The figure, based on the urban Consumer Price Index (CPI) used as the country’s benchmark for monetary policy, remained broadly stable month-on-month, increasing by 0.2 percent compared to October.
The latest CPI release shows that while general inflation pressures have eased compared to earlier in the year, price increases remain uneven across key sectors. Health services recorded the steepest rise, surging by 70.9 percent year-on-year, while restaurants and hotels also saw significant increases, rising by 19.4 percent.
Food-related inflation showed a mixed picture. Although overall food and non-alcoholic beverages rose by a modest 1.4 percent, specific items placed notable upward pressure on households. Meat prices increased by 18.4 percent, while bread and cereals rose by 12.8 percent. However, these gains were partially offset by a sharp 10.1 percent decline in vegetable prices, contributing to a softer food inflation outlook.
Energy and import-related pressures continued to shape inflation dynamics. The energy index rose by 12.4 percent, reflecting higher costs for fuel, electricity, gas and other household fuels. Imported goods inflation stood at 10.2 percent, substantially higher than the 6.2 percent increase for locally produced goods.
Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels increased by 7.7 percent, while transport inflation reached 9.3 percent.
Core inflation, which excludes fresh food and energy and is closely watched by policymakers as an indicator of underlying price trends, rose by 9 percent year-on-year.
At the national level, which combines urban and rural indices, the overall CPI rose by 4.1 percent, reflecting significantly lower rural inflation of 2 percent. The rural index even registered a monthly decline of 0.3 percent as fresh food prices continued to ease.
The annual average inflation rate between November 2024 and November 2025 stood at 6.9 percent, slightly below the headline monthly figure. Policymakers are expected to assess the latest data against macroeconomic conditions as they consider future adjustments to the monetary policy stance.
NISR collects more than 40,000 price observations nationwide every month for the CPI, covering 1,622 goods and services across urban and rural markets.
The statement was issued by the coalition’s political coordinator, Corneille Nangaa, who addressed journalists in Goma alongside senior M23 figures Bertrand Bisimwa and Freddy Kaniki, just hours after rebel forces made their deepest advance in South Kivu since February.
{{‘No functioning authority in the DRC’
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Nangaa condemned what he described as daily confrontations driven by discriminatory notions of “natives” and “non-natives”, accusing government forces of treating sections of the Congolese population, particularly Kinyarwanda-speaking communities, as “second-class citizens” denied basic rights.
He claimed Kinshasa had shown “total irresponsibility”, arguing that the state had collapsed to the point that no real authority existed in the country.
“For several months now, the M23/AFCM has repeatedly asked for the signing and full implementation of a ceasefire under international supervision,” Nangaa said. “Far from being a sign of weakness, this call reflects our concern for civilians and the humanitarian suffering they face.”
{{31 ceasefire breaches
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According to the movement’s account, the Congolese army (FARDC), supported by regional militia groups and Burundian troops, violated the ceasefire at least 31 times between July and November 2025. The alleged breaches occurred despite commitments outlined in the Joint Communiqué of April 24, the Doha Principles Declaration of July 19, and subsequent monitoring mechanisms.
Among the incidents cited, the M23 said Burundian troops were deployed on July 17 2025, to Ndunguye and Baraka alongside FARDC and allied militias, sparking offensives across Masisi, Kirumba, Kaina, Gifuru, and neighbouring areas. Between 21 and 23 July, coordinated attacks were carried out in Uvira’s Hauts Plateaux, Fizi, Baraka, Masisi, and Rutshuru, with FARDC allegedly operating alongside the FDLR and other militia groups.
{{Humanitarian crisis in Minembwe
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The group further condemned an “unacceptable humanitarian blockade” imposed on the Banyamulenge community in Minembwe.
Nangaa stated that FARDC, FDLR elements, and allied militias had effectively isolated the population since February, cutting off essential supplies including food, fuel, medicine, salt and soap.
Minembwe, he said, had suffered more than ten bombings this year alone, including a strike on 19 February that killed General Michel Makanika and another attack on a humanitarian aircraft in June.
