The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Gala Dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s renowned gorilla naming ceremony.
During the discussions, Director-General Kim praised President Kagame for his visionary leadership and highlighted the longstanding partnership between GGGI and the Government of Rwanda.
He reaffirmed GGGI’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s goal of achieving a climate-resilient, low-carbon, and high-income economy by 2050.
“President Kagame’s bold vision and leadership show what’s possible when ambition meets action,” said Kim.
“We are committed to deepening cooperation in key areas, including carbon markets, sustainable AI, greening the Kigali International Airport, hydrogen initiatives, and mobilising green investments for flagship projects in line with Rwanda’s vision to become a green investment hub.”
GGGI has worked with Rwanda since 2012 and signed a Host Country Agreement in 2016. According to the organisation, since 2018, it has mobilised USD 61 million (about Frw 88 billion) in green investments and supported the development of 11 national policies promoting sustainable buildings, waste management, and the circular economy.
Currently, GGGI is collaborating with the Rwandan government on flagship initiatives, including enhancing institutional readiness for carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, integrating gender equality and social inclusion into Rwanda’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions, piloting innovative financing instruments for clean cooking and sustainable forestry, and developing climate-resilient district master plans.
Kim attended the Kwita Izina celebrations as one of the distinguished baby gorilla namers. He named a gorilla “Impuguke,” meaning “Expert” in Kinyarwanda.
The event, which named 40 baby gorillas this year, underscores Rwanda’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community empowerment, principles aligned with GGGI’s global mission.
As of 8:30 a.m. local time (0530 GMT) Sunday, the air defense had intercepted 747 combat and decoy drones, along with four Iskander-K cruise missiles, said the Ukrainian Air Force in a Facebook post.
Five additional Iskander-K missiles, four Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and 56 drones struck 37 locations across the country, it added.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities said the Russian drone attacks triggered a fire in the country’s government building and “emergency crews are working to extinguish the fire.”
This has been the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that “the government building, including its roof and upper floors, was damaged in the attack,” Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed on Telegram.
Svyrydenko added that apart from Kiev, Russian strikes hit the cities of Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Kremenchuk and Odesa.
According to the State Service for Emergencies, a mother and her 2-month-old baby were killed in the capital, while more than 20 people were injured.
In a statement released on Sunday, September 7, 2025, RDF revealed that Lt Gen Kabandana passed away at the Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital after a natural illness.
The RDF described the passing of Lt Gen Kabandana as deeply saddening and extended its condolences to his family.
“The Rwanda Defence Force extends its condolences and joins the family in mourning during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace,” the statement read.
Lt Gen Kabandana was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General in September 2022 by President Paul Kagame, following his tour of duty in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province.
He had commanded security operations as part of the Rwandan contingent supporting Mozambican forces in repelling insurgent attacks.
Born into the generation that joined the liberation struggle in 1990, Lt Gen Kabandana was among the officers credited with helping to end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Over more than three decades of service, he rose through the ranks and held a series of senior positions in both operational and diplomatic roles.
His career included assignments as Defence Attaché at Rwanda’s Embassy in Washington, DC, Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy, Deputy Force Commander with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Head of Logistics in RDF, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.
He will be remembered as an experienced and dedicated officer who contributed significantly to Rwanda’s defence, regional security, and international peacekeeping.
According to sources, Lt Gen Kabandana has been receiving treatment at Rwanda Military Referral and Teaching Hospital before his passing was confirmed on Sunday.
He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General by President Paul Kagame in September 2022, following his tour of duty in Mozambique, where Rwandan forces continue to play a key role in repelling insurgents in Cabo Delgado.
Lt Gen Kabandana joined the liberation struggle in 1990 and was among the officers credited with helping end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Over the course of his career, he held several senior military and diplomatic positions, including Defence Attaché at Rwanda’s Embassy in Washington, DC, Chief Instructor at the Gako Military Academy, Deputy Force Commander with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Head of Logistics in RDF, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.
He is remembered as an experienced officer who contributed significantly to Rwanda’s defence and international peacekeeping operations.
Sagna was among the celebrities who graced the 20th anniversary of the Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony in Rwanda on September 5, 2025.
He revealed his love for Meddy’s songs while visiting his friend Karim Nzabonimana, a Rwandan celebrity barber who has made a name for himself on the global grooming stage.
During an exclusive interview with IGIHE in Kigali, Sagna revealed that he was surprised to receive a message from Karim saying he was in Rwanda. He didn’t hesitate to visit him at his barbershop for a haircut.
