Category: Uncategorized

The agreements were formalised on Tuesday, September 23, during President Paul Kagame’s official visit to Egypt, hosted by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.

The accords cover priority sectors including investment promotion, water resource management, urban development, and housing. Under the land allocation agreement, Rwanda had previously committed to grant Egypt 10 hectares in Kirehe District, near the Tanzania border, while Egypt committed equivalent land for Rwandan ventures.

In his address, President Kagame said the reciprocal land allocation was a 'significant step' that would strengthen economic cooperation and expand market access in Africa.

He underlined that Rwanda and Egypt share a vision of transforming the continent’s natural resources into value-added products to generate sustainable prosperity.

'Rwanda regards Egypt as a strong partner and our cooperation is tangible and steadily growing,' Kagame noted, highlighting ongoing joint projects such as the construction of a state-of-the-art heart treatment center in Kigali.

'We believe there are numerous opportunities our two countries can explore, from food processing to advanced technology.'

The President also praised Egypt for providing advanced training to Rwandan medical professionals and for its support in pharmaceuticals and vaccine production, describing Egyptian firms in the health sector as 'excellent partners.'

Earlier on Monday, September 22, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) had urged Egyptian investors to tap into Rwanda’s diverse opportunities.

Speaking at the inaugural Egypt—Rwanda Business Forum in Cairo, RDB CEO Jean-Guy Afrika invited Egyptian businesses to use Rwanda as a gateway to the wider East African and continental markets.

The forum brought together business leaders, investors, and policymakers from both sides to explore opportunities, foster partnerships, and promote trade and investment. Key areas of interest included energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure.

The agreements were formalised on Tuesday, September 23, during President Paul Kagame’s official visit to Egypt, hosted by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.

In his address, President Kagame said the reciprocal land allocation was a 'significant step' that would strengthen economic cooperation and expand market access in Africa.

The accords cover priority sectors including investment promotion, water resource management, urban development, and housing.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to Rwanda’s Presidency, their discussions focused on potential investment opportunities in Rwanda, with particular emphasis on energy, infrastructure, and industrial growth.

Elsewedy Electric is a global leader that has transformed from a local manufacturer of electrical products to an integrated infrastructure solutions provider. With over 19,000 employees, the company recorded revenues exceeding USD 5.13 billion in 2024.

Elsewedy Electric operates across five key business sectors: wire, cable and accessories, electrical products, engineering and construction, digital solutions, and infrastructure investments.

The company has a strong presence in 19 countries, with 34 production facilities located across Africa and Asia, including Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Tanzania.

Additionally, Elsewedy Electric exports a wide range of high-end products to over 110 countries globally.

In 2022, the company entered the Rwandan market through an agreement with Rwanda’s Energy Group (REG) and EPC Africa, which involved selling 185.5 kilometers of cables to Rwanda.

Should Elsewedy Electric invest further in Rwanda, it could support the country’s efforts to expand electricity access, build industries, enhance infrastructure, foster technological advancements, and advance renewable energy projects.

President Kagame and Ahmed El Sewedy, the CEO of Elsewedy Electric have discussed potential investment opportunities in Rwanda.

Elsewedy Electric has a strong presence in 19 countries.

In 2022, Elsewedy Electric entered the Rwandan market through an agreement with Rwanda’s Energy Group (REG) and EPC Africa, which involved selling 185.5 kilometers of cables to Rwanda.

IGIHE

The remarks signaled a sharp shift in the White House’s position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict since Trump has for months pressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to make concessions to reach a ceasefire deal with Russia, claiming Kiev “doesn’t have the cards” in the negotiations.

“After getting to know and fully understand the Ukraine/Russia Military and Economic situation and, after seeing the Economic trouble it is causing Russia, I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

“With time, patience, and the financial support of Europe and, in particular, NATO, the original Borders from where this War started, is very much an option,” Trump said.

“We will continue to supply weapons to NATO for NATO to do what they want with them,” said the president.

When meeting with Zelensky on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City earlier on Tuesday, Trump told reporters that NATO countries should shoot down Russian jets that violate their airspace.

In a letter dated Saturday and addressed to the president of the UN Security Council, Estonia claimed that three Russian MiG-31 fighters entered up to 10 km inside Estonia’s airspace and stayed for 12 minutes on Friday.

