Category: Uncategorized

Israeli authorities are conducting DNA tests to confirm the identities of Shlomo Mansour, Ohad Yahalomi, Tsachi Idan, and Itzik Elgarat, who were abducted during the October 7, 2023, attacks.

The exchange took place early Thursday, with Palestinian prisoners receiving a welcome in the West Bank and Gaza.

This marks the final exchange under the current ceasefire phase, which is set to end on Saturday.

Israel has previously criticized Hamas for the treatment of hostages during handovers, accusing the group of public humiliation. Sources indicate that this time, Hamas complied with Israel’s demand for a private transfer.

Among Palestinians to be freed are more than 400 Gazans detained during the war and 50 prisoners serving life sentences.

Footage showed buses departing Israeli prisons and arriving in Palestinian territories, where families and supporters gathered to celebrate.

The hostage exchange comes amid uncertainty over whether the ceasefire will be extended or transition into a second phase, which could involve the release of all remaining living hostages in Gaza in exchange for additional Palestinian prisoners.

Negotiations for the next phase, initially expected to begin during this round, have yet to commence.

Meanwhile, thousands in Israel attended the funeral of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, who were killed while in captivity.

Israel began the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners on Thursday. Photo by Reuters

IGIHE

The ministry denounced the move as “unexpected and unjustified,” noting it violated Article 8 of a bilateral accord requiring prior consultation on diplomats’ visa exemptions.

“The Algerian authorities were not informed beforehand, as stipulated by mutual agreement,” the ministry said in a statement.

It accused France of caving to domestic political pressures, including far-right influence, and warned against dragging Algeria into “France’s internal conflicts,” saying such actions risked “unintended consequences for all aspects of bilateral relations.”

The measures, announced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Tuesday, limit entry and movement in France for Algerian officials carrying diplomatic or service passports.

Barrot described the restrictions as “reversible” pending improved cooperation on migration, according to French media.

The dispute comes amid longstanding tensions over migration. Paris has repeatedly accused Algiers of refusing to repatriate Algerian nationals expelled from France, including Franco-Algerian influencers facing trial for allegedly inciting violence.

IGIHE

While addressing the UK Parliament on February 26, 2025, Lord Collins was questioned about the brutal murder of 70 Christian worshippers by ADF militants.

Reports indicate that the victims, mainly women and children, were taken hostage before being killed with machetes and hammers. Their bodies were later discovered inside a church in Lubero Territory, North Kivu province.

In response to inquiries from UK lawmakers about Britain’s stance on the killings and whether the issue had been raised with international organizations, Lord Collins mentioned Amb. Nduhungirehe.

'The reality is that we are trying to ensure that all crimes committed in these incidents are properly investigated so that those responsible are held accountable. When I met the Foreign Minister of Rwanda in Geneva this morning, he denied all these accusations about things happening,' he said.

Amb. Nduhungirehe swiftly denounced these remarks, calling them unacceptable.

'This level of ignorance, confusion, and misinformation by Lord Collins, UK Minister of State for Africa, is insulting and UNACCEPTABLE!' he posted on X.

'He was asked in the House of Commons a specific question about 70 Christians who were killed with machetes and hammers by ADF, a Ugandan terrorist organization affiliated with ISIS, in Kasanga, Lubero Territory, North Kivu. And yet, he dares to respond by saying, 'When I met the Foreign Minister of Rwanda this morning, he denied all those crimes happening’?'

Nduhungirehe further emphasized that the 'UK government will have to formally answer about it’.

Relations between Rwanda and the UK have deteriorated in recent months, particularly after Britain accused Rwanda of allegedly supporting the M23 rebels, who have been engaged in conflict with the DRC’s armed forces.

Despite Rwanda’s rejection of the allegations and its calls for the DRC to address its internal challenges without shifting blame, the UK has taken sides and imposed sanctions on Rwanda, further straining diplomatic ties.

Lord Collins’ comments linking Amb. Nduhungirehe to the ADF killings have been deemed unacceptable.

IGIHE

Both teams started the match with high intensity, seeking an early goal. In the 9th minute, AS Kigali’s striker, Emmanuel Okwi, found the back of the net, scoring the opening goal.

Positioned outside the penalty box, Okwi spotted Police FC goalkeeper Niyongira Patience off his line and struck the ball past his outstretched hands.

The goal ignited Police FC’s determination, and they responded in the 19th minute with a powerful strike from Bigirimana Abedi, who scored from outside the box to equalize.

The first half, which included three minutes of added time, ended with both teams tied at 1-1.

The second half was tightly contested in midfield. Early on, Police FC came close to scoring when AS Kigali’s defender misjudged a pass to Cyuzuzo Aime Gael, whose effort narrowly missed the target as the goalkeeper was caught off his line.

In the 71st minute, substitute Ani Elijah, who had replaced Byiringiro Lague, capitalized on a defensive lapse by AS Kigali to score Police FC’s second goal. The AS Kigali defense appeared to hesitate, believing Elijah was offside.

