In a message shared on his X account on October 28, 2025, Amb. Karega expressed his delight at becoming Rwanda’s first resident ambassador to Algeria.
“I am honored to officially present to President Tebboune of Algeria my letters of credence as the first resident Rwandan Ambassador. Rwanda and Algeria are determined to elevate our bilateral and continental relations to the highest level,” he noted.
Other ambassadors who presented their credentials to President Tebboune on the same occasion included Najmul Huda Mohammed of Bangladesh, Wolfgang Spadinger of Austria, Anna Block Mazoyer of Sweden, Oleksandr Voronin of Ukraine, and Abdellatif Ellayeh of Egypt.
Rwanda and Algeria have maintained cooperation in areas such as security and education, with several Rwandan students pursuing studies in Algeria, a country where Arabic, French, and Tamazight are the official languages.
Since 1982, the two nations have signed various agreements covering economic cooperation, social development, cultural exchange, and other fields.
In December 2023, Algeria opened its embassy in Rwanda, demonstrating a renewed commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties.
On June 3, 2025, President Paul Kagame paid a state visit to Algeria, where he toured the National School of Artificial Intelligence, which also hosts Rwandan students.
During the visit, he held talks with President Tebboune focused on promoting stronger African cooperation in areas such as cross-border trade.
Before his new appointment, Ambassador Karega served as Rwanda’s envoy to South Africa until 2019, after which he was posted to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He left the DRC in 2022, following heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
On December 20, 2024, he was appointed Rwanda’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, prior to taking up his current role as Ambassador to Algeria.
The tree planting activity which was held during the monthly Umuganda community service where 10,000 agroforestry trees and 3000 fruit trees were planted in the community, preceded other 7,000 fruit trees that the company had distributed to the districts of Kicukiro and Nyarugenge the previous week.
The event was graced by distinguished government officials including the Minister of Trade and Industry, the Mayor of Rubavu District among other distinguished guests and dignitaries.
Community members were glad to participate in the event and also receive fruit trees to plant at home as a chance not only to help the environment, but to improve household nutrition, income and soil health.
The initiative is part of BRALIRWA’s ‘brew a better world’ agenda to boost watershed protection, biodiversity and community livelihoods.
Speaking during the event, BRALIRWA’s Corporate Affairs and Communications Director, Rosette Mutoni, reiterated the company’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability.
“Each year, we proudly plant 20,000 trees across our water catchment areas in both Kigali and Rubavu. This initiative not only helps to restore and protect vital ecosystems but also demonstrates our dedication to nurturing the environment for the well-being of our communities and future generations.”
Last year in September, the company in partnership with Rubavu leadership engaged the community in clean-up activities along the shores of Lake Kivu under the theme ‘make room for life’ where they engaged in discussions on waste management and donated hygiene materials to facilitate waste collection.
The Mayor of Rubavu District, Prosper Mulindwa, appreciated the community members for their great participation in tree planting event and commended BRALIRWA for continuing to set an example of responsible corporate citizenship by showing that protecting our planet and supporting our people go hand in hand in building a sustainable future for Rwanda.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Prudence Sebahizi, who was the guest of honor in the umuganda ‘community work’ reminded all participants of the importance of conserving the environment, “Every tree we plant today is a symbol of our faith in Rwanda’s future, a future that is green, sustainable, and prosperous.”
“Environmental protection and industrial development are not opposing goals, they are complementary pillars of Rwanda’s transformation. At the Ministry of Trade and Industry, we are committed to green industrialization, supporting factories that use clean technologies, promoting eco-friendly value chains, and encouraging businesses that grow while protecting nature,” he added.
The event was concluded with interactions between event participants and BRALIRWA staff highlighting the importance of collaboration and joint efforts in promoting environmental sustainability.
Albert Rudatsimburwa, a relative of Mukabayojo, confirmed her death, revealing that she passed away in Nairobi, Kenya.
“She passed away yesterday evening in Nairobi, and I learned of it then. We often spoke on the phone. She last came to Rwanda for the burial of her brother, King Kigeli,” he shared.
