The agreement was formalised on Sunday in Israel, bringing together Hapoel Hadera, Benfica Lisbon and the Tony Rwanda project in a partnership focused on youth development, professional training and creating opportunities for young players.
The signing in Israel also comes at a time when Tony Rwanda and Benfica have been discussing a wider project with the Government of Rwanda.
Sources involved in the talks said Tony Rwanda and Benfica have been in discussions with Rwandan authorities since early last year, following a visit to Portugal by Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire, over a broader partnership that would establish a large campus in Rwanda to serve as a regional hub for football talent development.
Some people close to the process say that, as the discussions with Hapoel Hadera have now materialised, Benfica and Tony Rwanda are also holding talks with other African countries over the possibility of establishing the proposed regional hub.
For Rwanda, the Hapoel Hadera and Benfica deal is important because it gives young talents connected to Tony Rwanda a possible pathway into a more competitive football environment outside the country.
In the first phase, a player from Rwanda is expected to join Hapoel Hadera’s youth setup, with the hope that more players could follow if the project succeeds.
The partnership comes as Hapoel Hadera enters a new phase under the leadership of Itay Ben-Zeev, the CEO of the Israel Stock Exchange, who recently bought the club. Asi Rahamim will serve as the owner’s representative, while continuing his role as sporting director of Tony Rwanda. He will also help strengthen Hapoel Hadera’s professional and operational structure.
Ben-Zeev said the idea was to connect different pieces of the same vision.
“For the past three years, Benfica Lisbon has been working together with Tony Rwanda,” he said during the launch. “When I spoke with Assi Rahamim and Hapoel Hadera, I said: ‘Why don’t we connect everything?’”
He said the project should not only benefit young players in Rwanda, but also create opportunities for children in Israel.
“Now this project will not only affect youth in Rwanda, but also in Israel, in Hadera,” he said.
The agreement was formalised on Sunday in Israel, bringing together Hapoel Hadera, Benfica Lisbon and the Tony Rwanda project in a partnership focused on youth development, professional training and creating opportunities for young players.The signing in Israel also comes at a time when Tony Rwanda and Benfica have been discussing a wider project with the Government of Rwanda.In the first phase, a player from Rwanda is expected to join Hapoel Hadera’s youth setup, with the hope that more players could follow if the project succeeds.
For Rwanda, the Hapoel Hadera and Benfica deal is important because it gives young talents connected to Tony Rwanda a possible pathway into a more competitive football environment outside the country.
The collaboration marks a major shift in digital retail, transforming conversational AI into a native commerce engine that touches consumer experiences, digital advertising, scientific research, and internal production.
The rollout integrates Maybelline’s Makeup Virtual Try-On, powered by L’Oréal’s ModiFace augmented reality (AR) technology, directly into standard ChatGPT threads.
Instead of switching to an external app, users will be able to upload a photo or use their camera directly within the chat window to view makeup shades mapped onto their own face while chatting about a desired aesthetic or skin tone.
L’Oréal’s beauty-tech services already see over 120 million global uses annually, but this integration scales exponentially across ChatGPT’s massive ecosystem, which OpenAI reports has reached 900 million weekly active users.
L’Oréal is also pioneering “AI-native advertising.” Its top brands, including Lancôme and Kérastase, are optimizing how they surface during organic product searches in the U.S. Simultaneously, brands like Garnier, CeraVe, and SkinCeuticals are participating in OpenAI’s exclusive ChatGPT global advertising pilot.
This strategy drops highly relevant brand interventions into conversational feeds precisely when users ask for beauty advice, capturing consumers at the peak moment of intent.
Beyond the consumer-facing tech, the partnership reaches into the scientific lab. L’Oréal is deploying GPT-Rosalind, OpenAI’s specialized life sciences model, to map the skin microbiome for its La Roche-Posay brand.
By leveraging AI to decode bacterial and cellular behaviors, L’Oréal intends to drastically accelerate the development of advanced skincare formulas.
Internally, OpenAI’s newest models are feeding into CreAItech, L’Oréal’s secure platform for creative teams. The system generates high-fidelity marketing visuals while protecting unique brand identities.
