His closest challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesperson and employment minister, garnered 35.2%, according to the Council’s president, Clement Atangana.
The result means Biya, who first took office in 1982, will remain in power for another seven-year term.
This year’s election drew significant attention, with Bakary leading a spirited campaign that attracted large crowds and support from a coalition of opposition parties and civic groups. Despite his challenge, Biya’s long-established party structure and loyal base are said to have contributed to his latest victory.
While the announcement was met with celebration among Biya’s supporters, some parts of the country remained tense. Streets in Bamenda, a major city in the English-speaking west, were largely deserted amid fears of unrest. Reports indicated that at least four people were killed in Douala on Sunday during clashes between protesters and security forces.
Biya’s leadership has been marked by both achievements and enduring challenges. He is credited with expanding the country’s education system, establishing new public universities, and successfully resolving the Bakassi Peninsula dispute, which saw the oil-rich territory peacefully transferred from Nigeria to Cameroon.
However, his government continues to face difficulties, including an ongoing separatist conflict in the Anglophone regions, high youth unemployment, and concerns over infrastructure and public service delivery.
Bessent told CBS, the BBC’s US news partner, that the framework includes a final agreement on TikTok’s US operations and a deferral of China’s tightened controls on rare earth mineral exports. He added that he does not expect the 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods threatened by President Trump to come into force, while China will resume large-scale soybean purchases from the US.
Both nations are aiming to de-escalate tensions following months of uncertainty in global trade. The meeting between Trump and Xi is scheduled to take place on Thursday in South Korea, as part of the US president’s Asia tour.
Bessent met senior Chinese trade officials on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Malaysia, where both sides described their talks as “constructive.” He said the countries had “reached a substantial framework for the two leaders,” adding that “the tariffs will be averted.”
In a statement, China’s government said both negotiating teams “reached a basic consensus on arrangements to address their respective concerns” and that “both sides agreed to further finalise specific details.”
Since returning to the White House, President Trump has imposed or threatened sweeping tariffs on imported goods from several countries, arguing that they would strengthen US manufacturing and create jobs. While this approach has led to new trade agreements with countries such as the UK, it has also triggered sharp disputes with China, the largest target of US tariffs.
Earlier this month, Trump announced plans to impose an additional 100 percent tariff on Chinese goods starting in November, in response to Beijing’s decision to tighten controls on exports of rare earth elements minerals crucial to the production of smartphones, electric vehicles, and renewable-energy components. At the time, Trump accused China of “becoming very hostile” and trying to “hold the world captive.”
China, which processes nearly 90 percent of the world’s rare earth minerals, has now agreed to delay those restrictions for one year while reassessing the policy, Bessent confirmed during a separate television interview.
Another key issue in the discussions is the soybean trade, a sector that has suffered since China halted imports during the height of the trade war. Bessent, himself a soybean farmer, suggested that an agreement would bring relief to US producers.
“I’m actually a soybean farmer, so I have felt this pain too,” he said. “I believe when the announcement of the deal with China is made public, our soybean farmers will feel really good about what’s going on for this season and the coming seasons for several years.”
The proposed trade framework signals a potential turning point in relations between the world’s two largest economies, which have been locked in tariff battles and technology disputes since Trump’s return to office.
Among its achievements over the past century are more than 1,300 schools, including 853 nursery schools, 258 primary schools, 137 secondary schools, and three universities.
The church also takes pride in having established three hospitals, 18 health centers, hotels, business buildings, and other infrastructure that benefit the Rwandan community.
Archbishop Mbanda, who is in his final year of service, told IGIHE that he is grateful for how he has used the power God gave him to advance the Gospel in Rwanda.
“When I began, we had 1.2 million followers, that number has grown. During my time as Archbishop, we also established two new dioceses: Karongi and Nyaruguru. We thank God for that,” he said.
Archbishop Mbanda, who turned 71 on October 25, 2025, recalled that when he succeeded Rwaje, who had laid the foundation for the Gasabo Diocese, much still needed to be done.
He said that progress has been remarkable, from 2,903 congregants to more than 9,000 today.
“In Gasabo Diocese alone, we have built 22 well-constructed nursery schools and 14 modern churches. When I first came to Kibagabaga, it was hard to find a proper path or structure, but today we have a beautiful cathedral and the impressive Trinity Corner and Trinity Plaza, which generate income to sustain our mission,” he added.
Another milestone is the completion of the Anglican Church of Rwanda’s new headquarters in Kibagabaga, moving from its former location in Remera. The site also includes the Archbishop’s official residence, which, though he does not occupy it, generates 5 million Rwandan francs per month.
“In Kibagabaga, we now have two-story buildings. It’s a sign of growth in infrastructure, in the number of followers, and in the spread of the Gospel,” said Archbishop Mbanda.
