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The sharp rise is being driven by preventable factors such as hepatitis infections, obesity-related liver conditions, and alcohol consumption, researchers say.

In Rwanda, as in many countries around the world, liver cancer remains a pressing health concern. According to 2020 data, it was responsible for 706 deaths, accounting for 1.22% of all deaths in the country. The age-adjusted death rate stood at 11.48 per 100,000 population, placing Rwanda 24th globally in liver cancer mortality.

The new study, conducted by an international team of experts and drawing from data in the Global Cancer Observatory, warns that if current trends continue, liver cancer will remain among the world’s most lethal diseases, already ranking as the third deadliest cancer globally. By 2050, it is expected to claim 1.37 million lives each year, up from current figures.

Researchers stress that three out of five cases could be prevented through targeted public health interventions.

Preventable causes driving the surge

The study highlights several key risk factors fueling the rise in liver cancer cases, including viral hepatitis B and C, alcohol abuse, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a condition previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

MASLD is increasingly linked to rising rates of obesity and diabetes, particularly in high-income countries and urban areas in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Alcohol consumption alone is projected to cause more than 21% of liver cancer cases by 2050, up from 19% in 2022. Similarly, cancers related to liver fat buildup from obesity are expected to increase to 11%, also up more than two percentage points from current levels.

The study’s authors emphasise that these are largely modifiable risks that require stronger public health messaging and lifestyle interventions.

Hepatitis B is still a major threat

Despite the availability of effective vaccines, hepatitis B continues to pose a major global threat. The virus remains the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide and is expected to be responsible for millions of deaths if vaccination rates do not improve.

The study warns that hepatitis B could cause up to 17 million deaths between 2015 and 2030 unless vaccine coverage, especially in poorer regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, is significantly expanded.

Vaccination at birth is considered the most effective prevention method, but many low-income countries still face barriers in implementing widespread immunisation programs. The study calls for renewed international investment in public health infrastructure to increase access to vaccines and antiviral treatments.

The authors of the study stress the urgent need for global action to reverse these trends. They recommend increasing public awareness around the preventable nature of liver cancer, especially among populations with obesity or diabetes, who may not be aware of the risks associated with fatty-liver disease.

The report also advocates for enhanced screening programs for high-risk individuals and more resources to support early detection, particularly in regions where late-stage diagnoses are common.

Liver cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the liver, forming a malignant tumour. The liver, a vital organ located in the upper right abdomen, is responsible for filtering harmful substances from the blood, producing bile for digestion, and storing nutrients.

There are two main types of liver cancer. Primary liver cancer originates in the liver itself, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most common form. Other less common types include cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and angiosarcoma.

Secondary or metastatic liver cancer, on the other hand, begins in another part of the body—such as the colon, breast, or lung—and spreads to the liver. This type is more common in many parts of the world than primary liver cancer.

The risk of developing liver cancer is heightened by several factors, including chronic infection with hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis (scarring of the liver often caused by alcohol abuse or chronic hepatitis), obesity, diabetes, heavy alcohol consumption, smoking, and certain inherited liver diseases such as hemochromatosis. Exposure to environmental toxins like aflatoxins can also contribute.

Often silent, but deadly

One of the challenges in combating liver cancer is that it often develops silently. In its early stages, liver cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, patients may experience pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, swelling or a hard lump under the rib cage, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained weight loss, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, chalky stools, dark urine, or fever.

Because these symptoms often appear in advanced stages, early detection is critical. Regular screening, particularly using ultrasound, is recommended for individuals with chronic liver disease or other risk factors.

Liver cancer cases are projected to nearly double worldwide by 2050, reaching 1.52 million new diagnoses annually, according to a comprehensive global study published in The Lancet on World Hepatitis Day.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The official ceremony took place at RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura, for RDF Generals and Senior Officers, while that for Junior Officers and Other Ranks was held at each RDF Division’s headquarters across the country and the General Headquarters, Kanombe, for RDF Units around Kigali city.

The ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF. Also in attendance were the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, RDF Service Chiefs, Generals, Senior Officers, and the retirees’ spouses.

On behalf of the President of the Republic of Rwanda and Commander-in-Chief of the RDF, the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, expressed his appreciation for the outstanding service rendered by Retirees during the times when Rwanda needed them.

