Zigiranyirazo was previously accused of involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi but was later acquitted.
He was among eight Rwandans who remained stranded in Niger after multiple countries denied them asylum, despite either being acquitted or having completed sentences issued by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), based in Arusha, Tanzania.
Initially sentenced to 20 years in prison on December 18, 2008, Zigiranyirazo was acquitted by the Appeals Chamber on November 16, 2009.
He was known as a member of “Akazu” — a close-knit inner circle around the Habyarimana regime that played a key role in orchestrating the Genocide. Zigiranyirazo was also the brother of Agathe Kanziga, wife of the late President Juvénal Habyarimana.
The strike move was earlier announced after members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837 voted to reject a modified four-year labor agreement with Boeing.
This vote followed members’ overwhelming rejection of Boeing’s earlier proposal on July 27 as a labor agreement officially expired before midnight.
The workers were based at Boeing’s facilities in St. Louis and St. Charles, Missouri, as well as Mascoutah, Illinois.
“We will be there on the picket lines, ensuring Boeing hears the collective power of working people,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant in the statement on Sunday.
“They deserve nothing less than a contract that keeps their families secure and recognizes their unmatched expertise,” IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Sam Cicinelli said.
“Solidarity is our strength. This vote shows that when workers stand together, they can push back against corporate greed and fight for a better future for themselves and their families,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett.
The IAM union is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.
Boeing expressed disappointment over the vote. Dan Gillian, Boeing Air Dominance vice president and general manager, and senior St. Louis site executive, said in a statement that the company was “disappointed our employees rejected an offer that featured 40 percent average wage growth and resolved their primary issue on alternative work schedules.”
Boeing was “prepared for a strike and had fully implemented our contingency plan to ensure our non-striking workforce can continue supporting our customers,” he added.
In August, the OPEC+ countries saw an oil output increase of 548,000 bpd amid a plan to gradually unwind their most recent layer of output cuts.
Sunday’s decision was made during a virtual meeting where member countries, including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman, reviewed global market conditions and outlook, according to a statement on the OPEC website.
The statement noted that the gradual increases may be paused or reversed subject to evolving market conditions.
In a statement issued in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, AUSSOM also refuted media reports alleging heavy casualties among its soldiers in Bariire.
“AUSSOM wishes to clarify that its forces, in coordination with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), initiated a major offensive to recapture Bariire town on Aug. 1,” the AU mission said, responding to claims made by al-Shabab regarding the destruction of AU-owned armored personnel carriers and the retreat of AUSSOM troops following intense fighting in Bariire.
“The joint military operation has resulted in substantial losses for the terrorist group, with over 50 al-Shabab militants killed and many others sustaining serious injuries,” AUSSOM said.
The agriculturally rich Bariire town, which lies about 60 km southwest of Mogadishu, is one of the strategic areas located in the Lower Shabelle region along the Shabelle River.
Local residents said the fighting on Friday was the most intense in recent days between the militants and allied forces.
“AUSSOM and SNAF troops are determined to recapture Bariire town and other territories still under al-Shabab control to ensure lasting peace and security for the people of Somalia,” said El Hadji Ibrahima Boly Diene, special representative of the AU Commission Chairperson for Somalia and head of AUSSOM.
Among those he welcomed were the President of SECAM and Catholic Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, as well as the President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda.
During the meeting, President Kagame shared Rwanda’s journey of recovery and development, emphasizing that for humanity to thrive, both the state and religious institutions must play active roles.
“Rwanda’s history represents both the worst and the best of humanity – a reminder that those with responsibilities, both in the state and the church, must harness the best of humanity,” he noted.
“Failure has happened before, but good people don’t accept to be held hostage by it. We must learn from our history, work together, and prepare the ground for hope, reconciliation, and peace, not just in Rwanda, but across our continent,” President Kagame added.
The SECAM gathering in Kigali began on July 31, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on August 3. It has brought together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, and more than 70 priests from various African countries.
At the official opening, Cardinal Ambongo thanked Rwanda for hosting the event, calling it a model nation that overcame a painful past to rebuild itself. He also expressed appreciation to President Kagame for sending a government representative to the opening.
President Kagame was represented at the opening ceremony by Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who called on the Catholic bishops to play an active role in addressing the challenges facing Africa, including conflicts, and to contribute to the continent’s economic development.
This 20th SECAM plenary assembly in Kigali is held under the theme: “Christ the Source of Hope, Unity, Reconciliation, and Peace: A Vision for the Church-Family of God in Africa over the Next 25 Years.”
This development builds on the momentum of recent diplomatic progress, including the Peace Agreement signed by the two countries on June 27, 2025, and the earlier Declaration of Principles signed in Washington, D.C. on April 25 by DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
The REIF is expected to serve as a living platform that evolves over time, allowing for the inclusion of new, mutually beneficial initiatives in areas ranging from infrastructure and energy to health, tourism, and mining.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe,on July 30, told Members of Parliament that Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were preparing to enter into a special economic cooperation agreement.
