From 2:00 PM, guests will step into a vibrant day-to-night journey filled with fun games, interactive activities, and a wave of good vibes that build toward an electrifying evening of live performances.
The Friends of Amstel stage will showcase a stellar lineup: Rwanda’s very own Bruce Melodie, Kivumbi King, and Mike Kayihura, alongside Kenya’s regional superstar Bien-Aimé. They will be joined by the dynamic beats of DJ Marnaud and Toxxyk, with a surprise international act set to raise the energy until the final beat.
More than just music, the event is designed as an immersive friendship experience—where moments of laughter, connection, and togetherness take center stage. Whether you come with a squad or join solo, Friends of Amstel is where bonds are made, and memories are shared.
Tickets are available in solo and group bundles (2, 4, or 6 friends), ensuring no one misses out because the spirit of Friends of Amstel is best enjoyed together.
Tickets for the event are now available and can be purchased online at Ticqet.rw. Guests are reminded that alcohol is not sold to anyone under the age of 18 and is not recommended for pregnant women. Attendees are also encouraged to enjoy drinks responsibly and to avoid drinking and driving.
The initiative is part of the Digital Ambassador Program (2022–2025), a USD 4.5 million partnership between KOICA, MINICT, RISA, and MINECOFIN, aimed at empowering citizens with digital skills and expanding equitable access to e-services nationwide.
Each SAP is now equipped with modern laptops, internet connectivity, and smart boards to enable citizens to access e-Government platforms like Irembo, receive digital literacy training, and benefit from services such as printing and scanning. SAPs are designed as community hubs that bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas.
Since 2022, the Digital Ambassador Program has recruited and trained 2833 Digital Ambassadors and 78 supervisors, delivered digital literacy training to 4,526,486 citizens, and re-equipped five SAPs (one in each province) to serve as flagship centres of access.
The re-equipping also supports Rwanda’s SAP Strategy 2025–2029, which prioritises sustainability and community ownership. Under this strategy, Rwanda plans to re-equip and modernise 100 SAPs nationwide while introducing new ones, ensuring that all citizens benefit from inclusive and reliable digital services.
“The Service Access Points will make it easier for citizens, especially in rural communities, to connect to services and opportunities that are increasingly digital,” said Mr Antoine Sebera, CEO of RISA. “With KOICA’s support and the collaboration of district authorities, these spaces are designed to serve communities in a more sustainable and impactful way.”
“This Service Access Point is more than a building; it is a gateway of opportunity,” said Ms KIM Jinhwa, Country Director of KOICA Rwanda Office. “By investing in digital infrastructure and skills, we are investing in people’s dignity, productivity, and future. KOICA is proud to stand with Rwanda in this journey toward an inclusive digital society.”
The SAP initiative is directly aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) target of achieving 100% digital literacy by 2029, and supports the country’s long-term Vision 2050 of becoming a knowledge-based economy and ICT hub for the region.
{{About KOICA}}
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is a government agency established in 1991 to implement Korea’s grant aid and technical cooperation programs for developing countries, focusing on sustainable socio-economic development.
{{About RISA}}
The Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA) is responsible for implementing national ICT policies, programs, and projects that drive Rwanda’s digital transformation.
The commissioning ceremony coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Rwanda Military Academy, which has been training junior officers since its establishment.
Of the new officers, 557 completed a one-year program, 248 attended short-term courses, 182 completed a four-year long-term program, and 42 received their military education abroad. The group makes up the 12th intake of the Rwanda Military Academy.
Among those commissioned is Brian Kagame, the youngest son of President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, joining the RDF where his older brother, Capt Ian Kagame, is already serving in the Republican Guard.
Brigadier General Franco Rutagengwa, the Commandant of the Rwanda Military Academy, commended the graduates for their resilience, noting that the training was demanding as some candidates dropped out along the way.
“The journey was not easy; 36 trainees who started the program were unable to complete it due to health reasons, academic failure, or disciplinary issues,” he said.
He explained that the academy now offers degree-level programs in military science and other fields including medicine, mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry, law, nursing, computer science, and civil engineering.
Brig Gen Rutagengwa congratulated the graduates for choosing to serve in the RDF and urged them to uphold the core values of the force, including discipline, integrity, and dedication to duty.
President Kagame presented awards to the most outstanding graduates across several categories. Jean de Dieu Iyakaremye was recognized as the best student in the short-term courses, while Yves Ndamukunda earned the distinction of best student in the long-term courses.
Representing the partner countries, Dan Bakangambira from Uganda was honored as the top performer among international students while Emmanuel Kayitare was awarded as the overall best graduate.
In his speech, President Kagame praised the new officers for their commitment and sacrifice.
