Category: Uncategorized

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the suspect was detained on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Due to the involvement of a high-profile public figure, the Metropolitan Police’s Counterterrorism Command is leading the investigation.

The arrest follows three recent fire-related incidents in north London. Emergency services responded to reports of a fire at 1:35 a.m. local time (0035 GMT) on Monday at the entrance of a residential property in Kentish Town.

The property, believed to be owned by Starmer and rented out, suffered damage, but no injuries were reported.

Starmer lived in the house before moving to 10 Downing Street following the Labor Party’s general election victory last year.

Xinhua

Located in Kigali, the new facility is designed to provide high-quality ingredients and tailored flavour solutions to local manufacturers, reinforcing Kerry’s commitment to localisation and sustainable production in emerging markets.

The company says the move is part of a broader €1 billion strategy to accelerate growth and sustainability across the global food industry, with a focus on fast-growing regions like Africa.

The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), local academic institutions, manufacturers from across the country, and Jill Clements, the Deputy Head of Mission to Uganda and Rwanda at the Embassy of Ireland.

“The establishment of this facility in Rwanda marks a significant step towards realising our vision to bring delicious and nutritious products, produced with world-class quality, to millions of African consumers,” said Jad Neaime, General Manager of Kerry Africa.

“As the only global taste and nutrition solutions company producing in East Africa, we aim to partner with our customers to help them solve their unique challenges and grow their business by leveraging our innovative technologies and global network.'

Kerry’s new plant is built with sustainability at its core, incorporating zero waste to landfill operations, high-efficiency utility systems, and a custom-designed wastewater treatment process. The company emphasised that these features align with its global environmental targets and commitment to responsible manufacturing.

The Kigali facility strengthens Kerry’s presence in East Africa, which began in 2018 with the opening of a technology and innovation centre in Kenya. Since then, the company has expanded its footprint to seven manufacturing sites across Africa, including operations in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, South Africa, Nigeria, and now Rwanda, along with sales offices in Lagos and Nairobi.

Neaime highlighted Rwanda’s dynamic food processing sector as a key driver behind the company’s decision.

'Producing in Rwanda strengthens our localisation plans and brings us closer to our customers and their needs,' he said.

'This includes building local partnerships, expanding local sourcing, and recruiting and upskilling local talent to drive community-level growth.'

The facility is expected to play a central role in delivering flavour and nutrition solutions tailored to local preferences, while enabling Kerry to scale up support for food and beverage manufacturers across the region.

(From left) Regis Manyange, Commercial Director for East Africa at Kerry; Jad Neaime, General Manager, Kerry Africa; Jill Clements, Deputy Head of Mission to Uganda and Rwanda at the Embassy of Ireland; and Belinda Kayihura, QSHE & Site Manager, Rwanda, Kerry, pictured during the launch of Kerry’s new taste manufacturing facility in Kigali.

IGIHE

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that primarily affects the musculoskeletal system. It is characterized by widespread body pain, persistent fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

What sets it apart is that it doesn’t show up in standard medical tests, making it difficult to diagnose and often misunderstood.

Dr. Theoneste Rubanzabigwi, a Family Medicine specialist at Baho International Hospital, told IGIHE that fibromyalgia is frequently misdiagnosed due to its overlapping symptoms with other conditions.

'Fibromyalgia often begins with localized pain—commonly in the back of the neck or thighs—but as it progresses, the pain spreads throughout the body. Some patients become so sensitive that even light touches can cause discomfort,' Dr. Rubanzabigwi explained.

He noted that although patients may appear physically healthy, they often experience ongoing, invisible pain. Many learn to live with the discomfort, adapting to it in order to carry on with their daily routines.

“In developed countries where research is more advanced, it’s estimated that 4% to 8% of the population is affected by fibromyalgia. That means in a group of 1,000 people, up to 80 may be living with it,' he added.

While the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unclear, studies suggest contributing factors such as high stress levels, physical or emotional trauma, and abnormalities in how the nervous system processes pain. However, the condition is not contagious.

Although there is no known cure, Dr. Rubanzabigwi emphasized that effective management is possible. Treatment typically involves a combination of regular physical exercise, appropriate pain medication, and mental health support.

