The program is designed to empower youth with practical, job-ready skills and connect them directly with potential employers.
Officially launched on May 17, 2025, IntegoLabs targets university graduates, current students, and young professionals—especially those who are unemployed or unsatisfied in their current roles.
The program aims to address gaps in workplace readiness by offering monthly training sessions and curated employer meetups across various industries.
Dare Daramola, Learning and Community Manager at ALX Rwanda, described the collaboration as a valuable opportunity, particularly for youth already engaged with ALX’s ecosystem.
“This is a major opportunity for young people, especially those already benefiting from ALX Rwanda’s programs. I believe many will gain valuable skills and should take full advantage of this initiative,” he said.
David Ngoga, Managing Director of Sharpen Jobs, explained that IntegoLabs is specifically designed to help youth navigate the workforce more confidently—whether they’re entering for the first time or looking to transition from roles they’re unhappy with.
“IntegoLabs is a program we launched at Sharpen Jobs in collaboration with ALX Rwanda to support university graduates, current students, and young professionals,” Ngoga said.
“You might be someone looking for a job or stuck in one that doesn’t fulfill you. Many young people don’t know how to present themselves professionally or access job opportunities. This program is here to build their skills and link them directly with employers.”
Ngoga added that the program will feature monthly training themes and create opportunities for participants to connect with decision-makers from different organizations.
Sharpen Jobs currently operates in seven African countries, and the IntegoLabs program is planned to run for two years, with the potential for extension depending on impact.
Participation in IntegoLabs is free, and monthly registration updates will be shared through Sharpen Jobs’ official social media channels.
These returnees are now receiving care and support as Rwanda begins the process of helping them reintegrate into society.
For many, this homecoming marks the beginning of a new life—one filled with hope, dignity, and the long-awaited chance to reclaim the rights and opportunities they were denied for years. Access to education, healthcare, and security—once distant dreams—are now within reach.
More than 2,500 Rwandans have expressed the desire to return voluntarily. The process is being coordinated with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which receives the individuals in eastern DRC and notifies the Rwandan government to prepare for their safe reception.
Though recently arrived, many returnees are already expressing optimism and gratitude after escaping the harsh conditions imposed by FDLR control.
Valentine Uwamariya recounted the fear that defined her life near FDLR strongholds.
“They would come and abduct people. Some never returned. I remember someone named Dukundane—they took him and killed him. We lived in constant fear, never knowing who would be taken next.”
Relieved to be reunited with her family in Rwanda, she returned with her six children and called it a second chance at life.
For Marcel Nibishaka, a 31-year-old who was taken to the DRC as a child, life in exile meant growing up without education and in constant fear of abduction.
“They used to come at night to steal livestock and food. We always heard they were taking young men. I lived with that fear every day,” he said.
“I’m so happy to be back. I thought I would grow old without ever seeing my homeland again.”
Japhet Mushimimana, another returnee, expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome and support they’ve received. “Life in Congo was incredibly difficult. Even when we tried to raise cattle, the FDLR would take them. It felt like we were working for others. But coming back, seeing how Rwandans have developed and how well they live—it makes me proud to be Rwandan.”
He admitted to initial worries about starting over in Rwanda, but those fears quickly subsided. “The way we’re being reassured, and the peaceful relationship between government and citizens here, makes us feel safe. Life here is nothing like what we experienced before. We finally feel we belong.”
He added that what he appreciates most is the sense of security: “Back in Congo, people could rob you of your phone or money at any time. Here, we’re free, we’re fed, we’re treated with dignity. It gives me confidence that we, too, can live well and in peace.”
Théogène Inyitaho admitted that his view of Rwanda before returning had been shaped by misinformation and fear.“We were told we’d never make it back. But seeing how we’ve been received, and everything we’re experiencing now, it’s clear we have nothing to fear.”
Minister of Emergency Management, Maj Gen (Rtd) Albert Murasira, reassured the returnees—particularly those who had been hesitant due to fear of persecution. He stressed that Rwanda’s goal is not punishment, but reintegration and healing.
“You are safe here. We will help you reintegrate, learn new skills, and live dignified, secure lives,” he said.
Trump made the remarks in a social media post after the two-hour phone call about the war in Ukraine, saying Russia and Ukraine would start a negotiation in which the conditions could only be set by the two sides themselves.
