Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Angola, Burundi, Malawi, Uganda, Sao Tome Principe, South Sudan, Zambia, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic will work with development partners, civil society organizations, and other health experts from across Africa who committed to an agreement at a regional meeting held in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
According to a statement released by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the agreement will further help streamline cross-border transmission challenges, data-sharing mechanisms among countries, and the movement of affected populations.
The Africa CDC reported that the continent has recorded over 16,398 confirmed mpox cases and 1,180 deaths in 22 countries as of Feb. 10.
“The regional nature of the mpox outbreak demands a collective solution. That is why this gathering is so crucial — it is not only a forum for exchanging knowledge but also a springboard for collective action,” said Otim Patrick Ramadan, acting regional manager for emergency response at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa.
Ramadhan said the health agency looks forward to continuing its work with member states and partners to build on the gains made and meet persistent challenges head-on.
Linda Mobula, World Bank senior health specialist in the DRC, said epidemics do not have borders, hence the need to reinforce cross-border collaboration and coordination.
“An agreement is therefore critically important to drive political momentum, reinforce the enabling environment, and strengthen governance,” Mobula added.
The World Bank, in collaboration with the Africa CDC, the WHO, and other partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund and the International Organization for Migration, convened the meeting to facilitate political engagement, technical discussions, and cross-border cooperation among stakeholders.
The area, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.
The activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents. Mucojo market, once abandoned due to insecurity, is gradually becoming a centre of renewed social and economic activity.
Hassan Fazenda, Chief of Mucojo village, expressed appreciation for the RSF’s role in restoring peace and supporting community recovery.
“We are thankful for the sacrifices you made that enabled us to return to our homes. Your continued support is helping us to recover from the devastating impact of four years of insurgency,” he said.
Representing the RSF, Lt Col Andrew Mugabo thanked the community and local leaders for their collaboration. He reaffirmed the Rwanda Security Force’s commitment to ongoing support, particularly in efforts focused on restoring livelihoods and fostering long-term stability in the region.
Umuganda is a Rwandan tradition of community service held monthly, where citizens work together on projects such as cleaning public spaces, repairing infrastructure, or planting trees. As a homegrown initiative, Umuganda played a major role in Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by fostering unity, civic responsibility, and inclusive development.
By introducing the concept in Mozambique, the RSF is promoting not only physical restoration but also a sense of collective responsibility and national rebuilding. The exercise reflects broader efforts by Rwanda to support peace and recovery beyond its borders.
Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.
Since then, the RSF has been instrumental in counterterrorism operations, contributing to the liberation and stabilisation of several areas previously held by insurgents.
The Umuganda in Mucojo complements other RSF initiatives in the region, including security support, humanitarian outreach, and capacity-building programs. The efforts include the training of more than 500 troops in an advanced infantry course, who graduated on Friday, May 23, 2025.
The concert took place on Saturday at the BK Arena, which was packed with basketball lovers who had just witnessed the thrilling Day 5 of the Nile Conference matchups.
The event followed a high-stakes game where Al Ahli Tripoli narrowly defeated APR BBC in a nail-biting 106–102 finish.
Before the main acts hit the stage, the crowd was warmed up by performers from Sherrie Silver Foundation and Ishami Talents, who delivered spirited performances that set the tone for the night.
Then came the grand entrance. Bruce Melodie took the stage around 8:30 PM in dramatic fashion, accompanied by a large crew of dancers. Dressed in all-white and sporting a black full-face helmet, his dancers contrasted in all-black outfits with white headgear, creating a stunning visual effect.
In a surprise move, some of his dancers helped him remove the white outfit mid-performance, revealing a shiny reddish-brown costume underneath, amping up the excitement.
Bruce Melodie kicked off his set with Bado, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported his music journey. He followed it with crowd favourites like Ikinya, Ikinyafu, and When She’s Around (his collab with Shaggy).
The energy peaked during his performance of Katerina, which sent the arena into a frenzy. He kept the momentum going with hits like Katapila, Saa Moya, and Rosa—one of the standout tracks from his latest album, Colourful Generation.
He closed out his set with fan favourites Fou de Toi, Igitangaza, Sawa Sawa, Kungola, and the much-loved Henzapu, leaving the crowd wanting more.
Moments later, the much-anticipated BNXN (formerly known as Buju) from Nigeria took the stage to thunderous applause.
He treated the audience to a vibrant set including tracks like Bae Bae (with Ruger), Ole, Phenomena, Outside, and more.
