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The advance comes after days of heavy fighting in the Rusizi valley, where AFC/M23 fighters have pushed back DRC government forces across several areas. Prior to taking Kiliba, the coalition captured the town centre of Runingo and other localities, including Katogota, Rurambo, Luberizi, Luvungi, Mutalule, Bwegera, Nyakabere, and Sange.

Media reports indicate that gunfire was heard in Uvira city even before Kiliba fell, allegedly from fighters associated with the Wazalendo coalition. The escalating insecurity has forced businesses and schools in Uvira to close temporarily.

Sources in South Kivu say that Burundian troops stationed in captured areas, including Runingo, withdrew after facing heavy resistance from AFC/M23 fighters. Similar reports emerged on December 8, when Burundian forces, alongside DRC and Wazalendo fighters, reportedly retreated following the loss of Sange town centre.

The situation remains fluid, with residents and authorities closely monitoring the unfolding security dynamics along the Uvira corridor.

Kiliba town is a strategic settlement approximately 20 kilometres from Uvira city in South Kivu province.

Kiliba township lies on the outskirts of Uvira city.

IGIHE

This year’s event was attended by Marta Nawrocka, the wife of Polish President Karol Nawrocki, who took the opportunity to explore various exhibits from around the world, including Rwanda’s unique offerings.

The SHOM Charity Bazaar, which highlights the best products from participating countries, raises funds for charitable initiatives supported by non-governmental organizations in Poland and abroad.

This year, the event aimed to assist 17 organizations, including a Polish initiative that established a school for visually impaired children in Kibeho, Rwanda.

Rwanda’s booth featured a selection of its renowned products, including coffee, tea, baskets, and traditional crafts, which attracted a large crowd.

Marta Nawrocka visited the Rwandan booth, where she was warmly welcomed by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Poland, Prof. Shyaka Anastase, and his wife, Beata Shyaka. They took the opportunity to explain the significance of Rwanda’s products and the country’s rich culture.

The event, which took place just ahead of Christmas, was also attended by children from a local kindergarten in the Siemiatycze district.

Upon reaching the Rwandan booth, the children were greeted by Ambassador Shyaka and performed Christmas songs in Kinyarwanda, proudly waving Rwandan flags.

Amb. Shyaka expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all those who contributed to showcasing Rwanda’s cultural and artisanal treasures.

He particularly thanked the children for bringing the spirit of Christmas to the event through their songs in Kinyarwanda, offering a glimpse of Rwanda’s vibrant culture to attendees at the charity bazaar.

The First Lady of Poland (dressed in red) and the wife of the Rwandan Ambassador to Poland visited organizations supported by SHOM.

The First Lady of Poland (on the right) was given a detailed explanation of Rwanda’s products.

Rwanda showcased its key products, including tea, coffee, and traditional baskets.

Preschool children arrived with Rwandan flags and sang Christmas carols in Kinyarwanda.

Marta Nawrocki, the First Lady of Poland (center), was the guest of honor at the event.

IGIHE

Located in Kacyiru, one of Kigali’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, the new hotel sits on the historic grounds of the former Umubano Hotel, once among the city’s first international hospitality landmarks. Its transformation into Mövenpick Kigali marks both a renewal of the site’s legacy and an investment in Rwanda’s fast-growing tourism and business ecosystem.

Just minutes from Kigali International Airport and within close reach of the Kigali Convention Centre, BK Arena, and major diplomatic institutions, the hotel is strategically positioned at the heart of the capital’s diplomatic and lifestyle district.

Owned by Kasada Capital Management, in partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority and Accor, the project aims to redefine urban hospitality in Kigali through sustainability, community-centred initiatives, and thoughtful design.

'Our goal is to create joyful moments of genuine reconnection, where every guest feels both inspired and at home,' said Mediatrice Umulisa, General Manager of Mövenpick Kigali, in a statement on Monday, December 8, 2025.

“Our approach blends Swiss hospitality, heartfelt Rwandan service, and thoughtful design to create an experience that feels warm, contemporary, and deeply rooted in place. Whether guests join us for business, relaxation, or culinary discovery, we want them to feel the joy of a stay that is nourishing, generous, and full of meaning.'

