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  • President Kagame extends condolences to Kenyans over passing of Raila Odinga #rwanda #RwOT

    President Kagame sent the condolences through a message shared on X. 'On behalf of the people of Rwanda and on my own behalf, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, to my brother President William Ruto, and to the people of Kenya on the passing of Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga,' he posted.

    The Head of State also eulogised Raila Odinga as a lifelong dedicated public servant whose steadfast commitment to democracy, justice, and unity in Kenya and across Africa will be remembered for generations to come.

    'We stand in solidarity with the government and people of Kenya during this time of national mourning,' he added.

    Although Raila Odinga had been at odds with President William Ruto’s administration for some time, the two joined hands in early 2024 when the Kenyan government pledged to support Raila’s candidacy for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).

    In March 2024, Raila visited Rwanda, where he met with President Kagame. Shortly afterward, the Government of Rwanda publicly announced its support for his bid.

    While Raila did not win the AUC election, his contribution to Africa’s development remains significant.

    From 2018 to 2023, he served as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, a role that advanced major projects across the continent.

    Raila Odinga passed away in India on October 15, 2025, following cardiac arrest. In honor of his legacy, President William Ruto declared a seven-day period of national mourning across Kenya.

    President Paul Kagame eulogised Raila Odinga as a lifelong dedicated public servant whose steadfast commitment to democracy, justice, and unity in Kenya and across Africa will be remembered for generations to come.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-extends-condolences-to-kenyans-over-passing-of-raila-odinga

  • World Food Day 2025: Rome-Based UN Agencies reaffirm commitment to transforming agrifood systems in Rwanda for a better future #rwanda #RwOT

    Held under the global theme 'Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,' this year’s celebration also marks the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), a milestone that underscores the urgency of building sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems to achieve Zero Hunger (SDG 2).

    The celebration will be held on 24 October 2025 in Nyagatare District, Northern Rwanda.

    'As Rwanda advances toward becoming a middle-income, food-secure nation, FAO remains a trusted partner to the Government, working hand in hand to transform agriculture into a powerful driver of inclusive economic growth.

    “Through the Hand-in-Hand Initiative, FAO continues to connect data, partners, and investments to ensure that no one is left behind in Rwanda’s journey toward a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future,” said Nomathemba Mhlanga, FAO representative in Rwanda.

    Rwanda has made commendable strides in improving food security and nutrition through increased productivity, expanded irrigation, and investments in market access. The Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5) positions agriculture as a cornerstone for achieving food and nutrition security.

    It calls for a shift from subsistence farming to market-oriented, nutrition-sensitive, and climate-resilient agriculture. This transformation recognizes that improving dietary diversity and access to safe, nutritious foods begins in the field, with farmers empowered to produce high-value, nutrient-rich crops and livestock products.

    'Through supporting smallholder farmers, home grown school meals, and investments in youth employment, we see how practical actions help communities to tackle poverty, food insecurity, and stunting, and enable them to join Rwanda’s development vision. Together, we can ensure every child has the nutrition they need to learn and thrive,' said Andrea Bagnoli, Country Director and Representative, WFP.

    With the visionary leadership of Rwanda, working hand in hand, FAO, WFP, and IFAD are deepening their collective support to the government and partners to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems. Building on complementary strengths, FAO is expanding its Hand-in-Hand Initiative to harness geospatial data, agribusiness intelligence, investment matchmaking, promoting inclusive value chains and territorial development.

    WFP is promoting resilience and human capital by linking more than 130,000 smallholder farmers to markets, advocating for climate-resilient practices, advancing home-grown school feeding initiatives, and supporting shock-responsive social protection and nutrition systems.

    Meanwhile, IFAD is scaling up rural finance and private-sector engagement, supporting investments in irrigation, livestock development, climate-smart productivity, post-harvest systems, and youth- and women-led enterprises.

    'Transforming food systems requires bold investments and strategic partnerships,' said Dagmawi Habte-Selassie, IFAD Country Director and Representative for Rwanda. 'To unlock the full potential of rural economies, we must prioritize investments that mitigate risks for all stakeholders, including the private sector. With the right incentives and a supportive policy environment, private sector can drive efficiency, scale up innovation, create decent jobs, and build resilient, sustainable value chains.'

