Category: Uncategorized

Describing the complex web of alliances between FARDC, FDLR terrorist group, Wazalendo, and other militias, he paints a chilling picture of the battlefield where survival came at the cost of morality and humanity.

'Whenever we were about to fight, Gen Justin would give us orders on how we should behave in battle and give us ammunition: one would take the machine gun, another the RPG, and another the mortar,' Niyitanga recounted.

'They were provided by FARDC, and we would go to the frontline with assurance of invading Rwanda. After that, we would go to the battle and find FARDC, FDLR, and Burundians there. We used to form a coalition comprising the FARDC, Wazalendo, FDLR and fight together.'

Niyitanga’s journey began when he entered the DRC to seek work but was soon swept into the ranks of the Nyatura militia, along with his companions, after being coerced to carry water for armed groups.

Less than two months of training in a camp called Ntiti left him and other recruits unprepared for the brutality of the battlefield in Eastern DRC, where survival often hinged on compliance with their commanders’ ruthless orders.

'Anyone who disobeyed orders was killed,' he admitted, 'so we complied, fighting against M23, even though we were always defeated.'

His experiences echo those of Hatangimana Delphin, a 21-year-old soldier who also defected from the Wazalendo militia.

Hatangimana’s story began tragically when he and other herdsmen were ambushed while grazing cattle.

Rebels stole their livestock, killed his companions, and left him alone and terrified. In a desperate bid to survive, he agreed to join the militia and eventually became a bodyguard to their senior leader.

'As Wazalendo, we fought battles alongside FDLR, FARDC, and other groups,' Hatangimana shared.

'They would coordinate us all. For instance, they would say our battalion should lead, and FDLR would back us up, while FARDC would reinforce us. All weapons, bullets, food supplies, and these heavy weapons came from FARDC.'

Collaboration between FARDC, FDLR, Wazalendo, and Burundians

Ishimwe Patrick, 24, had spent years fighting for the terrorist group FDLR. However, upon witnessing its corrupt practices and its genocidal agenda that devastated Rwanda, he decided to defect—even though it felt like signing his own death warrant, as anyone caught fleeing was killed on the spot.

He confirmed that the recent battles they fought against M23 were coordinated with FARDC and other groups allied with the Kinshasa regime’s military.

But despite their heavy weaponry, the M23 forces led by Gen Sultan Makenga consistently defeated them.

He recounted, 'We fought at Kishishe alongside FARDC. We fought at Kibilizi with Mai Mai, FARDC, and FDLR. We moved to Kirundure with FARDC and Mai Mai.'

He added that wounded FDLR fighters were treated in government hospitals in DRC, but those who died were abandoned, exposing the inhumane nature of the operations.

The seven combatants who surrended to Rwanda after escaping Wazalendo and FDLR armed groups fighting alongside DRC have narrated their ordeal.

Genocidal ideology

Ishimwe Patrick joined FDLR alongside 200 other fighters, but over time he realized their mission was futile. They suffered constant defeats, often being overwhelmed in battle.

He said, 'The ideology of Wazalendo, FDLR, and FARDC is that M23 consists of Rwandans invading Congo. They told us that after defeating M23, we would invade Rwanda. However, given the infighting, tribalism, and disunity within these groups, I doubt they will ever achieve their goals.'

The ideology of extermination, particularly targeting Tutsis, was deeply ingrained in FDLR fighters, FARDC, and allied militias. This doctrine was instilled during their training.

Mugisha, who defected from Wazalendo, explained, 'There was someone we lived with called Gen Hadaranka. They claimed he collaborated with Rwanda, even though he was a Congolese soldier working with Mbokani. They later arrested another person, accusing him of being Tutsi. They discriminated against us, even tormenting civilians.'

Plot to attack Rwanda

Defectors from Wazalendo and FDLR testified that their training and battles revolved around defeating M23 and eventually invading Rwanda.