Rudatsimburwa explained that Mukabayojo was a close relative because ” my grandmother was the sister of Musinga.”
Mukabayojo was among the children who fled with King Musinga when he was exiled to Moba in Zaïre, (now the Democratic Republic of Congo).
King Musinga’s reign was marked by significant challenges in Rwanda’s history, as the foundational structures of the country were severely impacted during his time in power.
He was deposed by the Belgians, who stripped him of his authority, leaving him powerless unless sanctioned by them.
On November 12, 1931, Charles Voisin, the Governor of Ruanda-Urundi, went to see King Musinga in Nyanza, giving him 48 hours to leave the country.
The King was ordered to surrender national symbols, including Kalinga and other marks of the nation, to the Belgians who had been entrusted with Rwanda by the League of Nations.
On October 14, 1931, Musinga departed from Nyanza, along with his five wives, nine children, his mother Kanjogera, and other family members.
They were taken to a house prepared for them in Gihundwe, near Kamembe Airport. This marked the end of his 36-year reign.
Rudatsimburwa’s son, Mutijima Bryon, who was well acquainted with Mukabayojo, added, “Musinga’s daughters crossed with their great grandfather. They returned to Rwanda after Rudahigwa ascended the throne.”
Mukabayojo married Bideri in a wedding held in Nyanza. Together, they had six children, including Bideri Dieudonne, who passed away last year.
During the ‘1959 Revolution,’ marked by killings targeting Tutsis, Mukabayojo and her family fled to Kenya, where they lived until her last breath.
Mukabayojo’s last visit to Rwanda occurred as she came to bury her brother, King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa, who was laid to rest in Mwima, near the place of his coronation in 1959, close to the final resting place of their older brother, King Mutara III Rudahigwa.
Paula Ingabire, the Minister of Technology and Innovation, stated that the World Bank, as the main partner, contributed to the development of the digital ID system by investing over $48 million (more than Frw 69 billion).
She emphasized that this amount is insufficient “to achieve what we aim to do now,” and that the total cost for the completion of the project will exceed $70 million (over 100 billion Rwandan Francs).
Speaking to RBA, she explained, “The reason for this is the construction of the system and the upgrading of services that were previously provided to citizens based on the old ID system. These services will now be available using the digital ID. There are also tools required to ensure that people can access services based on the digital ID.”
While Rwanda has received support from various donors on this journey, the country itself is also contributing significantly to ensure the project’s completion.
In the 2024/2025 fiscal year, the project was allocated a budget of Frw 5,397,688,170 , and in 2025/2026, the budget has increased to Frw 12, 265, 253, 074 billion.
The digital national ID will be issued to Rwandans aged 16 and above, as well as foreign residents and refugees in Rwanda.
Currently, the IDs will be distributed to Rwandans, foreign nationals living in Rwanda, refugees, asylum seekers, adopted children, foreign nationals staying temporarily, immigrants, and stateless individuals residing in Rwanda.
Minister Ingabire added, “We used to have a number of people without proper identification, which made it difficult for them to access basic services. The digital ID will simplify service delivery because it will contain all your information, enabling you to open a bank account without needing to visit the bank.”
The digital ID will have both a physical card, like the current one, and a digital version in the form of a QR code, which can be carried on a mobile phone or computer. Additionally, a ‘token’ number will be provided, which will be used to access your information, distinct from the national ID number.
The National Identification Agency (NIDA) recently announced the launch of the ‘pre-enrollment platform’ to validate citizens’ records and correct errors in the national ID system, ahead of the digital ID rollout. More than 3,300 people have already registered on this platform.
This platform was officially launched on August 7, 2025, during the 28th edition of Rwanda International Trade Fair at Gikondo Expo Grounds.
The project will be extended nationwide, starting in the districts of Huye, Gisagara, and Nyanza in the Southern Province.
Residents in these areas will be assisted in correcting their personal information, submitting biometric data, and other requirements.
Two sites will be set up in each sector, with trained staff to prevent errors in the process.
Biometric data to be collected will include fingerprints, eye scans, and facial images. Both Rwandans and foreign nationals in Rwanda are eligible for the digital ID.
