Friendly countries recently sent messages to Iran indicating Washington’s desire to begin talks on ending the war, but Iran has not responded, the IRNA reported, citing Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei.
Baghaei said Tehran’s stance on the Strait of Hormuz, as well as its conditions to end the war, have not changed, the IRNA reported.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also denied the claim on social media platform X, saying “no negotiations have been held” with Washington.
Meanwhile, several media reports quoted Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, as saying that talks with the United States are meaningless in the current conditions.
Earlier in the day, Trump said he had ordered a five-day delay of planned strikes on Iranian power plants and energy facilities, citing what he described as “very good and productive conversations” over the past two days aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East.
Reuters, citing Israel officials, later reported that the United States is holding negotiations with Ghalibaf, and that the two sides could hold talks in Pakistan’s Islamabad as early as this week.
The developments came amid heightened regional tensions following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran starting on February 28, to which Iran and its regional allies responded with attacks on Israeli and U.S. interests across the Middle East.
Iran’s declaration comes hours after President Trump said he had ordered a five-day delay of planned strikes on Iranian power plants and energy facilities, citing what he described as “very good and productive conversations” over the past two days aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East.
He made the remarks while closing a national meeting of central and local government leaders held at the Gako Military Academy, attended by district officials, cabinet ministers, and other senior government representatives.
The meeting examined ongoing governance challenges, including weak coordination among leaders, inefficiencies in service delivery, and other persistent shortcomings.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister cited findings from the National Institute of Statistics, noting a decline in service delivery performance, from 78.2% in 2023 to 75.8% in 2024, and further down to 71.7% in 2025.
Before delivering his address, Kagame was informed that leaders had acknowledged their shortcomings and committed to improving their performance. He questioned whether the issues raised were new to those present.
“Who here is hearing this for the first time? That would mean there are issues beyond what has been acknowledged. Otherwise, we should continuously assess what is not working, put everything in order, and implement corrective measures. But what we end up with is repetition. So what exactly is the problem?” he asked.
The President expressed concern over leaders who repeatedly make the same mistakes, apologise, and promise not to repeat them, only to fall into the same patterns again.
“Making the same mistake repeatedly, apologising for it, and repeating it again, I don’t understand that as a normal way people make mistakes. It becomes a problem. These are mistakes that are repeatedly made by the same individuals, including those in leadership positions,” he said.
He stressed that if a leader continues to repeat the same mistakes, it reflects a lack of understanding that must be addressed.
The Head of State further questioned whether the issue lies in how responsibilities are understood and executed across leadership structures.
“Is the problem within us as Rwandans? All of you seated here understand your responsibilities and what needs to be done, perhaps even better than I do. Yet we still face these challenges,” he said.
He also highlighted weaknesses in planning and implementation, noting that failure to align plans with execution leads to ineffective outcomes.
“Planning must go hand in hand with implementation. Even when plans are well designed, if they are not aligned with execution, it becomes a problem. You cannot expect meaningful results without proper planning,” he noted.
Citing an example from the Eastern Province, Kagame questioned why an irrigation project intended to also supply water to residents had not achieved both objectives.
“You follow up on one component and neglect the other. How can you achieve the intended outcome?” he asked.
The Governor of the Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, explained that while part of the irrigation component had been implemented, the water supply aspect had been overlooked.
Kagame questioned the lack of coordination among stakeholders involved in the project, emphasising the importance of communication in delivering results.
“After this, you go and communicate, something I have not seen in the past 31 years,” he remarked.
Rubingisa acknowledged the communication gap and noted that leaders had committed to improving coordination and ensuring citizen participation in providing feedback on projects affecting them.
President Kagame concluded by stressing the need for urgent behavioural and operational changes among leaders, urging them to move beyond repeated mistakes and apologies, and to fully understand and fulfil their responsibilities.
President Kagame made the remarks while closing a national meeting of central and local government leaders held at the Gako Military Academy, attended by district officials, cabinet ministers, and other senior government representatives.
