This collaboration officially launches pawaPay’s service for inbound remittances into Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, Gabon, Congo Brazzaville, and Tanzania.
The partnership allows IMTOs to efficiently deliver funds globally directly to recipients’ more than 161 million Airtel Money customers wallets, leveraging pawaPay’s renowned reliability, scalability, and 99.9% platform uptime.
Building on five years of trusted collaboration in domestic mobile money, this expansion strengthens and simplifies Airtel Money Africa’s backend processes, using pawaPay’s robust payment service provider infrastructure, which processes over four million transactions daily.
Commenting on the development, Airtel Money Africa CEO, Ian Ferrao, said: “We’re pleased to expand our partnership with pawaPay to advance international remittances across Africa. Their proven reliability and commitment to African consumers make them an ideal partner. This integration empowers International Money Transfer Operators to securely connect with Airtel Money’s growing footprint, delivering real-time payments that support financial inclusion and economic growth.”
pawaPay CEO, Nikolai Barnwell, also affirmed their mission to simplify payments for businesses in Africa, and remittances.
“Deepening our relationship with Airtel Money allows International Money Transfer Operators to leverage our world-class infrastructure for seamless cross-border payments,” he said.
Remittances remain critical for millions of Africans, enabling family support, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. This partnership ensures secure, instant mobile wallet transactions, key to advancing Africa’s digital economy.
pawaPay will extend this capability to additional Airtel Money Africa markets in coming months.
According to the management, this latest expansion aligns with NCBA’s mission to be present where it matters most and to deliver customer-centered financial solutions and value across the region.
“As a regionally trusted bank, NCBA can be depended upon to provide the best banking experience for customers in Rubavu and neighboring areas,” said Maurice Toroitich, Managing Director of NCBA Bank Rwanda.
“We believe Rubavu’s growing economy holds immense potential. Our presence here is not just about access—it’s about partnership and helping our customers scale their dreams responsibly and sustainably.”
Speaking on the significance of this milestone, Chairman of the NCBA Bank Rwanda Board, Amb. Dr. Benjamin Rugangazi, remarked: “Opening this branch reflects our belief in the country’s vision for economic inclusivity and decentralization. We are committed to supporting Rwanda’s financial ecosystem and empowering communities beyond Kigali.”
Rubavu serves as a vital gateway for cross-border trade into one of Africa’s largest untapped markets, the Democratic Republic of Congo. Entrepreneurs from both sides of the border rely heavily on Rwandan banks to secure their deposits and facilitate transactions. The region’s dynamic economy—driven by imports, exports, hospitality, and agriculture—makes it an ideal location for NCBA’s value-driven banking model.
Welcoming the bank to the region, Vice Mayor for Economic Development of Rubavu District, Deogratius Nzabonimpa shared his appreciation: “The presence of NCBA Bank in Rubavu is timely and impactful. It boosts our district’s financial capacity, supports regional trade, and creates new opportunities for our residents and businesses to access quality banking services.”
This expansion reinforces NCBA’s vision of building a strong and sustainable banking network across Rwanda—one that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and committed to inspiring greatness in every community it serves.
{{About NCBA Bank Rwanda}}
NCBA Bank Rwanda is a subsidiary of NCBA Group, a banking group providing a broad range of financial products and services to corporate, institutional, SME, and consumer banking customers. NCBA Group operates a network of 115 branches in five countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ivory Coast. Serving over 60 million customers, it is the largest banking group in Africa by customer numbers.
NCBA Bank Rwanda is currently present in Kigali with four branches and in other districts of Musanze, Nyagatare, Rubavu, and Kayonza. The bank will soon be unveiling another new branch in Rusizi.
Through its partnership with MTN Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd on “MoKash,” a digital savings and loan product, NCBA has attracted over 5 million customers making it the largest bank in individual retail deposits and the country’s biggest catalyst for financial inclusion.
The African Facts, an organization committed to publishing factual information about Africa, revealed that findings from its five-year investigation into the Habyarimana family show that Jean-Luc’s words align with actions — he, his mother Agathe Kanziga, and other family members maintain strong ties with members of both the FDLR and the CNRD-FLN.
The investigation began on June 3, 2020, after the organization observed another son of Habyarimana, Léon Habyarimana, alongside former FDLR Executive Secretary Callixte Mbarushimana, during court proceedings at the Paris Court of Appeal related to the extradition case of Félicien Kabuga.
