Upon arrial, they were welcomed by a large crowd of journalists and supporters at Kigali International Airport.
Speaking shortly after his arrival, Ashton Hall expressed his excitement about visiting Rwanda, the home country of his friend Ashton Small, better known as Kagarara.
Asked whether he knew anything about Rwanda before meeting Kagarara, Hall replied, 'To be honest, I didn't know Rwanda before. It was Ashton Small who introduced me to it.'
Hall also encouraged Rwandans to continue believing in their dreams and never lose hope, even when others dismiss their ambitions.
'Keep dreaming big and never give up. Don't listen to people who discourage you or call you crazy because of the goals you want to achieve,' he said.
He also praised Ashton Small for his rapidly growing social media presence, especially on Instagram, and urged Rwandans to follow him so that his work can reach an even wider audience.
On June 16, 2026, Ashton Small shared a video inviting Ashton Hall to visit Rwanda and witness the extraordinary talents of Rwandans living with disabilities.
Since then, Ashton Small's popularity has surged on social media. He now ranks among the Rwandans with the largest Instagram followings, having surpassed 300,000 followers.
His rapid rise has been driven largely by his ongoing tour with Ashton Hall, the American social media personality widely known for his fitness content, particularly videos showcasing his intense running workouts.
Hall recently announced his commitment to helping Ashton Small reach at least one million Instagram followers while also supporting him in various initiatives.
Rwanda is the latest stop on their African tour, following visits to Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Benin.
In the coming days, Ashton Hall and his team are expected to visit several locations across Kigali, tour Kagarara's family home, and take part in a range of activities planned during their stay in Rwanda.
Kagarara arrives in Kigali alongside Ashton Hall and Indian AshtonAshton Hall delighted by warm welcome in RwandaAshton Hall credits Kagarara for introducing him to RwandaAshton Hall lowered himself to Kagarara's level during a brief interaction with journalistsAshton Hall, Ashton Small, and Indian Ashton Hall headed to their waiting vehicle after arriving in KigaliDespite the late hour, Ashton Hall took time to greet the people who had gathered to welcome himAshton Hall bid farewell to those who had gathered to welcome him before heading to the hotelAshton Hall wished those who had come to welcome him well before heading to the hotel
The affordable housing project, located in Kinyinya Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali, is being developed by RSSB and comprises 548 housing units designed for different categories of buyers, including workers, families, Rwandans living abroad and others seeking to own homes.
The development features both apartments and townhouses. The apartment blocks include two- and three-bedroom units, each with two bathrooms, while the townhouses are available in two categories, offering two- and three-bedroom options across two- and three-storey designs.
The estate is also planned to include commercial spaces, a nursery school, sports facilities, including basketball and volleyball courts, as well as landscaped gardens and recreational areas for residents.
The project has, however, faced significant delays since its launch in 2014. A report by the Office of the Auditor General for the financial year ending June 2025 highlighted a 10-year delay in its implementation.
Appearing before Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to respond to concerns raised in the report, Rugemanshuro said several challenges affected progress, forcing RSSB to take on responsibilities beyond its initial mandate.
He cited land compensation as one of the issues that delayed the project, explaining that although such payments were not originally part of RSSB's responsibilities, the institution eventually intervened to ensure the project moved forward.
'Sometimes we had to work with other government institutions responsible for specific areas to make sure the project was completed,' Rugemanshuro said.
He told lawmakers that construction of the housing units is now 97 percent complete, while infrastructure works stand at 70 percent completion.
'The project is expected to be completed in December 2026. The houses are already at 97 percent completion, while infrastructure has reached 70 percent,' he said.
Infrastructure works include roads, water supply systems, wastewater treatment facilities and street lighting.
So far, 70 percent of the houses have already been sold, with the remaining 30 percent still available on the market.
PAC Chairperson Muhakwa Valens sought clarification on whether the reported 70 percent infrastructure completion covered all key facilities required for residents to occupy the estate, including roads, drainage systems, water facilities and lighting.
'We want to have a complete picture of this project so that we can conclude that the Batsinda issue has been resolved,' Muhakwa said.
Responding to the concerns, Rugemanshuro assured the committee that buyers would be able to move into their homes by January 2027.