Over the course of a single week in March 2026, ALX Rwanda hosted and participated in two impactful Women in Tech engagements, one in collaboration with HerinTech on March 14 and another with Lead Access on March 17. While each event had its own focus, both were united by a shared mission of empowering women with the confidence, connections, and capabilities needed to thrive in tech.
Partnership-driven empowerment
The March 14 engagement, organised in partnership with HerinTech, brought together young women, students, and industry professionals under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.” The session created a dynamic and inclusive space for learning, dialogue, and inspiration.
While each event had its own focus, both were united by a shared mission of empowering women with the confidence, connections, and capabilities needed to thrive in tech.
Speakers, including Linda Ikirezi, Founder of HerinTech, emphasised the importance of intentional collaboration in creating opportunities for women. Their message underscored a key reality that advancing women in tech requires ecosystems rather than isolated efforts.
The event featured contributions from industry professionals and partners, including Marie Grace Niwemukiza from the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, Arnould Gabiro, Software Engineer at Umurava, and Fleury, a representative from NCBA Bank spoke at the event. Sessions covered a wide range of topics, from career journeys in tech to often-overlooked conversations such as women’s reproductive health, creating a holistic environment that addressed both personal and professional development.
Linda Ikirezi, Founder of HerinTech, emphasised the importance of intentional collaboration in creating opportunities for women.
A panel discussion moderated by Liliose Gashugi brought together experienced professionals, including Simonneta Perles from Westerwelle Startup Haus Kigali, Eliane Irankunda Kamana from Irembo, and Resire Mboneko, a Kigali-based Information Security Manager. They shared candid insights on navigating male-dominated industries, with their collective message resonating strongly with participants.
“Show up—scared, nervous, or uncertain—but always show up.”
The engagement also featured presentations from young innovators, including students from SOS Technical School, demonstrating early-stage creativity and highlighting the importance of nurturing talent from a young age.
Panel discussions featured experienced professionals who shared candid insights on navigating male-dominated industries, with their message resonating strongly with participants.
The keynote speech by Grace Ingabire, CEO of RICTA, left a lasting impression. She spoke about the importance of being audacious, challenging stereotypes, and taking action before feeling ‘ready.’
Her message resonated deeply, noting that growth comes from stepping forward rather than waiting for perfection.
What followed was pure joy, with music, dance, and a lively after-party led by the students themselves. From Amapiano challenges to spontaneous moments of connection, the atmosphere reflected something deeper than fun, showcasing a sense of community, connection, and shared celebration.
ALX workshop with Lead Access
Just days later, ALX Rwanda, in partnership with Lead Access, hosted a Women in Tech workshop at the ALX Rwanda Hub in Nyarutarama. Held under the theme “Give to Gain”, the session brought together aspiring technologists, learners, and industry leaders in an interactive environment centred on mentorship, leadership, and innovation.
The workshop highlighted Rwanda’s growing position as a hub for digital talent and innovation. Speaking at the event, Sandra Kabongoyi, Partnership Manager at ALX Africa, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in shaping the future of the digital economy.
ALX Women in Tech events coincided with International Women’s Month, highlighting the celebration of women’s achievements while fostering dialogue, collaboration, and empowerment in the tech space.
The program featured a panel discussion with prominent women in tech, including Noella Mupole, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Solid Africa, Linda Ikirezi, Founder of HerinTech Rwanda, and Michaëlla Rugwizangoga, CEO of WiseAfrica, moderated by Jacinta Gitau. The discussion explored personal journeys marked by resilience, persistence, and growth, with panellists sharing experiences overcoming gender barriers, self-doubt, and structural challenges.
A key message emerged throughout the session: mentorship and continuous learning remain essential pillars for women building careers in technology.
Michaëlla Rugwizangoga highlighted the broader ecosystem’s role in enabling women’s progress, while Ingabire Muziga Mamy, Co-founder of Charis UAS Ltd, delivered a motivational talk emphasising purposeful innovation and leadership:
“The future digital economy must be built by women, not just used by women.”
