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The first day of the conclave, held on Wednesday, concluded without a decision. As tradition dictates, the appearance of black smoke from the chapel’s chimney signaled that no candidate had secured the necessary two-thirds majority to be named pope and succeed the late Pope Francis.

While only one round of voting is customary on the first day, Thursday marked the beginning of a more intensive schedule. From now on, the cardinals will hold up to four ballots each day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a new pontiff is chosen.

Outside the Vatican, a quiet tension mingled with hope. St. Peter’s Square glowed under the morning sun, the basilica’s iconic dome casting long shadows across the gathering crowds.

Pilgrims, clergy, tourists, and reporters—speaking a blend of languages—waited patiently for the next sign from the chimney.

Some found shade under the colonnades; others sat cross-legged on the cobblestones, gazing toward the roofline for a glimpse of smoke.

The mix of ages and backgrounds spoke to the global significance of the moment. From the devout to the curious, seasoned observers to first-time visitors, all had come to witness history.

As the world watches, the color of the smoke remains the only clue to the proceedings within. Until white smoke rises—signaling the successful election of a new pope—the search for the next leader of the Catholic Church continues.

The first day of the conclave, held on Wednesday, concluded without a decision. As tradition dictates, the appearance of black smoke from the chapel’s chimney signaled that no candidate had secured the necessary two-thirds majority.

The process to elect the next pope entered its second day on Thursday, with 133 Catholic cardinals once again entering the Sistine Chapel for another round of secret voting.

IGIHE

Announced via Rwanda Development Board (RDB)’s official X account, the partnership will include a range of services and the development of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility aimed at improving public service delivery and reinforcing Rwanda’s position as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing.

E7 Group, based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, specializes in secure printing, identity management, packaging, publishing, and logistics.

Originally established in 2006 as United Printing & Publishing (UPP), the company rebranded to E7 Group in January 2024 to reflect its broader mandate and alignment with the UAE’s strategic vision. The name 'E7' symbolizes the unity of the UAE’s seven emirates and the company’s forward-looking mission.

As a subsidiary of ADQ—one of the region’s key investment vehicles established in 2018 to drive economic diversification—E7 Group brings significant expertise in secure, high-tech solutions.

Rwanda, meanwhile, continues to make notable progress in industrial development. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), industrial output grew by 5% in March 2025.

Earlier that month, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted that the country’s industrial production has tripled since 2017, increasing from Frw 591 billion to Frw 1.68 trillion, largely driven by value-added investments across sectors.

Industrial parks have been central to this progress, with 230 factories now fully operational nationwide and another 98 in the pipeline.

Employment in the sector has also surged—from 180,000 in 2017 to 259,000 in 2024—reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to industrialization as a key pillar of economic transformation and job creation.

The agreement was signed by Juliana Kangeli Muganza (right), Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board on behalf of Rwanda.

UAE and Rwanda’s delegation in a group photo after signing the agreement.

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Xinhua

Today, the world has undergone dramatic transformations. Technology has connected distant corners of the globe, and globalization has brought nations closer than ever before. Yet, alongside these advances, new and complex challenges have emerged. Global uncertainty is rising, marked by power politics, unilateralism and division in ever-evolving forms.

As the world reflects on the lessons of history, humanity must confront some urgent questions: How can we safeguard the hard-won peace? How can we collectively address pressing global challenges? And most importantly, how can we forge a shared future for all?

As noted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the general debate of the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly back in 2015, history is a mirror, and only by drawing lessons from history can the world avoid repeating past calamities.

“We should view history with awe and human conscience. The past cannot be changed, but the future can be shaped. Bearing history in mind is not to perpetuate hatred. Rather, it is for mankind not to forget its lesson. Remembering history does not mean being obsessed with the past. Rather, in doing so, we aim to create a better future and pass the torch of peace from generation to generation,” Xi said then.

VICTORY OF THE JUST

On the night of May 8, 1945, Germany signed the surrender document in Karlshorst, Berlin, marking the end of World War II (WWII) in Europe. Meanwhile in Asia, China’s final major campaign against Japan — the Battle of Western Hunan — reached its decisive phase.

