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The secretary-general “welcomes and is encouraged” by the statement issued by Hamas, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement.

The UN chief urged all parties to seize the opportunity to bring the conflict in the Gaza Strip to an end, and thanked Qatar and Egypt for their invaluable mediation work, said the spokesperson.

Dujarric said the secretary-general reiterated his call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and unfettered humanitarian access. “The United Nations will support all efforts toward these objectives to prevent even more suffering.”

Hamas announced Friday that it has submitted its response to Trump’s Gaza peace proposal to regional and international mediators, saying it has agreed in principle to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased.

In a press statement, the Palestinian armed group also agreed to transfer the administration of Gaza to a Palestinian body of independent technocrats, formed through national consensus and supported by Arab and Islamic countries.

“Based on the Statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting PEACE,” Trump said Friday on Truth Social, adding that Israel must immediately stop its bombing of Gaza. “We are already in discussions on details to be worked out. This is not about Gaza alone, this is about long sought PEACE in the Middle East.”

On Monday, the Trump administration unveiled a 20-point proposal after the U.S. president held talks with visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which outlines a ceasefire-for-hostages deal, a phased Israeli withdrawal, a demilitarized Gaza, and international oversight of Gaza’s reconstruction and governance after the end of the conflict.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has welcomed the statement issued by Hamas announcing its readiness to release hostages and to engage on the basis of the proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Xinhua

According to a statement released by RDF, the promotion takes immediate effect.

The RDF serves the people of Rwanda by safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and also supports international peacekeeping missions. It is widely recognized for the dedication and discipline of its soldiers.

Currently, RDF personnel are deployed on peacekeeping missions under the United Nations in South Sudan and the Central African Republic, while others safeguard peace under bilateral agreements in the Central African Republic and Mozambique.

Rwanda is the fourth largest contributor to UN peacekeeping missions with the deployment of more than 4,585 troops, including 249 women.

Promotions within the RDF reflect the institution’s growth and the professional advancement of individual soldiers.

During the commissioning of 1,029 new officers into the RDF on October 3, President Kagame reminded the officers that their role is vital regardless of Rwanda’s size or population, stressing that the RDF must remain strong, professional, and ready to defend the country’s sovereignty.

President Kagame has promoted over 600 RDF officers.

IGIHE

From 2:00 PM, guests will step into a vibrant day-to-night journey filled with fun games, interactive activities, and a wave of good vibes that build toward an electrifying evening of live performances.

The Friends of Amstel stage will showcase a stellar lineup: Rwanda’s very own Bruce Melodie, Kivumbi King, and Mike Kayihura, alongside Kenya’s regional superstar Bien-Aimé. They will be joined by the dynamic beats of DJ Marnaud and Toxxyk, with a surprise international act set to raise the energy until the final beat.

More than just music, the event is designed as an immersive friendship experience—where moments of laughter, connection, and togetherness take center stage. Whether you come with a squad or join solo, Friends of Amstel is where bonds are made, and memories are shared.

Tickets are available in solo and group bundles (2, 4, or 6 friends), ensuring no one misses out because the spirit of Friends of Amstel is best enjoyed together.

Tickets for the event are now available and can be purchased online at Ticqet.rw. Guests are reminded that alcohol is not sold to anyone under the age of 18 and is not recommended for pregnant women. Attendees are also encouraged to enjoy drinks responsibly and to avoid drinking and driving.

Mike Kayihura is ready to bring his signature Afro-fusion sound to the epic evening.

Kivumbi King promises powerful vibes and crowd-moving energy.

Toxxyk is ready to drop electrifying mixes and take the Friends of Amstel experience to the next level.

Bruce Melodie, Rwanda’s hitmaker is set to light up the Friends of Amstel stage with an unforgettable performance.

DJ Marnaud will spin the beats that keep the Friends of Amstel vibe alive.

Bien-Aimé’s voice is expected to carry the crowd into a night of East African magic.

IGIHE

The commissioning ceremony coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Rwanda Military Academy, which has been training junior officers since its establishment.

Of the new officers, 557 completed a one-year program, 248 attended short-term courses, 182 completed a four-year long-term program, and 42 received their military education abroad. The group makes up the 12th intake of the Rwanda Military Academy.

Among those commissioned is Brian Kagame, the youngest son of President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, joining the RDF where his older brother, Capt Ian Kagame, is already serving in the Republican Guard.