Russia’s first deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, Dmitry Polyanskiy, denied that Russian jets had violated Estonian airspace and accused European states of Russophobia.

A past photo of President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meeting in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Xinhua

During the visit, both leaders witnessed the signing of agreements aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations. A key highlight was a landmark land allocation deal, expected to provide businesses from both countries greater access to regional markets.

Rwanda and Egypt share a strong bilateral relationship, with embassies established in each other’s capitals. This development builds upon numerous cooperation agreements in various sectors, including technology, industrial development, trade, agriculture, education, youth, healthcare, and military collaboration.

The partnership between the two nations has been long-standing. In 2017, President El-Sisi visited Rwanda to further strengthen their bilateral relations. Both countries are also active members of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).

Egypt opened its embassy in Kigali in 1976, and Rwanda re-established its embassy in Cairo in March 2015, signaling the importance of their diplomatic ties.

This longstanding relationship was further strengthened by President Kagame’s recent visit to Cairo, a city rich in culture, history, and landmarks.

Here are the top 15 attractions to know about this extraordinary city visited by President Kagame.

1. The Pyramids of Giza

One of Cairo’s most iconic and unmissable attractions is the Pyramids of Giza. These ancient wonders, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, and the enigmatic Great Sphinx, continue to awe visitors with their scale and grandeur.

The Pyramids are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer a glimpse into the sophisticated engineering and culture of ancient Egypt, making them one of the most visited tourist sites in the world.

Visitors can explore the inside of the pyramids, learn about the pharaohs’ burial practices, and take camel rides for a more immersive experience.

2. The Egyptian Museum: A gateway to ancient Egypt

The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is an essential stop for anyone looking to delve into Egypt’s remarkable history.

With over 120,000 artifacts, the museum holds one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of ancient Egyptian antiquities. The highlight of the museum is the treasure of Tutankhamun, including his famous golden death mask.

The museum provides invaluable insights into Egypt’s ancient civilization, offering visitors a chance to learn about mummification, religious rituals, and the everyday life of the pharaohs.

3. Coptic Cairo: Egypt’s Christian Heritage

Coptic Cairo is an area in Cairo that reflects the deep Christian history of Egypt. It is home to several significant churches, including the famous Hanging Church, which dates back to the 3rd century.

The Coptic Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that trace the history of Christianity in Egypt, from the early Christian period to modern times.

The area also includes the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the ancient Babylon Fortress, marking the historical and cultural crossroads where different religious traditions intersect.

4. Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is a district filled with some of the most stunning examples of Islamic architecture. The area is home to historic mosques, madrassas, and palaces.

Key highlights include the stunning Sultan Hassan Mosque, one of the largest in the city, and the Ibn Tulun Mosque, which is one of the oldest in Cairo.

The Citadel of Saladin, which includes the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, offers panoramic views of the city and a peek into Cairo’s Islamic history. Islamic Cairo is a living museum, where visitors can walk through streets lined with ancient buildings and immerse themselves in the city’s Islamic heritage.

5. Khan El Khalili Bazaar: A shopper’s paradise

For those looking to experience the authentic flavors and sounds of Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar is the place to go.

This vibrant market, which has been a trading hub since the 14th century, is filled with colorful stalls offering everything from handcrafted jewelry, spices, and textiles to copperware, perfumes, and souvenirs.

The bustling market is a sensory overload, with its maze of alleyways and lively merchants. Don’t forget to bargain; it’s part of the fun in this traditional Egyptian souk.

6. Al-Azhar Park

Al-Azhar Park offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Cairo, providing visitors with beautiful green spaces and panoramic views of the Cairo skyline.

Located near Islamic Cairo, the park is a perfect place to relax while taking in the breathtaking view of the Cairo Citadel and the surrounding historic mosques. The park is an oasis of calm in the heart of Cairo, offering a unique combination of nature, history, and tranquility.

7. Tahrir Square

Tahrir Square is not just a central location in Cairo—it has been the site of many pivotal moments in Egypt’s modern political history.

Most notably, it was the focal point of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution that led to the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak.

Today, the square is a key symbol of the country’s political struggles and successes. Surrounding the square are important landmarks, including the Egyptian Museum, and it remains a central hub for both political movements and everyday life in Cairo.

