Kiiza, known for representing opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, was summarily sentenced to nine months in Kitalya Prison by the General Court Martial on January 7, 2025, for contempt of court.
Kiiza’s arrest occurred at the General Court Martial in Makindye while he was representing Dr. Besigye and his aide, Obeid Lutale, during their trial.
He was reportedly prevented from accessing the defense section of the courtroom, leading to a confrontation with military personnel. Subsequently, he was arrested, convicted of contempt of court without a formal hearing, and sentenced to nine months in prison.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and the International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI), condemned the manner of Kiiza’s arrest and sentencing.
They highlighted violations of due process and fair trial standards, noting that Kiiza was denied the opportunity to defend himself and was allegedly subjected to torture during his detention.
The General Court Martial’s decision to sentence Kiiza without a formal hearing has raised concerns about the treatment of legal professionals in Uganda and the independence of the judiciary.
Legal experts and human rights advocates have called for reforms to ensure that lawyers can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or arbitrary detention.
Kiiza’s release on bail is a significant development in this case, but it also underscores ongoing concerns about the rule of law and human rights in Uganda.
The legal community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the protection of legal practitioners and the upholding of judicial independence.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing away of our colleague, Alain Mukuralinda, Deputy Government Spokesperson at the KFH Hospital, following complications from heart attack,” reads a statement released on the morning of Friday, March 4, 2025.
“The Government of Rwanda extends its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all those who had the honour of working alongside him,” adds the statement.
Mukuralinda, who once served as a Prosecutor and later as the Spokesperson for the National Public Prosecution Authority, died aged 55 at King Faisal Hospital.
In addition to his work in justice and politics, Mukuralinda was known for his humility. He was also a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, having been a celebrated musician under the stage name “Alain Muku.”
He was born in 1970 and attended primary school in Rugunga. He completed his secondary education in Rwamagana, where he studied accounting. In 1991, he joined the University of Rwanda but didn’t stay long, as he moved to Belgium to study law.
During his time as a prosecutor, he handled major cases in the country, including those involving perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He was a cheerful person who loved socializing and making people laugh. He also had a deep passion for football and even managed a youth football team.
He composed the Rwandan national football team’s anthem “Tsinda Batsinde” , along with several other popular songs for local teams.
The heated Istanbul derby saw three red cards issued in stoppage time before the final whistle. However, the drama didn’t end there.
After the match, Mourinho approached Buruk from behind and appeared to pinch his nose, prompting the Galatasaray boss to fall to the ground. Mourinho was quickly escorted out of the area, while Buruk grabbed at his face before being tended to.
Galatasaray posted a photo on its official X account afterward with the quote, “You should not attack, you should digest!” along with a shushing emoji.
Wednesday’s incident is the latest for Mourinho, a no stranger to controversy, who was handed a four-match ban and fined by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) following his comments about Turkish referees after a match at Galatasaray in February.
The Portuguese coach was also accused of making “racist statements” by the rival club, which at the time planned to seek criminal charges against the world-renowned coach.
The 62-year-old is considered one of the best coaches of his generation, winning two Champions Leagues, two Europa Leagues, one Conference League and eight league titles after previously managing Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan and AS Roma, among others.
The four are Barbra Banda, Rachael Kundananji, Prisca Chilufya and Grace Chanda, will not be able to compete at the Yongchuan International Tournament, an invitational women’s event.
“Their failure to owes to additional travel measures introduced by the new administration in the United States”, Zambia Football Association general secretary Reuben Kamanga said in a statement, without specifying the “travel measures” referred to.
Recently, the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration, stepped-up checks of foreign student visa holders and a potential ban on travel from some countries, has made many foreigners who live in the U.S. question whether they should travel abroad in case they have difficulty re-entering the country.
Banda, the team captain, Chanda and Chilufya play for Orlando Pride, and Kundananji was under contract with San Jose-based Bay FC in the National Women’s Soccer League.
In an executive order signed in January, Trump told his Cabinet members to submit a report within 60 days that identifies countries with vetting so poor that it would “warrant a partial or full suspension” of travelers from those countries to the US.
