One of the signed MoUs establishes comprehensive cooperation in the agriculture sector, a vital area for both countries given its role in food security and economic development.
The agreement aims to promote joint efforts in research, market access, and climate-resilient farming, with the goal of increasing agricultural productivity and achieving food self-sufficiency across the region.
The second MoU formalizes the establishment and operationalization of the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) liaison office in Kigali. Although the office has been operational since March 2018, this renewed agreement reflects a shared determination to enhance its role in facilitating trade.
By enabling direct cargo clearance, faster information exchange, and easier payment systems, the TPA office in Kigali plays a strategic role in supporting Rwanda’s imports and exports through the Port of Dar es Salaam.
The signing ceremony was attended by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Tanzanian counterpart, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering closer cooperation.
“Our partnership with Tanzania goes beyond trade,” said Amb. Nduhungirehe. “It is deeply rooted in our shared history, common cultural values, and a collective commitment to advancing the well-being of our people.”
He credited the progress in bilateral relations to the visionary leadership of both countries’ Heads of State, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong collaboration within regional blocs such as the East African Community.
Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo echoed this sentiment, stating, “Rwanda is a valuable partner for Tanzania. If over 70% of Rwandan goods transit through Tanzania, it clearly shows how important Rwanda is to our ports.”
He also underscored the strategic importance of the Kigali-Isaka Standard Gauge Railway project, which remains a key item on the bilateral agenda, and pointed to growing Tanzanian investments in Rwanda, particularly in the energy sector.
The discussions also addressed cooperation in tourism, environmental conservation, and investment promotion.
Following his commitment to develop infrastructure aimed at advancing national development, in July 2021, the Government of Rwanda granted Masai Ujiri a 2.4-hectare parcel of land located in Amahoro Village, Rukiri II Cell, Remera Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali City.
This land was allocated for specific national interest purposes to accelerate development.
The presidential decree authorizing the land grant was published in the Official Gazette on July 19, 2021, following a request by the Minister of Environment and approval by the Cabinet on June 12, 2021.
Demonstrating determination, Masai Ujiri promptly initiated the construction project of Zaria Court Kigali immediately after receiving the land.
“Zaria Court,” named after the Zaria region in Nigeria where entrepreneur Masai Ujiri—who also holds Canadian citizenship and is widely recognized for his career in the NBA and as former President of the Toronto Raptors—originates, is a state-of-the-art facility in Kigali dedicated to sports, culture, and entertainment.
The Zaria Court Kigali complex, which has been completed at a cost of approximately $25 million (over Frw36 billion), is now fully operational and preparations are underway for its official inauguration.
The facility comprises multiple components, including an 80-room hotel, several restaurants, a rooftop dining and bar area, a gym, office spaces, and a broadcast studio.
Additionally, the complex features a multipurpose arena hosting various sports events, festivals, concerts, markets, and other activities. It also includes a large supermarket aimed at serving both residents and visitors.
The construction of Zaria Court Kigali was officially launched in August 2023 by President Paul Kagame and Masai Ujiri.
Che Rupari, Brand and Compass Manager at Zaria Court Rwanda, recently described the new facility as a versatile hub for sports, hospitality, culture, and entertainment.
“Zaria Court is one of the newest venues in this area, featuring multiple sports courts including football and basketball, event spaces, and a hotel. Our vision is simple: come play, stay, and enjoy,” he stated.
Rupari further explained that the venue can accommodate large gatherings, with a capacity of over 5,000 people. The sports bar comfortably seats 200 to 300 guests, while the basketball court—also a multipurpose area—can host a significant number of attendees.
He emphasized that visiting Zaria Court offers a diverse experience all in one place: whether playing basketball or football, watching a game at the bar, relaxing, or even resting overnight at the hotel.
“This is a venue suited for various events. Whether you’re planning for 1,000 guests, 20 people, or a large crowd, we have the space to accommodate you. Zaria Court is a multifunctional venue ready to host any kind of event.”
“As previously noted, the completed Zaria Court project has incurred costs exceeding $25 million, with potential for further investment.”
