Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

Trump made the remarks in a social media post after the two-hour phone call about the war in Ukraine, saying Russia and Ukraine would start a negotiation in which the conditions could only be set by the two sides themselves.

“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” Trump wrote.

“The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of.”

Trump noted that Russia wants to “do large-scale TRADE with the United States” when the current catastrophic situation is over and he expressed the belief Ukraine could benefit from trade as well.

“There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create massive amounts of jobs and wealth. Its potential is UNLIMITED. Likewise, Ukraine can be a great beneficiary on Trade, in the process of rebuilding its Country,” the post read.

Trump also said he shared details of the call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other leaders, including President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.

Mons is a city located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, in the province of Hainaut.

The commemoration began with the laying of wreaths at the Genocide Memorial site located at Place du Parc. The event was also attended by Natacha Vandenberghe, representing the City of Mons.

This year’s ceremony was organised by a group of Rwandan Genocide survivors in collaboration with the Rwandan Diaspora.

Also in attendance were Twagira Mutabazi, President of Ibuka-Mémoire et Justice-Belgique; Ernest Gakuba, head of the Rwandan Diaspora in Belgium; Irène Kamanzi, President of Isôko, an association of Tutsi from the DRC in Europe; Arnold Turagara, head of DRB-Rugari in the Mons region; and other representatives of various organisations.

Ernest Gakuba, President of DRB-Rugari, commended the City of Mons for its principled stance during the commemoration, contrasting it with other localities that he said have politicised remembrance events.

“We thank the leadership of the City of Mons, which did not act like some other municipalities that mixed politics with remembrance. But history will judge them harshly when the time comes. Mons chose the path of unity and humanity,” he stated.

Natacha Vandenberghe, representing the City of Mons, reminded attendees how the Tutsi were killed simply because of their identity and how they were abandoned.

“It was killing those who could not fight back — this was not a war between opposing sides. It was premeditated and organised with the intent that the Tutsi must be exterminated. Even the United Nations has recognised this,” she stated.

Vandenberghe urged people to speak the truth about what happened:

“Let’s call the Genocide by its rightful name. Let us remember, and let us help young people understand this history.”

In his remarks, Twagira Mutabazi, head of Ibuka-Mémoire et Justice-Belgique, discussed the importance of remembrance and the need for survivors to continue rebuilding their lives. He also highlighted recent challenges facing Genocide remembrance efforts in Belgium.

“This commemoration helps young people to continue honoring the eternal value of those we lost in the Genocide against the Tutsi.”

Mutabazi also revealed that he has requested the repatriation of the remains of King Yuhi V Musinga, currently in Belgium, so they can be properly buried in Rwanda.

“I have asked the Rwandan government to do everything possible to bring back King Yuhi V Musinga’s remains to Rwanda, to be reburied at Mwima in Mushirarungu,” Mutabazi said.

Irène Kamanzi, President of Isôko, said she attends these commemorations because she understands their value, but also because she wants to raise awareness that the horrors of the 1994 Genocide are recurring today.

“It is heartbreaking that I am here to speak about what is happening just across Rwanda’s border in the DRC. The killings there are beyond human comprehension, and the Congolese government is watching silently, just as the world did in 1994. Those who once fled Rwanda are now killing us again and establishing a government of genocidaires. I am here to denounce that loudly,” she remarked.

Arnold Turagara, head of DRB-Rugari in the Mons area, said:

“Today, 31 years later, we have gathered again here in Mons to remember our loved ones killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi — infants, children, the elderly. But we are not here to weep; we are here to bear witness to the atrocities committed.”

He emphasised that this is to help the younger generation understand what happened, pursue justice, and restore the value of human life.

He thanked the RPF-Inkotanyi for not standing idly by like the international community, but instead choosing to rescue those who could still be saved. He reminded everyone that young people played a key role in that mission and should be seen as role models.

Turagara also expressed gratitude to all who stood in solidarity with them, particularly the City of Mons for its continued support.

Olivier Munyengango, a survivor from Mukarange Parish, shared his testimony during the event. He lost his entire immediate family in the Genocide and was the only one left. His family included five children and their parents. Many extended family members were also killed.