The engagements sparked inspiration, learning, and connection.
She further encouraged participants to tackle local challenges as a pathway to global relevance, reinforcing the idea that innovation often begins within one’s immediate environment.
For many participants across both events, the experience went beyond inspiration. It provided practical exposure, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence in their ability to pursue careers in technology.
Learners like Apophia Usanabaganwa from ALX Rwanda described the experience as transformative, noting how interactions with speakers and peers helped restore confidence and reaffirm ambition.
“I’m really happy about what happened today. We’ve been reminded that women are capable of everything,” she said. “My hope had dropped in recent days, but today it rose again because of the engaging words from the guests. Right now, I’m very confident that I’m able to do anything.”
She also highlighted the role of ALX in her personal growth, noting that the program has equipped her with practical skills, including AI Career Essentials, and valuable connections to support her career journey.
For many participants across both events, the experience went beyond inspiration. It provided practical exposure, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence in their ability to pursue careers in technology.
ALX at the centre of a growing ecosystem
Through both engagements, ALX Rwanda played a central role not only as a host but as a convener of partnerships, ideas, and opportunities. By working alongside organisations such as HerinTech and Lead Access, ALX continues to strengthen a collaborative ecosystem that supports women at different stages of their tech journeys.
At the core of ALX’s model is a focus on accessible, flexible, and future-ready learning. Through a hybrid model that combines intensive online technical tracks, ranging from software engineering and data science to AI career essentials, with in-person collaboration at its Kigali Tech Hub, the organisation bridges the gap between traditional education and the modern workforce.
By leveraging strategic partnerships with the Government of Rwanda and global tech entities, ALX focuses on large-scale youth employability, offering fully sponsored programs and advanced AI learning tools like “Chidi” to foster a knowledge-based economy and drive regional innovation.
Dozens of young women in tech attended the events.Panellists shared real-world insights on navigating and thriving in tech careers. Held under the theme “Give to Gain”, the session brought together aspiring technologists, learners, and industry leaders in an interactive environment centred on mentorship, leadership, and innovation.Sandra Kabongoyi, Partnership Manager at ALX Africa, emphasised the importance of inclusivity in shaping the future of the digital economy.Through both engagements, ALX Rwanda played a central role not only as a host but as a convener of partnerships, ideas, and opportunities.For many participants, the experience went beyond inspiration, offering practical exposure, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence to pursue careers in technology.Participants gained valuable insights from experienced professionals in the Women in Tech space. The engagement also featured presentations from young innovators, including students from SOS Technical School.The participants cut a cake to mark International Women’s Month.The events offered practical exposure, meaningful connections, and renewed confidence to pursue tech careers.
In a Truth Social post, Trump said the two sides had held “very good and productive conversations” over the past two days aimed at resolving hostilities in the Middle East.
Based on the “in-depth, detailed, constructive” nature of the talks, he had instructed the Pentagon to postpone any strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days, pending further discussions.
Iran’s primary military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, warned on Sunday that power plants in countries hosting U.S. bases would be considered legitimate targets if the United States attacks Iran’s power facilities.
The statement came in response to remarks by Trump threatening to target Iran’s power infrastructure, according to Iranian state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting.
The Strait of Hormuz has not been fully closed and remains under Iran’s “smart control,” with non-harmful transit continuing under specific regulations to ensure national security and interests, the statement said.
If U.S. threats are carried out, Iran would immediately adopt several punitive measures, including the full closure of the Strait of Hormuz until damaged Iranian facilities are rebuilt, it said.
Other measures would include large-scale strikes on Israel’s power, energy and communications infrastructure, attacks on regional companies with U.S. capital ties, and targeting power facilities in countries hosting U.S. military bases.
The statement stressed that Iran would take “all necessary measures” to defend its national interests and would continue operations against U.S. and allied economic and energy infrastructure in the region.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday that he had ordered the military to delay strikes on Iranian power plants and energy facilities for five days after what he called “productive” talks with Iran.
