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Speaking during a press conference in Goma on Sunday, May 25, 2025, M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa criticised Burundi’s military involvement in eastern DRC, saying that Burundian troops are operating alongside Congolese forces and enabling FDLR fighters near the border region to kill innocent civilians.

'Burundi is fighting us alongside the Congolese government. Along the border with the DRC, they’re hosting and enabling another enemy—the FDLR,' Bisimwa said.

'There are many FDLR fighters in that area, where they’re organising to attack us. That’s where the threats are coming from.'

According to Bisimwa, the Congolese government is also conducting drone strikes in the region, guided by its intelligence operatives, which have resulted in further civilian casualties.

While expressing no hostility toward the Burundian population, Bisimwa condemned what he described as the Burundian leadership’s role in the conflict.

'We have no problem with the Burundian people—they’re our brothers,' he said. 'But their leaders are using the army to kill Congolese civilians, and we can’t support such a government.'

The M23 leader called for the withdrawal of Burundian troops, citing the recent move by SADC forces to exit Congo as an example to follow.

'All we’re asking is for them to leave our land… Just like the SADC forces who withdrew, they should do the same and return to Burundi,' he said, warning that the rebels have nothing to lose in their “fight for survival.”

Bisimwa also disclosed to members of the press that he had met with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye before the country joined the conflict. According to him, the Burundian leader acknowledged similarities between M23’s struggle and the historic rebellion that brought his own CNDD-FDD party to power.

'I explained our situation, and he told me our struggle reminded him of what CNDD-FDD went through. He said it was the same injustice that led them to take up arms,' Bisimwa recalled. 'So why is he now doing to us what he once fought against?'

Bisimwa, while defending what he described as the rebels’ and marginalised communities’ struggle, revisited the political histories of Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, noting that their current governments came to power through armed struggles against marginalisation.

He cited remarks by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who once warned that those excluded today could rise to power tomorrow.

“President Museveni once said in Kinshasa that he and President Kagame came to power by fighting marginalisation. He warned that those who are excluded today could be the ones to topple you tomorrow,” he stated.

“That’s the message we’re sending to Kinshasa. They know it, and I’m simply reminding them. To Burundi, I want to say this: when people are oppressed, they have nothing to lose. They fight with everything they have to survive and stay safe. And that’s exactly what we’re doing,” he added.

M23, which positions itself as fighting against poor governance and the marginalisation of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in eastern DRC, currently controls large swathes of territory in the region.

Efforts led by Qatar and the African Union to resolve the conflict diplomatically are ongoing, but the rebel group accuses the Kinshasa administration of lacking commitment to that path.

Addressing a press conference in Goma on Sunday, May 25, 2025, M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa criticised Burundi’s military involvement in eastern DRC, saying that Burundian troops are operating alongside Congolese forces and enabling FDLR fighters near the border region to kill innocent civilians.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The contingent, comprising personnel from both the RDF and the Rwanda National Police (RNP), is set to relieve the current force deployed in the insurgency-hit province, where Rwandan troops have been operating since July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government.

Accompanied by Commissioner of Police Vincent Sano, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Maj Gen Nyakarundi, commended the outgoing forces for their professionalism and success in restoring security and stability in Cabo Delgado, and challenged the new contingent to strive to perform their duties even more effectively.

He urged them to maintain discipline and foster teamwork in order to successfully fulfill their assigned responsibilities.

Since their initial deployment in 2021, the Rwanda Security Forces, in collaboration with the Mozambican army, have played a critical role in weakening Islamic State-linked insurgent groups that had destabilised parts of northern Mozambique.

The partnership has contributed significantly to improved security in the region and the return of internally displaced people to their communities.

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, briefed the new contingent of Rwanda Security Forces (RSF) at Kami Barracks ahead of their deployment to Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique.

The army chief urged the troops to maintain discipline and foster teamwork in order to successfully fulfill their assigned responsibilities.

The contingent, comprising personnel from both the RDF and the Rwanda National Police (RNP), is set to relieve the current force deployed in the insurgency-hit province.

