The donation was made on June 19, 2026, during a visit to the Nyanza ya Kicukiro Genocide Memorial.
During the visit, participants were briefed on the history of Kicukiro District during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with particular focus on events of April 11, 1994, when Belgian peacekeepers withdrew from ETO Kicukiro, leaving Tutsi civilians who had sought refuge there, many of whom were subsequently killed in Nyanza ya Kicukiro.
The delegation later paid tribute to the victims and laid wreaths at mass graves holding the remains of more than 105,000 Genocide victims.
The Executive Director of Our Past Initiative, Intwari Christian, said advocacy remains a core pillar of the organisation’s work, implemented in partnership with both public and private institutions to support the welfare of Genocide survivors.
“The main activity today, in partnership with Choplife, is the provision of Mutuelle de Santé to 1,000 beneficiaries. We contributed Rwf 5 million, and this is the third time we are collaborating with this company. We look forward to continued cooperation,” he said.
He also urged young people to actively counter genocide ideology, particularly on social media platforms, noting that youth constitute the largest group of users. He emphasized that a strong understanding of history is essential in confronting misinformation and promoting truth.
The Country Manager of Choplife, Cyuzuzo Aimée Pacifique, said visiting memorial sites is an important way of honouring victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi, while also helping young people and foreign nationals in Rwanda better understand and preserve historical memory.
She added that the initiative also seeks to comfort survivors and restore hope so that they do not feel isolated.
“We chose to provide health insurance because we understand the value of life, and we will continue to stand with survivors,” she said.
Our Past Initiative, founded in 2012 and emerging from Sixth City Entertainment, engages in various initiatives focused on supporting survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi and improving the livelihoods of Rwandans.
Choplife is a technology-driven gaming company founded by Nigerian musician, entrepreneur, and tech investor Oluwatosin Ajibade, widely known as Mr Eazi.
Staff from the “Our Past Initiative” organisation, in partnership with employees from the gaming company Choplife, contributed Rwf 5 million to cover community-based health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) for 1,000 survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.The donation was made on June 19, 2026.participants were briefed on the history of Kicukiro District during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with particular focus on events of April 11, 1994.The delegation paid tribute to the victims and laid wreaths at mass graves holding the remains of more than 105,000 Genocide victims.The Our Past Initiative organisation and the Choplife gaming company, during a visit to the Nyanza ya Kicukiro Genocide Memorial.
The Executive Director of Our Past Initiative, Intwari Christian, said advocacy remains a core pillar of the organisation’s work, implemented in partnership with both public and private institutions to support the welfare of Genocide survivors.The Country Manager of Choplife, Cyuzuzo Aimée Pacifique, said visiting memorial sites is an important way of honouring victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi
The appeal was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, at the Africa Energy Forum (AEF) 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. During the forum, Rwanda officially launched the Rwanda Energy Compact, a targeted initiative designed to channel foreign and domestic private capital into the country’s fast-growing energy sector.
Nduhungirehe stressed that deeper private sector participation is vital to bridging the funding gap for the country’s utility ambitions.
“To achieve this, we need greater involvement from the private sector. Private-sector investment remains relatively low, and we need to increase it to about $1 billion to ensure that every Rwandan has access to electricity,” Nduhungirehe said.
The Minister emphasized that expanding the power grid is foundational to Rwanda’s broader macroeconomic goals, particularly localized industrialization.
“We understand that energy is not an end in itself; it is a tool for development. Rwanda is a developing country at the heart of Africa, and we need to industrialize. We must build a vibrant economy with strong industries that can produce locally made goods, helping to reduce our trade deficit,” he noted.
The Rwanda Energy Compact also serves as a framework to promote regional grid integration across East Africa. Nduhungirehe called for cohesive public-private frameworks that look beyond domestic borders.
“Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that Africa produces enough energy to sustain its industries and enable the continent to become the global economic powerhouse it has the potential to be,” he added.
A 30-year energy transformation
Rwanda’s energy landscape has undergone a dramatic shift over the past three decades, with domestic electricity access soaring from just 1% in 1994 to 86% today.
