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In a statement signed on Wednesday by Lawrence Kanyuka, the movement’s spokesperson, AFC/M23 strongly condemned what it called 'yet another violation of the ceasefire perpetrated by the Kinshasa regime,' which it said continues to disregard the Doha peace process.

According to the group, between Tuesday, August 26 and Wednesday, August 27, 2025, coalition forces comprised of the Congolese army (FARDC), FDLR militia, Wazalendo militias, foreign mercenaries, and Burundi’s National Defence Force attacked densely populated areas of Kadasomwa and its surroundings.

On Wednesday, August 27, the same forces allegedly launched a widespread offensive against Banyamulenge villages in Rugezi, Minembwe, in the Fizi highlands.

AFC/M23 reported that the attacks killed and displaced many civilians, creating what it called 'an unprecedented humanitarian crisis,' and said its forces were compelled to intervene to protect 'defenceless civilians.'

'These successive attacks are part of an ethnic cleansing campaign against our compatriots Banyamulenge, perpetrated in complicity with the Burundian army and in broad daylight.

“They were planned and executed by the people who enjoy total impunity and tacit acquiescence at national and international levels, including within institutions dedicated to upholding human rights,' the statement read.

The group further criticized what it described as the 'complicit silence' of the national and international community in the face of such violence.

AFC/M23 reaffirmed its 'unwavering commitment to defend and protect civilian populations from this existential threat, whatever its source.'

The reported violations come amid ongoing efforts to secure a lasting solution through the Qatar-brokered peace process, which led to the signing of the Declaration of Principles on July 19, 2025.

However, Kinshasa has been accused of undermining these efforts by fueling discord through continued attacks in violation of the agreed ceasefire.

Kinshasa coaltion forces have been accused of new attacks to populated areas including Minembwe.

IGIHE

Speaking before the U.S. Congressional Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) on Thursday, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the U.S., Mathilde Mukantabana, underlined that Rwanda’s defensive measures are conditional, time-bound, and directly linked to the verified neutralisation of the Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR).

'The defensive measures we have put in place will adjust only as the level of threat reduces,' Ambassador Mukantabana said in her statement. 'Rwanda commits to a phased, simultaneous, and independently verified drawdown of its security coordination measures in direct proportion to FDLR disarmament milestones.'

The ambassador’s testimony highlighted the persistent threat posed by the FDLR, a militia formed by remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The group has operated across eastern DRC for more than three decades, carrying out atrocities against civilians and maintaining ties with the Congolese military.

The hearing focused on the implementation of the Washington Accords, signed on December 4, 2025. The agreement, brokered with U.S. leadership alongside Qatar’s mediation, aims to establish lasting peace, security, and economic integration between Rwanda and the DRC.

State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary Sarah Troutman, representing the Trump administration, underscored U.S. monitoring of the agreement. She highlighted the potential for sanctions in case of violations and stressed the importance of neutralising the FDLR threat.

FDLR militia is 'a legitimate threat' to Rwanda and 'they cannot be allowed to operate in eastern DRC', said Troutman.

Ambassador Mukantabana provided historical context, recalling the Abacengezi insurgency of the late 1990s, a cross-border genocidal campaign launched by ex-Rwandan armed forces and Interahamwe militia that sought to destabilise Rwanda after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. She emphasised that the lessons of the past underpin Rwanda’s insistence on maintaining defensive measures until credible security assurances are established.

“The memories of genocide survivors, the graves of one million victims, and the documented history of the Abacengezi insurgency, which killed thousands more in the years following 1994, compel us to maintain defensive capabilities until credible security assurances are established, until the threat is gone, once and for all,” Mukantabana said.

The ambassador concluded by reaffirming Rwanda’s readiness to work with the DRC, the United States, the African Union, and other international partners to ensure that the Washington Accords translate into permanent peace and shared prosperity.