8. The Cairo Opera House

Cairo is home to one of the most prestigious cultural venues in the Middle East—The Cairo Opera House.

A key part of the city’s thriving arts scene, the opera house hosts performances ranging from classical music and ballet to contemporary dance and opera. It’s a cultural institution in the city, drawing in artists from around the world.

9. The Citadel of Saladin: A historic fortress

The Citadel of Saladin is one of Cairo’s most important historical sites. Built by the famous Islamic ruler Saladin in the 12th century, the Citadel was the seat of the Egyptian government for almost 700 years.

Visitors can explore its many mosques, including the iconic Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which offers stunning views of the city. The Citadel also houses the National Military Museum and the Police Museum, both of which offer fascinating insights into Egypt’s military history.

10. The Nile River

The Nile River has been the lifeblood of Egypt for thousands of years, and it continues to play a central role in the life of Cairo.

Tourists can take a relaxing boat ride or even a traditional felucca ride on the river to see the city from a different perspective.

Many luxury hotels and restaurants along the Nile offer dining experiences with beautiful views of the river and the city skyline.

11. The Nile Corniche

The Nile Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that runs along the Nile River in Cairo. The Corniche is perfect for a leisurely walk, offering stunning views of the river and the city’s historic buildings.

Visitors can take in the sights of Cairo’s skyline, cross over bridges, or simply sit at one of the many cafes that line the river. It’s an ideal spot to experience the dynamic energy of Cairo’s urban life while enjoying the tranquility of the river.

12. The City of the Dead

One of Cairo’s more unusual attractions is the City of the Dead, a vast necropolis located in the eastern part of the city. This sprawling cemetery houses tombs that date back to the Mamluk period and even earlier.

The City of the Dead is home to some of Cairo’s poorest residents, who live among the tombs, making it a fascinating and thought-provoking site for visitors. While it may be an unconventional tourist attraction, it offers a unique window into Cairo’s past and present.

13. Zamalek: Cairo’s Greenest District

Zamalek is an upscale district in Cairo known for its lush greenery, colonial-era architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. Located on an island in the Nile, Zamalek is a quiet residential area that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the rest of Cairo.

The district is home to embassies, art galleries, and cultural venues, including the Cairo Opera House. It’s a great area for walking, dining, and enjoying Cairo’s more laid-back side.

14. The Museum of Islamic Art

The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo offers a fascinating collection of Islamic artifacts spanning over 1,400 years.

The museum’s exhibits include rare manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, and metalwork from various periods in Islamic history.

Visitors can explore the rich artistic and cultural legacy of the Islamic world, with artifacts from across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.

15. Cairo Tower

Standing tall at 187 meters, the Cairo Tower offers the best panoramic view of the city. Located on Gezira Island, it provides a breathtaking view of Cairo’s skyline, the Nile River, and iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza in the distance.

Visitors can enjoy a meal or drink at the revolving restaurant on the tower’s top floor, making it a perfect spot to watch the sunset or gaze at the sprawling cityscape.

IGIHE

The 18-year-old cycled through the challenging 22.6-kilometre course with a blistering time of 29:07.61, securing his place at the top of the podium.

Mouris’ victory marked a momentous achievement, as it was the second gold for the Netherlands of the day, following Megan Arens’ dominant performance in the Women’s Junior Time Trial earlier in the morning.

The 18-year-old cycled through the challenging 22.6-kilometre course with a blistering time of 29:07.61, securing his place at the top of the podium.

Known for his exceptional racing intelligence and explosive speed, Mouris added yet another prestigious title to his growing resume. The young Dutch rider, already the winner of the Paris-Roubaix Juniors and other key stage races, proved once again why he is one of the most promising talents in junior cycling.

Reflecting on his performance after the race, Mouris shared, “It’s incredible that we both won here, and it’s amazing to deliver my best performance and win the world title. Pacing was difficult, and it was hard not to blow up, but I managed to recover enough in the descent to keep my legs going for the final climb.”

He continued, “The course was really tough, and the heat made it even harder. It was definitely one of the most difficult time trials I’ve done.”

Known for his exceptional racing intelligence and explosive speed, Mouris added yet another prestigious title to his growing resume.

Ashlin Barry secures a silver medal for the U.S.

