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The Henley Passport Index, widely regarded as the original and most authoritative ranking of global passport strength, evaluates the travel freedom of 199 passports against 227 destinations.

The ranking is based on the number of countries a passport holder can access without needing a visa in advance. With historical data spanning two decades and expert analysis updated regularly, the index has become an essential tool for global citizens and a trusted reference point for policymakers worldwide.

In its July 2025 edition, the index exposes a stark divide between the most and least powerful passports. At the top of the list is Singapore, whose citizens can travel to an impressive 193 destinations without needing a visa in advance, making it the world’s most powerful passport once again.

Japan, South Korea, and a bloc of European countries, including Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, closely follow, with scores ranging from 190 to 189.

In contrast, at the very bottom sits Afghanistan, whose passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to just 25 destinations, the lowest score on the index. Syria follows with access to 27 destinations, while Iraq ranks just above with 30.

Citizens of Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia fare slightly better, though still severely limited, with access to 32 destinations each. Meanwhile, Libya and Nepal round out the group with a modest 38 destinations.

The rankings reflect more than just travel limitations; they underscore broader issues of conflict, governance, and diplomatic isolation.

Countries at the bottom of the list are often plagued by internal instability, strained international relations, and economic hardship, all of which directly affect their citizens’ ability to move freely across borders.

On the African continent, there have been some noteworthy shifts, with Rwanda steadily improving its rankings over the years.

In the latest ranking, the Rwandan passport now offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 63 destinations, a score that places it ahead of several of its regional peers and signals growing confidence in the country’s stability, diplomacy, and openness.

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).

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

The most recent country to grant visa-free access to Rwanda is Antigua and Barbuda, through a bilateral agreement signed on July 18, 2025.

The Henley Passport Index, widely regarded as the original and most authoritative ranking of global passport strength, evaluates the travel freedom of 199 passports against 227 destinations.

Rania Umutoni

In a statement, Downing Street called on Israel to immediately allow the United Nations to resume the delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza to prevent starvation, agree to a ceasefire, and clearly state that there will be no annexations in the West Bank.

The statement also called on Hamas to immediately release all hostages.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer elaborated on the conditional nature of recognizing a Palestinian state during a press conference on Tuesday. He said the British government’s primary goal is to change the reality on the ground, and that “this is intended to further that cause.”

Starmer also explained the timing of the announcement: “I’m particularly concerned that the idea of a two-state solution is receding and feels further away today than it has for many years.”

“There is no better solution for the future of the region than two states,” with Israel living with its secure borders recognized and at peace with their neighbors free from the threat of terrorism, and Palestinians living in their own state, in dignity and security free of occupations, said British Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Tuesday at a high-level international conference on “The Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution” held at the UN headquarters.

At a media press stakeout after his statement at the meeting, Lammy said the decision that has been taken “puts us on a pathway towards recognition” of the State of Palestine.

“We have seen the most terrific scenes. The global community is deeply offended by children being shot and killed as they reach out for aid,” he told reporters.

More than 200 members of parliament from nine political parties signed a letter to the prime minister and Lammy on Saturday, calling on the government to recognize a Palestinian state.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer elaborated on the conditional nature of recognizing a Palestinian state during a press conference on Tuesday.

Xinhua

At the time, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, noted that the discussions had made significant progress and showed potential to restore cordial relations between the two countries.

“Rwanda and Burundi are on a promising path to ending hostilities and reaching an understanding, as discussions between the leaders of both countries continue,” he stated.

There was renewed optimism that Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye would refrain from launching further baseless accusations against Rwanda, as he had between December 2023 and February 2025. At the time, he threatened regime change in Rwanda and accused it of planning attacks on his country.

However, that optimism quickly faded. Following the two rounds of dialogue hosted in each country, President Ndayishimiye renewed his hostile remarks against Rwanda, declaring that Burundians were prepared to defend themselves should Rwanda attempt aggression.

On May 4, Minister Nduhungirehe reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to peaceful relations with Burundi but expressed concern that each time progress was made, President Ndayishimiye undermined it through media statements.

'These accusations are not based on facts. When someone says that Rwanda is planning to invade Burundi, it’s simply not true—and even Burundians know that. We hope these kinds of comments decrease, especially from the Burundian side, so that we can continue working together and restore relations in the right time.'

Ndayishimiye also revived longstanding grievances, insisting that until Rwanda extradites individuals suspected of involvement in the failed May 2015 coup against former Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza, the borders between the two countries will remain closed.

