Author: Sam K. Nkurunziza

  • 35 years of trauma ends for Filipina mother who lost an eye in childhood accident

    35 years of trauma ends for Filipina mother who lost an eye in childhood accident

    Through a groundbreaking oculoplastic surgery in the UAE, Jovi has regained not only a natural appearance but also the confidence that had eluded her since childhood.

    The procedure has allowed her to heal from decades of emotional distress and regain a sense of completeness.

    {{A childhood accident that changed everything}}

    At just seven years old, an innocent game with friends took a tragic turn when a stick struck her eye, causing irreversible damage. The injury led to the removal of her eyeball, a loss that shaped her self-image for decades to come.

    As she matured, the emotional scars ran even deeper than the physical ones. Jovi struggled with self-esteem, avoiding social interactions and shying away from mirrors. “I believed there was no solution for me. I felt different, incomplete. I hated looking at my reflection and lacked confidence,” she shared.

    Despite building a happy family life, the emotional weight of her condition remained. For years, she resigned herself to the belief that her situation was permanent, until she discovered a potential solution through Dr. Fairooz PM, a Specialist Oculoplastic Surgeon at Medcare Hospital in Sharjah.

    {{A life-changing opportunity}}

    Upon consultation, Fairooz explained that Jovi’s eye socket had significantly shrunken over the years due to the absence of an eyeball, making it nearly impossible for her to wear a prosthesis comfortably.

    However, with advancements in oculoplastic surgery, a new approach offered her hope, socket reconstruction to restore volume and allow for a natural-looking prosthetic eye.

    “Jovi had been living with this trauma for decades, convinced that there was no viable solution. Our goal was not only to improve her appearance but also to help her heal emotionally. She deserved to see herself as whole again,” Fairooz explained.

    {{A complex but transformative procedure}}

    Given the deterioration of Jovi’s eye socket, a highly specialized procedure was required. Fairooz recommended socket reconstruction using a Dermis Fat Graft, a technique that transplants tissue from another part of the body to restore lost volume and create enough space for a prosthesis.

    “This surgery required absolute precision,” said Fairooz. “Any miscalculation could have affected the aesthetics of her face. We carefully reconstructed the socket and deepened the fornix, ensuring the prosthetic eye would sit naturally.”

    The intricate surgery lasted three hours, followed by a ten-week healing period. Once the recovery process was complete, a customized ocular prosthesis was designed to match the color and structure of her natural eye, seamlessly restoring symmetry to her face.

    Beyond the medical transformation, this journey was about Jovi reclaiming her identity. Living with an eye condition for over three decades had profoundly impacted her psychological well-being. Now, for the first time since childhood, she could look in the mirror without feeling self-conscious.

    “This wasn’t just about physical appearance. For patients like Jovi, losing an eye isn’t only a medical issue, it’s an emotional struggle. Restoring their confidence is just as significant as the surgery itself,” Fairooz emphasized.

    Having lived in the UAE for 17 years, Jovi was overwhelmed with emotions when she saw the final result.

    “For years, I felt like people only saw what I had lost. Now, I feel like myself again. This surgery has changed my life in ways I never imagined. I can smile freely and engage socially without fear. I am endlessly grateful to for getting a fresh start,” she said.

    Jovi Jacao, a 42-year-old Filipina healthcare assistant and a mother of two, underwent a life-changing oculoplastic surgery.
  • Rwanda launches 13th Global Money Week with a call for financial literacy among youth

    Rwanda launches 13th Global Money Week with a call for financial literacy among youth

    The event, themed “Think Before You Follow, Wise Money Tomorrow,” aims to equip the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed financial decisions.

    Justice Oyakhilome Anthony, Country Director of the International Association of Students in Economics and Business (AIESEC) in Rwanda, emphasized the importance of financial literacy in shaping the future of the country’s economy.

    He called on young people to be deliberate in their financial decisions and avoid being swayed by trends and misinformation.

    “In today’s world, we are surrounded by financial advice and trends, but not all of it is valuable. It is crucial for young people to think critically before making financial choices. Financial security is not a product of chance but of deliberate, informed, and wise decisions,” he stated.

