Category: News

“In recent months, it has become increasingly apparent that former President Biden’s aides abused the power of Presidential signatures through the use of an autopen to conceal Biden’s cognitive decline,” Trump wrote in the memorandum.

“This conspiracy marks one of the most dangerous and concerning scandals in American history.”

The memorandum continued. “There are serious doubts as to the decision-making process and even the degree of Biden’s awareness of these actions being taken in his name,” it said.

The vast majority of Biden’s executive actions were signed using a mechanical signature pen, often called an autopen, as opposed to Biden’s own hand, it said.

The memorandum orders that the Counsel to the President, in consultation with the Attorney General and the head of any other relevant executive department or agency, investigate whether certain individuals conspired to deceive the public about Biden’s mental state and unconstitutionally exercise the authorities and responsibilities of the President.

In a statement late on Wednesday, Biden dismissed those suggestions.

“Let me be clear: I made the decisions during my presidency. I made the decisions about the pardons, executive orders, legislation, and proclamations. Any suggestion that I didn’t is ridiculous and false.”

Biden called the move “a distraction by Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans who are working to push disastrous legislation that would cut essential programs like Medicaid and raise costs on American families, all to pay for tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy and big corporations.”

The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a sweeping tax and spending bill, described by Trump as the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill.” The legislative package includes tax cuts and spending cuts, no tax on tips and overtime, increased child tax credits, and measures to reduce the federal deficit.

The former Zambian President is reported to have breathed his last at 6:00 a.m.

His demise was confirmed by Tasila Lungu-Mwansa, Chawama Member of Parliament and daughter of the late President, as well as Makebi Zulu, the family’s lawyer, who noted that the family is still in the process of informing relatives and close associates.

Dr. Lungu served as Zambia’s President from January 26, 2015, to August 24, 2021, leading the nation through significant political and economic developments.

His tenure left a lasting impact on Zambia’s governance and political landscape, and he remained an influential figure within the Patriotic Front and the nation at large.

In an official statement, Given Lubinda, Acting President of the Patriotic Front, expressed profound grief over the loss of the party’s leader. The statement indicated that further details regarding funeral arrangements would be shared in due course.

Led by Secretary General Benjamin Mbonimpa, the AFC/M23 delegation arrived in Doha in early May 2025 to engage in negotiations with representatives of the DRC government. The talks, facilitated by Qatari mediators, were part of a broader initiative launched in March 2025 to de-escalate fighting in eastern Congo and establish a framework for lasting peace.

Sources on the ground report that Mbonimpa and his team returned to Goma earlier this week, following a directive from the coalition’s senior leadership.

Neither AFC/M23 nor the DRC government has issued an official statement on the withdrawal, but insiders suggest that the two parties failed to reach a consensus on key issues, most notably, the confidence-building measures deemed essential to advancing the peace process.

At the heart of the impasse is the question of mutual trust. AFC/M23 had been asked to vacate territories under its control as a gesture of goodwill. In response, the group withdrew from the city of Walikale and nearby areas in early April.

In return, it presented the DRC government with a list of 700 detainees allegedly imprisoned for suspected affiliations with the movement, requesting their release. The government released only five individuals, none of whom appeared on the submitted list.

Despite high hopes for progress, a report by Africa Intelligence on May 15 indicated that Qatar had anticipated a preliminary agreement by May 10. The goal that was not realised, forcing talks to continue without resolution.

Recent developments in the conflict region have further strained the process. AFC/M23 has reportedly resumed military operations in several regions and is said to be attempting to seize the town of Pinga in Walikale territory. These actions have raised concerns that the group is losing faith in the negotiation track.

The fragile ceasefire agreement brokered at the end of April also failed to hold, with both sides accusing each other of violations. AFC/M23 has pointed to continued provocations by pro-government Wazalendo militias, which it claims are undermining the negotiation environment.

With its delegation now pulled from the Qatar talks, AFC/M23’s move casts doubt on the future of the peace process. Observers warn that without renewed diplomatic efforts and tangible steps from both parties, the conflict in eastern Congo could further escalate, undermining months of progress and risking a return to full-scale violence.