'By January 2027, those who have paid for their houses should be living in them. The roads, water reservoirs, street lighting and other facilities should also be completed by then, unless an unforeseen challenge beyond our control occurs,' he said.
The homes are priced from Rwf80 million for a two-bedroom townhouse to Rwf117 million for a three-bedroom townhouse. Apartment units range from Rwf101 million to Rwf111 million.
Heza Estate in Batsinda is set to provide modern housing units alongside community facilities and recreational spaces for future residents.Heza Estate in Kinyinya Sector, Gasabo District, features a mix of apartments and townhouses designed to provide affordable housing options for different categories of buyers.Construction works at Heza Estate include housing units, roads, water facilities and other infrastructure expected to support residents once the project is completed.
Authorities in South Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have issued clarifications regarding reports alleging that French military personnel are supporting the M23 armed group amid ongoing fighting in eastern Congo.
The claims, which circulated widely on social media and in political discussions, suggested that France could be involved in backing M23 operations as the group continues expanding its influence in parts of South Kivu.
However, South Kivu authorities stated that there is no concrete evidence confirming the presence of French troops alongside M23 forces or any direct military cooperation between them.
Officials called on the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that could increase tensions in an already fragile security environment.
The alleged involvement of foreign actors in the conflict in eastern DRC has remained a highly debated issue. The Congolese government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting M23, allegations that Kigali has denied, arguing that the conflict is linked to broader regional security concerns and the presence of armed groups operating in eastern Congo.
Meanwhile, regional and international actors have continued to call for dialogue and diplomatic solutions to address the long-running crisis.
South Kivu authorities emphasized the importance of responsible information sharing, warning that misinformation could worsen fear and instability among communities affected by the conflict.
Journalist and DJ DJ Sonia says she has spent the past three years seeking justice over what she describes as harassment, defamation, and online smear campaigns, but claims she has yet to receive a satisfactory resolution.
In a lengthy statement posted on X, DJ Sonia said her case began in July 2023 when she reported the matter to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), seeking protection and justice against individuals she accuses of repeatedly spreading defamatory statements, false information, and content intended to damage her reputation and turn the public against her.
She said she was summoned several times by investigators to provide statements, but alleged that instead of receiving justice, some of the information she provided during the investigation reached the people she had reported, which she claims allowed the alleged harassment to continue and intensify.
DJ Sonia said she later sought assistance from the Minister of Youth and Arts Development, Abdallah Utumatwishima, after the alleged attacks began affecting not only her professional life but also her family. According to her, she was advised that the matter should be handled by the RIB.
On July 26, 2025, she said she returned to the RIB together with her lawyer, Me Paul Ibambe, where she filed another complaint and submitted additional evidence showing that, according to her, the alleged defamation campaign was continuing and becoming more serious.
In her statement, DJ Sonia claimed that some individuals had accused her of suffering from incurable diseases and had created fake conversations (chats) using her identity before spreading them on social media platforms. She also alleged that some people contacted her, claiming they could stop the attacks if she paid them money.
She further stated that earlier this week, more information allegedly intended to damage her reputation was circulated online. She said this prompted her to seek meetings with the RIB spokesperson and the Director General of the institution, but she was unable to meet them because she was reportedly asked to first request an official appointment.
DJ Sonia said she is now concerned about messages and voice recordings she claims to have received, which she describes as threatening and warning her that she could face harm if she returns to her professional activities.
She ended her statement by questioning what steps she should take in order to obtain justice, adding that she may consider appealing directly to the President of the Republic if her case continues to receive no solution.
As of the time of publication, the institutions mentioned by DJ Sonia, including the RIB and the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, had not issued any public response regarding the allegations she raised.
Kagame delivered the remarks at the summit in Geneva, Switzerland, which also marked the official launch and inaugural meeting of the AI for Good Global Commission, a new global initiative he co-chairs that seeks to advance inclusive and responsible AI development.
The AI for Good Global Summit 2026 is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs) and digital technologies.
Addressing heads of state, technology leaders, investors and development partners, Kagame said AI has the potential to transform lives and strengthen economies, but stressed that deliberate action is needed to ensure its benefits are shared equitably.
‘We must be intentional about designing, funding, and governing AI so that it can reach its full potential,’ he said.
