The borders in question include the Grande Barrière (also known as “La Corniche”), Petite Barrière, which connect Rwanda with the DRC. These borders now open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 10:00 p.m.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 50,000 people crossed three official borders daily, with the Grande Barrière operating 24 hours a day.
Rubavu District Mayor, Mulindwa Prosper, told IGIHE that the number of people using the Rubavu–DRC border crossings has reached 43,000.
“The number of users at the Grande Barrière and Petite Barrière has increased to 43,000, not counting those who use the Kabuhanga border,” he said.
Residents working at the Gisenyi cross-border market told IGIHE that they now rely on trust-based trade, as many Congolese clients lack cash.
They cited reasons including the shut down of banks in Goma by the Tshisekedi administration, making it difficult for citizens to access their savings.
Sifa, a Congolese resident of Ndosho in Nyiragongo Territory, said that most products coming from Rwanda to her area are fruits and vegetables. She also confirmed that their current trade depends heavily on mutual trust.
“Banks are closed, so we’re using the little money we had at home or we take goods on credit based on trust. We go, sell them, and return to pay later,” she said.
Sifa added that reopening banks would give them access to much-needed capital.
The AFC/M23 rebel group began controlling the border posts between Rwanda and the DRC on the side of Goma in January 2025.
Gabriella, 18, secured her spot after winning the national round of Miss RSW Rwanda 2025, where she impressed judges with a strong score of 212.03 out of 300 (70.68%). She edged out competitors Asangwe Marie Osea and Irankunda Jeanine, who took first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
A student at King David Academy, Gabriella is known for her confidence, poise, and passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. She describes herself as a purpose-driven young woman who leads with both heart and intellect, and places faith and family at the centre of her life.
“It’s an incredible honour to represent every Rwandan woman with a dream,” she shared. “I’m coming with a heart full of love and a vision that can’t be hidden.”
Gabriella will compete under the East Africa bloc, alongside Nycie Gracia Dushime of Burundi, a Miss Burundi 2025 semifinalist, and Diana Nakeza Mushagalusa from the DRC.
Judges from across the world, including the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand, applauded Gabriella for her cultural insight, eloquence, digital savvy, and Christ-centred values. Her respect for Rwandan heritage and polished public speaking skills also stood out.
The Miss Rise and Shine World pageant, launched in 2012 by Bishop Justin Alain and Marlene Justin, is now present in over 50 countries. It aims to empower young women through leadership grounded in faith and purpose.
The international finals will bring together contestants from across continents for a week-long celebration of beauty, culture, and inspiration.
President Kagame co-chairs the Commission alongside Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim.
Sunday’s session was led by Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The event celebrated 15 years of progress in advocating for meaningful and inclusive broadband connectivity, especially in underserved regions.
Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, was among the leaders who attended the online session.
Established in 2010 by the ITU and UNESCO, the Broadband Commission serves as a high-level public-private partnership promoting digital cooperation. Its founding members include President Kagame and Carlos Slim, both of whom have played a pivotal role in elevating broadband to the forefront of global development discussions.
The Commission brings together more than 50 leaders from across sectors, including CEOs, policymakers, UN agencies, academia, and civil society, working to advance broadband adoption and digital inclusion globally. Its mission aligns closely with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing broadband as a foundational enabler of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Over the years, the Commission has produced influential policy recommendations and flagship reports, including the annual State of Broadband report. Its advocacy has focused on bridging digital gaps, promoting affordable and safe connectivity, and shaping national broadband strategies, particularly in the Global South.
Speaking to RBA in a recent interview, he emphasised that over the past 31 years, the RDF has built robust capabilities to safeguard Rwanda’s security, sovereignty, and borders, with capacities that even extend to assisting other nations.
Brig Gen. Rwivanga stated that no one should doubt the RDF’s ability to guarantee full security, as its capacity is evident in its operations.
“I want to assure Rwandans that security is fully ensured. We are protecting our borders, and this is clear because any attempted attacks are swiftly repelled. Our forces are ready and are doing their job as they should. We pledge to keep improving in order to provide complete security,” he said.
He went on to explain that the RDF’s capabilities have significantly improved across the board, enabling the military to not only defend Rwanda comprehensively but also support other countries.
“We have the capacity. We’ve been trained, and we can defend our borders while also helping others to achieve what we have. Our capabilities have increased in terms of training, equipment, knowledge, and professionalism, all of which are at a high level. RDF will continue to defend the country’s sovereignty to the fullest extent possible.”
The Commander of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), Lt Gen Humphrey Nyone, recently praised the professionalism and effectiveness of Rwandan troops, noting that their presence brings tangible peace.
“Due to the trust they have earned and the excellent work they are doing, they have earned trust and respect. People want to see tangible results rather than hear unfounded stories. Their actions speak for themselves,” Nyone said in March following discussions with the Rwandan Army Chief of Staff for Land Forces, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, who visited the MINUSCA headquarters in the Central African Republic.
