Citing unnamed sources, the report said the upcoming round will focus on U.S. sanctions on Iran, Iranian frozen assets, and the Iranian nuclear file.
It added that the level of representation of the Iranian delegation will be decided after the funeral of late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
On June 18, Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ending the war in the region on all fronts, including Lebanon.
On June 22, technical negotiations between Iran and the United States were held in Switzerland following high-level consultations between Iranian and U.S. delegations the previous day with the mediation of Pakistan and Qatar.
On Wednesday, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari confirmed that Qatari and Pakistani mediators had concluded separate meetings with U.S. and Iranian negotiators, making positive progress on issues related to the MoU.
He said the parties agreed to continue discussions in the coming period, with the next meeting to be scheduled at the earliest possible time.
According to a situation report released Saturday by the DRC public health authorities, a total of 239 patients have recovered, while 628 confirmed patients are currently in isolation or hospitalization. Authorities have also identified 185 suspected cases.
The report said weekly confirmed cases have continued to rise, with epidemiological weeks 25 and 26 recording the highest levels so far, each exceeding 300 cases, indicating continued community transmission.
The report listed several major challenges, including community resistance to post-mortem sampling, insufficient capacity at Ebola treatment centers, especially in the eastern province of North Kivu, suboptimal contact tracing, delayed laboratory diagnosis, shortages of medical and infection-prevention supplies, insecurity and limited access in some affected areas.
The WHO said Thursday that a clinical trial had begun enrolling patients in the DRC to evaluate potential treatments for Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
Medical workers escort an Ebola patient to an Ebola treatment center in Mongbwalu, Ituri Province, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, June 20, 2026. (Xinhua)
In her address, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Luxembourg, Mimosa Aurore Munyangaju, recalled that July 4, 1994, remains a historic date marking both the end of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the beginning of Rwanda’s rebirth.
She emphasized that the day symbolizes “the triumph of life over death, hope over despair, and unity over division,” noting that Liberation paved the way for national reconstruction, reconciliation, and development.
The Ambassador paid tribute to the men and women of the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, who brought an end to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and enabled Rwanda to regain its dignity, sovereignty, and stability.
She also invited attendees to remember all those who sacrificed their lives for the country’s liberation, stressing that their courage and patriotism remain the foundation upon which Rwanda continues to build its future.
A nation transformed over 32 years
Reflecting on Rwanda’s journey since 1994, Ambassador Munyangaju noted that the country is now recognized as one of the most stable, safest, and fastest-growing nations on the African continent.
She attributed this transformation to a clear vision, determined leadership, and the commitment of all Rwandans. According to her, Liberation is no longer merely a historical event but an ongoing process that continues to guide the nation’s progress.
The Ambassador highlighted achievements in key sectors, including innovation, digital technology, entrepreneurship, education, and healthcare.
She also noted that Rwanda remains a global leader in women’s representation in public institutions, with women holding more than 60 percent of seats in the Chamber of Deputies.
In the health sector, she pointed to ongoing efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2027 through extensive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage and improved access to treatment.
Strong Rwanda–Luxembourg partnership
The celebration also provided an opportunity to highlight the excellent relations between Rwanda and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
The Ambassador underscored that the two countries share a common vision based on dialogue, mutual respect, solidarity, and the pursuit of innovative solutions to contemporary challenges.
She expressed gratitude to the Luxembourgish authorities for their warm welcome and continued support in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
“My family, my colleagues, and I immediately felt at home in Luxembourg,” she said, describing the hospitality as a reflection of the deep friendship between the two nations.
Tribute to the Rwandan diaspora
Ambassador Munyangaju also praised the contribution of the Rwandan community in Luxembourg, describing its members as “living ambassadors of Rwanda.”
She commended the diaspora for its integration, discipline, and contribution to promoting Rwanda’s image while strengthening ties between the two countries.
Special appreciation was extended to community members who contributed to organizing the celebration, as well as to the artists and young people whose cultural performances showcased Rwanda’s rich heritage and identity.
