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  • SKOL reaffirms commitment to continued partnership with Rayon Sports

    SKOL reaffirms commitment to continued partnership with Rayon Sports

    In a statement released on Monday, the company stated that over the past 12 years, the partnership between SKOL and Rayon Sports evolved into one of the most recognized and impactful collaborations in Rwandan football, built on shared ambition, mutual respect, and a common commitment to the development of sport in Rwanda.

    Throughout the partnership, both institutions worked closely together to support the club, strengthen fan engagement, and contribute to the continued growth of football across the country.

    SKOL said it remains committed to maintaining and strengthening its long-standing relationship with Rayon Sports and its supporters in a sustainable manner.

    The company indicated that representatives from both institutions have engaged in positive and constructive discussions regarding the future of the partnership, with a shared interest in identifying approaches that can support the club’s long-term ambitions and continued development.

    As part of these discussions, SKOL presented an evolution of the partnership structure from a Principal Sponsorship arrangement toward a mutual-benefit sponsorship model. According to the company, the approach is intended to create greater flexibility and potentially open opportunities for additional partnerships capable of contributing to the long-term sustainability and development of Rayon Sports.

    SKOL stated that the continued evolution of sports partnerships requires adaptive and sustainable models that can support clubs in an increasingly dynamic environment while preserving strong institutional relationships.

    The company added that discussions remain ongoing and expressed confidence in the spirit of mutual respect and collaboration that has characterized its relationship with Rayon Sports for more than a decade.

    SKOL also thanked Rayon Sports’ leadership, players, supporters and all stakeholders for the trust, collaboration and memorable moments shared throughout the years, reaffirming its dedication to supporting the advancement of sport and meaningful partnerships that positively contribute to Rwandan communities.

    SKOL said it remains committed to maintaining and strengthening its long-standing relationship with Rayon Sports and its supporters in a sustainable manner.
  • Kenyan court orders Senate to pay impeached DP Gachagua Rwf 565 million in damages

    Kenyan court orders Senate to pay impeached DP Gachagua Rwf 565 million in damages

    In a ruling delivered on Monday, a three-judge bench comprising Justice Eric Ogola, Justice Anthony Mrima, and Justice Dr. Freda Mugambi held that while Gachagua’s impeachment remains valid, key aspects of the process fell short of constitutional standards of fairness.

    The court found that senators infringed on Gachagua’s fair hearing rights when they declined to grant an adjournment despite his absence from the proceedings, thereby proceeding with hearings in a manner that violated due process protections.

    The judges said the award of Ksh 50 million was both compensatory and constitutional in nature, aimed at vindicating the Constitution, restoring the dignity of the affected party, and deterring future violations by state organs.

    “The court awards constitutional damages of Kenya Shillings 50 million to His Excellency Gachagua payable by the Senate to vindicate the Constitution, restore the dignity of the affected party, and deter future violations,” the bench stated.

    The court further emphasised that Parliament must establish a clear statutory framework governing the impeachment of a Deputy President under Article 150 of the Constitution, noting that procedural clarity is essential to safeguard constitutional protections.

    On issues relating to pension and emoluments, the court made no determination, stating that Gachagua is free to pursue the matter before the appropriate forum.

    Gachagua’s legal team said they would challenge the ruling at the Court of Appeal, arguing that the court’s finding of a fair hearing violation raised unresolved constitutional contradictions in the impeachment decision.

    Kenya’s High Court has ordered the Senate to pay former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Ksh 50 million (about Rwf 565 million) in constitutional damages after finding that his right to a fair trial was violated during impeachment proceedings that led to his removal from office in October 2024.
  • UB40 ft. Ali Campbell arrive in Kigali ahead of BK Arena concert (Photos)

    UB40 ft. Ali Campbell arrive in Kigali ahead of BK Arena concert (Photos)

    The group touched down from South Africa following a highly successful, fast-paced multi-city tour. The band kicked off their southern leg in Cape Town on June 2, moved to Durban on June 4, and wrapped up with back-to-back performances in Pretoria on June 6 and 7.

    The band was originally expected to land in Kigali yesterday, June 8. However, due to the tight logistics of their packed touring schedule, management requested an extra night of rest, pushing their arrival to this morning.