    Anthony reiterated that AIESEC in Rwanda has been committed to financial education for over a decade. “For 13 years, we have championed this cause because we believe in the power of financial literacy to transform the leaders of tomorrow. Through this initiative, we are giving young people the tools they need to take control of their financial future,” he added.

    Gladys Miria Usabase, a financial inclusion and education analyst at the National Bank of Rwanda, cautioned young people against making financial decisions based on social media influencers and urged them to be mindful of online scams.

    Justice Oyakhilome Anthony, Country Director of the International Association of Students in Economics and Business (AIESEC) speaking at the event.

    “It is essential for the youth to be vigilant in the digital world. Scammers are everywhere, and protecting personal financial information should be a priority. We advise young people to start early by practicing budgeting, saving, and investing. Even the smallest savings can grow into meaningful investments,” she said.

    She also highlighted the National Bank of Rwanda’s commitment to safeguarding young clients in their financial dealings. “We will continue to protect young people as they interact with financial institutions. For those seeking credible financial advice, our website offers resources to guide them in making informed decisions.”

    Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, expressed the RSE’s long-standing dedication to financial education. He emphasized the importance of educating the youth, noting that they represent the country’s demographic dividend and future economic stability.

    “If you are not educating your youth, you are losing it. From the very beginning, we saw the need to serve this underserved population. Many young people are unaware of financial literacy, and it is our duty to ensure they understand they are the future of Rwanda’s economy,” Rwabukumba declared.

    The launch of Global Money Week in Rwanda marks another milestone in the ongoing effort to promote financial literacy among the youth. With the collective support of government agencies, financial institutions, and education organizations, young people are being equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to make sound financial decisions.

    As the week unfolds, participants will engage in workshops, discussions, and interactive activities designed to enhance their financial understanding.

    The 13th edition of Global Money Week officially kicked off at the Rwanda Stock Exchange, bringing together financial experts, government officials, and young people to promote financial literacy.
    Gladys Miria Usabase, a financial inclusion and education analyst at the National Bank of Rwanda, cautioned young people against making financial decisions based on social media influencers.
    Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange (R), expressed the RSE’s long-standing dedication to financial education.
    David Mitali, the Operations & Trading manager at RSE explains to students more about the Global Money Week.
  • DRC to send delegation to Angola for peace talks amid escalating conflict

    DRC to send delegation to Angola for peace talks amid escalating conflict

    Angola previously stated that direct peace negotiations between the DRC government and M23 rebels would begin in the capital, Luanda, on March 18.

    President Felix Tshisekedi, who has long refused dialogue with M23, has been reconsidering his stance following a series of military setbacks and waning regional support.

    “At this stage, we can’t say who will make up the delegation,” said presidential spokesperson Tina Salama.

    M23 acknowledged receiving Angola’s invitation, but its spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, did not confirm whether the group would participate.

    Following the announcement of the talks, M23 issued several demands, including a request for President Tshisekedi to publicly commit to direct negotiations.

    Angola has been working to mediate a ceasefire and ease tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, which has been accused of backing the Tutsi-led rebel group-a charge Rwanda denies.

    The conflict in eastern DRC, which has persisted for decades, stems from the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the ongoing battle for control of the region’s vast mineral wealth.

    The situation has significantly deteriorated this year, with M23 gaining territory it had never previously controlled, including strategic cities and numerous smaller localities.

    The Congolese government reports that at least 7,000 people have been killed since January, while the United Nations estimates that at least 600,000 have been displaced since November.

    Angolan President João Lourenço urged all parties to cease hostilities from midnight to facilitate the negotiations.

    “The ceasefire must include all possible hostile actions against the civilian population and the occupation of new positions,” Lourenço said in a statement. However, ceasefire agreements have frequently been violated by both the DRC and M23.

    President Felix Tshisekedi, who has long refused dialogue with M23, has been reconsidering his stance following a series of military setbacks and waning regional support.
  • Yemen’s Houthis claim attacks on carrier group after US strikes

    Yemen’s Houthis claim attacks on carrier group after US strikes

    The Houthis initially said they launched 18 missiles and a drone at the “aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman and its accompanying warships” in the Red Sea, before hours later claiming to have fired a second round.