BNXN wrapped up the night with chart-toppers Finesse (his viral hit with Pheelz) and Gwagwalada, as well as his collaboration with Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez.
The show officially ended around 9:30 PM, with host Zuba Mutesi thanking the fans for coming and encouraging them to return for the final games of the tournament on Sunday.
The first match will see Al Ahli take on MBB-South Africa at 2:30 PM, followed by APR BBC facing off against Nairobi City Thunder at 5:30 PM.
Held at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village and hosted by the University of Rwanda, the summit convened a diverse coalition of scholars, policymakers, and innovators from across Africa and Australia.
Participants came from countries including Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Somaliland, South Africa, Uganda and Nigeria, with a mission to reimagine higher education through the lens of AI and confront the deep inequalities that digital transformation threatens to deepen.
“This conference is a strategic forum where we show how artificial intelligence is reshaping not only the ways we teach and learn, but also how we conduct research, manage institutions, and solve some of the most complex areas in our studies in order to be more prepared for the future is more than just a gathering,” said Prof. Didas Kayihura, Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda.
AI is no longer a future concept, it is a present reality. From predictive health diagnostics to precision farming, AI is transforming how African societies tackle health, food security, gender equity, and even national security.
Dr. Edward Kadozi, Director General of the Rwanda Higher Education Council, acknowledged that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it is transforming the present.
“It is timely and essential that this forum brings together such a distinguished group… to explore AI’s transformative potential across sectors,” he said.
At the core of the discussions were five themes, including sustainable food systems, inclusive gender research, resilient health care, geopolitical integrity, and personalised learning.
AI was presented not only as a tool of efficiency but as an enabler of justice, equity, and sustainable progress, as Prof. Aldo Stroebel, Co-chair of the AAUN and DVC at the University of Mpumalanga, explained.
“Not all global communities are tapping the potential of this new wave of innovation. The newest Human Development Report in 2025 shows a large divide between low- and high-income countries in AI technical capacity. This stands as a stark call for a network like AAUN to respond,” he said.
During the forum, a spotlight was shone on early-career researchers, whose innovation will shape the AI landscape of tomorrow. Delegates emphasised building AI readiness across Sub-Saharan Africa, closing education gaps, and correcting linguistic and cultural biases embedded in global AI systems.
The gathering also underlined Rwanda’s rising stature as a continental hub for AI discourse. Fresh off hosting a global AI summit in April, Rwanda demonstrated not only logistical prowess but ideological leadership.
“We want to re-emphasise our role as universities; we cannot sit back and get taken over by our own creations,” said Kayihura, urging institutions to wield AI responsibly.
The event, which will take place at the Kigali Convention Centre and the Kigali Marriott Hotel, marks the first time Rwanda is hosting the high-level gathering.
Organised by the Institute of Internal Auditors Rwanda (IIA Rwanda) in collaboration with AFIIA, the conference will be held under the theme “Building Bridges, Inspiring Change.”
The summit will bring together delegates from 24 African countries, alongside international participants from the broader global internal audit community, for a week of strategic dialogue, technical training, and professional networking aimed at advancing audit practices across the continent.
Fred Twagirayezu, President of IIA Rwanda, described hosting the conference as a proud milestone for Rwanda, reflecting its commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity—values at the core of the internal audit profession.
“It’s a proud milestone for a country whose IIA chapter was only registered 10 years ago. Hosting AFIIA 2025 allows peers across the continent to witness firsthand what’s working well in Rwanda,” he stated.
The event also aligns with the government’s broader development agenda. As part of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) for 2024–2029, Rwanda is placing a strong emphasis on good governance and sound public financial management.
Highlighting the critical role the summit plays in advancing Rwanda’s internal audit landscape, Jules Cesar Hategekimana, Rwanda’s Internal Auditor General, emphasised its strategic importance.
“This conference will strengthen capacity, encourage knowledge sharing, and promote the adoption of the new Global Internal Audit Standards. It also contributes to our national Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy and builds partnerships essential for maturing our internal audit ecosystem.”
In recent years, Rwanda has made significant strides in advancing the internal audit profession. Internal auditors and audit committees are now embedded within all public institutions.
The government supports professional certification, and the internal audit function is gaining recognition at executive levels, particularly within the financial sector. Other sectors are also increasingly recognising the importance of strong internal audit practices.
Richard Rutuku, CEO of IIA Rwanda, noted that Rwanda’s control environment is now well-suited for the profession to thrive.
“As the profession matures, internal auditors are evolving from being mere inspectors to becoming strategic advisors. This is a journey other countries can learn from,” Rutuku remarked.
