In his remarks to the UN General Assembly on the UN80 Initiative, Guterres said: “Now is the time for bold, systemic change, building on the Humanitarian Reset: to deliver faster, at lower cost and with greater reliability to the millions of people whose lives depend on us in moments of crisis.”
With this goal in mind, the UN chief said, the United Nations has established a New Humanitarian Compact between UN humanitarian agencies — a six-point blueprint to deliver better, restore trust in multilateral action and maximize the impact of every dollar.
“The Compact will bring the UN system together in a new Collaborative Humanitarian Diplomacy Initiative — fostering coordinated negotiation and unified messaging, so that we speak and act as one for those in greatest need,” he said.
Guterres highlighted the measures to be taken, including cutting coordination bureaucracy by simplifying humanitarian response plans, meetings and structures; integrating the supply chains of the principal humanitarian agencies, enabling more cost-effective procurement, pooled freight and shared logistics at global and country levels; and proposing to scale up the use of common services, from office space to fleets and security arrangements.
“Everything that is specific of the activity of an agency should be developed by the agency, but everything that is common should be done together with a larger increase of efficiency and a meaningful reduction of costs,” he said.
Guterres added that the United Nations will strengthen its joint capacities to leverage data for faster, earlier, more targeted and dignified action, and align responsibilities to reduce programmatic overlaps in the fields of food, mobility, beneficiary data, health and nutrition.
In his speech, Guterres also said that to implement the UN80 Initiative, the United Nations has identified targeted efficiencies and cost reductions of over 15 percent in the proposed 2026 regular budget, and about 19 percent in posts. “The purpose is clear: to reduce duplication, strengthen quality and safeguard mandate delivery while responding to Member States’ call for greater efficiency.”
The United Nations has appealed for more than 45.3 billion U.S. dollars for its global humanitarian needs in 2025, but only 21 percent, or 9.6 billion dollars, had been received as of the end of September, a staggering decrease of over 40 percent compared to the same time last year, a UN spokesperson said Tuesday.
At the heart of Spark Microgrants’ mission lies the Facilitated Collective Action Process (FCAP), a model that empowers communities to organize, plan, and lead their own development.
Yet, as the realities and priorities of these communities evolve, the methods that support them must also adapt.
Recognizing this, Spark launched the Design Fellowship Program, an initiative that transforms experienced Community-Based Facilitators (CBFs) into strategic designers and innovators of process.
For Fellows like Fyson, Mustapher Saidi from Malawi, Sam Namusi (Uganda), Alexis Mbarushimana (Rwanda), and Innocent Nditurende (Rwanda), the fellowship represents a transformative step forward.
“As a CBF, I facilitated weekly sessions. As a Design Fellow, I now help refine the FCAP process and test tools like chatbots,” says Fyson.
Saidi echoes this sentiment, adding, “The fellowship opened my mind. I now work across communities and learn from different realities.”
The fellowship is not merely a title; it’s a platform for practical growth and hands-on learning. Through it, Fellows gain valuable skills in digital literacy, research, facilitation, and community design.
Fyson Ekani from Lilongwe, Malawi, now confidently uses digital tools like Google Meet, Excel, and Sheets while leading focus group discussions and mentoring peers. Saidi and Sam have strengthened their research and coordination skills, and Mbarushimana has refined his abilities in planning, reporting, and analysis.
These newfound competencies are not confined to theory. Fellows apply them daily as they test prototypes, advise on design improvements, and generate insights that guide Spark’s national strategies.
“It taught me how to be independent and set smart goals,” says Saidi.
“I’ve learned to manage conflict and support others,” adds Fyson.
The impact of the Design Fellows extends far beyond their personal growth. Across Spark-supported communities, their influence is tangible.
Fyson helped initiate manure production and tree-planting projects, while Saidi revived a long-stalled maize mill initiative and spearheaded reforestation efforts.
Sam has supported agricultural programs across fifteen sub-counties while piloting new feedback tools. Mbarushimana and Nditurende have guided livestock projects and promoted vital health initiatives, such as insurance enrollment and household improvements.
These stories reveal how the Design Fellows are not just guiding communities but are also testing, adapting, and scaling locally led projects that deliver real results.
“Whenever I was stuck, I got help from my trainers or fellow Design Fellows,” recalls Sam. “The fellowship made me feel part of something bigger,” adds Fyson.