On June 3, 2025, Nathalie Clauwaert, General Director of the Belgian Cycling Federation, announced their participation in the upcoming Road World Championships in Kigali after consultations with Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

This decision has sparked considerable attention, given that Rwanda cut diplomatic ties with Belgium in March, accusing it of siding in the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo and disseminating misinformation aimed at destabilizing Rwanda.

In a message posted on the social media platform X, Minister Nduhungirehe described the Belgian Cycling Federation’s decision as a positive step, emphasizing that the Belgian team is welcome just like all other cycling teams.

“This is a positive decision that moves in the right direction. The Belgian cycling team is indeed welcome in Rwanda, just like all the other cycling teams. The Road Cycling World Championship in Rwanda [September 21–28, 2025], the first ever held in Africa, will undoubtedly be a popular and festive sporting event,” he said.

Belgium is among the countries with cyclists who have recently excelled at the Road Cycling World Championships, including Remco Evenepoel, who won the road race in 2022 and secured the Individual Time Trial titles in 2023 and 2024.

Belgian cyclist Lotte Kopecky also won the women’s road race at the Cycling World Championships in both 2023 and 2024.

In February, the Belgian team Soudal-Quick-Step Devo Team declined to participate in the 2025 Tour of Rwanda, citing security concerns related to the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, this did not prevent 14 other teams, including Belgium’s Lotto-Dstny Devo Team, from competing in the eight-day race, which proceeded peacefully until its conclusion.

Speaking in a televised interview, Minister of Information, Communication and Technology Jerry Silaa confirmed that the restriction is a deliberate enforcement measure following what the government describes as the platform’s failure to comply with local online content regulations.

“Since X updated its content policies in May 2024, it has permitted explicit sexual material, including same-sex pornographic content, which directly contradicts Section 16 of our Online Content Regulations,” Silaa said, referring to legislation enacted in 2020.

“Such material is not only illegal under Tanzanian law but undermines our traditions, values, and cultural norms.”

Silaa emphasised the government’s responsibility in curating a digital environment that reflects the country’s ethical standards.

“Because the internet is like the sky—what you say here will be heard by Tanzanians, whether they like it or not. That’s why it’s important for the government to ensure online content aligns with national values and laws.”

The platform has reportedly become inaccessible across the country without the use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). The restriction comes amid broader digital surveillance efforts, with Silaa noting that other platforms, including YouTube, have also had content blocked as part of a nationwide crackdown on “illegal and harmful” digital media.

The restriction follows a recent wave of digital security breaches. On May 20, internet watchdog NetBlocks reported that X was blocked in Tanzania after pornographic content appeared on what was believed to be a hacked official police account.

The account also falsely claimed that President Samia Suluhu Hassan had died. Similar graphic content surfaced on the hacked YouTube account of the Tanzania Revenue Authority.

The platform restriction also coincides with the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who is facing a treason charge after threatening to boycott elections unless electoral reforms are enacted. Lissu denies the allegations, calling the charges politically motivated.

Tanzania was also in the spotlight after several prominent East African human rights activists who travelled to Tanzania in solidarity with Lissu were detained or deported.

Kenya’s former Justice Minister Martha Karua was turned back upon arrival, while Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, though initially allowed in, was detained for several days and later alleged that she was blindfolded, violently stripped, and sexually assaulted while in custody. Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was also briefly detained and reported experiencing torture and assault.

Trump wrote in a post on his Truth Social account that he finished a phone call with Putin and discussed the attacks on June 1. It was the first time the U.S. president publicly talked about the operation that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky touted being directed by himself.

“We discussed the attack on Russia’s docked airplanes, by Ukraine, and also various other attacks that have been taking place by both sides… President Putin did say, and very strongly, that he will have to respond to the recent attack on the airfields,” Trump wrote.

He said the Wednesday call lasted approximately one hour and 15 minutes, noting “It was a good conversation, but not a conversation that will lead to immediate Peace.”

Executive Order 14161, titled “Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats,” was signed on January 20, 2025, and follows a national security review by federal agencies.

The order imposes a full travel ban on seven African countries: Somalia, Sudan, Chad, Eritrea, Libya, the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville), and Equatorial Guinea. Nationals from these countries are barred from entering the U.S. under most visa categories.