'You stood firm during the liberation struggle, stopped the genocide against Tutsi, and have been instrumental in rebuilding our country ever since. You played a crucial role in transforming RDF into a strong and professional force, both within Rwanda and on international platforms. Your contributions, especially in the military, have left a lasting legacy,' he said.

He also said that even as they retire, their experience and wisdom remain vital to our nation’s progress. He urged them to always be part of the RDF family and assured them to continue to benefit from their expertise.

In his address, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, expressed appreciation to the RDF retirees for their sacrifices, commitment, and significant contribution to the nation. He commended them for the discipline they upheld throughout their military careers and encouraged them to continue collaborating with the wider Rwandan community in efforts to develop the country.

“Today marks a special day for soldiers who have made immense sacrifices. While you are retiring from active military service, you are not retiring from the values of the Rwanda Defence Force. These values will continue to guide you and keep you ready to serve whenever called upon. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and loyalty you demonstrated, from the liberation struggle, through the efforts to stop the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, to the long and difficult journey of rebuilding our nation. You have played a vital role in shaping Rwanda into the country it is today.”

He also extends heartfelt thanks to the retirees’ spouses who stood strong in their absence, holding the families together and supporting their service from afar, noting their resilience is deeply appreciated.

Maj Gen (Rtd) Wilson Gumisiriza, speaking on behalf of the retirees, expressed pride in the progress of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the contributions they made in transforming it into the respected institution it is today. He noted that although they are entering a new phase in life, they remain committed to serving Rwanda in different ways.

'We extend our sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic for the visionary leadership he provided to the RDF, which has grown into a highly respected force, both nationally and internationally. Although we have retired from active duty, we remain ready and willing to serve our country whenever called upon. Today, we may be taking off our military uniforms, but we are not stepping away from our duty to the nation,' he said.

As a token of appreciation, the retirees were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedicated service to the Rwanda Defence Force.

IGIHE

Beya is on trial alongside Vanda Nowa Biama Guy, Colonel Cikapa Tite Mokili, Commissioner General Lily Tambwe Mauwa, Lieutenant Colonel Kalenga Pierre, and Brigadier General Tonton Twadi Sekele. The group is facing charges, including plotting to harm the President and inciting members of the armed forces to disobey their duties.

With the exception of Brig. Gen. Sekele, who remains at large, the co-accused were previously held in custody but were released on bail while proceedings continue.

Beya was arrested in February 2022 and later granted provisional release in August 2022 to receive medical treatment abroad. He is currently residing in France.

In submissions made last week, the prosecution argued that Beya should be sentenced to a one-year term, half of which would be suspended, citing his advanced age and deteriorating health. If the court accepts the recommendation, Beya would not be returned to custody, as the six-month custodial portion has already been served.

The court is expected to hear final submissions from Beya’s legal team on July 31. His lawyers have consistently challenged the proceedings, describing the charges as unfounded and lacking legal merit.

François Beya is on trial alongside Vanda Nowa Biama Guy, Colonel Cikapa Tite Mokili, Commissioner General Lily Tambwe Mauwa, Lieutenant Colonel Kalenga Pierre, and Brigadier General Tonton Twadi Sekele.

IGIHE

Speaking during the official launch of the facility in a question-and-answer session with Masai Ujiri, co-founder of Giants of Africa and the driving force behind the Zaria Court concept, President Kagame emphasised the power of enabling environments and investing in youth potential as keys to Africa’s transformation.

'In my mind, thinking about the youth of Africa, I don’t think about borders,' Kagame said. 'We need to make sure that everything we do translates their hidden potential into reality. The youth are the first asset the continent has.'

President Kagame emphasised the power of enabling environments and investing in youth potential as keys to Africa’s transformation.

The inauguration ceremony, held on the sidelines of the ongoing Giants of Africa Festival 2025 in Kigali, drew African business leaders, creatives, sports icons, and youth from across the continent. Among them was Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, whom Ujiri praised for championing the African Renaissance initiative aimed at galvanising leadership and economic transformation across Africa.

Construction of Zaria Court Kigali began in August 2023, with President Kagame and Ujiri breaking ground on what was envisioned to be the first of several such hubs across Africa.

The complex now stands complete, featuring an 80-room hotel, multiple restaurants, a rooftop lounge, a gym, co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a broadcast centre, and a large multipurpose arena for sports, concerts, and cultural events.