US State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce said last month that the review was continuing and no list had been finalized. It is unclear whether China will be on the list.
The decision was approved during a joint session of the provincial council and the House of Bishops in which the church undertook to increase awareness and adaptation of practices that promote environmental protection and mitigate the evident impacts of climate change.
Tree planting is seen as a lasting tribute that benefits the environment. Trees help absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, and provide habitats for wildlife and priests will lead this new practice across the Church of Uganda’s provincial areas.
The CoU believes that planting trees in memory of loved ones is a meaningful way to contribute to the environment and leave a positive legacy for future generations.
The framework is instructive to all the 39 dioceses of the Church of Uganda, to step up responses towards environmental conservation, climate change adaptation and developing church-tailored preparedness and responses to disasters.
Similarly, all priests are instructed to regularly integrate environmental conservation and climate change messages in their sermons, and sensitize Christians on the dangers of polythene bags to the soil and environment.
Each diocese is also required to institute an environmental protection coordination taskforce and appoint focal persons at the diocese and each parish, promote the use of renewable energy and other alternative sources of cooking, to cut down on the use of firewood for cooking.
Part of the obligations of the task force include ensuring that all the idle Church land and institutions are planted with a mix of fruit trees and other indigenous varieties for food and carbon generation.
Reverend Canon William Ongeng, the Church of Uganda Provincial Secretary, indicates that the new strategic planning framework was developed to guide responses to the emerging challenges that communities are facing, due to habits of environmental destruction.
“This framework was informed by the end-line evaluation of the strategic plan for 2016-2025, the process involved wide consultations with all Bishops, the staff and leaders of key ministries of government,” he said.
The other interventions include using the church structures to train farmers on climate-smart agriculture practices such as conservation farming, agroforestry, integrated pest management, promoting the use of simple irrigation technologies and disease management right from household levels.
On the other hand, the Dioceses are also required to link and strengthen farmers’ organizations and cooperatives, as key drivers for supporting climate-smart agriculture adoption, and endeavor to strengthen extension services to provide farmers with regular support and guidance.
While launching the new strategic planning framework, Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, expressed hope that if well implemented, it will enable the dioceses to adapt to the dynamic changing environment and promptly address emerging issues.
He urged the Bishops to collaborate with government ministries and departments, civil society actors, nongovernment organizations and church structures to achieve the intended strategic objectives.
To actualize the developed planning framework, the Church instituted a 24-member steering committee to oversee its effective implementation across all dioceses.
According to Kazimba, they have also developed a monitoring and evaluation tool and templates that will guide the performance assessment in each diocese.
The other areas of focus in the approved strategic planning framework include mission and evangelism to bring salvation and spiritual transformation, promoting socio-economic development, focusing on institutional development and community engagement.
The high-level meeting took place on April 3, 2025, following the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Africa held in Kigali.
According to the Office of the President, “President Kagame received ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin for discussions centered on strengthening collaboration in finding technology-driven solutions for sustainable development.”
During the meeting, Kagame also welcomed Amandeep Singh Gill, the United Nations Secretary-General’s envoy on technology, who was in Rwanda for the AI conference.
While officiating at opening session of the conference, Kagame emphasized the transformative power of artificial intelligence in decision-making and innovation.
“AI is driving innovation, accelerating technological advancements, and proving its benefits across various sectors. It enhances productivity, supports evidence-based decision-making, and reduces human errors,” he stated.
Rwanda has already integrated AI into key sectors such as healthcare and education, significantly improving service delivery and efficiency. Kagame stressed that technology should be harnessed for positive change.
“Technology should be used for good, and we have a responsibility to ensure that happens. I believe we can work together to achieve that. Regarding politics and diplomacy, AI can be a tool for productivity, but relying too much on it in governance could lead to serious consequences,” he cautioned.
By 2029, Rwanda aims to significantly increase the number of students pursuing technology-related studies, equip them with the necessary skills and tools, and train at least 500,000 people in digital technologies.
Additionally, the government plans to fully digitize all its public services, ensuring seamless access for citizens and businesses.
