The runaway Asian Group C leaders failed to sparkle on a chilly night in Saitama until Crystal Palace forward Kamada pounced for the opener in the 66th minute.
The Blue Samari defeated Bahrain at Saitama Stadium in Saitama, Japan, to book the team’s spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the first country outside of the three host nations, the U.S., Mexico and Canada, to qualify for the event.
The win moved Japan to 6-1-0 in Group C of the third round of AFC qualification. The top two teams in each of the three groups automatically qualify for the World Cup with three games remain in the third qualifying round. Japan has not lost in over a year.
This makes it eight straight World Cup appearances for the team. They have made the Round of 16 four times in their previous seven appearances. The only AFC country with more appearances in the World Cup than Japan is South Korea.
However, next summer will be Japan’s first time playing in a World Cup in North America. Japan didn’t qualify for the 1970 and 1986 World Cups in Mexico or the 1994 World Cup in the U.S.
This development was confirmed by Rwanda’s presidency via their official X account.
Further details about the content of the discussions between President Kagame and Malik Agar on March 20, 2025, were not disclosed.
Sudan has been grappling with an ongoing conflict that erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.
The war has resulted in widespread destruction, causing severe loss of life and displacement. The United Nations estimates that the conflict has claimed thousands of lives, with tens of thousands more injured and millions forced to flee their homes.
Recently, Sudan’s army has made some progress in reclaiming areas previously held by the RSF, though the situation remains volatile. Despite the army’s territorial gains, the war continues to have a devastating impact on civilians and the country’s infrastructure.
The ceremony took place on March 19, 2025, at the office of President Marcos Jr. in Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
During the event, Amb. Mukasine conveyed formal greetings from President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, wishing President Marcos Jr. all the best.
The Rwandan diplomat emphasized her commitment to strengthening the already positive relationship between the two countries and advancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade and diplomacy.
President Marcos Jr. assured Amb. Mukasine of his full support in carrying out her duties, expressing gratitude to President Paul Kagame and the people of Rwanda for their continued support of the Philippines. He reaffirmed his commitment to further enhancing the friendly relations between their nations.
Rwanda and the Philippines have maintained strong diplomatic ties over the years.
In 2018, the Philippine government announced that its citizens could visit Rwanda for up to 90 days without a visa, and Rwandans could also visit the Philippines as long as they showed proof of their departure within the allowed period.
In 2019, Rwanda and the Philippines signed an aviation agreement. The two nations also collaborate in areas such as trade, education, and healthcare.
During her time in the Philippines, Amb. Mukasine met with the Rwandan community there, engaging in discussions about their lives and providing updates on Rwanda’s development. She encouraged them to continue contributing to the country’s progress.
The Rwandan community in the Philippines is primarily made up of students, with numbers steadily increasing. These students are enrolled in various universities across the country, studying fields such as health, engineering, technology, and more.
In addition to her role in the Philippines, Amb. Mukasine also oversees Rwanda’s interests in other countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Chelle emphasized the importance of staying focused and executing their game plan. “The camp has been good, and we need to be focused on our game and our project. Rwanda has a great team with a new coach, and they will be eager to win, but so are we. After our final training session, we will be ready for this match,” he said.
As the first non-Nigerian African coach to lead the Super Eagles, he dismissed any added personal motivation and instead highlighted his commitment to the team.
“I just want to be with my players every day, working with them, focusing on this game. The Nigerian people are waiting for a win, and we will do everything to deliver,” he said.
Captain William Troost-Ekong echoed his coach’s sentiments, underlining the significance of the encounter. “We are here for one job. Everybody knows how important this game is for us. We want to win, we need to win. Rwanda is a strong team, and we respect them, but I have big confidence in our squad,” Ekong said.
He added that the new coach has brought fresh ideas, and understanding the tactics will be key for them. “We have one more training session, but ultimately, our mission is clear: to win the game,” he emphasized.
Rwanda’s captain had previously expressed confidence in his team’s ability to contain Nigeria’s attacking force, stating that they had done it before and were well-prepared.
In response, Chelle acknowledged the challenge but exuded confidence in his own players. “We have one of the best attacking lineups in the world, not just in Africa. Every team is difficult to play against, especially away from home, and we respect Rwanda. But if they believe they can handle us, then we’ll see tomorrow on the pitch,” he asserted.
He explained that with the new manager, the players will want to prove themselves, with a renewed level of focus but admitted that this first game will be a test.
