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Good Friday is a paradox. It remembers the darkest moment in Christian history, the brutal crucifixion of Jesus Christ, yet it is called “good.” How can something so filled with agony bear a name so filled with grace?

The answer lies in the power of perspective. The cross, once a symbol of shame, was transformed into a symbol of salvation. This is what makes Good Friday so profound: it dares us to see beyond suffering. It teaches that sometimes, the road to healing passes through heartbreak, and that divine love is most visible not in comfort, but in sacrifice.

This message is timeless and universal, extending far beyond religious boundaries. In a world burdened by war, inequality, and despair, Good Friday reminds us that transformation is possible, even when things look utterly lost. It calls us to believe in goodness, even when surrounded by grief. It tells us that endings can also be beginnings.

But this day is not only about what Christ did for humanity, it is also about what we are called to do for each other. Good Friday invites us to carry the crosses of the voiceless, to stand beside the suffering, and to build bridges where others see only walls. It calls for quiet courage and loud compassion.

So today, let us not rush past the pain of the cross. Let us sit with it, reflect on it, and learn from it. For in doing so, we may find within ourselves the capacity to forgive, to persevere, and to love more fully.

After all, the beauty of Good Friday is not in the silence of the tomb, but in the promise that resurrection always follows.

Good Friday recalls the brutal crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Alcade Ndemeye

This development follows a decision by SADC heads of state on March 13, 2025, to end the regional peacekeeping mission and initiate a phased withdrawal of South African, Tanzanian, and Malawian troops.

In an interview with SABC News, SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya announced that the technical team was formed during a meeting of defense chiefs from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi on April 11, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.

'On Friday, a meeting of the Chiefs of Defence Forces was held in Dar es Salaam. The meeting resolved to establish a technical team tasked with finalizing the withdrawal of our members from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

'This team is currently busy in Tanzania. While I cannot provide a specific completion date, we have instructed the team to work with speed to ensure our members return home as soon as possible,' he stated.

The withdrawal process faces logistical and diplomatic challenges. Two weeks ago, SADC noted that the reopening of Goma International Airport, controlled by the M23/AFC coalition, was critical for troop departure.

The AFC/M23 rebel group recently on April 12, accused SADC forces of violating a key ceasefire agreement following a failed attempt to retake the eastern Congolese city of Goma and demanded the forces to quit.

'We demand the immediate withdrawal of SAMIDRC forces and the surrender of FARDC troops stationed within MONUSCO facilities,' M23 said in a statement.

The breach came just weeks after the rebels and SAMIDRC troops signed an agreement on March 28 to facilitate the peaceful withdrawal of regional forces following their defeat and the rebels’ takeover of Goma.”

Negotiated in Goma, the deal outlined the immediate and orderly withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, allowing them to leave with their weapons and equipment, while stipulating that any FARDC arms in their possession be left behind.

The accord also included plans for SADC to support the rehabilitation of Goma International Airport and conduct a joint technical assessment to ensure its operational readiness for troop withdrawal.

IGIHE has learnt from credible sources that Rwanda has received a request to allow SADC troops to pass through its territory for repatriation.

The withdrawal process of SADC troops faces logistical and diplomatic challenges.

SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya announced that the technical team was formed during a meeting of defense chiefs.

IGIHE

According to a statement released by EAC Secretariat on Thursday, the launch took place during a three-day workshop held from 13th to 15th April, 2025 at Afrik Hotel in Mogadishu.

The event was jointly organised by the EAC Secretariat and the Government of Somalia.

In her remarks, Ms. Annette Ssemuwemba, the EAC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Customs, Trade and Monetary Affairs, commended Somalia for this significant step forward on the integration journey.

'The launch of the National Monitoring Committee is more than a procedural step; it is a symbol of institutional readiness and a shared commitment to unlocking regional trade opportunities. Somalia’s entry into the EAC brings dynamic potential and opens a new trade frontier,' said Ssemuwemba.

Ssemuwemba underscored the strategic role of NMCs in driving the EAC’s goal of increasing intra-regional trade to 40% by 2030.

'We count on Somalia’s NMC to actively eliminate NTBs, engage the private sector, and collaborate with regional counterparts to build a barrier-free trading space,' added the DSG.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Mohammed Isaac Ibrahim, the Director General for EAC Affairs at Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, emphasised the country’s readiness to support EAC integration objectives.