He also denounced a December 6 attack in which four women were reportedly killed while attempting to bypass the blockade to buy vegetables. Others were abducted, and many remain missing.
{{‘A coordinated and methodical war’
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The movement accuses Kinshasa of escalating a “methodical” offensive across Masisi, Rutshuru, Tongo, Kanyabayonga, Sake and other hotspots, resulting in more than a hundred civilian deaths and mass displacement.
The rebel coalition blamed Burundi for “directly engaging in an unjustifiable war” by deploying troops inside DR Congo and launching strikes from Burundian territory.
{{Coalition of foreign fighters
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The group reiterated that FARDC operates alongside a wide coalition comprising the FDLR, Mai-Mai groups, Burundian armed elements and foreign mercenaries from Romania, Colombia and parts of Europe.
The group maintained that its forces remained in a “strictly defensive posture”, though it reserved the right to neutralise threats under “legitimate self-defence”.
The AFC/M23 called on the UN Security Council, the African Union, the United States, Qatar, Togo and Great Lakes governments to recognise Kinshasa’s refusal to establish a humanitarian safe zone, which the rebels say they have repeatedly proposed.
Despite the accusations, Nangaa insisted that the movement remained committed to peace, civilian protection and dialogue.
“Despite the severity of the situation, the M23/AFCM remains committed to peace, to protecting civilians, to respecting international obligations, and to engaging in sincere dialogue. History will judge each actor. We have chosen responsibility, protection and dignity for our people,” the group said.
The press conference came as AFC/M23 rebels made a major territorial advance, entering the strategic city of Uvira on Tuesday after days of fighting along the Ruzizi plain.
Uvira, the second-largest city in South Kivu, had been the main government stronghold on the southern axis since February. Its fall marks the rebels’ biggest gain since capturing Bukavu earlier this year and follows the takeover of Goma in January and Bukavu in mid-February.
Government forces, including Burundian units, FDLR remnants, Wazalendo militias and foreign fighters, had struggled to maintain cohesion, with internal conflicts weakening the defensive lines. Recent battles around Kamanyola saw Burundian forces take a leading role, including airstrikes launched from within Burundi.
Thousands of civilians have fled the renewed fighting, with many crossing into Rwanda and reporting abuses by coalition forces.
Meanwhile, Rwanda, which recently signed a peace deal with the DRC dubbed the Washington Accord, has [condemned the renewed violence->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-condemns-ceasefire-violation-of-washington-accords-by-congolese-and], accusing the DRC and Burundi of violating ceasefire provisions and escalating the conflict.
“Rwanda condemns the Congolese Army [FARDC] and the Burundian Army [FDNB], together with its coalition of the DRC-backed FDLR genocidal militias, Wazalendo and foreign mercenaries, and have been systematically bombing civilian villages close to the Rwandan border,” the statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation reads.
“These deliberate violations of recently negotiated agreements constitute serious obstacles to peace, resulting in the continued suffering of the population in Eastern DRC, as well as a security threat to Rwanda’s western border.”
Located in Kacyiru, one of Kigali’s most dynamic neighbourhoods, the new hotel sits on the historic grounds of the former Umubano Hotel, once among the city’s first international hospitality landmarks. Its transformation into Mövenpick Kigali marks both a renewal of the site’s legacy and an investment in Rwanda’s fast-growing tourism and business ecosystem.
Just minutes from Kigali International Airport and within close reach of the Kigali Convention Centre, BK Arena, and major diplomatic institutions, the hotel is strategically positioned at the heart of the capital’s diplomatic and lifestyle district.
Owned by Kasada Capital Management, in partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority and Accor, the project aims to redefine urban hospitality in Kigali through sustainability, community-centred initiatives, and thoughtful design.
“Our goal is to create joyful moments of genuine reconnection, where every guest feels both inspired and at home,” said Mediatrice Umulisa, General Manager of Mövenpick Kigali, in a statement on Monday, December 8, 2025.
