President Xi Jinping highlighted the country’s rapid development and social stability over the past seven decades, attributing these achievements to the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the efforts of the Chinese people, and support from foreign businesses.
Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to openness, stating that foreign investment has been integral to the nation’s economic expansion, job creation, and technological advancement.
He assured that China’s welcoming stance toward foreign capital remains unchanged, offering vast market potential, policy stability, and a secure business environment.
Outlining China’s focus on high-quality development, Xi emphasised green, digital, and smart transformation as key priorities, positioning the country as an ideal destination for investment. He also reiterated China’s commitment to fair competition, legal protections, and equal treatment for foreign enterprises.
Calling for multinational companies to support economic globalisation, Xi urged them to uphold the multilateral trading system and contribute to global supply chain stability.
The meeting, attended by over 40 global CEOs—including leaders from FedEx, Mercedes-Benz, Sanofi, and HSBC—underscored China’s role as a stabilising force in the global economy.
Meanwhile, business leaders praised China’s progress and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investments in the country.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by the RDF Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General MK Mubarakh, who commended the trainees for their dedication and perseverance throughout the rigorous programme.
In his address, General Mubarakh underscored the significance of the training in fortifying national defense. He highlighted that the knowledge and skills acquired would enable the troops to effectively safeguard Rwanda’s territorial integrity and respond to evolving security threats.
He further urged the graduates to apply their training diligently in their assigned duties, emphasising that discipline remains a crucial pillar in ensuring excellence across all fields of military service.
The comprehensive training covered a range of critical subjects, including marksmanship, tactical manoeuvres, command and control, martial arts, physical fitness, and heliborne operations. These competencies are expected to enhance the RDF’s operational capabilities and readiness.
The successful completion of the training reflects Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to building a well-prepared and professional military force capable of addressing contemporary security challenges.
The earthquake hit the southeast Asian country on Friday, with Mandalay, Bago, Magway, the northeastern Shan state, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw among the hardest-hit regions.
A Chinese rescue team arrived at Yangon International Airport in Myanmar on Saturday afternoon to assist in disaster relief efforts.
According to Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, the high-level discussions focused on leveraging technology to accelerate development.
Rwanda Development Board (RDB) CEO Jean Guy Afrika and members of the Government of Rwanda Steering Committee attended the talks.
“Honoured to welcome H.E Sir Tony Blair, heading a delegation of @InstituteGC senior leadership in Africa, who were in Kigali to meet with the Government of Rwanda Steering Committee. The meeting discussed the partnership between the Tony Blair Institute and the Government of Rwanda, and explored collaborations on technology to accelerate development,” the minister said in a statement.
Blair, who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1997 to 2007, has been actively involved in Rwanda’s development since 2008, when he became an advisor to the government. Through the Africa Governance Initiative (AGI), later integrated into the Tony Blair Institute, his team has worked to improve service delivery, attract investment, and strengthen institutional capacity.
Key areas of partnership have included strategic capacity building, economic transformation, and investment promotion.
The Tony Blair Institute has played a role in advancing Rwanda’s development agenda, supporting initiatives like the Strategic Capacity Building Initiative (SCBI) and aiding in infrastructure and digital economy reforms.
Blair, who has praised Rwanda’s governance model in the past, has actively promoted the country as a leading destination for investment in Africa. His efforts have contributed to initiatives such as the expansion of electricity access and technology-driven economic growth.
Saturday’s meeting underscored the continued commitment to deepening collaboration, particularly in the tech sector, as Rwanda positions itself as a regional leader in digital transformation and innovation.
Further details on new initiatives from the meeting are expected to emerge as discussions progress between the Tony Blair Institute and the Government of Rwanda.
The decision was reached after two days of high-level talks in Bunia between General Muhanga Kayanja, Commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Land Forces, and General Ychaligonza Jacques, Director of Operations and Intelligence for the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).
The expanded mission aims to neutralize ADF terrorists and local armed groups that have rejected peace efforts and continue to destabilize the region. “The aim is to restore peace throughout the Ituri region, which has been plagued by armed violence for years,” said a joint statement issued after the meeting on Friday.