Burundi closed its borders in 2015, reopened them in 2022, but shut them again in January 2024 following a RED Tabara attack in Gatumba, a Bujumbura province zone near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

What truly led Ndayishimiye to derail the negotiations?

A report by United Nations experts, released on July 3, 2025, revealed that Burundian President Ndayishimiye’s renewed attacks on Rwanda in February were prompted by significant territorial gains by the M23/AFC coalition in South Kivu Province, nearing Burundi’s border.

Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have long collaborated in efforts to combat M23/AFC, accusing Rwanda of supporting the group, as well as the armed rebel group RED Tabara. Rwanda has repeatedly denied these allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.

The Rwanda-Burundi talks held in March had initially led to a de-escalation in rhetoric from Ndayishimiye. However, tensions flared again in late March when M23/AFC captured more territory in South Kivu, testing Burundi’s patience.

President Ndayishimiye stated at the time: “We know Rwanda is attempting to attack us through Congolese territory, using the RED Tabara militia. But let me be clear, if they try to reach Bujumbura via Congo, then we also know that Kigali isn’t far if we pass through Kirundo.”

According to the UN experts, beginning in early April 2025—just days after those remarks—Burundi deployed between 7,000 and 9,000 troops into South Kivu.

These forces were stationed in the Rusizi Plain near the border and in the mountainous areas surrounding Minembwe in Fizi Territory to contain M23/AFC advances.

The report further notes that Burundian troops operate in close coordination with the Congolese army (FARDC), the Wazalendo militias backed by the DRC government, and the FDLR, a genocidal militia hostile to the Rwandan government.

Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe emphasized that the Burundian population is fully aware that Rwanda harbors no intentions of attacking their country.

President Ndayishimiye disrupted bilateral talks between Rwandan and Burundian delegations, alleging the existence of a coordinated plot to destabilize his country.

President Ndayishimiye deployed a large number of troops to the Rusizi Valley and the surrounding hills near Minembwe, with the aim of preventing further advances.

IGIHE

Baghaei’s remarks came in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments a day earlier, in which Trump alleged that Iran had intervened in the latest round of talks aimed at ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The negotiations, held in Qatar, were suspended last week with both Israeli and U.S. delegations walking out.

Describing Trump’s claim as “absolutely baseless,” Baghaei said the accusation was an attempt to deflect U.S. responsibility for its complicity in what he called Israeli “crimes” against the Palestinians.

Baghaei said that Hamas negotiators were capable of discerning and pursuing the interests of Gaza’s population and did not need any third party’s intervention in that regard.

Baghaei reaffirmed Iran’s position, shared by many countries, condemning what he called “genocide” in Gaza and supporting any initiative that would lead to an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people and the cessation of Israeli actions in the territory.

Trump, in a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday, claimed that “I think they (Iran) got involved in this negotiation, telling Hamas and giving Hamas signals and orders.” He didn’t provide further details on the claim.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected the claim that Iran had interfered in the ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry early Tuesday.

Xinhua

The country has been investing in nuclear energy for nearly seven years, including strategic partnerships with Russia, the United States, Germany, and Canada.

In an interview on The Long Form podcast, Dr. Lassina Zerbo, chairman of the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board and former prime minister of Burkina Faso, outlined how nuclear energy could transform not only Rwanda but the broader continent, offering a sustainable path to socio-economic development.

Dr. Zerbo, a geophysicist and former executive secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO), says Rwanda’s pioneering nuclear strategy is on track for a 2030 launch.

'If everything goes to plan, we should have the first nuclear power plant in Rwanda by 2030,' Dr. Zerbo who serves as an Energy Advisor and Member of the Strategy and Policy Council in the Office of the President, crediting President Paul Kagame’s disciplined vision.

'It’s a challenging timeline, but not impossible,” he added.

Dr. Lassina Zerbo, a geophysicist and former executive secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO), says Rwanda’s pioneering nuclear strategy is on track for a 2030 launch.

Unlike the massive, costly nuclear plants of decades past, Rwanda is embracing SMRs and micro reactors—compact, innovative systems designed for efficiency and safety.

'Small modular reactors range from 300 to 350 megawatts, while micro reactors can be as small as a 40-foot container,' Zerbo explained.

These 'plug-and-play' reactors require minimal infrastructure upgrades, making them a viable option for African nations with developing electrical grids.

'You don’t need to overhaul everything like you would for a 1-gigawatt plant,' he noted, contrasting Rwanda’s approach with larger projects in Kenya and Egypt.