Under the Rwanda Energy Group’s (REG) 10-year strategic framework, the government aims to expand total installed capacity to 1,066 megawatts (MW). A robust pipeline of diverse energy projects is already underway to meet this target:
Key domestic projects include the 43.5 MW Nyabarongo II Hydropower Plant, the 9.7 MW Rukarara VI project (currently 26% complete), and the 0.91 MW Nyirahundwe plant (71% complete). Regionally, Rwanda is partnering with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo on the 206 MW Rusizi III project, alongside ongoing feasibility studies for the expansion of the operational Ntaruka Hydropower Plant.
Unique extraction projects at Lake Kivu continue to anchor baseline power. The KivuWatt and Shema Power Lake Kivu facilities currently supply 82 MW, accounting for roughly 21% of national generation. The government plans to scale methane-based capacity to 100 MW.
Solar energy is poised to take a larger share of the national energy mix through upcoming projects, including the 30 MW Mpanga Solar PV plant in Kirehe District, a massive 200 MW Nyabarongo II Solar PV project, and the 4.13 MW Izuba CB Energy plant.
Overall, Rwanda estimates that a total of $3.2 billion will be required to fully implement its 10-year national energy strategy. The government plans to secure the remaining balance through a mix of concessional loans, green bonds, carbon credits, and climate-finance instruments.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, highlighted Rwanda’s energy ambitions at the Africa Energy Forum (AEF) 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Dr. Jean Bosco Butera has been installed as the new President of the Rotary Club of Kigali Seniors, pledging to expand the club’s community service projects, strengthen partnerships and secure international funding to increase its impact across Rwanda.
Dr. Butera was installed during the club’s fifth presidential installation ceremony held on Friday, June 19, at Kigali Serena Hotel. The event also featured the recognition of the outgoing board for its service during the 2025/2026 Rotary year, honours for distinguished members, and a celebration attended by Rotarians, partners and guests from Rwanda and abroad.
A new board was also unveiled to steer the club in the 2026–2027 year.
Taking over from Ambassador Joy Mukanyange, who has led the club over the past year, Dr. Butera committed to building on the foundation laid by previous leaders while steering the club toward projects that create lasting impact.
“I pledge to be guided by our primary motto, Service Above Self, and to build on the strong foundation laid by the past leaders who preceded me,” he said.
Dr. Butera’s one-year leadership term, which begins on July 1, will be guided by Rotary International’s new annual theme, “Create Lasting Impact,” replacing this year’s theme, “Unite for Good.”
Scaling up successful projects
Rather than launching numerous new initiatives, Dr. Butera said his administration would focus on expanding projects that have already demonstrated measurable impact in communities.
Among his priorities is securing at least two Rotary Global Grants to support programmes in health, water and sanitation, and agriculture.
“We have already begun the groundwork. My goal is that we obtain at least two Global Grants during this coming year,” he said.
The club has so far financed its community projects largely through contributions from its members. Dr. Butera said one of his priorities will be to secure Rotary Global Grants to complement members’ contributions and enable the club to scale up its impact across Rwanda.
Dr. Butera noted that the club achieved another milestone during the outgoing year by making its first $5,000 contribution to Rotary International, a step that positions it to qualify for larger international grants.
Beyond fundraising, he pledged to continue expanding programmes supporting teenage mothers, women’s economic empowerment, peacebuilding and social cohesion.
He also announced plans to establish the Rotary Rwanda Association for Peace and Inclusive Development (RAPID), a platform intended to strengthen collaboration among Rotary clubs in promoting peace, inclusive development and national unity.
Celebrating a year of service
Outgoing President Ambassador Joy Mukanyange reflected on what she described as a successful year marked by projects addressing some of Rwanda’s pressing social and economic challenges.
She highlighted initiatives aimed at economic empowerment, food security, climate resilience, clean water access, maternal and child health, early childhood education and peacebuilding.
Among the club’s flagship projects were support for more than 60 women in a revolving income fund, an initiative designed to help beneficiaries generate sustainable incomes rather than rely on repeated assistance.
The club also reported reaching 1,792 children targeted for malnutrition rehabilitation, alongside efforts to improve child welfare in vulnerable communities.
In addition, more than 75 teenage mothers were reintegrated, while over 90 children were supported in early childhood education programmes, strengthening both family stability and early learning outcomes.
