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Kelechi was recently in Rwanda, accompanying Nigeria’s national team as they prepared to face the Amavubi in their fifth match of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, he opened up about his life, his deep love for Arsenal, and his experiences in Rwanda.

A Nigerian media professional with a PhD in environmental studies from the University of Leeds, Dr. Kelechi describes himself as a content creator, businessperson, and public relations expert. However, his biggest passion remains football, specifically, his unwavering support for Arsenal over the past two decades.

“I started supporting Arsenal more than 20 years ago, around 1996. Since then, I have followed them through everything. I live in London and watch all their games, whether at home or away. To me, Arsenal is the best club in the world,” he said.

His admiration for the club grew when Arsenal signed Dennis Bergkamp and Nwankwo Kanu, two of his favorite players.

“I was watching football like everyone else, but I truly fell in love with Arsenal when they signed Dennis Bergkamp because I loved his style of play. Then they signed Nwankwo Kanu, and that sealed it for me,” he recalled.

Arsène Wenger’s philosophy and tactical approach further strengthened his connection to the club. “Wenger was another major reason. His style, his philosophy, everything about him was inspiring.”

One of Kelechi’s most cherished Arsenal memories is their FA Cup victory in 2014, which ended a nine-year trophy drought. He has become a familiar face on Arsenal Fan TV, where he regularly shares his opinions on the club’s performances.

“Arsenal Fan TV is a great platform where we meet fellow fans and share our views. I always try to focus on the positives rather than the negatives,” he explained.

When asked about rival fans teasing Arsenal supporters for always saying, “Next year will be our year,” Kelechi laughed it off as typical fan banter. “That’s just what fans do. Of course, it stings a little, but I also have my own comebacks for other teams,” he said.

Regarding Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes this season, he admitted that the challenge is tough but remains optimistic. “It looks like the league title has slipped away, especially after losing key players.

But we are still in the Champions League, and anything can happen. Even if this season doesn’t go our way, we will lift a major trophy soon,” he declared.

Reflecting on his journalism career, Kelechi mentioned that one of his most unforgettable moments was covering Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final victory over South Africa. “That match was intense, and we sadly lost two fans at the stadium due to the emotions running high,” he recalled.

Kelechi has visited Rwanda more than ten times and holds a deep appreciation for the country. “I love Rwanda, the weather, the food, and the people. Rwandans are respectful and welcoming,” he said.

He proudly shared his knowledge of Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills” nickname and even picked up some local Kinyarwanda phrases like “Muraho” (Hello) and “Murakoze” (Thank you).

One unique aspect of Kelechi’s presence is the staff he always carries, adorned with fur. “This is a traditional African staff used to bless people. When I meet someone, I speak words of blessing over them, for long life, wealth, and success,” he explained.

Kelechi was recently in Rwanda, accompanying Nigeria’s national team as they prepared to face the Amavubi in their fifth match of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Nwanko Kanu is one of Dr. Kelechi Anyikunde’s favorite players.

His admiration for the club grew when Arsenal signed Dennis Bergkamp.

IGIHE

This loss caused Amavubi to drop two places in Group C standings, as Benin and Zimbabwe drew 2-2, while South Africa defeated Lesotho 2-0 to take the top spot. Now, Amavubi must fight to restore their pride in their next match against Lesotho on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Player ratings (Starting XI)

Ntwari Fiacre — 7: The former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper could do little to stop the two goals but made a crucial save from Moses Simon in the first half to keep Rwanda in the game.

Fitina Omborenga — 5: The Rayon Sports right-back struggled both defensively and offensively. His poor performance likely led to the quick decision to call up another defender for his position.

Mutsinzi Ange — 6: The best-performing defender in the backline. After the match, he even received a jersey gift from Victor Osimhen. However, he couldn’t replicate his previous strong performances against Nigeria.

Manzi Thierry — 3: A disappointing display. Both goals came from his mistakes—he failed to mark Osimhen for the first goal and directly gifted Nigeria the second goal.

Niyomugabo Claude — 4: The APR FC captain struggled throughout the match. Many Rwandan fans missed the presence of Imanishimwe Emmanuel “Mangwende”, who could have made a difference but was absent due to injury.

Mugisha Bonheur — 6: Nicknamed “Casemiro”, he tried his best to compete in midfield but couldn’t match the intensity of Nigeria’s midfielders.

Bizimana Djihad — 7: The Amavubi captain proved once again why he is one of Rwanda’s top players. Nigeria had already identified him as Amavubi’s most dangerous player, and he showed glimpses of his quality.

