Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

The appointment follows the conclusion of the term of office for the previous Commissioner, H.E. Amb. Albert Muchanga, and serves as a transitional measure to ensure continuity in the department’s strategic and operational responsibilities.

The decision was made in accordance with Article 18(4) of the AU statute on the procedure for election of commissioners and after consultations with the Chairperson of the Executive Council.

“In this regard, I hereby appoint you as the Acting Commissioner for economic development, trade, tourism, industry, and minerals.… until the assumption of duty of the substantive commissioner,” the official AU memorandum reads.

H.E. Vilakati brings a strong background in both public service and regional economic development. He previously served as Eswatini’s Minister of tourism and environmental affairs from 2018 to 2023, during which he championed sustainable tourism, conservation, and regional trade integration.

His leadership is widely credited with positioning Eswatini as a key destination in Southern Africa and promoting green economic policies. The African Tourism Board (ATB) has lauded his appointment, describing it as a symbolic and transformative moment.

In a congratulatory message, ATB Executive Chairman Hon. Cuthbert Ncube wrote: “You have walked with us over the years as a trusted leader and ally, always grounded in purpose and committed to Africa’s collective advancement. Your leadership across these key sectors is not only a blessing to the continent but also an inspiration to all who believe in Africa’s promise.”

Although the appointment is temporary, it comes at a time when the AU is ramping up efforts under Agenda 2063, Africa’s blueprint for inclusive and sustainable development.

The substantive ETTIM Commissioner position has been allocated to the Central African Republic (CAR), and once elected, H.E. Vilakati is expected to step down within 48 hours, per AU regulations.

Until then, he will oversee key portfolios vital to the continent’s economic resilience, trade liberalization, and industrial transformation. His dual role positions him to strengthen synergies across agriculture, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.

For us Africans, this tragedy resonates deeply, as it reflects the painful history of colonial violence, ethnic persecution, and the struggle for justice that many African nations have also endured.

In March and April 1918, Armenian Dashnak (political party that still exists in Armenia and its diaspora) militants, supported by Bolshevik forces, carried out brutal massacres against Azerbaijanis in Baku, Shamakhi, Guba, Nakhchivan, Zangezur, Ganja and other regions of Azerbaijan.

Dozens of thousands of innocent men, women, and children were slaughtered, villages were burned, and cultural heritage was destroyed. The violence was not just a military operation; it was an attempt to erase Azerbaijani identity from these lands.

In Guba alone, mass graves have been uncovered, revealing the horrifying scale of the atrocities. These crimes were part of a broader campaign to displace Azerbaijani communities and seize their lands, a pattern that, sadly, continued in later decades, including the modern period during the former Karabakh conflict.

For us, this history may feel familiar. The scars of colonialism, ethnic violence, and forced displacement are shared wounds across many nations.

Just as Africa remembers the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, the atrocities of King Leopold in Congo, or the Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa, Azerbaijan remembers its own martyrs.

31 March, the day of the Genocide of Azerbaijanis, declared by the decree of the President of Azerbaijan dated 26 March 1998, is not just about the past, it is a call for global recognition of historical injustices.

Azerbaijan, just like many African countries, seeks truth and reconciliation, ensuring that such crimes are never repeated.

Today, Azerbaijan honors the victims through memorials, educational programs, and international advocacy. The country has rebuilt and restored its territories after the 2020 Karabakh war, but the wounds of history remain.

By remembering March 31, Azerbaijan sends a powerful message that genocide denial is unacceptable, and justice must prevail.

As Africans who have faced oppression, we understand the importance of remembrance. The day of the Genocide of Azerbaijanis reminds us that no people’s suffering should be forgotten. Whether in Africa, the Caucasus, or beyond, the fight against ethnic hatred and historical erasure is a global struggle.

On this day, we stand with Azerbaijan in honoring the victims and demanding that the world acknowledge this tragedy, just as we demand recognition for our own histories.

{ {{The author is a political Analyst based in Addis Ababa.}} }

The decision was reached after two days of high-level talks in Bunia between General Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, and General Ychaligonza Jacques, Director of Operations and Intelligence for the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).

The expanded mission aims to neutralize ADF terrorists and local armed groups that have rejected peace efforts and continue to destabilize the region. “The aim is to restore peace throughout the Ituri region, which has been plagued by armed violence for years,” said a joint statement issued after the meeting on Friday.

The announcement came as fighting intensified near Fataki, where CODECO fighters clashed with UPDF troops in the village of Bethléem. Local residents reported heavy gunfire and explosions that echoed throughout Fataki, forcing civilians to flee.

The fresh violence followed a brutal attack last week by CODECO militias at the Lodda displaced persons’ camp, where six people, including four children, were killed.

