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This is contained in an agreement that was signed between the M23 rebels and SADC leaders. The agreement announced on Friday was signed after a meeting between the parties that took place at the Serena Hotel in Goma city.

General Sultan Emmanuel Makenga, military commander, Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, deputy chief of defense forces and Erasto Bahati Musanga, Governor of North Kivu province, represented M23 rebels in the meeting.

SADC was represented by General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of South African Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Zyeele Zambia army commander, Major General Saiford Kalisha representative of the chief of defense force of Malawi, Major General Ibarahim Michael Mhona representative of the Defense Force of United Republic of Tanzania and Professor Thelestane Kula, Director organ on politics, defense and Security Affairs of SADC.

According to the agreement, M23 rebels will facilitate the immediate withdrawal of SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) troops with their weapons and equipment. The agreement, however, puts a condition that all weapons and other military equipment belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) will stay in the hands of the rebels.

The agreement also indicates that M23 rebels will coordinate the freedom of movement of SAMIDRC troops in preparation for withdrawal. The leaders also agreed that all parties will facilitate a joint technical team to assess the status of Goma International Airport in readiness for reopening, and SADC will assist in repairing to facilitate troops’ withdrawal.

The meeting happened the same day when M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa and Colonel Imani Nzenze, rebels’ intelligence chief, arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha to meet DRC government officials in peace talks mediated by Qatar’s President, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Early this month, President Hamad also hosted Felix Tshishekedi, DR Congo President and Paul Kagame of Rwanda to discuss a peace deal in eastern DR Congo.

M23 ordered SAMIDRC troops to surrender after the fall of Goma city and neighboring areas where they had been deployed since December 2023. Rebels now control major areas of North and South Kivu provinces since the resumption of insurgency in 2022.

The agreement announced on Friday was signed after a meeting between the parties that took place at the Serena Hotel in Goma city.

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The decision was reached after two days of high-level talks in Bunia between General Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, and General Ychaligonza Jacques, Director of Operations and Intelligence for the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).

The expanded mission aims to neutralize ADF terrorists and local armed groups that have rejected peace efforts and continue to destabilize the region. 'The aim is to restore peace throughout the Ituri region, which has been plagued by armed violence for years,' said a joint statement issued after the meeting on Friday.

The announcement came as fighting intensified near Fataki, where CODECO fighters clashed with UPDF troops in the village of Bethléem. Local residents reported heavy gunfire and explosions that echoed throughout Fataki, forcing civilians to flee.

The fresh violence followed a brutal attack last week by CODECO militias at the Lodda displaced persons’ camp, where six people, including four children, were killed.

The clashes are part of a broader and increasingly violent confrontation between the UPDF and CODECO. Recently, in a major confrontation in Fataki, UPDF forces repelled sustained attacks by CODECO militants over two days.

According to the UPDF, 242 militants were killed, making it one of the bloodiest engagements of the operation to date. However, the victory came at a cost.

Colonel David Byaruhanga, a senior UPDF officer, died from injuries sustained during the battle. According to UPDF acting spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi, the colonel was wounded by a malfunctioned RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) fired during combat.

The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) has long been blamed for some of the most brutal atrocities in eastern DRC. The Lendu-dominated militia has been responsible for massacres, ethnic killings, village burnings, and the targeting of Hema civilians for over a decade.

The group has recently been linked to a strategic alliance with the ADF, further complicating the security environment.

CODECO’s attacks, especially in Djugu and Mahagi, have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes. Local and international humanitarian organizations are warning of a deepening crisis as violence spreads and access to aid becomes increasingly restricted.

With the inclusion of Bunia in Operation Shujaa’s scope, the DRC and Uganda are signaling a new and more aggressive phase in their fight against armed groups in the Ituri Province.

Originally launched in late 2021 to target ADF strongholds in North Kivu and Ituri, the operation now appears set to tackle a broader range of militias resisting disarmament and reintegration.

The governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Uganda have agreed to expand Operation Shujaa, their joint military campaign, into Bunia, Mahagi, and Djugu territories in Ituri Province.

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The first edition of the hackathon was held in September last year, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Rwanda’s tech landscape, led by Irembo—a company renowned for digitizing and streamlining government services through innovative digital platforms.

