Author: Wycliffe Nyamasege

Kabila, who led the country from 2001 to 2019, is being tried in absentia after the Senate voted on May 22 to lift the immunity he held as a lifetime senator. The decision opened the door for prosecutors to formally bring charges against the former head of state.

The military prosecution accuses Kabila of playing a key role in supporting the M23/AFC rebel coalition, which has taken control of Goma since January and Bukavu since February this year.

Investigators say their case is supported by witness testimonies and physical evidence gathered from rebel-controlled areas. Prosecutors also allege that Kabila met with rebel leaders and played an active role in shaping their political and military strategies.

Although Kabila has denied the accusations, the government insists he is a central figure in the rebellion. In March, Kabila dismissed the claims as politically motivated and said if he were truly behind the insurgency, the rebels would have made even more gains.

Kabila returned to the country in May after more than a year in exile across several African nations, including South Africa. He travelled to Goma and Bukavu, where he held meetings with various community and political groups. His supporters described the visit as a step toward peace. However, authorities in Kinshasa saw it differently, accusing him of using the meetings to legitimise the rebel movement.

Before his return, Kabila released a 12-point proposal that he said could help bring peace to the DRC. His plan included disbanding armed groups, engaging in national dialogue, reaching out to neighbouring countries, and ending authoritarian rule.

Despite these public gestures, the government views Kabila’s actions as a direct threat to national stability.

Kabila is not expected to appear in court, but officials say the hearings will continue in his absence. The trial marks the first time a former Congolese president has faced prosecution before a military court.

The update was shared by Dr Festus Maniriho, who heads the FIP-PRODAR project, a $18 million initiative aimed at environmental conservation, with a focus on agroforestry—planting trees alongside crops.

The project, which runs from 2023 to 2028, is being implemented in eight districts: Kamonyi, Muhanga, Ruhango, Nyanza, Huye, Gisagara, Nyaruguru, and Gakenke. By its completion, it aims to restore up to 60,000 square kilometres of land.

Dr Maniriho attributed the milestone to the government’s commitment and support from development partners in addressing the impact of climate change.

“More than 31% of Rwanda’s total land is now covered with trees, including agroforestry. This demonstrates how seriously the country is investing in environmental protection,” he said.

The most commonly planted tree species for timber include eucalyptus, grevillea, and alnus. The government continues to distribute seedlings to communities to encourage expansion of forested areas.

In Gisenyi Sector, part of Rubavu District, forestry officer Tuyisenge Aaron said there are over 600 documented forest plots covering approximately 194 hectares, primarily planted with eucalyptus trees. Despite its urban setting, Gisenyi maintains a substantial forest cover, managed through six cooperatives that oversee proper harvesting and prevent premature tree cutting.

Local residents are also contributing to reforestation efforts. Sibomana Athanase, a farmer from Rugerero Sector, has planted 156 avocado trees on a hillside in Rubavu.

“I expect the trees to generate income, especially since avocados are in high demand. My children will benefit from the harvest, and I’ll sell the rest to cover school fees,” he said.

The Rwanda Rural Rehabilitation Initiative (RWARRI) is among the organisations playing a key role in afforestation, especially in rural areas. In partnership with other stakeholders, RWARRI planted more than 200,000 trees in Rubavu and Rutsiro districts in 2024/2025. These areas border the Sebeya River and Lake Kivu. The organisation now aims to double that number.

“This year, we plan to plant 400,000 trees across over 500 hectares, particularly on hills surrounding Lake Kivu,” said Uwizeye Belange, RWARRI’s Executive Director.

Tree planting is also central to Rwanda’s broader climate action agenda. The country aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, and reforestation plays a vital role in capturing carbon emissions.

Looking ahead, the government plans to plant 100 million trees by 2027, including over 6.4 million fruit trees, with a focus on 11 priority districts most in need of forest cover.

Barigye was among senior state officials appointed on Thursday as President Kagame unveiled a new Cabinet to steer government operations under his leadership and that of the new Prime Minister.

Barigye will now deputise Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye, who assumed leadership of the central bank earlier this year. His expertise will be crucial as Rwanda intensifies efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability, deepen financial inclusion, and advance digital financial infrastructure.

