Xi was welcomed by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and other senior officials at the airport.
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Xi’s upcoming visit to advance China-Central Asia community with shared future
Two years ago, the inaugural China-Central Asia Summit was held in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province. Since then, cooperation between China and Central Asian countries has yielded even more tangible and fruitful outcomes.
At the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, from June 16 to 18. The summit is expected to take the six countries on a new journey toward building a closer China-Central Asia community with a shared future.
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More than 2,100 years ago, Han Dynasty envoy Zhang Qian’s journey to western regions ushered in China-Central Asia friendly exchanges. The legacy of the ancient Silk Road has evolved and acquired more profound significance nowadays.
Xi first proposed in Kazakhstan in 2013 the initiative to jointly build the Silk Road Economic Belt, an essential component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
With the launch of the China-Central Asia mechanism and the regular China-Central Asia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting mechanism in 2020, collaboration has deepened across sectors.
In January 2022, Xi chaired a virtual summit to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Central Asian countries. During the summit, the parties proposed upgrading the China-Central Asia mechanism to the level of heads of state.
Moreover, the decision to establish a mechanism for meetings among the heads of state of China and Central Asian countries was announced at the first China-Central Asia Summit held in May 2023.
Deepening China-Central Asia cooperation is in line with the prevailing trend of the world and the expectations of the people, said Xi when addressing a welcome banquet for Central Asian leaders attending the first summit held in Xi’an, capital of Shaanxi province.
With the upgrading of the all-around and multifaceted framework, efficient ministerial mechanisms now support cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, customs, public security and more.
Today, China has established comprehensive strategic partnerships, signed Belt and Road cooperation documents and implemented the vision of building a community with a shared future at the bilateral level with all five Central Asian countries.
Ismail Dairov, director of Kyrgyzstan’s think tank the Regional Mountain Center of Central Asia, noted that Central Asia and China share a thousand-year history of exchanges. Today, within the framework of the BRI, both sides are strengthening ties and cooperation at an unprecedented pace, he said.
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On April 29, the work to build three key control tunnels in Kyrgyzstan’s section of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway commenced. The railway is an iconic BRI project backed by the three nations’ leaders, symbolizing shared efforts to boost connectivity and prosperity in the region.
Kyrgyz political scientist Kubanychbek Taabaldiev called the move “a great achievement of bilateral relations between China and Central Asia” that would take the ongoing projects into a new phase and “bring benefits from both economic and political points of view.”
“The world needs an interconnected Central Asia,” said Xi in his keynote speech at the first China-Central Asia Summit. Since then, the two sides have explored further cooperation to enhance infrastructure development for seamless and efficient connectivity.
Much progress has been achieved: Central Asia freight trains are running regularly as official railway data showed 4,725 trips were made in the first four months of 2025, up 21 percent year on year; the Kazakhstan-Xi’an Terminal officially began operations in February 2024 and is currently operating at a high level of quality; and the construction of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor has made steady progress.
New logistics routes, including rail, road and air, now transport Chinese appliances, consumer goods and electric vehicles to Central Asia, while high-quality Central Asian products such as fertilizers, cotton, beef and mutton are reaching China faster than ever.
Beyond transport and logistics networks, cooperation is expanding into agriculture, IT, clean energy and cross-border e-commerce, supporting industrial upgrades and better livelihoods.
According to China’s General Administration of Customs, China-Central Asia trade reached 94.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, a record increase of 5.4 billion dollars from the previous year.
Strengthening regional connectivity cannot only promote economic integration, but also deepen exchanges and understanding between civilizations, laying a solid foundation for regional stability and development, said Zaynidin Kurmanov, vice president of the Diplomatic Academy of Kyrgyzstan and former Kyrgyz Parliament speaker.
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From tourism to vocational education cooperation, from cultural exchanges to archaeological cooperation, Chinese and Central Asian people are being brought closer through in-depth and lasting dialogues at all levels, as well as mutual learning among civilizations.
Recently, a tourist train accomplished the first cultural trip between Xi’an, China and Almaty, Kazakhstan. Special train services for cultural tourism in Central Asia are among a series of programs to strengthen dialogue between civilizations as promoted by Xi at the first China-Central Asia Summit.
