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In the 2023-24 financial year, the Department of Defence squandered R3.33 billion (approx. Frw260.33billion) in unauthorized spending, R977.5 million (Frw76billion) in irregular spending and R50.9 million in fruitless spending. The overall 2024-25 budget was R51.1 billion, with the final tally being R55.8 billion (almost Frw4.4trillion).

And all the SANDF has to show for it is 18 dead South Africans, since they were ill-fatedly deployed in the DRC. As of now, thousands of troops are trapped in Goma and there is no clear plan yet on how to get them out.

In 2013, former president Jacob Zuma used the SANDF to guard the business interests of the ANC and his allies in the Central African Republic (CAR) by deploying troops to Bangui, the capital.

Thirteen soldiers died and 27 were wounded. Again, they were woefully underequipped, ill-prepared and under-trained. In CAR and the DRC, South African soldiers live in unhealthy conditions and squalor, guarding interests of a corrupt regime.

In 2014, it was deemed that 62% of SANDF facilities and housing were in unacceptable condition. Of this, 4% were deemed hazardous and 2% needed to be demolished.

Squatters occupied military facilities and maintenance was not happening as corruption stole money needed for repairs. Reportedly, soldiers in the DRC ran out of ammunition and even food, with supply lines effectively non-existent.

The air force has repeatedly struggled with fuel availability due to underfunding. This is while billions just disappear. If there is any inherent obligation of any government, it is to ensure that the military is capable of defending its country.

But as it stands, if South Africa was attacked, the SANDF would be able to do nothing. Mozambique is facing violent unrest, while the northern region of its neighbours is controlled by violent, fundamentalist insurgents poised on brutal conquest.

In 2021, violent protesters brought KwaZulu-Natal to its knees. There is an ever-pressing threat of insurgency and collapse within the country.

And as the global system of peace and stability continues to crumble, giving way to conquest by the mighty over the weak, it is becoming more apparent that South African needs a functional military.

The mistake wasn’t going into the DRC. The mistake was not training its troops. The mistake was not allocating the billions set aside for military matters to actual military matters.

Instead, the money was used to furnish the lavish lifestyles of politicians, fund corruption, or just spent inefficiently. For South Africa to guarantee its survival, there needs to be a strict audit of military funding. From top to bottom, the military hierarchy needs to be reassessed.

Defence funding mismanagement has rendered South African troops vulnerable on almost all fronts.

IGIHE

Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, that the government had finalised an agreement with U.S.-based marine robotics firm Ocean Infinity to resume the search in the southern Indian Ocean.

The deal operates under a “no find, no fee” basis, meaning the company will only receive its $70 million payout if it successfully locates the aircraft wreckage.

'The government is committed to continuing the search operation and providing closure for the families of the MH370 passengers,' Loke stated.

The new search, expected to last 18 months, will focus on a 15,000-square-kilometre section of the ocean floor.

This follows previous search efforts by Malaysia, Australia, and China, which covered a 120,000-square-kilometre area but yielded no definitive answers. Ocean Infinity had also conducted an independent search in 2018 but found nothing.

Investigators have long believed the Boeing 777, carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew members, diverted from its planned route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing before ultimately crashing into the southern Indian Ocean.

While debris linked to the aircraft has washed up along Africa’s coast and on islands in the Indian Ocean, the exact crash site remains unknown.

The long road to answers

Following MH370’s disappearance on March 8, 2014, a multinational search involving 26 countries failed to locate the wreckage. Investigators determined the aircraft’s communication systems were deliberately switched off less than an hour into its flight, after which it changed course and flew for hours until its fuel was exhausted.

Three months ago, Malaysia signalled its willingness to resume the search, and with the latest approval, Ocean Infinity is expected to deploy advanced deep-sea scanning technology to explore the new target area.

Ocean Infinity’s CEO, Oliver Plunkett, has previously indicated that the company’s technology has significantly improved since its last attempt in 2018. The firm has been working with aviation experts to refine its search strategy, with a vessel already deployed to the site earlier this year.

The search is set to resume between January and April, considered the most favourable window for deep-sea exploration.

For the families of MH370 passengers, the renewed search brings a glimmer of hope after years of frustration and unanswered questions. Many have continued to press for accountability, demanding compensation from Malaysia Airlines, Boeing, and other entities linked to the doomed flight.

Investigators have long believed the Boeing 777, carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew members, diverted from its planned route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing before ultimately crashing into the southern Indian Ocean.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

M23 entered the city after seizing surrounding areas, including Ngora, Kisima, and Mubanda, on March 19, 2025. The DRC forces guarding the city retreated toward Kisangani, located in Tshopo province.