It noted that Léon and Mbarushimana — who is suspected of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi — were conversing outside the courtroom, prompting suspicions that they may know each other. This led to further evidence-gathering to confirm the connection.
In a 2008 investigative report on France’s role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Maj Gen (Rtd) Paul Rwarakabije explained that during those years, Kanziga received significant funds from France’s intelligence service, the DGSE, to support the FDLR, which she handed over to Col Aloys Ntiwiragabo, one of the group’s founders.
When French Gendarmerie searched Kanziga’s home in 2016, they found Col Ntiwiragabo’s phone number in her notebook, confirming that they had been in contact for over 16 years. At the time, Ntiwiragabo had been residing in Orléans since 2006.
In 2011, Ntiwiragabo’s wife founded the Association des Rwandais de l’agglomération orléanaise (ARAO) in Orléans. Since 2016, Kanziga’s niece — Clémentine, daughter of Protais Zigiranyirazo — has served on its board. African Facts revealed that five other ARAO members work closely with Kanziga.
In its search for further proof, the organization obtained data from a computer seized by French investigators from the building where Jean-Luc resides. It contained a message from Léon to one of his cousins that included the names “Omar” and “Orléans.” “Omar” was an alias used by Col. Ntiwiragabo during his time in Sudan and while co-founding the FDLR.
Investigators also discovered a 2012 guest list and budget for an event held at the Habyarimana family home. Among the attendees were former senior officials from Habyarimana’s regime, including individuals convicted of genocide crimes and suspects such as Jean-Chrysostome Nyirurugo.
Nyirurugo appears in a Belgian police document listing members responsible for collecting funds for the PDR party, part of the MRCD coalition founded by Paul Rusesabagina. The FLN armed wing of MRCD carried out attacks near Nyungwe National Park in 2018 and 2019 and is still active in Burundi’s Kibira Forest.
Kanziga’s notebook also contained the phone number of Gen Janvier Mayanga, a senior officer in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) army who played a key role in coordinating operations between government forces, the FDLR, and the Wazalendo militia — especially in Masisi territory.
Gen Mayanga was instrumental in forming armed groups sharing an anti-Tutsi ideology, such as PARECO. PARECO fought alongside the DRC army against Gen Laurent Nkunda’s CNDP and later against M23, from 2006 onward.
His cooperation with the FDLR was first confirmed by UN experts in 2008 and 2009, when he was reported to be sourcing support for the group. Since the emergence of M23 in 2012, his role in the conflict has remained significant.
In December 2023, President Félix Tshisekedi appointed Gen Mayanga as the intelligence coordinator for the Wazalendo coalition. The group had recently been integrated into the DRC army’s reserve forces, reinforcing collaboration with the FDLR.
Following the M23’s capture of Bukavu in South Kivu in February 2025, Gen Mayanga, senior DRC officers, and Wazalendo members fled to Uvira, where the government temporarily relocated the provincial administration.
In early June 2024, Jean-Luc made a secret trip to Kinshasa, for a meeting individuals close to President Tshisekedi and senior DRC security officials. Although the purpose of the visit was not disclosed, it is suspected to have been related to supporting the FDLR.
A month after Jean-Luc’s trip, President Tshisekedi’s office announced that the DRC intended to host Rwandans temporarily residing in Niger, including Captain Innocent Sagahutu, who in 2017 unsuccessfully attempted to join the FDLR.
However, the DRC government abandoned the plan after a document — signed by presidential chief of staff Antony Nkinzo Kamole — approving the arrangement was leaked to the public.
Murangwa revealed that in the 2024 financial year, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s loan portfolio reached Frw 666 billion, reflecting an annual growth of 6%. This underscores the bank’s continued commitment to advancing Rwanda’s economic development.
As the bank celebrated its 50th anniversary, Minister Murangwa described the journey as transformative, emphasizing the bank’s role in shaping the country’s financial landscape.
He noted that BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has provided more than Frw 53 billion to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with 25% of that allocated to women entrepreneurs through initiatives like Ikamba.
“This program helps women entrepreneurs access capital and build their capacity,” Minister Murangwa said.
The bank’s impact extends beyond economic support. It plays a vital role in educating the nation through its Igire Initiative, which currently supports 840 young people, with 776 already having graduated from the program.