The 2025 team comprises 63 young and ambitious software engineers from diverse backgrounds, working in groups of two to four, eager to leave their mark in the annals of technology.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the hackathon at the Irembo Campus in Nyarutarama, Peter Charles Djomga, Director of Software Engineering at Irembo, rallied the participants to seize the moment and push boundaries to create solutions that address real-world challenges and drive meaningful impact in society.

'This is your chance to show the world what you’re capable of,' Djomga declared. 'Take these 48 hours, use the latest AI tools, and build solutions that don’t just win prizes but change lives—because that’s where the true value lies.'

Peter Charles Djomga, Director of Software Engineering at Irembo, rallied the participants to seize the moment and push boundaries to create solutions that address real-world challenges and drive meaningful impact in society.

He noted that the participating teams were selected from more than 80 submissions, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for AI innovation in Rwanda. This rigorous preselection process narrowed the pool down to 20 standout teams with a total of 63 participants.

The hackathon’s timing is strategic, aligning with Rwanda’s upcoming inaugural Global AI Summit on Africa, scheduled for April 3-4, 2025.

Djomga explained that hosting the event now positions Irembo as a key player in the nation’s artificial intelligence landscape, amplifying the country’s push to become a regional tech hub.

'We’re setting the stage for the Summit,' he remarked, 'showing that Rwanda isn’t just following global trends—we’re shaping them, starting with these innovators right here.'

In developing practical AI solutions, the participants will leverage large language models (LLMs) and locally built technologies. Teams will also have the opportunity to access IremboPay APIs to integrate cutting-edge digital payment solutions into their projects. Pindo, a partner of the event, will provide access to its latest speech-to-text and text-to-speech AI models for voice-enabled applications.

Other sponsors of the event include the World Economic Forum (WEF), RSSB, and Digital Umuganda, among others.

The teams comprise 63 young and ambitious software engineers from diverse backgrounds, working in groups of two to four, eager to leave their mark in the annals of technology.

Coding for the projects is expected to close at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025, when the participants will submit their projects. Presentations of the solutions to a panel of distinguished judges will then commence and conclude by 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.

After the projects are evaluated, the winners will be announced at the Global AI Summit.

The stakes are higher this year, with the top prize remaining at 5 million Rwandan francs, while second place has increased to 3 million, up from 2 million in the first edition, and third place now stands at 2 million, up from 1 million.

Beyond the cash rewards, all participants gain invaluable exposure, networking opportunities, and the chance for career boosts. Djomga noted that last year’s winner, Cedric Izabayo, joined Irembo—a hint at potential paths for this year’s standouts—while emphasizing that the true goal is crafting solutions to streamline digital services.

As Rwanda races toward its National Strategy for Transformation goal of a million developers by 2030, this 48-hour hackathon is a microcosm of that ambition. Djomga framed it as a quality-driven effort: 'It’s not about the number—it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.'

Participants like Hirwa Venuste, a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with over a decade of tech experience, see it as a chance to make a mark.

'I’m excited to create something the community can benefit from—AI can solve so many problems today,” he told IGIHE.

Participants like Hirwa Venuste, a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) with over a decade of tech experience, see it as a chance to make a mark.

Likewise, Kerianne Nabampema, a graduating Carnegie Mellon University student, aims to inspire: 'I’m a go-getter—I had this crazy idea, and I want to show what’s possible, especially for women in tech.'

By Sunday evening, the efforts of these ambitious tech enthusiasts will not only crown new winners but also shine a spotlight on Rwanda’s rising tech stars in the fast-paced tech industry.

The second edition of the AI Connect Hackathon, hosted by Irembo in partnership with the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), kicked off on Friday, March 28, 2025, with 20 teams competing for innovation glory in under 48 hours.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The engagement, held at the Serena Hotel in Goma, brought together military chiefs from SADC and AFC/M23, was announced through a joint statement signed by Major General Sultani Makenga, representing AFC/M23, and Major General Ibrahim M. Mhona, representing SADC and the Army Defence sub-committee.

The agreement outlined immediate steps for the withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, who will leave with their weapons and equipment while ensuring that all FARDC weapons and equipment remain behind.

AFC/M23 also committed to coordinating the freedom of movement for SAMIDRC troops in preparation for their withdrawal, in accordance with principles agreed upon during the meeting.

To further support this process, SADC military chiefs and AFC/M23 agreed to conduct a Joint Technical team assessment to evaluate the readiness of Goma International Airport for reopening, with SADC offering assistance in repairing the airport to facilitate the smooth withdrawal of troops.

