Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Angola, Burundi, Malawi, Uganda, Sao Tome Principe, South Sudan, Zambia, Kenya, the Republic of the Congo, and the Central African Republic will work with development partners, civil society organizations, and other health experts from across Africa who committed to an agreement at a regional meeting held in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.
According to a statement released by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the agreement will further help streamline cross-border transmission challenges, data-sharing mechanisms among countries, and the movement of affected populations.
The Africa CDC reported that the continent has recorded over 16,398 confirmed mpox cases and 1,180 deaths in 22 countries as of Feb. 10.
“The regional nature of the mpox outbreak demands a collective solution. That is why this gathering is so crucial — it is not only a forum for exchanging knowledge but also a springboard for collective action,” said Otim Patrick Ramadan, acting regional manager for emergency response at the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa.
Ramadhan said the health agency looks forward to continuing its work with member states and partners to build on the gains made and meet persistent challenges head-on.
Linda Mobula, World Bank senior health specialist in the DRC, said epidemics do not have borders, hence the need to reinforce cross-border collaboration and coordination.
“An agreement is therefore critically important to drive political momentum, reinforce the enabling environment, and strengthen governance,” Mobula added.
The World Bank, in collaboration with the Africa CDC, the WHO, and other partners, including the United Nations Children’s Fund and the International Organization for Migration, convened the meeting to facilitate political engagement, technical discussions, and cross-border cooperation among stakeholders.
The area, previously controlled by Islamic State-linked insurgents, was liberated by the RSF in October 2024.
The activity marked an important step in efforts to restore normal life in the region, following years of instability caused by armed insurgents. Mucojo market, once abandoned due to insecurity, is gradually becoming a centre of renewed social and economic activity.
Hassan Fazenda, Chief of Mucojo village, expressed appreciation for the RSF’s role in restoring peace and supporting community recovery.
“We are thankful for the sacrifices you made that enabled us to return to our homes. Your continued support is helping us to recover from the devastating impact of four years of insurgency,” he said.
Representing the RSF, Lt Col Andrew Mugabo thanked the community and local leaders for their collaboration. He reaffirmed the Rwanda Security Force’s commitment to ongoing support, particularly in efforts focused on restoring livelihoods and fostering long-term stability in the region.
Umuganda is a Rwandan tradition of community service held monthly, where citizens work together on projects such as cleaning public spaces, repairing infrastructure, or planting trees. As a homegrown initiative, Umuganda played a major role in Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by fostering unity, civic responsibility, and inclusive development.
By introducing the concept in Mozambique, the RSF is promoting not only physical restoration but also a sense of collective responsibility and national rebuilding. The exercise reflects broader efforts by Rwanda to support peace and recovery beyond its borders.
Rwanda first deployed a joint force of Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police to Cabo Delgado in July 2021, at the request of the Mozambican government.
Since then, the RSF has been instrumental in counterterrorism operations, contributing to the liberation and stabilisation of several areas previously held by insurgents.
The Umuganda in Mucojo complements other RSF initiatives in the region, including security support, humanitarian outreach, and capacity-building programs. The efforts include the training of more than 500 troops in an advanced infantry course, who graduated on Friday, May 23, 2025.
The concert took place on Saturday at the BK Arena, which was packed with basketball lovers who had just witnessed the thrilling Day 5 of the Nile Conference matchups.
The event followed a high-stakes game where Al Ahli Tripoli narrowly defeated APR BBC in a nail-biting 106–102 finish.
Before the main acts hit the stage, the crowd was warmed up by performers from Sherrie Silver Foundation and Ishami Talents, who delivered spirited performances that set the tone for the night.
Then came the grand entrance. Bruce Melodie took the stage around 8:30 PM in dramatic fashion, accompanied by a large crew of dancers. Dressed in all-white and sporting a black full-face helmet, his dancers contrasted in all-black outfits with white headgear, creating a stunning visual effect.
In a surprise move, some of his dancers helped him remove the white outfit mid-performance, revealing a shiny reddish-brown costume underneath, amping up the excitement.