The club also collaborated with Gasabo District to combat malnutrition and stunting, supplied clean water tanks and purification systems to schools, and supported communities in Musha Cell, Rwamagana District, through an ongoing clean water project.
Mukanyange said the club also partnered with healthcare workers in Byumba to help teenage mothers acquire vocational skills and return to school where possible, enabling them to rebuild their lives.
She stressed that Rotary’s work extends beyond charity, focusing instead on empowering communities to become self-reliant.
“As the Rotary Club of Kigali Seniors, we believe there can be no peace without development, and there can be no development without the economic empowerment of the most disadvantaged groups in our community,” she remarked.
The club also invested in training Rotaractors in peacebuilding and conflict prevention while collaborating with international partners on projects ranging from food security to improving urology care in Rwanda.
Mukanyange further announced that the club met its target of expanding membership to 45 members during the 2025/2026 Rotary year and welcomed seven new Paul Harris Fellows, recognising members who have made significant contributions to The Rotary Foundation.
Banks urged to drive transformation
The ceremony’s Guest of Honour, Bank of Kigali Chief Executive Officer Dr. Diane Karusisi, challenged financial institutions to redefine their role by becoming active drivers of Rwanda’s long-term development.
Speaking on the theme “From Transaction to Transformation: Rethinking the Role of Banks in Society,” she said banks must move beyond facilitating financial transactions to financing national transformation.
Karusisi said the banking sector has a central role to play in delivering Rwanda’s Vision 2050 by supporting infrastructure, affordable housing, agriculture, digital connectivity and financial inclusion.
She noted that Bank of Kigali, whose balance sheet now exceeds Rwf 3 trillion, is positioning itself as a key private-sector partner in translating the country’s long-term development goals into reality.
“We must move beyond being mere facilitators of transactions to becoming active drivers of transformation,” she said.
She also expressed the bank’s readiness to partner with organisations such as Rotary in advancing sustainable development and improving livelihoods.
A night of recognition and fellowship
The installation ceremony also recognised members of the outgoing board for their contributions during the past Rotary year and honoured individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the organisation’s principle of Service Above Self.
Guests participated in a raffle draw that featured prizes including staycations at hospitality establishments and other giveaways.
Dr. Jean Bosco Butera was installed as the new President of the Rotary Club of Kigali Seniors on Friday.He takes over from Ambassador Joy Mukanyange, who has led the club over the past year.Dr. Butera was installed during the club’s fifth presidential installation ceremony held on Friday, June 19, at Kigali Serena Hotel. He pledged to expand the club’s community service projects, strengthen partnerships and secure international funding to increase its impact across Rwanda. The celebration attended by Rotarians, partners and guests from Rwanda and abroad. A new board was unveiled to steer the club in the 2026–2027 year.
Guests participated in a raffle draw that featured prizes including staycations at hospitality establishments and other giveaways.The ceremony’s Guest of Honour, Bank of Kigali Chief Executive Officer Dr. Diane Karusisi, challenged financial institutions to redefine their role by becoming active drivers of Rwanda’s long-term development.Ann-Marie offered a testimony on how she has benefited from the Rotary Club’s initiatives targeting women.
Guests were treated to soothing music.
The event also featured the recognition of the outgoing board for its service during the 2025/2026 Rotary year.Dr. Butera was installed during the club’s fifth presidential installation ceremony held on Friday, June 19, at Kigali Serena Hotel.
The digital learning platform is expected to equip banking professionals with the skills needed to integrate ESG principles into their operations as the sector responds to growing sustainability, regulatory and market expectations.
The platform provides continuous, accessible and locally relevant training through structured modules covering ESG fundamentals, climate risk management, sustainable finance, governance, ESG disclosure, financial inclusion, nature finance, and environmental and social risk management.
Speaking during the launch on Friday, Rwanda Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Officer, Tony Francis Ntore, said sustainability has become a core element of modern banking and financial risk management as climate change, social inequality and governance challenges continue to reshape the global financial landscape.
He noted that Rwanda has already laid a strong foundation through initiatives such as the Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy, Nationally Determined Contributions and the Green Taxonomy, prompting the banking sector to strengthen its own sustainability efforts.
Ntore revealed that the association’s journey began with the ESG Awareness Guidelines for Banks before evolving into an ESG Community of Practice that brings together banks, regulators and development partners to exchange knowledge and best practices.
