Among those he welcomed were the President of SECAM and Catholic Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, as well as the President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda.
During the meeting, President Kagame shared Rwanda’s journey of recovery and development, emphasizing that for humanity to thrive, both the state and religious institutions must play active roles.
“Rwanda’s history represents both the worst and the best of humanity – a reminder that those with responsibilities, both in the state and the church, must harness the best of humanity,” he noted.
“Failure has happened before, but good people don’t accept to be held hostage by it. We must learn from our history, work together, and prepare the ground for hope, reconciliation, and peace, not just in Rwanda, but across our continent,” President Kagame added.
The SECAM gathering in Kigali began on July 31, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on August 3. It has brought together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, and more than 70 priests from various African countries.
At the official opening, Cardinal Ambongo thanked Rwanda for hosting the event, calling it a model nation that overcame a painful past to rebuild itself. He also expressed appreciation to President Kagame for sending a government representative to the opening.
President Kagame was represented at the opening ceremony by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who called on the Catholic bishops to play an active role in addressing the challenges facing Africa, including conflicts, and to contribute to the continent’s economic development.
This 20th SECAM plenary assembly in Kigali is held under the theme: “Christ the Source of Hope, Unity, Reconciliation, and Peace: A Vision for the Church-Family of God in Africa over the Next 25 Years.”
This development builds on the momentum of recent diplomatic progress, including the Peace Agreement signed by the two countries on June 27, 2025, and the earlier Declaration of Principles signed in Washington, D.C. on April 25 by DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
The REIF is expected to serve as a living platform that evolves over time, allowing for the inclusion of new, mutually beneficial initiatives in areas ranging from infrastructure and energy to health, tourism, and mining.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe,on July 30, told Members of Parliament that Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were preparing to enter into a special economic cooperation agreement.
“These will be specific agreements focused on bilateral cooperation, particularly on adding value to mineral resources. Discussions are still ongoing. We hope that experts from both sides will reach a consensus so that the agreement can be signed in the near future,” said Minister Nduhungirehe.
Before outlining principles for their economic cooperation principles, Rwanda and the DRC convened their first meeting of the oversight body tasked with monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, which took place in Washington on July 31.
That meeting laid the groundwork for a follow-up session scheduled for August 4, bringing together members of a joint security mechanism. This body will be responsible for overseeing operations aimed at dismantling the terrorist group FDLR and reviewing Rwanda’s defensive measures previously put in place.
The United States has welcomed both meetings as significant steps toward implementing the peace agreement, emphasizing that Rwanda and the DRC are on the right track toward enhanced security and economic collaboration.
He is scheduled to perform on Saturday, August 2, at BK Arena, where he will share the stage with Rwanda’s own The Ben and fellow Nigerian artists Ayra Starr and Kizz Daniel. His return to Rwanda marks a special moment for local fans who last saw him perform during the Kigali Jazz Junction on March 25, 2022, at Canal Olympia.
At 44, Timaya remains one of the most celebrated and enduring figures in African music. Since launching his career in 2005, he has steadily built a legacy through a series of successful releases that have earned him a loyal following across the continent. Known for his distinctive fusion of dancehall, ragga, afrobeats, hip-hop, and soca, Timaya has become a musical force whose sound resonates far beyond Nigeria.
In addition to his work as a performer, he is also the founder of DM Records Limited, the label that helped launch the careers of artists such as Patoranking and Runtown. His leadership in the industry has not only elevated his profile but has also contributed significantly to the growth of African music globally.
Born on August 15, 1980, in Rivers State, Nigeria, Timaya is the youngest of fifteen children. He was raised in a large family where his father worked at a bank and his mother ran a small business. After completing his secondary education in Lagos, he enrolled in university to study accounting but left before completing his degree to pursue music full time.
His musical journey began humbly when he worked as a backup singer for Nigerian artist Eedris Abdulkareem, an experience that gave him valuable exposure to the stage and the music industry. After three years in that role, he embarked on a solo career and eventually met producer Obaksolo in Mafoluku, Lagos. It was there that he recorded “Dem Mama,” a breakthrough track that catapulted him into the spotlight and set the tone for his future success.
BNR’s initial study aimed to assess whether a CBDC, controlled and regulated by the central bank, could be beneficial to Rwanda. It evaluated how such a currency could function alongside existing systems like banks and mobile money platforms, and whether it was necessary for Rwanda’s financial future. The findings revealed strong justification for moving forward, highlighting several challenges that a CBDC could help address.
