The “Cold Outside” hitmaker made the revelation during his high-energy performance at BK Arena on Saturday, August 2, 2025, as part of the closing show for the Giants of Africa Festival. The night also featured performances by The Ben, Kizz Daniel, and Ayra Starr.
As he stepped onto the stage, Timaya took a moment to express his love for Rwanda and its people. 'I love you all. You know that? I’m happy to be here,' he told the crowd.
In between songs, the award-winning artist praised Rwanda’s beauty and warm hospitality, giving special mention to Kigali and its women.
'I want to stay here forever. Rwanda is so beautiful, and Kigali is simply amazing,' he said, drawing loud cheers from the audience.
He then dropped the line that got fans buzzing: 'I’m not married yet, but I’ll marry a Rwandan woman.'
This isn’t the first time Timaya has spoken about marriage. In a past interview with Nigeria’s Naija FM, he admitted he had never tied the knot but hadn’t ruled it out.
'I’ve never been married, but that could change. If I got married today and the woman started stressing me, I’d leave. In my past relationships, I’ve always been the one to walk away firstâ”I don’t like drama,' he said.
Despite never marrying, Timaya is a father of four. He shares two daughters, Emmanuella and Gracey, with ex-partner Barbara Fumnaya Nwaokolo, a son named Tamar, and his youngest daughter Maya, whom he had with Dunnie Onasanya.
This marks Timaya’s second time performing in Kigali. He last headlined the Kigali Jazz Junction back in March 2022 at Canal Olympia.
Nigerian music star Timaya has revealed that he wants to settle down with a Rwandan woman, captivated by the beauty of both the country and its women.
Timaya enjoys a dance with a young woman during the closing concert of the Giants of Africa Festival.
Among those he welcomed were the President of SECAM and Catholic Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, as well as the President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda.
During the meeting, President Kagame shared Rwanda’s journey of recovery and development, emphasizing that for humanity to thrive, both the state and religious institutions must play active roles.
'Rwanda’s history represents both the worst and the best of humanity – a reminder that those with responsibilities, both in the state and the church, must harness the best of humanity,' he noted.
'Failure has happened before, but good people don’t accept to be held hostage by it. We must learn from our history, work together, and prepare the ground for hope, reconciliation, and peace, not just in Rwanda, but across our continent,' President Kagame added.
The SECAM gathering in Kigali began on July 31, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on August 3. It has brought together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, and more than 70 priests from various African countries.
At the official opening, Cardinal Ambongo thanked Rwanda for hosting the event, calling it a model nation that overcame a painful past to rebuild itself. He also expressed appreciation to President Kagame for sending a government representative to the opening.
President Kagame was represented at the opening ceremony by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who called on the Catholic bishops to play an active role in addressing the challenges facing Africa, including conflicts, and to contribute to the continent’s economic development.
This 20th SECAM plenary assembly in Kigali is held under the theme: 'Christ the Source of Hope, Unity, Reconciliation, and Peace: A Vision for the Church-Family of God in Africa over the Next 25 Years.'
President Kagame has met with Catholic Bishops attending SECAM Assembly
This development builds on the momentum of recent diplomatic progress, including the Peace Agreement signed by the two countries on June 27, 2025, and the earlier Declaration of Principles signed in Washington, D.C. on April 25 by DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
The REIF is expected to serve as a living platform that evolves over time, allowing for the inclusion of new, mutually beneficial initiatives in areas ranging from infrastructure and energy to health, tourism, and mining.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe,on July 30, told Members of Parliament that Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were preparing to enter into a special economic cooperation agreement.
'These will be specific agreements focused on bilateral cooperation, particularly on adding value to mineral resources. Discussions are still ongoing. We hope that experts from both sides will reach a consensus so that the agreement can be signed in the near future,' said Minister Nduhungirehe.
Before outlining principles for their economic cooperation principles, Rwanda and the DRC convened their first meeting of the oversight body tasked with monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, which took place in Washington on July 31.