Beyond security, the Washington Accords also set a framework for regional economic transformation through the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF). Rwanda aims to expand cross-border trade, develop infrastructure, and create jobs, linking peace and prosperity to verified security measures.

Speaking before the U.S. Congressional Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) on Thursday, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the U.S., Mathilde Mukantabana, underlined that Rwanda’s defensive measures are conditional, time-bound, and directly linked to the verified neutralisation of the Forces Démocratiques de Libération du Rwanda (FDLR).

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In a statement, the ministry said the Russian army targeted an energy facility supporting Ukraine’s military-industrial complex, a production workshop, and storage and launch sites for long-range drones. It also struck temporary deployment points for Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 159 areas.

The statement also said that Russian air defense systems intercepted two guided bombs, 31 rockets from the U.S.-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system, and 68 fixed-wing drones.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is rooted in a deep-seated struggle over sovereignty, security, and national identity that escalated into full-scale war in 2022. At its core, Russia seeks to reassert influence over its neighbor, viewing Ukraine’s aspirations to join Western institutions like NATO and the European Union as an existential threat to its own security and “sphere of influence.”

Conversely, Ukraine views the war as a fight for survival and independence from Russian imperialism, asserting its right to determine its own future as a sovereign nation. These tensions are compounded by historical disputes over the Donbas region and Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, as well as a fundamental disagreement over whether Ukraine exists as a distinct culture and state or as an integral part of a “Greater Russia.”

Russia strikes have crippled power plants across Ukraine in recent days.

Xinhua

The ceremony also marked a historic milestone for UGHE as it graduated its first cohort of medical doctors, celebrating its 10th anniversary.

The graduation, held at UGHE’s Butaro campus, saw 30 medical doctors and 48 Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) graduates receive their degrees. The event was presided over by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva and attended by senior government officials, development partners, faculty, students, and alumni.

UGHE Chancellor Dr. Jim Yong Kim conferred the honorary degree to First Lady Kagame, describing her as 'an accomplished leader whose work spans education, health, and social transformation.'

He praised her contributions through initiatives such as the Imbuto Foundation, which champions girls’ education, reproductive health, and HIV/AIDS prevention, as well as her leadership in the Organization of African First Ladies for Development and the Unity Club promoting national reconciliation.

'Her moral guidance, presence, and advocacy have strengthened UGHE’s growth, credibility, and visibility across Africa and the world,' Dr. Kim said. 'It is my distinct honor and privilege to confer upon Her Excellency Mrs. Jeannette Kagame the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, in recognition of her exceptional leadership and distinguished public service.'

Receiving the honour, First Lady Kagame expressed her deep gratitude and reflected on the legacy of the late Dr. Paul Farmer, UGHE’s founding chancellor.

'To be honoured in this way is a gift for which I can only find a few words, yet to be watched from heaven by a dear friend as we celebrate those who have sought to honour his legacy through their own excellence means that I must try. What a milestone,' she said.

She reflected on how, for many years, solutions to health challenges were often perceived as something that had to come from outside the continent. 'Today we affirm a different truth,' she said. 'Pain, disease, and avoidable death are not our destiny, and neither are we bound to wait for answers to arrive from afar.'

Addressing the graduates directly, the First Lady challenged them to see themselves as agents of transformation.

'Your greatness is a revolution in the making,' she said. 'Congratulations for choosing to lay your brick in the resilience of our systems. May your contribution to global health and to the lives you will save and improve bear witness to every worth of late night of study, every moment of doubt, and every final push of determination.'

In his address, Prime Minister Nsengiyumva highlighted the critical role the graduates will play amid mounting pressures on health systems both in Rwanda and globally.

'Emerging diseases, workforce shortages, and financing constraints are no longer abstract challenges,' he said. 'Responding effectively requires more than clinical expertise; it demands an understanding of policy, management, data, and implementation, as well as the ability to translate plans into results.'

The Prime Minister further emphasised that UGHE graduates are expected to serve not only as practitioners but also as leaders capable of strengthening institutions, improving service delivery, and supporting sound decision-making across the health sector.

