“The Ministry strongly condemns and denounces in the strongest terms the step taken by the terrorist RSF militia in announcing a fake government, claiming to assign government positions to run Sudan,” the statement said.
The ministry urged neighboring countries, the international community, regional and international organizations, as well as all governmental and non-governmental entities, to denounce the declaration of the parallel government and refrain from recognizing or engaging with it.
It emphasized that any form of engagement with the parallel government would constitute an infringement on Sudan’s legitimate authority and sovereignty over its entire territory, and a clear violation of the rights and resources of the Sudanese people.
On Saturday, the Sudan Founding Alliance, led by the RSF, announced the formation of a parallel government.
The parallel government was announced in a televised statement broadcast via Telegram, naming Mohamed Hassan Al-Taishi as the “prime minister.”
According to the statement, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo was selected as “President of the Presidential Council,” the highest sovereign authority, while leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North Abdelaziz Adam Al-Hilu was appointed as “Vice President of the Presidential Council.”
The RSF signed a founding charter with various political and armed groups in February, setting the groundwork for the parallel government.
Sudan remains gripped by a conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023. The fighting has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, both internally and across borders.
According to local media reports, ADF fighters stormed a Catholic church early Saturday in the town of Komanda, Ituri Province. A local civil society leader in Komanda said most of the victims, primarily Catholic worshippers, were preparing for Sunday celebrations when the attack took place. Several houses were burned, and an unknown number of people remain missing.
Witnesses said the assailants also looted a local bank and other community properties before retreating into the nearby forest.
The ADF rebels have stepped up assaults in Ituri since early July. In a statement issued earlier this week, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC condemned the recent ADF attacks, which have killed at least 82 civilians in both Ituri and neighboring North Kivu Province.
The ADF, an affiliate of the Islamic State in Central Africa, is a Ugandan rebel group operating in eastern DRC, prompting joint military operations by Congolese and Ugandan forces to pursue the group since November 2021.
He made the appeal on Sunday at the opening ceremony of the Giants of Africa Festival 2025, a vibrant week-long celebration of basketball, education, and culture taking place in Kigali.
Addressing over 300 young athletes from 20 African countries gathered at BK Arena, President Kagame praised Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri and his team for their unwavering commitment to youth empowerment.
“Masai has invested his passion, his time, his own money and mobilised even more resources to put this festival together,” said Kagame. “Through him, I also thank his family and all the friends of this continent who support this vision.”
In his speech, Kagame emphasised the deeper purpose behind the festival.
“I want to urge you to believe in the giants that are in you,” he told the youth. “Put in time on and off the court. That will bring out the giant in you—and that’s what Africa needs to do. Giants grow. They stand tall. They believe in themselves.”
He added: “Africa should not remain lagging behind the rest of the world. In a small way, through this festival, we are reminded that we can grow and bring out the many millions that Africans are, and continue to make Africa proud.”
The President reaffirmed Rwanda’s pride in hosting the festival for the second time, highlighting the country’s commitment to creating spaces that inspire and uplift Africa’s youth.
“We welcome you. We want you to feel at home and we hope you’ll be back, even for other things beyond this festival.”
The 2025 edition of the Giants of Africa Festival runs from July 26 to August 2, bringing together youth from across the continent under the theme “A Borderless Africa.”
The program includes basketball camps led by NBA and WNBA coaches, leadership forums, cultural showcases, fashion events, and concerts featuring international and African artists.
The opening ceremony at BK Arena reflected the energy and vibrance of the festival. South African DJ Uncle Waffles, born Ungelihle Zwane, set the arena alight with a high-energy set that blended her signature Amapiano hits like “Asylum” and “Yahyuppiyah” with other popular tracks, thrilling the crowd.
A breakout star in Africa’s music scene and a social media sensation, she brought not just music but an unforgettable experience to Kigali.
Also returning to the stage was the Sherrie Silver Foundation, whose young performers blended dance with basketball choreography in an inspiring showcase of creativity and movement. Sherrie Silver, the internationally renowned choreographer and philanthropist, thanked both Masai Ujiri and President Kagame for creating platforms that empower African youth.
Christiane Bukuru, Ruti Joel, and Kevin Kade also delivered captivating performances that kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
Masai Ujiri, the festival’s founder and President of the Toronto Raptors, delivered an emotional speech, declaring his love for Africa and the youth who represent its future.