    UB40 was originally formed in Birmingham, United Kingdom, in 1978 by a group of working-class friends who took their name from the British unemployment benefit form. They went on to become one of the most commercially successful reggae acts in history, selling over 70 million records globally with timeless hits like “Red Red Wine,” “Kingston Town,” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

    Internal disagreements eventually led to a permanent split in the band’s legacy. In 2008, iconic lead vocalist Ali Campbell left the original lineup due to management disputes. Seeking to preserve the classic sound, he launched his own touring version of the group in 2014, known today as UB40 featuring Ali Campbell.

    This spin-off previously featured original bandmates Mickey Virtue and Terence “Astro” Wilson, the latter of whom sadly passed away in late 2021. Meanwhile, the remaining original members of the 1978 group chose to keep the standard UB40 name, replacing Ali with his brother Duncan Campbell, and later, current vocalist Matt Doyle. That separate entity continues to tour globally with long-standing members like Robin Campbell, Jimmy Brown, Earl Falconer, and Norman Hassan.

    Because of this historic divide, it is strictly UB40 featuring Ali Campbell taking the stage in Kigali tonight, bringing the distinctive voice behind the band’s greatest studio hits to Rwanda for the very first time.

    For generations of Rwandan music lovers who grew up hearing these songs on local radio stations, in public transport, and at family gatherings, tonight’s performance at the BK Arena represents a massive milestone, bridging nostalgia with a live, world-class production.

    Legendary reggae group UB40, featuring Ali Campbell, arrived in Kigali early Tuesday morning ahead of their historic concert at BK Arena tonight.
    Upon arrival in Kigali, Ali Campbell first took time to greet a small group of journalists who were present at the airport.

  • Germany, France scrap joint fighter jet project over industrial disputes: media

    Germany, France scrap joint fighter jet project over industrial disputes: media

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have come to the conclusion that aviation companies Airbus and Dassault cannot reach an agreement on jointly building the combat aircraft, said German public broadcaster ARD on its news website Tagesschau, quoting German government sources.

    According to the report, Merz advised Macron not to pursue the construction of the fighter jet any further.

    The two nations are expected to continue developing the “Combat Cloud,” a network intended to connect military platforms and weapons systems, the report said.

    Launched in 2017 by Macron and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the FCAS is considered a flagship European defense project to develop a next-generation air combat system.

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have come to the conclusion that aviation companies Airbus and Dassault cannot reach an agreement on jointly building the combat aircraft,
  • Rwanda’s proposed 2026/27 budget rises 12% to Rwf 7.8 trillion

    Rwanda’s proposed 2026/27 budget rises 12% to Rwf 7.8 trillion

    The proposed budget is designed to strengthen agricultural production, boost industrial growth, accelerate job creation and maintain macroeconomic stability, according to resolutions adopted during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on June 8.

    The budget represents an increase of approximately Rwf 844.2 billion compared to the revised 2025/26 budget, reflecting the government’s continued focus on economic transformation and development.

    Sixty-eight percent of the budget, equivalent to Rwf 5.3 trillion, will be financed through domestic resources, while foreign grants will account for 7 percent.

    The government said the budget will prioritise interventions aimed at strengthening economic resilience while accelerating the implementation of key development projects and programmes across various sectors.

    The Cabinet’s approval follows the presentation of the 2026/27 Budget Framework Paper to Parliament by Finance and Economic Planning Minister Yusuf Murangwa on May 11, 2026.

    Murangwa is expected to formally table the budget before Parliament for debate and consideration on June 11, when Rwanda will join other member states of the East African Community in presenting their national budgets.

    Finance Minister Yusuf Murangwa presents the 2025-26 national budget before parliament on June 12. Rwanda’s Cabinet has approved a draft law determining State finances for the 2026/27 fiscal year, endorsing a national budget of Rwf 7.8 trillion, a 12 percent increase from the previous year’s revised budget.
  • Mexican president pledges peaceful World Cup opening amid protests threat

    Mexican president pledges peaceful World Cup opening amid protests threat

    Speaking during her daily morning press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City, Sheinbaum accused political opponents of attempting to provoke a government crackdown in order to generate negative international headlines ahead of the tournament.

    However, she ruled out the use of repressive police measures in response to any demonstrations.

    “There are groups that want to provoke us, and they are not necessarily teachers. What they want is repression,” Sheinbaum said.

    “We will also ensure that the World Cup opening ceremony proceeds smoothly, peacefully and calmly,” she added.

    Mexico is one of three host countries for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside the United States and Canada. The country is scheduled to host 13 matches across three cities: Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey.

    Sheinbaum’s comments come after the CNTE warned that it could stage protests if the federal government fails to meet its demands, including higher wages and other labor-related concessions.