Niyitanga said, 'Life in Congo was extremely challenging. We lived in the forests, and if you came across a woman with money, you would rob her. Our general would order us to find someone with money, break into their house at night, and take it. If they resisted, we would shoot them.'

These young men were brainwashed into believing that looting and killing civilians were ways to sustain themselves.

Hatangimana added, 'They told us to fight against Rwanda by fighting M23, accusing them of being Rwandans. They also instructed us to take whatever civilians had so we could survive—soap and other necessities.'

He revealed that their battles would rarely succeed, and whenever M23 retaliated, they would scatter. The wounded were taken to government hospitals in Goma, while the dead were left behind.

Message to the youth

Having experienced the horrors of the Congolese forests—watching people being killed, looting civilians, and killing for survival—these young defectors said it was a life they would not wish on anyone.

They urged Rwandan youth to seize the opportunities Rwanda offers instead of plunging into a death trap.

Niyitanga said, 'Our Rwanda is peaceful. Going to Congo is like embracing death and misery. It is better to stay in Rwanda and contribute to its development.'

Hatangimana appealed to other youth still in FDLR, Wazalendo, and similar militias to return and join the effort to build their country.

He concluded, 'I urge my fellow Rwandan youth to avoid being misled by those who promise riches in Congo. They tell you that you will find wealth, but it’s all a lie. You leave a peaceful life in Rwanda only to find that where you came from was better than where you’re going.'

IGIHE

This development followed battles that began on January 20, 2025, with a coalition of DRC forces, which included Wazalendo militias and Burundian troops.

The capture of the town was strategically important for the militants as the route is frequently used by Burundian forces and members of the Imbonerakure militia travelling northward into North Kivu province to reinforce DRC forces in their fight against M23.

Before seizing Minova, M23 captured several other areas in South Kivu province, including Lumbishi, Numbi, and Shanje, beginning on January 18. All these locations are within Kalehe territory.

The fighting leading up to the fall of Minova prompted many residents to flee, with many heading toward the city of Goma or seeking refuge on Idjwi Island via Lake Kivu.

Separately, on January 20, clashes were reported in areas surrounding the town of Sake, located a short distance from Minova. Reports indicate that M23 forces stationed in Busangara sought to dislodge the DRC coalition forces from their positions in Kimoka.

Kimoka holds significant strategic value, having served as a critical stronghold for the DRC coalition since 2024 in their efforts to protect the city of Goma from falling into M23’s control.

M23 aims to end the violence and persecution of Congolese Tutsis carried out by the country’s armed forces and allied militias, including the FDLR, a group composed of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

The capture of Minova was strategically important for M23 as the route is frequently used by Burundian forces and members of the Imbonerakure militia travelling northward into North Kivu province to reinforce DRC forces in their fight against M23.

IGIHE

Ernest Karasira, Assistant Commissioner in charge of Provincial and Decentralized Revenue Division at RRA, stated that the trading license tax is paid by anyone, who opens a business within a district.

To determine the tax rate, consideration is given to those, who can provide their annual turnover from the previous year and those who cannot.

'We urge all concerned traders to declare and pay this tax not later than the January 31. It is important to remember that filing the declaration today and completing the payment before the last day is crucial, as the main issue often arises from failing to declare, which is the first step,' Karasira said.

Declaration and payment has been made easy for all taxpayers, wherever they are in their businesses, leisure or at home. You can declare through the RRA website on the decentralized taxes section. By entering the TIN and password, a taxpayer can declare and receive a payment reference number.

Declaration can also be made in the palm of your hand with your mobile phone by dialing *800#, go to decentralized taxes, and select the trading license tax.

Payments can be made via MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money, Mobicash, internet banking and mobile banking.

1. Trading license tax for those able to determine turnover

Between Frw2 million and Frw7 million pay Frw100,000 annually or Frw25,000 quarterly in tax.

Between Frw7 million and Frw12 million is taxed at Frw120,000 annually or Frw30,000 quarterly.

