The event marked the start of his diplomatic mission in Moscow and was attended by senior Russian officials and representatives of foreign diplomatic missions.
President Putin also received letters of credence from ambassadors of several other countries during the ceremony, including Somalia, Gabon, Senegal, Mauritania, Algeria, Ghana, and Namibia, alongside representatives from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Addressing the diplomats, President Putin emphasised the importance of cooperation, saying that “international cooperation is fundamental to humanity’s sustainable development and prosperity,” and stressed the need for open and constructive partnerships in an increasingly complex global environment.
Ambassador Nzabamwita was appointed Rwanda’s ambassador-designate to Russia in December 2024. He brings extensive experience in national security and public service, having previously served as Presidential Advisor on Security. Before that, he held the position of Secretary General of the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS).
He succeeds Lt Gen Mushyo Kamanzi, who had represented Rwanda in Moscow since 2019.
Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Russia date back to 1963, and the two countries have since maintained cordial and cooperative ties. Both nations operate resident diplomatic missions at ambassadorial level, reflecting the strength and continuity of their bilateral relationship.
Cooperation between Rwanda and Russia spans several sectors, including political engagement, military collaboration, education, human resource development, training, and cultural exchange. Russia has also been offering university scholarships to Rwandan students as part of its support for skills development and academic cooperation.
In recent years, nuclear energy has emerged as a key area of collaboration. Rwanda is working with Russia to establish a nuclear research centre by 2030, aimed at producing radioactive materials for cancer diagnosis and treatment, enhancing agricultural productivity through radiation technologies, and supporting industrial testing and innovation.
The delegation was led by Mr. Leung Chun-Ying, Chairman of GX Foundation and former Chief Executive of Hong Kong.
The meeting focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration in Rwanda’s health sector, with discussions covering ways to strengthen local health systems and improve access to medical care.
Established in 2018, GX Foundation is a non-governmental organization that delivers targeted medical interventions in underserved regions worldwide. The foundation is known for initiatives such as eliminating cataract blindness through mobile treatment centers, controlling vector-borne diseases, improving environmental health, and supporting emergency health risk management.
GX Foundation also builds local and global capacity through training programs, cross-border partnerships, and knowledge transfer, working closely with governments and health institutions.
The organization currently operates across Asia, Africa, Central America, and the South Pacific, with activities in countries including Senegal, Mauritania, Djibouti, Cambodia, Laos, Honduras, Fiji, and Vanuatu.
The directive, issued on January 14, 2026, requires that all short codes, those familiar numbers starting with * and ending with #, used for mobile banking, bill payments, health services, and government portals, be fully operational on MTN Rwanda, Airtel Rwanda, and KTRN before going live.
Previously, many short codes were tied to a single network, frustrating users who had to carry multiple SIM cards or remember different codes for the same service. With the new rule, RURA is ensuring interoperability and eliminating what many have called the “double SIM headache.”
{{What this means for businesses and citizens
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For businesses and citizens, the directive brings significant changes. Short code holders are now required to make their services accessible across all networks, ending the era of network discrimination. A code that previously worked only for MTN users, for instance, must also function for Airtel and KTRN customers by 15 February 2026.
Achieving this will require technical coordination between service providers and all licensed operators to ensure full integration and seamless accessibility. The move also strengthens consumer protection by preventing exclusive agreements between a service provider and a single network, guaranteeing that essential services are available to everyone, regardless of which SIM card they use.
USSD codes are the backbone of digital services in Rwanda. They are widely used for mobile money transfers, airtime top-ups, banking, and government services, particularly by those without smartphones or internet access. Banking codes such as *334# (Bank of Kigali) and *555# (Equity Bank) will now be universally accessible.
According to RURA Director General Evarest Rugigana, the directive was issued in the “interest of ensuring interoperability, non-discriminatory access, consumer protection and efficient delivery of electronic communication services.”
He warned that non-compliance by the February 15 deadline could result in enforcement measures or sanctions under Rwandan law.
The injectable drug, lenacapavir, is expected to be introduced in the last quarter of the year after the completion of regulatory approvals and preparations at health facilities. The medication is administered once every six months and will be incorporated into the country’s existing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme.
Dr Zephanie Nzeyimana, the HIV Key Population Strategic Officer at RBC, told The New Times that the planned timeline allows sufficient time to ensure the health system is ready for the new prevention method.
“Lenacapavir is expected to be available in the country in quarter four of this year. There are still processes that need to be finalised before it can be introduced at health facilities,” he said.
Once rolled out, the injection will be offered alongside existing PrEP options, including daily oral PrEP and long-acting injectable cabotegravir. Authorities say the addition of lenacapavir will give people more choice, which could help improve access to and sustained use of HIV prevention services.
Eligibility for the six-month injection will be determined using a risk-based approach. Priority will be given to people at substantial risk of HIV infection, including female sex workers, men who have sex with men, and HIV-negative individuals in sero-discordant relationships, where one partner is living with HIV and the other is not.
However, Dr Nzeyimana noted that access will not be limited to these groups. Healthcare providers will assess individual risk based on behavioural and epidemiological factors to identify others who could benefit from the drug.
Currently, Rwanda provides two main types of HIV prevention medication: a daily oral pill and a bimonthly injectable option that is now being rolled out in Kigali. The new biannual injection is expected to reduce dosing frequency and improve adherence, particularly among key populations at high risk of HIV.
Lenacapavir, developed by U.S. pharmaceutical firm Gilead Sciences, has undergone clinical trials and has been approved to provide continuous HIV prevention for six months per injection. Individuals who receive the injection on schedule remain fully protected throughout that period. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended its use during the 13th International AIDS Society Conference held in Kigali in July last year.
The WHO recommendation followed the drug’s first global approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration on June 18, 2025.
RBC has confirmed that lenacapavir will be provided free of charge, regardless of a person’s ability to pay. To support the rollout, RBC and its partners plan to train healthcare providers and conduct community outreach to raise awareness about the new prevention option and address potential misinformation.
In Rwanda, about 3,200 people contract HIV each year, while 2,600 die from AIDS-related illnesses. However, sustained prevention and treatment efforts have led to an 82 per cent reduction in new infections and an 86 per cent decline in HIV-related deaths over the past decade.
Rwanda’s move follows similar steps taken across Southern and Eastern Africa. Countries such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Eswatini have already completed regulatory approvals and received initial shipments of lenacapavir, while Botswana, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda have also authorised its use. Kenya and Namibia are among those finalising preparations or regulatory applications.
Polling stations opened across the country amid heightened security and logistical delays. In some areas, voting began after 7 a.m. local time due to late arrivals of materials and temporary issues with biometric voter identification machines. Despite the delays, citizens formed lines outside polling stations to exercise their right to vote.
Diaspora voters, including Ugandans residing in Rwanda, were advised to travel home to cast their ballots ahead of the general election.
“The Uganda High Commission in Kigali would like to notify the public that there are no provisions for Ugandans in Rwanda to cast their votes from the High Commission and therefore advised to travel and exercise their duty as citizens and cast their votes from their respective homes where they registered,” a notice seen by IGIHE reads.
President Yoweri Museveni, 81, who has led Uganda since 1986, faces seven other presidential candidates, including musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine. The candidates have campaigned across the country, appealing particularly to younger voters concerned about economic opportunities, job creation, and social development.
Voters are also selecting more than 500 members of parliament and other local government officials. Polls are scheduled to close at 4 p.m. local time (3 p.m. Kigali time), with the electoral commission expected to announce results within 48 hours, in line with constitutional requirements.
The election takes place amid a temporary suspension of public internet access, implemented by the Uganda Communications Commission. Authorities said the measure was intended to limit misinformation and ensure the integrity of the vote.
At various polling stations in the capital, Kampala, and other towns, voters expressed determination to participate. Ronald Tenywa, a university researcher, said, “If we vote for someone who cares, things will be better for Uganda.” Juliet Zawedde, an 18-year-old first-time voter, emphasized the importance of a democratic process, saying, “Any succession should happen fairly and give others a chance to lead.”
The United Nations Human Rights Office highlighted the importance of access to information and communication for genuine participation in elections, urging that all Ugandans be able to take part in shaping the future of their country.
Security presence was visible in many towns, including Kampala and Jinja, to ensure the safety of voters. Authorities urged citizens to maintain peace and civility at polling stations.
Simon Byabakama, chairperson of Uganda’s electoral commission, called for tolerance, saying, “Even if you know that this person does not support your candidate, please give him or her room or opportunity to exercise his or her constitutional right.”
Past elections in Uganda have been marked by violence and unrest. Ahead of this year’s vote, opposition candidate Bobi Wine has raised concerns about potential vote rigging, though Museveni’s administration has dismissed these allegations.
Ambassador Al Hajri succeeds the late Misfer bin Faisal Al-Shahwani, who passed away in July 2024, while Ambassador Nakajo replaces Isao Fukushima, who had served since 2023.
Addressing the media after submitting his credentials, Ambassador Al Hajri highlighted the strong ties between Rwanda and Qatar and outlined his priorities for cultural and economic cooperation.
“Qatar and Rwanda have a very special relationship. We’ll start by completing the investments already underway, including the new airport and aviation projects, which will form the backbone for future investments,” he said.
Ambassador Nakajo echoed the sentiment, emphasising Rwanda-Japan collaboration across multiple sectors.
“I will commit myself to widening our relationship in any aspect, from economic and business to culture and human exchanges. Rwanda already offers a top business environment in Africa, and I aim to encourage more Japanese businesses to invest here,” he said.
Rwanda’s partnership with Qatar includes a planned 49% stake acquisition by Qatar Airways in RwandAir and a 60% investment in the new Kigali International Airport in Bugesera, set to open in 2027. Japan’s engagement spans nearly six decades and includes a 14 billion Yen loan to support education and a $20 million water pipeline in Kigali, improving access to clean water.
The accreditation of the two ambassadors underscores Rwanda’s expanding diplomatic and economic engagement with Asia and the Middle East, laying the groundwork for deeper investment, cultural exchange, and long-term cooperation.
This marks the highest ranking in the country’s history; the previous peak was 73rd in 2006, while the lowest position recorded was 92nd in 2015.
The Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is widely regarded as the most authoritative global ranking system for passports.
The index tracks 199 passports and 227 travel destinations, providing a unique snapshot of each country’s passport power. Rankings are determined by factors such as visa-free access, visas on arrival, and the technological security features of the passport itself.
Holders of a Rwandan passport can now travel to 67 countries without a visa. The most recent country to lift entry visa requirements for Rwandan citizens is Liberia, following an agreement signed by both nations on September 10, 2025, in Monrovia.
Rwanda’s rise in the rankings reflects its growing diplomatic reach and ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties.
At the top of the index, Singapore retains its position as the world’s most powerful passport, offering visa-free access to 192 destinations. It is closely followed by Japan and South Korea, whose citizens can travel to 188 countries without a prior visa.
At the tail end of the Henley Passport Index, Afghanistan ranks last, providing visa-free access to only 24 destinations, followed by Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Pakistan.
Kenny Mugarura, Global Entertainment, Sports & Events Director at Kigali Universe, confirmed the development in an exclusive interview with IGIHE. He explained that the footbridge is part of the center’s ongoing expansion, which also includes a multifunctional building designed to host concerts, exhibitions, and other events.
The new building will accommodate up to 700 people and is expected to become a key venue for a variety of activities. In addition, Mugarura noted that there is still space available for further development on top of the CHIC building.
“The footbridge project is now complete, fully approved, and has received all necessary permits,” Mugarura said. “We plan to open it this month or in February.”
The footbridge is a modern, architecturally striking structure that connects key sections of Kigali Universe, offering visitors a scenic route for walking, sightseeing, and photography.
Mugarura said the total cost, exceeding 900 million Frw, covered both imported materials and construction expenses. Some of the steel used in the bridge was sourced from China, while other components came from Turkey.
Designed by Turkish and Rwandan architects, the new footbridge can handle substantial visitor traffic and enhances the entertainment centre’s overall appeal.
In 2021, he made history as the first Rwandan to sign with an NFL team, later continuing his career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), a journey defined as much by resilience and service as by sport.
His story begins in Zambia, where his parents sought refuge after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The family later relocated to the United States when he was just two years old, and his early years were marked by constant movement. From New York to Illinois and through towns including Hinsdale, Romeoville, and Bolingbrook, each new place helped shape his resilience and determination from a young age.
“It was a lot of movement early on. We were trying to put the pieces together,” Rugamba told IGIHE in a recent exclusive Zoom interview, adding that adjusting to a new country as a large family was particularly challenging due to limited resources.
After settling in America, Rugamba recalls his parents’ stories of life in the refugee camp. “We all lived in a hut, about 25 to 30 of us lying next to each other,” he recalled. ‘Despite the hardships, family was always the most important thing. That sense of togetherness kept our spirits up.”
His mother played a pivotal role in his journey. Born three months premature, she named him Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us,” a testament to faith and hope. “She was my rock. She keeps me grounded and humble. She showed me that I could do anything if I wanted to,” Rugamba said.
His mother worked tirelessly, putting herself through nursing school while taking English classes and supporting a family of ten.
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Sports weren’t a part of Rugamba’s early plan, but a twist of fate changed everything. At nine years old, he was too young to join basketball at the local recreation centre, and his mother, determined to keep him active, enrolled him in football instead.
“It changed my life forever,” he said, adding that football became his passion and his path forward.
High school brought new opportunities and mentorship. Coach Tim Lavery and Head Coach Michael Stein recognised Rugamba’s talent and guidance, encouraging him to pursue scholarships and professional opportunities.
He really changed my life, because simply having knowledge of that opportunity meant everything. Not everybody has that knowledge, especially when you come from an immigrant family where everyone is just trying to put the pieces together,” he revealed.
Rugamba’s work ethic and mental toughness set him apart.
“I wasn’t the fastest player on the field. I wasn’t the highest jumper, and I wasn’t the strongest. But I can confidently say that I believed I was the best player on the field whenever I stepped out there,” he said.
“That’s what you have to do, because football is a mental game, and about 70% of what happens on the field happens between your ears.”
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In 2021, Rugamba achieved a milestone by joining the Cleveland Browns in the NFL. The experience was thrilling yet daunting.
“I knew I wanted to be a football player, but I didn’t realise I was making history for Rwanda,” he said.
After seven months with the Browns, he transitioned to the CFL, playing for the Vancouver BC Lions and earning rookie-of-the-year nominations and all-star recognition. Rugamba described the CFL as faster-paced and more offence-driven than the NFL, highlighting the differences in field size, player count, and style of play.
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While Rugamba’s football achievements are impressive, his off-field work defines him just as much. Through his nonprofit, Vision Forward Foundation, he has spoken at over 120 schools across Canada and the U.S., addressing inclusion, resilience, and anti-bullying.
“Football can only take you so far, but the message you give to the next generation lasts forever,” he said.
He is passionate about expanding opportunities for young Africans in sports, including in Rwanda.
“The biggest barriers are knowledge, opportunity, and resources,” Rugamba explained.
He welcomed Rwanda’s growing presence in American football, particularly the Visit Rwanda partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, signed in September last year, calling it a powerful step toward expanding opportunity.
“When I saw that partnership, I couldn’t stop smiling,” he said. “I know what football can bring.”
For aspiring Rwandan and African players, Rugamba shares a simple truth: “Ask a million questions. Find mentors. Be humble and willing to learn. That’s how you get to the international stage.”
Looking ahead, Rugamba is eager to return to Rwanda, first to pay respects at the Genocide Memorial, then to engage with youth, sports organizations and policymakers. Through his foundation and partnerships, he hopes to bring mentorship programs and sports development initiatives back home.
“I want to be home,” he said. “I want to see the youth, build programs, and give back in every way I can.”
The EAC Secretariat flagged off the mission to observe the electoral process in the Republic of Uganda on Tuesday, January 13. The mission comprises a delegation of 61 observers drawn from EAC Partner States and the EAC Secretariat.
The EAC Election Observation Mission will monitor the entire electoral cycle, including the pre-election environment, polling day activities and the post-election phase, with the aim of providing a comprehensive, independent and objective assessment of the conduct of the elections.
Ambassador Mukabagwiza brings to the role extensive experience in public service, diplomacy and regional affairs. The EAC said her leadership, integrity and deep understanding of governance processes will provide strategic guidance and credibility to the mission.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Mukabagwiza underscored the mission’s commitment to impartiality and professionalism.
“We are here to observe and assess the electoral process in an independent, impartial and objective manner, in accordance with the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community, the EAC Election Observation Principles, the laws of the Republic of Uganda and applicable African Union and international standards,” she said.
Uganda concluded a three-month presidential campaign period on Tuesday ahead of the general elections. Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, seeking a seventh five-year term, held his final rally in Kampala, while his main challenger, Robert Kyagulanyi, also wrapped up his campaign by urging voters to turn out. Six other candidates are contesting the presidency after campaigning across the country.
The EAC mission is expected to issue a preliminary statement outlining its initial observations and findings shortly after polling. A comprehensive final report will later be prepared and submitted to the EAC Council of Ministers, the Government of the Republic of Uganda and other relevant stakeholders.
“The report will include practical recommendations aimed at strengthening future electoral processes and enhancing democratic governance within the EAC,” said Veronica Mueni Nduva, the EAC Secretary General.
Mukabagwiza is a prominent figure in Rwanda’s public life, with more than 23 years of service in various national responsibilities. She previously served as Minister of Justice, Deputy Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies responsible for legal affairs and government oversight, and Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Canada and Cuba between 2007 and 2013. She later served as a Member of Parliament from 2013 to 2018 and was part of the leadership of the Chamber of Deputies.
An expert in law, Mukabagwiza studied at the University of Rwanda and holds a Master’s degree in Diplomacy from Washington International University in the United States, alongside other legal qualifications. She has worked in several ministries and non-governmental organisations and recently took the oath as a legal advocate, founding EM Pathways Legal & Advisory Ltd after concluding her political career.