He emphasized that sports serve as a unifying force, and through facilities such as basketball and football courts, youth are provided with opportunities to engage socially, collaborate, and initiate developmental projects.
“Our vision was to establish a multifunctional venue where young people can convene, interact, and collaborate—integrating hospitality, sports, and entertainment to foster innovation and creative expression.”
Addressing the financial outlook, he clarified that while profitability is an objective consistent with any enterprise, the primary mission is to empower youth by cultivating their talents in arts, sports, and related sectors.
“We anticipate a return on investment over time; however, the fundamental value lies in creating a hub for connection and dialogue among African youth.”
“We are confident that facilitating such transformative engagement will ultimately generate economic benefits, although our foremost priority remains social impact.”
He reported that the construction phase employed over 700 workers, of whom 30% were women, alongside more than 3,000 casual laborers. Approximately 1 billion Rwandan Francs disbursed to personnel significantly contributed to the national economy.
Post-construction, the facility is expected to provide permanent employment for over 300 individuals across its diverse operational units.
Notably, the site encompasses a historically significant area formerly occupied by Hotel Amahoro, which served as lodging for United Nations personnel, including General Romeo Dallaire, during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Furthermore, he highlighted that 90% of the construction materials were locally sourced within Rwanda, with only 10% imported, underscoring the project’s commitment to supporting local industry.
The attack occurred during the night of July 24 to 25, 2025, when Wazalendo launched an offensive on M23 positions in Luke and Katobotobo, both located in the Nyamaboko I groupement. The operation aimed to reclaim the contested zones from rebel control.
According to a medical worker at the Luke health center, the fighting resulted in at least 11 deaths, including eight civilians.
“We have confirmed 11 fatalities, among them eight civilians. Twenty-one others are wounded and are being treated locally, as it is currently impossible to transfer them to Kinigi or Masisi due to ongoing clashes,” the health worker said.
In response to the attack, M23 forces pushed back the Wazalendo units and extended their control to Mulema, a strategic area near Waloa Yungu in Walikale Territory.
As of July 25, Wazalendo fighters are said to be regrouping along the outskirts of Masisi Territory, near the Walikale border, according to sources from North Kivu Province.
The renewed fighting comes as peace talks are expected to begin in early August 2025 in Qatar. The negotiations aim to address the root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC and are based on a framework agreement signed by both the M23/AFC and the Congolese government on July 19.
The agreement includes a commitment from both sides to observe a permanent ceasefire and work toward a political resolution to the conflict.
The crew of Southwest Flight 1496 responded to two onboard traffic alerts Friday afternoon while climbing out of Hollywood Burbank Airport, requiring them to climb and descend to comply with the alerts. The flight continued to Las Vegas, where it landed uneventfully, according to a Southwest Airlines statement.
“Southwest is engaged with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to further understand the circumstances,” said the airline in the statement, adding: “No injuries were immediately reported by customers, but two flight attendants are being treated for injuries.”
Passengers aboard the plane took to social media to share their terrifying experiences.
“Pilot had to dive aggressively to avoid midair collision over Burbank airport. Myself & Plenty of people flew out of their seats & bumped heads on ceiling, a flight attendant needed medical attention,” said Jimmy Dore, a comedian, in a post on X.
“Pilot said his collision warning went off & he needed to avoid plane coming at us,” he added.
Another passenger, with X account name Steve U., said on X: “People were screaming as the plane dove. A flight attendant is being looked at right now with an ice pack on her head.”
The passenger called the incident another screwup that “almost cost the lives of the 150+ people on board.”
About six minutes after the flight took off from Hollywood Burbank Airport and headed to Las Vegas, it abruptly descended 475 feet (144.78 meters) from 14,100 feet (4,297.68 meters), reported local KABC television station, citing data from Flightradar24.
The other plane, a Hawker Hunter, was at an altitude of approximately 14,653 feet (4,466.23 meters) when the Southwest flight began to descend, said the report.
The FAA said it is investigating the incident.