Japan’s surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945, concluded WWII, humanity’s deadliest conflict. More than 80 countries and regions, involving roughly 2 billion people, were drawn into the war, with the total casualties at over 100 million and economic losses exceeding 4 trillion U.S. dollars. Against fascist aggression, more than 50 countries, including China and the Soviet Union, formed a united front.

The world will never forget that as the main theater in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, China made a national sacrifice of over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism. During 14 years of fierce anti-fascist fighting, China engaged and tied down over two-thirds of the Japanese Army, inflicting 70 percent of Japan’s wartime military casualties. These efforts significantly contributed to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

People from different countries stood with China in the common struggle. China will always remember the international support it received. For example, the U.S. “Flying Tigers” opened up the Hump Route for transporting emergency supplies; foreign doctors such as Norman Bethune from Canada and Dwarkanath Kotnis from India risked their lives to save others; German businessman John Rabe helped protect civilians during the Nanjing Massacre in 1937.

Equally significant was the Soviet Union’s sacrifice and contribution on the European theater of World War II. From the Battle of Moscow to the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk, the Soviet people bore tremendous hardship and played a decisive role in defeating Nazi troops.

During the global anti-fascist war, China and the Soviet Union supported each other. Soviet air force volunteers fought alongside Chinese soldiers, during which over 200 of them lost their lives in China. Many Chinese, including Mao Anying, late Chinese leader Mao Zedong’s eldest son, engaged in fighting against Nazi troops during the toughest time of the Soviet Union’s Great Patriotic War. This shared sacrifice forged a deep bond between the two sides.

The victory of the anti-fascist war shattered attempts of the fascists and militarists to dominate the world, ended the colonial divisions of the world by imperial powers, and laid the foundation for a new vision of global peace and cooperation.

REBIRTH OF THE WORLD

This year also marks the 80th founding anniversary of the United Nations. The opening words of the UN Charter — “We the peoples of the United Nations determined to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime has brought untold sorrow to mankind” — stand as a powerful testament to the hard-won lessons of two catastrophic world wars.

More than just a historical reflection, these words convey humanity’s ardent desire for lasting peace.

Born from the ashes of World War II, the United Nations represents humanity’s efforts to move away from a world governed by the law of the jungle and a world order of Western-dominated hierarchies.

From the Westphalian and Vienna systems to the Versailles-Washington system, the old order divided the world into dominant powers, and nations they colonized and oppressed.

In a historic shift, the UN Charter enshrines the principle of sovereign equality, affirming for the first time in international law that all nations, irrespective of size, strength or wealth, are equal. That became the cornerstone for the postwar international order.

Anchored in the UN Charter, principles such as sovereign equality, non-interference in other’s internal affairs, peaceful settlement of disputes and prohibition of the use or threat of force have evolved into bedrock norms of international relations. The UN system’s creation has established not merely institutional platforms for cooperation, but transformed the very architecture of global governance.

Under the guidance of the spirit of the UN Charter, national liberation movements swept across the globe. Many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America cast off the shackles of colonialism and gained national independence and sovereignty.

International law thus began to genuinely safeguard the rights and interests of developing countries. A more open and inclusive international community has replaced the West-centric paradigm of an exclusive “civilized nations club,” a solid and far-reaching step toward lasting peace for humanity.

China has actively participated in founding the United Nations and shaping the postwar international order. On June 26, 1945, China was the first country to sign the UN Charter. Before that, the Chinese delegation strongly defended the interests of small- and medium-sized countries, and insisted that “independence” be enshrined in the UN Charter as the goal of the International Trusteeship System despite pressure from the West. Such efforts exemplified China’s unwavering commitment to defending international fairness and justice.

The postwar international order has consolidated the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, established the fundamental norms of modern international relations, curtailed military expansionism, and advanced global peace and development.

Since its inception 80 years ago, the United Nations has grown into the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental organization in the world, carrying humanity’s shared aspirations for a better future.