From birth to age five, children will receive an ID that only includes their photo, as biometric data changes over time. Children aged five and above will be required to provide additional biometric data.
Over 1,144 people have already received training to assist residents in correcting their information and providing biometric data. These individuals will be helping the public from October 28, 2025, to December 2025. By January 2026, the trained workforce is expected to grow to 2,500 individuals.
Minister Ingabire noted, “By December, we will be covering nine districts, and another 21 districts will be served in the following year, by May 2025. This means we need to train more staff to reach the remaining districts and complete data collection by the end of May.”
The digital ID will include data across nine categories, an expansion from the previous system’s seven categories, to ensure a complete and accurate identification profile. These will include names, parental information, email and phone numbers, address, place of birth, and more.
By May 2025, Rwanda will be the first country in Africa to implement a fully digital national ID system within the planned timeframe, while other countries that started before Rwanda are still in the process of building their systems.
Bolsonaro’s legal team argued that the trial was marked by due process violations, including a lack of proper defense and reliance on what they called a flawed and contradictory plea bargain testimony. They also cited legal errors in how the charges were applied.
In September, the Supreme Federal Court ruled by a 4-1 vote that Bolsonaro had led a criminal organization seeking to keep him in power following his 2022 election defeat.
The former president was convicted of five charges: attempting a coup d’etat, violently seeking to abolish the democratic rule of law, leading an armed criminal organization, aggravated property damage, and destruction of protected historical heritage.
According to the Office of the President, Kagame began his visit with a bilateral meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The three-day event runs from October 27-30, 2025, under the theme, “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth”.
The conference provides a platform for thoughtful debate and dialogue aimed at establishing a solutions-based narrative on the future of investment and policy.
On the first day of FII9, President Kagame is expected to participate in a Heads of State Conclave, probing the question, “What’s the true cost of economic security?”.
President Kagame, alongside Presidents of Guyana, Kosovo, Colombia, Bulgaria, Albania and the Premier of Bermuda, will discuss the current state of shifting trade pursuits, and the ways to safeguard national interests while preserving shared prosperity.
This discussion will be moderated by Matteo Renzi, Senator of the Italian Republic and Former Prime Minister of Italy.
President Kagame will also join a panel discussion questioning, “Is Humanity Heading in the Right Direction?”, alongside President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana, President Gustavo Petro of Colombia, Prime Minister Edi Rama of Albania, Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif of Pakistan, as well as Ray Dalio, Founder of Bridgewater Associates, and Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA.
The discussion will be moderated by Richard Attias, Chairman of the Executive Committee and Acting CEO of the Future Investment Initiative Institute.
FII Institute started in 2017 as an annual event bringing together stakeholders interested in investing in long-standing solutions to global challenges.
FII Institute has chosen four focus areas where inequalities are glaring, to work together on collective solutions; AI & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.
Saudi Arabia is a country in West Asia, located in the center of the Middle East.
Covering most of the Arabian Peninsula, it spans an area of approximately 2,150,000 km², making it the fifth-largest country in Asia, the largest in the Middle East, and the twelfth-largest in the world.
It is bordered by the Red Sea to the west, Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait to the north, the Persian Gulf, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates to the east, Oman to the southeast, and Yemen to the south.
Rwanda and Saudi Arabia already enjoy strong diplomatic and economic relations, with agreements in healthcare, education, energy, and infrastructure.
These reforms reflect the Government of Rwanda’s sustained commitment to building a competitive, transparent, and investor-friendly environment that fosters innovation, productivity, and sustainable development.
{{Transforming land management and urban planning}}
A major highlight among these reforms is the completion of the High-Resolution Topographic Mapping Project, initiated in 2021 and concluded in early 2025.
Led by the National Land Authority (NLA) in collaboration with the City of Kigali, MININFRA, and the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the project established Rwanda’s first set of highly accurate topographic maps.
These maps, developed using advanced technologies such as LiDAR, aerial photography, and satellite imagery, provide detailed representations of both natural and man-made features, including precise elevation data.
The initiative is expected to significantly improve long-term urban and infrastructure planning, particularly in the area of urban mobility, environmental management, and disaster preparedness.