The tax rate increases progressively with turnovers of Frw50 billion and above paying Frw2 million annually or Frw500,000 quarterly, in taxes.

2. Trading license tax for those unable to determine turnover

Other profit-oriented activities not registered for income tax in urban zones are taxed at Frw60,000 annually or Frw15,000 quarterly. In rural areas, the trading license tax is Frw30,000 annually or Frw7,500 quarterly.

Other rates include Frw40,000 annually or Frw10,000 quarterly for individual owned vehicle used in transport; Frw20,000 annually or Frw5,000 quarterly per boat used in transport activities; and Frw8,000 annually or Frw2,000 quarterly for a commercial motorcycle.

3. Annual vs. quarterly payment options

When declaring the trading license tax, the system provides two options; annual and quarter.

'The system is designed so that if a taxpayer selects the first quarter, it means they have opted for quarterly payments. You cannot skip a quarter. If you select the second quarter, it means the first is included. If you select the fourth quarter, it means you are paying for the entire year (12 months) at once. Declaring and paying must be done note later than January 31,' he added.

For those that opt to pay quarterly, the second quarter is due by April 30, the third by July 31, and the fourth by October 31 of the taxable year.

4. Trading license tax for business headquarters and branches

If a taxpayer operates businesses in multiple districts, they must pay the trading license tax in each district. However, if it is a single business with multiple branches within one district, the tax is paid based on the turnover of the headquarters. If they are only branches, the tax is based on the branch with the highest turnover. If the total turnover of a branch is unknown, the tax is calculated based on the headquarters’ turnover.

5. Who is exempt from the trading license tax?

Those exempt from the trading license tax include government institutions not engaged in commercial activities and small or medium businesses during their first two years of operation.

Karasira said: 'Those who started business activities at least two years ago, and had exemptions should now be aware they must begin paying the trading license tax.'
If a business activity begins after January, the taxpayer is required to pay a trading license tax proportional to the remaining months of the year, including the month the activity started.

If a taxpayer ceases or modifies their business activity during the taxable year, a refund can be issued after an audit, depending on the remaining months until December 31.

Penalties

The law stipulates a 40% penalty of the tax due for late declarations or submitting false information. Unpaid taxes incur a monthly interest of 1.5% and an additional surcharge of 10% of the tax due. However, the maximum surcharge applicable is capped at Frw100,000.

IGIHE

They made the remarks Monday at the new compound of the Mission of China to the AU in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, where a gala is held to celebrate the start of Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival.

The Spring Festival falls on Jan. 29 this year, ushering in the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese lunar calendar.

Hu Changchun, head of the Chinese Mission to the AU, told the event that the overall characterization of China-Africa relations has been elevated to an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era.

“No matter how international and regional circumstances change, China is always Africa’s most reliable friend, the most reliable partner in African pursuit of development, and Africa’s strongest supporter on the international stage,” he said.

The Chinese government is committed to working with African friends to implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, carry out the “10 partnership actions,” and work together on the path toward modernization, Hu said.

Monique Nsanzabaganwa, deputy chairperson for the African Union Commission, said AU-China cooperation has achieved gratifying and fruitful results during the previous years, noting China’s 35-year-long tradition of dispatching its foreign minister to Africa on their first overseas trips at the start of a year.

“In recent years, the political mutual trust between the African Union and China has continued to deepen, and the two sides have closely cooperated in international and regional affairs,” Nsanzabaganwa said.

She noted that China has always firmly supported Africa’s struggle against colonialism, power politics and racial discrimination, for which the African Union is deeply grateful.

According to Nsanzabaganwa, 2025 marks the first year for the implementation of the outcomes of the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit, and the AU is committed to strengthening the deep synergy of development strategies with China and working together to set a benchmark for international cooperation.

Monday’s event, which attracted the representatives of the AU and the Chinese community in Addis Ababa, featured Chinese foods and traditional performances from both China and Africa, among others.

