The contingent, led by Joint Task Force Commander Major General Emmy K. Ruvusha, arrived at Kigali International Airport to a warm reception following their contribution to ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in northern Mozambique.
Addressing the troops, Major General Kagame commended their dedication, professionalism, and resilience in the face of operational challenges. He lauded their outstanding achievements over the past year and urged them to continue upholding the highest standards of conduct and discipline as members of the RDF.
Rwandan troops were first deployed to Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province in July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government, following years of attacks by Islamic State-linked insurgents.
Since the deployment, joint operations between the Rwanda Security Forces and the Mozambican Defence Armed Forces have significantly weakened the insurgency, restored security in several districts, and facilitated the safe return of thousands of displaced residents.
The return of the contingent comes two months after Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo’s visit to Rwanda, during which a renewed Status of Forces Agreement was signed to extend Rwanda’s military support in Cabo Delgado.
“Thanks to this cooperation, we can see peace returning to the region,” President Chapo said during his visit, acknowledging Rwanda’s crucial role in stabilising Cabo Delgado despite sporadic attacks that still occur.
The government’s five-year plan, running from 2024 to 2029, is supported by a clear financing architecture. While private investment is set to provide 43 percent of the total, the remaining 57 percent will come from public resources, including government revenues and external grants and concessional loans. This public-private funding mix is designed to propel Rwanda towards an average annual GDP growth rate of 9.3 percent over the five-year period.
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The NST2 aims to more than double private investment, from a 2023 baseline of $2.2 billion to $4.6 billion by 2029. This capital influx is expected to support the creation of 1.25 million productive and decent jobs over the strategy’s duration, addressing key unemployment challenges.
Much of the investment will be channelled through the domestic financial system, according to the newly released Financial Sector Development Strategy (FSDS) 2025–2029. Over 70 percent of private funding is expected to flow via local banks, insurers, pension funds, capital markets, and a growing fintech sector.
The approach aligns with Rwanda’s long-term goals of achieving upper-middle-income status by 2035 and high-income status by 2050, by building a more competitive, innovative financial sector capable of directing capital to manufacturing, agriculture, housing, and small businesses.
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Despite a 96 percent financial inclusion rate, Rwanda faces bottlenecks that limit private capital flow. These include low national savings, high lending costs, a shortage of long-term financing products, and gaps in access to finance for SMEs, women, youth, and agriculture-dependent communities. The government aims to raise national savings from 12.4 percent of GDP to over 25 percent by 2029.
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The FSDS sets out reforms to strengthen trust in financial institutions, expand accessibility, enhance customer engagement, and boost financial literacy. Banks and microfinance institutions are expected to expand credit to productive enterprises, while Umurenge SACCOs will be consolidated into a national cooperative bank to improve community-level lending efficiency. These reforms are intended to help businesses grow and generate jobs.
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The strategy also targets capital market development. Plans include expanding listings on the Rwanda Stock Exchange, increasing corporate bond issuance, and attracting venture capital and private equity into high-growth sectors. Export revenues are projected to grow by at least 13 percent annually, reaching $7.3 billion by 2029.
Pension funds, including the Ejo Heza long-term savings scheme, will provide a stronger domestic supply of long-term capital, offering Rwandans more opportunities to save and invest.
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Digital finance forms a key part of the plan. Building on mobile money and the eKash national payment system, Rwanda is exploring the introduction of a Central Bank Digital Currency to reduce transaction costs and facilitate cross-border trade.
To track implementation, the FSDS establishes a governance and monitoring framework led by the Ministry of Finance with sector regulators. Progress will be measured through quarterly reports and joint reviews assessing the financial sector’s contribution to NST2 goals.
Though Rwanda’s financial sector currently contributes just 2 percent of GDP, the government emphasises its outsized role in mobilising investment for national growth.
Officials believe that, if successfully implemented, these reforms will create a stronger, more resilient economy, reduce reliance on concessional financing, and unlock opportunities for citizens to save, invest, and generate wealth.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, the group rejected the allegations as inaccurate, clarifying that Twangiza Mining had temporarily suspended operations in May 2025 due to security and technical challenges, not as a result of looting.
The group explained that the mine, formerly a subsidiary of Banro Corporation (Canada) and now operated by Chinese-owned Baiyin International Investments Ltd, faced operational disruptions caused by COVID-19 restrictions, targeted attacks on Chinese workers, and extensive aerial bombardments by FARDC drones since October 2025. These factors made normal mining activity impossible, AFC/M23 said.
The group also dismissed claims regarding underground mineral transport, noting that Twangiza is an open-pit mine, with all facilities, including processing and storage, located on the surface and compliant with international standards.