Hakim Sahabo — 5: Despite being preferred over Frank Trosten, he failed to make a significant impact. He was expected to press Nigeria’s defense but did not live up to expectations.

Jojea Kwizera — 5: If coach Amrouche insists on using him, he should be played as a left-back, where he has been performing well for his club. This would help cover Mangwende’s absence while allowing another attacker to play in his usual position.

Samuel Gueulette — 5: Many fans disagreed with his early substitution. He was often in good positions but didn’t receive enough passes.

Nshuti Innocent — 4: Known as “Pastor”, he was ineffective in attack, making it easy for Nigeria’s defense to dominate.

Substitutes

Mugisha Gilbert — 7: Despite not being a starter for APR FC, he made an immediate impact after coming on. Rwanda started attacking more, and he was responsible for all the shots on target against Nigeria.

Muhire Kevin — 6: Played well in his limited minutes but failed to capitalize on a key chance near the penalty box.

Ruboneka Bosco & Habimana Yves: Played too few minutes to be rated.

Coach

Adel Amrouche — 6: Difficult to judge in his first game, but his starting lineup choices were questionable. Many fans are waiting to see how he adjusts against Lesotho.

Difficult to judge in his first game, but the coach’s starting lineup choices were questionable.

IGIHE

During his visit on March 21, 2025, Gen Muhoozi was accompanied by Rwanda’s Chief of Defense Forces, Gen Mubarakh Muganga.

Gen Muhoozi highlighted the strong military ties between Rwanda and Uganda, emphasizing that this collaboration has yielded significant benefits. He reiterated that both sides remain committed to working together in addressing any security threats.

He stated, 'When we combine the strength of our powerful armies, there is no obstacle we cannot overcome.'
The Ugandan general also delivered a lecture to students at the college, who hail from 20 different countries. His lesson focused on reinforcing partnerships as the foundation for ensuring Africa’s security.

He urged the students to prioritize African unity, particularly in safeguarding the continent’s vital interests, protecting civilians, and fostering brotherhood among African nations.

Gen Muhoozi began his official visit to Rwanda on March 20, accompanied by Brig Gen Asingura Kagoro and journalist Andrew Mwenda, who is a close friend of both Muhoozi and Rwanda.

In February 2025, Muhoozi had announced his upcoming visit, noting that afterward, his Rwandan counterpart, Gen Muganga, would also visit Uganda.

'Soon, I will visit our soldiers in the RDF. After that, Rwanda’s CDF will visit the UPDF soldiers. Uganda and Rwanda are one! Always,' he stated.

The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) confirmed that Gen Muhoozi plans to hold discussions with senior RDF leaders and President Paul Kagame. The UPDF further stated that his visit represents continued progress in strengthening military cooperation between the two nations.

Gen Muhoozi last visited Rwanda in August 2024, when he attended the inauguration ceremony of President Paul Kagame following his re-election.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, visited the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) Senior Command and Staff College in Nyakinama, Musanze District.

In February 2025, Muhoozi had announced his upcoming visit, noting that afterward, his Rwandan counterpart, Gen Muganga, would also visit Uganda.

Gen Muhoozi began his official visit to Rwanda on March 20, 2025.

Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, visited the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) Senior Command and Staff College in Nyakinama, Musanze District.

IGIHE

The event was attended by several high-profile figures, including Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, who represented President Paul Kagame and presented a symbolic gift to President Nandi-Ndaitwah.

The gift, featuring an image of traditional Rwandan drummers, represented Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and was a gesture of goodwill between the two nations.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s election victory in November saw her secure 58% of the vote as the candidate for the ruling SWAPO party, which has led Namibia since independence in 1990.

She took over from outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba, 83, in a ceremony originally planned for the Independence Stadium but moved to State House in Windhoek due to heavy rains.

Her swearing-in was a significant moment, making her the fourth woman to serve as head of state in Africa, following Liberia’s Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Malawi’s Joyce Banda, and Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan.

These women attended her inauguration, showing solidarity and support. The occasion also followed another landmark event where Namibia’s parliament elected its first female speaker, former Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, just a day prior.

Minister Nduhungirehe praised President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s long-standing dedication to Namibia’s liberation and her advocacy for women’s rights. He highlighted her activism, which began in her youth while living in Tanzania. 'Her election is a remarkable milestone and a historic moment for Namibia,' he said.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah acknowledged the challenges of being the country’s first female head of state and remarked, 'If things go well, it will be a great example. But if anything does not go as planned, just as it happens in male-led governments, some will say, 'Look at women!’'

In her inaugural speech, she laid out her administration’s priorities, emphasizing economic growth, job creation, and infrastructure development.

