Saibari struck after just 71 seconds, netting the fastest goal of the tournament so far and handing the Atlas Lions a crucial three points. The victory lifted Morocco to four points from two matches and into second place in Group C, level with leaders Brazil but behind on goal difference.
The decisive moment came almost immediately after kickoff. Real Madrid playmaker Brahim Diaz delivered a perfectly weighted pass over the top, and Saibari timed his run to perfection after being played onside by Grant Hanley.
The PSV Eindhoven midfielder controlled the ball expertly before unleashing a powerful finish beyond Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn.
Morocco, who drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match, dominated possession and looked dangerous whenever they attacked. Bilal El Khannouss squandered a promising opportunity before the break, while Saibari came close to doubling his tally early in the second half when his effort struck the crossbar following a deflection from Jack Hendry.
Gunn kept Scotland in the contest with a fine save from an El Khannouss header moments later, ensuring the margin remained just one goal.
Scotland, buoyed by their opening victory over Haiti, struggled to create meaningful opportunities against a disciplined Moroccan defence. Their first real threat arrived in first-half stoppage time when Andy Robertson’s cross found John McGinn, but the midfielder could not direct his effort on target.
Steve Clarke’s side improved after the interval, with Ryan Christie firing over from a promising position and Scott McTominay striking the side-netting late on. However, they failed to register a shot on target as Morocco comfortably absorbed the pressure.
Later on Friday, Brazil climbed to the top of Group C with a convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti. Matheus Cunha scored twice on his first start of the tournament, while Vinicius Junior also found the net as Carlo Ancelotti’s side produced a much-improved display following their draw with Morocco. The result eliminated Haiti and left Brazil and Morocco level on four points, with Scotland on three heading into the final round of group fixtures.
Elsewhere on Matchday 9, the United States became the first team from Group D to secure a place in the knockout stage after defeating Australia 2-0, while Paraguay boosted their qualification hopes with a 1-0 victory over Türkiye.
Morocco will book their place in the last 32 with a positive result against Haiti next week, while Scotland face a daunting encounter with five-time champions Brazil as they fight to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Saibari struck after just 71 seconds, netting the fastest goal of the tournament so far and handing the Atlas Lions a crucial three points.Morocco, who drew 1-1 with Brazil in their opening match, dominated possession and looked dangerous whenever they attacked.
If no deal is reached within 60 days beginning Thursday, “we will do things that won’t make them happy,” Trump said at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. “But I don’t think it’s going to get to that.”
The text of the MoU states that the two sides commit to negotiating and achieving the final deal within a maximum of 60 days, extendable with mutual consent.
U.S.-Iran talks scheduled in Switzerland on Friday have been postponed, with neither side offering an official explanation. Multiple media reports said that Iran withdrew from the talks in response to the latest Israeli strikes in Lebanon.
Earlier on Friday, Trump told NBC News that he had spoken with Israeli leaders and urged them to agree to a ceasefire with Hezbollah.
“It’s a positive,” Trump said in the phone interview. “It’s a little icing on the cake.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department said that a new round of talks between Israel and Lebanon will be held in Washington, D.C. next week.
U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday, June 19, 2026, that he expects Iran to agree to a final deal within 60 days of the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Having operated in Rwanda for the past five years as a global delivery hub, TeKnowledge has contributed to the development of local talent, training and employing Rwandan professionals to support enterprise technology environments across the globe.
With this launch, the company is introducing a broader portfolio of services designed to build leadership capability, develop digital skills, and enhance cybersecurity resilience across the region.
A strategic step toward Rwanda’s Vision 2050
Rwanda’s Vision 2050 outlines a clear path toward building a knowledge-driven economy powered by skills, innovation, and technology.
During the event, TeKnowledge emphasized the need to accelerate capability development in parallel with rapid technological change, particularly as AI continues to reshape industries, skills requirements, and economic models.
