“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing away of our colleague, Alain Mukuralinda, Deputy Government Spokesperson,” reads part of a statement released on the morning of Friday, March 4, 2025.
“The Government of Rwanda extends its sincere condolences to his family, loved ones, and all those who had the honour of working alongside him,” adds the statement.
Mukuralinda, who once served as a Prosecutor and later as the Spokesperson for the National Public Prosecution Authority, died aged 55 at King Faisal Hospital.
In addition to his work in justice and politics, Mukuralinda was known for his humility. He was also a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, having been a celebrated musician under the stage name “Alain Muku.”
He was born in 1970 and attended primary school in Rugunga. He completed his secondary education in Rwamagana, where he studied accounting. In 1991, he joined the University of Rwanda but didn’t stay long, as he moved to Belgium to study law.
During his time as a prosecutor, he handled major cases in the country, including those involving perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He was a cheerful person who loved socializing and making people laugh. He also had a deep passion for football and even managed a youth football team.
He composed the Rwandan national football team’s anthem “Tsinda Batsinde” , along with several other popular songs.
ANNOUNCEMENT
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing away of our colleague Alain Mukuralinda, Deputy Government Spokesperson. —
ITANGAZO
Tubabajwe no gutangaza urupfu rw’Umuvugizi wa Guverinoma wungirije, Bwana Alain Mukuralinda. —
The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana shared this update during a press conference ahead of the 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
While he acknowledged that some individuals exploit hate speech and genocide denial for personal gain, Dr. Bizimana emphasized the challenge of monitoring such content, as many platforms cite difficulties in interpreting messages written in Kinyarwanda.
To counter this, Minister Bizimana said, requires translating and reporting such content, despite the complexity of the task.
“We will continue working with the owners of these platforms to ensure that those individuals are held accountable, without restricting people’s right to express their opinions,” he noted.
The minister reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to freedom of expression, as enshrined in the Constitution, but emphasized that hate speech and genocide denial constitute crimes that will not be tolerated.
Dr. Bizimana urged social media users to engage in respectful discussions and refrain from insults or misinformation. He also stressed the importance of educating younger generations to resist genocide ideology, noting that many young people are misled by distorted historical narratives.
The minister linked genocide ideology to Rwanda’s colonial past, where divisive teachings fueled ethnic tensions.
He also pointed out that over 60,000 genocide perpetrators have been reintegrated into society, contributing to national development, and warned against repeat offenses, which would be met with severe consequences.
As Rwanda continues to promote unity, social media accountability remains a crucial tool in preventing the spread of harmful rhetoric.
According to AP, the 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, causing widespread destruction of buildings, roads, and bridges across multiple regions.
Hospitals and health centers were severely damaged, leaving thousands in urgent need of medical care.
The World Health Organization reported that four hospitals were completely destroyed, with 32 more partially damaged. Mobile hospitals from India and a Russian-Belarusian medical unit have been deployed to assist.
With many survivors left homeless or avoiding unsafe buildings, temporary shelters are being set up in open fields under extreme heat. More than 1,550 international rescuers from 17 countries are working alongside local teams to provide aid.
The disaster has worsened Myanmar’s already dire humanitarian crisis. Even before the quake, over 3 million people were displaced, and nearly 20 million were in need of assistance due to ongoing conflict. In response, the military declared a temporary ceasefire until April 22, though reports indicate continued fighting in some areas.
Meanwhile, in Bangkok, where the earthquake caused the collapse of a high-rise under construction, the death toll has reached 22, with 35 others injured. Rescue teams continue searching for possible survivors.
With communication down and some areas still inaccessible, authorities fear the death toll could rise further as more information emerges.
On Thursday, April 3, 2025, FIFA released its updated rankings for the month, showing Rwanda’s decline from 124th to 130th place.
In the previous rankings published in December 2024, Amavubi was ranked 124th. However, the team struggled in its two March 2025 World Cup qualifying matches, losing 2-0 to Nigeria and drawing 1-1 against Lesotho.
Additionally, Rwanda had played two matches in the qualifiers for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), securing a 2-1 victory over South Sudan but suffering a 3-2 defeat in the second leg. These results led to an 8.7-point loss, contributing to the team’s six-place drop. This is the lowest ranking for Amavubi since September 2024.
At the top of the rankings, Argentina remains the world’s number one team, while Spain has moved up to second place, overtaking France.
In Africa, Morocco now leads the continent, climbing from third to 12th place globally, followed by Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Myanmar recorded the biggest jump, climbing seven spots to 162nd, while Guinea-Bissau suffered the biggest drop, falling to 128th place.
These rankings were based on 245 matches played by FIFA teams, including 58 games held in late 2024. Vietnam and Thailand played the highest number of matches during this period.
