The “Cold Outside” hitmaker made the revelation during his high-energy performance at BK Arena on Saturday, August 2, 2025, as part of the closing show for the Giants of Africa Festival. The night also featured performances by The Ben, Kizz Daniel, and Ayra Starr.
As he stepped onto the stage, Timaya took a moment to express his love for Rwanda and its people. “I love you all. You know that? I’m happy to be here,” he told the crowd.
In between songs, the award-winning artist praised Rwanda’s beauty and warm hospitality, giving special mention to Kigali and its women.
“I want to stay here forever. Rwanda is so beautiful, and Kigali is simply amazing,” he said, drawing loud cheers from the audience.
He then dropped the line that got fans buzzing: “I’m not married yet, but I’ll marry a Rwandan woman.”
This isn’t the first time Timaya has spoken about marriage. In a past interview with Nigeria’s Naija FM, he admitted he had never tied the knot but hadn’t ruled it out.
“I’ve never been married, but that could change. If I got married today and the woman started stressing me, I’d leave. In my past relationships, I’ve always been the one to walk away first—I don’t like drama,” he said.
Despite never marrying, Timaya is a father of four. He shares two daughters, Emmanuella and Gracey, with ex-partner Barbara Fumnaya Nwaokolo, a son named Tamar, and his youngest daughter Maya, whom he had with Dunnie Onasanya.
This marks Timaya’s second time performing in Kigali. He last headlined the Kigali Jazz Junction back in March 2022 at Canal Olympia.
RDB had temporarily suspended the issuance of new gaming licenses and the renewal of expired licenses on August 9, 2024. This action was taken as the RDB assumed its role as the regulatory authority for gaming activities and worked on a new national gambling policy.
In a public notice issued on August 1, 2025, RDB announced that the resumption of licensing activities follows the adoption of the 2024 Gambling Policy, which aims to promote a responsible, transparent, and well-regulated industry.
RDB said the decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to attract credible investment while minimising potential social and economic harms associated with gambling.
“The aim is to establish a modern and responsible gambling ecosystem, aligned with international best practices and Rwanda’s strategic vision,” RDB stated.
Under the revised framework, operators with valid licenses are required to comply with updated directives, including the resumption of annual license fee payments as stipulated in Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013.
RDB has committed to providing direct communication to each operator with detailed payment instructions and timelines to ensure continuity of operations.
In addition to re-opening licensing for physical casinos, RDB is now accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for three key gambling categories: land-based sports betting, online sports betting, and online casinos.
RDB has invited interested parties to submit their EOIs by September 30, 2025, via email to NLGC@rdb.rw.
“Submissions should briefly describe the applicant’s profile, area of interest, and proposed investment. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further engagement,” RDB stated.
The current regulatory transition comes as Rwanda works to replace the legal framework that has governed the sector since 2011.
While the review is ongoing, gambling activities will continue to operate under the existing laws, including Law n°58/2011 governing gambling in Rwanda, Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013 on licensing procedures and fees, and Ministerial Order n°001/MINICOM/2023 outlining administrative sanctions.
With a career spanning over two decades, Adesope has become a cornerstone in the African entertainment media space. His work with Afrobeats heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Olamide, Sarkodie, and Wande Coal has cemented his reputation as a key driver of African pop culture across global platforms, especially in the UK.
Recognising his influence and far-reaching network, Rwandan label 1:55AM Ltd enlisted Adesope to spearhead international promotions for “Pom Pom”, which is positioned to open new markets for the trio of artists.
According to sources, Adesope is expected in Kigali ahead of the song’s official release, with promotional activities in the UK lined up shortly after. The label also hinted that Bruce Melodie and his collaborators may head to the UK for a media tour, leveraging Adesope’s extensive industry connections.
Adesope’s media journey began in 2003 at N-Power FM in London before moving to Voice of Africa Radio. By 2014, he was hosting Live at Battersea on Vox Africa TV UK and later became a fixture on Nollywood Movies Sky 329 with Nolly Afrobeats. He also contributed to Ben Television’s ABC Sports segment.
That same year, he joined The Beat London 103.6FM, where he hosted Afrohits on The Beat, becoming a defining voice for African music radio in the UK for ten years. Since 2020, he has anchored The Afrobeats Podcast, a globally respected platform spotlighting African talent and cultural movements.