The clashes are part of a broader and increasingly violent confrontation between the UPDF and CODECO. Recently, in a major confrontation in Fataki, UPDF forces repelled sustained attacks by CODECO militants over two days.

According to the UPDF, 242 militants were killed, making it one of the bloodiest engagements of the operation to date. However, the victory came at a cost.

Colonel David Byaruhanga, a senior UPDF officer, died from injuries sustained during the battle. According to UPDF acting spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi, the colonel was wounded by a malfunctioned RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) fired during combat.

The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) has long been blamed for some of the most brutal atrocities in eastern DRC. The Lendu-dominated militia has been responsible for massacres, ethnic killings, village burnings, and the targeting of Hema civilians for over a decade.

The group has recently been linked to a strategic alliance with the ADF, further complicating the security environment.

CODECO’s attacks, especially in Djugu and Mahagi, have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes. Local and international humanitarian organizations are warning of a deepening crisis as violence spreads and access to aid becomes increasingly restricted.

With the inclusion of Bunia in Operation Shujaa’s scope, the DRC and Uganda are signaling a new and more aggressive phase in their fight against armed groups in the Ituri Province.

Originally launched in late 2021 to target ADF strongholds in North Kivu and Ituri, the operation now appears set to tackle a broader range of militias resisting disarmament and reintegration.

This is contained in an agreement that was signed between the M23 rebels and SADC leaders. The agreement announced on Friday was signed after a meeting between the parties that took place at the Serena Hotel in Goma city.

General Sultan Emmanuel Makenga, military commander, Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, deputy chief of defense forces and Erasto Bahati Musanga, Governor of North Kivu province, represented M23 rebels in the meeting.

SADC was represented by General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of South African Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Zyeele Zambia army commander, Major General Saiford Kalisha representative of the chief of defense force of Malawi, Major General Ibarahim Michael Mhona representative of the Defense Force of United Republic of Tanzania and Professor Thelestane Kula, Director organ on politics, defense and Security Affairs of SADC.

According to the agreement, M23 rebels will facilitate the immediate withdrawal of SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) troops with their weapons and equipment. The agreement, however, puts a condition that all weapons and other military equipment belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) will stay in the hands of the rebels.

The agreement also indicates that M23 rebels will coordinate the freedom of movement of SAMIDRC troops in preparation for withdrawal. The leaders also agreed that all parties will facilitate a joint technical team to assess the status of Goma International Airport in readiness for reopening, and SADC will assist in repairing to facilitate troops’ withdrawal.

The meeting happened the same day when M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa and Colonel Imani Nzenze, rebels’ intelligence chief, arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha to meet DRC government officials in peace talks mediated by Qatar’s President, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Early this month, President Hamad also hosted Felix Tshishekedi, DR Congo President and Paul Kagame of Rwanda to discuss a peace deal in eastern DR Congo.

M23 ordered SAMIDRC troops to surrender after the fall of Goma city and neighboring areas where they had been deployed since December 2023. Rebels now control major areas of North and South Kivu provinces since the resumption of insurgency in 2022.

This influx is largely attributed to the reopening of land and water routes, which had been restricted due to the conflict.

The main border points, Grande Barrière (La Corniche), Petite Barrière, and Kabuhanga, now operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, significantly improving trade and movement.

Before COVID-19, over 50,000 people crossed these borders daily, with Grande Barrière running 24/7. However, when the M23 conflict erupted, Kinshasa imposed strict border regulations, limiting access from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Following M23’s capture of Goma, border restrictions were lifted, allowing freer movement of people and goods. This change has revitalized economic activity, particularly benefiting small-scale traders who had previously faced monopolistic restrictions.

Françoise Muhorakeye, a trader from Gisenyi, shared her relief, “Before, Congolese traders controlled everything. We couldn’t sell directly to buyers and had to leave our goods with intermediaries, who paid us whatever they wanted, often causing losses.”

Ange Gabriella Uwimana echoed similar sentiments, “Now, I can buy vegetables for Frw2,000 across the border, sell them for Frw4,000, and return for more without worrying about time limits. I can now provide for my children and save money, unlike before when intermediaries took most of the profits.”

Rubavu District’s Vice Mayor for Economic Development, Nzabonimpa Deogratias, confirmed that the increased hours and improved trade conditions have driven the rise in border traffic.

“Currently, around 38,000 people use these borders daily. This proves that time is money, and lost time is costly. The numbers have grown from 20,000 after COVID-19, showing that trade between Rubavu and Goma is thriving again.”

He also highlighted how the improved movement has benefited hospitality businesses in Gisenyi, as more Goma residents visit for leisure and return without time constraints.

Encouraging investors to capitalize on the economic growth, he concluded, “There is demand, but the market is struggling to meet it. I urge businesspeople to invest because people need goods and services.”

The event served as a platform to recognize their role in achieving Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.