    There was no immediate comment from the United States about the Houthis’ claimed attacks. In a statement posted to Telegram on Monday, a Huthi spokesperson said the attacks on the carrier group were “in retaliation to the continued American aggression against our country”.

    Washington has vowed to keep striking Yemen until the rebels stop attacking Red Sea shipping, with President Donald Trump warning he will use “overwhelming lethal force”.

    The Huthi health ministry said women and children were among the 53 people killed and 98 wounded in US strikes on Saturday.

    Huthi media reported more explosions on Sunday night, accusing the Americans of targeting a cotton ginning factory in the western region of Hodeida as well as the Galaxy Leader, an Israeli ship captured more than a year ago.

    Houthi leader Abdulmalik al-Houthi called on Yemenis to march on Monday in defiance. In response to the latest escalation along the maritime trade route, the United Nations has urged both sides to “cease all military activity”.

    The Iran-backed Houthis, who control much of the Arabian Peninsula’s poorest country, have attacked Israel and Red Sea shipping throughout the Gaza war, claiming to be acting in solidarity with Palestinians.

    Before this weekend’s targeting of the US carrier group, the Houthis had not claimed attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since January 19, when a ceasefire began in the Gaza Strip.

    Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed on Monday to have twice attacked an American aircraft carrier group within 24 hours, calling it retaliation for deadly US strikes.

    The group said it relaunched its attacks over Israel’s halting of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and would “move to additional escalatory options” if “the American aggression against our country continues”.

    Washington’s weekend strikes against the Houthis were the first since Trump’s return to the White House in January. US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz told ABC News that Saturday’s strikes “targetted multiple Houthi leaders and took them out”.

    Trump meanwhile warned the Houthis that “hell will rain down upon you”. In a social media post addressed to Iran, the US president demanded the Islamic Republic stop supporting “Houthi terrorists”.

    The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed a “large scale operation” against the Houthis, which it said on Sunday night was continuing. Witnesses in Sanaa described experiencing a “horrific explosion” that shook houses and shattered windows.

    Footage on Houthi media showed children, including a dazed girl with blackened legs wrapped in bandages, and a woman being treated in hospital. The Houthis have sealed off areas around the blast sites, however, making it impossible to gauge the true scale of the destruction.

    The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in Souda Bay, Crete, Greece.

    Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the deadly US strikes and said Washington had “no authority” to dictate Tehran’s foreign policy. The Houthis’ political bureau said its “forces are fully prepared to confront escalation with escalation”.

    A database set up by ACLED, a non-profit monitor, shows 136 Houthi attacks against warships and commercial vessels, as well as Israeli and other targets since October 19, 2023.

    While the Red Sea trade route normally carries about 12 percent of world shipping traffic, Houthi attacks have forced many companies into costly detours around southern Africa.

    The Palestinian group Hamas, which has praised Houthi support, branded the US strikes “a stark violation of international law and an assault on the country’s sovereignty and stability”.

    The head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Hossein Salami, said: “Iran will not wage war, but if anyone threatens, it will give appropriate, decisive and conclusive responses.”

    The United States had already launched several rounds of strikes on Houthi targets. Israel has also struck Yemen, most recently in December, after Houthi missile fire towards Israeli territory.

    Fighting in Yemen’s own war has largely been on hold since a 2022 ceasefire, but the promised peace process has stalled in the face of the Huthi attacks on shipping.

    The war killed hundreds of thousands either directly or indirectly through causes such as disease, plunging Yemen into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

    People inspecting the rubbles of areas hit by a US strike in Saada, Yemen, on March 16, 2025.
    Houthi fighters.
  • Tanzania launches campaign for Prof Janabi to become the next WHO Africa regional head

    Tanzania launches campaign for Prof Janabi to become the next WHO Africa regional head

    Prof Janabi, a highly respected cardiologist and healthcare administrator, has played a pivotal role in shaping Tanzania’s medical landscape. His experience spans decades, including his tenure as the Director of Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and later as the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital.

    His contributions to healthcare, particularly in the fields of cardiology and institutional transformation, have earned him recognition beyond Tanzania’s borders.

    Thus, the government of Tanzania, alongside key stakeholders in the health sector, has begun lobbying African nations to rally behind Prof Janabi.