    Speaking on behalf of the Rome-Based Agencies, Dr Ozonnia Ojielo, UN Resident Coordinator, stated that, “On behalf of the Rome-Based Agencies, I wish to commend Rwanda for its unwavering commitment to achieving Zero Hunger and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through bold and transformative action in the agriculture sector. Guided by the Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA5), Rwanda continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership in building a modern, market-driven, and nutrition-sensitive agricultural system.

    “The United Nations, through its Rome-Based Agencies, stands firmly with the Government of Rwanda in driving climate adaptation, empowering youth and women in agrifood systems, and advancing national nutrition outcomes. Together with all partners, we are determined to sustain the momentum toward realizing Rwanda’s vision of an inclusive, resilient, and prosperous agricultural transformation'

    Rome-based agencies are aligning their efforts to deliver a tangible impact, empowering rural communities, driving sustainable growth, and ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward Zero Hunger.

    The Rome-based agencies urge all stakeholders, including development partners, civil society, the private sector, and communities, to collaborate for a food-secure future where every Rwandan has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.

    About FAO

    The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a United Nations specialized agency that leads international efforts to end hunger, improve nutrition, and achieve food security.

    Founded in 1945, it is an intergovernmental organization with 194 member countries and the European Union, and its headquarters are in Rome, Italy.

    FAO’s work includes providing technical assistance to governments, coordinating activities to improve agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, and intervening in humanitarian emergencies to rehabilitate agricultural systems.

    About WFP

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change.

    About IFAD

    IFAD is an international financial institution, and a United Nations specialized agency. Based in Rome — the United Nations food and agriculture hub — IFAD invests in rural people, empowering them to reduce poverty, increase food security, improve nutrition, and strengthen resilience.

    Since 1978, IFAD has provided more than US$25 billion in grants and low-interest loans to fund projects in developing countries.

    Nomathemba Mhlanga, FAO representative in Rwanda highlighted that the organization continues to connect data, partners, and investments to ensure that no one is left behind in Rwanda’s journey toward a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous future.

    Dagmawi Habte-Selassie, IFAD Country Director and Representative for Rwanda.

    Andrea Bagnoli is Country Director and Representative of WFP.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/world-food-day-2025-rome-based-un-agencies-reaffirm-commitment-to-transforming

  • Atmospheric CO2 levels soar to new highs in 2024: UN #rwanda #RwOT

    Citing the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Greenhouse Gas Bulletin released Wednesday, Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, told a daily briefing that continued emissions of CO2 from human activities and an upsurge from wildfires, as well as reduced CO2 absorption by “sinks” such as land ecosystems and the ocean, were responsible for the rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

    According to the report, concentrations of methane and nitrous oxide, which are the second and third most important long-lived greenhouse gases related to human activities, have also risen to record levels, he said.

    WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett warned that the heat trapped by CO2 and other greenhouse gases is turbocharging the climate and leading to more extreme weather, and stressed that reducing emissions is therefore essential not just for the climate but also for economic security and community well-being, said the spokesperson.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/atmospheric-co2-levels-soar-to-new-highs-in-2024-un

  • Prison overcrowding in Rwanda drops by 24.4% in 2024/2025 #rwanda #RwOT

    The Commission’s Chairperson, Providence Umurungi, attributed the decline to several key measures, including policies that encourage non-judicial conflict resolution such as mediation, the release of prisoners on provisional freedom, and plea-bargaining where suspects admit their guilt in exchange for lighter sentences.

    She made the disclosure on October 15, 2025, while presenting the NCHR’s 2024/2025 annual report and the 2025/2026 action plan to members of Parliament.

    Umurungi further noted that by the end of August 2025, the overcrowding rate had fallen even lower to 103.6%, showing a continuing downward trend compared to previous years.

    'This year, we have observed positive changes that need to be supported. During inspections conducted in March and April, overcrowding stood at 110%, but by the time we finalized this report, it had decreased by another 7%,' she said.

    The Commission carried out inspections on human rights observance in 14 prisons, rehabilitation camps for inmates serving community service, 112 RIB detention centers, 29 primary rehabilitation centers, three rehabilitation centers, nine elderly care centers, three homes from Impinganzima (hostels built for Genocide widows), and five mental health facilities.

    'It’s something to appreciate,' Umurungi remarked. 'The reduction is due to the renovation of some prisons, the release of many inmates, and the positive impact of mediation programs. While it’s still early, we’re seeing promising results that show such initiatives can yield strong outcomes if sustained.'