Beyond immediate community change, the Design Fellowship is nurturing the next generation of local leaders. Fyson aspires to become a Trainer, while Saidi and Sam are eager to pursue further opportunities in research and facilitation.
Alexis dreams of enhancing his digital design skills, and Innocent, now a Trainer himself, reflects on his transformation: “The program gave me the confidence and skills I needed to grow.”
Through ongoing mentorship, peer learning, and feedback, the Fellows continue to evolve, charting new paths in leadership while inspiring others to do the same.
What makes the Design Fellowship truly remarkable is its belief that innovation begins within communities themselves.
By blending field experience with creative design thinking, Spark Microgrants is building a network of leaders who are redefining the meaning of sustainable development.
The Design Fellows are not only facilitators of progress; they are co-creators of a movement where communities take the lead in designing their own future.
The event held on Tuesday, October 14, served as a powerful platform to present Rwanda’s rich tourism offerings, including unique travel packages created by local tour operators, to travel agencies and industry professionals in Germany’s Rhine region.
The afternoon sessions brought together a diverse group of travel agencies and tour operators eager to explore Rwanda’s diverse tourism potential.
Kageruka Ariella, Head of Tourism at RDB, captivated the audience with in-depth presentations on Rwanda’s flagship experiences.
These include the renowned gorilla trekking adventures in Volcanoes National Park, breathtaking wildlife safaris, vibrant cultural circuits across Kigali and rural communities, and the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
The presentation also spotlighted the country’s high-end accommodations and eco-tourism offerings, showcasing Rwanda’s blend of adventure, luxury, and sustainability.
Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor César, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing Rwanda’s unique assets and the abundant opportunities available for German tour operators and travel agents.
The event also featured tailored, modular travel packages designed for both the German and Dutch markets. These packages cater to a wide range of travelers, from solo adventurers and families to groups and corporate travelers, ensuring that Rwanda’s offerings appeal to all.
This roadshow marks an important step in Rwanda’s mission to enhance its visibility as a prime tourism destination in Europe, with a focus on both increasing tourist arrivals and maintaining the high-quality, sustainable tourism experience that the country is known for.
The list, approved by the National Counter-Terrorism Committee, was prepared under the Prime Minister’s Order No. 001/03 of 22 January 2025. It highlights figures alleged to have led or financed attacks, recruited fighters, or promoted extremist propaganda targeting Rwanda.
According to the document, those designated are linked to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), Rwanda National Congress (RNC), and the Conseil National pour le Renouveau et la Démocratie – Forces de Libération Nationale (CNRD–FLN), among others.
Below is a list of the cited individuals and the charges against them.
{{1. Lt Gen Gaston Iyamuremye (76)}}
Known also as Victor Byiringiro, he is the president of FDLR, accused of planning and coordinating terror attacks against Rwanda, extorting civilians, and financing terrorism through illegal taxation and mineral smuggling in eastern DRC.
He is listed under UN Resolutions 1533 and 2078 and the U.S. Executive Order 13413.
{{2. Maj Gen Pacifique Ntawunguka (61)}}
Alias Omega, commander of FDLR–FOCA, accused of orchestrating cross-border terrorism, resource plundering, and illegal taxation to fund FDLR operations. He is sanctioned by the UN and U.S. authorities.
{{3. Col Sylvestre Sebahinzi (64)}}
Alias Zinga Zinga ZZ, based in Lusaka, Zambia, and a nephew of former president Juvénal Habyarimana.
He is accused of commanding FDLR terror operations (2006–2009), raising funds in Southern Africa, and overseeing executions in FDLR “kangaroo courts.”
{{4. Maj Alphonse Munyarugendo (59)}}
Alias Monaco Dollar, a long-serving FDLR member, coordinating fundraising and logistics for terror activities in the SADC region from Maputo, Mozambique. He was among the founders of ALIR, precursor to the FDLR.
{{5. Faustin Ntirikina (68)}}
Alias Zigabe Pacifique, a French national of Rwandan origin, found guilty in case No. RP0038/2018/HC/HCI for recruiting youth into terror groups including RUD-Urunana and FLN. He is also accused of masterminding the 2019 Kinigi attacks that killed several civilians.
{{6. Maj Gen Antoine Hakizimana (54)}}
Alias Jeva, military chief of CNRD–FLN, accused of planning and financing the Nyaruguru and Kitabi attacks against Rwanda from his base in Bujumbura, Burundi.