“He used to look after me in Dubai, so I had to come to get my hair fixed. When he messaged me, the first thing I did was find time to come,” Sagna shared.
The footballer, who expressed admiration for Rwanda, also revealed his love for music, singling out Meddy as one of his favourite artists.
“I love music, and I’m a fan of Meddy. My favourite song is Burinde Bucya—I play it on repeat in my car. I think it’s all about emotions. I also like Blessed and Downtown, but my favourite is Burinde Bucya,” he revealed.
Sagna also showed IGIHE a selection of Meddy songs he frequently listens to on his phone, including Lose Control, Closer, and Ntacyo Nzaba.
The former footballer made over 280 appearances for Arsenal and won an FA Cup before moving to Manchester City.
Speaking at the dinner, hosted in Kigali a day after the gorilla naming ceremony in Kinigi, the Head of State underscored Rwanda’s unique model of sharing tourism benefits with local residents.
“In Rwanda, 10% of tourism revenue goes directly to the communities living around our parks. It’s not just support – it’s an incentive to protect and sustain our shared heritage,” President Kagame said.
“To our friends and partners: Rwanda is your home. You are always welcome,” he added.
This year’s Kwita Izina marked two decades of the celebrated conservation tradition, with 40 baby gorillas named, bringing the total since 2005 to 438.
The ceremony drew global icons, including American film director Michael Bay, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, Nigerian Afropop star Yemi Alade, former Arsenal and PSG football legends Bacary Sagna and Javier Pastore, and dignitaries from conservation organisations worldwide.
Held at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Musanze District, the colourful event was presided over by Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva and graced by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. It featured traditional performances and strong community participation, highlighting the deep cultural roots of Rwanda’s conservation journey.
Tourism remains a pillar of Rwanda’s economy, with $647 million generated in 2024, including over $200 million from gorilla trekking alone.
Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean-Guy Afrika described Kwita Izina as a symbol of the country’s dedication to protecting its natural heritage and uplifting communities, with revenues from tourism financing more than 1,200 community projects.
At the event, Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva affirmed plans to expand Volcanoes National Park by nearly 25 per cent, ensuring a secure future for its growing mountain gorilla population.
The government plans to increase the park’s size from its current 160 square kilometres by approximately 37.4 square kilometres (3,740 hectares), a move expected to support a 15-20% increase in the gorilla population and reduce infant mortality by 50%.
The proximity between Bujumbura and eastern DRC areas, such as the city of Uvira, allows for transport via Lake Tanganyika crossings or northern road routes.
Since 2023, Burundian and DRC forces have been jointly combating the M23 rebel group. Beyond receiving arms, these forces have undergone training to help reclaim territories lost in North and South Kivu provinces.
The fighting intensified in January and February 2025, forcing DRC and Burundian troops to retreat from strategic towns, including Goma and Bukavu, relocating to Uvira and surrounding areas.
In March 2025, President Évariste Ndayishimiye launched a four-month military training exercise at Mabanda, Mwaro, Bururi, and Mutukura, preparing 10,000 soldiers for deployment to eastern DRC.
According to Africa Intelligence, cargo planes carrying rockets and ammunition from Sudan and Tripoli, Libya, have been landing at Bujumbura Airport for months, with the supplies then offloaded and transported by truck to Uvira under the cover of night.
The DRC government also mobilised aircraft, including Serve Air planes owned by Indian businessman Harish Jagtani, and five from Mont Gabaon operated by Elie Akilimali Joseph, to transport military equipment and food from Kinshasa to Bujumbura, before onward delivery to Uvira.
Two Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft from Baku landed at Bujumbura Airport in April and August 2025, carrying heavy and light weaponry, including RPG-7s and 7.62mm machine guns. These shipments followed a procurement agreement signed in September 2024 between Burundi’s government and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defence.
On September 1, 2025, another Ilyushin Il-76 delivered additional heavy weapons and ammunition for DRC forces, which were then dispatched to South Kivu to support operations against M23.
As the conflict drags on, Bujumbura’s role as a logistical hub highlights Burundi’s direct involvement in supplying arms and military support to the fight against M23, raising serious concerns about the country’s responsibility in prolonging instability in eastern DRC.
Under the theme “Empowering Global South, Navigating Global Changes,” the forum is far more than another international gathering. It is a platform where journalists, scholars, policymakers and entrepreneurs from the Global South are redefining how their stories are told in a world where Western media still dominates the narrative.