Despite recent criticism from fans following a disappointing result in the last match, Troost-Ekong insisted that the team is unfazed by external pressure.
“Playing for Nigeria means dealing with 300 million critics and 300 million supporters. We use that as motivation. This pressure is a privilege. Whenever I wear this badge, it means everything to me. The only pressure we feel is from within, because we want to prove that we deserve to be at the World Cup,” he said.
With both teams eager to secure three points, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown at Amahoro stadium tomorrow Friday March 21, 2024. The Super Eagles are determined to rise to the occasion, knowing that victory will be a significant step towards World Cup qualification.
Following this, she joined other African women entrepreneurs at the Élysée Palace for a special celebration of International Women’s Day, where she was invited to honor the role of women in business and development.
This event was dedicated to women’s entrepreneurship in Africa, with a focus on agribusiness and tech (healthtech, fintech), highlighting exceptional women entrepreneurs who have developed their businesses and contributed to relations between Africa and France.
The gathering saw the presence of key international leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting female entrepreneurship across Africa.
He spoke passionately about the Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative, led by the African Development Bank, which has already distributed over €1.2 billion to more than 24,000 women entrepreneurs across 44 African countries.
The initiative aims to close the financing gap that holds back so many female entrepreneurs, giving them the financial support necessary to scale their businesses.
In an interview with IGIHE, Umutoni shared her thoughts on the dynamic and rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing the creativity and resilience of African entrepreneurs.
She said, “What struck me was the creativity and resilience of entrepreneurs in the face of the challenges of a rapidly changing sector, where opportunities and challenges go hand in hand. Africa has immense potential to harness, and these exchanges further reinforce my belief that agribusiness is a vital lever for development.”
During the event, roundtable discussions provided a platform for entrepreneurs to exchange experiences and discuss the challenges they face, particularly regarding access to financing and the pivotal role of mentorship in their growth.
These conversations were crucial in shaping the future of female entrepreneurship in Africa, ensuring that women have the resources and networks they need to thrive.
The event concluded with an inspiring speech by Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, Delegate Minister in charge of Francophonie and International Partnerships, under the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, who reaffirmed France’s commitment to feminist diplomacy on the African continent.
She highlighted the significant role that women entrepreneurs play in shaping the future of Africa’s economy and development.
This gathering was a true celebration of the transformative power of women in business, highlighting their impact on economic growth in Africa.
Despite the challenges, the future is bright for women entrepreneurs like Ritha Umutoni, who are determined to turn their ideas into reality and drive meaningful change across the continent.
While speaking at a gathering at the Vision de Jésus-Christ Church on March 16, 2025, President Ndayishimiye stated that Rwanda was the root cause of the ethnic tensions in Burundi, which began in 1959, and also in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since 1996.
He said, “You know, in Burundi, we were brought problems in 1959, stemming from what happened in Rwanda. The Congolese also faced issues after 1996, which were brought by what happened in Rwanda. Why should our countries face all these issues coming from Rwanda? They too need to solve their problems and stop interfering with ours. In Burundi, we have no Hutu or Tutsi, we are all Burundians. If others focus on ethnicity, that is their concern.”
In an interview with IGIHE, Bamvuginyumvira explained that the ethnic divisions, hatred, and violence in the region were caused by colonial powers, particularly the Europeans, who spread the “poison” of ethnicity, but that the people of Rwanda, Burundi, and the DRC failed to recognize it.
“I think what he said was inaccurate because when you look at the history of Burundi, Rwanda, and Congo, what connects us is the suffering we endured, mostly due to ethnic divisions, but those divisions were imposed on us by the Europeans, who misinterpreted them. Once they left, we didn’t realize the poison of ethnicity they left behind,” he said.
Bamvuginyumvira emphasized that the ethnic conflict in the region was planted by Belgian colonizers, pointing out that this issue is only present in the three countries that were colonized by Belgium, while other countries in the region, like Tanzania, remain peaceful.
“What we share in these three countries is that we were ruled by the Belgians. It is impossible to explain why only three countries in the region have refugees. Why are there no refugees from Tanzania in Burundi? None in Congo, none in Rwanda?”
To address the issue of refugees from these three countries, Bamvuginyumvira suggested that Burundi, Rwanda, and the DRC should hold a comprehensive meeting to discuss the repatriation of refugees.
In front of the church congregation led by Pastor Isidore Mbayahaga, President Ndayishimiye denied any intention to exterminate the Tutsis, as has been alleged in connection with the FDLR rebel group and the DRC government.