The AFIIA 2025 Conference is structured around three main components. The Governance Forum, taking place on May 26 and 27, is tailored for board members and senior leaders, focusing on oversight, ethics, and strategy. Running concurrently, AFIIA University will offer technical masterclasses aimed at supporting skills development in alignment with global standards.
From May 28 to 30, the main conference will feature plenaries, breakout sessions, and expert panels covering topics such as ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) assurance, digital transformation and audit automation, cyber risk and fraud resilience, and innovation in public and private sector auditing.
Beyond the training and discussions, the conference is expected to serve as a catalyst for deeper regional collaboration.
Twagirayezu revealed that Rwanda plans to sign memoranda of understanding with sister institutes, organise joint conferences, and draw lessons from more advanced chapters on the continent.
“This is how we ensure shared growth and foster cross-border professionalism,” he said.
Ruth Doreen Mutebe, Chairperson of AFIIA, emphasised the significance of the conference in building the future of internal audit in Africa.
“AFIIA 2025 will equip today’s professionals to navigate tomorrow’s challenges. From emerging risks to ESG, we are shaping a stronger, more accountable Africa.”
With over 1,000 delegates expected, the Kigali-hosted conference not only marks a historic moment for IIA Rwanda but also reflects the continent’s growing momentum in promoting governance and professional excellence through internal auditing.
Registration is open through the official websites of IIA Rwanda and AFIIA.
Operated by Trinity Metals, the mine is Africa’s leading tungsten producer and a cornerstone of Rwanda’s ambitions to become a global hub for critical minerals.
Currently, Nyakabingo Mine employs over 1,800 people and has nearly doubled its tungsten output in the last three years.
Trinity Metals, formed in 2022, consolidated three historic Rwandan mines—Nyakabingo, Rutongo, and Musha—into a single entity.
The company has transformed operations at each site. CEO Peter Geleta reported last year that Nyakabingo increased its monthly tungsten production from 29 to 100 tonnes, now contributing 8% of global tungsten supply.
“We’ve built a professional, international mining company capable of world-class output,” Geleta said.
President Kagame’s tour of Nyakabingo comes amid broader efforts to position Rwanda as a reliable partner in the global critical minerals supply chain.
Just last month, the Rwandan government confirmed it is in talks with the United States over a potential deal that would grant Washington access to Rwanda’s mineral resources.
“Yes, this is part of the discussions we are having with the U.S.,” Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed.
The United States is seeking to diversify its sources of critical minerals, and Rwanda’s growing output of tantalum—a key component in electronics and automotive capacitors—makes it an attractive partner.
Rwanda currently ranks third globally in tantalum production, behind Australia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The discussions were preceded by high-level diplomatic engagements. Early April, Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump on African Affairs, visited Nyakabingo Mine as part of his official trip to Rwanda.
On April 30, President Kagame also received Trinity Metals Chairman Shawn McCormick and his delegation to explore further investment and partnership opportunities in Rwanda’s mining sector.
The growth of Rwanda’s mining sector has been remarkable. Prime Minister Dr. Édouard Ngirente announced in March that mineral exports generated $1.7 billion in 2024, up from just $373 million in 2017. Gold led the way, bringing in $1.5 billion, followed by coltan, cassiterite, and wolfram.
Dr. Ngirente credited the performance to modernised mining practices, targeted investments, and a shift toward value addition.
“Production has increased significantly, and we are discovering new minerals like lithium and beryllium, which are in high demand globally,” the Prime Minister noted.
In a vote taken on Thursday, May 22, nearly 90 senators approved the motion to strip Kabila, 53, of the protections granted to him as a “senator for life,” a title he received after stepping down from power in 2019. Only five senators opposed the decision.
“The senate authorises the prosecution and lifting of Joseph Kabila’s immunity,” declared Speaker Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, following the vote.
The decision follows mounting accusations that Kabila played a direct role in the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has seized control of several strategic towns in the eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu.
In a statement issued on April 18, the Ministry of Justice claimed it possessed “a substantial body of documents, testimony, and material facts” linking Kabila to the rebels. It also announced the freezing of all of Kabila’s movable and immovable assets and imposed travel restrictions on his alleged collaborators.
Kabila has previously denied any ties to the armed insurgents.
The former Head of State, who has been living in South Africa for the past two years, announced last month that he would return to help find a solution to the conflict in the east. A few days later, he was reported to have re-entered the country through the eastern region, which is under rebel control.