{{7. Eric Munyemana (53)}}
A Belgian national and vice president of FLN, responsible for fundraising and coordination of terrorist operations, according to FIC intelligence reports.
{{8. Dr Innocent Biruka (61)}}
Alias Mitali, secretary general of CNRD–FLN, based in Mulhouse, France.
He was found guilty in the same case as Ntirikina for recruiting youth into the P5 coalition. He also claimed responsibility for the 2018 FLN attack on Yanze model village.
{{9. Gen Faustin Kayumba Nyamwasa (67)}}
A founding member of the RNC, living in Pretoria, South Africa, and cited as the architect of grenade attacks in Kigali between 2010 and 2013. He is accused of leading the RNC’s military wing and coordinating terror financing. Court documents link him to FDLR commanders and the UN Group of Experts report (2010).
{{10. Dr Emmanuel Hakizimana (62)}}
A co-founder of RNC, currently in Canada, accused of mobilizing funds and recruiting operatives for RNC and MRCD, another armed opposition group.
{{11. Abdulkarim Ali Nyarwaya (57)}}
Alias Dick Nyarwaya, a UK-based British national, accused of fundraising and supporting P5’s terror campaigns in collaboration with Kayumba Nyamwasa.
{{12. Maj Robert Higiro (55)}}
Alias Gasisi, based in Nairobi, accused of coordinating RNC activities, training recruits, and fundraising for the movement’s operations in the region.
{{13. Frank Ntwali (47)}}
RNC’s representative in Southern Africa, accused of liaising with FDLR and coordinating recruitment and fundraising for RNC’s military operations.
{{14. Ignace Rusagara (39)}}
Spokesperson for RNC in the United States, accused of promoting FDLR objectives, spreading propaganda, and inciting anti-Rwanda sentiments online.
{{15. Jean Paul Turayishimiye (53)}}
A U.S.-based court interpreter and founder of Rwanda Alliance for Change (RAC–Urunana).
He is accused of using his YouTube channel East African Daily to incite terrorism, organize fundraising, and recruit members under the P5 umbrella.
{{16. Gaspard Musabyimana (70)}}
A Belgium-based businessman and founder of Radio Inkingi and musabyimana.net, accused of funding FDLR propaganda and using his media platforms to spread hate speech and justify terror attacks.
{{17. Placide Kayumba (44)}}
Based in Namur, Belgium, accused of forming alliances between FDU–Inkingi and FDLR, and financing terrorism against Rwanda.
{{18. Augustin Munyaneza (62)}}
A Brussels-based taxi driver, alleged to be a sympathizer and fundraiser for FDLR–FOCA and P5 activities targeting Rwanda.
{{19. Michel Niyibizi (69)}}
A teacher in Tournai, Belgium, accused of coordinating fundraising and sanctioning terror plots on behalf of FDLR–FOCA and P5.
{{20. Jonathan Musonera (61)}}
A London-based RNC member, accused of inciting violence and mobilizing funds for RNC’s armed operations, as well as publicly supporting FDLR attacks.
{{21. Dr Theogene Rudasingwa (64)}}
A Washington-based RNC leader, accused of masterminding grenade attacks in Rwanda (2010–2013) and forging the RNC–FDLR collaboration. He is a former senior government official and ambassador.
{{22. Maj Jacques Kanyamibwa (68)}}
Based in Toulouse, France, accused of funding terrorism, recruiting online, and participating in the planning of the 2019 Kinigi attacks in Musanze District.
{{23. Thomas Nahimana (54)}}
Thomas Nahimana is the President of the ISHEMA Party and operator of the Isi n’Ijuru TV YouTube channel.
He is accused of inciting terrorism and coordinating activities with FDLR–FOCA leaders from his base in Le Havre, France.
{{24. Christine Coleman Uwizera (53)}}
A Denver-based pastor and supporter of FLN, accused of inciting violence against Rwanda through her X (Twitter) account, @SOS_Rwanda, and promoting FLN and P5 propaganda.
{{25. Sylvestre Nduwayezu (53)}}
Alias Jet Lee, based in Kampala, Uganda, accused of recruiting fighters, coordinating arms purchases, and planning terror attacks in connection with RUD-Urunana and P5.
Officials say the move reflects Rwanda’s intensified efforts to disrupt terrorist networks and cut off their financing channels, especially those operating abroad.