The meeting, attended by senior defence officials from across the SADC region, included General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the South African National Defence Force; Lieutenant General Geoffrey C. Zyeele, Commander of the Zambia Army; Major General Saiford Kalisha, representing the Chief of Defence Force of Malawi; and Major General Ibrahim Michael Mhona, representing the Chief of Defence Forces of the United Republic of Tanzania.

Also present were Professor Kula I. Theletsane, Director of the Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Affairs at SADC, Major General Sultani Makenga, Military Coordinator of AFC/M23 and Chief of Defence Forces of ARC, Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of ARC, and Bahati Musanga Erasto, Governor of North Kivu Province.

In addition to troop withdrawal and airport rehabilitation, the agreement highlighted the need for a follow-up meeting between SADC and AFC/M23 at a mutually agreed venue and date to monitor the progress of these commitments.

Both parties expressed their gratitude for the efforts made by SADC and AFC/M23 leadership to facilitate the engagement, emphasizing that the agreement marks a crucial step toward a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict.

Following the meeting, M23’s military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma, shared a video capturing a lighthearted moment with SAMIDRC troops, who hugged and cheered him.

In the video, the troops affectionately gave him the nickname 'Quickly,' a reference to the day he swiftly oversaw the eviction of European mercenaries who had turned into prisoners of war (POWs) in Goma.

M23’s Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma shared a light moment with SAMIDRC troops who hugged and cheered him, even giving him the nickname 'Quickly', a nod to the day he swiftly oversaw the eviction of European mercenaries turned POWs in Goma. pic.twitter.com/xowxgacCrH

— IGIHE (@IGIHE) March 28, 2025

The engagement, held at the Serena Hotel in Goma, brought together military chiefs from SADC and AFC/M23, was announced through a joint statement signed by Major General Sultani Makenga, representing AFC/M23, and Major General Ibrahim M. Mhona, representing SADC and the Army Defence sub-committee.

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Dr. Ngirente shared the update on Friday, March 27, 2025, as he addressed members of parliament.

He revealed that in 2024, Rwanda exported 2,384 tonnes of coltan, generating $99 million, while 4,861 tonnes of cassiterite earned $96 million. Wolfram exports stood at 2,741 tonnes, contributing $36 million, while gold remained the dominant mineral, generating $1.5 billion from 19,397 kilograms.

The Prime Minister highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to boost mineral exports, particularly by shifting focus to processed minerals since 2020. He dismissed claims that Rwanda has limited mineral deposits, stating that resources are spread across different parts of the country.

Dr. Ngirente attributed the increase in mineral exports to four key factors, including the modernisation of mining operations, which has moved away from traditional extraction methods. He further noted that the government has invested in advanced machinery and expertise to improve production efficiency while ensuring environmentally sustainable practices.

Additionally, the Prime Minister said Rwanda has recently discovered new minerals such as lithium and beryllium, which are in high demand globally, particularly for electric vehicle batteries.

'The volume of production has increased, and new minerals such as lithium and beryllium have been discovered. These are highly sought after globally,' he said.

Investment in the mining sector has also increased significantly, rising from $25 million in 2010 to $121 million in 2023. Dr Ngirente said this growth reflects a structured and strategic approach to developing the industry.

He emphasised that Rwanda is prioritising value addition before exporting minerals, with three processing plants now operational.

Gasabo Gold Refinery has the capacity to process 96 tonnes of gold annually, while LuNa Smelter refines 360 tonnes of cassiterite per month. Additionally, Power Resources International Ltd processes 120 tonnes of coltan every month.

Gold was the highest-earning mineral export, generating $1.5 billion in 2024.

Dr. Ngirente addressing members of parliament on Friday, March 27, 2025.

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Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente announced on Friday, March 27, 2025, the construction of a steel and metal-processing plant in Musanze, with an annual production capacity of 300,000 tonnes. The factory is expected to supply essential raw materials to other industries, aligning with the government’s vision of boosting industrial productivity.

Speaking before both chambers of Parliament, Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing industrial output and exports to achieve sustainable economic growth. He noted that many industries in Rwanda currently operate below their full capacity, and the government is determined to change this through strategic investments and support mechanisms.

To further support local industries, the government is establishing a RWF 500 billion fund to assist private sector players in expanding manufacturing exports and mineral extraction. A key focus is on the cement industry, which heavily relies on imported clinker.

Research has confirmed that clinker can be produced locally in northern Rwanda, particularly in Musanze. This move is expected to help Rwanda save over $4.5 million per month in import costs.