“There is no underground tunnel system, and no underground deposits have been exploited,” said AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.
Other allegations addressed included the expulsion of residents and the demolition of churches. AFC/M23 clarified that population movements were caused by ongoing military operations by FARDC, Wazalendo, and FDLR, not by the mining company. Damage to civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings, was attributed to indiscriminate aerial bombings, not Twangiza Mining.
AFC/M23 also rejected claims that Twangiza Mining relies on Rwandan technicians, calling such narratives part of a broader campaign of ethnic stigmatisation against Eastern Congolese communities.
The group clarified that the mine employs Congolese, Chinese, and South African staff, all recruited through official and traceable channels, and that there is no evidence of Rwandan workforce involvement. AFC/M23 added that Reuters’ reporting failed to verify these claims, which they said fuels divisive rhetoric.
Concluding its response, AFC/M23 said: “Reuters’ claims appear largely inaccurate and based on a misunderstanding of the real situation. The letter from CEO Chao Xianfeng dated 8 May 2025 confirms that Twangiza Mining suspended its operations, meaning that activity was indeed halted, but without any intention of definitive closure.”
“This nuance, a temporary shutdown for technical and security reasons, is essential to distinguish an industrial adjustment decision from a cessation of activity.”
His closest challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesperson and employment minister, garnered 35.2%, according to the Council’s president, Clement Atangana.
The result means Biya, who first took office in 1982, will remain in power for another seven-year term.
This year’s election drew significant attention, with Bakary leading a spirited campaign that attracted large crowds and support from a coalition of opposition parties and civic groups. Despite his challenge, Biya’s long-established party structure and loyal base are said to have contributed to his latest victory.
While the announcement was met with celebration among Biya’s supporters, some parts of the country remained tense. Streets in Bamenda, a major city in the English-speaking west, were largely deserted amid fears of unrest. Reports indicated that at least four people were killed in Douala on Sunday during clashes between protesters and security forces.
Biya’s leadership has been marked by both achievements and enduring challenges. He is credited with expanding the country’s education system, establishing new public universities, and successfully resolving the Bakassi Peninsula dispute, which saw the oil-rich territory peacefully transferred from Nigeria to Cameroon.
However, his government continues to face difficulties, including an ongoing separatist conflict in the Anglophone regions, high youth unemployment, and concerns over infrastructure and public service delivery.
Bessent told CBS, the BBC’s US news partner, that the framework includes a final agreement on TikTok’s US operations and a deferral of China’s tightened controls on rare earth mineral exports. He added that he does not expect the 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods threatened by President Trump to come into force, while China will resume large-scale soybean purchases from the US.
Both nations are aiming to de-escalate tensions following months of uncertainty in global trade. The meeting between Trump and Xi is scheduled to take place on Thursday in South Korea, as part of the US president’s Asia tour.
Bessent met senior Chinese trade officials on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Malaysia, where both sides described their talks as “constructive.” He said the countries had “reached a substantial framework for the two leaders,” adding that “the tariffs will be averted.”
In a statement, China’s government said both negotiating teams “reached a basic consensus on arrangements to address their respective concerns” and that “both sides agreed to further finalise specific details.”
Since returning to the White House, President Trump has imposed or threatened sweeping tariffs on imported goods from several countries, arguing that they would strengthen US manufacturing and create jobs. While this approach has led to new trade agreements with countries such as the UK, it has also triggered sharp disputes with China, the largest target of US tariffs.
Earlier this month, Trump announced plans to impose an additional 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods starting in November, in response to Beijing’s decision to tighten controls on exports of rare earth elements minerals crucial to the production of smartphones, electric vehicles, and renewable-energy components. At the time, Trump accused China of “becoming very hostile” and trying to “hold the world captive.”
China, which processes nearly 90 percent of the world’s rare earth minerals, has now agreed to delay those restrictions for one year while reassessing the policy, Bessent confirmed during a separate television interview.
Another key issue in the discussions is the soybean trade, a sector that has suffered since China halted imports during the height of the trade war. Bessent, himself a soybean farmer, suggested that an agreement would bring relief to US producers.
“I’m actually a soybean farmer, so I have felt this pain too,” he said. “I believe when the announcement of the deal with China is made public, our soybean farmers will feel really good about what’s going on for this season and the coming seasons for several years.”
The proposed trade framework signals a potential turning point in relations between the world’s two largest economies, which have been locked in tariff battles and technology disputes since Trump’s return to office.
FARDC spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa, on October 10, 2025, urged FDLR combatants to surrender either to the Congolese government or to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo (MONUSCO).