Bamvuginyumvira pointed out that some individuals in the Burundian government cooperate with the FDLR, a group composed of individuals responsible for the 1994 Rwandan genocide against the Tutsi, and that they have a shared agenda to topple the Rwandan government.
“Ndayishimiye is a member of the CNDD-FDD party, and it has been evident that some of the leaders around him work with the FDLR, which fled to Congo. They share weapons in exchange for gold to assist them in returning to Rwanda. This is documented,” he said.
Bamvuginyumvira also revealed that there are reports that the FDLR operates in the Kibira Forest and sometimes clashes with the Burundian military, searching for food in areas like the Mabayi Commune in Cibitoke Province.
“When this happens and the President makes these statements, it’s contradictory. His words and actions don’t align,” he noted.
Regarding President Ndayishimiye’s claim that there are no ethnic divisions in Burundi, Bamvuginyumvira argued that while the President may publicly deny it, his government still operates under an ethnic system in secret, undermining Tutsi Burundians.
He stated, “Ethnicity is considered in secret because they say, ‘Let’s maintain Hutus in power.’ Hutu leaders.’ You hear them say, ‘The Tutsis want to take over, the Rwandans want to help the Tutsis.’ This is an evident propaganda. Some Burundians can say, ‘It’s true,’ or others may disagree.”
Bamvuginyumvira also commented on the closure of Burundi’s border with Rwanda in January 2024, stating that it hurt the people of Burundi, explaining that no country benefits from a strained relationship. He suggested that dialogue should continue to resolve the conflict.
“We were called Ruanda-Urundi during colonial times, and the capital was Bujumbura. Why can’t we continue this history in a positive way and maintain a good relationship? Why should we fight? It’s foolish because Rwanda gains nothing from a breakdown in relations with Burundi, and I don’t see any benefit for Burundi in not having good relations with Rwanda.”
Before Ndayishimiye’s remarks, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, had stated that both countries were continuing talks and were on the right path to resolving the tensions.
Minister Nduhungirehe made this statement after the Rwandan and Burundian intelligence delegations met twice for discussions in both countries.
Gen Muhoozi landed at Kigali International Airport on the evening of Thursday, March 20, 2025, where he was received by his counterpart, Gen Mubarak Muganga.
Gen Muhoozi had announced his plans to visit Rwanda in February 2025 .
During his visit, Gen Muhoozi is expected to discuss with the leadership of the Rwanda Defense Forces (RDF) the ongoing collaboration between the two countries and regional security issues.
This marks Gen Muhoozi’s second visit to Rwanda, having previously been in the country in August 2024 to attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Paul Kagame.
The rain which poured down on the evening of March 18, 2025, affected the entire district, with the hardest-hit areas being the sectors of Remera, Murambi, Kiziguro, and Kiramuruzi. These sectors saw severe damage to homes and infrastructure.
Gatsibo District Mayor, Richard Gasana, told IGIHE that, as of the latest count, 126 homes, including kitchens, were destroyed. Additionally, 60 hectares of banana plantations, which are widespread in the affected areas, were severely damaged.
“This rainfall impacted the whole district but caused the most destruction in Remera, Kiziguro, Murambi, and Kiramuruzi. We’ve counted 126 destroyed homes, including kitchens. We are still collecting data. Some residents had their roofs blown off, while others saw their kitchens destroyed. Additionally, 60 hectares of banana plantations were heavily damaged,” he said.
Gasana explained that immediate relief efforts included providing temporary shelter for affected families, with many seeking refuge with neighbours. The district is currently working to secure roofing materials to repair the damaged homes.
He noted that some families are managing to source their own roofing materials and carry out repairs independently, while the district is focusing on assisting those without the means to do so.
Gasana also urged residents to take preventive measures, such as reinforcing their roofs, as the region continues to experience heavy rainfall, often accompanied by strong winds that can cause further damage to homes if not adequately secured.
The Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA) recently issued a warning to Rwandans to remain cautious during this period of heavy rainfall, as flooding and lightning strikes can sometimes prove fatal.
MINEMA’s statistics show that disasters resulted in the loss of 191 lives in 2024.
The DRC possesses mineral wealth valued at an estimated $24 trillion, making it the richest country in the world in terms of untapped resources. However, despite this vast wealth, the Congolese people continue to struggle with extreme poverty.
