The move nearly doubles Cook’s personal stake in Nike and was interpreted by analysts as a significant show of confidence in Nike’s ongoing turnaround strategy under its current leadership.
Cook, who has served on Nike’s board since 2005 and holds the role of lead independent director, acquired the shares at an average price of $58.97 each in an open‑market transaction on December 22.
After the purchase, his total holding in the company stands at about 105,000 shares, making this one of the largest direct stock purchases by a Nike director in more than a decade.
The stock market reacted positively. Nike’s shares closed up 4.6% on Wednesday, reversing some of the pressure the stock has faced in recent sessions. The rally followed the disclosure of Cook’s trade and reflected investor optimism that insider buying by major figures can signal confidence in the company’s prospects.
Nike has grappled with challenges this year, including weak profit margins and slower sales growth in key markets such as China. The company’s shares have been under significant pressure, trading down nearly 13% since its earnings report on December 18 and marking several years of performance declines relative to broader market peers.
Under the leadership of CEO Elliott Hill, Nike has been implementing a turnaround strategy focused on reviving innovation and strengthening demand. Hill’s plans also include renewed marketing efforts and efforts to rebuild relationships with major wholesalers to bolster visibility and sales.
Analysts and portfolio managers viewed Cook’s transaction as more than just a personal investment decision a vote of confidence in Nike’s strategy. “For Tim Cook to be an inside buyer is a modest positive,” said one market participant, highlighting the symbolic weight of such a high‑profile insider purchase.
In addition to Cook’s move, other Nike board members have also made insider purchases, further reinforcing the narrative of executive confidence amid a challenging period for the brand.
Speaking to the congregation, the cardinal stressed the urgency of the project, noting how the current church often overflows, with worshippers spilling outside and tents needed for extra space.
“It’s time for us to come together and build a spacious, beautiful cathedral,” he said, urging everyone to get involved.
He encouraged Christians to reach out to the chief priest at St. Michel Parish with ideas or donations within their means.
The goal is a grand church that matches Kigali’s rapid growth and modern vibe, built on land donated by the president.
When pressed for specifics like an exact start date or budget, Cardinal Kambanda said planning is ongoing but fundraising and preparations continue full steam ahead.
The new cathedral will rise on the site of the former Nyarugenge Prison, known locally as “1930.” Designs show a contemporary building with room for at least 5,000 inside and vast outdoor areas to handle up to 20,000 for big celebrations.
Cardinal Kambanda first voiced his vision for a fitting city cathedral back in 2019 during his installation ceremony at Amahoro Stadium.
In 2023, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) announced that efforts to raise 40 billion Rwandan Francs for the construction were still underway.
Currently, the Cathedral of Kigali is located in Kiyovu, Nyarugenge District, where St. Michel Parish is based. However, it is too small to accommodate large events.
St. Michel Parish was founded in 1963 as part of the Kabgayi Diocese and became a Cathedral Parish on May 3, 1976, when the Archdiocese of Kigali was established.
This impressive haul came from a total of 9,538 tons of products shipped abroad. Key contributors included coffee, with 893 tons earning $6,264,518, and tea, where 931 tons brought in $2,758,516. Horticultural items also performed strongly: vegetables (500 tons) fetched $345,176, fruits (313 tons) added $241,609, and flowers (21 tons) contributed $113,958.
Other agricultural goods accounted for 6,572 tons, generating $3,425,424, while livestock products added 308 tons worth $615,484.
These exports reached markets across Europe (including France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands), the Middle East (such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Oman), and various African countries.
This follows a similar strong performance the previous week, when exports from December 8 to 12 brought in $12.5 million from 9,650 tons.
On a broader scale, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources reported that Rwanda’s agricultural and livestock exports for the full year of 2025 exceeded $893.1 million, roughly equivalent to 1.3 trillion Rwandan francs.
Data from the National Institute of Statistics further highlights steady growth where exports in the 2024/25 period topped $893 million, a 6.4% rise from $839 million the year before.
Looking ahead, Rwanda’s second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) sets an ambitious goal of $1.54 billion in annual revenues from these sectors by 2029.
These taxes must be declared and paid by 31 December 2025.
Commissioner for Domestic Taxes, Batamuliza Hajara, said that as the festive season approaches, taxpayers are encouraged to fulfill their obligations early to avoid potential technological disruptions in the final days, which could result in penalties for late declaration and payment.