China and the African Union have celebrate achievements in diplomatic and economic ties.

Xinhua

The agreement was signed on Monday, January 20, 2025, by Clementine Mukeka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary for Africa.

The MoU establishes a foundation for closer collaboration between the two nations.

During the discussions, both parties explored ways to expand cooperation in diplomacy and identified opportunities for mutual benefit.

They agreed on potential areas of partnership, including trade and investment, defence and security, education, culture, science, technology, and agriculture.

Following the MoU signing, a delegation of Pakistani military officials, led by Maj Gen Muneer-ud-Din, Director General of Foreign Military Cooperation at the Joint Staff Headquarters of the Pakistan Armed Forces (PAF), held discussions with Rwanda’s Minister of Defense, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi.

During their three-day visit to Rwanda, the delegation will explore avenues to enhance cooperation between the Rwandan Defense Forces and Pakistan’s security institutions.

Their itinerary includes visits to the Gako Military Academy, the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi, and the Campaign Against Genocide Museum at the Parliamentary Building.

The agreement was signed on Monday, January 20, 2025, by Clementine Mukeka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary for Africa.

During the discussions, both parties explored ways to expand cooperation in diplomacy and identified opportunities for mutual benefit.

Hon. Minister J Marizamunda, Minister of Defence, along with Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, Rwanda Defence Force Army Chief of Staff, welcomed at Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Kimihurura, Maj Gen Muneer-ud-Din, Director General of Foreign Military Cooperation at the Joint Staff Headquarters of the Pakistan Armed Forces (PAF), and his delegation on their official three-day visit to Rwanda.

Hon. Juvenal Marizamunda, Rwanda’s Minister of Defense, with Maj Gen Muneer-ud-Din, Director General of Foreign Military Cooperation at the Joint Staff Headquarters of the Pakistan Armed Forces (PAF).

Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, Army Chief of Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force, with Maj Gen Muneer-ud-Din, Director General of Foreign Military Cooperation at the Joint Staff Headquarters of the Pakistan Armed Forces (PAF).

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Reliable sources indicate that Bishop Mugisha was apprehended on Tuesday and is currently detained at the RIB station in Remera while investigations continue.

Allegations against the bishop first surfaced in early 2024 when some pastors in the Shyira Diocese accused him of poor governance and unfair practices.

They claimed that several pastors who questioned his leadership were reassigned or dismissed, including Pastor Kubwayo Charles and Pastor Kabaragasa J. Baptiste, who were officially dismissed in August 2024.

The dismissed pastors alleged that Bishop Mugisha used church resources for personal benefit.

According to them, the bishop’s company secured a contract to supply sand for a diocesan construction project in Musanze, using a Fuso truck registered in his name.

Additionally, they alleged that his wife’s company was contracted to supply eggs to all nursery schools in the diocese, with the eggs sourced from the bishop’s poultry farm.

They further alleged that farmland owned by the diocese in Nyamutera (Nyabihu) and Kimonyi (Musanze), covering 20 hectares, was used to grow fodder for the bishop’s cattle.

However, others have defended the bishop, arguing that the dismissed pastors had their own issues.

An anonymous source stated, 'The pastors were dismissed for misconduct. One had defrauded several people, while another had unpaid debts. Their accusations against the bishop are a way to retaliate.'

The Anglican Church leadership intervened in the ongoing conflict. Bishop Mugisha was temporarily suspended in 2024, and Reverend Augustin Ahimana was appointed interim head of the Shyira Diocese by Archbishop Dr. Laurent Mbanda.

In response to the allegations, Bishop Mugisha recently claimed his suspension was unlawful and expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved.

He stated, 'Our issues are being addressed through proper channels, and I trust that the truth will come out.'

Following his suspension, reports indicate that Mugisha eventually resigned. The Shyira Diocese has been under scrutiny by both the church and Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) to resolve governance and financial management concerns.