In some advanced nations, nuclear power accounts for up to 20% of electricity production.

Addressing public concerns about nuclear safety, Zerbo emphasised technological advancements that reduce risks.

'The cooling systems in SMRs and micro reactors, like passive cooling or the use of thorium and molten salt, make them far safer than traditional reactors,' he said.

He also tackled the issue of nuclear waste, a common worry. 'Our ambition is to use waste from one reactor as fuel for another. With micro reactors, waste is minimal, and vendors can remove and replace modules after 15 to 20 years.'

Beyond powering its cities and villages, Rwanda’s nuclear program aims to serve as a blueprint for Africa, a vision widely discussed at the recently concluded Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA 2025).

'If we succeed here, it can inspire other African nations,' Zerbo remarked, pointing to countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso, which are exploring similar technologies.

In efforts to actualise its nuclear energy ambitions, Rwanda has secured partnerships with global vendors, including Russia’s Rosatom for SMRs and U.S.-based Nano Nuclear Energy and Denmark’s Copenhagen Atomics for micro reactors.

'We’re diversifying to avoid dependency and mitigate geopolitical risks,' Zerbo noted, addressing concerns about aligning with partners like Rosatom amid global tensions.

From Burkina Faso to global stages

Zerbo’s journey to becoming Rwanda’s nuclear chief is as compelling as the technology he champions. Born in Bobo-Dioulasso in 1963, when Burkina Faso was still Upper Volta, he rose from a modest upbringing to a global career in science and diplomacy.

As a young man, he dreamed of becoming a lawyer inspired by a French film about injustice, but a government scholarship steered him toward geophysics. His work in the mining industry and later at the CTBTO, where he monitored global nuclear tests, earned him international recognition.

In 2021, Zerbo briefly served as Burkina Faso’s prime minister, a role cut short by a coup d’état.

Reflecting on the experience, he remained unfazed.

'I never felt threatened,' he said, describing the chaotic night when gunfire erupted in Ouagadougou. 'I was watching a football match with the president when it started. I knew I hadn’t done anything to compromise myself.'

His resilience and optimism continue to shine through as he serves Africa, now from Kigali.

Drawing on his experiences in Burkina Faso, where jihadist terrorism remains a growing threat, he stressed the need for regional unity.

'Terrorism thrives where people lack opportunity,' he said, advocating for a dual approach of deterrence and development.

'We need to give people a reason to live, not just fight with guns.'

He sees Rwanda’s stability and progress as a beacon of hope, likening it to a phoenix rising from its ashes after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which claimed more than a million lives and left a trail of destruction.

'Rwanda’s nuclear program is about showing what’s possible when you combine vision, discipline, and courage.'

Watch the full interview with Dr. Lassina Zerbo on The Long Form podcast to hear more about his journey and Rwanda’s energy ambitions.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The aircraft, equipped as a state-of-the-art teaching hospital, has been stationed at Kigali International Airport since July 21 and will remain until August 1, 2025.

Rwanda is the 84th country to host Orbis since the program launched in 1982.

The initiative is a collaboration between Orbis International, the Ministry of Health, the Rwanda International Institute of Ophthalmology (RIIO), and Kibagabaga Hospital.

Over 100 Rwandan eye specialists have already received hands-on training using advanced technology, and more than 140 patients, 40 aboard the aircraft and 100 at Kibagabaga Hospital, are expected to benefit from surgeries.

Speaking at the launch of the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital mission, Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana hailed the initiative as a milestone in advancing high-tech healthcare in Rwanda and across Africa.

He highlighted the partnership between the Ministry of Health, Orbis International, and local institutions like RIIO as vital for expanding capacity and improving eye care services across the country.

He also underscored the importance of integrating artificial intelligence and digital tools in ophthalmology, which can predict complications early and prevent blindness.

Reflecting on past successes, he noted a recent nationwide cataract screening campaign that operated on thousands of patients, emphasising the ongoing efforts to reach even the most remote communities.

Dr. Nsanzimana noted that the government is working hard to increase the number of eye specialists in Rwanda from the current 30 to at least 120 over the next five years, as part of a broader strategy to quadruple the total number of doctors.

'Let’s increase the number of ophthalmologists from 30 to 120 in the next five years. This is achievable.'

The Flying Eye Hospital’s director, Maurice Geary, praised Rwanda’s warm reception and infrastructure support, calling it a historic collaboration.

