Hilton announced the signing of the property on October 24, marking another step in its expansion across Africa, where the company plans to open more than 100 hotels in the coming years.
Developed by NBA Champion and philanthropist Masai Ujiri’s Zaria Group, Zaria Court Kigali represents a $25 million investment and a major addition to Rwanda’s sports and entertainment landscape.
The complex was inaugurated by President Paul Kagame on July 28, 2025, during the Giants of Africa Festival, a pan-African celebration of youth, creativity, and sport. The event drew notable figures, including Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, business leaders, creatives, and young talents from across the continent.
Construction of Zaria Court Kigali began in August 2023, with President Kagame and Ujiri breaking ground on what was envisioned to be the first of several such hubs across Africa. The completed facility now features an 80-room hotel, a rooftop lounge, fitness centre, pool, sports bar, co-working spaces, podcast and broadcast studios, and a multipurpose arena designed for sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Located adjacent to BK Arena and Amahoro Stadium, Kigali’s top venues for international concerts and sporting events, the property sits within a new mixed-use development surrounded by restaurants, bars, retail stores, and sports courts, just 15 minutes from Kigali International Airport.
The hotel will be managed by Aleph Hospitality, an independent management company operating across the Middle East and Africa.
Hilton’s Tapestry Collection brand comprises more than 170 independent hotels worldwide, each offering a distinctive design and guest experience that celebrates local culture. Guests staying at Zaria Court Kigali will also enjoy benefits from the Hilton Honours programme, the company’s award-winning loyalty scheme.
With 64 hotels currently operating in Africa and 106 more in the pipeline, Hilton aims to nearly triple its presence on the continent to over 160 properties in the coming years.
Unlike typical real estate projects designed for quick sales, Fortis Green is pursuing a build-to-rent model aimed at fostering long-term community living. Of the total units, 302 apartments, consisting of one-, two-, and three-bedroom options in ground-plus-three buildings, will be retained, owned, and managed by the developer for rental. In addition, 51 single-family homes, including twins, duplexes, or semi-detached units with one shared wall, and 33 townhouses will be available for purchase.
Managing Director Jonathan Shafer said the strategy aligns with market realities and Rwanda’s surging demand for rental housing.
“Our research found that around 95% of homes sold in Kigali are immediately rented out,” he noted. “Homeownership remains difficult due to financing barriers. So we want to own and operate these units long-term to provide stable, well-managed housing communities.”
The remaining homes, including three- and four-bedroom single-family houses priced between $120,000 and $135,000, target middle-income buyers seeking more flexible financing options. Discussions are ongoing with banks and potential investors to introduce lease-to-own arrangements in future phases.
The entire three-phase project is valued at approximately $25 million (Rwf 36 billion).
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Masaka Views is designed as an EDGE-certified eco-estate, promoting lower carbon emissions, energy efficiency, and water-saving techniques. The project includes a living fence, fruit trees, public green spaces, and a community garden to support wellness and environmental engagement.
According to the Managing Director, the Fortis Green Wellness Initiative will provide residents with access to programmes that promote both physical and mental well-being. These will include fitness activities, gardening workshops, and community support services designed to foster a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
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Speaking at the ceremony, which was also attended by the United States Ambassador to Rwanda, Eric Kneedler, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Chief Investment Officer Michelle Umurungi said the project reflects the country’s urbanisation priorities.
“Housing remains a critical need for our population. Kigali’s rapid urbanisation presents both a challenge and an opportunity. We’re delighted to see investors like Fortis Green Holdings stepping into this opportunity, meeting the growing demand by designing communities that are greener, smarter, and more resilient,” she said, praising Fortis Green for its confidence in Rwanda’s investment environment.
The project is financed through a mix of U.S. investment capital and local banking partnerships. Most building materials will be sourced from Rwandan manufacturers to support the local construction ecosystem.
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Phase 1 of the development includes the construction of 51 single-family homes, 33 townhouses, and 88 apartments, with the first units expected to be handed over in early 2026. The entire phase is planned for completion within approximately 13 months, after which Phase 2 will begin, keeping construction continuous until the full project is delivered in about two and a half years.
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Kigali is projected to need over 30,000 new housing units per year, driven by a rising urban population and increasing demand for home financing. Investors say this reality signals strong long-term returns for rental-focused developments.
Early buyer interest supports this view. One future resident, Beatrice Hariri, said flexible payment terms and environmental commitment influenced her decision.
“It’s a welcoming community that aligns with Rwanda’s priorities. The affordability and flexible payment options made it possible for me,” she said.