Delivering leadership, skills, and cyber resilience
The launch focuses on three key areas that TeKnowledge considers essential for building a competitive, AI-ready economy.
These include an Executive AI Training Centre designed to help leaders develop a practical understanding of artificial intelligence, its risks, and governance requirements; large-scale training academies aimed at equipping people with skills in AI, data, cybersecurity, and digital services that match evolving job market needs; and cybersecurity services supported by a Security Operations Centre to enhance protection, awareness, and resilience across organizations.
Together, these initiatives are intended to move beyond strategy and enable large-scale implementation, supporting digital transformation across both the public and private sectors.
Supporting Rwanda’s next phase of growth
TeKnowledge’s launch reflects its commitment to partnering with governments, enterprises, and local organizations to translate ambition into execution, particularly in complex, regulated environments such as financial services and the public sector.
A key highlight of the event was the strengthening of TeKnowledge’s ongoing partnership with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing youth employment and digital skills development in Rwanda.
Building on this collaboration, TeKnowledge will deliver a structured six-session AI training program to youth enrolled in Harambee’s programs, focused on developing practical, in-demand capabilities. Participants will earn certifications and digital learning badges, enhancing their employability and supporting their transition into the workforce.
This partnership reflects a broader ambition: to drive tangible, scalable impact. Alongside leadership enablement and secure technology deployment, TeKnowledge aims to support Rwanda in accelerating job creation, advancing digital capabilities, and positioning itself as a global hub for next-generation services.
Speaking at the event, TeKnowledge President and CEO, Aileen Allkins, said: “Rwanda has already shown what is possible when leadership aligns around a clear vision. The next phase will be defined by execution—building capability at pace in the areas where demand is evolving fastest. AI is already reshaping how decisions are made and how value is created. The opportunity now is not whether to adopt it, but how to lead, govern, and scale it responsibly.
“Equally important is ensuring that this transformation translates into real opportunity. Through our partnership with Harambee, we are equipping young people with practical AI skills and recognized certifications that strengthen their path into employment.”
Through leadership enablement, workforce development, and cybersecurity resilience, TeKnowledge aims to help accelerate Rwanda’s transition to a knowledge-based economy while creating new pathways for talent, innovation, and inclusive economic growth
About TeKnowledge
TeKnowledge is a trusted expert technology services company that partners with companies and countries to navigate the complexities of becoming AI-first, managing the full lifecycle from data to security, adoption, and ongoing support.
Operating across 10+ global hubs, TeKnowledge delivers 24/7 operations through more than 4,000 experts.
Founded in 2010, TeKnowledge is part of the YNV Group, a privately held global holding company operating across three sectors: Technology, Real Estate, and Financial Services, including an EU-licensed financial institution.
TeKnowledge President and CEO Aileen Allkins has emphasized the importance of turning ambition into execution as organizations and countries navigate the opportunities created by artificial intelligence. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT & Innovation also graced the event. A key highlight of the Kigali event was the strengthening of TeKnowledge’s ongoing partnership with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator
The call was made on June 18, 2026, during a forum that brought together women entrepreneurs, many of them young professionals from various organizations. The event focused on raising awareness about investment opportunities, particularly in stocks and savings products.
BK Capital emphasized that investing does not require large amounts of money. Participants were informed that one can start investing with as little as Rwf10,000, with returns that can reach around 10%, especially when investments are maintained over the long term.
The company also highlighted that 52% of the work performed by women globally is considered unpaid care and domestic work, despite its significant economic value. While such contributions often go uncompensated, women were encouraged to build financial security through saving and investing the income they earn.
BK Capital Managing Director Pacific Tuyishime said women still account for less than 40% of the company’s investors and shareholders, indicating that their participation remains relatively low.
“Although women have made significant progress in various sectors, including finance, they are still underrepresented in investment and stock ownership. There is therefore a need for greater collaboration to increase their participation, promote economic inclusion, and help them take advantage of opportunities available in the capital market,” he said.
