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Twirwaneho spokesperson Kamasa Ndakize Welcome announced on Tuesday, 5 August, that joint attacks involving the FDLR, FARDC, and a faction of the Mai Mai Ngomanzito militia had begun in the villages of Irumba and Rugezi, located in southern Minembwe.

'Since the early hours of August 5, joint offensives by government forces, including FARDC, FDLR genocidaires, and Mai Mai Ngomanzito, have been carried out on Banyamulenge villages in Irumba and Rugezi,' he stated.

The reports come just days after the community raised concerns that FDLR fighters were undergoing training in Burundi, ahead of being deployed to join FARDC, Burundian forces, and Wazalendo militias in operations targeting the Banyamulenge.

'Military training, which constitutes a criminal act, is being provided to FDLR fighters in Burundi before they are deployed to the DRC. We continue to condemn this. Approximately 20,000 are currently in training, and more than 3,000 have already crossed into the DRC,' the group stated earlier.

Twirwaneho also indicated that credible intelligence showed each FDLR combatant receives $50 prior to leaving Burundi and is then dispatched to areas such as Luvungi, Lubarika, and Lemera, where they reportedly establish temporary bases.

However, in his latest statement, the Twirwaneho spokesperson clarified that Burundian forces were not involved in the August 5 attacks and called for their complete and public withdrawal from what the movement described as a wider campaign to annihilate the Banyamulenge.

'We affirm that Burundian troops did not take part in today’s attacks. We hope they will completely and publicly distance themselves from such operations. Withdrawing from this genocidal war would mark a major step toward peace,' he said.

Twirwaneho reiterated its commitment to peace but stressed its right to defend civilians under threat using all means permitted by law.

The attacks continue despite prior commitments to a ceasefire and an end to violence in eastern DRC, as ongoing talks between the DRC government and the AFC/M23 rebel group proceed.

In recent weeks, the rebel group has accused FARDC and its allied militias of carrying out coordinated attacks, urging the international community to condemn the violence and support a peaceful resolution to the conflict, one they say is rooted in the marginalisation and persecution of Banyamulenge communities in eastern DRC.

The MRDP—Twirwaneho movement has accused the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the FDLR militia of launching coordinated attacks on Banyamulenge communities in South Kivu Province.

IGIHE

The agreements were signed on August 6, 2025, at the conclusion of the Ministerial Session of the Third Joint Permanent Commission between Rwanda and Zimbabwe. The meeting aimed to review and strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries.

On the Rwandan side, the agreements were signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, while Zimbabwe was represented by his counterpart, Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira.

Minister Nduhungirehe noted that both countries had sufficient time to explore areas of cooperation following the second session of the commission held in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 2023.

The meeting laid the groundwork for signing the new agreements covering youth development, collaboration between police institutions, health, customs information exchange, and expansion of energy sector cooperation.

He also pointed out that Rwanda and Zimbabwe already collaborate in several areas such as agriculture, correctional services, and tourism, stressing the importance of implementing the signed agreements.

'We must focus heavily on implementation. Let’s act on the decisions made today to produce tangible results. Establishing follow-up mechanisms, facilitating knowledge exchange, and working together to solve governance-related challenges are crucial,' he said.

He further stated that Zimbabwe is ready to work with Rwanda in the field of justice, with ongoing discussions aimed at finalising a prisoner transfer agreement. Talks are also nearing completion on avoiding double taxation and collaborating on social development programmes.

Minister Nduhungirehe described Zimbabwe as a key partner for Rwanda, with over 25 cooperation agreements signed to date aimed at boosting both countries’ economies.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira, expressed his country’s interest in working closely with Rwanda in various sectors.

'We consider the Rwanda—Zimbabwe partnership vital, as it has grown significantly over the years. Since our meeting in 2021, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress in several sectors. This reflects the strong collaboration, friendship, and mutual respect between us,' he said.

He also praised the establishment of a joint Rwanda—Zimbabwe Business Forum, noting its potential to highlight partnership opportunities in agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, mineral extraction, industrial development, and other sectors that can benefit both populations.

Prof. Murwira highlighted existing cooperation in education, which is already yielding results. He confirmed that the deployment of a second group of Zimbabwean teachers to Rwanda is nearing completion.

He also mentioned his visit to Norrsken Kigali, which supports youth-led tech innovation projects, and identified it as a potential area for joint efforts in advancing technology and industrial growth.

Prof. Murwira added that Zimbabwe is prepared to offer scholarships to Rwandan students interested in furthering their knowledge, particularly in innovation and industrial development.

Rwanda and Zimbabwe have signed five cooperation agreements across various sectors, including health, youth development, police cooperation, energy, and customs information exchange.

The meeting follows the session that took place in Zimbabwe in 2023.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Dr. Amon Murwira, affirmed his country’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Rwanda across a range of sectors.

Minister Nduhungirehe noted that both countries had sufficient time to explore areas of cooperation following the second session of the commission held in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 2023.

Some of the delegates who attended the Ministerial Session of the Third Joint Permanent Commission between Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

IGIHE

Rooted in the centuries-old Rwandan tradition of naming newborns, Kwita Izina was officially introduced in 2005 to celebrate Rwanda’s conservation achievements, engage communities, and inspire global awareness.

Over the past 20 years, Kwita Izina has become one of Africa’s leading events on conservation and sustainable tourism, attracting global icons, conservationists, and thousands of attendees annually. Since 2005, 397 baby gorillas have been named.

Last year, the event was postponed due to the Marburg outbreak in the country.

The theme for this year, 'A legacy of community centered conservation, securing a sustainable future for all,' highlights the vital role of communities, rangers, and researchers in protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity.

Commenting on the development, RDB Chief Tourism Officer, Irène Murerwa, said: 'We are excited to celebrate 20 years of Kwita Izina—a ceremony that has become a symbol of conservation, community, and culture in Rwanda. Thanks to the unwavering dedication and support of the government of Rwanda, partners and communities, the mountain gorilla population in the Virunga Massif has increased from 880 in 2012 to over 1,063 today. This success highlights the impact of community-based conservation and strategic partnerships.'

'Through initiatives like the Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme, which allocates 10% of tourism income back to local communities, we have improved schools, roads, and access to clean water. This demonstrates that when conservation benefits communities, nature thrives. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our shared duty to protect biodiversity and create a sustainable future for generations to come,' she added.

Highlights of Kwita Izina 2025

To support the restoration of Volcanoes National Park, RDB, through the Rwanda Nature Foundation, will launch a crowdfunding platform on 6 September to raise funds for the restoration of Volcanoes National Park, ensuring a healthier, expanded habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas.

The platform will offer individuals and organisations worldwide a direct way to contribute to mountain gorilla protection and habitat restoration.

Community Recognition

As with every edition, this year’s ceremony will honour the local communities and rangers who continue to play a vital role in the survival of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Ahead of Kwita Izina, a smart green agricultural project will be launched in Musanze District as part of this year’s Tourism Revenue Share Programme, alongside additional donations to benefit communities living around Rwanda’s other national parks.

In celebration of this milestone year, a series of events will be held across the country to highlight conservation efforts, engage stakeholders, and showcase Rwanda’s natural beauty. The Kwita Izina 20 event calendar includes several significant activities, starting on August 29 with the launch of a community project in Kinigi, Musanze District.

From September 3 to 14, there will be familiarization trips across the country for international media and tour operators. On September 3 and 4, community sports activities and a concert will take place in Musanze.

The much-anticipated Mountain Gorilla Naming Ceremony will be held in Kinigi on September 5. On September 6, two events are scheduled: a golf tournament at the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas and the Conservation Gala Dinner in Kigali.

Since 2005, 397 gorillas have been named. Additionally, over Rwf 18 billion has been invested in more than 1,000 community projects through the Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme.

Kwita Izina continues to define Rwanda’s leadership in responsible tourism, blending tradition, innovation, and community ownership to protect the only species of great apes.

Rwanda is set to name 40 baby gorillas at Kwita Izina 2025

IGIHE

The adoption of key documents—including the framework for merging the Nairobi and Luanda processes and the terms of reference for the five-member panel—is a positive sign that diplomatic architecture is being laid. However, despite this progress, the most pressing challenge continues to loom large: the question of leadership.

Diplomacy without direction risks becoming ineffective. And in the case of the DRC, the number of overlapping peace initiatives—from the EAC and SADC to the AU, and now the Washington and Doha processes—only amplifies that risk. What the region urgently needs is not just a flurry of well-intentioned summits and communiqués, but a clearly defined and recognized leadership structure that can unify these fragmented efforts.

The newly appointed Panel of Facilitators, endorsed by both the EAC and SADC, could serve as a foundation for that leadership. Yet, their ability to coordinate, influence, and command legitimacy across diverse regional and international stakeholders will depend entirely on the political will of all parties involved. In the absence of clear agreement on who leads and how, diplomatic efforts could quickly become counterproductive—duplicated processes, competing agendas, and inefficient use of scarce resources.

This is not just a technical challenge; it is a deeply political one. Countries and institutions often find it difficult to relinquish influence or defer to another process, even when doing so is in the collective interest. However, the cost of fragmented diplomacy is high. Prolonged conflict in eastern Congo continues to result in immense human suffering, displacement, and economic stagnation. The people of the region cannot afford the luxury of egos at the negotiation table.

If these peace processes are to bear fruit, they must align under a single, coherent strategy, guided by a clearly mandated and empowered institution. This does not mean sidelining existing efforts, but rather building upon them in a structured and coordinated manner. The merger of the Nairobi and Luanda processes into one framework is an encouraging sign—but it must be more than symbolic. It must lead to genuine synergy, where each initiative complements rather than competes with the other.

Furthermore, international partners—especially those driving the Washington and Doha processes—must recognize and support the primacy of African-led solutions. Their involvement should reinforce, not redefine, the strategy adopted by the leading regional body.

In conclusion, the peace process in eastern DRC is at a critical juncture. Diplomatic tools are being sharpened, facilitators appointed, frameworks drafted. Yet, unless the leadership question is urgently and decisively addressed, even the best-laid plans will falter. What is needed now is not more processes, but more unity of purpose—and leadership to make that possible.

The author, Dr. Charles Kiiza is a University Don teaching Diplomacy and International Relations at the University of Rwanda.

The Co-Chairs of the joint EAC-SADC Summit and the Panel of Facilitators for the DRC Peace Process took placeon August 1, 2025. The Nairobi meeting focused on the ongoing peace process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and served as a briefing session with the Panel of Facilitators steering the mediation efforts.

Dr. Charles Kiiza

The Commission’s trade spokesperson, Olof Gill, said the decision was adopted under an emergency procedure and will require formal approval by a simple majority of member states within two weeks. The tariffs were scheduled to take effect on Aug. 7.

“The Commission has today adopted necessary legal procedures to suspend the implementation of our European Union (EU) countermeasures,” Gill told a press briefing in Brussels, adding that the regulation would be published in the EU’s official journal later the same day.

Ahead of this announcement, there has been mounting criticism from key member states, including France and Germany. German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has expressed frustration at what he described as a “weak” negotiating stance by the EU during the trade talks with the United States.

“I think we were too weak. We can’t be satisfied with the result that was achieved,” Klingbeil said, referring to the agreement reached late last month between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, most EU imports to the United States will face a 15-percent tariff, while the bloc has pledged to purchase more American energy products and increase investment in the U.S. market.

Gill expressed surprise at Klingbeil’s remarks, noting that member states had been “fully briefed” and had supported a negotiated outcome to avoid tariff escalation.

The spokesperson said the suspension would remain in place for six months, during which implementation of the broader understanding would continue. If commitments are not met, Gill noted, the EU retains the right to reactivate its countermeasures. (1 euro = 1.16 dollar)

Xinhua

This marked Ambassador Dombe’s first official visit to the Rwandan Senate, aimed at familiarizing himself with the institution and its operations.

Following the meeting, Senate President Dr. Kalinda stated: 'We discussed the strong existing relations between Rwanda and Angola, which are founded on cooperation across various sectors. The two countries have signed multiple bilateral agreements in areas such as the economy, technology, education, and agriculture. We specifically emphasized the importance of implementing these agreements, with a particular focus on trade and investment.'

Rwanda and Angola maintain bilateral agreements in mining and diplomatic cooperation, and have also waived visa requirements for each other’s citizens, further strengthening ties.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Olivier Nduhungirehe, in November 2024, reaffirmed the growing partnership between the two nations.

He also commended Angola’s role in facilitating peace dialogues on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and assured Rwanda’s continued collaboration with Angola to promote peace, security, and regional development.

Senate President Dr. Kalinda has received the Ambassador of Angola to Rwanda along with his delegation.

IGIHE

The aircraft, a Zlin-type plane, was on a training mission when it crashed, said the authorities in a statement.

The victims include two members of the Civil Protection force, a flight instructor from the Civil Protection Aviation School, and an aviation company manager, who was of Chilean nationality.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is expected to be launched.

Four people were killed on Tuesday when a civil protection aircraft crashed at Ferhat Abbas Airport in Jijel, 350 km east of Algiers, according to Algeria’s Civil Protection authorities.

Xinhua

He made these remarks on August 4, 2025, while presenting the ratification bill for the peace agreement to the Rwandan Senate. The agreement was signed in Washington D.C., United States in June 2025.

The accord includes four key components: the dismantling of the FDLR rebel group, the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures, economic cooperation between the two countries, and a political section that commits both governments to support ongoing talks between the DRC and the M23/AFC, as well as facilitation for the voluntary repatriation of refugees.

Ambassador Nduhungirehe emphasized that while Rwanda remains optimistic about the deal, there are still notable concerns, which have also been communicated to the mediators involved in the process.

First, he pointed out that it is not the first time Rwanda and the DRC have signed peace agreements that were never fully honored.

'There have been many agreements signed by the Government of the DRC over the past 25 years, more than ten, but most of them have never been implemented. Many of these agreements specifically addressed the need to dismantle the FDLR and to resolve the long-standing persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese communities,' he said.

The second concern, according to Minister Nduhungirehe, relates to the inconsistency between the spirit of dialogue and the actions taking place on the ground in the DRC.

'We informed the mediators that the Congolese government is continuing to acquire weapons, including drones, and has recently hired new foreign mercenaries from Colombia to replace previous ones from Romania. FARDC [the Congolese army] has also deployed additional troops near areas controlled by the M23,' he explained.

The third concern raised was the conduct of some Congolese officials who, after signing peace commitments, begin to distort the content of the agreements in public statements.

He recalled a specific incident involving Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula during negotiations with Dr. Vincent Biruta in Luanda in 2024, where Minister Lutundula committed to providing a clear plan to dismantle the FDLR. But once he returned to the DRC, he publicly denied even knowing who the FDLR were.

He also referenced the recent shift in rhetoric by Vital Kamerhe, Speaker of the DRC National Assembly. 'On July 16, he gave a commendable speech supporting peace and called for both parliaments to endorse the agreement. Yet just days later in Geneva, he launched a harsh attack against Rwanda, making numerous unfounded accusations that completely undermined the peace message.'

Can mediators hold the DRC accountable?

Minister Nduhungirehe said all these concerns have been clearly communicated to the mediators, who have to ensure that the DRC honors its commitments. He stressed that while failure to implement the agreement would be unfortunate, Rwanda will remain vigilant.

'If the agreement is not implemented, it will be regrettable. But regarding our national security, Rwanda will continue to take precautionary measures. Our defense strategies will remain in place until the agreement is fulfilled,' he said.

He expressed hope that the broad coalition of mediators involved in the Washington agreement could influence the DRC’s compliance, especially since many of them hold significant regional and global weight.

'What’s new in this agreement is the number of mediators involved—more than in previous efforts—including actors like the United States, Qatar, Togo, and the African Union Commission. We believe that this expanded and more powerful group of mediators could help make a difference in ensuring this agreement is actually implemented,' he added.

The peace deal between Rwanda and DRC was signed in Washington D.C., United States in June 2025.

IGIHE

This financing agreement represents a major step forward in Rwanda’s industrial transformation agenda under Vision 2050, the country’s long-term development framework aimed at achieving high standards of living for all Rwandans through sustained economic growth, social transformation, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

Located just 10 kilometers from Bugesera International Airport and 50 kilometers from Kigali, BSEZ is strategically positioned to become a dynamic hub for light manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and packaging.

By mobilizing local capital to fund early-stage infrastructure development, including internal roads, utilities, and site readiness, BK and BRD are turning a long-term vision into tangible progress.

A key highlight of this agreement is the inclusion of $10 million in green financing, offered at concessionary rates to support initiatives aligned with national sustainability and climate resilience objectives.

BSEZ spans 335 hectares and is being developed in phases. Phase 1, covering approximately 75 hectares, is already operational and hosts a growing number of regional and international manufacturers across light industry, agro-processing, and logistics.

It provides plug-and-play infrastructure, ready-to-use plots, and access to utilities, demonstrating the zone’s capacity to deliver on Rwanda’s industrial vision. The zone forms a cornerstone of Rwanda’s strategy to attract high-value investment, promote export competitiveness, encourage import substitution, foster local raw material transformation, and create sustainable jobs.