    The Judiciary’s annual report also supported these findings, revealing that in 2024/2025, the number of cases resolved through mediation rose by 32%, from 2,395 in 2023/2024 to 3,166 in 2024/2025.

    Similarly, cases settled through plea bargaining reached 11,846, up from 9,851 the previous year, an increase of 20%.

    However, Umurungi noted that despite these improvements, challenges remain in some prisons that still operate in outdated facilities, including Bugesera, Muhanga, Ngoma, and Rusizi prisons.
    She also said that specialized rooms for prisoners suffering from contagious diseases have been established in several facilities to improve healthcare conditions.

    Regarding the right to health, the Commission confirmed that medical services are available in prisons and that inmates requiring advanced care are referred to hospitals as needed.

    On the issue of torture, Umurungi emphasized that no cases of torture or inhumane treatment were recorded in Rwandan prisons during the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

    Nevertheless, the Commission observed that some prisons, notably Huye and Rusizi, still face higher levels of overcrowding.

    The Commission also inspected RIB detention facilities, where 5,927 detainees were being held, including 602 women, 211 boys, and 18 girls.

    The most congested stations were Gicumbi, Kabarondo, Gacurabwenge, Nyamata, Nyagatare, Kigabiro Kirehe, Kimironko, Rusororo, Nyarubuye, and Kirehe.

    Prison overcrowding in Rwanda dropped by 24.4% in 2024/2025.

    The report was presented to both chambers of parliament on Wednesday.

    The Chairperson of the National Commission for Human Rights, Providence Umurungi, attributed the decline to several key measures, including policies that encourage non-judicial conflict resolution.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/prison-overcrowding-in-rwanda-drops-by-24-4-in-2024-2025

  • UN humanitarian action on brink of collapse, UN chief warns #rwanda #RwOT

    In his remarks to the UN General Assembly on the UN80 Initiative, Guterres said: “Now is the time for bold, systemic change, building on the Humanitarian Reset: to deliver faster, at lower cost and with greater reliability to the millions of people whose lives depend on us in moments of crisis.”

    With this goal in mind, the UN chief said, the United Nations has established a New Humanitarian Compact between UN humanitarian agencies — a six-point blueprint to deliver better, restore trust in multilateral action and maximize the impact of every dollar.

    “The Compact will bring the UN system together in a new Collaborative Humanitarian Diplomacy Initiative — fostering coordinated negotiation and unified messaging, so that we speak and act as one for those in greatest need,” he said.

    Guterres highlighted the measures to be taken, including cutting coordination bureaucracy by simplifying humanitarian response plans, meetings and structures; integrating the supply chains of the principal humanitarian agencies, enabling more cost-effective procurement, pooled freight and shared logistics at global and country levels; and proposing to scale up the use of common services, from office space to fleets and security arrangements.

    “Everything that is specific of the activity of an agency should be developed by the agency, but everything that is common should be done together with a larger increase of efficiency and a meaningful reduction of costs,” he said.

    Guterres added that the United Nations will strengthen its joint capacities to leverage data for faster, earlier, more targeted and dignified action, and align responsibilities to reduce programmatic overlaps in the fields of food, mobility, beneficiary data, health and nutrition.

    In his speech, Guterres also said that to implement the UN80 Initiative, the United Nations has identified targeted efficiencies and cost reductions of over 15 percent in the proposed 2026 regular budget, and about 19 percent in posts. “The purpose is clear: to reduce duplication, strengthen quality and safeguard mandate delivery while responding to Member States’ call for greater efficiency.”

    The United Nations has appealed for more than 45.3 billion U.S. dollars for its global humanitarian needs in 2025, but only 21 percent, or 9.6 billion dollars, had been received as of the end of September, a staggering decrease of over 40 percent compared to the same time last year, a UN spokesperson said Tuesday.

    The United Nations’ humanitarian action is on the brink of collapse, with needs higher than ever and funding for the UN system’s humanitarian operations shrinking, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/un-humanitarian-action-on-brink-of-collapse-un-chief-warns

  • Rwanda’s travel trade roadshow shines in Cologne after Utrecht #rwanda #RwOT

    The event held on Tuesday, October 14, served as a powerful platform to present Rwanda’s rich tourism offerings, including unique travel packages created by local tour operators, to travel agencies and industry professionals in Germany’s Rhine region.