Dr. Ciku Mathenge, Orbis Medical Advisor for Africa and RIIO co-founder, shared powerful stories of patients, including a young man treated for parasitic worms in his eye and Esther, a 26-year-old woman whose sight was saved through AI-supported diagnosis and treatment for diabetic retinopathy.

'Esther’s story is really a testament to why this work that Orbis is supporting Rwanda to do matters. Lasting, happy change happens when we invest in people, when we foster strong partnerships, and when we strengthen the foundations that your ministry has so ably set down in the health system in Rwanda,' said Dr. Mathenge.

'As a doctor, as a mother, as a proud African woman, and as a passionate advocate for eye care, I know firsthand the life-changing difference that sight makes in an individual. Seeing all of you here today with your dedication and belief fills me with a lot of joy, and it confirms that all of you understand why our mission is so critical.'

The Orbis Flying Eye Hospital will continue operating until August 1, with further training and surgeries planned in close collaboration with RIIO and Rwandan universities.

RIIO, founded 14 years ago by Brig Gen Prof. John Nkurikiye and Prof. Mathenge, was established to address the gap in eye care services in Rwanda and continues to play a central role in building a sustainable, high-quality ophthalmology workforce in the country.

The aircraft, equipped as a state-of-the-art teaching hospital, has been stationed at Kigali International Airport since July 21 and will remain until August 1, 2025.

Rwanda is the 84th country to host Orbis since the program launched in 1982.

Speaking at the launch of the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital mission, Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana hailed the initiative as a milestone in advancing high-tech healthcare in Rwanda and across Africa.

RIIO was founded 14 years ago by Brig Gen Prof. John Nkurikiye and Prof. Ciku Mathenge.

Dr. Chiku Mathenge highlighted the impact of the mission through patient stories, including a man treated for eye parasites and a young woman whose vision was saved thanks to AI-assisted care.

The Orbis Flying Eye Hospital will continue operating until August 1, with further training and surgeries planned in close collaboration with RIIO and Rwandan universities.

IGIHE

These include Major General Andrew Kagame and Major General Wilson Gumisiriza, as well as Brigadier Generals Joseph Demali, Fred Muziraguharara, James Ruzibiza, Frank Mutembe, Pascal Muhizi, Nelson Rwigema, and Jean Paul Karangwa.

In addition to the Generals, President Kagame approved the retirement of 120 senior officers, 26 junior officers, and 927 other ranks.

Speaking at a send off ceremony of retiring soldiers on Monday, July 28, 2025, the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF 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.

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

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

The send-off ceremony for retiring RDF personnel took place on Monday, July 28, 2025.

IGIHE

On July 27, 2025, MTN Rwanda announced that it was experiencing a nationwide technical failure, impacting both voice calls and the functionality of its USSD codes.

From that date through July 28, numerous MTN customers reported receiving error messages such as 'This number does not exist' when attempting to place calls. Many were also unable to send SMS messages during the outage.

On the evening of July 28, RURA issued a statement confirming it had detected widespread service issues and had officially summoned MTN Rwanda’s leadership for a response.

'The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has noted persistent and recurring issues in MTN’s service delivery, including disruptions in voice services, SMS, USSD, and challenges related to interconnect traffic between service providers,' reads a statement posted by RURA on X.

'In accordance with the regulations, MTN’s leadership has been invited for a formal meeting tomorrow, Tuesday at 9:00 AM, to provide explanations regarding these issues and to present concrete measures to improve service quality and prevent similar disruptions from recurring,' the statement adds.

At approximately 11:00 PM on July 28, MTN Rwanda announced that the technical issues affecting calls and USSD services had been resolved nationwide and expressed appreciation for customers’ patience.

The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) has summoned telecommunications provider MTN Rwandacell to clarify how it is resolving ongoing issues that have disrupted service delivery across the country.

IGIHE

The French-Rwandan developer, which began operations in 2021, has focused on creating quality housing in prime locations including Rebero, Kibagabaga, and soon Kimihurura.

'50 owners or tenants are now living in the apartments and villas we completed during this initial journey,' noted David Benazeraf, Founding partner and Managing Director.

Imara Properties’ first project, Isange Estate Rebero, completed in 2022, introduced 15 high-end villas in a community setting with common gardens and swimming pool.

This was followed by Isange Phase II in 2023, which added 12 apartments and 6 villas to the Rebero neighborhood. The company expanded to Kibagabaga with Isange Apartments, offering 11 premium units near the Convention Center, just handed over, while Ituze Village in Kanombe, introduced functional family homes in 2025.