The incident came a week after a U.S. passenger jet was forced to make an “aggressive maneuver” to avoid a midair collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber in North Dakota.
Amjad Muhammad Hassan Shaer, head of the counter-intelligence directorate in Hamas’ General Security Apparatus, was killed on Wednesday, the IDF said in a statement.
According to the Israeli army, the directorate is responsible for thwarting espionage and securing senior Hamas officials.
The statement added that over the past day, in cooperation with ground forces, the Israeli Air Force struck dozens of military targets in the Gaza Strip.
Palestine’s official news agency WAFA reported that Israeli warplanes struck a school sheltering displaced civilians in the Gaza City on Friday, killing at least five Palestinians and wounding dozens of others.
The average life expectancy for Japanese females dropped 0.01 year from 2023, followed in the global ranking by South Korea at 86.40 and Spain at 86.34, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.
Meanwhile, Japanese men’s life expectancy remained unchanged at 81.09, ranking 6th globally after Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Italy and Spain, slipping one place from 2023.
The country’s life expectancy declined in 2021 and 2022 due to the increase in deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic, but rebounded in 2023 when average lifespans for both men and women surpassed those from the previous year for the first time in three years.
“Juncao technology offers far more than mushroom cultivation; it is a comprehensive innovation having crop, livestock production, environmental protection, livelihood nutrition and economic empowerment,” said Telesphore Ndabamenye, director general of the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board.
He made the remark while attending the closing ceremony of a Juncao technology workshop held on Wednesday in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda.
Stressing the importance of Juncao technology in advancing agricultural transformation, Ndabamenye said the participation of trainees from diverse economies highlighted the broad applicability of the technology, particularly in addressing the socioeconomic challenges faced by smallholder farmers.
“Juncao technology is regarded in Rwanda as a vital contributor to the country’s inclusive agriculture transformation. It supports our national vision of a professionalized and commercialized farming sector with active participation of both men and women as stated under Rwanda’s vision 2050,” he said.
He reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to integrating Juncao technology into the country’s strategy for food and nutrition security, environmental sustainability, and economic development, in full alignment with continental and global development agendas.
Since Juncao was first introduced to Rwanda in 2006, more than 35,000 local farmers have received training, and over 4,000 households, along with 50 companies and cooperatives, have been supported in engaging in Juncao-related activities.
The July 16-23 Juncao workshop was held at the China-Rwanda Agriculture Technology Demonstration Center, co-hosted by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the Rwandan Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, and China’s Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University.
As part of the training, participants visited several projects in Huye and Nyanza, gained hands-on experience, and deepened their understanding of Juncao technology’s potential.
Innocent Shayamano, chief agriculture extension specialist and project coordinator from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, said the workshop covered critical areas such as cultivation management of Juncao grass, including all its agronomic aspects.
“This course was relevant and significant for our country. We have seen the opportunities in embracing Juncao technology in terms of using Juncao grass as a substitute for livestock feed. This technology came to transform livelihoods and ensure that rural communities have enough income,” he said.
Chinese Juncao expert Lin Hui said the participants’ active engagement, thoughtful questions, and enthusiasm for applying the acquired knowledge were truly inspiring.
According to Lin, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University of China has organized 388 training courses over the years, benefiting more than 16,000 people worldwide.
According to Li Jiahui, a representative of the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda, the technology has benefited over 100 countries since 2001, helping families lift themselves out of poverty and achieve prosperity.
“It has been proven that Juncao is not merely a technology but a grass of wealth and a grass of happiness. China takes great pride in sharing the technology as part of its commitment to South-South cooperation,” Li added.
The cabinet changes follow the appointment of Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as Rwanda’s new Prime Minister on Wednesday. In line with constitutional provisions, his appointment necessitated the formation of a new Cabinet, with Dr. Nsengiyumva also taking the oath of office during Friday’s ceremony.
The reshuffle introduced two new ministers and two new state ministers. Dominique Habimana has assumed the position of Minister of Local Government, while Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye was appointed Minister of Environment, both joining the Cabinet for the first time.
Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye was named State Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye became the State Minister for Infrastructure.
