Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri

This was revealed by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, during a meeting with members of the The National Consultative Forum of Political Organisations (NFPO).

Dr. Ndabamenye highlighted that Rwanda’s agricultural exports generated a substantial revenue of $893.1 million in 2025, equivalent to Rwf 1,301,159,552,579.

Among the main exports, coffee was the largest contributor, earning the country over $116.18 million. This is a remarkable increase compared to the previous year, 2024, when Rwanda earned $78.7 million from coffee exports.

The coffee export revenue for 2025 is almost on par with the figures from 2023, which stood at $115.9 million.

However, tea exports saw a slight decline. In 2025, tea earned the country $110.9 million, down from $114.9 million in 2024.

Pyrethrum exports also experienced a reduction, earning $7.445 million compared to $8.063 million in 2024.

Regarding vegetables, fruits, and flowers, Rwanda earned over $86.08 million from these exports in 2025, an increase from $75.1 million in the previous year.

Dr. Ndabamenye explained that Rwanda has set an ambitious target to increase foreign currency earnings from exports, aiming to reach $1.5 billion as outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

As part of the Ministry’s five-year plan, Rwanda intends to expand the area under cultivation for export crops such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers, increasing the land from 1,373 hectares to 14,733 hectares. This will also result in a significant boost in production, from 7,222 tons per year to 91,073 tons.

For tea, the plan is to increase the area under cultivation to 40,000 hectares, which will help in raising tea production. As for coffee, in addition to expanding the cultivation area, there are plans to increase productivity to four kilograms per tree, up from two kilograms, while aiming to raise the price to $12 per kilogram, up from the current $6.

Dr. Ndabamenye emphasized that efforts to boost agricultural productivity are being given high priority to double the country’s agricultural output.

“We have carried out a land survey involving various farmers, and now we have nearly 600,000 hectares under agricultural reforms. We are training farmers on best farming practices, helping them access technology, seeds, fertilizers, and other soil-enhancing resources. We are also assisting farmers in finding markets for their produce,” he revealed.

The Minister emphasized that the “food basket site” initiative would be instrumental in doubling agricultural output and even surpassing current production levels.

In the livestock sector, production has also increased. For the 2024/2025 period, milk production reached 1,152,514 liters, meat production totaled 219,523 tons, fish production amounted to 52,439 tons, and egg production reached 29,855 tons.

The ministry reported that between December 5 and 15, 2025, Burundi received 71,989 Congolese refugees and 8,700 returnees from DRC, fleeing escalating violence in the region.

The influx of refugees has placed immense pressure on temporary camps, including those in Ndava, Gatumba, Vugizo, Rumonge, and Makombe, which are already struggling to accommodate the growing number of displaced individuals.

Providing adequate shelter, food, security, and sanitation for these refugees has become a significant challenge.

Many of the refugees have chosen to live with local residents in surrounding villages, with some renting homes. However, the Burundian government has mandated that all refugees leave these villages and relocate to border camps, citing the need for better management and resources.

The government has also pointed out that, aside from the recent arrivals, there are other refugees who arrived earlier in 2025 who require immediate assistance.

In a statement, the ministry said, “The Government of Burundi urgently requests assistance from both domestic and international partners to address this growing humanitarian crisis. We appeal to humanitarian organizations, technical and financial partners, civil society, and faith-based groups to contribute towards a collective solution to this issue.”

As part of efforts to better manage the situation, the government plans to move refugees to camps farther from the border, in line with international refugee protocols.

The AFC/M23 alliance, which has taken control of several areas in South Kivu Province near the Burundian border, was a key factor in the border closures at Gatumba and Vugizo. As a result, Lake Tanganyika is currently the only open passage for movement between the two countries.

The AFC/M23 also helped some Burundian nationals stranded in Uvira return to their home country. The alliance has urged the Burundian government to reopen the border, allowing Congolese refugees in Bujumbura Province to return to their homeland.

In response, the Burundian government stated that it is working on a long-term solution to repatriate those wishing to return, but emphasized that this process will only begin once the necessary conditions for a safe and sustainable return are in place.

As of October 31, 2025, UNHCR reported that Burundi had already hosted 110,746 Congolese refugees. Between December 5 and 16, an additional 82,275 refugees from areas such as Kamanyola, Luvungi, Katogota, and Uvira arrived in Burundi.

According to the investigation, the conflict has produced catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with an estimated 150,000 civilians killed, approximately 12 million people forcibly displaced, and widespread famine affecting large swaths of the country.

The report, which is based on months of research, combines analysis of hundreds of videos, satellite imagery, whistleblower accounts, and interviews with survivors on the ground. It documents patterns of violence that indicate deliberate targeting of non-Arab communities — including mass killings and disposal of bodies in canals and mass graves — following the Port Sudan Authority’s offensive to retake the strategic city of Wad Madani earlier this year.