Speaking in an interview with journalist Hubert Leclercq of Le Libre on March 20, 2026, at his residence in Goma in North Kivu Province, Kabila said the current administration must be opposed through collective civic action.
“I said it in May last year—we must stop this authoritarian regime that has taken power. To achieve this, we must join forces and conduct awareness campaigns among all Congolese, whether those in exile or those inside the country.”
Kabila has been based in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo since May 2025. Authorities in Kinshasa have accused him of collaborating with the AFC/M23 coalition, which controls Goma and parts of eastern Congo, allegations he denies. He has been sentenced to death in absentia over the claims.
Explaining his presence in Goma, Kabila said the city is his home, noting that he owns a residence there purchased in 1999. He added that the attacks against him and his political network began in 2019, before the emergence of AFC/M23. He further stated that he has the right to engage with all Congolese citizens in pursuit of dialogue, national cohesion, and peace.
Kabila also accused Kinshasa forces of targeting him following a March 11, 2026, drone strike carried out by government forces, which is said to have been aimed at him and senior AFC/M23 figures, including Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa, Freddy Kaniki, and Maj. Gen. Sultani Makenga.
He further accused government forces of ongoing attacks against civilians in eastern DRC, including in Masisi and Minembwe in South Kivu Province, alleging the use of drones and other heavy weaponry.
On constitutional matters, Kabila argued that the Tshisekedi administration has not adhered to the rule of law and is seeking to amend the Constitution to extend beyond the two-term presidential limit. He described such a move as harmful to the country.
He said any effort to challenge the government should be grounded in Article 64 of the Constitution, which he interpreted as obliging citizens to resist individuals or groups acting in violation of the law.
Former DRC President Joseph Kabila said the current administration, led by his successor Félix Tshisekedi, must be opposed through collective civic action.
The squad assembled on Sunday evening at the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) hotel in Kigali, marking the start of residential training as the team gears up for the international tournament.
Among the early arrivals are several foreign-based players, including three brothers leading the attacking line: Mickels Joy Slayd (FK Karvan), Mickels Joy Lance (Saba Baku), and Mickels Leroy Jacques (Zira FK).
They are joined by a strong contingent of internationals such as Innocent Nshuti (Al Wafaq Ajdabia), Djihad Bizimana (CS Constantine), David Niyo (NK Veres Rivne), Kevin Muhire (Jamus SC), Ange Mutsinzi (Zira FK), Abeddy Biramahire (Assabah FC), Karl Matteo Ndayishimiye (KVC Wilrijk), and Johan Marvin Kury (AC Bellinzona).
Locally based players have also reported to camp, with APR FC contributing Gilbert Byiringiro, Jean Bosco Ruboneka, Adolphe Hakizimana, Jean Gilbert Byiringiro, Yunusu Nshimiyimana, and Claude Niyomugabo, while Police FC is represented by Patience Niyongira.
The squad was received by head coach Stephen Constantine, alongside assistant coach Eric Nshimiyimana, who played a key role in assembling the team.
Kigali will host the FIFA Series tournament for the first time, with Rwanda set to open their campaign against Grenada at Amahoro Stadium on Friday, March 27, 2026.
Among the early arrivals are several foreign-based players, including three brothers leading the attacking line: Mickels Joy Slayd (FK Karvan), Mickels Joy Lance (Saba Baku), and Mickels Leroy Jacques (Zira FK).Kury Johan Marvin has once again responded to Amavubi’s call-up.Djihad Bizimana is ready to inspire Amavubi once more as captain.Ruboneka Jean Bosco and Mugisha Gilbert checked in together for Amavubi duty.Niyo David, who plays for NK Veres Rivne FC in Ukraine, was among the first to report to camp.Amavubi goalkeeper Adolphe Hakizimana checks in at camp.Mickels Joy Lance will play for Rwanda for the first time.Innocent Nshuti is expected to lead Amavubi’s scoring efforts.Abeddy Biramahire of Assabah FC is among Rwanda’s top forwards.Kevin Muhire, who plays for Jamus in South Sudan, has arrived in Rwanda.Zira FK’s Ange Mutsinzi set to strengthen Rwanda’s defence.Jean Bosco Ruboneka has also joined the Amavubi training camp.Karl Matteo Ndayishimiye of KVC Wilrijk has also arrived in Rwanda for training.Yunusu Nshimiyimana has joined the Amavubi training camp.The squad was received by head coach Stephen Constantine.
