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The approval comes after the FIA accepted final design proposals that will elevate the circuit from Grade 2 to Grade 1, the standard required to host Formula One.

The announcement was made on Wednesday by Toby Venter, owner of the Kyalami circuit, who hailed the development as a “defining moment for South African motorsport”.

'Today, we turn the page to a bold new chapter for Kyalami. We are ready for the return of Formula 1 to African soil,' Venter said during a press conference.

'When we acquired Kyalami in 2014, we made a commitment to restore it as a world-class venue and a beacon for motorsport across the continent. The FIA’s acceptance of our Grade 1 design is a major step forward in that journey.'

The circuit has been given a three-year window to complete the necessary upgrades, though work will only proceed if Kyalami is officially selected to host a Formula One race.

Clive Bowen, founder and director of UK-based Apex Circuit Design — the firm overseeing the upgrades — described the changes as a 'light-touch upgrade in engineering terms,' saying they would bring the already excellent circuit in line with modern F1 requirements.

Kyalami, located just north of Johannesburg, hosted 21 South African Grands Prix before falling off the calendar in 1993. With Africa currently the only continent absent from Formula One’s 24-race global calendar, there has been growing pressure to reintroduce a race on the continent.

Kyalami is competing with two other proposed circuits, including one planned for construction in Rwanda and another that South Africa intends to build in Cape Town.

The international governing body for motorsport, FIA, has approved plans to upgrade South Africa’s historic Kyalami circuit, moving the country one step closer to hosting a Formula One Grand Prix for the first time in over three decades.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Ingabire denied allegations of organising training sessions that prosecutors allege were used to develop the plan.

She gave her testimony on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, after being summoned by the court to provide clarifications related to the case.

Prosecutors accuse the defendants of forming or joining a criminal group, conspiring to commit crimes against the state, inciting public unrest, defying the rule of law, and engaging in unlawful protest activities.

The prosecution alleges that training sessions aimed at toppling the current government were held, involving Rwandans living abroad, including a person named Assumpta, alias “Peppino”, and members of DALFA-Umurinzi.

The court summoned Ingabire after her name was repeatedly mentioned in the case file.

At the start of the hearing, the judge asked Ingabire how DALFA-Umurinzi had organised the training and what role she played. She replied that the party, founded in late 2019, never organised such training for its members because it was effectively inactive at the time.

She explained that by 2020, she had ceased recruiting new members and that DALFA-Umurinzi existed for only two months.

'DALFA existed for two months. We were prohibited from recruiting members, so we stopped,' she said.

'I was surprised to hear people say training was held under the party’s framework in 2021, yet we never organised any.'

When asked if she knew the accused as members of DALFA-Umurinzi, she acknowledged they were party affiliates, except for journalist Nsengimana Théoneste, with whom she had planned to collaborate on media coverage during 'Ingabire Day.'

'Journalist Nsengimana Théoneste and I were discussing a program we were supposed to do, but it had not yet taken place,” Ingabire stated.

She explained that 'Ingabire Day' was an annual event with a specific theme each year, and it should not be associated with the alleged training sessions.

The judge asked her what she knew about plans to overthrow the government without using force. She responded, 'I can’t speak on things I’ve never studied. I’d be lying.'

Her lawyer, Me Gatera Gashabana, told the court that Ingabire had no role in organising the training sessions and that there was no evidence linking her to them.

However, the prosecution argued that Ingabire and Sibomana Sylvain, a former coordinator of DALFA-Umurinzi, had discussed the training and were aware of its intent, asserting that Ingabire was monitoring the activities even though she denies any involvement.

The prosecution further said that the training sessions aimed to teach participants strategies to delegitimise the government by making citizens feel disrespected, abused, and unlawfully detained.

They added that the sessions and 'Ingabire Day' served as public mobilisation tools that could help advance the group’s objective.

The court was expected to decide by 2 p.m. on June 19 whether Ingabire’s explanations were sufficient to excuse her from further proceedings or if further investigation was warranted.

Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza appeared before the High Court in Kigali on Thursday in a case linked to an alleged plot to overthrow the government involving nine suspects.

Ingabire denied allegations of organising training sessions that prosecutors allege were used to develop the plan.

IGIHE

The matter was recently raised in the Senate, where the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) addressed concerns regarding residents of islands such as Nkombo, Gihaya, Ishywa, and Bugarura—some of whom are the third generation born on Rwandan territory but lack official identification.

'Some of them have married Rwandans in unrecognised unions, and their children were born here, yet they are still not officially recognised as citizens,' said Marie Solange Kayisire, Minister of State in MINALOC.

She confirmed that the government has collected all required documentation and that those who meet legal requirements will be granted citizenship under the existing nationality law.

Priority will be given to individuals married to Rwandan citizens and those eligible under the 2022 Ministerial Order on nationality.

Rwanda has 148 islands in various lakes, of which only 15 are currently inhabited. Some islands are being depopulated due to safety concerns or inaccessibility, with communities from areas like Ruzi, Muzira, and Tereri being relocated to the mainland to access better public services.

Kayisire added that beyond legal recognition, the government is investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to improve living conditions for island communities.

The Senate Committee on Social Affairs and Human Rights recently toured several islands as part of a broader oversight mission linked to Rwanda’s NST2 development strategy (2024—2029).

'Citizenship is not just a legal matter; it’s a door to opportunity, dignity, and inclusion,' said Senator Adrie Umuhire, who chairs the committee.

Rwanda offers multiple paths to citizenship, including by birth, marriage, or long-term residence. Applicants are required to provide documentation such as birth certificates and residency records. The law also allows humanitarian exemptions, with some application fees waived for vulnerable individuals.

The Rwandan government is considering granting citizenship to over 14,000 individuals who have lived for generations on islands in Lake Kivu but remain without legal recognition as Rwandan nationals.

IGIHE

The ceremony, witnessed by the U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, sets the stage for the formal Ministerial signing scheduled for June 27, 2025, to be overseen by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the agreement, built upon the Declaration of Principles signed on April 25, 2025, is the culmination of three days of constructive dialogue addressing critical political, security, and economic issues.

The comprehensive accord includes key provisions aimed at fostering lasting stability and cooperation between the two nations.

These include commitments to respect territorial integrity, a prohibition on hostilities, and measures for the disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of non-state armed groups.

Additionally, the agreement establishes a Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, incorporating the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) outlined on October 31, 2024.

Beyond security, the Peace Agreement prioritizes humanitarian and economic objectives. It facilitates the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensures humanitarian access, and lays the foundation for a regional economic integration framework to promote shared prosperity.

The negotiations benefited from close coordination between the United States and Qatar, with Qatari representatives participating to align their complementary peace initiatives. Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude for the pivotal roles played by the U.S. and Qatar in advancing dialogue and fostering a peaceful resolution.

Looking ahead, the agreement sets the stage for a Summit of Heads of State in Washington, D.C., where leaders will make further commitments to peace, stability, and economic prosperity in the Great Lakes region.

Massad Boulos, the United States Senior Advisor for Africa expressed his pride in the achievement on X.

“Proud to lead three days of peace talks, which resulted in the initialing of the peace agreement by delegations from the DRC and Rwanda. Next week, we look forward to hosting the Foreign Ministers to sign the agreement on June 27 witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Together, we’re working toward achieving lasting peace and stability in the region,” he stated.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, signed the agreement outlining the key points that will be finalized by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs next week.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the agreement, built upon the Declaration of Principles signed on April 25, 2025, is the culmination of three days of constructive dialogue addressing critical political, security, and economic issues.

The ceremony, witnessed by the U.S. Under Secretary for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, sets the stage for the formal Ministerial signing scheduled for June 27, 2025, to be overseen by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The landmark agreement, formalized during a three-day official visit by Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, to the Kingdom of Morocco, establishes a robust framework for enhanced military ties and lays the foundation for a broader strategic partnership.