Additionally, Jean-Guy Afrika was sworn in as Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), holding the rank of Minister, alongside Juliana Muganza, who took oath as Deputy CEO with the rank of Minister of State.
The newly composed Cabinet includes 21 ministers and 10 state ministers. Most have retained their portfolios from the administration of outgoing Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente.
Two ministers—Juvenal Marizamunda, Minister of Defence, and Consolée Uwimana, Minister of Gender and Family Promotion—were unable to attend the swearing-in due to official duties abroad. President Kagame is expected to receive their oaths in due course.
Following the swearing-in, Prime Minister Nsengiyumva expressed deep appreciation for the President’s confidence in him. “This trust will not be taken lightly,” he affirmed.
“I assure you that I will do everything possible—and more—to fulfill the responsibilities entrusted to me, so that our country benefits in a way that is evident to all,” added Dr. Nsengiyumva.
In his remarks, President Kagame extended his appreciation to outgoing Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente, praising his dedicated service.
He also addressed those who had not yet been reappointed, reassuring them that they remain part of an ongoing process of consideration and national service.
The President highlighted the aspirations of many Rwandans to contribute to national development, noting that the recent cabinet reshuffle reflects a deliberate and dynamic response to that national ambition.
To the newly appointed officials, he emphasized the weight and responsibility of public service. While roles may differ in scope, he noted, they all require a strong capacity, relevant expertise, and a clear willingness to serve the country.
Kagame remarked that delivering results requires dedication, the right mindset, and an understanding that these roles exist to serve the public good, not personal interests.
He stressed that while leaders can be guided and reminded, effective service ultimately depends on personal conviction and commitment.
Kagame also reminded the appointees that the Rwandan people are watching with high expectations. He urged them to earn and maintain public trust by addressing the day-to-day challenges faced by citizens and demonstrating unwavering dedication to national service.
{{List of appointments}}
{{I. Ministers}}
1. Judith Uwizeye – Minister in the Office of the President
2. Inès Mpambara – Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister
3. Yusuf Murangwa – Minister of Finance and Economic Planning
4. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe – Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
5. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja – Minister of Justice / Attorney General
6. Juvenal Marizamunda – Minister of Defense
7. Consolée Uwimana – Minister of Gender and Family Promotion
8. Dr. Vincent Biruta – Minister of Interior
9. Dominique Habimana – Minister of Local Government
10. Dr. Jimmy Gasore – Minister of Infrastructure
11. Paula Ingabire – Minister of ICT and Innovation
12. Joseph Nsengimana – Minister of Education
13. Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye – Minister of Environment
14. Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe – Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources
15. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana – Minister of Health
16. Prudence Sebahizi – Minister of Trade and Industry
17. Nelly Mukazayire – Minister of Sports
18. Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana – Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement
19. Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka – Minister of Public Service and Labor
20. Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira – Minister in Charge of Emergency Management
21. Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumutwishima – Minister of Youth and Arts
{{II. Ministers of State}}
1. Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation
2. Mutesi Linda Rusagara – Minister of State for Resource Mobilisation and Public Investment
3. Godfrey Kabera – Minister of State in Charge of the National Treasury
4. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye – Minister of State for Infrastructure
5. Marie Solange Kayisire – Minister of State for Local Government
6. Claudette Irere – Minister of State for Education
7. Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye – Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources
8. Dr. Yvan Butera – Minister of State for Health
9. Sandrine Umutoni – Minister of State for Youth and Arts
10. Rwego Ngarambe – Minister of State for Sports
{{III. Other senior officials}}
1. Jean-Guy Afrika – Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), with the rank of Minister
2. Juliana Muganza – Deputy CEO of RDB, with the rank of Minister of State
3. Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard – Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), with the rank of Minister
The officers led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Epiphanie Umutanguha served in Malakal, Upper Nile State, where they contributed to efforts aimed at restoring peace, protecting civilians, and promoting community well-being.
At Kigali International Airport, the contingent was received by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Teddy Ruyenzi, Commissioner for Community Policing, on behalf of the Rwanda National Police (RNP) leadership.
