The meeting brought together leaders from the political coalition AFC, which consists of various political groups and the M23. Among the attendees were AFC leader Corneille Nangaa, North Kivu’s Deputy Governor Manzi Willy, and M23 military officials.
Recently, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Anglican Church (ECC) launched a program to engage with various groups in the region in a bid to bring peace to Eastern DRC.
On February 9, 2025, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the Catholic Archbishop of Kinshasa, announced that the churches were ready to engage M23 rebels, with peace as the primary goal.
“If going to Goma is necessary, we will go. We will meet and talk with everyone. Even if they are in the moon, we will meet them there. We cannot achieve anything if we don’t give everyone a chance, if we want these talks to lead to a lasting solution,” he stated.
However, the initiative by CENCO and ECC has been criticized by the ruling UDPS party in the DRC, which argued that the churches should not be involved in political activities without authorization from President Félix Tshisekedi.
UDPS stated, “UDPS/Tshisekedi reminds that religious groups do not have a mandate to engage in political processes on behalf of the state. We call on religious leaders to focus on promoting peace and unity among citizens, while respecting the authority of the legitimate state leadership.”
Both the Catholic and Anglican Churches support the peace initiatives endorsed by the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which include halting fighting in Eastern DRC and facilitating talks between the DRC government and M23.
This discomfort isn’t limited to the bereaved. Even the process of confronting death can be difficult, and many find it challenging to view the deceased face-to-face. This fear often extends to those who work with the deceased, especially mortuary attendants.
While many shy away from such work, one individual has dedicated the last two decades of his life to it at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK).
Ngarambe Assiel, a 76-year-old man from Ruhango District, has spent 20 years working in CHUK’s mortuary, with a career spanning 43 years in the healthcare sector.
Since 1982, his role has involved receiving bodies, ensuring they are properly stored in fridges until claimed by relatives, and assisting in the medical examination of bodies, particularly in cases of diseases and accidents.
“I’ve never feared working in the mortuary. It’s just a job, and I treat it with respect,” Ngarambe says with a calm demeanor.
Each day, Ngarambe prepares for his work with care, donning protective clothing like a lab coat, gloves, and a mask to avoid direct contact with bodies.
He checks the mortuary fridges regularly to ensure they are functioning properly, preventing any damage to the bodies. Upon receiving the bodies, he ensures they are properly prepared for storage or transfer to the appropriate place for family viewing.
Ngarambe’s work is guided by professionalism and a deep respect for human dignity. He takes great care to ensure that bodies are handled respectfully, especially when families come to identify their loved ones.
He carefully explains the process of storing bodies in cold rooms and ensures that family members are treated with sensitivity and empathy during these emotionally charged moments.
Ngarambe also assists with bodies brought from outside the hospital, meticulously documenting each one and ensuring proper handling. Even when bodies are brought from distant locations, Ngarambe carries out his work with professionalism and care.
Despite his long experience, Ngarambe acknowledges the emotional toll of working in the mortuary. He reflects on the impact of seeing young, vibrant people pass away, which reminds him of the fragility of life.
“There are times when you prepare the body of a young person, or someone in their prime, and you can’t help but think about how short life can be. It makes you reflect on your own mortality and how precious time is,” Ngarambe shares.
For him, the job isn’t just about technical tasks; it’s about showing humanity and respect to the deceased and their families. He emphasizes that he never downplays anyone’s loss, always offering condolences and explanations in a thoughtful, respectful manner.
Despite common superstitions about supernatural occurrences, Ngarambe dismisses these beliefs. He’s never experienced anything unusual, even though some people believe that spirits may return in different forms.
“Those are just stories people tell. The rooms we work in are just like any other. There’s nothing supernatural going on here. I’ve never seen anything strange, even at night,” he explains.
Though he has vast experience, Ngarambe admits that sometimes he dreams about his work. However, this does not frighten him; he simply accepts it as part of his job.
Over the years, Ngarambe has witnessed countless deaths, including those of children, the elderly, the rich, and the poor. For him, this reinforces one simple truth: death does not discriminate. He encourages everyone to live humbly, for none of us knows when the time will come.
“Death doesn’t care if you’re young or old, rich or poor. It comes for everyone. That’s why we should live kindly, treat others with respect, and cherish the time we have,” he says.
This elderly man works day and night, depending on his shift. In 20 years, he has handled countless bodies, including those of his own family members. While he can’t recall the exact number, he says it can reach 50 or 60 in some months.
He recalls the heartbreaking moment of receiving his own child’s body at the morgue: “My child fell ill, and we took him to a health center. His condition worsened, so we brought him here, but he passed away. I received him the same way I do with others. It’s devastating.
“Watching your own child leave this world while you remain behind makes you question, ‘Who will bury me when those who should do it are leaving before me?’ It takes an immense amount of strength to bear such pain.”
Mukantaganda Bernadette, a social worker at CHUK, praises Ngarambe’s dedication to his work, noting his professionalism and compassion.
“He’s an exemplary worker, always respectful and considerate. He also helps guide new staff with his wisdom,” she says.
Working in the mortuary is not for everyone, it requires patience, empathy, and a strong emotional constitution. For Ngarambe, however, his role is more than just a job. It is a calling, one he approaches with dignity and care, always ready to support others in their time of need.
At a press briefing in Geneva, WHO spokesperson Christian Lindmeier explained that “communication has become difficult” due to the severing of traditional channels between the two parties, though he refrained from providing further specifics.
The H5N1 bird flu outbreak in the U.S., which began in April 2024, has led to nearly 70 infections, mostly among farm workers.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stressed that while human-to-human transmission remains unconfirmed and the public health threat remains low, individuals with extended exposure to birds, poultry, or livestock are at higher risk.
The U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, which was formalized by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on his inauguration day, has raised concerns about the sharing of critical health data.
Some countries have privately voiced concerns that the U.S. may withhold important information on emerging diseases, which could hinder global efforts to prevent future pandemics.
The situation has become more alarming following the discovery of a second strain of bird flu in dairy cattle in Nevada, heightening fears that the outbreak could spread further.
UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan and Ivorian Minister of Commerce Souleymane Diarrassouba highlighted Africa’s vulnerability to global economic shocks, mainly due to heavy reliance on commodities and infrastructure deficits.
More than half of African nations depend on oil, gas, or minerals for over 60% of their export earnings, leaving them exposed to global market fluctuations. Additionally, trade costs across the continent are 50% higher than the global average, owing to underdeveloped transport, energy, and digital infrastructure.
Grynspan emphasized the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which could create a market worth $3.4 trillion. She urged African countries to implement bold reforms, make strategic investments, and fully realize AfCFTA’s potential to enhance economic resilience and global competitiveness.
Key recommendations from the report include diversifying exports, boosting intra-African trade, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are responsible for 80% of Africa’s jobs ,and establishing early warning systems for trade risks.
Grynspan also lauded Côte d’Ivoire’s economic resilience, noting the country contributes 40% of West Africa’s GDP growth and attracts 30% of the region’s foreign investments.
Prime Minister Robert Beugre Mambe underscored the role of the private sector as the economy’s engine, accounting for 75% of investments and 26% of GDP.
He outlined government efforts to improve business conditions, such as improving logistics, expanding digital connectivity, and providing targeted funding.
The report highlights Africa’s $194 billion annual infrastructure deficit and proposes solutions like tax incentives for industrialization, regional investment funds, and trade finance mechanisms to support businesses affected by crises.
Grynspan reiterated that Africa’s future lies in regional integration, urging faster implementation of AfCFTA. By adopting strategic reforms, the continent could reduce external dependency, stabilize revenue, and achieve more inclusive growth.
The Rwandan Head of State was warmly received by Dr. Ahmad bin Hassen Al-Hammadi, the Secretary-General of Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at Hamad International Airport, as confirmed by Rwanda’s Embassy in Qatar.
Rwanda and Qatar share a strong, friendly relationship, cooperating in various sectors, which is further cemented through their ongoing diplomatic engagements.
At the end of last year, President Kagame participated in the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate event in the Formula 1 calendar.
In February 2024, President Kagame made another working visit to Qatar aimed at reinforcing the already solid ties between the two countries.
Qatari officials have also previously visited Rwanda; on January 31, 2025, President Kagame hosted Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi, Qatar’s Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for discussions on bilateral relations and regional matters.
In June 2022, Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani visited Rwanda as a state guest during a Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting held in Kigali. This followed a visit in April 2019 by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar’s Supreme Leader, aimed at advancing bilateral relations.
The two nations cooperate in security, investment promotion, trade, technology, tourism, anti-corruption, and more. Qatar is also collaborating with Rwanda on the Bugesera Airport project, with Qatar Airways holding a 60% stake.
In January 2025, President Kagame noted significant progress in agreements signed with Qatar, especially concerning the construction of Bugesera International Airport and the acquisition of a 49% stake in RwandAir.
The bus, operated by International Express, was traveling from Kigali to Musanze when it veered off the road and rolled down a hill, approximately 800 meters from the main road.
Rulindo District Mayor, Mukanyirigira Judith, had earlier confirmed 16 fatalities, but the death toll later rose to 20 lives which had been lost in the accident. She said that the bus was carrying 52 passengers when it lost control in the mountainous area.
“The vehicle went off the road and rolled down the slope. We are still investigating the cause of the accident,” said Rwanda National Police spokesperson, ACP Boniface Rutikanga.
The Government of Rwanda issued a statement expressing its condolences to the families of the victims. Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente conveyed the government’s deepest sympathy and confirmed that the injured were immediately transferred to local hospitals for medical care.
“The Government of Rwanda extends its deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in today’s tragic road accident that claimed 20 lives and left several others injured in Rusiga Sector, Rulindo District,” he said in a statement.