“The platform’s value goes beyond training,” he stated. “It strengthens risk management, supports stronger Environmental and Social Management Systems, improves readiness for new regulations, and helps finance Rwanda’s sustainable development goals more effectively.”
The launch was officiated by the Minister of Environment, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye, who underscored the critical role financial institutions play in financing Rwanda’s transition to a climate-resilient and low-carbon economy.
“Every day, banks make decisions that shape the future of our economy,” she remarked. “The projects you finance, the risks you assess and the clients you support can accelerate our transition to a greener and more competitive economy, or expose businesses and financial institutions to growing environmental and climate-related risks.”
She added that economic prosperity and environmental protection are mutually reinforcing, arguing that countries and businesses investing in sustainability and resilience are becoming more competitive, more attractive to investors and better prepared for future shocks.
Also speaking at the launch, IFC Resident Representative to Rwanda and Uganda, Jiyeon Janice Ryu, highlighted the importance of strengthening the banking sector’s capacity to identify, assess, and finance sustainable investments.
She said that as Rwanda advances its climate, development and economic transformation agenda, financial institutions will play an increasingly important role in directing capital towards projects that generate both financial returns and sustainability outcomes.
Ryu added that continued collaboration among banks, regulators, policymakers, development partners and the private sector will be essential to building a more resilient and sustainable economy.
The launch of the ESG e-learning platform marks another milestone in Rwanda’s sustainable finance journey, with the initiative expected to serve as a key resource for building the expertise needed to translate the country’s sustainability ambitions into practical action across the financial sector.
The Rwanda Bankers Association is the umbrella body for licensed banks operating in Rwanda and works to promote collaboration within the banking industry while advancing initiatives that support a stable, innovative and inclusive financial sector.
The Rwanda Bankers’ Association (RBA), in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), has launched a new ESG e-learning platform aimed at strengthening environmental, social and governance (ESG) knowledge and advancing sustainable banking practices across Rwanda’s financial sector.Tony Francis Ntore, said sustainability has become a core element of modern banking and financial risk management as climate change, social inequality and governance challenges continue to reshape the global financial landscape.The launch was officiated by the Minister of Environment, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye.IFC Resident Representative to Rwanda and Uganda, Jiyeon Janice Ryu, highlighted the importance of strengthening the banking sector’s capacity to identify, assess, and finance sustainable investments.Teddy Mugabo, CEO Rwanda Green Fund, attended the launch.The digital learning platform is expected to equip banking professionals with the skills needed to integrate ESG principles into their operations as the sector responds to growing sustainability, regulatory and market expectations.Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Rwanda Chief Executive Officer Romeo Ngarambe (right) chats with IFC Resident Representative for Rwanda and Uganda, Jiyeon Janice Ryu (left), during the launch event.The launch was officiated by the Minister of Environment, Dr. Bernadette Arakwiye (fourth from left), seen here in a group photo with IFC Resident Representative for Rwanda and Uganda, Jiyeon Janice Ryu (immediately to her left), and Rwanda Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Officer Tony Francis Ntore (immediately to her right).
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that more than 270,000 people, mostly women and children, are sheltering in over 60 sites across the province of Ituri, many of which lack adequate access to water, sanitation and health services.
The office said the United Nations has received reports from local partners that, between Wednesday and Thursday, at least 13 people died in two camps in Bunia, the capital of Ituri. Response teams are urgently investigating whether these deaths are linked to Ebola. Since April, at least 62 deaths have been reported in camps around the city.
“These deaths are occurring amid a broader Ebola flare-up in Bunia, where mistrust of health facilities, congestion, gaps in prevention measures and unsafe handling of bodies are driving transmission risks among people in displacement camps,” OCHA said. “This is particularly concerning as Ituri province remains the epicentre of the outbreak, accounting for more than 90 percent of confirmed cases.”
The office said that as of Wednesday, local authorities had reported 896 confirmed Ebola cases across Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu.
OCHA said it is working with its partners and local authorities to strengthen community engagement and scale up health and sanitation efforts in the camps. The current measures are insufficient, given the scale of the needs.