The hotel features 124 elegantly designed rooms and suites, many overlooking Kigali’s green, hilly skyline. Interiors, developed by Shelter Group Africa, incorporate biophilic design and Rwandan cultural motifs to create calming, modern spaces that reflect both the country’s heritage and the brand’s global standards.

The hotel features 124 elegantly designed rooms and suites.

Guests can enjoy signature Mövenpick offerings, including the beloved Chocolate Hour, an afternoon celebration of Swiss indulgence, and RAAVA, the hotel’s new all-day dining restaurant serving an eclectic mix of local and international cuisine. A poolside bar further enhances the relaxed, resort-style atmosphere.

Designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers, the hotel includes four flexible meeting rooms with capacity for up to 300 people. Each space offers panoramic city views, making it an attractive venue for conferences, corporate events, and co-working.

Additional facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a wellness spa, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Families are also well-served through the 'Little Birds Club,' an engaging space tailored for young guests.

The heated outdoor swimming pool at Mövenpick Kigali offers guests a serene space to unwind while taking in the city’s lush skyline.

Raki Phillips, Accor’s Regional President for the Premium, Midscale and Economy division across the Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, described the opening as a milestone for the brand in Rwanda.

'The opening of Mövenpick Kigali marks a proud new chapter for our brand in Rwanda, a country known for its warmth, and forward momentum. Mövenpick Kigali is a bridge between past and future, reimagining a beloved landmark while contributing to the city’s continued transformation,” Raki remarked.

'Through the creation of meaningful local employment, investment in young talent, and a deep commitment to sustainability, this opening reflects our belief that hospitality should leave a positive imprint both for our guests and the communities we serve.'

More than 160 permanent jobs are expected to be created, with a strong focus on hiring local talent, including graduates from Rwanda’s top hospitality schools and former Umubano Hotel staff.

Sustainability is central to the hotel’s operations. Mövenpick Kigali is working toward Green Globe certification and has adopted a full no-single-use-plastic policy, alongside other eco-friendly measures designed to reduce its environmental impact.

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, praised the project’s contribution to Rwanda’s tourism and investment landscape.

'The launch of Mövenpick Kigali is both a renewal and a continuation of history. This site holds deep significance in Rwanda’s hospitality journey. Mövenpick’s arrival honours that legacy while ushering in a new era of excellence.'

Set on the historic grounds of the former Umubano Hotel, Mövenpick Hotel Kigali blends contemporary design with local warmth.

To mark the opening, members of ALL, Accor’s lifestyle loyalty programme, will earn four times the usual Reward points for stays between December 21, 2025 and April 26, 2026, when booked by December 21, 2025.

With its blend of Swiss precision, Rwandan hospitality, and a modern vision for sustainable tourism, Mövenpick Kigali is set to become one of the capital’s standout destinations for travellers, residents, and global investors alike.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Located in Kacyiru, one of Kigali’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, the new hotel sits on the historic grounds of the former Umubano Hotel, once among the city’s first international hospitality landmarks. Its transformation into Mövenpick Kigali marks both a renewal of the site’s legacy and an investment in Rwanda’s fast-growing tourism and business ecosystem.

Just minutes from Kigali International Airport and within close reach of the Kigali Convention Centre, BK Arena, and major diplomatic institutions, the hotel is strategically positioned at the heart of the capital’s diplomatic and lifestyle district.

Owned by Kasada Capital Management, in partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority and Accor, the project aims to redefine urban hospitality in Kigali through sustainability, community-centred initiatives, and thoughtful design.

'Our goal is to create joyful moments of genuine reconnection, where every guest feels both inspired and at home,' said Mediatrice Umulisa, General Manager of Mövenpick Kigali, in a statement on Monday, December 8, 2025.

“Our approach blends Swiss hospitality, heartfelt Rwandan service, and thoughtful design to create an experience that feels warm, contemporary, and deeply rooted in place. Whether guests join us for business, relaxation, or culinary discovery, we want them to feel the joy of a stay that is nourishing, generous, and full of meaning.'