The Head of State highlighted three areas that should be prioritised to unlock AI’s potential.
The first, he said, is infrastructure, noting that computational power, connectivity and reliable energy must become more accessible through stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector.
Secondly, President Kagame underscored the importance of skills development, saying talent exists everywhere but opportunities do not. He urged educational institutions to continually adapt their curricula to prepare young people for an AI-driven economy.
His third priority was accountability, calling for AI governance frameworks that promote trust and transparency rather than creating new divisions.
Kagame said Rwanda is already demonstrating the practical use of AI through its Health Intelligence Center, which uses real-time health data and artificial intelligence to help predict disease outbreaks and support better policy decisions.
In June 2026, the Cabinet, chaired by President Kagame, approved the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Agency, which will drive AI development, innovation, adoption, investment and governance in support of Rwanda’s digital transformation and economic growth.
The agency is expected to play a central role in coordinating Rwanda’s AI agenda as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a regional technology and innovation hub.
In his speech on Wednesday, President Kagame also highlighted continental efforts through Smart Africa, noting that the alliance established the Africa AI Council last year to strengthen Africa’s role in shaping the future of AI.
While acknowledging growing geopolitical competition over technology and persistent uncertainty surrounding AI, President Kagame noted that Africa is well positioned to contribute to the global digital economy, pointing to the continent’s rapidly growing and youthful workforce.
‘In Africa, we are no longer satisfied to be passive consumers of technology. We want to build and deploy that technology at scale as well,’ he said.
President Kagame is serving as co-chair of the newly launched AI for Good Global Commission alongside Salesforce Chair and CEO Marc Benioff. The commission builds on the legacy of the Broadband Commission and brings together governments, business leaders, international organisations, investors and civil society to help ensure AI advances opportunity and development worldwide.
During the commission’s inaugural fireside discussion hosted by ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Benioff described AI as a technology unlike any before it and said its impact would depend on how humanity chooses to develop and govern it.
‘This is not a regulatory body, this is not a rule-making body, this is a conversation,’ Benioff said. ‘Technology is never good or bad. It’s what we do with the technology that matters.’
He stressed the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach, saying governments, industry and civil society must work together to guide AI’s development in a way that benefits people around the world.
Kagame echoed that view, saying the commission would build on lessons learned from the Broadband Commission over the past 15 years, where public-private cooperation helped expand digital connectivity across continents, including Africa.
‘The main task is to deliver,’ Kagame affirmed. ‘We want to harness the good of AI.’
The AI for Good Global Commission aims to foster international collaboration on AI policy, investment and innovation, ensuring the technology is developed responsibly and its benefits are shared more broadly across countries and communities.
Kagame delivers his remarks during the official launch and inaugural meeting of the AI for Good Global Commission, a new global initiative he co-chairs that seeks to advance inclusive and responsible AI development.
The AI for Good Global Summit 2026 is organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialised agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs) and digital technologies.
The reigning champions looked destined for a shock exit after falling 2-0 behind before scoring three goals in the final 13 minutes to book a quarterfinal meeting with either Colombia or Switzerland.
Egypt stunned the holders after 15 minutes when Yasser Ibrahim rose highest to head home Marwan Attia’s inviting cross and silence the crowd at Atlanta Stadium.
Argentina had an immediate opportunity to respond after Nicolas Tagliafico was fouled inside the penalty area, but Lionel Messi’s tame spot-kick was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir. The save marked Messi’s second penalty miss of the tournament, making him the first player to fail from the spot twice at a single World Cup after also missing against Austria in the group stage.
Shobeir continued his inspired display by producing a string of outstanding saves, denying Alexis Mac Allister from point-blank range, stretching to keep out Julian Alvarez’s effort and watching Messi strike a free-kick against the post.
Egypt thought they had doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute when Mostafa Ziko finished off a sweeping move after being set up by Mohamed Salah. The forward celebrated wildly, even taking off his shirt, only for VAR to intervene and rule out the goal after determining Marwan Attia had fouled Lisandro Martinez in the build-up.
The decision immediately sparked debate, with television commentators questioning whether the incident fell within VAR’s remit. However, under the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) Laws of the Game, VAR is permitted to review attacking offences, including fouls, handballs and offsides, in the build-up to a goal.