Rwandan troops have been operating in Cabo Delgado Province since July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a strongly worded press statement released on Sunday, May 25, AFC/M23 accused the Congolese government and its international allies, including MONUSCO’s senior civilian protection advisor Teohna Williams, of spreading false information to derail the fragile peace process mediated in Doha.

Williams, in a briefing to the international community on May 22, painted a grim picture of Goma’s current state under M23 control, a portrayal the group flatly rejects.

'These falsehoods, coming from a biased actor, cannot deceive informed opinion,' the statement read, defending the group’s occupation of the North Kivu capital since January.

'Goma was then living a daily nightmare… We have ended these atrocities, restored order, and allowed Goma to rise again.'

The rebel movement claims that prior to its takeover, the city was overrun by lawlessness, violence, and ethnic killings, carried out by forces loyal to Kinshasa. It also accuses the Congolese army of using civilians as human shields and deploying artillery in displacement camps around the city.

According to the statement, the camps have since been dismantled and displaced persons have returned safely to their homes.

The group’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, blamed MONUSCO for ignoring what he described as widespread human rights abuses committed under government authority. He cited acts such as public executions, arbitrary detentions based on ethnicity, and even cannibalism, which he maintained have been overlooked by the UN mission.

Asserting control over security in Goma, the M23 says it is now conducting a disarmament operation to recover weapons allegedly distributed by the Congolese government to civilians.

AFC/M23 statement also disputes DRC Ambassador Zenon Mukongo’s recent letter to the UN Security Council claiming M23 offensives in several areas, including Kishishe and Bambo. M23 says those locations have been under its control since 2022.

The group pointed to an April 12 press release by the Congolese army (FARDC), which they claim contradicts the ambassador’s allegations.

'The accusations by Mr Mukongo, refuted by the FARDC’s documents, confirm the regime’s duplicity,' the statement said.

AFC/M23 Spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuk has accused the Congolese government and its international allies, including MONUSCO’s senior civilian protection advisor Teohna Williams, of spreading false information to derail the fragile peace process mediated in Doha.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The investors held talks with President Kagame on the sidelines of the ongoing Basketball Africa League (BAL) Nile Conference on Saturday night.

'On the sidelines of #BAL5, President Kagame met with @NBA_Africa investors to discuss the growth of the league on the continent,' reads a post shared by the Office of the President on X.

Among the attendees was Masai Ujiri, President of the Toronto Raptors, a team in the United States’ NBA, who has made significant investments in Rwandan sports.

He recently completed the construction of Zaria Court, a facility in Kigali that will offer recreation and sports opportunities, with a focus on basketball.

In addition, he has a project to build up to 1,000 basketball courts across Africa through his initiative, Giants of Africa, which aims to promote basketball development on the continent.

Another guest received by President Kagame was South Sudanese entrepreneur Luol Deng, a prominent advocate for the sport in Africa. Deng previously played for major NBA teams including the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

They were accompanied by several other figures, including Basketball Africa League (BAL) President Mamadou Gallo Fall, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, and Rwanda’s Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire.

Basketball is increasingly being seen as a key driver of Africa’s development and economy, as evidenced by the job creation and infrastructure development spurred by the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the increased global visibility it brings to the continent, and its role in promoting youth engagement and talent retention.

Akamanzi recently revealed that BAL alone has generated $250 million in just four years, with a goal to reach $4.5 billion over the next 10 years.

The final games of the BAL Nile Conference group stage are set to take place on Sunday, May 25. Al Ahly Tripoli of Libya will face MBB Blue Soldiers of South Africa, while Rwanda’s APR will take on Nairobi City Thunder.

IGIHE

The concert took place on Saturday at the BK Arena, which was packed with basketball lovers who had just witnessed the thrilling Day 5 of the Nile Conference matchups.

The event followed a high-stakes game where Al Ahli Tripoli narrowly defeated APR BBC in a nail-biting 106—102 finish.

Before the main acts hit the stage, the crowd was warmed up by performers from Sherrie Silver Foundation and Ishami Talents, who delivered spirited performances that set the tone for the night.