A report from MINEMA indicates that the Northern and Western provinces are the most prone to disasters. Available data shows that 522 areas, home to approximately 22,000 households, are particularly vulnerable to disasters, especially during the rainy season.
In specific districts, the number of households at high risk includes 88 in Rusizi, 452 in Rubavu, 424 in Rutsiro, 364 in Nyabihu, and 100 in Nyamasheke.
During a discussion with members of the Senate on April 2, 2025, Murasira emphasized that the government closely monitors these areas to warn residents in advance and respond swiftly in case of emergencies.
Senator Marie Rose Mureshyankwano inquired whether research is conducted to determine the type of soil in different regions to help guide land use planning.
“For example, Nyabihu district frequently experiences natural disasters, and researchers have indicated that its soil is shallow, with rocky layers underneath, steep slopes, and fragile composition. Sometimes, areas are settled or cultivated when they would be better suited for pasture or forests. What measures are in place to conduct thorough research and ensure appropriate land use?” she asked.
In response Murasira responded by informing the house that each district has a land use master plan outlining what activities should be carried out on different types of land.
He stated that while the government collaborates with universities for research, they aim to integrate technology for better land analysis and disaster preparedness.
“We want to use drones to assess land conditions because there are areas like Shyira where the soil frequently shifts, and we currently lack the capability to determine the exact cause. If we had satellite imaging, we could receive detailed insights into the soil’s structure,” he explained.
MINEMA reports that Rwanda’s disaster resilience level stands at 46%, partly due to the slow reconstruction of infrastructure affected by disasters. The country has 14 designated relocation sites for people displaced by natural disasters.
In 2023 alone, disasters in Rwanda caused damages worth over Frw222.3 billion.
Last month, media outlets began circulating reports that Belgium had deployed between 300 and 400 troops to Maniema Province to support the DRC’s forces in battling M23.
It has now been revealed that these soldiers were stationed at the Lwama military base in the city of Kindu, Maniema, and were accompanied by weaponry, including tanks and combat drones, to assist in the fight against M23.
Belgium’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maxime Prévot, dismissed these claims as false, stating that his country had only six soldiers in Kindu, whose role was limited to training activities under a European Union (EU) mission.
Despite Minister Prévot’s denial, Belgium has already suffered the loss of eight soldiers who were fighting alongside the DRC army in operations against M23 in Walikale Territory, North Kivu Province, near the Maniema border, according to The Great Lakes Eye newspaper.
Among the fallen Belgian troops was Sgt. Jimmy Luis Flander, who was shot while operating a drone to launch an attack on M23 positions. The armored vehicle he was in was also destroyed.
M23 fighters stationed in Walikale have been facing repeated drone attacks. One such drone recently set fire to a civilian aircraft at Kigoma Airstrip near Walikale Center last week.
Reports from Walikale confirm that Belgian soldiers have been operating these drones with the goal of dislodging M23 fighters from the mineral-rich territory, which contains valuable resources like cassiterite. M23 has reportedly shot down two of these drones.
Even as Minister Prévot denied Belgium’s involvement in this conflict, there appeared to be an underlying military strategy by his country in the region, particularly in eastern DRC.
On March 17, 2025, a Belgian military aircraft, the Falcon 8x, departed from Brussels for Kinshasa, continuing to Kindu the next day before returning to Kinshasa on March 20.
On March 21, the 16-passenger aircraft returned to the Great Lakes region, landing in Bujumbura. It is well known that Belgium, Burundi, and the DRC are collectively opposing M23, either directly or indirectly.
The prestigious event brought together distinguished guests, education leaders, students, and partners, celebrating a new chapter in Kepler College’s commitment to accessible and transformative education across Africa.
Chancellor Geingos, who officially began her term on July 29, 2024, brings a wealth of experience in governance, philanthropy, and youth empowerment. In her inaugural speech, she underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping Africa’s future.
“Education is the most powerful weapon we can wield to reshape our future. The world as we know, is changing at a fast pace, and the future isn’t coming, it’s here. It demands a new kind of African leader,” she stated.
