“To prevent war between our two countries, we are committed to resolving disputes through peaceful means. This is what we have been doing since 2020 when Burundi initiated dialogue with Rwanda. To this day, Burundi remains open to discussions with Rwanda to settle the issues between us,” Ndayishimiye told diplomats in Burundi.
{{From threats to talks}}
Since late January 2025, Ndayishimiye had repeatedly declared his readiness to go to war with Rwanda. His fiery statements raised tensions in the already volatile Great Lakes region.
On January 31, he claimed Rwanda was planning to attack Burundi. While addressing diplomats, he said, “I am telling you, if things continue this way, war will spread across the region because the people will not allow this to happen. If Rwanda continues… the day they come to Burundi, we will not accept it.”
The tensions further grew on February 11, when Ndayishimiye, speaking to residents of Bugabira Commune in Kirundo Province, again gave a stun warning to Rwanda.
“Be prepared, do not be afraid, we know them well. Since the monarchy, they have never defeated us. Do you think they can defeat us now? Remind them, ‘Do you know where Kirundo stands? he questioned.
His remarks came amid fierce clashes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the M23 armed group was advancing against forces that included Burundian troops.
{{A shift in tone}}
The turning point came during the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa on February 15 2025. Reports suggest Ndayishimiye faced pressure from other African leaders who warned him about the serious consequences of his inflammatory statements.
By the next day, he had softened his stance. In a post on X, he revealed that discussions with Rwanda’s allies had given him assurances that Burundi would not be attacked.
“After discussions with Rwanda’s allies, those hoping to benefit from a Rwandan attack on Burundi should abandon their plans. But to my fellow Burundians, stay alert and vigilant,” he wrote.
{{Roots of the conflict}}
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi flared in late 2023 when the RED Tabara armed group launched an attack in Gatumba Zone. This led Burundi to close its borders with Rwanda in January 2024.
Despite the rising hostility, Rwanda has consistently signaled openness to dialogue. In September 2024, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, reaffirmed Rwanda’s readiness to engage in talks with Burundi.
“Rwandans and Burundians are brothers and sisters who should live together peacefully,” he said.
Ndayishimiye’s latest statements suggest a step back from the brink. His willingness to return to the negotiating table marks a significant shift from his earlier threats of war.
The high-level discussions, which build on previous engagements in Kabale, Uganda (December 2023) and Nyagatare, Rwanda (May 2024), focused on border security, the movement of people and goods, and addressing shared threats affecting both nations.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the two delegations underscored their joint responsibility in safeguarding their common border, acknowledging that both countries have previously faced challenges in managing cross-border movement of insurgents and refugees.
“The main purpose of the meeting was to further strengthen cross-border security cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda and ease movement of persons and goods between the two countries,” the statement read.
The meeting was led by Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Robert Rusoke, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, and Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s Envoy to the Great Lakes Region.
Discussions focused on longstanding security issues, particularly the control of illegal movements across the border, which have in the past been linked to insurgents, refugee flows, and smuggling activities.
The joint communiqué noted that the delegations “assessed the current status of shared challenges faced in the sectors of immigration, trade, customs, health, border demarcation, and security along our common border.”
Recognizing that unregulated movement of people has posed security risks in the past, both sides agreed on the need to enhance intelligence-sharing, strengthen border patrols, and coordinate immigration processes.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the progress made in implementing regional security directives, particularly in relation to the Northern corridor integration projects.
While acknowledging the strides made, both countries also noted the potential challenges arising from the operationalization of these projects, calling for continued vigilance and cooperation.
Both Uganda and Rwanda emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and security collaboration to prevent any resurgence of border-related tensions.
“The two countries welcomed the continuous efforts to provide a platform for fruitful dialogue and cooperation,” the communiqué stated, highlighting the importance of cross-border coordination in managing both security and humanitarian concerns.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Maj. Gen. Rusoke and Ambassador Karega praised the continued commitment to regional peace and stability, emphasizing that both nations would work towards fully implementing agreed security measures.
“Both leaders hailed the continued spirit of good neighborliness between the two countries and expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the meeting while committing to carry out regular follow-ups,” the communiqué affirmed.
The support will be delivered under the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, a Presidential mandate aimed at training young Nigerians in digital and technology skills.
Airtel Africa also announced 10 scholarships for Nigerian students to study technology-focused courses at Plaksha University in India under the Airtel Africa Fellowship.
Driven by Airtel Africa Foundation, the scholarships will equip Nigerian youth with cutting-edge digital and innovation skills, reinforces commitment to bridge the talent gap in the technology sector while supporting the country’s aspirations to become a global tech hub.
