Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

Africa’s defence leaders convene in Kigali to push for innovation in training and education

Hosted by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Command and Staff College, this year’s conference, which kicked off on Monday, November 11, is being held under the theme “The Future of African Military Training and Education: Bridging the Digital Divide.”

The three-day meeting brings together Commandants of African Command and Staff Colleges, senior defence representatives, and security experts from 24 nations to deliberate on how to harness technology and digital learning in building a more self-reliant and interoperable African defence architecture.

In his opening remarks, Brigadier General Andrew Nyamvumba, Commandant of the RDF Command and Staff College, welcomed delegates to what he described as a gathering of Africa’s “intellectual and professional military leadership.”

“This forum is more than a meeting of institutions; it is a convergence of Africa’s intellectual and professional military leadership,” Brig Gen Nyamvumba said. “It is where ideas are exchanged, doctrines refined and partnerships strengthened in pursuit of interoperable regional and African standby forces for a more secure, resilient and self-reliant Africa.”

Highlighting the significance of this year’s theme, Brig Gen Nyamvumba underscored the need to integrate digital tools and innovative methodologies into Africa’s military education systems.

“Over the next three days, we shall deliberate on critical issues affecting our military education systems, from standardisation of curricula and exchange programmes to integrating technology and leveraging digital learning platforms,” he added.

He also announced the handover of the ACoC chairmanship from the RDF Command and Staff College to the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) Command and Staff College, commending the forum’s continued role in harmonising doctrines and training across the continent.

Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, officially opened the conference, commending ACoC’s work in promoting unity of purpose among African military education institutions. He described the forum as a cornerstone in building Africa’s collective defence capacity through shared learning and collaboration.

“The threats facing Africa are multifaceted, from terrorism and cyber warfare to illegal migration, transnational crime and climate-related insecurity,” Minister Marizamunda said. “Addressing these requires a generation of officers who are not only tactically capable but also digitally literate, ethically grounded and strategically agile.”

He lauded the RDF Command and Staff College for its “exemplary stewardship” as the current chair of ACoC, noting that Rwanda’s leadership had strengthened cooperation among member institutions and prepared the ground for a smooth transition to Tanzania.

Maj Gen Stephen Mnkande, Commandant of Tanzania’s TPDF Command and Staff College, emphasised that education and training were the backbone of Africa’s readiness to respond to emerging security threats under the African Union Peace and Security Architecture.

“For the African Standby Force to remain ready, education and training are essential,” he said. “Forums like the ACoC allow Commandants to harmonise doctrines and ensure that all our forces speak the same language when it comes to African Union operations. As the world moves fast into digitisation, we too must embrace technology in our training and preparedness.”

Air Commodore N. Maghidir of Libya’s Command and Staff College, which hosted the previous edition of the conference in Tripoli, commended Rwanda for its hospitality and organisational excellence. He noted that such gatherings provide “a very important opportunity for Africa’s military academies to discuss complex security and strategic challenges” facing the continent.

The ACoC, established as a continental platform for Commandants of African Command and Staff Colleges, aims to enhance professional military education, promote harmonisation of training doctrines, and strengthen interoperability among member states.

As discussions continue in Kigali, participants are expected to develop actionable recommendations to modernise military education, foster digital transformation, and build a new generation of African military leaders equipped to respond to both traditional and emerging security challenges.

November 10, 2025
Judence Kayitesi, Antoine Mugesera among literary stars feted at Bridgevision awards

The ceremony took place on November 8, 2025, recognising achievements across several categories: best young writer, best female writer, best male writer, best African writer, and best writer of all time.

Divine Akimana, who received the award for best young writer, described it as her first major recognition. She credited her book, Scars That Shape Us, for the accolade.

“What I wanted to convey through this book, I have achieved. I published it in 2020 to offer comfort to people who have experienced conflicts and show them that there is hope for the future,” Akimana said.

Judence Kayitesi, awarded best female writer, reflected on the challenges women face in pursuing writing alongside other responsibilities.

“Women have many roles, including giving birth, raising children, managing the household, and other daily duties. It can be difficult to find time to write, but I want to say that women are strong, they can achieve everything they set out to do and should never be afraid to pursue their passions,” she said.

Antoine Mugesera, named best writer of all time, brings over 20 years of experience, focusing on Rwanda’s history and the lives of its people across different periods.

“I was well prepared. I started writing while at university and continued even during my 15-year career in government. Since then, I have kept writing,” he said.

