IGIHE English

Category: News

  • 1,000 families in Kigali receive Rwf 80M worth of Iftar support from Qatar Charity

    1,000 families in Kigali receive Rwf 80M worth of Iftar support from Qatar Charity

    Each family received a package containing rice, maize flour, beans, cooking oil, wheat flour and dates, enough to feed their households for several days.

    For many, like Fatuma Nyiracumi, a mother of five, the assistance came as a timely blessing.

    “We thank God for this blessing and provision from Qatar Charity. I am very happy that so many families, not just mine, have received Iftar support. This food will help my family for about five days, and we are truly grateful,” she said.

    Each family received a package containing rice, maize flour, beans, cooking oil, wheat flour and dates.

    Hamdi Abdou, Country Director of Qatar Charity in Rwanda, said the initiative is the organisation’s first Ramadan Iftar program in the country and is part of its broader efforts to support families and promote well-being.

    “We are grateful to the Government of Rwanda for giving us the opportunity to operate here. Our goal is to help families during Ramadan while also supporting long-term programs that reduce poverty and improve education and well-being for citizens,” Abdou said, further expressing his gratitude to donors in Qatar, whose generosity made the initiative possible.

    At least 1,000 families benefited from the Iftar food aid initiative.

    Looking ahead, Qatar Charity, which operates in 50 countries, plans to work with the Ministry of Education to build classrooms and provide school desks, as well as with the Ministry of Health on programs aimed at improving citizens’ well-being as it expands its operations in Rwanda.

    Hamdi Abdou, Country Director of Qatar Charity Rwanda, says the initiative is the organisation’s first Ramadan Iftar program, supporting families and promoting well-being.
    For many, the assistance came as a timely blessing.
  • AFC/M23 hands over more than 5,000 FARDC captives to Red Cross

    AFC/M23 hands over more than 5,000 FARDC captives to Red Cross

    In a statement issued by AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the movement said the handover took place on March 2, 2026, at Rugamabo camp in North Kivu Province, where the captives had been held after being captured on various frontlines of the conflict.

    According to the statement, the detainees were transported back to the Congolese capital under the supervision of the Red Cross.

    The prisoner transfer comes within a broader framework aimed at facilitating detainee exchanges between the Congolese government and the AFC/M23. The Red Cross was tasked with overseeing such exchanges in eastern Congo in September 2025 as part of confidence-building measures linked to mediation efforts.

    During a ceremony in Doha, officials from Qatar, acting as mediator, handed the ICRC a signed copy of the mechanism for the release of detainees. Representatives from both the Congolese government and AFC/M23 attended the event, which established procedures for verification and exchange operations.

    As part of the process, the AFC/M23 has called for the release of more than 700 prisoners currently held by Congolese authorities in connection with the conflict. The group says the request should be addressed during the Red Cross–supervised exchange process.

    The ICRC has previously facilitated similar operations in eastern Congo, including the transfer of disarmed Congolese government soldiers and their family members from Goma to Kinshasa.

    In its statement, the AFC/M23 said the handover of prisoners demonstrates its commitment to confidence-building measures and to easing tensions in accordance with international humanitarian law.

    However, the group accused the government in Kinshasa of failing to reciprocate. It alleged that authorities have refused to release detainees linked to the movement and accused the government of violating ceasefire arrangements while continuing military operations against its forces.

    The statement also urged international mediators and partners to take note of repeated ceasefire violations by the government of President Félix Tshisekedi.

    The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in North Kivu, has escalated in recent years, displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians and drawing regional and international mediation efforts aimed at restoring stability in the mineral-rich region.

  • U.S. military destroys 42 Iranian navy ships over last three days, says Trump

    U.S. military destroys 42 Iranian navy ships over last three days, says Trump

    He made the claims while addressing leaders from 12 Western Hemisphere countries at the “Shield of the Americas Summit” in Doral, Florida.

    “That was the end of the navy. We knocked out their air force, we knocked out their communications, and all telecommunications is gone,” Trump said.

    The United States and Israel, on February 28, launched what they described as “major combat operations” against Iran. Iran has since retaliated with a series of counterattacks against Israeli and U.S. targets across the region.

    Over the past week, the Iranian military launched around 600 missiles, along with approximately 2,600 drone operations, hitting 200 U.S. and Israeli targets, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported on Saturday.

    In this US Navy released handout, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) fires a Tomahawk land attack missile in support of Operation Epic Fury, on March 1, 2026, at Sea.