With the 2-1 victory, Police FC takes an advantage into the second leg, scheduled between March 4-5, 2025.

Police FC first eleven team.

AS Kigali first eleven team.

Bigirimana Abedi dribbles past Captain Haruna Niyonzima.

Police FC fans cheer their team as it cruises past AS Kigali.

Nsabimana Eric Zidane showed a classic defensive display.

IGIHE

It serves as a premier platform showcasing agricultural and livestock products, farming equipment, and innovations in agricultural technology. The event also highlights key developments and advancements in the sector over the years.

Rwanda is represented by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and the Rwandan Embassy in France, which plays an active role in coordinating the country’s participation.

At the exhibition, representatives from Rwandan companies involved in agricultural trade and exports are engaging with major international agribusiness firms to explore market expansion opportunities, foster trade partnerships, and exchange industry insights.

As part of these efforts, Ann Christin Ishimwe, Head of Sales & Marketing at Kinazi Cassava Plant Ltd, and Janet Basiima, Head of Market Development and Innovation at NAEB, visited Phoenix International, a leading French company specializing in importing and distributing fresh fruits and vegetables worldwide.

In an interview with IGIHE, Phoenix International manager Bikoo Prem expressed his admiration for Rwandan coffee and honey, indicating a strong interest in importing these products to introduce them to his customer base.

Prem also praised the improved packaging of Rwandan agricultural products, emphasizing its role in maintaining quality.

“Packaging is crucial as it enhances the value of the product, ensures proper preservation, and protects it from air exposure or contamination. It also facilitates transportation by air, sea, or road,” he noted.

Another key engagement was with TAI YAT, a French enterprise specializing in exotic food imports.

The company’s Associate Director, Marc Lao, also commended the packaging of Rwandan products and expressed interest in establishing trade relations.

Discussions between with Ann Christin Ishimwe of Kinazi Cassava Plant Ltd resulted in promising prospects for future collaboration.

The photos below show Ann Christin Ishimwe, the Market Manager at Kinazi Casava Plant Ltd, alongside Janet Basiima, the Head of the Market Development and Innovation Department at NAEB during discussions on the sidelines of the trade fair

Interactions with the management of TAI YAT

[email protected]

Karirima Aimable Ngarambe

He, however, disputed reports that the troops were injured in the conflict with M23 rebels, saying the soldiers are suffering from chronic illnesses.

'I can confirm the soldiers are already here. But get the information from me; these are not injured soldiers, but those with chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure. They have been withdrawn together with their South African and Tanzanian counterparts,' he said.

Phiri also confirmed that the bodies of two other soldiers who were killed in the conflict have since been repatriated home.

But both the commander and Minister of Defence Monica Chang’anamuno did not state whether the withdrawal is part of an order issued by President Lazarus Chakwera.

'MDF was directed to do this. MDF will be in a good position to give you the update,' said Chang’anamuno in a brief response to the press. The troops travelled by road from DRC through Rwanda to Uganda where they were flown to Malawi.

The development comes three weeks after Chakwera directed MDF to start the process of withdrawing Malawian troops from eastern DRC following the declaration of a ceasefire.

Chakwera’s decision was made in response to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Troika Summit that he attended in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on the sidelines of the Africa Energy Summit.

In a message circulated via a flyer, the President said the withdrawal is intended to honor the ceasefire and facilitate planned negotiations aimed at achieving lasting peace.

Malawi is among the countries in the SADC region called to immediately repatriate its soldiers who were killed and injured in the DRC.

Rebels, led by the M23, seized Goma City, the capital of North Kivu last month before expanding their attacks and capturing Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu.

MDF soldiers in DRC.

IGIHE

Tsheole underscored the pivotal role of capital market in unlocking funding for fintech enterprises, emphasizing the importance of a structured regulatory environment to consolidate resources and support sustainable sectoral growth.

“We are establishing a market that enables private investors and funds to finance various businesses. Providers of capital require assurance that their investments remain secure,” he stated.

He further highlighted the necessity of fostering robust local networks for private capital, urging stakeholders to leverage fintech solutions in mobilizing funds. “People must utilize fintech solutions to facilitate funding,” he said.

As part of ongoing market reforms, Tsheole noted that the Capital Market Authority had revamped collective investment schemes, providing individuals with surplus capital the opportunity to access the market through other means.

They include private equity, specialized funds, or crowdfunding mechanisms which enhancements a more inclusive and dynamic financial ecosystem.

The Capital Market Authority remains committed to advancing regulatory frameworks and market structures that support private investment, innovation, and sustainable fintech development.

The Authority will continue to engage with stakeholders to build a resilient capital market that fosters economic growth and financial inclusion.

The CEO of the CMA of Rwanda, Thapelo Tsheole participated in a panel discussion on 'Bridging the Funding Gap: Building Private Capital and Leveraging Development Finance.'

The CEO of the CMA Thapelo Tsheole speaking at the panel discussion.

IGIHE

Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau, said rapid advancements in air connectivity, MICE and hospitality infrastructure development and visa facilitation position the country as a premier business travel destination.