“You are the future of Africa. Take it. Take it and run. Believe. Grow. Be better. Make this continent something—and when you make it, stay humble and take people with you,” he said.
Ujiri also reflected on the humble beginnings shared by many African leaders and athletes, reminding the youth that they too can achieve greatness.
“We all grew up in Africa. We wore our pants the same. We walked barefoot to school. If we can do it, you can do it even bigger and better.”
Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, called the festival a dynamic movement of empowerment.
“Giants of Africa is more than basketball, it’s a celebration of African excellence,” she said. “Thanks to President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda continues to be a place where dreams are nurtured and Africa’s future is shaped with purpose.”
Mukazayire urged the youth to remain proud of their roots.
“Believe in your potential, work hard, and never lose sight of your dreams. You have all it takes, we believe in you.”
Beyond the courts, the festival integrates community service, leadership workshops, and cultural immersion. Among the highlights is the unveiling of new basketball courts through the Built Within initiative and a showcase of African fashion under the “Threads of Africa” event.
Since its founding over two decades ago, Giants of Africa has built basketball courts and launched outreach programs in numerous African countries.
The decision was reached during an ordinary congress of the party in the CAR capital, Bangui.
The supporters of the MCU praised Touadera for his commitment to peace, stability, and national development in a country affected by ongoing conflict with armed groups, according to local media.
Touadera was elected CAR president in 2016 and reelected in 2020. In his acceptance speech, Touadera announced the decision to run for a third term in the upcoming December 2025 presidential, legislative and local elections.
According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea, the 42-year-old suspect, a Michigan resident, acted alone and was taken into custody within minutes of the attack, thanks in part to assistance from bystanders.
“Eleven is 11 too many, but thank God it wasn’t more,” Shea told reporters during a press briefing.
The stabbing spree reportedly began near the checkout counters before the attacker moved through the store’s pharmacy section, injuring customers indiscriminately. Witnesses described scenes of panic, screaming, and confusion as shoppers fled or tried to help the wounded.
“It was really scary. Me and my sister were just freaking out,” said Tiffany DeFell, who was in the car park at the time of the incident. “This is something you see out of the movies.”
Six of the 11 victims remain in critical condition, while the other five suffered serious injuries. At least three of them required emergency surgery. The victims include six men and five women. Their ages have not yet been disclosed, and none are believed to be Walmart employees.
The Munson Medical Center, which received all 11 victims, said its emergency department experienced a sudden surge in patient volume following the attack.
Sheriff Shea emphasized that the assault was “very unusual” for Traverse City, a popular tourist destination along Lake Michigan. “These were random acts. The victims were not pre-selected,” he said.
Footage posted online showed a heavy police presence in the Walmart parking lot, with multiple ambulances on site. Local and federal agencies, including the FBI, have launched an investigation into the incident. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated that federal personnel are providing full support to local authorities.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the violence and said she was in contact with law enforcement.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence,” she said in a statement.
Walmart has also responded, stating that the company is cooperating fully with law enforcement and is focused on supporting those affected.
“Violence like this is unacceptable,” a Walmart spokesperson said. “We’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.”
The suspect remains in custody as authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack.
AFC/M23 is currently engaged in talks with the Congolese government in Doha, Qatar, aimed at achieving lasting peace in the eastern region, which has suffered insecurity for 30 years.
Key principles for the peace agreement include restoring government control over all parts of the DRC.
Oscar Balinda, AFC/M23’s deputy spokesperson, recently said the country is divided among armed groups exploiting resources, with many areas beyond government reach. He emphasised that where AFC/M23 controls, peace and development have returned.
“There are many problems in Congo; large areas near Kinshasa and in Mai-Ndombe and Ituri are controlled by armed groups beyond government reach. Here, we have restored peace, security, and development. Schools are open, hospitals are operating, and commerce is thriving. We are currently the governing authority, which is why we must work with Kinshasa to restore government control nationwide,” he said.
Balinda added that during talks in Doha, they are not making demands but seeking sustainable solutions.
“We have no demands from Kinshasa. We are here to find lasting solutions together.”
He stressed that AFC/M23 respects its commitment to cease fighting but reserves the right to defend itself and protect civilians if attacked.