“Our approach blends Swiss hospitality, heartfelt Rwandan service, and thoughtful design to create an experience that feels warm, contemporary, and deeply rooted in place. Whether guests join us for business, relaxation, or culinary discovery, we want them to feel the joy of a stay that is nourishing, generous, and full of meaning.”
The hotel features 124 elegantly designed rooms and suites, many overlooking Kigali’s green, hilly skyline. Interiors, developed by Shelter Group Africa, incorporate biophilic design and Rwandan cultural motifs to create calming, modern spaces that reflect both the country’s heritage and the brand’s global standards.
Guests can enjoy signature Mövenpick offerings, including the beloved Chocolate Hour, an afternoon celebration of Swiss indulgence, and RAAVA, the hotel’s new all-day dining restaurant serving an eclectic mix of local and international cuisine. A poolside bar further enhances the relaxed, resort-style atmosphere.
Designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers, the hotel includes four flexible meeting rooms with capacity for up to 300 people. Each space offers panoramic city views, making it an attractive venue for conferences, corporate events, and co-working.
Additional facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a wellness spa, and a fully equipped fitness centre. Families are also well-served through the “Little Birds Club,” an engaging space tailored for young guests.
Raki Phillips, Accor’s Regional President for the Premium, Midscale and Economy division across the Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, described the opening as a milestone for the brand in Rwanda.
“The opening of Mövenpick Kigali marks a proud new chapter for our brand in Rwanda, a country known for its warmth, and forward momentum. Mövenpick Kigali is a bridge between past and future, reimagining a beloved landmark while contributing to the city’s continued transformation,” Raki remarked.
“Through the creation of meaningful local employment, investment in young talent, and a deep commitment to sustainability, this opening reflects our belief that hospitality should leave a positive imprint both for our guests and the communities we serve.”
More than 160 permanent jobs are expected to be created, with a strong focus on hiring local talent, including graduates from Rwanda’s top hospitality schools and former Umubano Hotel staff.
Sustainability is central to the hotel’s operations. Mövenpick Kigali is working toward Green Globe certification and has adopted a full no-single-use-plastic policy, alongside other eco-friendly measures designed to reduce its environmental impact.
Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, praised the project’s contribution to Rwanda’s tourism and investment landscape.
“The launch of Mövenpick Kigali is both a renewal and a continuation of history. This site holds deep significance in Rwanda’s hospitality journey. Mövenpick’s arrival honours that legacy while ushering in a new era of excellence.”
To mark the opening, members of ALL, Accor’s lifestyle loyalty programme, will earn four times the usual Reward points for stays between December 21, 2025 and April 26, 2026, when booked by December 21, 2025.
With its blend of Swiss precision, Rwandan hospitality, and a modern vision for sustainable tourism, Mövenpick Kigali is set to become one of the capital’s standout destinations for travellers, residents, and global investors alike.
The advance comes after days of heavy fighting in the Rusizi valley, where AFC/M23 fighters have pushed back DRC government forces across several areas. Prior to taking Kiliba, the coalition captured the town centre of Runingo and other localities, including Katogota, Rurambo, Luberizi, Luvungi, Mutalule, Bwegera, Nyakabere, and Sange.
Media reports indicate that gunfire was heard in Uvira city even before Kiliba fell, allegedly from fighters associated with the Wazalendo coalition. The escalating insecurity has forced businesses and schools in Uvira to close temporarily.
Sources in South Kivu say that Burundian troops stationed in captured areas, including Runingo, withdrew after facing heavy resistance from AFC/M23 fighters. Similar reports emerged on December 8, when Burundian forces, alongside DRC and Wazalendo fighters, reportedly retreated following the loss of Sange town centre.
The situation remains fluid, with residents and authorities closely monitoring the unfolding security dynamics along the Uvira corridor.
From homeowners working on modest upgrades to contractors handling large-scale developments, La Gloire has built a reputation for offering products that suit every budget.