Ziko was not to be denied for long. Five minutes later, he capped another flowing Egyptian counterattack after Salah released Haissem Hassan down the flank before the winger squared the ball for the forward to make it 2-0.
With less than a third of the match remaining, Egypt appeared on course for one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history.
Instead, Argentina mounted a remarkable revival.
Cristian Romero headed home Messi’s cross in the 79th minute to halve the deficit before the captain redeemed his earlier penalty miss four minutes later, smashing home the equaliser after Lautaro Martinez and Gonzalo Montiel kept the attack alive.
Enzo Fernandez then completed the turnaround in the third minute of stoppage time, cushioning a back-post header into the bottom corner from Lautaro Martinez’s cross to seal a dramatic victory for the South Americans.
The closing moments were engulfed in further controversy.
Egypt believed they should have been awarded a penalty moments before Argentina launched the counterattack that led to Fernandez’s winner after Julian Alvarez appeared to catch Mohamed Salah inside the box before winning the ball. The Egyptians also felt Alexis Mac Allister had pulled Hamdi Fathy’s shirt in the same passage of play, but neither incident resulted in a VAR review.
As tempers flared, goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, Hamdi Fathy and Marwan Attia were all shown yellow cards, while Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan was also booked for protesting the referee’s decisions as Salah tried to calm the heated exchanges.
Following the match, Hassan launched a scathing attack on the officiating, insisting his side had been denied a fair chance to progress.
‘Life is unfair. The world is unfair. Okay, but why isn’t there any fairness in sports? I’m not convinced by this outcome and by the way things unfolded in this match,’ Hassan said.
‘The referee is unfair. He’s wasting the effort of an entire nation. The cup is directed towards Argentina.’
The Egypt coach also questioned why his team’s penalty appeals were not reviewed.
‘A penalty for us was ruled out, it was not even checked by the VAR and our second goal was, for whatever reason, disallowed,’ he said.
‘We have all seen the shirt pulled back and not even a VAR check. There seems to have been pressure on the Argentine side on the referee that has brought about this outcome.’
The final whistle brought contrasting emotions for the two captains.
Messi, who had endured one of the most difficult matches of his tournament before inspiring Argentina’s comeback, was reduced to tears after helping keep his country’s title defence alive.
At the other end, Salah and his teammates were left devastated after seeing a famous victory slip away. Egypt exited the tournament with widespread admiration for pushing the defending champions to the brink, but also with a lingering sense of injustice over the officiating that overshadowed an unforgettable contest.
Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez shoots at goal.
Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez scores their third goal
Messi celebrates after scoring an equalising goal against Egypt.
 Argentina players celebrate after victory over Egypt.Â
Messi, who had endured one of the most difficult matches of his tournament before inspiring Argentina’s comeback, was reduced to tears of joy after helping keep his country’s title defence alive.
Tuesday’s last-16 clash was overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions that left the Pharaohs feeling aggrieved. Salah was among Egypt’s players who deemed the referee’s decisions unfair.
Held in New Delhi on Monday, July 6, the event brought together nearly 1,000 guests, including Indian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, scholars, media professionals, civil society representatives, friends of Rwanda and members of the Rwandan community in India.
The celebration highlighted Rwanda’s progress since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, showcasing the country’s achievements in peacebuilding, national reconciliation, economic growth, good governance and sustainable development.
Kwibohora, celebrated every year on July 4, commemorates Rwanda’s liberation and marks the day the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), led by President Paul Kagame, stopped the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It reflects Rwanda’s journey of rebuilding through unity, resilience and a shared vision for development.
Addressing guests, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to India, Amb. Jacqueline Mukangira, paid tribute to the men and women of the former RPA whose sacrifices restored peace, unity and national dignity.
She said the liberation victory marked a defining moment in restoring Rwanda’s sovereignty and laying the foundation for national reconstruction.
Mukangira reflected on Rwanda’s transformation from a country devastated by genocide to one recognised for stability, economic progress and effective governance.
She attributed the country’s achievements to the values of unity, resilience, inclusion, innovation and accountable leadership, saying three decades of peace, stability and good governance have created a predictable and investor-friendly environment.
The High Commissioner called on Indian investors to explore opportunities created by Rwanda’s transformation, highlighting potential areas of cooperation including trade, investment, technology, education, healthcare and capacity building.