“We want to enhance our self-reliance. We encourage everyone to pay all their taxes early so that they can enjoy the festive season with peace of mind, without any tax-related concerns. Christmas is near, and taxpayers are advised to settle their obligations in advance so that they can enter the holidays owing nothing to the public treasury,” she said.
{{Property tax}}
Commissioner Batamuliza noted that from the beginning of the year, a system was open to immovable property tax declarations and payments, either in full or in quarterly installments, depending on their capacity, while knowing in advance the total amount due.
“Since there are mechanisms that allow early declaration and gradual payment, there should be no reason for anyone to delay to the point of being penalized,” she added.
Property tax is calculated based on the location and use of the property.
According to the law governing sources of revenue for decentralized entities, when a property consists of land with a building, the tax is levied on the market value of both the building and the related plot. For undeveloped land, the tax is based solely on the land’s surface area.
The tax rate is determined annually by the District Council or the City of Kigali, depending on the property’s location and use, but it must not exceed FRW 80 per square meter.
Residential buildings and their plots are taxed at 0.5% of their market value; properties used for commercial purposes are taxed at 0.3%; while those used for industrial purposes or belonging to micro and small enterprises are taxed at 0.1%.
Multi-Storey residential buildings receive special consideration to encourage efficient land use. A residential building with up to three storeys is taxed at 0.25% of its market value, while those exceeding three storeys are taxed at 0.1%.
Properties exempt from immovable property tax include one building designated by the owner as their primary residence, along with its annexes located on a residential plot for a single household. The building remains considered the owner’s primary residence even if it is not occupied for various reasons; however, the land on which it is built remains taxable.
Commissioner Batamuliza clarified that if a property has already been taxed during the year of purchase, it is not taxed again, since taxation is levied on the property itself, not on the individual.
“As of this evening, we had surpassed 70% of declarations. Some taxpayers have declared but not yet paid, which is understandable. However, our message is directed to those who have neither declared nor paid, reminding them that the deadline is 31 December,” she added.
{{Road maintenance levy}}
Vehicle owners are also reminded to declare and pay the motor vehicle road maintenance levy.
The law determining this tax was published in the Official Gazette on 29 May 2025. For the current year, the levy is applied on a pro rata basis for the remaining months following the publication of the law.
The levy is set as follows: cars and jeeps – FRW 50,000; pick-ups, microbuses, minibuses, and buses – FRW 100,000; trucks and small trailers – FRW 120,000; and large trailers – FRW 150,000.
Exempted vehicles include those owned by the Government of Rwanda, diplomatic missions, and international organizations that have agreements with the Republic of Rwanda.
“These amounts may seem small, but they make a meaningful contribution to road maintenance. We remind vehicle owners to pay early, because delays may result in penalties that can be almost equal to the tax itself,” Commissioner Batamuliza said.
{{Third income tax quarterly prepayment}}
Time is running out for taxpayers required to make third-quarter income tax prepayments.
This covers sales made in July, August, and September 2025. The quarterly prepayment tax is calculated from tax paid for the previous annual tax period divided by the turnover of the same tax period, times the current quarterly turnover.
“This is designed to make it easier for taxpayers. For example, if the total annual income tax due is around FRW 200 million, quarterly prepayments mean that by the end of the year, a taxpayer may have already paid half or more of the total amount, leaving only the balance to be settled,” Batamuliza explained.
“It is a facilitative mechanism and a legal right for taxpayers. Beyond supporting taxpayers, it also enables the government to fulfill its obligations in a timely manner.”
Declaration of the motor vehicle levy and immovable property tax can be done through the RRA website or by dialing *800#. The third quarterly prepayment tax is declared through the RRA website via the E-Tax system.
As the year draws to a close, this sense of reflection has become part of the national mood. Beyond statistics, projects and public milestones, 2025 has reminded Rwandans that progress is shaped by people, leaders, artists, and public servants whose lives and work helped move the country forward. Their absence is felt not only in their respective fields but in the collective memory of a nation that continues to draw strength from their example and sacrifice.
This article revisits some of the distinguished individuals who did not live to see the end of 2025, honouring the lives they lived and the lasting impact they made.
{{1. Lt. Gen. Innocent Kabandana
}}
He was one of the generals in the Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF). Lt. Gen. Innocent Kabandana, who led peacekeeping operations in the Cabo Delgado region of Mozambique, passed away on September 7, 2025, due to illness. A career military officer, he was known for his dedication and discipline, leaving behind a legacy of strong leadership and contributing to building a resilient army.
{{2. Ingabire Marie Immaculée
}}
She was well known for her advocacy for justice, fighting against corruption and injustice, particularly during her time as the Executive Director of Transparency International Rwanda. She was an outspoken voice on accountability for leaders at all levels of government. Her work extended beyond national borders, contributing to international discussions on human rights and governance. She passed away on October 9, 2025, after battling illness.
{{3. Alain Mukuralinda (“Alain Muku”)
}}
Alain Mukuralinda, also known as Alain Muku, was the Deputy Government Spokesperson and a lawyer who previously served as a national prosecutor. He also worked in music and supported artists. Beyond his professional duties, he was a mentor to young people and an advocate for talent development. He passed away on April 4, 2025, after suffering from a heart condition.
{{4. Jean Lambert Gatare
}}
Jean Lambert Gatare became a household name among football enthusiasts for his talent in broadcasting sports. He was a respected figure in the media, especially in sports commentary, and was a key figure in advertising. He passed away on March 22, 2025, while receiving treatment in India.
{{5. Aissa Kirabo Kacyira
}}
A distinguished diplomat and urban development expert, Aissa Kirabo Kacyira served as the Mayor of Kigali and later as Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat. She played a pivotal role in Rwanda’s urban planning, advocating for sustainable city development and international partnerships that enhanced Kigali’s global reputation. She passed away on August 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and transformative urban initiatives that continue to benefit Rwanda and Africa at large.
{{6. Alphonse Kilimobenecyo
}}
Known for his significant contributions to the design of national symbols, including the national flag, currency notes, and coins, Kilimobenecyo Alphonse was one of Rwanda’s most talented artists. He passed away on April 19, 2025, at the age of 66.
{{7. Claudine DeLucco Uwanyiligira
}}
Claudine DeLucco Uwanyiligira played a significant role in the development of the media sector in Rwanda. She was the Deputy Director-General of the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), where she was known for professionalism and capacity-building. She later worked in the United States at Global Solutions Agency LLC, overseeing projects in Africa and the Caribbean. She passed away on January 14, 2025.
{{8. Joseph Murekeraho
}}
Although not widely known, Joseph Murekeraho made contributions to social and community development in Rwanda. He served as the Minister of State in the Ministry of Education from 2007 to 2008, overseeing primary and secondary education. He passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 73.
9. Protais Mitali
Mitali Protais was another unsung hero whose work in Rwanda’s development space touched many lives. Whether through social initiatives, professional achievements, or community engagement, Protais’ contributions were marked by diligence and a commitment to positive change. His work continues to inspire those who carry forward similar missions.
{{10. Madeleine Mukanemeye (“Mama Mukura”)
}}
Mama Mukura was a well-known name in Rwanda, especially among sports fans, particularly those who supported the national football team and Mukura VS. Beyond her love for sports, Madeleine was known for her charitable work, caring for others without expecting anything in return.
{{11. Speciose Mukabayojo
}}
Speciose Mukabayojo was the youngest child of King Yuhi V Musinga. She passed away on October 27, 2025, at the age of 93. She was one of the children who fled with King Musinga when he was exiled to Moba in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (then Zaire).
{{12. Josephine Murebwayire
}}
Josephine Murebwayire played a key role in helping survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Her contributions to the welfare of survivors and the healing of the community are remembered with deep appreciation.
{{13. Natty Dread
}}
Natty Dread was a well-known reggae artist in Rwanda. His music touched the hearts of many, and he was an important figure in the Rwandan music scene. He passed away this year, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
{{14. Gloriose “Gogo” Musabyimana
}}
“Known as ‘Gogo,’ Musabyimana Gloriose was a beloved artist in Rwanda. She passed away unexpectedly in September 2025 due to illness while on a missionary trip in Uganda, leaving a void in the music community.”
While we mourn the loss of the individuals who contributed significantly to our country, we honour their legacies in leadership, culture, media, civil society, and beyond. Their memory will live on as we continue to build the Rwanda that we aspire to be.
This funding, derived from tourism revenues, will be used to implement various initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of local communities.
The allocation is part of a broader tourism revenue sharing program, aimed at encouraging communities to actively participate in conservation efforts.
The announcement was made on December 22, 2025, in Nyamasheke District, during the selection process for projects that will receive support under this initiative in the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
The program, which began in 2005, aims to ensure that local communities benefit from the economic gains brought by tourism, thereby fostering a sense of responsibility for the protection of the park.
Initially, 5% of the tourism revenue was shared with surrounding communities, but since 2017, this share has been increased to 10%.
Alfred Habimana, the Vice Mayor of Rusizi District in charge of economic development, stated, “In Rusizi, several cooperatives have received support, both in agriculture and livestock. Last year, 32 households living in substandard housing were provided with new homes.”