Among the eight pillars of governance in Rwanda, the security pillar consistently ranks highest, thanks to strong public satisfaction.
According to the Rwanda Governance Scorecard (RGS), an annual survey conducted by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), the 2024 edition, released in November, showed that security and citizen tranquillity were the most appreciated aspects of governance that year, scoring 93.82%.
In her remarks, she reflected on the country’s journey since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, describing Liberation Day celebrated on July 4, as a turning point that ushered in a new era of unity, dignity, and national renewal.
She underscored the decisive role played by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (FPR), under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, in ending the genocide and laying the foundation for Rwanda’s rebirth. Munyangaju reminded attendees that liberation was not a one-time event, but the beginning of a long process of reconciliation, resilience, and nation-building.
Since then, Rwanda has made significant strides, emerging as one of the most stable and forward-looking countries on the continent. The Ambassador noted that the country had established itself as an international financial hub, attracting partnerships and investments while advancing in areas such as business, education, logistics, and innovation, particularly in health and digital technologies.
She also pointed to Rwanda’s growing international presence, highlighting major upcoming events such as the 2025 UCI World Cycling Championships, which Rwanda was set to host in September, the first time an African country would organize the event since its inception in 1921.
In addition, Munyangaju spoke about Kwita Izina, the annual baby gorilla naming ceremony, describing it as a powerful symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to environmental conservation. The event, she noted, had become a global platform that attracted scientists, artists, and policymakers in support of biodiversity protection.
As the country marked 31 years since its liberation, the Ambassador emphasized the importance of safeguarding Rwanda’s achievements and passing on a legacy of peace and unity to future generations.
She also expressed gratitude to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg for its continued support, underlining the value of solidarity and international cooperation.
The ceremony concluded on a hopeful note, with a collective call to continue building a modern, inclusive Rwanda rooted in the principles of reconciliation and shared national identity.
Addressing a vibrant audience, Rwanda’s Ambassador to China, James Kimonyo, delivered a stirring message that especially resonated with young Rwandans, urging them to “carry the torch of Kwibohora” and lead the next chapter of Rwanda’s transformation.
“To the youth of Rwanda, the leaders of tomorrow, I say this: your generation carries the torch of Kwibohora. You carry a huge responsibility to take Rwanda even further,” he said. “The future is in your hands — and it is bright.”
Liberation Day, commonly known as Kwibohora, commemorates July 4, 1994 — the day the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA-Inkotanyi) ended the Genocide against the Tutsi and ushered in a new era of unity and hope.
It marked the end of a brutal regime defined by ethnic division, exile, conflict, and mass killings. The liberation struggle, which began on October 1, 1990, culminated in the military defeat of genocidal forces under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, heralding a new dawn for Rwanda.
“Kwibohora is more than just a day to celebrate our freedom,” said Amb. Kimonyo. “It is a day to recognize how far we have come as a nation and to reflect on the progress we have made together — as we look to the future.”
The Ambassador highlighted Rwanda’s extraordinary post-genocide transformation — from a deeply broken society to one of Africa’s most admired nations.
With an average economic growth rate of 8%, major investments in technology, infrastructure, and industry, and leading global rankings in governance and safety, Rwanda is steadily building toward its Vision 2050 goal of becoming a high-income country.
But beyond the statistics, Amb. Kimonyo emphasized values: unity, resilience, and responsibility. He urged young Rwandans not to take the legacy of liberation for granted, but to embody its spirit in their actions and ambitions.
“The liberation we celebrate today is not an end in itself,” he said. “It calls for sustained hard work, discipline, and commitment to our founding ideals.”
The ceremony also featured remarks by Ambassador Lei Kezhong, representing the Government of the People’s Republic of China. He praised Rwanda’s leadership and progress, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
“Rwanda has successfully taken control of its own destiny and is making solid progress toward realizing its Vision 2050,” said Amb. Lei. “China is ready to continue supporting Rwanda through high-level cooperation, infrastructure development, and enhanced market access.”
China remains one of Rwanda’s most significant development partners, contributing to transformative projects such as Masaka Hospital, Nyabarongo II Hydropower Plant, and technology-focused initiatives like satellite remote sensing.
In his closing remarks, Amb. Kimonyo called on all Rwandans to safeguard the hard-won gains and reject the forces of division.
“Let us pledge to protect and uphold the progress we have made,” he urged. “This is a journey that will ensure future generations live in a society where justice, equality, and peace are their birthright.”
As Rwanda marks Kwibohora31, the focus shifts from military victory to a new kind of liberation — one that will be won through innovation, purpose, and the unwavering resolve of a united people, with the youth at its forefront.
Speaking at the Rwanda Convention 2025 in Texas, USA, running from July 4 to 6, he highlighted the significance of the deal, which aims to address longstanding tensions in the Great Lakes region.
The convention, resuming after a six-year hiatus, brought together hundreds of Rwandans from the diaspora and guests from Rwanda to celebrate culture, unity, and national development.
