Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri

Rwanda, China sign defence cooperation agreement

The agreement was concluded in Beijing during a meeting between Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and Admiral Dong Jun, China’s Minister of National Defence, on the sidelines of the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum.

The 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, China’s leading annual security and defence dialogue, is held at the Beijing International Convention Center from September 17 to 19.

This year’s theme is “Safeguarding the International Order and Promoting Peaceful Development Together.”

The forum brings together more than 1,800 participants, including government officials, military representatives, scholars, and observers from over 100 countries and international organizations.

Its programme features plenary and parallel sessions, high-level dialogues, youth seminars, closed-door academic meetings, exhibitions, and cultural exchanges designed to foster mutual understanding.

Discussions focus on safeguarding the legacy of the World Anti-Fascist War, defending the post-war international order, and exploring effective approaches to conflict resolution.

Speaking at the opening, Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun reaffirmed China’s commitment to world peace and welcomed all participants.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building in safeguarding the international order and advancing global development.

{{Longstanding partnership }}

Rwanda and China share 76 years of diplomatic relations, characterized by close collaboration in various sectors. Economically, trade between the two nations reached a record US$670 million in 2024, with China maintaining its role as Rwanda’s leading source of foreign direct investment.

Military cooperation has also grown steadily. In August 2024, Rwanda hosted a Chinese delegation led by Lt Gen Huang Xucong, Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff of the PLA Central Theater Command.

The four-day visit included discussions with Minister Marizamunda and RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, on ways to further strengthen ties between the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

At the celebration of the 98th anniversary of the PLA on July 11, 2025, Maj Gen Alex Kagame, Chief of Staff of the Rwanda Reserve Force, praised China’s contribution to RDF’s professionalization and capacity building.

“I wish to reiterate that Rwanda’s commitment deepens our cooperation and promotes mutual understanding. With that in mind, the upcoming signing of an MOU on defence cooperation will further strengthen our defence capabilities,” he said.

Over the past decade, more than 300 RDF officers have graduated from Chinese military institutions, with many more currently pursuing training in China.

September 18, 2025
RDF, TPDF hold 13th Proximity Commanders’ Meeting to strengthen cross-border security

The meeting brings together military commanders deployed along the shared border to address key security challenges and enhance cross-border cooperation.

The RDF delegation is led by Brigadier General Justus Majyambere, Commander of the RDF 5th Infantry Division, while the TPDF delegation is headed by Brigadier General Gabriel Elias Kwiligwa, Commander of the TPDF 202 Infantry Brigade.

The first day of the meeting included field visits to key border areas to assess the security challenges facing communities on both sides. The delegations jointly visited the Mitako–Rusumo area in Ngara District, which borders Nyamugali Sector in Kirehe District, Rwanda.

They also visited a tri-border point shared by Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi; locations known as hotspots for smuggling and other illicit cross-border activities.

In addition, the commanders visited the Akagera River, which forms a natural boundary between Rwanda and Tanzania.

They observed the need for urgent action to protect the wetland from unsustainable farming practices that threaten the river’s ecosystem.

September 18, 2025
ABC indefinitely suspends ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ show over Charlie Kirk comments

Nexstar Media Group, Inc. announced in a statement that the company’s owned and partner television stations affiliated with the ABC Television Network will preempt “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” for the foreseeable future beginning with Wednesday night’s show.

Nexstar owns America’s largest local television broadcasting group comprising top network affiliates, with more than 200 owned or partner stations reaching 220 million people, according to its website.

“Nexstar strongly objects to recent comments made by Mr. Kimmel concerning the killing of Charlie Kirk and will replace the show with other programming in its ABC-affiliated markets,” the statement read.

“Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse, and we do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities in which we are located,” said Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar’s broadcasting division.

Shortly after the release of the statement, NBC News quoted an ABC spokesman as saying that “‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ will be pre-empted indefinitely.”

In Monday night’s monologue, Kimmel suggested that Tyler Robinson, the suspect in Kirk’s killing, could have been a pro-Trump Republican.

“The MAGA Gang (is) desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said.

U.S. President Donald Trump and senior administration officials have accused the “radical left” of being responsible for the death of Kirk, while rejecting the Democrats’ argument that political violence has been a problem from both sides.

In an interview with conservative commentator Benny Johnson earlier Wednesday, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr threatened to take action against Disney and its subsidiary ABC over the comments, noting that the FCC could consider revoking licenses of ABC affiliate stations as a penalty.