{{A humble start with tiles
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La Gloire began its journey in 2019, initially focusing on supplying tiles through a partnership with Goodwill Tiles. Salesperson Kevin Gashugi explains that, in the early years, the business served mainly retailers, though individual clients were also welcomed. Word-of-mouth quickly became their strongest form of marketing as satisfied customers recommended the store to others.
“We started mostly with tiles, offering different sizes to satisfy all kinds of customers,” Kevin reflected on those early days during a recent visit by IGIHE to the supplier’s showroom in Gisozi.
As demand grew, clients began asking for more than just tiles, prompting the company to expand its range. By 2022, customers were requesting toilets, cabinets, MDF boards, marine boards and other essential finishing materials, an opportunity that guided La Gloire’s evolution into a more comprehensive supplier.
According to Kevin, the company’s goal was to make it easier for customers to find everything they needed in one place. This led to key milestones: in 2023, La Gloire became the sole representative of BNBM gypsum products, and partnered with Golden Home and Acacia Factory from Uganda for marine boards.
In December 2024, the company also introduced large-format tiles from China and India and became a representative of the Somany brand from India. These expansions diversified the showroom and strengthened La Gloire’s presence in the finishing materials market.
{{Tiles for every space and budget
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Today, the company offers an impressive range of products. Its tile collection includes modern large-format tiles such as 75×150cm, 80×80cm and 60×120cm, as well as more standard and affordable sizes like 60×60cm, 50x50cm, 40×40cm and 30×30cm. Customers can also find outdoor tiles and solutions for stairs.
“We want to make sure everyone finds something that works for them,” Kevin says, emphasising that every client is guaranteed to find an option that suits their style and budget.
For interior finishing, La Gloire supplies MDF boards commonly used for kitchen cabinets, wardrobes and furniture, along with water-resistant marine boards preferred for areas exposed to moisture. To complete these installations, the store also stocks accessories such as handles, sofa legs, taps and cabinet fittings, allowing customers to source everything they need without moving between multiple suppliers.
The company’s gypsum section has equally grown in demand. Clients can choose from BNBM, German and Sunshine gypsum boards, along with the necessary gypsum powder and plaster. These products are popular for ceilings, partitions and decorative work because they offer a clean finish and a modern look while being easy to install.
{{Expanding bathroom and sanitaryware solutions
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La Gloire’s bathroom and sanitaryware section is one of its fastest-growing departments. Customers can explore a wide selection of toilets, including water-saving and soft-close models, smart mirrors with lighting and anti-fog features, bathroom cabinets in modern designs and premium showers. Among the popular innovations are showers with temperature displays, which help users heat water more efficiently and reduce unnecessary energy use.
Beyond finishes, the store also provides essential plumbing items such as flexible tubes, valves, fittings and water heaters. Kevin notes that the water heaters stocked at La Gloire are preferred for their efficiency because they heat water only when needed, making them ideal for reducing household electricity consumption. For waterproofing needs, the company supplies trusted Sika products used to protect bathrooms, balconies and other moisture-prone areas.
{{Customer satisfaction at the core
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A strong focus on customer satisfaction continues to set La Gloire apart. Bulk buyers receive negotiable discounts, and delivery services are arranged based on the size and fragility of the order.
The team also follows up with clients to understand how the products performed in their projects, a practice Kevin says helps the company decide which new items to introduce. He adds that all products meet international quality standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to durability and customer trust.
From a single outlet, La Gloire has expanded to more than 10 branches across Kigali, Musanze, Rubavu and other districts, with plans to continue widening its reach. The company sources products from Rwanda, India, China, Egypt and Uganda, giving customers a wide variety of options without compromising on quality or affordability.
Whether someone is renovating a home, furnishing new spaces or working on commercial buildings, La Gloire offers solutions that are practical, modern and accessible.
“Any budget constraint you may have, come and talk to us. We have experts who can advise you, products that fit every need and solutions tailored to your project,” Kevin assures.
The FiRe Award, presented by the Capital Markets Authority Kenya, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, Nairobi Securities Exchange, Public Sector Accounting Standards Board – Kenya, and the Retirement Benefits Authority, celebrates organisations that demonstrate outstanding integrity, clarity, and responsibility in reporting.