He noted that some of his works, especially those on religious topics, were published under a pseudonym to avoid potential conflicts with the church. He also explained that writing involves extensive research, allowing an author to gain deep knowledge on a subject and then share it with readers.

Bridgevision CEO Joe E. Sully said the awards aim to encourage literary pursuits in Rwanda and across the continent.

“These awards were initially intended for Rwandans only, but we realised there is a wider need across the continent. That’s why we introduced the category for the best African writer. Our goal is to inspire participation from across Africa and beyond, making this an international recognition,” he said.

Other winners included Adut Loi Akok, who was recognised as the best African writer, and Dr. Christian Ntizimira, who received the award for best male writer.

The Radiate Rwanda Literacy Excellence Awards are in their second edition, following the inaugural event in 2024.

November 10, 2025
Health and hospitality costs fuel 7.1% surge in Rwanda’s consumer prices in October

The monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released on November 10 shows that the urban index, which serves as the headline measure for monetary policy, rose by 1.3 percent compared to September 2025. Over the past 12 months, the average annual inflation rate stood at 6.7 percent.

Sector-wise, health costs recorded the sharpest increase among major categories, soaring by 71.3 percent year-on-year, followed by restaurants and hotels (+19.1%) and alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and narcotics (+16.0%). Separately, meat prices rose by 19.2 percent. Prices in housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels increased by 7.5 percent, while transport costs were up 8.5 percent.

By contrast, vegetable prices fell by 9.5 percent, easing food inflation pressures. The overall category of food and non-alcoholic beverages rose by a modest 1.6 percent compared to October 2024.

The report further shows that imported goods prices increased by 9.1 percent over the year, slightly higher than the 6.4 percent rise in local goods, reflecting ongoing external cost pressures. The energy index climbed by 10.9 percent year-on-year, while fresh products saw a mild increase of 0.4 percent.

In rural areas, the CPI rose by 3.8 percent compared to October last year and by 0.8 percent month-on-month. The overall national CPI, combining both rural and urban data, increased by 5.1 percent year-on-year and 1.0 percent from the previous month.

The report also noted that underlying inflation, which excludes fresh food and energy, stood at 9.0 percent on an annual basis and 0.8 percent monthly, signalling continued upward pressure in core consumer prices.

NISR compiles the CPI using prices of 1,622 products collected across 12 urban centres and rural areas nationwide. The indicator tracks the average change over time in prices paid by households for goods and services and serves as a key benchmark for monetary policy decisions.

November 10, 2025
Auto24 supplies 35 eco-friendly cars to Treize Ride

The initiative aligns with Rwanda’s efforts to cut air pollution, with transport currently accounting for about 34% of the country’s total emissions.

Rwanda has in recent years promoted the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, from motorcycles to public transport, as part of its broader strategy to achieve a cleaner and more sustainable transport sector.

AUTO24, known for trading in environmentally friendly vehicles, partnered with Treize Ride to expand access to low-emission cars designed to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.

AUTO24 Rwanda Country Manager Ivan Ruzibiza said the company remains committed to introducing modern, energy-efficient vehicles in line with the country’s green agenda.

“Passenger transport vehicles are among the biggest contributors to harmful emissions, which is why we are focused on bringing hybrid and electric models that meet both environmental and operational needs,” Ruzibiza said.

The vehicles, Toyota Corolla Levin Plug-In Hybrids, can travel long distances on electric power alone before switching to fuel, offering flexibility and efficiency for urban transport operations.

Treize Ride Chief Executive Officer Niringiyimana Pierre Canisius said the company’s decision to acquire eco-friendly cars was driven by both economic and environmental considerations.

“We chose to partner with AUTO24 because it’s one of the few dealerships offering high-quality, low-emission vehicles that are still new. This aligns with the government’s policy encouraging the use of environmentally friendly cars,” he explained.

Beyond reducing emissions, Niringiyimana noted that the transition is expected to lower the company’s fuel expenses and improve service efficiency.

Rwanda’s green mobility plan envisions that by 2030, electric and hybrid vehicles will represent 20% of public transport, 30% of motorcycles, and 8% of private cars.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution remains one of the leading public health challenges globally, increasing the risks of lung cancer, heart disease, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses, particularly among pregnant women, children, and those with chronic conditions.

November 10, 2025
From drugs to intimate tape claims: Regina Daniels speaks out against Ned Nwoko

The revelations come amid a heated dispute over allegations of drug use, personal exploitation, and family interference.