The 31st commemoration event in Mons was held in three parts: a remembrance walk, testimonies and discussions at the Mons Memorial Museum, and a third part in the Jemappes district, where a night vigil and symbolic flame (Igicaniro) took place.

The Igicaniro program featured testimonies, moments of reflection, and a display of photos of both murdered and wiped-out families to highlight their lives and legacies.

This commemoration in Mons is one of many held across Belgium this year, with previous events in cities like Brussels, Liège, Namur, Bruges, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, and Antwerp. Upcoming commemorations will be held in Charleroi on May 24, Tournai on May 31, and Leuven on June 10.

{{Photos from the first part of the event: laying flowers and the remembrance walk.}}

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the inaugural International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) in Kigali on Monday, May 19, Kagame outlined three key pillars he said are vital for Africa’s long-term peace and stability: ownership, governance, and cooperation.

Held under the theme “Reshaping Africa’s Landscape in a Dynamic, Complex Global Environment,” the two-day forum at the Kigali Convention Centre brought together continental and global defence, intelligence, and security leaders to tackle urgent challenges and craft joint solutions.

“Africa’s future, particularly in matters of peace and security, cannot be outsourced,” Kagame told the delegates.

“For far too long, our security has been treated as a burden to be managed by others, often without our context or consent. This approach has failed to deliver — both for Africa and for the world.”

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Kagame stressed that the first step is for African nations to take full ownership of their security agendas. He cautioned against blaming foreign interference while simultaneously creating the conditions that invite it.

“Sovereignty is not just about defending borders — it’s about taking responsibility for our security, as individual states and collectively as a continent,” he noted.

The President called for strengthened continental institutions, particularly the African Union and its Peace and Security Council, to ensure that Africa is equipped to handle its internal challenges.

{{The governance-security nexus
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The second pillar, Kagame emphasised, is the interdependence of governance and security. He noted that when one fails, the other is inevitably weakened.

“Security is not just about the absence of threats. It is about creating an environment where people can live with dignity, enjoy their rights, and look to the future with hope and confidence.”

He highlighted the need for governments to build trust by ensuring effective institutions, equitable development, and inclusive politics.

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The third pillar Kagame emphasised is cooperation. In an increasingly borderless world threatened by terrorism, pandemics, cybercrime, and climate-related disasters, he argued no country can secure itself alone.

“Cooperation must be strategic, intentional, and innovative. The key to overcoming security challenges lies in our ability to produce our own solutions,” he said.

He pointed to the exhibition attached to the conference as evidence of the innovation possible when Africa invests in its own capacity and technology.

“Where we have capacity, we must scale it. Where we lack it, this is the time and place to build it — and to cooperate.”

Kagame also appealed to delegates to match political will with technical expertise, aligning national interests with continental priorities.

“Let us leave here not just informed, but more resolved to do more and better,” he added.

Also speaking at the opening session was Moussa Faki Mahamat, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Chair of the ISCA Advisory Council. He hailed the launch of ISCA as “a turning point” for Africa, describing it as a long-overdue strategic space for reflection and dialogue on peace and security matters.

“Africa’s security cannot rely on imported solutions,” Faki said. “We often say and repeat: African solutions to African problems.”

The former AUC boss warned that instability, broken promises, and marginalisation of youth are not merely development failures but drivers of insecurity. Echoing Kagame, he called for clear mandates, sustainable funding, and proactive approaches to regional threats.

Faki said the Institute for Security and Conflict Analysis (ISCA) fills a critical gap by offering a platform for data-driven decision-making, policy innovation, and rigorous debate.

“The future we hope for cannot emerge by chance. It must be shaped with rigour, clarity, and method — but above all, it must be built together.”

The ISCA conference continues on Tuesday with high-level panels and closed-door sessions expected to define strategic pathways for a more secure and self-reliant Africa.

The election comes after the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the Regional Director-elect, who died in November 2024 before taking office.

Prof. Janabi was nominated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and emerged as the successful candidate among a competitive field, which included Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao of Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed Lamine Dramé of Guinea, and Prof. Moustafa Mijiyawa of Togo.