In addition, three other African nations—Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Togo—face partial restrictions that target immigrants and non-immigrants holding tourist, student, and business visas (B-1, B-2, F, M, and J categories).

In a video statement, Trump linked the move to national security concerns, referencing a recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado.

“We don’t want them,” he said of individuals from high-risk nations. “We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter the United States.”

According to a fact sheet released by the administration, countries targeted for a full suspension were found to have inadequate screening and vetting systems, high visa overstay rates, and in some cases, active terrorist organisations operating within their borders.

For example, Somalia was described as a “terrorist safe haven” with minimal government control and a history of refusing to repatriate its nationals. Chad and Equatorial Guinea had visa overstay rates exceeding 50 percent for certain visa categories. Eritrea lacks reliable documentation systems and refuses to accept deported nationals.

Other countries affected by the full travel ban include Afghanistan, Burma, Haiti, Iran, and Yemen.

Countries under partial restrictions, such as Burundi and Sierra Leone, were flagged for high overstay rates and lack of cooperation with U.S. immigration enforcement. Cuba, Laos, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela were also subject to partial bans, bringing the total number of affected countries to 19.

The Trump administration insisted that the bans are country-specific and designed to encourage foreign governments to improve information sharing and document security. Exceptions remain for green card holders, existing visa holders, and certain visa categories deemed in the U.S. national interest.

Trump defended the policy as a continuation of his first-term travel ban, which was upheld by the Supreme Court in Trump v. Hawaii.

The new restrictions are likely to draw condemnation from civil rights advocates, who have in the past accused the Trump administration of placing a heavy focus on African nations.

This collaboration brings together NCBA’s expertise in affordable, sustainable finance and GCK’s mission to pioneer climate-smart urban living that leaves no one behind. A core element of the partnership is the creation of mortgage products tailored to low- and middle-income households—enabling wider access to homeownership in Kigali.

The initiative aligns with NCBA Group’s regional Change the Story sustainability strategy, which includes deploying electric vehicle infrastructure, planting 10 million trees by 2030, and eliminating single-use plastics across its operations.

“Across the group, we’ve committed to raise USD 230 million and direct it towards green financing,” said Maurice Toroitich, Managing Director of NCBA Rwanda. “We firmly believe sustainability and affordability are inseparable if we are to build cities for generations to come.”

Green City Kigali is a bold, government-led effort to rethink how African cities grow. Set on 600 hectares of land in Kinyinya Hill, the project is part of the City of Kigali Master Plan 2050 and aims to create a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood for up to 200,000 residents. Its first phase will develop 1,700 to 2,000 homes through public-private partnerships.

“The Green City is more than a housing project—it’s a model for how cities can be affordable, climate-resilient, efficient with resources, and rooted in local culture,” said Basil Karimba, CEO of GCK.

To bring this vision to life, the partnership with NCBA Bank will focus on breaking down the barriers to homeownership—especially for low- and middle-income families. It will also invest in people, offering financial literacy, skills training, and community programs that empower residents—particularly women and youth—to fully participate in and benefit from the city’s transformation.

Beyond buildings, the partners will help restore the local environment by planting over 10,000 trees each year and rehabilitating the landscape of Kinyinya Hill.

“We stand behind this initiative because it provides a blueprint for homegrown sustainable and inclusive development. Today, we have corporations, the government, the youth, a bank, and the community coming together—because no one can do this alone,” said Dr. Jack Ngarambe, Director General of Urbanization, Housing, and Human Settlement at the Ministry of Infrastructure, during the event.

“We are trying to develop a 600 hectare of Green City in Kigali today, but the real vision is to replicate this model across Rwanda and, ultimately, to see it replicated across the continent, he added.

Among the planned youth beneficiaries of this partnership is the Kepler College Environment Club, whose members attended and spoke at the event. The partnership will support the club’s climate action, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship. Their ongoing projects include plastic and e-waste collection and community awareness campaigns that involve residents of Kinyinya as well as other universities across the country.

“As students of Kepler and members of the Environment Club, we’re excited about this partnership because we are both participants and beneficiaries,” said Binama Jessica, President of the Kepler Environment Club. “We’re already living in the Green City Kigali, and now we’re helping to shape it—both here on campus and beyond.”