'RwandAir, in partnership with Qatar Airways, provides access to over 160 destinations and connectivity is set to expand further through Bugesera International Airport, which will have capacity for up to 14 million passengers,' she said.

Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation 2024-2029 aims to increase MICE revenue from US$95 million in 2023 to US$224 million. Construction of the new Bugesera International Airport is underway and slated for completion in 2027.

MICE infrastructure has been bolstered with the US$165 million upgrade of the Amahoro Stadium in 2024. It accommodates 45 000 people for sporting and other events. This adds to existing infrastructure such as the Kigali Convention Centre, the Intare Conference Arena and BK Arena.

Karemera said the growing presence of international hotel brands has also enhanced the country’s reputation.

'International hotel brands such as Marriott, Radisson Blu and Four Points by Sheraton are well-established and high-end lodges such as One & Only Gorilla’s Nest and Wilderness Bisate cater to premium incentive travellers.'

The Mövenpick brand will enter Kigali in 2025 after redevelopment of the Umubano Hotel by Kasada Capital Management.

Rwanda’s beautiful scenery ensures it is good destination.

Karemera said waiving visa requirements for travelers from all African Union member states in 2023 was a key selling point attracting intra-African business. She also highlighted the country’s intensified focus on sustainability.

'Rwanda is actively working towards a carbon-neutral economy by 2050 with initiatives including e-mobility, eliminating single-use plastics and increasing investments in renewable energy.'

By hosting 32 internationally recognized in-person meetings in 2023, the country climbed seven places in the International Congress and Convention Association rankings to 55th — the second-highest ranking in Africa behind South Africa.

Janet Karemera, CEO of the Rwanda Convention Bureau.

The country is intensely focused on sustainability.

IGIHE

Gilmore secured the win in a sprint finish, mirroring his triumph in Stage Two in Musanze.

This victory marks his second stage win in the Tour du Rwanda.

As a result, Rwanda, particularly Musanze and Rubavu, will always hold a special place in his memory as the locations where he celebrated his first professional victories.

Eric Manizabayo of Java-InovoTec was the highest-placed Rwandan, finishing ninth in Rubavu, just six seconds behind the winner.

The top seven riders, including yellow jersey holder Fabien Doubey, all completed the stage in 2 hours, 55 minutes, and 14 seconds.

Australian cyclist Brady Gilmore also claimed victory of stage 2.

Australian cyclist Brady Gilmore celebrating his victory as he crossed the finish in Rubavu.

IGIHE

The signing of the project, dubbed Africa’s Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure, took place on Tuesday, February 25, at the Inclusive Fintech Forum 2025.

Also known as Project 54, the initiative marks a significant step toward integrating Africa’s financial ecosystem.

GFTN is a not-for-profit organisation established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2024 to expand Singapore’s fintech ecosystem globally. Its partnership in the initiative underscores Africa’s growing significance in the global digital economy.

Outgoing Central Bank Governor John Rwangombwa participated in the signing ceremony, praising the initiative for its potential to address the high costs and inefficiencies of cross-border transactions, thereby enhancing trade and financial inclusion.

The project was conceived through discussions at key global forums, including the 3i Africa Summit in Accra, the Zurich Point Zero Forum, and the Singapore FinTech Festival.

Recognising Africa’s dynamic financial landscape, stakeholders sought to develop a solution that enables seamless cross-border transactions, ultimately benefiting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions.

The implementation of Africa’s Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure is built on four fundamental pillars, each essential to creating a robust and future-ready financial system.

A strong governance framework is at the core, establishing clear scheme rules, dispute resolution mechanisms, and liability structures. This also includes enhanced local currency settlement models, ensuring stability and reliability across cross-border transactions.

Technology integration and advancement play a pivotal role, with a focus on innovations such as tokenisation and digital currency applications. By embracing these emerging technologies, the initiative aims to future-proof Africa’s financial sector and enhance efficiency.

A sustainable pricing model underpins the initiative, promoting financial viability through cost-effective solutions tailored for both high-value and low-value transactions. This ensures accessibility and affordability while maintaining long-term operational stability.

Equally important is the engagement of key stakeholders, including regulators, financial institutions, fintech innovators, and investors. By fostering collaboration, the initiative seeks to build a resilient digital payments ecosystem that aligns with the needs of Africa’s evolving financial landscape.

Bank of Ghana Governor Johnson Asiama described the launch as a milestone toward an integrated African capital market, offering new opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

'The pursuit of a safe, affordable, and efficient cross-border regional payment architecture, backed by a licence passporting framework, represents another significant step forward,' he said.

With Africa’s fintech industry projected to generate $40 billion in revenue by 2028, overcoming regulatory and infrastructure challenges remains crucial. Project 54 aims to bridge this gap, unlocking new pathways for inclusive financial growth and positioning Africa at the forefront of global digital payments innovation.

The signing of the project, dubbed Africa’s Next-Gen Digital Payment Infrastructure, took place on Tuesday, February 25, at the Inclusive Fintech Forum 2025.

IGIHE