Speaking at a regular press briefing, French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux said the Board of Peace should concentrate on the situation in Gaza. He noted that France would refrain from participating as long as uncertainties remain regarding the board’s mandate and scope.
Confavreux added that France was “surprised” by the EC’s reported attendance, emphasizing that the commission “does not have a mandate from the European Council to attend and participate in this meeting.” He said the EC would be expected to clarify its involvement after returning.
According to U.S. media reports, Trump hosted the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday.
Trump officially launched the board on Jan. 22 during a charter-signing ceremony held on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Several major countries and longstanding U.S. allies have declined to join the initiative.
Yoon said in a statement that he deeply apologized to the public for the frustrations and hardships caused by his own shortcomings, although his decision to declare the emergency martial law was solely for the nation and the people.
He stressed that his desperate decision to save the nation was slandered as an insurrection, noting that the court’s ruling was unacceptable as it convicted him of insurrection because of the military entering the National Assembly building.
The Seoul Central District Court ruled on Thursday that the crux of Yoon’s martial law case was the fact that troops were deployed to the National Assembly, saying the impeached leader attempted to prevent the parliament from functioning properly for a significant period.
The emergency martial law was declared by Yoon on the night of Dec. 3, 2024, but it was revoked hours later by the National Assembly.
The constitutional court upheld a motion to impeach Yoon in April of 2025, officially removing him from office.
Yoon was indicted under detention in January of 2025 as a suspected ringleader of insurrection, becoming the first sitting president to be arrested and indicted.
S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon has regretted not living up to expectations.
Rwanda is set to spend more than Rwf 513 billion on key infrastructure projects during the 2025/2026 fiscal year, according to a performance report from the Ministry of Infrastructure. The funding will support the construction and rehabilitation of roads and other strategic facilities across the country.
The government recently indicated that the national budget approved by Parliament in June 2025 has so far been implemented at 65 percent. The budget is currently undergoing revisions, with some projects receiving increased allocations while others are being scaled down.
Among the major undertakings is the rehabilitation of 79 kilometers of roads in different parts of the country. This includes the Muhanga–Rubengera road, specifically the 24-kilometer Nyange–Muhanga section. At the start of the fiscal year, works on this stretch had reached 30 percent completion. The rehabilitation of this section is expected to cost more than Rwf 8.59 billion. The Muhanga–Rubengera road has been developed in phases, beginning with Rubengera–Rambura, followed by Rubengera–Nyange, and finally Nyange–Muhanga.
Rwanda continues to invest heavily in road development.
The ministry also plans to produce a detailed design report for the rehabilitation of the 45-kilometer Kigali–Muhanga asphalt road at an estimated cost of Rwf 3 billion.
Construction preparations are underway for the 10-kilometer Prince House–Giporoso–Masaka road. Preliminary activities have begun, including the removal of houses along the road corridor, and construction is expected to commence by February 2026.
In addition, MININFRA will oversee the paving of 184.8 kilometers of national roads this year. Among them is the 63-kilometer Base–Butaro–Kidaho road, with works budgeted at more than Rwf 11.77 billion.
Further roadworks will cover the 18-kilometer Nyagatare–Rwempasha road and the 73-kilometer Nyagatare–Rukomo road, for which over Rwf 4 billion has been allocated. Construction will also proceed on the 52-kilometer Ngoma–Ramiro road linking Ngoma and Bugesera districts, with Rwf 6 billion set aside for the project.
Before the end of the fiscal year, feasibility studies will be completed for the modernization of three major road junctions in Kigali—Gishushu, Chez Lando, and Sonatube—as part of efforts to improve urban transport in the capital. The planned upgrades, to be implemented using modern interchange designs, are expected to cost $100 million.
The government will also undertake construction of the 51-kilometer Sashwara–Rega–Kabuhanga–Busasamana–Muhato road at a cost of Rwf 4.3 billion.
Beyond national highways, Rwanda is preparing to develop feeder roads and apply light asphalt surfacing, including 194 kilometers of feeder roads in Rutsiro District. Other priority projects include infrastructure works at the Kigali Logistics Platform dry port, upgrades to the Nyacyonga–Mukoto and Byumba–Ngondore roads, infrastructure supporting refugees and host communities, and improvements to roads near border areas.