He explained that these measures were necessary due to ongoing security threats posed by the FDLR, a terrorist group formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura illustrated the severity of the threat by comparing the distance between Kigali and FDLR’s bases, 170 kilometers, to the distance between Paris and Reims. For three decades, he noted, Rwanda has faced a persistent security challenge along its border, necessitating strong defensive actions to protect its sovereignty.
Despite sanctions imposed by the U.S., the United Nations, and the European Union, FDLR continues to operate freely with the support of the Congolese government.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura emphasized that instead of dismantling the group, the Congolese army (FARDC) collaborates with it, further endangering Rwanda’s security.
He also criticized MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, for failing to neutralize FDLR despite its decades-long presence in the region.
Referring to recent security incidents, he highlighted that after the M23 rebels took control of Goma on January 27, 2025, FARDC forces launched artillery strikes into Rwanda’s Rubavu district, killing 16 civilians.
He revealed that intelligence reports confirmed a coordinated plan involving FDLR, FARDC, Burundian forces, SAMIDRC troops, and European mercenaries to carry out a large-scale attack against Rwanda.
Additionally, weapons—including missiles, drones, and heavy artillery—were discovered less than five kilometers from Rwanda’s border, indicating an imminent threat.
In light of these developments, the ambassador reaffirmed that Rwanda’s defensive measures are necessary and justified to ensure national security.
Rubavu Port was inaugurated on December 6, 2024, with a total construction cost of $9.17 million. It is the largest port in Rwanda and will be connected to other ports, including the nearly completed Rusizi Port and future ports planned for Karongi and Nkora in Rutsiro District.
The port was built on a two-hectare area and has the capacity to accommodate two large boats, each measuring 60 meters in length and capable of carrying 500 tons of cargo. It also features 12 docking pillars for large cargo boats and a dedicated docking area for passenger boats.
The port facilitates the transportation of various goods, including cement produced in Rwanda, food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and other commodities.
Nzabonimpa Deogratias, the Vice Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of economic development, told IGIHE that Lake Kivu was like an untapped goldmine for the region.
“Rubavu Port, built on Lake Kivu, has enabled our residents to trade more efficiently with neighboring districts and the DRC. Currently, it handles 1,400 tons of goods daily, meaning it is operating at 70% of its full capacity,” he stated.
He added that many traders are utilizing the port, and they expect to reach the full capacity of 2,000 tons per day soon.
Nzabonimpa sees the port as a major business opportunity for Rwanda and urged the private sector to maximize its potential. Currently, the port facilitates the movement of 40 trucks daily, each carrying 35 tons of goods, and employs 200 permanent workers engaged in loading and unloading activities through five cooperatives.
“This efficiency ensures that traders can quickly offload their goods and return for more shipments without delays, which is why they should take full advantage of this infrastructure,” Nzabonimpa said.
He also encouraged investors to purchase modern boats for tourism purposes, allowing visitors to explore Rwanda’s scenic beauty.
Discussing the port’s economic impact on Rubavu District, Nzabonimpa highlighted the significant increase in tax revenue and the growth of private sector investments in Nyamyumba Sector, where the port is located.
He revealed plans to develop additional infrastructure, including a cross-border market near the port.
Dieudonné Mabete Niyonsaba, Chairman of the Private Sector Federation in Rubavu District, stated that the port has eased business operations by reducing transportation costs.
“Water transport is cheaper and can carry more goods, which has significantly lowered expenses for traders who previously relied on land transport. Rubavu District has become more accessible, as the port connects us to other areas along Lake Kivu and facilitates trade with the DRC,” he said.
He emphasized that stakeholders are committed to fully utilizing the port’s capacity and maximizing its economic benefits. He also encouraged users to improve their operations and cooperation to ensure mutual profitability.
Rubavu Port, located in Nyamyumba Sector on Lake Kivu, has a total capacity of handling 700,000 tons of goods and 2.7 million passengers annually.
The port comprises key facilities, including a cargo terminal, a tourism section, immigration offices, a police station, a vehicle repair area, and restaurants.
It also hosts services from the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), immigration and security authorities, and institutions typically found at land border crossings, such as MAGERWA and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).
Additionally, the port features designated areas for tourists visiting Rwanda’s Western Province attractions, as well as storage facilities where traders can temporarily keep their goods after unloading.
The year-on-year increase is a result of the identification of additional assets that were subsequently frozen, local media Swissinfo cited the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) as saying.
In addition, 14 real estate assets of individuals, companies or entities targeted by the European Union’s (EU) sanctions against Russia have been taken over by Switzerland.
According to the SECO, the Swiss authority has expanded its list of sanctions against Russia as it adopts the additional measures decided by the EU against Russia.
On Feb. 24, the EU adopted further measures against Russia as part of its 16th package of sanctions, which includes measures in the areas of goods, finance and services. (1 Swiss franc = 1.13 U.S. dollar)
He made these remarks on April 2, 2025, while addressing the Senate plenary session on the country’s preparedness to combat disasters that affect various regions during the rainy season.