The hotel features 124 elegantly designed rooms and suites, many overlooking Kigali’s green, hilly skyline. Interiors, developed by Shelter Group Africa, incorporate biophilic design and Rwandan cultural motifs to create calming, modern spaces that reflect both the country’s heritage and the brand’s global standards.

The hotel features 124 elegantly designed rooms and suites.

Guests can enjoy signature Mövenpick offerings, including the beloved Chocolate Hour, an afternoon celebration of Swiss indulgence, and RAAVA, the hotel’s new all-day dining restaurant serving an eclectic mix of local and international cuisine. A poolside bar further enhances the relaxed, resort-style atmosphere.

Designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers, the hotel includes four flexible meeting rooms with capacity for up to 300 people. Each space offers panoramic city views, making it an attractive venue for conferences, corporate events, and co-working.

Additional facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a wellness spa, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Families are also well-served through the 'Little Birds Club,' an engaging space tailored for young guests.

The heated outdoor swimming pool at Mövenpick Kigali offers guests a serene space to unwind while taking in the city’s lush skyline.

Raki Phillips, Accor’s Regional President for the Premium, Midscale and Economy division across the Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, described the opening as a milestone for the brand in Rwanda.

'The opening of Mövenpick Kigali marks a proud new chapter for our brand in Rwanda, a country known for its warmth, and forward momentum. Mövenpick Kigali is a bridge between past and future, reimagining a beloved landmark while contributing to the city’s continued transformation,” Raki remarked.

'Through the creation of meaningful local employment, investment in young talent, and a deep commitment to sustainability, this opening reflects our belief that hospitality should leave a positive imprint both for our guests and the communities we serve.'

More than 160 permanent jobs are expected to be created, with a strong focus on hiring local talent, including graduates from Rwanda’s top hospitality schools and former Umubano Hotel staff.

Sustainability is central to the hotel’s operations. Mövenpick Kigali is working toward Green Globe certification and has adopted a full no-single-use-plastic policy, alongside other eco-friendly measures designed to reduce its environmental impact.

Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, praised the project’s contribution to Rwanda’s tourism and investment landscape.

'The launch of Mövenpick Kigali is both a renewal and a continuation of history. This site holds deep significance in Rwanda’s hospitality journey. Mövenpick’s arrival honours that legacy while ushering in a new era of excellence.'

Set on the historic grounds of the former Umubano Hotel, Mövenpick Kigali blends contemporary design with local warmth.

To mark the opening, members of ALL, Accor’s lifestyle loyalty programme, will earn four times the usual Reward points for stays between December 21, 2025 and April 26, 2026, when booked by December 21, 2025.

With its blend of Swiss precision, Rwandan hospitality, and a modern vision for sustainable tourism, Mövenpick Kigali is set to become one of the capital’s standout destinations for travellers, residents, and global investors alike.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Rubavu is a popular hub for entertainment and tourism in Rwanda. On weekends, people of all ages flock to enjoy the beaches of Tam Tam, the hot springs known as Amashyuza in Nyamyumba, and other scenic spots that offer stunning views of the city of Goma and the surrounding hills of Lake Kivu.

The district’s administration unveiled these major projects during a retreat that brought together various stakeholders in the district’s development.

The Rubavu district authorities say that in the next five years, five new hotels will be built along the shores of Lake Kivu, along with other initiatives that will transform the region’s tourism landscape.

Speaking to IGIHE, the Mayor of Rubavu District Prosper Mulindwa, stated that they are continuing to support local and international investors who wish to invest in hotels and tourism.

“These five hotels will be built by establishing large tourism investment zones, in collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board [RDB] and local and international private investors. We will continue to encourage investment in hotel services, offering support in planning, permits, roads, and basic infrastructure,' he said.

Mulindwa added that these hotels will offer international standard services, provide training for tourism service providers, and be places for learning and work.

The hotels are also expected to increase the number of modern rooms for international conference attendees and tourists, help youth with entrepreneurship, and boost the economy through services.

For instance, just below Serena Hotel, near the Rubavu district offices, a tall hotel building is under construction, although the name has not yet been revealed.

