Category: News

In a statement, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the alliance had declared the ceasefire “in a spirit of responsibility and in order to offer a real chance for the return of peace.” However, he accused the Kinshasa government of persisting with “a plan for the systematic extermination of our compatriots, in flagrant violation of all its commitments.”

Kanyuka detailed that early Friday morning, Congolese government forces launched coordinated attacks on Makobola and Minembwe in South Kivu.

He said the assault began at around 5:00 a.m., when coalition forces targeted Makobola using kamikaze drones and naval troops deployed from Baraka. Shortly after, at approximately 5:30 a.m., Minembwe came under attack with drones and heavy artillery, spreading terror among the civilian population.

“These repeated and deliberate violations of the ceasefire, along with the continuation of massacres against our compatriots, demonstrate unequivocally that the Kinshasa regime seeks neither peace nor the protection of civilians,” Kanyuka said.

The announcement follows AFC/M23’s recent withdrawal from the strategic city of Uvira, which the alliance had captured earlier in December. The group described the move as a confidence-building measure intended to support ongoing peace talks under the Doha Peace Process.

The withdrawal, which was announced on Monday, December 15, 2025, was carried out at the request of the United States.

Despite this gesture, AFC/M23 maintained that government forces and allied militias, including Wazalendo and Burundian troops, have previously exploited trust-building measures to retake territory and target civilians sympathetic to the alliance.

Kanyuka called on the guarantors of the peace process to implement measures ensuring civilian protection, demilitarisation, and neutral monitoring of the ceasefire in Uvira and surrounding areas.

As a company that believes in the benefits of a modern, connected life, MTN Rwanda recognizes that both young and old deserve to safely enjoy the opportunities offered by the internet.

MTN Rwanda is now offering a Child Online Protection USSD-based solution that empowers parents and guardians to manage and control the type of online content their children can access.

Through a simple dial of *807#, parents and guardians can block websites and content they deem inappropriate, giving them peace of mind while allowing children to explore the digital world safely.

This initiative ensures that children can remain connected without parents and guardians having to worry about the content they are exposed to, reinforcing MTN Rwanda’s commitment to leaving no one behind in the digital age.

“As we enter the festive season, we reflect on how best to serve our customers and ensure the safety of Rwanda’s children as they spend more time online, which emerged as a clear priority. While the internet is a powerful and valuable tool, without guidance it can quickly become harmful.

“Through the use of *807#, we are providing parents and guardians with the peace of mind that their children can explore the benefits of the internet without being exposed to damaging content,” states Sharon Mazimhaka, General Manager, Corporate Services and Company Secretary.

By introducing this simple, free, and mobile-first solution, MTN Rwanda bridges the digital safety gap by enabling even non-smartphone users with a tool that allows them to protect their children online.

This Child Online Protection solution marks an important step towards making every connection safe, by empowering parents and guardians, educating young users, and partnering with key stakeholders to safeguard Rwanda’s digital future.

The decision was taken during the 17th National Congress of FPR–Inkotanyi on Friday, where party members approved amendments to the party’s statutes and endorsed a revised structure of the National Executive Committee. Under the new structure, the committee comprises two Vice Presidents and two Secretaries General.

The Congress also approved new members of the National Executive Committee, with Consolée Uwimana confirmed as First Vice President and Kayisire Marie Solange as Second Vice President.

Christophe Bazivamo was endorsed as Secretary General, while Stephen Gasana was appointed Deputy Secretary General.

Bazivamo replaces Gasamagera Wellars, who previously held the position.

This was revealed by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, during a meeting with members of the The National Consultative Forum of Political Organisations (NFPO).

Dr. Ndabamenye highlighted that Rwanda’s agricultural exports generated a substantial revenue of $893.1 million in 2025, equivalent to Rwf 1,301,159,552,579.

Among the main exports, coffee was the largest contributor, earning the country over $116.18 million. This is a remarkable increase compared to the previous year, 2024, when Rwanda earned $78.7 million from coffee exports.

The coffee export revenue for 2025 is almost on par with the figures from 2023, which stood at $115.9 million.

However, tea exports saw a slight decline. In 2025, tea earned the country $110.9 million, down from $114.9 million in 2024.

Pyrethrum exports also experienced a reduction, earning $7.445 million compared to $8.063 million in 2024.

Regarding vegetables, fruits, and flowers, Rwanda earned over $86.08 million from these exports in 2025, an increase from $75.1 million in the previous year.

