AUSSOM said in a statement issued in the Somali capital of Mogadishu that the move followed a three-day joint operation code-named “Operation Silent Storm,” aimed at liberating areas under al-Shabab control in the Lower Shabelle Region.
AUSSOM Sector One Commander Joseph Ssemwanga emphasised that joint operations will continue in Middle Shabelle until al-Shabab threats are effectively addressed.
“Sabiid-Anole has become a strategic location since March, where terrorists plan deadly attacks, conceal ammunition, including vehicles for vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices, and establish illegal checkpoints to extort locals,” Ssemwanga said.
During the joint operation, several al-Shabab fighters were neutralized during a prolonged siege of their hideouts in various parts of the villages, AUSSOM said.
The AU mission said the forces also seized a substantial amount of ammunition from fleeing militants, clearing improvised explosive devices planted in communities and supply routes.
AUSSOM Force Commander Sam Kavuma said the pan-African mission is fully committed to implementing the Somalia Transition Plan, which will culminate in the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces.
“I commend the brave efforts of our gallant AUSSOM Ugandan troops and the Somali National Army in degrading al-Shabab,” Kavuma said.
Sahal Abdullahi Omar, commander of the Somali National Army’s land forces, also confirmed that “Operation Silent Storm” successfully dismantled al-Shabab’s presence in the two villages.
The allied forces are currently securing the recaptured villages and clearing remaining pockets of al-Shabab terrorists in Lower Shabelle’s Afgooye District.
The operation aims to degrade and eliminate terrorists from Lower Shabelle and neighboring areas, the AU mission said.
A large number of Rwandans living in Israel are students, particularly those studying agriculture. Most of them have received scholarships through Israel’s MASHAV program, which is part of the country’s development aid efforts.
These students attend school one day a week, while the remaining days are spent working in the fields, often for up to eight hours. Each student has an agricultural expert assigned to them for guidance.
As the conflict intensifies between Israel and Iran, many countries have begun urging their citizens to return home as soon as possible. Those who are unable to leave have been advised to stay close to their embassies, where they can receive assistance in organizing their repatriation.
Although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not provided specific figures on the number of Rwandans in Israel and Iran, they assured that all Rwandans in both countries are safe.
“All Rwandans living in Iran and Israel are safe , but contingency plans are in place to ensure their orderly return if necessary,” an official from the ministry told IGIHE.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungirehe recently told The East African that while Rwanda doesn’t have known nationals in Iran, efforts are underway to determine if any Rwandans are currently in the country.
Rwanda has a history of assisting its citizens during times of conflict, having previously repatriated Rwandans from conflict zones like Sudan during escalated violence. Other neighboring countries are also taking steps to evacuate their citizens from Israel and Iran.
Uganda, for example, has repatriated 48 of its citizens, primarily students, from both countries via neighboring states.
Uganda has reached out to countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Jordan, requesting them to grant visas to Ugandan nationals fleeing the conflict. These individuals are being offered refuge and assistance as they leave Israel and Iran.
Meanwhile, many flights to and from Israel have been suspended. Ethiopian Airlines, which previously operated many of these flights from Sub-Saharan Africa, has canceled all its scheduled trips to the country.
The conflict has already claimed over 600 lives in Iran due to Israeli airstrikes, while 24 Israeli citizens have also lost their lives since the war began.
The event brought together women in business, COPEDU Plc clients, and the institution’s leadership to exchange ideas on improving collaboration and maximizing opportunities designed specifically for women within COPEDU’s financial services.
Among the participants was Mediatrice Niwemutoni, who shared her personal journey of growth through COPEDU’s support.
She began with a group loan of Frw 200,000 while running a small potato business. With time, she advanced to an individual loan of Frw 2.4 million and expanded her business. Today, she is a distributor for Bralirwa’s non-alcoholic beverages, managing a business worth over Frw 100 million.