CALL OF THE ERA

Over the past 80 years, the absence of global-scale wars has allowed the world to enjoy sustained peace. Emerging economies, including China, have risen collectively, while economic globalization has deepened, turning the world into an interconnected “global village” through expanding cross-border exchanges and cooperation.

At the same time, a new wave of technological and industrial transformation is reshaping economies, societies and international relations. The benefits of this largely peaceful era have created a level of global prosperity unprecedented in human history.

However, beneath the surface of peace flow some turbulent undercurrents. Unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, with some politicians in the West obsessed with dividing the world along ideological lines, forming exclusive blocs and fueling a “new Cold War” mentality.

Even more, the United States openly disregards international norms, engages in economic coercion, imposes punitive tariffs and elevates domestic law above international law.

Such hegemonic behavior undermines the UN-centered international system, challenges the international order underpinned by international law, and threatens the very foundation of global peace and development.

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned, “Everywhere we look, peace is under attack.”

The world is once again at a crossroads. Should the world uphold multilateralism and seek common ground, or allow unilateralism to grow unchecked? Should the world support more democratic international relations, or accept that power politics rules everything? Should the world follow international law and basic diplomatic norms, or return to a world where the strong dominate the weak?

History offers the clearest lessons. Firstly, peace must be defended. The terror of Nazi tyranny and the atrocities in Nanjing Massacre showed that war destroys civilization, while peace allows it to grow.

Secondly, unity is essential for the survival of human civilization. When fascism and militarism were tearing the world apart, the signing of the Declaration by United Nations by 26 nations in 1942 showed that ideological divisions can be overcome, and shared human values can bind nations together.

Thirdly, the tide of history cannot be reversed or resisted. The fall of colonialism, the end of the Cold War and the rise of developing countries all show that the logic of “might makes right” does not last. A multipolar world is the way forward.

Fourthly, rules are not tools for the powerful to abuse. Instead, they are the foundation of fairness and justice. The principles in the UN Charter, including sovereign equality and bans on aggression, remind humanity that without rules, the world risks sliding into chaos.

As a victor in World War II as well as a founder and defender of the post-war order, China has consistently stood on the right side of history and on the side of civilization and human progress.

From advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation to launching the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, and from promoting a community with a shared future for mankind to offering ideas and solutions for global and regional challenges, China supports true multilateralism through concrete actions. It is working to make global governance fairer and more balanced, while contributing stability and positive momentum to world peace and development.

The majority of the world has come to recognize China as a pivotal force in safeguarding world peace and stability. As noted by UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, initiatives China proposed around peace and security, global development and cultural cooperation closely align with the UN’s core mission of peacemaking, humanitarian efforts and global security.

The concept of “a community with a shared future for mankind” is another key idea that highlights global solidarity and “the world coming together, not pulling apart,” Fletcher told Xinhua, adding that such a concept has created “partnerships that we really need if we’re to meet the challenges ahead of us, including climate change.”

As partners who fought side by side in World War II, China and Russia continue to work together today to uphold global strategic stability. They coordinate closely within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, jointly opposing hegemonism and power politics, and promoting a more multipolar world and economic globalization through true multilateralism.

Meanwhile, emerging markets and developing countries are rising as a collective force. The awakened Global South is gaining strength, confidence and a greater voice in global governance. The forces for peace and development have never been more robust.

French writer Victor Hugo once observed: “Memories are our strength. When night attempts to return, we must light up the great dates, as we would light torches.” The significance of marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War lies in illuminating the path ahead, and reaffirming humanity’s unwavering commitment to enduring peace.

At this new crossroads in history, what humanity needs is not the drumbeat of a new Cold War, but the call for cooperation; not claims of civilizational superiority, but a spirit of shared prosperity; not a return to the law of the jungle, but a renewed commitment to a shared future.

Only by following this path can the world prevent the tragedies of history from repeating themselves and turn the vision of lasting peace and sustainable development into reality.

A ceremony presenting flower baskets to fallen heroes to mark Martyrs’ Day is held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Xinhua

More than 80 years ago, the peoples of China, the Soviet Union and other countries fought side by side and secured victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, opening a new chapter in human history.