Ashlin Barry (USA) showcased his strength and consistency, finishing in second place with a time of 29:14.45, just 6.84 seconds behind Mouris. Barry, who also earned the U.S. National Junior Time Trial Championship title, showed impressive speed throughout the race, continuing his strong season with podium finishes at several international events.

Belgium’s Seff van Kerckhove grabs bronze

Claiming the third spot was Seff van Kerckhove of Belgium, who crossed the line in 29:16.19—just 8.58 seconds behind Barry. Van Kerckhove, the Belgian Junior Time Trial Champion, has proven to be a fierce competitor, having also triumphed in events like the LVM Saarland Trofeo and Giro della Lunigiana.

Beckam Drake (USA) finished just outside the podium in fourth place with a time of 29:21.16. Known for his performances in the Tour de l’Abitibi and the Junior Tour of Ireland, Drake had a solid race but crossed the line 13 seconds behind Van Kerckhove.

The fifth-place finish went to Max Hinds (Great Britain), who clocked 29:26.52. The gold medalist in the Boys’ Time Trial at the European Youth Olympic Festival, Hinds has been a consistent performer throughout his junior career and demonstrated his potential once again with a strong finish in a fiercely competitive field.

Dylan Sage’s surprising setback

Despite being one of the race’s pre-race favourites, Dylan Sage (GBR), the reigning British Junior Time Trial National Champion, finished in 18th place with a time of 30:28.51. Sage, who had a string of solid results this season—including a podium finish at the LVM Saarland Trofeo—struggled on the day and was unable to match the blistering pace set by the leaders.

Junior Men’s Individual Time Trial: Top 10 Results

Michiel Mouris (NED) — 29:07.61

Ashlin Barry (USA) — 29:14.45 (+6.84)

Seff van Kerckhove (BEL) — 29:16.19 (+8.58)

Beckam Drake (USA) — 29:21.16 (+13.55)

Max Hinds (GBR) — 29:26.52 (+18.91)

Roberto Capello (ITA) — 29:36.55 (+28.94)

Jan Jackowiak (POL) — 29:37.41 (+29.80)

Vilgot Reinhold (SWE) — 29:55.82 (+48.21)

Mattia Agostinacchio (ITA) — 29:58.57 (+50.96)

Max Goold (AUS) — 30:02.15 (+54.54)

Rwandan cyclists on the global stages

In a historic moment for Rwandan cycling, Pacifique Byusa and Brian Ishimwe represented the home nation in the Junior Men’s Time Trial. Byusa finished with a time of 34:34.97, securing 53rd place, while Ishimwe clocked 34:59.77 for 55th place.

Rwanda’s 17-year-old Pacifique Byusa completed the 22.6 km men’s junior individual time trial in 34 minutes and 34 seconds, crossing the finish line at Kigali Convention Centre.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The 18-year-old cyclist delivered a stellar performance, completing the 18.3-kilometer course in 25:47.41, securing her spot at the top of the podium.

'It was a really hard race. I tried to go a little easier on the first climb and push harder on the last one. This win really means a lot to me. I still can’t believe it just happened,' she remarked after her victory.

Megan Arens, 18, delivered a stellar performance, completing the 18.3-kilometer course in 25:47.41, securing her spot at the top of the podium.

Arens’ victory adds to an already impressive season. In 2025, she placed second in both the Ronde van Vlaanderen WJ and Gent-Wevelgem WJ, proving her ability to compete with the best.

Arens had also won the National Championships Netherlands WJ – ITT in 2024 and finished 9th in last year’s World Championships ITT in Zürich, showcasing her consistency at the highest level.

Arens’ victory adds to an already impressive season.

Spanish and Norwegian riders push hard for podium finishes

In second place, Spain’s Paula Ostiz Taco finished with a time of 26:22.71, 35.30 seconds behind Arens.

Ostiz Taco, who won the 2024 European Junior Time Trial Championship, had an outstanding season in 2025, securing victories at the Grand Prix Valromey Tour Féminin and the Watersley Ladies Challenge, as well as finishing as the runner-up in both the Spanish Junior Time Trial Championship and the Ronde van Vlaanderen WJ.

Norwegian rider Oda Aune Gissinger, another standout in time trials, took third place with a time of 26:24.95, just 37.54 seconds off Arens’ pace.