    The afternoon sessions brought together a diverse group of travel agencies and tour operators eager to explore Rwanda’s diverse tourism potential.

    Kageruka Ariella, Head of Tourism and Conservation at RDB, captivated the audience with in-depth presentations on Rwanda’s flagship experiences.

    These include the renowned gorilla trekking adventures in Volcanoes National Park, breathtaking wildlife safaris, vibrant cultural circuits across Kigali and rural communities, and the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

    The presentation also spotlighted the country’s high-end accommodations and eco-tourism offerings, showcasing Rwanda’s blend of adventure, luxury, and sustainability.

    Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor César, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing Rwanda’s unique assets and the abundant opportunities available for German tour operators and travel agents.

    The event also featured tailored, modular travel packages designed for both the German and Dutch markets. These packages cater to a wide range of travelers, from solo adventurers and families to groups and corporate travelers, ensuring that Rwanda’s offerings appeal to all.

    This roadshow marks an important step in Rwanda’s mission to enhance its visibility as a prime tourism destination in Europe, with a focus on both increasing tourist arrivals and maintaining the high-quality, sustainable tourism experience that the country is known for.

    Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor César, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing Rwanda’s unique assets and the abundant opportunities available for German tour operators and travel agents.

    Kageruka Ariella, Head of Tourism and Conservation at RDB, captivated the audience with in-depth presentations on Rwanda’s flagship experiences.

    IREBERO Ballet showcased Rwandan culture through traditional dance and songs.

    Some lucky participants won tickets to explore Rwanda with RwandAir, the national carrier.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-s-travel-trade-roadshow-shines-in-cologne-after-utrecht

  • How Spark’s Design Fellows are shaping the future of local development #rwanda #RwOT

    At the heart of Spark Microgrants’ mission lies the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP), a model that empowers communities to organize, plan, and lead their own development.

    Yet, as the realities and priorities of these communities evolve, the methods that support them must also adapt.

    Recognizing this, Spark launched the Design Fellowship Program, an initiative that transforms experienced Community-Based Facilitators (CBFs) into strategic designers and innovators of process.

    For Fellows like Fyson, Mustapher Saidi from Malawi, Sam Namusi (Uganda), Alexis Mbarushimana (Rwanda), and Innocent Nditurende (Rwanda), the fellowship represents a transformative step forward.

    'As a CBF, I facilitated weekly sessions. As a Design Fellow, I now help refine the FCAP process and test tools like chatbots,' says Fyson.

    Saidi echoes this sentiment, adding, 'The fellowship opened my mind. I now work across communities and learn from different realities.'

    The fellowship is not merely a title; it’s a platform for practical growth and hands-on learning. Through it, Fellows gain valuable skills in digital literacy, research, facilitation, and community design.

    Fyson Ekani from Lilongwe, Malawi, now confidently uses digital tools like Google Meet, Excel, and Sheets while leading focus group discussions and mentoring peers. Saidi and Sam have strengthened their research and coordination skills, and Mbarushimana has refined his abilities in planning, reporting, and analysis.

    These newfound competencies are not confined to theory. Fellows apply them daily as they test prototypes, advise on design improvements, and generate insights that guide Spark’s national strategies.

    'It taught me how to be independent and set smart goals,' says Saidi.

    'I’ve learned to manage conflict and support others,' adds Fyson.

    The impact of the Design Fellows extends far beyond their personal growth. Across Spark-supported communities, their influence is tangible.

    Fyson helped initiate manure production and tree-planting projects, while Saidi revived a long-stalled maize mill initiative and spearheaded reforestation efforts.

    Sam has supported agricultural programs across fifteen sub-counties while piloting new feedback tools. Mbarushimana and Nditurende have guided livestock projects and promoted vital health initiatives, such as insurance enrollment and household improvements.

    These stories reveal how the Design Fellows are not just guiding communities but are also testing, adapting, and scaling locally led projects that deliver real results.

    'Whenever I was stuck, I got help from my trainers or fellow Design Fellows,' recalls Sam. 'The fellowship made me feel part of something bigger,' adds Fyson.

    Beyond immediate community change, the Design Fellowship is nurturing the next generation of local leaders. Fyson aspires to become a Trainer, while Saidi and Sam are eager to pursue further opportunities in research and facilitation.

    Alexis dreams of enhancing his digital design skills, and Innocent, now a Trainer himself, reflects on his transformation: 'The program gave me the confidence and skills I needed to grow.'