{{Advancing healthcare}}
The Anglican Church of Rwanda operates three major hospitals: Gahini Hospital in Kayonza District, Shyira Hospital in Nyabihu District, and Kigeme Hospital in Nyamagabe District, in addition to various health centers and clinics.
Archbishop Mbanda highlights his involvement in the establishment of two health centers during his leadership, which continue to contribute to the improvement of Rwandans’ health.
{{Two of the three Anglican Universities founded under his leadership}}
The Anglican Church of Rwanda has prioritized high-quality education. Today, it operates three universities, including Muhabura Integrated Polytechnic College in Musanze District, which opened in 2014 and currently has around 4,000 students.
Other institutions include Hanika Anglican Integrated Polytechnic (HAIP) in the Southern Province, offering various programs up to Bachelor’s degree, and East African Christian College (EACC).
While launching business facilities at EACC, Archbishop Mbanda expressed his pride in having helped establish two of these universities: “By God’s grace, we have built excellent infrastructure and now seek the capacity to ensure their sustainability,” he said.
The new building at EACC will cost $1 million (over 1.4 billion Rwandan francs). It will include 16 classrooms, two large lecture halls for 160 students, 16 spaces for businesses, and 18 rooms for offices and storage, all to be completed within nine months.
Archbishop Mbanda mentioned that EACC’s initial goal was to have between 4,000 and 6,000 students by 2026, and they are already on track to reach 4,000 students.
“The academic programs we envisioned at that time, including business, theology, education, and medicine, are now in place and functioning. We also started a program to train early childhood education teachers, which has been successful. Our infrastructure plans have also come to fruition.”
EACC is led by Dr. Papias Musafiri Malimba, former Minister of Education in Rwanda. He shared that the university has plans to expand its capacity to 6,000 students, with plans to further develop the campus, including equipping the medical laboratory and increasing dormitory spaces.
“We plan to establish a model primary school. Today, we have a nursery school that will support our students studying education at the university. We are also seeking approval for eight new programs, five at the undergraduate level and three at master’s level,” he added.
{{28 years without support from Canterbury}}
For years, the Anglican Church of Rwanda, along with other GAFCON churches, followed Gospel principles distinct from the Church of England, particularly after Canterbury supported actions like blessing same-sex unions. This shift raised concerns about potential financial struggles, as it was believed Canterbury provided financial support.
When asked about how they would survive, Archbishop Mbanda responded: ” As far as I know, since 1997, we have not received any funding from Canterbury. The Anglican Church of Rwanda has reached a point where it must be self-sustaining, and that’s how it is.”
The Church headquarters is self-sustaining, and dioceses are reaching the same level of independence. That is why we encourage our congregants to work hard to support themselves. There’s no loss in what we have done.
This message extends even to non-Anglican Christians, as Archbishop Mbanda stated: “All Rwandans must work hard and support themselves rather than waiting for charity.”
When Archbishop Mbanda assumed his new responsibilities succeeding Onesphore Rwaje on January 17, 2018, the Anglican Church of Rwanda relied on small contributions from donors, typically around $4,000 or $3,000 at the national level.
“Today, we never rely on those small amounts. We now generate over 150 million Rwandan francs monthly through the infrastructure we have built. For example, the EACC university generates over 200 million Rwandan francs, which can help support its mission.”
FARDC spokesperson, Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge Bomusa, on October 10, 2025, urged FDLR combatants to surrender either to the Congolese government or to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo (MONUSCO).
He stated that if FDLR fighters refuse to hand themselves over for repatriation to Rwanda, the Congolese army would use force to dismantle the group, in accordance with the Washington peace agreement signed in June.
However, during the third session of the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism (JSCM) held in Washington, D.C., on October 21–22, the Rwandan and Congolese delegations, along with the United States and observers, confirmed that the FDLR had not yet begun disarmament. Despite this, Maj. Gen. Ekenge maintained that the process had already started.
In an interview with journalist Wendy Bashi from Deutsche Welle, Maj. Gen. Ekenge was asked about progress in removing the FDLR from Congolese territory. He responded: “FDLR has followed the instructions of the Congolese army.”
He further stated that the group remains in territories controlled by AFC/M23 fighters in Rutshuru, North Kivu Province, claiming the coalition is preventing FDLR members from surrendering to FARDC or MONUSCO.
“They are being stopped by others from laying down their arms. Today, we must ask ourselves where FDLR is. They are in areas controlled by AFC/M23 in Rutshuru. They want to disarm, but they are being stopped from doing so,” said Maj. Gen. Ekenge.
When asked why AFC/M23 would prevent the FDLR from disarming, he said he did not know but emphasised that the Congolese army would continue awareness campaigns urging the group to surrender.
“We are doing what is required of us. We have conducted awareness campaigns within FDLR and continue to do so. I have personally urged them to lay down their weapons. Others should help us in this effort,” he added.