“The Ebola epidemic is unfolding against the backdrop of a broader humanitarian crisis,” the office said, adding that the 2026 humanitarian response plan, which calls for 1.4 billion U.S. dollars, seeks to respond to the full spectrum of humanitarian needs, including food security, protection, water and sanitation, health care and education, for 7.3 million of the DRC’s most vulnerable people.
Yet the appeal is only just over half funded, OCHA noted.
A drone view of displaced people from the Kigonze camp attending the burial of Ebola victims at Nyamurongo Cemetery, one month after an outbreak was declared, in Bunia, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, June 18, 2026.
The decision, issued on June 19, confirms an earlier ruling by the Kicukiro Primary Court of May 26, 2026, which found that there are strong grounds to suspect the accused of committing multiple offenses.
The alleged offenses include human trafficking, complicity in human trafficking, unlawful arrest and detention, issuing threats, failure to report a serious crime, and forgery, alteration, and use of falsified documents.
Dr. Semwaga is separately charged with complicity in human trafficking, failure to report a serious crime, and forgery, alteration, and use of falsified documents.
Prosecutors say the case arises from a fertility arrangement set up by Nsabimana and his wife Mukahigiro, which connected infertile couples with women willing to carry pregnancies on their behalf. Authorities allege that the arrangement later became commercialized and involved illegal practices.
It is further alleged that women who agreed to carry pregnancies were promised medical and social support during pregnancy, but that these commitments were not fulfilled. Some of the women were also allegedly threatened when they raised concerns.
Investigators allege that Dr. Semwaga was involved in embryo transfer procedures for participating women. However, the prosecution maintains that the procedures were carried out outside approved legal and institutional frameworks, and without the knowledge of the hospital where he worked.
Dr. Semwaga had requested provisional release, arguing that he needed to continue providing medical follow-up for women who had undergone embryo transfers and were nearing delivery. He also offered bail of 20 million Rwandan francs, which the court rejected.
On May 28, the accused filed an appeal at the Nyarugenge High Court, which was registered on June 1, seeking to overturn the lower court’s decision to keep them in custody.
During a closed-door appeal hearing held last week, Dr. Semwaga reiterated his request for release, stating that the women involved still required his medical attention and continued to consult him from the Nyarugenge Correctional Facility for treatment guidance.
The co-accused also argued that they were not a flight risk and should be released pending trial. The court, however, dismissed all arguments and ordered that they remain in provisional detention pending the substantive hearing of the case.
Dr. Emmanuel Semwaga and his co-accused will remain in provisional detention.
According to the DRC government, the term refers to the millions of Congolese who were killed during the plundering of the country’s natural resources, particularly strategic minerals needed for modern technology such as coltan, tantalum, tungsten, and others. The DRC argues that these tragedies should be recognized as genocide and acknowledged as such by the international community.
Although the issue concerns the Congo, its implications extend to neighboring countries, including Rwanda. Rwanda sees it differently. It argues that “Genocost” is a political tool intended to distract attention from the DRC’s internal problems, overlook the role of the Kinshasa government in conflicts that have persisted for decades, and attempt to rewrite the history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The controversy has gained greater significance as relations between Rwanda and the DRC continue to deteriorate, particularly over the presence of the FDLR armed group in eastern DRC and the conflict involving FARDC and AFC/M23.
A controversial term
Although “Genocost” is now used by senior DRC officials, it is not a long-established concept in the country’s political history. The term was introduced in 2013 in London by activists from the Congolese Action Youth Platform (CAYP) as a combination of the words “genocide” and “cost,” intended to describe what they considered a genocide driven by economic interests.
They designated August 2 as a day of remembrance for crimes committed in the DRC since the 1990s. The date was chosen because it coincides with the launch of the Rassemblement Congolais pour la Démocratie (RCD), a movement that fought against the government of Laurent-Désiré Kabila in 1998 during the Second Congo War.
However, even within the DRC there is no consensus about the date from which “Genocost” should begin. Some associate it with 1998, others with 1996, when Laurent-Désiré Kabila’s AFDL was launched. Meanwhile, Fonarev—the DRC government fund responsible for compensating victims of war-related violence and serious crimes—argues that the history should begin in 1993, before the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
This lack of agreement itself highlights a major issue with the term: there is no consensus regarding the period it covers, the crimes it encompasses, the perpetrators involved, or the specific group that was allegedly targeted in a systematic manner, as required under international legal definitions of genocide.