Gissinger, the current European Junior Time Trial Champion, has quickly become one of Norway’s brightest cycling talents. This year, she won the Grand Prix Ceratizit Women Junior and the Norwegian Junior National Championships, among other accolades.

Boothman’s near podium finish derailed by mishap

The competition was fierce, and one of the most notable stories of the day was the unfortunate mishap of Erin Boothman from Great Britain.

Boothman, the 2025 European Junior Time Trial Champion, was riding strong and even placed herself in contention for a podium finish, having been very close to Arens at the intermediate point. However, a setback struck as Boothman unclipped her foot from the pedal at the bottom of the climb in Kimihurura, bringing her to a complete stop.

Boothman finished in 5th place with a time of 26:36.10, just 48.69 seconds behind Arens.

Women’s Junior Individual Time Trial: Top 10 Results

1. Megan Arens (Netherlands) — 25:47.41

2. Paula Ostiz Taco (Spain) — 26:22.71 (+35.30)

3. Oda Aune Gissinger (Norway) — 26:24.95 (+37.54)

4. Roos Müller (Netherlands) — 26:34.92 (+47.51)

5. Erin Boothman (Great Britain) — 26:36.10 (+48.69)

6. Sidney Swierenga (Canada) — 26:41.14 (+53.73)

7. Maria Okrucinska (Poland) — 26:54.25 (+1:06.84)

8. Abigail Miller (Great Britain) — 27:19.43 (+1:32.02)

9. Liliana Edwards (USA) — 27:20.17 (+1:32.76)

10. Laura Five (Belgium) — 27:23.54 (+1:36.13)

Rwandan cyclists show their potential

Rwandan junior cyclists Masengesho Yvonne and Uwiringiyimana Liliane competed fiercely in the race, completing the course in times of 29:43.04 and 30:58.67, finishing in 33rd and 40th place, respectively.

Rwandan junior cyclists Masengesho Yvonne and Uwiringiyimana Liliane competed fiercely in the race.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The conference, held under the theme 'Innovate — Integrate — Insure,' brought together industry leaders, regulators, and practitioners to reflect on the role of brokers in promoting inclusive and customer-focused insurance services in Rwanda.

Several companies stood out for their achievements in different categories. MUA Insurance Company ® Ltd was recognised as the best provider of general insurance, while SONARWA Life emerged top in the life insurance category.

Eden Care received the award for health insurance, with Prime Insurance celebrated for its innovation in the sector. MayFair Insurance was recognised for outstanding customer service.

RIBA President Mendies Mhiribidi highlighted the crucial role brokers play in making insurance accessible and understandable.

'Insurance can often seem like a foreign language, filled with complex terms and deep explanations. Brokers help simplify these concepts, guide clients to the right cover, and stand by them throughout the process,' he said.

Embracing innovation and technology

Mhiribidi also emphasised the evolving nature of the industry, noting that new risks linked to climate change, cyberattacks, and rapid technological shifts demand advanced solutions. He pointed to the need for insurance brokers to adopt digital tools such as data analytics and collaborate with InsurTech companies to simplify processes like purchasing and claims management.

In a step toward strengthening industry communication, RIBA launched the RIBA Magazine, an online publication designed to provide timely information and market insights with a strong focus on customer needs.

Brokers hailed as key partners

The National Bank of Rwanda (BNR) reinforced the importance of professional insurance brokers, describing them as vital partners who connect clients with insurers and expand access to insurance. BNR noted that engaging brokers is a key strategy to raise insurance penetration rates, in line with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

Practitioners also shared their experiences. Jean de Dieu Katabogama of Zion Insurance Brokers Ltd, with two decades in the field, stressed that brokers ensure clients receive quality services and support during claims.

Similarly, James Nteziryayo of Alpha Insurance Brokers Ltd called for increased awareness campaigns to attract more young people to the profession, while urging that insurance studies be made more accessible in Rwanda.

Regional cooperation

Speakers at the conference applauded RIBA’s efforts in uniting industry stakeholders to tackle challenges and enhance collaboration. They also emphasised the growing opportunities for regional integration, which will allow Rwandan clients to access quality insurance services across the East African Community.