This builds on a heavy internal tech push: L’Oréal has already upskilled 73,000 employees in generative AI and rolled out internal tools like L’OréalGPT to streamline operations.
Asmita Dubey, L’Oréal’s Chief Digital and Marketing Officer, emphasized that AI now enhances every stage of the company’s value chain, supporting both consumers and employees.
By weaving its beauty ecosystem directly into the world’s most popular AI assistant, L’Oréal is demonstrating exactly how legacy brands can claim the future of AI-native retail.
The rollout integrates Maybelline’s Makeup Virtual Try-On, powered by L’Oréal’s ModiFace augmented reality (AR) technology, directly into standard ChatGPT threads.
According to a new study led by researchers from the University of Bristol and published in Nature Communications, certain butterflies in the Heliconius genus show unusually long lifespans and remarkably slow signs of ageing compared to their close relatives.
Most butterfly species live only a few weeks in their adult stage. However, Heliconius butterflies stand out for their extraordinary longevity. Some individuals can survive for nearly a year, up to 25 times longer than related species.
For example, Heliconius hewitsoni has been recorded living up to 348 days, while a closely related species, Dione juno, survives for only about 14 days. This dramatic difference suggests that Heliconius butterflies have evolved a unique biological strategy that supports extended life.
Even more striking is evidence that some of these butterflies may barely age in the traditional sense. In experiments measuring physical performance, older individuals of Heliconius hecale showed no significant decline in strength compared to younger ones.
This contrasts sharply with other butterfly species, which typically show clear deterioration as they age. These findings suggest that certain Heliconius species may resist the usual biological wear and tear associated with ageing.
One widely discussed explanation for their long life is their unusual diet. Unlike most butterflies that feed mainly on nectar, Heliconius butterflies also consume pollen, which provides additional nutrients such as amino acids. Researchers believe this dietary adaptation may contribute to their improved body maintenance and slower ageing.
However, the study also found that even when pollen is removed from their diet, these butterflies still live longer than their relatives, indicating that diet alone does not fully explain their longevity.
Scientists now believe that both ecological factors and deep evolutionary changes are involved in shaping the lifespan of these insects. Their ability to maintain muscle function and body condition over time makes them especially valuable for studying the biology of ageing.
Researchers suggest that Heliconius butterflies could become an important model for future longevity research. By comparing long-lived species with short-lived relatives, scientists hope to uncover the genetic and biological mechanisms that control ageing. Such insights could one day contribute to understanding how ageing works across the animal kingdom, including in humans.
Ultimately, this discovery highlights how even small creatures like butterflies can provide powerful clues about life, health, and the possibility of slowing the ageing process.
Long-lived butterflies reveal surprising secrets about how ageing works.
Leading the local organization, Noel Musoni, President of the Rwandan diaspora in the Hamburg region, expressed great satisfaction with the success of the event, which brought together young people from across the country, some of whom travelled more than six hours to reach northern Germany.
Over the course of the two-day event, participants had the opportunity to get to know one another, exchange ideas about their backgrounds, projects and experiences, and reconnect with the values that define Rwandans, while learning how to balance their identity with the multicultural realities they encounter in their daily lives abroad.
This edition was also marked by the introduction of newly elected regional youth leaders who will represent the various Rwandan diaspora communities across Germany.
These include Sadi Isingizwe, President of the Hamburg and Lower Saxony regions; Delice Ikirezi and Gatete Deogratias, Co-Presidents of the North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and Rhineland-Palatinate (RP) region; Mugwaneza Francine, President of the Rhein-Main-Neckar region; Gabiro Vainqueur, President of the Berlin region; and Mafurebo Andy Kanobayita, President of the Bavaria region.
In an interview with IGIHE, Noel Musoni highlighted the importance of this initiative for the future of Rwandan youth in Germany.
“This year, we had the honour of hosting Rwanda Youth Connect in the city of Hamburg. We are pleased to see that all regions where the Rwandan diaspora is organized now have youth representatives. This will further strengthen connections among young people, who are an important and dynamic part of our community in Germany.”