Lyna Muganwa Kadigwa, an official at BK Capital, noted that women often juggle multiple responsibilities, leaving investment low on their list of priorities. She encouraged them to view the current period as an opportunity to invest and secure their future as well as that of future generations.
Josephine Mbabazi, head of corporate services at Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Rwanda, said many women and young people still perceive investing as something beyond their reach, largely due to limited awareness and information.
She noted that sustained awareness campaigns would help change perceptions and encourage greater participation in investment activities.
BK Capital has operated in Rwanda since 2012 and is one of the subsidiaries of BK Group Plc. It is among Rwanda’s leading investment and financial services firms, offering stock brokerage, asset management, and financial advisory services.
BK Capital has encouraged women to save by investing in different sectors.She Invest is a campaign aimed at increasing the number of women investors.BK Capital Managing Director Pacific Tuyishime said women still make up less than 40% of investors and shareholders at BK Capital.BK Capital official Lyna Muganwa Kadigwa encouraged women to invest to secure their future.
Held under the theme “Rooted. Growing. Thriving ”, the event builds on the success of the first edition organized in 2025.
The initiative aims to provide young Rwandans with a platform for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration, while supporting their personal, academic, and professional development and reinforcing their connection to Rwandan values.
Equipping young people to thrive in a changing world
Students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, as well as young people born and raised in Germany, represent a generation navigating a multicultural and constantly evolving environment.
This reality offers numerous opportunities, but also raises important questions related to identity, belonging, civic responsibility, and integration into social, professional, and economic systems that can sometimes be complex.
Rwandan Youth Connect Germany seeks to create constructive spaces where young people can share experiences and develop solutions adapted to their realities.
This second edition will focus on several key themes, including cultural identity in the digital age, personal development, resilience, social responsibility, and the skills needed to succeed in international professional environments.
Participants will also have the opportunity to discuss topics related to financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and opportunities for collaboration between Rwanda and Germany.
The goal is to encourage young people to develop critical thinking skills, make informed decisions, and become positive contributors within their communities.
Strengthening the connection between the diaspora and Rwanda
Beyond the discussions, the initiative seeks to strengthen ties between Rwandan youth in the diaspora and Rwanda itself.
Organizers aim to encourage young people to leverage their international experiences to contribute to the country’s development and foster cooperation among Rwandan communities living abroad.
The summit is supported by the Embassy of Rwanda in Germany, which continues to promote youth engagement and empowerment within the diaspora.
With this second edition, Rwandan Youth Connect Germany reaffirms its ambition to become a sustainable platform serving a new generation of young Rwandans.
Photos from the previous edition
The initiative aims to strengthen identity, skills, and future readiness among young Rwandans living in Germany.The event focuses on key themes including identity, resilience, entrepreneurship, and opportunities between Rwanda and Germany.Organizers say the initiative seeks to strengthen ties between the Rwandan diaspora and Rwanda while empowering youth to contribute to national development.Rwandan Youth Connect Germany provides a platform for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration among young members of the diaspora.
The 60-day agreement is intended to pave the way for broader negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire. Among its 14 key provisions are the cessation of hostilities between the two sides in the Middle East, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the reopening of Iranian ports.
Iran is required under the deal to halt nuclear weapons development, while the United States has agreed to ease sanctions and release frozen Iranian funds held in international banks. Washington has also committed to contributing an estimated $300 billion for reconstruction of war-damaged areas.
Following the announcement, global oil prices quickly dropped back to pre-conflict levels. During peak tensions, crude oil had risen to as high as $120 per barrel, but it has since fallen to around $77.69. U.S. crude is trading at approximately $74.90 per barrel.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes daily, is a critical route for energy and trade shipments between the Middle East and global markets.
