Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri

  • Frw 60 million up for grabs in historic Impamo Jackpot

    Frw 60 million up for grabs in historic Impamo Jackpot

    The process to participate is simple. By dialing *240# and selecting option 3, anyone can purchase a ticket for the Impamo Jackpot and automatically enter the draw. The grand giveaway is scheduled to take place at the end of June, and every ticket bought before then will be eligible for the full prize.

    What sets this jackpot apart is its guaranteed payout. Even if no participant manages to match all five winning numbers, the entire Frw 60 million will still be awarded. In that case, one lucky ticket holder will be randomly selected to take home the full amount. This approach ensures that someone’s life will change, no matter what.

    Kalisa Chris Dylan, Head of Online Business at Inzozi Lotto, said the goal is not just to break records, but to offer a meaningful opportunity for people to dream big.

    “We want to make sure this jackpot isn’t just about big numbers but a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn your dreams into reality. Whether it’s through matching all five numbers or simply participating, this is your moment,” he noted.

    Participants are encouraged to enter early and increase their odds by purchasing multiple tickets throughout the month. The more entries a player has, the higher their chances of being the lucky winner.

    Since its launch in November 2021, Inzozi Lotto has become a household name in Rwanda.

    Operated by Carousel Ltd. in partnership with the Government of Rwanda through the Ministry of Sports, it is regulated by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). All proceeds from the lottery go toward financing key national development initiatives.

    Beyond the Impamo Jackpot, Inzozi Lotto continues to offer a range of games including Igitego Lotto, Shuwa Dilu, Quick Lotto, and Quick 10 — all of which give players multiple chances to win substantial prizes.

    Tickets can be purchased via the Inzozi Lotto website (inzozilotto.rw), by dialing *240#, or through authorized agents across the country.

  • Last batch of SADC soldiers exits DRC through Rwanda

    Last batch of SADC soldiers exits DRC through Rwanda

    The first contingent had departed from eastern DRC on April 29, 2025, comprising 13 military vehicles and 57 accompanying soldiers.

    The final group of SADC troops left Rubavu, located at the Rwanda-DRC border, on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, at around 9:00 a.m. This final phase involved vehicles transporting the remaining soldiers.

    During this latest movement, IGIHE observed 15 vehicles carrying the troops as they departed.

    [Related article: Additional SADC equipment withdrawn from Goma through Rwanda->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/additional-sadc-equipment-withdrawn-from-goma-through-rwanda]

    The last batch of SADC troops has withdrawn through Rwanda.
  • Rwanda, DRC sign historic peace agreement in Washington

    Rwanda, DRC sign historic peace agreement in Washington

    Rwanda and the DRC were represented by their respective Foreign Ministers, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe and Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner at a signing ceremony witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Nduhungirehe, expressed sincere appreciation to President Donald Trump for his personal engagement in facilitating this historic agreement.

    He also extended gratitude to the Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Advisor Massad Boulos and the entire State Department team.

    “Your dedication has been indispensable. This agreement is the product of a mass of coordinated efforts by multiple actors.”

    Minister Nduhungire also acknowledged other key players for contribution that led to this milestone, including the State of Qatar, which played a crucial role.

    “Indeed the opening which led to today’s agreement began in Doha. We will lend our full support in the weeks ahead to Qatar’s mediation efforts led by Minister of State Mohammed Al-Khulaifi to secure a peace agreement between the DRC government and the AFC M23.”

    Rwanda’s Foreign Minister also emphasized that the signed deal builds on African-led peace initiatives, led by the African Union Facilitator, President Faure Gnassingbé of Togo, and highlighted the key components of the agreement.

    According to Amb. Nduhungirehe, the heart of this peace agreement is the decision to establish a standing Joint Security Coordination Mechanism between Rwanda and the DRC.

    “The first order of business is to begin implementation of the Concept of Operations for the Neutralization of FDLR, to be accompanied by a lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures.

    “This is grounded in the commitment made here for an irreversible and verifiable end to state support for FDLR and associated militias. That is the bedrock of peace and security in our region,” he noted.