Bruce Melodie kicked off his set with Bado, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported his music journey. He followed it with crowd favourites like Ikinya, Ikinyafu, and When She’s Around (his collab with Shaggy).
The energy peaked during his performance of Katerina, which sent the arena into a frenzy. He kept the momentum going with hits like Katapila, Saa Moya, and Rosa—one of the standout tracks from his latest album, Colourful Generation.
He closed out his set with fan favourites Fou de Toi, Igitangaza, Sawa Sawa, Kungola, and the much-loved Henzapu, leaving the crowd wanting more.
Moments later, the much-anticipated BNXN (formerly known as Buju) from Nigeria took the stage to thunderous applause.
He treated the audience to a vibrant set including tracks like Bae Bae (with Ruger), Ole, Phenomena, Outside, and more.
BNXN wrapped up the night with chart-toppers Finesse (his viral hit with Pheelz) and Gwagwalada, as well as his collaboration with Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez.
The show officially ended around 9:30 PM, with host Zuba Mutesi thanking the fans for coming and encouraging them to return for the final games of the tournament on Sunday.
The first match will see Al Ahli take on MBB-South Africa at 2:30 PM, followed by APR BBC facing off against Nairobi City Thunder at 5:30 PM.
The ministry said 307 Russian servicemen have “returned from Kiev-controlled territory,” while the equivalent number of Ukrainian prisoners was freed as well.
“The large-scale exchange initiated by the Russian side will continue,” the ministry said.
The swap followed the exchange of 270 servicemen and 120 civilians from each side announced on Friday.
Following their direct negotiations in Istanbul last week, Russia and Ukraine agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners on each side, marking the largest prisoner swap since the start of their conflict in 2022.
“Safety, security, and prosperity in Central Africa are in the clear interest of the United States,” the senators said in a joint release.
The statement, signed by Senators Jim Risch, Jeanne Shaheen, Chris Coons, Ted Cruz, Cory Booker, and John Cornyn, welcomed the recent diplomatic progress made through negotiations facilitated by the United States.
The lawmakers highlighted the April 25 Declaration of Principles signed in Washington D.C. as “a clear step forward” and “the latest testament to the power of U.S. engagement and leadership in this region.”
The senators urged all parties to continue negotiating in good faith and to adhere to the commitments outlined in the Declaration.
“Now is the time for all parties to redouble their efforts at the negotiating table to achieve a lasting and sustainable resolution to the conflict,” they stated.
They also emphasized the importance of including civil society in the negotiation process and ensuring that any future agreement allows for the “neutral and unimpeded access to and delivery of robust humanitarian aid.”
The ongoing U.S.-led talks, alongside mediation efforts from Qatar, Angola, France, and Togo, have brought renewed hope.
If negotiations continue on a positive trajectory, Rwanda and the DRC are expected to sign a peace agreement in June 2025 in Washington D.C., in the presence of the U.S. President Donald Trump.
As the exclusive representative of world-class brands such as Caterpillar, Manitou, Kalmar, Massey Ferguson, and the newly added FAW, Tractafric Equipment offers a comprehensive range of services, including the sale of new and used equipment, spare parts, maintenance, rentals, repairs, fleet management, and training.
For construction, mining, infrastructure development, and more, Tractafric Equipment offers globally recognized CAT and SEM machines.
Their extensive lineup includes bulldozers, excavators, wheel loaders, motor graders, and other earthmoving and material handling equipment. Available in diesel. These machines provide customers with flexible power options to suit diverse operational needs.
With a diverse fleet comprising over 100 types of machines, Tractafric Equipment supplies industrial equipment renowned for cargo handling and material movement, with capacities ranging from 1.5 to 60 tons.
Specialized machines are capable of lifting loads up to 30 meters, with brands like Manitou and Kalmar offering models powered by diesel, fuel, or electricity, catering to environmentally conscious businesses.