He urged anyone experiencing consistent, unexplained pain and fatigue to seek medical evaluation early, as the condition often goes unrecognized for at least three months. While fibromyalgia most commonly affects women over the age of 40, it can also occur in men.

Dr. Theoneste Rubanzabigwi, a Family Medicine specialist at Baho International Hospital explains that fibromyalgia is frequently misdiagnosed due to its overlapping symptoms with other conditions.

IGIHE

The City of Kigali has outlined key development projects for the upcoming budget year, starting in July 2025. These include the upgrading of the Nyabugogo Bus Terminal, urban planning improvements in various parts of the city, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of residents in informal settlements.

The City plans to spend over Frw 251 billion in the 2025/2026 fiscal year, with this figure projected to increase to Frw 263 billion the following year, and Frw 306 billion by 2027/2028.

Upgrading settlements in Mpazi, Nyabisindu, Nyagatovu, and Gatenga

The City of Kigali continues its programme to improve residential areas across the city. Through the RUDPII project, upgrades will be made in Mpazi (Nyarugenge), Nyabisindu and Nyagatovu (Gasabo), and Gatenga (Kicukiro).

The entire project is estimated to cost over Frw 53.9 billion, with Frw 26.9 billion allocated in the 2025/2026 budget. This initiative is jointly implemented with the Ministry of Infrastructure and is expected to significantly improve living conditions in these areas.

Revamping Nyabugogo Bus Terminal

One of the most highly anticipated projects is the revamp of the Nyabugogo Bus Terminal, which includes the creation of a dedicated bus lane.

The total project cost is projected at Frw 288.6 billion, with completion expected by June 2030. Approximately Frw 13 billion is allocated for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

Though implementation was supposed to begin earlier, the project was delayed due to a funding shortfall, specifically Frw 1.2 billion, or 18% in taxes, which the government has yet to disburse.

Completing road construction under the KIP project

The Kigali Infrastructure Project (KIP), launched in 2020, aims to build 215 kilometres of roads.

Completion is scheduled for 2030/2031, with a total projected cost of $404 million. So far, Frw 299 billion has been spent, and Frw 15 billion is allocated for the 2025/2026 budget.

Challenges facing this project include a $150 million loan and a Frw 88 billion budget gap that the City is still working to cover.

Upgrading settlements in Rwezamenyo and Kagugu

Another significant housing project focuses on upgrading Rwezamenyo (Nyarugenge) and Kagugu (Gasabo) settlements.

The total budget for this project is Frw 92 billion, with Frw 20 billion allocated for the 2025/2026 fiscal year. However, implementation still awaits a Frw 2 billion tax contribution (18% share) from the Government of Rwanda and a Frw 9 billion resettlement compensation fund.

Community-cooperative road construction

The City is also partnering with residents to build community access roads. Under this scheme, citizens contribute 30% of the cost, while the government covers the remaining 70%.

So far, Frw 1.1 billion has been raised for the 2025/2026 budget. However, the project is challenged by the City’s limited capacity to supplement the numerous requests for road construction.

Other planned developments

Improvement of informal settlements in Mpazi and Nyabisindu, with Frw 1.47 billion allocated.

There is also the installation of automated streetlights, with the project expected to cost over Frw 5 billion. The budget for next year includes ¥502 million (over Frw 4.9 billion) allocated for this project.

Housing development in Mpazi Village will continue to be advanced.

Plans for 2025/2026 include enhancing residential infrastructure across various neighbourhoods.

Implementation of the KIP road construction project is set to continue.

Plans include installing solar streetlights along Kigali’s roads.

Dusengiyumva Samuel, the Mayor of Kigali, announced plans to launch a tree-planting programme.

The City of Kigali plans to spend over Frw 251 billion for upcoming initiatives.

The Nyabugogo Bus Terminal is set to undergo renovations.

IGIHE

Speaking during a panel at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Ramaphosa responded to perceptions of a strained relationship, saying, 'People may think that President Kagame and I are in conflict. Some of you may have expected fireworks as we sit close to each other.'

The South African Head of State’s remarks were part of a broader reflection on regional peace efforts in the DRC and the role of African-led initiatives.