Former Bishop of Shyira Diocese Samuel Mugisha has been arrested

IGIHE

Speaking at a joint news conference with World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Hassan said that laboratory tests conducted at the Kabaile mobile laboratory in the northwestern Kagera region and later confirmed in Dar es Salaam identified one person in Biharamulo District as infected with MVD.

“Following rumors of an outbreak of MVD in the Kagera region, the government took several measures, including investigating suspected individuals in the affected areas,” she said.

Hassan said that health authorities worked closely with local community leaders to enhance surveillance, establish emergency response teams, and implement additional safety measures.

“Fortunately, the remaining suspected patients tested negative for other illnesses. This confirmed that the Marburg virus case marks the second outbreak of this disease in our country,” she said.

The WHO released a statement last week, saying that the agency had informed its member states of an outbreak of suspected MVD in Kagera.

In March 2023, Tanzania experienced its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease, a rare and deadly hemorrhagic fever similar to Ebola. That outbreak also occurred in the Kagera region, which borders Uganda and Rwanda.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Monday confirmed the country’s second outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in two years.

Xinhua

Hydrocarbons, which include oil and natural gas, are critical resources that drive industrialization and economic growth worldwide.

For Rwandans, this discovery represents an opportunity to unlock new sources of wealth, create jobs, and accelerate the country’s journey toward becoming a middle-income economy.

Game-Changer for the Economy

Hydrocarbons have historically been a cornerstone of economic development for resource-rich nations. With the discovery of oil and gas reserves, Rwanda can tap into a multi-billion-dollar industry that could dramatically boost its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

By reducing reliance on imported fuel and developing its own energy resources, the country could soon achieve greater energy independence. This will free up foreign exchange reserves that are currently spent on fuel imports, allowing the government to invest more in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

For Rwandan citizens, the economic ripple effects will be profound. A robust hydrocarbon industry will attract both domestic and foreign investors, creating a thriving business ecosystem.

The revenues generated from oil and gas exports can be reinvested into national development projects, improving the quality of life for millions as well as reduction of domestic taxes.

For example, the proceeds from hydrocarbon production could fund the construction of modern roads, schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure, accelerating the realization of Vision 2050, Rwanda’s development agenda.

Job creation and industrialization

One of the most immediate benefits of hydrocarbon discovery is the creation of jobs. From exploration and extraction to refining and distribution, the oil and gas sector demands a skilled workforce across a range of disciplines.

Rwandans will have opportunities to train and work in fields such as engineering, geology, logistics, and environmental management. Additionally, the oil and gas industry will stimulate growth in supporting sectors like construction, transportation, and services, creating even more employment opportunities.

Beyond job creation, the hydrocarbon discovery can catalyze industrialization in Rwanda. Oil and gas are not just energy sources—they are raw materials for manufacturing countless products, including plastics, chemicals, and synthetic materials.

By establishing refineries and petrochemical plants, Rwanda can develop a robust industrial base that produces high-value goods for domestic consumption and export. This will not only diversify the economy but also reduce reliance on imported industrial products, enhancing Rwanda’s trade balance and economic resilience.

Energy security and access

Energy access is a fundamental driver of economic and social development. Despite significant progress in expanding access to electricity, many Rwandans still rely on traditional biomass for cooking and lighting.

The development of hydrocarbon resources can significantly improve energy availability and affordability. By increasing the domestic supply of oil and gas, Rwanda can lower the cost of electricity and fuel, making energy more accessible to households, businesses, and industries.

For rural communities, access to reliable and affordable energy can improve agricultural productivity, enable the use of modern farming equipment, and reduce post-harvest losses.

For small businesses and entrepreneurs, lower energy costs can increase profitability and competitiveness. Moreover, clean energy alternatives such as natural gas can help reduce the environmental and health risks associated with traditional cooking fuels, improving the well-being of millions of Rwandans.