From Africa to Asia and Latin America, participants converged to push for greater cooperation in shaping global governance. East African representatives, including those from Rwanda and Uganda, joined peers from across the Global South in calling for stronger information-sharing and a unified approach to addressing global challenges.
Speakers stressed that the Global South can no longer afford to be an audience to narratives set elsewhere. Instead, it must take charge of telling its own story, highlighting not just its struggles but its progress, innovations and aspirations.
Artificial intelligence was one of the most animated topics. Delegates shared views on how AI is reshaping the media and societies, offering opportunities for faster reporting and broader reach, but also posing risks of misinformation and job losses.
Rather than rejecting the technology, many argued for embracing it strategically, developing local solutions, regulating its use and turning AI into a tool for good. Workshops highlighted how AI can be used to preserve cultural heritage, enhance fact-checking and make smaller media outlets more competitive on the global stage.
The choice of Yunnan as the venue carried special symbolism. Known for its cultural diversity and stunning landscapes, the province reflects the richness and complexity of the Global South itself, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and positioned at the crossroads of Asia.
For many delegates, Kunming offered not just a picturesque backdrop but also an environment that embodied the forum’s mission: dialogue, exchange and unity amid diversity.
The forum was co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency, together with the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee and the People’s Government of Yunnan Province. Xinhua’s president, Fu Hua, pledged the agency’s readiness to partner with Global South media in telling authentic stories and amplifying the region’s voice in international discourse.
The message was clear: through cooperation, research, and stronger communication networks, the Global South can move from the margins of global storytelling to the center.
As the forum continues, participants are focused on turning dialogue into action, whether by forging cross-border partnerships, launching collaborative projects or using technology to close the information gap.
The Global South Media and Think Tank Forum is not just a meeting of minds in Kunming. It is a step toward a future where the Global South speaks for itself, louder, clearer, and together.
In a communiqué issued on Friday, RURA said the revised tariffs will take effect from September 6, 2025, at 6:00 AM. The maximum retail price for gasoline (petrol) has been set at Frw 1,862 per litre, up from Frw 1,803, while diesel will retail at no more than Frw 1,808 per litre, up from Frw 1,757.
RURA explained that the adjustments were necessary in response to rising international petroleum prices. The regulator emphasised that the Government of Rwanda continues to implement measures to mitigate the impact on consumers.
“In response to rising pump prices influenced by global trends, the Government of Rwanda has continued to strengthen fuel reserves and prudent macroeconomic management to protect consumers and maintain market stability,” RURA Director General Evariste Rugigana stated.
The new price caps will remain in effect until the next scheduled review in two months.
The event brought together leaders from the entertainment, sports, business, science, and conservation sectors, reflecting the growing global recognition of Rwanda’s conservation efforts. Distinguished guests included Rwanda’s First Lady, Jeannette Kagame; Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva; Rwanda Development Board CEO Jean Guy Afrika; and the Governor of the Northern Province, Maurice Mugabowagahunde.
This year, 40 baby gorillas were named, with several names chosen by prominent figures from around the world. International celebrities and global leaders—ranging from actors and musicians to sports icons and conservation advocates—participated in the naming, using their influence to shine a spotlight on Rwanda’s mountain gorillas and the country’s commitment to wildlife protection.
Among the named gorillas were 18 born in 2024, whose naming had been delayed due to the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda. Families represented at the ceremony included Muhoza, Kwitonda, Matsiko Cyuzuzo, Kwisanga, Pablo, and others, highlighting the thriving diversity of Rwanda’s mountain gorilla population.
Kwita Izina, which means “to give a name” in Kinyarwanda, is more than a symbolic gesture. It celebrates Rwanda’s conservation achievements, the essential role of local communities in protecting biodiversity, and the survival story of endangered mountain gorillas.
Below is the full list of the 40 named gorillas and the meaning behind their names:
{{1. Mushumbamwiza
}}
Mushumbamwiza is a male baby gorilla from the Hirwa family, born on October 19, 2024, to Igihembo. His name means “good shepherd” and was given by Alliance Umwizerwa, Gorilla Research Assistant at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
{{2. Unguka
}}
Unguka is a male from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on July 26, 2024, to Ruhuka. His name means “gain.” He was named by Dr. Gaspard Nzayisenga, a field veterinarian with Gorilla Doctors.
{{3. Rufatiro
}}
Rufatiro is a male from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on November 2, 2024, to Umwe. His name means “foundation.” He was named by Dieudonné Gato, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.