'This launch reflects not only our institutional preparedness but also our political commitment to advancing regional trade and integration,' said Ibrahim.

Ibrahim disclosed that Somalia had established various technical committees to fast track the implementation of the EAC Customs Union and Common Market protocols, as well as other ongoing bilateral trade engagements, particularly with the Republic of Kenya.

The establishment of the NMC reflects Somalia’s strong political will to foster a predictable, transparent, and efficient trade environment. It also underlines the country’s commitment to regional trade integration.

The Somalia NMC structure includes representatives from 16 public sector institutions and eight key private sector associations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry will serve as Chair, while the Somalia Chamber of Commerce and Industry will act as Co-Chair.

The NMC will lead the identification, reporting, and resolution of NTBs through regional mechanisms such as the EAC NTB Mobile Application, the Tripartite Online Reporting Platform, and quarterly national coordination meetings.

In addition to formally inaugurating the NMC, the workshop finalized and adopted Somalia’s NTB Elimination Workplan as well as strengthened the capacity of nominated NMC members.

The workshop brought together officials from line ministries, departments and agencies in Somalia, representatives of private sector associations and technical officers from the EAC Secretariat.

The Somalia NMC structure includes representatives from 16 public sector institutions and eight key private sector associations.

IGIHE

“Putting together all the recent tariff increases, pauses, escalations, and exemptions, it seems clear that the U.S. effective tariff rate has jumped to levels last seen several lifetimes ago,” Georgieva said in a speech before the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings scheduled for next week.

“The complexity of modern supply chains means imported inputs feed into a broad range of domestic products. The cost of one item can be affected by tariffs in dozens of countries. In a world of bilateral tariff rates, each of which may be moving up or down, planning becomes difficult,” Georgieva said.

“The result? Ships at sea not knowing which port to sail to; investment decisions postponed; financial markets volatile; precautionary savings up. The longer uncertainty persists, the larger the cost,” she continued.

The IMF chief noted that rising trade barriers hit growth “upfront,” and protectionism erodes productivity over the long run, especially in smaller economies.

The IMF will quantify these costs in its new World Economic Outlook, to be released early next week.

“In it, our new growth projections will include notable markdowns, but not recession. We will also see markups to the inflation forecasts for some countries,” Georgieva said.

The IMF chief urged policymakers to redouble efforts to “put their own houses in order,” noting that most countries must “take resolute fiscal action to rebuild policy space,” setting out gradual adjustment paths that respect fiscal frameworks.

She also called for “agile and credible” monetary policy, along with strong financial regulation and supervision.

Highlighting the importance of “cooperation in a multi-polar world,” the IMF chief emphasized that trade policy must aim for a settlement among the largest players that preserves openness and delivers a more-level playing field – “to restart a global trend toward lower tariff rates while also reducing nontariff barriers and distortions.”

Xinhua

When I first arrived at Lenovo’s innovation centre in Beijing, I expected to see the usual: rows of laptops, desktop computers, maybe a few advanced servers. That’s the Lenovo most people know—a global leader in personal computing.

After all, this is a company that operates in over 180 countries and regions, has offices in 60 different locations, more than 30 manufacturing facilities, and brings in an annual turnover of 56.9 billion US dollars. It ranked 248th on the Fortune Global 500 list in 2024, and its name is often linked with reliable business laptops or gaming PCs.

Behind its familiar image, Lenovo is rapidly evolving into a global tech powerhouse.

But the Lenovo I encountered was far beyond what I imagined. It felt like stepping into the future. Behind the familiar brand is a powerhouse of innovation driven by over ten thousand engineers, scientists, and researchers. The company runs 18 global research and development bases and has recently established four new AI innovation centers. And what they’re building goes way beyond laptops.

One of the most surprising things I saw was Lenovo’s smart car project. This is not just a car—it’s a moving intelligent system. The vehicle is designed with smart, transparent windows that do more than just let you look outside.

As you drive past a building, you can tap on the window, and information about that building pops up instantly. Want a picture with it? The car lets you take one without ever stepping outside. It’s fully autonomous and equipped with AI services, a computing platform, display sensors, an entertainment system, intelligent solutions, and an advanced automotive operating system. It combines hardware and software in ways that make the entire experience smarter and more interactive.