Boosting local businesses

The hydrocarbon industry has the potential to create opportunities for local businesses across various sectors. As oil and gas projects are implemented, local suppliers and service providers can participate in the supply chain, offering goods and services such as transportation, catering, equipment maintenance, and construction.

This will foster the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of Rwanda’s economy.

Additionally, by investing in value addition within the country, Rwanda can retain a larger share of the revenues generated from hydrocarbons. For instance, refining crude oil locally instead of exporting it in raw form will create jobs, enhance technical skills, and add value to the economy. It will also ensure that Rwandans benefit directly from the resources extracted from their land.

Improved infrastructure development

Hydrocarbon exploration and production require significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, pipelines, storage facilities, and ports. These investments will not only support the oil and gas industry but also benefit other sectors of the economy.

Improved infrastructure will enhance connectivity, reduce transportation costs, and facilitate trade, contributing to Rwanda’s overall economic growth.

For citizens, better infrastructure translates to improved access to essential services and opportunities. Farmers in remote areas, for example, will have better access to markets, enabling them to sell their produce more efficiently. Students will be able to reach schools more easily, and healthcare services will become more accessible to underserved communities.

Environmental and social considerations

While the hydrocarbon discovery presents immense opportunities, it also comes with challenges that must be carefully managed. Oil and gas exploration can have environmental impacts, such as habitat disruption, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.

To ensure sustainable development, Rwanda must adopt stringent environmental regulations and best practices in the hydrocarbon sector.

Citizens have a crucial role to play in holding companies and policymakers accountable for responsible resource management. By advocating for transparency and environmental stewardship, Rwandans can help ensure that the benefits of hydrocarbon development are realized without compromising the country’s natural resources and ecosystems.

The Multiplier effect on other sectors

The benefits of hydrocarbon discovery will extend beyond the oil and gas sector. For instance, increased government revenues can support investments in education and skills development, preparing a new generation of Rwandans to participate in the knowledge economy.

Tourism, another key sector for Rwanda, can also benefit indirectly from improved infrastructure and energy access, making the country more attractive to visitors.

Moreover, the development of the hydrocarbon industry will enhance Rwanda’s regional and international standing. As a producer of oil and gas, the country can strengthen its economic ties with neighboring nations and position itself as a strategic player in East Africa’s energy landscape.

This will open up new opportunities for trade and cooperation, benefiting citizens through increased economic activity and regional stability.

For Rwandans, the hydrocarbon discovery is more than just an economic milestone—it is a chance to build a brighter future for the nation. By harnessing this resource responsibly, Rwanda can achieve its development goals, reduce poverty, and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

With a shared vision and collective effort, the benefits of this discovery can be felt across generations, transforming Rwanda into a model of sustainable and inclusive growth.

The writer is an Economist.

The Rwanda Mines, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB) recently announced the discovery of oil reservoirs in Lake Kivu.

Teddy Kaberuka

The measures, focused on energy independence, economic revitalization, and a rollback of diversity and immigration initiatives, signal a dramatic pivot in national policy.

At the forefront of President Trump’s initiatives was the declaration of a national energy emergency, a move he claimed would unlock the nation’s untapped potential in fossil fuel resources.

'We have something that no other manufacturing nation will ever have, the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on Earth, and we are going to use it,' Trump said during his inaugural address.

The declaration grants the administration sweeping powers to expedite permits for fossil fuel infrastructure, including mining and drilling projects.

Trump also ordered the resumption of oil and gas drilling in Alaska and the repeal of Biden-era restrictions on liquefied natural gas exports, asserting these steps would boost domestic energy production and lower energy costs for Americans.

The 47th President of the United States ordered his administration to 'eliminate the electric-vehicle mandate' — his bid to undo regulations governing automotive pollution and fuel-economy standards which he believes unfairly limit consumer choice.

The declaration to encourage expanded fossil fuel production is expected to draw criticism from environmental advocates, especially as climate disasters continue to escalate.