The Ambassador further expressed gratitude to the staff of the Embassy of Rwanda in Luxembourg for their professionalism and dedication in advancing Rwanda’s diplomatic mission.
“Kwibohora is a permanent responsibility”
In her concluding remarks, the Ambassador stressed that the message of Kwibohora remains as relevant today as ever.
“A people that chooses unity can rebuild the impossible,” she said, adding that Liberation did not end on July 4, 1994, but continues every day through the efforts of every Rwandan striving to build a more prosperous nation.
The ceremony concluded with a toast in honor of the Republic of Rwanda, its people, the friendship between Rwanda and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the shared pursuit of peace and prosperity.
Amb. Munyangaju delivers the keynote address to attendees during the Kwibohora32 celebration in Luxembourg.Kalisa Didace, the President of IBUKA Luxembourg, opened the ceremony.Representatives of the Luxembourg Government, members of the diplomatic corps, Rwanda’s partners, and members of the Rwandan community living in Luxembourg were welcomed by Ambassador Munyangaju, accompanied by Consul Luisella Moreschi.In her address, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Luxembourg, Mimosa Aurore Munyangaju, recalled that July 4, 1994, remains a historic date marking both the end of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the beginning of Rwanda’s rebirth.The ambassador proposed a toast in honor of the Republic of Rwanda, its people, the friendship between Rwanda and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and the shared pursuit of peace and prosperity.Guests were entertained with popular Rwandan traditional dance.
The scoreline ultimately looked comfortable for the Atlas Lions, but it masked a difficult first half in which Canada were the sharper side. The co-hosts began with energy and pressing intensity, forcing Morocco into repeated errors and winning a series of early set-pieces. Canada even came close to an opener when Tani Oluwaseyi broke through on goal after a defensive turnover, only to be denied by a strong save from goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Morocco, meanwhile, struggled to establish rhythm and suffered an early setback when key midfielder Ismael Saibari was forced off with a hamstring injury in the 22nd minute. The disruption added to a disjointed first-half display, with coach Mohamed Ouahbi visibly frustrated on the touchline as misplaced passes and loose possession prevented his side from building control.
Canada thought they might carry their momentum into the break, but the match turned shortly after halftime. In the 50th minute, captain Achraf Hakimi played a clever free-kick routine from the right, finding Ounahi on the edge of the area. The midfielder struck first time, sending a composed finish into the bottom corner from distance to give Morocco the lead against the run of play.
The goal shifted the balance of the contest. Canada’s intensity dropped, while Morocco grew in confidence and began exploiting space on the counter-attack. The North Africans looked far more assured in midfield and began to dictate tempo as Canada pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Morocco struck decisively again in the 82nd minute. Brahim Díaz played Ounahi through on a quick break, and the midfielder unleashed a powerful shot into the roof of the net to complete his brace. The strike made him the first African player since 2002 to score twice in a World Cup knockout match.
Canada’s resistance was effectively over, and Morocco added a third in stoppage time when Rahimi finished a flowing counter-attack involving Díaz to cap a clinical final phase.
The victory marks Morocco’s second consecutive World Cup quarter-final appearance, further underlining their growing reputation as one of Africa’s strongest tournament sides. They now await the winner of France vs Paraguay in Boston on July 9.
Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi celebrates scoring their first goal.Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi celebrates scoring their first goal.Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi scores their second goal.
The discovery was announced by the country’s Tourism and Antiquities Ministry on Saturday and comes from excavations at the Dakhla Oasis in the western New Valley region.
Experts say the settlement dates to the fourth century, when Egypt was part of the Byzantine Empire, and preserves a rare snapshot of daily life, economic activity, and city planning.
The site features a clearly organized street network, with north-south roads intersecting east-west routes. Officials described the layout as “forming open squares and public spaces,” according to Hisham el-Leithy of the Supreme Council of Antiquities.