Given the region’s reliance on agriculture, Tractafric Equipment provides tailored solutions to enhance agricultural productivity.
Partnering with Massey Ferguson, the company supplies a range of tractors equipped with various horsepower options and specialized attachments for plowing, harrowing, fertilizing, and harvesting with exceptional precision.
Beyond equipment sales, Tractafric Equipment is a one-stop center for spare parts, offering components for trucks, tractors, machines, and more. Their inventory includes tires, oil, oil filters, and other essential parts to keep machinery running smoothly.
The company also offers generators up to 4MW and solar-powered generators ranging from small household units to industrial models capable of generating over 2,000 volts.
Additionally, Tractafric Equipment supplies mobile tower lights, which extend up to 7.6 meters, providing reliable illumination for construction sites, events, and other temporary lighting needs. They also stock 400-liter cement mixers, ideal for large-scale construction projects.
Abdourahman Youssouf Ismail, Parts & Service Manager, emphasized the importance of maintenance in protecting the value of machinery investments.
“We guide our clients on how to care for their machines because some parts require replacement every 250, 500, or 1,000 hours of use. Without proper knowledge, clients might overlook essential maintenance,” he said.
Pierre Warin, Regional Director for the Great Lakes region, underscored Tractafric Equipment’s commitment to after-sales support, highlighting that their employees receive specialized training directly from manufacturers such as Caterpillar, Perkins, and Massey Ferguson.
“We don’t just sell machines; we provide long-term value by ensuring these machines continue to perform efficiently over time,” Warin noted.
In addition to sales and maintenance, Tractafric Equipment offers rental services, allowing clients to access essential equipment for extended periods.
The company has also introduced a flexible rent-to-own program, enabling customers to acquire equipment through installment payments in partnership with financial institutions. This approach reduces financial strain while empowering clients to grow their businesses effectively.
Sales Manager Kevin Ndahinyuka noted that the company goes beyond sales to provide advisory services, helping clients select the right equipment for their specific operational needs.
“We assist clients in choosing the appropriate machinery based on their needs, and even after the purchase, we continue to support them throughout the machine’s lifecycle,” he said.
Recently, Tractafric Equipment expanded its offerings with the introduction of the FAW J6P truck tractors and tippers, manufactured by the leading Chinese brand FAW.
Designed for mining, construction, and agriculture, these robust trucks offer payload capacities ranging from 7,000 to 18,000 kg, with a 6×4 transmission system ensuring reliable performance in demanding conditions.
As the region continues to develop rapidly, Tractafric Equipment remains steadfast in its mission to provide top-tier heavy machinery solutions while maintaining a customer-centric approach. “Our mission remains the same: to be the go-to provider of heavy machinery solutions, delivering the best value to our clients,” the company stated.
For business inquiries, Tractafric Equipment’s offices are located in Kigali, Rwanda at KK 6 Ave, Magerwa Road. They can also be reached at +250 788 366 000 for Rwanda and +257 79 33 93 37 for Burundi.
Stay updated with Tractafric Equipment by following them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn at Tractafric Equipment Rwanda & Tractafric Equipment Burundi.
Visit their website at https://www.tractafric-equipment.com/en/rwanda–burundi.html for more information.
Held at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village and hosted by the University of Rwanda, the summit convened a diverse coalition of scholars, policymakers, and innovators from across Africa and Australia.
Participants came from countries including Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Somaliland, South Africa, Uganda and Nigeria, with a mission to reimagine higher education through the lens of AI and confront the deep inequalities that digital transformation threatens to deepen.
“This conference is a strategic forum where we show how artificial intelligence is reshaping not only the ways we teach and learn, but also how we conduct research, manage institutions, and solve some of the most complex areas in our studies in order to be more prepared for the future is more than just a gathering,” said Prof. Didas Kayihura, Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda.
AI is no longer a future concept, it is a present reality. From predictive health diagnostics to precision farming, AI is transforming how African societies tackle health, food security, gender equity, and even national security.