In a detailed statement released on Instagram on Sunday, Daniels claimed Nwoko created a false narrative to tarnish her name, portraying her family as enablers while concealing his own actions.

“Fine, I did drugs. So what? Is that even the issue between us? The moment we had a fight, you rushed to the public, shouting ‘drugs, drugs, drugs,’ because you knew it would make a perfect story for the media, something dramatic enough to distract everyone from the real issue!” she wrote.

Daniels accused Nwoko of isolating her from loved ones and controlling her access to communication, claiming he seized her phones for weeks to prevent contact with her family. She further alleged that the businessman would detain her, label her “mentally unstable,” and use medical interventions, including injections meant for bipolar patients, to maintain control.

“You want to find a reason to arrest everyone around me so that I will have no one left beside me, no friend, no support, no safe place to turn to. Then, when I’m completely isolated and broken, I will be forced to come back to you because I will have nowhere else to go,” she said.

She also claimed Nwoko encouraged her drug use for his own sexual pleasure. “You say you want me to go for rehab, but you are the same Ned who always wanted me high because, in your words, I’m ‘sexier’ when I’m high,” Daniels added.

Daniels went further, alleging sexual coercion. “Why don’t you also tell them how you force yourself on me whenever I say no?” she wrote, highlighting the extent of her accusations of control and abuse.

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Daniels, who married Nwoko at just 17 years old, reflected on the sacrifices she made at a young age. She also addressed more personal allegations, referencing private material that she says Nwoko has kept.

“Dearest ex-husband, thanks for breaking the crown you put on my head. No one knew us like we did, and I trusted you with all of me, even with my sextape, which I pray never sees the light of day. Foolish me,” she wrote.

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Daniels also clarified that their union was not legally recognised, stating, “For the record, I would have filed for divorce long ago if there was ever a legal marriage between us. We were never married in any court of law, and no documents were signed. Leave me alone, Ned. Marriage is not by force. Love is not by force. Stop trying to control what no longer belongs to you!”

This statement comes after Nwoko accused Daniels of resisting rehabilitation and claimed he had financially supported her family. He also previously alleged that her drug use was being facilitated by those close to her, including her friends and siblings.

Nwoko has yet to respond to Daniels’ latest allegations, leaving questions about the veracity of the claims and the future of their legal and personal disputes.

The actress shares two sons, Munir and Khalifa, with her estranged husband.

November 9, 2025
Rwanda’s unity and reconciliation reach 95%, new barometer shows

The findings, released by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE) during the 18th Unity Club Intwararumuri Annual Forum on Saturday, November 8, indicate a 13-percentage-point increase since the first barometer was introduced in 2010.

According to Minister Jean Damascène Bizimana, the steady upward trend reflects Rwanda’s resilience and the effectiveness of policies promoting social harmony.

“The current level of unity and reconciliation in Rwanda is commendable,” he said, noting that the index has improved from 82.3 percent in 2010 to 92.5 percent in 2015, and now 95.3 percent in 2025.

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This year’s edition of the barometer, which surveyed 12,300 respondents from across the country, introduced resilience as a key pillar alongside unity and reconciliation.

Minister Bizimana explained that resilience strengthens the other two pillars by equipping Rwandans to overcome challenges that threaten national cohesion, including the persistence of genocide ideology, negative social influences, and the erosion of cultural values.

The report attributes the strong performance to continued efforts through initiatives such as Ndi Umunyarwanda, civic education programs, and community dialogues that encourage reflection on shared history and identity.

{{How Rwandans view unity and reconciliation
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The study found that Rwandans continue to demonstrate a strong sense of belonging and mutual trust. Unity was rated at 95.6 percent, reconciliation at 95 percent, while heroism and patriotism reached 98.7 percent. Respect for Rwandan traditions and beliefs scored 97.9 percent, social cohesion stood at 98.5 percent, and equal rights for all citizens were rated at 92 percent.

Respondents also emphasized the importance of commemorating the genocide against the Tutsi, which scored 99 percent in its contribution to reconciliation, while shared ancestry and collective identity scored 96.8 percent.

Overall, the findings depict a society that has not only healed but continues to build stronger foundations for peaceful coexistence.

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Despite these positive results, the report identifies several areas that require further attention. About 23 percent of respondents said genocide ideology remains present in their communities, while 38 percent observed that some individuals still hold discriminatory or ethnic-based attitudes.

Additionally, 45 percent of respondents believe that emotional wounds from the genocide have yet to fully heal, particularly among survivors and younger generations.