Minister Murangwa called on the bank to continue pioneering development-focused projects and innovations in the financial sector.
He emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive financial system and supporting environmentally sustainable projects, noting, “This will lead us to the growth of an inclusive financial sector for all Rwandans and foster development that positively impacts the country, particularly in reducing poverty, which is our primary shared goal.”
Looking ahead, the Minister said, “The next 50 years should be characterized by even greater innovation, impact, and transformation for Rwandans, the region, and at the international level.”
Patience Mutesi, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s Managing Director, expressed the bank’s deep appreciation for its customers. “We place great importance on listening to our customers. To all our customers wherever you are, thank you very much for trusting us and allowing us to partner with you in your investments,” she stated.
The bank has expanded its reach, now operating 73 branches, 2,242 agents, and 59 ATMs. BPR Bank Rwanda Plc’s growth is evident in its continued involvement in large-scale projects, including financing the construction of Bugesera International Airport, where it became the first local bank to provide such financing in 2017.
Mutesi also highlighted the bank’s recent financing efforts, including a consortium of financial institutions in Rwanda providing USD 322 million in guarantees for projects such as those led by UMCJV Ltd. Other initiatives include supporting food security through Africa Improved Foods and partnerships aimed at addressing climate change impacts and promoting renewable energy.
Additionally, the bank is committed to assisting small entrepreneurs by providing capital, investment training, and a particular focus on women entrepreneurs.
Rubagumya George, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, emphasized the bank’s remarkable growth, stating that it is now in a position to support any project aimed at national development.
Paul Russo, CEO of KCB Group Ltd, reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to delivering excellent services, advancing technology, collaborating with the government, and contributing to national development.
Customer testimonials underscored the bank’s positive impact. Louis Nsengiyumva, the bank’s first-ever customer who opened an account in 1975, shared how BPR Bank Rwanda Plc helped him safeguard his finances, reducing the risk of losing money that was traditionally kept at home.
Kabahizi Théoneste, representing Rwanda Agribusiness Supporters and Veterinary Consulting Services (RABSCO Ltd), also praised the bank, stating, “Fifty years of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc is a great journey. You cannot grow without working with a bank—you need it, you work well with it, you repay well, it grows, and you grow too. Without using a bank, it would be impossible to undertake major projects.”
Queen Kalimpinya, another client, commended the bank for its commitment to promoting women and girls, urging others to embrace financial institutions.
“Supporting women and girls shows that this is truly a people’s bank—a bank we can identify with. It’s a bank that, when you think about your goals in life and what you want to achieve, you see it is aligned with your aspirations,” she said.
BPR Bank Rwanda Plc has pledged to continue offering excellent services in both public and private sector investment, as well as providing payment and savings solutions for its customers.
CEO Butare James confirmed the move on August 8, 2025, during Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva’s visit to the company’s powdered milk facility and East African Granite Industries’ tile plant, both located in Nyagatare District.
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva praised the factories’ operations and encouraged them to scale up production to capture both local and international markets. He also urged Inyange to prioritize meeting domestic demand before pursuing exports.
“The Prime Minister advised us to explore ways to boost milk production, including working with farmers to increase yields so the plant operates at full capacity. He also stressed the importance of first serving the local market before expanding abroad,” Butare explained.
Since its completion, the Nyagatare plant has mainly produced industrial-grade powdered milk for manufacturers of ice cream, yogurt, bread, and other products. Butare assured consumers that Inyange is now preparing to release a household-friendly powdered milk—similar in quality and use to Nido—by September.
“We are now preparing to produce regular powdered milk for everyday use, and you will see it on the shelves very soon,” he said.
Inyange has obtained all required certifications for international trade and continues to work closely with farmers to boost raw milk supply. Since the plant began operations, the number of milk collection centers has grown from 43 to 139 nationwide.
Inyange has already secured markets for its industrial-grade powdered milk in countries such as Türkiye, Syria, Tanzania, Ghana, Oman, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Qatar, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and many others.
Currently, the Nyagatare facility operates at just 31% of its total capacity, but management says production will grow steadily as operations mature and market demand expands.
Dr. Bizimana was born in Burundi on February 10, 1968. He holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in International Relations from the Higher Institute of International Relations and Cooperation (IRIC) in Cameroon, where he conducted research on “Armed Conflicts and Environmental Protection in the Great Lakes Region.”