Criticizing the FCC chair on the social platform X, FCC commissioner Anna Gomez, the only Democrat on the panel, said, “An inexcusable act of political violence by one disturbed individual must never be exploited as justification for broader censorship and control.”

“This Administration is increasingly using the weight of government power to suppress lawful expression,” said Gomez.

“Jimmy Kimmel Live” is one of the several nationally recognized late-night talk shows in the country.

September 18, 2025
UNMISS Force Commander commends Rwandan peacekeepers for fostering stability in operations area

He will also visit their fellow force stationed in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan on 18 September 2025.

Upon arrival, the Force Commander was received by the Rwanbatt-1 Contingent Commander, Lt Col Paul Ndushabandi who briefly took him through on major operations conducted including protection of civilians and provision of force protection to humanitarian assistance.

While interacting with troops, the Force Commander commended their efforts to the UNMISS mandate and their role in fostering peace and stability in the area of responsibility.

He further encouraged them to continue being exemplary ambassadors, a professional and disciplined army, and role models to the community of South Sudan.

“Always be great Ambassadors of your great country, your great Army. Let everybody learn from you, how you rebuild your nation after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to the current condition,” he said.

The Force Commander’s visit concluded with the symbolic planting of a tree.

September 18, 2025
Rwanda’s economy grows by 7.8% in second quarter of 2025

In the second quarter of 2025, GDP at current market prices was estimated at Frw 5,798 billion, a significant increase from Frw 4,979 billion in the same period last year.

The services sector remained the largest contributor to GDP at 50%, followed by agriculture (23%) and industry (21%). Net direct taxes accounted for the remaining 5%.

The agriculture sector grew by 8%, driven largely by a 3% increase in food crop production. Export crop production saw a notable 42% increase, fueled by a 121% surge in coffee production, though tea production declined by 9%.

Meanwhile, the industry sector expanded by 7%, supported by strong performances in mining and quarrying (up 12%), construction (up 5%), and manufacturing (up 7%).

Mining and quarrying activities alone grew by 31%, as reflected in export figures. Within manufacturing, food processing increased by 10%, metal products and machinery by 19%, and chemicals, rubber, and plastics by 24%. Nonmetallic mineral production, including cement, rose by 23%. However, textiles, clothing, and leather manufacturing decreased by 9%, while beverages and tobacco declined by 4%.

In the services sector, 9% growth was registered, with wholesale and retail trade rising by 13%. Transport-related services increased by 5%, though air transport fell by 13% while land transport grew by 10%.

Hotels and restaurants saw a 7% decrease compared to high growth of 18% in the same quarter last year. Positive contributions came from ICT services (11%), financial services (8%), public administration (16%), education (5%), and health services (10%).

The rebased GDP figures offer a clearer and more relevant measure of Rwanda’s economic progress, capturing structural changes and current market conditions to better inform policy and investment decisions.

This revision follows the recent rebasing of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to a 2024 base year, which provides a more accurate and up-to-date reflection of the economy’s structure and performance.

As a result of the rebasing exercise, the GDP level for 2024 has been revised upward by 6% to Frw 19,981 billion, compared to the previously published figure of Frw 18,785 billion. Growth rates from 2024 onward have also been adjusted accordingly.

The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, explained that GDP calculation methods are normally revised every three years, but the 2020 update was delayed due to challenges caused by COVID-19.

“The rebasing to a 2024 base year ensures our estimates are grounded in comprehensive and current economic data, enhancing evidence-based planning and investment,” he stated.

September 18, 2025
Rwanda in final stretch as riders from 107 countries arrive for UCI

With only four days remaining before the historic event begins, Rwanda is set to make history as the first African country to host the World Championships, now in its 98th edition.

The competition will run from 21 to 28 September 2025, bringing together the world’s top cyclists in elite men’s and women’s categories, under-23, and junior categories.

Speaking to Radio/TV10, ACP Rutikanga explained that security and logistical measures have been well prepared. “Preparations are advanced. For instance, places like Kigali Heights have already been booked by international visitors who will watch the races from there,” he said.

“To ensure the safety of all participants and spectators along the routes, the Rwanda National Police has conducted adequate drills. Road safety equipment is in place to prevent accidents, and escort arrangements for cyclists will be managed at international standards,” he added.