Under the Washington peace agreement, both Rwanda and the DRC agreed to exchange intelligence on the FDLR and its affiliated groups through the Joint Security Cooperation Mechanism. The framework includes sharing information about FDLR movements, strength, and the location of its fighters and weapons.
In July 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe revealed that some FDLR members had been integrated into the Congolese army and Wazalendo militias, a move Kigali described as a violation of peace commitments.
“All FDLR information is known to us, their locations and the units where they’ve been integrated. They cannot claim these people are missing. They’ve not only been absorbed into the army but also into the Wazalendo militias,” Amb. Nduhungirehe said.
Rwanda’s Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) also identified 25 Rwandans linked to terrorist activities, noting that senior FDLR leaders were still operating in Walikale territory as of October 14, 2025.
Among those listed were FDLR President Gaston Iyamuremye, known as Lt. Gen. Byiringiro Victor, and military commander Pacifique Ntawunguka, known as Gen. Omega. Both were reportedly residing in the Buhaya area of Walikale.
The hotel is expected to boost Kigali’s reputation as a regional hub for business travel and tourism, offering world-class facilities and modern amenities to both leisure and corporate visitors.
The facility carries decades of heritage, having previously operated under international brands including Novotel and Le Méridien before later becoming Hotel Umubano. In 2017, it was acquired by Marasa Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of the global conglomerate Madhvani Group.
Redevelopment has since undergone several phases, including changes in ownership, which delayed its originally planned 2019 opening.
Today, the hotel is transformed. The number of rooms has grown from 100 to 124, with premium additions that include a presidential suite and a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Upon opening, it will employ about 160 permanent staff, the majority of them Rwandan. Half of the workforce will be women, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to gender equality and inclusion.
The hotel blends Swiss hospitality standards, synonymous with Mövenpick’s global reputation, with Rwanda’s distinctive culture of warmth in service. Its prime location in Kigali’s diplomatic district positions it perfectly for high-level guests, from international business travellers to government delegations and luxury tourists.
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is part of Accor Group, one of the world’s largest hospitality companies with 5,700 hotels across more than 110 countries. Mövenpick itself operates more than 130 hotels in 40 countries.
{{Designed for modern business and global events
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The hotel features a full suite of business and leisure amenities designed for modern travellers. Its coworking and professional spaces, branded as Wojo Kigali, offer an ideal environment for productivity, networking, and corporate engagement.
Guests will also benefit from large conference and meeting rooms, supporting Rwanda’s ambition to become a global destination for high-profile events and exhibitions.
Culinary experiences take centre stage at Raava Restaurant, where diners will enjoy Rwandan dishes alongside a variety of Mediterranean favourites, inspired by the cuisines of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, Türkiye, Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia.
For relaxation and informal meetings, the stylish Elephant Bar and a refined pâtisserie concept preserve the beloved bakery tradition once associated with Hotel Umubano.
For wellness and recreation, the hotel includes two tennis courts, a fully equipped fitness centre, a spa, a children’s play area, and additional facilities tailored for families and long-stay guests.
Many employees returning from the former Hotel Umubano bring a sense of continuity, marrying legacy with a fresh, world-class identity.
General Manager Médiatrice Umulisa Rutayisire says the hotel has been carefully designed to deliver a premium experience that reflects Rwanda’s achievements and aspirations.
“Every detail here was created to help guests feel at ease, inspired, and connected,” she said. “This is not just a place to stay, it is a place to enjoy Kigali’s refreshing atmosphere in a contemporary way.”
She emphasised the role Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will play in supporting Rwanda’s international visibility.
“We see ourselves as a bridge linking Rwanda with the world, from global investors to leisure travellers. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali stands as a testament to Rwanda’s continued progress and growing leadership in hospitality.”
Rwanda aims to significantly increase revenues from the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, from $85 million in 2024 to approximately $224 million (approximately Rwf 325 billion) by 2028. Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is expected to contribute strongly to this national objective by serving as a preferred venue for top-tier events and distinguished guests.
With its doors set to open soon, on a date yet to be announced, Mövenpick Hotel Kigali is poised to become a signature landmark, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality and business tourism in Kigali.
The U.S. president accused Canada of “fraudulent behaviour” and announced the suspension of trade talks between the two countries. His response came shortly after a televised ad aired in Ontario, featuring excerpts from former U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s 1987 speech warning against protectionism.
The advertisement, which was released by Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s office, appeared during major sports broadcasts and urged closer economic cooperation between Canada and the United States. However, President Trump claimed the ad misrepresented Reagan’s message and described it as an attempt to “interfere” with U.S. trade policy.
Premier Ford defended the campaign, saying the intention was to highlight the long-standing friendship between the two nations. “Canada and the United States are friends, neighbours and allies. President Ronald Reagan knew that we are stronger together,” Ford said after sharing the full, unedited version of the former president’s speech on social media.