Despite remarkable progress, women in business still encounter obstacles. Many struggle with societal perceptions that limit them to small-scale enterprises, while others face difficulties in accessing financing and engaging in international trade.

Addressing these challenges requires collaboration between men and women, alongside strong government intervention. Jeanne Francoise Mubiligi, Chairperson of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), commended the resilience and innovation of Rwandan women.

“We celebrate their resilience, innovation, and willing commitment to driving economic transformation in our country. Women-owned businesses now make up 42% of all enterprises in Rwanda, a remarkable achievement that speaks to their strength and determination,” she said.

Mubiligi emphasized that progress is not just about numbers but about the real impact of women-led businesses on communities.

“This represents real women whose businesses are creating jobs, transforming communities, and inspiring the next generation. This has been fueled by the government’s strong commitment to gender equality, financial inclusion, and various initiatives supported by partners, including the PSF Specialized Cluster,” she said.

She also urged women to build partnerships at all levels, stating that collaboration among business owners is crucial for sustained success. Women entrepreneurs were encouraged to support each other by promoting locally made products.

Rose Kayitesi, a Kigali-based businesswoman specializing in organic products and cleaning services, shared her journey. “I started with only four products but gradually expanded to over ten. My secret was working with others and fostering cooperation among female entrepreneurs,” she said.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s progress in gender equality, Silas Ngayaboshya, Director of Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), highlighted the country’s achievements over the decades.

“In Rwanda, women have reached remarkable milestones. Over the past 30 years since the country’s liberation, we have seen extraordinary progress in leadership, the economy, education, and business,” he noted.

However, Ngayaboshya stressed that true empowerment must go beyond financial independence to include decision-making within households. “While we have made significant progress, we are not yet where we aspire to be,” he stated.

Cultural norms still restrict many women from managing their own earnings freely, limiting their economic participation.

Ngayaboshya also called for greater inclusion of women in male-dominated industries such as transportation, mining, and technology. Additionally, he addressed gender disparities in domestic responsibilities, emphasizing the need for shared household duties.

“Shared responsibility is fundamental to gender equality. Women should have the opportunity to work and run businesses while ensuring children’s needs are met. However, we must move away from the belief that childcare is solely a woman’s duty,” he said.

To further advance gender equality, Rwanda has introduced a National Transformative Strategy that encourages men and boys to take an active role in supporting women’s empowerment.

This initiative aims to foster inclusivity and shared responsibility in the journey toward gender equity. As Rwanda continues on its path of economic transformation, women entrepreneurs remain at the forefront, driving change, overcoming barriers, and shaping the nation’s future.

Meanwhile, Rwanda maintains that diplomatic efforts have been underway to restore relations between the two nations.

In a recent interview with BBC, President Ndayishimiye alleged that Rwanda was supporting the rebel group RED Tabara, which operates in the South Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

“We know that Rwanda is trying to attack us through the DRC using RED Tabara. But let me tell them, if they want to reach Bujumbura through Congo, we can also reach Kigali through Kirundo,” he stated.

This is not the first time the Burundian leader has made such accusations. While addressing a congregation at Vision de Jésus-Christ Church, he criticized Rwanda’s influence in the region.

“The idea that they can invade Burundi is madness. I hear people say, ‘Rwanda’s army is strong.’ But do they know the kind of army I have? We have both visible and invisible forces that protect Burundi,” he said.

Despite these remarks, reports indicate that Burundian forces are actively working alongside the DRC government and the FDLR, a militia group with a history of targeting Congolese Tutsis.

Rwanda has consistently denounced the FDLR as a terrorist organization, given its stated aim of toppling the Rwandan government and its continued genocidal ideology.

Though Burundi has aligned itself with the FDLR, recent diplomatic discussions have been reported between Kigali and Bujumbura, aimed at finding a peaceful resolution.

President Paul Kagame recently expressed optimism about restoring relations, suggesting that dialogue remains the best path forward.

{{Burundians and Rwandans are one people}}

According to legal expert and researcher Gatete Ruhumuliza, Rwanda and Burundi share deep historical and cultural ties. He argues that Burundi originated from Rwanda. “Those of us who know history have a responsibility to educate our brothers. Burundians are our relatives. Burundi’s monarchy was founded by Ntare Rushatsi, the son of a Rwandan king.”

He further emphasized that past conflicts between the two nations have always ended in disaster. “They are our brothers. We cannot fight them. In past wars, no side emerged victorious, only tragedy followed.”

He cited a historical battle in Kirundo, where both Rwandans and Burundians suffered heavy casualties, remarking, “It was a war where no one won. It was like brothers fighting each other.”

Ultimately, Gatete advocates for peace, stating, “We are one people. It is our responsibility to remind others of our shared history. In the end, we must coexist peacefully.”