This year marks the China tourism year in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s year of tourism in China. More and more Chinese tourists enjoy the convenience provided by visa-free travel agreements between China and Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. China’s seaside cities have also become common destinations for Central Asian visitors.
China and Central Asian countries have also actively promoted vocational education cooperation programs. The Luban Workshop, which has been operating in Tajikistan for more than two years, has also been launched in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to cultivate future technical talents and provide opportunities for Central Asian youths.
“We are training engineers under the Luban Workshop project. It’s not just about education, but also cultural exchange,” said Mirlan Chynybaev, rector of Kyrgyz State Technical University that manages the workshop.
With the establishment of Chinese Cultural Centers and Confucius Institutes, Chinese language fever and “China fever” are heating up in Central Asian countries, bringing more and more young people to study in China.
According to Yagshy Ayjanov, a startupper from Turkmenistan who operates a company with his Chinese friends in Xi’an, their company in 2024 has provided various kinds of study services for over 800 people who want to come to China, and most of them were from Central Asia.
“After the first China-Central Asia summit, we can clearly feel that Central Asian students have shown a stronger willingness to study in China as China means more opportunities and better employment prospects,” Ayjanov said.
Ruslan Kenzhaev, deputy editor-in-chief of the leading Uzbek newspaper Narodnoe Slovo, pointed out that through deepening economic cooperation, promoting infrastructure development, advancing technology and people-to-people exchanges, Central Asian countries and China have developed a model of sustainable cooperation based on mutual respect and shared visions.
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Founder of ‘Vibaba’ arrested over alleged fraud and forgery
The arrest was confirmed by Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), who stated that Uwihanganye was apprehended on June 10, 2025.
“Uwihanganye was arrested on June 10, 2025, and is currently held at the RIB Kicukiro station. His case was forwarded to the Prosecution on June 13, 2025,” Dr. Murangira said.
The charge of fraud, which Uwihanganye faces, is defined in Article 176 of Law No. 68/2018 of June 30, 2018, on offenses and penalties. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of between three and five years, along with a fine of no less than Frw 500,000 and no more than Frw 1 million.
The charge of forging, altering, or using forged documents is specified in Article 276 of the same law. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of between five and seven years, along with a fine of no less than Frw 3 million but not exceeding Frw 5 million, or one of these penalties.
Dr. Murangira emphasized that RIB will not tolerate fraudulent acts or the exploitation of others for personal gain, nor the use of forged documents.
He reminded the public that anyone involved in such activities will be apprehended and brought to justice, as these offenses are punishable by law.
RIB also urged people to exercise caution and avoid trusting individuals claiming to be selling cars, advising them to refrain from handing over money to such persons.
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COPEDU Plc engages clients to strengthen long-term relationships
Kayisinga Francine, a loyal client of COPEDU Plc since 2001, expressed her gratitude for the company’s consistent support, especially in helping her provide education for her children and build a home.
“When my husband passed away in 2001, I turned to COPEDU Plc for a loan to build a house. Over the years, they have provided me with multiple loans, all of which I have successfully repaid. Today, I have two children studying abroad, and I’ve been able to support their education . I am truly grateful.”
Investor Byukusenge Elie, who has been a client for nine years, noted that he started with a loan of just Frw 5 million and has since expanded his business significantly.
“Now, my loans exceed Frw 100 million, and the service is incredibly fast,” he said. “When you request a loan, it’s approved within a month, and they keep you informed about the status. Meeting as clients allows us to gain a better understanding of the services offered, including new products we weren’t aware of. They actively listen to our feedback, and we’ve seen real improvements,” she shared.
COPEDU Plc’s Managing Director, Raissa Muyango, highlighted that the primary objective of the event was to facilitate dialogue, build stronger relationships, and hear client feedback in order to refine the services provided.
“COPEDU plays a key role in Rwanda’s financial development. We hold a significant market share, and last year, we posted a profit of Frw 3 billion, all thanks to you, our clients. We are deeply appreciative of your continued support.
“Our services today extend beyond loans, and we’ve embraced technological advancements. Clients can now access our services remotely, without needing to be physically present,” she noted.
Muyango also mentioned that COPEDU is focusing on expanding its money transfer services. While there are still some challenges to address, the institution is committed to making these services more accessible for clients and encourages their active participation.