At the heart of the city stands a basilica church dating to the mid-fourth century, alongside watchtowers that likely protected the settlement’s outskirts. Archaeologists also identified heavily fortified buildings, vaulted-roof homes, and a structure believed to be the house of Tisous, a church deacon that may have functioned as an early house church.
Excavations have also revealed bread ovens, kitchens, grinding tools, and a range of artifacts that reflect everyday economic activity. These include well-preserved bronze and gold coins bearing imperial imagery, as well as around 200 pottery fragments, or ostraca, inscribed with records of trade, correspondence, and administrative life.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said the discovery highlights the historical importance of the Dakhla Oasis, which lies on UNESCO’s Tentative List, as Egypt continues to promote heritage tourism as a key source of foreign currency.
In a separate excavation at Marina el-Alamein near Alexandria, archaeologists also uncovered 18 additional ancient tombs, bringing the total at the site to 48. Finds included pottery vessels, limestone basins, and a granite sarcophagus with skeletal remains, underscoring the continued richness of Egypt’s archaeological record.
In this photo provided Saturday, July 4, 2026, by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, some of the seven surface limestone-built tombs discovered at the Marina el-Alamein archaeological site are seen west of the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, Egypt.In this photo provided Saturday, July 4, 2026, by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, some of the seven surface limestone-built tombs discovered at the Marina el-Alamein archaeological site are seen west of the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, Egypt.
The coalition, which includes prominent opposition figures such as Martin Fayulu, Jean-Marc Kabund, Moïse Katumbi, Augustin Matata, and Delly Sesanga, confirmed that it had received an invitation from Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye.
President Ndayishimiye called on opposition leaders to hold urgent consultations to discuss security concerns, political disputes, and challenges affecting state institutions in the DRC.
Ndayishimiye, a close ally of President Tshisekedi, issued the invitation in his capacity as Chairperson of the African Union (AU).
Reports from Kinshasa indicate that he had first urged President Tshisekedi to engage in dialogue with the C64 coalition in order to address their grievances, particularly those linked to the government’s proposed constitutional reforms.
Tensions had escalated after opposition leaders staged a protest outside the National Assembly on June 12, where they were met with police intervention and clashes involving members of the ruling UDPS party’s youth wing, known as Forces du Progrès.
The C64 coalition had initially planned a major demonstration in front of the presidential palace on July 8, 2026, demanding President Tshisekedi’s resignation, accusing him of violating the constitution through attempts to amend it.
However, Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo rejected the planned protest, accusing the opposition of undermining national stability and insisting that no one has the authority to call for the resignation of a sitting commander-in-chief in the context of ongoing national security efforts.
The minister also banned all large public gatherings in Kinshasa, citing the need to prevent the spread of Ebola. He said the decision was a public health measure aimed at containing the virus.
However, opposition leaders dismissed the justification, arguing that Ebola cases are concentrated in eastern provinces far from the capital and claiming the ban was politically motivated to block their demonstration.
On July 2, opposition leader Martin Fayulu, head of the ECIDé party, reiterated calls for nationwide protests, insisting that President Tshisekedi must resign. He urged citizens to participate in a major demonstration scheduled for July 8.
Following an invitation from President Ndayishimiye, C64 leaders held an emergency meeting in Kinshasa on July 3 and agreed to reconsider their strategy, opting to engage in dialogue with the Burundian leader.
The coalition said it intends to use the talks to present its concerns and advocate for the protection of the DRC constitution.
They also said they would highlight the suffering of Congolese citizens and what they described as a growing threat to democracy in the country.
As a result, the coalition announced the postponement of its planned protest, rescheduling it to July 22.
Opposition leaders called on Congolese citizens, both at home and abroad, to remain mobilized in support of their cause until the government abandons its constitutional reform agenda.
They emphasized that defending the constitution is a national duty and insisted that their determination remains unchanged.
President Évariste Ndayishimiye called on President Félix Tshisekedi to open dialogue with opposition leaders.The protest that took place on June 12, 2026, was marked by incidents of violence involving police officers.