Now in the pilot phase, the project is testing how the currency could be used in everyday transactions and is welcoming ideas from industry players about the best ways to design and implement it. One of the major advantages of the proposed CBDC is that it allows users to make payments quickly—even without internet access—adding to the country’s existing electronic and cash-based payment methods with a secure, innovative solution.
This pilot marks a significant milestone for BNR, which is working to build a financial ecosystem that is technologically advanced, resilient, and accessible to all. The central bank has confirmed that testing is already underway and expects to publish the results by October 2025.
The goal of the trial is to deepen understanding of how the CBDC would work in practice—its regulatory requirements, cybersecurity safeguards, and how it could integrate with Rwanda’s existing payment systems. It will also help shape the central bank’s final decision on whether to launch the CBDC nationwide.
To support the project, BNR is collaborating with Giesecke+Devrient, a German firm with extensive experience in digital currency systems. Together, they are running a challenge-style program aimed at collecting ideas from financial institutions and technology experts.
The initiative focuses on four areas: how the digital currency can improve payments in rural areas, how it can help government disburse funds directly to citizens, how it might make person-to-person transfers faster and more affordable, and how it could contribute to a safer, more cost-effective financial sector overall.
Participants will include banks, fintech firms, and other stakeholders in the financial space. The competition is set to open in August 2025, with winners selected in September to present their ideas. These results will inform the next steps in the process.
Following the current pilot and ideation stages, BNR plans to proceed with three more phases: building the necessary technological infrastructure, conducting controlled trials among a limited group of users, and finally—if all goes well—rolling out the CBDC to the wider public.
Speaking to IGIHE recently, BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye emphasized that the process is long but intentional.
“This is a careful, phased approach. If we decide to move forward, we want to make sure that the digital currency is not only secure but also truly beneficial to the Rwandan people,” she said.
She confirmed that the initial research is complete and that stakeholder consultations, including citizen feedback, have already been conducted.
“Our early testing shows that the potential is real. That’s why we’re now beginning more in-depth testing with a small group of users in Rwanda. What we learn from this pilot will help determine whether the country is ready to adopt the CBDC,” she added.
Governor Hakuziyaremye also noted that one of the most immediate benefits of a CBDC could be reduced transaction costs—both domestically and for cross-border transfers.
“Many countries are already using digital currencies, and we believe this could make trade and remittances cheaper and more efficient.”
She added that the system could also enhance competition among payment service providers, ultimately improving innovation and services across the sector.
Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are often decentralized and unregulated, a CBDC is issued and controlled by the central bank. This means it poses fewer risks to the national economy and enjoys the same legal recognition as traditional currencies.
The CBDC would not exist in the form of paper notes or metal coins, but rather as a fully digital legal tender. It would be used to buy goods and services through digital platforms, and all transfers and withdrawals would take place electronically.
[With this new step->chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bnr.rw/documents/CBDC_Ideathon.pdf], Rwanda joins a growing list of countries actively exploring the future of money through central bank-issued digital currencies. If successful, the CBDC could become a cornerstone of the country’s vision for a smart, connected economy that leaves no one behind.
The disclosure was made by the Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, during this year’s national celebration of Umuganura (thanksgiving festival) in Musanze District on August 1, 2025.
The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, industry, local residents, and government officials. The day served as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and reaffirmation of cultural values.
Highlighting the significance of Umuganura in both historical and contemporary contexts, the Minister noted: “Umuganura stands out as the only festivity deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. This is why the Government of Rwanda reinstated it in 2012, and efforts are underway to have it recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.”
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura is not just a symbolic tradition, but a practical framework of values that continue to guide Rwanda’s development.
He traced its origins back to the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana and its interruption by colonial rule in 1925. The festival was officially reinstated in 2012 by the Government of National Unity under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The Minister noted that the celebration is no longer limited to agriculture and livestock, but now includes achievements in sectors such as education, technology, tourism, arts, and industry.
“Some may perceive Umuganura as merely an act of sharing, but while sharing is an important component, it is not the sole essence of the celebration. Umuganura represents a year-long process of performance contract, planning, and striving for progress,” Habimana noted.
The festival’s theme this year—“Umuganura: The Source of Unity and Foundation for Self-Reliance”—captured its evolving role in modern Rwandan society.
The Minister also issued a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to embrace and preserve the values of Umuganura.