UGHE Chancellor Dr. Kim highlighted the uniqueness of the university’s journey, describing it as the product of an extraordinary partnership between the Government of Rwanda and global partners.

'This could not have happened in the vast majority of countries that I have been in,' he said, underscoring Rwanda’s leadership and long-term vision in building sustainable health systems.

Founded in 2015 with support from Partners In Health (PIH), UGHE inaugurated its permanent Butaro campus in 2019. The university offers six programs in partnership with Harvard University and has graduated 330 master’s degree holders, with 444 students currently enrolled.

Recognised for its growing academic reputation, Times Higher Education in 2024 ranked UGHE fourth among 129 leading universities in Sub-Saharan Africa.

With its graduates and initiatives, UGHE continues to play a critical role in Rwanda’s plans to expand its healthcare workforce and strengthen health systems, a vision strongly supported by First Lady Jeannette Kagame and President Paul Kagame’s administration throughout the university’s journey.

First Lady Jeannette Kagame was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of her outstanding leadership and contributions to education, health, and equity in Rwanda, across Africa, and beyond.

UGHE Chancellor Dr. Jim Yong Kim conferred the honorary degree to First Lady Kagame, describing her as 'an accomplished leader whose work spans education, health, and social transformation.'

The ceremony also marked a historic milestone for UGHE as it graduated its first cohort of medical doctors, celebrating its 10th anniversary.

The graduation, held at UGHE’s Butaro campus, saw 30 medical doctors and 48 Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) graduates receive their degrees.

The event was presided over by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva presided over the graduation, which was also attended by First Lady Jeannette Kagame.

This is the first cohort of doctors to receive degrees from the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) after six and a half years of training.

While the university was founded in 2015 with support from Partners In Health (PIH), its permanent Butaro campus was later inaugurated on January 25, 2019, by President Paul Kagame and the late Dr. Paul Farmer. Today, UGHE offers six university-level programs in partnership with Harvard University, sharing both curriculum design and faculty.

In 2024, Times Higher Education ranked UGHE fourth among 129 leading universities in Sub-Saharan Africa. Students at UGHE come from countries including Rwanda, the United States, Canada, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Lesotho, Uganda, and beyond.

Rwandan graduates say their training equips them to support national healthcare goals. Dr. Eden Gatesi commented, 'Rwanda is working to increase both the number and quality of doctors. I am ready to contribute, especially in rural areas, as that is where our training focused.'

Dr. Mfura Hertier added, 'Our education goes beyond treating patients. We are taught to consider factors that contribute to illness and prevent disease before it spreads.'

Dr. Delphine Mizero emphasized the holistic approach of UGHE, saying, 'Medicine alone is not enough. We study patients within their community context to understand all factors affecting their health.'

Since UGHE’s inception, 330 students have earned master’s degrees, with 444 currently enrolled.

Prof. Abebe Bekele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics and Research, highlighted UGHE’s impact: 'Over the past decade, UGHE has significantly improved the health and well-being of communities in Rwanda and across Africa through high-quality education, medical care, research, and community-centered healthcare.'

UGHE’s Kigali campus also offers third-level courses in Global Health Delivery. Beyond education, the university has supported Rwandans through training and employment initiatives. Over 128,000 people have received entrepreneurship training, and 1,260 individuals have found jobs through Butaro campus projects. Since 2016, 670 leaders from 56 African countries have received specialized training at UGHE.

The university is expected to help Rwanda achieve a healthcare workforce of four medical professionals per 1,000 people. Currently, Rwanda has only one doctor per 1,000 residents.

The plan anticipates 8,378 new medical students enrolling each year, with 32,973 graduates projected by 2028. These will include 1,686 general practitioners, 185 dentists, 832 medical specialists, 15,770 nurses, 5,209 midwives, and 8,394 other health professionals supporting doctors.