The peace agreement, brokered in Washington with U.S. support, is comprehensive, covering political, security, economic, and humanitarian aspects.
“We are optimistic because those three aspects are taken care of.
However, we are cautiously optimistic because we have an experience with the DRC of signing agreements without implementing them,” he noted.
Minister Nduhungirehe emphasized that Rwanda’s security concerns, particularly the threat posed by the FDLR, a genocidal force, are central to the agreement.
“We have decided together to ensure that this movement, this FDLR, is neutralized once and for all, which will allow Rwanda to lift its defensive measures,” he stated.
On the economic front, the agreement fosters joint investments between Rwanda and the DRC, supported by U.S. companies.
“This kind of positive collaboration would be a good incentive for permanent peace and prosperity in our region,” Nduhungirehe noted.
Politically, the agreement supports dialogue between the DRC government and the M23 movement, addressing root causes of conflict such as the persecution and marginalization of Congolese Tutsi communities.
Ongoing talks in Doha, Qatar, mediated by Qatar, mark progress, as the DRC has now agreed to engage with M23, a commitment absent in prior failed agreements.
However, Nduhungirehe tempered optimism with caution, citing the DRC’s history of signing but not implementing agreements.
Since the 1999 Lusaka ceasefire, at least 10 agreements, including the 2009 Goma accord that gave M23 its name, have gone unimplemented.
He also raised concerns about DRC’s militarization, including new weapons, attack drones, armored vehicles, and mercenaries, such as Colombian operatives hired by Blackwater during Washington negotiations.
“We know that the DRC has not implemented previous agreements… Rwanda will do its part of the deal, and we hope that the DRC will also follow through,” he said.
Addressing differences from past efforts, Nduhungirehe noted that the current agreement builds on the Luanda Process, mediated by Angola’s President Joao Lourenço in 2024, which collapsed due to the DRC’s refusal to negotiate with M23.
The inclusion of economic cooperation and U.S. support distinguishes this deal. He also responded to critics of the Trump administration, which facilitated the agreement, saying, “So what? Having interests in the region is not a problem, provided they are interested in helping Rwanda and DRC achieve peace and stability.”
In his speech, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia, Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita, paid tribute to the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) for liberating the country and honored those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle.
He expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of men and women in Rwanda’s military and police forces who have worked for over 31 years to maintain peace and security both within Rwanda and across various parts of the African continent.
Amb. Nzabamwita highlighted that Liberation Day is a moment to reflect on Rwanda’s journey over the past 31 years, a journey that has seen significant progress in both social development and economic growth. He attributed this success to wise leadership, sound policies, and strategic national programs.
He noted that under this leadership, Rwanda has significantly reduced poverty, from 39% to 27% in the past seven years, lifting 1.5 million people out of poverty. He added that in 2024, the economy grew by 8.9%, enabling job creation, especially for the youth, and strengthening the fight against poverty.
The ambassador also commended the growing relationship between Rwanda and Russia, reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Amb. Georgiy Chepik, Deputy Director of the Department of African States
at Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the guest of honor, acknowledged Rwanda’s remarkable progress following its tragic history.
He praised Rwanda’s success in reconciliation, peacebuilding, and socio-economic transformation, noting that the country is steadily advancing toward sustainable development.
Chepik reiterated Russia’s continued support for Rwanda’s sovereignty and expressed satisfaction with the current cooperation between the two countries, particularly in political, trade, and economic spheres.
He also welcomed Rwanda’s active participation in the inaugural Russia-Africa Ministerial Conference held in November 2024.
During this conference, both countries signed a visa waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic and service passports, a deal that has been in effect since February 2025.
In his closing remarks, Chepik expressed confidence that the friendship between Rwanda and Russia will continue to grow, fostering peace and prosperity for both nations and contributing to lasting peace across the African continent.
The UCI Road World Championships is an annual international road cycling competition, bringing together national teams from around the world under the organization of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
For the first time, the event is set to take place on the African continent, with Rwanda chosen as the host after beating Morocco in the selection process in September 2021.
In preparation for the upcoming Road World Championships, Rwanda is implementing various infrastructure projects, including the construction and upgrading of roads to meet international standards.
Emma Claudine Ntirenganya, Director General in charge of Communication and Education at the City of Kigali, has told IGIHE that the roadworks are being carried out in accordance with the competition’s requirements, which include the removal of speed bumps along the designated race routes.
“One of the key conditions is that roads used for the race must be free of speed bumps. As such, all speed bumps along the planned routes are currently being removed,” she explained.
When asked whether the speed bumps would be reinstalled after the event, she noted: “There are still several months ahead, so the situation could evolve. However, what is clear for now is that once the race is over, the speed bumps on those roads will be reinstated.”
The Road World Championships is expected to attract numerous participants from across the globe, along with visitors who will come for both the event and tourism activities.
First held in 1921 in Copenhagen, Denmark, the most recent edition of the championship took place in Zürich, Switzerland, in 2024.