  • First Lady Jeannette Kagame urges women to prioritise self-care and advocacy on IWD

    First Lady Jeannette Kagame urges women to prioritise self-care and advocacy on IWD

    In a post on X, the First Lady called on women to prioritise self-care and their health, set boundaries, and advocate for themselves and others.

    “I urge you to carve your character carefully, define your boundaries, advocate for yourselves and other women and girls, and protect your physical and mental health. And please, love yourself with the same gentleness you give others – the same gentleness you wish and deserve to experience from the world,” she wrote.

    International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. It also serves as a call to action to accelerate gender parity and address ongoing challenges such as the gender pay gap, violence against women, and underrepresentation in leadership positions.

    In Rwanda, IWD is marked by celebrations acknowledging women’s contributions to family and national development, empowerment activities, and the promotion of gender equality. The country has made significant strides in political representation: women now occupy 63.75% of parliamentary seats, up from just 12% in 1996, making Rwanda the nation with the highest proportion of women in Parliament globally in 2026.

    The origins of International Women’s Day trace back to the early 20th-century labour and socialist movements in North America and Europe. In 1908, 15,000 women marched in New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and voting rights, leading to the first National Woman’s Day in 1909.

    In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin proposed an annual International Women’s Day, which was celebrated for the first time in 1911 in several European countries. The day gained further prominence after women in Russia staged the “Bread and Peace” strike in 1917, a pivotal moment that contributed to women gaining voting rights.

    The United Nations officially recognised March 8 as International Women’s Day in 1977, establishing it as a global observance for women’s rights and world peace.

    First Lady Jeannette Kagame called on women to prioritise self-care and their health, set boundaries, and advocate for themselves and others.
    International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, recognises the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide.

  • Speech by President of the United Arab Emirates addressed to the people

    Speech by President of the United Arab Emirates addressed to the people

    HH UAE President Address:

    Praise be to God.

    I am here at the hospital visiting five of those who were injured in the recent events.

    All five are civilians: two Emiratis, one Indian, one Sudanese, and one Iranian.

    They are all our responsibility, and, God willing, they will make a full recovery.

    The second thing I would like to say is that all is well in the UAE.

    It is home to many devoted people – people we are honoured to stand alongside in this country.

    I would like to thank our armed forces for the vital role they are playing and for their outstanding service during this war.

    I also thank the other security institutions: The Ministry of Interior, the security services, Civil Defence, and my apologies to those I haven’t mentioned by name.

    But all of them are performing a duty that honours the UAE and honours everyone who belongs to the UAE.

    Another point I would like to mention is that the Emiratis who live in this country fulfilled their duty in a way that brings joy and pride, as was always expected of them. May God protect them.

    As for the residents who live among us, our guests and our extended family they have truly honoured us with their stance. 

    We hope they will forgive us if we have fallen short in any way.

    May God protect you and protect them. 

    We hope they will forgive us if we have fallen short in any way.

    We are in a time of war, and I promise them that we will fulfil our duty, because it is our obligation to protect our people and our country.

    Another message I would like to convey is directed at the enemies of the UAE:

    The UAE is attractive; the UAE is beautiful.

    The UAE is a model. 

    But I say to them: Do not be misled by the UAE’s appearance. 

    “The UAE has thick skin and bitter flesh – we are 

    no easy prey.”

    We will carry out our duty towards our country, 

    our people, and our residents who are also part of our family.

    May God protect the UAE, protect its people, and safeguard everyone who lives in it with dignity and security.

    I promise everyone that we will emerge stronger than before.

    Without doubt.

    May God protect you all.

    May God protect you, Your Highness.

    The UAE community stands united behind this great pillar of confidence and strength under your leadership.

    Thank you.

    All thanks to you.”

    Thank you.

    His Highness engaged in cordial conversation with the injured and their families.
    The injured and their families expressed their appreciation for His Highness’ visit.
  • AU mission vows to liberate Somalia from al-Shabaab insurgency

    AU mission vows to liberate Somalia from al-Shabaab insurgency

    AUSSOM Force Commander Sam Kavuma, who spoke during a field visit to assess the combat readiness of frontline troops following the successful liberation of the strategic towns of Mubarak and Durasalaam in Somalia, said the allied forces are united in their efforts to flush out al-Shabaab terrorists in the country.

    “Through sweat, struggle, and sacrifice, we stand united to eliminate al-Shabaab and secure a future for our brothers and sisters in Somalia,” Kavuma said in a statement on Friday evening after the field visit.

    He called on the Ugandan contingent serving under AUSSOM and the Somali National Armed Forces to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, morale, and discipline in fulfilling the mission’s mandate.