He emphasized that continuous monitoring is conducted to ensure the safety of residents before disasters strike.
Minister Murasira also highlighted that the assessment identified more than 25,000 hectares of farmland, approximately 200 infrastructures, and 23 public buildings such as offices and churches as vulnerable to disasters.
In terms of districts, 88 households in Rusizi District are at high risk, while Rubavu has 452, Rutsiro 424, Nyabihu 364, and Nyamasheke 100 households at risk of being affected by disasters.
“We closely monitor these areas and ensure that if any warning signs emerge, we alert people in advance or be prepared to respond promptly,” he said.
He emphasized that the rainy season is when disasters are most severe, with lightning being a major cause of fatalities throughout the year.
The Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) highlighted that districts such as Rubavu, Rutsiro, and Nyabihu have the highest disaster risk levels. Therefore, continuous monitoring is conducted to provide early warnings and ensure rapid intervention in case of an emergency.
Minister Murasira stated, “We have identified specific areas prone to disasters, and we prioritize thorough inspections in those locations.”
He further confirmed that Rwanda’s overall disaster resilience level is currently at 46%.
“Our resilience is still low. Research on disaster resilience across different sectors, such as infrastructure and agriculture, indicates that we stand at 46% nationally. Some areas have better resilience, while others are highly vulnerable. The lower the resilience, the higher the susceptibility to disasters, even minor ones, like light winds that can damage homes,” he explained.
MINEMA stressed that disaster-affected areas require immediate response and restoration efforts, as delays can worsen the damage and increase future risks.
Rwanda has identified 14 designated relocation sites where affected individuals can be resettled in case of a disaster.
Statistics show that natural disasters caused damages worth over 222.3 billion Rwandan Francs in 2023.
The tour, which spans several key districts, is designed to strengthen partnerships with local leaders, gain a deeper understanding of regional business needs, and gather direct feedback from customers. Through this initiative, I&M Bank seeks to ensure its services remain responsive and relevant to the diverse economic landscape of Rwanda.
Mr. Mutimura kicked off the tour with visits to six districts: Rwamagana, Muhanga, Huye, Gicumbi, Musanze, and Rubavu. During these visits, he engaged directly with customers at their workplaces, enabling the Bank to better understand the unique challenges and opportunities faced in each region. This hands-on approach underscores the Bank’s commitment to offering tailored financial solutions that foster inclusive economic growth.
“The core purpose of these visits is to deepen our understanding of regional needs and ensure our services are aligned with local dynamics,” said Mr. Mutimura. “By engaging with customers directly, we gain invaluable insights into their businesses and challenges. This approach supports our strategy of delivering customer delight, ensuring that we are not only meeting but exceeding expectations.”
A major highlight of the tour was the unveiling of the newly expanded I&M Bank branch in Huye, now operating as a fully-fledged business center. This transformation reflects the Bank’s continued investment in enhancing service delivery and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
“The development of the Huye branch is a clear demonstration of how we are responding to the evolving needs of local businesses,” the CEO added. “It’s not just about expanding our footprint; it’s about creating spaces where entrepreneurs and enterprises can grow with our support.”
The stakeholder engagement tour also serves to align the Bank’s operations with Rwanda’s broader economic agenda. By adopting a customer-centric strategy, I&M Bank continues to play a key role in promoting regional development and supporting the country’s long-term goals.
As the tour progresses, additional district visits are planned in the coming weeks. Mr. Mutimura emphasized the importance of maintaining strong connections with communities to ensure the Bank’s products and services continue to evolve in line with customer expectations.
This appeal was made following a meeting held in Rwanda at Saint Joseph in Ngoma District. They conference addressed social welfare, strategies for restoring peace in the Great Lakes Region, and efforts to strengthen the Catholic faith.
The gathering was attended by bishops and other senior leaders of the Catholic Church from both nations. They underscored that prolonged border closures have had adverse effects on citizens and trade between the two countries.
Burundi closed its borders, citing demands for the extradition of individuals allegedly involved in the 2015 coup attempt. Rwanda, however, maintains that international law prohibits the repatriation of refugees who have sought asylum.
The bishops expressed their support for ongoing diplomatic discussions between Rwanda and Burundi, emphasizing that ‘border closures have significant economic and social repercussions.’ They urged leaders to act prudently to restore normalcy and strengthen unity between the two nations.
The discussions also addressed security concerns in eastern DR Congo, with the bishops advocating for sustained dialogue among conflicting parties to resolve tensions. They also condemned the use of hate speech by the DRC government, which they believe has exacerbated violence and unrest.
Regarding education, the bishops highlighted the need to improve educational standards in both countries. They also raised concerns about the increasing violence against young people and stressed the urgency of addressing this issue.