“Umuganura is not just another celebration. It is a unique heritage and tradition that defines our identity. I urge you to uphold it, embrace it in your daily lives, and pass it on to future generations,” he noted.
“Elders have a responsibility to instill this tradition in the youth, ensuring its preservation. Celebrating Umuganura reminds us to keep Rwanda at the heart, wherever we are, and to carry this legacy with pride,” the Minister added.
Umuganura embodies values such as hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and patriotism—principles that continue to drive Rwanda’s progress.
In 2023, the global beer industry supported approximately 6.4 million agriculture-related jobs, with one in five of these roles rooted in agriculture. Farmers worldwide cultivate tens of millions of tons of barley and thousands of tons of hops annually to meet brewing demands, transforming raw fields into the essential ingredients for lagers and ales.
This economic ripple effect is particularly evident in local communities. Beer is often brewed using locally sourced ingredients, prompting breweries to invest significantly in domestic agriculture. In Rwanda, BRALIRWA has spearheaded local sourcing initiatives aimed at empowering farmers. A significant number of Rwandan farmers have participated in these programs, gaining access to improved seeds, extension services, and mechanization tools to enhance yields and livelihoods. These partnerships not only ensure a steady supply of barley for brewing but also uplift entire communities.
Since 2019, BRALIRWA has championed barley as a new cash crop in Rwanda. Previously imported from Europe, barley is now increasingly cultivated by over 3,000 local farmers. The company currently supports local cooperatives and small-holder farmers by providing training and access to good quality farming inputs, resources as well as agronomic support. This expansion will help to maintain consistent product quality and inject new life into Rwanda’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with a reliable market and a stable income.
One farmer, Nkurunziza from Gicumbi, shared his experience: “BRALIRWA has consistently provided us with essential equipment such as threshers, significantly reducing our harvest losses. Their timely purchases have been vital to our success. I started with just 10 hectares, and now we proudly farm 50 hectares. Barley farming has not only allowed us to rotate crops with potatoes and beans, that improves soil health, but it has also brought stability and hope to our lives.”
“We are committed to sustainable local sourcing and through our ‘brew a better world’ agenda, we are very intentional in supporting communities where we operate.” Samuel Murumu, BRALIRWA’s Supply Chain Director said. “By working closely with Rwandan farmers, we are building a value chain that is more inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in long-term impact” he added.
The company plans to scale up its use of locally grown raw materials significantly, with the strategic aim of sourcing 7,000 metric tonnes of barley and 21,000 metric tonnes of maize grain annually by 2030. This initiative forms part of BRALIRWA’s broader commitment to reducing import dependency, ensuring production resilience and boosting rural development through sustainable agriculture.
The role of beer in the economy is often underestimated. In addition to contributing significantly to GDP and government revenue, beer stimulates job creation in the farming, logistics, manufacturing and hospitality sectors. BRALIRWA’s local sourcing initiative amplifies this ripple effect, strengthening rural economies and promoting inclusive growth.
As Rwanda navigates its path towards sustainable industrialization, BRALIRWA’s approach is a compelling case study of how the private sector can combine profitability with purpose. On this International Beer Day, the company is raising a glass not only to beer, but also the farmers, brewers, transporters and service workers who make the industry thrive, from seed to sip.
In June 2025, AFC/M23 claimed control over approximately 34,000 square kilometers of territory in North and South Kivu provinces, home to more than 11 million people.
While the coalition has already installed a governance structure that includes political leadership and provincial governors, it has yet to implement a formal justice system. This gap has reportedly allowed lawlessness and impunity in some areas.
To address the issue, AFC/M23 formed a special commission to assess the feasibility of creating a judicial framework. The commission has submitted its recommendations to the coalition’s top leadership for review and approval.
Key leaders involved in this process include AFC coordinator Corneille Nangaa, his deputy and M23 political head Bertrand Bisimwa, M23 military commander Gen Sultani Makenga, and deputy military commander Brig Gen Bernard Byamungu.
Délion Kimbulungu, AFC Permanent Secretary and chair of the commission, said, “The proposal includes the re-establishment of civilian and military courts, local tribunals, and other essential justice institutions.”
AFC/M23 maintains that it has restored peace and security in the areas it controls and insists it is better positioned to establish effective governance structures than the administration of President Félix Tshisekedi.
The order hereby imposes “additional ad valorem duties on goods of certain trading partners.”
Most of the new tariff rates range from 10 percent to 40 percent, according to an annex to the release from the White House.