Barigye’s appointment comes just days after he was named Group Chief Executive Officer of Crystal Ventures Ltd (CVL), a leading investment company and the largest private-sector employer in Rwanda.

He briefly stepped into the new role after more than five years at the helm of the Kigali International Financial Centre (KIFC), where he successfully led efforts to position Rwanda as a Pan-African financial hub.

Under his stewardship, KIFC gained global recognition and attracted strategic international partnerships and investments that bolstered Rwanda’s financial ecosystem.

He also previously served as a senior executive at Crystal Ventures Ltd from 2008 to 2014.

In the new state appointments announced on Thursday, four new faces, including two ministers and two state ministers, were appointed to the government.

Dominique Habimana has been appointed Minister of Local Government, while Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye takes on the role of Minister of Environment. Both are joining the Cabinet for the first time.

On the side of state ministers, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye has been named State Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye becomes State Minister for Infrastructure.
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This follows the appointment of Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva as the new Prime Minister, which triggered the formation of a new Cabinet in accordance with the Rwandan Constitution.

Dominique Habimana has been appointed as the Minister of Local Government, while Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye takes on the role of Minister of Environment. Both are joining the Cabinet for the first time.

On the side of state ministers, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye has been named State Minister for Agriculture and Livestock, and Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye becomes the State Minister for Infrastructure.

Another notable appointment in the new list of state officers unveiled on Thursday night is that of Nick Barigye as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, a role previously held by the Prime Minister-designate.

The newly announced Cabinet comprises 21 ministers and 10 state ministers, with the majority of them having served under outgoing Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente and retaining their positions.

{{Full List of Appointments}}

{{I. Ministers}}

1. Judith Uwizeye – Minister in the Office of the President

2. Inès Mpambara – Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister

3. Yusuf Murangwa – Minister of Finance and Economic Planning

4. Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe – Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

5. Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja – Minister of Justice / Attorney General

6. Juvenal Marizamunda – Minister of Defense

7. Consolée Uwimana – Minister of Gender and Family Promotion

8. Dr. Vincent Biruta – Minister of Interior

9. Dominique Habimana – Minister of Local Government

10. Dr. Jimmy Gasore – Minister of Infrastructure

11. Paula Ingabire – Minister of ICT and Innovation

12. Joseph Nsengimana – Minister of Education

13. Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye – Minister of Environment

14. Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe – Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources

15. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana – Minister of Health

16. Prudence Sebahizi – Minister of Trade and Industry

17. Nelly Mukazayire – Minister of Sports

18. Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana – Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement

19. Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka – Minister of Public Service and Labor

20. Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira – Minister in Charge of Emergency Management

21. Dr. Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumutwishima – Minister of Youth and Arts

{{II. Ministers of State}}

1. Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe – Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation

2. Mutesi Linda Rusagara – Minister of State for Resource Mobilisation and Public Investment

3. Godfrey Kabera – Minister of State in Charge of the National Treasury

4. Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye – Minister of State for Infrastructure

5. Marie Solange Kayisire – Minister of State for Local Government

6. Claudette Irere – Minister of State for Education

7. Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye – Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources

8. Dr. Yvan Butera – Minister of State for Health

9. Sandrine Umutoni – Minister of State for Youth and Arts

10. Rwego Ngarambe – Minister of State for Sports

{{III. Other Senior Officials}}

1. Jean-Guy Afrika – Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), with the rank of Minister

2. Juliana Muganza – Deputy CEO of RDB, with the rank of Minister of State

3. Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard – Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), with the rank of Minister

4. Nick Barigye – Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR).

The meeting follows Dr. Nsengiyumva’s appointment on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, replacing Edouard Ngirente, who had served as Rwanda’s Prime Minister since 2017.

The appointment of Dr. Nsengiyumva is expected to trigger the formation of a new Cabinet, per the provisions of Rwanda’s Constitution.

A seasoned technocrat with a PhD in economics, Dr. Nsengiyumva previously served as Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda. His professional journey has also included roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry and in the Ministry of Education.

Reacting to his appointment on Wednesday, Dr. Nsengiyumva expressed gratitude to President Kagame and pledged to lead with humility and commitment.

“Thank you, Your Excellency Paul Kagame, for your trust and confidence once again. I am deeply honoured, humbled, and grateful,” he wrote on X.