Dr. Ndabamenye explained that Rwanda has set an ambitious target to increase foreign currency earnings from exports, aiming to reach $1.5 billion as outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

As part of the Ministry’s five-year plan, Rwanda intends to expand the area under cultivation for export crops such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers, increasing the land from 1,373 hectares to 14,733 hectares. This will also result in a significant boost in production, from 7,222 tons per year to 91,073 tons.

For tea, the plan is to increase the area under cultivation to 40,000 hectares, which will help in raising tea production. As for coffee, in addition to expanding the cultivation area, there are plans to increase productivity to four kilograms per tree, up from two kilograms, while aiming to raise the price to $12 per kilogram, up from the current $6.

Dr. Ndabamenye emphasized that efforts to boost agricultural productivity are being given high priority to double the country’s agricultural output.

“We have carried out a land survey involving various farmers, and now we have nearly 600,000 hectares under agricultural reforms. We are training farmers on best farming practices, helping them access technology, seeds, fertilizers, and other soil-enhancing resources. We are also assisting farmers in finding markets for their produce,” he revealed.

The Minister emphasized that the “food basket site” initiative would be instrumental in doubling agricultural output and even surpassing current production levels.

In the livestock sector, production has also increased. For the 2024/2025 period, milk production reached 1,152,514 liters, meat production totaled 219,523 tons, fish production amounted to 52,439 tons, and egg production reached 29,855 tons.

The ministry reported that between December 5 and 15, 2025, Burundi received 71,989 Congolese refugees and 8,700 returnees from DRC, fleeing escalating violence in the region.

The influx of refugees has placed immense pressure on temporary camps, including those in Ndava, Gatumba, Vugizo, Rumonge, and Makombe, which are already struggling to accommodate the growing number of displaced individuals.

Providing adequate shelter, food, security, and sanitation for these refugees has become a significant challenge.

Many of the refugees have chosen to live with local residents in surrounding villages, with some renting homes. However, the Burundian government has mandated that all refugees leave these villages and relocate to border camps, citing the need for better management and resources.

The government has also pointed out that, aside from the recent arrivals, there are other refugees who arrived earlier in 2025 who require immediate assistance.

In a statement, the ministry said, “The Government of Burundi urgently requests assistance from both domestic and international partners to address this growing humanitarian crisis. We appeal to humanitarian organizations, technical and financial partners, civil society, and faith-based groups to contribute towards a collective solution to this issue.”

As part of efforts to better manage the situation, the government plans to move refugees to camps farther from the border, in line with international refugee protocols.

The AFC/M23 alliance, which has taken control of several areas in South Kivu Province near the Burundian border, was a key factor in the border closures at Gatumba and Vugizo. As a result, Lake Tanganyika is currently the only open passage for movement between the two countries.

The AFC/M23 also helped some Burundian nationals stranded in Uvira return to their home country. The alliance has urged the Burundian government to reopen the border, allowing Congolese refugees in Bujumbura Province to return to their homeland.

In response, the Burundian government stated that it is working on a long-term solution to repatriate those wishing to return, but emphasized that this process will only begin once the necessary conditions for a safe and sustainable return are in place.

As of October 31, 2025, UNHCR reported that Burundi had already hosted 110,746 Congolese refugees. Between December 5 and 16, an additional 82,275 refugees from areas such as Kamanyola, Luvungi, Katogota, and Uvira arrived in Burundi.

According to the investigation, the conflict has produced catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with an estimated 150,000 civilians killed, approximately 12 million people forcibly displaced, and widespread famine affecting large swaths of the country.

The report, which is based on months of research, combines analysis of hundreds of videos, satellite imagery, whistleblower accounts, and interviews with survivors on the ground. It documents patterns of violence that indicate deliberate targeting of non-Arab communities — including mass killings and disposal of bodies in canals and mass graves — following the Port Sudan Authority’s offensive to retake the strategic city of Wad Madani earlier this year.

Eyewitness testimony and visual evidence show civilians being executed, often after being accused of supporting opposing forces. Some victims were found bound and killed — a pattern described by independent observers as possibly rising to the level of ethnic cleansing or genocide.

The investigation also highlights that orders for these operations appear to have originated from high command, although the Sudanese military has not responded to requests for comment.