Complementing this effort, the Building Permit Management and Information System (BPMIS) – KUBAKA Portal, launched in April 2025, modernizes the building permit application process, making it faster, transparent, and user-friendly for developers and local authorities.
{{Digital transformation in land and judicial systems}}
The National Land Authority (NLA) has launched several digital platforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in land management. One of these platforms is the upgraded Land Information Inquiry Portal, which offers faster access to land ownership details and classifications.
Additionally, the Land Application Tracking System enables applicants to follow their land transactions in real-time and collaborate seamlessly with authorities.
Another key initiative is the Rwanda Land Dashboard, which provides real-time, evidence-based data to support policymaking and ensure transparent decision-making.
Meanwhile, in the justice sector, the introduction of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS Version 2) in April 2025 marked a major step in digital judicial reform.
The system enables coordination of all judicial service providers electronically, significantly reducing costs, saving time, and allowing virtual court proceedings.
Similarly, the Kigali International Arbitration Center (KIAC) rolled out an Online Case Management Software, digitizing arbitration services and enabling Virtual Arbitration, which promotes faster, paperless, and more efficient dispute resolution.
{{Strengthening intellectual property and trade facilitation}}
Rwanda also strengthened the protection of innovations through the new Intellectual Property Law, enacted in June 2024, aligning the country with international IP standards and providing stronger safeguards for creators and investors.
In a major trade facilitation reform, the requirement for export licenses was eliminated in 2025. Exporters now only need licenses if required by the importing country, significantly reducing bureaucratic procedures and improving competitiveness.
Additionally, the validity of permits for quality and safety issued by regulatory bodies such as the Rwanda Food and Drug Authority (FDA), Rwanda Inspection and Consumer Protection Authority (RICA), and Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) has been extended from one year to five years—a change that minimizes administrative costs and promotes business continuity. (This excludes pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices.)
{{Advancing service delivery and private sector efficiency}}
In May 2025, the Government introduced a Single Unified Portal for RSSB contributions and PAYE declarations for private sector entities. The system reduces the workload of filling multiple annexes and processes declarations for pension, medical, maternity, and tax contributions simultaneously, saving both time and resources.
To further reduce the cost of doing business, the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) also eliminated service fees for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) starting January 2025, boosting local enterprise competitiveness and supporting entrepreneurship.
{{Enhancing citizen services and utility access}}
Service delivery was further improved through the introduction of the Online Water Connection Service, launched in June 2025 by WASAC. The platform allows residents and property owners to apply for new water connections, upload documents, and track application status online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to branch offices and reducing processing time.
The 2025 reforms mark a new chapter in Rwanda’s reform journey—one focused on digital transformation, transparency, and efficiency. From land management to justice, trade, and service delivery, these initiatives collectively reinforce Rwanda’s vision of becoming a regional hub for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.
By integrating technology, institutional reforms, and citizen-focused services, Rwanda continues to build a governance model that promotes trust, fosters entrepreneurship, and positions the country as one of Africa’s most forward-looking economies.
Among its achievements over the past century are more than 1,300 schools, including 853 nursery schools, 258 primary schools, 137 secondary schools, and three universities.
The church also takes pride in having established three hospitals, 18 health centers, hotels, business buildings, and other infrastructure that benefit the Rwandan community.
Archbishop Mbanda, who is in his final year of service, told IGIHE that he is grateful for how he has used the power God gave him to advance the Gospel in Rwanda.
“When I began, we had 1.2 million followers, that number has grown. During my time as Archbishop, we also established two new dioceses: Karongi and Nyaruguru. We thank God for that,” he said.
Archbishop Mbanda, who turned 71 on October 25, 2025, recalled that when he succeeded Rwaje, who had laid the foundation for the Gasabo Diocese, much still needed to be done.
He said that progress has been remarkable, from 2,903 congregants to more than 9,000 today.
“In Gasabo Diocese alone, we have built 22 well-constructed nursery schools and 14 modern churches. When I first came to Kibagabaga, it was hard to find a proper path or structure, but today we have a beautiful cathedral and the impressive Trinity Corner and Trinity Plaza, which generate income to sustain our mission,” he added.