A 2024 World Bank report revealed that 73.5% of the Congolese population survives on less than $2.15 per day.
While Tshisekedi struggles to improve the lives of his citizens, the armed group M23 continues to seize territories from the Congolese army in North and South Kivu provinces.
Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of supporting M23, using this claim to push for sanctions against Rwanda and the rebel group from countries like the U.S. Rwanda refutes the claim, and blames Congo for collaboration with FDLR rettorist group.
He has now tied this request to potential business deals, promising lucrative mining contracts to American companies in exchange for action against Rwanda and M23.
In an interview with Fox News on 19 March 2025, Tshisekedi emphasised his desire to deepen cooperation with the U.S., citing its global influence.
“We believe that the United States, given its global standing and role, is a key partner we should work with. We are also pleased to see that under Trump’s administration, things are moving swiftly for both sides,” he said.
The DRC holds a significant share of the world’s mineral reserves, including 70% of the global cobalt supply—essential for electric vehicle batteries—along with 60% of coltan, tin, gold, and diamonds.
Tshisekedi stated that he wants to collaborate with a country that can both enhance DRC’s security and help process its minerals locally instead of exporting raw materials.
He believes that the agreements with the U.S. will help reduce poverty in DRC by creating jobs.
“We want to mine these minerals but also process them here to create more jobs. We seek partnerships that will bring lasting peace and security to our country,” he added.
When asked how these agreements would contribute to DRC’s security, Tshisekedi explained that strengthening the country’s military capabilities is a priority and that the U.S. could use its influence to pressure armed groups operating in the region.
“We must build the capacity of our security forces. I believe the U.S. has the power to exert pressure and impose sanctions to control the armed groups destabilising our country,” he said.
When asked what the U.S. stands to gain from these agreements, Tshisekedi pointed out that American tech companies would benefit from a steady supply of high-quality minerals for their advanced manufacturing processes.
China is currently the dominant player in DRC’s mining sector, controlling several mining sites across the country. Beijing has also supplied Tshisekedi’s government with military equipment, including CH-4 drones, to combat M23 rebels.
Tshisekedi recalled that in the 1970s and 1980s, the U.S. played a significant role in DRC’s mining industry. He expressed his willingness to return to those arrangements.
“They say ‘a vacuum will always be filled.’ It’s not that China has increased its presence in Africa, but rather that the U.S. has withdrawn. We would be delighted to see our American friends back, as they were more involved here than the Chinese in the 1970s and 1980s,” he remarked.
While Tshisekedi continues to push for sanctions against Rwanda, the DRC government has maintained its cooperation with the FDLR, an armed group considered a terrorist organisation.
The FDLR was founded by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The DRC government has reportedly pledged to support the group in its objective of overthrowing the Rwandan government.
Attempting to deflect criticism of his support for the FDLR, Tshisekedi claimed that the international community had asked DRC to host “Rwandan refugees” after the genocide, which, according to him, led to ongoing instability in the country.
He now uses this argument to justify his appeal for sanctions against Rwanda.
The French National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) has requested an expanded investigation into Kanziga’s alleged involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
According to previous investigations, PNAT noted that the inquiry had been conducted on a limited scope and called for hearing more witnesses and further investigating additional actions.
Attorney Richard Gisagara explained that the French judiciary had initially examined Kanziga’s involvement in crimes committed from April 7, 1994, despite it being known that French forces evacuated her from Rwanda on April 9, 1994.
He further stated that PNAT is now requesting an investigation into crimes committed as early as March 1, 1994. Gisagara also revealed that the prosecution seeks to add the charge of participation in the planning of the genocide, which would hold accountable individuals who played an indirect role in the crimes.
The prosecution’s request was originally set to be reviewed in a closed-door session on March 19, 2025. However, according to the French international broadcaster RFI, the hearing did not take place due to missing documents required by the Court of Appeal. The court has now rescheduled the review for May 21, 2025, as reported by the media outlet.
In 2007, the Rwandan government issued an arrest warrant for Kanziga, accusing her of genocide and crimes against humanity. However, the French judiciary refused to extradite her and later suspended its investigation.
The Collective of Civil Parties for Rwanda (CPCR), an organization advocating for justice against genocide fugitives in France, stated that Kanziga provided financial support to RTLM, a radio station that broadcasted hate speech targeting the Tutsi.
The CPCR also claimed that Kanziga, a prominent member of the “Akazu” inner circle, was involved in compiling lists of influential Tutsis to be killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