Currently under construction is Isange Phase III Rebero, featuring 20 luxury villas that continue the company’s commitment to community-focused living. The project, like its predecessors, has seen strong ongoing sales, with over 50% of units already sold.

This consistent market response reflects growing confidence among both local and international investors. 'When we launched Imara, we had one ambition: to build communities and raise the standards of residential construction in Kigali', said Founding partner Serge Kamuhinda.

A Focus on Quality and Urban Development

What sets Imara apart in Kigali’s competitive real estate market is its emphasis on transparency and quality.

“We’ve maintained a simple principle from the beginning,” explains David Benazeraf. “Every property we sell comes with clear, detailed, and accurate specifications. All room sizes are measured, displayed, and explained.'

This approach has resonated with buyers and tenants from 25 different countries across 4 continents, many of whom appreciate the company’s reliable communication and on-time execution.

Client testimonials support this reputation. “The attention to detail and the property matched the initial descriptions, which isn’t always the case in real estate,” shared an owner at Isange Estate Rebero.

Another buyer at the Kibagabaga apartments noted on-time delivery and excellent finishes quality as key factors in their satisfaction. 'They are not selling Instagram 3D pictures. They build reality', said another one who purchased in two of Imara’s projects.

Looking ahead

Like many developers, Imara Properties has navigated construction challenges and supply chain delays. However, 'projects have consistently sold out before completion' recalled Founding partner Aimé Bakata Nkunzi, a sign of sustained demand for well-managed housing in Kigali.

As Rwanda’s capital continues to grow, Imara appears well-positioned for the future. With additional projects in the planning stages and a proven track record of delivery, the company demonstrates that steady, quality-focused development can succeed in Kigali’s dynamic real estate market. Imara’s projects have created about 200 stable jobs.

The company’s strength stems from a dynamic international team and its diverse founding team, which brings together Rwandan and French expertise across multiple disciplines.

The co-founders include David Benazeraf, a French entrepreneur with extensive African and international market experience; Aimé Bakata Nkunzi, a prominent Rwandan architect; Serge Kamuhinda of Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda; Alain Ngirinshuti from Rwanda Social Security Board; along with locally based architect Yannick Miara, and Yonathan Arfi of Group Optimal Gestion.

“The market is becoming more discerning,” noted David Benazeraf. “Buyers prioritize quality and transparency, which aligns with our vision. Moving forward, we aim to keep improving while staying responsive to the city’s housing needs.”

About Imara Properties

Founded in 2020, Imara Properties is a French-Rwandan developer specializing in residential real estate.

The company has completed four projects totaling over 50 units across Kigali, with a fifth project of 20 villas currently under construction in Rebero and a sixth one starting construction in Kimihurura this year.

Its leadership combines international expertise with deep local market knowledge. www.imara-properties.com

Imara Properties has established itself as a reliable player in Kigali’s real estate sector, having successfully delivered 55 units across four residential projects.

What sets Imara apart in Kigali’s competitive real estate market is its emphasis on transparency and quality.

A fifth project by Imara Properties is currently under construction, with a sixth set to begin later this year.

Currently under construction is Isange Phase III Rebero, featuring 20 luxury villas that continue the company’s commitment to community-focused living.

IGIHE

Dubbed The Sanctuary, the space goes beyond traditional spa services, featuring a salt-water lap pool, steam room, ice bath, meditation pods, and treatment rooms.

The lodge says the design prioritises stillness and restoration, with natural materials, quiet soundscapes, and minimal distractions from the surrounding environment.

The new facility will be open to guests staying at both Bisate and the nearby Bisate Reserve.

Wilderness, the company behind the lodge, says the launch reflects a broader shift in how it approaches guest experiences. Alexandra Margull, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, said wellness would no longer be treated as an add-on but 'a natural extension of place.'

The opening at Bisate comes alongside a similar rollout at Wilderness Mombo in Botswana, part of what the brand describes as a more integrated wellness offering across its camps.

Located near some of the last remaining habitat of the endangered mountain gorilla, Wilderness Bisate is known for its conservation-focused model and ultra-private guest experience. The new wellness space adds another layer to what is already one of Rwanda’s most exclusive tourism destinations.

Dubbed The Sanctuary, the space goes beyond traditional spa services, featuring a salt-water lap pool, steam room, ice bath, meditation pods, and treatment rooms.

The lodge says the design prioritises stillness and restoration, with natural materials, quiet soundscapes, and minimal distractions from the surrounding environment.

Wycliffe Nyamasege