Rwanda will spend more than Rwf 513 billion on key infrastructure projects during the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
Specific border-area projects include paving the 18-kilometer Nyagisozi–Remera–Nshili road at a cost of Rwf 6.1 billion. In Rutsiro, 41 kilometers of feeder roads will be constructed at a cost of Rwf 5.3 billion. Additional funding amounting to Rwf 3.1 billion has been earmarked for equipment and supervision works at the Kigali Logistics Platform, as well as the preparation of a master plan covering 69.45 kilometers of roads.
“I would think that would be enough time,” he told reporters aboard Air Force One.
“We’re either going to get a deal or it’s going to be unfortunate for them,” Trump said.
Earlier on Thursday, Trump said at the inaugural meeting of the “Board of Peace” that the outcome of the U.S.-Iran nuclear talks will be decided over the next 10 days, calling Iran “a hot spot right now.”
“It’s proven to be, over the years, not easy to make a meaningful deal with Iran, and we have to make a meaningful deal. Otherwise bad things happen,” Trump said.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance said that the second round of the U.S.-Iran talks in Geneva on Tuesday showed “some” positive signs but key U.S. red lines remain unmet.
A Trump adviser estimated a “90 percent chance” of strikes within weeks if talks fail, Axios reported Tuesday.
The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford was approaching Gibraltar on Wednesday as it made its way from the Caribbean to join the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in waters near Iran, according to local media reports.
The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln was deployed in waters near Iran in the past few weeks.
Independent Online (IOL) reported on Thursday that the four men arrived at Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday, where they were met by South African police before being taken into custody for processing.
According to the report, their return followed diplomatic engagements between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on Feb. 10, during which the two leaders pledged support for the safe repatriation of South African citizens caught up in the conflict.
Quoting DIRCO Minister Ronald Lamola, IOL reported that the men had been contracted by private security companies in Russia rather than directly enlisted into the Russian military.
“They will be allowed to return when their contracts are cancelled,” Lamola was quoted as saying, adding that the repatriation would take place in phases.
“The Russian government is assisting with their return… What is clear is that they were lured under false pretenses, and that matter is now the subject of a police investigation in South Africa,” the minister said.
On Nov. 6, 2025, the South African Presidency announced that it had been alerted about the 17 men who were “trapped” in the war-torn Donbas region of Ukraine.
The men reportedly claimed they were lured with promises of lucrative employment, only to find themselves caught in a conflict zone.
Local reports indicate that the four men arrived at Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Wednesday.
Mukazayire told Members of Parliament on Thursday that the government was not satisfied with the team’s current performance but had put in place a long-term strategy aimed at building a competitive and professional football system.
“We are not satisfied with the way Amavubi are performing,” she said. “Changes will continue at the Federation, the Ministry and elsewhere for as long as we have not achieved the results we expect.”
Her remarks came after MP Rutebuka Balinda, Deputy Chairperson of the Committee on Education, Technology, Culture, Youth and Sports, questioned the frequent turnover of coaches and leadership within the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA), warning that instability could undermine progress.
Mukazayire said the changes were intended to establish a clear direction for Rwandan football, focused on professionalism, talent development and achieving victories.
She acknowledged that the national team’s results reflect the broader state of football development in the country, arguing that meaningful improvement requires structural reforms rather than short-term fixes.
A key pillar of the strategy, she said, is identifying and recruiting talented players of Rwandan origin living abroad while ensuring their integration serves national interests.
“We must identify them, bring them in and use them effectively. We have already discussed this with FERWAFA and implementation is underway,” she said.
The minister also stressed that coaching contracts must clearly define performance targets, warning that leadership changes would persist if expectations are not met.
“If contracts do not clearly state the expected outcomes, you will continue to see changes because we need results,” she said.
Youth development forms the core of the reform agenda. Mukazayire said players under the ages of 15 and 17 will be closely monitored and systematically developed so they can transition into competitive professional football by the age of 21.
“You cannot neglect youth development and expect to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations,” she said. “We must build from the grassroots.”
Rwanda plans to establish a National Football Academy where young players can train and study together as part of a long-term effort to build a stronger national team.
Currently, the Isonga talent development programme operates in 17 schools with 599 children and is expected to expand to more than 2,000 participants. Other initiatives include the Bayern Munich academy in Rwanda, the Paris Saint-Germain academy and the Tony Football academy, which collectively support youth talent development.
Mukazayire cautioned that the reforms would take time to produce tangible results, estimating that visible improvements may require at least five years.
Meanwhile, FERWAFA recently parted ways with head coach Adel Amrouche on January 14, 2026, after one year in charge. The federation said it has received 688 applications from qualified candidates and will shortlist coaches based on credentials, experience with national teams and participation in major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup.