With his deep ties to the African music diaspora, Adesope continues to bridge the gap between African artists and Western audiences. His involvement in “Pom Pom” signals the track’s international ambitions and positions it for cross-continental success.
The single is slated for release between late August and mid-September 2025, marking another major milestone in Bruce Melodie’s continued rise on the global music scene.
Gakenke Mayor Mukandayisenga Véstine made the announcement during a July 31, 2025, engagement with staff from the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) and journalists. The visit was part of a broader cultural tour aimed at identifying and promoting sites with deep historical ties to Umuganura.
Huro Hill, located in Huro Village, Huro Cell, Muhondo Sector, formerly known as Bumbog, is the most prominent historical landmark in Gakenke tied to the Umuganura tradition.
Historical accounts indicate that Huro served as the residence of the Abiru ba Kwa Myaka, the royal ritual specialists tasked with preparing sacred seeds, particularly sorghum and millet, used in the national harvest ceremony.
At Huro, only the finest, untainted seeds were selected and ritually purified before being sent to the royal court for Umuganura. This tradition is the origin of the popular Rwandan saying “Ihuriro ni i Huro”, meaning “the gathering point is Huro,” emphasising the hill’s role as the central hub for both seeds and those who bore them.
Paulin Mudahinyuka, a 78-year-old elder from the area, recalled the meticulous seed selection practices of the past. He said that, traditionally, women were not allowed to handle the seeds during menstruation, a time considered one of ritual impurity in the customs.
“They were extremely meticulous,” he said. “Only perfect, germinable seeds were chosen, and no one touched them with bare hands. Even men used a special stick known as isando to avoid contamination.”
Once selected, the seeds were delivered to the king accompanied by traditional drums and imutsama beer, all presented as offerings for royal blessing and symbolic national unity.
Elder Mudahinyuka further recounted that during Umuganura celebrations, the King would arrive accompanied by the Chief of the Harvest Ceremony (Umuganuza Mukuru). Together, they would place their hands into a large ceremonial basket (igitenga) filled with sacred seeds and pour them onto the ground, symbolically signifying the King’s blessing over the nation’s agricultural season.
“Once the seeds touched Rwanda’s soil,” he explained, “it was understood that the King had officially offered the seeds to the nation.”
One of Huro Hill’s enduring historical landmarks is a centuries-old rain gauge known as Ivubiro, established by a royal meteorologist named Minyaruko ya Nyamikenke, a local leader of Busigi in the 16th century. He built it at the request of King Ruganzu II Ndori. The rain basin, still present today, is concealed in a bush and retains water even now.
This rain gauge was used by the Abiru royal agricultural seers of the Myaka lineage to predict rainfall patterns. If they foresaw a delayed rainy season, they would inform the King, who would then perform rituals to prompt an early downpour.
To further protect this heritage, Gakenke District Mayor, Mukandayisenga Véstine, revealed plans to compensate a resident whose land encompasses the historic site. The move will facilitate its formal conservation.
“We are in the process of valuing the land and compensating the owner so that we can fence off the area,” she said. “We’re also working with partners to potentially build a small heritage centre where today’s elders who may not be with us tomorrow can document and display these stories, possibly even in audiovisual form.”
The Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) (Inteko y’Umuco) notes that its research has identified over 530 heritage sites nationwide. These require proper signage, preservation, and coordinated protection by multiple institutions.
Other culturally significant locations in Gakenke include Kabuye Hill, home to Iriba rya Nyirarucyaba (a sacred spring) and the King’s cave, along with Mbirima and Matovu in Coko Sector, which are associated with royal traditions, and Ibuye rya Bajyejye, a historical rock in Gakenke Town.
Umuganura in modern Rwanda: The evolving celebration of culture, unity and growth
Far more than a harvest festival, Umuganura is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s roots, an occasion to reflect on collective achievements, reaffirm national values, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that has guided the country through generations.
Deeply rooted in history and embraced with renewed purpose, this celebration continues to bridge the wisdom of the past with the promise of the future.
Umuganura dates back centuries to the time of the Rwandan monarchy. It was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
Communities across the kingdom would gather to offer the first fruits of their labour, typically sorghum, millet, and beans, as a sign of gratitude for abundance and divine blessing.