He also welcomed the achievement of this year’s objectives, particularly bringing young people closer together, fostering collaboration among them and encouraging their active involvement in Rwanda’s development.
Noel Musoni, President of the Rwandan diaspora in the Hamburg region, expressed great satisfaction with the success of the event, which brought together young people from across the country, some of whom travelled more than six hours to reach northern Germany.The initiative is aimed at strengthening ties among Rwandan youth living in the diaspora.Young Rwandans from different regions across Germany gathered in Hamburg for Rwanda Youth Connect Germany.Over the course of the two-day event, participants had the opportunity to get to know one another, exchange ideas about their backgrounds, projects and experiences, and reconnect with the values that define Rwandans. Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar, reminded participants that they are not mere observers of Rwanda’s development but active contributors to its future. Rwanda Youth Connect Germany 2026 demonstrated that, beyond geographical distances, a united, organized youth deeply connected to its roots can become a true force for development.
The commitment was announced following a Tripartite High-Level Ministerial Meeting held in Addis Ababa on Monday, June 22. There, the three parties reviewed progress under existing repatriation frameworks and adopted the 2026–2027 Tripartite Technical Working Group Road Map on Voluntary Repatriation and Reintegration.
The meeting was convened under the framework of the Tripartite Agreements signed in 2010 and comes amid efforts to improve relations between Kigali and Kinshasa following the signing of the Accords for Peace and Prosperity in Washington in December 2025.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to durable displacement solutions, stating that the “voluntary, safe, dignified, and informed return” remains “a cornerstone of durable solutions and a contribution to peacebuilding and regional stability.”
According to UN data presented during the meeting, the DRC database holds records for 196,289 Rwandan nationals and asylum seekers, including 75,421 who have been biometrically registered, while Rwanda hosts 84,456 Congolese refugees and asylum seekers.
The parties noted steady progress in facilitating the return of Rwandan returnees from eastern DRC. Since January 2025, a total of 8,394 Rwandans have voluntarily returned home, including 2,347 repatriated during the first half of 2026. Encouraged by this momentum, the parties endorsed an operational planning target of 10,000 voluntary repatriations for 2026 and agreed on measures aimed at accelerating implementation.
Among the decisions taken was the organization of formal quarterly cross-border meetings to strengthen coordination among the governments and UNHCR, with the first meeting scheduled for September 2026.
The parties also agreed to utilize the Kamanyola border crossing in South Kivu and the Bugarama border post in Rwanda to facilitate the return of more than 3,600 Rwandan citizens currently dispersed across the southern part of South Kivu Province who have expressed a willingness to return home. To support the process, the DRC committed to establishing a viable transit route to the border crossing point for candidates located in outlying areas of southern South Kivu.
The communiqué further noted the situation of more than 400 Rwandan nationals who have been waiting for over a month in transit centres in North and South Kivu pending repatriation. Rwanda pledged to continue receiving these returnees while strictly observing the prevailing regional health situation and public health guidelines related to Ebola virus disease management.
The meeting also addressed the future return of Congolese refugees living in Rwanda. While no voluntary repatriation of Congolese refugees has yet taken place, the parties agreed that beginning in October 2026, the DRC will identify priority areas of return based on refugee intention surveys and location data provided by the Rwandan authorities.
The ministers welcomed recent political and technical developments between the two countries and acknowledged the support of the African Union, the United Nations, and the Office of the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Great Lakes Region in advancing peace, security, and durable solutions for displaced populations.
The next Tripartite High-Level Ministerial Meeting is scheduled for June 2027, with the date and venue to be communicated through diplomatic channels.
The commitment to continue repatriation processes was announced following a Tripartite High-Level Ministerial Meeting held in Addis Ababa on Monday, June 22.
The meeting was convened under the framework of the Tripartite Agreements signed in 2010 and comes amid efforts to improve relations between Kigali and Kinshasa following the signing of the Accords for Peace and Prosperity in Washington in December 2025.
