Category: News

Winners Mount Academy’s partnership with Israel embassy opens doors to enhanced ICT education

The partnership was officially announced on May 7, 2025, during a visit by Israeli Ambassador to Rwanda, Einat Weiss. During her visit, the students showcased their talents, and the ambassador took time to engage with them directly.

Elie Muhizi, the school’s founder, described the partnership as a significant milestone and expressed pride in collaborating with Israel—renowned for its global leadership in technology and innovation.

He emphasized the long-term value the partnership could bring to both the students and the broader national education landscape.

“Israel is a powerful and advanced country. Partnering with them is an honor. It will benefit our students and our nation in many ways, and we expect the collaboration to keep expanding,” Muhizi stated.

He noted that the initiative will strengthen the school’s use of technology in learning and hinted at broader opportunities ahead, including the possibility of students pursuing further studies in Israel.

“Another aspect of our partnership involves teaching Hebrew—the official language of Israel—to students at Winners Mount Academy,” he added.

Winners Mount Academy currently serves around 300 students, with 170 girls and 130 boys enrolled.

The school is preparing to present its first cohort of 18 candidates for Rwanda’s national primary leaving national exams.

Muhizi expressed high expectations for the students, aiming for top marks that will enable them to gain admission to the country’s best secondary schools.

May 8, 2025
Key insights on Rwanda’s ten newly discovered mining blocks

These blocks, rich in high-value minerals like cassiterite, coltan, wolframite, and rare earth elements, were detailed in the Rwanda Mining Board’s (RMB) May 2025 Mining Investment Pitchbook.

Designed to attract strategic investors, the findings highlight Rwanda’s untapped mineral wealth across Kamonyi, Bugesera, and Gatsibo districts.

Below is an overview of each block, showcasing their geological potential and investment opportunities.

1. Binyeri

Nestled in the Rukoma Sector of Kamonyi District, the Binyeri block spans 50 hectares and is geologically tied to the mineral-rich Kayenzi granite.

Surrounded by active mining licenses, this area has a history of artisanal and medium-scale mining.

Past surveys confirmed rare metal pegmatites, with cassiterite as the dominant mineral, making Binyeri a promising site for targeted exploration.

2. Juru

In Bugesera District, the expansive Juru block covers 1,354 hectares of quartzite and brecciated schists. It hosts epithermal deposits of tin, tungsten, and tantalum (3Ts), with tin being particularly abundant.

A 2014 geophysical survey estimated 52,998 tonnes of cassiterite, and the block’s geology hints at potential for rare earth elements, positioning Juru as a high-value prospect.

3. Mamfu-Rwasama

Spanning 1,300 hectares in Gatsibo District, the Mamfu-Rwasama block lies in a tin-rich region historically mined by companies like SOMIRWA and Luna Smelter.

Affected by regional metamorphism, it features two main vein types yielding high-grade cassiterite and coltan.

The coltan found in the area contains about 63% tantalum and 20% niobium, while the cassiterite is very pure, with tin levels between 90% and 99%, making both minerals valuable for commercial use.

4. Musenyi

Located in Bugesera District, the Musenyi block covers 1,000 hectares and is a brownfield site previously licensed to Hard Metal.

Near other active licenses, it contains Sn-rich pegmatites with significant tin and tantalum concentrations.

Although current production is modest, the block’s high-grade ore and scalability make it an attractive investment opportunity.

5. Remera

One of the largest blocks, Remera stretches across 4,025 hectares in Gatsibo District, part of a historically productive tin district.

Geophysical surveys have identified primary cassiterite veins beneath lateritic cover, with past production exceeding 4,488 tonnes.

The block also shows iron ore potential, broadening its appeal across Gatsibo, Gicumbi, and Nyagatare.

6. Rubiha

In Gatsibo District, the Rubiha block encompasses 450 hectares near the Rugarama granite. It hosts over 20 mineralized quartz veins rich in cassiterite and columbite-tantalite.

Decades of geological studies have mapped favorable pegmatite zoning, ensuring high-purity tin and a well-structured mineralization profile for efficient extraction.

7. Rubona-Gatunda

This 925-hectare block in Gatsibo District, a former Luna Smelter concession, is hosted in Bulimbi meta-sediments.

Known for its tin and tantalum potential, it has a history of cassiterite mining.

Recent petrographic analyses reveal late magmatic mineralization, particularly rich in tin, enhancing its prospects for modern operations.

8. Rugarama

Covering 2,175 hectares in Gatsibo District, Rugarama has benefited from extensive geological studies since the 1980s, including UNDP and BRGM surveys.

The block is renowned for tin-rich placers and greisen zones, with over 20 quartz veins forming stockworks that yield significant cassiterite and tantalum, making it a cornerstone of Rwanda’s mining portfolio.