Habimana further explained that this year, the allocated funds would be used to enhance the Rasano Health Center, upgrading it to the level of a health post. This upgrade will ease access for residents who previously had to travel 30 kilometers to the Bweyeye Health Center or 40 kilometers to the Nyabitimbo Health Center for medical services.
Julienne Ntakirutimana, the Vice Mayor of Karongi District in charge of economic development, announced that Rwf 107 million would be allocated to provide 100 pigs to residents of Mutuntu Sector.
Ntakirutimana added, “The remaining funds will be used to construct three new classrooms in Twumba Sector, where students previously had to walk up to four kilometers to attend school.”
Telesphore Ngoga, an official from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), highlighted that the allocated funds should be used for projects that will generate income for local residents.
He emphasized that a 2022 study revealed that 76% of the revenue from the tourism-sharing program was used for infrastructure development, a trend that should continue to be prioritized.
He further noted that 24% of the funds would be directed towards infrastructure improvements, while the remaining 76% should be focused on income-generating initiatives.
Over the past 25 years, the tourism revenue-sharing program has distributed a total of Rwf 18 billion to communities living near the parks, contributing significantly to the economic development of these areas.
Since launching incentives for EV use in 2020, the country has seen steady growth in their numbers, with more than 7,000 electric and hybrid vehicles now registered on its roads.
Auto24, a prominent car dealership in Rwanda, plays a key role in this transition by importing and supplying electric vehicles, helping to reduce air pollution and support sustainable mobility.
On December 20, 2025, Auto24 handed over eight brand-new BYD Yuan Up electric SUVs to Kimu Transport, a local passenger transport company.
The BYD Yuan Up, launched in 2025, is a compact crossover SUV designed for urban and everyday driving. It offers an impressive range of up to 403 kilometers on a single charge.
Charging times vary by charger type, with fast charging capable of replenishing the battery in as little as 30 minutes, or a full charge taking up to six hours with standard equipment.
Inside, the vehicle features modern technology, including a spacious and stylish cabin, a 12-inch (30.48 cm) touchscreen infotainment system, and intuitive controls accessible directly from the steering wheel.
It also includes a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility around the vehicle, along with other advanced safety and convenience features.
AUTO24 Rwanda Country Manager Ivan Ruzibiza noted that the company had previously supplied hybrid vehicles to Kimu Transport two months earlier. This latest delivery marks a shift to fully electric models in support of global efforts to combat climate change.
“We are fulfilling our commitment to Kimu Transport by delivering these cutting-edge 2025 electric vehicles,” Ruzibiza said.
He emphasized that the Yuan Up not only helps protect the environment but also offers significant savings for operators, thanks to its 403-kilometer range.
Jean Pierre Nkunziryayo, CEO of Kimu Transport, explained that the purchase aligns with the company’s pledge to support the government’s program to retire older, high-emission vehicles.
“Our strong partnership with the government has evolved positively. In the past, we faced criticism for operating aging, polluting buses. Now, with these modern electric vehicles, we are actively contributing to environmental protection,” he said.
He highlighted the operational benefits, adding that the vehicles deliver both environmental and financial advantages.
“A full charge, costing just Rwf 26,000, provides a 403-kilometer range—far more economical than the Rwf 165,000 we previously spent on fuel for gasoline vehicles.”
Here are the top destinations to celebrate the festive season in style:
{{Kigali: The urban holiday heartbeat}}
As the festive season begins, the capital Kigali is already aglow with lights and culinary delights. Known as one of Africa’s safest and cleanest cities, it is perfect for those seeking holiday cheer with a cosmopolitan twist.
The Kigali Convention Centre and surrounding streets are glowing with seasonal lights that frame romantic evening strolls and festive selfies. Dotted across the city are cosy cafés and restaurants serving menus that highlight local flavours with international flair, with many offering special dishes and treats for the festive season.
While street food is rare due to strict public health regulations, Kigali boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Restaurants and eateries offer diverse cuisines, with neighbourhoods like Nyamirambo standing out for their culinary charm. Biryogo in Nyamirambo is a favourite for sampling local dishes such as pilau, brochettes, and traditional Rwandan staples like sweet potatoes, cassava, and hearty stews.
For festive fine dining and lively entertainment, Kigali’s top restaurants, such as Atelier du Vin, Boho, Poivre Noir, and Inka Steakhouse, offer elegant menus that showcase seasonal ingredients, innovative twists on classic dishes, and carefully curated drinks, creating the perfect setting for celebrations with friends and family. Heaven Restaurant is a great family spot, serving modern African cuisine alongside local art.