Brigadier General Franco Rutagengwa, the Commandant of the Rwanda Military Academy, commended the graduates for their resilience, noting that the training was demanding as some candidates dropped out along the way.

'The journey was not easy; 36 trainees who started the program were unable to complete it due to health reasons, academic failure, or disciplinary issues,' he said.

He explained that the academy now offers degree-level programs in military science and other fields including medicine, mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry, law, nursing, computer science, and civil engineering.

Brig Gen Rutagengwa congratulated the graduates for choosing to serve in the RDF and urged them to uphold the core values of the force, including discipline, integrity, and dedication to duty.

President Kagame presented awards to the most outstanding graduates across several categories. Jean de Dieu Iyakaremye was recognized as the best student in the short-term courses, while Yves Ndamukunda earned the distinction of best student in the long-term courses.

Representing the partner countries, Dan Bakangambira from Uganda was honored as the top performer among international students while Emmanuel Kayitare was awarded as the overall best graduate.

In his speech, President Kagame praised the new officers for their commitment and sacrifice.

'I commend each of you for the determination and courage you showed during your training. I also thank your instructors for preparing you to serve the nation well,' he said.

He extended appreciation to the parents and families of the new officers for supporting their decision to join the military, describing the profession as one of honor and national service.

'Your responsibility is to protect Rwanda and its people,' Kagame emphasized.

He reminded the officers that their role is vital regardless of Rwanda’s size or population, stressing that the RDF must remain strong, professional, and ready to defend the country’s sovereignty.

President Kagame also thanked friendly nations that partnered with Rwanda in military education and training, highlighting the importance of such cooperation in building a capable and modern defence force.

IGIHE

In a press release, the department said that it had identified 321 financial awards supporting 223 projects that it decided to terminate, as these projects failed to “meet the economic, national security or energy security standards necessary to justify continued investment.”

Russell Vought, the White House budget director, said on X: “Nearly 8 billion dollars in Green New Scam funding to fuel the Left’s climate agenda is being cancelled.”

In late May, the Trump administration cut financial assistance for 24 emerging energy technology projects.

The latest cancellation is part of a broader funding freeze amid a federal government shutdown, which has stalled approvals for new wind and solar projects while allowing oil and gas activities to proceed using carryover funds, local media reported.

Xinhua

The initiative, led by the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) in partnership with Cisco and German development agency GIZ, is based at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology. It includes a Cybersecurity Academy, Innovation Hub, and advanced technology labs to provide training, research, and collaboration in cybersecurity.

The CyberHub will offer access to Cisco Networking Academy, a global IT skills-to-jobs program, with courses ranging from basic digital literacy to AI, penetration testing, ethical hacking, and advanced cybersecurity certifications.

The centre also provides a collaborative space for learners and stakeholders to explore emerging technologies, including AI and machine learning applications for threat detection and response.

Addressing a critical skills gap

Globally, there are an estimated four million unfilled cybersecurity positions, with Africa facing a particularly acute shortage. Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire said the centre’s initial target of training 200 professionals is a starting point toward closing this gap.

'Our job is not just for the training. How do we connect them to jobs and opportunities? How do we make sure that we are creating businesses that thrive?” the minister stated during the launch.

Partnerships and technology

Cisco provided networking equipment, AI-driven security systems, collaboration platforms, and IoT sensors to make the facility fully connected. Conrad Stein, Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration leader for Africa, said the hub aims to empower young people, women, and underserved communities with the skills needed to secure digital infrastructure and create economic opportunities.

Dima Kandalaft, senior director at Cisco, described the centre as one of the most advanced on the continent and said it will serve as a platform for both cybersecurity training and broader technological innovation.

Supporting Rwanda’s digital ambitions

The CyberHub aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation, which aims to raise digital literacy from 53% to 100% and train one million coders. University of Rwanda Principal Dr. Ignace Gatare praised the hub for promoting practical skills and research, while Silvia Heer of the German Embassy highlighted its role in supporting national digital security as part of Rwanda’s broader development agenda.

The centre is also part of Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration programme, which has implemented over 1,600 projects globally, supporting digital skills, innovation, and secure technology ecosystems.

Minister Ingabire said the long-term goal is to ensure that Rwanda and the wider continent have a workforce capable of anticipating, detecting, and responding to cybersecurity threats.