Niwemutoni encouraged other women to pursue their goals with courage and commitment, noting that success stems from dedication and a strong work ethic.
The Managing Director of COPEDU Plc, Raissa Muyango, explained that the training aimed to help women scale their businesses by easing access to credit and promoting the use of digital platforms.
She highlighted Igire Mugore, a loan product designed for women entrepreneurs, which offers financing from Frw 500,000 up to Frw 5 million. The initiative targets women who face challenges in securing traditional collateral for loans.
Muyango also emphasized that such events are valuable opportunities for two-way dialogue, enabling the institution to listen to clients, respond to their needs, and improve service delivery.
Also speaking at the event was Herve Christian Gombaniro, a business development manager at RSwitch, a digital financial services provider.
He introduced eKashi, a new platform that allows clients from COPEDU and other financial institutions to make digital payments conveniently and securely without having to travel.
Currently, COPEDU Plc operates 11 branches across Rwanda, including its headquarters in Kicukiro and additional locations in Remera, Batsinda, Nyabugogo, the Nyarugenge Market, Gisozi, Kimironko, Kicukiro (branch), CHIC, Rwamagana, and Kabuga.
Under the new system, students will no longer choose from the existing 11 subject combinations. Instead, they will follow one of three broad “learning pathways”: Mathematics and Science, Arts and Humanities, or Languages.
This change, presented during the second day of the National Education Conference, on June 20, 2025, is part of broader efforts to align the country’s education system with Rwanda’s Vision 2050.
“All existing subject combinations will be organized under these three pathways,” the Minister of Education, Nsengimana Joseph said. “This change is part of our broader vision to equip students with knowledge and skills to make informed choices, whether they continue to university or enter the job market [after secondary school].”
“We’re working closely with schools during the summer holidays to assess their readiness. There will be no surprises,” the minister added.
The reform aims to ensure students graduate with skills that meet labor market demands, both locally and internationally, while fostering a knowledge-based economy.
Previously, after completing the Ordinary Level and passing national exams, students would select from 11 subject combinations within general education or opt for technical and vocational training.
The revised approach will simplify this by offering just three clearly defined tracks, each focusing on a specific cluster of knowledge and competencies.
The Ministry emphasized that although students will choose from the three new pathways, certain core subjects will be mandatory for all, regardless of their specialization.
These include Mathematics, English, ICT (Information and Communication Technology), and Entrepreneurship. The rationale is to equip every student with essential skills for further education or employment.
The reform process involved consultation with over 5,500 stakeholders, including students, parents, teachers, school leaders, and local leaders.
According to the Ministry, the shift to learning pathways will not only simplify implementation but also improve quality.
While the reform will be rolled out gradually to avoid disruption, students currently enrolled in the existing combinations will not be affected as they will complete their studies under the current framework.
Similarly, past graduates with diplomas based on previous subject combinations will continue to have their qualifications recognized.
This recognition was made on June 19, 2025, by the Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, during the inauguration of two new buildings. These facilities are designed to support women with various challenges and to house an Early Childhood Development (ECD) center aimed at nurturing young children.
Handspun Hope is a Christian, non-governmental organization operating in Rwanda’s Northern Province, particularly in Musanze District. Its mission is to combat poverty affecting vulnerable women and their families by offering holistic support.
The newly inaugurated buildings will host a daycare center, which marks a significant step in promoting quality early childhood education.
Additionally, the infrastructure will be used for vocational training for women, prayer gatherings, health consultations, and includes a multi-purpose hall with a capacity of over 300 people, along with classrooms and other facilities.
Nsengimana emphasized that Handspun Hope has been a valuable partner since 2007. The organization primarily supports women who have faced severe trauma, including domestic abuse, HIV/AIDS, and social marginalization.
“The organization provides a monthly salary of Frw 120,000 to its beneficiaries, with an additional Frw 16,700 deposited into a savings scheme. But beyond the financial support, Handspun Hope offers psychological care and promotes Christian values to encourage women to rebuild their lives,” he stated.