In the steel sector, the new Musanze-based factory will not only increase local production but also supply essential raw materials to existing manufacturers.

“This new factory will have a processing capacity of 300,000 tonnes per year. It will play a crucial role in meeting domestic market demand and eliminating the need for costly imports,” Dr. Ngirente stated.

The project is expected to create about 1,000 jobs and enhance Rwanda’s export potential in the steel sector.

Strengthening the textile industry

Rwanda is also taking significant steps to develop its textile industry following the ban on second-hand clothing imports. The government is committed to supporting the establishment of new textile industries and strengthening existing ones to ensure all Rwandans have access to locally made, affordable clothing.

'We currently do not have enough locally produced clothing, so we must intensify efforts to ensure that textile industries can manufacture clothing for all Rwandans at competitive prices,' Dr. Ngirente said.

To further promote the sector, the government will facilitate access to diverse markets, helping the country save approximately RWF 20 billion that was previously spent on imported garments. This initiative is also expected to create thousands of jobs, aligning with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) goal of generating 250,000 jobs annually.

Boosting cooking oil production and leather processing

In addition to textiles and steel, the government is prioritizing the edible oil industry, recognizing its potential to generate substantial revenue within a short period.

“Enhancing our cooking oil production will enable us to save approximately $100 million annually,” Dr. Ngirente stated.

The expansion strategy also includes advancing Rwanda’s wood-processing sector and establishing a leather processing park in Bugesera. The leather facility is expected to generate $430 million annually, significantly contributing to the country’s export earnings.

Rwanda’s agro-processing sector remains the largest industrial segment, comprising 85 large-scale and 908 small-scale enterprises. The country also hosts 91 major manufacturers of various products, alongside 398 small-scale producers. Additionally, 38 large and 82 small construction material manufacturers operate within Rwanda.

With these industrial developments, Rwanda is positioning itself as a key player in regional and international markets while significantly reducing its reliance on imports.

The government’s investment in industrial growth is expected to drive economic transformation, create jobs, and improve the country’s trade balance in the years to come.

Speaking before both chambers of Parliament on Friday, March 28, 2025, Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing industrial output and exports to achieve sustainable economic growth.

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The event served as a platform to recognize their role in achieving Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.

Despite remarkable progress, women in business still encounter obstacles. Many struggle with societal perceptions that limit them to small-scale enterprises, while others face difficulties in accessing financing and engaging in international trade.

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between men and women, alongside strong government intervention. Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), commended the resilience and innovation of Rwandan women.

'We celebrate their resilience, innovation, and willing commitment to driving economic transformation in our country. Women-owned businesses now make up 42% of all enterprises in Rwanda, a remarkable achievement that speaks to their strength and determination,' she said.

Mubiligi emphasized that progress is not just about numbers but about the real impact of women-led businesses on communities.

'This represents real women whose businesses are creating jobs, transforming communities, and inspiring the next generation. This has been fueled by the government’s strong commitment to gender equality, financial inclusion, and various initiatives supported by partners, including the PSF Specialized Cluster,' she said.

She also urged women to build partnerships at all levels, stating that collaboration among business owners is crucial for sustained success. Women entrepreneurs were encouraged to support each other by promoting locally made products.

Rose Kayitesi, a Kigali-based businesswoman specializing in organic products and cleaning services, shared her journey. 'I started with only four products but gradually expanded to over ten. My secret was working with others and fostering cooperation among female entrepreneurs,' she said.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s progress in gender equality, Silas Ngayaboshya, Director of Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), highlighted the country’s achievements over the decades.

'In Rwanda, women have reached remarkable milestones. Over the past 30 years since the country’s liberation, we have seen extraordinary progress in leadership, the economy, education, and business,' he noted.

Rwandan women entrepreneurs gathered on March 27, 2025, to celebrate International Women’s Day.

However, Ngayaboshya stressed that true empowerment must go beyond financial independence to include decision-making within households. 'While we have made significant progress, we are not yet where we aspire to be,' he stated.

Cultural norms still restrict many women from managing their own earnings freely, limiting their economic participation.

Ngayaboshya also called for greater inclusion of women in male-dominated industries such as transportation, mining, and technology. Additionally, he addressed gender disparities in domestic responsibilities, emphasizing the need for shared household duties.