These pledges to develop Nigeria’s future tech leaders were announced when Airtel Africa’s Chairman, Mr. Sunil Bharti Mittal, KBE and Airtel Africa CEO, Sunil Taldar met with Nigeria’s President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at State House in Abuja.
The meeting also discussed Airtel Africa’s ongoing investments in Nigeria’s telecom and digital economy.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Mr. Sunil Bharti Mittal said: “Nigeria remains a strategic market for Airtel Africa, and we are fully committed to support the government’s digital transformation agenda. Through initiatives like the Airtel Africa Fellowship and our investment in 3MTT, we are ensuring that the youth of Nigeria have access to world-class education and digital skills. We commend President Tinubu’s vision for a technologically advanced Nigeria and are committed to play our part in making that vision a reality.”
While noting the significant work currently ongoing via the Airtel-UNICEF Reimagine Education Programme which has onboarded 1,260 schools and over 600,000 students in the country to digital learning platforms such as the Nigerian Learning Passport (NLP), Mr. Mittal restated Airtel Africa’s dedication to network expansion, service quality, and financial inclusion.
Airtel Africa welcomed the recent designation of telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), recognizing it as an essential step in safeguarding and expanding Nigeria’s digital backbone. It also emphasised its continued mission to drive financial inclusion across Nigeria, particularly through its subsidiary, SmartCash PSB.
Mr Taldar reiterated the continuing goal of Airtel to support government efforts that are aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy, saying: “Airtel is deeply invested in Nigeria’s digital future. We are expanding our network, driving financial inclusion, and creating opportunities for the people of Nigeria through technology and innovation. Our collaboration with the government through initiatives like the Airtel Africa Fellowship and 3MTT ensures that Nigeria remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution.”
Airtel Africa remains committed to working closely with the Government of Nigeria and all stakeholders to drive connectivity, digital skills development, and financial inclusion, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
{{About Airtel Africa}}
Airtel Africa is a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, with operations in 14 countries across sub-Saharan Africa.
Airtel Africa’s integrated offer provides national and international mobile voice and data services as well as mobile money services to over 156 million customers.
The company’s strategy is focused on delivering a great customer experience across the entire footprint and increasing digital and financial inclusion to transform lives across Africa, in line with our corporate purpose.
The once-feared Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) led by Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony is rapidly losing its grip. Sources close to the situation indicate that Kony’s operations, once a terrifying force in central Africa, are now a shadow of their former self.
The Wagner Group, known for its mercenary work, has been arresting and forcing the LRA combatants to surrender, especially in the conflict-ridden areas of Darfur, Sudan, and the Central African Republic (CAR).]
The group has created a wall of security, making it increasingly difficult for Kony’s forces to operate freely.
According to New vision, Marianne Moor, head of Pax Netherlands, a non-governmental organization involved in helping former rebels reintegrate revealed that the group surrounding Kony has dissolved. “The only remaining part of the LRA is the one directly protecting Kony himself” she said.
The LRA, which once sought to establish a theocratic government based on Kony’s interpretation of the Ten Commandments, has long been notorious for abducting children and forcing them into brutal labor and warfare.
At its peak, the group displaced over 1.8 million people and claimed the lives of more than 100,000 in northern Uganda.
But now, with the Wagner Group closing in and Sudan’s civil war making the region unstable, Kony’s stronghold is crumbling. Many of his fighters, exhausted by years of war, have been abandoning the cause.
According to Moor, the pressure is becoming too much for some of the LRA members, and more defections are expected.
“We know that wherever the group enters, there is now significant military presence. The situation has become more difficult for Kony, and many of his fighters have surrendered to authorities,” said Moor.
One of the main reasons for these defections is the increasing hardships of life in the bush. Many of the fighters, including those who were once forcibly recruited, are seeing the grim reality of their situation.
Moor explained that some of these rebels, especially those from Congo and CAR, have been offered amnesty by the Ugandan government. Once they hear stories of earlier defectors being treated with respect and reintegrated, many decide to leave the group.
Kony’s diminishing forces now seem to pose little threat to Uganda. “His group is no longer the powerful force it once was. Unless Kony recruits new fighters, his group has lost its edge.”
The NGO has already repatriated 156 combatants back to Uganda, and more are expected to follow. These former fighters are being given a chance to rebuild their lives through programs that include medical and mental care, as well as traditional ceremonies to reintegrate them into their communities.