The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) on Sunday graduated 30 medical doctors and 48 Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) candidates in a ceremony that coincided with the university’s 10th anniversary.

Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva presided over the graduation ceremony.

First Lady Jeannette Kagame also attended the ceremony.

This is the first cohort of doctors to receive degrees from the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE).

UGHE’s Butaro campus was inaugurated in 2019.

IGIHE

In a press release issued on January 24, the group warned of what it described as an imminent and dangerous military escalation in the high plateaus of Fizi, Itombwe, and Uvira, with Minembwe identified as the main objective of the alleged offensive.

According to MRDP-Twiranweno, Burundian troops have been actively redeployed inside Congolese territory and are operating jointly with FARDC units in preparation for attacks on Banyamulenge villages.

The group said it possesses credible information indicating that FDNB units have been heavily deployed in the Mutambala area, particularly in the villages of Kichula, Itota, and Kananda. From these locations, the forces are allegedly planning coordinated ground operations toward Minembwe.

MRDP-Twiranweno says the military build-up poses a serious and immediate threat to civilians and forms part of what it characterises as a deliberate plan to forcibly uproot the Banyamulenge population from the high plateaus.

The reported escalation follows the recent withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces from the city of Uvira, a pullout that was, according to MRDP-Twiranweno, conditioned on the deployment of a neutral force to secure the area.

The group alleges that this condition was not respected, creating a security vacuum that was subsequently filled by FARDC and Wazalendo fighters. It further accuses Burundian forces of entering through the Gatumba border post and operating in Congolese military uniforms to conceal their involvement.

MRDP-Twiranweno reports that by Friday, January 23, joint forces had carried out ground attacks against the villages of Rugezi and Mukoko.

The group also accuses the FARDC of conducting drone bombardments on civilian areas. According to the statement, drone strikes on Friday afternoon injured four civilians in Gakenke, further worsening what the group describes as an already severe humanitarian situation.

'These attacks on populated areas constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law,' said Colonel Kamasa Ndakize Welcome, the group’s coordinator, warning of escalating civilian harm and displacement.

The movement strongly condemned what it termed a 'joint aggression' and said it holds the governments of Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo fully responsible for any attack against Minembwe and for any further civilian casualties.

The group also criticised what it described as the silence and inaction of regional and international peace actors, accusing them of enabling violence against civilians and failing to prevent the destruction and looting of Banyamulenge homes, churches, and NGO infrastructure, particularly in Uvira.

In the statement, MRDP-Twiranweno reaffirmed its determination to defend the Banyamulenge population and their property in the face of what it called an existential threat.

MRDP—Twirwaneho stated that Burundian and FARDC forces continue to carry out acts of violence.

According to MRDP-Twiranweno, Burundian troops have been actively redeployed inside Congolese territory and are operating jointly with FARDC units in preparation for attacks on Banyamulenge villages.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The support was unveiled on Saturday, January 24, 2026, during a ceremony at which beneficiaries, who had completed training in tailoring and technology, received tools and equipment to help them start income-generating activities.

The group of beneficiaries includes eight teen mothers and youth from vulnerable households in Musha Sector. They completed a year-long vocational training programme implemented through a partnership between the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, REAP, and Rwamagana District.

One of the beneficiaries, Jacques Sibomana, who trained in machine tailoring for a year, said his family had been living in poverty, but the support he received has given him renewed hope.

'I will work hard so that I can help my family get out of poverty,' he said. 'I started by sewing skirts, but now I can sew trousers. I can earn about Frw 15,000 per week, save part of it through a savings group, and use the rest to improve my life and support my family.'

Rachel Uwimpuhwe, 22, said the skills she acquired during the training will enable her to become independent and contribute to her household’s wellbeing.

'Tailoring will help me improve my life and meet my needs without depending on my parents,' she said. 'What I appreciate most is that we were trained to use different types of machines, which means I can find work anywhere or even start my own business. My goal is to earn income and support my family.'