Prof. Janabi’s nomination will be formally submitted for appointment during the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for May 28–29, 2025. Once appointed, he will serve a five-year term, with the possibility of renewal.

In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Janabi affirmed his commitment to regional unity and health system strengthening.

“Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down. Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa. As we face challenges ranging from infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases to climate change and limited health financing, we must harness African resilience and unity,” he stated.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus welcomed the nomination, praising both Prof. Janabi and the other candidates:

“I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa, and also to the United Republic of Tanzania. He will take the reins at an unprecedented time for the African Region, and WHO as a whole. We are grateful for his experience and expertise.”

Dr. Tedros also acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his leadership during the transitional period following the end of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term.

A leading figure in Tanzanian and African healthcare, Prof. Janabi brings over 30 years of experience spanning clinical cardiology, public health leadership, and health system reform. He is a vocal advocate for equitable healthcare access in low- and middle-income countries.

Prof. Janabi steps into the role amid growing health challenges across the continent, including emerging disease threats, climate-induced health crises, and funding gaps. His leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in driving regional health priorities and reforming health systems for resilience and equity.

A statement released by Biden’s office on Sunday revealed that the cancer has metastasised to his bones.

The announcement follows Biden’s recent medical evaluation after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms on Friday, May 16, 2025.

“On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterised by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” the statement read.

According to his physicians, although the diagnosis indicates a more advanced and aggressive form of the disease, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which allows for potentially effective treatment options.

Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment plans with his medical team.

Joe Biden served as the 46th President of the United States from January 20, 2021, to January 20, 2025.

He chose not to seek re-election in the 2024 presidential race, citing a desire to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership. At the time, Biden, then 81, also acknowledged the increasing demands of the office and the need to prioritise his health and family after more than five decades in public service.

The decision to withdraw from the race came after increasing pressure and concerns, particularly following a debate performance that raised questions about his fitness for office.

Since leaving office, the former president has maintained a relatively low public profile, occasionally commenting on political developments and emerging global issues.

High Commissioner Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye has presented his letters of credence to the Sultan of Brunei, Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, accrediting him as Rwanda’s representative to the country.

The ceremony took place at the royal palace, Istana Nurul Iman, on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

Amb. Uwihanganye, who is based in Singapore, also represents Rwanda in Australia and New Zealand. He becomes the first High Commissioner to represent Rwanda in Brunei since the two countries established diplomatic relations nearly five years ago.

During his visit to Brunei, Amb. Uwihanganye also met with Dato Seri Paduka Abdul Manaf, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT). Their discussions focused on fostering bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector.

The High Commissioner is also scheduled to meet with other high-ranking officials in Brunei to discuss cooperation in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and finance.

Rwanda and Brunei are both members of the Commonwealth. The two countries initiated diplomatic relations in December 2020.

In June 2022, President Paul Kagame met with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah during the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Rwanda. The two leaders discussed issues of mutual interest.

During that visit, the Sultan of Brunei was accompanied by Prince Abdul Mateen.

Brunei is a small but wealthy country located in Southeast Asia, with a population of just over 455,000 people.

For many years, Brunei’s economy has been largely dependent on the export of petroleum and natural gas, with over half of its GDP coming from oil and gas revenues.

Additionally, Brunei’s domestic economy is supported by significant income from foreign investments, mainly managed through the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA), which operates under the Ministry of Finance.

Analysts consider Rwanda an attractive destination for Brunei’s investments, largely due to Rwanda’s investor-friendly legal framework that facilitates foreign direct investment.

This aligns with Brunei’s long-term strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas.

Currently, the two countries are in discussions about cooperation agreements in the education sector and the potential for a visa waiver arrangement for their citizens.

The first American pope and 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, Leo used his inaugural Mass to set the tone for what appears to be a pastoral and socially conscious papacy.

St. Peter’s Square was filled with an estimated 100,000 faithful at the start of the liturgy, a crowd that swelled to 200,000 as the two-hour ceremony progressed.