Minister Bizimana warned of the growing influence of certain social media platforms that spread misinformation and attempt to distort Rwanda’s history.

“Platforms operating from outside Rwanda continue to twist facts and undermine the country’s unity and progress,” he said.

To build on the progress made, the barometer outlines several actions to further reinforce national cohesion. It calls for greater emphasis on teaching Rwandan language, history, and culture as central elements of identity, while also encouraging youth participation in initiatives that promote unity at family, community, and workplace levels.

The report further recommends investment in inclusive local dialogues to foster open discussions about Rwanda’s history and promote truth-telling and reconciliation.

Bizimana said the progress made so far demonstrates the effectiveness of deliberate government policies that promote equality, justice, and social inclusion.

“The progress we see today is the result of sustained effort,” he noted. “But we must continue ensuring that no remnants of division or discrimination are allowed to take root again.”

Founded by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, the Unity Club Intwararumuri brings together current and former government leaders and their spouses to champion unity, peace, and sustainable development. The organisation has played a key role in fostering dialogue and advancing reconciliation since its creation.

November 9, 2025
Museveni admits detaining two Kenyan ‘protest experts’ linked to Bobi Wine

Speaking in an interview with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) on November 8, 2025, President Museveni said the two Kenyans had entered the country in September, claiming to be “protest experts” supporting Bobi Wine’s campaign.

“In Uganda, we have very good intelligence,” Museveni said. “We arrested two Kenyans, though I don’t recall their names, who were working with Kyagulanyi’s group. They had presented themselves as experts in riots.”

The two men, identified as Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, were reportedly arrested on October 1 in Kira, Wakiso District, by men in military uniform. They were held for over a month before being released and handed over to Kenyan authorities at the Busia border crossing on October 7, following diplomatic engagement between Nairobi and Kampala.

Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Korir Sing’Oei, confirmed that the activists had been handed over to the Kenyan High Commission in Uganda before returning home.

Their detention had drawn public concern after both the Ugandan police and military denied knowledge of their whereabouts, even as witnesses claimed they had been taken by armed security personnel.

Following their release, the two Kenyans alleged they were held at the Kasenyi Military Barracks in Entebbe and subjected to harsh conditions, including prolonged hunger.

President Museveni defended the actions of his security agencies, saying the arrests were based on intelligence reports linking the individuals to activities that could incite unrest. “We monitor all groups working to disrupt peace in our country,” he said.

Uganda is set to hold its next presidential elections on January 15, 2026.

Museveni: “Here we have got very good intelligence. We arrested 2 Kenyans who were working with Kyagulanyi’s group that they are experts in riots.” pic.twitter.com/u1VftZ76SL

— UBC UGANDA (@ubctvuganda) November 8, 2025

November 9, 2025
President Kagame addresses sons’ military choices, speculation on daughter being groomed for presidency

Speaking at a gala attended by leaders and members of the Unity Club Intwararumuri on November 8, 2025, President Kagame said he had hoped all three of his sons would join the RDF, but his eldest, Ivan Cyomoro Kagame, chose instead to pursue business and investment.

“Once they grew up, I told them my wishes, and they accepted, but one of them refused. He told me, ‘This is not how I want to be.’ I told him, ‘Do what you want. If you don’t want to join, that’s your choice.’ I asked, ‘What do you want to do?’ and he said, ‘I want to make money.’ He added, ‘When I finish studying, I will go into business,’” President Kagame revealed.

“Afterwards, he told me, ‘You and the other young men, my younger siblings, because by that time you’ll be pursuing other things, I will take care of you. I want to take care of you. Let me do that, and you do what you want,’” he added.

Brian Kagame, the youngest son of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, joined the RDF on October 3, 2025, after completing military training at the Sandhurst Military Academy in the United Kingdom. He followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Capt. Ian Kagame, who currently serves in the Republican Guard elite unit responsible for protecting the President and other top state leaders.

President Kagame said he had advised his sons to finish Master’s degrees before joining the military, but both insisted on starting their military careers earlier. He emphasised that every child should have the right to pursue their own aspirations.

“Any Rwandan child, including mine, should be able to become what they want or do what they want to do,” he said.

On the subject of his daughter, Ange Kagame, and rumours about her being prepared for the presidency, the President affirmed that his daughter’s future will be guided by her own ambitions.

“I saw on social media that people say I am preparing my daughter to lead the country. But who prepared me? I wasn’t prepared by my father,” he said. “My children are Rwandans like any other, and they will live their lives like everyone else.”