'We will increase investment in the development of infrastructure to open investment opportunities, enhance economic productivity, promote economic growth, and improve the quality of life of our people,' she declared.

She also committed to universal health coverage and ensuring Namibians benefit from their country’s natural resources through value addition. Climate change remains a concern for Namibia, a drought-prone nation, and she vowed to intensify efforts to combat its effects.

Beyond domestic issues, President Nandi-Ndaitwah reaffirmed her commitment to international solidarity. She voiced support for the right to self-determination for Palestinians and the people of Western Sahara.

Additionally, she called for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe, aligning Namibia’s foreign policy with global calls for economic justice.

A veteran politician, Nandi-Ndaitwah has been a member of SWAPO since her teenage years. She lived in exile in Zambia, Tanzania, the former Soviet Union, and the United Kingdom during Namibia’s struggle for independence.

Since 1990, she has held multiple government roles, including Minister of Environment and Tourism and Minister of Foreign Affairs, before becoming Vice President. Her leadership is marked by resilience and a strategic vision for Namibia’s future.

Her husband, a retired general, now holds the official title of 'First Gentleman,' highlighting the shifting dynamics in the country’s leadership norms.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, who represented President Paul Kagame.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe presented a symbolic gift to President Nandi-Ndaitwah.

IGIHE

The group captured Walikale on March 19, 2025, along with the small Kigoma airstrip, following the takeover of nearby areas, including Ngora, Kisima, and Mubanda.

On March 22, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka stated that the withdrawal was a strategic decision aimed at fostering a conducive environment for political dialogue. He declared, 'The AFC/M23 coalition has decided to withdraw its forces from Walikale City and its surrounding areas.'

Kanyuka urged the city’s residents and local authorities to take necessary measures to ensure security and protect their property following the group’s departure.

However, AFC/M23 warned that if the Congolese government forces resumed attacks on civilians or its positions, it would reconsider its decision and retake the city.

M23 rebels captured Walikale on March 19, 2025.

IGIHE

Dusingizemungu was reacting to a message shared by French researcher Le Drian on X (formerly Twitter) on March 20, in which he wrongly accused Rwanda of using propaganda to justify its alleged “brutal aggression” in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Le Drian claimed that Rwanda was highlighting past colonial atrocities committed by Belgium, acknowledging these as outdated horrors that were “far removed from the current reality.”

In his statements, Le Drian suggested that Rwanda was using “panafricanism washing” to deflect from its actions in the DRC, a region currently facing serious security issues.

He further criticized certain Rwandan individuals for making “supremacist” remarks, which he claimed were offensive to the Congolese people.

In response, Senator Dusingizemungu criticized Le Drian’s perspective, asserting that the accusations against Rwanda were based on misinformation and ignored the real and ongoing threats faced by Rwandophones, particularly Tutsis, in the DRC.

Dusingizemungu highlighted that “hate speech and serious human rights violations are targeting Rwandophone Congolese, mainly Tutsi,” orchestrated by DRC authorities in collaboration with the FDLR, a terrorist group formed by remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This coalition aims to destabilize Rwanda and pursue genocidal goals.

Dusingizemungu also stressed that Rwanda’s defensive actions in response to this coalition are fully justified.

'Rwanda cannot be crushed. The defensive measures taken in response to this coalition of forces aiming to halt Rwanda’s development are fully justified. Ignoring this reality raises serious concerns about the motivations behind such accusations,' he stated.

The DRC has placed the blame for the ongoing conflict on Rwanda, following the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which fights for the rights of marginalized Banyamulenge and Congolese Tutsi communities.

Rwanda has consistently refuted these accusations, urging DRC to address its internal issues rather than engaging in blame games.

Rwanda has also accused DRC of collaborating with the FDLR during the conflict with the M23, with the goal of destabilizing Rwanda after the defeat of M23.

Additionally, DRC has been pushing for sanctions against Rwanda, with some countries reportedly backing this move due to their mineral interests in DRC.

Belgium, in particular, has been accused of lobbying for sanctions against Rwanda in various international institutions, leading to a breakdown in relations between the two countries. This led to severe diplomatic rift, where Rwanda expelled all Belgian diplomats within 48 hours early this week

Despite the DRC’s attempts to place the blame on Rwanda, Rwanda has maintained that these allegations are part of a broader effort to divert attention from the DRC’s internal issues, including poor governance.

Rwanda has also affirmed its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity and maintaining peace in the region.

Senator Prof. Jean Pierre Dusingizemungu has strongly condemned the comments made by Jean-François Le Drian targeting Rwanda.