As the world is undergoing accelerating changes unseen in a century, the international community demands greater global efforts to face common challenges, and to build a community with a shared future.

Xi’s upcoming visit is expected to inject new momentum into the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. Moreover, it will demonstrate the two major countries’ commitment to working with the rest of the world to safeguard the outcomes of the victory in World War II, uphold international fairness and justice, and maintain world peace and stability.

LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP

History and reality show that China and Russia are good neighbors that cannot be moved away, and true friends who share weal and woe, support each other and achieve common development, Xi said in his phone conversation with Putin in February.

The coming visit marks Xi’s 11th trip to Russia since he became Chinese president. The two heads of state have met more than 40 times on different occasions over the years. Their close communication provides strategic guidance, under which China-Russia relations have matured into a resilient and stable partnership characterized by deepening political trust, closer strategic alignment and sustained practical cooperation.

In 2024, bilateral trade rose to 244.8 billion U.S. dollars, making China the largest trading partner of Russia for 15 consecutive years. In December 2024, the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline was fully completed. Cooperation in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, e-commerce, bio-medicine, scientific and technological innovation, as well as green energy continues to expand.

The two countries’ long-lasting friendship has grown increasingly popular among the two peoples. The mutual visa exemption agreement for group tours has encouraged more robust two-way travel. Hundreds of cultural events have been held in succession with the framework of the China-Russia Year of Culture.

Andrey Denisov, first deputy chair of Russia’s Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs and former Russian ambassador to China, said the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is a key factor in ensuring the steady and long-term development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.

The two leaders are expected to hold extensive and in-depth discussions on both bilateral cooperation and multilateral issues, and the Russian side has high expectations for that, he added.

INDELIBLE CONTRIBUTION

Over 80 years ago, China and Russia, as the main battlefields in Asia and Europe during World War II, made tremendous sacrifices and indelible contribution to the final victory.

In a signed article published by the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his visit to Russia in 2015, Xi quoted Russian historian Vasily Klyuchevsky as saying, “If we lost the memory of our past, our mind and soul would be lost in the darkness,” in a bid to express his remembrance of the history of the World Anti-Fascist War and earnest expectations for the two nations to join hands to maintain world peace and stability.

The bitter lessons drawn from World War II have taught mankind that the strong preying on the weak, the law of the jungle, warlike or hegemonic policies, the winner-takes-all mindset and zero-sum game do not benefit coexistence, peace or development of mankind, Xi wrote in the article.

Noha Bakir, a professor of political science at American University in Cairo, said China and Russia, drawing lessons from history, shoulder the important responsibility of safeguarding international stability and cooperation amid today’s complex global landscape.

By studying, restoring and spreading the true history, people can better understand World War II and the post-war international order, thus they will resist the attempts to distort historical facts, he added.

Andrey Fesyun, deputy director of the Institute of Asian and African Studies at Moscow State University, said that under the guidance of the two heads of state, China and Russia will further jointly advocate the correct historical view of World War II, and work together to maintain global strategic stability, so as to make the due contributions of responsible major countries to the advancement of international fairness and justice.

SPEARHEADING PROGRESS

Eighty years ago, representatives from multiple countries, including China and the Soviet Union, gathered in the U.S. city of San Francisco, and signed the Charter of the United Nations, laying the cornerstone of the post-war international order.

The preamble to the charter solemnly states the commitment “to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security.”

China and Russia have natural responsibilities to make joint efforts to steer and promote global governance in a direction that meets the expectations of the international community and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi when meeting with Putin in March 2023. And it was during Xi’s first visit to Russia in 2013 as Chinese president that he first proposed the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major countries in the world, China and Russia have been working closely on the world stage. Beijing and Moscow firmly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, the international order underpinned by international law, as well as the fundamental norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. They are also advocates of true multilateralism.

The two nations have also joined hands to promote political solutions to international and regional hot-spot issues. They have strengthened communication and coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS and the Group of 20, and are jointly committed to advancing a multipolar world and the democratization of international relations.

Adhere Cavince, a Kenyan scholar on international relations, said that China and Russia collaborate through platforms like the SCO and BRICS, which has not only promoted a multipolar world, but also empowered the Global South with a greater voice in global governance and a bigger role in shaping the rules on major international issues.