As ground breaks in Masaka, Fortis Green plans additional estates both within and outside Kigali, signalling continuation of its long-term strategy.
“We want to create communities that improve lives,” Shafer said. “Kigali’s growth story is only getting started, and we’re here for the long run.”
Among them are two appointed by President Paul Kagame: Dr. Uwamariya Valentine and Gasana Alfred, as well as two elected by political parties; Dr. Frank Habineza, president of the Green Party, and Nkubana Alphonse, president of the PSP party focused on social welfare and development. They join Evode Uwizeyimana and Prof. Dusingizemungu Jean Pierre who are beginning their second term after reappointment.
After the swearing-in of the six senators, the Senate of Rwanda now comprises 26 senators, including 13 women and 13 men, which represents 50% women, reinforcing the principle of gender equality.
President Kagame reminded them of their heavy responsibilities where Rwandans expect much greater than the country’s resources, emphasizing the need to strive for excellence in their work.
“The Senate allows government institutions to direct their efforts appropriately and conducts necessary evaluations to ensure that all institutions remain aligned. It is your duty to align the country’s long-term goals with the daily lives of Rwandans,” he said.
He continued, “It is crucial that decisions made reflect the needs of Rwandans and provide solutions to the problems they face.”
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Dr. Uwamariya Valentine, who has been appointed as a senator, has held various positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Environment, among other roles.
In an interview with IGIHE, she expressed her gratitude for President Kagame’s continued trust in her, which reinforces the expectation of positive results.
She said, “I am very grateful because the Head of State has placed his trust in me more times than I can count. I would say he still expects a lot from me. I was very happy when he appointed me, but once everything settles down, you sit and think, ‘What is expected of me?’ You feel grateful and immediately think about what you are going to do for Rwandans and Rwanda. To repay that trust is to work well.”
She mentioned that she is ready to implement the duties of the legislative body, including overseeing government activities, passing laws to address citizens’ problems, engaging in debates, and attending consultations.
Dr. Uwamariya said, “It’s about working together. From where I come from, I believe it won’t be hard to oversee because you are aware of the challenges. We have a unique country, with a unique history, and our approach must be distinct. There is oversight and consultations, and the President has asked us to work in an extraordinary way, focusing on the country’s development and the progress of its people.”
She emphasized the readiness to collaborate with her colleagues, working towards a common goal and following the country’s vision.
Amb. Alfred Gasana, who has previously served as Minister of Internal Security and as Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, also expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by President Kagame.
He said, “I deeply thank the President for trusting me once again by appointing me as a senator. It’s a great honor. To repay him is to work with all my intelligence, heart, and strength. The President reminded us to implement the duties entrusted to us. I promise not to disappoint him, and I assure Rwandans the same.”
Amb. Gasana stated that, regarding the responsibilities they are about to undertake, they will focus on the welfare of the citizens.
Alphonse Nkubana, who was appointed a senator, said, “We are happy to have been given these new responsibilities, and the President has made it clear that we must work according to the wishes of the people. We are here, with strength and wisdom.”
Dr. Frank Habineza, who has previously served as a Member of Parliament, expressed that he would continue his duties of overseeing government activities, assuring that he would continue to advocate for the people.
He said, “I am happy to continue serving in the legislative body. We deeply appreciate the President for the trust he has placed in us, and the legislature’s role is to represent the people of Rwanda.”
He added, “I believe you will see me as I was in Parliament. It depends on the duties of the Senate, but it still has the responsibility to speak on behalf of the people, visit them, and when they raise concerns to us, we must find solutions. We will continue to advocate for them even more effectively.”
The new senators’ term will end in October 2030, while 20 others will finish theirs in 2029.
A senator’s term usually lasts for five years, renewable once.
Ambassador Thorpe shared that while traveling to Gisenyi for the Commonwealth Games’ King’s Baton Relay, she stopped for a brief moment in Bigogwe, where she successfully milked a cow for the first time.
Bigogwe is located in the western part of Rwanda, in the Nyabihu District. It is a well-known area for cattle farming and the high-quality pasture found on its hills.
This journey gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the importance of cows in Rwandan culture.
Traditionally, farmers explain that cows are not just a source of milk, but also a symbol of wealth, unity, and value among the people. In Rwandan culture, giving a cow to someone is a strong sign of love and partnership.
Visitors to Bigogwe often participate in milking cows. For someone doing it for the first time, it is not as easy as it looks, but they gain essential skills and knowledge.