The new tariff rates will take effect seven days after the date of the executive order with exceptions on logistical grounds.
Trump noted in the executive order that some U.S. trading partners, despite having engaged in negotiations, have offered terms that do not sufficiently address “imbalances” in trading relationship or have failed to align sufficiently with the United States on “economic and national security matters.”
“There are also some trading partners that have failed to engage in negotiations with the United States or to take adequate steps to align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters,” he said.
According to the order, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Homeland Security, together with other senior officials, shall publish every six months a list of countries and specific facilities used in circumvention schemes, to inform public procurement, national security reviews, and commercial due diligence.
In addition, major U.S. governmental agencies are directed and authorized to take “all necessary actions” to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices.
He emphasized that neither governments nor faith-based institutions can address Africa’s pressing challenges alone — a principled partnership is required, rooted in “integrity, mutual respect, and a shared vision for justice.”
The Prime Minister made these remarks on July 31, 2025, during the official opening of the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), held in Kigali.
Speaking on behalf of President Paul Kagame, Dr. Nsengiyumva welcomed church leaders and partners from across Africa, calling their presence in Rwanda “a sign of solidarity and a powerful message of shared commitment to the values of hope, reconciliation, and peace.”
“This theme — Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation, and Peace — is deeply relevant not only to Rwanda’s journey, but to Africa’s broader transformation,” he said. “It echoes the complex but determined path we have taken to rebuild our country after the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.”
He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s vital role in Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery and social development.
“The Church’s contribution to our transformational journey is recognized in the history and lives of our country. In sectors like education, health, and social cohesion, its impact is not only felt — it is deeply appreciated,” he said.
Looking beyond Rwanda, Dr. Nsengiyumva challenged SECAM delegates to explore how the Church can continue to play a constructive role in Africa’s future, particularly in conflict resolution, youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership.
“Africa is at a crossroads. The wounds of the past are still healing, and new global pressures are emerging,” he said. “But within these challenges lies a unique opportunity for renewal. The Church in Africa, as a voice of conscience, has a vital role to play in inspiring ethical leadership, promoting dignity, and reinforcing the moral compass of our nations.”
Dr. Nsengiyumva also reaffirmed Rwanda’s readiness to work hand-in-hand with religious institutions to build a more just, peaceful, and inclusive society.
“We stand ready, as a government and as a people, to continue building inclusive partnerships with faith-based actors committed to service, equity, and peace.”
The Archinbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda praised the growth of the Catholic Church in Rwanda despite the devastating impact of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He commended Rwanda for prioritizing national unity and reconciliation in the post-genocide era.
Cardinal Kambanda also expressed deep gratitude to President Kagame for his leadership and political will to support unity and reconciliation, highlighting the Church’s own contribution to this journey.
He added that Rwanda serves as a significant example from which the rest of the world can learn.
SECAM’s Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine, noted that over the past 20 assemblies, the symposium has played a key role in the growth and mission of the Church in Africa.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Rwanda, Arnaldo Sanchez Catalan, delivered Pope Francis’ message to, highlighting the Vatican’s appreciation for the recent peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, facilitated with support from the United States.
He stated that the peace deal was a positive political step toward resolving longstanding conflicts.
Catalan emphasized that this SECAM gathering in Kigali aims to explore how the Catholic Church can actively contribute to peacebuilding, healing, and dialogue across Africa.
The President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, applauded Rwanda’s hospitality and stressed that the Catholic Church must enhance its efforts in reconciling communities and promoting unity, encouraging collective action across Africa.
“This year’s theme resonates strongly in these times of conflict affecting many African countries,” he said. “The Church in Africa must become a symbol of reconciliation, justice, and peace. We must walk together as a family of God’s children, called to be witnesses, peacemakers, and prophets of hope in a world longing for light.”
“This assembly is an opportunity to reinforce the internal cohesion of SECAM, encourage dynamic leadership, and deepen synergy between our regional conferences. In everything, we want to walk together as one Church, united in faith, mission, and service,” he said.
The 20th Plenary Assembly of SECAM which opened on Thursday, beginning with a Mass at Regina Pacis Parish in Remera, part of the Archdiocese of Kigali, continues through August 3, 2025.
After the Mass, the sessions continued at the Kigali Convention Centre, bringing together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, over 70 priests, and numerous lay participants to reflect on the Church’s role over the next 25 years.
The assembly will close with a major youth-attended Mass in Kibeho, a revered Catholic pilgrimage site in Rwanda.