COPEDU Plc has been providing financial services for nearly 28 years. The institution currently operates 11 branches across Rwanda, including locations in Remera, Batsinda, the headquarters in Kicukiro, Nyabugogo, Nyarugenge Market, Gisozi, Kimironko, CHIC, Kabuga, and Rwamagana.
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Vision City holds free screening day to tackle non-communicable diseases
Held on Sunday, June 15 at Iwacu Academy, the event aimed to raise awareness and offer critical screenings for major health risks, including hypertension, diabetes, cervical cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.
The event attracted a broad range of participants, including residents of Vision City and Estate 2020, individuals from surrounding villages, local government leaders, and representatives from the Kinyinya Sector in Gasabo District.
It also saw the participation of members of the National Council of Women (CNF), various youth groups, the Kinyinya Sector’s Taille Irahenda Group, and security personnel from the Kinyinya Sector.
During the event, Dr. Edgard Alexandre Murinzi shared insights on the importance of early detection and regular screenings.
He emphasised that early identification of diseases is a vital tool in preventing and effectively managing non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Murinzi also addressed the stigma often associated with certain conditions, urging participants to overcome the fear and shame tied to diseases like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer.
Goodlife Access, an organisation dedicated to improving public health, reaffirmed its commitment to providing healthcare services to communities. By facilitating free screenings and offering vital health information, the organisation emphasised the importance of preventive care and early detection as key components in safeguarding the health of Rwandans.
Ida-Alexandra de Cordier, Director of Goodlife Access, thanked Vision City for its leadership and collaboration in promoting public health initiatives. She commended Vision City’s role in encouraging local populations to actively participate in health screenings and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention.
The leader of Vision City, Mrs. Nishimwe Luce Gloria, expressed gratitude to all attendees, participants, and representatives from various institutions for supporting the event.
She also extended her thanks to Iwacu Academy School for playing a critical role in organising this impactful health awareness day.
Through the collaborative efforts of Goodlife Access, Iwacu Academy School, and local leaders, the event successfully underscored the importance of proactive healthcare.
Residents of Vision City were empowered to take control of their health by participating in the screenings and gaining valuable knowledge on disease prevention and early detection.
The Ministry of Health in Rwanda indicates that nearly 60% of deaths caused by illness are due to non-communicable diseases.
This underscores the urgency of raising awareness and providing access to early screenings, which are crucial in reducing the impact of NCDs on the population.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 70% of global deaths, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause, responsible for approximately 32% of global deaths.
Cancer is the second leading cause, contributing to over 9.6 million deaths each year, followed by diabetes and hypertension as significant contributors to mortality worldwide.
The event not only provided free health screenings but also offered a platform for health education, where participants learned about the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with these common diseases. By raising awareness and facilitating direct access to healthcare services, this initiative helped Vision City residents take an active role in managing their health.
The success of the event demonstrates the power of community collaboration in promoting health and well-being. With continued efforts like these, Vision City is making significant strides toward creating a healthier, more informed community.
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Global watchdog removes Tanzania from financial crimes grey list
The removal was confirmed by FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo after the FATF general meeting held in Strasbourg, France, from June 10 to 13, according to the statement.
Tanzania was placed on the grey list in October 2022 due to identified strategic deficiencies in its framework for addressing financial crimes, including money laundering and terrorist financing, said the statement.
Reacting to the announcement, Minister of Finance Mwigulu Nchemba reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its financial systems.
“Tanzania will sustain the progress achieved and continue working with both domestic and international stakeholders to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of weapons of mass destruction,” he said.
“The goal is to maintain Tanzania’s reputation for integrity and transparency in financial systems, which are critical for sustainable development and prosperity,” Nchemba added.
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Uganda’s Dexta Rapper and his dad steal the show in Kigali
The father-son duo, who’ve become social media darlings in Uganda and beyond, were the headline act at the club’s 10th anniversary bash.
Known for their electric chemistry and synchronised dance moves, the two had the crowd screaming, laughing, and dancing along in what can only be described as a joyful explosion of music and moves.
What stunned many Kigali revellers, and continues to wow TikTok and Instagram timelines, is the seamless bond between Dexta and his dad.