He began his career at Burundi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2004, serving as Adviser to the Director General in charge for Europe and North America. After two years, he was appointed Deputy Director in charge of protocol at the Vice President’s office.
From 2007 to 2010, Dr. Bizimana served as First Counselor at Burundi’s Embassy in the United States. In February 2012, he became Director of Regional and International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before briefly heading the department responsible for political parties.
In June 2012, Dr. Bizimana was appointed Ambassador of Burundi to Germany, serving until 2016 when he was appointed Ambassador to Russia. In 2022, he was named one of the special envoys of President Evariste Ndayishimiye.
Dr. Bizimana’s Position on the FDLR Amid Rwanda-Burundi tensions
As relations between Rwanda and Burundi deteriorated, Dr. Edouard Bizimana, a key political figure within President Evariste Ndayishimiye’s administration and other senior institutions, has consistently targeted Rwanda both openly and covertly.
Whenever the Rwandan leadership addresses regional conflicts, Dr. Bizimana is quick to respond, often driven by personal sentiments rooted in hostility and attempts to discredit Rwanda within the international community.
In early July 2025, President Paul Kagame told journalists that Rwanda was ready to comply with the commitments made in the peace agreement signed with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Washington in June.
President Kagame clarified that although the DRC had signed prior agreements, it failed to honor them, and Rwanda was waiting to see if the DRC would dismantle the FDLR rebel group as promised in Washington.
At that time, Dr. Bizimana took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), declaring that the FDLR was merely a pretext used by Rwanda. He suggested that President Kagame’s assertion about the DRC’s failure to comply with previous agreements reflected a lack of genuine intent, stating, “The FDLR card no longer works.”
On July 3, Rwandan Félix Mugenzi posted on X that Presidents Ndayishimiye and Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC were empowering the FDLR to continue plundering natural resources. Dr. Bizimana responded by claiming the rebel group no longer posed a threat.
He stated, “The FDLR is no longer a problem for Rwanda; it is just an excuse for Rwanda to exploit the DRC. Your lies will no longer stand.”
Mugenzi’s comments were based on multiple reports highlighting that the Burundi government had long collaborated with armed groups opposing the Rwandan government, including the FDLR—particularly since bilateral relations soured in late 2023.
While Dr. Bizimana insists that the FDLR no longer threatens the region, the United Nations Security Council’s peace and security committee has repeatedly indicated that the group remains a destabilizing force in eastern DRC and reaffirmed the need for its disbandment.
{{Burundian not attacking Rwanda faces backlash}}
On April 16, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, addressed the United Nations Security Council, stating that the 1994 genocide against the Hutu in Burundi should be officially recognized.
Frédéric Gateretse Ngoga, a Burundian ambassador serving at the African Union’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, refuted Kayikwamba’s claim, arguing that no genocide against the Hutu occurred in Burundi during the time it was led by a Hutu president, Sylvestre Ntibantunganya.
Ambassador Ngoga, who previously served as Burundi’s ambassador, said, “My sister Kayikwamba, this is not true. Our president at the time was Sylvestre Ntibantunganya, a Hutu. On the other hand, read the UN reports. There was no genocide against the Hutu in Burundi.”
Following this, Dr. Edouard Bizimana sharply criticized Ambassador Ngoga, accusing him of working in favor of Rwanda, alleging that Ngoga had never condemned the statements made by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, about Burundi.
Dr. Bizimana stated, “Frédéric Gateretse serves Rwanda’s interests, a country that attacks the DRC, and tramples the African Union’s principles while pretending to be its spokesperson. I have never heard him condemn the harsh words of Olivier Nduhungirehe against Burundi and the FNL.”
Subsequently, the DRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an apology clarifying that Minister Kayikwamba did not intend to assert that a genocide against the Hutu occurred in Burundi in 1994, but rather referred to the events of 1972.
{{Accusations against Uganda}}
On February 16, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, publicly expressed support for the reasons behind the M23 rebels taking up arms following their capture of Bukavu city.
At that time, General Muhoozi admired the fast advances, noting that Ugandans were not involved in the war.
In response, Dr. Edouard Bizimana stated, “Sending your troops to invade another country is unacceptable behavior. The higher you climb the tree, the worse your fall will be, and it exposes your vulnerability. The world is watching you.”