At the centre of this tradition stood the King, who played both a symbolic and spiritual role. The harvest was presented to him and, in turn, symbolically offered to the ancestors.
This ritual was not only about agriculture; it was a reaffirmation of national unity, respect for authority, and spiritual connection. Umuganura served as a mirror through which the nation reflected on its values, productivity, and collective identity.
Traditionally, Umuganura brought together various aspects of Rwandan life. Alongside the offering of harvests, the day included rituals, traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These cultural expressions helped reinforce social harmony and educate younger generations about shared values.
The celebration emphasised virtues such as hard work, humility, solidarity, and communal responsibility. It was also a time for communities to assess their achievements and set intentions for the seasons ahead.
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In contemporary Rwanda, Umuganura has evolved into a national reflection point. While its agricultural foundation remains, it now extends to celebrating achievements across all sectors—education, health, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It is a day to acknowledge both individual and collective contributions to national development.
Ceremonies are held at community and national levels, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions of local produce and crafts, and forums for dialogue on the country’s progress. Youth engagement is a key component, with schools and cultural institutions working to educate younger generations about the meaning and importance of Umuganura.
As Rwanda continues to grow and modernise, Umuganura remains a powerful reminder of the country’s rich heritage.
IGIHE spoke to young Rwandans from different walks of life to explore what this treasured tradition means in today’s world, reflecting on its historical roots and how it has evolved over time.
Once centred around offering the first harvest to the king, Umuganura has grown to recognise achievements in all sectors of life. Brighton Rutikanga emphasised how today’s celebration extends beyond agriculture to include progress in education, business, and other areas. He noted that the holiday encourages Rwandans to reflect on past goals and set new ambitions for the future.
Others, like Patrick Nshimiyimana, highlighted the personal and cultural importance of sharing the day with family, recalling warm memories of village celebrations with loved ones.
He and Brighton both celebrated educational accomplishments, seeing university attendance and academic improvement as major milestones. Alongside them, Hirwa Prince and Mutoniwase Fabrine shared stories of personal growth and community contributions, reflecting the spirit of resilience, connection, and national pride that continues to define Umuganura today.
“In the past, Rwanda celebrated by sharing harvests like cassava, beans, and maize. They’d bring them to the king and celebrate together, and it was awesome!”
“Now, it’s more than that. Most people rely on services and other sectors, so we use agriculture as a symbol to celebrate achievements in any field. In my sector, I reflect on last year’s goals and plan for the future,” said Patrick Nshimiyimana.
Umuganura is also a time to reflect on individual journeys and milestones. For many young Rwandans, it’s an opportunity to measure growth, whether in education, career, or service to others.
“The grades that I used to get weren’t good, and I didn’t think it was possible anymore, but my achievement when I got to university is that I started getting good grades. That was a breakthrough, and I’m grateful. This year, I’m still growing professionally, financially, everything,” said Prince Hirwa.
Speaking during the celebration of Umuganura in Musanze District, the Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana reaffirmed the enduring significance of this annual tradition in Rwanda’s cultural identity and national development.
“One may wonder if Umuganura remains relevant today. The answer is a resounding yes,” he said. “While its historical roots lie in agriculture and livestock farming, today’s Umuganura celebrates diverse sectors, including service output, technology, education, tourism, arts, and industries.”
The Minister emphasized that the foundational values of Umuganura, planning, resilience, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotism—are as vital today as they were centuries ago.
Habimana also called on Rwandans to uphold and integrate the values of Umuganura into their daily lives and ensure its transmission to future generations.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, the EAC Secretariat warned that unilateral measures restricting freedoms guaranteed under the EAC Common Market Protocol undermine the bloc’s efforts toward regional economic integration.
“Partner States shall not reverse or restrict sectors and trades they have previously liberalised,” the Secretariat said, adding that “unilateral backtracking on these commitments is inconsistent with the obligations under the Protocol.”
The statement comes just three days after the Government of Tanzania gazetted a directive prohibiting non-citizens from engaging in a wide range of business activities. The new restrictions, published on July 28, prevent foreigners from operating mobile money services, repairing electronic devices, running tour companies, or engaging in small-scale mining and media operations, among other sectors.