The Mass, steeped in centuries-old tradition, was attended by dignitaries, royalty, and worshippers from across the globe, including U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Peru’s President Dina Boluarte — the leader of the country where Pope Leo previously served as a missionary and bishop.

Before the Mass began, the 69-year-old pontiff, born Robert Prevost, toured the square in the open-air popemobile, warmly greeting the cheering crowds and pausing to kiss a child. As chants of ‘Viva il Papa!’ (Long live the Pope) echoed across the square, Leo’s humility and calm demeanour were on full display.

In his homily — widely seen as a declaration of papal priorities — Pope Leo called for healing within a Church often divided between conservatives and reformers.

“There is no room in the Church for propaganda or power plays,” he said. “This is the hour for love.”

He also issued a sharp rebuke of global economic systems that “exploit the Earth’s resources and marginalise the poorest.”

Calling on Catholics to serve “not with superiority, but with humility,” Leo emphasised a missionary spirit rooted in compassion and respect for diversity: “We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, in order to achieve that unity which does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person.”

The Mass included several striking moments of symbolism: the bestowing of the pallium, a lamb’s wool vestment representing his role as shepherd, and the Ring of the Fisherman, engraved with the image of St. Peter and Leo XIV’s name, symbolising his role as Peter’s successor. As the ring was placed on his finger, Leo appeared visibly moved, glancing down in quiet reflection.

In a solemn close to the liturgy, Leo offered prayers for peace in Ukraine and Gaza. “We pray for a just and lasting peace,” he said. “For children, families, the elderly, survivors — those reduced to hunger and sorrow.”

Since his election on May 8, Pope Leo has signalled a blend of continuity and change. He has embraced tradition, including Latin liturgy and ornate vestments, while also launching a papal Instagram account and making early appeals for interfaith dialogue and global peace.

He has also struck a chord with many, from traditionalists to reformers, with his calls to uphold human dignity, protect migrants, and prioritise the needs of the marginalised.

Next Sunday, Pope Leo XIV will take formal possession of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of the bishop of Rome, marking the canonical start of a papacy already being watched closely around the world.

He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 after a long illness.

The renowned lawyer shared the development on her official X account, saying they were detained and set for deportation.

“I have been denied entry into Tanzania and I and two colleagues are awaiting deportation at Mwalimu Nyerere International Airport, Dar es Salaam.”

The two others detained with her are Gloria Kimani, a council member of the Law Society of Kenya, and Lynn Ngugi, a human rights advocate.

Awaiting deportation after retrieving our bags with ⁦@ngugi_lynn⁩ ⁦@gloria_kimani⁩ pic.twitter.com/vravSNhF2C

— Martha Karua SC (@MarthaKarua) May 18, 2025

According to Karua, all three were guests of the East Africa Law Society (EALS). They were scheduled to attend a court session related to Lissu’s ongoing treason case.

Karua detailed the sequence of events upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport at 9:00 a.m., explaining that her passport was referred to a supervisor who kept her waiting for over an hour while consulting superiors. She was later informed that entry had been denied without explanation.

“The supervisor has now informed us that our entry into Tanzania has been denied. No reasons given,” she posted.

Karua voiced concern over the apparent restriction of her freedom of movement within the East African Community (EAC), saying,

“I am concerned that as a citizen of EAC, my access within a @jumuiya country appears inexplicably restricted.”

Lissu was charged with treason in April, a day after being arrested following a political rally in southern Tanzania.

The charges stem from his “No Reforms, No Election” campaign, which calls for sweeping electoral reforms ahead of Tanzania’s general elections scheduled for October.

Karua has been a vocal advocate for Lissu’s release and recently took on a leadership role in a pan-African rights lobby group calling for the charges against him to be dropped, labelling them politically motivated. She is also among the lawyers representing Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who is facing similar charges in the neighbouring country.

Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and has been in and out of exile, is among those expected to challenge President Samia Suluhu Hassan in the upcoming polls.

President Suluhu rose to power in 2021 following the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli.

By the time of going to press, Tanzanian authorities had not issued any official statement regarding the decision to deny Karua and her colleagues entry into the country.