Ramaphosa praised the continental mediation frameworks, including the Nairobi and Luanda processes, as essential to building confidence and laying the groundwork for ceasefires and troop withdrawals, including the recent pullout of SADC forces from eastern DRC.

'All these efforts have been building a very strong and firm foundation,' he said, adding that while international involvement is welcome, 'we must also remember the principle that we have adopted as Africa: African solutions for African problems.'

President Kagame, who also took part in the session, acknowledged the multiplicity of peace efforts, including those led by Qatar and the United States, but cautioned that none had yet succeeded fully.

He called for greater coherence in African efforts and less dependence on external actors. 'Much progress has been made. But there are things we still haven’t done,' Kagame said.

The remarks came months after the two leaders sharply differed on conflicting statements over the conflict in the eastern DRC.

Back in January, President Kagame accused South African officials, including President Ramaphosa, of distorting private conversations and misrepresenting Rwanda’s position on the conflict in eastern Congo, particularly regarding alleged warnings to Rwanda and the involvement of Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) soldiers in the war between M23 rebels and Congolese forces.

'What has been said… contains a lot of distortion, deliberate attacks, and even lies,' Kagame posted on his X account in response to a message shared by Ramaphosa.

South Africa had deployed troops to the DRC under the Southern African Development Community Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), supporting Kinshasa’s military alongside various militias, including the FDLR—a group formed by the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

Kagame took issue with remarks made by South African Defence Minister Angie Motshekga, who claimed that Ramaphosa had warned Rwandan forces that continued hostilities against South African troops would be viewed as a declaration of war, following the deaths of 14 soldiers in clashes near Goma.

SAMIDRC’s mission was terminated in March to allow for the resolution of the conflict through diplomatic means, and Rwanda has since granted safe passage to troops withdrawing from eastern DRC.

President Paul Kagame and his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, during the latter’s visit to Kigali in April 2024. On Monday, May 12, 2025, Ramaphosa addressed perceptions of tensions with Kagame amid ongoing efforts to mediate the protracted conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

President Kagame, who also took part in the session, acknowledged the multiplicity of peace efforts, including those led by Qatar and the United States, but cautioned that none had yet succeeded fully.

The annual Africa CEO Forum brings together 2,000 leaders from over 70 countries.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In February 2025, the DRC banned Rwandan flights from using its airspace or landing on its territory, citing national security concerns.

The move followed escalating tensions between the two countries, triggered by ongoing conflict between the DRC army and the M23 rebel group, which has controlled the city of Goma since January 27, 2025.

Addressing journalists on Monday, Makolo expressed regret that political issues had interfered with aviation services.

'We had to suspend some routes like Brazzaville, Abuja and Cotonou because the flight had become a bit long,' she noted.

However, Makolo explained that RwandAir is now focusing on expanding its network in Eastern and Southern Africa.

'We are putting that capacity on eastern and southern African routes and adding frequencies where possible,' she said.

'We’re looking at opening new routes. I think more immediately, the first ones coming are Mombasa and Zanzibar. Until the issue is resolved, we’ll focus more on the eastern and southern sides of the continent,' added Makolo.

Since late 2016, RwandAir had expressed interest in launching direct flights to New York, USA. The route was initially expected to begin by 2019, but the COVID-19 pandemic led to delays and a shift in strategic priorities.

Makolo confirmed that the New York route is no longer an immediate priority for the airline.

However, she noted that RwandAir connects passengers to five U.S. cities via Doha, through its codeshare partnership with Qatar Airways.

RwandAir has announced plans for new routes to Zanzibar and Mombasa

The CEO of RwandAir, Yvonne Makolo, has disclosed plans to roll out new strategies in response to service disruptions, including the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) decision to block its airspace to the national carrier.

IGIHE

The BFP reveals a Rwf 7,032.5 billion budget for 2025/26, marking a 21% surge from the prior year’s revised Frw 5,816.4 billion.

Aligned with the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050, the budget prioritizes sustainable development and includes funding for key projects like the Bugesera airport, RwandAir expansion, and recovery efforts from the COVID-19 pandemic, May 2023 floods, and Marburg disease outbreak.