Minister Marizamunda, accompanied by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Morocco, Shakilla Umutoni, Chief J7 Col David Mutayomba, and Lt Col Angeline Kamanzi, Director of Analysis in Defence Intelligence, began the visit with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.

This solemn tribute honored the historical legacy of Morocco’s father of independence, setting a tone of mutual respect and shared values.

According to Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence, the first day’s agenda featured a high-level bilateral meeting at the Headquarters of the Administration of National Defence in Morocco.

Minister Marizamunda and his delegation engaged in productive discussions with their Moroccan counterparts, led by Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the Administration of National Defence.

The talks focused on strengthening defense cooperation, exploring avenues for joint training, intelligence sharing, and other strategic initiatives.

The culmination of the day was the formal signing of the Military Cooperation Agreement.

Rwanda and Morocco share a longstanding partnership, reinforced through multiple agreements over the years.

In 2016, King Mohammed VI visited Rwanda, during which the two nations signed 19 cooperation agreements in areas such as banking, diplomatic relations, and investment facilitation.

One of the agreements allowed diplomatic passport holders to travel between the two countries without restrictions.

In 2019, Rwanda and Morocco signed 12 additional agreements in Rabat, further solidifying their collaboration. Morocco remains a key partner in education, offering numerous scholarships to African students, including Rwandans.

In 2020, Rwanda’s then-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta, and his Moroccan counterpart signed two agreements, one enhancing government collaboration and another focused on sports development in Africa.

Rwanda and Morocco took a significant step toward deepening their bilateral ties with the signing of a Military Cooperation Agreement on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

The landmark agreement, formalized during a three-day official visit by Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, to the Kingdom of Morocco, establishes a robust framework for enhanced military ties and lays the foundation for a broader strategic partnership.

Minister Marizamunda was accompanied by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Morocco, Shakilla Umutoni, Chief J7 Col David Mutayomba, and Lt Col Angeline Kamanzi, Director of Analysis in Defence Intelligence.

Théophile Niyitegeka

In a detailed briefing to the UN Human Rights Council on June 16, Türk revealed that Congolese soldiers, alongside members of the pro-government Wazalendo militia, have engaged in killings, rapes, and looting during military operations, particularly in North and South Kivu provinces.

The abuses have occurred amid the Congolese army’s offensives against M23 rebels and other armed groups.

'Congolese soldiers and members of the DRC-backed Wazalendo militia killed, raped, and looted,' said Türk, citing preliminary findings from an ongoing fact-finding mission.

He expressed concern over a 'complete disregard' for the protection of civilians during and after combat, particularly during the battle for Goma in late January, where command structures reportedly collapsed as army units retreated.

Türk’s statements follow months of warnings from human rights groups about atrocities committed by Congolese forces and their militia allies. On May 23, Human Rights Watch (HRW) documented widespread abuses by Wazalendo fighters in South Kivu, including attacks on Banyamulenge villages near Bibokoboko in early March.

Witnesses said the fighters targeted civilians based on ethnicity, declaring Banyamulenge to be 'Rwandan' and vowing to 'clean them out.'

'They killed seven people and destroyed homes, health centres, and schools,' a local community leader told HRW.

The UN’s findings put further scrutiny on President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration, which has formed alliances with numerous militias, including the FDLR, accused of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, to bolster its military campaign in the east.

Analysts and activists have raised alarm over the government’s apparent weaponisation of anti-Tutsi sentiment to justify violence against Congolese Tutsi communities under the pretext of fighting M23.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, Kinshasa has publicly celebrated the UN’s decision in February to establish an independent investigative mechanism into atrocities in the east. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya praised the resolution on X, but critics say the administration has tried to downplay or deny war crimes committed by its own forces.

Civil society groups and international observers are now questioning whether President Tshisekedi will be held accountable for what they describe as a campaign of ethnic persecution and possible crimes against humanity.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has sharply condemned widespread human rights violations by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)’s military and its allied militias, calling the situation in eastern DRC 'appalling in magnitude and scope.'