Ambassador Thorpe shared her experience on social media, posting photos from her time in Bigogwe. She expressed her happiness about milking the cow for the first time, despite the difficulty she faced.
“On my journey to Gisenyi for the King’s Baton Relay of the Commonwealth Games, I stopped in Bigogwe to try milking a cow for the first time. There was more milk on my pants than in the bucket! It was fun, and I learned a lot about the importance of cows in Rwandan culture,” she said.
Ngabo Karegeya, the founder of “Ibere rya Bigogwe,” who started cow based tourism activities in the area, is known on social media for helping people visit cattle farms and promoting livestock farming.
Karegeya explains that his passion for cattle comes from his mother, who raised him around cows, feeding him milk, and forming a close bond with them.
Kamerhe resigned from this position on September 22, 2025, following pressure from members of the National Assembly who accused him of mismanaging funds and undermining the credibility of the legislative body.
It was expected that the person replacing Kamerhe would come from his party, the UNC, in accordance with the agreement within the Union Sacrée. However, it appears that many politicians, including some long-time members of DRC politics, are vying for this position.
Among the candidates is one from the UNC party, two from Tshisekedi’s UDPS party, and one from each of the other parties within the Union Sacrée.
On October 22, Willy Buhini Mishiki, from the PEP AAP party, opposed the idea of replacing Kamerhe with a member of his own party, arguing that such a move is not in line with democratic principles.
“The Union Sacrée does not have representatives in the National Assembly. Therefore, there is no reason to appoint a single candidate,” he said.
Among the candidates is Christophe Mboso N’Kodia, who served as the President of the National Assembly from 2021 to 2024 and is currently the Second Vice President of the Assembly.
Mboso has expressed his belief that he is the best candidate to lead the Assembly, based on his experience in the institution and in the country’s politics.
President Tshisekedi’s decision as leader of the Union Sacrée could determine who will represent the alliance in this competition, with the potential for the candidate to win.
The disclosure was made on October 23, 2025, during a presentation of their five-year strategic plan, which will be implemented from 2026 to 2030, in partnership with other stakeholders.
The strategy will focus on the organization’s activities, centered around two main pillars: creating job opportunities, building skills, and improving the well-being of youth and families.
Another pillar of the strategy is ensuring a better future through child development and sexual and reproductive health.
A significant addition to this plan is Plan International’s focus on promoting technology in its work and increasing collaboration with local authorities and non-governmental organizations across Rwanda.
Additionally, over the next five years, the number of districts where Plan International operates will increase from three to ten.
The Country Director of Plan International Rwanda, Emilie Fernandes, explained that the expansion was aligned with the country’s vision for development, and the organization wanted to contribute more actively.
“The Rwandan government has excellent programs for improving the well-being of children and youth, and we are here to support these efforts along with our partners. We have seen a decline in poverty, teenage pregnancies, and malnutrition among children, but there are still gaps to address,” she said.
She continued, “We are focusing on addressing these gaps, especially for young mothers, children with disabilities, refugees, and those seeking employment.”
Minister for Gender and Family Promotion, Uwimana Consolée, praised Plan International’s contribution, stating that its programs in Rwanda align well with the country’s development goals, especially in accelerating development and meeting the first phase of the Vision 2050 goals.
She stated, “You have helped us protect children, promote gender equality, and advance family development in our country. Your focus on driving positive change in society, working with youth, and fostering innovation in technology is well aligned with Rwanda’s vision. This contributes significantly to changing mindsets, empowering youth, and building strong families.”
Kamabonwa Prudencienne, who works with the Guides Association in Rwanda, shared how the collaboration with Plan International has taught youth in Nyaruguru and Gatsibo to avoid unintended pregnancies.
Meanwhile, Mukantwali Alphoncine, a representative of daycare providers in the Kamabuye sector of Bugesera district, noted that Plan International helped reach 800 children attending daycare centers, with 30 of them overcoming malnutrition, leaving no one in that category.
In its 2020-2025 strategy, Plan International Rwanda reached 770,474 beneficiaries, including 400,000 girls and 302,948 boys.
Over the next five years, Plan International Rwanda will work with eight partners: AEE Rwanda, Dream Village Organization, Imbaraga, Caritas Rwanda, Bamporeze, Association des Guides du Rwanda, Health Development Initiative, and Learn Work Develop.
The beneficiaries will include 1.2 million children, girls, and youth, including 750,000 girls and 450,000 boys.
Plan International will continue its work in Bugesera, Nyaruguru, and Gatsibo districts and expand to seven additional districts under the Education Outcomes Fund (EOF) project.