    Through ongoing mentorship, peer learning, and feedback, the Fellows continue to evolve, charting new paths in leadership while inspiring others to do the same.

    What makes the Design Fellowship truly remarkable is its belief that innovation begins within communities themselves.

    By blending field experience with creative design thinking, Spark Microgrants is building a network of leaders who are redefining the meaning of sustainable development.

    The Design Fellows are not only facilitators of progress; they are co-creators of a movement where communities take the lead in designing their own future.

    One of the roles of a Design Fellow is to support community members to organize, plan, and lead their own development.

    Design Fellow Alexis Mbarushimana engages with community members during a field discussion in Bucyaba Village, Gakenke District.

    Alexis Mbarushimana, a Design Fellow at Spark Microgrants, shares insights during a community discussion in Bucyaba Village, Gakenke District — highlighting the key role Design Fellows play in supporting collaborative planning and local development.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/how-spark-s-design-fellows-are-shaping-the-future-of-local-development

  • UAE allocates US$10 million to strengthen community resilience to natural disasters in Asia, the Pacific #rwanda #RwOT

    The initiative, launched through UAE Aid Agency, will support the Emirates Nature—WWF, in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), to implement the 'Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme.'

    The announcement was made on the fourth day of the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress, hosted by Abu Dhabi.

    The Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme is a joint initiative between WWF and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

    The programme aims to harness nature-based solutions to strengthen communities’ ability to withstand and adapt to natural hazards, enhance disaster preparedness, and promote sustainable sources of income.

    The UAE’s US$10 million contribution will support the first phase of the programme, designed to attract additional co-financing from public and private sector partners and donor institutions. The goal is to expand the programme’s reach and ensure long-term sustainability through shared responsibility and collaboration.

    Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, reaffirmed the UAE’s pioneering global role in advancing international cooperation for the benefit of people and nature.

    Dr. Al Ameri said, 'This initiative embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to invest in preventive action and enhance the adaptive capacities of local communities in facing natural disasters.

    The strategic partnership between Emirates Nature and WWF reflects the UAE’s commitment to moving from crisis response to readiness and resilience, empowering communities to adapt and recover effectively.'

    Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature—WWF, stated, 'This commitment reflects the UAE’s belief that resilience begins within communities. For 25 years, Emirates Nature—WWF has worked hand in hand with the nation’s leadership and local partners to empower people and protect nature. Extending this ethos, by leading this programme across Asia-Pacific allows us to collaborate with communities in strengthening their natural defences, securing livelihoods, and shaping resilient, thriving futures together.'

    Kirsten Schuijt, Director-General of WWF International, said, 'Nature is one of humanity’s strongest allies in reducing disaster risk. Through this initiative, partners will support communities leading the restoration and stewardship of the ecosystems that protect them – from mangroves to mountains – while laying the foundation for safer, more resilient societies. This is a collective investment in both environmental integrity and human security.

    Nena Stoiljkovic, IFRC Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalisation, stated, 'The frequency and intensity of natural hazards are increasing, and the best way to protect and save lives is to build resilience before they strike. This initiative focuses on preparedness, adaptation and the mitigation of disaster risk – ensuring that hazards do not become disasters. By working with nature as our first line of defence, together with WWF, we can strengthen communities, safeguard lives and livelihoods, and reduce the human and economic cost of future crises.'

    The Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme focuses on three key pillars: the restoration of natural protective systems, including mangrove forests and coral reefs; the promotion of sustainable livelihoods, supporting farmers, fishers and small enterprises through eco-tourism and income diversification; and strengthening community preparedness through early warning systems and risk reduction frameworks developed with local communities.

    The programme’s first phase will be implemented in the Philippines, Indonesia, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands, establishing a scalable model for future regional expansion.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/uae-allocates-us-10-million-to-strengthen-community-resilience-to-natural

  • Rwanda’s 11 banking giants and their Frw 9.6 trillion empire #rwanda #RwOT

    This represents a 22.5 percent increase compared to the previous year. Together, they account for 67.4 percent of all regulated financial assets, meaning the banking sector controls roughly two-thirds of the country’s financial system and remains central to Rwanda’s financial stability and growth.

    At the core of this expansion are Rwanda’s nine commercial banks: I&M Bank Rwanda Plc, Bank of Kigali Plc, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, GT Bank Plc, Ecobank Rwanda Plc, Access Bank Rwanda Plc, Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, BOA Rwanda Plc, and NCBA Rwanda Plc. Combined, they manage assets valued at Frw 7.7 trillion.