Centuries ago, pandas were widespread across Asia, but climate shifts and human expansion dramatically reduced their habitat. Biologically belonging to the carnivore family, pandas adapted uniquely to a diet made up of 99 percent bamboo. Because bamboo is low in nutrients, they spend up to 14 hours a day consuming 26 to 84 pounds of it, using a specialized “pseudo-thumb” wrist bone to grasp the stalks.
By the late 20th century, deforestation and habitat loss caused the wild panda population to drop to a dangerously low estimate of just 1,100 individuals. This crisis sparked massive conservation programs, including the establishment of the massive Giant Panda National Park. Due to these intense efforts, the giant panda population has achieved an extraordinary recovery.
Today, the total global population of giant pandas has reached approximately 2,708. This includes nearly 1,900 pandas living dynamically in the wild, alongside 808 pandas thriving in dedicated breeding centers and zoos.
Because wild giant pandas exclusively exist in China, the country holds almost the entirety of the global population. Out of all the pandas on Earth, only about 40 to 50 individuals live in overseas zoos across 16 countries under official research loan agreements.
Within China, wild pandas are strictly concentrated in three specific provinces: Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu. Sichuan Province acts as the primary stronghold for the species, containing nearly 65 percent of the world’s entire wild population.
Despite their highly concentrated geography, the giant panda’s cultural footprint is truly international. In 1961, Chi Chi, a panda living at the London Zoo, inspired the founding sketch of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) logo, cementing the animal as the definitive global face of environmental preservation.
This international fame was further elevated by China’s practice of “panda diplomacy,” where the loaning of these rare animals to foreign capitals routinely captured worldwide media attention, turning them into beloved global ambassadors.
This remarkable ecological turnaround and worldwide adoration prompted international wildlife organizations to officially upgrade the giant panda’s status from Endangered to Vulnerable.
For international travelers making the journey to China, seeing these gentle giants up close is a bucket-list experience. Because wild pandas remain hidden in dense, inaccessible mountains, visitors can see them at several world-renowned conservation and breeding facilities.
The heart of panda tourism is located in Sichuan Province, specifically at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, which is highly famous for its nursery rooms filled with panda cubs. Visitors seeking a deeper experience can travel to the Dujiangyan Panda Base, which offers experiential volunteer programs where participants help keepers prepare bamboo.
Additionally, the Wolong National Nature Reserve offers a pristine alpine environment focused on rewilding pandas. Outside of Sichuan, excellent panda pavilions can also be visited at the Beijing Zoo and Hong Kong’s Ocean Park.
Ultimately, the giant panda stands as a powerful reminder that human action can both threaten and protect life on Earth. Its ongoing survival story is not just about a single species, but about hope, responsibility, and the true possibility of restoring balance between people and nature.
A symbol of peace and friendship, the giant panda holds a special place in Chinese culture.The giant panda rests peacefully in the bamboo forests of southwestern China, its natural habitat.Feeding for hours each day, the panda relies almost entirely on bamboo for survival.Conservation efforts in China have helped protect the panda from extinction and secure its future.
The investment, announced on June 22, follows Spiro’s earlier $215 million equity funding round backed by a consortium of institutional, international and regional investors. The latest financing reinforces investor confidence in Africa’s rapidly growing electric mobility sector and positions Spiro among the continent’s best-funded clean energy and e-mobility companies.
The company said the fresh capital will accelerate the expansion of its battery-swapping network, manufacturing capabilities and next-generation EV infrastructure across high-growth African markets.
Spiro currently operates in seven countries, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Benin, Togo and Cameroon, where it is helping replace fuel-powered motorcycles with electric alternatives.
The company has deployed more than 100,000 electric motorcycles, established over 2,500 battery-swapping stations and completed more than 30 million battery swaps, making it Africa’s largest operator of battery-swapping infrastructure for electric two-wheel vehicles.
Spiro has deployed more than 100,000 electric motorcycles across its seven markets.
Beyond expanding its network, the partnership with NewTrails Capital is expected to strengthen Spiro’s manufacturing ambitions by supporting the localisation of production and supply chains in Africa, particularly through collaboration with Chinese suppliers.