Outside, the facility includes five-a-side football pitches, a callisthenics area, children’s play zones, and open green spaces. A modular retail park, built from stacked shipping containers, provides affordable space for Kigali’s rising designers, food vendors, and small business owners.

'This is more than a building,' Ujiri said. 'It’s an ecosystem. It creates community. It creates value. It shapes economies.'

Outside, the facility includes five-a-side football pitches, a callisthenics area, children’s play zones, and open green spaces.

In the heartfelt conversation with Ujiri, President Kagame shared his personal reflections on sports and leadership, admitting he was never an athlete himself but always saw the value in creating platforms for others to thrive.

'I wasn’t a sportsman by any standard,' Kagame said. 'But I was a sportsman at heart, and often thought about what I missed. If I can enable those who can do more and benefit the whole country, then I’m the happiest person.'

President Paul Kagame presided over the inauguration of Zaria Court Kigali on Monday, July 28, 2025, accompanied by Masai Ujiri, the driving force behind the initiative.

He also spoke to the economic impact of sports, pointing to Rwanda’s own experience with the BK Arena and other investments as proof that sports can be a serious contributor to national development.

'This is no longer just about the future. It’s already happening,' Kagame emphasised. 'Statistics show that even across Africa, sports can bring in billions to the continent. So, it’s not just a story anymore. The question is whether we choose to be part of reaping those benefits.'

Ujiri, visibly passionate, challenged African governments and private sectors to stop viewing sports as merely recreational and instead recognise it as a business and a growth engine.

'We’re not going to sit down and just let this happen anymore,' declared the former basketball player and president of the Toronto Raptors. 'This is a template for Africa, an ecosystem that works. It brings people together. It builds community. And it creates real value.'

Masai Ujiri challenged African governments and private sectors to stop viewing sports as merely recreational and instead recognise it as a business and a growth engine.

He further highlighted how Zaria Court, from design to execution, was a response to the lack of sustained investment in sports infrastructure across African cities.

'In Africa, we have stadiums right in the middle of the city, and they’re all destroyed. They were built 50 years ago with no vision. We paint them before competitions, then leave them to rot. We won’t accept that anymore.'

With plans to replicate the Zaria Court model in cities like Accra, Lagos, Dakar, Johannesburg, and Nairobi, Kigali’s success story is expected to serve as a catalyst for more sports-driven urban development across Africa.

President Paul Kagame called on Africa’s youth to believe in themselves and actively seize the continent’s growing opportunities, as he officially inaugurated Zaria Court Kigali, a $25 million world-class sports and lifestyle complex, on Monday, July 28.

During the event, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi underscored the economic potential of sports, stressing that nations sidelining it risk falling behind in development.

'Sports should be an economic priority for every country. If you’re not putting sports at the centre of your economic growth, then you’re already playing from behind,” she declared.

Echoing this, Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, said the progress seen in Rwanda affirms the possibility of building a world-class professional basketball league on the continent.

'This gives us confidence that we can build one of the best professional basketball leagues in the world, right here in Africa.'

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to media reports, the meeting on Monday brought together Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet in an effort to halt fighting that has killed at least 35 people and displaced over 270,000 from both sides.

Anwar described the outcome as a positive step toward peace, with the ceasefire set to take effect at midnight on July 28 (1200 GMT). He added that military commanders from both countries will meet Tuesday to discuss further de-escalation.

US and Chinese diplomats were present, with Anwar noting that leaders from both nations, including US President Donald Trump, played a role in supporting the peace process.

Hun Manet praised the talks, expressing hope that the ceasefire would help rebuild trust between the neighbors. Meanwhile, Phumtham affirmed Thailand’s commitment to the agreement, despite earlier doubts about Cambodia’s intentions.

Recent clashes included rocket fire by Cambodia into Thailand’s Sisaket province, and accusations from both sides of troop buildups and attacks near contested temple sites.

Cambodia’s defense spokesperson accused Thai forces of using heavy weapons and smoke bombs in the disputed areas but said Cambodian troops successfully repelled the assaults.

The meeting on Monday brought together Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet in an effort to halt fighting that has killed at least 35 people and displaced over 270,000 from both sides. Photo by AP

IGIHE

IGIHE

With over 320 young participants from 20 countries, the festival’s multifaceted celebration focuses on basketball, education, culture, and entertainment, with the overarching goal of uniting and empowering youth from across the African continent.