ACP Ruyenzi commended their professionalism, discipline, and commitment throughout the mission.
“Rwanda National Police leadership welcomes you back from the year-long duties outside the country. You are now required to carry on with the same values in your service to Rwandans,” ACP Ruyenzi said.
SP Umutanguha, the Deputy Contingent Commander, outlined the duties of the unit during its deployment in South Sudan.
These included escorting VIPs, conducting daily patrols in and around the Protection of Civilians (PoC) site, manning gates at Points of Separation (POS), supporting cordon and search operations, and escorting humanitarian aid convoys, particularly food distribution.
She further emphasized the contingent’s engagement in activities beyond security duties.
“Rwanda’s strong community collaboration is also a driving force in our peacekeeping duties. So, we engaged in community initiatives primarily centered on sanitation and hygiene to contribute to public health and community involvement,” stated SP Umutanguha.
The returning contingent was replaced by RWAFPU 1-10, led by ACP Corneille Murigo.
The transformation began in the early 2000s, when Rwanda was still grappling with limited resources. Children often walked long distances with packed meals, returning home late after lessons. Some spent up to 10 hours a day commuting. It wasn’t just the children—teachers, too, faced similarly difficult journeys to reach remote schools.
During a recent address to Parliament, former Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente reflected on those challenges. He recalled that in some regions, students walked nearly 19 kilometers daily to attend classes.
“A seven or eight-year-old child walking such distances couldn’t attend school every day. One day in class meant the next had to be spent recovering,” he noted.
In response, the government launched an ambitious classroom expansion program. By 2020, over 22,000 classrooms had been built across the country.
The goal was twofold: reduce the distances children had to walk and ease overcrowding in schools. While some areas still experience high pupil-to-teacher ratios—with some classrooms holding more than 100 students—the national average now stands at 56 students per teacher.
A recent household living conditions survey (EICV 7) by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda shows that the average primary school student now walks 19 minutes to school. Urban students average 17 minutes, while rural students take around 20.
Beyond distance, the quality of education has also improved. More teachers have been hired, and digital learning tools introduced. Internet connectivity has reached more schools, and early childhood education—once reserved for wealthier families—has expanded significantly. Since 2021, over 4.3 million children receive a daily school meal, helping keep students in class and focused.
{{Bringing healthcare closer }}
Rwanda has also made major strides in healthcare access. In 2009, the government began rolling out basic health posts in every administrative cell. Today, there are 1,294 health posts, 520 health centers, and 57 hospitals across the country.
Gone are the days when patients in critical condition or expectant mothers had to rely on makeshift stretchers. Rwanda now operates a fleet of 510 ambulances that can reach patients within an average of 14 minutes of being called.
The EICV 7 survey indicates that Rwandans now walk an average of 46 minutes to reach a health center.
Dr. Ngirente noted that proximity has made a significant difference. The number of households located within 30 minutes of a health center rose from 22% to 30%.
“What matters is that someone in need can reach basic care quickly and then be referred to a higher-level facility if needed,” he said.
Currently, 75% of Rwandans can access a health post within half an hour. The government plans to further improve outcomes by quadrupling the number of doctors and deploying physicians to health centers to expand advanced care.
Already, 92 upgraded health posts now offer services like maternity care, dental care, and eye health.
{{Transport and market access}}
On average, it takes 49 minutes for a Rwandan to walk to the nearest bus stop. Urban dwellers average 21 minutes, while rural residents may walk over an hour.
In Kigali, the average walking time to public transport is 22 minutes. It rises to 54 minutes in the Southern and Northern provinces, and up to 1 hour and 5 minutes in the Western Province.
While gaps remain in public transport—especially regarding scheduling—many of the long queues at bus stops and terminals have eased following the government’s procurement of 200 new buses.
Private firms have also introduced electric buses aligning with efforts to reduce carbon emissions and pollution.
Market access has improved as well. Rwandans now walk an average of 48 minutes to reach their local market. In urban areas, that journey takes 27 minutes, while in rural communities, it can take as long as 57 minutes.