“I commend each of you for the determination and courage you showed during your training. I also thank your instructors for preparing you to serve the nation well,” he said.
He extended appreciation to the parents and families of the new officers for supporting their decision to join the military, describing the profession as one of honor and national service.
“Your responsibility is to protect Rwanda and its people,” Kagame emphasized.
He reminded the officers that their role is vital regardless of Rwanda’s size or population, stressing that the RDF must remain strong, professional, and ready to defend the country’s sovereignty.
President Kagame also thanked friendly nations that partnered with Rwanda in military education and training, highlighting the importance of such cooperation in building a capable and modern defence force.
In a press release, the department said that it had identified 321 financial awards supporting 223 projects that it decided to terminate, as these projects failed to “meet the economic, national security or energy security standards necessary to justify continued investment.”
Russell Vought, the White House budget director, said on X: “Nearly 8 billion dollars in Green New Scam funding to fuel the Left’s climate agenda is being cancelled.”
In late May, the Trump administration cut financial assistance for 24 emerging energy technology projects.
The latest cancellation is part of a broader funding freeze amid a federal government shutdown, which has stalled approvals for new wind and solar projects while allowing oil and gas activities to proceed using carryover funds, local media reported.
The two-day forum, marking the ninth Africa Amnesty Month and held under the theme “Safer Communities through Voluntary Disarmament,” aims to promote peace and security throughout Africa.
Ugandan First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga, who officiated at the launch, urged AU members to strengthen cooperation in enforcing national laws and international agreements in support of the continental bloc’s goal of “Silencing the Guns” by 2030.
“This event underscores a vital commitment to fostering peace, security, and stability across Africa. It’s significant to foster safer communities,” Kadaga said.
Organized under the AU Peace and Security Council, the meeting brings together representatives of the AU, the East African Community, the United Nations, civil society, youth, women’s groups, the media, and other stakeholders to advance the continental agenda of ending armed violence.
The AU declared September each year as Africa Amnesty Month in 2017, encouraging civilians to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms without facing prosecution. This initiative has since been extended to 2030.
As part of this year’s events, a symbolic destruction of collected illicit and obsolete firearms will be held in the eastern Ugandan city of Jinja on Friday.
The meeting was concluded by UPDF Deputy Land Forces Commander, Major General Francis Takirwa.
It focused on strengthening cooperation between the two forces and fostering closer ties with the communities along the border.
Various strategies were outlined to enhance joint efforts in promoting security and stability along the shared border.
In his closing remarks, Major General Takirwa, thanked participants for their active involvement and constructive contributions throughout the meeting.
He underscored the importance of sustained collaboration in combating cross-border illegal activities and encouraged both forces to improve regular information sharing.
He highlighted that the continued partnership reflects the commitment of both militaries’ leadership, under the guidance of their respective Commanders-in-Chiefs to address shared challenges.
Maj Gen Takirwa expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, and the President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, whose visionary leadership enabled the realization of this vital initiative.
He also acknowledged the Chiefs of Defence Staff of both countries for their role in facilitating these meetings.
“Enhanced security benefits both sides, as it allows citizens to confidently engage in business and other activities, knowing that their safety is assured,” he concluded.
In a public notice released on Thursday, RDB said the decision follows the company’s failure to meet its contractual and regulatory obligations.
“Effective immediately, Inzozi Lotto is no longer authorized to operate the National Lottery in Rwanda,” the notice read.
The RDB assured players who have winning claims that they are still entitled to their prizes, with Inzozi Lotto remaining fully responsible for paying all outstanding valid winnings.
The National Lottery and Gambling Commission along with RDB are expected to supervise the process to ensure fairness and compliance.
The announcement also confirmed that RDB will soon begin a competitive process to identify a new operator or operators for the National Lottery. This process, according to the board, will follow strict principles of transparency, accountability, and safeguarding the public interest.
RDB reminded all companies in the gaming and gambling industry that they must strictly comply with the country’s laws and regulations governing the sector.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry said Thursday in a statement that the Israeli Navy has completed taking over the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).
The GSF, comprising some 50 vessels with over 500 volunteers from more than 40 countries, aims to challenge Israel’s naval blockade and deliver food and medical aid to Palestinians.
All the aid vessels have been stopped in the Mediterranean Sea, except for one that “remains at a distance” from Gaza, it said.
Greek lawmakers on Thursday strongly condemned the interception of the flotilla, urging the government to ensure the safety of Greek citizens on board, including a sitting member of parliament.
Representatives from PASOK, SYRIZA, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), the New Left, and the Freedom Movement criticized the incident and demanded explanations from Israel, according to national broadcaster ERT.
Pavlos Christidis of PASOK-KINAL said the seizure of ships in international waters “raises serious questions of legality and human rights,” stressing that international law must be applied “without exceptions.”