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addresses supporters at the Monument to the Revolution in Mexico City, Sunday, May 31, 2026, marking two years in power. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)
  • UN report calls for urgent global collaboration to protect marine ecosystems

    UN report calls for urgent global collaboration to protect marine ecosystems

    Launched on World Oceans Day, which is observed annually on June 8, the third World Ocean Assessment found that the ocean continues to be under severe and accelerating anthropogenic pressure, driven by climate change, pollution and increased human activities.

    These pressures are often cumulative, combining to cause widespread biodiversity loss, undermining the ecosystems that support fisheries, coastal protection and human health.

    “The third World Ocean Assessment, launched today, documents a deepening crisis driven by climate change, overfishing, biodiversity loss and marine pollution,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a message for the launch of the report.

    “We cannot keep treating the ocean as limitless. We must build a new relationship with the ocean: Grounded in science. Framed by international law. And built on shared responsibility — across nations, sectors, and generations — to advance the Sustainable Development Goals,” said Guterres.

    The third World Ocean Assessment identified the main human drivers of change to the ocean: human population growth and demographic changes; economic activity; technological advances; changing governance structures and social, economic and geopolitical instability; climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution.

    It found that about 16 percent of the total increase in ocean heat content since 1955 has occurred since 2018. The greatest relative warming has been observed in the Atlantic Ocean and the southern parts of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

    The sea level continued to rise at increasing rates, from less than 2 millimeters per year prior to 2015 to 4.3 millimeters per year in 2023, according to the report.

    Also, it found that 52.1 million tonnes of plastic waste enter the ocean each year, contributing to an estimated 24.4 trillion microplastic particles, which are now known to affect more than 4,000 marine species.

    Large gaps persist in ocean knowledge, the report said, with only 27.3 percent of the seafloor mapped as of 2025, leaving deep-sea ecosystems, biological processes, and cumulative impacts poorly understood.

    “The imperative for a healthy and resilient ocean has never been more urgent. Global collaborations and research, and our increased understanding of the ocean, provide essential insights into the state of marine ecosystems, the profound changes they are undergoing and the need for our care,” said Rafael Gonzalez-Quiros, joint coordinator of the group of experts for the third World Ocean Assessment.

    The third World Ocean Assessment found that the ocean continues to be under severe and accelerating anthropogenic pressure, driven by climate change, pollution and increased human activities.
  • Ebola cases rise to 550 in DR Congo as outbreak trend remains upward

    Ebola cases rise to 550 in DR Congo as outbreak trend remains upward

    According to an update released Monday, 35 new confirmed cases, including 10 deaths, were recorded on Sunday in the eastern provinces of Ituri and North Kivu. Seven additional patients recovered, bringing the total to 19.

    The outbreak was still on an upward weekly trend and the recent slight decline shown in the epidemic curve may reflect delayed laboratory updates, not a real slowdown in transmission, it said.

    As of Sunday, 309 people were in isolation or hospitalized, including 116 confirmed cases and 193 suspected cases.

    The contact follow-up rate in the three affected provinces rose to 64.4 percent, with 5,418 contacts under follow-up and 3,489 seen. The rate remained well below the target of 95 percent.

    Laboratory capacity remained under pressure in North Kivu, with 183 test results pending due to a shortage of reagents.

    The current outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, was officially declared by the DRC Health Ministry on May 15.

    The affected provinces, namely Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu, have a combined population of nearly 15 million people and face massive internal displacement and cross-border movements toward neighboring countries.

    The number of confirmed Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has risen to 550, including 101 deaths, with health authorities warning that the outbreak continues to trend upward.
  • Netanyahu says Israel halting Iran strikes

    Netanyahu says Israel halting Iran strikes

    “At the moment, the fire is on hold because after we struck … it (Iran) stopped attacking us,” Netanyahu said in his first televised statement more than 20 hours after Iran first launched missiles at Israel on Sunday night.

    If Iran “makes the mistake of attacking us again, we will respond with force,” he added.

    Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said that Israel would continue to carry out attacks against Hezbollah and would strike the Dahieh district, south of the Lebanese capital Beirut, in response to any attack on communities in northern Israel.

    Following Netanyahu’s statement, Israel’s Home Front Command said it will lift most civil defense restrictions across the country on Tuesday morning, while restrictions will remain in place in several northern communities near the Lebanese border.

    Later on Monday, Israeli ministries announced in statements that Israel’s hospitals have returned to full and normal operations on Monday, while schools are expected to reopen on Tuesday after Israel and Iran halted the exchange of strikes.