That meeting laid the groundwork for a follow-up session scheduled for August 4, bringing together members of a joint security mechanism. This body will be responsible for overseeing operations aimed at dismantling the terrorist group FDLR and reviewing Rwanda’s defensive measures previously put in place.
The United States has welcomed both meetings as significant steps toward implementing the peace agreement, emphasizing that Rwanda and the DRC are on the right track toward enhanced security and economic collaboration.
The United States has announced that the governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda intend to establish a Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF).
Umuganura in modern Rwanda: The evolving celebration of culture, unity and growth
Far more than a harvest festival, Umuganura is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s roots, an occasion to reflect on collective achievements, reaffirm national values, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that has guided the country through generations.
Deeply rooted in history and embraced with renewed purpose, this celebration continues to bridge the wisdom of the past with the promise of the future.
As Rwanda celebrates Umuganura today, the nation pauses to honour a timeless tradition that embodies unity, gratitude, and cultural pride.
Umuganura dates back centuries to the time of the Rwandan monarchy. It was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season. Communities across the kingdom would gather to offer the first fruits of their labour, typically sorghum, millet, and beans, as a sign of gratitude for abundance and divine blessing.
At the centre of this tradition stood the King, who played both a symbolic and spiritual role. The harvest was presented to him and, in turn, symbolically offered to the ancestors.
Umuganura was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
This ritual was not only about agriculture; it was a reaffirmation of national unity, respect for authority, and spiritual connection. Umuganura served as a mirror through which the nation reflected on its values, productivity, and collective identity.
Traditionally, Umuganura brought together various aspects of Rwandan life. Alongside the offering of harvests, the day included rituals, traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These cultural expressions helped reinforce social harmony and educate younger generations about shared values.
The celebration emphasised virtues such as hard work, humility, solidarity, and communal responsibility. It was also a time for communities to assess their achievements and set intentions for the seasons ahead.
Umuganura today
In contemporary Rwanda, Umuganura has evolved into a national reflection point. While its agricultural foundation remains, it now extends to celebrating achievements across all sectorsâ”education, health, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It is a day to acknowledge both individual and collective contributions to national development.
Ceremonies are held at community and national levels, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions of local produce and crafts, and forums for dialogue on the country’s progress. Youth engagement is a key component, with schools and cultural institutions working to educate younger generations about the meaning and importance of Umuganura.
As Rwanda continues to grow and modernise, Umuganura remains a powerful reminder of the country’s rich heritage.
IGIHE spoke to young Rwandans from different walks of life to explore what this treasured tradition means in today’s world, reflecting on its historical roots and how it has evolved over time.
Once centred around offering the first harvest to the king, Umuganura has grown to recognise achievements in all sectors of life. Brighton Rutikanga emphasised how today’s celebration extends beyond agriculture to include progress in education, business, and other areas. He noted that the holiday encourages Rwandans to reflect on past goals and set new ambitions for the future.
Others, like Patrick Nshimiyimana, highlighted the personal and cultural importance of sharing the day with family, recalling warm memories of village celebrations with loved ones.
He and Brighton both celebrated educational accomplishments, seeing university attendance and academic improvement as major milestones. Alongside them, Hirwa Prince and Mutoniwase Fabrine shared stories of personal growth and community contributions, reflecting the spirit of resilience, connection, and national pride that continues to define Umuganura today.
“In the past, Rwanda celebrated by sharing harvests like cassava, beans, and maize. They’d bring them to the king and celebrate together, and it was awesome!”
'Now, it’s more than that. Most people rely on services and other sectors, so we use agriculture as a symbol to celebrate achievements in any field. In my sector, I reflect on last year’s goals and plan for the future,' said Patrick Nshimiyimana.
Umuganura is also a time to reflect on individual journeys and milestones. For many young Rwandans, it’s an opportunity to measure growth, whether in education, career, or service to others.
“The grades that I used to get weren’t good, and I didn’t think it was possible anymore, but my achievement when I got to university is that I started getting good grades. That was a breakthrough, and I’m grateful. This year, I’m still growing professionally, financially, everything,' said Prince Hirwa.
Speaking during the celebration of Umuganura in Musanze District, the Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana reaffirmed the enduring significance of this annual tradition in Rwanda’s cultural identity and national development.
'One may wonder if Umuganura remains relevant today. The answer is a resounding yes,' he said. 'While its historical roots lie in agriculture and livestock farming, today’s Umuganura celebrates diverse sectors, including service output, technology, education, tourism, arts, and industries.'
The Minister emphasized that the foundational values of Umuganura, planning, resilience, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotismâ”are as vital today as they were centuries ago.
Habimana also called on Rwandans to uphold and integrate the values of Umuganura into their daily lives and ensure its transmission to future generations.
Gakenke Mayor Mukandayisenga Véstine made the announcement during a July 31, 2025, engagement with staff from the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) and journalists. The visit was part of a broader cultural tour aimed at identifying and promoting sites with deep historical ties to Umuganura.
Huro Hill, located in Huro Village, Huro Cell, Muhondo Sector, formerly known as Bumbog, is the most prominent historical landmark in Gakenke tied to the Umuganura tradition.
Historical accounts indicate that Huro served as the residence of the Abiru ba Kwa Myaka, the royal ritual specialists tasked with preparing sacred seeds, particularly sorghum and millet, used in the national harvest ceremony.
At Huro, only the finest, untainted seeds were selected and ritually purified before being sent to the royal court for Umuganura. This tradition is the origin of the popular Rwandan saying 'Ihuriro ni i Huro', meaning 'the gathering point is Huro,' emphasising the hill’s role as the central hub for both seeds and those who bore them.
Paulin Mudahinyuka, a 78-year-old elder from the area, recalled the meticulous seed selection practices of the past. He said that, traditionally, women were not allowed to handle the seeds during menstruation, a time considered one of ritual impurity in the customs.
'They were extremely meticulous,' he said. 'Only perfect, germinable seeds were chosen, and no one touched them with bare hands. Even men used a special stick known as isando to avoid contamination.'
Once selected, the seeds were delivered to the king accompanied by traditional drums and imutsama beer, all presented as offerings for royal blessing and symbolic national unity.
Elder Mudahinyuka further recounted that during Umuganura celebrations, the King would arrive accompanied by the Chief of the Harvest Ceremony (Umuganuza Mukuru). Together, they would place their hands into a large ceremonial basket (igitenga) filled with sacred seeds and pour them onto the ground, symbolically signifying the King’s blessing over the nation’s agricultural season.
'Once the seeds touched Rwanda’s soil,' he explained, 'it was understood that the King had officially offered the seeds to the nation.'
One of Huro Hill’s enduring historical landmarks is a centuries-old rain gauge known as Ivubiro, established by a royal meteorologist named Minyaruko ya Nyamikenke, a local leader of Busigi in the 16th century. He built it at the request of King Ruganzu II Ndori. The rain basin, still present today, is concealed in a bush and retains water even now.
This rain gauge was used by the Abiru royal agricultural seers of the Myaka lineage to predict rainfall patterns. If they foresaw a delayed rainy season, they would inform the King, who would then perform rituals to prompt an early downpour.
To further protect this heritage, Gakenke District Mayor, Mukandayisenga Véstine, revealed plans to compensate a resident whose land encompasses the historic site. The move will facilitate its formal conservation.
'We are in the process of valuing the land and compensating the owner so that we can fence off the area,' she said. 'We’re also working with partners to potentially build a small heritage centre where today’s elders who may not be with us tomorrow can document and display these stories, possibly even in audiovisual form.'
The Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) (Inteko y’Umuco) notes that its research has identified over 530 heritage sites nationwide. These require proper signage, preservation, and coordinated protection by multiple institutions.
Other culturally significant locations in Gakenke include Kabuye Hill, home to Iriba rya Nyirarucyaba (a sacred spring) and the King’s cave, along with Mbirima and Matovu in Coko Sector, which are associated with royal traditions, and Ibuye rya Bajyejye, a historical rock in Gakenke Town.
Huro Hill holds centuries-old Umuganura heritage dating back to the 16th century.
This clay pot, buried in the ground, represents a traditional weather forecasting site where rainfall patterns were once predicted.
Deputy Director General of the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy, Uwiringiyimana Jean Claude, stated that they have so far documented 530 historical sites across the country that deserve preservation.
The Mayor of Gakenke District, Mukandayisenga Véstine, affirmed their unwavering commitment to preserving the historical heritage found in Huro and other significant sites within the district.
The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, industry, local residents, and government officials. The day served as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and reaffirmation of cultural values.
Highlighting the significance of Umuganura in both historical and contemporary contexts, the Minister noted: 'Umuganura stands out as the only festivity deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. This is why the Government of Rwanda reinstated it in 2012, and efforts are underway to have it recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.'
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura is not just a symbolic tradition, but a practical framework of values that continue to guide Rwanda’s development.
He traced its origins back to the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana and its interruption by colonial rule in 1925. The festival was officially reinstated in 2012 by the Government of National Unity under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The Minister further described Umuganura as a journey of planning, resilience, and achievement.
He noted that the celebration is no longer limited to agriculture and livestock, but now includes achievements in sectors such as education, technology, tourism, arts, and industry.
'Some may perceive Umuganura as merely an act of sharing, but while sharing is an important component, it is not the sole essence of the celebration. Umuganura represents a year-long process of performance contract, planning, and striving for progress,' Habimana noted.
The festival’s theme this yearâ”'Umuganura: The Source of Unity and Foundation for Self-Reliance'â”captured its evolving role in modern Rwandan society.
The minister also issued a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to embrace and preserve the values of Umuganura.
'Umuganura is not just another celebration. It is a unique heritage and tradition that defines our identity. I urge you to uphold it, embrace it in your daily lives, and pass it on to future generations,' he noted.
'Elders have a responsibility to instill this tradition in the youth, ensuring its preservation. Celebrating Umuganura reminds us to keep Rwanda at the heart, wherever we are, and to carry this legacy with pride,' the minister added.
Umuganura embodies values such as hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and patriotismâ”principles that continue to drive Rwanda’s progress.
With a career spanning over two decades, Adesope has become a cornerstone in the African entertainment media space. His work with Afrobeats heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Olamide, Sarkodie, and Wande Coal has cemented his reputation as a key driver of African pop culture across global platforms, especially in the UK.
Recognising his influence and far-reaching network, Rwandan label 1:55AM Ltd enlisted Adesope to spearhead international promotions for 'Pom Pom', which is positioned to open new markets for the trio of artists.
According to sources, Adesope is expected in Kigali ahead of the song’s official release, with promotional activities in the UK lined up shortly after. The label also hinted that Bruce Melodie and his collaborators may head to the UK for a media tour, leveraging Adesope’s extensive industry connections.
Adesope’s media journey began in 2003 at N-Power FM in London before moving to Voice of Africa Radio. By 2014, he was hosting Live at Battersea on Vox Africa TV UK and later became a fixture on Nollywood Movies Sky 329 with Nolly Afrobeats. He also contributed to Ben Television’s ABC Sports segment.
That same year, he joined The Beat London 103.6FM, where he hosted Afrohits on The Beat, becoming a defining voice for African music radio in the UK for ten years. Since 2020, he has anchored The Afrobeats Podcast, a globally respected platform spotlighting African talent and cultural movements.
With his deep ties to the African music diaspora, Adesope continues to bridge the gap between African artists and Western audiences. His involvement in 'Pom Pom' signals the track’s international ambitions and positions it for cross-continental success.
The single is slated for release between late August and mid-September 2025, marking another major milestone in Bruce Melodie’s continued rise on the global music scene.
Adesope has an established working relationship with Burna Boy, particularly in the area of promoting his music and artistic projects.
Artists such as Wizkid hold Adesope in high regard for his pivotal role in promoting their music and expanding their reach to international audiences.
Although they do not work together regularly, Adesope has often supported Davido in promoting his music and expanding his international presence.