March 23 is World Meteorological Day, with the theme “Observing Today, Protecting Tomorrow.” On the same day, the WMO released the State of the Global Climate report 2025, analyzing a range of key climate indicators, including greenhouse gas concentrations, surface temperature, ocean heat and acidification, sea level rise, Antarctic sea ice extent, and glacier melt.
The report confirmed that 2015-2025 were the hottest 11 years on record, and 2025 was the second or third hottest year on record, at about 1.43 degrees Celcius above the 1850-1900 average. Extreme events around the world, including intense heat, heavy rainfall and tropical cyclones, caused disruption and devastation, highlighting the vulnerability of interconnected economies and societies.
The ocean continues to warm and absorb carbon dioxide. Over the past two decades, the ocean has absorbed the equivalent of about 18 times the annual human energy use each year. In 2025, ocean heat content (to a depth of 2,000 meters) reached the highest level since records began in 1960, surpassing the previous high set in 2024.
Data from individual monitoring stations showed that levels of three main greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, continued to increase in 2025.
For the first time, the report included Earth’s energy imbalance as a key climate indicator. The Earth’s energy balance measures the rate at which energy enters and leaves the Earth system.
Earth’s energy imbalance has been increasing since its observational record began in 1960, particularly in the past 20 years. It reached a new high in 2025.
The Earth’s energy balance measures the rate at which energy enters and leaves the Earth system.
The statement came in response to remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to target Iran’s power infrastructure, according to Iranian state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting.
The Strait of Hormuz has not been fully closed and remains under Iran’s “smart control,” with non-harmful transit continuing under specific regulations to ensure national security and interests, the statement said.
If U.S. threats are carried out, Iran would immediately adopt several punitive measures, including the full closure of the Strait of Hormuz until damaged Iranian facilities are rebuilt, it said.
Other measures would include large-scale strikes on Israel’s power, energy and communications infrastructure, attacks on regional companies with U.S. capital ties, and targeting power facilities in countries hosting U.S. military bases.
The statement stressed that Iran would take “all necessary measures” to defend its national interests and would continue operations against U.S. and allied economic and energy infrastructure in the region.
He made the remarks on Sunday, March 22, 2026, during the Sixth National Congress of the FPR-Inkotanyi Youth League, which also elected new leadership.
Amb. Bazivamo urged the youth to be guided by integrity, avoid the misuse of social media, reject hate speech and division, and consistently promote unity and national cohesion.
“FPR-Inkotanyi youth should stand out and be exemplary in all aspects by maintaining cleanliness, discipline, professionalism, and delivering quality service wherever you are. Be role models in your families, especially in your communities. Be exemplary in your work, in schools, and in leadership. Be youth who provide solutions wherever you are,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of responsible engagement on digital platforms, encouraging young people to promote truth and counter misinformation.
“On social media, where you interact, we ask you to be exemplary in promoting truth. Avoid harmful content, protect our country’s image, fight falsehoods and division, and use these platforms as a tool to build and develop Rwanda,” he added.
He further reminded the youth that they carry the responsibility of representing Rwanda both locally and internationally.
“Wherever you are, remember that you represent Rwanda. Your behaviour, speech, and actions should reflect integrity, good character, dedication, and patriotism.”
Amb. Bazivamo also commended the outgoing leadership for their dedication and commitment, noting that the newly elected committee is expected to build on those achievements with even greater effort.