Eyewitness testimony and visual evidence show civilians being executed, often after being accused of supporting opposing forces. Some victims were found bound and killed — a pattern described by independent observers as possibly rising to the level of ethnic cleansing or genocide.

The investigation also highlights that orders for these operations appear to have originated from high command, although the Sudanese military has not responded to requests for comment.

The findings have drawn attention from members of the UN Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, with at least one representative characterizing the conduct as “systematic genocide” and crimes against humanity.

Humanitarian agencies warn that the combination of sustained violence, mass displacement, and agricultural disruption has led to acute food insecurity, raising the specter of famine across regions already devastated by conflict.

As international attention focuses on Sudan’s deepening crisis, this report aims to shed light on some of the war’s most severe abuses and urges global actors — including media, policymakers, and human rights advocates — to respond to the documented evidence and address gaps in the prevailing narrative.

Read the full report [here->https://edition.cnn.com/2025/12/16/world/video/sudan-satellite-imagery-investigation-canals-digvid]

After weeks of hosting packed football screenings and building momentum among fans, Skol Malt will now screen all matches of the continent’s premier football competition, offering supporters a premium and vibrant matchday atmosphere throughout the tournament.

{{A premium football experience for African football Ffans}}

All 52 matches will be screened live on giant screens at Ahanad Bafana HQ, giving fans the opportunity to come together, support their national teams, and enjoy football in an electric environment.

To add to the excitement, the opening game featuring Morocco vs Comoros on December 21 (9PM) will be celebrated with a welcome drink offered to all fans in attendance.

Throughout the competition, fans wearing their national team jerseys will receive special gifts, with various prizes to be won. Bring your country’s jersey and stand a chance to win exciting rewards while celebrating African football pride and unity.

Ahanad Bafana HQ, by Skol Malt in partnership with Mundi Center and Airtel Rwanda, has quickly become a go-to destination for football lovers in Kigali, offering quality screenings, great food, and refreshing Skol Malt.

{{How fans can win a trip to the final in Morocco}}

Throughout the competition, fans attending screenings will have the opportunity to collect Ahanad Points by purchasing Skol Malt drinks on-site.

By accumulating points across the tournament, participants will stand a chance to win a fully paid trip to Morocco to watch the final match live, including: Flights, Accommodation, Transport, Final match tickets.

The two ticket winners will be selected through a tombola on January 4th at 6:30 PM at Mundi Center, rewarding the most loyal and engaged fans.

{{Building a community around football}}

This initiative reinforces Skol Malt’s commitment to creating a strong football culture and a welcoming space where fans can share unforgettable moments around the beautiful game.

“We’ve seen incredible passion from football fans over the past month, and this was the natural next step,” said Halidi Mukandama, Football Exploitation Officer at Skol Brewery.

“This tournament is special for Africa, and we want to celebrate it with fans while rewarding them for their loyalty and love for the game.”

Gates open daily ahead of kick-off and the entrance fee remains Rwf 3,000 consumable.

The event, which saw the planting of over 1,000 trees, took place in Cyimpima marshland, located between the Kigabiro and Munyaga sectors.

The initiative was held in collaboration with Twibumbe, a farmers’ group consisting of four cooperatives: COCURICYI, CORICYA, COCURIGA, and COCURIBU. Together, these cooperatives comprise more than 2,500 members.

The trees planted include a variety of fruit-bearing species and other tree types that will help prevent water flow disruptions in areas where excess water from the hills tends to flood rice fields.

Ignace Musangamfura, the Managing Director of Goshen Finance Plc, explained that the tree-planting activity was part of the company’s broader effort to engage with their clients in promoting environmental sustainability.

“Our role as a financial institution goes beyond providing loans and encouraging savings. We also recognize that environmental conservation plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of our clients. This is why, alongside offering financial services, we are committed to contributing to sustainable development and environmental protection,” he said.

He further emphasized the importance of such initiatives in the face of climate change, stating, “As we navigate the challenges of climate change, it is crucial that all development activities prioritize environmental conservation to mitigate its effects and secure a better future for all.”

Rice farmer Théogène Uwizeye expressed his appreciation for the support, noting, “We are grateful for Goshen Finance’s involvement in this initiative. Our farms, located in the marshlands, have always been vulnerable to flooding. The trees will help manage the water flow, preventing damage to our crops and reducing losses. It’s wonderful to have a partner who is genuinely concerned about our well-being and farm protection.”

Christine Niyonsaba also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the positive impact it will have on their farming practices. “Not only will these trees help prevent soil erosion and control water flow, but they will also improve the quality of the air in our community. We’re excited about the potential of this project to boost our productivity.”