Ilgar Velizade, head of the South Caucasus Club of Political Scientists from Azerbaijan, said that the growing strength of multilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the SCO and BRICS represents a powerful embodiment of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

If countries engage in an active, constructive and sustainable dialogue focused on common interests, the world will be safer, the global economy more sustainable and humanity’s future far more promising, he said.

The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) participate in a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade, which marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, in Moscow, Russia, May 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

Xinhua

The Ministry of Sports is coordinating the event, ensuring it aligns with national development goals. Visit Rwanda contributes its hospitality experience, curating memorable experiences for athletes and visitors, while FERWACY offers technical expertise gained from organizing the Tour du Rwanda. Through this collaborative effort, Rwanda is steadily bringing its vision to life.

Rwanda’s hosting strategy relies on its well-established security framework, developed through the successful management of various international events. This includes sports gatherings such as the FIFA Congress in 2023, the FIA Awards ceremony in December 2024 (a first for Africa), and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) finals, hosted repeatedly since 2021 in Kigali.

Notably, the successful 17th edition of the Tour du Rwanda in February 2025 demonstrated Rwanda’s effective safety protocols, as the race navigated diverse regions smoothly, allowing all participants to concentrate fully on competition.

Infrastructure development progresses steadily to welcome the global cycling community. Kigali’s hospitality sector has mobilized to meet anticipated demand, while transport networks are optimizing for seamless connectivity between race routes and cultural attractions. The championship routes themselves will display Rwanda’s lush landscapes, from Kigali’s colourful urban environment to the diverse and unique scenery found throughout Rwanda’s various provinces and districts.

Rwanda continues to ensure accessibility through straightforward travel policies. Visitors from all nations can secure visas upon arrival, with citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and Francophonie member states benefiting from free 30-day visas. The efficient e-Visa system via the Irembo online portal offers added convenience.

Clarifying some misconceptions, yellow fever vaccinations are required only for travelers arriving from at-risk regions, consistent with standard WHO guidelines. Travelers can access detailed and current information on visa requirements and application procedures on the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration of Rwanda’s official website, the reliable source for immigration-related matters.

Beyond the immediate excitement of the races, the 2025 Championships promise a lasting legacy. The event will inspire young athletes across Africa and solidify Rwanda’s position as a premier destination for international sports. As preparations enter their final stages, Rwanda welcomes the world to witness this historic moment in cycling and African sports.

Regular updates on venues, tickets, and related events are available through official channels as the countdown to September continues.

IC

The incident was confirmed on Wednesday by Pakistan’s Minister of Defense in a televised address.

Earlier that day, India’s Ministry of Defence stated it had carried out strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, claiming the action was in retaliation for a terror attack on April 22 in the Pahalgam area of Indian-administered Kashmir that left over 20 civilians dead.

In response, Pakistan strongly condemned the Indian strikes, calling them an unprovoked act of war and a violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty.

Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said in a statement that the Indian Air Force had violated Pakistan’s airspace using standoff weapons to target civilian areas.

The strikes reportedly hit Bahawalpur and Sheikhupura districts in Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province, as well as Muzaffarabad, Bagh, and Kotli districts in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, director general of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the media wing of the Pakistani army, said that at least 26 people were killed and 46 others injured after India carried out strikes on six civilian settlements in Pakistan.

In a statement issued Tuesday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on both nations to exercise maximum restraint, warning: 'The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.'

He had earlier described the situation as the most dangerous in years between the two South Asian nuclear powers, urging both governments to resolve their differences diplomatically.

'A military solution is no solution,' he emphasized, offering his good offices to help ease tensions.

The Secretary-General also condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, calling it 'unacceptable' and urging that those responsible be brought to justice through 'credible and lawful means.'

Pakistani soldiers cordon off a road following Indian missile strikes in Bahawalpur district, Punjab province, eastern Pakistan on May 7, 2025. (Photo by Mansoor Abbas/Xinhua)

Théophile Niyitegeka

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will meet with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his visit to Switzerland from May 9 to 12, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce confirmed on Wednesday.