Then there’s Lenovo’s Age Computing Empower smart branch platform, which is changing how banks and service branches operate. Traditional strategies can’t keep up with the current pace of technology. Lenovo’s solution integrates AI with cloud and edge computing to enable unified management.

Lenovo’s Age Computing Empower platform is transforming traditional bank branches into intelligent, AI-driven service hubs.

In places with multiple branches, the system can analyse video and image data in real time, producing insights for monitoring, marketing, analysis, and even customer care. It’s all handled by a single system that also tackles network latency and data security. It can run multiple AI models at once, including computer vision, natural language processing, and video rendering, all supported by multiple cameras.

Another innovation I saw was the Daystar Bot GS. Despite its name, it’s a six-legged robot. Unlike wheeled or four-legged robots, this one is built for tough terrain. Its design allows it to move smoothly and steadily in rough environments. It can carry up to 80 kilograms and operate at speeds of up to 1.6 meters per second, though 1 meter per second is ideal for stable performance.

It’s 102 by 72 by 60 centimetres in size and weighs 68.5 kilograms. It’s equipped with LIDAR sensors and PTZ payloads, and has an IP66 protection rating, meaning it can function in harsh conditions. The robot runs on a 1 kWh lithium-ion battery, charges fully in three hours, and reaches 70 percent in just 100 minutes with quick charging. It’s designed for industries that need smart, mobile data collection systems in challenging environments.

Lenovo is also pushing forward in computing infrastructure. Their ThinkSystem SR9250-V3, powered by 8th and 4th generation Intel Xeon processors, is designed for industries that demand high performance and advanced computing capabilities. It supports heavy digital workloads and represents Lenovo’s continued dominance in enterprise-level technology.

Then there’s the vision: 'Smarter AI for All.' Lenovo wants artificial intelligence to be accessible, fair, and useful to everyone. Whether in homes, businesses, or public institutions, the company is building systems that are inclusive and easy to use.

One example is their 3D display laptop that lets users control objects on the screen using just their fingertips. You can rotate, move, or examine objects from any angle, all with simple hand gestures. It’s more than interaction—it feels like you’re shaping the digital world with your hands.

Lenovo’s 3D laptop display lets users manipulate objects in real-time using only finger gestures.

They’ve also developed 3D and 5D laptops, high-performance gaming devices, and a unique dual-screen laptop that features both a standard display and a second screen where the keyboard usually sits. A physical keyboard can still be attached, offering flexibility for different users.

Lenovo’s high-performance gaming devices are built for speed, power, and immersive gameplay.

On top of that, Lenovo is working on automated kitchen systems, smart living rooms, and even AI-powered beds. These innovations are not science fiction—they’re real products designed to fit into modern homes and lifestyles.

Lenovo’s automated kitchen system blends robotics and AI to transform how meals are prepared.

What I saw at Lenovo’s innovation center changed my understanding of what this company truly is. It’s not just a laptop brand—it’s a technology giant that’s reshaping how we interact with the world. Lenovo is building a smarter, more connected future.

Inside Lenovo’s innovation center in Beijing, expectations of a traditional tech brand quickly fade.

In Lenovo’s smart bedroom, AI-powered beds adjust to your sleep patterns and comfort preferences, transforming rest into a personalized, tech-driven experience.

From 5D laptops to dual-screen models, Lenovo is experimenting with hybrid designs that adapt to users’ needs.

Built with an advanced OS and autonomous driving capabilities, the smart car integrates Lenovo’s full stack—from hardware to cloud.

‘Smarter AI for All’ is more than just a slogan—it’s Lenovo’s vision to democratize intelligent systems across industries.

With AI-enabled glass and transparent, touch-sensitive windows, the smart car seamlessly blends interaction with information.

The six-legged Daystar Bot GS navigates complex terrain while carrying up to 80 kg, making it ideal for industrial data collection.

Smart homes meet Lenovo’s AI innovation in this intelligent living room.

Lenovo’s smart car prototype redefines everything we know about in-vehicle technology.

Christian Mugisha

The move signals a potential shift in the country’s internet landscape, with Starlink promising high-speed, low-latency connectivity, especially in remote and underserved areas.