[email protected]

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

According to Rwanda’s Presidency, their discussions focused on opportunities to amplify training, research and engagement with mathematical sciences in Rwanda. The discussions were also attended by the Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana.

AIMS, which began operating in Rwanda in 2016 with support from the Rwandan Government, is now part of the AIMS Global Network, joining its centers in South Africa, Senegal, Ghana, and Cameroon.

Since its establishment in Rwanda, AIMS Rwanda has contributed significantly to the job market, producing over 410 graduates who are playing a key role in building Africa’s knowledge-based economy, with 38% of them being women or girls.

On the same day, President Kagame also received Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and candidate for the African Development Bank (AfDB) presidency.

Dr. Tah delivered a message on behalf of President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania.

President Kagame also receiving Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) and candidate for the African Development Bank (AfDB) presidency.

President Paul Kagame also received a delegation from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), led by founder and Chairman of the AIMS International Governing Board, Professor Neil Turok (second from left).

IGIHE

Inspired by the sensational Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian side displayed dominance in Kigali, securing a crucial three points that place them four points behind South Africa in Group C.

The match began with a measured tempo, both teams testing each other cautiously. However, it took only ten minutes for Nigeria to break the deadlock. Ademola Lookman provided a perfectly timed pass, allowing Osimhen to slot home an easy tap-in, putting the visitors ahead early.

The early goal injected confidence into the Super Eagles, who immediately applied relentless pressure on Rwanda’s defense. Simon Moses and Samuel Chukwueze orchestrated brilliant attacking plays on the right flank, frequently troubling the Rwandan backline.

Their efforts earned Nigeria a free kick in the 20th minute after Claude Niyomugabo fouled Chukwueze. With Nigeria enjoying 66% possession in the first half-hour, Rwanda struggled to impose themselves on the game.

The statistics reflected Nigeria’s supremacy, as they earned three corner kicks compared to Rwanda’s none in the first 30 minutes.

Rwanda’s struggles continued, with Nigerian players effortlessly weaving past their defense. In an attempt to shake things up, Gilbert Mugisha was introduced in the 38th minute, replacing Samuel Guelette. Mugisha wasted no time, attempting a shot on his very first touch, but it was easily gathered by the Nigerian goalkeeper.

Excitement swept through the stadium towards the end of the first half when President Paul Kagame and the First Lady Jeannette Kagame arrived. Their presence ignited energy among the home fans, injecting new life into the Rwandan players.

However, just when it seemed the hosts might head into the break only one goal down, Osimhen capitalized on a defensive error. The Napoli striker stole the ball from Thierry Manzi and coolly looped it over goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari for his second goal, securing a 2-0 lead at halftime.

The second half kicked off with immediate action, as Rwanda’s captain Djihad Bizimana picked up a yellow card for a foul on Osimhen just outside the 18-yard box. Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi followed suit minutes later, receiving a yellow card for a counter challenge on the Amavubi captain.

Osimhen’s displayed a great class brilliance.

Rwanda showed more urgency, with Gilbert Mugisha adding fresh energy to their attack. They introduced Kevin Muhire in the 58th minute, replacing Hakim Sahabo in a bid to turn the tide.

Despite their efforts, Nigeria continued to control the tempo. By the 70th minute, the Super Eagles had earned eight corner kicks, compared to Rwanda’s two, further emphasizing their offensive pressure.

Osimhen, having done his job, was substituted in the 75th minute for Arokodare Emmanuel. In response, Rwanda made their own late changes, with Yves Habimana replacing Innocent Nshuti and Jean Bosco Ruboneka coming in for Jojea Kwizera.

As the clock ticked down, Rwanda thought they had pulled a goal back when Habimana found the back of the net. However, the goal was swiftly ruled out for offside, crushing any hopes of a comeback.

Moments later, Arokodare received a yellow card in added time, marking a feisty end to the contest. With five minutes of additional time played, Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed blew the full-time whistle, confirming Nigeria’s well-earned 2-0 victory.

The Super Eagles’ triumph not only revived their World Cup qualification hopes but also showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. As the competition heats up, Nigeria now looks to build on this win while Rwanda must regroup and find a way to revive their campaign.

The road to the World Cup remains long, but for now, Nigeria celebrates a crucial victory led by their talisman, the on-loan Galatasaray forward, Victor Osimhen.

After today’s games, Bafana Bafana moved to the summit after overcoming a stubborn Lesotho side 2-0 thanks to second-half strikes from Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams.

Excitement swept through the stadium towards the end of the first half when President Paul Kagame arrived alongside the First Lady.

The Super Eagles’ triumph revived Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.