Although “Genocost” is now used by senior DRC officials, it is not a long-established concept in the country’s political history.
The DRC says it is about justice and dignity
From Kinshasa’s perspective, “Genocost” represents an effort to give a name to the suffering of Congolese people who, for years, have been killed, raped, displaced from their homes, or turned into internally displaced persons within their own country.
Supporters of the term argue that conflicts in the DRC cannot be explained solely as ethnic wars or internal political disputes. Instead, they contend that foreign interests and the trade in mineral resources are fundamental drivers of the violence.
In 2023, after “Genocost” was incorporated into DRC law through legislation adopted on December 26, 2022, which also established Fonarev, President Félix Tshisekedi presided over the first official state commemoration. In 2025, the DRC inaugurated a “Genocost” memorial and announced plans to build six additional memorials across the country.
Tshisekedi has also raised the issue at the United Nations, arguing that the international community has both political and humanitarian obligations to recognize what happened in the DRC as genocide.
Why Rwanda views “Genocost” as a political campaign
Rwanda says the issue is not about denying that Congolese people have died or suffered abuse. It acknowledges that the DRC has experienced severe tragedies involving war, killings, violence, and decades of poor governance.
What Rwanda opposes, however, is the attempt to label those crimes as “genocide” in a manner it argues is inconsistent with international law and is being used politically to accuse Rwanda and diminish the significance of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has stated that genocide is not a term that can be used arbitrarily. He argued that genocide is defined under international law, while crimes driven by economic exploitation or resource looting already have established legal classifications, including corruption, poor governance, embezzlement of public funds, war crimes, or crimes against humanity, depending on the circumstances.
This forms the basis of Rwanda’s argument that the extraordinary suffering experienced by the DRC does not automatically mean every mass killing constitutes genocide.
Under international law, genocide requires proof of an intent to destroy a protected group defined by ethnicity, nationality, race, or religion.
Without evidence of such intent, crimes may qualify as war crimes or crimes against humanity, but not necessarily genocide.
“Genocost,” a term that targets an ethnic group
According to the article, the version of “Genocost” promoted by Fonarev includes language that assigns collective blame to an ethnic group.
Fonarev defines “Genocost” as killings of “Congolese people” allegedly planned by what it describes as “Tutsi from Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi.” Rwanda has frequently argued that such language is dangerous because it risks turning public suffering into a tool for promoting ethnic hatred.
This rhetoric comes at a time when eastern DRC has witnessed statements and actions targeting Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, particularly Congolese Tutsi. On various occasions, videos have circulated showing Tutsi individuals being killed, burned, or subjected to violence because of their appearance or perceived identity.
For this reason, Rwanda argues that the DRC government should not present itself as a champion against genocide while anti-Tutsi rhetoric and actions continue within the country.
Stephanie Nyombayire, spokesperson for Rwanda’s Office of the President, has stated that the Kinshasa government is “inventing a genocide” to conceal its own shortcomings. She argued that many Congolese who died in the past and those who continue to die today are victims of poor governance, as the state has failed to protect its citizens while leaders prioritize their own interests over public security.
“Genocost” has become a propaganda tool
The DRC’s international campaign to promote recognition of “Genocost” has coincided with renewed fighting in eastern DRC, where Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of supporting AFC/M23.
Researcher Pierre Boisselet of the Ebuteli Institute has suggested that the way Kinshasa uses the term may be intended to portray Congolese suffering as equal to, or greater than, the suffering of Rwandans during the Genocide against the Tutsi. According to him, this could undermine what he described as Rwanda’s “unique moral standing” derived from the events of 1994.
Experts in international law have also pointed out that promoting a term that has not been recognized in legal frameworks may be difficult because states cannot be compelled to accept a concept that has never been internationally agreed upon.
Rwanda therefore argues that if crimes have been committed in the DRC, they should be thoroughly investigated and those responsible brought to justice, but not through the creation of a new term used to wage a political battle.
President Tshisekedi has prominently used the term “Genocost” in political discourse.
Some Congolese disagree with the government
The activists who originally launched the “Genocost” campaign have themselves begun expressing concerns about how the DRC government is using it.