The district also noted that Handspun Hope’s work aligns with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST 2), particularly in the areas of financial and economic development, women empowerment, and infrastructure improvement.
In light of this, the district has requested the organization to expand its services, including increasing the number of children served by the ECD center, supporting more women, contributing to road construction, improving access to clean water, and helping single mothers.
The Musanze administration affirmed its readiness to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Handspun Hope to enhance their collaboration and promote the welfare of the population more effectively.
Confiance Igiraneza, the Country Director of Handspun Hope, stated that the organization’s primary mission is to promote the development of Rwandan society, especially rural women, by ensuring holistic education for children, improving child nutrition, and supporting other community-based development activities.
Igiraneza also highlighted that the organization employs specialized staff who support daily wellbeing, including mental health professionals, general practitioners, a social worker, and a nurse.
Their goal is to provide sustainable wellbeing for the women and their families. Currently, Handspun Hope supports over 200 women dealing with challenges such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and other conditions, along with their more than 100 children.
The organization has built schools, a health clinic, an early childhood development center, and other facilities to improve the quality of life for its beneficiaries.
The appreciation was voiced on June 19, 2025, during an evening celebration that brought together the management of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc and its clients from Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts.
The gathering celebrated the milestones the bank has achieved in its 50 years of existence and served as a platform for exchanging ideas on priorities for the future.
The districts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke are home to professional farmers and many cross-border traders who have been actively engaged in business for years.
When the bank was established in 1975, residents quickly began using its services due to concerns over the safety of their money. The bank also helped boost their capital through the provision of loans.
Nsengiyumva Innocent, who spoke on behalf of the clients in Rusizi, commended BPR Bank Plc for supporting the development of rice farming in Bugarama Valley, which spans more than five of the district’s 18 sectors.
“We appreciate the special loans offered to farmers, especially rice growers in Bugarama Valley. We also value the bank’s technology, which enables us to access fast services. Business moves quickly, like grabbing an opportunity while it’s still hot. Please continue offering us quick and efficient services,” he said.
Umulisa Yvette praised the idea of client appreciation events, noting that during a previous gathering in Rusizi in 2023, they had requested a special loan scheme for women, and the bank responded.
“I saw that you introduced a program called ‘Ikamba’ which trains women and girls in project planning and management, and even offers loans without collateral. We thank you for that,” she said.
The CEO of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, Patience Mutesi, underscored the event was organized to appreciate the loyalty and support that clients have shown the bank over the past 50 years.
“The Western Province, especially Rusizi District, holds a special place in our history. This district has played a key role in economic development and is home to some of our most loyal clients who have supported us for a long time,” she noted.
Mutesi emphasized that BPR Bank is proud to have contributed to Rusizi’s development through university sponsorships, support for the rice value chain from farmers to processing industries, and financing cross-border small businesses.
“We identified potential in small cross-border traders and offered them loans that helped them grow. We will continue investing in this region so that Rusizi can achieve even greater progress in the years to come,” she added.
The Mayor of Rusizi District, Sindayiheba Phanuel, noted that BPR Bank Rwanda Plc was among the first banks to be established in what used to be the Cyangugu Prefecture, now known as Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts.
“It’s clear that the bank played a major role in increasing private sector investment. It was among the first banks to operate here and served both large and small-scale businesspeople,” he said.
BPR Bank Rwanda Plc assured its clients in Rusizi that it will continue to promote digital banking services to offer fast and quality service, and it pledged to increase its representation in commercial centers where it does not yet operate.
The 13th PSCSC intake was attended by 20 law enforcement officers from Rwanda as well as 14 from allied students from South Sudan, Kenya, Namibia, Lesotho, Malawi, Somalia, Central African Republic, and Botswana.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Vincent Biruta presided over the colourful graduation, which was also attended by Police Chiefs from Kenya and South Sudan, diplomats as well as families of the graduates.