The findings have drawn attention from members of the UN Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Sudan, with at least one representative characterizing the conduct as “systematic genocide” and crimes against humanity.

Humanitarian agencies warn that the combination of sustained violence, mass displacement, and agricultural disruption has led to acute food insecurity, raising the specter of famine across regions already devastated by conflict.

As international attention focuses on Sudan’s deepening crisis, this report aims to shed light on some of the war’s most severe abuses and urges global actors — including media, policymakers, and human rights advocates — to respond to the documented evidence and address gaps in the prevailing narrative.

Read the full report [here->https://edition.cnn.com/2025/12/16/world/video/sudan-satellite-imagery-investigation-canals-digvid]

After weeks of hosting packed football screenings and building momentum among fans, Skol Malt will now screen all matches of the continent’s premier football competition, offering supporters a premium and vibrant matchday atmosphere throughout the tournament.

{{A premium football experience for African football Ffans}}

All 52 matches will be screened live on giant screens at Ahanad Bafana HQ, giving fans the opportunity to come together, support their national teams, and enjoy football in an electric environment.

To add to the excitement, the opening game featuring Morocco vs Comoros on December 21 (9PM) will be celebrated with a welcome drink offered to all fans in attendance.

Throughout the competition, fans wearing their national team jerseys will receive special gifts, with various prizes to be won. Bring your country’s jersey and stand a chance to win exciting rewards while celebrating African football pride and unity.

Ahanad Bafana HQ, by Skol Malt in partnership with Mundi Center and Airtel Rwanda, has quickly become a go-to destination for football lovers in Kigali, offering quality screenings, great food, and refreshing Skol Malt.

{{How fans can win a trip to the final in Morocco}}

Throughout the competition, fans attending screenings will have the opportunity to collect Ahanad Points by purchasing Skol Malt drinks on-site.

By accumulating points across the tournament, participants will stand a chance to win a fully paid trip to Morocco to watch the final match live, including: Flights, Accommodation, Transport, Final match tickets.

The two ticket winners will be selected through a tombola on January 4th at 6:30 PM at Mundi Center, rewarding the most loyal and engaged fans.

{{Building a community around football}}

This initiative reinforces Skol Malt’s commitment to creating a strong football culture and a welcoming space where fans can share unforgettable moments around the beautiful game.

“We’ve seen incredible passion from football fans over the past month, and this was the natural next step,” said Halidi Mukandama, Football Exploitation Officer at Skol Brewery.

“This tournament is special for Africa, and we want to celebrate it with fans while rewarding them for their loyalty and love for the game.”

Gates open daily ahead of kick-off and the entrance fee remains Rwf 3,000 consumable.

The casualties occurred between April 11 and April 13, 2025, when Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) stormed the Zamzam displacement camp, once the largest refuge for people fleeing violence in Darfur. The camp, which sat near the provincial capital of el‑Fasher, had been home to almost half a million internally displaced people.

According to the U.N. report, the RSF restricted access to food, water, and essential supplies for months prior to the assault. During the takeover, fighters directed attacks against civilians, and survivors recounted widespread killings, rape, torture, and abductions as the camp was overrun.

At least 319 people were summarily executed either inside the camp or as they tried to flee, the report found. One witness told U.N. investigators that fighters shot into a room where civilians were hiding, killing everyone inside.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk condemned the deliberate targeting of civilians, saying such attacks “may constitute the war crime of murder.” He urged that those responsible be held accountable under international law.

The findings are based on interviews conducted in July with 155 survivors and witnesses who escaped to neighbouring Chad. Many described scenes of chaos and violence, with fighters entering homes, marketplaces, schools, and health facilities to commit atrocities.

The takeover of Zamzam was part of the RSF’s broader effort to seize el‑Fasher, the last major urban stronghold of Sudan’s regular army in the Darfur region. Late in October, the RSF captured the city in a prolonged offensive, and international rights groups reported further massacres and mass detentions there.

Humanitarian organisations describe the conflict in Sudan, now in its third year, as one of the world’s most severe crises. Millions have been displaced, and large swaths of territory have seen repeated violence against civilians.

The United States government has suspended its green card lottery program, formally known as the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, after a suspect in fatal shootings at Brown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology was found to have entered the country through the program, senior officials said Friday.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that, at the direction of President Donald Trump, the Department of Homeland Security has ordered the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to pause the diversity visa lottery program immediately. The program, created by Congress decades ago, annually grants up to 50,000 green cards to applicants from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.