    The commercial banks growth has been driven by strong lending activity and solid deposit mobilisation.

    Their growth has been driven by strong lending activity and solid deposit mobilisation, reflecting a buoyant domestic economy. Customer deposits rose by 27.7 percent to Frw 6.1 trillion, providing a stable funding base for lending. Using these funds, banks expanded their net loans to customers by 17.8 percent, reaching Frw 4.8 trillion.

    This sustained credit flow is supporting households and businesses in key sectors such as construction, trade, manufacturing, transport, and hospitality, helping to fuel economic activity across the country.

    Rwanda’s banks have also strengthened their financial foundations.

    Rwanda’s banks have also strengthened their financial foundations. Liquidity positions improved significantly, with cash holdings up by 48.1 percent, balances in other banks rising by 39.8 percent, and reserves at the National Bank of Rwanda increasing by 30.4 percent. These indicators point to improved resilience and the ability to withstand potential financial shocks.

    The sector’s capital position is also stronger. Total shareholders’ funds rose by 36.1 percent to FRW 1.8 trillion, driven by a 73.1 percent increase in reserves and a 21.6 percent rise in profits, which reached Frw 161 billion. This capital growth enhances lending capacity and provides an important buffer against possible economic disruptions.

    I&M head office in Kigali.

    While commercial banks dominate in size, specialised institutions continue to play a critical role. The Cooperative Bank, ZIGAMA CSS, manages Frw 1.1 trillion in assets and supports community-based financial services.

    The Rwanda Development Bank (BRD) also expanded its balance sheet to Frw 902.6 billion as it focuses on financing large-scale and long-term investment projects. Together, these institutions complement the commercial banks’ activities and contribute to a more inclusive financial ecosystem.

    Lower borrowing costs boost credit

    The banking sector is also benefiting from improved monetary conditions. Following recent reductions in the Central Bank Rate, the weighted average lending rate dropped by 37 basis points to 15.93 percent, making credit more affordable for businesses and households. This has encouraged borrowing and stimulated investment across multiple sectors.

    BPR head office in Kigali.

    Rwanda’s banking industry is therefore not only expanding in size but also building greater financial strength. With strong deposit growth, rising loan portfolios, and a solid capital base, the sector is well-positioned to support the country’s ongoing economic transformation. These 11 institutions are shaping Rwanda’s financial landscape and powering its ambition for sustained and inclusive growth.

    The banks are regulated by the National Bank of Rwanda.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/rwanda-s-11-banking-giants-and-their-frw-9-6-trillion-empire

  • AFC/M23 accuses Congolese army of launching major attacks after signing ceasefire monitoring mechanism #rwanda #RwOT

    AFC/M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, said on the morning of October 15, 2025, that the attacks were conducted in coordination with other armed groups and militias allied with the FARDC, including the Wazalendo coalition.

    'AFC/M23 informs citizens and the international community that, as has often been the case, the coalition of forces under Kinshasa’s command launched heavy bombardments on densely populated areas and on our positions in South and North Kivu, just hours after the ceasefire mechanism was signed in Doha on October 14, 2025.'

    Kanyuka explained that other AFC/M23 positions also came under ground assaults, including Kadasomwa and Lumbishi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu Province, as well as Kasake in Masisi territory, North Kivu Province.

    The DRC government forces launched these attacks in AFC/M23-controlled zones shortly after representatives from both sides signed an agreement on Tuesday, October 14, in Doha establishing a joint ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism aimed at consolidating peace efforts in the country’s volatile east.

    Facilitated by the State of Qatar, the agreement builds on the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19, 2025, and outlines a structured process for monitoring compliance with the permanent ceasefire. The mechanism will be responsible for investigating and verifying alleged violations and engaging relevant actors to prevent renewed hostilities.

    This was considered a significant step forward, aimed at helping both sides continue dialogue without obstacles and ultimately reach a lasting peace accord.

    Kanyuka has emphasized that, beyond endangering civilians, the government coalition’s attacks undermine ongoing peace efforts.

    AFC/M23 has accused Congolese army of launching major attacks despite ceasefire monitoring mechanism signed on Tuesday, October 14.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/afc-m23-accuses-congolese-army-of-launching-major-attacks-after-signing