Asked if they had agreed to leave Goma and Bukavu, he responded, “We are here and we will stay; this is our home.”
AFC/M23 seized Goma and Bukavu in early 2025 after defeating a coalition of government forces, FDLR rebels, Wazalendo militia, European mercenaries, Burundian troops, and SADC forces.
The rebels accuse the government of sustained persecution and marginalisation of Kinyarwanda-speaking communities, as well as poor governance that has left the country in anarchy.
One of the signed MoUs establishes comprehensive cooperation in the agriculture sector, a vital area for both countries given its role in food security and economic development.
The agreement aims to promote joint efforts in research, market access, and climate-resilient farming, with the goal of increasing agricultural productivity and achieving food self-sufficiency across the region.
The second MoU formalizes the establishment and operationalization of the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) liaison office in Kigali. Although the office has been operational since March 2018, this renewed agreement reflects a shared determination to enhance its role in facilitating trade.
By enabling direct cargo clearance, faster information exchange, and easier payment systems, the TPA office in Kigali plays a strategic role in supporting Rwanda’s imports and exports through the Port of Dar es Salaam.
The signing ceremony was attended by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Tanzanian counterpart, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering closer cooperation.
“Our partnership with Tanzania goes beyond trade,” said Amb. Nduhungirehe. “It is deeply rooted in our shared history, common cultural values, and a collective commitment to advancing the well-being of our people.”
He credited the progress in bilateral relations to the visionary leadership of both countries’ Heads of State, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong collaboration within regional blocs such as the East African Community.
Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo echoed this sentiment, stating, “Rwanda is a valuable partner for Tanzania. If over 70% of Rwandan goods transit through Tanzania, it clearly shows how important Rwanda is to our ports.”
He also underscored the strategic importance of the Kigali-Isaka Standard Gauge Railway project, which remains a key item on the bilateral agenda, and pointed to growing Tanzanian investments in Rwanda, particularly in the energy sector.
The discussions also addressed cooperation in tourism, environmental conservation, and investment promotion.
Following his commitment to develop infrastructure aimed at advancing national development, in July 2021, the Government of Rwanda granted Masai Ujiri a 2.4-hectare parcel of land located in Amahoro Village, Rukiri II Cell, Remera Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali City.
This land was allocated for specific national interest purposes to accelerate development.
The presidential decree authorizing the land grant was published in the Official Gazette on July 19, 2021, following a request by the Minister of Environment and approval by the Cabinet on June 12, 2021.
Demonstrating determination, Masai Ujiri promptly initiated the construction project of Zaria Court Kigali immediately after receiving the land.
“Zaria Court,” named after the Zaria region in Nigeria where entrepreneur Masai Ujiri—who also holds Canadian citizenship and is widely recognized for his career in the NBA and as former President of the Toronto Raptors—originates, is a state-of-the-art facility in Kigali dedicated to sports, culture, and entertainment.
The Zaria Court Kigali complex, which has been completed at a cost of approximately $25 million (over Frw36 billion), is now fully operational and preparations are underway for its official inauguration.
The facility comprises multiple components, including an 80-room hotel, several restaurants, a rooftop dining and bar area, a gym, office spaces, and a broadcast studio.
Additionally, the complex features a multipurpose arena hosting various sports events, festivals, concerts, markets, and other activities. It also includes a large supermarket aimed at serving both residents and visitors.
The construction of Zaria Court Kigali was officially launched in August 2023 by President Paul Kagame and Masai Ujiri.
Che Rupari, Brand and Compass Manager at Zaria Court Rwanda, recently described the new facility as a versatile hub for sports, hospitality, culture, and entertainment.
“Zaria Court is one of the newest venues in this area, featuring multiple sports courts including football and basketball, event spaces, and a hotel. Our vision is simple: come play, stay, and enjoy,” he stated.
Rupari further explained that the venue can accommodate large gatherings, with a capacity of over 5,000 people. The sports bar comfortably seats 200 to 300 guests, while the basketball court—also a multipurpose area—can host a significant number of attendees.
He emphasized that visiting Zaria Court offers a diverse experience all in one place: whether playing basketball or football, watching a game at the bar, relaxing, or even resting overnight at the hotel.
“This is a venue suited for various events. Whether you’re planning for 1,000 guests, 20 people, or a large crowd, we have the space to accommodate you. Zaria Court is a multifunctional venue ready to host any kind of event.”