The order, issued by Trade Minister Selemani Saidi Jafo, also limits foreign involvement in real estate, parcel delivery, cleaning services, salon operations (unless tourism-related), and wholesale and retail trade, except for supermarkets and speciality outlets that support local producers.
Under the new regulations, foreign nationals found violating the ban face fines of no less than 10 million Tanzanian shillings (approximately Frw 5.6 million), up to six months in prison, and the revocation of residence permits and visas. Tanzanians aiding such activities also risk penalties of up to 5 million shillings or three months’ imprisonment.
Tanzanian authorities say the decision is aimed at protecting local businesses and promoting citizen participation in the economy. However, critics warn it could damage cross-border trade and investment, particularly within the EAC framework that guarantees the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital.
The EAC Secretariat noted that the Common Market Protocol, ratified by all Partner States, prohibits reversing liberalised sectors and commits countries to resolving disputes amicably through established institutions.
The Secretariat added that it is reviewing compliance levels among Partner States and will present its findings during the next meeting of the Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment.
“The EAC remains committed to fostering a seamless regional integration process,” the statement said, urging Partner States to uphold the principles outlined in the Treaty and Protocols governing the Community.
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional bloc consisting of eight countries: Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Somalia became a full member in March 2024.
The meeting was attended by observers from the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (representing the African Union), and the African Union Commission.
According to a joint statement released on Thursday night, the Joint Oversight Committee serves as a platform for both implementation and dispute resolution. It is mandated to handle complaints regarding violations of the agreement, take corrective measures, and help settle disputes amicably.
“The Committee is responsible for receiving complaints about violations of the agreement, taking appropriate measures to address violations, and amicably settling disputes,” the joint statement released by the U.S. Department of State spokesperson reads in part.
During the meeting, committee members selected their chairpersons, established the terms of reference for future engagements, reviewed progress made so far, and prepared for the first session of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism scheduled for August 4 in Washington.
The peace agreement includes two core commitments: dismantling the FDLR armed group, deemed a threat to Rwanda and the region, and lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures. Both steps are to be guided by a mutually agreed roadmap from October 2024 under the Luanda process.
Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe told Rwanda’s Parliament on July 30 that the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism would be responsible for these actions and has been given a 90-day mandate, extendable by 30 days.
The Rwandan government has reiterated that the dismantling of the FDLR, comprising remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, must precede any easing of its defensive posture.
Rwanda Defence Force spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga stated in June 2025 that the FDLR consists of an estimated 7,000 to 10,000 fighters. UN expert reports have indicated the group cooperates with DRC forces and armed coalitions such as the Wazalendo alliance, including CMC-FDP and APCLS.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the government described the decision as a strategic reform designed to consolidate institutional strengths and improve service delivery. The integration brings together BDF’s grassroots reach and specialised support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with BRD’s financial muscle, sectoral expertise, and large-scale lending capacity.
According to the statement, the unified institution will be better positioned to deliver targeted financing solutions, reduce credit processing times, and expand outreach through digital platforms and local presence.
The reform aligns with national priorities under the National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and Vision 2050, which seek to foster a dynamic, inclusive, and resilient private sector.
The integration is expected to yield several benefits for Rwandan businesses. Entrepreneurs seeking loans through partner banks and microfinance institutions will experience faster turnaround times, with reduced delays in accessing credit guarantees. The merger will also provide a wider range of financing options tailored to the needs of startups, growing businesses, and large-scale investment projects.
In addition, improved accessibility through both digital channels and local presence will ensure that more entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas, can benefit from development finance.
BDF has supported over 40,000 businesses through credit guarantees and other financing products, while BRD has played a pivotal role in funding national development priorities, including agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
With the integration, the newly restructured BRD is expected to become a more agile and impactful development finance institution, helping unlock the private sector’s potential as a key driver of economic transformation.
FAWE is a pan-African organisation established in 1992, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. It operates in 33 African countries with 34 national chapters, working to promote girls’ and women’s education as a foundation for sustainable development.
In its fifth cohort of university graduates, FAWE Rwanda, together with the Mastercard Foundation, on Wednesday, celebrated the academic achievements of 117 young women who recently completed their undergraduate studies. The initiative, also supported by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), covered the girls’ school fees and related expenses from Senior Four through to university graduation.
The graduates completed their degrees at the University of Rwanda and INES Ruhengeri, officially finishing their studies at the end of 2024.
