponsorships with the LA Clippers and LA Rams, Rwanda and Los Angeles unite to promote the spirit of the game,' said Jean-Guy Afrika, Rwanda Development Board CEO.

    'This engagement enables us to export Rwanda’s unrivalled natural beauty and extraordinary biodiversity to the people of Los Angeles as well as NBA and NFL fans everywhere.'

    Under the agreement, Visit Rwanda will become the exclusive jersey patch sponsor of the Clippers and the official coffee sponsor of Intuit Dome. The sponsorship will include Visit Rwanda branding on all game and practice jerseys, both at home and on the road.

    The multi-year deal will also feature community initiatives in Los Angeles and Rwanda, such as court refurbishments and coaching clinics.

    The NBA has long prioritised international growth, including the creation of the Basketball Africa League (BAL), a partnership with FIBA featuring 12 African club teams. Since its launch in 2021, the BAL has hosted games across the continent, including at Rwanda’s BK Arena, providing young athletes opportunities to develop their skills and experience the values of teamwork and community.

    'The energy and passion for basketball across Africa, including in Rwanda, makes this sponsorship a natural fit,' said Gillian Zucker, CEO of Halo Sports and Entertainment. 'It’s focused on growing the game and creating meaningful opportunities for young people.'

    As part of the engagement, the Clippers will refurbish a basketball court in Rwanda. The team’s G League affiliate, the San Diego Clippers, will host Rwandan youth coaches for annual training sessions and provide virtual coaching support to help elevate local talent.

    Visit Rwanda will also become an official international tourism sponsor of the Los Angeles Rams, SoFi Stadium, and Hollywood Park, the largest urban mixed-use development currently under construction in the western United States. The sponsorship includes naming rights for two premium spaces within SoFi Stadium and digital advertising across the venue.

    'This sponsorship not only builds on Visit Rwanda’s long-standing relationship with Arsenal but also gives us a unique opportunity to strengthen our presence in Africa,' said Kevin Demoff, President of the Los Angeles Rams.

    With these agreements, Visit Rwanda continues to leverage sport as a platform to promote tourism, youth development, and Rwanda’s global brand, connecting fans in Los Angeles and around the world to the nation’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.

    Visit Rwanda, the official tourism brand of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), has announced long-term partnerships with two of Los Angeles’ premier professional sports teams, the NBA’s LA Clippers and the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams.

    This marks the first time an African tourism brand has secured sponsorships across both the NBA and NFL, further expanding Visit Rwanda’s global sports footprint.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/sports/article/visit-rwanda-expands-global-sports-reach-with-clippers-and-rams-deal

  • Verdict in Kabila’s trial to be announced on Tuesday #rwanda #RwOT

    Kabila, who is a lifetime senator, is accused of crimes including being part of an illegal armed group, crimes against humanity, premeditated murder, rape, and persecution.

    The Prosecution stated that these crimes were committed in the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri in the eastern part of the DRC.

    Kabila’s trial began in July 2025 after he was stripped of his immunity. The prosecution claims he committed these acts as the leader of the AFC/M23 coalition, though he has denied any connection to it.

    The verdict was initially expected on September 12, but on that day, lawyers representing the interests of the state revealed that new witnesses had come forward, willing to testify against him.

    While the trial was expected to resume on September 19, state lawyers informed the judges that the three new witnesses were no longer available.

    Military prosecutors have requested the death penalty for Kabila. However, state lawyers have asked for life imprisonment so that he can be visited by the victims of the alleged crimes.

    Prosecutors have also asked the court to confiscate all of Kabila’s assets in the Democratic Republic of Congo and to order him to pay 24 billion U.S. dollars in compensation.

    The High Military Court of the Democratic Republic of the Congo will announce the verdict in the trial of Joseph Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, on the morning of September 30, 2025.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/verdict-in-kabila-s-trial-to-be-announced-on-tuesday