The heat wave, which lasted from around June 20 to June 28, is being described by experts as one of the most intense on record in parts of Europe, with widespread exposure to prolonged extreme temperatures and unusually warm nights.
Public health experts say most deaths during extreme heat are not caused by heat alone in isolation, but by a combination of physiological stress and pre-existing medical conditions. When the body is exposed to prolonged high temperatures, it struggles to regulate internal heat through sweating and circulation. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in severe cases heatstroke, where core body temperature rises to dangerous levels.
Heat also places significant strain on the cardiovascular system, forcing the heart to work harder to cool the body. This can trigger or worsen heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory failure, particularly among older adults and people with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes. Medication effects and reduced ability to stay hydrated can further increase risk.
France reported 2,025 excess deaths, a 29.1% increase above normal levels. Authorities said deaths rose sharply in private homes, by more than 90% in the week of peak heat, while care homes and healthcare facilities also saw increases. Officials warned that final figures are likely to be higher.
Belgium recorded 1,222 additional deaths, describing the impact as “unprecedented,” while the Netherlands reported around 480 excess deaths, concentrated in hotter southern and eastern regions.
Across Europe, more than two-thirds of the population experienced temperatures above 35°C, with record highs and unusually warm nights limiting recovery time. Experts say such “night heat” is especially dangerous because it prevents the body from cooling down after daytime exposure.
The event has renewed concerns about Europe’s preparedness for extreme heat, particularly as climate change increases both the frequency and severity of heat waves.
Paris and other European cities baked in temperature up to and exceeding 40°C last week.
For younger generations who did not witness the events of 1994, hearing accounts from elders offers a moment of reflection and a deeper appreciation of the peace they now enjoy and the country they call home.
For those who directly participated in the liberation struggle, the day is marked by solemn reflection on a difficult journey that shaped the nation’s destiny, a struggle that also came at the cost of many lives.
Each year on this date, Rwandans turn to archival and nostalgic photographs that capture moments from this historic period. These images, drawn from personal collections, public archives, and shared memories, document lived experiences, milestones, and Rwanda’s long journey of liberation.
Together, they serve as a powerful visual reminder of the liberation struggle led by the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, and its enduring place in the nation’s collective memory.
Here are the photos:
RPA forces moved into the Virunga Mountains through bushland after withdrawing from Mutara.This photo was taken after the RPA had liberated Kibungo.During the liberation struggle, sports played an important role, as soldiers would take time to relax and engage in recreational activities whenever the opportunity arose.RPA forces at the Kigali International Airport.Fred Ibingira during a conversation with a journalist about the liberation struggle.These are weapons that had been abandoned by FAR troops and were later recovered by RPA forces.
RPA troops in Kagitumba on October 22, 1990, during the early stages of the liberation struggle to free the country.A large number of RPA soldiers were young. The group shown here was photographed on May 26, 1994, as they advanced toward Kigali City.These RPA soldiers were photographed in a banana plantation within Kigali City during the liberation struggle to liberate the country.
RPA soldiers in Nyamata during the liberation struggle. At the time, they relied on small radios to receive updates on the progress of the war, and they listened to Radio Muhabura.Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame often engaged with the media, emphasizing that his forces were fighting for the right to their country and to protect Rwandans who had long lived in exile and displacement.RPA forces departed from Mulindi and moved towards the CND.Nearly all the RPA soldiers who participated in the liberation of Rwanda were young at the time they joined the struggle. They abandoned their education and peaceful lives, choosing instead a difficult path that ultimately led Rwanda toward a better future.The RPA began with very limited resources, lacking both equipment and established bases, yet it ultimately achieved victory through determination, resilience, and a commitment to justice.Wherever they were deployed, RPA soldiers were characterized by strong morale. This image captures one of their night moments, illuminated by a kerosene lamp.