While most rappers hype up their crews or dancers, Dexta’s hype man is his own father, and he absolutely owns the stage. From slick footwork to playful grooves, the pair performed like seasoned showmen with decades of practice (and maybe some father-son telepathy).
With their popularity rising across East Africa, Dexta and his dad are eyeing more stages and bigger crowds.
Beyond the stage, Dexta is also a skilled music producer, crafting beats for fellow artists and cooking up his own hits — the same ones he and his dad tear up the stage with.
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Both black boxes of Air India plane recovered: media
According to the Hindustan Times early on Monday, the second black box found was the CVR, and the previous one was the FDR.
India’s federal civil aviation minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu has said that the first black box was found on June 13, and the crash investigation report will be released within three months.
According to The Hindu, downloading and analyzing the black boxes may take four to five days, and several international investigating agencies have reached Ahmedabad to assist India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) with the inquiry into the crash that killed 274.
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New pest-resistant potato and cassava seeds offer hope for Rwandan farmers
These seeds, developed after extensive research conducted at Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB)’s Rubona branch in Huye District for cassava and Musanze branch for potatoes, have been created through a process of crossbreeding various plant tissues in controlled laboratory conditions. The result is a new variety of seeds that will soon be available for farmers to grow.
In Musanze District, trials were conducted using newly developed potato seeds. These seeds were cultivated under controlled conditions and enhanced for resilience without the use of the standard pesticides typically applied to potato crops.
The trial results were promising, with the enhanced seeds thriving, while the traditional seeds failed to grow due to their vulnerability to common potato diseases.
Dr. Nuwumuremyi Athanase, Senior Scientist at the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) and one of the lead researchers, has shared insights with RBA about the successful outcomes of the trials.
“We aimed to compare the performance of traditional seeds with enhanced seeds, particularly their ability to resist diseases. We planted both types of seeds, applied the same fertilizer, and refrained from using pesticides to observe their resilience. While the traditional seeds succumbed to disease, the enhanced seeds performed excellently,” he explained.
Similarly, research on cassava has been ongoing for four years at RAB’s Rubona farm in Huye District.
The newly developed cassava variety is resistant to diseases such as cassava brown streak disease and cassava mosaic disease. The next step is to distribute these seeds to farmers for cultivation.
Dr. Nuwumuremyi continued, “The new cassava variety can withstand both cassava brown streak disease and cassava mosaic disease. This is a major breakthrough, and the next phase is making these seeds available to farmers.”
The development of enhanced potato seeds was made possible through a collaboration with an international agricultural organization specializing in sweet potatoes. Some of the seeds grown in Rwanda were sent to Kenya, where they were further improved. This partnership has resulted in more resilient potato varieties suitable for Rwanda’s conditions.
Dr. Magembe Eric, a Kenyan researcher involved in the project, highlighted that this accomplishment marks a significant milestone for Africa. He explained that potato seeds from South America were genetically modified to improve their resistance.
The modified seeds are expected to yield between 40 and 60 tons per hectare.
These improved seeds are expected to provide significant benefits to farmers growing cassava and potatoes. By reducing the reliance on expensive pesticides and fertilizers, which can negatively impact the environment, these seeds will help farmers minimize crop losses caused by diseases and pests.
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MPs approves DRC Justice Minister Mutamba’s prosecution over $19M graft case
The decision followed a vote held on June 15, 2025. Of the 363 Members of Parliament who participated, 322 voted in favour of allowing the case to proceed, 29 opposed it, and 12 abstained.
Parliament had earlier established a special commission to investigate the matter. During a hearing with the commission, Mutamba admitted that the $19 million designated for the prison project was misappropriated and transferred to the account of a fictitious company. He also issued a public apology.
Despite acknowledging the mismanagement, Mutamba told the commission he is caught in a personal conflict with senior officials, including Prosecutor General Firmin Mvonde, who is spearheading the case against him.
He claimed he is being targeted for his anti-corruption efforts within the justice sector since joining the government in May 2024, alleging that Mvonde is acting out of revenge.
Mutamba further stated that a €900,000 house purchased by Mvonde in Belgium is under investigation, and questioned the prosecutor’s moral and legal authority to bring charges against him.