Amb. Rwamucyo was among six new envoys who presented their letters of credence to President William Ruto. The others included Chiranjib Sarker (Bangladesh), retired Lt. General Peter Kakowou Lavahun (Sierra Leone), Anthony Louis Kon (South Sudan), Kan Yaw Kiong (Singapore), and Erika Álvarez Rodríguez (Dominican Republic).

During the ceremony, Amb. Rwamucyo expressed his commitment to deepening the longstanding relations between Rwanda and Kenya, noting the historical bonds of friendship and cooperation rooted in shared values and a collective vision for regional peace and prosperity.

“It is my sincere hope that I shall succeed in my endeavours to further enhance the relations between our two nations to greater heights,” he said.

Rwanda and Kenya enjoy robust bilateral relations, with cooperation spanning trade, infrastructure development, education, security, and vibrant people-to-people exchanges. Amb. Rwamucyo acknowledged Kenya’s role as a strategic partner in both bilateral frameworks and regional blocs such as the East African Community (EAC).

“As I begin my mission here in Kenya, I look forward to engaging with stakeholders across government, the private sector, and civil society in pursuit of our shared goals,” he added.

President Ruto, in welcoming the new envoys, reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and regional collaboration.

Addressing Amb. Rwamucyo directly, the President said, “Congratulations, High Commissioner. I look forward to working with you in promoting the bonds of friendship and elevating the mutual aspirations of the people of our two nations.”

Amb. Rwamucyo replaces Ambassador Martin Ngoga, whose letter of recall was also presented during the ceremony. He previously served as Rwanda’s High Commissioner to India and as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

Amb. Ngoga is now Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

After a six-year pause, this highly anticipated convention is set to bring together over 1,500 Rwandans from across the globe, including members of the diaspora and guests from Rwanda.

The event is designed to celebrate Rwandan culture, promote unity, and explore opportunities for national development. The 2025 edition carries added significance as it coincides with Rwanda’s 31st Liberation Day and U.S. Independence Day, making it a symbolic moment of pride and shared celebration.

The convention will serve as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and reconnecting. It will feature networking events, business forums, and youth-centered activities aimed at strengthening community ties and encouraging diaspora engagement in Rwanda’s development agenda.

According to organisers, the attention is particularly drawn on attracting businesses to present their services and products to the diaspora community and Rwanda’s international allies, with the goal of fostering partnerships and driving new investment into the country.

Participants will have access to a wide range of government and private sector services, creating an environment that mirrors the convenience and community spirit found back home.

Institutions such as banks, government agencies, and representatives from the Private Sector Federation (PSF) are expected to be present, offering practical support and information to attendees.

The convention will also shine a spotlight on sports and youth engagement. A series of friendly games—including basketball, football, and volleyball—will take place, with participation from young Rwandans and former national team players now based in the U.S.

The sporting segment will include under-18 basketball matches, with standout players having the chance to represent the diaspora in the African Basketball Championship later this year in Kigali.

Cultural heritage will be front and center throughout the event. A showcase of Rwandan products, traditional music and dance, fashion, and historical exhibitions will offer attendees a rich cultural experience.

These efforts aim not only to preserve Rwandan traditions but also to educate younger generations about their roots and responsibilities in shaping Rwanda’s future.

Entertainment will play a big role in the celebration. The convention will open with a Liberation Day concert featuring Intore Massamba, and continue with a Youth Night concert headlined by The Ben, supported by talented DJs and artists from the Rwandan-American community.

A closing prayer breakfast will be led by Apostle Paul Gitwaza, with popular artist Meddy leading worship.

While the event offers plenty of moments for joy and celebration, its deeper mission is to strengthen national bonds and encourage greater participation in Rwanda’s growth.

With over $505 million in diaspora remittances recorded in 2024, the convention provides a timely platform to recognize the diaspora’s contributions and inspire even more engagement.

Rwanda Convention 2025 is poised to be one of the largest gatherings of Rwandans outside the country, not only highlighting national pride and unity but also reinforcing the diaspora’s critical role in building Rwanda’s future.