Now in its 18th edition, the platform is widely regarded as the region’s benchmark for best practice in financial reporting.
Speaking after the announcement, Bank of Kigali’s Chief Finance Officer Anita Umuhire said the recognition affirms the bank’s commitment to openness and professionalism.
“Winning the FiRe Award reflects the professionalism that define everything we do at Bank of Kigali,” said Umuhire. “It’s a recognition that our commitment to transparency not only strengthens trust with our customers but also sets a benchmark for the Rwandan financial sector and beyond.”
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Diane Karusisi described the win as a reflection of the dedication of staff, partners, and regulators.
“We dedicate this award to our dedicated teams, regulators, partners, and every customer whose confidence inspires us to raise the bar every year. This recognition motivates us to continue leading with excellence in all we do,” stated Dr. Karusisi.
The recognition comes on the back of a solid half-year performance. The bank reported a Profit After Tax of Rwf 52.2 billion for the first half of 2025, a 12.9 percent increase from the previous year. Growth was supported by a loan book expansion of more than Rwf 231 billion, improved asset quality, and an increase in customers.
Total assets rose to Rwf 2.6 trillion, while loans reached Rwf 1,75 trillion, underscoring the bank’s central role in financing Rwanda’s economic activity. SMEs accessed Rwf 238 billion in credit, retail lending climbed to Rwf 313 billion, and agribusiness financing increased sharply to Rwf 95 billion, one of the fastest-growing segments.
Corporate and institutional lending rose to Rwf 1.1 trillion, supporting investment across infrastructure, transport, tourism, health, and education. A newly introduced Institutional Banking segment has also begun enhancing service delivery to NGOs and faith-based organisations.
Established in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest commercial bank and serves more than one million customers nationwide. Its performance has earned repeated international accolades, including multiple honours from Euromoney Awards for Excellence and Global Finance Magazine.
Speaking across several high-level panels, the Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), Thapelo Tsheole, positioned institutional investors, pension funds, insurers, collective investment schemes, and banks as the bedrock of Rwanda’s next growth phase. With long-term horizons and sizeable asset bases, these investors offer the stability and scale required to support market depth and sustained capital formation.
Tsheole acknowledged the challenges of deploying long-term capital in frontier markets, noting the need for strong governance, technical capacity, and robust risk frameworks to safeguard investors’ interests while driving productive investment.
He also emphasised Rwanda’s regulatory model, rooted in clarity, predictability, and investor protection. The CMA follows a consultative approach and in 2025 engaged more than 700 enterprises nationwide to ensure that regulation remains proportionate, practical, and responsive to a rapidly evolving market landscape.
Regionally, Rwanda continues to collaborate through the East African Securities Regulatory Authorities (EASRA), advancing cross-border listings, shared innovation frameworks, and harmonised oversight standards. This enhances market connectivity and widens access to capital across East Africa.
On foreign participation, Tsheole pointed to the Multicurrency Securities Directive as a breakthrough for diaspora and international investors. Rwanda’s diaspora remits between USD 600–800 million annually, roughly 6% of GDP. New instruments such as diaspora bonds and digital savings products aim to channel a portion of these flows into long-term national investment priorities.
The move positions Rwanda as an emerging motorsport hub on the continent, strengthening its capacity to develop new riding disciplines, nurture local talent, and ultimately host international motorcycling events.
During the Assembly, FIM President Jorge Viegas welcomed Rwanda into the global motorcycling community, describing the nation’s admission as an important addition to the federation’s expanding membership.
Christian Gakwanya, President of the Rwanda Motorsport Federation, represented the country at the Assembly and hailed the milestone as a transformative moment for the sector.
“We are extremely happy for this achievement. Motorcycling has been part of our motorsport activities for years, and with the support and guidance of our government through the Ministry of Sports, we have developed a new roadmap focused on diversification, capacity building, and the ambition to host international events, including major motorcycling competitions,” he said.