High morale was one of the key sources of their strength, enabling them to remain focused and determined despite the challenges of the battlefield and the loss of fellow soldiers.Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame was compelled to suspend his studies in the United States and return to lead the liberation struggle, a campaign that ultimately resulted in victory.
Among the RPA soldiers who served as bodyguards to Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame were Mugisha Pepekale, Happy Ruvusha, James Kabarebe, Alex Kagame, Charles Kayonga, and John Gasana, who is seen seated.Following the liberation of the country, a new phase of reconstruction began. The area once known as “kwa Lando,” which previously looked very different, has now been transformed and is filled with modern buildings.Rtd Col Ludovic Dodo Twahirwa, seen wearing a red hat, was among those who played a key role in planning and conceptualizing how the military operations should be conducted during the struggle.Day and night, RPA forces studied military strategies aimed at winning the war and rescuing Tutsi civilians who were being systematically massacred.They gave up their youth and committed themselves to liberating their country.RPA forces arrived at the CND in Kimihurura, at the Parliamentary building, where they secured the area and rescued Tutsi civilians as well as RPF political leaders who were inside.Lt. Gerald Mbanda, former Head of Media sector Development at the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), is seen alongside colleagues who worked at Radio Muhabura, the radio station affiliated with the RPA during the liberation struggle.Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame is seen alongside other RPF members, including politicians such as Tito Rutaremara, who is positioned on the right.Maj. Gen. Paul Kagame being sworn in as Minister of Defence after the country’s liberation.Following the liberation war, RPA forces continued their humanitarian efforts by locating survivors, rescuing those who remained in hiding, and ensuring they were provided with necessary care and support.The RPA did not abandon or discriminate against the refugees who accompanied them, ensuring they were treated with care and inclusion.From the outset, the RPA had a unit dedicated to helping soldiers relax and maintain morale during the struggle.A white sheep features prominently in this photo, where it was captured during a parade of the 101 Battalion.RPA forces after the capture of Kigali International Airport.Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame in Rusumo during the early stages of the liberation struggle to liberate the country.The RPA fought the war while simultaneously rescuing persecuted Tutsi civilians, providing safety and relief to those who reached its protection.The RPA intensified its military operations until it captured Kigali, marking the declaration of victory.Some of the RPA soldiers who participated in the liberation struggle to free the country.
The bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains provided RPA forces with a strategic advantage in their operations against FAR troops.They had a limited number of computers, which they used for writing and communicating information despite their scarcity.Rtd Capt. Daphrosa Intaramirwa was among those who took part in the liberation struggle, which was characterized by courage and deep compassion. In this image, she is seen carrying a child who had just been rescued.This soldier is among many who performed acts of bravery, helping to save numerous lives, including those of young children. This image was taken in Kabgayi on May 25, 1994.During the liberation struggle, it was difficult to find proper facilities for treating the wounded. Medical personnel often operated in makeshift conditions in the bush, yet continued to perform their duties with dedication and efficiency.Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe was among the soldiers who took part in the liberation struggle and has continued to play a role in the country’s development to the present day.The RPA lacked adequate military equipment to match its adversaries, but it relied on strong ideas, determination, and strategy that enabled it to achieve significant progress.