While Canada’s federal government did not produce the ad, Washington’s reaction has already heightened tensions. The new tariffs, reported to affect up to 35 percent of Canadian goods, add fresh pressure to bilateral trade, which had already been strained by existing restrictions. Canada has also hinted at retaliatory measures if the duties remain in place.
Observers say the dispute underscores how political messaging can trigger real economic consequences. Despite the two nations’ long partnership, the latest tensions mark a new challenge in North American relations, with potential effects on key industries and cross-border trade.
According to reports by Al Jazeera, at least 53 people have lost their lives and hundreds have been injured after encountering explosive devices left behind during the conflict. Many families are now living in fear, as returning to their destroyed neighbourhoods has become a life-threatening act.
In areas where heavy bombardment occurred, buildings that appear safe often conceal unexploded shells or bombs buried beneath rubble. Humanitarian groups have warned that the danger is widespread and could take months to clear. One aid official said the situation “turns every step into a risk,” calling for urgent international support for de-mining operations.
While residents attempt to recover what remains of their homes, Hamas has announced an intensified effort to locate the 13 remaining bodies of Israeli captives within Gaza. The group confirmed that it is working with the International Committee of the Red Cross and Egyptian technical teams to search behind Israeli military withdrawal lines.
The ongoing recovery and clearance efforts highlight the devastating human and environmental toll left by the conflict. Aid organisations say that ensuring safety is now the top priority before large-scale reconstruction can begin. For many families, however, the psychological impact is already immense; the relief of returning home has been replaced by fear of hidden dangers and the painful memory of loved ones lost.
Experts warn that rebuilding Gaza will take far longer than expected unless explosive-clearance operations are fully supported and coordinated.
“It is not just about rebuilding houses, it is about rebuilding a sense of safety,” a humanitarian worker said.
The search for the missing captives, coupled with the ongoing risks from unexploded bombs, paints a grim picture of Gaza’s fragile recovery. Despite the ceasefire, civilians continue to live amid fear, loss and uncertainty, as the remnants of war continue to claim lives long after the fighting has stopped.
The initiative was first introduced and implemented at Majete Wildlife Reserve, located about 70 km south of the commercial city of Blantyre.
Brighton Kumchedwa, director of the DNPW, told Xinhua in a phone interview Friday that the lion population at Majete and Liwonde wildlife reserves has increased significantly.
He said the reserves’ carrying capacity is being exceeded, with lions frequently breaking through the fence and entering surrounding communities.
“This has negatively impacted biodiversity, causing a decline in antelope populations due to increased predation. The contraceptives are seen as a temporary measure to manage the population surge,” said Kumchedwa.
He added that the effects of the contraceptives are expected to last for about five years, after which the lions’ reproductive systems will return to active mode. Alternative solutions are being explored for the long-term management of the lion population.
Malawi has recorded a significant number of human-wildlife conflicts, involving animals such as hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and hyenas, which have resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left several others injured between January and October 2025.
The order was released on Saturday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to “ensuring the sustainable development and utilization of mineral resources, and to promote the growth of the national economy through value addition and industrialization.”
The president said the purpose of the order is to prohibit the export of raw minerals, promote local value addition, and ensure that the country’s mineral resources contribute to national economic development and prosperity.
According to the executive order, the prohibition took effect on October 21, 2025.
“The exportation of raw minerals from Malawi is hereby prohibited. This prohibition shall apply to all minerals extracted in Malawi, including but not limited to uranium, rare earth elements, niobium, graphite, tantalum, bauxite, coal, limestone, gemstones, heavy mineral sands, vermiculite, phosphate, pyrite rutile, gold, diamonds, copper, etc,” reads the order dated Oct. 23, 2025, and signed by Mutharika.
Any person or entity found in violation of the executive order will be subject to penalties, fines, and other sanctions as provided for by the laws of Malawi, according to the order.
The prohibition, however, exempts minerals that have been processed, refined, or value-added in Malawi in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the mining sector.
Mutharika said the implementation of the executive order will be reviewed and monitored regularly to assess its impact on the economy, industry, and the environment, with the ministry responsible for mining expected to submit reports to the president on its progress.
“Israel is an independent state. We will defend ourselves with our own forces, and we will continue to control our destiny,” Netanyahu told ministers at the start of his weekly government meeting.
“We do not seek anyone’s approval for this. We control our security,” he added.
Referring to plans for the deployment of international peacekeeping forces in Gaza, Netanyahu said Israel would decide which countries could deploy troops there. “We have made it clear that Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us, and we will continue to act accordingly,” he said.
His remarks followed a week of a diplomatic blitz of visits by senior White House officials aimed at reinforcing the fragile ceasefire in Gaza.