The 2025 RIBA Annual Conference reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting innovation, professionalism, and customer-centred practices in Rwanda’s insurance sector.

The Rwanda Insurance Brokers Association (RIBA) honoured outstanding insurance companies for their exemplary performance and commitment to service during its 4th Annual Conference, held from September 10 to 12, 2025, at the Kivu Intare Arena in Rubavu.

MUA Insurance Company ® Ltd was recognised as the best provider of general insurance.

SONARWA Life emerged top in the life insurance category.

MayFair Insurance was recognised for outstanding customer service.

Speakers at the conference applauded RIBA’s efforts in uniting industry stakeholders to tackle challenges and enhance collaboration.

RIBA launched the RIBA Magazine, an online publication designed to provide timely information and market insights with a strong focus on customer needs.

IGIHE

The celebration took place in Bweramana Sector, Ruhango District, marking the 16th World Bamboo Day. The event is observed every year on September 18.

The theme for this year’s celebration highlighted bamboo as a solution for both environmental sustainability and innovative applications in the craft industry.

EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda was lauded for its contributions to environmental protection, with a particular focus on its efforts to restore land along riverbanks in eight districts. Notably, 307 hectares of land in Ruhango District were restored, and bamboo was planted to combat soil erosion.

In addition to land restoration, EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda created employment for 1,000 people and established 60 kitchen gardens to help combat malnutrition in the region. The organization also partnered with local communities to promote modern farming techniques that contribute to soil restoration, with efforts covering seven hectares in Bweramana.

Furthermore, EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda supported 270 farmers through various initiatives aimed at improving their livelihoods. The organization also renovated five houses for vulnerable families and built a daycare center to support community well-being.

Sharon Higiro Umuratwa, the General Manager of EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda, expressed the organization’s commitment to advancing bamboo cultivation to protect riverbanks and improve the livelihoods of people in Ruhango District. She also extended her gratitude to the community for their partnership over the past three years, which has been instrumental in the restoration of the 307-hectare area.

The Vice Mayor for Economic Development of Ruhango District, Jean Marie Vianney Rusilibana, highlighted EcoPlanet’s significant role in improving the community’s quality of life through erosion control measures and emphasized the importance of bamboo conservation for providing sustainable livelihoods.

Remy Songa, representing the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), emphasized how bamboo plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by reducing carbon emissions and combating soil erosion and landslides.

Divine Cyambarantama, Forest Extension Officer at Rwanda Forestry Authority (RFA), also urged the residents of Ruhango to continue preserving bamboo and thanked EcoPlanet for its ongoing contributions to environmental conservation.

EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda actively participated in the celebration of Bamboo Day alongside the residents of Ruhango, showcasing its significant contributions to environmental conservation.

Community members expressed their appreciation for the positive impact of EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda’s efforts.

The organization has played a crucial role in protecting the country’s riverbanks through the planting of bamboo, which helps in soil conservation and prevents erosion.

EcoPlanet Bamboo Rwanda continues to plant bamboo in various regions across Rwanda, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment.

IGIHE

But tensions that erupted early 2022 between the two neighbors derailed much of that progress. Some projects were suspended, while others slowed to a near standstill.

Among the most affected were the joint construction of a major hydroelectric plant, conservation of the Virunga parks, gold refining agreements, petroleum exploration in Lake Kivu, and the planned model village in Goma.

The Ruzizi III power plant

One of the flagship projects delayed by the diplomatic fallout is the Ruzizi III hydropower station, a joint initiative of Rwanda, the DRC, and Burundi.

In 2016, the three countries agreed to harness the Ruzizi River to produce 147 megawatts of electricity. Backed by the World Bank, the European Union, and the African Development Bank, the project was valued at $450 million and was expected to be completed by 2024.

However, regional disputes disrupted cooperation, causing repeated delays. Costs have since ballooned to an estimated $800 million. Earlier this month, Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, inspected the site and announced that construction will formally begin in January 2026 and conclude by 2030.

Each partner country will contribute around $266 million and receive roughly 68 megawatts of power.

The construction project for the Ruzizi III hydropower plant on the Ruzizi River has stalled.

Park conservation efforts

In 2014, Rwanda, the DRC, and Uganda signed a pact to protect the Virunga mountain range and surrounding parks, an area spanning over 7,900 square kilometers.