    Earlier in the day, Iran’s main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, announced in a statement the cessation of strikes against Israel, but warned that any further Israeli “aggression and malicious acts,” including in southern Lebanon, would trigger a much more “severe and crushing” response from Tehran.

    It said the Iranian armed forces’ actions were carried out in support of the Lebanese people following Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and the Dahieh district. It also accused the United States of backing Israeli operations and said that Israel should have learned its lesson from Iran’s response.

    Iran’s official news agency IRNA said that at least 15 people were wounded in Israeli attacks against Iran on Monday, with no death reported yet.

    Following flight restrictions imposed earlier in the day on Iran’s airspace, the country’s Civil Aviation Authority said aviation operations are returning to normal, the semi-official Fars news agency reported.

    Meanwhile, COGAT, the Israeli military agency overseeing aid coordination, said the Kerem Shalom crossing and the Rafah crossing into the Gaza Strip will gradually reopen for the entry of humanitarian aid starting Tuesday after being closed on Sunday due to Iranian attacks on northern Israel.

    The latest escalation came after the Israeli military conducted airstrikes in the southern suburb of the Lebanese capital Beirut on Sunday, killing at least two people.

    Following the Israeli operations, Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) announced late Sunday that it launched ballistic missiles at the Ramat David Air Base in northern Israel in response to Israel’s “widespread crimes” in southern Lebanon.

    The Israeli military on Monday carried out airstrikes on several targets in Iran, including radar sites and a petrochemical company in the southwestern province of Khuzestan. In response, the IRGC launched strikes on the Nevatim and Tel Nof air bases as well as certain industries in Israel.

    Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks in a video message released on June 8, 2026. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that the fire against Iran is currently “on hold,” but warned that Israel will respond forcefully if Iran resumes its attacks.

  • Trailblazing Somali referee denied entry to US ahead of World Cup

    Trailblazing Somali referee denied entry to US ahead of World Cup

    Artan arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday on a flight from Istanbul and was subjected to additional screening by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Following the inspection, authorities determined that he was inadmissible due to unspecified vetting concerns and placed him on a return flight to Turkey.

    The 52-year-old was among 52 referees selected by FIFA to officiate at the World Cup, which kicks off on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

    FIFA confirmed on Monday that Artan would be unable to participate in training or officiate at the tournament.

    “FIFA is not involved in host country immigration processes, including visa adjudications,” a FIFA spokesperson said. “In line with previous FIFA events, a host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and who is admitted into their country.”

    CBP said all travellers seeking entry into the United States, including athletes, coaches and tournament staff, are subject to inspection and vetting.

    “Following inspection, the traveler, a referee for the FIFA World Cup, was determined to be inadmissible due to vetting concerns and was denied entry,” the agency said in a statement.

    Officials in Somalia expressed disappointment over the decision. A senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports said Artan had been travelling with valid documents, while a Somali embassy official noted that he had been issued a diplomatic passport to facilitate international travel after experiencing visa-related difficulties in the past.

    The case has drawn attention because Somalia remains on President Donald Trump’s travel ban list. While exemptions exist for World Cup athletes and team personnel, those provisions reportedly did not apply to referees.

    Artan’s exclusion marks a significant setback for a referee whose rise has been widely celebrated across Africa. In 2025, he was named Africa’s Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football and has officiated at major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Earlier this year, Artan reflected on the challenges he faced pursuing a refereeing career in Somalia.

    “At times, I have had to change my route to my local stadium because of explosions in the country,” he said. “You cannot give up as a referee. You have to have a target.”

    Despite the setback, Artan struck a positive tone in a statement released on Monday.

    “Despite the circumstances, I am in a positive mood and I am focused on the next challenges in my refereeing career,” he said. “I want to thank the football family for their messages and wish my colleagues all the best success during the World Cup.”

    Ciise Aden Abshir, a senior adviser to Somalia’s Ministry of Youth and Sports and a former national team captain, said the decision undermined football’s values.

    “Denying him entry to the United States and preventing him from officiating scheduled matches harms not only him personally but also undermines football’s commitment to fairness, merit, and the spirit of fair play,” he said.

    The incident is the latest controversy surrounding US immigration policies and the World Cup, with concerns previously raised over visa processing delays for some participating nations.

    Artan’s exclusion marks a significant setback for a referee whose rise has been widely celebrated across Africa. In 2025, he was named Africa’s Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football and has officiated at major continental competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations.