As of Sunday, 180 people had recovered, while 615 patients were receiving treatment or under care. The fatality rate stood at 28.8 percent, and the contact follow-up rate reached 81.3 percent, the government said.
As part of the control measures, the government has banned mass gatherings in the capital and the provinces of Tshopo, Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele, local media reported, citing a circular from the Ministry of Interior.
Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani notified governors of the affected provinces of the decision, saying the restriction was imposed due to heightened health risks posed by the spread of the virus.
The measure covers political rallies, public marches and other events in an effort to limit physical contact and curb the spread of the virus.
President Felix Tshisekedi said on Monday that a comprehensive response plan, with a budget of 319 million U.S. dollars, had been drawn up, with initial emergency funds already mobilized to support field operations, contain the outbreak and save lives.
“Ebola is neither a rumor nor a shame. It is a health emergency that demands responsibility, solidarity and truth,” Tshisekedi said in a speech marking the country’s Independence Day, calling on the public to follow health instructions, report suspected cases and resist disinformation.
The DRC declared the current Ebola outbreak in mid-May. Health authorities have since warned that the response has been challenged by community transmission, population movement and limited access in some affected areas.
Authorities in DR Congo have banned large gatherings in the capital, citing prevention of Ebola virus spread.
Security Council resolutions have imposed an arms embargo on armed groups in the DRC, a travel ban on individuals, and an asset freeze on individuals and entities designated by the DRC Sanctions Committee.
Resolution 2825, which won the unanimous support of the 15-member council, also extends the mandate of the group of experts assisting the DRC Sanctions Committee until Aug. 1, 2027.
The resolution requests the group of experts to submit to the Security Council a midterm report no later than Dec. 30, 2026, and a final report no later than June 15, 2027.
The resolution calls for enhanced cooperation between all states and the group of experts, and reaffirms the importance of ensuring the safety and security of the members of the group.
It recalls the UN secretary-general’s commitment that the United Nations will do everything possible to ensure that the perpetrators of the March 2017 killing of two members of the group of experts and the four Congolese nationals accompanying them are brought to justice.
DRC has been accused of long-term collaboration with FDLR terrorist group responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Iran’s priority is reaching an agreement with Oman on relevant arrangements in the strait, but Iran would advance the issue alone if Oman, for any reason, is not interested, Gharibabadi told Iran’s state-run IRIB TV.
Oman also believes that it has sovereignty over the strait, that arrangements for administering the strait must not revert to past practices, and that services provided must not be free of charge, he said.
Meanwhile, Gharibabadi wrote on social media platform X that demining the strait is done solely by Iran and not any other country, adding, “We fundamentally do not let any such thing.”
The post was a response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s remarks earlier in the day saying France had decided to “work jointly” with its partners on mine clearance in the strait.
Gharibabadi said the situation is “sensitive and complex,” adding, “We strongly advise France not to complicate it further with its provocations.”
On Wednesday, Oman and Iran issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to ensuring safe passage through the strait in accordance with international law.
They also agreed to continue discussions through a joint working group between their foreign ministries to reach an understanding on the future management of navigation and related maritime services.
Earlier on Monday, the two sides held the first meeting of their Joint Committee on the Strait of Hormuz in Muscat to exchange views on the future management of the strait and related maritime issues, according to Oman’s Foreign Ministry.
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 29, 2026. REUTERS
In a blog post dated Monday, June 29, 2026, the Meta-owned messaging platform said the username update is designed to make it easier and safer for users to interact with new contacts and group conversations, where sharing a personal number can often feel intrusive.
“When someone new walks into your life – a classmate, a neighbour, someone you meet at an event – sharing a phone number can feel like a big step,” WhatsApp noted. “Sometimes you just want to chat without handing over your digits.”
The company said the same concern applies to group chats, such as school or community groups, where users may prefer to participate without exposing their personal contact details.
Under the new system, users will be able to reserve a unique username ahead of the full rollout later this year. WhatsApp said early reservations are being introduced due to the platform’s scale, with more than three billion users leading to high demand and overlapping name choices.
“For most people, choosing a WhatsApp username should be something unique that only people you want to contact you will know,” the company said, adding that a username generator will also be available to help users create suitable handles.
WhatsApp also confirmed that creators, small businesses, and organisations will be able to maintain consistency across platforms by reserving usernames matching their Instagram or Facebook handles.
The company emphasised that usernames are a key part of its broader privacy strategy, noting that there will be no public directory or search function to browse users. Instead, individuals will need to know the exact username to initiate contact.
To further enhance privacy controls, WhatsApp is introducing an optional “username key” that users can share with select contacts to determine who can reach them.
Once fully rolled out, users who enable usernames will also have their phone numbers hidden from first-time contacts.
“Once we launch usernames, when you message a person or business for the first time they will no longer see your phone number, if you enabled your username,” the company said.
Setting up a username reservation is available from this week via the app’s settings menu by navigating to Settings > Account > Username. WhatsApp said the process takes just a few seconds on the latest version of the app.
The feature will be rolled out gradually over the coming months, with users expected to receive notifications when it becomes available in their respective countries.
The Meta-owned messaging platform said the username update is designed to make it easier and safer for users to interact with new contacts and group conversations, where sharing a personal number can often feel intrusive.
The nearly 10,000-square-meter headquarters, located next to Madrid’s Congress Palace, was designed with sustainability criteria and is expected to further strengthen the Spanish capital’s role as a hub for international tourism cooperation.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the opening of the new headquarters reflected Spain’s commitment to multilateralism and underscored the country’s leading role in the global tourism sector.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez delivers a speech at the inauguration ceremony of the new headquarters of United Nations Tourism in Madrid, Spain, June 29, 2026. United Nations Tourism on Monday inaugurated its new headquarters in Madrid, marking a new chapter for the United Nations agency dedicated to promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism worldwide. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)Photo taken on June 29, 2026 shows the inauguration ceremony of the new headquarters of United Nations Tourism in Madrid, Spain. United Nations Tourism on Monday inaugurated its new headquarters in Madrid, marking a new chapter for the United Nations agency dedicated to promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism worldwide. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)
“The Framers recognized the difficulty of crafting election laws ‘applicable to every probable change in the situation of the country,’” so they decided that “a discretionary power over elections” needed to be lodged “somewhere,” according to the opinion, authored by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, a conservative judge appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump during his first term.
“The election-day statutes say nothing about ballot receipt, and we cannot add to the words Congress chose,” said the ruling, which was joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and the court’s three liberal justices.
The latest ruling from the highest court in the nation means that the Mississippi law and similar measures in other states will remain in effect ahead of November’s midterm elections. Major states across the political spectrum, including California, New York, and Texas, are among those with such laws.
Trump swiftly voiced his frustration, calling the ruling a “tremendous loss in the Supreme Court,” escalating his pressure on Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, which would require all voters to show a valid ID and proof of citizenship, and it would also ban mail-in ballots except in certain cases.
“The House of Representatives has approved this vital Act, THREE TIMES. The United States Senate seems unable to do so,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the top Republican in the upper chamber, recently said that his conference does not have enough votes to bypass the filibuster to pass the act.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the ruling on Monday, saying in a statement on X that the Supreme Court “upheld this bedrock American principle: if you cast your ballot on time, your vote will count.”
“As the midterm elections approach, Trump and his allies are working overtime to silence Americans’ votes,” Schumer said.
The case, filed on June 26, 2026, accuses Rwanda of carrying out “genocidal campaign in eastern Congo since 1996,” marking the third ICJ filing by the DRC against Rwanda.
Speaking to France 24, Nduhungirehe rejected the allegations and said the case reflects political deflection rather than legal substance.
“It is a political manoeuvre by the DRC, which is collaborating with the genocidal movement, the FDLR,” he said, adding that the Congolese government has failed to fulfil its commitments to neutralise the armed group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Nduhungirehe also linked Congolese authorities to violence against civilians in eastern DRC, including the Banyamulenge community in South Kivu, and accused officials linked to President Félix Tshisekedi of fueling ethnic hatred.
Citing former army spokesperson Sylvain Ekenge, he also pointed to inflammatory rhetoric and collaboration between state actors, militias such as Wazalendo, and mercenary forces.
Maj Gen Ekenge appeared on Congolese national television on December 27, 2025, during a programme discussing the security situation in eastern DRC, particularly in areas affected by the conflict in South Kivu Province. During the broadcast, he made an ethnic slur targeting Congolese Tutsis, including comments discouraging intermarriage with Tutsi women.
The statements triggered widespread criticism and diplomatic pressure, prompting Congolese authorities to suspend Maj Gen Ekenge from his duties.
“How can you violate, on a daily basis, basic human rights and pretend to file a complaint against the other party?” Nduhungirehe said.
Nduhungirehe added that Rwanda would not engage on the substance of the case at this stage, noting that jurisdictional issues would be left to competent authorities.
During the interview, Nduhungirehe also described U.S. sanctions against Rwandan entities as biased, unfair and counterproductive.
According to the minister, the sanctions risk undermining the mediation process under the Washington Accords signed in December last year.
“Those sanctions are unfair, one-sided and counter-productive,” he stated, warning that pressure on one party could embolden the other and worsen insecurity.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, rejected the DRC’s allegations, saying the case reflects political deflection rather than legal substance.
Speaking in a recent interview with France 24, Nduhungirehe defended Rwanda’s position on the peace agreement signed in June last year, which was later formalised in Washington by President Paul Kagame and DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, with the involvement of U.S. mediation.
The agreement was built on two key pillars: the neutralisation of the FDLR militia group and the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures. However, Nduhungirehe argued that its implementation has stalled primarily due to a lack of political will from Kinshasa.
“The main issue is the political will by the government in Kinshasa to cease fire,” Nduhungirehe said, adding that drone attacks had intensified after the signing of the agreement.
He further accused the Congolese side of failing to take action against the FDLR, instead citing continued collaboration with the group.
Nduhungirehe noted that while U.S. officials have acknowledged partial progress by Rwanda, he said Washington has overlooked the DRC’s failure to meet its commitments under the deal.
“So for us, we are disappointed by the increasingly biased U.S. mediation,” he said, stressing that peace agreements require both parties to implement their obligations simultaneously.
He questioned why sanctions had been imposed only on Rwanda, including recent measures targeting Rwanda’s Gasabo Oil Refinery and the Rwanda Defence Forces, while similar action had not been taken against the DRC.
According to the minister, sanctions risk undermining the mediation process.
“Those sanctions are unfair, one-sided and counter-productive,” he stated, warning that pressure on one party could embolden the other and worsen insecurity.
He also rejected suggestions that Rwanda had been given a unilateral deadline to withdraw its troops from eastern DRC by mid July, insisting that implementation of the agreement depends on reciprocal action, particularly a ceasefire and the neutralisation of the FDLR genocidal force linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“You cannot have peace with only one party implementing its part of the deal,” he said.
On recent legal action, Nduhungirehe dismissed a case filed by the DRC at the International Court of Justice accusing Rwanda of a “genocidal campaign,” calling it a political manoeuvre. He reiterated Rwanda’s position that the case lacks merit and argued that Kinshasa has failed to fulfil its own commitments under regional peace efforts.
The minister concluded by reaffirming Rwanda’s commitment to a negotiated solution, saying Kigali remains ready to implement its obligations under the Washington accord, provided that all parties do the same in good faith.
Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe noted that while U.S. officials have acknowledged Rwanda’s progress in implementing the peace agreement with the DRC, Washington has overlooked Kinshasa’s failure to meet its own commitments under the deal.
In an interview with IGIHE, Dr. Ian Shyaka, a reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeon at NeoDerma Clinica, breaks down what plastic surgery really involves, the difference between surgical and non-surgical treatments, and what patients should understand before making any decisions.
Understanding plastic surgery vs aesthetic treatments
According to Dr. Shyaka, plastic surgery is fundamentally a medical specialty that involves surgical procedures aimed at reconstructing or refining the shape, form, or function of the body.
“Plastic surgery involves surgical procedures to reconstruct or refine the shape, form, or function of the body,” he explained. “It is generally more invasive than aesthetic treatments and often provides more definitive, longer-lasting results.”
He contrasts this with aesthetic treatments, which are non-surgical, office-based procedures such as Botox, dermal fillers, and laser treatments.
These procedures are typically quick, often taking around 30 minutes, and allow patients to return home the same day. However, their effects are temporary and usually require repeated sessions every few months.
In contrast, surgical procedures are designed to deliver more lasting outcomes in a single intervention. For example, conditions such as excess skin or overly large breasts can be corrected surgically, offering long-term improvement in both appearance and comfort, even though natural aging continues.
Services offered in modern plastic surgery practice
At NeoDerma Clinica, Dr. Shyaka explains that patients can access both non-surgical aesthetic services and surgical procedures.
He contrasts this with aesthetic treatments—non-surgical, office-based procedures. These include Botox to smooth wrinkles, dermal fillers to restore facial volume, and laser treatments to target scars and skin imperfections.
On the surgical side, procedures include breast reduction, liposuction for stubborn fat deposits, and gynecomastia correction, a procedure addressing enlarged male breast tissue.
He notes that some of these conditions are not only aesthetic but also medical. For instance, large breasts in women may lead to chronic back pain, difficulty finding suitable clothing, and limitations in physical activity. Similarly, gynecomastia in men can affect confidence and comfort in daily life.
“These procedures can significantly improve quality of life and confidence,” he noted.
What patients should know before surgery
Dr. Shyaka emphasizes that plastic surgery should never be taken lightly, as it is a medical procedure that involves both physical and psychological preparation.
A key requirement, he says, is having realistic expectations. Patients must understand what is achievable for their individual body type and engage in thorough consultations with qualified surgeons.
“It’s essential to discuss expectations, risks, recovery timeline, and downtime,” he said.
He also warns against unrealistic timing, such as scheduling surgery shortly before major life events like weddings, expecting immediate results.
Understanding the full recovery process is crucial for informed decision-making and patient satisfaction.
Despite its growing acceptance, plastic surgery remains surrounded by misconceptions.
One of the most common myths, according to Dr. Shyaka, is that plastic surgery is purely about vanity.
“In reality, it’s about helping people gain confidence and live better versions of themselves,” he explained.
He also highlights the important role of reconstructive surgery, which goes beyond aesthetics. This includes restoring function and appearance after trauma such as road traffic accidents, cancer surgery, or other injuries. In some cases, these procedures can be life-changing or even life-saving.
Another misconception is that plastic surgery offers instant results. Dr. Shyaka clarifies that recovery is a gradual process.
“It’s not a quick fix. It’s a journey that includes surgery, aftercare, and time for healing,” he said. Results continue to improve as swelling reduces and the body heals.
Changing attitudes toward plastic surgery
Dr. Shyaka observes that public perception of plastic surgery has improved significantly over time.
In the past, stigma often prevented people from openly discussing or admitting to undergoing procedures. Today, however, greater awareness and access to information have helped shift attitudes.
“There used to be a lot of stigma,” he said. “Today, more people understand they have the right to feel better about themselves.”
He adds that as more individuals share positive experiences, acceptance continues to grow, allowing others to make informed choices with greater confidence.
The importance of aftercare
One of the most critical aspects of plastic surgery, according to Dr. Shyaka, is aftercare.
“Aftercare is not optional, it is an essential part of the journey,” he emphasized.
Proper recovery may include wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medication, attending follow-up sessions or massages, and avoiding certain activities during healing.
These steps directly influence the final outcome and overall satisfaction with the procedure.
Overcoming misconceptions through education
Dr. Shyaka believes that education and access to reliable information are key to addressing remaining misconceptions about plastic surgery.