Dr. Edward Kadozi, Director General of the Rwanda Higher Education Council, acknowledged that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept of the future; it is transforming the present.
“It is timely and essential that this forum brings together such a distinguished group… to explore AI’s transformative potential across sectors,” he said.
At the core of the discussions were five themes, including sustainable food systems, inclusive gender research, resilient health care, geopolitical integrity, and personalised learning.
AI was presented not only as a tool of efficiency but as an enabler of justice, equity, and sustainable progress, as Prof. Aldo Stroebel, Co-chair of the AAUN and DVC at the University of Mpumalanga, explained.
“Not all global communities are tapping the potential of this new wave of innovation. The newest Human Development Report in 2025 shows a large divide between low- and high-income countries in AI technical capacity. This stands as a stark call for a network like AAUN to respond,” he said.
During the forum, a spotlight was shone on early-career researchers, whose innovation will shape the AI landscape of tomorrow. Delegates emphasised building AI readiness across Sub-Saharan Africa, closing education gaps, and correcting linguistic and cultural biases embedded in global AI systems.
The gathering also underlined Rwanda’s rising stature as a continental hub for AI discourse. Fresh off hosting a global AI summit in April, Rwanda demonstrated not only logistical prowess but ideological leadership.
“We want to re-emphasise our role as universities; we cannot sit back and get taken over by our own creations,” said Kayihura, urging institutions to wield AI responsibly.
The event, which will take place at the Kigali Convention Centre and the Kigali Marriott Hotel, marks the first time Rwanda is hosting the high-level gathering.
Organised by the Institute of Internal Auditors Rwanda (IIA Rwanda) in collaboration with AFIIA, the conference will be held under the theme “Building Bridges, Inspiring Change.”
The summit will bring together delegates from 24 African countries, alongside international participants from the broader global internal audit community, for a week of strategic dialogue, technical training, and professional networking aimed at advancing audit practices across the continent.
Fred Twagirayezu, President of IIA Rwanda, described hosting the conference as a proud milestone for Rwanda, reflecting its commitment to the principles of transparency, accountability, and integrity—values at the core of the internal audit profession.
“It’s a proud milestone for a country whose IIA chapter was only registered 10 years ago. Hosting AFIIA 2025 allows peers across the continent to witness firsthand what’s working well in Rwanda,” he stated.
The event also aligns with the government’s broader development agenda. As part of the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) for 2024–2029, Rwanda is placing a strong emphasis on good governance and sound public financial management.
Highlighting the critical role the summit plays in advancing Rwanda’s internal audit landscape, Jules Cesar Hategekimana, Rwanda’s Internal Auditor General, emphasised its strategic importance.
“This conference will strengthen capacity, encourage knowledge sharing, and promote the adoption of the new Global Internal Audit Standards. It also contributes to our national Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy and builds partnerships essential for maturing our internal audit ecosystem.”
In recent years, Rwanda has made significant strides in advancing the internal audit profession. Internal auditors and audit committees are now embedded within all public institutions.
The government supports professional certification, and the internal audit function is gaining recognition at executive levels, particularly within the financial sector. Other sectors are also increasingly recognising the importance of strong internal audit practices.
Richard Rutuku, CEO of IIA Rwanda, noted that Rwanda’s control environment is now well-suited for the profession to thrive.
“As the profession matures, internal auditors are evolving from being mere inspectors to becoming strategic advisors. This is a journey other countries can learn from,” Rutuku remarked.
The AFIIA 2025 Conference is structured around three main components. The Governance Forum, taking place on May 26 and 27, is tailored for board members and senior leaders, focusing on oversight, ethics, and strategy. Running concurrently, AFIIA University will offer technical masterclasses aimed at supporting skills development in alignment with global standards.
From May 28 to 30, the main conference will feature plenaries, breakout sessions, and expert panels covering topics such as ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) assurance, digital transformation and audit automation, cyber risk and fraud resilience, and innovation in public and private sector auditing.
Beyond the training and discussions, the conference is expected to serve as a catalyst for deeper regional collaboration.