Sam K Nkurunziza

AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka has announced that on March 19, 2025, the group received a letter from the UN Group of Experts informing them of their planned visit, set to take place from March 23 to March 27.

The experts’ visit to Goma will focus on assessing M23’s demands to the DRC government, including the cessation of hostilities to allow for humanitarian aid and the repatriation of refugees both abroad and within the country.

The experts will also collect information on the cooperation between DRC forces and armed groups such as the FDLR and CNRD-FLN, as well as the involvement of Burundian forces in North and South Kivu.

Additionally, the experts are expected to evaluate the living conditions of DRC soldiers and members of other armed groups who surrendered after M23 fighters took control of Goma on January 27 and Bukavu on February 16.

Reports compiled by these experts serve as a foundation for UN actions aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.

However, their reports have sometimes been criticized for bias, with some questioning the reliability of the information provided, particularly when it is seen as not coming from the appropriate sources.

M23 captured Goma in January, 2025.

AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka has announced that the group received a letter from the UN Group of Experts, on March 19, 2025, informing them of their planned visit.

IGIHE

Speaking in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Dr. Destexhe, who has been closely engaged with Rwanda and the Great Lakes region for decades since serving as Secretary General of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), described the situation in eastern DRC as a fight for survival rather than a matter of territorial integrity.

“The issue in the Kivus isn’t about Congo’s territorial integrity or sovereignty; it’s about the threat to the lives of minorities, especially the Tutsis, who are the primary targets of Kinshasa and the regime,” he said.

“These people have the right to live in peace where they’ve always lived before being forced out.”

Belgian medical doctor and former senator Dr Alain Destexhe during a recent interview with IGIHE.

During recent visits to Goma, the former lawmaker engaged with local communities and M23 leadership, including military chief Sultani Makenga, amid the rebel group’s recent advances in the east. He observed that the city was not the war zone portrayed in international media but rather a place where some sense of order had returned under M23 control.

“I was surprised at how quiet and orderly it was. Life in Goma felt normal: people were out in the streets, shops were open—except the banks, which were closed by the Kinshasa authorities,” he noted.

He contrasted this with the chaos under the Congolese armed forces (FARDC), whom he accused of extortion and misconduct. According to him, many people in the region saw M23’s governance as an improvement over Kinshasa’s neglect.

Western double standards

Dr Destexhe was particularly critical of the international community’s selective response to the crisis, highlighting what he described as a 'double standard' in the way Western nations handle the DRC conflict.

“When it comes to Rwanda or M23, there’s a stance followed by sanctions. With the DRC, they might say hate speech is bad, but there are no consequences,” he stated, referring to claims of Congolese leadership spreading hate speech against certain communities and accusations that Rwanda backs M23 rebels.

He also pointed to the influence of the FDLR, a group linked to the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, within the Congolese army, which Rwanda insists continues to pose a threat to Rwanda’s security.

“The FDLR has infiltrated the Congolese army’s key units, advising them and spreading their ideology—hatred of Tutsis and the genocide mindset.”

MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, also came under fire from the veteran doctor, who dismissed it as a costly failure.

“They’ve been there 20 years—costing at least $1 billion a year and how many civilians have they protected? Very few, I’d guess,” he said.

“MONUSCO has a vested interest in staying, but it’s not in the Congolese people’s interest.”

With tensions escalating following the capture of the cities of Goma and Bukavu, the former lawmaker warned that the situation could spiral out of control unless a political solution is found. He suggested that M23’s increasing strength—bolstered by defectors from the FARDC—could shift the balance of power further.

'Kinshasa can’t retake Goma and Bukavu… M23 might have the capacity to push to Kisangani or Lubumbashi,' he warned.

“Tshisekedi needs a political solution, or the situation on the ground could spiral—I don’t know how,” he added.

He called for security for all Kivu residents, regardless of ethnicity, and development of the region’s rich agricultural and mineral resources.

To Rwanda and Belgium, where diplomatic ties recently frayed over accusations of Belgium pushing for sanctions against Rwanda, the seasoned lawmaker insisted that 'Sanctions are wrong and unfair… The Kivu issue is about survival for its people, not Congo’s sovereignty.'

As a medical doctor, he urged Western nations to reassess their approach to avoid the misdiagnosis that has persisted for decades.

“I’m a doctor—when treating a patient, you first diagnose the illness correctly. If the diagnosis is wrong, you can’t treat them. The international community needs a proper diagnosis of the Kivu problem, then a solution. Right now, they’re giving the patient the wrong medicine.”

Watch the full interview below:

Wycliffe Nyamasege