    “AUSSOM, in partnership with the Somali government and other stakeholders, will provide essential relief support to the liberated communities,” he added.

    The joint operation conducted on Monday with international partners resulted in the full capture and securing of two strategic locations that had long served as strongholds and safe havens for al-Shabaab terrorists.

    Owiny Akena, Battle Group 44 commander and operation commander, said Mubarak and Durasalaam remain under the full control of the joint forces.

    AUSSOM Force Commander Sam Kavuma said the allied forces are united in their efforts to flush out al-Shabaab terrorists in the country.

  • Rwanda embassy plans repatriation flights for citizens in UAE and Bahrain

    Rwanda embassy plans repatriation flights for citizens in UAE and Bahrain

    In a statement issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, the embassy said it is coordinating with the national carrier, RwandAir, and other relevant entities to organise flights for citizens wishing to return home.

    “All Rwandans wishing to be repatriated are therefore invited to register with the Embassy the soonest possible,” the statement said.

    The embassy also urged Rwandan nationals in both countries to follow safety instructions issued by authorities in their host countries and to remain updated through official communication channels. It added that, so far, no Rwandan national has been harmed.

    The advisory comes as the Middle East enters the seventh day of a rapidly escalating regional war triggered by joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran that began on February 28.

    The attacks, code-named Operation Roaring Lion by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the United States, targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, missile infrastructure and senior leadership. The opening strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

    Iran later launched retaliatory strikes under Operation True Promise IV, involving waves of missiles and drones targeting U.S. military bases across Iraq, Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, as well as Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

    The widening conflict has disrupted international trade, forced the closure of several airspaces and triggered evacuations of foreign nationals from parts of the region, raising concerns about a growing humanitarian and economic crisis.

    The Rwandan embassy said its diplomatic and consular team remains available to provide guidance and support to citizens during the ongoing situation.

    Rwandans in need of assistance or wishing to register for repatriation have been encouraged to contact the embassy through emergency telephone numbers +971508242987 or +971504253218, or via email at ambaabudhabi@minaffet.gov.rw.

  • U.S. expects ‘complete dominance’ of Iranian airspace soon

    U.S. expects ‘complete dominance’ of Iranian airspace soon

    “We expect to have complete and total dominance over Iranian airspace in the coming hours,” Leavitt said at the White House daily press briefing.

    She added that deploying U.S. ground troops to Iran is not currently planned, though U.S. President Donald Trump said earlier he is open to the option in the future.

    Earlier in the day, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a Pentagon briefing that the U.S.-Israeli military operation against Iran is still in its early stages.

    Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said U.S. forces will begin striking progressively deeper into the Iranian territory as operations expand.

    Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah have conducted their first coordinated attacks on Israel amid the ongoing escalation, the Israel Defence Forces told CNN on Wednesday.

    On Saturday morning, U.S.-Israeli airstrikes against Iran killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with some of the leader’s family members, senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded through waves of missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and U.S. bases across the Middle East.

    White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that the United States will have “complete and total dominance” over Iranian airspace in the next few hours.

  • Over 1,800 convicts granted parole as cabinet endorses senior appointments

    Over 1,800 convicts granted parole as cabinet endorses senior appointments

    1,874 convicts granted parole

    Among the major resolutions adopted was a Ministerial Order granting release on parole to 1,874 convicts. The decision forms part of ongoing justice and rehabilitation efforts aimed at facilitating reintegration into society under established legal procedures.

    Senior appointments approved

    Cabinet also approved several high-level appointments across public institutions, according to a communiqué issued by the Prime Minister, Dr. Nsengiyumva Justin.

    At the National Bank of Rwanda (NBR)Board of Directors, the following members were appointed:

    • Mr. Mukete Diko Jacob
    • Ms. Dushimire Alice
    • Mr. Nsengumuremyi Cyridion
    • Ms. Nabaasa Judith
    • Mr. Mwizerwa Jean Claude
    • Dr. Batamuliza Jennifer
    • Ms. Muhongerwa K Judith

    For the Appeal Tribunal for Refugees and Applicants for Refugee Status, Cabinet appointed:

    • Ms. Mukabagwiza Edda, Co-President
    • Mr. Rusanganwa Jean Damascene, Co-President
    • Ms. Mukanyundo Patricie, Member
    • Ms. Nyirinkwaya Immaculée, Member
    • Mr. Rudasigwa Joseph, Member
    • Mr. Mukama Augustin, Member
    • Mr. Ndabirora Kalinda Jean Damascene, Registrar