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, provides internet through a network of low-earth orbit satellites, offering faster speeds compared to traditional fiber and mobile networks. The service is particularly beneficial for rural communities where infrastructure challenges have made reliable internet access difficult.

With Uganda’s growing digital economy, Starlink’s entry could enhance e-learning, e-commerce, telemedicine, and remote work, bridging the gap between urban and rural internet accessibility. The UCC requires all telecommunications providers to obtain a license before offering services in Uganda.

Starlink’s application will undergo technical and financial evaluations to ensure compliance with national regulations. If approved, the company will join other internet service providers in expanding Uganda’s digital connectivity.

While Starlink’s technology is promising, concerns remain about pricing, accessibility, and competition with existing providers. The service has been known to charge higher installation fees, which could limit adoption among lower-income users.

However, industry experts believe Starlink’s presence will increase competition, potentially driving down internet costs and improving service quality across Uganda. As Starlink awaits regulatory approval, Ugandans are eager to see how the service will transform internet access in the country.

If licensed, Starlink could play a key role in enhancing digital inclusion and supporting Uganda’s vision for a more connected future.

Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, has officially applied for a license from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to begin operations in Uganda.

IGIHE

The internal document, which has circulated among senior diplomatic circles, outlines a broad cost-cutting initiative that could reshape U.S. engagement overseas, particularly in regions where American diplomatic presence has traditionally played a stabilising role.

If enacted, the proposals would reduce the United States’ diplomatic infrastructure across nearly every continent, with embassies in Africa and Europe particularly affected.

Among those listed for potential closure are embassies in Lesotho, the Central African Republic, Eritrea, Gambia, South Sudan, and the Republic of Congo. Two small European missions — in Luxembourg and Malta — also face the axe, with recommendations to shift their duties to nearby posts.

The consular network is also set to take a major hit. In Europe alone, five consulates in France — including in Marseille, Lyon and Strasbourg — are on the chopping block, alongside two in Germany and two in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Outside Europe, closures are proposed for consulates in Cameroon, Indonesia, South Africa, and South Korea.

The rationale behind the sweeping changes, according to the document, centres on a wider push by the administration to shrink federal government operations, in line with President Trump’s long-standing pledge to reduce spending. The initiative aligns with previous attempts to cut the State Department’s budget by nearly half.

However, the plan is raising alarms among diplomats and foreign policy experts who warn that scaling back America’s diplomatic presence could weaken national security and cede geopolitical ground to rivals such as China.

Data from the Lowy Institute indicates that the U.S. currently has more diplomatic missions in Europe than China — a lead that could vanish if the proposed closures go ahead. In Africa and East Asia, Chinese missions already outnumber their American counterparts.

Particularly sensitive are the proposed reductions in conflict-prone regions. The memo recommends either downsizing or eliminating the U.S. presence in Somalia, and reducing staffing in Baghdad and Erbil, Iraq — both areas central to counterterrorism operations.

It also floats a shift in how the U.S. structures its overseas missions. Suggestions include the creation of so-called 'FLEX-style' posts with smaller teams and narrower mandates, as well as combining leadership roles at missions serving multilateral institutions — such as the U.S. delegations to the OECD and UNESCO in Paris.

When asked about the potential closures, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to confirm the authenticity of the document or discuss its contents.

“I would suggest you check with the White House and the President as they finalise their budget proposals,” Bruce said. 'The kinds of numbers we’re seeing in media reports often stem from leaked documents that may not reflect final decisions.'

To date, the administration has only announced ambassadorial nominees for two of the embassies marked for closure: Malta and Luxembourg. Analysts say this could indicate that some decisions are already being acted upon quietly.

While the proposal has yet to be formally approved by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, it forms part of a broader, Elon Musk-backed effort to overhaul and streamline federal agencies under the newly minted Department of Government Efficiency.

As Washington debates the merits of retrenchment versus global engagement, the future of American diplomacy — and its influence in strategically important regions — hangs in the balance.