Suman Allan, the President of Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, said the support was delivered through the REAP project, which focuses on equipping youth from vulnerable families and teen mothers with practical skills.

'We provided them with training and the necessary equipment,' he said. 'We encourage them to use these tools responsibly, maintain discipline, and apply their skills effectively so they can transform their lives and help their families rise out of poverty.'

The Executive Secretary of Musha Sector, Jean Claude Rwagasana, assured beneficiaries that local authorities will continue to support them even after the training period.

'You are not alone,' he said. 'Teen mothers will continue to receive legal aid, and youth from vulnerable families will also receive follow-up until they achieve sustainable progress. Use the tools you have been given productively so that you and your families can move forward.'

The Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, which has been operating for two years, focuses on empowering young people from vulnerable backgrounds by helping them acquire vocational skills. Beyond training, the club also facilitates job placements for some beneficiaries in garment factories across the country.

Rotary Club representatives and local leaders stand at the completion of the year-long skills training programme.

A graduate receives certificate from Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan leadership.

The support was unveiled on Saturday, January 24, 2026, during a ceremony at which beneficiaries, who had completed training in tailoring and technology, received tools and equipment to help them start income-generating activities.

A group photo of vocational training graduates supported by the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan in partnership with REAP and Rwamagana District.

IGIHE

During a recent visit, IGIHE explored the restaurant, its ambience, and the philosophy behind its Afro-Asian fusion cuisine, speaking with Kōzo Kigali’s leadership to understand what makes the experience unique.

Kōzo Kigali officially opened its doors in November 2023, marking the brand’s expansion from West Africa to East Africa. Originally founded in Ghana, the restaurant is the vision of a Ghanaian owner who sought to create a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.

According to Dinesh Parerao, Director of Operations at Kōzo Kigali, the success of the original restaurant in Ghana sparked the desire to look beyond borders.

'When we realised that this success should not be limited to Ghana, we began exploring different African markets,' Parerao told IGIHE. 'When we visited Rwanda, we felt it was the right choice, as it is one of the emerging hospitality markets.'

That sense of intention is reflected in both the food and the overall experience. Kōzo Kigali positions itself as an affordable fine-dining restaurant, recently introducing a lunch set menu designed to fit into Kigali’s fast-paced lifestyle. Priced between 20,000 and 35,000 Rwandan francs, the menu offers a complete dining experience, from welcome drinks to starters, a main course, dessert, and even a digestive at the end of the meal.

'People experience it, and I can say that it is one of the best affordable meals that we can provide in town,” Parerao added.

Kōzo’s identity is defined by its farm-to-table philosophy. The restaurant works closely with local farmers to ensure consistent quality and freshness, while also supporting Rwanda’s agricultural community. For the team, success is measured not only in numbers but in the way guests feel welcomed and cared for.

'One of our proudest moments is simply getting customers through the door and making them feel at home,' Parerao said. 'We are also proud to host global brands and personalities who choose Kōzo to celebrate their special moments.'

Over time, Kōzo Kigali has become a hub for international events and high-profile gatherings. From hosting American comedian Dave Chappelle’s pop-up show in May 2024 to events linked to the Basketball Africa League (BAL), the NBA, and Giants of Africa, the restaurant has positioned itself as a bridge between Kigali and the global cultural scene.

Behind the menu is Group Executive Chef Sakorn Somboon, whose culinary philosophy blends deep historical context with creativity and local adaptation. Speaking to IGIHE, Somboon described Indian and Chinese cuisines as the foundations of global culinary art, noting their thousands of years of history compared to Europe’s later adoption of spices and complex techniques.

'At Kōzo, the product is local, and the flavour is African, but the techniques and inspiration come from across Asia,' he explained. 'We use ingredients from the African continent and ideas from the whole of Asia, not just one region.'

This Afro-Asian approach, Somboon believes, resonates globally because of shared histories and influences across continents. Menu decisions, he added, begin with availability and the stories behind each ingredient and farmer.