Spiro Founder and Chairman of Equitane, Gagan Gupta, welcomed the investment, saying it reflects growing confidence in the company’s vision and progress.
“Partnering with NewTrail Capital’s deeply experienced team marks a powerful new chapter for Spiro as we prepare for the next steps of our pan-African and international expansion”, he stated.
NewTrails Capital Founding Partner Yufan Zhang said the investment reflects the firm’s confidence in Spiro’s business model and long-term prospects.
“Spiro’s core strengths lie in its deeply localized operating capabilities, vertically integrated supply chain, digitally enabled ecosystem, sound unit economics, and strong ability to scale rapidly,” Zhang noted.
The latest financing reinforces investor confidence in Africa’s rapidly growing electric mobility sector and positions Spiro among the continent’s best-funded clean energy and e-mobility companies.
Zhang added that the company has successfully integrated electric vehicles, batteries, energy replenishment, payments and service networks into a solution tailored to African markets, and that Chinese financing and supply chains can play an increasingly important role in supporting Africa’s clean energy transition.
The investment comes as many African countries seek to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, strengthen energy security and modernise urban transport systems. It also highlights increasing global investor interest in scalable EV infrastructure across the continent.
Founded to accelerate Africa’s transition to clean mobility, Spiro is expanding regional production and assembly operations with the goal of manufacturing electric vehicles in Africa for African and international markets.
Beyond expanding its network, the partnership with NewTrails Capital is expected to strengthen Spiro’s manufacturing ambitions by supporting the localisation of production and supply chains in Africa, particularly through collaboration with Chinese suppliers.
The celebration brought together stakeholders from across the education sector to reflect on a decade of achievements in delivering quality, Christ-centered education while nurturing young people to become responsible leaders guided by strong academic and moral values.
The day-long event featured worship sessions, prayers, cultural performances, Bible presentations, student testimonies, and speeches by staff, leaders and alumni, highlighting the impact ACE has made on learners and communities over the past ten years.
As Guest of Honour, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Charles Karakye congratulated New Life Schools, which use the ACE programme, on reaching the milestone and commended the institution for its contribution to Rwanda’s education sector.
He praised the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering the holistic development of learners, noting that academic success should go hand in hand with character formation and leadership development.
“Quality education is not only about academic achievement; it is about raising responsible citizens with the values, skills, and character needed to contribute positively to society,” Karakye said.
He further emphasized the importance of partnerships between government institutions, schools, parents, and development partners in ensuring that every child receives an education that prepares them for the future.
Karakye acknowledged ACE Rwanda’s role in supporting national education goals and encouraged educators to continue placing learners at the center of the teaching process while equipping them with the knowledge and values needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.
Speaking during the celebration, the Executive Director of Africa New Life Ministries Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa reflected on the institution’s journey and the vision that inspired its establishment a decade ago.
“Today, we raise our voice to declare, just like Prophet Samuel declared, ‘This far the Lord has brought us,’” Katagwa said.
He recounted how the initiative began with a small group of parents and church leaders seeking an education model that would combine academic excellence with Christian values and leadership development for their children.
Reflecting on the mission behind the initiative, he said, “Ten years ago, this journey began with a simple but profound conviction, a conviction that every child deserves an education. Every child should dream of where they want to go.”
Throughout the celebration, students showcased their talents through traditional dances, music performances, Bible speaking presentations, alumni and personal testimonies that demonstrated the positive impact the ACE model has had on their academic, personal, and spiritual growth.
Beyond academic achievement, the ACE model has continued to open global opportunities for its learners. Through the successful equivalency of qualifications with the National Examinations and School Inspection Authority (NESA), ACE graduates from New Life Leadership Academy have gone on to pursue higher education and professional opportunities in Rwanda and internationally, including in Germany, the United States, Canada, Uganda, and the United Arab Emirates.
These success stories reflect the strength of an education model that equips learners with both academic excellence and the character needed to thrive in diverse environments.
Leaders from Africa New Life Ministries and ACE emphasized that education extends beyond classroom instruction and should prepare learners to become servant leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation.