The earlier spike in international oil prices had a direct impact on Rwanda, where fuel prices reached historic highs. On June 5, 2026, a litre of petrol cost 2,938 Rwandan francs, while diesel rose to Rwf 2,927, driven by global market volatility.
Speaking to the media on June 6, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva said that without government subsidies, a litre of diesel would have cost Rwf 3,581, meaning the state was covering about 18.16% of the cost through subsidies.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed the agreement while attending a G7 meeting in France. Iran also confirmed that President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the document on June 17.
Speaking to the press on June 16, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa said that while the agreement was welcome news, Rwanda would take a cautious approach.
“So far, we have received good news that there are initial agreements on the war in the Middle East. But our principle is to wait and see. There are two main reasons for this. First, we want to see whether the agreement is actually effected and whether it holds for a long period of time,” he said.
Fuel prices in Rwanda are reviewed every two months, and the country also maintains strategic reserves to cushion against supply shocks.
Shipping routes from ports such as Dubai or Bandar Abbas typically take between six and 12 days to reach Mombasa in Kenya or Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, with additional time required for transport into Rwanda. This means that goods already in transit or stored in warehouses may still reflect earlier, higher prices.
Murangwa noted that even if global conditions normalize immediately, local markets would continue to feel the effects of previous disruptions.
“Second, even if everything were to stabilize today, there would still be a backlog of issues. So, we still expect that we’ll continue to see the effects of the blockage that happened.
“It is not yet clear when this will be resolved. We will have to observe how the global business and supply chain communities manage to unlock the backlog of goods that were stuck in the Gulf,” he said.
The initial agreement also provides for the removal of naval mines and other maritime obstacles in the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days. During this period, shipping volumes are expected to return to pre-conflict levels, with the United States withdrawing naval forces deployed in the area.
The agreement stipulates that commercial shipping should return to normal levels under Iranian supervision.
Rwanda maintains that its fuel reserves have not been affected since the start of the Iran conflict and says it is working to ensure stable supply in the domestic market, along with other essential goods.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, consumer prices increased by 12.9% in May 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil shipments.
The annual event, commonly known as the King’s Birthday Party, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and artists for an evening that blended formal diplomacy with a festival-style celebration.
British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe said the choice of June for the celebration reflects a longstanding British tradition of marking the monarch’s birthday twice, once in June and again in November during the actual birthday month.
“For those of you who were here in November, you might be wondering why we are celebrating again so soon. The answer is a wonderfully British tradition,” she said, noting that the June timing was also chosen for its favourable summer weather.
Thorpe said this year’s theme focused on music festivals, describing them as spaces where people come together for “great music, good friends, and lots and lots of dancing.”
She highlighted the cultural parallels between global festivals such as Glastonbury in the United Kingdom and Rwanda’s own Kivu Fest, saying both reflect the power of music to connect communities.
The High Commissioner also used the occasion to outline the United Kingdom’s evolving approach to Africa, saying London has shifted from a traditional donor model to what she described as a more balanced partnership focused on investment and shared growth.
“In plain terms, that means we have moved from being an old-fashioned donor to a genuine investor and partner,” she said, adding that the new approach prioritises trade, development partnerships, and people-to-people links.
She highlighted growing economic ties between Rwanda and the UK, including efforts to increase exports of Rwandan tea and coffee to British supermarkets, expand high-value investment projects, and deepen cooperation through the British Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda.
Thorpe also emphasised long-standing institutional partnerships, noting cooperation between Rwandan institutions such as the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA), as well as more than 60 university partnerships between the two countries.
On development cooperation, she said the relationship has evolved into one built on shared expertise and mutual learning, while reaffirming commitments in areas such as education, climate resilience, financial sector development, and Ebola preparedness.
The UK has recently committed £800,000 (about Rwf 1.6 billion) in new funding to strengthen Rwanda’s preparedness for Ebola and other viral haemorrhagic diseases.
“We have long partnerships and we can and will do more,” she affirmed.
Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, who was the guest of honour, echoed the message of strong bilateral ties, describing the relationship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom as one grounded in mutual respect, regular dialogue, and shared development goals.
She noted that while differences may occasionally arise on regional or international issues, such moments do not define the partnership.
“Such moments do not define our relationship. Rather, they remind us that genuine partnerships are strengthened through honest dialogue, mutual understanding, and continued engagement,” she remarked.
Dr. Kaitesi highlighted key areas of cooperation, including education, social protection, climate resilience, public financial management, and Ebola preparedness. She also pointed to expanding economic engagement, with British investment active in sectors such as renewable energy, mining, agriculture, hospitality, infrastructure, and financial services.
She welcomed the establishment of the British Chamber of Commerce in Rwanda as a milestone in strengthening trade and investment relations.
The Minister also acknowledged cultural and creative initiatives supported by the UK, including efforts to connect Rwandan fashion designers with their British counterparts through the Rwanda Fashion Entrepreneurship Programme, describing it as an example of diplomacy extending beyond policy into people-centred collaboration.
“This initiative demonstrates that diplomacy is not only about governance, it is equally about creating opportunities for people, innovation, and cultural exchange,” she noted.
Dr. Kaitesi reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to working with the UK to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity before proposing a toast to His Majesty King Charles III and the continued friendship between the two nations.
Beyond the formal speeches, the celebration featured live performances by Okay Bisoke, Umuriri Band, Coco, DJ Cynthasizer, DJ JP Zed, and DJ Trick. Guests also enjoyed traditional drumming, gymnastics, juggling, and fire-eating performances.
The festival-themed event included food stalls, craft beers, cocktails, silent disco and lounge areas, with menus inspired by the traditional King’s Birthday Parade offerings, including dishes such as cod.
The vibrant evening reflected what both sides described as a growing partnership, one that blends diplomacy, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange into a shared celebration of friendship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom.
The annual event, commonly known as the King’s Birthday Party, brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and artists for an evening that blended formal diplomacy with a festival-style celebration.British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe said the choice of June for the celebration reflects a longstanding British tradition of marking the monarch’s birthday twice, once in June and again in November during the actual birthday month.Rwanda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, who was the guest of honour, echoed the message of strong bilateral ties, describing the relationship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom as one grounded in mutual respect, regular dialogue, and shared development goals.Dr. Kaitesi reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to working with the UK to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity before proposing a toast to His Majesty King Charles III and the continued friendship between the two nations.It was a night to celebrate music, culture, and friendship under the stars.The festival-themed event included food stalls, craft beers, cocktails, silent disco and lounge areas, with menus inspired by the traditional King’s Birthday Parade offerings, including dishes such as cod.One of the guests won a two-night all-inclusive stay for two at the newly refurbished Sambora Kinigi Lodge through a raffle draw.
Periodontitis, commonly known as advanced gum disease, is a chronic infection that damages the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and significantly affect oral health.
Although current treatments can control infection and inflammation, rebuilding lost bone and tissue remains a major challenge for dentists and researchers.
In search of new solutions, scientists from the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo developed an innovative biomaterial using latex extracted from jackfruit.
Because the latex naturally adheres to moist surfaces, researchers believe it could serve as an effective carrier for therapeutic compounds, allowing them to remain in contact with damaged gum tissue for longer periods.
To enhance the material’s therapeutic potential, the team incorporated pomegranate peel extract and simvastatin, a drug commonly used to lower cholesterol levels.
Pomegranate peel contains compounds with antimicrobial properties that may help combat harmful bacteria, while previous research has shown that simvastatin can also promote bone formation and reduce inflammation when applied locally.
Laboratory tests produced promising results. The researchers found that the biomaterial stimulated osteoinduction, a biological process that encourages stem cells to develop into bone-forming cells. The effect became stronger over time, suggesting that the material may support the regeneration of bone and tissue damaged by periodontal disease.