It was also attended by Deputy Police Chiefs and high ranking law enforcement officers Central African Republic (CAR), Botswana, Eswatini and Namibia.
Minister Biruta congratulated the senior law enforcement officers upon successful completion of the rigorous academic and professional programme.
“Today, we have gathered here to celebrate your achievements, as well as your efforts, hard work, team spirit, commitment, and resilience,” Minister Biruta said.
He reminded them that learning is continuous, where there is still more to do, more to learn, and more to achieve.
“The world’s history shows that conflict is a constant feature of human society. In today’s world, modernization and globalization have made law enforcement more challenging and multifaceted. Maintaining peace and security therefore, requires even greater effort, not only to prevent and combat crimes, but also to address the underlying factors that can lead to conflict,” the Minister stated.
He expressed gratitude to the African countries that sent students to participate in this course, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges and fostering a peaceful continent.
The Minister also said that fighting crimes and resolving conflicts on the continent calls for regional and international cooperation, especially in this technological era and globalized world.
The acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, Assoc. Prof Didas M. Kayihura, said that a world increasingly marked by tension and volatility, the work of peace-builders and
conflict transformation experts are more vital than ever.
He congratulated them for choosing to be part of the solution—agents of healing, unity, and constructive change.
“The knowledge and competencies you have acquired at the National Police College, through this Masters Programme… place you at the heart of continental and global efforts to promote sustainable peace,” Kayihura said. “From mediation to negotiation, from conflict analysis to post-conflict reconstruction, you are now better equipped to lead with compassion, wisdom, and vision.”
Veda Sunassee, the Chief Executive Office of African Leadership University, said that the graduation reflects a vision rooted in trust, purpose, and progress.
He urged them to carry on with the values of integrity, excellence and nation-building, which define this programme.
The PSCSC is a one-year programme delivered by the National Police College in partnership with the University of Rwanda and the African Leadership University.
It combines three components; the Police Command and Staff, which awards successful participants with the Passed Staff College (Psc) title; Postgraduate Diploma in Strategic Leadership and Management, and a Master of Arts in Peace Studies and Conflict Transformation.
The charges stem from testimonies and evidence presented during an ongoing trial involving nine individuals, among them journalist Théoneste Nsengimana of Umubavu TV.
The prosecution has linked Ingabire to covert training sessions allegedly organized under the banner of DALFA-Umurinzi, a political movement that has not been legally registered in Rwanda.
Prosecutors claim that these sessions served as a platform for plotting a campaign to overthrow the government, allegedly through non-violent strategies inspired by the book Blueprint for Revolution by Serbian activist Srdja Popovic.
According to testimonies, the sessions were attended by former DALFA-Umurinzi members who were reportedly coached on how to exploit popular grievances, such as land tax policies, urban relocation disputes (notably in Kangondo), and grievances of motorcycle taxi drivers, to provoke public demonstrations.
Training modules referred to as Operation Shirubwoba, Serwakira, and Sondage were reportedly used to encourage participants to raise concerns in their communities and mobilize others through informal surveys and dialogue techniques.
Prosecutors argue that the ultimate goal was to launch coordinated protests on October 14, 2021, during a so-called commemorative event dubbed “Ingabire Day.”
One key witness, Nzabandora Boniface, testified that he initially joined the training under the belief it was for English language instruction, only to discover its political intentions. Alarmed by the agenda, he decided to withdraw and later reported the matter to authorities.
The prosecution maintains that the sessions were orchestrated by Sibomana Sylvain, allegedly with the assistance of a woman named Assumpta, and that Ingabire herself was central to connecting and supporting both organizers.
It is alleged that she not only facilitated the planning but also financed the internet data used by participants during the training. Audio recordings from these sessions, presented in court, reportedly capture discussions on anti-government mobilization strategies, including how to frame narratives to agitate relocated citizens and informal traders.