“Russia and Ukraine will immediately start negotiations toward a Ceasefire and, more importantly, an END to the War,” Trump wrote.
“The conditions for that will be negotiated between the two parties, as it can only be, because they know details of a negotiation that nobody else would be aware of.”
Trump noted that Russia wants to “do large-scale TRADE with the United States” when the current catastrophic situation is over and he expressed the belief Ukraine could benefit from trade as well.
“There is a tremendous opportunity for Russia to create massive amounts of jobs and wealth. Its potential is UNLIMITED. Likewise, Ukraine can be a great beneficiary on Trade, in the process of rebuilding its Country,” the post read.
Trump also said he shared details of the call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other leaders, including President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
The military hardware—previously used by SAMIDRC forces during operations against the M23 rebel group—is being repatriated following the decision by SADC heads of state on March 13, 2025, to formally conclude the mission.
The phased withdrawal process began on April 29, 2025, and has seen SAMIDRC prioritize transporting its logistical assets through Rwanda, with Tanzania designated as the final staging area.
On May 19, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m., a convoy carrying the sixth batch of equipment departed from Rugerero, in Rubavu District, moving through Musanze and Kigali en route to Tanzania.
Although equipment repatriation is underway, most SAMIDRC troops remain stationed at camps in Goma and near Sake, as the mission continues to prioritize the drawdown of materiel before personnel redeployment.
Mons is a city located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, in the province of Hainaut.
The commemoration began with the laying of wreaths at the Genocide Memorial site located at Place du Parc. The event was also attended by Natacha Vandenberghe, representing the City of Mons.
This year’s ceremony was organised by a group of Rwandan Genocide survivors in collaboration with the Rwandan Diaspora.
Also in attendance were Twagira Mutabazi, President of Ibuka-Mémoire et Justice-Belgique; Ernest Gakuba, head of the Rwandan Diaspora in Belgium; Irène Kamanzi, President of Isôko, an association of Tutsi from the DRC in Europe; Arnold Turagara, head of DRB-Rugari in the Mons region; and other representatives of various organisations.
Ernest Gakuba, President of DRB-Rugari, commended the City of Mons for its principled stance during the commemoration, contrasting it with other localities that he said have politicised remembrance events.
“We thank the leadership of the City of Mons, which did not act like some other municipalities that mixed politics with remembrance. But history will judge them harshly when the time comes. Mons chose the path of unity and humanity,” he stated.
Natacha Vandenberghe, representing the City of Mons, reminded attendees how the Tutsi were killed simply because of their identity and how they were abandoned.
“It was killing those who could not fight back — this was not a war between opposing sides. It was premeditated and organised with the intent that the Tutsi must be exterminated. Even the United Nations has recognised this,” she stated.
Vandenberghe urged people to speak the truth about what happened:
“Let’s call the Genocide by its rightful name. Let us remember, and let us help young people understand this history.”
In his remarks, Twagira Mutabazi, head of Ibuka-Mémoire et Justice-Belgique, discussed the importance of remembrance and the need for survivors to continue rebuilding their lives. He also highlighted recent challenges facing Genocide remembrance efforts in Belgium.
“This commemoration helps young people to continue honoring the eternal value of those we lost in the Genocide against the Tutsi.”
Mutabazi also revealed that he has requested the repatriation of the remains of King Yuhi V Musinga, currently in Belgium, so they can be properly buried in Rwanda.
“I have asked the Rwandan government to do everything possible to bring back King Yuhi V Musinga’s remains to Rwanda, to be reburied at Mwima in Mushirarungu,” Mutabazi said.
Irène Kamanzi, President of Isôko, said she attends these commemorations because she understands their value, but also because she wants to raise awareness that the horrors of the 1994 Genocide are recurring today.
“It is heartbreaking that I am here to speak about what is happening just across Rwanda’s border in the DRC. The killings there are beyond human comprehension, and the Congolese government is watching silently, just as the world did in 1994. Those who once fled Rwanda are now killing us again and establishing a government of genocidaires. I am here to denounce that loudly,” she remarked.
Arnold Turagara, head of DRB-Rugari in the Mons area, said:
“Today, 31 years later, we have gathered again here in Mons to remember our loved ones killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi — infants, children, the elderly. But we are not here to weep; we are here to bear witness to the atrocities committed.”
He emphasised that this is to help the younger generation understand what happened, pursue justice, and restore the value of human life.
He thanked the RPF-Inkotanyi for not standing idly by like the international community, but instead choosing to rescue those who could still be saved. He reminded everyone that young people played a key role in that mission and should be seen as role models.
Turagara also expressed gratitude to all who stood in solidarity with them, particularly the City of Mons for its continued support.
Olivier Munyengango, a survivor from Mukarange Parish, shared his testimony during the event. He lost his entire immediate family in the Genocide and was the only one left. His family included five children and their parents. Many extended family members were also killed.
The 31st commemoration event in Mons was held in three parts: a remembrance walk, testimonies and discussions at the Mons Memorial Museum, and a third part in the Jemappes district, where a night vigil and symbolic flame (Igicaniro) took place.
The Igicaniro program featured testimonies, moments of reflection, and a display of photos of both murdered and wiped-out families to highlight their lives and legacies.
This commemoration in Mons is one of many held across Belgium this year, with previous events in cities like Brussels, Liège, Namur, Bruges, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, and Antwerp. Upcoming commemorations will be held in Charleroi on May 24, Tournai on May 31, and Leuven on June 10.
{{Photos from the first part of the event: laying flowers and the remembrance walk.}}
Among the highlights at the two-day summit were products from the Rwanda Engineering and Manufacturing Corporation (REMCO), a government-established arms manufacturer tasked with producing military equipment for the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and supporting friendly nations with their defence needs.
REMCO, based in Kigali’s Gasabo District within the city’s industrial zone, manufactures a wide array of equipment tailored for infantry units, special operations, counter-terrorism, anti-riot missions, and metal shooting targets used in training.
The factory operates in partnership with Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), a globally recognised arms manufacturer.
The weapons produced through this collaboration are battle-proven and currently in use by both the RDF and the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).
Among the weaponry manufactured in Rwanda are pistols and assault rifles with effective ranges of up to 500 metres, including models such as the ARAD5/300BKL. Long-range sniper rifles like the ACE SNIPER and ARAD SNIPER, capable of hitting targets up to 800 metres away, are also part of REMCO’s arsenal.
Additionally, the factory produces machine guns, such as the NEGEV ULMG, and advanced night vision sights for improved visibility during night operations.
While most components of these weapons are manufactured domestically, a few — including bullets, magazines, and lenses — are currently imported.
REMCO has expressed readiness to supply its products to regional partners based on their operational needs and preferences, reinforcing Rwanda’s ambition to play a greater role in regional security and defence innovation.
Alongside the Rwandan-made weapons, ISCA also featured modern arms from other nations, including Egypt and Turkey, positioning the event as a major platform for Africa’s evolving security and defence landscape.
Held under the theme “Reshaping Africa’s Landscape in a Dynamic, Complex Global Environment,” ISCA brings together continental and global defence, intelligence, and security leaders to tackle urgent challenges and craft joint solutions.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at the Kigali Convention Centre, President Kagame called for a fundamental shift in Africa’s approach to security, urging the continent to take full ownership of its future and move away from reliance on external solutions.
The Head of State identified ownership of security agendas, governance, and cooperation as three crucial pillars for Africa’s enduring peace and stability.
“Africa’s future, particularly in matters of peace and security, cannot be outsourced,” Kagame told the delegates.
“For far too long, our security has been treated as a burden to be managed by others, often without our context or consent. This approach has failed to deliver — both for Africa and for the world.”
Also speaking at the opening session was Moussa Faki Mahamat, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Chair of the ISCA Advisory Council. He hailed the launch of ISCA as “a turning point” for Africa, describing it as a long-overdue strategic space for reflection and dialogue on peace and security matters.
“Africa’s security cannot rely on imported solutions,” Faki said. “We often say and repeat: African solutions to African problems.”
The ISCA conference continues on Tuesday with high-level panels and closed-door sessions expected to define strategic pathways for a more secure and self-reliant Africa.
The day began with a solemn visit to Ntarama, where Trinity Metals employees were guided through the site’s tragic history.
They learned how, in 1994, thousands of Tutsi who sought sanctuary in the Ntarama Catholic Church were brutally massacred—many by government soldiers—in a place they believed would protect them. The church has since been preserved as a memorial to honor the lives lost.
Speaking at the memorial, Peter Geleta, CEO of Trinity Metals Group, reflected on Rwanda’s journey of recovery and reconciliation over the past three decades.
“Being at this memorial today is a great honour. We’re remembering those who lost their lives, and we’re also honouring the brave survivors. It’s 31 years since this happened, but I’m always amazed by how quickly Rwandans rebuilt. If you look at the country today—under their leadership—what has been achieved is a shining example to the rest of the world,” he noted.
“If you look at all the conflicts happening globally, there are many countries that could learn from Rwanda. They came through their darkest period and rebuilt through reconciliation, love, and unity. It’s fantastic to see what’s possible when people come together after such a very, very difficult time—and I really commend all Rwandans,” Geleta added.
He also appealed to Rwanda’s youth and young people around the world, urging them never to forget the atrocities of the past—even if they were born after the genocide—and to take an active role in ensuring such tragedies never happen again. Geleta emphasized that prevention begins with mutual respect, love, and collective responsibility.
After visiting the memorial, the Trinity Metals delegation continued to Impinganzima Hostel, where they met with elderly genocide survivors whose families were wiped out during the genocide.
One of the residents, Agnes Mukandanga, shared her gratitude for the visit and what it symbolized.
“Sometimes I used to sit and feel like there was no one left who cared about me,” she said. “But today, I feel loved, seen, and remembered. When someone thinks of you and says, ‘I’m going to visit the Intwaza in Bugesera, to comfort them and see how they’re doing,’ that means everything to us. We never thought we would be loved again like this.”
Geleta concluded the visit by thanking the Government of Rwanda and the Unity Club Intwararumuri for initiating the Impinganzima concept, which provides elderly survivors with a dignified, loving, and supportive environment.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a recent instruction on the work concerning the compilation of the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).
Xi noted that the scientific formulation and consistent implementation of five-year plans stand as an important piece of experience in the CPC’s approach to governing the country.
The formulation and implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan holds immense significance for fully realizing the strategic initiatives outlined at the 20th CPC National Congress and advancing Chinese modernization, Xi said.
He emphasized the importance of integrating top-level design with seeking advice from the public, enhancing research and discussions, and building broad consensus.
Starting from 2026, China will embark on the implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan for economic and social development.
Currently, the CPC Central Committee is organizing the drafting of proposals for this plan, and relevant departments are gearing up to solicit opinions and suggestions from officials, the general public, as well as experts and scholars through various channels in the near future.
The new collection, compiled by the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, consists of five volumes of 29 articles published since November 2023.
These articles focus on studying and implementing relevant discourses made by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, with the aim of advancing systematic research and theoretical interpretation of the Party’s innovative theories for the new era.
The articles were originally published in the People’s Daily or the Qiushi Journal, both flagship publications of the CPC Central Committee.
The first two collections on the same topic, each comprising five volumes, were released in 2020 and 2023.
According to Dr. Uwicyeza, the gathering has grown far beyond the capacity of the site, resulting in repeated incidents that put lives at risk.
“The monthly public gathering has been temporarily suspended pending the establishment of safety measures,” she said, adding that, “over the years, this gathering has attracted hundreds of thousands of people far exceeding the capacity of the venue.”
Her comments shared on X follow widespread public reactions on social media, where some expressed frustration at the suspension, especially given the shrine’s long-standing popularity.
However, Dr. Uwicyeza emphasised that the decision was driven by concern for public safety, particularly in light of recent health emergencies reported during the gatherings.
“Attendees undertake a 13 Km pilgrimage, many end up in ambulances or arrive exhausted and hungry. At the last gathering, a dozen people were injured,” she explained. “The safety and security of Rwandans is our top priority.”
She further stressed the need to protect vulnerable groups who attend in large numbers, including children, the elderly, and the sick.
“We need to work together to ensure that the next public gathering is conducted safely and accommodates the special needs of the vulnerable (children, sick, elderly) who make up a large portion of attendees. We cannot afford to risk a single life!” she stated.
RGB’s decision, announced on May 18, 2025, followed a chaotic incident at the April 27 gathering, where a stampede left more than ten people injured.
The shrine—known locally as Kwa Yezu Nyirimpuhwe (Merciful Jesus Sanctuary of Ruhango) —has become one of the country’s most frequented religious sites, attracting over 80,000 pilgrims per event.
In early 2025, it gained international recognition and was added to the global list of Divine Mercy shrines.