She also expressed appreciation for India’s continued partnership with Rwanda, noting that bilateral relations have expanded in areas such as ICT, trade, investment, education and defence.
‘Rwanda remains committed to strengthening partnerships anchored in peace, justice and shared prosperity,’ she said.
India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, attended the event as the chief guest and congratulated Rwanda on the Liberation Day anniversary.
He commended Rwanda’s reconciliation efforts following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and praised the growing partnership between the two countries.
Also attending the celebration was a delegation from Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence, which was in New Delhi for the second Rwanda-India Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting.
The event also featured remarks from Indian investors and friends of Rwanda, including Dr Saurabh Singhal, Head of the Rwanda Chapter of The Diplomatic Club, who highlighted Rwanda’s growing appeal as an investment and innovation hub.
Singhal shared his experience of witnessing Rwanda’s transformation since his first visit in 2005 and praised the country’s safety, governance, digital systems and investor-friendly environment.
He described Rwanda as ‘not only the Land of a Thousand Hills but also the Land of a Thousand Opportunities,’ encouraging businesses to explore opportunities in the country.
The evening concluded with cultural performances celebrating Rwanda’s heritage and reaffirming the friendship between Rwanda and India as both countries continue to strengthen cooperation for shared development and prosperity.
Held in New Delhi on Monday, July 6, the event brought together Indian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, scholars, media professionals, civil society representatives, friends of Rwanda and members of the Rwandan community in India.
Amb. Jacqueline Mukangira and India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita.
Rwanda’s High Commissioner to India, Amb. Jacqueline Mukangira, paid tribute to the men and women of the former RPA whose sacrifices restored peace, unity and national dignity.
India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, commended Rwanda’s reconciliation efforts following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. and praised the growing partnership between the two countries.
The celebration highlighted Rwanda’s progress since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, showcasing the country’s achievements in peacebuilding, national reconciliation, economic growth, good governance and sustainable development. Dr Saurabh Singhal, Head of the Rwanda Chapter of The Diplomatic Club, shared his experience of witnessing Rwanda’s transformation since his first visit to the country in 2005, praising its safety, governance, digital systems and investor-friendly environment.
The evening concluded with cultural performances celebrating Rwanda’s heritage and reaffirming the friendship between Rwanda and India.
Kajangwe said the agreements will strengthen Rwanda’s access to petroleum infrastructure while creating opportunities for the country to trade fuel products with neighbouring markets.
Speaking to Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), the minister highlighted the importance of the agreements signed with companies in Kenya and Tanzania, which allow Rwanda to import petroleum products from international markets through the ports of Mombasa and Tanga.
On June 29, 2026, Rwanda signed a cooperation agreement with Kenya to facilitate the importation of petroleum products through the Port of Mombasa. The deal provides Rwanda with access to storage facilities, transportation services and petroleum distribution infrastructure in Kenya.
The agreement establishes a government-to-government framework for fuel imports, a move expected to improve supply security, reduce logistical barriers and make fuel procurement more predictable.
Petroleum volumes transported to Rwanda through the Northern Corridor are expected to increase more than tenfold, from about 50,000 cubic metres annually to more than 500,000 cubic metres, according to Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, Opiyo Wandayi.
Rwanda later signed a similar agreement with Tanzania on July 3 to import petrol and diesel through the Port of Tanga. The agreement was signed between Rwanda National Energy Company (RNEC) and Gulf Bulk Petroleum Tanzania Limited (GBP).
The agreements come amid continued volatility in global fuel prices, which has affected markets in Rwanda and other parts of the world.
Kajangwe said the arrangements could allow Rwanda to leverage its strategic location to serve as a fuel distribution hub for the region.
‘We believe this can strengthen regional trade, allowing Rwanda, given its geographical position, to supply petroleum products to neighbouring countries. Our goal is to have sufficient petroleum products that can meet demand in Rwanda and also serve markets in the region,’ he said.
Rwanda, a landlocked country, imports all its petroleum products through neighbouring countries, mainly using the Port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and the Port of Mombasa in Kenya.
The government has in recent years pursued measures to strengthen fuel security by diversifying import routes and improving access to storage and transport infrastructure.