With less than a month before Rwanda hosts the FIFA Series friendly matches in Kigali from March 23–31, the national team remains without a head coach. Rwanda is scheduled to face Estonia, Grenada and Kenya in Group A.
Mukazayire also emphasized the importance of mentality, noting that defeats are not always due to a lack of technical ability but can stem from psychological factors affecting players and coaching staff.
Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire stressed that there is a plan to turn Amavubi into a results-driven team.Sports Minister Mukazayire expressed dissatisfaction with Amavubi’s current performance.
Col Charles Sumanyi previously served as Vice President of the Supreme Military Court since 2024. He has also held other positions, including serving as a military court judge for eight years and as a judge in the Military High Court for seven years.
After administering the oath, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva reminded Col Sumanyi that his new role requires prudence and integrity.
“As you have sworn, in the duties you are about to undertake it is essential that you refrain from using the authority entrusted to you for your personal gain,” he said.
“You must prioritise the interests of the country and diligently fulfill your responsibilities, always striving to deliver fair justice to all and to uphold the positive image of the Rwanda Defence Force and the Republic of Rwanda as a whole,” the Prime Minister added.
Col Sumanyi’s appointment was approved by the Cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on January 28, 2026.
Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Head of State, Col Sumanyi pledged to carry out his duties diligently, aiming to strengthen good conduct within the Rwanda Defence Force.
“This role I am taking up is all about promoting discipline and good conduct in our country’s army. Recently, you heard the President emphasizing that these security institutions are ones he has always wished for… In this position, my primary duty is to reinforce discipline and good conduct, starting with educating soldiers about crimes and their consequences.
“As you know, wherever there are people, minor infractions are inevitable. Where crimes occur, we will take them to court. Our goal is to deliver justice that is both fair and swift.”
He affirmed that he will execute his responsibilities with full dedication to ensure they are fulfilled properly.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence and Minister of Defence, among others.The ceremony took place on Thursday, February 19, 2025. Col Sumanyi expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Head of State.
Accredited to the United Kingdom and Malta, with representation in Ireland, the diplomatic mission aims through this initiative to enhance service delivery and facilitate access to information for the Rwandan diaspora as well as anyone seeking its services.
Designed as an interactive digital tool, Nshuti was developed as part of the High Commission’s digital transformation strategy. The virtual assistant provides instant guidance and answers to frequently asked questions via WhatsApp or directly through the institution’s website.
This solution is intended to simplify administrative procedures, reduce waiting times, and minimise the need for phone calls while ensuring the provision of reliable and up-to-date information.
In practical terms, Nshuti supports users across a wide range of consular procedures. It offers information on passport applications and renewals, enquiries related to Indangamuntu (National ID), document legalisation and certification, appointment scheduling, and guidance on various consular services. The assistant also responds to general enquiries regarding the High Commission and its activities.
Beyond its administrative function, the tool also serves as a community communication channel. Nshuti shares updated information on national celebrations, diaspora events, locations and contacts of community organisations, as well as details of community representatives in the countries covered by the diplomatic mission.
The introduction of this virtual assistant is expected to significantly improve the High Commission’s internal efficiency by reducing incoming call volumes while ensuring continuous responsiveness to enquiries. Accessible anytime and from anywhere, the service provides permanent support aligned with the realities of a mobile and digitally connected community. Users can send a WhatsApp message to +44 7427 941212 or start a conversation via the High Commission’s website to obtain the information they need.
In a statement accompanying the launch, the High Commissioner emphasised that Nshuti reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in public service. The adoption of digital solutions, he noted, helps make consular services more accessible, responsive, and efficient for diaspora communities and all service users.
With Nshuti, the High Commission of Rwanda in the United Kingdom further affirms its shift toward a more modern, user-centred consular diplomacy, where technology serves as a key tool for bringing public services closer to citizens and meeting the demands of today’s digital era.
NBR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye announced the decision on Thursday, February 19, following a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Wednesday, which reviewed recent domestic and international economic developments and updated the country’s economic projections.
Inflation in Rwanda increased to 8.9 percent in January 2026, up from 8.0 percent in December 2025, exceeding the Central Bank’s target range of 2–8 percent.
The rise, the central bank boss said, has been driven largely by higher energy costs, electricity tariffs, fuel prices, and supply constraints on fresh food, particularly vegetables affected by below-normal rainfall.
“The Monetary Policy Committee has decided to increase the Central Bank Rate to 7.25 percent to limit second-round effects of recent price increases and support a timely return of inflation to the target range,” she stated.
The governor noted that headline inflation is expected to remain slightly above 8 percent in the first half of 2026, before easing toward the target band by the end of the year.
“The MPC will continue to closely monitor economic developments and the inflation outlook. Should the highlighted risks materialize, we will assess the need for further policy adjustments to ensure inflation converges to the target range over the medium term,” Governor Hakuziyaremye added.
Despite inflationary pressures, Rwanda’s economy continues to perform strongly. The country recorded an average growth of 8.7 percent during the first three quarters of 2025, with the Composite Index of Economic Activity (CIEA) rising 17.1 percent in the fourth quarter.
Merchandise exports grew by 14.1 percent, supported by traditional exports such as coffee and minerals, while non-traditional exports, including processed cooking oil and wheat flour, also recorded notable gains.
The Rwandan franc showed signs of stabilisation in 2025, with depreciation slowing to 4.4 percent from 9.42 percent in 2024, thanks to stronger tourism receipts, increased remittances, and domestic foreign exchange reforms.
In the financial sector, Rwanda continues to demonstrate resilience. Credit institutions, insurance companies, and microfinance institutions maintained strong capital and liquidity positions, while the consolidated loan book of the banking sector grew by 28.5 percent to reach Rwf 6.8 trillion as of December 2025. Non-performing loans remained low at 2.5 percent, within regulatory limits.
NBR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye announced the decision on Thursday, February 19, following a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) held on Wednesday.
On February 12, 2026, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, announced that the national budget for 2025/2026 had been revised downward from Rwf 7,032.5 billion to Rwf 6,952.1 billion.
The reduction stems largely from adjustments in financing arrangements for Phase II of the new Kigali International Airport project, which lowered the amount required in the 2025/2026 fiscal year by Rwf 168.2 billion. Changes were also made to the repayment plan for loans owed by RwandAir, with repayments now scheduled to begin gradually from the 2026/2027 fiscal year.
On February 18, 2026, the Senate plenary concluded that the revised budget is well structured and aligned with the pillars of Rwanda’s second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2, 2024–2029).
Funding for social transformation has increased from Rwf 1,526.9 billion to Rwf 1,641.8 billion, representing 23.6% of the total budget. Allocations for good governance have also risen, from Rwf 1,088.3 billion to Rwf 1,105.1 billion, accounting for 15.9% of total expenditure.
Meanwhile, funding for economic transformation has been reduced from Rwf 4,417.2 billion to Rwf 4,205.1 billion, representing 60.5% of the budget. Overall development expenditure, however, has increased from Rwf 2,719.7 billion to Rwf 2,837.2 billion, an increment of Rwf 117.5 billion. Funding for projects alone has risen by Rwf 253.3 billion, reaching Rwf 2,115.8 billion.
Government projections also indicate higher domestic revenue collections than previously expected. Tax and non-tax revenues are projected to rise from Rwf 4,105.2 billion to Rwf 4,146.2 billion, an increase of at least Rwf 41 billion.
Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Finance, Fulgence Nsengiyumva, said the projected growth in tax revenue reflects increasing taxpayer awareness and strengthens Rwanda’s path toward self-reliance.
Data from the Rwanda Revenue Authority show that between July and November 2025, tax collections reached Rwf 1,456.3 billion, surpassing the target of Rwf 1,449.5 billion. Revenue collected on behalf of districts also exceeded expectations.
Domestic borrowing is set to increase significantly, nearly tripling from Rwf 136.6 billion to Rwf 468.4 billion. Minister Murangwa noted that domestic borrowing provides more affordable financing while supporting the growth of local financial institutions.
He added that borrowing in foreign currencies can expose the country to exchange rate losses, whereas local banks remain sufficiently capitalized to support both public and private investment.
External borrowing, on the other hand, will decline by Rwf 512.1 billion, dropping from Rwf 2,151.9 billion to Rwf 1,639.8 billion. Grants are expected to increase from Rwf 585.2 billion to Rwf 649.6 billion.
Combined tax revenues and borrowing will account for 90% of the total budget, slightly down from 91% in the initially approved budget, an indication of continued progress toward financial self-reliance.
The Senate’s recommendations will now be submitted to the Chamber of Deputies, where the Committee on National Budget and State Patrimony will conduct a clause-by-clause review before final approval.
The Government of Rwanda also reported that by December 2025, 65% of the budget approved by Parliament in June 2025 had already been implemented.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa presented the revised national budget for 2025/2026 to the parliament on February 12, 2026.