“I pledge to serve you and Rwanda with humility and dedication under your leadership and guidance. I fully embrace the responsibility entrusted to me and remain committed to advancing our national priorities with integrity and purpose.”

As the seventh Prime Minister of Rwanda since 1994, Nsengiyumva takes office at a critical juncture, with just four years remaining to implement the country’s Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), a five-year development plan launched in 2024.

The NST2 outlines ambitious goals across key sectors, including job creation, economic growth, education, healthcare, and service delivery. Among the headline targets are the creation of 1.25 million productive jobs by 2029, doubling private investment from $2.2 billion to $4.6 billion, and raising exports from $3.5 billion to $7.3 billion.

In agriculture, output is projected to increase by over 50%, driven by an 85% expansion in irrigated land, improved access to fertilisers and seeds, and modernised livestock production. The sector is expected to grow by at least 6% annually through a market-oriented approach.

Education reforms will see pre-primary school enrolment rise from 35% to 65%, while efforts to boost science and technology learning will be scaled up. At least 500,000 people are set to be trained in digital skills, and vocational training will be tailored to match labour market demands.

Healthcare access and quality are also set for transformation. The number of registered health workers is expected to quadruple, with targeted improvements in maternal and child health services. The government aims to reduce child stunting from 33% to 15%.

By 2029, every household, school, and health facility in Rwanda is expected to have access to electricity and clean water. Meanwhile, a digital national ID and fully digitised government services are planned to streamline public service delivery.

Tourism revenue is projected to double, with Rwanda positioning itself as a leading destination for international conferences. On the global stage, the government will focus on foreign investment, increased trade, and deeper engagement with the Rwandan diaspora in national development efforts.

As Prime Minister, Dr. Nsengiyumva will be at the centre of driving this wide-ranging national agenda. His leadership is expected to focus on accelerating progress where needed, reinforcing delivery mechanisms, and ensuring Rwanda stays on track to achieve its development goals by 2029.

The plant, owned by HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, will produce more than 1,800 tonnes of construction and sanitary hardware annually. Its product range includes plumbing and electrical fittings, water system pipes, LED lighting, Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC) wall panels, and glass shower enclosures essential for interior finishing works.

Located in the rapidly developing Bugesera Industrial Park, the factory occupies a one-hectare plot, with 6,000 square metres of built-up space, half of which is currently in use. It has a daily production capacity of up to five tonnes and is expected to significantly reduce Rwanda’s reliance on imported construction materials.

Speaking during a pre-inauguration event on Wednesday, July 23, Jean Bosco Mungwarareba, the founder and managing director of HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, said his 25 years of experience importing construction materials inspired him to invest in local production.

The move aligns with the government’s “Made in Rwanda” initiative aimed at promoting local manufacturing and reducing the trade deficit.

Mungwarareba said he aims to expand the factory’s capacity so that, in the near future, it can locally produce at least 30 percent of the construction materials he used to import.

“Eventually, we want to start exporting these high-quality products and help bring foreign currency into the country rather than lose it through imports.”

Currently, the factory employs 22 permanent staff, with more casual workers expected as production scales up.

The Private Sector Federation (PSF) has praised the initiative, noting the strategic importance of local manufacturing. Callixte Kanamugire, Chief Advocacy Officer at PSF, said the factory will not only help cut Rwanda’s import bill but also support job creation and export growth.

“These are globally competitive products. With the government’s emphasis on quality assurance, local factories like this one are well-positioned to serve both domestic and regional markets,” Kanamugire said, adding that such ventures are key to addressing Rwanda’s trade deficit.

The Bugesera Industrial Park, which spans 335.67 hectares, is being developed in three phases as part of a joint venture between the Government of Rwanda and ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP).

Phase I covers 91.63 hectares and already hosts 18 factories—12 operational and six under construction. Phase II, extending over 99.45 hectares, is set for completion by the end of this year, while Phase III (144.58 hectares) is scheduled to be finalised by 2027.

Once fully developed, the industrial zone is expected to contribute $1.2 billion to Rwanda’s manufacturing sector, create 45,000 jobs, and attract over $400 million in foreign direct investment.