Then came the grand entrance. Bruce Melodie took the stage around 8:30 PM in dramatic fashion, accompanied by a large crew of dancers. Dressed in all-white and sporting a black full-face helmet, his dancers contrasted in all-black outfits with white headgear, creating a stunning visual effect.

In a surprise move, some of his dancers helped him remove the white outfit mid-performance, revealing a shiny reddish-brown costume underneath, amping up the excitement.

Bruce Melodie kicked off his set with Bado, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported his music journey. He followed it with crowd favourites like Ikinya, Ikinyafu, and When She’s Around (his collab with Shaggy).

The energy peaked during his performance of Katerina, which sent the arena into a frenzy. He kept the momentum going with hits like Katapila, Saa Moya, and Rosa—one of the standout tracks from his latest album, Colourful Generation.

He closed out his set with fan favourites Fou de Toi, Igitangaza, Sawa Sawa, Kungola, and the much-loved Henzapu, leaving the crowd wanting more.

Moments later, the much-anticipated BNXN (formerly known as Buju) from Nigeria took the stage to thunderous applause.

He treated the audience to a vibrant set including tracks like Bae Bae (with Ruger), Ole, Phenomena, Outside, and more.

BNXN wrapped up the night with chart-toppers Finesse (his viral hit with Pheelz) and Gwagwalada, as well as his collaboration with Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez.

The show officially ended around 9:30 PM, with host Zuba Mutesi thanking the fans for coming and encouraging them to return for the final games of the tournament on Sunday.

The first match will see Al Ahli take on MBB-South Africa at 2:30 PM, followed by APR BBC facing off against Nairobi City Thunder at 5:30 PM.

Bruce Melodie arrived on stage dressed in white clothes and wearing a black full-face helmet.

The moment when Bruce Melodie took off the helmet before he started his electrifying performance.

Dancers from Ishami Talent were the first to take the stage.

Zuba Mutesi, who hosted the show, would occasionally break into dance.

Bruce Melodie was accompanied by a large group of dancers.

The mood shifted dramatically when Bruce Melodie performed Katerina and Henzapu.

BNXN took the vibe to another level with Gwagwalada.

BNXN took the stage with a vibrant team of dancers.

BNXN sang many of his popular songs.

IGIHE

The area, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.

The activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents. Mucojo market, once abandoned due to insecurity, is gradually becoming a centre of renewed social and economic activity.

Hassan Fazenda, Chief of Mucojo village, expressed appreciation for the RSF’s role in restoring peace and supporting community recovery.

'We are thankful for the sacrifices you made that enabled us to return to our homes. Your continued support is helping us to recover from the devastating impact of four years of insurgency,' he said.

Representing the RSF, Lt Col Andrew Mugabo thanked the community and local leaders for their collaboration. He reaffirmed the Rwanda Security Force’s commitment to ongoing support, particularly in efforts focused on restoring livelihoods and fostering long-term stability in the region.

Umuganda is a Rwandan tradition of community service held monthly, where citizens work together on projects such as cleaning public spaces, repairing infrastructure, or planting trees. As a homegrown initiative, Umuganda played a major role in Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by fostering unity, civic responsibility, and inclusive development.

By introducing the concept in Mozambique, the RSF is promoting not only physical restoration but also a sense of collective responsibility and national rebuilding. The exercise reflects broader efforts by Rwanda to support peace and recovery beyond its borders.

Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.

Since then, the RSF has been instrumental in counterterrorism operations, contributing to the liberation and stabilisation of several areas previously held by insurgents.

The Umuganda in Mucojo complements other RSF initiatives in the region, including security support, humanitarian outreach, and capacity-building programs. The efforts include the training of more than 500 troops in an advanced infantry course, who graduated on Friday, May 23, 2025.

Macomia District, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.

The community work activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents.

Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Angola, Burundi, Malawi, Uganda, Sao Tome Principe, South Sudan, Zambia, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic will work with development partners, civil society organizations, and other health experts from across Africa who committed to an agreement at a regional meeting held in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

According to a statement released by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the agreement will further help streamline cross-border transmission challenges, data-sharing mechanisms among countries, and the movement of affected populations.

The Africa CDC reported that the continent has recorded over 16,398 confirmed mpox cases and 1,180 deaths in 22 countries as of Feb. 10.

“The regional nature of the mpox outbreak demands a collective solution. That is why this gathering is so crucial — it is not only a forum for exchanging knowledge but also a springboard for collective action,” said Otim Patrick Ramadan, acting regional manager for emergency response at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa.

Ramadhan said the health agency looks forward to continuing its work with member states and partners to build on the gains made and meet persistent challenges head-on.

Linda Mobula, World Bank senior health specialist in the DRC, said epidemics do not have borders, hence the need to reinforce cross-border collaboration and coordination.

“An agreement is therefore critically important to drive political momentum, reinforce the enabling environment, and strengthen governance,” Mobula added.

The World Bank, in collaboration with the Africa CDC, the WHO, and other partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund and the International Organization for Migration, convened the meeting to facilitate political engagement, technical discussions, and cross-border cooperation among stakeholders.

A Rwandan security officer inspects a vehicle from the Ugandan side at Cyanika border post. Twelve African countries on Friday resolved to intensify cross-border collaborations to respond, prevent, and control disease outbreaks such as mpox and other health emergencies.

Xinhua

The ministry said 307 Russian servicemen have “returned from Kiev-controlled territory,” while the equivalent number of Ukrainian prisoners was freed as well.

“The large-scale exchange initiated by the Russian side will continue,” the ministry said.

The swap followed the exchange of 270 servicemen and 120 civilians from each side announced on Friday.

Following their direct negotiations in Istanbul last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners on each side, marking the largest prisoner swap since the start of their conflict in 2022.

Russia and Ukraine on Saturday exchanged 307 prisoners each under an agreement reached during recent talks in Istanbul, said the Russian Defense Ministry.

Xinhua

'Safety, security, and prosperity in Central Africa are in the clear interest of the United States,' the senators said in a joint release.

The statement, signed by Senators Jim Risch, Jeanne Shaheen, Chris Coons, Ted Cruz, Cory Booker, and John Cornyn, welcomed the recent diplomatic progress made through negotiations facilitated by the United States.

The lawmakers highlighted the April 25 Declaration of Principles signed in Washington D.C. as 'a clear step forward' and 'the latest testament to the power of U.S. engagement and leadership in this region.'

The senators urged all parties to continue negotiating in good faith and to adhere to the commitments outlined in the Declaration.

'Now is the time for all parties to redouble their efforts at the negotiating table to achieve a lasting and sustainable resolution to the conflict,' they stated.

They also emphasized the importance of including civil society in the negotiation process and ensuring that any future agreement allows for the 'neutral and unimpeded access to and delivery of robust humanitarian aid.'

The ongoing U.S.-led talks, alongside mediation efforts from Qatar, Angola, France, and Togo, have brought renewed hope.

If negotiations continue on a positive trajectory, Rwanda and the DRC are expected to sign a peace agreement in June 2025 in Washington D.C., in the presence of the U.S. President Donald Trump.

U.S. senators have applauded Rwanda-DRC steps toward peace.

IGIHE

As the exclusive representative of world-class brands such as Caterpillar, Manitou, Kalmar, Massey Ferguson, and the newly added FAW, Tractafric Equipment offers a comprehensive range of services, including the sale of new and used equipment, spare parts, maintenance, rentals, repairs, fleet management, and training.

For construction, mining, infrastructure development, and more, Tractafric Equipment offers globally recognized CAT and SEM machines.

Their extensive lineup includes bulldozers, excavators, wheel loaders, motor graders, and other earthmoving and material handling equipment. Available in diesel. These machines provide customers with flexible power options to suit diverse operational needs.

With a diverse fleet comprising over 100 types of machines, Tractafric Equipment supplies industrial equipment renowned for cargo handling and material movement, with capacities ranging from 1.5 to 60 tons.