“Today, as Kepler’s inaugural chancellor, I stand in front of you as a strong believer in the unstoppable force of African youth and the urgency of equipping them with the tools to reshape our future, because we have no more time,” she underscored.
Geingos reflected on Rwanda’s journey of resilience, emphasizing the power of narrative in shaping a nation’s destiny.
“A people who own their narrative control their destiny. When His Excellency President Kagame says, ‘We must do what is right for our country and not what pleases outsiders,’ he isn’t just speaking policy, he’s declaring intellectual sovereignty. That same sovereignty must define African education,” she emphasized.
She praised Kepler’s impact, highlighting its remarkable record of 95% of graduates securing meaningful employment within six months. Leadership, she emphasized, is not about titles but about action.
The new Chancellor called for a transformative education model that reaches across divides, empowering students from all backgrounds, including refugee communities.
The inauguration was attended by Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairperson of the Governing Council of Kepler College, who expressed deep gratitude for Geingos accepting the role. “Your wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to education make you an ideal and invaluable leader for our institution,” he said.
He also acknowledged the unwavering support from the Government of Rwanda, particularly the Ministry of Education. “We are dedicated to supporting the college in its mission to provide innovative, job-driven higher education that equips young people with the skills they need to thrive.”
Dr. Murigande reaffirmed Kepler’s commitment to making quality education accessible, affordable, and scalable.
On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, State Minister of Education Claudette Irere also extended congratulations.
“Education is the foundation of Rwanda’s progress and a key driver of our national development. Institutions like Kepler College are instrumental in realizing this vision by delivering competency-based learning and fostering a strong culture of job readiness,” she said.
Irere lauded Geingos’ appointment as a turning point for Kepler College. “Her extensive experience, passion for education, and advocacy for youth empowerment will no doubt propel this institution to new heights.
We’re confident that under her leadership, Kepler College will continue to nurture graduates who not only achieve academic excellence but also contribute meaningfully to Rwanda and Africa’s socio-economic transformation.”
Addressing Kepler students directly, Irere encouraged them to see their education as a journey of growth and leadership. “Rwanda is counting on you to use your education to become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Your contributions will help shape a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future for our nation.”
The inauguration of H.E. Monica Geingos as the founding Chancellor of Kepler College marks a significant step forward in the institution’s mission to equip African youth with the education and skills necessary for a brighter future.
“This afternoon at Urugwiro Village, President Kagame received Tanzania’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Maj Gen Ramson Godwin Mwaisaka, as he completed his mission,” said a made by the Office of the President on April 2, 2025.
Rwanda and Tanzania have long-standing relations, particularly in trade, as Rwandans utilize the Dar es Salaam Port for imports and exports. Additionally, Rwanda exports goods to Tanzania for trade. The two nations also collaborate on various projects, strengthening their diplomatic ties over the years.
For instance, during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on February 27, 2024, Gen Patrick Nyamvumba was appointed as Rwanda’s new Ambassador to Tanzania, replacing Fatou Harerimana.
Security cooperation is another key aspect of Rwanda-Tanzania relations. In May 2024, Rwanda Defence Force’s 5th Division welcomed Tanzania’s 202nd Brigade as part of routine security engagements. These meetings, held every three months, allow both armies to assess border security and share intelligence.
The two countries also share infrastructure projects as neighboring nations, including the Rusumo Hydropower Plant, a joint initiative between Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi.
The plant has a capacity of 80 megawatts, equally distributed among the three nations, with each receiving 26.6 megawatts. This power supply will benefit approximately 1.146 million people, including 520,000 Burundians, 467,000 Rwandans, and 159,000 Tanzanians.
Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Tanzania continue to be reinforced through high-level visits. In April 2023, President Kagame undertook a two-day visit to Tanzania to strengthen bilateral ties. This followed a previous visit by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu to Rwanda in August 2021.
During President Suluhu’s visit, the two countries signed five cooperation agreements, covering areas such as technology and communication, cross-border movement of people and goods, education, and pharmaceutical regulations.