The students expressed gratitude for the support they received, saying it not only helped them academically but also built their confidence and broadened their career prospects.
Athanasie Bugenimana, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the University of Rwanda and had been supported by FAWE since 2015, said the assistance went far beyond tuition and school supplies.
“FAWE provided more than just financial support—they gave us training and life skills that will help us succeed in the job market. We were equipped with everything we needed, and now it’s our turn to show what empowered girls can do and to help others in return,” she said.
Abineza Benigne, a Communications graduate from the University of Rwanda, described the FAWE scholarship as life-changing.
“I’m deeply grateful to FAWE. When I was told they would cover all the costs for my education, it felt like a miracle. I came from a family that couldn’t afford those expenses, and I used to worry about how I would continue my studies,” she said.
“After graduating, I landed a job in my field. I now work at Africa Improved Foods, a company fighting malnutrition by producing nutritious flours and other food products.”
Dr. Martha Muhwezi, Executive Director of FAWE Africa, thanked the Government of Rwanda for creating opportunities for girls and urged the graduates to become change-makers and role models.
“All of this was made possible through collaboration. We’re grateful to our partners and the Government of Rwanda for their support in advancing girls’ education,” she said.
“Together, we’re building the capacity of talented young women who are ready to lead and inspire others.”
Eng. Pascal Gatabazi, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Education, noted that FAWE’s work has a far-reaching impact.
“FAWE’s efforts have long-term effects. Educating a girl does more than provide her with knowledge—it transforms entire communities, because girls and women play a central role in shaping families and society,” he said.
FAWE began its operations in Rwanda in 1997 and launched its scholarship programme in 2013 through its partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
According to a statement from the Office of the President, the two leaders discussed ongoing cooperation and the future of Rwanda’s collaboration with the Bank, ahead of Dr. Tah’s official assumption of office in September.
Dr. Tah, a former Mauritanian finance minister, was elected in May to lead the AfDB, succeeding Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina, whose ten-year tenure concludes later this year.
He secured more than three-quarters of shareholder votes in a tightly contested election, beating four other candidates, including Senegal’s Amadou Hott and South Africa’s Bajabulile Swazi Tshabalala.
He is expected to formally begin his term on September 1, taking charge of an institution that has played an increasingly pivotal role in Rwanda’s infrastructure and energy development.
The African Development Bank has, in recent years, scaled up its support to Rwanda, financing major infrastructure and energy initiatives aligned with the country’s Vision 2050.
In July, the Bank approved over €173 million (approximately Frw 288 billion) to support the government’s Energy Sector Result-Based Financing (RBF II) program.
The initiative seeks to modernise the electricity grid, expand access to clean energy, and strengthen institutional capacity. An additional €86 million in co-financing will come from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), raising the total project envelope to more than €260 million.
The program is expected to connect 200,000 households to the national grid, provide 50,000 off-grid electricity connections, and distribute clean cooking devices to 100,000 households and hundreds of public institutions. Street lighting is also planned across 200 kilometres of roads in Rwanda’s secondary cities.
The energy initiative builds on a $305 million program launched by the Bank in 2018 and forms part of AfDB’s High-5 priorities, particularly “Light Up and Power Africa” and “Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.”
In June, the AfDB also approved a $500,000 grant to fund a feasibility study for Kigali’s proposed urban cable car system, which aims to become the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa.
The 5.5-kilometre aerial transit line is expected to ease traffic congestion in the capital, cut carbon emissions, and provide fast, affordable mobility options to tens of thousands of commuters daily.
The project, valued at $100 million, will link major transport corridors, including Nyabugogo Taxi Park, the Central Business District, the Kigali Convention Centre, and key sports and entertainment venues. Construction is set to begin in late 2026, with commissioning expected in 2028.
The initiative is aligned with Rwanda’s Green Taxonomy, E-Mobility Strategy, and its Climate and Nature Finance Strategy. The project also supports the country’s goal to reduce carbon emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
AfDB officials have praised the project as a model for green and inclusive public transport systems across Africa.
Thursday’s meeting comes as Rwanda prepares for a new phase in its partnership with the AfDB under Dr. Tah’s leadership. His visit to Kigali, ahead of his swearing-in, is seen as a signal of continued collaboration and mutual confidence.