The study also highlights the potential value of natural and sustainable materials in medical research. By combining jackfruit latex and pomegranate peel materials often regarded as agricultural by-products with an established medication, scientists have created a novel biomaterial with potential applications in regenerative dentistry.
While the findings are encouraging, the technology remains in the early stages of development. Additional laboratory studies, animal testing, and human clinical trials will be required before the treatment can be considered for routine dental use.
Nevertheless, the research offers a promising glimpse into future approaches for treating severe gum disease. If further studies confirm its safety and effectiveness, this innovative biomaterial could become a valuable tool for helping patients recover from one of the world’s most common oral health conditions.
Scientists developed tropical fruit gel that may help repair gum damage.
The decision was made following the presentation of a report by the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Security, which assessed the suitability of the nominees.
Among those approved is Lt Gen (Rtd) Emmanuel Karenzi Karake, who was nominated as Rwanda’s ambassador to China.
Presenting the committee’s findings, Senator Murangwa Ndangiza Hadidja said Karenzi Karake brings extensive experience and expertise that will enable him to effectively carry out his diplomatic duties.
His previous roles include serving as a consultant at the Ministry of Interior, advisor to the President of the Republic, Secretary-General of the National Intelligence and Security Service, and Commander of the Rwanda Peace Academy, among other senior positions in the Rwanda Defence Force.
Karenzi Karake said he intends to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between Rwanda and China, with a focus on security, technology, trade, industry, and existing partnership agreements between the two countries.
Maj Gen Aimable Bayingana, who was approved as Rwanda’s ambassador to Israel, has also held several senior positions, including chairing a committee on the history of Rwanda’s liberation struggle, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Air Force Chief of Staff, and Vice Chairperson of the National Itorero Commission.
He said he will focus on learning from Israel’s innovation systems, strengthening security cooperation, preserving the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and combating its denial and distortion, and promoting technology-driven agriculture.
He also emphasized the importance of attracting Israeli agricultural experts to Rwanda, arguing that this would be more effective than sending Rwandans abroad for training. He further highlighted the need for Rwanda to learn from Israel’s vocational education system.
Col (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga was approved as Rwanda’s ambassador to Poland.
He previously served as Secretary-General of the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) and Head of Military Intelligence in the RDF, among other roles.
Ruhunga said he will focus on providing accurate information about Rwanda to European countries, many of which, he said, still hold misconceptions about the country.
He also pledged to learn from Poland’s development model, strengthen cooperation in education, improve social welfare collaboration, and identify new areas of partnership between the two countries.
Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka will become Rwanda’s first resident ambassador to Spain. Until now, Rwanda’s representation in Spain was handled through its embassy in France.
As the new ambassador, she pledged to contribute to the implementation of defense cooperation agreements between Rwanda and Spain, attract Spanish investors to Rwanda, explore opportunities for Spanish universities to open branches in Rwanda, and strengthen cooperation on gender equality, among other priorities.
Senator Murangwa also noted that senators urged the new ambassadors to play a role in combating genocide ideology, learn from their host countries, and strengthen cooperation in key sectors such as education.
Senator John Bonds Bideri said the nominees have the experience and capacity needed to fulfill their responsibilities.
“There is no doubt they have the willingness to serve their country. Many of them contributed to the liberation of Rwanda and have continued to serve in different capacities over the years. Their appointment gives us confidence that they will perform well,” he said.
Senator Sosthène Cyitatire noted that the ambassadors have a strong commitment to serving their country, given their long history of public service since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He also welcomed the decision to appoint ambassadors with military backgrounds to key countries such as China, Israel, and Poland, saying modern diplomacy increasingly includes military diplomacy.
He said, “It was a timely decision because modern diplomacy today includes military diplomacy.”
Among other appointments approved by the Senate were Florien Habiyaremye Rurihose, who was reappointed as Deputy Chief Gender Monitor in Charge of Gender Mainstreaming; Maximilien Byilingiro, appointed Director General of the Energy Utility Corporation Limited (EUCL); and Michelle Umurungi, appointed Deputy CEO in charge of investments at the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB).