Some of the countries represented include Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Botswana, South Sudan, Ghana, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Benin, Mali, Morocco, and Senegal, among others.

IGIHE caught up with some of the participants to hear their stories and expectations as the event gets underway.

Abdul Salam from South Sudan arrived in Kigali with an open heart and eagerness to grow. He expressed that his goal was 'to learn a lot, like discipline and how to believe in yourself.'

As the festival progressed, he found himself deeply inspired by the environment around him.

'They inspire me, they motivate me,' he said, referencing the mentors and fellow youth participants. For Abdul, this was more than just a camp; it was a personal turning point.

Once the curtains come down on the event, he said he will head back to South Sudan with a mission to “inspire and motivate people, encouraging them not to lose hope in life.'

For Mary Igwokwo from Nigeria, the festival is an exciting whirlwind of fun, connection, and discovery.

'This whole experience is fun for me, and I’m really enjoying myself big time,' she said enthusiastically.

But beyond the fun, she found a deeper lesson in unity and teamwork. 'I learned about collaboration, not just operating alone,' she shared.

Mary plans to return home as an advocate of love, leadership, and unity. 'I’ll tell people to love each other, work together, dream big, and be leaders.'

Abdul Rahman Hussein, from Somalia, was on his second visit to Rwanda. His love for the country was evident.

'I love Rwanda. The people are helpful, and the weather is good. Alhamdulillah, everything is good,' he said warmly.

He praised the organisation and impact of the event, calling it 'a big event, very amazing.'

What stood out most to Abdul Rahman was the culture of kindness and encouragement he observed in Rwanda.

'I’ll tell people about the love of Rwanda and encourage other African countries to come to Rwanda.'

Yao Yu Fei, a visitor from China, was in Kigali during the festival and decided to attend out of curiosity after seeing it promoted online.

'Rwanda is very beautiful, and the climate is so nice,' he shared. What impressed him most was the atmosphere and energy of the youth. 'The young people here are so passionate and positive,' he said. Smiling, he added, 'I don’t want to go back to China for now.'

This year’s festival, themed 'A Borderless Africa,' includes intensive basketball training, leadership workshops, motivational panels, fashion shows, and live concerts.

During the opening ceremony, President Paul Kagame delivered a powerful and inspiring speech, urging African youth to believe deeply in their continent’s potential.

He reminded attendees, 'We must do what great nations do: grow, develop, and stand.' His words strongly resonated with the festival’s theme, encouraging young Africans to lead with confidence and a clear vision for the future.

Masai Ujiri, Co-founder of Giants of Africa, addressed the participants with heartfelt conviction, declaring, 'I will always be a son of Africa.'

He emphasised that Africa possesses all the essential elements for success: 'its people, its passion, and its power.'

Ujiri reminded the youth that the main objective of Giants of Africa is to empower young Africans not only through basketball but also by nurturing leadership, cultural identity, and community development across the continent. His message was a call for self-belief and collective action to build a stronger, united Africa.

One of the festival’s most impactful moments was the International Youth Day Forum, a central highlight of the week. The forum brought together 2,000 Rwandan youth alongside international participants for a day of interactive and empowering engagement.

Organised in partnership with Imbuto Foundation and the Ministry of Youth & Arts, the forum featured motivational talks, practical life skills sessions, and leadership workshops led by respected voices from across Africa and beyond. It was a space where young people could explore ideas, build confidence, and connect with mentors in a meaningful way.

The festival’s cultural showcases dazzled audiences with electrifying performances by some of Africa’s brightest stars. Renowned artists such as Uncle Waffles, Sherrie Silver, Kevin Kade, and Ruti Joel took centre stage, infusing the event with vibrant energy and artistic brilliance. Their captivating acts not only entertained thousands but also celebrated the rich tapestry of African creativity and unity.

The Giants of Africa Festival 2025 kicked off in Kigali at BK Arena, Rwanda, on Sunday, July 27, amid fanfare and great anticipation from participants.

During the opening ceremony, President Paul Kagame delivered a powerful and inspiring speech, urging African youth to believe deeply in their continent’s potential.

Masai Ujiri, Co-founder of Giants of Africa, addressed the participants with heartfelt conviction, declaring, 'I will always be a son of Africa.'