The fighting followed an offensive launched by the DRC army coalition on M23 positions in areas recently captured by the group in Walikale, including Mpofu and Kibua, which forced the coalition to retreat.

Clashes in Walikale began in early March after days of fierce battles between M23 fighters and the DRC military coalition in the western part of Masisi territory.

After M23 captured Nyabiondo and Kashebere on March 13, the American and Canadian-owned Alphamin company suspended tin mining operations at the Bisie mines.

Bisie produces 4% of the world’s tin supply. In the first quarter of 2023, Alphamin extracted 3,187 tons of the valuable mineral from the site.

M23 has, in recent months, captured large swathes of territory in the North and South Kivu provinces, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, in an escalating conflict with the Congolese government.

The rebels accuse President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration of poor governance and decades of marginalization of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the region, which has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of refugees.

M23 fighters took control of the town of Walikale on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.

The M23 rebel group took control of the town of Walikale in North Kivu province after defeating the coalition of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) armed forces and Wazalendo militias.

IGIHE

The phone call came one day after Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed on Tuesday in their phone talks that the peace in Ukraine “will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire” in Ukraine.

U.S. and Ukraine’s “technical teams will meet in Saudi Arabia in the coming days to discuss broadening the ceasefire to the Black Sea on the way to a full ceasefire” in Ukraine, said a statement signed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.

Trump and Zelensky discussed the situation in Kursk and “agreed to share information closely between their defense staffs as the battlefield situation evolved,” said the statement.

During the phone conversation, Zelensky asked for additional air defense systems, particularly Patriot missile systems, and “President Trump agreed to work with him to find what was available particularly in Europe,” said the statement.

Trump also discussed Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants with Zelensky and told the latter: “The United States could be very helpful in running those plants. American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure and support for Ukrainian energy infrastructure.”

Zelensky wrote on X after speaking to Trump, “One of the first steps toward fully ending the war could be ending strikes on energy and other civilian infrastructure. I supported this step, and Ukraine confirmed that we are ready to implement it.”

However, the White House statement on Wednesday did not mention that the partial ceasefire would apply to civilian infrastructure as Zelensky suggested.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed at a press briefing later on Wednesday that all intelligence sharing between the United States and Ukraine will continue.

The White House said U.S. President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky in a phone call on Wednesday agreed to “a partial ceasefire against energy” between Russia and Ukraine.

Xinhua

Speaking on the matter, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed that his ministry is actively working to secure clemency for Nduta, though it is not seeking to overturn the charges against her.

Nduta was arrested in Vietnam after being caught with cocaine at the airport. Reports indicate that she had managed to pass through security screenings in Ethiopia and Qatar before being apprehended.

Vietnam, known for its strict anti-drug laws, imposes harsh penalties, including capital punishment, for drug-related offenses.

Mudavadi also revealed that Nduta’s case is not an isolated incident. According to the ministry, over 1,000 Kenyan nationals are currently facing various legal charges in different countries. However, further details on these cases remain undisclosed.

The news of Nduta’s looming execution has sparked widespread concern, with many Kenyans calling on the government to intervene and prevent her from facing the death penalty.

Advocacy groups and members of the public have urged authorities to engage in diplomatic negotiations to secure a more lenient sentence.

As efforts continue, the government remains in discussions with Vietnamese officials, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement in such cases. The fate of Nduta now depends on the success of these negotiations, as well as Vietnam’s response to Kenya’s appeal for clemency.

37-year old Margaret Nduta Macharia is facing execution in Vietnam over drug trafficking charges.

Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi confirmed that his ministry is actively working to secure clemency for Nduta.

IGIHE

The government noted that many imported hybrid cars were outdated, with their hybrid technology often malfunctioning or failing after a short period. Between July 2021 and July 2024, data revealed that 45% of hybrid vehicles imported into Rwanda were between 10 and 14 years old.

During a parliamentary session on March 19, 2025, where amendments to the VAT law were discussed, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera, explained that several previously exempted items had become obsolete and needed to be taxed.

“The list of goods now subject to VAT includes technology equipment and services related to media and telecommunications, road transport for goods, mobile phones that use SIM cards, hybrid vehicles, and their batteries,” Kabera stated.

Some exemptions remain, but only for a limited period. Fully electric vehicles and electric charging station equipment will continue to be tax-free until June 30, 2028.

Equipment related to renewable energy will remain tax-free until June 30, 2028, while industrial machinery and raw materials for manufacturing will be exempt until June 30, 2026.

Rwanda’s environmental and economic justification

Kabera pointed out that many imported hybrid cars were too old to function effectively as hybrid vehicles and ended up relying solely on gasoline or diesel, thereby defeating the environmental purpose of tax exemptions.

“When these cars are too old, they operate only on gasoline or diesel, meaning that our environmental goals are not being met. Now that people are familiar with hybrid cars, we want to encourage the purchase of newer models. That is why we introduced a tax system that varies based on the car’s age,” he explained.

Kabera emphasized that Rwanda aims to encourage the importation of new or fully electric vehicles to align with its environmental protection policies. “For VAT, we believe it is time for people to adapt. Fully electric cars remain exempt, and we want to ensure that our environmental protection and climate preservation strategies focus primarily on promoting fully electric vehicles,” he added.

The new VAT policy on hybrid cars will be based on their age at the time of importation. Vehicles under three years old will be taxed at 5%, those between three and eight years old at 10%, and those older than eight years at 15%.

VAT reintroduced on mobile phones

The government has also decided to reinstate VAT on mobile phones, citing the fact that over 80% of households in Rwanda already own one. Initially, telecommunications devices were exempt from VAT to encourage digital adoption, but the high penetration rate has led to a policy shift.

Kabera clarified that the new tax would not significantly increase phone prices or discourage their use.
“The issue is not the cost of smartphones but the fact that many people lack the knowledge to use them effectively,” he noted.

MP Jean Claude Ntezimana raised concerns about how taxing mobile phones could impact Rwanda’s digital transformation efforts.

“In the past, the government encouraged citizens to adopt digital technology to accelerate development. Now that over 80% of households own phones, I worry that introducing taxes could hinder efforts to achieve 100% penetration, which is crucial for national progress,” he said.

Kabera reassured lawmakers that the government was working on initiatives to improve digital literacy so that more Rwandans could effectively use smartphones and other technological tools.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, Godfrey Kabera, explained that several previously exempted items had become obsolete and needed to be taxed.

During a parliamentary session on March 19, 2025, amendments to the VAT law were discussed.

IGIHE

The warrant was issued by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi, who was satisfied that Ssemakadde is on the run outside the country. The court has ordered Interpol to arrest him on sight.

The charges against Ssemakadde stem from allegations that he insulted the modesty of Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Jane Frances Abodo during a symposium in November 2024. The remarks, which went viral on social media, sparked public outrage.

Ssemakadde’s legal team had argued that he should not be compelled to appear in court in person, citing his illness and a pending High Court ruling. However, the prosecution insisted on his physical presence to formally address the charges.

This development marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings against Ssemakadde, who is also facing separate charges for contempt of court.

The Uganda Law Society president has been at the center of controversy in recent months, with his comments sparking widespread debate about free speech and the limits of public discourse.

Isaac Ssemakadde, the President of the Uganda Law Society. His whereabouts are currently unknown.

IGIHE

In an exclusive interview with Le Figaro, he reflected on his recent meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Qatar and addressed the region’s conflicts and resource challenges.

Tshisekedi and Kagame met in Doha under the mediation of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The talks aimed to ease hostilities between the two nations, but no concrete agreements emerged.

'The meeting was conducted in a good atmosphere. The first step was taken with the support of Qatari envoys. The key issue was ensuring an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Talks must continue to reach a sustainable solution,' Tshisekedi said.

Despite efforts to engage the M23 rebel group in peace negotiations, talks in Angola collapsed after M23 refused to participate, citing sanctions imposed by the European Union on its leaders. Tshisekedi insisted that solutions must come through regional dialogue processes.

'The search for a definitive solution to the Congolese crisis is guided by the Luanda and Nairobi dialogue processes, initiated by the African Union and supported by regional organizations and the United Nations,' he said.

Mineral resources and military reforms

Tshisekedi also addressed concerns about the DRC’s vast mineral wealth and ongoing negotiations with the United States. He rejected fears of rushed deals and emphasized the need for fair trade agreements.

'What I absolutely want to avoid is a sell-off or rushed agreements,' he said. 'The goal is a win-win partnership that allows the DRC to process its minerals locally, create added value, and develop a value chain.

As much as possible, raw material processing should take place here with investors who contribute to building the energy infrastructure that we lack.'

Another major issue is the presence of the FDLR, an armed group accused of harboring former génocidaires from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Rwanda sees them as a security threat, but Tshisekedi downplayed their influence.

'Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration are key. The FDLR is a residual force with no more than 750 fighters. It is insignificant compared to M23,' he stated. Tshisekedi acknowledged the weaknesses of the Congolese army, including corruption and poor pay, but noted ongoing reforms.

'Our army has about 100,000 soldiers,' he said. 'A soldier’s salary was $100 per month, but we have now increased it. A soldier on the frontlines can now earn up to $500 per month.'

He also reaffirmed the DRC’s neutral stance on global conflicts, despite condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 'We are not in conflict with Russia,' he said. 'The DRC is an invaded country, just like Ukraine.'

Despite the ongoing challenges, Tshisekedi remains adamant that the DRC will not be divided. 'I have always believed in the Congolese people’s desire for a united and indivisible Congo,' he asserted. 'I promise you that it will not happen, at least not in my lifetime.'

Tshisekedi and Kagame met in Doha under the mediation of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

IGIHE

Organized by BioMassters and the World Bioenergy Association, the event focused on the potential of wood pellets as a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal, which have long been the primary sources of energy in Rwandan schools.

Founded in 2020, BioMassters is a forward-thinking Rwandan company on a mission to mitigate climate change by replacing conventional cooking fuels with eco-friendly alternatives.

With a manufacturing plant in Rubavu and a robust retail network in Kigali, the company has already distributed 6,500 stoves, significantly reducing indoor air pollution and promoting a smokeless kitchen environment.

BioMassters also sells two types of household cookstoves: the Red Stove and the “Made in Rwanda” stove, both of which provide convenience for cooks and are clean, smokeless, and efficient.

These gasifier stoves operate on affordable wood pellets, which not only reduces wood usage but also results in low running costs compared to other fuel options on the market.

The event featured a compelling panel debate on the scalability of pellet solutions, drawing insights from various industry experts.

Dr. Christian Rakos, President of the World Bioenergy Association, shared his perspective, underscoring the feasibility and necessity of such transitions for sustainable development.

“The results we’ve witnessed through these initiatives are promising. With the right support and strategic planning, this model can be effectively scaled to benefit more communities across Rwanda and beyond,” he stated.

During the workshop, Claudia Muench, CEO of BioMassters, emphasized the impact of these initiatives: “Our goal is to create a cleaner and healthier environment for our communities that is at the same time affordable. By transitioning to wood pellets made from wood waste in Rwanda, we alleviate harmful emissions and improve convenience for cooks, which ultimately benefits our students and schools.”

The company has already distributed 6,500 stoves, significantly reducing indoor air pollution.

Sylvain Rucyaha, Director at BioMassters, highlighted the impressive results of the school pilot project.

“Our transition to pellet cooking in schools has resulted in a smokeless kitchen environment, significantly reducing indoor air pollution. We’ve also achieved a remarkable reduction in wood usage, improving convenience for cooks and lowering running costs.

“These solutions are not only renewable, domestic, and affordable, but they are also clean, offering substantial benefits and demonstrating the scalability potential of our approach in transforming school cooking practices with locally produced fuel.'

Dr. Peter Sommerer, Principal of Erlauf Investment GmbH, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the critical role of investment in sustainable energy for fostering economic growth and environmental preservation.

“By investing in projects like these, we will be paving the way for a greener, more resilient future,” he remarked.

In attendance were key stakeholders representing different government agencies, international agencies and many other partners. Their participation underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and international cooperation in achieving Rwanda’s ambitious energy goals.

The workshop, themed ‘From Firewood to Modern Bioenergy — Leapfrogging the Fossil Age,’ provided a valuable platform for policymakers, educational institutions, and energy sector professionals to exchange ideas, share insights, and strategize the path forward for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

As Rwanda continues to innovate within the energy sector, initiatives like those spearheaded by BioMassters and the World Bioenergy Association are critical in driving tangible change.

These discussions and insights gathered from the workshop will undoubtedly contribute to reshaping the landscape of school cooking practices across the nation, setting a precedent for other countries to follow.

By focusing on sustainable development and community empowerment, BioMassters is not just changing the way Rwandans cook; it is driving a movement towards environmental sustainability. With plans to expand and increase production capacity in 2025/26, the company plans to play a pivotal role in Rwanda’s energy transformation.

As the world shifts towards more sustainable practices, Rwanda’s commitment, demonstrated through events like this workshop, showcases the nation’s leadership in environmental stewardship and innovative energy solutions.

The impact of these efforts will be felt far beyond the borders of Rwanda, offering a model of success for sustainable development globally.

Claudia Muench, CEO of BioMassters, emphasized the impact of clean cooking initiatives.

Dr. Christian Rakos, President of the World Bioenergy Association, shared his perspective, underscoring the feasibility and necessity of such transitions for sustainable development.

Discussions and insights gathered from the workshop are expected to undoubtedly contribute to reshaping the landscape of school cooking practices across the nation, setting a precedent for other countries to follow.

Sylvain Rucyaha, Director at BioMassters, highlighted the impressive results of the school pilot project.

The workshop provided a valuable platform for policymakers, educational institutions, and energy sector professionals to exchange ideas, share insights, and strategize the path forward for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Dr. Peter Sommerer, Principal of Erlauf Investment GmbH highlighted the critical role of investment in sustainable energy for fostering economic growth and environmental preservation.

IGIHE