Gakwanya extended gratitude to member federations for their support, adding that Rwanda looks forward to active collaboration within the FIM community.
The achievement builds on Rwanda’s rising global profile in motorsport, coming just one year after the country successfully hosted the FIA General Assembly and Awards in Kigali, a historic event that reinforced international confidence in Rwanda’s organisational capacity and commitment to motorsport development.
Following the admission, beginning January 2026, Rwanda’s national motorsport calendar will expand to include new disciplines such as motocross, enduro, and trials, opening pathways for new riders and elevating local competition standards.
{{Rwanda’s push for Formula 1
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Rwanda’s motorsport ambitions extend beyond motorcycling. On December 13, 2024, President Paul Kagame announced that the country is formally bidding to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a move that would bring the world’s most prestigious racing series back to Africa for the first time since 1993.
The initiative follows months of discussions between Rwandan officials and Formula 1 leadership, including CEO Stefano Domenicali, with the nation positioning itself as a strong candidate to revive Africa’s presence on the F1 calendar.
“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is beginning to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix,” President Kagame said during the FIA General Assembly in Kigali. “We are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment it deserves. Together, we will build something we can all be proud of.”
The bid aligns with Rwanda’s broader strategy to attract major global sporting events and strengthen its reputation as a dynamic, forward-looking sporting destination.
In a social media post shared on Monday, December 8, 2025, Flamini reflected on his recent visit to the country, a journey that blended conservation, culture, and community engagement.
Flamini, now CEO of GFBiochemicals and widely recognised for championing environmental innovation, was invited by the Government of Rwanda in his capacity as an Arsenal ambassador. His visit highlighted Rwanda’s growing reputation as a global model for sustainability and eco-tourism.
During his stay, Flamini attended the 20th edition of the Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony, held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District. Thousands of Rwandans, conservation partners, international guests and friends of Rwanda gathered for the annual event, which celebrates the protection and expansion of Rwanda’s mountain gorilla population.
Flamini had the privilege of naming a baby gorilla Rubuga, a male born on November 30, 2024. The name means “platform”, symbolising a foundation for growth and progress, values closely tied to Rwanda’s conservation journey.
Other international stars who joined the ceremony included Argentine and PSG legend Javier Pastore, Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer Yemi Alade, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, and former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna.
Flamini said his time in Rwanda left a lasting emotional impact, particularly his close encounter with Rambo’s gorilla family inside Volcanoes National Park.
“Spending a day with Rambo’s gorilla family, just a meter and a half from a silverback, was a calm, powerful reminder of our place in nature and our responsibility to protect it,” he wrote.
He highlighted the extraordinary dedication of Rwandan communities who have transformed tourism into a sustainable, community-driven economy.
Rwanda’s monthly nationwide community service day, Umuganda, also caught his attention as a powerful cultural practice shaping the country’s environmental leadership.
Flamini was also received by President Paul Kagame, with whom he discussed Rwanda’s long-term sustainability strategy, environmental protection efforts, and the country’s forward-looking approach to green growth.
“Rwanda’s leadership in addressing climate change left a strong impression on me,” he noted. “It’s an approach many countries could learn from.”
In his reflection, Flamini emphasised that what moved him most was the spirit of the Rwandan people, their unity, resilience, and remarkable journey of rebuilding.
“A nation that has faced immense hardship now stands as a testament to resilience and unity,” he said.
“The warmth and openness of its people left me with a quiet but lasting sense of hope.”
Flamini closed his message by thanking President Kagame, Arsenal Football Club and the people of Rwanda for making his experience meaningful.
“Rwanda will forever hold a place in my heart.”
His words add to the growing international voices recognising Rwanda as a leader in conservation, sustainable tourism, and community-centred development and reaffirm the global significance of initiatives like Kwita Izina in shaping a greener future.
The ceremony, held at the newly inaugurated United States Institute of Peace, brought together US President Donald Trump, President Paul Kagame, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, African leaders, and diplomats from around the world.