The announcement came as fighting intensified near Fataki, where CODECO fighters clashed with UPDF troops in the village of Bethléem. Local residents reported heavy gunfire and explosions that echoed throughout Fataki, forcing civilians to flee.
The fresh violence followed a brutal attack last week by CODECO militias at the Lodda displaced persons’ camp, where six people, including four children, were killed.
The clashes are part of a broader and increasingly violent confrontation between the UPDF and CODECO. Recently, in a major confrontation in Fataki, UPDF forces repelled sustained attacks by CODECO militants over two days.
According to the UPDF, 242 militants were killed, making it one of the bloodiest engagements of the operation to date. However, the victory came at a cost.
Colonel David Byaruhanga, a senior UPDF officer, died from injuries sustained during the battle. According to UPDF acting spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi, the colonel was wounded by a malfunctioned RPG (rocket-propelled grenade) fired during combat.
The Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) has long been blamed for some of the most brutal atrocities in eastern DRC. The Lendu-dominated militia has been responsible for massacres, ethnic killings, village burnings, and the targeting of Hema civilians for over a decade.
The group has recently been linked to a strategic alliance with the ADF, further complicating the security environment.
CODECO’s attacks, especially in Djugu and Mahagi, have driven tens of thousands of people from their homes. Local and international humanitarian organizations are warning of a deepening crisis as violence spreads and access to aid becomes increasingly restricted.
With the inclusion of Bunia in Operation Shujaa’s scope, the DRC and Uganda are signaling a new and more aggressive phase in their fight against armed groups in the Ituri Province.
Originally launched in late 2021 to target ADF strongholds in North Kivu and Ituri, the operation now appears set to tackle a broader range of militias resisting disarmament and reintegration.
This is contained in an agreement that was signed between the M23 rebels and SADC leaders. The agreement announced on Friday was signed after a meeting between the parties that took place at the Serena Hotel in Goma city.
General Sultan Emmanuel Makenga, military commander, Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, deputy chief of defense forces and Erasto Bahati Musanga, Governor of North Kivu province, represented M23 rebels in the meeting.
SADC was represented by General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of South African Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Zyeele Zambia army commander, Major General Saiford Kalisha representative of the chief of defense force of Malawi, Major General Ibarahim Michael Mhona representative of the Defense Force of United Republic of Tanzania and Professor Thelestane Kula, Director organ on politics, defense and Security Affairs of SADC.
According to the agreement, M23 rebels will facilitate the immediate withdrawal of SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) troops with their weapons and equipment. The agreement, however, puts a condition that all weapons and other military equipment belonging to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) will stay in the hands of the rebels.
The agreement also indicates that M23 rebels will coordinate the freedom of movement of SAMIDRC troops in preparation for withdrawal. The leaders also agreed that all parties will facilitate a joint technical team to assess the status of Goma International Airport in readiness for reopening, and SADC will assist in repairing to facilitate troops’ withdrawal.
The meeting happened the same day when M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa and Colonel Imani Nzenze, rebels’ intelligence chief, arrived in Qatar’s capital Doha to meet DRC government officials in peace talks mediated by Qatar’s President, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Early this month, President Hamad also hosted Felix Tshishekedi, DR Congo President and Paul Kagame of Rwanda to discuss a peace deal in eastern DR Congo.
M23 ordered SAMIDRC troops to surrender after the fall of Goma city and neighboring areas where they had been deployed since December 2023. Rebels now control major areas of North and South Kivu provinces since the resumption of insurgency in 2022.
This influx is largely attributed to the reopening of land and water routes, which had been restricted due to the conflict.
The main border points, Grande Barrière (La Corniche), Petite Barrière, and Kabuhanga, now operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, significantly improving trade and movement.
Before COVID-19, over 50,000 people crossed these borders daily, with Grande Barrière running 24/7. However, when the M23 conflict erupted, Kinshasa imposed strict border regulations, limiting access from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Following M23’s capture of Goma, border restrictions were lifted, allowing freer movement of people and goods. This change has revitalized economic activity, particularly benefiting small-scale traders who had previously faced monopolistic restrictions.
Françoise Muhorakeye, a trader from Gisenyi, shared her relief, “Before, Congolese traders controlled everything. We couldn’t sell directly to buyers and had to leave our goods with intermediaries, who paid us whatever they wanted, often causing losses.”
Ange Gabriella Uwimana echoed similar sentiments, “Now, I can buy vegetables for Frw2,000 across the border, sell them for Frw4,000, and return for more without worrying about time limits. I can now provide for my children and save money, unlike before when intermediaries took most of the profits.”
Rubavu District’s Vice Mayor for Economic Development, Nzabonimpa Deogratias, confirmed that the increased hours and improved trade conditions have driven the rise in border traffic.
“Currently, around 38,000 people use these borders daily. This proves that time is money, and lost time is costly. The numbers have grown from 20,000 after COVID-19, showing that trade between Rubavu and Goma is thriving again.”
He also highlighted how the improved movement has benefited hospitality businesses in Gisenyi, as more Goma residents visit for leisure and return without time constraints.
Encouraging investors to capitalize on the economic growth, he concluded, “There is demand, but the market is struggling to meet it. I urge businesspeople to invest because people need goods and services.”
The engagement, held at the Serena Hotel in Goma, brought together military chiefs from SADC and AFC/M23, was announced through a joint statement signed by Major General Sultani Makenga, representing AFC/M23, and Major General Ibrahim M. Mhona, representing SADC and the Army Defence sub-committee.
The agreement outlined immediate steps for the withdrawal of SAMIDRC troops, who will leave with their weapons and equipment while ensuring that all FARDC weapons and equipment remain behind.
AFC/M23 also committed to coordinating the freedom of movement for SAMIDRC troops in preparation for their withdrawal, in accordance with principles agreed upon during the meeting.
To further support this process, SADC military chiefs and AFC/M23 agreed to conduct a Joint Technical team assessment to evaluate the readiness of Goma International Airport for reopening, with SADC offering assistance in repairing the airport to facilitate the smooth withdrawal of troops.
The meeting, attended by senior defence officials from across the SADC region, included General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the South African National Defence Force; Lieutenant General Geoffrey C. Zyeele, Commander of the Zambia Army; Major General Saiford Kalisha, representing the Chief of Defence Force of Malawi; and Major General Ibrahim Michael Mhona, representing the Chief of Defence Forces of the United Republic of Tanzania.
Also present were Professor Kula I. Theletsane, Director of the Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Affairs at SADC, Major General Sultani Makenga, Military Coordinator of AFC/M23 and Chief of Defence Forces of ARC, Brigadier General Bernard Byamungu, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of ARC, and Bahati Musanga Erasto, Governor of North Kivu Province.
In addition to troop withdrawal and airport rehabilitation, the agreement highlighted the need for a follow-up meeting between SADC and AFC/M23 at a mutually agreed venue and date to monitor the progress of these commitments.
Both parties expressed their gratitude for the efforts made by SADC and AFC/M23 leadership to facilitate the engagement, emphasizing that the agreement marks a crucial step toward a peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict.
Following the meeting, M23’s military spokesperson, Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma, shared a video capturing a lighthearted moment with SAMIDRC troops, who hugged and cheered him.
In the video, the troops affectionately gave him the nickname “Quickly,” a reference to the day he swiftly oversaw the eviction of European mercenaries who had turned into prisoners of war (POWs) in Goma.
M23’s Lt. Col. Willy Ngoma shared a light moment with SAMIDRC troops who hugged and cheered him, even giving him the nickname “Quickly”, a nod to the day he swiftly oversaw the eviction of European mercenaries turned POWs in Goma. pic.twitter.com/xowxgacCrH
Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente announced on Friday, March 27, 2025, the construction of a steel and metal-processing plant in Musanze, with an annual production capacity of 300,000 tonnes. The factory is expected to supply essential raw materials to other industries, aligning with the government’s vision of boosting industrial productivity.
Speaking before both chambers of Parliament, Dr. Ngirente reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increasing industrial output and exports to achieve sustainable economic growth. He noted that many industries in Rwanda currently operate below their full capacity, and the government is determined to change this through strategic investments and support mechanisms.
To further support local industries, the government is establishing a RWF 500 billion fund to assist private sector players in expanding manufacturing exports and mineral extraction. A key focus is on the cement industry, which heavily relies on imported clinker.
Research has confirmed that clinker can be produced locally in northern Rwanda, particularly in Musanze. This move is expected to help Rwanda save over $4.5 million per month in import costs.
In the steel sector, the new Musanze-based factory will not only increase local production but also supply essential raw materials to existing manufacturers.
“This new factory will have a processing capacity of 300,000 tonnes per year. It will play a crucial role in meeting domestic market demand and eliminating the need for costly imports,” Dr. Ngirente stated.
The project is expected to create about 1,000 jobs and enhance Rwanda’s export potential in the steel sector.
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Rwanda is also taking significant steps to develop its textile industry following the ban on second-hand clothing imports. The government is committed to supporting the establishment of new textile industries and strengthening existing ones to ensure all Rwandans have access to locally made, affordable clothing.
“We currently do not have enough locally produced clothing, so we must intensify efforts to ensure that textile industries can manufacture clothing for all Rwandans at competitive prices,” Dr. Ngirente said.
To further promote the sector, the government will facilitate access to diverse markets, helping the country save approximately RWF 20 billion that was previously spent on imported garments. This initiative is also expected to create thousands of jobs, aligning with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) goal of generating 250,000 jobs annually.
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In addition to textiles and steel, the government is prioritizing the edible oil industry, recognizing its potential to generate substantial revenue within a short period.
“Enhancing our cooking oil production will enable us to save approximately $100 million annually,” Dr. Ngirente stated.
The expansion strategy also includes advancing Rwanda’s wood-processing sector and establishing a leather processing park in Bugesera. The leather facility is expected to generate $430 million annually, significantly contributing to the country’s export earnings.
Rwanda’s agro-processing sector remains the largest industrial segment, comprising 85 large-scale and 908 small-scale enterprises. The country also hosts 91 major manufacturers of various products, alongside 398 small-scale producers. Additionally, 38 large and 82 small construction material manufacturers operate within Rwanda.
With these industrial developments, Rwanda is positioning itself as a key player in regional and international markets while significantly reducing its reliance on imports.
The government’s investment in industrial growth is expected to drive economic transformation, create jobs, and improve the country’s trade balance in the years to come.
After administering the oath, President Kagame commended RIB for the remarkable progress it has made in crime investigation over the past eight years, acknowledging that the institution has become a cornerstone of Rwanda’s security.
“In just eight years since its establishment, RIB has made significant strides in investigating crimes and has become a key pillar of our nation’s security,” he stated.
President Kagame highlighted the growing threats posed by transnational criminal groups who exploit technology to harm people, as well as the increasing cases of economic crimes, including investment fraud.
He explained that new forms of crime have emerged, aiming to deceive and exploit people, which negatively impacts the welfare of citizens. He emphasized the need for greater efforts to combat these challenges.
“We must use all the resources at our disposal to confront these changes and enhance our investigative capabilities, whether through thorough crime research and advanced forensic science, digital forensic, and adopting innovative approaches based on advanced knowledge, including the now prevalent artificial intelligence,” he said.
President Kagame urged RIB to collaborate closely with other institutions to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and fairly, stressing that integrity and professionalism should guide the actions of those working in these institutions.
“I want to emphasize that RIB should continue to work with relevant institutions to ensure that justice is delivered promptly and effectively. Upholding integrity should remain the foundation of all our efforts. Rwandans deserve institutions that serve them efficiently and earn their trust,” he added.
The President also pointed out that leaders of different institutions should demonstrate commitment, diligence, and professionalism to effectively fulfill their responsibilities.
“There should be no room for weakness, inappropriate conduct, or lack of accountability. Professionals should not tolerate such behavior; instead, they should work to eliminate it. Our duty is to ensure that every citizen lives with the assurance that they are adequately protected and that all aspects of daily life proceed as they should, without tolerating any form of malpractice,” he emphasized.
Colonel Kabanda was appointed as the Secretary General of RIB during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on March 26, 2025. Prior to this role, he served as a Prosecutor at the Military High Court.
In this new position, Col Kabanda succeeds Col (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga, who had been leading RIB since its inception in April 2017.