President Donald Trump’s administration is weighing a dramatic reorganisation of America’s diplomatic footprint abroad, with plans under consideration to shut down as many as 10 embassies and 17 consulates across the globe, according to a leaked State Department memo.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The proposed transaction is expected to strengthen Rwanda’s insurance sector by creating a well-capitalised, diversified, and customer-focused insurance group. By uniting the operational strengths and product offerings of BKGI, SGI, and SLA, the new entity aims to offer greater value to policyholders, enhance innovation in the sector, and support long-term sustainability.

According to the joint announcement, BKGI and SGI will merge to form the general insurance arm of the group, while SLA will serve as the life insurance subsidiary. Together, the companies will form a forward-looking institution capable of serving both individual and corporate clients in Rwanda and beyond.

The initiative reflects a broader ambition to boost financial inclusion, improve service delivery, and contribute to the growth of Rwanda’s insurance industry.

The new group is expected to benefit from an expanded distribution network, digital platforms, and a broader suite of products that respond to evolving customer needs and deliver higher value for shareholders.

'This partnership brings together trusted names with shared values and complementary strengths—and sets the stage for a transformative insurance group that will drive innovation, expand access, and deliver meaningful value to Rwandans and our shareholders,' said Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana, Group CEO of BK Group PLC.

Regis Rugemanshuro, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Social Security Board, described the initiative as part of RSSB’s long-term vision to support inclusive economic growth.

'By joining forces to form this new insurance group, we are laying the groundwork for a strong, competitive player that is built for the future and committed to serving the needs of Rwandan people,' he said.

The formation of the new insurance group is subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals, along with the successful completion of legal and procedural requirements.

BK Group Plc is the holding company of the Bank of Kigali.

Regis Rugemanshuro, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Social Security Board, described the initiative as part of RSSB’s long-term vision to support inclusive economic growth.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Held in the Human Rights and Alliance of Civilizations Room of the Palais des Nations, UN Headquarters at Geneva, the ceremony brought together Rwandans, friends of Rwanda, diplomats, UN officials, and university students in a moment of remembrance, reflection, and renewed commitment to the promise of 'Never Again.'

On the same day earlier, a Students Conference on the 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was held.

A group of students from the University of Vienna in Austria explored the role of literature in preserving memory and confronting genocide denial, reaffirming the importance of educating future generations.

Sissi Domitrie Mukanyiligira, survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and author of Do not accept to die, retraced her journey of survival, a life shaped by unbearable loss, near-death encounters, and an unyielding will to live.

Her voice carried more than memory; it stood as a solemn tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Mr. Edmond Tubanambazi, First Counsellor and Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Rwanda, reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to fighting genocide ideology, countering genocidal denial, and demanding justice for genocide survivors.

He challenged the international community to face an uncomfortable truth, pointing out that the international community has not learned from its failure to stop the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, nor has it done enough to render justice to genocide survivors and to prevent genocide from happening again anywhere in the world.

He cited as evidence the fact that Genocide fugitives are still at large in some countries because of lack of political will to act.

Referring to the genocide ideology that is persistent in the region, he cautioned that no vested interests should prevail over the warning signs of another genocide in the region.

He paid tribute to the courage and resilience of survivors like Ms. Mukanyiligira and emphasized the importance of educating youth to resist historical distortion, reminding attendees that the Genocide against the Tutsi was the culmination of decades long ethnic-based hate and ideology of division instigated, taught and spread since the colonial period by colonial administrations.

In her address, Tatiana Valovaya, Director-General of UN Geneva, delivered the Secretary-General’s message and expressed solidarity with the people of Rwanda.

Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, delivered a reflection on the need to uphold international commitments to prevent genocide, calling on the international community to address atrocity crimes wherever they occur.

César Murangira, President of IBUKA Mémoire et Justice Suisse, delivered a powerful message grounded in historical clarity and moral urgency.

He recalled how the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was the result of a long process of racial ideology, deeply rooted in colonial manipulation and reinforced by propaganda and institutional complicity.

He warned that the same genocidal rhetoric continues to resurface, particularly in the ongoing targeting of Kinyarwanda-speaking Tutsi communities in Eastern DRC.

Echoing this warning, Itonde Kakoma of Interpeace urged global actors to confront the cyclical nature of violence, and to invest in healing that spans generations.

Fifteen-year-old Rwandan student Belko Kenza Naike moved the audience with a stirring poem titled 'Rwanda, essuie tes larmes!'.