ACP Rutikanga also clarified that traffic will remain largely unaffected, except for temporary adjustments such as the relocation of Nyanza Bus Station in Kicukiro to Canal Olympia for three days, while other transport routes will operate as usual.

On education concerns, Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, Director General of Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB), assured parents that students in boarding schools will remain on campus during the event. “Boarding students will stay at their schools, while day students will receive assignments and guided work during the competition days,” he said.

Minister Mukazayire highlighted the scale of participation. “A total of 107 countries have sent 915 athletes. This shows the level at which future competitions like the Tour du Rwanda will be elevated,” she said.

She also revealed one of the unique innovations planned: “For the first time, time-trial competitions, both for teams and individual riders, will start indoors at BK Arena. The way the venue has been set up is one of the exciting new features awaiting participants.”

To accommodate international guests, Kigali International Airport has established special reception arrangements to ensure smooth transfers to hotels.

Beyond BK Arena, several fan zones have been set up for the public to follow the races and enjoy side events, including the Kigali Convention Centre, Kwa Mutwe (Mur de Kigali), Rwandex (Mundi Center), Kwa Mignone Stone Wall, Norvege, and other locations along the routes.

On Thursday, 18 September, organizers will conduct a rehearsal at the race’s finishing site near the junction by Kigali Convention Centre and Kigali Heights to finalize all technical aspects.

September 17, 2025
Rwanda pins its hopes on national cycling team ahead of UCI race

The 98th edition of the World Championships will take place in Kigali from September 21 to 28, 2025, bringing together cyclists from more than 100 countries.

A total of 23 riders will represent Rwanda. They are currently finalizing their preparations in Bugesera District, with just five days left before the competition begins.

Coach Sempoma noted that the team’s preparations have been strong, having trained in Musanze, France, and Bugesera to meet different performance goals.

He expressed confidence, even though previous appearances at the championships ended without a Rwandan completing the elite men’s race.

“In past World Championships, we would often have only two or three riders, and we would prepare abroad. We always had hope that we could finish, but it never happened,” he said.

On the long-standing challenge that no Rwandan has ever completed the elite men’s race, Sempoma said that 2025 could be a turning point: “This is a historic year, and it is possible to see Rwandan riders perform well in different categories.”

“What I can assure Rwandans is that our riders have trained well. Their morale is high, they have the ability, and the Ministry has supported us with everything we need, including modern equipment. We will do everything possible to make sure this year becomes historic,” he added.

“History is already being made with the World Championships coming to Rwanda, and for the first time to Africa. But another chapter could be written if a Rwandan rider performs strongly in the various races.”

First Vice President of the Rwanda Cycling Federation (FERWACY), Valentin Bigango, confirmed that preparations are nearly complete and that the national team has received all the necessary support.

“Preparations are advancing well. Together with our partners, we are putting final touches on different aspects of the World Championships. We are at about 96 percent readiness.

“The training program we had designed for the national team has been completed successfully, and at this stage the riders are focused on the competition itself, exactly where we want them to be,” he said.

{{Riders confident ahead of the World Championships}}

Patrick Byukusenge, one of Rwanda’s most experienced cyclists who has competed in numerous major international races, expressed confidence that the team is well prepared, to the point that they could even compete again the following day if necessary.

On the long-standing challenge that no Rwandan has ever completed the elite men’s race, Byukusenge said that racing in Kigali could bring a breakthrough: “This will make a difference, because the World Championships are being held in Africa for the first time. I feel this will change something for us as Rwandans. This circuit is not new to us; while we haven’t raced it many times, we have competed on it often enough. Our goal is to fight hard, and I know that millions of Rwandans will have their eyes on us.”

He further stressed that the 267.5-kilometre distance of the final race will not be a problem as the team is already accustomed to covering up to 300 kilometres in training sessions.
Xaverine Nirere, who has performed strongly in many races this year and will be one of four elite women representing Rwanda, is preparing for her third appearance at the World Championships.

She explained: “This Championship is different from the ones I took part in during 2023 and 2024, because this time we will start with a circuit and finish with a circuit. Being here at home, training daily on these roads, I believe we will perform well and could even win.”
Meanwhile, Pacifique Byusa, competing in the under-19 category, will be making his debut at an international race.