The accrediting body representative, Ms. Joyce Owor, Regional Manager for the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE), congratulated Africa New Life on its outstanding leadership in implementing the ACE curriculum in Rwanda.
She highlighted the remarkable growth of ACE schools across the region, including Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, and now Rwanda and noted the program’s success in producing well-rounded, focused, and high-integrity graduates.
Representatives from schools implementing the ACE curriculum across Rwanda attended the anniversary celebration, reflecting the program’s growing influence and its commitment to holistic education.
While maintaining its Christian foundation and internationally recognized learning approach, ACE works to contextualize its curriculum to the Rwandan environment.
This includes integrating Rwanda’s history, values, and national identity into the learning experience, helping students develop a deeper understanding of their country’s journey while nurturing responsible citizenship, cultural appreciation, and leadership grounded in both faith and national values.
As the schools enter their second decade, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding access to quality Christ-centered education and equipping future generations with the knowledge, values, and leadership skills needed to succeed.
For many attendees, the anniversary served as both a celebration of past achievements and a renewed commitment to the future. The occasion concluded with optimism that the ACE curriculum will continue transforming lives and shaping leaders who will positively impact Rwanda and beyond.
The milestone marked a decade in which New Life Christian Academy–Kigali (NLCA-K) and New Life Leadership Academy (NLA) have shaped academically excellent, Christ-centered leaders through the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE).Parents at the 10th anniversary celebration of ACE Rwanda shared appreciation for the school’s role in nurturing discipline, values, and academic excellence in their children.Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa recounted the vision and commitment that laid the foundation for ACE Rwanda’s growth over the past decade.Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education Charles Karakye commended ACE Rwanda for a decade of providing quality, values-based education during its 10th anniversary celebration.Staff members were honored with awards in recognition of their hard work, service, and impact in shaping learners over the past ten years.Throughout the celebration, students showcased their talents through traditional dances, music performances.L-R, Director of Schools, Africa New Life Ministries, Sylvia Kendiisa Kaweela; Executive Director, Africa New Life Ministries, Rev. Fred Isaac Katagwa; Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Charles Karakye; New Life Leadership Academy, Principal, Cyiza Moses; New Life Christian Academy Kigali, Principal, Ms Ingrid J Kaneza
The 6-foot-10 former Tennessee Volunteers forward, who is a projected lottery pick, expressed deep pride in his Rwandan heritage and praised the explosive growth of the sport in his mother’s homeland.
Ament, who is just days away from hearing his name called in the draft, described a mix of excitement and reflection as the big moment approaches.
“Super excited, definitely a little reflective of just all I’ve gone through in my basketball process. You know, it was funny when I’m in, like inviting the people to come out and celebrate with me and watch,” he said.
“I just, you know, think about how much they’ve impacted my career and how much they helped me. I just want to give, you know, a bunch of thanks to those people.”
When asked which NBA teams have shown the most interest in him during the pre-draft process, Ament revealed the franchises he has worked out for.
“Well, I’ve only done four workouts. I’ve done Chicago, Brooklyn, OKC, and the Clippers. So they’ve shown a lot of love.”
With draft projections placing him around the top 10, including a mock selection to the Milwaukee Bucks, Ament said draft position matters less than impact.
“Honestly, I mean, for me, it’s just, you know, the fit, wherever I get drafted, I could, it doesn’t really matter, you know, if I get drafted high or low, I just want to be able to come in and impact the game immediately. So that sounds good to me as long as I’m playing.”
The young star, who grew up admiring Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, said the Oklahoma City Thunder trio of Durant, Westbrook, and James Harden was especially influential in his development.
“I was a big KD guy. I loved KD and I also love Russell Westbrook. I loved that OKC team when they had the KD. I had him, Harden, and Russ. That was my favourite team.”
Asked what it would feel like to face Kevin Durant in the NBA, Ament admitted it would be a surreal moment.
“It would be surreal. I mean, I’ve studied so much from his game. We’re from the same area and you hear about, you know, stories about him and, you know, how competitive he was in high school and then all the way into where he is now. So that would just be a surreal moment.”
He also shared a light-hearted remark about his college coach, Rick Barnes, who previously coached Durant at Texas.