While the internet provides a wealth of information, he stresses the importance of consulting qualified professionals.
“A proper consultation helps clear doubts, set realistic expectations, and avoid complications or misinformation,” he said.
By combining accurate information with professional guidance, patients can better understand both the benefits and limitations of plastic surgery.
The partnership was announced on June 29 in New York, just days after the 19-year-old Rwandan-American forward was selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft.
Ament, who has Rwandan roots through his mother, becomes Visit Rwanda’s first individual global ambassador. In the role, he will represent Rwanda internationally while helping showcase the country’s tourism attractions, cultural heritage, sporting ecosystem and investment opportunities to audiences around the world.
The announcement comes as Ament embarks on his NBA career after being selected 13th overall by the Miami Heat before his draft rights were immediately traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a blockbuster deal involving former Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Ament had already hinted at the partnership during the NBA Draft, arriving on the red carpet wearing a custom jacket emblazoned with the “Visit Rwanda” branding.
The collaboration builds on Visit Rwanda’s sports marketing strategy, which has seen the country partner with major international clubs and organisations, including Atlético de Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, the LA Clippers, the LA Rams and the Basketball Africa League (BAL), whose finals Rwanda has hosted since the competition’s inaugural championship in 2021.
Unlike previous sponsorships centred on teams and competitions, Ament’s appointment introduces an individual ambassador whose personal connection to Rwanda is expected to strengthen the country’s engagement with the global basketball community.
As part of the partnership, Ament will feature in international tourism campaigns, promotional events, community initiatives and digital content aimed at showcasing Rwanda to global audiences.
He will also work directly with aspiring basketball players in Rwanda through youth clinics, mentorship programmes and community outreach initiatives designed to nurture the next generation of talent.
Speaking about the partnership, Rwanda Development Board Chief Executive Officer Jean-Guy Afrika said Ament’s appointment represents the evolution of Visit Rwanda’s global sports strategy.
“For several years, Visit Rwanda has partnered with some of the world’s most recognised sports organisations to showcase Rwanda globally. Nate represents an exciting evolution of that journey. As our first individual global ambassador, he brings a personal story that reflects the values driving Rwanda’s transformation: ambition, discipline, resilience, and the belief that talent, when nurtured, can compete on any stage.”
Afrika said Ament’s rise to the NBA demonstrates what is possible when talent is matched with opportunity and expressed hope that his journey would inspire young Rwandans to pursue excellence not only in sport but also in business, technology and the creative industries.
He added that beyond promoting Rwanda internationally, the partnership would enable Ament to engage directly with young people through basketball development programmes and community initiatives.
For Ament, the partnership is both professional and deeply personal.
“Representing Rwanda is something that means a lot to me. Rwanda is part of who I am, and I’m proud to share that connection with the world as I begin my NBA journey.”
He said he hopes to inspire young people to believe that their dreams are achievable regardless of where they come from while helping introduce global audiences to Rwanda’s beauty, culture and people.
The young forward also expressed excitement about giving back to Rwanda’s basketball community.
“One of the things I’m most excited about is spending time with young players in Rwanda and giving back to the basketball community. I’ve benefited from people who invested in my development, and I want to do the same for the next generation.”
Ament enters the NBA following an outstanding freshman season with the University of Tennessee, where he averaged 16.7 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game while earning Second Team All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman honours.
Before joining the professional ranks, he represented the United States at the 2024 FIBA U18 Americas Championship, helping the team win gold. Despite representing the United States at youth level, Ament has previously indicated he would consider playing for Rwanda’s national basketball team in the future.
His ties to Rwanda have continued to strengthen in recent years. In August 2025, he visited Kigali, touring basketball development facilities, meeting young athletes and learning more about the country’s expanding basketball ecosystem.
Through his new role with Visit Rwanda, Ament is expected to become one of the country’s most recognisable sporting ambassadors, using his growing international profile to promote Rwanda while helping inspire the next generation of basketball talent at home.
The partnership was announced on June 29 in New York, just days after the 19-year-old Rwandan-American forward was selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft.