Another milestone is the completion of the Anglican Church of Rwanda’s new headquarters in Kibagabaga, moving from its former location in Remera. The site also includes the Archbishop’s official residence, which, though he does not occupy it, generates 5 million Rwandan francs per month.
“In Kibagabaga, we now have two-story buildings. It’s a sign of growth in infrastructure, in the number of followers, and in the spread of the Gospel,” said Archbishop Mbanda.
{{Advancing healthcare}}
The Anglican Church of Rwanda operates three major hospitals: Gahini Hospital in Kayonza District, Shyira Hospital in Nyabihu District, and Kigeme Hospital in Nyamagabe District, in addition to various health centers and clinics.
Archbishop Mbanda highlights his involvement in the establishment of two health centers during his leadership, which continue to contribute to the improvement of Rwandans’ health.
{{Two of the three Anglican Universities founded under his leadership}}
The Anglican Church of Rwanda has prioritized high-quality education. Today, it operates three universities, including Muhabura Integrated Polytechnic College in Musanze District, which opened in 2014 and currently has around 4,000 students.
Other institutions include Hanika Anglican Integrated Polytechnic (HAIP) in the Southern Province, offering various programs up to Bachelor’s degree, and East African Christian College (EACC).
While launching business facilities at EACC, Archbishop Mbanda expressed his pride in having helped establish two of these universities: “By God’s grace, we have built excellent infrastructure and now seek the capacity to ensure their sustainability,” he said.
The new building at EACC will cost $1 million (over 1.4 billion Rwandan francs). It will include 16 classrooms, two large lecture halls for 160 students, 16 spaces for businesses, and 18 rooms for offices and storage, all to be completed within nine months.
Archbishop Mbanda mentioned that EACC’s initial goal was to have between 4,000 and 6,000 students by 2026, and they are already on track to reach 4,000 students.
“The academic programs we envisioned at that time, including business, theology, education, and medicine, are now in place and functioning. We also started a program to train early childhood education teachers, which has been successful. Our infrastructure plans have also come to fruition.”
EACC is led by Dr. Papias Musafiri Malimba, former Minister of Education in Rwanda. He shared that the university has plans to expand its capacity to 6,000 students, with plans to further develop the campus, including equipping the medical laboratory and increasing dormitory spaces.
“We plan to establish a model primary school. Today, we have a nursery school that will support our students studying education at the university. We are also seeking approval for eight new programs, five at the undergraduate level and three at master’s level,” he added.
{{28 years without support from Canterbury}}
For years, the Anglican Church of Rwanda, along with other GAFCON churches, followed Gospel principles distinct from the Church of England, particularly after Canterbury supported actions like blessing same-sex unions. This shift raised concerns about potential financial struggles, as it was believed Canterbury provided financial support.
When asked about how they would survive, Archbishop Mbanda responded: ” As far as I know, since 1997, we have not received any funding from Canterbury. The Anglican Church of Rwanda has reached a point where it must be self-sustaining, and that’s how it is.”
The Church headquarters is self-sustaining, and dioceses are reaching the same level of independence. That is why we encourage our congregants to work hard to support themselves. There’s no loss in what we have done.
This message extends even to non-Anglican Christians, as Archbishop Mbanda stated: “All Rwandans must work hard and support themselves rather than waiting for charity.”
When Archbishop Mbanda assumed his new responsibilities succeeding Onesphore Rwaje on January 17, 2018, the Anglican Church of Rwanda relied on small contributions from donors, typically around $4,000 or $3,000 at the national level.
“Today, we never rely on those small amounts. We now generate over 150 million Rwandan francs monthly through the infrastructure we have built. For example, the EACC university generates over 200 million Rwandan francs, which can help support its mission.”
The initiative was first introduced and implemented at Majete Wildlife Reserve, located about 70 km south of the commercial city of Blantyre.
Brighton Kumchedwa, director of the DNPW, told Xinhua in a phone interview Friday that the lion population at Majete and Liwonde wildlife reserves has increased significantly.