{{4. Amahitamo
}}
Amahitamo is a male from the Mutobo family, born on April 27, 2024, to Ishyaka. His name means “choice.” He was named by Théogène Bimenyimana, Head Tracker, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
{{5. Tsinda
}}
Tsinda, whose sex is unknown, is from the Hirwa family, born on June 1, 2025, to Magayane. The name means “win.” Tsinda was named by Brenda Umutoni, a ranger at Volcanoes National Park.
{{6. Atete
}}
Atete is a female from the Mutobo family, born on September 28, 2023, to Akariza. Her name means “to receive affection.” She was named by Leonard Nsengiyumva, Data Technician, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
{{7. Umutoni
}}
Umutoni is a female from the Kwitonda family, born on April 6, 2024, to Rwunguko. Her name means “favourite.” She was named by Jean Marie Vianney Zirimwabagabo, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.
{{8. Kwihangana
}}
Kwihangana, whose sex is unknown, is from the Kwisanga family, born on March 16, 2025, to Aheza. The name means “patience.” Kwihangana was named by Naume Mukabarisa, Ranger, Volcanoes National Park.
{{9. Ogera
}}
Ogera’s details were not disclosed during the ceremony. The name means “popular.” This baby was named by Khaby Lame, a globally renowned content creator and social media personality.
{{10. Burere
}}
Burere is a female from the Muhoza family, born on October 3, 2024, to Iriba. Her name means “upbringing.” She was named by Princess Ingeborg zu Schleswig-Holstein, a German artist, philanthropist, and Chairperson of the Louisenlund Foundation.
{{11. Ntarungu
}}
Ntarungu is a female from the Kwitonda family, born on April 29, 2024, to Gahuza. Her name means “companionship” or “enthusiastic.” She was named by His Highness Tunku Ali Redhauddin ibni Tuanku Muhriz, Prince of Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, and President of WWF Malaysia.
{{12. Mwizerwa
}}
Mwizerwa is a female from the Matsiko Cyuzuzo family, born on April 20, 2024, to Umuco. Her name means “reliable.” She was named by Professor Senait Fisseha, MD, JD, Vice President of Global Programs at the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation and Chief Advisor to the WHO.
{{13. Impuguke
}}
Impuguke is a female from the Kwisanga family, born on July 21, 2024, to Ahazaza. Her name means “expert.” She was named by Sang-Hyup Kim, Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute.
{{14. Rugwiro
}}
Rugwiro is a male from the Pablo family, born on January 22, 2024, to Ubukombe. His name means “hospitable.” He was named by David S. Marriott, Chairman of Marriott International.
{{15. Tekana
}}
Tekana is a female from the Isimbi family, born on December 24, 2023, to Africa. Her name means “feel secure.” She was named by Dr. Yin Ye, CEO of BGI Group and science popularisation vlogger.
{{16. Ntavogerwa
}}
Ntavogerwa is a male from the Agashya family, born on December 14, 2024, to Inyungu. His name means “untouchable.” He was named by Charlie Mayhew, Co-founder and CEO of Tusk Trust.
{{17. Nyunganizi
}}
Nyunganizi is a male from the Mutobo family, born on November 18, 2024, to Akamaro. His name means “supporter” or “helper.” He was named by Claver Ntoyinkima, Senior Ranger Guide and Trainer, Nyungwe National Park.
{{18. Umurage
}}
Umurage, whose sex is unknown, is from the Hirwa family, born on May 22, 2024, to Umoja. The name means “heritage.” Umurage was named by Michael Bay, an award-winning American film director and producer.
{{19. Rwogere
}}
Rwogere is a female from the Sabyinyo family, born on May 1, 2025, to Karema. Her name means “famous.” She was named by Michelle Yeoh Todt, internationally acclaimed actress and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador.
{{20. Garuka
}}
Garuka is a male from the Kwisanga family, born on October 18, 2024, to Nchili. His name means “return.” He was named by Jeanine Rema (Khadja Nin), an internationally acclaimed Burundian singer, songwriter, and humanitarian.
{{21. Rubuga
}}
Rubuga is a male from the Muhoza family, born on November 30, 2024, to Twitabweho. His name means “platform.” He was named by Mathieu Flamini, Arsenal legend and CEO of GFBiochemicals.
{{22. Ruvugiro
}}
Ruvugiro is a male from the Sabyinyo family, born on May 19, 2025, to Gukina. His name means “platform.” He was named by Jean Todt, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety and former President of FIA.