    The campaign has gained momentum across multiple platforms, with diplomatic efforts intensifying to garner regional support.

    Tanzanian embassies in various African nations have been tasked with championing Prof Janabi’s credentials, while social media campaigns are amplifying his vision for a healthier Africa.

    If elected, Prof Janabi would play a crucial role in shaping health policies, coordinating emergency responses, and driving innovative health solutions across the continent. His appointment would mark a significant milestone for Tanzania in global health leadership.

    Prof. Mohammed Janabi, the Executive Director of Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).
  • Uganda extradites Rwanda fugitive accused of torturing Burundian student

    Uganda extradites Rwanda fugitive accused of torturing Burundian student

    “Today, Rwanda received Gitangaza Prince, who had fled to Uganda after his involvement in the crime of torture committed against Haberumugabo Guy Divin in November 2024,” the Rwanda Investigation Bureau announced.

    His extradition follows an international arrest warrant issued by Rwanda’s National Public Prosecution Authority under the Uganda-Rwanda mutual legal assistance framework.

    According to the Rwandan government, the attack on Haberumugabo stemmed from a theft accusation.

    The incident occurred in Akindege Cell, Kamashashi Village, Kicukiro District, in which Gitangaza, together with a group of fellow young people, severely tortured Haberumugabo.

    Haberumugabo was accused of stealing three mobile phones and a laptop. Following the assault, Rwandan authorities arrested 10 people in connection to the attack.

    The suspects include Adolph Uwase Emmanuel (24), Bruce Ikuzwe Emery (21), Kevin Imanzi (21), Vanessa Kirezi (20), Joel Nkubana (20), Jonathan Mugenzi (20), Kevin Kirenga (19), and Marembo Rugema (19).

    Officials from Uganda and Rwanda oversaw the handover of Gitangaza to Rwanda at the Kagitumba One Stop Border Post on Saturday March 17, 2025.

    Rwanda’s delegation was led by Jean Bosco Zingiro, I-24/7 Communication Specialist at INTERPOL National Central Bureau, Kigali, while Uganda’s delegation was headed by Assistant Superintendent of Police Otekat Andrew Mike, representing Uganda Police.

    The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) said that all eight other accomplices linked to the crime are currently under provisional detention pending a court hearing.

    “RIB warns criminal suspects who flee judicial process to other countries that there is strong collaboration to bring them to justice and they will not find a safe haven abroad,” it said.

    RIB officials received Gitangaza at the Kagitumba One Stop Border Post on Saturday March 17, 2025.
  • President Kagame hints at Rwanda-Burundi reconciliation

    President Kagame hints at Rwanda-Burundi reconciliation

    Kagame reflected on the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between government forces and the M23 rebel group, which is composed of Congolese fighters advocating for their rights.

    He also spoke about how Rwanda is being unfairly blamed for the crisis. He noted that Belgium, which colonized Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC, continues to push for Rwanda to be punished and sanctioned by the international community.

    According to him, Belgium has encouraged the DRC and Burundi to turn against Rwanda, but he suggested that relations between Rwanda and Burundi are set to improve.

    “They [the former colonizers] initially grouped Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC together and encouraged these other two nations to oppose Rwanda. However, things are gradually becoming clearer,” he said.

    He added, “I don’t want to dwell too much on this, but we are working towards better relations with one of these two countries.”

    Although President Kagame did not explicitly name Burundi, political analysts quickly inferred that he was referring to it especially since Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, recently stated that Rwanda and Burundi are on the right path toward ending tensions.

    “The relationship between Rwanda and Burundi is improving as both countries continue discussions to resolve their differences,” the minister earlier stated.

    Relations between Rwanda and Burundi deteriorated in late 2023 when Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of supporting the armed rebel group RED Tabara, which launched an attack in the Gatumba Zone near Bujumbura.

    Rwanda denied these allegations, clarifying that it had no involvement with any group opposing the Burundian government. However, Burundi dismissed Rwanda’s explanations and, in January 2024, decided to close all land borders between the two nations, citing security concerns.

    The East African Community (EAC), under the leadership of South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit, attempted to mediate between the two countries to restore cooperation in line with the regional bloc’s mission of facilitating trade and movement among member states.