    Rwanda’s Foreign Minister also highlighted other advantages of the agreement, including commitments to facilitate the return of refugees and enhance economic cooperation.

    “With this agreement, we also committed to facilitate the return of refugees in our respective territories, with the support of UNHCR. Creating the conditions for the safe and dignified return of refugees is vital to achieving lasting peace.

    “We also look to enhanced economic cooperation, including with American companies and investors. Shared growth and cross border cooperation will unlock tangible dividends for both our countries,” he stated.

    Minister Nduhungirehe concluded his remarks expressing optimism about the success of the deal and reiterated Rwanda’s commitment.

    “With the continued support of the United States and other partners, we believe that a turning point has been reached. Rwanda stands ready to work with the DRC to deliver on our joint commitments.”

    Wagner said the agreement marked a turning point from the April Declaration of Principles to a concrete plan for peace.

    She said it affirms a shared responsibility to uphold sovereignty, human rights, and international law, and emphasized the urgency of translating the deal into action on the ground.

    “We, the DRC, will certainly and resolutely fight for this agreement to be respected — not with our words but with our deeds,” she said.

    The signed deal follows years of strained relations between Kigali and Kinshasa, stemming from reciprocal accusations.

    The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which controls large swathes of eastern DRC, including key cities like Bukavu and Goma, an allegation Rwanda vehemently denies.

    Instead, Rwanda accuses the DRC of collaborating with the FDLR, a terrorist group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and urges the country to resolve its internal issues without dragging Rwanda into its affairs.

    In his address, U.S. Secretart of State Marco Rubio underscored the significance of the moment, noting that after three decades of conflict in eastern DRC, this agreement represents a critical step toward lasting stability, with President Trump’s administration deeply committed to prioritizing peace as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

    He highlighted the collaborative efforts of the U.S. Department of State, the African Union, and Qatar, emphasizing the pivotal role of U.S. envoy Massad Boulos in driving the negotiations forward.

    Rubio further elaborated that the agreement is not solely about ending hostilities but about creating opportunities for people to thrive, fostering hopes for economic growth, cross-border cooperation, and family reunification, which he described as essential for a meaningful and prosperous life.

    He expressed optimism about the deal’s potential to unlock the region’s economic potential, particularly through partnerships with American businesses, while acknowledging that challenges remain in ensuring its effective implementation.

    [Related article: Rwanda and DRC initial text for peace agreement->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-and-drc-initial-text-for-peace-agreement]

    The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda signed a peace agreement on Friday, June 27, in Washington, D.C. Rwanda and the DRC were represented by their respective Foreign Ministers, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe and Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner at a signing ceremony witnessed by U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. Photo by AP
  • Mine collapse claims two lives in Rwamagana District

    Mine collapse claims two lives in Rwamagana District

    The incident occurred on Thursday, June 26, 2025, in Kiruhura Village, Kagarama Cell, Musha Sector. The area where the victims were mining is typically used for farming by a cooperative of 700 local farmers.

    Among the deceased were a man and a woman who had a four-month-old baby, according to their neighbors. The neighbors reported that they had warned the couple not to enter the area due to the soft and unstable soil.

    Jean Claude Rwagasana, the Executive Secretary of Musha Sector, confirmed that the victims were illegally mining when the collapse occurred.

    He stated, “There is an area where Trinity Metals does not operate, but the land belongs to the company. The community uses it for farming, including growing maize. Some individuals hide in the maize fields and engage in illegal mining. They went there in the morning without proper knowledge or experience, and the loose soil caused the collapse, killing two of them. One survived.”

    Rwagasana further explained that, in collaboration with security authorities, they have been advising the public to avoid illegal mining due to the risks it poses to life.

    He emphasized that Trinity Metals, the licensed mining company, offers daily employment opportunities for those interested in legal work. He urged people to seek professional mining jobs instead of resorting to illegal activities.

    The bodies of the deceased have been taken to Rwamagana Hospital for autopsy before being laid to rest.

  • Exploring Rwanda’s natural beauty at Muhazi Beach Resort

    Exploring Rwanda’s natural beauty at Muhazi Beach Resort

    Rwanda is home to more than 100 islands spread across 40 lakes, holding a combined water volume of 225.1 billion cubic meters, which accounts for 99.96% of the country’s total water reserves, with the remaining 0.04% stored in artificial lakes. By 2028, Rwanda plans to establish a National Island Park to fully harness this natural wealth.

    Investors have recognized Rwanda’s lakes as prime opportunities, with figures from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) indicating that, over the past five years, investments amounting to $106 million have been made to develop tourism around these lakes.

    One such early investor is Donatien Murenzi, who saw the potential of Lake Muhazi and established the Muhazi Beach Resort, located approximately 50 kilometers east of Kigali, in the Eastern Province of Rwanda.

    IGIHE visited this entrepreneur to highlight the ongoing investments made by Rwandans living in the country and in the Diaspora.

    Muhazi is a lake covering an area of 33 square kilometers, with a length of 60 kilometers from its eastern to its western side, and a width of up to three kilometers.

    The resort, which began operations in 2003, sits on a seven-hectare plot in Kabale, Rwamagana District, in Muhazi Sector, just four kilometers from the main Rwamagana-Kayonza-Kigali road. The resort features 63 rooms and is beautifully positioned along the shores of Lake Muhazi.

    From a distance, Muhazi Beach Resort appears as though it’s perched on an island due to its hillside location. It borders areas such as Murambi w’Inyambo, Gakoni, and Kavumu, with hills extending to the lake’s edge.

    In addition to its accommodation, the resort boasts conference facilities that can host up to 600 people. The lush garden, nestled near the lake, remains cool even in the summer.

    The gardens are adorned with a variety of trees, which not only beautify the surroundings but also attract many bird species, adding to the serene atmosphere, especially at sunset.
    The resort also features recreational facilities for children and boat tours on the lake.

    With its fresh air, stunning landscape, and a peaceful environment far from the pollution of urban centers, Muhazi Beach Resort offers an ideal location for sports and relaxation. The resort also attracts photographers who appreciate the breathtaking views at sunset.

    While today it is known as Muhazi Beach Resort, the area has historical significance as a place that once hosted prominent leaders. After its acquisition by Murenzi in 2003, it became part of his mission to contribute to Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery.

    The resort is an excellent destination for family vacations, weekend getaways, weddings, and other social events.

    The resort offers three types of rooms: one for families of more than two people with two bedrooms, a living room, and essential amenities for $100 per night; another for couples at $50 per night; and a single-room option at $50. Special discounts of up to 30% are offered for Rwandans living abroad and senior citizens.

    Another standout feature of Muhazi Beach Resort is its excellent cuisine. The resort grows its own vegetables and fruits, and guests can also request freshly caught fish prepared upon order. The resort is equipped with large spaces for weddings and events, either along the lakeside or in spacious, purpose-built halls.

    Muhazi Beach Resort is a popular stop for tourists heading to Akagera National Park, as well as travelers going to Tanzania and Uganda. The resort provides employment opportunities for graduates in hospitality and tourism, offering hands-on training and career development.

    Murenzi has plans to further elevate the resort’s status by working with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) to increase its star rating, while also focusing on creating more opportunities for the youth in the hospitality sector.

    Rwanda’s lakes have become a valuable asset, attracting significant investments and drawing both locals and tourists who enjoy water-based leisure activities.
    The lush garden, nestled near the lake, remains cool even in the summer.
    The resort features 63 rooms and is beautifully positioned along the shores of Lake Muhazi.
    Muhazi Beach Resort grows its own vegetables and fruits.
    With its fresh air, stunning landscape, and a peaceful environment far from the pollution of urban centers, Muhazi Beach Resort offers an ideal location for sports and relaxation.
    The resort, which began operations in 2003, sits on a seven-hectare plot in Kabale, Rwamagana District, in Muhazi Sector, just four kilometers from the main Rwamagana-Kayonza-Kigali road.
    Investors have recognized Rwanda’s lakes as prime investment opportunities.
    It borders areas such as Murambi w’Inyambo, Gakoni, and Kavumu, with hills extending to the lake's edge.
    The resort also features recreational facilities for children and boat tours on the lake.
    Muhazi Beach Resort is a popular stop for tourists heading to Akagera National Park, as well as travelers going to Tanzania and Uganda.
    From a distance, Muhazi Beach Resort appears as though it’s perched on an island due to its hillside location.
    The resort is an excellent destination for family vacations, weekend getaways, weddings, and other social events.
    Over the past five years, investments amounting to $106 million have been made to develop tourism around Rwanda's lakes.
    In addition to its accommodation, the resort boasts conference facilities that can host up to 600 people.
    IGIHE journalist touring the surroundings of Muhazi Beach Resort along with the owner of the facility, Murenzi Donatien.
    The gardens are adorned with a variety of trees, which not only beautify the surroundings but also attract many bird species, adding to the serene atmosphere, especially at sunset.
    Muhazi is a lake covering an area of 33 square kilometers, with a length of 60 kilometers from its eastern to its western side, and a width of up to three kilometers.
    The resort offers three types of rooms.
    Guests can order drinks of their choice.
    The resort offers three types of rooms.
    Guests can also request freshly caught fish, which will be prepared upon order.
    The resort is equipped with large spaces for weddings and events.

    karirima@igihe.com

  • Norway to extradite Genocide suspect François Gasana to Rwanda

    Norway to extradite Genocide suspect François Gasana to Rwanda

    Gasana was arrested in Oslo in October 2022 after an extensive investigation by the Norwegian Criminal Investigation Service (Kripos).

    In September 2023, the Oslo Court ruled that he should be sent to Rwanda, though Gasana appealed the decision. In April 2024, the appellate court upheld the ruling for extradition.

    Gasana appealed once again to the Supreme Court in June 2024, but the court maintained the ruling to send him to Rwanda. This decision was subsequently approved by the Ministry of Justice in February 2025 and by the Cabinet.

    On June 27, 2025, police attorney Thea Elize Kjaeraas, confirmed that Gasana’s extradition to Rwanda is now set to proceed.

    “The accused is now to be extradited to Rwanda, where he will stand trial for participating in the genocide,” Kjaeraas said in a statement.

    The Norwegian government explained that the extradition is part of its commitment to honoring international agreements, including those under the United Nations, aimed at preventing genocide.

    Norwegian police have announced plans to extradite François Gasana, a suspect accused of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, to Rwanda for trial.
  • Additional SADC equipment withdrawn from Goma through Rwanda

    Additional SADC equipment withdrawn from Goma through Rwanda

    This operation began on April 29, 2025, following a decision by the Heads of State of SADC on March 13 to conclude their mission in the region.

    Late on Thursday, June 26, 2025, a long convoy of trucks was observed on the Rubavu-Musanze-Kigali road, transporting SAMIDRC equipment that had previously been used in the fight against the AFC/M23 alliance.

    A total of 64 trucks, divided into two groups, were used for the transfer. The first convoy departed from Rugerero Sector at 8 p.m., while the second convoy left at 9:30 p.m. It is reported that 25 soldiers accompanied the convoys.

    The additional batch follows the recent repatriation of 461 soldiers deployed under the Southern African Development Community Mission in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), who returned home on Sunday, June 22, 2025, passing through Rwanda.

    The troops included 317 soldiers from South Africa and 144 from Malawi. They traveled in 11 RITCO buses, escorted by Rwandan security personnel.

    [Related article: Over 400 SAMIDRC troops withdraw from Goma, transit through Rwanda (Photos)->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/over-400-samidrc-troops-withdraw-from-goma-transit-through-rwanda-photos]

    Late on Thursday, June 26, 2025, a long convoy of trucks was observed on the Rubavu-Musanze-Kigali road, transporting SAMIDRC equipment that had previously been used in the fight against the AFC/M23 alliance.
  • Rwandan peacekeepers provide medical services to local community in South Sudan

    Rwandan peacekeepers provide medical services to local community in South Sudan

    The initiative aimed to improve the residents’ health by bringing much-needed healthcare services to the community.

    The outreach included screening and treatment for a variety of illnesses. Community members were tested and treated for malaria. In addition to general healthcare, the team conducted hepatitis screening and treated eye conditions, offering support to individuals suffering from vision-related issues.

    Speaking at the event, Col Leodomir Uwizeyimana, Rwanbatt3 Contingent Commander who represented the Rwandan contingents in UNMISS, commended the collaborative spirit between the peacekeepers and the local community, stating: “This outreach reflects our commitment not only to peace and security, but also to the well-being of the people we serve. Health is the foundation of lasting peace.”

    Laat Gatluak, Chief of Amadi Village, applauded the positive relationship between the Rwandan peacekeepers and the local community, particularly highlighting their support for various community service initiatives.

    Rwandan contingents serving under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (Rwanbatt3, Rwanbatt1, Rwanda Aviation Unit, and Rwanda Formed Police Unit) offered medical services to over 500 residents of Amadi village, located on the outskirts of the capital city, Juba.
    The outreach included screening and treatment for a variety of illnesses.
    The initiative aimed to improve the residents’ health by bringing much-needed healthcare services to the community.
  • Royal Golf View Apartment Hotel under construction, promising a new standard of elegance in Kigali

    Royal Golf View Apartment Hotel under construction, promising a new standard of elegance in Kigali

    Located in a prime area near key services such as Chillax Lounge in Nyarutarama, King Faisal Hospital, Kigali Heights, Radisson Blu Hotel & Convention Centre, various embassies, government offices, and the Kigali Golf Club, the hotel will be an integral part of the city’s urban fabric. The development will also include commercial spaces, 60 hotel rooms, restaurants, and modern fitness facilities, with a completion date set for June 2026.

    The apartments will come in five types, including one-bedroom units spanning 96 square meters, which will have a kitchen, living room, bathroom, and balcony. These units, located from the ground floor to the fourth floor, will be priced at $144,000 for the lower floors and $148,800 for the upper floors.

    Additionally, the development includes 30 two-bedroom apartments ranging from 130 to 140 square meters. Prices for these units will start at $195,000 for lower-floor apartments, and $201,500 for those on the third and fourth floors.

    There will also be two-bedroom apartments with 140 square meters, each offering private bathrooms, a living room, and a modern balcony. These will be priced at $246,400 for lower-floor apartments, and $254,100 for the upper floors.

    For those seeking more space, five three-bedroom apartments will be available, measuring 175 square meters. These will feature multiple bathrooms, a living room, and a balcony. These units will be priced at $308,000 for lower-floor apartments and $317,625 for those on the third and fourth floors.

    At the top of the building, four penthouse apartments measuring 400 square meters each will offer five bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. These luxurious units will be priced at $748,000 (over 1 billion Rwandan Francs) and will come with modern amenities.

    In addition to residential units, the Royal Golf View Apartment Hotel will offer a commercial area and over 100 parking spaces. Buyers will be able to pay in installments, with 30% due at the start of construction, 30% by September 2015, and the remaining balance by January 2026, ahead of the grand opening in June 2026.

    Developed by DND Triangle Real Estate Developers Ltd, founded in 2025, this project aims to provide high-end, accessible housing in Kigali. It is supported by BWH Hotels, a prominent global hotel brand with over 4,700 properties across 100+ countries.

    {{Photos showing the artistic impression of Royal Golf View Apartment Hotel}}

    {{Photos showing the progress of construction}}

  • Ukraine, Russia conduct fresh prisoner exchange

    Ukraine, Russia conduct fresh prisoner exchange

    The swap involved soldiers under the age of 25, as well as ill and wounded servicemen from the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the National Guard and the State Border Guard Service, the agency said in a statement.

    Most of those released had been in captivity for more than three years, with some having taken part in the battles for Mariupol, the statement said.

    All returning soldiers will undergo medical examination, receive psychological support and physical rehabilitation, it said.

    Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized in his post on Telegram the importance of bringing all Ukrainians home from Russian captivity.

    Ukraine and Russia on Thursday carried out another round of their prisoner exchange, according to Ukraine's Coordinating Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.