9. Rweru

Situated in Bugesera District, the Rweru block spans 875 hectares. It boasts high concentrations of niobium, tantalum, tin, lithium, and rare earth elements.

10. Rweru-Kimvubu

Also in Bugesera District, this 1,300-hectare block lies between two large granite bodies, intersected by fault systems.

Soil and rock samples reveal niobium and tin concentrations well above global averages, alongside significant wolframite deposits.

Its rare metal pegmatites and potential for rare earth element exploration make it a standout opportunity.

According to Donat Nsengumuremyi, the Division Manager of the Mining Extraction and Inspection Division at RMB, these blocks align with Rwanda’s strategy to expand its processing industry and attract investment.

Facilities like Gasabo Gold Refinery, LuNa Smelter, and Power Resources International are well-positioned to process minerals from these sites, supporting downstream value addition.

Innocent Kagenga, Chairperson of the Rwanda Mining Association (RMA), highlighted the importance of transparent data, noting that mapping and publishing these blocks levels the playing field for local and foreign investors.

Rwanda’s mining sector is poised for significant growth, targeting $2.2 billion in annual revenue by 2029, up from $1.7 billion in 2024.

So far, Rwanda has issued 136 mining licenses to 99 companies, 18 exploration permits to 17 companies, 76 licenses for mineral trading companies, and 3 for mineral value-addition activities.

In addition to the 3Ts, Rwanda also has deposits of gold in districts like Gicumbi, Musanze, Burera, Nyamasheke, Rusizi, and Nyarugenge.

Gemstones used in jewelry can be found in Ngororero, Ruhango, and Muhanga; sapphire is found in the Western Province; and lithium and other minerals are under active exploration.

May 8, 2025
Rwanda partners with E7 Group to boost secure printing services and advanced manufacturing

Announced via Rwanda Development Board (RDB)’s official X account, the partnership will include a range of services and the development of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility aimed at improving public service delivery and reinforcing Rwanda’s position as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing.

E7 Group, based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, specializes in secure printing, identity management, packaging, publishing, and logistics.

Originally established in 2006 as United Printing & Publishing (UPP), the company rebranded to E7 Group in January 2024 to reflect its broader mandate and alignment with the UAE’s strategic vision. The name “E7” symbolizes the unity of the UAE’s seven emirates and the company’s forward-looking mission.

As a subsidiary of ADQ—one of the region’s key investment vehicles established in 2018 to drive economic diversification—E7 Group brings significant expertise in secure, high-tech solutions.

Rwanda, meanwhile, continues to make notable progress in industrial development. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), industrial output grew by 5% in March 2025.

Earlier that month, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted that the country’s industrial production has tripled since 2017, increasing from Frw 591 billion to Frw 1.68 trillion, largely driven by value-added investments across sectors.

Industrial parks have been central to this progress, with 230 factories now fully operational nationwide and another 98 in the pipeline.

Employment in the sector has also surged—from 180,000 in 2017 to 259,000 in 2024—reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to industrialization as a key pillar of economic transformation and job creation.

May 8, 2025
Xi’s upcoming visit to deepen China-Russia ties, bolster global peace

More than 80 years ago, the peoples of China, the Soviet Union and other countries fought side by side and secured victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, opening a new chapter in human history.

As the world is undergoing accelerating changes unseen in a century, the international community demands greater global efforts to face common challenges, and to build a community with a shared future.

Xi’s upcoming visit is expected to inject new momentum into the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era. Moreover, it will demonstrate the two major countries’ commitment to working with the rest of the world to safeguard the outcomes of the victory in World War II, uphold international fairness and justice, and maintain world peace and stability.

LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP

History and reality show that China and Russia are good neighbors that cannot be moved away, and true friends who share weal and woe, support each other and achieve common development, Xi said in his phone conversation with Putin in February.

The coming visit marks Xi’s 11th trip to Russia since he became Chinese president. The two heads of state have met more than 40 times on different occasions over the years. Their close communication provides strategic guidance, under which China-Russia relations have matured into a resilient and stable partnership characterized by deepening political trust, closer strategic alignment and sustained practical cooperation.

In 2024, bilateral trade rose to 244.8 billion U.S. dollars, making China the largest trading partner of Russia for 15 consecutive years. In December 2024, the China-Russia east-route natural gas pipeline was fully completed. Cooperation in emerging sectors such as the digital economy, e-commerce, bio-medicine, scientific and technological innovation, as well as green energy continues to expand.

The two countries’ long-lasting friendship has grown increasingly popular among the two peoples. The mutual visa exemption agreement for group tours has encouraged more robust two-way travel. Hundreds of cultural events have been held in succession with the framework of the China-Russia Year of Culture.