The collapse of the LRA signals the end of a brutal era for many across central Africa, but the peace process remains fragile. Governments will need to continue offering opportunities for reintegration to ensure that the cycle of violence does not return.
By the time you reach your mid-thirties, life often demands a higher level of competence and self-sufficiency. Navigating adulthood isn’t always smooth, but certain essential skills can make the journey easier and more rewarding.
From managing your emotions to handling basic finances, these capabilities form the foundation of a well-rounded, independent adult. Here are the critical life skills every person should aim to master by 35.
{{Adapting your humor to different situations}}
A well-developed sense of humor is more than just making people laugh, it’s about understanding social cues and adapting your jokes to fit the environment. By your mid-thirties, being able to adjust your humor appropriately shows emotional intelligence and social awareness.
Whether you’re in a professional setting, with close friends, or meeting new people, the ability to gauge what kind of humor is suitable reflects a mature understanding of interpersonal dynamics.
Humor can also be a coping mechanism, helping to navigate stressful situations with ease. Knowing when to be playful and when to remain serious allows you to build stronger relationships while easing tensions.
{{Managing personal finances}}
Financial literacy is crucial for anyone striving to maintain stability and achieve long-term goals. By 35, understanding the basics of budgeting, saving, and managing debt should be second nature.
This involves knowing how to track income and expenses, prepare for tax obligations, and make informed financial decisions. Mastering basic bookkeeping helps you maintain control over your financial well-being.
It also enables you to plan for future milestones like buying a home, investing for retirement, or covering emergencies. With increasing economic uncertainties, the ability to manage money effectively is a powerful tool for financial independence and peace of mind.
{{Prioritizing self-care and rest}}
In the fast-paced modern world, self-care is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. By your mid-thirties, it is essential to have established habits that prioritize both physical and mental well-being.
This means scheduling regular rest, nourishing your body with balanced meals, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine. Prioritizing rest allows you to recharge and approach life with greater clarity and resilience.
Equally important is caring for your emotional health. Learning to set boundaries, engage in activities that bring joy, and recognize the signs of burnout can prevent long-term health issues.
{{Emotional regulation and managing stress}}
Handling emotions effectively is a hallmark of emotional intelligence. By 35, being able to identify, understand, and regulate your feelings is a critical life skill.
This means remaining calm during conflicts, expressing yourself clearly, and maintaining composure in stressful situations. Emotional regulation supports healthy relationships and informed decision-making.
Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and cognitive reframing can help you navigate complex emotions. Developing this skill ensures you can cope with life’s challenges while maintaining a sense of balance and well-being.
Offering a sincere apology
The ability to apologize genuinely is a reflection of emotional maturity. By the time you reach your mid-thirties, understanding how to acknowledge your mistakes and make amends is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.
A sincere apology involves accepting responsibility, expressing remorse, and offering to repair any harm caused. Authentic apologies are a sign of growth, accountability, and respect for others’ feelings.
This skill fosters trust and emotional connection. Whether in personal or professional relationships, the ability to apologize can prevent lingering resentment and strengthen bonds.
{{Performing basic household tasks}}
Being able to manage a household independently is a practical skill that everyone should master by 35. This includes grocery shopping, cooking simple meals, cleaning, and basic home repairs.
Knowing how to maintain your living space not only fosters a sense of self-sufficiency but also creates a comfortable and functional environment.
Basic cooking skills allow you to prepare nutritious meals, while understanding home maintenance can save you time and money. This independence enhances confidence and ensures you can handle daily life without relying on others for every task.
{{Understanding and respecting others’ needs}}
A critical aspect of adult maturity is recognizing that people experience the world differently. By 35, you should be capable of understanding and respecting the needs and perspectives of others.
This means practicing empathy, being considerate, and adjusting your behavior to accommodate those around you. Simple gestures, such as being mindful of shared spaces or acknowledging others’ emotions, contribute to harmonious relationships.
Developing this awareness allows you to engage in meaningful interactions and create an environment where others feel valued and respected.
{{The essence of true adulthood}}
While mastering these skills by 35 can enhance your independence and emotional intelligence, true adulthood is not about perfection. It involves continuous growth, self-awareness, and the ability to ask for help when needed.
Each person’s journey is unique, and not everyone will excel in every area. However, striving to develop these essential life skills fosters a sense of confidence, adaptability, and compassion.
Ultimately, the ability to navigate life with resilience and grace is the hallmark of a fully realized adult.
On Thursday, February 27, the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Rwanda’s Ambassador in Stockholm, citing concerns over alleged Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group.