Commenting on the development, the Managing Director of BSEZ Arnab Bose, stated:
'Today marks a defining milestone as BSEZ achieves financial closure, reaffirming ARISE IIP’s commitment to Rwanda’s industrial future. With $52 million secured, $33 million from BK and $19 million from BRD, including $10 million in green financing. We are proud to partner with BK and BRD to catalyze inclusive, sustainable industrial development.'

Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali also expressed the bank’s pride in funding the project. 'The Bugesera Special Economic Zone is a bold step toward realizing Rwanda’s industrial vision. At BK, we are proud to be part of this transformative journey. Financing a project of this scale is not just a demonstration of our confidence in its potential, but a testament to Rwanda’s growing ability to shape its own development path. We are honored to help turn this vision into reality,' she noted.

Kampeta Pitchette Sayinzoga, CEO of the Development Bank of Rwanda, added: 'We are excited to be backing a project that ticks every box: it’s strategic, it’s sustainable, and it puts Rwanda’s people and potential front and centre. This is the kind of investment that moves the needle, not just for industrialization, but for inclusive and sustainable growth. We are proud to collaborate with BK and Bugesera SEZ Ltd. to deliver meaningful, long-term impact.'

As part of its commitment to green finance, BRD continues to champion climate-resilient investments through initiatives like Ireme Invest, which ensures that large-scale infrastructure projects like BSEZ are developed with environmental sustainability at their core. By integrating climate considerations into its financing decisions, BRD is helping to ensure that Rwanda’s industrialization is not only inclusive but also aligned with the country’s long-term climate goals.

About Bank of Kigali

Founded in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest commercial bank, serving over 1 million customers through an extensive branch network and digital channels. The bank is committed to fostering economic growth by providing innovative financial services to individuals, SMEs, and corporations. BK continues to evolve as a trusted partner in Rwanda’s journey toward a brighter, more prosperous future.

About the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD)

The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), established in 1967, has played a vital role in financing projects that advance national development, especially in manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, affordable housing, green finance, and export growth. With a strong mandate to support Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation, BRD provides long-term, affordable, and tailored financing to sectors critical to national progress. It remains a key enabler of the National Strategy for Transformation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

About Bugesera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ)

Bugesera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ) is Rwanda’s leading industrial hub. Formed in 2023 through a public-private partnership between the Government of Rwanda and ARISE IIP, BSEZ represents a $100 million investment. Strategically located 50 kilometers from Kigali and 10 kilometers from the new Bugesera International Airport, the 335-hectare zone offers serviced industrial land, world-class infrastructure, and direct access to regional and global markets.

Designed as a fully integrated ecosystem, BSEZ promotes sustainable manufacturing, raw material transformation, and export-led growth, contributing directly to Rwanda’s ambition of becoming a competitive, green industrial economy.

The landmark financing agreement was signed on July 4, 2025.

Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali also expressed the bank’s pride in funding the project.

This financing agreement represents a major step forward in Rwanda’s industrial transformation agenda under Vision 2050.

IGIHE

Ndirakobuca was one of two senators recently elected to represent the ruling CNDD-FDD party in Bujumbura Province, and he was elected with 100% of the votes cast by the Senate.

In the same session, Générose Ngendanganya was elected as First Vice President of the Senate, and Clotilde Kampimbare was elected as Second Vice President.

Known by his nickname “Ndakugarika,” Ndirakobuca has held several key roles in the Burundian government, including Head of the National Intelligence Service (SNR) and Deputy Chief of Police.

From June 2020 to September 2022, he served as Minister of Internal Security, before being appointed Prime Minister, succeeding Alain Guillaume Bunyoni.

In May 2025, President Évariste Ndayishimiye formally retired Ndirakobuca from the Burundi National Police, where he held the rank of Lieutenant General. This opened the path for his candidacy in the Senate, representing CNDD-FDD in Bujumbura.

Ndirakobuca replaces Emmanuel Sinzohagera, who previously held a dual role as President of the Senate and head of the United Methodist Church in Burundi and Rwanda.

Gervais Ndirakobuca, former Prime Minister of Burundi, was elected as the new President of the Senate on August 5, 2025.

Clotilde Kampimbare was elected as Second Vice President.

Générose Ngendanganya was elected as First Vice President of the Senate.

IGIHE