CAYP, the organization that introduced the term, has criticized Kinshasa’s approach, arguing that it has become overly focused on conferences, discussions, and symbolic public events rather than implementing concrete measures to protect civilians and assist victims.
Some critics also question how the government can claim to pursue justice for war crimes while including officials who have been associated with past conflicts. One example frequently cited is Jean-Pierre Bemba, who serves within Tshisekedi’s administration but is also linked to the history of the Second Congo War.
Others argue that the pursuit of justice should not involve distorting history, assigning blame to an entire ethnic group, or attempting to compete with the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Genocide against the Tutsi has a documented history, identified perpetrators, a clear extermination plan, organized hate propaganda, state institutions that implemented it, and rulings from international courts confirming its occurrence. Comparing it to a newly coined term that lacks recognition under international law may therefore be viewed as a form of genocide minimization.
Saibari struck after just 71 seconds, netting the fastest goal of the tournament so far and handing the Atlas Lions a crucial three points. The victory lifted Morocco to four points from two matches and into second place in Group C, level with leaders Brazil but behind on goal difference.
The decisive moment came almost immediately after kickoff. Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz delivered a perfectly weighted pass over the top, and Saibari timed his run to perfection after being played onside by Grant Hanley.
The PSV Eindhoven midfielder controlled the ball expertly before unleashing a powerful finish beyond Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
Morocco, who drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match, dominated possession and looked dangerous whenever they attacked. Bilal El Khannouss squandered a promising opportunity before the break, while Saibari came close to doubling his tally early in the second half when his effort struck the crossbar following a deflection from Jack Hendry.
Gunn kept Scotland in the contest with a fine save from an El Khannouss header moments later, ensuring the margin remained just one goal.
Scotland, buoyed by their opening victory over Haiti, struggled to create meaningful opportunities against a disciplined Moroccan defence. Their first real threat arrived in first-half stoppage time when Andy Robertson’s cross found John McGinn, but the midfielder could not direct his effort on target.
Steve Clarke’s side improved after the interval, with Ryan Christie firing over from a promising position and Scott McTominay striking the side-netting late on. However, they failed to register a shot on target as Morocco comfortably absorbed the pressure.
Later on Friday, Brazil climbed to the top of Group C with a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti. Matheus Cunha scored twice on his first start of the tournament, while Vinicius Junior also found the net as Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a much-improved display following their draw with Morocco. The result eliminated Haiti and left Brazil and Morocco level on four points, with Scotland on three heading into the final round of group fixtures.
Elsewhere on Matchday 9, the United States became the first team from Group D to secure a place in the knockout stage after defeating Australia 2-0, while Paraguay boosted their qualification hopes with a 1-0 victory over Türkiye.
Morocco will book their place in the last 32 with a positive result against Haiti next week, while Scotland face a daunting encounter with five-time champions Brazil as they fight to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Saibari struck after just 71 seconds, netting the fastest goal of the tournament so far and handing the Atlas Lions a crucial three points.Morocco, who drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match, dominated possession and looked dangerous whenever they attacked.
If no deal is reached within 60 days beginning Thursday, “we will do things that won’t make them happy,” Trump said at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. “But I don’t think it’s going to get to that.”
The text of the MoU states that the two sides commit to negotiating and achieving the final deal within a maximum of 60 days, extendable with mutual consent.
U.S.-Iran talks scheduled in Switzerland on Friday have been postponed, with neither side offering an official explanation. Multiple media reports said that Iran withdrew from the talks in response to the latest Israeli strikes in Lebanon.
Earlier on Friday, Trump told NBC News that he had spoken with Israeli leaders and urged them to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah.
“It’s a positive,” Trump said in the phone interview. “It’s a little icing on the cake.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department said that a new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will be held in Washington, D.C. next week.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday, June 19, 2026, that he expects Iran to agree to a final deal within 60 days of the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The annual event, commonly known as the King’s Birthday Party, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and artists for an evening that blended formal diplomacy with a festival-style celebration.
British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe said the choice of June for the celebration reflects a longstanding British tradition of marking the monarch’s birthday twice, once in June and again in November during the actual birthday month.
“For those of you who were here in November, you might be wondering why we are celebrating again so soon. The answer is a wonderfully British tradition,” she said, noting that the June timing was also chosen for its favourable summer weather.