    Within the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), appointments included:

    • Mr. Ingabire Jean Claude, Director General of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
    • Ms. Mukobwa Justine, Executive Secretary of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)
    • Ms. Uwimanimpaye Jeanne d’Arc, Coordinator of Gitagata Rehabilitation Centre
    • Mr. Bizimana Servilien, Coordinator of Ngarama Rehabilitation Centre

    At the Ministry of Environment, Cabinet appointed:

    • Dr. Biraro Mireille, Registrar of Land Titles
    • Mr. Twizeyeyezu Jean Pierre, Registrar of Land Titles
    • Mr. Uwaysenga Vedaste, Registrar of Land Titles
    • Ms. Kanyamugenge Akimana Adeline, Division Manager for Inspection at the National Land Authority

    For the Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB), the following officials were named:

    • Mr. Uwiduheye Jean d’Amour, Head of Department of Mines, Petroleum and Gas Exploration
    • Ms. Umuhorakeye Alice, Division Manager of Mining Extraction and Inspection
    • Mr. Maniragaba Ephrem, Division Manager of Mining Exploration
    • Ms. Kantengwa Catherine, Division Manager of Mining Cadaster and Digital Information

    Key draft laws and policies

    Beyond appointments and parole decisions, Cabinet approved several draft laws, including a draft organic law governing elections, a draft law on the National Commission for Human Rights, and a draft law regulating virtual assets businesses.

    Cabinet also endorsed amendments to financing agreements between the Government of Rwanda and the International Fund for Agricultural Development relating to additional loans supporting small livestock markets and irrigation and watershed management projects.

    In addition, members approved the National Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Financing of Terrorism and Counter-Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/CPF) Policy, applications for mineral and quarry licenses, a housing development agreement with Bauhaus International Rwanda Ltd, and the lease of state land to Kivu Waterfront Limited for investment purposes.

    International engagements and upcoming events

    Cabinet granted agrément to new diplomats representing Sweden, South Africa, and Cuba.

    Ministers also briefed Cabinet on upcoming national and international engagements, including celebrations of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, Rwanda’s participation in the 70th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, a three-month citizen outreach programme led by security organs, and preparations to host the International Astronautical Federation Global Space Conference on Climate Change (GLOC 2026) in June.

    The Cabinet meeting was chaired by President Paul Kagame at at Urugwiro Village.

  • Rwandan peacekeepers honoured for exemplary service in South Sudan

    Rwandan peacekeepers honoured for exemplary service in South Sudan

    The Rwandan contingent, known as Rwanbatt-1, received the honours during a medal-pinning ceremony held at the UN Tomping Compound in Juba. The colourful event brought together military personnel and UN officials to celebrate the battalion’s dedication and service over the past ten months.

    Presiding over the ceremony was Major General Robert Yaw Affram, Deputy Force Commander of UNMISS, who underscored the deep significance of the award. He described the United Nations Medal as a powerful symbol of professionalism, discipline, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to peace.

    The Rwandan contingent, known as Rwanbatt-1, received the honours during a medal-pinning ceremony held at the UN Tomping Compound in Juba.

    “The United Nations Medal you have received today is a symbol of professionalism, discipline, sacrifice, and steadfast dedication to peace. It represents long days under challenging conditions, sleepless nights on operations, and the courage to stand firm in the face of uncertainty. It is earned, never given,” he said.

    Major General Affram also conveyed appreciation to the Government of Rwanda and the Rwanda Defence Force for their continued support to UNMISS through the deployment of disciplined and capable troops.

    Rwanbatt-1 Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Ndushabandi, commended the men and women of the battalion for their resilience, courage, and selfless service throughout their deployment. He urged them to sustain their commitment during the remainder of their mission.

    “I urge the Rwanbatt-1 to maintain this momentum for the remainder of the deployment. Today’s medal-pinning ceremony marks yet another significant milestone in our noble service to humanity,” he stated.

    The colourful event brought together military personnel and UN officials to celebrate the battalion’s dedication and service over the past ten months.

    The ceremony featured a colourful military parade, during which the Rwanbatt-1 cultural troupe showcased both their discipline and Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.

    Rwanda is currently the second-largest contributor of uniformed personnel to UN peacekeeping operations after Nepal, with more than 5,000 military and police officers deployed across missions.

    Presiding over the ceremony was Major General Robert Yaw Affram, Deputy Force Commander of UNMISS, who described the United Nations Medal as a powerful symbol of professionalism, discipline, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to peace.
    Rwanbatt-1 cultural troupe showcased both their discipline and Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage.