DIRCO said the decision follows “a series of unacceptable violations of diplomatic norms and practice” by Seidman, which it described as posing “a direct challenge to South Africa’s sovereignty.”
“These violations include the repeated use of official Israeli social media platforms to launch insulting attacks against President Cyril Ramaphosa, and a deliberate failure to inform DIRCO of purported visits by senior Israeli officials,” the department said.
DIRCO said Seidman’s actions were “a gross abuse of diplomatic privilege and a fundamental breach of the Vienna Convention,” adding that they have systematically undermined the trust and protocols essential for bilateral relations.
It urged the Israeli government to ensure that its future diplomatic conduct respects South Africa and established principles of international engagement.
Inyambo cows are renowned for their striking features, most notably their long, elegant, upward-curving horns, which make them stand out in any crowd. But beyond their beauty lies a deep historical and cultural connection that ties them directly to Rwanda’s monarchy and the traditions of the people. These cows are not simply bred for milk or meat like ordinary cattle; they have a much more profound role in Rwandan society.
The roots of the Inyambo breed trace back to the 12th century, and their association with the Nyiginya monarchy has shaped their role in Rwandan culture. Unlike other cattle, Inyambo were not just a part of the royal family’s possessions; they were essential for royal ceremonies and played a central role in the celebration of power and prestige. Kings and chiefs would keep these cows as symbols of their status, and during important events, the
Inyambo were adorned with beads, bells, and jewellery.
Trained from a young age, these cows were made to parade gracefully and were even taught to follow traditional songs, creating a spectacle that showcased Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage and royal traditions.
The Inyambo were not mere personal property of the kings; they belonged to the kingdom itself. These cows were seen as public treasures, embodying the unity of the Rwandan people and symbolizing the identity of the nation.
Historical records suggest that Rwandan kings were often reminded by their advisors that the Inyambo cows were part of the nation’s heritage, not just private possessions. This connection to the people and the kingdom made the Inyambo far more than just cattle; they were living representations of Rwanda’s culture, strength, and unity.
Beyond their royal associations, Inyambo cows have a deep cultural significance. They symbolise gratitude, blessings, and the close relationship between the people and their land. As symbols of prosperity and goodwill, the Inyambo were often used as gifts and diplomatic tokens, further cementing their role as icons of Rwandan culture.
However, the journey of the Inyambo breed has not been without its challenges. Over time, diseases, wars, and crossbreeding with other cattle breeds led to a significant decline in their population. The once-prevalent Inyambo cows found themselves on the brink of endangerment.
Recognising the importance of preserving this iconic breed, the government of Rwanda has taken active steps to protect and revive the Inyambo population, ensuring that this piece of living heritage does not fade into history.
Today, the Inyambo are carefully preserved and maintained at institutions like the King’s Palace Museum in Nyanza, where herders continue the ancient traditions of grooming, handling, and parading the cows.
These cows are not only a cultural attraction for visitors but also a source of national pride. Visitors to Rwanda can marvel at the sight of the Inyambo cows, and many are drawn to the sight of the cows’ ceremonial parades, where the elegance and grandeur of these animals are on full display.
To further protect and preserve the breed, modern breeding programs have been introduced by the Rwanda Agriculture Board. These programs combine traditional knowledge with cutting-edge techniques, including in vitro fertilisation and cryopreservation, to maintain the breed’s unique genetic traits. Such scientific efforts ensure that the Inyambo cows continue to thrive in a changing world, securing their place in both Rwanda’s past and its future.
The Inyambo also continue to play a vital role in Rwandan cultural celebrations. During national events and festivals like Umuganura, where the country celebrates its harvest and unity, the Inyambo cows are paraded as symbols of elegance and cultural pride. Their presence at these celebrations is a reminder of the nation’s rich royal history and its commitment to preserving its traditions.
In essence, the Inyambo cows are not just cattle; they are a living bridge between Rwanda’s past and present. These majestic animals are a direct link to the royal courts of the past, and they continue to serve as symbols of Rwanda’s cultural pride, history, and unity. They represent the strength of the Rwandan people and their resilience in preserving their heritage.
So, the next time you see the majestic horns of an Inyambo cow, take a moment to reflect on the history, culture, and tradition that these animals carry with them. They are not just a reminder of Rwanda’s royal past but also a symbol of a proud and thriving nation that has maintained its cultural roots while looking toward the future.
The Bank Group’s contribution includes $24.64 million from the African Development Fund, its concessional lending arm, and an additional $5.21 million from the AfDB. The remaining funds will come from the Government of Rwanda.
The project will expand and upgrade the Centre of Excellence, located in Kigali Innovation City, a growing tech hub in the Rwandan capital. Plans include enhanced academic programs and student training, new laboratories and facilities, advanced equipment procurement, and stronger linkages with the private sector.
Phase II will train 470 students in biomedical engineering, rehabilitation and mobility sciences, and digital health at bachelor’s and master’s levels, with most beneficiaries coming from Rwanda and other East African Community countries. The project will also provide PhD and post-doctoral training for University of Rwanda staff to ensure high-quality teaching and research.
In addition, the project will support curriculum reform, accreditation, and collaborative research with leading international institutions. Regional integration will be promoted through student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, knowledge-sharing events, and entrepreneurship support programs.
A notable innovation under Phase II is the establishment of a Biomedical Innovation Park, which will allow students, researchers, and private companies to design, test, and produce health technologies tailored to local and regional needs.
The project is expected to benefit the wider community by providing hospitals and clinics with locally trained specialists capable of installing, maintaining, and repairing medical equipment. Expanded access to digital health tools and telemedicine will also make healthcare more accessible, particularly in rural areas.
During its construction phase, the project will create hundreds of temporary jobs, mainly for young people. In the long term, it is expected to stimulate the development of health technology businesses, attract research funding, and create skilled employment opportunities.
“This project will equip our young people with world-class skills while bringing better health services closer to families. It is an investment in talent, innovation, and the wellbeing of our communities,” said Hendrina Doroba, AfDB Manager for Education and Skills Development.
Following approval on January 9, the project will be implemented by the Government of Rwanda through the University of Rwanda and is scheduled to run through 2030. It supports Rwanda’s long-term vision of building a knowledge-driven economy and a resilient, inclusive health system.
Speaking to reporters during the visit, Trump expressed serious concern about the growing economic engagement between London and Beijing but did not provide detailed specifics on potential consequences for the U.K.
“Well, it’s very dangerous for them to do that,” Trump said when asked about the United Kingdom deepening ties with China. His remarks reflected Washington’s broader scepticism toward closer Western commercial and strategic engagement with Beijing, even as Starmer was in China pursuing expanded cooperation.
Starmer, the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years, had been working to reset relations with President Xi Jinping. The leaders announced several landmark agreements, including 30‑day visa‑free travel for British citizens in China and reduced tariffs on Scotch whisky, moves designed to boost trade and mutual investment.
Starmer described the tone of his talks with Xi as “very warm and constructive” and stressed that the United Kingdom had “a huge amount to offer” China in terms of business opportunities.
Despite Starmer’s efforts to balance economic goals with concerns about human rights and security, Trump’s comments underscored ongoing tensions between the United States and its allies over China’s role in global supply chains and economic systems.
U.S. officials have long cautioned that deepening commercial ties with Beijing could expose Western economies to undue influence and create strategic vulnerabilities, a view Trump reiterated with his warning.
Analysts say Trump’s remarks reflect a broader trend in Washington to view China not only as a competitor but as a geopolitical rival whose growing influence could challenge U.S. leadership and that of its traditional allies. The warning to the U.K. was echoed in Trump’s criticism of Canada for similarly expanding economic engagement with China.
British officials, for their part, emphasized that the agreements reached with China are not part of a formal free‑trade pact but are intended to expand practical cooperation while safeguarding national interests.
Starmer has sought to reassure both domestic critics and international partners that the U.K. is capable of fostering a “sophisticated” relationship with China that includes frank discussions on security issues such as espionage and human rights, including concerns over the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang.
The Seoul Central District Court handed down the prison sentence with a forfeiture of 12.81 million won (about 9,010 U.S. dollars), saying Kim exploited her position as the first lady for private profit.
The court found her not guilty of the charges of violating the capital markets act and the political funds act.
Kim was charged with receiving valuables from Unification Church officials in return for favorable treatment of the religious group in 2022.
The court rejected the special counsel’s claim of Kim’s involvement in stock rigging, saying it was difficult to confirm her complicity even if she was aware of the stock price manipulation.
Kim was indicted while in detention in August last year on charges of her participation in the stock price manipulation between October 2010 and December 2012.
She was also charged with conspiring with Yoon to receive illegal public opinion poll results worth about 270 million won free of charge from a political broker on 58 occasions from April 2021 to March 2022 ahead of the presidential election.
The court, however, ruled that there was no evidence to prove the presidential couple’s order of the opinion polls.
Apart from the ruling, Kim was indicted on charges of requesting mass enrollment of Unification Church members in the People Power Party to support a specific candidate as a party leader in the party’s national convention.
She also faced charges of accepting valuables in exchange for providing business favors and selling public offices.
Kim became the first wife of a former South Korean president to be tried under detention as she has been held at a detention center since last August.
In a recent exclusive interview with IGIHE, Clark revealed that for much of his life, he felt trapped in a world where he was “constantly treated as less than human,” always being seen as “a Black man” rather than just a man. He spoke openly about the daily struggles of microaggressions, police harassment, and toxic environments.
“It was like modern-day slavery,” he says, describing a society where people are bound to unfulfilling jobs and material pursuits.
For Clark, life in America felt like a prison, working tirelessly just to afford a house and a car, trapped in a cycle of traffic, widespread drug problems, and a healthcare system that prioritises pharmaceuticals over healing. Yet, a trip to Ethiopia two decades ago planted the seed for a new life.
“That was the first time I felt like a man, not just a Black man,” Clark shares. This journey to Africa, which began with the adoption of four sisters from Ethiopia, marked the beginning of a profound connection with the continent.
“I knew then, this is where I belong,” he says, his voice thick with emotion. His experience in Africa shattered the negative portrayals of the continent seen in the media. Clark describes a deep “gravitational pull” that ultimately led him back to Africa, the land of his ancestors, a place he now views as the “promised land” for people of colour.
“I believe that Africa is the promised land for all people of colour, our ancestors who were enslaved, to return. Africa is where we originally are from,” he declares. “It’s time for everyone to come back home.”
Clark introduces himself not only as a man of roots but as a man on a mission. “I’m a father of approximately 20 children. I’ve adopted many, many children from all over the world. I’m a philanthropist, a community leader. My purpose is to help people, to inspire them to do bigger and better things.”
While initially considering other African countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia, Clark says that Rwanda’s stability, infrastructure, and warmth made it the perfect place to settle permanently.
“Rwanda kept calling me and calling me,” he explains. “The people, the roads, the infrastructure… It was just overwhelming in the best way. Coming from a toxic environment like America, Rwanda welcomed me with open arms.”
Clark’s move to Rwanda was not simply about leaving the United States; it was about seeking a more peaceful, fulfilling life. “I had a good lifestyle in America. I had the white picket fence, the house, the cars, and everything that comes with materialism,” he says, but his heart was never at peace.
“In America, even though I had all that stuff, that wasn’t the thing. It was temporary happiness. Here, I found peace, love, and joy that money cannot buy,” he continues. “Here, the government supports you, the food is organic, and I’ve lost 76 pounds. It’s just the environment, the balance of nature, the clean air, and the kindness of the people. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”
As a farmer, Clark emphasises the self-sufficiency he has found in Rwanda. “We grow almost all our crops here. I have hundreds of bamboo plants for building materials. The land here is incredible,” he says. He also grows medicinal plants and runs a coffee farm, planning to scale up production in the coming years. Despite being in the process of building his dream, Clark insists this journey is not just for him.
“I want to show others that it’s possible, that you can come home too. Come on home, man. It’s a place for financial freedom, better health care, and peace.”
He passionately challenges the misconception of Africa as a land of poverty and disease, calling it “fake news” designed to maintain control. “Africa is the most progressive continent in the world. People need to see the truth,” he states.
In his final words, Clark reflects on his new life, insisting that he does not miss America. “People ask me that all the time: do I miss anything from America? I miss nothing. Wait, let me tell you once again, I miss nothing from America. Zero. We should be treated like kings and queens and human beings. Hey, I run kings and queens and human beings. That’s how we should be treated.”
Clark’s vision extends beyond personal success. He envisions a community centred on love, empowerment, and growth, where people of colour can thrive, free from the oppressive forces they’ve endured in the West.
“It’s time to come back home,” Clark concludes, his message powerful and clear: “This is the promised land, and it’s time for us to reclaim it.”
This figure covers cases reported from September 3, 2025, to January 20, 2026, highlighting a sustained public health challenge in several provinces.
Official bulletins from the National Directorate of Public Health show that the outbreak has continued to spread in areas including Nampula, Tete, and Cabo Delgado provinces.
Nampula has recorded the highest number of infections with 1,314 cases and 17 deaths, while Tete reported 932 cases and 13 deaths, and Cabo Delgado saw 404 cases with two deaths. In the five days covered by the latest update, four additional deaths and about 300 new cases were recorded, underscoring ongoing transmission.
Health officials say the case fatality rate in the most recent reporting period remained around 1.2%, slightly higher than in December 2025, when it was about 0.5%, according to the data. This suggests not only persistent transmission of the disease but also challenges in controlling severe cases.
Cholera, a highly contagious waterborne disease caused by contaminated water and poor sanitation, has been an ongoing concern in Mozambique, particularly in regions affected by flooding and limited access to safe drinking water. The Ministry of Health has issued repeated warnings to communities, urging adherence to hygiene practices and prompt treatment for symptoms such as severe diarrhea and dehydration.
Last month, Mozambique’s Health Minister highlighted that at least 169 people died from cholera in 2025 out of around 40,000 total cases recorded that year, a broader measure of the disease’s impact beyond the latest four‑month period. He attributed many deaths to gaps in community awareness and communication about prevention and treatment, noting that about 70% of cholera deaths occurred in community settings rather than health facilities.
To combat the outbreak, the government has secured approximately 3.5 million doses of cholera vaccine and launched public health campaigns to promote hygiene and sanitation. Officials are also implementing plans aimed at eliminating cholera as a public health problem by 2030, with strategies focused on improving access to clean water, sanitation, and quality healthcare through coordinated, evidence‑based actions.
Despite these efforts, health workers and international partners continue to express concern about the ongoing threat, especially in flood‑affected areas where access to safe water remains limited and conditions favor the spread of waterborne diseases.
The delegation, led by Prof. Dong-Sup Yoon, President of Yonsei University, and Dr. Won-Yong Lee, Executive Vice President for Research Affairs, held talks at Urugwiro Village focusing on academic exchange, research partnerships, and capacity building in education.
The meeting builds on a growing relationship between Rwanda and Yonsei University. In September 2025, the University of Rwanda (UR) and Yonsei University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen academic exchange, advance research, and foster innovation.
The agreement, signed on the sidelines of Yonsei University’s 140th Anniversary Conference by UR Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayihura Muganga Didas and Prof. Dong-Sup Yoon, initially focuses on medical sciences, technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT).
“The MoU is a major milestone for the University of Rwanda,” said Prof. Kayihura, noting that it aligns with Rwanda’s commitment to invest in education, skills development, and research infrastructure.
“By collaborating with one of the top three universities in South Korea, we are giving our students and faculty an opportunity to interact with world-class researchers and academics.”
The partnership is expected to open doors for joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and shared innovation initiatives, further strengthening Rwanda’s knowledge economy. Prof. Kayihura emphasized that the collaboration also aligns with UR’s focus on ethical and responsible research, reflecting Yonsei University’s reputation for values-driven technological advancement.
The two institutions have previously collaborated, including a 2024 general cooperation agreement with Rwanda’s Ministry of Education and the honorary doctorate awarded to President Kagame by Yonsei University in recognition of his leadership in transforming Rwanda.
Founded in 1885, Yonsei University is one of South Korea’s top private universities, with 158 research centres across multiple campuses, including the main Sinchon campus in Seoul and the International Campus in Songdo. The university continues to engage with Rwandan students and researchers, strengthening ties between the two countries through education, research, and innovation.
Appearing before the Committee on Governance and Gender Affairs on Tuesday, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health Dr. Yvan Butera said that the prevalence had dropped from 20.5% in 2018 to 18.6% in 2025.
“The preliminary figures show a decrease, which we attribute to the increasing efforts and resources dedicated to mental health services,” Dr. Butera said.
According to the ministry, mental health problems linked to depression fell from 11.9% in 2018 to 9.1% last year, while cases associated with stress decreased from 8% to 3%. However, conditions related to alcohol and drug use rose from 1.6% to 2.4%.
Other mental health conditions include schizophrenia (3%), bipolar disorder (0.4%), suicidal thoughts (0.9%), and substance use disorders (0.8%).
Dr. Butera noted that support programs for survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, their descendants, and school-based mental health initiatives have contributed to the overall decline, even as challenges remain.
He identified three major factors driving mental health issues in Rwanda: depression linked to the country’s historical trauma, stress, and substance abuse.
“Depression has decreased from 11.9% in 2018 to 9.1%, stress from 8% to 3%, while alcohol and drug use has increased slightly from 1.6% to 2.4%,” he explained.
The ministry’s data also highlights age-related trends. Adults aged 46–55 represent the largest group affected (25%), followed by those aged 36–45 (24%) and 56–65 (23.6%). Among younger people, 26–35-year-olds account for 18.2%, 19–25-year-olds for 13.7%, and 14–18-year-olds for 8.7%.
Rwanda’s mental health services are anchored at the community level, with approximately 60,000 health advisors across the country. Specialised hospitals provide more advanced care, and 80% of health centres now offer at least some mental health services.
Access to medication has also improved, with 14 types of drugs available at health centers and 20 at hospitals. The country has also launched a specialized clinic for severe depression and suicidal tendencies, known as the “Ketamine Clinic,” at King Faisal Hospital.
In response to concerns from Deputy Mukayiranga Muyango Sylvie about potential risks of using ketamine, Dr. Gishoma Darius, manager of the Mental Health Division at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, explained that although ketamine was initially used in veterinary medicine, it has been safely used in mental health treatment for the past 20 years.
He noted that research shows it can be effective for patients who have attempted suicide multiple times and do not respond to conventional medication, and that its use is closely monitored.
According to the weekly agri-exports outlook released by the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB), the country exported a total of 10,204 metric tons of agricultural products over the five-day period. Traditional export commodities, led by coffee and tea, remained the main drivers of export earnings, while diversified and non-traditional products also played a significant role.
Coffee was Rwanda’s top export earner for the week, generating $5.95 million from 897 metric tons exported, while tea followed with earnings of $2.55 million from 882 metric tons.
The report also shows steady growth in diversified agricultural products, which collectively brought in $4.14 million from exports totalling 7,635 metric tons. These products were mainly destined for markets in the United States, Oman, and cross-border African countries, reflecting Rwanda’s efforts to broaden its export base.
Horticultural exports also contributed to the overall performance. Fruits, including products like avocados, generated $526,172 from 313 metric tons, while vegetables earned $319,895 from 241 metric tons, with key destinations including the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, France, and regional markets. Flower exports, though smaller in volume, earned $81,563, mainly from sales to the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
In addition, animal products generated $381,773 from 222 metric tons, largely through cross-border trade within the region.
The strong weekly performance underscores Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity, expand market access, and diversify export products. With continued investment in value addition and market expansion, the agriculture sector remains a key pillar in supporting Rwanda’s export-led growth strategy.