In her defense, Ingabire denied organizing or endorsing the sessions, asserting that she merely put Sibomana in contact with Assumpta after the former complained of dental problems and requested help.
However, prosecutors dismissed this explanation, insisting that Ingabire’s involvement went far beyond casual support. They argued that she was fully aware of the operation and closely followed its progress.
Journalist Théoneste Nsengimana also faces serious charges, including attempts to overthrow the government, spreading false information, and affiliation with a criminal group.
The prosecution claims that his media platforms, Umubavu TV and Umubavu.com, were used to amplify false and inflammatory content against the state.
This included allegations that singer Kizito Mihigo had been murdered rather than having died by suicide, and reports accusing the government of detaining individuals like Idamage Iryamugwiza Yvonne and Karasira Aimable without cause.
Nsengimana has denied all charges, stating that the information he broadcast was sourced from Ingabire’s close associates, known as “Inkora IVU” (supporters of Ingabire Victoire Umuhoza).
Given the repeated references to Ingabire throughout the trial, the court concluded that it was essential to hear her account directly. However, after reviewing her testimony, the judges found her explanations insufficient and determined that there was enough evidence to justify a full investigation.
All accused individuals have pleaded not guilty and have requested their release, citing extended pretrial detention.
The prosecution, however, has called for life sentences for all defendants, except for Alphonse Mutabazi, who did not attend the training sessions, for whom a 20-year prison term is being sought.
The investigation into Victoire Ingabire is expected to conclude by July 3, 2025. The next hearing is scheduled for July 7, where the findings of the probe may shape the future direction of the case.
Speaking to IGIHE, Kitoko shared that while he has not set a specific date, his return is imminent.
“Yes, I’ve been preparing for it. I want to return. It’s been 12 years since I left home. I miss making music in Rwanda, but more importantly, there are personal and professional projects I want to pursue there. At any moment, you might hear that I’ve made the move,” he stated.
Despite being based in the UK, Kitoko affirmed that he remains musically active. With more flexibility in his schedule compared to previous years, when he balanced his academic commitments with business, he has found renewed energy for his music career.
Kitoko recently released a new single titled “In Love”, adding to his catalog of popular tracks that began with his 2008 breakout song “Ikiragi.” His early success quickly established him as a leading voice in Rwanda’s music scene.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Kitoko has continued to invest in his education. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Politics from South Bank University in 2022 and later enrolled in a Master’s program at London Metropolitan University.
The artist is also scheduled to perform at the upcoming Rwanda Liberation Day celebration in Belgium on July 4, 2025.
In an official statement shared via its social media platforms, RIB announced that Ingabire was taken into custody on June 19, 2025, at the request of the Prosecution Authority, in line with a decision issued by the High Court in the ongoing case involving Sylvain Sibomana and others. She was arrested in order to be presented before the court.
“Ingabire Umuhoza Victoire is under investigation, alongside her co-accused, for offences including forming a criminal group and planning activities intended to incite public unrest. She is currently being held at RIB Remera Station while awaiting transfer to the Prosecution,” RIB stated.
The court issued the directive on Thursday, June 19, after rejecting Ingabire’s account of her alleged role in a training program said to have involved former members of DALFA-Umurinzi.
According to the prosecution, the training was aimed at inciting the public against the government and mobilising support for regime change.
In her defence, Ingabire told the court that those accused in the case were former DALFA-Umurinzi members, with the exception of journalist Nsengimana Théoneste, the founder of Umubavu media channel. She, however, denied that the trainings were organised by her party or that she had any knowledge of them.
Following her testimony, the court examined whether her explanation was sufficient to rule out suspicion of criminal activity. It concluded that her statements were inadequate and that the case file contains incriminating evidence against her.
The court found it necessary for the prosecution to conduct a thorough investigation into Ingabire’s involvement before she is formally brought before the court.
As directed, the investigation will take two weeks, after which Ingabire will be presented to the court.