Her message reflected the voice of a new generation raised in remembrance and committed to protecting the truth.

Seventeen-year-old pianist Peter Grove offered a moving tribute through music, his performance echoing the solemnity of the occasion and offering a moment of quiet reflection that resonated deeply with those in attendance.

This ceremony formed part of a broader series of commemorative events marking Kwibuka31 across Switzerland.

These included a wreath-laying ceremony at Place des Nations in Geneva on 7 April, and a memorial vigil in Lausanne on 12 April.

Each event contributed to preserving memory and reaffirming solidarity with genocide survivors and the Rwandan people.

As the lights dimmed at the UN Office at Geneva, the message of the day remained clear: truth must be protected, justice must be pursued, and the memory of the victims must guide humanity’s path forward to ensure that no genocide happens again — anywhere in the world.

Mr. Edmond Tubanambazi, First Counsellor and Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Permanent Mission of Rwanda, reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to fighting genocide ideology

Hundreds gathered at the United Nations Office at Geneva, on April 14, for the 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, in a solemn ceremony co-organized by the Embassy of Rwanda to Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the United Nations at Geneva

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

Finding a solution to the threat posed by the FDLR militia must be 'an integral element' of efforts to bring lasting peace to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to Massad Boulos, U.S. President Donald Trump’s Senior Advisor for Africa.

Speaking during a virtual press briefing following his regional tour, which included Rwanda, DR Congo, Kenya, and Uganda, Boulos said the FDLR, a group founded by the masterminds of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, featured prominently in his conversation with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

'We definitely discussed the FDLR and the risk in question,' Boulos said on April 17, during the briefing on the outcomes of his African mission, which ended three days earlier.

'This is a major element of any peace accord. If you look at all the peace initiatives, this is the key element from the Rwandan side and it’s an integral part of any upcoming peace accord, initiative or agreement.'

The FDLR is designated a terrorist organisation by both the United Nations and the United States. Despite its history and ongoing human rights abuses, it remains a key part of the Congolese government’s military coalition against the AFC/M23 rebels, who currently control significant territory in the eastern provinces.

The rebels accuse the Congolese authorities of marginalisation and of promoting ethnic cleansing through their alliance with the FDLR and other militias.

For years, Kigali has raised alarm over Kinshasa’s collaboration with the FDLR, whose fighters have been implicated in numerous attacks on Rwandan territory, including nearly 20 incidents since 2018. In response, Rwanda has tightened security along its borders to prevent further incursions.

Tensions between the two neighbours escalated further following statements by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi in late 2023, in which he threatened to support regime change in Rwanda and said he would seek parliamentary approval to declare war.

Boulos confirmed that the Trump administration is engaging both sides and supports regional efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully.

'We’ve been engaging with both parties and this is one of the main elements of those discussions,' he said. 'There are solutions — we are not reinventing the wheel here. There are terms that have previously been drafted and agreed upon by both parties, and we will continue working with them towards that.'

He reiterated Washington’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states involved.

'Our role and commitment is to ensure sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries in question—not just one country or two, but all that are involved,' Boulos said.

'Everybody has to be at ease and feel comfortable with the terms and safe from any such threats, whether they are actual or perceived or any future threats.'

While in Kigali on April 8, Boulos held talks with President Kagame at Urugwiro Village, where they discussed strengthening U.S.—Rwanda ties and advancing regional peace.

'We are ready to work with Rwanda to achieve this goal, which is why finding a resolution to the conflict in eastern DRC is so essential—it will unlock the region’s untapped potential,' he said.

During his Rwanda visit, Boulos toured the Mutobo Demobilisation Centre, which reintegrates former armed group members.

He spoke with ex-FDLR fighters recently repatriated from eastern Congo, including Maj. Ndayambaje Gilbert, who returned on March 1. Ndayambaje confirmed the FDLR’s strong collaboration with Congolese forces in the ongoing war with the AFC/M23 coalition.

Boulos’s tour included stops in Uganda and Kenya, where he met with Presidents Yoweri Museveni and William Ruto respectively, as well as a meeting with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa.

Massad Boulos, US President Donald Trump’s Senior Advisor for Africa, speaks at a news briefing in Kigali on April 8.

Wycliffe Nyamasege