“You are required to put in more effort than those before you to achieve even more and build on the strong foundation already laid. We expect you to drive rapid and sustainable development. As members of FPR-Inkotanyi, we are ready to support you in fulfilling your responsibilities,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of the party’s Chairman in prioritising youth in national development programs, noting that supporting his vision requires active participation and tangible results.
He encouraged the youth to work together, remain focused on development, and avoid negative behaviours that could hinder progress.
New leadership elected
Mugisha Ernest was elected President of the FPR-Inkotanyi Youth League, with Rwagitare Nelly elected as Vice President. Kwizera Urindwa Esther was elected as Secretary General.
Other members of the executive committee include Nuru Mupenzi Israel, who will oversee good governance; Marie Valantine Niyodusingiza, who will be in charge of economic affairs; Icyoyishakiye, who will handle social affairs; and Kayiteshonga Kesly, who will be responsible for justice.
In his remarks, Mugisha Ernest pledged to strengthen youth participation in national development and safeguard the achievements made so far.
“We are committed to changing mindsets and acting as true winners. FPR-Inkotanyi is built on a winning spirit, and as youth, we are the future of our country. What has been achieved so far was made possible by our predecessors, but sustaining and building on these gains will require collective effort and unity of purpose,” he said.
Youth achievements highlighted
Over the past two years, of more than 700,000 jobs created, over 570,000, representing 81%, were filled by young people.
In addition, more than 3,700 youth-led projects have been supported with access to finance through various initiatives, including Youth Connekt, the TVET Youth Challenge, and ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi.
These programs have been implemented across the country, with efforts ongoing to expand their reach.
The Youth League has also contributed to community development, including the construction of more than 1,300 houses for vulnerable families, establishment of kitchen gardens, sanitation facilities, and renovation of recreational infrastructure.
Youth members have also supported efforts to keep children in school and helped reintegrate dropouts into the education system.
Through the Ejo Heza long-term savings scheme, young people have collectively saved over Rwf 4.8 billion.
Furthermore, more than 2.6 million youth participated in campaigns against genocide ideology, while over 3.9 million engaged in the Intore program during school holidays.
The Secretary General of the FPR-Inkotanyi, Amb. Christophe Bazivamo, called on young people to uphold strong values, use social media responsibly, and play an active role in safeguarding Rwanda’s image and development.The national congress was held on Sunday, March 22, 2026.Mugisha Ernest was elected President of the FPR-Inkotanyi Youth League.The newly elected leaders of the FPR-Inkotanyi Youth League.
The City of Kigali–backed side saw its relegation effectively sealed with one match remaining in the 2025/26 FERWAFA Women’s Super League season, following a 1-1 draw with Inyemera WFC on Saturday, March 21, 2026, in a Matchday 21 fixture.
Inyemera WFC, which hosted the encounter, proved a difficult opponent, and the match ended level despite both teams creating opportunities. The result left AS Kigali WFC in 11th place with 13 points, four points behind Forever WFC, which sits 10th with 17 points.
AS Kigali WFC will be relegated alongside Nyagatare WFC, who lost 2-1 to Bugesera FC. The Nyagatare-based side has failed to register a single point this season and will go down regardless of the outcome of its remaining fixture against AS Kigali WFC.
AS Kigali WFC now features a squad largely composed of young players.
The 2025/26 campaign has been a challenging one for AS Kigali WFC, marked by significant squad changes and instability in the technical bench.
The season began with the return of Mukamusonera Théogènie as head coach, replacing Bizumuremyi Radjab, who had left to join Rutsiro FC in the men’s top division. However, coaching changes continued in February when Mukamusonera was replaced by his assistant, Mubumbyi Adolphe “Igor.”
Mubumbyi struggled to reverse the team’s fortunes, collecting just two points from five matches during his one-month spell in charge.
Despite its relegation, AS Kigali WFC leaves the top flight with a strong historical record. Over its 18-year stay in the first division, the club established itself as the most successful side in the league’s history, winning 12 league titles.