KKE’s Nikos Karathanasopoulos denounced the raid as a “pirate attack,” accusing Israel and the European Union of failing to protect the mission. SYRIZA spokesman Christos Giannoulis highlighted the participation of Greek MP Peti Perka in the flotilla, calling the interception “a humanitarian disaster” and urging Athens to abandon “a policy of equal distances.”
Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis said Greece, in cooperation with other countries, “will do everything in our power to ensure full security for these citizens.”
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto voiced condemnation “in the strongest manner” as there were also Italian citizens on board.
Italy saw some of the largest demonstrations. On Wednesday night, thousands rallied in Rome, Milan, Naples and other cities after the flotilla was seized, occupying train stations and staging university sit-ins. Unions called a general strike, declaring the attack on civilian ships “an assault on humanitarian solidarity.”
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed around 40 Italians were detained, saying Israel’s actions had gone “well beyond” legitimate self-defense.
Portuguese authorities confirmed that three citizens, including a member of parliament, have been detained. Portuguese political figures voiced strong reactions Thursday to Israel’s detention of the three nationals, calling for their safe return and sharply criticizing Israel’s actions. Left Bloc leader Marisa Matias called the detention “illegal.”
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa pledged to provide “full consular support” through the embassy in Tel Aviv to ensure their rights and safe return.
In Germany, officials said they were in contact with Israel to ensure passengers’ safety. Thousands of people rallied in Berlin Saturday.
France also expressed concern, urging Israel to ensure the safety of its citizens, guarantee their right to consular protection and allow their prompt return.
The Netherlands reported six citizens detained. The Dutch Foreign Ministry called for their protection as protesters rallied in The Hague.
Britain’s Foreign Office confirmed contact with families of nationals aboard and said it expected Israel to resolve the matter safely.
Late Wednesday night, the flotilla denounced the “active aggression” of the Israeli military on Telegram, noting that the vessel Florida was “deliberately rammed at sea,” while Yulara, Meteque and others were hit with water cannons.
Though all crew members were unharmed, “these illegal attacks against unarmed humanitarian vessels constitute a war crime,” it said.
The latest round of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has dragged on for nearly two years, claiming more than 65,000 lives in Gaza, nearly half of them women and children, and leaving 2 million people mired in a humanitarian catastrophe.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry said in the statement that Israel has offered and continues to offer the flotilla a way to deliver any aid they might have to Gaza “peacefully.”
“The flotilla refused because they are not interested in aid, but in provocation,” the statement reads.
It added that the Israeli navy has reached out to the flotilla and asked them to change course. “Israel has informed the flotilla that it is approaching an active combat zone and violating a lawful naval blockade,” the ministry said.
According to the GSF, the international maritime initiative comprises about 50 civilian vessels and more than 500 volunteers from over 40 countries, aiming to challenge Israel’s naval blockade on the Gaza Strip and deliver food and medical aid to Palestinians amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
The flotilla set sail from ports of various countries since August, converging toward Gaza with the goal of opening a humanitarian corridor by sea. During the trip, the fleet has come under repeated attacks, including drone strikes and “intimidation attacks.”
Earlier in the day, the GSF said that two of its vessels were harassed by Israeli warships overnight, which jammed their communications.
Some countries, including Italy and Greece, have urged Israeli authorities to ensure the safety of the GSF participants headed for Gaza and to allow consular protection measures.
Israel imposed a naval blockade on Gaza in 2007 after Hamas seized control of the enclave. The Israeli restrictions have been further tightened following Hamas’s cross-border assault into southern Israel in October 2023.
Dr. Goodall began her pioneering research in 1960 at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania, where she studied chimpanzee behaviour. She subsequently decided to live in Tanzania to remain close to the chimpanzees, establishing a career in wildlife conservation comparable to that of Dian Fossey, who devoted her life to mountain gorillas.
In 1991, Dr. Goodall founded Roots & Shoots, a global youth-led environmental programme. The initiative now operates in nearly 100 countries, including Rwanda, with more than 1,000 members advocating for wildlife protection, community development, and environmental conservation.
During a 2013 visit to Rwanda, Dr. Goodall met government officials, including the Rwanda Development Board, park authorities, students, and international organisations. She toured Nyungwe National Park and pledged to return to continue supporting local conservation efforts. Clare Akamanzi, then CEO of RDB, noted that the JGI had been collaborating with Rwanda on chimpanzee habituation programmes in Nyungwe through the Nyungwe Nziza project, launched in 2010.
Dr. Goodall’s passing has been mourned globally, with tributes from conservationists, political leaders including former U.S. President Barack Obama, and international bodies such as the United Nations, recognising her lifelong dedication to wildlife and environmental conservation.