IGIHE

The negotiations culminated in both delegations initialling a landmark peace agreement, laying the groundwork for a formal signing ceremony scheduled for June 27, to be witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

'Proud to lead three days of peace talks, which resulted in the initialling of the peace agreement by delegations from the DRC and Rwanda,' Boulos wrote on X.

'Together, we’re working toward achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.'

U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, who also participated in the negotiations, praised the outcome, noting that the agreement builds on the Declaration of Principles signed on April 25 under the auspices of Secretary Rubio.

'This week’s talks built on momentum following the April 25 signing… We look forward to the Ministerial signing of the peace agreement in Washington on June 27 and subsequent timely implementation,' Hooker stated.

The comprehensive accord includes key provisions aimed at fostering lasting stability and cooperation between the two nations.

These include commitments to respect territorial integrity, a prohibition on hostilities, and measures for the disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of non-state armed groups.

Additionally, the agreement establishes a Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, incorporating the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) outlined on October 31, 2024.

Beyond security, the Peace Agreement prioritises humanitarian and economic objectives. It facilitates the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensures humanitarian access, and lays the foundation for a regional economic integration framework to promote shared prosperity.

The negotiations benefited from close coordination between the United States and Qatar, with Qatari representatives participating to align their complementary peace initiatives.

Both the DRC and Rwanda expressed gratitude for the pivotal roles played by the U.S. and Qatar in advancing dialogue and fostering a peaceful resolution.

The peace process had faced delays earlier this month. Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, clarified via social media on June 14 that the original June 15 date for signing had been delayed due to the complexities of ongoing negotiations. He emphasised the need for a 'comprehensive, realistic and win-win' agreement.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Representing the Government of Mozambique, the Palma District Administrator, João Buchili expressed heartfelt appreciation for the continued support and cooperation from the Rwandan Security Force, stating that it is a demonstration of true partnership.

“Rwanda Security Force is not only helping us keep our communities safe, but they are also working with us in restoring livelihoods and hope,' said João Buchili.

On behalf of the Commander of the Rwanda Security Force, ACP Francis Muheto, the Police Component Sector North Commander emphasized the RSF’s commitment, that it is not only ensuring peace and security in the Cabo Delgado, but also contributing to the community’s resilience and socio-economic stability.

“This boat is a symbol of our shared commitment to rebuilding lives, by supporting local livelihoods like fishing, we aim to reinforce peace through development and it is a gesture of solidarity and support towards human security and local economic recovery.” said ACP Muheto.

The members of Mashalla Cooperative also expressed gratitude and commended Rwanda Security Force for restoring security in the region, from which they resumed economic activities.

The donated fishing boat is expected to boost the cooperative’s capacity, enhance productivity, and improve income for local families who rely on artisanal fishing as a primary source of livelihood.

This initiative is part of broader civil-military and community policing cooperation efforts undertaken by the Rwanda Security Force in Cabo Delgado, where they continue to play a key role in stabilizing and supporting recovery efforts after years of conflict and displacement caused by Islamic State-linked insurgents.

The donated fishing boat is expected to boost the cooperative’s capacity, enhance productivity, and improve income for local families who rely on artisanal fishing as a primary source of livelihood.

This initiative is part of broader civil-military and community policing cooperation efforts undertaken by the Rwanda Security Force in Cabo Delgado.

The members of Mashalla Cooperative also expressed gratitude and commended Rwanda Security Force for restoring security in the region, from which they resumed economic activities.

The event was attended by local authorities, community members and RSF representatives.

IGIHE

Antonio was received as an envoy of Angolan President Joao Lourenco, the acting chair of the AU.

“This is about exploring, in a spirit of constructive dialogue, ways to collectively support the fight against terrorism and promote development in the Sahel,” he was quoted by a post on the Malian presidency’s social media as saying.

The discussions with Goita focused on ways and means to strengthen the bonds between Africans, reinforcing African solidarity and shared destiny, said Antonio, reaffirming the AU chair’s commitment to “the stability and security of Mali and the entire Sahel region.”

Before arriving in Bamako, the AU envoy had visited Burkina Faso on Monday.

Xinhua