Later that month, Dr. Bizimana revealed that during the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) meeting held on February 8, Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda expressed doubts about the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), saying, “This fuels a dangerous situation.”
The diplomat explained that Burundi has long demonstrated to the international community that the conflict in eastern DRC is different from what people think, implying that Rwanda and Uganda have involvement in the conflict.
He stated, “At the EAC and SADC meeting in Dar es Salaam, SADC leaders appeared troubled by Museveni and Kagame’s positions, raising questions about their commitment to peace in the DRC. Attempts to alter colonial-era borders will create further problems.”
Dr. Bizimana continued to criticize the Ugandan government, telling General Muhoozi that even if the troops he commands reached Kinshasa, they would retreat just as they did during the fight against Mobutu Sese Seko’s regime.
{{Withdrawal of SADC troops proved costly}}
In late 2023, troops from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), deployed from South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi, were sent to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to combat the M23 armed rebel group, which was continuing to seize large territories.
These SADC forces had replaced troops from the East African Community (EAC), who were tasked with monitoring the opposing parties to facilitate peace talks held in Nairobi, Kenya.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, who led the EAC at the time, supported President Félix Tshisekedi’s call for EAC troops to directly engage M23 positions. He also deployed Burundian soldiers to the Masisi territory to assist the DRC forces, disregarding a regional decision made by heads of state.
In January 2025, SADC troops suffered defeats in Goma and Sake. By March, SADC heads of state decided to withdraw the troops, concluding that only political dialogue could end the conflict.
Following the defeats in North Kivu, Burundi maintained its forces in South Kivu, continuing to cooperate with DRC troops based on an agreement signed in August 2023.
In June 2025, Dr. Edouard Bizimana, then working in President Ndayishimiye’s office, expressed regret over the withdrawal of the majority of SADC forces from eastern DRC. He openly disagreed with the regional leaders who decided that political dialogue was the only solution.
Dr. Bizimana stated, “Supporting peace and security by withdrawing troops? What a defeat!”
It is clear that Minister Bizimana continues to take the same stance he had while serving in President Ndayishimiye’s office. This suggests that reconciliation between Rwanda and Burundi may face challenges soon, especially since such inflammatory statements undermined the promising talks initiated in March 2025.
On August 7, 2025, the NIDA officially launched a pre-enrollment platform that allows citizens to verify or correct their existing civil registration records.
This step marks the beginning of preparations for the issuance of the new digital IDs. The verification process is expected to be extended to local communities across the country, down to the cell level, to ensure that every citizen can conveniently confirm their personal information. Individuals with internet access can also complete the process online through the IremboGov platform.
Once their details are verified, citizens will receive a unique code granting them permission to submit their biometric data, which is required for the new digital ID.
The Director General of the National Identification Agency (NIDA), Josephine Mukesha, stated that the digital ID system is a step toward resolving all existing issues found in civil registration data.
“As of today, there are people whose national IDs show their date of birth as January 1st, even though they have documents that clearly indicate different actual birthdates. What we’re asking is that they bring those documents so we can correct the information, ensuring that their digital ID reflects accurate data,” she said.
“We are currently in the process of verifying and confirming citizens’ personal information. The full digital ID system is expected to become operational in June next year,” Mukesha added.
The digital ID project is part of a larger national program being implemented in partnership with the World Bank. The total investment stands at approximately Frw 200 billion, with Frw 40 billion specifically allocated to the development of the digital ID infrastructure.
The initiative spans a three-year timeline and received Frw 5.4 billion for the 2024/2025 fiscal year. In 2025/2026, it has been allocated Frw 12.2 billion.
The digital ID will be offered in multiple formats: as a physical card similar to the current national ID, as a QR code that can be stored on digital devices such as smartphones and computers, and as a secure digital token that serves a unique function different from the traditional ID number. This approach aims to give users more flexibility and accessibility while strengthening identity security.
Unlike the existing system, which captures only a facial photo, a signature, and two fingerprints, the new ID will gather a more comprehensive set of biometric and demographic data.
This includes a high-resolution facial scan, fingerprints from all ten fingers, an iris scan, the individual’s full name, date and place of birth, the names of their parents, and contact details such as phone numbers and email addresses where available.
The process for children is age-specific: those from birth to age five will have only a facial photo taken, while children aged five and above will undergo full biometric data capture.