    The start of 2025 was particularly tense as President Ndayishimiye made strong statements against Rwanda in late January, signaling readiness for confrontation.

    His remarks echoed those he had made a year earlier in Kinshasa, where he claimed he would support Rwandan youth in overthrowing their government, asserting that they were being oppressed in the region.

    President Kagame also pointed out that Belgium has taken sides in regional conflicts despite being the root cause of many of these issues, unfairly blaming Rwanda for the region’s instability.

    “Belgium colonized these three countries [Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC], yet they now go to Kinshasa and point fingers at Rwanda, calling for sanctions against us and urging the world to act against Rwanda. How shameless can you be? Calling on the entire world to gang up against Rwanda, just like that?” Kagame wondered.

    This is not the first time Rwanda and Burundi have experienced tensions and later resolved them. Between 2015 and 2020, the two countries had a strained relationship, but through dialogue, they reconciled and reopened their borders.

    President Kagame addressing citizens at a public engagement event held at BK Arena on March 16, 2025.
  • EAC Ministers meet to address security crisis in Eastern DRC

    EAC Ministers meet to address security crisis in Eastern DRC

    Rwanda was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, and Minister of Defense, Juvenal Marizamunda.

    The meeting was chaired by Kenyan Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi, with all participants agreeing on the need for collaborative efforts to resolve security threats in the region.

    Nduhungirehe stated that the ministers endorsed the resolutions of senior military officials from EAC and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which focused on ceasing hostilities, ending provocations, and ensuring humanitarian assistance in eastern DRC.

    He further explained that discussions also revolved around the political dialogue framework under the Luanda-Nairobi process, which seeks to resolve the DRC crisis through diplomatic engagement. This process will be facilitated by three mediators.

    They are Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of Kenya and Desalegn Hailemariam the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

    This EAC ministerial meeting precedes a joint session between EAC and SADC ministers, set to take place on March 17, 2025, in Harare, Zimbabwe, where further deliberations on ending the conflict in eastern DRC will be held.

    The discussions build on decisions made by EAC and SADC heads of state during their summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on February 8, 2025, which called for an end to hostilities, cessation of provocations, and facilitation of humanitarian efforts in the conflict zone.

    Foreign affairs and defense ministers from the East African Community (EAC) convened in Nairobi, Kenya.
  • Senegal’s Ousmane Gueye scoops Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) 2024 award

    Senegal’s Ousmane Gueye scoops Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) 2024 award

    Held in Kigali, the competition’s Grand Finale marked a significant moment for the continent’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, recognizing the top ten most impactful and innovative business leaders selected from nearly 20,000 applicants.

    Gueye, whose company EYONE is revolutionizing digital healthcare across Africa, took home the top prize of US$300,000.

    His company’s mission is to create a connected healthcare ecosystem that facilitates access to quality medical services for patients while improving coordination between healthcare providers, insurers, and government institutions.

    The first runner-up, Dr. Salma Bougarrani, Co-Founder and CEO of GREEN WATECH from Morocco, secured US$250,000 for her innovative work in water management solutions.

    Kenyan entrepreneur Alexander Odhiambo, Founder and CEO of Solutech Limited, took third place, winning US$150,000 for his company’s efforts in digital transformation for businesses.

    The ABH competition, a philanthropic initiative sponsored by the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Philanthropy, has become one of the most prestigious platforms for African entrepreneurs.

    This year’s competition was held under the theme “AI – African Innovation, Insight and Impact,” highlighting the role of technology and artificial intelligence in driving solutions across industries.

    Henri Ousmane Gueye, the Co-founder and CEO of EYONE speaking to the panel of judges.

    The selection process was rigorous, with the Top 10 finalists pitching their businesses before a live audience and an esteemed judging panel.

    The panel featured high-profile business leaders, including Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali; Ibukun Awosika, Founder of the Chair Centre; and Fred Swaniker, Founder and CEO of Sand Technologies.

    The judges assessed each entrepreneur based on their business model, scalability, innovation, and potential for social impact.

    Speaking after being crowned champion, Gueye said, “I am very proud to be announced as the winner of the 2024 ABH Prize Competition. This achievement is the result of a lot of hard work, and I am incredibly proud of my team. It’s a significant milestone for us, and it serves as an encouragement for us to keep working towards solving the problem our innovation addresses.”