The announcement was made by the RDF on the evening of Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
Among those retiring are two Major Generals and seven Brigadier Generals.
The last time RDF personnel at the rank of General retired was in 2023. That cohort included prominent figures such as Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Gen (Rtd) Fred Ibingira, Lt Gen (Rtd) Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, Lt Gen (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, and others.
In this article, we take a closer look at the careers of the Generals who have now transitioned into retirement.
{{Maj Gen Andrew Kagame}}
Major General Andrew Kagame is among the senior RDF officers who have officially retired.
He most recently served as the Commander of the 1st Division, which covers Kigali City and the Eastern Province.
He was appointed to this role in October 2024, replacing Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha, who was named Coordinator of Rwanda’s Security Operations in Mozambique.
Prior to this assignment, Maj Gen Kagame served as the Deputy Commander of the Reserve Force.
{{Maj Gen Wilson Gumisiriza}}
Major General Wilson Gumisiriza was born in 1962 in Uganda, where his parents had taken refuge.
He played an active role in the Rwandan Liberation Struggle, and held the rank of Major by the end of the campaign.
During the struggle, he served as the Head of Intelligence for the 157th Battalion, which played a critical role in the capture of the Gako Military Academy.
The 157th Battalion was also home to several other prominent military leaders, including Gen (Rtd) Fred Ibingira, Maj Gen (Rtd) Eric Murokore, and the current RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Mubarak Muganga.
Over the course of his military career, Maj Gen Gumisiriza held several key leadership roles within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). He served as Commander of the Armoured and Mechanized Division, and later led the 3rd Division, which operates in Rwanda’s Western Province.
He also previously commanded the 501 Brigade.
In recent years, Maj Gen Gumisiriza has provided strategic guidance to RDF troops deployed to Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, as part of Rwanda’s counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
{{Brig Gen Joseph Demali}}
Brigadier General Joseph Demali served in the Rwanda Air Force. Throughout his career, he held several key positions within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), including serving as the Air Force Chief of Staff from 2013 to 2014.
He also represented Rwanda abroad, serving as the Defence Attaché at the Rwandan Embassy in Turkey, and later in the same role at the Rwandan Embassy in Kenya.
{{Brig Gen Fred Muziraguharara}}
Brigadier General Fred Muziraguharara held various key positions throughout his career in the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
Between 1998 and 2000, he served as the Director of Research. From 2005 to 2006, he was the Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy.
In 2007–2008, he served as the Director of Operations in the RDF, before being deployed to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Darfur, where he served as Chief of Strategic Planning.
From 2010 to 2012, Brig Gen Muziraguharara was the Director of Planning within the RDF.
He later represented the RDF at the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).
He also served as the Director General of Administration and Finance at the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) from 2013 to 2018.
As of now, Fred Muziraguharara serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Group Ltd.
He was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in January 2018, rising from the rank of Colonel.
{{Brig Gen James Ruzibiza}}
In 2019, James Ruzibiza was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and appointed as the Commander of the Engineering Brigade within the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
He also served as the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (Chief J9), overseeing collaboration and engagement between the military and civilian populations.
{{Brig Gen Frank Mutembe}}
Brigadier General Frank Mutembe recently served as the Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division Commander in the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). He was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in 2019, from the rank of Colonel.
As part of Rwanda’s counter-terrorism mission in Mozambique, Brig Gen Mutembe served as the Task Force Battle Group Commander, a role he held until 2023.
He also previously served as the RDF Task Force Division Commander and commanded Rwandan peacekeeping forces deployed to Darfur under a United Nations mission.
{{Brig Gen Pascal Muhizi}}
Brigadier General Pascal Muhizi most recently served as the Commander of the 5th Division of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), operating in the Eastern Province.
He also previously commanded the 2nd Division, which is based in the Northern Province.
He was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in June 2021.
Brig Gen Muhizi served as the Battle Group Task Force Commander of Rwandan troops deployed in the Mozambique counter-terrorism mission.
{{Brig Gen Nelson Rwigema}}
Nelson Rwigema was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in 2019. Over the course of his military career, he held several key positions, including Commander of the 2nd Division, operating in the Northern Province, and Commander of the Reserve Force in the Western Province.
{{Brig Gen Jean Paul Karangwa}}
Jean Paul Karangwa was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in 2019, from the rank of Colonel. Following his promotion, he was appointed as the Commander of the Military Police Regiment in the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
He also previously served as the Commander of RDF forces in Kigali City.