“He’ll make comparisons to say that I’m not like KD. He’ll try to make fun of me and try to say like I’m not there yet and light a fire under my butt. But no, he’s great.”
One of the most notable aspects of Ament’s story is his strong connection to Rwanda through his mother’s side of the family.
“Yeah, my mother was born and raised there. I’m half Rwandan. My mom’s brother lives out there.”
Reflecting on his visits to Rwanda, he said each trip has helped him better understand his heritage.
“It’s great. I mean, it’s a different story each time. Just getting older and me being able to understand more about the country. But not only do I learn more about the country, I learn more about my family and our lineage and just what it means to be Rwandan.”
When asked directly whether he would consider playing for Rwanda’s national team, Ament did not hesitate.
“I would entertain it for sure, for sure. I mean, basketball is huge in that country and it means so much to their fans and their community. So I would definitely entertain it.”
Beyond basketball, Ament also spoke about his sporting versatility, including golf, soccer, and a memorable experience working with professional golfer Bryson DeChambeau.
“Yeah, he signed a Reebok, so am I. So it was, they kind of set it up for me. It was great. I don’t know if you saw that video, but I broke his driver. So that was, it was kind of awkward, but no, it was great.”
Explaining the incident, he added humorously:
“Well, it wasn’t his driver. He would never let me use his driver because he’s going to play with it in the tournament. It was the clubhouse’s driver, but he was just teaching me swings. And he was like, this was like my last swing before we had to get going. He was like, I just want you to give everything you have on this swing, let it rip. And I think I let it rip a little too hard and the driver had to go off.”
Despite the mishap, Ament said the experience was motivating.
“IT definitely motivated me a lot. I haven’t played in a minute, so we’ll see next time I get out there, but it definitely motivates me to keep going.”
As the NBA Draft approaches, Ament says he is ready for the next chapter of his career, wherever it begins.
Nate Ament has expressed openness to representing Rwanda ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.Rwandan-American NBA prospect Nate Ament exchanged jerseys with Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire during a weeklong visit to Rwanda, his mother’s homeland, from August 9 to 13, 2025.
Starmer said he would step down as both prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, but would remain in office until the party elects a successor to ensure an orderly transition of power.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street in London, an emotional Starmer described becoming prime minister as “the proudest moment of my life,” saying his government had helped restore Britain’s international standing, attract investment and strengthen workers’ rights.
However, he acknowledged that many Labour lawmakers no longer believed he was the right person to lead the party into the next general election.
“I have heard the answer from my parliamentary party. I accept that answer with good grace. I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” he said.
Starmer’s resignation follows months of growing dissatisfaction within Labour after the party suffered heavy losses in local elections held in May. His government also faced criticism over fiscal policy, welfare reforms and a series of political controversies that weakened his standing among MPs and the wider public.
An Ipsos poll published last week found that 52% of Britons believed Starmer should step down, while only 35% wanted him to remain in office.
His departure comes less than two years after he led Labour to one of its biggest parliamentary majorities in the 2024 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule.
The resignation is expected to trigger a leadership contest that could make Britain home to its seventh prime minister in just 10 years. Former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who recently returned to Parliament after winning a by-election, is widely viewed as the frontrunner, although other senior Labour figures could also enter the race.
The next prime minister will inherit significant economic challenges, pressure over public spending and an increasingly complex international environment.
For Rwanda, Starmer’s legacy is associated with his decision to cancel the UK-Rwanda Migration and Economic Development Partnership on his first day in office in July 2024. The agreement, signed under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Conservative government in 2022, had sought to relocate some asylum seekers from the UK to Rwanda as part of efforts to deter illegal Channel crossings.
Although Starmer scrapped the policy, his government continued to face criticism over rising irregular migration, an issue that remained politically sensitive throughout his premiership.
Political analysts say the outcome of Labour’s leadership contest could influence the party’s future direction on immigration, public spending and foreign policy as it seeks to rebuild public confidence ahead of the next general election.
Starmer’s departure comes less than two years after he led Labour to one of its biggest parliamentary majorities in the 2024 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule.