This move follows mounting international pressure in the wake of M23’s recent capture of Goma and Bukavu, key cities in the North and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Rwanda has consistently refuted allegations of backing M23, instead pointing to the ongoing collaboration between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned genocidal militia.
The Embassy emphasized that Rwanda has for decades faced existential security threats from the FDLR, which continues to launch attacks on Rwandan territory, violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The Rwanda Defence Force [RDF] has consistently maintained defensive measures to address serious security threats along the border with the DRC,” reads part of the Embassy’s statement. “Rwandans have the fundamental right to live in peace, free from the perpetual threat of insecurity emanating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.”
Rwanda has expressed frustration over what it perceives as the international community’s failure to acknowledge its security concerns, particularly the threat posed by the FDLR and the inflammatory rhetoric from Congolese leaders calling for regime change in Kigali.
The Embassy asserted that Rwanda will not be intimidated or pressured into compromising its security.
“Only the Rwanda Defence Force and the Commander-in-Chief can determine the necessary defensive measures to protect the lives of Rwandans, especially when threats emerge a mere two kilometers away,” the statement added. “Rwanda will not be bullied or blackmailed into compromising its national security.”
The Embassy also criticized Sweden for what it called a double standard in addressing the conflict. Given Sweden’s values of mutual respect, equal rights, and peacebuilding, Rwanda found it “shocking and unfortunate” that Sweden has remained silent on the plight of Congolese Tutsi and the targeting of Rwandans in DRC.
“Sweden’s evident alignment with Belgium, a historical actor in the root causes and present-day insecurity and conflict in the region, is disheartening and questionable,” the Embassy noted.
It further argued that Sweden, having no colonial history in Rwanda and no involvement in illicit mineral dealings, is in a unique position to adopt an ‘impartial’ diplomatic stance.
The international community has often framed the conflict in eastern DRC as a simplistic narrative of “Rwanda backing M23,” ignoring the historical and political grievances that led to M23’s emergence.
The Embassy pointed out that M23 is a Congolese movement with legitimate concerns, arising from the DRC government’s failure to honor past peace agreements and protect the rights of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, particularly Tutsi communities, who continue to face persecution, displacement, and targeted killings.
The Rwandan Embassy also condemned the international community’s failure to address the FARDC-FDLR collaboration and its reluctance to sanction those inciting violence against Congolese Tutsi.
The Embassy highlighted that despite clear evidence of this collaboration, the United Nations and international actors have failed to take decisive action against the DRC government.
“How can a national army align itself with a foreign genocidal militia?” the statement questioned. “The international community, including Sweden, is fully aware of the FDLR threat, including its shelling of Rwandan territory on June 10, 2022. Despite this knowledge, Sweden has refused to officially condemn the FDLR and FARDC collaboration. Why?”
Rwanda also took issue with Sweden’s silence on the recruitment of European mercenaries by the DRC government, pointing out that Rwanda has, in contrast, upheld its humanitarian obligations by hosting thousands of refugees, including former FARDC soldiers and militia fighters, and facilitating safe evacuations for MONUSCO personnel and international organizations.
The Embassy urged Sweden to respect and support the African-led mediation process, reinforced by the joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, along with the African Union’s efforts to bring peace to the region.
“Rwanda’s sole objective is a secure border and a definitive end to violent ethnic extremism in the region,” the statement concluded. “The cycles of conflict fueled by the DRC government’s failures and the international community’s inaction must not be tolerated any longer.”
Rwanda maintains that it will continue to safeguard its territorial integrity and protect its citizens while urging the international community, including Sweden, to adopt an impartial and balanced approach to the conflict in eastern DRC.
During a recent parliamentary session, Minister Collins was questioned about the killing of 70 Christians by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Lubero territory, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In response, he claimed to have met with Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, who he alleged had “denied all these crimes.”
Taking to social media on February 27, 2025, [Minister Nduhungirehe condemned Collins’ statements as an attempt to distort facts.->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/uk-faces-backlash-over-minister-s-comments-linking-amb-nduhungirehe-to-adf]
He further stated that the Rwandan government expects the UK to issue a formal clarification regarding these claims.
Amb. Nduhungirehe confirmed that High Commissioner Thorpe was summoned on February 27, 2025, to discuss the matter and convey Rwanda’s concerns.
The ADF, an extremist militia originating from Uganda, operates primarily in the Ituri and North Kivu provinces of the DRC.