The organization will also operate in the refugee camps of Mugombwa, Kigeme, Kiziba, Nyabiheke, Mahama, Nkamira, Nyarushishi, and Kijote.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by the Rwanda Defence Force Army Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi.
The course equipped officers with the vital knowledge, skills, and competencies required to perform mid level command and staff roles in the military. It also enabled officers to step outside their professional specialisations and broaden their leadership and management skills at the tactical level.
Speaking on behalf of the Rwanda Defence Force Chief of Defence Staff, Army Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Nyakarundi, congratulated the graduates on their remarkable achievement.
“The course has equipped you to become proactive, agile, and solution-oriented leaders who bring fresh energy and innovative ideas to the Force,” he said.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi emphasized that the graduated officers are now tasked with renewing the sense of urgency and enhancing the operational effectiveness required to succeed against any adversary.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi urged them to rise to the great challenge that lies ahead.
“Building a Defence Force and ultimately a nation that we all want and deserve, we must strive for a force built on trust, accountability, and sacrifice. You must look ahead and often far ahead, to anticipate potential opportunities, threats and challenges in today’s ever-changing and unpredictable security environment,” he noted.
Maj Gen Nyakarundi further reminded the graduates, as they depart from the college, to remember that their roles are pivotal in driving positive change and upholding the values of patriotism, integrity, and commitment in an increasingly complex global environment.
The Commandant of the RDF Command and Staff College, Brigadier General Andrew Nyamvumba, commended the graduates for their exceptional discipline, teamwork, and dedication throughout the 22-week course.
He urged them to carry forward the same spirit of hard work, discipline, commitment, and professionalism into their future assignments, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence with the enthusiasm they demonstrated during the course.
The pass-out ceremony was graced by Generals and senior officers from the RDF and RNP and was attended by the spouses, parents, friends, relatives of the graduates, as well as religious leaders and local authorities from the Northern Province.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other European leaders held a joint press conference after the meeting, saying the coalition aims to gradually phase out Russian oil and gas from the global market and channel frozen Russian assets into funding Ukraine’s reconstruction.
Starmer said Britain had taken the lead in fully sanctioning Russian oil and gas, followed by the United States and the European Union. He announced that Britain plans to supply Ukraine with more than 5,000 lightweight multirole missiles, with 140 delivered ahead of schedule.
On Thursday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said EU member states had approved the bloc’s 19th round of sanctions against Russia, which include targetting the country’s natural gas sector for the first time. The sector is a pillar of Russia’s economy.
Guterres made the plea at an open debate of the Security Council on the future of the United Nations, held to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the world body.
Via a video link from Hanoi, the secretary-general started his speech by alluding to an anecdote of the Security Council.
Guterres said that in the spring of 1946, the first ballot box of the Security Council was opened for inspection before voting, and to everyone’s surprise, there was already a slip of paper inside. It was a message from the box’s maker, a local New York mechanic named Paul Antonio, who said he wished for lasting peace all over the world, the UN chief said.
“That humble note reminds us why the Security Council exists: for people — sincere, hopeful people who, for the last eight decades, have placed their trust in this institution to save them from the scourge of war,” he said.
“The privilege to sit at this table carries a duty, above all, to honor the faith of those people. And to channel the resources so often spent on war to the causes of development and peace,” said the UN chief.
On many pivotal occasions, the Security Council has delivered on that task, and it has prevented the chaos of a great-power war in the past eight decades, he said.
“The council is a vital necessity and a powerful force for good. But at the same time, its legitimacy is fragile. Too often, we have seen members of this body act outside the principles of the (UN) Charter — principles we have all freely agreed to as sovereign nations,” said Guterres.
“When that happens, it not only stalls action in the moment, it erodes trust in the entire United Nations project. It also puts us all in great danger. When one nation flouts the rules, others think they have license to do the same. And history tells us, with brutal clarity, where that road leads,” said the UN chief.
Guterres also said that reform of the Security Council is imperative and long overdue to maintain global order and safety, including the expansion of the membership.
He stressed Africa as an example, where nearly half of all UN peacekeeping missions, along with numerous special political missions, are carried out, yet Africa has no permanent voice at the council table.
The time has come to open the doors of the Security Council Chamber and let in the light, because without a Security Council fit for purpose, the world is in grave danger, he said.