    The competition also highlighted the increasing role of AI and technology in Africa’s economic landscape. ABH Managing Director for Africa, Zahra Baitie-Boateng, emphasized the significance of this year’s innovations.

    “Congratulations to Henri and all our finalists! As we celebrate their success, we’re excited to launch the 2025 call for applications and continue empowering Africa’s next business leaders,” she said.

    The ABH Summit and Grand Finale brought together over 1,600 participants, including top-tier investors, policymakers, and thought leaders.

    The first runner-up, Dr. Salma Bougarrani, Co-Founder and CEO of GREEN WATECH from Morocco, secured US$250,000 for her innovative work in water management solutions.

    The event featured a series of interactive sessions, including TED-style ABHx talks, financing masterclasses, and networking experiences such as the ABH Heroes’ Circle business ‘roast’ and Networking in the Dark, a unique blindfolded networking event.

    During the event, ABH judge Ibukun Awosika underscored the importance of leveraging African intelligence and homegrown solutions in shaping the continent’s future.

    “Africa’s future will be shaped by those who see challenges as opportunities and take action,” she remarked, stressing the role of purpose-driven leadership and lived experiences in fostering impactful entrepreneurship.

    Further reinforcing its commitment to African entrepreneurship, ABH announced that Rwanda will continue to host the Summit and Grand Finale for the next four years.

    The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Rwanda Convention Bureau (RCB) were recognized as key partners, with the Bank of Kigali also supporting the event.

    On his behalf, Jean-Guy Afrika, the Chief Executive Officer at Rwanda Development Board highlighted the role of entrepreneurship in Africa.

    Kenya's Alexander Odhiambo in an interface with the judges.

    “Entrepreneurship holds enormous significance for Africa’s economic growth, as it fuels innovation, creates opportunities, and builds sustainable industries. Our continent is home to more than 50 million micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, which significantly boost GDP.

    He expressed Rwanda’s commitment to the ABH initiative. “ Since its inception in 2019, ABH has profoundly impacted Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape, engaging over 120,000 entrepreneurs. Rwanda is honored to host this prestigious event, not just this year, but for the next five years,” he said

    The event concluded with the official launch of the 2025 ABH call for applications, inviting African entrepreneurs to compete for their share of the $1.5 million prize pool.

    Jean-Guy Afrika, the Chief Executive Officer at Rwanda Development Board highlighted the role of entrepreneurship in Africa.
    It was a joyous celebration as the 2024 Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Summit concluded  in Kigali.
  • M23 confirms receipt of Angola’s invitation for direct talks with the DRC Gov’t

    M23 confirms receipt of Angola’s invitation for direct talks with the DRC Gov’t

    President Lourenço’s office announced that talks between M23 representatives and the DRC government are scheduled to begin on March 18, 2025.

    The AFC/M23 coalition, which opposes the Congolese government, has insisted that President Félix Tshisekedi must clearly demonstrate his willingness to engage in dialogue.

    The invitation, signed by Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tete Antonio, states that at the request of President Lourenço and in alignment with the African Union’s peace and security efforts in eastern DRC, AFC/M23 is formally invited to the discussions.

    The letter further reads: “The Government of Angola is pleased to invite you to participate in direct negotiations with the Government of the DRC, scheduled for March 18, 2025, in Luanda, Angola.”

    Recently, AFC/M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, expressed appreciation for President Lourenço’s continued efforts to bring peace to eastern DRC.

    However, he also noted that the DRC government has repeatedly stated that it has no intention of negotiating with AFC/M23, and therefore, M23 fighters need a clear confirmation that Tshisekedi has changed his stance.

    On February 8, 2025, leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) met and agreed that hostilities and provocations should cease, and that the DRC government should enter negotiations with AFC/M23.

    However, the DRC government has consistently refused to engage with M23, labeling it a terrorist group that harms civilians, a claim that M23 has denied, asserting instead that it protects local communities.

    Following the announcement of the negotiation date, M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa stated that the group’s fighters were prepared to defeat Tshisekedi militarily until he agrees to peace talks.

    The armed group M23 has received an invitation from Angolan President João Lourenço to participate in direct negotiations aimed at restoring peace in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).