Despite repeated insinuations, there is no evidence linking Rwanda to the group’s activities. On the contrary, Rwanda has been a target of ADF-planned attacks, all of which have been foiled.
UN reports have previously confirmed that the ADF had planned attacks in Kigali during the 2022 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Additionally, in October 2021, Rwanda’s Investigation Bureau (RIB) arrested 13 individuals linked to the ADF who were allegedly planning attacks on key infrastructure in Kigali using explosives.
Rwanda continues to reject any unfounded allegations and remains firm in its commitment to regional security and stability.
The country is home to a variety of valuable minerals, some of which have been mined since the colonial era. A 2017 study identified 52 mineral-rich zones, with 37 already licensed for extraction, while five remain within protected national parks.
One notable mining site is Nyiramuganza in Ngororero District, where research on a six-square-kilometer area uncovered deposits of coltan, cassiterite, wolfram, and gold. Experts estimate that fully extracting these minerals could generate up to $800 million. Gold mining continues to be a key driver of the industry, with major extraction sites in Miyove, Ruzizi, Nyamasheke, and Musanze.
Rwanda is also intensifying geological research, particularly on lithium and gemstones, which are crucial for the production of modern technology. The government’s 2024/25 strategy focuses on boosting both the quantity and quality of exported minerals, aiming for a revenue increase from $1.2 billion in 2023/24 to $1.3 billion. Quarterly earnings are expected to reach $325 million.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, the industrial sector saw a 5.7% increase in output in December 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, with mining output alone rising by 2.5%.
The country has made significant progress in mineral processing, with refined gold from Gasabo Gold Refinery and processed tin from LuNa Smelter among its key exports. The long-term objective is to ensure that all minerals are processed before being exported.
Exploration efforts will continue in 26 promising locations, including Ndiza, Miyove, Nyamasheke, Ruhango, Ruli, Gatumba, Burera-Rulindo, and Huye, as authorities work to expand mining operations.
The Rwanda Mining Association (RMA) is advocating for a shift from traditional mining methods to a more professional and technology-driven approach. Currently, 96% of mining sites employ trained workers, while 34.9% utilize modern technology, a figure expected to increase to 44.9% by June 2025.
Additionally, a nationwide survey is being conducted to map mineral deposits across different regions, providing accurate data to guide investment decisions. While almost all districts have licensed mining activities, Gisagara remains the only district without a mining permit.
With ongoing investment in modern technology, value addition, and exploration, Rwanda’s mining sector continues to be a key pillar of economic growth.
The talks aim to advance the next phase of the truce agreement while ensuring the implementation of previously established commitments, according to Egypt’s State Information Service (SIS).
Discussions also focused on enhancing humanitarian aid to Gaza, addressing the ongoing crisis, and stabilizing the region.
The renewed negotiations follow the completion of a prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which is set to expire on Saturday.
Israeli officials confirmed that their delegation traveled to Cairo to assess the possibility of extending the truce in exchange for the release of more hostages.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stated that Israel is open to continuing the framework under specific conditions.
According to Israeli reports, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with their safe return being a priority for Israeli authorities.
Hamas has expressed willingness to proceed with discussions on the second phase of the agreement but insists that any further hostage releases must be tied to a sustained ceasefire.
The ongoing truce, brokered by Qatar and Egypt with U.S. support, first took effect on January 19. The outcome of the Cairo negotiations will determine whether the fragile peace can be maintained.
The tariff, which targets European goods including automobiles, was presented by Trump as a necessary measure against what he described as European trade practices that disadvantage American businesses. He accused the EU of blocking U.S. exports, particularly in the automotive and agricultural sectors.
In response, the European Commission emphasized that American companies have benefited significantly from investments in Europe.
Officials underscored that the EU’s single market structure has enhanced trade and reduced costs for international businesses, including those from the United States.
The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting free and fair trade, vowing swift action against any unjustified trade barriers.
European Parliament leaders warned against economic isolation, emphasizing the shared values between Europe and the U.S. France and Spain echoed the call for unity, with French officials stressing the need for a strong and proportionate reaction.
Meanwhile, Spain’s Prime Minister underscored the EU’s commitment to open trade and cooperation, rejecting Trump’s claims that the bloc was formed to undermine the U.S.
Other European leaders also voiced concerns over the impact of the tariffs. Italy, a key exporter, expressed apprehension about escalating trade disputes, with industry leaders warning that these measures could disrupt European economies and threaten jobs.
Calls for a more assertive response to U.S. policies have grown among European businesses, which fear long-term economic consequences.