He stated that if FDLR fighters refuse to hand themselves over for repatriation to Rwanda, the Congolese army would use force to dismantle the group, in accordance with the Washington peace agreement signed in June.
However, during the third session of the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism (JSCM) held in Washington, D.C., on October 21–22, the Rwandan and Congolese delegations, along with the United States and observers, confirmed that the FDLR had not yet begun disarmament. Despite this, Maj. Gen. Ekenge maintained that the process had already started.
In an interview with journalist Wendy Bashi from Deutsche Welle, Maj. Gen. Ekenge was asked about progress in removing the FDLR from Congolese territory. He responded: “FDLR has followed the instructions of the Congolese army.”
He further stated that the group remains in territories controlled by AFC/M23 fighters in Rutshuru, North Kivu Province, claiming the coalition is preventing FDLR members from surrendering to FARDC or MONUSCO.
“They are being stopped by others from laying down their arms. Today, we must ask ourselves where FDLR is. They are in areas controlled by AFC/M23 in Rutshuru. They want to disarm, but they are being stopped from doing so,” said Maj. Gen. Ekenge.
When asked why AFC/M23 would prevent the FDLR from disarming, he said he did not know but emphasised that the Congolese army would continue awareness campaigns urging the group to surrender.
“We are doing what is required of us. We have conducted awareness campaigns within FDLR and continue to do so. I have personally urged them to lay down their weapons. Others should help us in this effort,” he added.
Under the Washington peace agreement, both Rwanda and the DRC agreed to exchange intelligence on the FDLR and its affiliated groups through the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism. The framework includes sharing information about FDLR movements, strength, and the location of its fighters and weapons.
In July 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe revealed that some FDLR members had been integrated into the Congolese army and Wazalendo militias, a move Kigali described as a violation of peace commitments.
“All FDLR information is known to us, their locations and the units where they’ve been integrated. They cannot claim these people are missing. They’ve not only been absorbed into the army but also into the Wazalendo militias,” Amb. Nduhungirehe said.
Rwanda’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) also identified 25 Rwandans linked to terrorist activities, noting that senior FDLR leaders were still operating in Walikale territory as of October 14, 2025.
Among those listed were FDLR President Gaston Iyamuremye, known as Lt. Gen. Byiringiro Victor, and military commander Pacifique Ntawunguka, known as Gen. Omega. Both were reportedly residing in the Buhaya area of Walikale.
The hotel is expected to boost Kigali’s reputation as a regional hub for business travel and tourism, offering world-class facilities and modern amenities to both leisure and corporate visitors.
The facility carries decades of heritage, having previously operated under international brands including Novotel and Le Méridien before later becoming Hotel Umubano. In 2017, it was acquired by Marasa Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of the global conglomerate Madhvani Group.
Redevelopment has since undergone several phases, including changes in ownership, which delayed its originally planned 2019 opening.
Today, the hotel is transformed. The number of rooms has grown from 100 to 124, with premium additions that include a presidential suite and a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Upon opening, it will employ about 160 permanent staff, the majority of them Rwandan. Half of the workforce will be women, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion.
The hotel blends Swiss hospitality standards, synonymous with Mövenpick’s global reputation, with Rwanda’s distinctive culture of warmth in service. Its prime location in Kigali’s diplomatic district positions it perfectly for high-level guests, from international business travellers to government delegations and luxury tourists.
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is part of Accor Group, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with 5,700 hotels across more than 110 countries. Mövenpick itself operates more than 130 hotels in 40 countries.
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The hotel features a full suite of business and leisure amenities designed for modern travellers. Its coworking and professional spaces, branded as Wojo Kigali, offer an ideal environment for productivity, networking, and corporate engagement.
Guests will also benefit from large conference and meeting rooms, supporting Rwanda’s ambition to become a global destination for high-profile events and exhibitions.
Culinary experiences take centre stage at Raava Restaurant, where diners will enjoy Rwandan dishes alongside a variety of Mediterranean favourites, inspired by the cuisines of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia.
For relaxation and informal meetings, the stylish Elephant Bar and a refined pâtisserie concept preserve the beloved bakery tradition once associated with Hotel Umubano.
For wellness and recreation, the hotel includes two tennis courts, a fully equipped fitness centre, a spa, a children’s play area, and additional facilities tailored for families and long-stay guests.
Many employees returning from the former Hotel Umubano bring a sense of continuity, marrying legacy with a fresh, world-class identity.
General Manager Médiatrice Umulisa Rutayisire says the hotel has been carefully designed to deliver a premium experience that reflects Rwanda’s achievements and aspirations.