The Executive Secretary of Munyaga Sector, Damascène Munyentwari, commended Goshen Finance Plc for its partnership with the community.

“We encourage the farmers to take good care of the trees. These trees represent an investment in the land. As they mature, they will not only protect the environment but also generate income when sold.”

Currently, Goshen Finance Plc has a capital base of 35 billion Rwandan Francs (Rwf), with plans to increase this to Rwf 40 billion by next year.

The company is also focusing on expanding its support for youth and women, particularly in projects that contribute to environmental sustainability, and is working to strengthen its relationship with clients.

With nine branches across Rwanda, Goshen Finance Plc serves 70,000 customers and is aiming to expand its reach to 100,000 clients, including cooperative members. The company also plans to increase the number of agents to better serve its growing customer base.

This school, set to be a key player in Africa’s aviation sector, will provide comprehensive training in piloting, aircraft maintenance, and other vital skills necessary for air transportation. It aims to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals as Rwanda’s aviation industry continues to grow.

The CEAS will be built by Akagera Aviation, a company already known for providing domestic air services and operating a pilot training school that trains up to 20 students annually. Upon completion, the new facility will have the capacity to train 70 to 80 pilots annually and will offer certifications like the Commercial Pilot License and Airline Transport Pilot License, among others.

Eng. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, the State Minister for Infrastructure, highlighted that the new school will have nearly three times the capacity of the current Akagera Aviation School.

The school will also be open to students from across Africa, positioning it as one of the leading aviation institutions on the continent.

Construction is scheduled to begin next year and is expected to take 18 months, with the school set to open in 2028.

“This school will play a critical role in producing skilled professionals for the aviation industry, with training conducted entirely in Rwanda,” said Eng. Uwihanganye.

“Rwanda is making significant investments in air transportation, including the Kigali International Airport being built in Bugesera, which will serve as the cornerstone for future aviation development. These projects require a skilled local workforce, including pilots, to drive them forward.”

He also noted that Rwanda currently relies on foreign pilots for about 40% of its aviation workforce, with only 60% of pilots being Rwandan.

The new aviation school is seen as a key step toward reducing this dependency and ensuring the country’s long-term sustainability in the aviation sector.

“We need more pilots because, in two years, when the new airport is completed, we will be bringing in new airlines and expanding our services. It’s crucial that we have a local workforce capable of supporting this growth,” he added.

Eng. Uwihanganye encouraged Rwandans to take advantage of the opportunity to train at the new school, noting that it will help the country develop a pool of locally trained aviation professionals who can work both within Rwanda and internationally.

In late 2023, the Rwandan government announced a $53.5 million project for the CEAS. However, budget constraints delayed its implementation.

In November 2024, the African Development Bank approved a $23.6 million loan (over 30 billion Rwandan Francs) to support the construction of the school, recognizing its importance in advancing aviation education in Africa.

Additionally, in February 2025, the Ministry of Education announced plans to expand the national curriculum to include aircraft maintenance courses and prepare for the launch of an Aviation Academy.

These efforts are part of Rwanda’s broader strategy to develop its aviation sector in anticipation of the new airport in Bugesera, expected to be a major hub for air transportation in the region.

Once fully operational, the airport is expected to handle up to eight million passengers annually, a substantial increase from the one million passengers served by RwandAir in 2024.

Research indicates that over the next 20 years, Africa will need 50,000 aviation professionals, including 15,000 pilots, 17,000 aircraft maintenance technicians, and 23,000 other aviation-related workers.

Over the past 12 years, Akagera Aviation School has trained 106 Rwandan pilots, including both helicopter and commercial aircraft pilots, making a significant contribution to the country’s aviation industry.

In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), the South African government said the deportation of seven Kenyan nationals by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) was carried out in full compliance with the country’s immigration statutes.

The individuals were found to be engaging in employment without required work permits, in violation of immigration regulations, it said, adding that South Africa will not negotiate its sovereignty and the implementation of the rule of law.

During the operation, DHA officials, in cooperation with the police department, arrested and later deported the Kenyan nationals who were allegedly employed at a facility processing applications for so-called “refugees” seeking resettlement in the United States.

Several U.S. media outlets reported that two U.S. staff were “briefly detained and then released” during the operation.

The DIRCO’s statement rejected allegations concerning the handling of private information of U.S. officials, describing such claims as “unsubstantiated.”

“South Africa treats all matters of data security with the utmost seriousness and operates under stringent legal and diplomatic protocols. We categorically reject any suggestion of state involvement in such actions,” the statement said.

The DIRCO said that while firmly dismissing unfounded claims, Pretoria remains committed to principled and transparent diplomacy, and official channels have been opened with the U.S. government to seek clarity on the matter and to reinforce the importance of mutual respect and fact-based dialogue in bilateral engagements.