President Kagame added that he cannot choose who becomes President, and the daughter in question may not even desire such a role.

President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame have been blessed with four children: three sons and a daughter.

November 9, 2025
Rwanda Coding Academy students take top prize in national JA entrepreneurship challenge

The project provides a sustainable solution for growing crops without soil, addressing food insecurity, limited farmland, and environmental concerns linked to urbanisation and pollution.

Held on November 5 under the theme “ACT! Action for Climate Transformation,” the national competition brought together high school innovators from across Rwanda to present projects tackling climate and sustainability challenges.

The winning team will now represent Rwanda at the JA Africa regional finals in Abuja, Nigeria, competing for a chance to vie for the De La Vega Global Entrepreneurship Prize.

Emery Rubagenga, Chairperson of the Junior Achievement Rwanda Board, praised the students for their creativity and courage, noting that the competition is about learning and innovation, not just winning.

“To the winning team, I urge you to represent Rwanda with excellence at the continental finals,” he said.

Keynote speaker Diogene Kagango from the Rwanda TVET Board highlighted the importance of such programs in equipping students with practical skills and fostering a mindset ready for the future of work.

Team member Emma Response Hirwa said Agro Haven was born out of the need to produce food efficiently despite shrinking farmland.

“We wanted a system that could produce enough crops even when space is limited, while also reducing food waste and improving indoor air quality,” she explained.

The team received a $500 cash prize and the opportunity to showcase their innovation on the continental stage this December.

November 9, 2025
President Kagame: Rwanda drew the line long ago, will not tolerate any threat

He made the remarks on Saturday, November 8, 2025, during a gala marking the conclusion of the 18th Unity Club Intwararumuri Forum in Kigali. The Unity Club Intwararumuri, founded by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, brings together current and former government leaders and their spouses to promote unity, peace, and development in Rwanda.

The Head of State said that while Rwanda continues to engage diplomatically with its neighbours, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), some of the agreements reached contain elements of dishonesty. Nonetheless, he stressed that Rwanda remains guided by firm principles.

“Those agreements contain a lot of dishonesty. In everything we do, say, and in how we live with others or even fight with others, we drew the line long ago. Meaning, anything that threatens Rwanda, we will not tolerate,” Kagame said.

He underscored that Rwanda’s determination to safeguard its existence and sovereignty is non-negotiable.

“Our desire to live, to have our own life, is something we either live for or die for,” he said.

President Kagame also urged Rwandans to embrace self-reliance and reject dependency, emphasising that development and dignity are achieved through collective effort and resilience.

“As leaders gathered here, if there is someone who thinks that anyone from the outside will come to save us, you are mistaken. As the saying goes, it is not the size of the dog in the fight, it is the size of the fight in the dog. The question, what is the fight in the dog? What is within us that will allow us to face the challenges of our country?” he posed.

He noted that Rwanda’s progress has been shaped by visionary leadership and citizen participation but challenged leaders present to continuously evaluate their personal contribution to national development.

“To ensure things continue to improve, you cannot become complacent because of the progress we have made and only be a beneficiary of the work others have done. Make sure you are not just carried along by others but that you are truly part of it, playing your role and making your contribution. That is essential and there is no way around it,” President Kagame added.

Turning to the African continent, President Kagame questioned why many countries have failed to make significant socio-economic progress despite decades of independence.

“Africa, where were we 50 or 60 years ago? Looking back, it seems we are still almost in the same place as we were then,” he observed, adding that the continent must confront the internal factors holding it back.

“This problem within us must be solved, or we should openly admit that perhaps we are under some kind of curse, because pretending we are fine while remaining stagnant will not take us forward,” he said.

He further wondered why African nations accept poverty and hardship despite having the capacity and opportunities to transform their economies.

During the same event, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe said Africa’s underdevelopment is largely rooted in poor governance and a mindset that normalizes dependency.

Former Minister Charles Murigande pointed to leadership failures, saying some leaders pursue self-enrichment rather than service to their people.

“A true leader is supposed to eat last but we have leaders who eat alone and leave nothing for anyone else,” Murigande said.

Father Consolateur attributed part of Africa’s challenges to the lingering effects of colonialism, which instilled a belief in inferiority among Africans.

“They destroyed us, uprooted us completely, and we agreed to it,” he said.

Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta, emphasised that true transformation will only come when African nations commit to self-reliance and break free from external dependency.

November 9, 2025