“Every detail here was created to help guests feel at ease, inspired, and connected,” she said. “This is not just a place to stay, it is a place to enjoy Kigali’s refreshing atmosphere in a contemporary way.”
She emphasised the role Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will play in supporting Rwanda’s international visibility.
“We see ourselves as a bridge linking Rwanda with the world, from global investors to leisure travellers. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali stands as a testament to Rwanda’s continued progress and growing leadership in hospitality.”
Rwanda aims to significantly increase revenues from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, from $85 million in 2024 to approximately $224 million (approximately Rwf 325 billion) by 2028. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is expected to contribute strongly to this national objective by serving as a preferred venue for top-tier events and distinguished guests.
With its doors set to open soon, on a date yet to be announced, Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is poised to become a signature landmark, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality and business tourism in Kigali.
The U.S. president accused Canada of “fraudulent behaviour” and announced the suspension of trade talks between the two countries. His response came shortly after a televised ad aired in Ontario, featuring excerpts from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 speech warning against protectionism.
The advertisement, which was released by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office, appeared during major sports broadcasts and urged closer economic cooperation between Canada and the United States. However, President Trump claimed the ad misrepresented Reagan’s message and described it as an attempt to “interfere” with U.S. trade policy.
Premier Ford defended the campaign, saying the intention was to highlight the long-standing friendship between the two nations. “Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together,” Ford said after sharing the full, unedited version of the former president’s speech on social media.
While Canada’s federal government did not produce the ad, Washington’s reaction has already heightened tensions. The new tariffs, reported to affect up to 35 percent of Canadian goods, add fresh pressure to bilateral trade, which had already been strained by existing restrictions. Canada has also hinted at retaliatory measures if the duties remain in place.
Observers say the dispute underscores how political messaging can trigger real economic consequences. Despite the two nations’ long partnership, the latest tensions mark a new challenge in North American relations, with potential effects on key industries and cross-border trade.
According to reports by Al Jazeera, at least 53 people have lost their lives and hundreds have been injured after encountering explosive devices left behind during the conflict. Many families are now living in fear, as returning to their destroyed neighbourhoods has become a life-threatening act.
In areas where heavy bombardment occurred, buildings that appear safe often conceal unexploded shells or bombs buried beneath rubble. Humanitarian groups have warned that the danger is widespread and could take months to clear. One aid official said the situation “turns every step into a risk,” calling for urgent international support for de-mining operations.
While residents attempt to recover what remains of their homes, Hamas has announced an intensified effort to locate the 13 remaining bodies of Israeli captives within Gaza. The group confirmed that it is working with the International Committee of the Red Cross and Egyptian technical teams to search behind Israeli military withdrawal lines.
The ongoing recovery and clearance efforts highlight the devastating human and environmental toll left by the conflict. Aid organisations say that ensuring safety is now the top priority before large-scale reconstruction can begin. For many families, however, the psychological impact is already immense; the relief of returning home has been replaced by fear of hidden dangers and the painful memory of loved ones lost.
Experts warn that rebuilding Gaza will take far longer than expected unless explosive-clearance operations are fully supported and coordinated.
“It is not just about rebuilding houses, it is about rebuilding a sense of safety,” a humanitarian worker said.
The search for the missing captives, coupled with the ongoing risks from unexploded bombs, paints a grim picture of Gaza’s fragile recovery. Despite the ceasefire, civilians continue to live amid fear, loss and uncertainty, as the remnants of war continue to claim lives long after the fighting has stopped.
The order was released on Saturday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to “ensuring the sustainable development and utilization of mineral resources, and to promote the growth of the national economy through value addition and industrialization.”
The president said the purpose of the order is to prohibit the export of raw minerals, promote local value addition, and ensure that the country’s mineral resources contribute to national economic development and prosperity.
According to the executive order, the prohibition took effect on October 21, 2025.
“The exportation of raw minerals from Malawi is hereby prohibited. This prohibition shall apply to all minerals extracted in Malawi, including but not limited to uranium, rare earth elements, niobium, graphite, tantalum, bauxite, coal, limestone, gemstones, heavy mineral sands, vermiculite, phosphate, pyrite rutile, gold, diamonds, copper, etc,” reads the order dated Oct. 23, 2025, and signed by Mutharika.
Any person or entity found in violation of the executive order will be subject to penalties, fines, and other sanctions as provided for by the laws of Malawi, according to the order.
The prohibition, however, exempts minerals that have been processed, refined, or value-added in Malawi in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the mining sector.
Mutharika said the implementation of the executive order will be reviewed and monitored regularly to assess its impact on the economy, industry, and the environment, with the ministry responsible for mining expected to submit reports to the president on its progress.