“It is our duty to forge a body that can meet the challenges of the next 80 years — one that delivers justice and safety for all,” said Guterres. “Paul Antonio the mechanic never sat at this table. He never gave a speech or signed a treaty. But he believed in everyone here. He believed in you. I urge you: honor that trust, make this chamber worthy of the hopes of every man, woman and child.”
Organised by the Dutch Embassy in Rwanda, in partnership with Rwanda Cancer Relief and Bethania Home Care, the walk took place around the Kigali Golf Course as part of the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October.
Leading the walk were Ambassador Joan Wiegman of the Netherlands and Ambassador Einat Weiss of Israel, who were joined by students, health professionals, and members of the diplomatic community, all dressed in pink.
“We all know someone who has faced cancer, some who survived and some who didn’t,” Ambassador Wiegman said. “That’s already a big source of inspiration. I wanted to add my voice, and that of my fellow women ambassadors in Rwanda, to the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and encourage early detection.”
The Dutch Ambassador revealed that her decision to lead the Pink Power Walk was deeply personal.
“Until a year ago, I never thought I would be speaking about this,” she shared. “In January, during a routine check-up, I was diagnosed with a pre-stage of breast cancer. I felt healthy; nothing was wrong. And suddenly, I was a patient.”
She recalled the emotional turmoil that followed.
“The first feeling was denial. I was simply not okay with it; I didn’t agree,” she said. “The fear only came later when the treatment started and the surgery, that’s when I realised this was for real. But I was supported very well. I had good treatment and an incredible network of people who helped me through it.”
Ambassador Wiegman said the experience changed her perspective on life and strengthened her belief in awareness and early detection.
“I realised that not everyone has access to the same level of care I received. So when I came back to Rwanda after my treatment, I decided to tell my story; to share that it’s okay, that you don’t have to be ashamed or afraid. You can speak up and get treatment,” she said, recalling a walk organised by her embassy to support her following her diagnosis.
Friday’s walk attracted more than 90 students from Mother Mary International School, along with men and women from various organisations, all walking to symbolise unity and hope. Participants also received free breast cancer screenings and health consultations.
Ambassador Weiss highlighted the importance of early detection and community solidarity.
“People are still not aware how simple it is to go for an early check-up,” she said. “The difference between early and late detection is life-changing. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate; it affects women and men. We walk together to say that no one should face it alone.”
She also praised Rwanda’s leadership in health innovation, noting that the country’s achievements have a regional impact.
“Rwanda is a spearhead when it comes to health in Africa. If the message comes from here, it reaches beyond borders, across the East African Community and the continent,” Weiss noted.
Rwanda Cancer Relief, which co-organised the event, emphasised that the walk was part of a larger movement under Pink October.
“We are grateful to our partners for standing with us,” said Mizero Alain Fabrice, Executive Director of Rwanda Cancer Relief. “We conducted screenings to identify possible early signs of breast cancer. Some people will need follow-up checks, and others received information on prevention and self-examination. Awareness is the first step to saving lives.”
Sister Helena Katebera, who leads Bethania Home Care in Kinyinya, said the event also aimed to highlight community-driven cancer care.
“Our mission is to care for patients undergoing treatment, especially those from outside Kigali who need accommodation and psychological support,” she explained. “We rely on the community, including churches, individuals, and small donations, to keep this work going. Today’s event helps people know that cancer affects every family, and that support must start from awareness.”
Part of the funds raised during the walk will go toward constructing a multi-purpose kitchen at Bethania Home Care to enhance the center’s sustainability.
“We have started what we call a multi-purpose kitchen,” Sister Helena added. “It has a bakery and a kitchen that we can use to feed patients and also generate income for future sustainability. I expect that most of the people here now know about Bethania Home Care and the work we do. Cancer is everywhere, and we all have to do something.”
As the walk came to a close, Ambassador Wiegman urged participants to carry the message forward, to stay aware, get screened, and support one another.
“My message to anyone who just got diagnosed is simple: get screened, learn how to do it yourself, and when you get the news, don’t sit in the corner and be scared. Go out there, fight for yourself, get treatment, ask many questions, and organise people around you who can support you,” she said.
Breast cancer remains a major public health concern in Rwanda. According to a report published by Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) in 2020, the country records an estimated 41 new cases per 100,000 women each year and about 19 deaths per 100,000, making breast cancer the most common cancer among women.
Approximately 1,200 new cases are reported annually, and the Ministry of Health estimates that around 650 patients are diagnosed each year, with nearly 600 deaths attributed to the disease. Late detection remains a critical challenge, with more than 70% of cases diagnosed at advanced stages, resulting in a lower five-year survival rate compared to global averages.