The statement was issued against the backdrop of heightened diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the United States following an operation conducted by South African immigration authorities in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

The U.S. State Department issued a statement condemning what it described as the detention of U.S. officials. “The U.S. condemns in the strongest terms the South African government’s recent detention of U.S. officials performing their duties to provide humanitarian support to Afrikaners.”

Claiming U.S. officials’ passport information had been publicly released, the U.S. State Department called it “an unacceptable form of harassment.”

“We are seeking immediate clarification from the South African government and expect full cooperation and accountability,” said U.S. State Department deputy spokesperson Tommy Pigott, adding that interfering in U.S. refugee operations is “unacceptable.”

The DHA, however, said in a statement published on Wednesday that no U.S. officials were arrested during the operation and that the enforcement action was not conducted at any diplomatic site.

“The presence of foreign officials apparently coordinating with undocumented workers naturally raises serious questions about intent and diplomatic protocol. The DIRCO has initiated formal diplomatic engagements with both the United States and Kenya to resolve this matter,” the DHA said.

Relations between South Africa and the United States have deteriorated since early this year, with analysts pointing to growing divergences between Pretoria and Washington on major international issues, including South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza.

In February, the U.S. administration denounced South Africa’s new land law, accusing the government of discriminating against white citizens, and issued an executive order cutting off U.S. aid.

Tensions further escalated on Aug. 7, when the United States imposed a 30 percent tariff on South African exports, the highest rate applied to any sub-Saharan African country.

The latest round of rhetorical clashes began in November, when Washington openly boycotted the Group of Twenty summit hosted by South Africa.

In his message on International Migrants Day, observed annually on Dec. 18, Guterres said migration is a powerful driver of progress, lifting economies, connecting cultures, and benefiting countries of origin and destination alike.

“Yet when migration is poorly governed or misrepresented, it can fuel hate and division, endangering the lives of people seeking safety and opportunity,” he said, adding that with borders tightening and smugglers and traffickers thriving, “women and children are among the most at risk.”

Pointing to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration adopted seven years ago, he said the international community “can and must harness the power of migration to advance sustainable development and build more resilient societies.”

“This starts with challenging the narratives that dehumanize migrants, and replacing them with stories of solidarity,” Guterres said, calling on the international community to “stand together for the rights of every migrant, and make migration dignified and safe for all.”

In December 2000, the UN General Assembly, taking into account the large and increasing number of migrants in the world, proclaimed Dec. 18 as International Migrants Day.

The new outlet, located in Gisenyi, along the main road near the Rubavu Mosque, marks a significant step in promoting sustainable cooking options.

According to the seventh integrated household living conditions survey (EICV7), the number of households in Rwanda using environmentally friendly cooking stoves reached 5.4% in 2024, up from just 1% in 2017.

BioMassters operates a factory in Rubavu with a capacity to process 15 tons of materials per day.

The company has been selling its products in various shops across Kigali for the past two years.

The stoves come in two models: the “Iryacu” stove, made in Rwanda using bricks, and the “Inzuchief” stove, made from metal. Both stoves are known for their durability, cleanliness, and efficiency, using 50% less fuel compared to charcoal stoves.

Claudia Muench, the CEO of BioMassters, told IGIHE that their stoves are designed to cook efficiently without producing smoke, making them a healthier option for households.

“Our stoves offer a solution for families—they are affordable, and the pellets used for cooking are cheaper compared to other traditional methods. They promote better health for users while protecting the environment as the forests are preserved,” she said.

Despite the challenges posed by the small size of the factory and the fact that many people are still unaware of their products, Muench is optimistic that these issues will be overcome over time by raising awareness through different campaigns and plan to build new factories.

Mulindwa Prosper, the Mayor of Rubavu, emphasized that the opening of the BioMassters outlet will boost the local economy.

“BioMassters’ initiatives help residents maintain cleanliness, protect the environment, and assist the government in safeguarding public health. The smokeless pellets contribute to better health outcomes, and they are made from sawdusts and forests left overs.

We appreciate BioMassters for opening a branch in our district, creating new jobs, and contributing to the national economy,” he stated.

Mulindwa also noted that, compared to charcoal, the cost of using pellets is 50% cheaper, which will help local residents save money.

BioMassters’ stoves use pellets made from wood and crop residues, which are both eco-friendly and affordable. A kilo of pellets costs between Rwf 350 Rwandan Francs in BioMassters stores and Rwf 380 from other partners across the country.

To date, BioMassters has distributed over 8,000 stoves to households, reaching more than 70,000 people across the country. The “Iryacu” stove costs 40,000 Rwandan Francs, while the “Inzuchief” stove is priced at 50,000 Rwandan Francs.