“This is my first major race at the international level. I will be competing against riders who are on a higher level than me. But I am well prepared, I followed my coaches’ program carefully, and I believe I will perform well,” he said.

His teammate, Liliane Uwiringiyimana, also set to compete in the women’s under-19 category, added: “We will give everything we have and do our best to ensure we finish the World Championships.”

September 17, 2025
Rwandan investors urged to explore expanded opportunities in Djibouti

Ali made the remarks during an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), where he emphasized the need to build on the good relations between the two countries.

He explained that Rwanda and Djibouti share many commonalities, including cultural ties, which should serve as a foundation for expanding private-sector cooperation.

“We already cooperate, but we should enhance and expand our collaboration just as our governments are doing. Why shouldn’t we broaden our cooperation and develop it further?” he said.

His comments follow the 2016 partnership agreement signed between Rwanda and Djibouti’s private sectors, which aimed to foster joint initiatives and drive economic growth.

The strong bilateral relationship between the two nations has also been demonstrated through land exchanges. Rwanda has been granted 60 hectares of land at Djibouti’s ports, while Rwanda, in return, allocated 10 hectares within its industrial park to Djibouti.

September 17, 2025
African countries urged to emulate Rwanda’s service delivery model

The call was made during the Africa Customer Experience Leaders Forum 2025, a continental meeting hosted in Rwanda that brought together representatives of institutions dedicated to promoting excellence in customer service across Africa.

The two-day forum, organized by CX Touchpoints Rwanda Ltd, convened more than 100 participants from 21 African countries.

Discussions highlighted that delivering quality services is central to achieving sustainable growth, with Rwanda presented as a leading example in innovation, effective policy implementation, and consistent improvement in both business and government services.

Jeannette Nyinawumuntu, Country Managing Director of CX Touchpoints Rwanda, emphasized that Africa must invest more in strengthening service delivery as part of its sustainable development journey.

On the first day, the forum focused on solutions tailored to Africa’s market realities, proposing new approaches to designing customer experience strategies suited for the continent.

Another key topic was the development of robust Voice of the Customer (VoC) frameworks to ensure that customer feedback directly informs corporate decisions, allowing institutions to respond effectively to the needs and expectations of their clients.

Participants also underscored the role of governments in creating enabling environments for high-quality services, citing Rwanda as a case study of how governance policies can enhance citizens’ experience with public service delivery.

The forum included sessions on consumer behavior research in Africa, offering practical recommendations for strengthening customer loyalty and trust in both businesses and organizations.

Executive Director of The Global Trust Project, Dominic Wilhelm urged African institutions to leverage artificial intelligence, noting that the technology can position organizations at the forefront of customer service excellence.

Meanwhile, Joan Ntabadde Kyeyune, a customer experience enthusiast, called on leaders of customer-focused agencies across the continent to drive cultural change in how clients are welcomed, as a means of boosting loyalty and confidence.

On her part, Dr. Lucy Kiruthu explained how aligning budgets with projects that directly improve customer experience could yield long-term benefits for both citizens and businesses.

At the conclusion of the forum, delegates visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi, where they paid respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and were briefed on Rwanda’s history, how the killings were stopped, and the country’s resilience journey.

September 17, 2025
UN report shows ‘healing’ ozone layer

The low level of ozone depletion observed in 2024 was partly due to naturally occurring atmospheric factors which drive year-to-year fluctuations. However, the long-term positive trend reflects the success of concerted international action, reported the Ozone Bulletin of the World Meteorological Organization.

The report, offering encouraging scientific news for both human and planetary health, was issued to mark World Ozone Day on Tuesday and the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention, which recognized stratospheric ozone depletion as a global problem and provided the framework for mobilizing international cooperation in ozone research, systematic observations and scientific assessments.

“Forty years ago, nations came together to take the first step in protecting the ozone layer — guided by science, united in action,” said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

“The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol became a landmark of multilateral success. Today, the ozone layer is healing. This achievement reminds us that when nations heed the warnings of science, progress is possible,” he said.

According to the report’s investigation, to date, the Montreal Protocol has led to the phase-out of over 99 percent of the production and consumption of controlled ozone-depleting substances, which were used in refrigeration, air conditioning, firefighting foam and even hairspray.

As a result, the ozone layer is now on track to recover to 1980s levels by the middle of this century, significantly reducing risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and ecosystem damage due to excessive UV exposure.

September 17, 2025