Analysts note that many of the named individuals have long been under international scrutiny for links to armed groups operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring states.
AFC/M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, said on the morning of October 15, 2025, that the attacks were conducted in coordination with other armed groups and militias allied with the FARDC, including the Wazalendo coalition.
“AFC/M23 informs citizens and the international community that, as has often been the case, the coalition of forces under Kinshasa’s command launched heavy bombardments on densely populated areas and on our positions in South and North Kivu, just hours after the ceasefire mechanism was signed in Doha on October 14, 2025.”
Kanyuka explained that other AFC/M23 positions also came under ground assaults, including Kadasomwa and Lumbishi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu Province, as well as Kasake in Masisi territory, North Kivu Province.
The DRC government forces launched these attacks in AFC/M23-controlled zones shortly after representatives from both sides signed an agreement on Tuesday, October 14, in Doha establishing a joint ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism aimed at consolidating peace efforts in the country’s volatile east.
Facilitated by the State of Qatar, the agreement builds on the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19, 2025, and outlines a structured process for monitoring compliance with the permanent ceasefire. The mechanism will be responsible for investigating and verifying alleged violations and engaging relevant actors to prevent renewed hostilities.
This was considered a significant step forward, aimed at helping both sides continue dialogue without obstacles and ultimately reach a lasting peace accord.
Kanyuka has emphasized that, beyond endangering civilians, the government coalition’s attacks undermine ongoing peace efforts.
They made the call during the official opening of the Second Africa Skills Week, which is jointly organized by the African Union (AU) and the Ethiopian Ministry of Labor and Skills under the theme “Powering Africa’s Industrial Future: Skills for Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability,” running from Monday to Friday at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.
Addressing the event, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the strategic importance of skills development to advance inclusive growth, create decent jobs, and realize the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.
“The urgency of skilling our youth cannot be overstated. We must convert our demographic dividend into a productive, inclusive, and globally competitive workforce. This is why the African Union has placed skills at the heart of Agenda 2063,” he said.
Youssouf also outlined key imperative actions, including harnessing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and strengthening policy coherence and regional integration for skills development.
The continental gathering brought together policymakers, experts, industry leaders, educators, development partners, and young innovators to deliberate on skills development and youth empowerment across the continent. The event also witnessed the official launch of the 10-year Continental Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Strategy 2025-2034.
“We are not simply discussing the future. We are here to build foundations that will drive our ambitions and aspirations. The crucial and key force that transforms Africa’s potential into economic power is skill,” said Ethiopian Minister of Labor and Skills Muferihat Kamil.
The Second Africa Skills Week is a platform dedicated to advancing Africa’s skills transformation agenda, focusing on strengthening skills for industrial growth, enhancing TVET, and fostering public-private partnerships.
Zhang Wei, charge d’affaires at the Mission of China to the AU, reaffirmed China’s commitment as a “reliable friend and sincere partner.”
“China stands ready to work hand in hand with the AU and African countries to further deepen cooperation on education and skills development, and help more young Africans master the golden key to employment and contribute to realizing the grand vision of Agenda 2063,” Zhang said at the opening ceremony.
The week-long event features high-level dialogues, technical sessions and exhibitions.
According to the AU, the gathering is expected to generate tangible results, including accelerated implementation of the continental TVET strategy, stronger alignment between skills and industrialization, and greater participation of youth and women in shaping Africa’s industrial future.
According to media reports, Odinga, 80, collapsed at the Ayurvedic facility, a center for traditional Indian medicine, where he had been staying for the past six days and was quickly taken to the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52 am.
It is reported that Odinga had been following a routine of morning walks and treatments at the hospital, accompanied by his daughter and close family members.
Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, playing a key role in national reconciliation and constitutional reforms.
He was instrumental in the power-sharing agreement that ended the 2007–08 post-election violence.
Known for his fiery speeches and grassroots connections, he also led the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and remained a prominent political figure, contesting several presidential elections.
On October 9, Odinga’s brother, Oburu Odinga, confirmed that Raila was unwell and receiving treatment but reassured the public that he was on the path to recovery.
He dismissed rumors about Raila’s health, clarifying that his illness was minor and required medical attention abroad.
The bodies were transferred to Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet personnel inside the Gaza Strip, the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a statement. They were later transferred across the border into Israel under escort by Israeli forces, the military and Shin Bet said in an updated joint statement.
The remains are being taken to the National Center of Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv for identification. Unlike a similar handover on Monday, Hamas did not disclose the identities of the bodies in advance, and Israeli authorities said their identities remain unclear.
“After the identification process is completed, an official notification will be delivered to the families,” Netanyahu’s office said.
On Monday, Hamas returned the bodies of four hostages along with 20 surviving captives as part of a ceasefire deal under which Israel released about 2,000 Palestinian detainees and prisoners.
Israel said about 20 more bodies of hostages remain in Gaza and demanded that Hamas hand them over as well.
According to the report, advanced economies are expected to grow by 1.6 percent in 2025, while emerging market and developing economies are projected to grow by 4.2 percent — both 0.1 percentage point higher than previously projected.
IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas said in a blog post that the increase in U.S. tariffs and its effect have been “smaller than expected so far.” But given that the effective tariff rate remains high and trade tensions continue, with other factors simultaneously at play, it would be premature and incorrect to claim that the tariff surge has had no impact on global growth, he wrote.
The report also projects the world economy to grow 3.1 percent in 2026, the same as the July forecast.
However, it pointed out that the tariff shock is further dimming growth prospects, and risks remain tilted to the downside.
“We expect a slowdown in the second half of this year, with only a partial recovery in 2026,” Gourinchas wrote.
The IMF suggests that resolving policy uncertainty, raising total factor productivity through artificial intelligence (AI), and establishing a pragmatic and adaptive multilateral system that fosters cooperation can help meet economic challenges.IMF raises global growth forecast to 3.2 pct in 2025
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday raised its global economic growth for 2025 to 3.2 percent, 0.2 percentage point higher than the July forecast, the latest World Economic Outlook report said.
According to the report, advanced economies are expected to grow by 1.6 percent in 2025, while emerging market and developing economies are projected to grow by 4.2 percent — both 0.1 percentage point higher than previously projected.
IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas said in a blog post that the increase in U.S. tariffs and its effect have been “smaller than expected so far.” But given that the effective tariff rate remains high and trade tensions continue, with other factors simultaneously at play, it would be premature and incorrect to claim that the tariff surge has had no impact on global growth, he wrote.
The report also projects the world economy to grow 3.1 percent in 2026, the same as the July forecast.
However, it pointed out that the tariff shock is further dimming growth prospects, and risks remain tilted to the downside.
“We expect a slowdown in the second half of this year, with only a partial recovery in 2026,” Gourinchas wrote.
The IMF suggests that resolving policy uncertainty, raising total factor productivity through artificial intelligence (AI), and establishing a pragmatic and adaptive multilateral system that fosters cooperation can help meet economic challenges.
Chakrabarti joins Airtel Rwanda with an outstanding record in business transformation, commercial excellence, and operational leadership across multiple business verticals within Bharti Airtel India.
He most recently served as Circle CEO for the Bihar & Jharkhand region, and previously as Circle CEO for Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh, as well as National Operations Head for Airtel Digital TV.
A seasoned leader with deep expertise in driving growth in competitive markets, Mr. Chakrabarti brings extensive experience in strategy execution, customer experience, and digital adoption, qualities that align strongly with Airtel Rwanda’s growth ambitions.
He holds an MBA from the University of Calcutta and an Executive Management Certification from the, Haas School of Business at University of California, Berkeley.
Mr. Chakrabarti succeeds Mr. Emmanuel Hamez, who retires after nearly 10 years of distinguished service with Airtel Africa, including four years as Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda.
During his tenure, Mr. Hamez led the company through a remarkable transformation, achieving 100% 4G coverage across all Airtel sites, making Airtel the only mobile network operator in Rwanda with full 4G coverage.
Hamez also spearheaded the launch of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and eSIM services, positioning Airtel as the first telecom operator to introduce these innovations in the country.
Under his leadership, Airtel successfully executed the “Airtel Imagine” 4G smartphone program, in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, enabling over 1.2 million customers to transition from feature phones to smartphones and driving Rwanda’s digital inclusion journey.
Speaking about his appointment, Sujay said, “I’m excited to join Airtel Rwanda at such a dynamic time. I look forward to driving growth, enhancing customer experience, and expanding digital and financial inclusion across the country.”
Airtel Rwanda has extended its sincere appreciation to Hamez for his exceptional leadership and contributions and warmly welcomes Chakrabarti as he takes on this new role to lead the company into its next phase of growth and innovation.