Thorpe said this year’s theme focused on music festivals, describing them as spaces where people come together for “great music, good friends, and lots and lots of dancing.”
She highlighted the cultural parallels between global festivals such as Glastonbury in the United Kingdom and Rwanda’s own Kivu Fest, saying both reflect the power of music to connect communities.
The High Commissioner also used the occasion to outline the United Kingdom’s evolving approach to Africa, saying London has shifted from a traditional donor model to what she described as a more balanced partnership focused on investment and shared growth.
“In plain terms, that means we have moved from being an old-fashioned donor to a genuine investor and partner,” she said, adding that the new approach prioritises trade, development partnerships, and people-to-people links.
She highlighted growing economic ties between Rwanda and the UK, including efforts to increase exports of Rwandan tea and coffee to British supermarkets, expand high-value investment projects, and deepen cooperation through the British Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda.
Thorpe also emphasised long-standing institutional partnerships, noting cooperation between Rwandan institutions such as the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), as well as more than 60 university partnerships between the two countries.
On development cooperation, she said the relationship has evolved into one built on shared expertise and mutual learning, while reaffirming commitments in areas such as education, climate resilience, financial sector development, and Ebola preparedness.
The UK has recently committed £800,000 (about Rwf 1.6 billion) in new funding to strengthen Rwanda’s preparedness for Ebola and other viral haemorrhagic diseases.
“We have long partnerships and we can and will do more,” she affirmed.
Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, who was the guest of honour, echoed the message of strong bilateral ties, describing the relationship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom as one grounded in mutual respect, regular dialogue, and shared development goals.
She noted that while differences may occasionally arise on regional or international issues, such moments do not define the partnership.
“Such moments do not define our relationship. Rather, they remind us that genuine partnerships are strengthened through honest dialogue, mutual understanding, and continued engagement,” she remarked.
Dr. Kaitesi highlighted key areas of cooperation, including education, social protection, climate resilience, public financial management, and Ebola preparedness. She also pointed to expanding economic engagement, with British investment active in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, agriculture, hospitality, infrastructure, and financial services.
She welcomed the establishment of the British Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda as a milestone in strengthening trade and investment relations.
The Minister also acknowledged cultural and creative initiatives supported by the UK, including efforts to connect Rwandan fashion designers with their British counterparts through the Rwanda Fashion Entrepreneurship Programme, describing it as an example of diplomacy extending beyond policy into people-centred collaboration.
“This initiative demonstrates that diplomacy is not only about governance, it is equally about creating opportunities for people, innovation, and cultural exchange,” she noted.
Dr. Kaitesi reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to working with the UK to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity before proposing a toast to His Majesty King Charles III and the continued friendship between the two nations.
Beyond the formal speeches, the celebration featured live performances by Okay Bisoke, Umuriri Band, Coco, DJ Cynthasizer, DJ JP Zed, and DJ Trick. Guests also enjoyed traditional drumming, gymnastics, juggling, and fire-eating performances.
The festival-themed event included food stalls, craft beers, cocktails, silent disco and lounge areas, with menus inspired by the traditional King’s Birthday Parade offerings, including dishes such as cod.
The vibrant evening reflected what both sides described as a growing partnership, one that blends diplomacy, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange into a shared celebration of friendship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom.
The annual event, commonly known as the King’s Birthday Party, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and artists for an evening that blended formal diplomacy with a festival-style celebration.British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe said the choice of June for the celebration reflects a longstanding British tradition of marking the monarch’s birthday twice, once in June and again in November during the actual birthday month.Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, who was the guest of honour, echoed the message of strong bilateral ties, describing the relationship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom as one grounded in mutual respect, regular dialogue, and shared development goals.Dr. Kaitesi reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to working with the UK to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity before proposing a toast to His Majesty King Charles III and the continued friendship between the two nations.It was a night to celebrate music, culture, and friendship under the stars.The festival-themed event included food stalls, craft beers, cocktails, silent disco and lounge areas, with menus inspired by the traditional King’s Birthday Parade offerings, including dishes such as cod.One of the guests won a two-night all-inclusive stay for two at the newly refurbished Sambora Kinigi Lodge through a raffle draw.