One dish that captures this philosophy is Kōzo’s reimagined chapati. Somboon traced its roots across cultures, from flatbreads found worldwide to a chapati inspired by Indian naan, brought to East Africa via Kenya, and later popularised in Uganda as the famous Rolex. At Kōzo, the team transforms it into a suya chapati taco, blending Asian inspiration with local African ingredients.

'It’s the food I would cook to feel at home as an Asian person living in Africa, using African ingredients,' he said. 'Every dish has a story, and after tasting it, guests create their own story and share it with others.'

Beyond the food, the restaurant’s Afro-chic ambience completes the experience. With stylish indoor seating, intimate outdoor corners, water features, and views of Kigali’s skyline, Kōzo Kigali has become a popular spot for sundowner cocktails, celebrations, and relaxed evenings.

Check out the full video below to explore the story and inspiration behind Kōzo Kigali’s Afro-Asian menu.

Kōzo Kigali Restaurant has steadily built a reputation as one of the city’s standout dining destinations.

Kōzo Kigali officially opened its doors in November 2023, marking the brand’s expansion from West Africa to East Africa.

Beyond the food, the restaurant’s Afro-chic ambience completes the experience.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

In addition to this role, Brig Gen Gasana will also serve as an adviser to the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Staff on air force matters.

The appointments were announced on the night of January 24. In the same announcement, Col Dan Gatsinzi was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the Air Force in charge of operations.

Brig Gen Godfrey Gasana, who has been appointed Presidential Pilot, is an experienced aviator.

This is a rare and specialized appointment, and in recent times it is the first instance in which the role of Presidential Pilot has been publicly announced.

In 2023, Brig Gen Gasana, then holding the rank of Colonel, was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. At the time, he was serving as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Rwanda Air Force.

Col Dan Gatsinzi, meanwhile, was promoted to the rank of Colonel in September 2024 from Lieutenant Colonel.

In 2025, he emerged as the best-performing graduate among officers who completed their studies at the Senior Command and Staff College in Nyakinama.

In 2021, Col Gatsinzi served as Chief of Operations in the Rwanda Air Force.

Brig Gen Godfrey Gasana, who has been appointed Presidential Pilot, is an experienced aviator.

In 2025, Col Dan Gatsinzi emerged the best-performing graduate among officers who completed their studies at the Senior Command and Staff College in Nyakinama.

IGIHE

On the social platform X, the WHO chief noted that the move will make the United States itself and the world “less safe.”

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Jan. 20, 2025, the first day of his second term to formally initiate the U.S. exit from the UN specialized agency. The United Nations received the formal notice two days later.

Under the UN charter, the withdrawal takes effect one year after notice is given.

Commending the contribution made by the United States as a founding member to many of WHO’s greatest achievements, Tedros wrote in the X post, “Unfortunately, the reasons cited for the U.S. decision to withdraw from WHO are untrue.”

The U.S. move “makes both the U.S. and the world less safe,” he said, expressing hope that the United States “will return to active participation in WHO in the future.”

Also on Saturday, the WHO issued a statement, voicing regret over the U.S. withdrawal and rejecting accusations made by the Trump administration.

The U.S. withdrawal raises issues that will be considered by the WHO Executive Board at its regular meeting starting on Feb. 2 and by the World Health Assembly at its annual meeting in May 2026, it said.

In dealing with the consequences, the WHO Secretariat “will act on advice and guidance of our governing bodies accordingly,” a WHO press official told Xinhua in an email Wednesday.

The United States has yet to pay its outstanding membership dues, according to the official. “As of today, the USA has not paid the invoiced amounts for its assessed contributions for the biennium 2024-2025,” the official said.

The U.S.-based National Public Radio (NPR) reported that the outstanding amount is estimated to total some 278 million U.S. dollars.

World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Saturday depicted as “untrue” the reasons given by the United States for its withdrawal from the global health watchdog.

Xinhua