Andrey Denisov, first deputy chair of Russia’s Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs and former Russian ambassador to China, said the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is a key factor in ensuring the steady and long-term development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.

The two leaders are expected to hold extensive and in-depth discussions on both bilateral cooperation and multilateral issues, and the Russian side has high expectations for that, he added.

INDELIBLE CONTRIBUTION

Over 80 years ago, China and Russia, as the main battlefields in Asia and Europe during World War II, made tremendous sacrifices and indelible contribution to the final victory.

In a signed article published by the Russian Gazette newspaper ahead of his visit to Russia in 2015, Xi quoted Russian historian Vasily Klyuchevsky as saying, “If we lost the memory of our past, our mind and soul would be lost in the darkness,” in a bid to express his remembrance of the history of the World Anti-Fascist War and earnest expectations for the two nations to join hands to maintain world peace and stability.

The bitter lessons drawn from World War II have taught mankind that the strong preying on the weak, the law of the jungle, warlike or hegemonic policies, the winner-takes-all mindset and zero-sum game do not benefit coexistence, peace or development of mankind, Xi wrote in the article.

Noha Bakir, a professor of political science at American University in Cairo, said China and Russia, drawing lessons from history, shoulder the important responsibility of safeguarding international stability and cooperation amid today’s complex global landscape.

By studying, restoring and spreading the true history, people can better understand World War II and the post-war international order, thus they will resist the attempts to distort historical facts, he added.

Andrey Fesyun, deputy director of the Institute of Asian and African Studies at Moscow State University, said that under the guidance of the two heads of state, China and Russia will further jointly advocate the correct historical view of World War II, and work together to maintain global strategic stability, so as to make the due contributions of responsible major countries to the advancement of international fairness and justice.

SPEARHEADING PROGRESS

Eighty years ago, representatives from multiple countries, including China and the Soviet Union, gathered in the U.S. city of San Francisco, and signed the Charter of the United Nations, laying the cornerstone of the post-war international order.

The preamble to the charter solemnly states the commitment “to practice tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbors, and to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security.”

China and Russia have natural responsibilities to make joint efforts to steer and promote global governance in a direction that meets the expectations of the international community and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, said Xi when meeting with Putin in March 2023. And it was during Xi’s first visit to Russia in 2013 as Chinese president that he first proposed the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major countries in the world, China and Russia have been working closely on the world stage. Beijing and Moscow firmly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core, the international order underpinned by international law, as well as the fundamental norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. They are also advocates of true multilateralism.

The two nations have also joined hands to promote political solutions to international and regional hot-spot issues. They have strengthened communication and coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS and the Group of 20, and are jointly committed to advancing a multipolar world and the democratization of international relations.

Adhere Cavince, a Kenyan scholar on international relations, said that China and Russia collaborate through platforms like the SCO and BRICS, which has not only promoted a multipolar world, but also empowered the Global South with a greater voice in global governance and a bigger role in shaping the rules on major international issues.

Ilgar Velizade, head of the South Caucasus Club of Political Scientists from Azerbaijan, said that the growing strength of multilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the SCO and BRICS represents a powerful embodiment of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

If countries engage in an active, constructive and sustainable dialogue focused on common interests, the world will be safer, the global economy more sustainable and humanity’s future far more promising, he said.

May 7, 2025
Rehearsal for Victory Day military parade held in Moscow

May 7, 2025
The Road to Rwanda: A Traveler’s Guide to the 2025 UCI Road World Championships

The Ministry of Sports is coordinating the event, ensuring it aligns with national development goals. Visit Rwanda contributes its hospitality experience, curating memorable experiences for athletes and visitors, while FERWACY offers technical expertise gained from organizing the Tour du Rwanda. Through this collaborative effort, Rwanda is steadily bringing its vision to life.

Rwanda’s hosting strategy relies on its well-established security framework, developed through the successful management of various international events. This includes sports gatherings such as the FIFA Congress in 2023, the FIA Awards ceremony in December 2024 (a first for Africa), and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) finals, hosted repeatedly since 2021 in Kigali.

Notably, the successful 17th edition of the Tour du Rwanda in February 2025 demonstrated Rwanda’s effective safety protocols, as the race navigated diverse regions smoothly, allowing all participants to concentrate fully on competition.

Infrastructure development progresses steadily to welcome the global cycling community. Kigali’s hospitality sector has mobilized to meet anticipated demand, while transport networks are optimizing for seamless connectivity between race routes and cultural attractions. The championship routes themselves will display Rwanda’s lush landscapes, from Kigali’s colourful urban environment to the diverse and unique scenery found throughout Rwanda’s various provinces and districts.

Rwanda continues to ensure accessibility through straightforward travel policies. Visitors from all nations can secure visas upon arrival, with citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and Francophonie member states benefiting from free 30-day visas. The efficient e-Visa system via the Irembo online portal offers added convenience.