'The weakest link always in cybersecurity is often people. And if we’re not training people to match the technology investments that we’re making, we leave a huge gap and space for where many of the attackers will take advantage of the weaknesses and the weakest links that we have.'

Rwanda on Thursday launched the CyberHub, a new centre designed to strengthen cybersecurity skills and innovation, in a move aimed at addressing Africa’s growing digital skills gap.

The initiative is led by the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) in partnership with Cisco and German development agency GIZ.

The CyberHub will offer access to Cisco Networking Academy, a global IT skills-to-jobs program, with courses ranging from basic digital literacy to AI, penetration testing, ethical hacking, and advanced cybersecurity certifications.

University of Rwanda Principal Dr. Ignace Gatare praised the hub for promoting practical skills and research, while Silvia Heer of the German Embassy highlighted its role in supporting national digital security as part of Rwanda’s broader development agenda.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The initiative is part of the Digital Ambassador Program (2022—2025), a USD 4.5 million partnership between KOICA, MINICT, RISA, and MINECOFIN, aimed at empowering citizens with digital skills and expanding equitable access to e-services nationwide.

Each SAP is now equipped with modern laptops, internet connectivity, and smart boards to enable citizens to access e-Government platforms like Irembo, receive digital literacy training, and benefit from services such as printing and scanning. SAPs are designed as community hubs that bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas.

Since 2022, the Digital Ambassador Program has recruited and trained 2833 Digital Ambassadors and 78 supervisors, delivered digital literacy training to 4,526,486 citizens, and re-equipped five SAPs (one in each province) to serve as flagship centres of access.

The re-equipping also supports Rwanda’s SAP Strategy 2025—2029, which prioritises sustainability and community ownership. Under this strategy, Rwanda plans to re-equip and modernise 100 SAPs nationwide while introducing new ones, ensuring that all citizens benefit from inclusive and reliable digital services.

'The Service Access Points will make it easier for citizens, especially in rural communities, to connect to services and opportunities that are increasingly digital,' said Mr Antoine Sebera, CEO of RISA. 'With KOICA’s support and the collaboration of district authorities, these spaces are designed to serve communities in a more sustainable and impactful way.'

'This Service Access Point is more than a building; it is a gateway of opportunity,' said Ms KIM Jinhwa, Country Director of KOICA Rwanda Office. 'By investing in digital infrastructure and skills, we are investing in people’s dignity, productivity, and future. KOICA is proud to stand with Rwanda in this journey toward an inclusive digital society.'

The SAP initiative is directly aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) target of achieving 100% digital literacy by 2029, and supports the country’s long-term Vision 2050 of becoming a knowledge-based economy and ICT hub for the region.

About KOICA

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is a government agency established in 1991 to implement Korea’s grant aid and technical cooperation programs for developing countries, focusing on sustainable socio-economic development.

About RISA

The Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA) is responsible for implementing national ICT policies, programs, and projects that drive Rwanda’s digital transformation.

The Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT), has re-equipped five Service Access Points (SAPs) in Kayonza, Gatsibo, Rutsiro, Burera, and Ruhango districts.

The re-equipping also supports Rwanda’s SAP Strategy 2025—2029, which prioritises sustainability and community ownership.

Ms KIM Jinhwa, Country Director of KOICA Rwanda Office said that KOICA is proud to stand with Rwanda in the journey toward an inclusive digital society.

Each SAP is now equipped with modern laptops, internet connectivity, and smart boards to enable citizens to access e-Government platforms like Irembo, receive digital literacy training, and benefit from services such as printing and scanning.

IGIHE

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said Thursday in a statement that the Israeli Navy has completed taking over the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).

The GSF, comprising some 50 vessels with over 500 volunteers from more than 40 countries, aims to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and deliver food and medical aid to Palestinians.

All the aid vessels have been stopped in the Mediterranean Sea, except for one that “remains at a distance” from Gaza, it said.

Greek lawmakers on Thursday strongly condemned the interception of the flotilla, urging the government to ensure the safety of Greek citizens on board, including a sitting member of parliament.

Representatives from PASOK, SYRIZA, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), the New Left, and the Freedom Movement criticized the incident and demanded explanations from Israel, according to national broadcaster ERT.

Pavlos Christidis of PASOK-KINAL said the seizure of ships in international waters “raises serious questions of legality and human rights,” stressing that international law must be applied “without exceptions.”