“Mukotanyi” is a uniform considered to be part of Rwanda’s exceptional historical heritage.Young women sacrificed their youth and dedicated themselves to serving and liberating their country.Even injuries did not prevent them from continuing the struggle.This photograph was taken shortly after the end of the Genocide against the Tutsi. It shows an RPA soldier in Kanombe in conversation with United States soldiers who were deployed in Rwanda.These RPA soldiers were photographed in a banana plantation in Kigali City during the liberation struggle to liberate the country.They had very limited resources and were forced to conduct the entire operation with improvised means. Here, they are seen advancing toward Kigali City, with some carrying ammunition boxes on their backs.This photograph shows an RPA soldier in the outskirts of Byumba positioned near a machine gun. It was taken on April 17, 1994.This young man is among those who sacrificed their youth and chose to dedicate themselves to serving their country. He was photographed in Byumba on April 7, 1994.This soldier was photographed near Nyanza in early June, carrying an ammunition box.Following the capture of Kigali City by the RPF-Inkotanyi forces, life in the country gradually began to return to normal.This photograph of Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame was taken on May 11, 1994, in Byumba, during a meeting with José Ayala Lasso, who was then the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.On June 2, 1994, RPA forces were advancing toward Nyanza when they engaged in heavy fighting with FAR troops along the way.This RPF soldier was moving through a dug trench that had been used as a passageway. The image was taken in Byumba.Despite having very limited equipment, they made use of what was available to carry out acts of bravery that have become part of Rwanda’s history.This photograph was taken in southern Rwanda during the RPA’s liberation campaign. In many areas, the forces advanced on foot due to limited logistical capacity and scarce resources.Some RPA soldiers were photographed standing on one of the streets of Kigali on May 26, 1994.This RPA soldier was photographed in Byumba in the early days of April 1994.They fought the war with confidence that they would emerge victorious, and that belief itself gave them inner joy, motivation, and inner strength.
Day by day, despite the difficult and dangerous conditions, morale remained consistently high.This photograph taken on July 4, 1994 shows Gen. Maj. Paul Kagame, Commander of the APR forces (indicated by the blue arrow), alongside other soldiers after arriving in central Kigali.
This achievement reinforces NCBA’s position as a leading bank in electric vehicle financing in Rwanda, breaking down barriers to EV ownership while accelerating the country’s transition to a greener, low-carbon economy.
The milestone was celebrated on July 2, 2026, during the handover of an additional 15 electric vehicles to customers. It marks another step forward in a partnership that is making sustainable mobility more accessible by combining innovative financing solutions with reliable electric vehicle technology.
Through this partnership, NCBA Bank Rwanda provides flexible financing that allows customers to purchase brand-new electric vehicles and repay the loan over a period of up to five years. Customers also benefit from comprehensive insurance and a five-year warranty, providing peace of mind while significantly reducing the total cost of vehicle ownership.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Samuel Nkubito, Head of Commercial at NCBA Bank Rwanda, said the initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable economic growth while providing practical financial solutions that improve customers’ lives.
“Electric vehicles are not only environmentally friendly, but they also make strong economic sense,” he said. “They enable customers to reduce their operating costs significantly compared to conventional fuel-powered vehicles. The savings they make can be redirected towards growing their businesses, supporting their families and improving their financial wellbeing.”
The impact of the programme is already being felt by customers. Olivier Kamali, a professional driver who returned to purchase his second electric vehicle through NCBA financing, said owning an EV had transformed his business.
“I had always dreamed of owning a new vehicle after spending years dealing with the maintenance costs of older cars,” he said. “Since acquiring my first electric vehicle through NCBA in 2025, I have been able to save substantially on operating expenses. Those savings have enabled me to repay my loan, support my family, grow my income and even purchase a second vehicle.”
Longtai Group’s Commercial Manager, François Régis Irareba, noted that one of the biggest concerns customers initially had about electric vehicles was access to after-sales support. He explained that Longtai has invested in genuine spare parts, a fully equipped service centre and trained technicians to ensure customers receive reliable maintenance and repair services whenever needed.
Beyond supporting individual customers, the partnership contributes directly to Rwanda’s national agenda of promoting clean transportation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Every electric vehicle delivered represents another step towards a more sustainable transport system, lower operating costs for motorists and a cleaner environment for future generations.
As the number of customers embracing electric mobility continues to grow, NCBA Bank Rwanda says it remains committed to expanding access to innovative green financing solutions. According to the lender, surpassing the milestone of 100 financed electric vehicles is more than a business achievement, it demonstrates how strategic partnerships can create meaningful economic opportunities, empower customers and support Rwanda’s journey towards a more sustainable future.