Rania Umutoni

The announcement was made at a joint press briefing Sunday afternoon following trade talks at the Trump Turnberry in South Ayrshire, Scotland.

Although both leaders described the deal as a step toward restoring “trade balance” and promoting more equitable two-way commerce, the agreement allows the United States to impose a broad 15 percent tariff on EU goods while securing zero-tariff access for a range of strategic American exports.

In contrast, the EU has pledged to purchase 750 billion U.S. dollars’ worth of American energy and commit an additional 600 billion U.S. dollars in investments in the United States.

At the press briefing, Trump claimed the agreement would enable American cars to re-enter the European market and make U.S. agricultural exports more accessible in the EU. He also said that pharmaceuticals were excluded from the agreement, while existing 50 percent tariffs on EU steel and aluminium exports to the United States will remain in place.

However, at a separate press briefing, von der Leyen clarified that the EU and the U.S. had agreed to include pharmaceuticals under the 15 percent tariff framework. She did not rule out the possibility of further U.S. trade actions in the future.

When asked whether a 15 percent tariff for EU carmakers-up from 2.5 percent under the Biden administration-was a favorable outcome, von der Leyen responded that, prior to this agreement, European vehicles faced a total tariff of 27.5 percent when entering the U.S. market. This included a 25 percent levy imposed during Trump’s previous term in addition to the original 2.5 percent. The new 15 percent rate, she argued, represents a reduction from that level.

Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade, criticized the newly reached deal as “unsatisfactory” and “significantly imbalanced,” warning that it could undermine the EU’s economic stability and job security.

“This is a deal with a slant. Clearly, concessions have been made that are difficult to bear,” Lange said in a statement on Sunday.

Prior to the agreement, over 70 percent of EU exports to the United States were subject to tariffs, including 50 percent on steel and aluminium, 25 percent on automobiles and parts, and a 10 percent duty on most other goods. Trump had warned that if no deal was reached by Aug. 1, the 10 percent tariff would be raised to 30 percent.

President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shake hands after reaching a trade deal at the Trump Turnberry golf course in Turnberry, Scotland, July 27, 2025.

Xinhua

According to the July 2025 edition of the index, Rwandan passport holders can travel visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival in 63 destinations. This places Rwanda in the 23rd position in Africa and 73rd globally, ahead of several countries in the region, including Mozambique (62) and Togo (60).

At the top of the African continent, Seychelles leads the ranking with access to 156 destinations, followed by Mauritius (149) and South Africa (103). These nations remain Africa’s strongest performers on the global mobility scale.

Other East African nations in Rwanda’s neighborhood rank closely: Kenya has access to 71 destinations, Tanzania to 70, Uganda and Zambia to 67, while Burundi lags behind with 48.

Globally, Singapore tops the 2025 index with a visa-free score of 193, while Afghanistan remains at the bottom, with access to only 25 countries without a visa.

The Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is widely regarded as the most authoritative passport ranking system. The index tracks 199 passports and 227 travel destinations, providing a unique snapshot of each country’s passport power.

Rwanda’s upward mobility in the rankings reflects its growing diplomatic reach and continued efforts to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties, especially across Africa and Asia.

Rwanda has been ranked among Africa’s top 25 most powerful passports in the newly released Henley Passport Index 2025, which assesses global mobility by measuring the number of destinations passport holders can access without a prior visa.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to local media reports, ADF fighters stormed a Catholic church early Saturday in the town of Komanda, Ituri Province. A local civil society leader in Komanda said most of the victims, primarily Catholic worshippers, were preparing for Sunday celebrations when the attack took place. Several houses were burned, and an unknown number of people remain missing.

Witnesses said the assailants also looted a local bank and other community properties before retreating into the nearby forest.

The ADF rebels have stepped up assaults in Ituri since early July. In a statement issued earlier this week, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC condemned the recent ADF attacks, which have killed at least 82 civilians in both Ituri and neighboring North Kivu Province.

The ADF, an affiliate of the Islamic State in Central Africa, is a Ugandan rebel group operating in eastern DRC, prompting joint military operations by Congolese and Ugandan forces to pursue the group since November 2021.

At least 43 civilians were killed overnight from Saturday to Sunday in an attack attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), local sources said Sunday. Photo by Reuters

Xinhua