The talks come after the new U.S. administration imposed a series of unilateral tariff measures, which China said have disrupted bilateral relations and global trade order.

In response, China took firm countermeasures, defending what it calls its legitimate rights and interests.

According to a ministry spokesperson, the U.S. recently expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, prompting China to agree to talks after careful consideration of global expectations, national interest, and feedback from U.S. industry stakeholders.

China emphasized that any negotiation must be based on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocal benefit, warning against the use of dialogue as a tool for coercion or blackmail.

The spokesperson added that China would not compromise on its core principles and reiterated its commitment to fair international trade, the World Trade Organization, and multilateralism.

Chinese assemble an electric scooter at the headquarters of Yadea in Chongqing Municipal Province in China. Photo by Théophile Niyitegeka

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The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President, Urugwiro Village.

Relations between the two countries have significantly improved in recent years, especially after President Macron acknowledged France’s historical responsibility in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and expressed a desire to rebuild ties and promote reconciliation.

This renewed partnership has been further reinforced through high-level visits and ongoing diplomatic engagement.

In 2021, President Macron paid a landmark two-day official visit to Rwanda aimed at deepening bilateral ties and cooperation.

During the visit, he toured the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are laid to rest.

There, he laid a wreath and delivered a powerful speech acknowledging France’s role in Rwanda’s history.

'As I stand with humility and respect at your side on this day, I come to recognise the magnitude of our responsibilities,' Macron said.

The visit also included a bilateral meeting and a joint press conference, during which the two heads of state witnessed the signing of two key agreements: one outlining a framework for bilateral cooperation and another focused on sports and talent development.

President Kagame most recently visited France in October 2024, accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, to attend the 19th Summit of La Francophonie, co-hosted by the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).

The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President, Urugwiro Village.

President Paul Kagame met with French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday morning for discussions on global issues and the fruitful cooperation between Rwanda and France.

Théophile Niyitegeka

The attack occurred on May 3, 2025, in the dense Katupa forest, located in Macomia District.

According to RDF spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, the ambush was carried out by insurgents. He noted that while Rwanda suffered casualties, the enemy incurred significant losses.

'Yes, it happened on May 3 in Katupa forest. The soldiers were on duty when they were ambushed. Three were killed and six injured, but they are recovering. The enemy suffered heavy casualties,' Brig Gen Rwivanga told IGIHE.

Katupa forest, in northern Macomia, is one of the regions where insurgents regrouped after being expelled from other areas of Cabo Delgado. The area was previously under the control of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission.

In late 2023, Rwandan forces engaged in intense fighting in the region and successfully rescued approximately 600 hostages held by insurgents.

In late 2023, Rwandan forces engaged in intense fighting in the area and managed to rescue around 600 hostages held by the insurgents.

The latest attack comes as Rwanda is also involved in training Mozambique’s national forces to strengthen their capacity to independently protect their country once international missions conclude.

Mozambique’s Army Chief, Maj Gen Tiago Alberto Nampele, previously stated that 95% of insurgent activity had been eliminated by the end of 2023.

However, he acknowledged that small militant cells remained in areas like Katupa, where they operate from mobile camps and avoid setting up fixed bases.

In response, Rwandan forces have intensified surveillance using helicopters, particularly after the discovery of landmines planted by insurgents in the forest. In 2024, a Mozambican military vehicle was destroyed by one such explosive in Katupa.

Since Rwanda’s initial deployment to Mozambique to combat the Al Sunnah wa Jama’ah insurgent group, several high-ranking militant leaders have been eliminated.

In August 2023, RDF troops killed the group’s top commander during a targeted ambush on August 16. Most of the group’s original leadership has since been dismantled and replaced by new operatives.

Currently, Rwanda’s security operations in Mozambique are led by Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha, who commands the Joint Task Force (JTF).

He is supported by Brig Gen Justus Majyambere, the Task Force Battle Group Commander. The Rwandan police contingent in Mozambique is headed by CP William Kayitare, with ACP Francis Muheto serving as his deputy.

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