According to information obtained by IGIHE, the hotel, being built by the family of former President Pasteur Bizimungu, will be a five-star establishment.

Reports suggest that this hotel will stand out in Rubavu as it will have over 80 rooms, making it the largest in the city. It will also feature a large conference room, a rare addition for hotels in Rubavu.

Additionally, the hotel will have an outdoor pool, offering a view of Lake Kivu from the top.

In Nyamyumba, another five-star hotel is under construction. This hotel will feature a unique system that uses hot springs in the rooms, replacing traditional water heating systems.

Currently, Rubavu has 24 hotels, offering a total of 2,059 rooms, with 1,471 of these located in Gisenyi sector. The largest hotel is Serena Hotel, with 69 rooms, followed by Stipp Hotel with 50 rooms.

Rubavu District administration has announced plans for construction of five new hotels to further expand tourism investment and increase the number of hotel rooms.

This hotel, being built by the family of former President Pasteur Bizimungu, will be a five-star establishment.

IGIHE

The FiRe Award, presented by the Capital Markets Authority Kenya, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, Nairobi Securities Exchange, Public Sector Accounting Standards Board — Kenya, and the Retirement Benefits Authority, celebrates organisations that demonstrate outstanding integrity, clarity, and responsibility in reporting.

Now in its 18th edition, the platform is widely regarded as the region’s benchmark for best practice in financial reporting.

Speaking after the announcement, Bank of Kigali’s Chief Finance Officer Anita Umuhire said the recognition affirms the bank’s commitment to openness and professionalism.

'Winning the FiRe Award reflects the professionalism that define everything we do at Bank of Kigali,' said Umuhire. 'It’s a recognition that our commitment to transparency not only strengthens trust with our customers but also sets a benchmark for the Rwandan financial sector and beyond.'

Chief Executive Officer Dr. Diane Karusisi described the win as a reflection of the dedication of staff, partners, and regulators.

'We dedicate this award to our dedicated teams, regulators, partners, and every customer whose confidence inspires us to raise the bar every year. This recognition motivates us to continue leading with excellence in all we do,” stated Dr. Karusisi.

The recognition comes on the back of a solid half-year performance. The bank reported a Profit After Tax of Rwf 52.2 billion for the first half of 2025, a 12.9 percent increase from the previous year. Growth was supported by a loan book expansion of more than Rwf 231 billion, improved asset quality, and an increase in customers.

Total assets rose to Rwf 2.6 trillion, while loans reached Rwf 1,75 trillion, underscoring the bank’s central role in financing Rwanda’s economic activity. SMEs accessed Rwf 238 billion in credit, retail lending climbed to Rwf 313 billion, and agribusiness financing increased sharply to Rwf 95 billion, one of the fastest-growing segments.

Corporate and institutional lending rose to Rwf 1.1 trillion, supporting investment across infrastructure, transport, tourism, health, and education. A newly introduced Institutional Banking segment has also begun enhancing service delivery to NGOs and faith-based organisations.

Established in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest commercial bank and serves more than one million customers nationwide. Its performance has earned repeated international accolades, including multiple honours from Euromoney Awards for Excellence and Global Finance Magazine.

Bank of Kigali Plc has been named the winner of the 2025 Financial Reporting (FiRe) Award, securing East Africa’s top recognition for transparency, governance, and high-quality financial reporting.

The FiRe Award celebrates organisations that demonstrate outstanding integrity, clarity, and responsibility in reporting.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

This figure was revealed by the Commissioner General of the Rwanda Correctional Service, CG Evariste Murenzi, who stated that since the beginning of 2025, the service has received over 23,000 people sentenced by the courts.

On average, this means that at least 2,090 people are imprisoned each month. Currently, the total number of incarcerated individuals is over 70,000, with 23,000 new inmates received this year alone.

The Rwanda Human Rights Commission recently noted a decrease in the number of detainees, contributing to a reduction in overcrowding in prisons by 24.3%, from 134.3% to 110%.

The Commission also revealed that the total number of prisoners is 74,253, including 68,944 men, 4,773 women, and 536 children.

CG Murenzi emphasized that RCS is focused on rehabilitating offenders rather than punishing them as was done in the past.

He added that work-release programs are being implemented to reduce overcrowding, which allow inmates to work outside of prison three days a week, benefiting both the individual and their community.

President of the Supreme Court, Mukantaganzwa Domitilla, stated that efforts to promote reconciliation and restorative justice would further reduce incarceration rates.

The cost of detaining prisoners accounts for a significant portion of the budget. For example, last year, the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) was allocated over Frw 40 billion, with 60% of this amount used for the care of inmates across various correctional facilities.

This means that more than Frw 24 billion was spent on this, while the remaining funds were used for other activities.

The Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) has reported that over 23,000 individuals have been imprisoned for various offenses in the past 11 months of 2025.

CG Murenzi emphasized that RCS is focused on rehabilitating offenders rather than punishing them as was done in the past.

President of the Supreme Court, Mukantaganzwa Domitilla, stated that efforts to promote reconciliation and restorative justice would further reduce incarceration rates.

IGIHE

The border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has already resulted in significant civilian casualties, damage to civilian infrastructure, and displacement on both sides of the border, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

The UN chief stresses that both parties must protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian relief, and urges both parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation, the spokesperson said.

Dujarric said the secretary-general reiterates his call on the parties to return to the framework of the Joint Declaration signed on Oct. 26, recommit to the ceasefire, and implement de-escalation and confidence-building measures.

Guterres calls on both parties to make full use of all mechanisms for dialogue to find a lasting solution to the dispute through peaceful means, the spokesperson said.

“The United Nations stands ready to support all efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability, and development in the region,” Dujarric said.

Border clashes broke out again between Thailand and Cambodia from Sunday to Monday, with artillery fire reported in several areas and residents rushing to evacuate in multiple provinces, less than two months after the two countries signed a joint peace declaration.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is concerned by reports of renewed armed clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, particularly the reported airstrikes and mobilization of heavy equipment in the border area, his spokesperson said Monday.

Xinhua

In a statement, the Israeli military said the strikes hit a compound used by Hezbollah’s Radwan Force for training activities. Additional military structures and a launch site belonging to Hezbollah were also targeted.

Video circulating on social networks showed large flames rising above buildings, while Lebanon’s Al-Mayadeen TV reported that violent air raids targeted the Iqlim al-Tuffah area and Mount Safi.

There were no immediate reports of casualties.

The attack was the latest of recent intensified Israeli strikes in Lebanon, despite a ceasefire that came into effect in November 2024.

Photo taken on Sept. 18, 2025, shows an Israeli airstrike hitting a house in the center of Kfar Tebnit, near Nabatieh in southern Lebanon.

Xinhua

Speaking across several high-level panels, the Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), Thapelo Tsheole, positioned institutional investors, pension funds, insurers, collective investment schemes, and banks as the bedrock of Rwanda’s next growth phase. With long-term horizons and sizeable asset bases, these investors offer the stability and scale required to support market depth and sustained capital formation.

Tsheole acknowledged the challenges of deploying long-term capital in frontier markets, noting the need for strong governance, technical capacity, and robust risk frameworks to safeguard investors’ interests while driving productive investment.

He also emphasised Rwanda’s regulatory model, rooted in clarity, predictability, and investor protection. The CMA follows a consultative approach and in 2025 engaged more than 700 enterprises nationwide to ensure that regulation remains proportionate, practical, and responsive to a rapidly evolving market landscape.

Regionally, Rwanda continues to collaborate through the East African Securities Regulatory Authorities (EASRA), advancing cross-border listings, shared innovation frameworks, and harmonised oversight standards. This enhances market connectivity and widens access to capital across East Africa.

On foreign participation, Tsheole pointed to the Multicurrency Securities Directive as a breakthrough for diaspora and international investors. Rwanda’s diaspora remits between USD 600—800 million annually, roughly 6% of GDP. New instruments such as diaspora bonds and digital savings products aim to channel a portion of these flows into long-term national investment priorities.

Rwanda presented a clear picture of a market that now moves beyond early-stage reform towards sustained growth and deeper participation.

IGIHE