Minister of Trade and Industry Antoine Marie Kajangwe said the agreements will strengthen Rwanda’s access to petroleum infrastructure while creating opportunities for the country to trade fuel products with neighbouring markets.
Yet behind this calm landscape lies one of China’s most remarkable development transformations, often described as a living model of ecological civilisation.
Yucun is a small village of just over 1,000 residents, covering 4.86 square kilometres, located in Zhejiang Province, one of China’s most dynamic coastal regions.
Zhejiang itself is an economic powerhouse of the Yangtze River Delta, with a 2025 GDP of about 9.45 trillion yuan ( approximately 1.4 trillion USD), and has become a national leader in ‘high-quality development,’ where growth is measured not only in economic output but also in environmental sustainability and social wellbeing.
Walking through Yucun today, it is difficult to imagine that this landscape was once shaped by heavy limestone mining and cement production. In the late 1990s, the village’s economy was strong by rural standards, but the environment was under severe strain; dust-filled air, scarred hillsides, and degraded ecosystems.
The turning point came in the early 2000s, when local leaders and residents made a decisive choice: to close polluting industries and restore the land. It was a moment that reshaped not only the village’s economy, but its identity.
A defining milestone followed on August 15, 2005, when President Xi Jinping, then Secretary of the Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China, visited Yucun and for the first time and articulated a phrase that would later gain national significance: ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.’
This idea evolved into the ‘Two Mountains’ philosophy, now widely recognised as a foundation of China’s ecological civilisation framework under the Communist Party of China (CPC).
In Yucun, it is not an abstract theory, it is visible in every restored hillside, every green pathway, and every redesigned public space.
As the village stepped away from mining, a new journey began. Abandoned industrial sites were rehabilitated, forests were replanted, and traditional rural landscapes were carefully preserved.
The ‘two mountains’ theory monument is seen at Yucun village
Today, Yucun attracts over one million visitors annually, drawn by bamboo sea landscapes, ecological trails, and cultural experiences rooted in Jiangnan traditions.
One of its most striking landmarks is the transformation of a former cement factory into ‘Yucun Impression,’ a zero-carbon cultural complex powered by renewable energy and designed as a symbol of industrial rebirth.
The ecological recovery is striking. Forest coverage now exceeds 85 percent, the climate remains humid and subtropical, and the village integrates natural terrain with carefully designed infrastructure.
Ancient ginkgo trees, some believed to be over 1,300 years old, stand alongside modern eco-friendly buildings, an unusual but seamless coexistence of heritage and innovation.
Over time, Yucun’s economy has shifted from extraction to experience. Agritainment businesses, eco-tourism services, and cultural industries now drive local income.
Collective village earnings have risen steadily into the tens of millions of yuan, while per capita income has surpassed 60,000 yuan (about 8,837.69 USD).
In 2024, villagers received direct dividend distributions, reinforcing a model of shared prosperity where development outcomes are visibly returned to the community.
This transformation has earned Yucun multiple national and international recognitions. It has been designated a National Civilised Village, a National Forest Village, a National Rural Tourism Key Village, and a National Rural Governance Demonstration Village.
It has also been listed among the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s Best Tourism Villages, underscoring its global relevance as a rural development model.
Eco-friendly pathways wind through Yucun Village, connecting restored hillsides and natural green spaces.
Beyond its scenic and economic appeal, Yucun is increasingly viewed as a policy reference point. It demonstrates how environmental restoration can become a driver of economic growth rather than a constraint, and how rural governance can align local participation with broader provincial and national strategies.
Within Zhejiang’s development framework, the village is often cited as a successful case of integrating ecological protection with rural revitalisation.
Zhejiang Province itself extends this philosophy into global engagement. As a key hub of China-Africa cooperation, the province recorded trade with Africa of 53.9 billion US dollars in 2023, expanding into manufacturing, digital economy, vocational training, and healthcare exchanges.
Thousands of African professionals have been trained in Zhejiang, while medical teams have supported healthcare services across multiple African countries. These partnerships reflect a broader emphasis on mutual learning and long-term cooperation.
Seen through this broader lens, Yucun becomes more than a rural destination; it becomes a starting point for understanding a development philosophy that suggests prosperity should not be built against nature, but alongside it.