“These will be specific agreements focused on bilateral cooperation, particularly on adding value to mineral resources. Discussions are still ongoing. We hope that experts from both sides will reach a consensus so that the agreement can be signed in the near future,” said Minister Nduhungirehe.
Before outlining principles for their economic cooperation principles, Rwanda and the DRC convened their first meeting of the oversight body tasked with monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, which took place in Washington on July 31.
That meeting laid the groundwork for a follow-up session scheduled for August 4, bringing together members of a joint security mechanism. This body will be responsible for overseeing operations aimed at dismantling the terrorist group FDLR and reviewing Rwanda’s defensive measures previously put in place.
The United States has welcomed both meetings as significant steps toward implementing the peace agreement, emphasizing that Rwanda and the DRC are on the right track toward enhanced security and economic collaboration.
He is scheduled to perform on Saturday, August 2, at BK Arena, where he will share the stage with Rwanda’s own The Ben and fellow Nigerian artists Ayra Starr and Kizz Daniel. His return to Rwanda marks a special moment for local fans who last saw him perform during the Kigali Jazz Junction on March 25, 2022, at Canal Olympia.
At 44, Timaya remains one of the most celebrated and enduring figures in African music. Since launching his career in 2005, he has steadily built a legacy through a series of successful releases that have earned him a loyal following across the continent. Known for his distinctive fusion of dancehall, ragga, afrobeats, hip-hop, and soca, Timaya has become a musical force whose sound resonates far beyond Nigeria.
In addition to his work as a performer, he is also the founder of DM Records Limited, the label that helped launch the careers of artists such as Patoranking and Runtown. His leadership in the industry has not only elevated his profile but has also contributed significantly to the growth of African music globally.
Born on August 15, 1980, in Rivers State, Nigeria, Timaya is the youngest of fifteen children. He was raised in a large family where his father worked at a bank and his mother ran a small business. After completing his secondary education in Lagos, he enrolled in university to study accounting but left before completing his degree to pursue music full time.
His musical journey began humbly when he worked as a backup singer for Nigerian artist Eedris Abdulkareem, an experience that gave him valuable exposure to the stage and the music industry. After three years in that role, he embarked on a solo career and eventually met producer Obaksolo in Mafoluku, Lagos. It was there that he recorded “Dem Mama,” a breakthrough track that catapulted him into the spotlight and set the tone for his future success.
BNR’s initial study aimed to assess whether a CBDC, controlled and regulated by the central bank, could be beneficial to Rwanda. It evaluated how such a currency could function alongside existing systems like banks and mobile money platforms, and whether it was necessary for Rwanda’s financial future. The findings revealed strong justification for moving forward, highlighting several challenges that a CBDC could help address.
Now in the pilot phase, the project is testing how the currency could be used in everyday transactions and is welcoming ideas from industry players about the best ways to design and implement it. One of the major advantages of the proposed CBDC is that it allows users to make payments quickly—even without internet access—adding to the country’s existing electronic and cash-based payment methods with a secure, innovative solution.
This pilot marks a significant milestone for BNR, which is working to build a financial ecosystem that is technologically advanced, resilient, and accessible to all. The central bank has confirmed that testing is already underway and expects to publish the results by October 2025.
The goal of the trial is to deepen understanding of how the CBDC would work in practice—its regulatory requirements, cybersecurity safeguards, and how it could integrate with Rwanda’s existing payment systems. It will also help shape the central bank’s final decision on whether to launch the CBDC nationwide.
To support the project, BNR is collaborating with Giesecke+Devrient, a German firm with extensive experience in digital currency systems. Together, they are running a challenge-style program aimed at collecting ideas from financial institutions and technology experts.
The initiative focuses on four areas: how the digital currency can improve payments in rural areas, how it can help government disburse funds directly to citizens, how it might make person-to-person transfers faster and more affordable, and how it could contribute to a safer, more cost-effective financial sector overall.
Participants will include banks, fintech firms, and other stakeholders in the financial space. The competition is set to open in August 2025, with winners selected in September to present their ideas. These results will inform the next steps in the process.
Following the current pilot and ideation stages, BNR plans to proceed with three more phases: building the necessary technological infrastructure, conducting controlled trials among a limited group of users, and finally—if all goes well—rolling out the CBDC to the wider public.
Speaking to IGIHE recently, BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye emphasized that the process is long but intentional.
“This is a careful, phased approach. If we decide to move forward, we want to make sure that the digital currency is not only secure but also truly beneficial to the Rwandan people,” she said.
She confirmed that the initial research is complete and that stakeholder consultations, including citizen feedback, have already been conducted.
“Our early testing shows that the potential is real. That’s why we’re now beginning more in-depth testing with a small group of users in Rwanda. What we learn from this pilot will help determine whether the country is ready to adopt the CBDC,” she added.
Governor Hakuziyaremye also noted that one of the most immediate benefits of a CBDC could be reduced transaction costs—both domestically and for cross-border transfers.
“Many countries are already using digital currencies, and we believe this could make trade and remittances cheaper and more efficient.”
She added that the system could also enhance competition among payment service providers, ultimately improving innovation and services across the sector.
Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are often decentralized and unregulated, a CBDC is issued and controlled by the central bank. This means it poses fewer risks to the national economy and enjoys the same legal recognition as traditional currencies.
The CBDC would not exist in the form of paper notes or metal coins, but rather as a fully digital legal tender. It would be used to buy goods and services through digital platforms, and all transfers and withdrawals would take place electronically.
[With this new step->chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bnr.rw/documents/CBDC_Ideathon.pdf], Rwanda joins a growing list of countries actively exploring the future of money through central bank-issued digital currencies. If successful, the CBDC could become a cornerstone of the country’s vision for a smart, connected economy that leaves no one behind.
The disclosure was made by the Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, during this year’s national celebration of Umuganura (thanksgiving festival) in Musanze District on August 1, 2025.
The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, industry, local residents, and government officials. The day served as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and reaffirmation of cultural values.
Highlighting the significance of Umuganura in both historical and contemporary contexts, the Minister noted: “Umuganura stands out as the only festivity deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. This is why the Government of Rwanda reinstated it in 2012, and efforts are underway to have it recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.”
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura is not just a symbolic tradition, but a practical framework of values that continue to guide Rwanda’s development.
He traced its origins back to the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana and its interruption by colonial rule in 1925. The festival was officially reinstated in 2012 by the Government of National Unity under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The Minister noted that the celebration is no longer limited to agriculture and livestock, but now includes achievements in sectors such as education, technology, tourism, arts, and industry.
“Some may perceive Umuganura as merely an act of sharing, but while sharing is an important component, it is not the sole essence of the celebration. Umuganura represents a year-long process of performance contract, planning, and striving for progress,” Habimana noted.
The festival’s theme this year—“Umuganura: The Source of Unity and Foundation for Self-Reliance”—captured its evolving role in modern Rwandan society.
The Minister also issued a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to embrace and preserve the values of Umuganura.
“Umuganura is not just another celebration. It is a unique heritage and tradition that defines our identity. I urge you to uphold it, embrace it in your daily lives, and pass it on to future generations,” he noted.
“Elders have a responsibility to instill this tradition in the youth, ensuring its preservation. Celebrating Umuganura reminds us to keep Rwanda at the heart, wherever we are, and to carry this legacy with pride,” the Minister added.
Umuganura embodies values such as hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and patriotism—principles that continue to drive Rwanda’s progress.
In 2023, the global beer industry supported approximately 6.4 million agriculture-related jobs, with one in five of these roles rooted in agriculture. Farmers worldwide cultivate tens of millions of tons of barley and thousands of tons of hops annually to meet brewing demands, transforming raw fields into the essential ingredients for lagers and ales.
This economic ripple effect is particularly evident in local communities. Beer is often brewed using locally sourced ingredients, prompting breweries to invest significantly in domestic agriculture. In Rwanda, BRALIRWA has spearheaded local sourcing initiatives aimed at empowering farmers. A significant number of Rwandan farmers have participated in these programs, gaining access to improved seeds, extension services, and mechanization tools to enhance yields and livelihoods. These partnerships not only ensure a steady supply of barley for brewing but also uplift entire communities.
Since 2019, BRALIRWA has championed barley as a new cash crop in Rwanda. Previously imported from Europe, barley is now increasingly cultivated by over 3,000 local farmers. The company currently supports local cooperatives and small-holder farmers by providing training and access to good quality farming inputs, resources as well as agronomic support. This expansion will help to maintain consistent product quality and inject new life into Rwanda’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with a reliable market and a stable income.
One farmer, Nkurunziza from Gicumbi, shared his experience: “BRALIRWA has consistently provided us with essential equipment such as threshers, significantly reducing our harvest losses. Their timely purchases have been vital to our success. I started with just 10 hectares, and now we proudly farm 50 hectares. Barley farming has not only allowed us to rotate crops with potatoes and beans, that improves soil health, but it has also brought stability and hope to our lives.”
“We are committed to sustainable local sourcing and through our ‘brew a better world’ agenda, we are very intentional in supporting communities where we operate.” Samuel Murumu, BRALIRWA’s Supply Chain Director said. “By working closely with Rwandan farmers, we are building a value chain that is more inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in long-term impact” he added.
The company plans to scale up its use of locally grown raw materials significantly, with the strategic aim of sourcing 7,000 metric tonnes of barley and 21,000 metric tonnes of maize grain annually by 2030. This initiative forms part of BRALIRWA’s broader commitment to reducing import dependency, ensuring production resilience and boosting rural development through sustainable agriculture.
The role of beer in the economy is often underestimated. In addition to contributing significantly to GDP and government revenue, beer stimulates job creation in the farming, logistics, manufacturing and hospitality sectors. BRALIRWA’s local sourcing initiative amplifies this ripple effect, strengthening rural economies and promoting inclusive growth.
As Rwanda navigates its path towards sustainable industrialization, BRALIRWA’s approach is a compelling case study of how the private sector can combine profitability with purpose. On this International Beer Day, the company is raising a glass not only to beer, but also the farmers, brewers, transporters and service workers who make the industry thrive, from seed to sip.