The accord formalises commitments first outlined in June, including a permanent ceasefire, disarmament of non-state armed groups, the return of refugees, and mechanisms for accountability for atrocities committed in eastern Congo. Trump hailed the moment as “a great day for Africa, a great day for the world, and a great day for these two countries.”
But while Thursday’s signing was historic, an interview recorded with President Kagame ahead of the signing ceremony offers a deeper and more cautious view of what lies ahead.
{{Nothing like this before
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Speaking to Al Jazeera’s Steve Clemons, Kagame said the US-led initiative marked an unprecedented level of focus and political weight behind attempts to resolve the Rwanda–DRC conflict.
“We have never had anything like this, where there is focus, there is attention, to this level, where the two leaders of Rwanda and the DRC meet the President of the United States, who has paid attention to this problem,” Kagame said.
“The visibility, energy, maybe pressure, it has never been like this before.”
For Kagame, the strength of the accord lies in its three-pillar design: political, security, and economic. These components, he said, “capture everything” required to address the root causes of instability, though implementation remains the difficult part.
Asked what distinguishes the Trump administration’s engagement, Kagame contrasted traditional Western rhetoric on democracy and human rights with what he described as Trump’s more results-oriented posture.
“You have the theory of democracy, human rights, but in practice, people’s lives don’t improve,” Kagame argued.
“Then you have the other, which focuses on some tangible things, if it is trade, different economic interests, how they translate into improvements of people’s lives, and focusing on the real things… I think, in my personal opinion and experience from our own situation, I prefer the latter.”
President Kagame emphasised that African governments must ultimately shoulder responsibility for their own governance and peace, saying he does not want to “blame others” for Africa’s unresolved problems.
He also acknowledged Qatar’s role in mediating the conflict, particularly in the dispute between M23 and the DRC government.
Kagame clarified that it was President Tshisekedi, not Rwanda, who requested that aspects of the mediation be moved to Doha.
“People were blaming Rwanda for leaving African initiatives and going to Qatar or Washington. But it was Tshisekedi who initiated that,” Kagame said.
He accused the Congolese leader of hoping to manipulate both the Washington and Doha processes “in his favour,” but said the separation ultimately sharpened the negotiations.
Kagame credited Qatar for its continued “availability and resources” in facilitating peace efforts across the region.
{{Trust, uncertainty, and the ‘devil in the details’
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With the accord now signed, Clemons pressed Kagame on whether he trusts Tshisekedi to enforce the agreement, given a long history of stalled or reversed commitments.
Kagame was diplomatic but frank: “First things first, we are here, and we are agreeing to sign. That is important. But we have had experiences where DRC has been reaching an agreement with different parties, including ourselves. And the next day, after agreeing, they are saying the opposite. And it has happened not once, not twice, not three times, but more.”
Despite this, Kagame said both the US and Qatar are now invested in monitoring compliance and should be equally vocal if either party deviates from what was agreed.
{{Minerals, geopolitics, and accusations of blame
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The interview also touched on the global scramble for critical minerals, tin, tungsten, tantalum, and lithium, resources that are increasingly strategic to US–China competition.
Kagame dismissed longstanding accusations that Rwanda’s exports originate from Congolese smuggling networks, calling them part of an international “blame game” tied to historical narratives about the region.
“Tungsten, tin, tantalum, all of these exist in Rwanda, and of super quality. What we have has nothing to do with DRC,” Kagame insisted.
He argued that Rwanda’s stability and growth have made it a target for simplified narratives that drag the country into their problems for geopolitical ends.
{{A Nobel Prize for Trump?
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When asked whether President Trump or regional leaders deserved consideration for a future Nobel Peace Prize, Kagame brushed off the idea for himself.
“Others could be considered, not myself. I don’t think I’m there yet.”
Pressed on Trump, Kagame didn’t rule it out.
“Why not? Given what he has done in a short time, trying to stabilise things… But he cannot deliver results alone. If we fail to solve this conflict, you don’t blame the one trying to help.”
He added that Trump’s focus on outcomes rather than rhetoric gives this mediation a stronger chance of success than past attempts.