RDB had temporarily suspended the issuance of new gaming licenses and the renewal of expired licenses on August 9, 2024. This action was taken as the RDB assumed its role as the regulatory authority for gaming activities and worked on a new national gambling policy.
In a public notice issued on August 1, 2025, RDB announced that the resumption of licensing activities follows the adoption of the 2024 Gambling Policy, which aims to promote a responsible, transparent, and well-regulated industry.
RDB said the decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to attract credible investment while minimising potential social and economic harms associated with gambling.
'The aim is to establish a modern and responsible gambling ecosystem, aligned with international best practices and Rwanda’s strategic vision,' RDB stated.
Under the revised framework, operators with valid licenses are required to comply with updated directives, including the resumption of annual license fee payments as stipulated in Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013.
RDB has committed to providing direct communication to each operator with detailed payment instructions and timelines to ensure continuity of operations.
In addition to re-opening licensing for physical casinos, RDB is now accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for three key gambling categories: land-based sports betting, online sports betting, and online casinos.
RDB has invited interested parties to submit their EOIs by September 30, 2025, via email to [email protected].
“Submissions should briefly describe the applicant’s profile, area of interest, and proposed investment. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further engagement,” RDB stated.
The current regulatory transition comes as Rwanda works to replace the legal framework that has governed the sector since 2011.
While the review is ongoing, gambling activities will continue to operate under the existing laws, including Law n°58/2011 governing gambling in Rwanda, Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013 on licensing procedures and fees, and Ministerial Order n°001/MINICOM/2023 outlining administrative sanctions.
In a public notice issued on August 1, 2025, RDB announced that the resumption of licensing activities follows the adoption of the 2024 Gambling Policy, which aims to promote a responsible, transparent, and well-regulated industry.
The order hereby imposes “additional ad valorem duties on goods of certain trading partners.”
Most of the new tariff rates range from 10 percent to 40 percent, according to an annex to the release from the White House.
The new tariff rates will take effect seven days after the date of the executive order with exceptions on logistical grounds.
Trump noted in the executive order that some U.S. trading partners, despite having engaged in negotiations, have offered terms that do not sufficiently address “imbalances” in trading relationship or have failed to align sufficiently with the United States on “economic and national security matters.”
“There are also some trading partners that have failed to engage in negotiations with the United States or to take adequate steps to align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters,” he said.
According to the order, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Homeland Security, together with other senior officials, shall publish every six months a list of countries and specific facilities used in circumvention schemes, to inform public procurement, national security reviews, and commercial due diligence.
In addition, major U.S. governmental agencies are directed and authorized to take “all necessary actions” to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday signed an executive order further modifying tariff rates with nearly 70 trading partners.
In June 2025, AFC/M23 claimed control over approximately 34,000 square kilometers of territory in North and South Kivu provinces, home to more than 11 million people.
While the coalition has already installed a governance structure that includes political leadership and provincial governors, it has yet to implement a formal justice system. This gap has reportedly allowed lawlessness and impunity in some areas.
To address the issue, AFC/M23 formed a special commission to assess the feasibility of creating a judicial framework. The commission has submitted its recommendations to the coalition’s top leadership for review and approval.
Key leaders involved in this process include AFC coordinator Corneille Nangaa, his deputy and M23 political head Bertrand Bisimwa, M23 military commander Gen Sultani Makenga, and deputy military commander Brig Gen Bernard Byamungu.
Délion Kimbulungu, AFC Permanent Secretary and chair of the commission, said, 'The proposal includes the re-establishment of civilian and military courts, local tribunals, and other essential justice institutions.'
AFC/M23 maintains that it has restored peace and security in the areas it controls and insists it is better positioned to establish effective governance structures than the administration of President Félix Tshisekedi.
Key leaders involved in this process include AFC coordinator Corneille Nangaa, his deputy and M23 political head Bertrand Bisimwa, M23 military commander Gen Sultani Makenga, and deputy military commander Brig Gen Bernard Byamungu.
AFC/M23 formed a special commission to assess the feasibility of creating a judicial framework.