The government projects Rwf 4,105.2 billion in domestic revenue (Frw 3,628.0 billion from taxes and Frw 477.2 billion from other sources), Frw 585.2 billion in external grants, and Frw 2,151.9 billion in loans to finance the budget.

Expenditure is divided into Frw 4,395.1 billion for recurrent costs, such as salaries, and Frw 2,637.4 billion for capital investments.

On May 8, 2025, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa presented the BFP, noting a Rwf 1,216.1 billion budget increase driven by accelerated construction of the Bugesera airport, RwandAir expansion, and new pension policies.

Launched in 2017, the Bugesera airport’s first phase is slated for completion by 2027, with a capacity of 7 million passengers annually and employment for over 6,000 people.

Qatar Airways, holding a 60% stake, supports the project, which is now 25—30% complete.

Key infrastructure, including runways and drainage systems, is finished, with construction now focusing on vertical structures.

The airport’s full completion by 2032 will enable it to serve 14 million passengers yearly.

Rwanda has allocated over Frw 701 billion for construction of Bugesera International Airport in 2025/26

IGIHE

The move follows what Algerian authorities called “serious and repeated violations” by the French side, including the appointment of diplomatic and consular staff without prior notification or formal accreditation, in violation of international norms and bilateral agreements.

According to APS, Algerian authorities recently identified at least 15 French employees assigned to missions in Algeria without completing the required procedures. Some had previously held service passports and were later issued diplomatic passports to ease their entry into the country.

Among the 15 were two officials from France’s Interior Ministry, reportedly dispatched to take over the duties of 12 embassy staff expelled by Algeria last month after being declared personae non gratae.

Algeria condemned the appointments, citing broader strains in bilateral ties, including repeated denials of entry to Algerian diplomatic passport holders by France and prolonged delays in accrediting Algerian consuls-general assigned to Paris and Marseille, along with seven other consular officials.

In response, Algeria has demanded the “immediate expulsion” of all French personnel appointed under what it called “irregular” conditions and their prompt return to France.

This marks the second expulsion of French diplomatic staff in less than a month. On April 14, Algeria ordered the removal of 12 French embassy employees following the detention of an Algerian consular officer in France — a move that prompted reciprocal action from Paris.

The expulsion came as the diplomatic rift between Algiers and Paris has deepened in recent months due to disagreements over immigration issues and policies, historical grievances, and France’s backing of Morocco in disputes over Western Sahara, among others.

Xinhua

The step was taken following a ceasefire agreement between the two countries reached on Saturday.

In a statement on Monday, the state-owned Airports Authority of India said the 32 airports that were closed for civilian aircraft operations till 0529 hours local time of May 15 are now available for operations with immediate effect.

The closure of these airports across northern and western parts of the country was announced after a military conflict that began last week between the two neighbours.

Xinhua

The annual summit brings together over 2,000 participants from more than 70 countries for two days of high-level discussions, debates, and networking sessions aimed at accelerating the private sector’s role in Africa’s development.

On Monday morning, President Kagame is expected to join a distinguished panel of African leaders, including President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, and President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, for the forum’s official opening ceremony.

Later, President Kagame will contribute to a presidential panel discussion on 'Policies, Practices and Personalities Fit for the New World Order.'

The session will focus on how African leadership can adapt to a shifting global landscape, where transactional geopolitics are becoming the norm, limiting traditional avenues of international cooperation for many African nations.

Held under the theme 'Africa in a Transactional World: Can a New Deal Between State and Private Sector Deliver the Continent a Winning Hand?', this year’s forum emphasises the need for stronger collaboration between African governments and the private sector to unlock inclusive economic growth and resilience.

Other prominent speakers at the 2025 edition include President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa of Tanzania, Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah of Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire’s own Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, among others.

The Africa CEO Forum, founded in 2012, has become a vital platform for shaping Africa’s economic agenda, fostering dialogue between public and private sector actors, and promoting cross-border investment opportunities.

The 2024 edition of the Africa CEO Forum took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 16 to 17. Building on the success of that summit, Rwanda has once again been selected to host the 2026 edition of the summit.

President Paul Kagame is in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to participate in the 2025 edition of the Africa CEO Forum, the continent’s premier gathering of business leaders, investors, and policymakers.

Wycliffe Nyamasege