Clarifying some misconceptions, yellow fever vaccinations are required only for travelers arriving from at-risk regions, consistent with standard WHO guidelines. Travelers can access detailed and current information on visa requirements and application procedures on the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration of Rwanda’s official website, the reliable source for immigration-related matters.

Beyond the immediate excitement of the races, the 2025 Championships promise a lasting legacy. The event will inspire young athletes across Africa and solidify Rwanda’s position as a premier destination for international sports. As preparations enter their final stages, Rwanda welcomes the world to witness this historic moment in cycling and African sports.

Regular updates on venues, tickets, and related events are available through official channels as the countdown to September continues.

May 7, 2025
President Kagame meets French counterpart Macron

The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President, Urugwiro Village.

Relations between the two countries have significantly improved in recent years, especially after President Macron acknowledged France’s historical responsibility in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and expressed a desire to rebuild ties and promote reconciliation.

This renewed partnership has been further reinforced through high-level visits and ongoing diplomatic engagement.

In 2021, President Macron paid a landmark two-day official visit to Rwanda aimed at deepening bilateral ties and cooperation.

During the visit, he toured the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are laid to rest.

There, he laid a wreath and delivered a powerful speech acknowledging France’s role in Rwanda’s history.

“As I stand with humility and respect at your side on this day, I come to recognise the magnitude of our responsibilities,” Macron said.

The visit also included a bilateral meeting and a joint press conference, during which the two heads of state witnessed the signing of two key agreements: one outlining a framework for bilateral cooperation and another focused on sports and talent development.

President Kagame most recently visited France in October 2024, accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, to attend the 19th Summit of La Francophonie, co-hosted by the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).

May 7, 2025
China and U.S. to hold high level trade talks amid ongoing tariff tensions

Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will meet with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his visit to Switzerland from May 9 to 12, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce confirmed on Wednesday.

The talks come after the new U.S. administration imposed a series of unilateral tariff measures, which China said have disrupted bilateral relations and global trade order.

In response, China took firm countermeasures, defending what it calls its legitimate rights and interests.

According to a ministry spokesperson, the U.S. recently expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue, prompting China to agree to talks after careful consideration of global expectations, national interest, and feedback from U.S. industry stakeholders.

China emphasized that any negotiation must be based on mutual respect, equality, and reciprocal benefit, warning against the use of dialogue as a tool for coercion or blackmail.

The spokesperson added that China would not compromise on its core principles and reiterated its commitment to fair international trade, the World Trade Organization, and multilateralism.

May 7, 2025
UN urges military restraint as Pakistan shoots down six Indian jets amid flaring tensions

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May 7, 2025
Three Rwandan soldiers killed in Mozambique ambush, six injured

The attack occurred on May 3, 2025, in the dense Katupa forest, located in Macomia District.

According to RDF spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, the ambush was carried out by insurgents. He noted that while Rwanda suffered casualties, the enemy incurred significant losses.

“Yes, it happened on May 3 in Katupa forest. The soldiers were on duty when they were ambushed. Three were killed and six injured, but they are recovering. The enemy suffered heavy casualties,” Brig Gen Rwivanga told IGIHE.

Katupa forest, in northern Macomia, is one of the regions where insurgents regrouped after being expelled from other areas of Cabo Delgado. The area was previously under the control of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission.

In late 2023, Rwandan forces engaged in intense fighting in the region and successfully rescued approximately 600 hostages held by insurgents.

The latest attack comes as Rwanda is also involved in training Mozambique’s national forces to strengthen their capacity to independently protect their country once international missions conclude.

Mozambique’s Army Chief, Maj Gen Tiago Alberto Nampele, previously stated that 95% of insurgent activity had been eliminated by the end of 2023.

However, he acknowledged that small militant cells remained in areas like Katupa, where they operate from mobile camps and avoid setting up fixed bases.

In response, Rwandan forces have intensified surveillance using helicopters, particularly after the discovery of landmines planted by insurgents in the forest. In 2024, a Mozambican military vehicle was destroyed by one such explosive in Katupa.

Since Rwanda’s initial deployment to Mozambique to combat the Al Sunnah wa Jama’ah insurgent group, several high-ranking militant leaders have been eliminated.

In August 2023, RDF troops killed the group’s top commander during a targeted ambush on August 16. Most of the group’s original leadership has since been dismantled and replaced by new operatives.

Currently, Rwanda’s security operations in Mozambique are led by Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha, who commands the Joint Task Force (JTF).

He is supported by Brig Gen Justus Majyambere, the Task Force Battle Group Commander. The Rwandan police contingent in Mozambique is headed by CP William Kayitare, with ACP Francis Muheto serving as his deputy.

May 7, 2025