All minors under the age of eighteen must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the process. Once children reach the age of sixteen, their biometric data will be updated to reflect physical changes. For individuals with disabilities or missing biometric features, the system has been designed to detect and adjust accordingly, capturing only the available data.
Given the sensitive nature of the information involved, the government has prioritized data privacy and security. State-of-the-art technology will be employed to ensure that personal data is stored safely and accessed only by authorized personnel.
A dedicated security team will monitor the system daily to prevent unauthorized access or misuse. One of the most significant innovations of this system is that it gives citizens full control over how their data is shared.
Depending on the service required, different institutions may request different types of information, but access will only be granted with the user’s explicit consent.
John Ndanyuzwe, a data management specialist at NIDA and one of the key figures overseeing the implementation of the digital ID project, highlighted the confidentiality framework built into the system.
He explained that, for example, if a person visits a bar where age verification is required, the system will simply confirm whether the individual is of legal age without revealing the exact date of birth.
This minimizes unnecessary data exposure while still enabling access to services. To support this feature, a mobile application will be introduced, allowing citizens to manage their privacy preferences and grant access to specific data on a case-by-case basis.
Rwandans living abroad have also been considered in the rollout. Identity verification services will be made available at Rwandan embassies around the world, followed by issuance of the digital ID.
Citizens will be informed in advance by their respective diplomatic missions about when and where the process will take place. In addition to Rwandan nationals, the new digital ID will also be issued to foreign residents, refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, abandoned children, and temporary visitors who need access to services while in the country.
The digital ID is expected to significantly streamline access to essential services by centralizing personal information and eliminating the need for citizens to carry multiple documents.
It will also reduce associated costs such as travel expenses and document printing, as many services will become accessible remotely and securely.
Beyond convenience, the system represents a major step forward in modernizing governance and fostering trust, transparency, and efficiency across Rwanda’s service delivery landscape.
The session provided updates on Rwanda’s internal and external security situation, as well as the RDF’s ongoing contributions to UN peacekeeping missions and bilateral military operations.
In his welcoming remarks, Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Director General of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence, emphasised that the security brief held, helps in strengthening mutual understanding and contributes to collaborative approach to promote peace across the region and beyond.
Following a series of presentations, and an extensive interactive session, the representative of the DA Association, Brig Gen Emmanuel Shillingi said that they were grateful for regular security briefings and reiterated that they provide invaluable insights into the host nation’s perspectives, as well as internal and regional security dynamics.
He also affirmed their commitment to strengthening, promoting and preserving cooperation and mutual understanding as partners in development.
The event was attended by 22 Defence Attachés and Associates representing various countries and international organisations.
These include Angola, China, Denmark, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Japan, Jordan, Mauritania, Namibia, Qatar, South Korea, Tanzania, Uganda, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Zambia, Zimbabwe, the European Union (EU), and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
Israel intended to take control of all of Gaza to “assure our security, remove Hamas there, enable the population to be free of Gaza,” Netanyahu said on Thursday in an interview with Fox News ahead of the Security Cabinet meeting.
“We don’t want to keep it. We want to have a security perimeter. We want to hand it over to Arab forces that will govern it properly without threatening us and giving Gazans a good life,” he said.
In response, Hamas said in a statement that it considers Netanyahu’s statements to represent “a clear reversal of the course of negotiations and reveal the true motives behind his withdrawal from the final round.”
At least 9,752 Palestinians have been killed and 40,004 others injured since Israel renewed its intensive strikes in Gaza on March 18, bringing the total death toll since October 2023 to 61,258, and injuries to 152,045, Gaza-based health authorities said Thursday.
The wildfire, dubbed the Canyon fire, broke out around 1:25 p.m. local time (2025 GMT) near Piru, a small historic town located in eastern Ventura County and around 77 km northwest of Los Angeles. The blaze grew rapidly to over 1,000 acres (around 4.05 square km) in hours with no containment, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
Local officials issued multiple evacuation orders and warnings for some communities near the fire in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
“Immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access,” said Cal Fire in its evacuation orders.
“The Canyon Fire is spreading fast under extreme heat and dry conditions near Ventura-LA County line,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger in a post on X, urging residents in the area to “take evacuation orders seriously — when first responders say GO, leave immediately.”
The temperature in the area reached 37.8 degrees Celsius on Thursday, with 15-17 percent humidity, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.