“As previously noted, the completed Zaria Court project has incurred costs exceeding $25 million, with potential for further investment.”
He emphasized that sports serve as a unifying force, and through facilities such as basketball and football courts, youth are provided with opportunities to engage socially, collaborate, and initiate developmental projects.
“Our vision was to establish a multifunctional venue where young people can convene, interact, and collaborate—integrating hospitality, sports, and entertainment to foster innovation and creative expression.”
Addressing the financial outlook, he clarified that while profitability is an objective consistent with any enterprise, the primary mission is to empower youth by cultivating their talents in arts, sports, and related sectors.
“We anticipate a return on investment over time; however, the fundamental value lies in creating a hub for connection and dialogue among African youth.”
“We are confident that facilitating such transformative engagement will ultimately generate economic benefits, although our foremost priority remains social impact.”
He reported that the construction phase employed over 700 workers, of whom 30% were women, alongside more than 3,000 casual laborers. Approximately 1 billion Rwandan Francs disbursed to personnel significantly contributed to the national economy.
Post-construction, the facility is expected to provide permanent employment for over 300 individuals across its diverse operational units.
Notably, the site encompasses a historically significant area formerly occupied by Hotel Amahoro, which served as lodging for United Nations personnel, including General Romeo Dallaire, during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Furthermore, he highlighted that 90% of the construction materials were locally sourced within Rwanda, with only 10% imported, underscoring the project’s commitment to supporting local industry.
The attack occurred during the night of July 24 to 25, 2025, when Wazalendo launched an offensive on M23 positions in Luke and Katobotobo, both located in the Nyamaboko I groupement. The operation aimed to reclaim the contested zones from rebel control.
According to a medical worker at the Luke health center, the fighting resulted in at least 11 deaths, including eight civilians.
“We have confirmed 11 fatalities, among them eight civilians. Twenty-one others are wounded and are being treated locally, as it is currently impossible to transfer them to Kinigi or Masisi due to ongoing clashes,” the health worker said.
In response to the attack, M23 forces pushed back the Wazalendo units and extended their control to Mulema, a strategic area near Waloa Yungu in Walikale Territory.
As of July 25, Wazalendo fighters are said to be regrouping along the outskirts of Masisi Territory, near the Walikale border, according to sources from North Kivu Province.
The renewed fighting comes as peace talks are expected to begin in early August 2025 in Qatar. The negotiations aim to address the root causes of the conflict in eastern DRC and are based on a framework agreement signed by both the M23/AFC and the Congolese government on July 19.
The agreement includes a commitment from both sides to observe a permanent ceasefire and work toward a political resolution to the conflict.
The crew of Southwest Flight 1496 responded to two onboard traffic alerts Friday afternoon while climbing out of Hollywood Burbank Airport, requiring them to climb and descend to comply with the alerts. The flight continued to Las Vegas, where it landed uneventfully, according to a Southwest Airlines statement.
“Southwest is engaged with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to further understand the circumstances,” said the airline in the statement, adding: “No injuries were immediately reported by customers, but two flight attendants are being treated for injuries.”
Passengers aboard the plane took to social media to share their terrifying experiences.
“Pilot had to dive aggressively to avoid midair collision over Burbank airport. Myself & Plenty of people flew out of their seats & bumped heads on ceiling, a flight attendant needed medical attention,” said Jimmy Dore, a comedian, in a post on X.
“Pilot said his collision warning went off & he needed to avoid plane coming at us,” he added.
Another passenger, with X account name Steve U., said on X: “People were screaming as the plane dove. A flight attendant is being looked at right now with an ice pack on her head.”
The passenger called the incident another screwup that “almost cost the lives of the 150+ people on board.”
About six minutes after the flight took off from Hollywood Burbank Airport and headed to Las Vegas, it abruptly descended 475 feet (144.78 meters) from 14,100 feet (4,297.68 meters), reported local KABC television station, citing data from Flightradar24.
The other plane, a Hawker Hunter, was at an altitude of approximately 14,653 feet (4,466.23 meters) when the Southwest flight began to descend, said the report.
The FAA said it is investigating the incident.
The incident came a week after a U.S. passenger jet was forced to make an “aggressive maneuver” to avoid a midair collision with a U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber in North Dakota.