Specialized machines are capable of lifting loads up to 30 meters, with brands like Manitou and Kalmar offering models powered by diesel, fuel, or electricity, catering to environmentally conscious businesses.

Given the region’s reliance on agriculture, Tractafric Equipment provides tailored solutions to enhance agricultural productivity.

Partnering with Massey Ferguson, the company supplies a range of tractors equipped with various horsepower options and specialized attachments for plowing, harrowing, fertilizing, and harvesting with exceptional precision.

Beyond equipment sales, Tractafric Equipment is a one-stop center for spare parts, offering components for trucks, tractors, machines, and more. Their inventory includes tires, oil, oil filters, and other essential parts to keep machinery running smoothly.

The company also offers generators up to 4MW and solar-powered generators ranging from small household units to industrial models capable of generating over 2,000 volts.

Additionally, Tractafric Equipment supplies mobile tower lights, which extend up to 7.6 meters, providing reliable illumination for construction sites, events, and other temporary lighting needs. They also stock 400-liter cement mixers, ideal for large-scale construction projects.

Abdourahman Youssouf Ismail, Parts & Service Manager, emphasized the importance of maintenance in protecting the value of machinery investments.

'We guide our clients on how to care for their machines because some parts require replacement every 250, 500, or 1,000 hours of use. Without proper knowledge, clients might overlook essential maintenance,' he said.

Pierre Warin, Regional Director for the Great Lakes region, underscored Tractafric Equipment’s commitment to after-sales support, highlighting that their employees receive specialized training directly from manufacturers such as Caterpillar, Perkins, and Massey Ferguson.

'We don’t just sell machines; we provide long-term value by ensuring these machines continue to perform efficiently over time,' Warin noted.

In addition to sales and maintenance, Tractafric Equipment offers rental services, allowing clients to access essential equipment for extended periods.

The company has also introduced a flexible rent-to-own program, enabling customers to acquire equipment through installment payments in partnership with financial institutions. This approach reduces financial strain while empowering clients to grow their businesses effectively.

Sales Manager Kevin Ndahinyuka noted that the company goes beyond sales to provide advisory services, helping clients select the right equipment for their specific operational needs.

'We assist clients in choosing the appropriate machinery based on their needs, and even after the purchase, we continue to support them throughout the machine’s lifecycle,' he said.

Recently, Tractafric Equipment expanded its offerings with the introduction of the FAW J6P truck tractors and tippers, manufactured by the leading Chinese brand FAW.

Designed for mining, construction, and agriculture, these robust trucks offer payload capacities ranging from 7,000 to 18,000 kg, with a 6×4 transmission system ensuring reliable performance in demanding conditions.

As the region continues to develop rapidly, Tractafric Equipment remains steadfast in its mission to provide top-tier heavy machinery solutions while maintaining a customer-centric approach. 'Our mission remains the same: to be the go-to provider of heavy machinery solutions, delivering the best value to our clients,' the company stated.

For business inquiries, Tractafric Equipment’s offices are located in Kigali, Rwanda at KK 6 Ave, Magerwa Road. They can also be reached at +250 788 366 000 for Rwanda and +257 79 33 93 37 for Burundi.

Stay updated with Tractafric Equipment by following them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn at Tractafric Equipment Rwanda & Tractafric Equipment Burundi.

Visit their website at https://www.tractafric-equipment.com/en/rwanda–burundi.html for more information.

Abdourahman Youssouf Ismail, Parts & Service Manager, emphasized the importance of maintenance in protecting the value of machinery investments.

Tractafric has trucks used for transborder transportation

Sales Manager Kevin Ndahinyuka noted that the company goes beyond sales to provide advisory services, helping clients select the right equipment for their specific operational needs.

The company also leases folklifting machines mainly used by manufacturers.

The company also offers generators up to 4MW and solar-powered generators

Tractafric Equipment is located along the road Gikondo-Magerwa

Pierre Warin, Regional Director for the Great Lakes region, underscored Tractafric Equipment’s commitment to after-sales support, highlighting that their employees receive specialized training directly from manufacturers such as Caterpillar, Perkins, and Massey Ferguson.

IGIHE