Through the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration (GVTC), the countries sought to coordinate anti-poaching operations and counter armed groups destabilizing the region, such as the FDLR.

Those efforts stalled after hostilities resumed. In October 2022, Kinshasa accused Rwanda of smuggling gorillas and monkeys, allegations Rwanda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Robert Kayinamura, dismissed as 'a colonial mindset.'

'For the past 28 years, Rwanda has been blamed for everything; lack of water, lack of electricity, lack of roads,' he said. 'We need to move beyond this mentality and focus on real solutions.'

Rwanda, the DRC, and Uganda had agreed to collaborate on the conservation of the Virunga National Parks.

Gold refining agreement

The DRC, home to vast mineral wealth, has long struggled to add value to its resources due to limited refining capacity. In contrast, Rwanda operates the Gasabo Gold Refinery in Kigali.

In June 2021, the two countries signed an agreement allowing Congolese gold to be processed in Rwanda through a partnership between Sakima (Socièté Aurifère du Kivu et Maniema), a state-owned company in the DRC, and Rwanda’s Dither Ltd.

But just a year later, after M23 rebels seized Bunagana, Kinshasa suspended the deal, accusing Rwanda of backing the rebels; allegations Kigali has consistently denied.

Gasabo Gold Refinery was set to process gold from the eastern DRC.

Goma’s model village

The eruption of Mount Nyiragongo in May 2021 destroyed more than 1,000 homes on the outskirts of Goma. In a gesture of solidarity, President Paul Kagame visited the area and pledged to help rebuild, promising a modern settlement similar to Rwanda’s Kinigi model village in Musanze.

Congolese officials later toured Kinigi to study its design, and it was agreed that Rwanda would supply construction materials. The model village, estimated to cost over 26 billion Rwandan francs, was to be inaugurated on July 4, 2022.

By then, however, relations had soured, leading to setbacks in the implementation of the project.

The model village in Goma was intended to resemble the one in Kinigi.

Lake Kivu oil exploration

In 2017, Rwanda and the DRC signed an agreement to jointly explore petroleum deposits in Lake Kivu. The deal followed discussions between the two presidents in 2016 and aimed to identify reserves, estimate quantities, and plan for joint exploitation.

Following the Bunagana crisis, Kinshasa suspended cooperation and accused Kigali of supporting M23 rebels. Rwanda proceeded with exploration on its side of the lake. In January 2025, Kigali announced it had identified 13 potential petroleum blocks.

The discovery angered Kinshasa, prompting Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka to instruct her Minister of Hydrocarbons, Aimé Sakombi Molendo, to demand explanations from Rwanda Mining Board (RMB).

Oil exploration in Lake Kivu was part of joint projects.

A path to reconciliation?

Since 2022, Angola and other mediators have attempted to restore relations. In September of that year, Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi last met in New York, with President Emmanuel Macron of France facilitating talks.

In March 2025, the United States helped broker a peace framework, culminating in a June 27 agreement aimed at ending hostilities.

If relations improve, key joint projects including Ruzizi III, cross-border conservation and mineral processing could be revived, renewing hopes of regional integration.

The United States and partners have begun engaging Rwanda and the DRC to support efforts that led to the signing of peace agreement.

Jean de Dieu Tuyizere

His remarks came after AFC/M23 forces took control of Nzibira town in Walungu Territory, South Kivu, on Sunday, September 21, 2025.

Brig. Gen. Kapend, who also commands the army in Katanga, said the situation does not pose a major threat as long as Katanga remains untouched.

'All the pressure is in eastern DRC. If we fail to stop the enemy there, we will be the first to face its heavy weapons,' he said.

He added that the rebel coalition could expand further without endangering national stability.

'They may take over other areas, but as long as they do not take Katanga, the country will endure,' he stated.

Heavy fighting between AFC/M23 and the Congolese army coalition flared again late last week, with clashes reported in Cisaza, Cibanda, Muyange, Karhuliza and Kalongo in South Kivu, as well as in Masisi and Walikale in North Kivu.

The commander of the 22nd Military Region, Brig. Gen. Eddy Kapend, has downplayed concerns over AFC/M23 rebels seizing territories in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, saying the real danger would only arise if they captured Katanga Province.

IGIHE