NCBA Bank Rwanda offers financing solutions that enable customers to more easily acquire electric vehicles, while Longtai Group supplies a range of models tailored to different needs. Prospective buyers are encouraged to visit the nearest branch or contact 0788 315 792 for more information on accessing modern, affordable, and environmentally friendly transport options.
The new milestone was celebrated on July 2, 2026, during the handover of an additional 15 electric vehicles to customers.Through this partnership, NCBA Bank Rwanda provides flexible financing that allows customers to purchase brand-new electric vehicles and repay the loan over a period of up to five years. NCBA Bank Rwanda offers financing solutions that enable customers to more easily acquire electric vehicles, while Longtai Group supplies a range of models tailored to different needs.
In his address to the nation on Saturday, Kagame said Rwanda’s painful history continues to shape its determination to remain vigilant against threats to national unity and security.
“What happened here will never happen again, for one simple reason: we will not allow it,” the President said as he paid tribute to men and women of the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), whose courage and sacrifice during the liberation struggle ended the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.
His remarks came as Rwanda commemorates Kwibohora 32, marking 32 years since the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) ended the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by taking control of Kigali on July 4, 1994.
Genocide ideology remains a threat
While acknowledging the country’s remarkable transformation over the past three decades, Kagame cautioned that the ideology which fueled the genocide has not disappeared.
“However, the ideas behind the genocide have not disappeared completely,” he said. “They persist in different forms, and remain present across our region.”
The neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has particularly come under scrutiny, where persistent reports of violence and targeted attacks against the Tutsi and Banyamulenge communities have been documented. These incidents, which continue to be reported in different parts of the region, have raised concerns about the endurance of ethnic-based insecurity and the broader spread of genocide ideology beyond Rwanda’s borders.
President Kagame warned that Rwanda’s history has taught painful lessons about the consequences of ignoring such dangers.
“We have seen, and suffered too much to ever take this threat lightly.”
The President stressed that continued vigilance is essential to preserving the peace and stability that Rwanda has built since liberation.
Security is a matter of survival
Kagame underscored that security is not simply a policy objective but the foundation upon which Rwanda’s development depends.
“Security and good governance are the foundation of everything we have built,” he said.
He rejected the notion that Rwanda’s security decisions should be influenced by external approval, insisting that protecting citizens remains the government’s foremost responsibility.
“Security is a matter of survival, not external approval. Without it, nothing else holds together.”
The President said Rwanda would continue taking the necessary measures to defend its people and sovereignty.
“That is why we remain vigilant and firm.”
Responsibility rests with Rwandans
Addressing Rwanda’s younger generation, Kagame said many have grown up
without experiencing the violence that devastated the country in 1994, making it important to pass on the lessons of history.
“A new generation is now coming of age, who did not witness the darkest moments of our history,” he said.
He urged young Rwandans to recognize that the country’s future ultimately depends on its own citizens.
“Like those before them, this generation must understand that no one carries greater responsibility for Rwanda than we do ourselves.”
While international partners may offer support, Kagame said Rwanda cannot depend on others to guarantee its future.
“Some may support us, others may disagree, or misunderstand us. Ultimately, they can all turn their back on us. We do not have that option.”
“It is our duty to ensure that every Rwandan can live in peace, and build a good life here.”
Liberation as a continuing mission
Kagame described liberation as an ongoing process that extends beyond military victory, saying the country’s mission today is to continue improving the lives of its people while protecting the unity that has underpinned Rwanda’s recovery.
“That is why liberation will never end, but will continue to evolve, as we work to improve the lives of our people, year after year.”
He called on Rwandans to reject division in all its forms and remain focused on building a stronger future together.
“The future we deserve is within reach. As long as we remain united, reject division in all its forms, and focus on what we are building together, there is little we cannot accomplish.”
“The record of the past thirty-two years speaks for itself,” he added.
In his address to the nation on Saturday, President Paul Kagame said Rwanda’s painful history continues to shape its determination to remain vigilant against threats to national unity and security.