Top hotels are spread across the city for anyone seeking a calm retreat, offering comfortable rooms, festive dining options, and panoramic views of Kigali’s twinkling hills, perfect for relaxing between celebrations.
For a bit of adventure, head to Fazenda Sengha on Mount Kigali. Enjoy horseback riding, ziplining, and archery while soaking in breathtaking views of the city.
{{Lake Kivu: Peaceful waters & sunset dreams
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If your ideal holiday blends slow mornings, lake breezes and spectacular sunsets, Lake Kivu is hard to beat. One of Africa’s great lakes, it’s framed by hills and dotted with emerald islands that seem designed for lingering afternoons.
Rubavu (Gisenyi) is the liveliest lakeside town during the festive season, with Lake Kivu Serena Hotel offering beachfront parties, live music and beach picnics under twinkling stars. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, boat cruises and even coffee plantation tours that take in both scenic views and Rwanda’s celebrated coffee culture.
For a quieter, more intimate escape, the town of Karongi is ideal. Walk hand‑in‑hand along the shoreline at sunset, enjoy romantic meals at lakeside cafés, and savour fresh fish from the water, perhaps served in unique lakeside venues such as Tam Tam Bikini, where boat hulls double as tables against the backdrop of setting suns.
{{Volcanoes National Park: Christmas in the clouds
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For a holiday that feels truly transformative, head north to Volcanoes National Park, home to the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This misty terrain of bamboo forests and volcano ridges is perfect for a Christmas morning trek that few destinations can rival.
Once you’ve met a gentle silverback and his family, there’s no better way to feel thankful and awed during the season. Beyond gorillas, Golden Monkey trekking, birdwatching and volcano hikes add rich layers to your mountain adventure.
Luxury lodges like Bisate Lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest set the tone for your evenings with warm fires, gourmet meals and landscapes that glow pink and gold at dusk. Not far from the park, the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village offers festive cultural immersion through traditional dance, music and crafts, a heartfelt way to connect with Rwandan heritage.
{{Akagera National Park: A New Year’s safari celebration
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When the calendar flips to New Year’s Day, trade misty visions for the golden savannah of Akagera National Park in eastern Rwanda. This restored wilderness harbours East Africa’s Big Five, lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos, and boasts scenic lakes and wetlands that support abundant birdlife.
Guided game drives at dawn and dusk cast you into iconic African landscapes, while a boat safari on Lake Ihema offers a gentle New Year’s start with hippos and crocodiles lounging by the water’s edge. Camp options like Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Magashi Camp bring safari luxury to life with firelit dinners and star‑filled skies.
{{Nyungwe Forest: A green holiday adventure
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For a lush rainforest Christmas or New Year’s getaway, Nyungwe Forest National Park is unmatched. One of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nyungwe brims with biodiversity, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and over 300 bird species.
The Canopy Walkway, suspended high above the forest floor, offers breathtaking perspectives over verdant treetops, and guided chimpanzee treks bring you up close to our closest animal relatives. Stay at One&Only Nyungwe House, set amidst tranquil tea plantations with spa moments and refined cuisine, a restorative way to close out the year.
{{Hidden gems to enrich your festive break
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Rwanda’s festive charm goes beyond its headline attractions, offering experiences that are equally rich and memorable.
In Nyanza, visitors walk through the King’s Palace Museum, admire the regal Inyambo cows, and immerse themselves in Rwanda’s royal history. The town’s calm streets and cultural sites make it a peaceful stop for those seeking a more reflective holiday experience.
Musanze invites exploration of the ancient Musanze Caves, where dramatic limestone formations reveal landscapes shaped by volcanic forces over millennia. The surrounding hills offer scenic trails, making it a perfect spot for hiking and photography.
The Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo provide a tranquil lakeside escape. Visitors enjoy boat rides, hiking, and birdwatching, all set against the stunning backdrop of volcanic peaks, creating a serene and restorative festive experience.
In the south, Huye pulses with cultural richness. The Ethnographic Museum showcases Rwanda’s art, history, and traditions, while nearby coffee plantations provide aromatic journeys into one of the country’s most celebrated exports.
For nature enthusiasts, Gishwati‑Mukura National Park, Rwanda’s newest forest reserve, offers immersive forest hikes, primate spotting, and vibrant wildlife experiences, making it an ideal destination for conservation-minded travellers during the festive season.