Twagirayezu revealed that Rwanda plans to sign memoranda of understanding with sister institutes, organise joint conferences, and draw lessons from more advanced chapters on the continent.
“This is how we ensure shared growth and foster cross-border professionalism,” he said.
Ruth Doreen Mutebe, Chairperson of AFIIA, emphasised the significance of the conference in building the future of internal audit in Africa.
“AFIIA 2025 will equip today’s professionals to navigate tomorrow’s challenges. From emerging risks to ESG, we are shaping a stronger, more accountable Africa.”
With over 1,000 delegates expected, the Kigali-hosted conference not only marks a historic moment for IIA Rwanda but also reflects the continent’s growing momentum in promoting governance and professional excellence through internal auditing.
Registration is open through the official websites of IIA Rwanda and AFIIA.
Operated by Trinity Metals, the mine is Africa’s leading tungsten producer and a cornerstone of Rwanda’s ambitions to become a global hub for critical minerals.
Currently, Nyakabingo Mine employs over 1,800 people and has nearly doubled its tungsten output in the last three years.
Trinity Metals, formed in 2022, consolidated three historic Rwandan mines—Nyakabingo, Rutongo, and Musha—into a single entity.
The company has transformed operations at each site. CEO Peter Geleta reported last year that Nyakabingo increased its monthly tungsten production from 29 to 100 tonnes, now contributing 8% of global tungsten supply.
“We’ve built a professional, international mining company capable of world-class output,” Geleta said.
President Kagame’s tour of Nyakabingo comes amid broader efforts to position Rwanda as a reliable partner in the global critical minerals supply chain.
Just last month, the Rwandan government confirmed it is in talks with the United States over a potential deal that would grant Washington access to Rwanda’s mineral resources.
“Yes, this is part of the discussions we are having with the U.S.,” Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed.
The United States is seeking to diversify its sources of critical minerals, and Rwanda’s growing output of tantalum—a key component in electronics and automotive capacitors—makes it an attractive partner.
Rwanda currently ranks third globally in tantalum production, behind Australia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The discussions were preceded by high-level diplomatic engagements. Early April, Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump on African Affairs, visited Nyakabingo Mine as part of his official trip to Rwanda.
On April 30, President Kagame also received Trinity Metals Chairman Shawn McCormick and his delegation to explore further investment and partnership opportunities in Rwanda’s mining sector.
The growth of Rwanda’s mining sector has been remarkable. Prime Minister Dr. Édouard Ngirente announced in March that mineral exports generated $1.7 billion in 2024, up from just $373 million in 2017. Gold led the way, bringing in $1.5 billion, followed by coltan, cassiterite, and wolfram.
Dr. Ngirente credited the performance to modernised mining practices, targeted investments, and a shift toward value addition.
“Production has increased significantly, and we are discovering new minerals like lithium and beryllium, which are in high demand globally,” the Prime Minister noted.
In a vote taken on Thursday, May 22, nearly 90 senators approved the motion to strip Kabila, 53, of the protections granted to him as a “senator for life,” a title he received after stepping down from power in 2019. Only five senators opposed the decision.
“The senate authorises the prosecution and lifting of Joseph Kabila’s immunity,” declared Speaker Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, following the vote.
The decision follows mounting accusations that Kabila played a direct role in the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has seized control of several strategic towns in the eastern DRC, including Goma and Bukavu.
In a statement issued on April 18, the Ministry of Justice claimed it possessed “a substantial body of documents, testimony, and material facts” linking Kabila to the rebels. It also announced the freezing of all of Kabila’s movable and immovable assets and imposed travel restrictions on his alleged collaborators.
Kabila has previously denied any ties to the armed insurgents.
The former Head of State, who has been living in South Africa for the past two years, announced last month that he would return to help find a solution to the conflict in the east. A few days later, he was reported to have re-entered the country through the eastern region, which is under rebel control.
He is expected to address the Congolese people on the night of May 23, 2025, following the lifting of his legal immunity.