KKE’s Nikos Karathanasopoulos denounced the raid as a “pirate attack,” accusing Israel and the European Union of failing to protect the mission. SYRIZA spokesman Christos Giannoulis highlighted the participation of Greek MP Peti Perka in the flotilla, calling the interception “a humanitarian disaster” and urging Athens to abandon “a policy of equal distances.”

Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis said Greece, in cooperation with other countries, “will do everything in our power to ensure full security for these citizens.”

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto voiced condemnation “in the strongest manner” as there were also Italian citizens on board.

Italy saw some of the largest demonstrations. On Wednesday night, thousands rallied in Rome, Milan, Naples and other cities after the flotilla was seized, occupying train stations and staging university sit-ins. Unions called a general strike, declaring the attack on civilian ships “an assault on humanitarian solidarity.”

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed around 40 Italians were detained, saying Israel’s actions had gone “well beyond” legitimate self-defense.

Portuguese authorities confirmed that three citizens, including a member of parliament, have been detained. Portuguese political figures voiced strong reactions Thursday to Israel’s detention of the three nationals, calling for their safe return and sharply criticizing Israel’s actions. Left Bloc leader Marisa Matias called the detention “illegal.”

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa pledged to provide “full consular support” through the embassy in Tel Aviv to ensure their rights and safe return.

In Germany, officials said they were in contact with Israel to ensure passengers’ safety. Thousands of people rallied in Berlin Saturday.

France also expressed concern, urging Israel to ensure the safety of its citizens, guarantee their right to consular protection and allow their prompt return.

The Netherlands reported six citizens detained. The Dutch Foreign Ministry called for their protection as protesters rallied in The Hague.

Britain’s Foreign Office confirmed contact with families of nationals aboard and said it expected Israel to resolve the matter safely.

Late Wednesday night, the flotilla denounced the “active aggression” of the Israeli military on Telegram, noting that the vessel Florida was “deliberately rammed at sea,” while Yulara, Meteque and others were hit with water cannons.

Though all crew members were unharmed, “these illegal attacks against unarmed humanitarian vessels constitute a war crime,” it said.

The latest round of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has dragged on for nearly two years, claiming more than 65,000 lives in Gaza, nearly half of them women and children, and leaving 2 million people mired in a humanitarian catastrophe.

Protesters gather for a demonstration outside the Israeli embassy in Athens, Greece, Oct. 2, 2025. (Xinhua/Marios Lolos)

Xinhua

In a public notice released on Thursday, RDB said the decision follows the company’s failure to meet its contractual and regulatory obligations.

'Effective immediately, Inzozi Lotto is no longer authorized to operate the National Lottery in Rwanda,' the notice read.

The RDB assured players who have winning claims that they are still entitled to their prizes, with Inzozi Lotto remaining fully responsible for paying all outstanding valid winnings.

The National Lottery and Gambling Commission along with RDB are expected to supervise the process to ensure fairness and compliance.

The announcement also confirmed that RDB will soon begin a competitive process to identify a new operator or operators for the National Lottery. This process, according to the board, will follow strict principles of transparency, accountability, and safeguarding the public interest.

RDB reminded all companies in the gaming and gambling industry that they must strictly comply with the country’s laws and regulations governing the sector.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB), through the National Lottery and Gambling Commission (NLGC), has revoked the license of Inzozi Lotto (Carousel Ltd) to operate the National Lottery in Rwanda.

IGIHE

The latest partnership, which also includes the NBA’s LA Clippers, marks the first time an African tourism brand has partnered with an NFL franchise, underlining Rwanda’s ambition to use sport as a global bridge to attract tourism, investment and visibility.

As part of the multi-year agreement, Visit Rwanda will serve as an official international tourism sponsor of the Rams, SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park, the vast entertainment complex that has transformed Inglewood into one of America’s premier sports and leisure destinations.

The team was founded in 1936 as the Cleveland Rams before relocating to Los Angeles in 1946, becoming the first professional football team to establish itself on the American West Coast.

The partnership provides Rwanda with significant visibility inside SoFi Stadium, including digital advertising on the venue’s massive Infinity Screen and throughout its LED and IPTV displays.

The Visit Rwanda brand will also feature in two of the stadium’s most exclusive spaces, the West Owners Club on Level Two and the North Canyon Basin on Level Three, where Rwanda’s natural beauty and tourism highlights will be showcased through innovative design features.