Yucun Village showcases a harmonious coexistence between ancient natural heritage and modern sustainable development.
Yucun Village sits quietly at the northern foothills of the Tianmu Mountains, surrounded by bamboo forests and winding green valleys.
Streams flow gently through Yucun Village, reflecting its transformation into a model of ecological civilisation.
The scenic bamboo forests surrounding Yucun Village highlight its reputation as a restored natural landscape in Zhejiang Province.
Tourists regularly explore ecological trails in Yucun Village, which now attracts over one million visitors annually.
Despite the current absence of a Rwandan Ambassador or official representative of the Embassy of Rwanda in Belgium, the celebration attracted a large number of members of the Rwandan community who came together to commemorate a historic milestone that symbolizes the end of one of the darkest periods in Rwanda’s history and the beginning of a new era of reconstruction and development.
The event began with the reception of guests, followed by the official opening ceremony. Participants sang the Rwandan National Anthem and observed a moment of silence in honor of the nation’s heroes before watching a documentary highlighting the history of Rwanda’s liberation struggle and the country’s transformation journey.
In his opening remarks, the President of the Rwandan Diaspora in Belgium (DRB-Rugari), Ernest Gakuba, emphasized the significance of Kwibohora in Rwanda’s contemporary history and underscored the important role the diaspora continues to play in the country’s development.
One of the highlights of the celebration was a panel discussion focusing on the history of Rwanda’s liberation and the country’s remarkable progress over the past 32 years.
Faustin Musare reflected on the origins of the liberation struggle and the circumstances that led to its launch. Dr. Assumpta Kayiranga, who joined from Canada, spoke about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the resilience of survivors, and Rwanda’s journey toward recovery and renewal.
Meanwhile, Lawyer Richard Gisagara, speaking from France, addressed issues of justice, reconciliation, and national unity, while Aimée Rulinda highlighted the role of Rwandan citizens in driving the country’s transformation.
The second panel focused on Rwanda’s reconstruction after 1994. Protais Musoni shared insights into rebuilding national institutions and infrastructure, while Eric Ngabo discussed Rwanda’s achievements in technology and innovation. Béatrice Feza highlighted the contribution of women and youth to national development, and Aloys Rubayiza spoke about the importance of investment in fostering economic growth.
The discussions concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session with participants, followed by remarks from Ernest Gakuba on the contribution of the Rwandan diaspora to Rwanda’s development and international visibility.
Rwandan culture also featured prominently throughout the celebration. Traditional dance groups Amariza, Itetero, and Umurage showcased Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage through captivating performances.
Musicians Cyusa Ibrahim and Diana Teta also entertained attendees with performances that added a festive atmosphere to the event.
The celebration ended with a social gathering that provided participants with an opportunity to reconnect, strengthen community ties, and share experiences.
Beyond commemorating the victory that ended the Genocide against the Tutsi and liberated Rwanda, Kwibohora32 in Belgium served as an important platform for transmitting history to younger generations, promoting the values of unity and resilience, and reaffirming the commitment of the Rwandan diaspora to Rwanda’s continued development and progress.
The President of the Rwandan Diaspora in Belgium (DRB-Rugari), Ernest Gakuba, emphasized the significance of Kwibohora in Rwanda’s contemporary history
Lawyer Richard Gisagara, speaking from France, delivered a presentation on justice, reconciliation, and national unity
Dr. Assumpta Kayiranga, a specialist in mental health, human relations, governance, and family trauma care, joined the discussion from Canada.
Béatrice Feza highlighted the vital role of women and youth in Rwanda’s development.
Dr. Aloys Rubayiza emphasized the importance of investment in driving economic growth and development.
Aimée Rulinda highlighted the role of Rwandan citizens in driving the country’s transformation. Claire Kayirangwa, one of the moderators of the discussions.
The photos below show participants watching a documentary on Rwanda’s liberation struggle and the country’s journey of development and transformation
The photos below capture participants following discussions on the history of Rwanda’s liberation struggle and the progress the country has achieved over the past 32 years
The event also featured cultural performances by artists Teta Diana and Cyusa Ibrahim, alongside traditional performances by the Amariza, Itetero, and Umurage cultural troupes
Claire Kayirangwa, one of the moderators of the discussions.
