Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri
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China’s inbound tourism market boasts vast potential
China will further enhance the convenience of inbound tourism in terms of visas, payments, transportation and accommodation, Shi Zeyi, an official at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism said during the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency.
It will also focus on “precise demand orientation, diversified business formats, and international-standard services” to improve inbound tourism services, Shi added. For example, China will introduce new products and business models to cater to the diverse needs of travelers from different countries, Shi said.
It will also encourage inbound consumption by increasing the number of duty-free shops and expanding the range of goods eligible for “instant tax refunds,” which allows foreign visitors to instantly claim value-added tax rebates at tax-free stores across the country, Shi added.
The country will continue to improve its institutional mechanisms for high-standard opening-up, ensuring greater openness, more robust open development and security to facilitate personnel exchanges and cultural interactions, said Liu Jia, an official from the National Immigration Administration.
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ALX and Sharpen jobs launch “IntegoLabs” to boost youth employability in Rwanda
The program is designed to empower youth with practical, job-ready skills and connect them directly with potential employers.
Officially launched on May 17, 2025, IntegoLabs targets university graduates, current students, and young professionals—especially those who are unemployed or unsatisfied in their current roles.
The program aims to address gaps in workplace readiness by offering monthly training sessions and curated employer meetups across various industries.
Dare Daramola, Learning and Community Manager at ALX Rwanda, described the collaboration as a valuable opportunity, particularly for youth already engaged with ALX’s ecosystem.
“This is a major opportunity for young people, especially those already benefiting from ALX Rwanda’s programs. I believe many will gain valuable skills and should take full advantage of this initiative,” he said.
David Ngoga, Managing Director of Sharpen Jobs, explained that IntegoLabs is specifically designed to help youth navigate the workforce more confidently—whether they’re entering for the first time or looking to transition from roles they’re unhappy with.
“IntegoLabs is a program we launched at Sharpen Jobs in collaboration with ALX Rwanda to support university graduates, current students, and young professionals,” Ngoga said.
“You might be someone looking for a job or stuck in one that doesn’t fulfill you. Many young people don’t know how to present themselves professionally or access job opportunities. This program is here to build their skills and link them directly with employers.”
Ngoga added that the program will feature monthly training themes and create opportunities for participants to connect with decision-makers from different organizations.
Sharpen Jobs currently operates in seven African countries, and the IntegoLabs program is planned to run for two years, with the potential for extension depending on impact.
Participation in IntegoLabs is free, and monthly registration updates will be shared through Sharpen Jobs’ official social media channels.
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Rwandan returnees share stories of survival after years under FDLR control
These returnees are now receiving care and support as Rwanda begins the process of helping them reintegrate into society.
For many, this homecoming marks the beginning of a new life—one filled with hope, dignity, and the long-awaited chance to reclaim the rights and opportunities they were denied for years. Access to education, healthcare, and security—once distant dreams—are now within reach.
More than 2,500 Rwandans have expressed the desire to return voluntarily. The process is being coordinated with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which receives the individuals in eastern DRC and notifies the Rwandan government to prepare for their safe reception.
Though recently arrived, many returnees are already expressing optimism and gratitude after escaping the harsh conditions imposed by FDLR control.
Valentine Uwamariya recounted the fear that defined her life near FDLR strongholds.
“They would come and abduct people. Some never returned. I remember someone named Dukundane—they took him and killed him. We lived in constant fear, never knowing who would be taken next.”
Relieved to be reunited with her family in Rwanda, she returned with her six children and called it a second chance at life.
For Marcel Nibishaka, a 31-year-old who was taken to the DRC as a child, life in exile meant growing up without education and in constant fear of abduction.
“They used to come at night to steal livestock and food. We always heard they were taking young men. I lived with that fear every day,” he said.
“I’m so happy to be back. I thought I would grow old without ever seeing my homeland again.”
Japhet Mushimimana, another returnee, expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome and support they’ve received. “Life in Congo was incredibly difficult. Even when we tried to raise cattle, the FDLR would take them. It felt like we were working for others. But coming back, seeing how Rwandans have developed and how well they live—it makes me proud to be Rwandan.”
He admitted to initial worries about starting over in Rwanda, but those fears quickly subsided. “The way we’re being reassured, and the peaceful relationship between government and citizens here, makes us feel safe. Life here is nothing like what we experienced before. We finally feel we belong.”
He added that what he appreciates most is the sense of security: “Back in Congo, people could rob you of your phone or money at any time. Here, we’re free, we’re fed, we’re treated with dignity. It gives me confidence that we, too, can live well and in peace.”