Meanwhile, in line with his 'America First' agenda, President Trump signed orders to investigate alleged unfair trade practices and re-evaluate trade deals, including the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The administration plans to assess China’s compliance with the 2020 trade deal and explore imposing new tariffs to protect domestic industries.

“Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens,” Trump said.

Trump also proposed the creation of an 'External Revenue Service' to oversee tariff collections and launched a review of the U.S. industrial base to identify opportunities for strengthening manufacturing.

The Trump administration reinstated a freeze on federal hiring, barring exceptions for military and immigration enforcement roles, and reintroduced Schedule F, a controversial category of federal employment that removes job protections for certain civil servants. Federal workers were also ordered to return to in-office work, ending remote work policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Immigration policies saw some of the most dramatic reversals. Trump reinstated the 'Remain in Mexico' policy for asylum seekers, suspended the refugee admissions program, and declared a national emergency at the southern border to redirect funds toward wall construction. He also announced plans to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, a proposal likely to face significant legal challenges.

'We’re taking back control of our borders,' Trump declared. 'No longer will America be a sanctuary for those who enter illegally.'

In a broad push to reshape federal priorities, Trump ordered the termination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and recognized only two genders under federal law: Male and Female. Protections for transgender individuals in federal prisons were also rescinded.

On climate, Trump’s orders included withdrawing the U.S. from the Paris Agreement and halting offshore wind farm leasing, moves he justified as essential for economic growth.

Trump also ordered the withdrawal of the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), marking the second time he has issued such orders.

“Oooh, that’s a big one,” the newly inaugurated US president, who has been critical of how the international body handled Covid-19, said as he approved the document after arriving back at the White House.

Trump began the process of pulling America out from the Geneva-based institution during the pandemic in his first term. President Joe Biden later reversed that decision.

On Monday, Trump also ordered a review of the TikTok ban, granting the platform a 75-day extension to comply with a law requiring either a sale or a ban due to national security concerns raised by U.S. lawmakers.

The President has floated the idea of a joint venture, proposing a 50-50 partnership between “the United States” and TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance.

Other orders issued on Monday include the renaming of Mount Denali and the Gulf of Mexico. Trump also tasked tech billionaire Elon Musk, a close associate, with leading a cost-cutting initiative dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency.

President Donald Trump marked his return to the White House on Monday, January 20, 2025, with an aggressive agenda, signing a series of sweeping executive orders aimed at overturning key policies of the Biden administration and advancing a vision he described as a “golden age” for America.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Due to projected cold weather in Washington, D.C., his inauguration ceremony was held indoors — the first time in four decades.

Trump took his oath of office administered by Chief Justice John Roberts. Chief Justice usually administers the presidential oath of office, a tradition that has been followed since the first inauguration.

Trump said in his inauguration speech that American decline ends and “the golden Age of America begins right now.”

In his speech, Trump promised to sign “a series of historic executive orders,” including declaring a national emergency at the southern border, enhancing oil and gas production, revoking electric vehicle mandate. He also promised to immediately begin the overhaul of the trade system and “tariff and tax foreign countries.”

Trump pledged to bring down prices, save auto industry, “restore fair, equal and impartial justice,” and bring law and order back to U.S. cities.

Criticizing Democrats’ DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) programs, the newly sworn-in president said this week, he will also end the government policy of “trying to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life,” and “forge a society that is colorblind and merit based.”

He noted that it will be the “official policy” of the United States government that there are only two genders — male and female.

Trump also pledged to build the strongest military the world has ever seen. “We will measure our success, not only by the battles we win, but also by the wars that we end and perhaps most importantly, the wars we never get into,” Trump said, adding that he will be a peacemaker and unifier.

The president reiterated that he will change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, and will take back the Panama Canal.

In addition, Trump said that he will, for the second time, pull the United States out of the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change.

Moments before Trump’s swearing-in, JD Vance was sworn in as the vice president.

Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president of the United States in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol at noon on Monday.

Xinhua