{{23. Mwungeri
}}
Mwungeri is a female from the Isimbi family, born on August 9, 2025, to Ejoheza. Her name means “shepherd.” She was named by Matthew Harris, Founding Partner of Global Infrastructure Partners and Senior Managing Director at BlackRock.
{{24. Iwacu
}}
Iwacu, whose sex is unknown, is from the Isimbi family, born on May 15, 2024, to Isura. The name means “our home.” Iwacu was named by Laura Kabasomi Kakoma (‘Somi’), Rwandan-American vocalist, composer, and playwright.
{{25. Kundwa
}}
Kundwa, whose sex is unknown, is from the Igisha family, born on May 1, 2025, to Imbaga. The name means “loved.” She was named by Yemi Alade, a Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer and songwriter.
{{26. Tengarama
}}
Tengarama is a male from the Amahoro family, born on August 1, 2023, to Mudahinyuka. His name means “be safe and sound.” He was named by Reed Oppenheimer, Chairman and CEO of the Reed Jules Oppenheimer Foundation.
{{27. Cyubahiro
}}
Cyubahiro is a female from the Mutobo family, born on September 12, 2024, to Igitangaza. Her name means “respect” or “honour.” She was named by Athanasie Mukabizimungu, Founder and Chairperson of Imbereheza Gahunga.
{{28. Rwandanziza
}}
Rwandanziza is a male from the Igisha family, born on September 4, 2023, to Twongere. His name means “beautiful Rwanda.” He was named by Dr. Edward Hult, CEO of Education First North America.
{{29. Muvugizi
}}
Muvugizi is a female from the Isimbi family, born on March 22, 2024, to Rwandarushya. Her name means “advocate.” She was named by Suzanne Sinegal, Co-founder and President of Rwanda Girls Initiative & Gashora Girls Academy of Science and Technology.
{{30. Mpinganzima
}}
Mpinganzima is a female from the Muhoza family, born on November 30, 2023, to Ikirezi. Her name means “futuristic.” She was named by Gagan Gupta, an entrepreneur, conservationist, and builder of Africa’s green future.
{{31. Rugano
}}
Rugano is a male from the Isimbi family, born on March 12, 2024, to Dukundane. His name means “bamboo.” He was named by Camille Rebelo, Founder and CEO of EcoPlanet Bamboo.
{{32. Iraba
}}
Iraba is a female from the Amahoro family, born on September 26, 2024, to Ihame. Her name means “ornament pattern.” She was named by Luis Garcia, Atlético de Madrid legend and ESPN football analyst.
{{33. Amahumbezi
}}
Amahumbezi, whose sex is unknown, is from the Agashya family, born on January 13, 2025, to Munezero. The name means “gentle breeze.” He was named by Bacary Sagna, an Arsenal legend.
{{34. Izere
}}
Izere is a male from the Titus family, born on November 16, 2024, to Agaseke. His name means “hope.” He was named by Xi Zhinong, renowned Chinese wildlife photographer and Founder of “Wild China” film.
{{35. Shyamba
}}
Shyamba, whose sex is unknown, is from the Musilikale family, born on January 16, 2025, to Ubufatanye. The name means “forest.” Shyamba was named by Lee Ehmke, conservation leader and former President & CEO of Houston Zoo.
{{36. Cyerekezo
}}
Cyerekezo is a female from the Musilikale family, born on January 8, 2025, to Izihirwa. Her name means “vision.” She was named by Susan Chin, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Advancement, Wildlife Conservation Society.
{{37. Nkomoko
}}
Nkomoko is a female from the Ntambara family, born on February 3, 2024, to Tegereza. Her name means “origin.” She was named by Ruth Fisher, Corporate Attorney and President of Pereg Holdings.
{{38. Higa
}}
Higa, whose sex is unknown, is from the Ntambara family, born on February 23, 2025, to Nsanganira. The name means “commit.” Higa was named by Vivien Ressler, creative and philanthropist.
{{39. Terimbere
}}
Terimbere is a male from the Igisha family, born on December 3, 2023, to Ikigera. His name means “progress.” He was named by Jean de Dieu Niyonzima, student at the Educational Institute for Blind Children, Nyaruguru District.
{{40. Ogera
}}
Ogera was named virtually by Khaby Lame, TikTok sensation and one of the world’s most-followed social media personalities, emphasising Rwanda’s commitment to linking conservation with global culture.