Noem said in a post on the social media platform X that the suspect, 48‑year‑old Portuguese national Claudio Neves Valente, “should never have been allowed in our country”, a remark reflecting broad criticism by Trump and his allies of the lottery system.

Valente entered the United States in 2017 under the green card lottery program and later became a permanent resident. He is suspected of carrying out two deadly attacks that shook college communities in New England earlier this month.

In one incident at Brown University, two students were killed and nine others were wounded during a classroom shooting. Days later, Valente is suspected of fatally shooting an MIT professor at his Massachusetts home. He was later found dead of a self‑inflicted gunshot wound in New Hampshire during a manhunt.

The diversity visa program was designed to foster immigration diversity by allowing people from countries with relatively low rates of U.S. immigration to gain lawful permanent residency through a randomized selection process. Although winners are subject to interviews, background checks, and other standard vetting, critics say the system poses security risks. Supporters contend these safeguards are robust and that the program contributes meaningfully to U.S. society.

In announcing the suspension, Noem and other Trump administration officials cited concerns about national security and the integrity of the immigration system. They said the pause will remain in place while the government reviews the program’s procedures and eligibility standards.

The suspension marks one of the most significant changes to legal immigration policy under the Trump administration since it took office. The lottery has been a longstanding pathway for many aspiring immigrants around the world, and its discontinuation could spark legal challenges from civil liberties groups and immigration advocates.

Critics of the program have pointed to the recent shootings as evidence that the system’s vetting process can fail, while supporters argue that isolated incidents should not lead to dismantling broad legal immigration avenues. As the country grapples with rising concerns about gun violence and immigration policy, the suspension adds a new dimension to the ongoing national debate.

Trump, a long‑time opponent of the diversity visa lottery, has repeatedly sought restrictions on legal immigration and has previously cited tragic cases to call for tighter border controls and policy reforms.

The event, which saw the planting of over 1,000 trees, took place in Cyimpima marshland, located between the Kigabiro and Munyaga sectors.

The initiative was held in collaboration with Twibumbe, a farmers’ group consisting of four cooperatives: COCURICYI, CORICYA, COCURIGA, and COCURIBU. Together, these cooperatives comprise more than 2,500 members.

The trees planted include a variety of fruit-bearing species and other tree types that will help prevent water flow disruptions in areas where excess water from the hills tends to flood rice fields.

Ignace Musangamfura, the Managing Director of Goshen Finance Plc, explained that the tree-planting activity was part of the company’s broader effort to engage with their clients in promoting environmental sustainability.

“Our role as a financial institution goes beyond providing loans and encouraging savings. We also recognize that environmental conservation plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of our clients. This is why, alongside offering financial services, we are committed to contributing to sustainable development and environmental protection,” he said.

He further emphasized the importance of such initiatives in the face of climate change, stating, “As we navigate the challenges of climate change, it is crucial that all development activities prioritize environmental conservation to mitigate its effects and secure a better future for all.”

Rice farmer Théogène Uwizeye expressed his appreciation for the support, noting, “We are grateful for Goshen Finance’s involvement in this initiative. Our farms, located in the marshlands, have always been vulnerable to flooding. The trees will help manage the water flow, preventing damage to our crops and reducing losses. It’s wonderful to have a partner who is genuinely concerned about our well-being and farm protection.”

Christine Niyonsaba also welcomed the initiative, highlighting the positive impact it will have on their farming practices. “Not only will these trees help prevent soil erosion and control water flow, but they will also improve the quality of the air in our community. We’re excited about the potential of this project to boost our productivity.”

The Executive Secretary of Munyaga Sector, Damascène Munyentwari, commended Goshen Finance Plc for its partnership with the community.

“We encourage the farmers to take good care of the trees. These trees represent an investment in the land. As they mature, they will not only protect the environment but also generate income when sold.”

Currently, Goshen Finance Plc has a capital base of 35 billion Rwandan Francs (Rwf), with plans to increase this to Rwf 40 billion by next year.

The company is also focusing on expanding its support for youth and women, particularly in projects that contribute to environmental sustainability, and is working to strengthen its relationship with clients.

With nine branches across Rwanda, Goshen Finance Plc serves 70,000 customers and is aiming to expand its reach to 100,000 clients, including cooperative members. The company also plans to increase the number of agents to better serve its growing customer base.