The government has assured continued support for the bereaved and the injured, emphasizing the importance of road safety.
“We remind all road users, especially drivers, to follow the laws and regulations concerning road safety to prevent accidents and save lives,” added the Prime Minister.
The new operating times were announced by the administration of North Kivu, which was established by M23 rebels following their recent capture of the area.
According to a statement from Governor Bahati Musanga Joseph, the border will now open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM, providing a longer window for people and goods to cross.
“Starting from Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Grande Barrière border (La Corniche) connecting Rwanda and the DRC will open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM,” the statement said.
Musanga emphasized that officials on both sides of the border would work together to ensure the smooth flow of activities and keep the crossing efficient and safe for all.
Previously, before the M23 rebels took control, the border’s opening time was later in the morning, and it closed earlier in the evening, limiting the time available for movement.
Speaking at a consultative meeting organized by the Rwanda Council of Churches and Religious Organizations on family well-being and child protection, she emphasized the need for religious groups to address issues affecting Rwandan families.
Uwimana referenced advice given by President Kagame during the National Prayer Breakfast, urging everyone to fulfill their responsibilities better. “No one is perfect, but we must all do what is right,” she advised.
While Rwanda has made strides in family development and children’s rights, challenges remain, especially those related to conflict. A 2024 report from the Rwanda Governance Board highlighted issues such as alcoholism, lack of family communication, infidelity, and abuse of technology.
The Minister stressed the importance of nurturing children in a way that prepares them for the future. “Children are raised at home, in schools, in churches, and on social media. We must reflect on the upbringing we provide,” she noted.
She also emphasized that family development should respect children’s rights, focusing on guidance with love, compassion, and authority. “Parental guidance is always necessary,” she added.
Minister Uwimana called for stronger collaboration and resources to prevent family issues, urging a proactive approach rather than reactive measures.
On his part, Archbishop of Kigali, Antoine Cardinal Kambanda, reinforced the importance of family as the foundation for national development. He called on religious leaders to assess whether current values align with the needs of building healthy families.
Both leaders agreed that religious organizations play a crucial role in shaping families and must work together to find sustainable solutions for future generations.
This statement was made by M23’s political spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, on February 11, 2025, after leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) called for the airport’s reopening to facilitate humanitarian aid, three days earlier.
“The technical issues, including unexploded bombs and the damaged runway, have created obstacles to reopening Goma’s international airport,” Kanyuka explained.
In addition, EAC and SADC leaders urged M23 to open key roads, such as the Goma-Bunagana, Goma-Lubero, and the route linking Goma to Bukavu through Lake Kivu.
In response, M23 confirmed that all these roads and water routes are accessible, but called on the SADC forces present in the DRC to use the available routes and return to their home countries.
Kanyuka further stated that while M23 supports the decisions made at the summit, especially regarding political talks with the DRC government, M23 must be part of the discussions on how these decisions will be implemented.
He also reminded that M23 declared a ceasefire on February 3, but reported that DRC and Burundi forces were preparing attacks on civilians in areas under M23 control, including Nyabibwe and the Kalehe center. He warned that M23 would retaliate if these attacks continue.
The spokesperson stated that if SADC and Burundi forces want peace in eastern DRC, they must respect the decisions made by EAC and SADC leaders and withdraw from the region.
The call, issued in a letter signed by Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, comes in response to an executive order by U.S. President Donald Trump, which halted the disbursement of USAID and Center for Disease Contral funds pending review.
The funding suspension has affected numerous healthcare workers whose salaries and operations depended on American financial assistance.
“With immediate effect, all activities related to the disbursement of federal financial assistance have been paused. As a result, operations and emoluments directly supported by the U.S. government are suspended,” Dr. Atwine stated in the letter.
“However, in the meantime, we encourage contracted staff willing to continue working in the spirit of patriotism as volunteers to reach out for possible integration into the existing healthcare system,” she added.
The funding freeze has raised concerns about potential disruptions in essential health services, particularly in HIV/AIDS programs, maternal health, and infectious disease prevention. Uganda heavily relies on foreign aid, with U.S. funding playing a critical role in supporting public health initiatives.
Some affected health workers have expressed frustration over the government’s call for voluntary service.
“Many of us have families to feed and bills to pay. It’s not realistic to expect us to work without pay,” said a healthcare worker formerly supported by USAID, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Others worry about the long-term impact of the suspension on Uganda’s health system. “These programs have saved millions of lives. If funding is not restored soon, we could see a serious crisis,” said Dr. James Okello, a senior medical officer.
The Ugandan government says it is in discussions with U.S. officials to find a resolution. “We remain optimistic that engagements with the U.S. government will yield a positive outcome,” Dr. Atwine reassured, urging health workers to stay patient during the process.
However, with no immediate solution in sight, the uncertainty has left many health workers and beneficiaries anxious about the future of critical medical programs in the country.