Théogène Inyitaho admitted that his view of Rwanda before returning had been shaped by misinformation and fear.“We were told we’d never make it back. But seeing how we’ve been received, and everything we’re experiencing now, it’s clear we have nothing to fear.”
Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, reassured the returnees—particularly those who had been hesitant due to fear of persecution. He stressed that Rwanda’s goal is not punishment, but reintegration and healing.
“You are safe here. We will help you reintegrate, learn new skills, and live dignified, secure lives,” he said.
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Sixth phase of SAMIDRC equipment drawdown routed through Rwanda
The military hardware—previously used by SAMIDRC forces during operations against the M23 rebel group—is being repatriated following the decision by SADC heads of state on March 13, 2025, to formally conclude the mission.
The phased withdrawal process began on April 29, 2025, and has seen SAMIDRC prioritize transporting its logistical assets through Rwanda, with Tanzania designated as the final staging area.
On May 19, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m., a convoy carrying the sixth batch of equipment departed from Rugerero, in Rubavu District, moving through Musanze and Kigali en route to Tanzania.
Although equipment repatriation is underway, most SAMIDRC troops remain stationed at camps in Goma and near Sake, as the mission continues to prioritize the drawdown of materiel before personnel redeployment.
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Trinity Metals Group honors genocide victims at Ntarama Memorial, visits Intwaza
The day began with a solemn visit to Ntarama, where Trinity Metals employees were guided through the site’s tragic history.
They learned how, in 1994, thousands of Tutsi who sought sanctuary in the Ntarama Catholic Church were brutally massacred—many by government soldiers—in a place they believed would protect them. The church has since been preserved as a memorial to honor the lives lost.
Speaking at the memorial, Peter Geleta, CEO of Trinity Metals Group, reflected on Rwanda’s journey of recovery and reconciliation over the past three decades.
“Being at this memorial today is a great honour. We’re remembering those who lost their lives, and we’re also honouring the brave survivors. It’s 31 years since this happened, but I’m always amazed by how quickly Rwandans rebuilt. If you look at the country today—under their leadership—what has been achieved is a shining example to the rest of the world,” he noted.
“If you look at all the conflicts happening globally, there are many countries that could learn from Rwanda. They came through their darkest period and rebuilt through reconciliation, love, and unity. It’s fantastic to see what’s possible when people come together after such a very, very difficult time—and I really commend all Rwandans,” Geleta added.
He also appealed to Rwanda’s youth and young people around the world, urging them never to forget the atrocities of the past—even if they were born after the genocide—and to take an active role in ensuring such tragedies never happen again. Geleta emphasized that prevention begins with mutual respect, love, and collective responsibility.
After visiting the memorial, the Trinity Metals delegation continued to Impinganzima Hostel, where they met with elderly genocide survivors whose families were wiped out during the genocide.
One of the residents, Agnes Mukandanga, shared her gratitude for the visit and what it symbolized.
“Sometimes I used to sit and feel like there was no one left who cared about me,” she said. “But today, I feel loved, seen, and remembered. When someone thinks of you and says, ‘I’m going to visit the Intwaza in Bugesera, to comfort them and see how they’re doing,’ that means everything to us. We never thought we would be loved again like this.”
Geleta concluded the visit by thanking the Government of Rwanda and the Unity Club Intwararumuri for initiating the Impinganzima concept, which provides elderly survivors with a dignified, loving, and supportive environment.
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Xi stresses high-quality compilation of 15th Five-Year Plan
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a recent instruction on the work concerning the compilation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).
Xi noted that the scientific formulation and consistent implementation of five-year plans stand as an important piece of experience in the CPC’s approach to governing the country.
The formulation and implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan holds immense significance for fully realizing the strategic initiatives outlined at the 20th CPC National Congress and advancing Chinese modernization, Xi said.
He emphasized the importance of integrating top-level design with seeking advice from the public, enhancing research and discussions, and building broad consensus.
Starting from 2026, China will embark on the implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan for economic and social development.
Currently, the CPC Central Committee is organizing the drafting of proposals for this plan, and relevant departments are gearing up to solicit opinions and suggestions from officials, the general public, as well as experts and scholars through various channels in the near future.
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New collection of articles on Xi Jinping thought published
The new collection, compiled by the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, consists of five volumes of 29 articles published since November 2023.
These articles focus on studying and implementing relevant discourses made by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, with the aim of advancing systematic research and theoretical interpretation of the Party’s innovative theories for the new era.
The articles were originally published in the People’s Daily or the Qiushi Journal, both flagship publications of the CPC Central Committee.
The first two collections on the same topic, each comprising five volumes, were released in 2020 and 2023.