He said the reserves’ carrying capacity is being exceeded, with lions frequently breaking through the fence and entering surrounding communities.
“This has negatively impacted biodiversity, causing a decline in antelope populations due to increased predation. The contraceptives are seen as a temporary measure to manage the population surge,” said Kumchedwa.
He added that the effects of the contraceptives are expected to last for about five years, after which the lions’ reproductive systems will return to active mode. Alternative solutions are being explored for the long-term management of the lion population.
Malawi has recorded a significant number of human-wildlife conflicts, involving animals such as hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and hyenas, which have resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left several others injured between January and October 2025.
Among them are two appointed by President Paul Kagame: Dr. Uwamariya Valentine and Gasana Alfred, as well as two elected by political parties; Dr. Frank Habineza, president of the Green Party, and Nkubana Alphonse, president of the PSP party focused on social welfare and development. They join Evode Uwizeyimana and Prof. Dusingizemungu Jean Pierre who are beginning their second term after reappointment.
After the swearing-in of the six senators, the Senate of Rwanda now comprises 26 senators, including 13 women and 13 men, which represents 50% women, reinforcing the principle of gender equality.
President Kagame reminded them of their heavy responsibilities where Rwandans expect much greater than the country’s resources, emphasizing the need to strive for excellence in their work.
“The Senate allows government institutions to direct their efforts appropriately and conducts necessary evaluations to ensure that all institutions remain aligned. It is your duty to align the country’s long-term goals with the daily lives of Rwandans,” he said.
He continued, “It is crucial that decisions made reflect the needs of Rwandans and provide solutions to the problems they face.”
{{Pledge to serve citizens’ interests}}
Dr. Uwamariya Valentine, who has been appointed as a senator, has held various positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Environment, among other roles.
In an interview with IGIHE, she expressed her gratitude for President Kagame’s continued trust in her, which reinforces the expectation of positive results.
She said, “I am very grateful because the Head of State has placed his trust in me more times than I can count. I would say he still expects a lot from me. I was very happy when he appointed me, but once everything settles down, you sit and think, ‘What is expected of me?’ You feel grateful and immediately think about what you are going to do for Rwandans and Rwanda. To repay that trust is to work well.”
She mentioned that she is ready to implement the duties of the legislative body, including overseeing government activities, passing laws to address citizens’ problems, engaging in debates, and attending consultations.
Dr. Uwamariya said, “It’s about working together. From where I come from, I believe it won’t be hard to oversee because you are aware of the challenges. We have a unique country, with a unique history, and our approach must be distinct. There is oversight and consultations, and the President has asked us to work in an extraordinary way, focusing on the country’s development and the progress of its people.”
She emphasized the readiness to collaborate with her colleagues, working towards a common goal and following the country’s vision.
Amb. Alfred Gasana, who has previously served as Minister of Internal Security and as Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, also expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Kagame.
He said, “I deeply thank the President for trusting me once again by appointing me as a senator. It’s a great honor. To repay him is to work with all my intelligence, heart, and strength. The President reminded us to implement the duties entrusted to us. I promise not to disappoint him, and I assure Rwandans the same.”
Amb. Gasana stated that, regarding the responsibilities they are about to undertake, they will focus on the welfare of the citizens.
Alphonse Nkubana, who was appointed a senator, said, “We are happy to have been given these new responsibilities, and the President has made it clear that we must work according to the wishes of the people. We are here, with strength and wisdom.”
Dr. Frank Habineza, who has previously served as a Member of Parliament, expressed that he would continue his duties of overseeing government activities, assuring that he would continue to advocate for the people.
He said, “I am happy to continue serving in the legislative body. We deeply appreciate the President for the trust he has placed in us, and the legislature’s role is to represent the people of Rwanda.”
He added, “I believe you will see me as I was in Parliament. It depends on the duties of the Senate, but it still has the responsibility to speak on behalf of the people, visit them, and when they raise concerns to us, we must find solutions. We will continue to advocate for them even more effectively.”
The new senators’ term will end in October 2030, while 20 others will finish theirs in 2029.
A senator’s term usually lasts for five years, renewable once.