A club with a storied journey

For those less familiar with the Rams, they are one of the most storied franchises in the National Football League, with a history stretching back nearly nine decades. The team was founded in 1936 as the Cleveland Rams before relocating to Los Angeles in 1946, becoming the first professional football team to establish itself on the American West Coast.

In 1995, the Rams moved again, this time to St. Louis, where they enjoyed a golden era, capturing their first Super Bowl in 1999 with an explosive, high-scoring offence that earned the nickname 'The Greatest Show on Turf.' In 2016, the franchise returned to Los Angeles, reaffirming its deep roots in the city.

The Rams have won championships in three different cities — Cleveland, Los Angeles and St. Louis — a unique distinction in the NFL. They are two-time Super Bowl champions, most recently lifting the trophy in 2022 after a 23-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Rams have won championships in three different cities — Cleveland, Los Angeles and St. Louis — a unique distinction in the NFL.

Their earlier triumph came in 2000, when they defeated the Tennessee Titans to cap off a memorable season. Beyond those modern victories, the Rams also claimed two NFL titles in the pre-Super Bowl era, in 1945 and 1951.

Modern stars and leadership

The modern Rams are led by head coach Sean McVay, one of the youngest and most innovative tacticians in the league. McVay masterminded the team’s most recent Super Bowl win, cementing his reputation as one of football’s brightest minds.

The modern Rams are led by head coach Sean McVay, one of the youngest and most innovative tacticians in the league.

On the field, the Rams boast a blend of established veterans and rising stars. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, the experienced leader of the offence, guided the team to its 2021 title. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp, the hero of their 2021 title run who captured the ‘triple crown’ and Super Bowl MVP, remains an iconic figure in franchise history, though he left the team in the 2025 offseason to join NFC West rivals, the Seattle Seahawks.

Younger talents such as Puka Nacua, who shattered rookie receiving records, and running back Kyren Williams, who has brought fresh dynamism to the attack, represent the future of the franchise.

SoFi stadium

Central to the Rams’ modern identity is SoFi Stadium, their state-of-the-art home, which opened in 2020. Costing nearly five billion US dollars to build, the venue is widely regarded as the most advanced stadium in the world, with a seating capacity of 70,000 and the ability to expand to 100,000 for major events.

Costing nearly five billion US dollars to build, the venue is widely regarded as the most advanced stadium in the world.

Beyond football, it has already hosted the Super Bowl, will stage matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and is scheduled to play a central role in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The surrounding Hollywood Park development, spearheaded by Rams owner Stan Kroenke, includes retail, office space, residences and leisure facilities, making it a global destination in its own right.

SoFi Stadium has a seating capacity of 70,000 and the ability to expand to 100,000 for major events.

More than a game

Off the field, the Rams have carved a strong identity in their community. Based in Inglewood, the team has invested heavily in programmes that focus on education, health, equality and youth development.

Initiatives such as 'Rams pLAymakers,' which honours community leaders driving social change, and 'RISE with the Rams,' which promotes racial equality among young athletes, reflect the organisation’s commitment to using sport as a force for good.

Why this partnership matters

The partnership with Visit Rwanda places the country at the centre of this global spotlight. With millions of viewers tuning in to Rams games across the United States and beyond, Rwanda gains a powerful platform to showcase its gorilla trekking adventures, lush national parks, cultural heritage and status as a rising tourism destination.

The collaboration echoes Rwanda’s other high-profile sponsorships with Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Atlético de Madrid, but stands out as the first venture into American football — a sport with a massive domestic following and growing international appeal.

The new deal that puts Rwanda at the heart of one of the most powerful sporting brands in the United States.

For Rwanda, the agreement is more than a marketing exercise. It is a statement of intent, an effort to connect with the U.S., already its largest source of tourism revenue, and to reach global audiences who associate the NFL with spectacle, scale and excellence.

For the Rams, it offers a new connection to Africa, a continent with a rapidly growing youth population that is increasingly engaged with global sport.

In combining the Rams’ reputation as a powerhouse of American football with Rwanda’s image as a premier African travel destination, this partnership represents a meeting of ambition and vision.

As the Rams continue their pursuit of further championships and Rwanda builds towards its tourism targets, both brands stand to gain from this unique and timely collaboration.

Wycliffe Nyamasege