Damascene Munyaneza, Director of Administration and Finance at HQ-Aqua Plastic Ltd, applauded government efforts in creating enabling environments for industrial growth.

“The establishment of special economic zones is accelerating the implementation of Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2),” he said.

The establishment of the new factory marks a significant step towards greater self-reliance in the construction sector and positions Rwanda as a rising industrial hub in the region.

In a strongly worded statement, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said that while regional and international actors are preoccupied with interpreting the recently signed declaration of principles, the Congolese government has continued large-scale troop deployments and military operations in civilian-populated areas.

“While everyone is bogged down in interpreting the declaration of principles, the illegitimate Kinshasa regime relentlessly continues the deployment of its troops on all fronts, directs its heavy weapons toward densely populated areas, and intensifies offensives in the Uvira Highlands, targeting the Banyamulenge villages of Rurambo,” Kanyuka said.

Kanyuka added that the offensives, carried out by a coalition of Congolese government forces (FARDC), the FDLR, Maï-Maï Wazalendo, and the Burundi Defence Force, have killed numerous civilians and worsened an already dire humanitarian situation.

The statement marks the latest in a series of accusations levelled by the AFC/M23 movement against the Congolese government in the aftermath of peace initiatives launched in Washington and Doha.

On July 17, the group publicly warned of continued military aggression from Kinshasa, claiming it undermines the peace efforts being pursued in Doha, Qatar.

Two days earlier, the group had accused government forces of killing four of its members in what it described as a demonstration of “warlike intentions” that contradicted the spirit of dialogue.

At the time, Kanyuka reaffirmed the group’s intention to protect civilians and eliminate threats “at their source”, in a video shared on social media.

“We will not yield to intimidation or the manoeuvres of an illegitimate and bloodthirsty regime, which sacrifices peace for the sake of its selfish interests.”

The Doha negotiations, led by Qatar, were brokered to end the fighting in eastern DRC, which earlier this year saw the rebels capture large swathes of territory, including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu. The rebels accuse President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration of marginalising Kinyarwanda-speaking communities and practising poor governance.

Russian presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky and Secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Rustem Umerov led the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, respectively. The closed-door talks were chaired by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Following the talks, which lasted for less than one hour, Umerov said at a press conference that Ukraine continues to insist on a full and unconditional ceasefire as the essential foundation for effective diplomacy.

“We are ready for a ceasefire now and to start substantive peace negotiations, and it is up to the other side to accept this basic step towards peace,” Umerov said.

“We emphasize that the ceasefire must be genuine. It must include a complete cessation of strikes on civilian and critical infrastructure,” he said.

Prior to the talks, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Moscow and Kiev are “diametrically opposed” in their positions on how to end the conflict, noting that “much work” still needs to be done.

The Ukrainian side has proposed to Russia to hold a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “by the end of August,” where the participation of U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be “especially valuable,” he said.

During a separate press conference after the talks, Medinsky said Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,200 prisoners of war each, including a proposal from Moscow to swap about 30 civilians held by Ukraine in the Kursk region.

Russia has returned the bodies of 7,000 fallen Ukrainian soldiers and is ready to return 3,000 more, he said, requesting the return of any number of deceased Russian soldiers from Ukraine.

He also said that the Russian side proposed establishing three online working groups with Ukraine to address political, humanitarian, and military issues, and asked Ukraine to consider declaring short ceasefires of 24-48 hours along the contact line to evacuate the wounded soldiers and recover the bodies of fallen troops.

As to the Putin-Zelensky meeting Ukraine proposed, Medinsky said such a meeting is not being considered until certain processes are completed.

Meanwhile, Zelensky wrote on social media platform X after the talks that the ninth stage of prisoner exchange took place “today,” which involved more than 1,000 people from the Ukrainian side, including those “seriously ill and severely wounded.”

“It is important that the exchanges are ongoing,” he wrote.

In his opening remarks to the talks, Fidan urged the two delegations to engage in result-oriented negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ultimately ending the war.

“Our goal is to end this bloody war, which has come at a heavy cost, as soon as possible,” Fidan said.

While the previous two rounds of talks in Istanbul – held on May 16 and June 2 – led to the exchange of thousands of war prisoners and the bodies of fallen soldiers, they produced little progress toward a ceasefire.