Lt Gen (Rtd) Karenzi Karake has been approved as Rwanda’s ambassador to ChinaCol (Rtd) Jeannot Ruhunga has been approved as Rwanda’s ambassador to PolandMaj Gen Emmanuel Bayingana pledged to strengthen Rwanda–Israel relationsAmbassador Nkulikiyinka will oversee Rwanda’s interests in Spain
The DRC national football team secured a historic 1-1 draw against Portugal in its opening match at the FIFA World Cup.
Tshisekedi, who watched the match from the stadium, saw Les Léopards earn their first-ever World Cup point and score their first goal in the tournament. The DRC is making only its second World Cup appearance, 52 years after its debut.
Instead of focusing solely on the team’s achievement, Tshisekedi later addressed members of the Congolese diaspora in the United States, linking the result to the ongoing conflict in his country.
He praised the players for their performance despite the challenges facing the DRC, saying many had expected them to struggle against a Portuguese side featuring global football star Cristiano Ronaldo.
Turning to politics, Tshisekedi claimed that his government had identified individuals collaborating with the AFC/M23 coalition, which controls large parts of eastern DRC. He said he had initially believed such collaborators were based only in Rwanda but had discovered they had also infiltrated Kinshasa.
“Do not betray your country. Sorcerers exist. We thought they were only in Rwanda, but they have infiltrated our country.”
Tshisekedi said that after the rule of Mobutu Sese Seko, the DRC had a good leader in Laurent-Désiré Kabila, but that later those he called enemies entered their country and removed him from power, installing someone he referred to as a “dog” and training him to do what they wanted.
In addition to targeting Joseph Kabila, Tshisekedi told Congolese citizens living in the United States that, in the near future, they would retake the cities of Goma and Bukavu, which have been outside government control for more than a year.
“I am confident that in the coming days, the whole of Congo will be liberated,” he said. “Our brothers and sisters in Goma and Bukavu will celebrate with us. We have learned lessons from what has happened and must now build something stronger.”
Reacting on X, Rwanda’s government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said the DRC team’s performance had united and inspired Africans, but Tshisekedi had chosen to undermine the occasion.
“The Leopards gave Africa a moment of great joy during their opening World Cup match. President Tshisekedi chose to spoil that moment by insulting Rwandans and Congolese alike and, while on U.S. soil, declaring his intention to continue military offensives in eastern DRC.
“Tshisekedi not only exploited a remarkable sporting achievement for petty political purposes, but his belligerent rhetoric also demonstrates disregard for both the letter and spirit of the Washington Agreement,” she said.
The Washington Agreement, signed between Rwanda and the DRC on December 4, 2025, outlines measures aimed at addressing security concerns in the region. It includes commitments by the DRC to dismantle the FDLR, a terrorist group responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Once those measures are implemented, Rwanda is expected to lift defensive measures taken along its border. The agreement also includes provisions on refugee repatriation.
Beyond security, the deal provides for deeper economic cooperation between the two countries. Rwanda and the DRC are expected to strengthen collaboration on the Rusizi III hydropower project, a 206-megawatt plant expected to supply electricity to more than 300,000 people. The $800 million project is scheduled for completion by 2030.
The agreement also promotes cooperation in the minerals sector, encouraging both countries to move beyond raw mineral extraction toward local processing and value addition. It further calls for harmonized regulations to enhance the security and transparency of mineral trade.
In addition, the agreement envisages joint efforts to extract methane gas from Lake Kivu and convert it into electricity. Despite the signing of the deal, implementation on the Congolese side has reportedly been slow.
The Rwandan government maintains that both countries have significant opportunities to benefit from cooperation and believes that fully implementing the Washington Agreement could contribute to lasting peace in the region.