He is expected to address the Congolese people on the night of May 23, 2025, following the lifting of his legal immunity.
The lender attributes the rise in profitability to solid growth in loans and deposits, increased customer engagement, and improved operational efficiency.
The bank’s performance report shows that as of March 2025, total assets stood at Frw 910 billion, an 11% year-on-year increase. Net operating income rose by 16% to Frw 16.6 billion, driven in part by a 22% rise in foreign exchange income, stemming from higher volumes of customer forex transactions.
The bank disbursed loans amounting to Frw 397.3 billion, representing a 12% rise from the end of 2024. Customer deposits also grew by 13% to Frw 745.4 billion compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.
This growth was supported by an accelerated current and savings account acquisition strategy and enhanced client engagement efforts.
The bank also recorded a reduction in its cost-to-income ratio, which dropped from 51.2% to 45.4%, while maintaining a healthy capital adequacy ratio of 18.11%. I&M Bank Rwanda’s customer base expanded by 9% year-to-date, reaching 110,000, largely driven by the success of its “Karame” retail campaign.
CEO Benjamin Mutimura said the first quarter marked a strong start to the year, with results building on the foundations laid in 2024.
“Our performance in 2024 reflects the success of the iMara 3.0 strategy. We have aligned with Rwanda’s economic priorities while focusing on customer delight,” he said.
“The growth in our loan book and deposits speaks to the trust our clients place in us, particularly within the MSME and retail segments. Strategic campaigns like Karame and Ryoshya Iwawe have been instrumental in deepening customer relationships and expanding our market reach.”
Looking ahead, Mutimura affirmed the bank’s commitment to ecosystem-led offerings and national presence expansion.
“Our goal is to positively impact over two million lives by 2026, in alignment with the country’s development ambitions,” he noted.
Founded in 1963, I&M Bank Rwanda is one of the oldest financial institutions in the country. It was listed on the Rwanda Stock Exchange in March 2017 and is part of the I&M Group, which operates in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Mauritius.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem announced the decision.
“Let this serve as a warning to all universities and academic institutions across the country,” Noem said in a statement.
“Enrolling international students is a privilege — not a right — and that privilege has been revoked due to Harvard’s repeated failure to comply with federal law.”
DHS said that in addition to barring enrollment of future international students, “existing foreign students must transfer to lose their legal status.”
In response, Harvard issued a statement calling the administration’s action unlawful and harmful.
“We are fully committed to maintaining Harvard’s ability to host our international students and scholars, who hail from more than 140 countries and enrich the University — and this nation — immeasurably,” the statement said.
“We are working quickly to provide guidance and support to members of our community. This retaliatory action threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country, and undermines Harvard’s academic and research mission.”
The administration in April froze 2.2 billion U.S. dollars in federal grants to Harvard after the university rejected demands that it eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, and evaluate international students for ideological concerns.
As of the fall 2023 semester, international students made up over 27 percent of Harvard’s student body, according to university data.
The project is set to provide 1,638 modern housing units to families living in vulnerable conditions.
Targeting four villages — Nyabisindu, Amarembo I, Amarembo II, and Ibuhooro in Remera Sector — the project covers 38.54 hectares and builds on the recent success of the Mpazi Rehousing Project, which delivered 688 units in Nyarugenge District.
According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, the new housing units will be spread across 58 housing blocks.
In addition to residential space, the area will feature key infrastructure such as market spaces, schools, green zones, and access roads, all aimed at fostering inclusive and dignified urban living.
“This project reflects our commitment to sustainable urban transformation,” said Minister of Infrastructure Jimmy Gasore.
“We are not just building homes; we are restoring dignity, enhancing public infrastructure, and reducing existing informal settlements. Every Rwandan deserves a decent place to live.”
City of Kigali Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva echoed the sentiment, noting that the Nyabisindu development marks a significant milestone in the city’s broader urban upgrade strategy.
“Nyabisindu marks a significant step in scaling up the Mpazi model across Kigali. In close collaboration with citizens, we are creating resilient communities where no one is left behind,” he said.
Local residents have welcomed the initiative with optimism. Kanzayire Josiane, who lives in Amarembo II, described the project as life-changing.
“We have lived in old houses for years. Now, we see a future for our children. This is more than housing – it’s a new life for our community,” she said.
Josiane also praised the government’s efforts after visiting completed units in Mpazi, Gitega Sector, and commended President Paul Kagame for championing such impactful initiatives.
The Nyabisindu housing project is expected to be completed within one year.