'Shared responsibility is fundamental to gender equality. Women should have the opportunity to work and run businesses while ensuring children’s needs are met. However, we must move away from the belief that childcare is solely a woman’s duty,' he said.

To further advance gender equality, Rwanda has introduced a National Transformative Strategy that encourages men and boys to take an active role in supporting women’s empowerment.

This initiative aims to foster inclusivity and shared responsibility in the journey toward gender equity. As Rwanda continues on its path of economic transformation, women entrepreneurs remain at the forefront, driving change, overcoming barriers, and shaping the nation’s future.

Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), commended the resilience and innovation of Rwandan women.

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This remarkable achievement places Rwandan tea alongside the world’s finest tea producers, further solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

The recognition places Rwandan tea alongside some of the world’s finest, further solidifying its reputation on the global stage.

Meanwhile, Attabarie Tea in Assam, another estate under the Luxmi Group, was declared the Superior Winner in the Black Tea CTC category, the largest category in the competition.

The Global World Tea Championships is a highly esteemed competition that celebrates excellence in tea production.

The Luxmi Group produces approximately 30 million kilograms of tea across 25 estates in Rwanda, Assam, and Darjeeling. The group includes the iconic Makaibari Estate in Darjeeling and Sorwathe Ltd, Rwanda’s most diversified tea company. Sorwathe produces a variety of teas, including organic, orthodox, CTC black, specialty, green, white, and Fairtrade-certified teas.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Dipankar Chatterjee, Chairman of Luxmi Group, said:
“Luxmi, in Assam, Darjeeling, and Rwanda, has evolved its plantation practices—including pruning, plucking, and manufacturing—to consistently produce high-quality teas. I congratulate our managers and workers for their relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Mr. Rudra Chatterjee, Managing Director of Luxmi Tea and Chairman of Silverback Tea Company in Rwanda, added: “This award is considered the ‘Oscar’ of the tea industry. Our goal is to produce the finest teas from the world’s best regions: the flavorful Darjeeling tea from Makaibari, the strong Assam tea from Attabarie, and the bright Rwandan teas from Gisovu.”

He further stated: “To make tea popular, we need to produce the highest quality teas. These awards belong to every worker and farmer whose passion and skills make our teas extraordinary.”

CEO of Silverback Tea Company, Mr. Nzeki Samuel Munyao, also commented: “This international recognition for Gisovu Tea Company highlights our strong commitment to quality and the excellent collaboration among all players in the value chain. A big appreciation to the entire team!”

The recognition of Gisovu Tea Company — Silverback Tea Company on the global stage is a proud moment for Rwanda’s tea industry, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a producer of bright, high-quality teas. This is further reflected in the success of Rugabano Tea Company Pvt Ltd, which topped Rwanda’s NAEB average selling price rankings in 2024, and Pfunda Tea Company, which sources its green leaves from the lush gardens near Gishwati Forest.

With continued innovation and excellence in tea cultivation, Rwandan teas are gaining a strong foothold in the global market.

Silverback’s Gisovu Tea from Rwanda, a subsidiary of Luxmi Tea, earned international acclaim by winning the prestigious Origin Award in the white tea category at the World Tea Expo 2025, held in Las Vegas.

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According to a report by Radio France Internationale (RFI) on March 28, 2025, explosives specialists have been deployed to remove hazardous devices, paving the way for the airport’s potential reopening to facilitate humanitarian aid for communities affected by the ongoing crisis in eastern DR Congo.

Goma International Airport was closed on January 26, 2025, following intense clashes between M23 and DRC government forces.

Although international organizations have repeatedly urged the reopening of the airport to establish a humanitarian corridor, the presence of unexploded ordnance left behind after the clashes has delayed progress.

AFC/M23 emphasized that the removal of these dangerous devices remains a key priority before the airport can resume normal operations.

On February 11, 2025, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka highlighted that technical challenges, including unexploded ordnance and significant damage to the runway, had prevented the airport from reopening.

Additionally, the control tower sustained extensive damage during the retreat of DRC forces, further complicating efforts to restore functionality.

Military equipment, including trucks, small aircraft, and heavy weaponry, was also abandoned in the area, adding to the complexity of the clearance operations.

As demining efforts continue, optimism grows that Goma International Airport will soon be safe enough to resume operations.

M23 has been controlling Goma airport since January 2025.

Military equipment, including trucks, small aircraft, and heavy weaponry, was also abandoned at the runwway, adding to the complexity of the clearance operations.

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