“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning,” the statement shared on Friday read. The family noted that he died peacefully while surrounded by loved ones, requesting privacy as they grieve.
“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather… and the heart of our family,” the statement added, highlighting his faith, discipline, and the lasting impact he had on those around him.
Norris rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a martial arts champion before transitioning into film. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he trained in karate while stationed in Korea and went on to win multiple middleweight titles.
Chuck Norris as Col. James Braddock in “Missing in Action” in 1984.
His growing reputation in martial arts led to connections in Hollywood, including an early appearance alongside Bruce Lee in Way of the Dragon (1972), which helped launch his acting career.
He went on to star in a string of action films including Good Guys Wear Black, The Octagon, Missing in Action, and Code of Silence, becoming one of the defining action heroes of his era. Known for portraying disciplined, morally upright characters, Norris often emphasized self-defense themes and avoided excessive violence, drugs, and alcohol in his roles.
His most iconic role came in 1993 with the CBS television series Walker, Texas Ranger, where he played the title character for eight seasons. The show became a ratings success and cemented his status as a household name. He later reprised the role in a 2005 television movie.
huck Norris and Bruce Lee in “The Way of the Dragon.”
Beyond acting, Norris was involved in philanthropy and youth programs, including initiatives aimed at promoting martial arts as a tool for discipline and personal development. He also remained active in public life and advocacy, while gaining renewed pop culture relevance in the 2000s through the viral “Chuck Norris facts” internet meme.
Norris is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. His family said his legacy would live on through the lives he touched both on and off the screen.
The conference forms part of a broader series of British Council convenings focused on inclusion and quality in education. Across many of the countries where we work, issues such as gender, disability, geography and poverty are central to improving learning outcomes. Language frequently emerges within those discussions as an important factor influencing whether learners participate fully, understand what is being taught and remain engaged in class.
The event gathered policymakers, practitioners, researchers and partners from multiple regions. Colleagues played a central role, reflecting both the country’s diverse education landscape and the British Council’s long-standing partnerships here. The purpose was to provide a space where evidence and practical experience could be shared, examining how language interacts with other factors that shape learning. It was an international conference designed as a forum for exchange and reflection.
The event brought together policymakers, researchers, teachers and development partners from across Africa, South Asia and the United Kingdom to explore how education systems can become more inclusive and equitable, with particular attention to the role language plays in teaching and learning.
Classroom experience and inclusion
One major strand of discussion focused on learners’ experience in the classroom. Participants explored how language affects understanding, confidence and participation. When teaching connects to ideas learners already understand well – by engaging them in a familiar language -, lessons often become more accessible and engaging, particularly for those who might otherwise struggle.
A second strand considered the role of English within that wider picture. In many of the countries represented, English is an official language and an important asset for education, employment and wider engagement. That reality was recognised clearly throughout the conference. The question was not whether English matters, but how education systems can ensure that all learners are able to benefit from access to quality English language teaching, including those who encounter English primarily through schooling.
A third strand examined the range of approaches used internationally to support inclusion. Delegates heard from contexts where English is used as a medium of instruction from the early years, from those where it is introduced later, and from systems that combine English with sustained use of languages that learners speak at home. The shared understanding was that there is no single model suited to every context. Education systems are complex, and approaches must be examined carefully in light of national priorities and practical realities.
Learning across regions
The diversity of participants shaped the discussions. Policymakers, researchers, teachers and civil society partners from West Africa, East Africa and Southern Africa, South Asia and the United Kingdom contributed perspectives drawn from their respective systems. Some work within large federal structures; others within more decentralised arrangements. Some have long experience of English-medium schooling; others operate with varied language arrangements.
Despite these differences, common themes emerged around foundational learning, transitions within schooling and the support teachers require in classrooms where learners bring different language experiences. The conference created an opportunity to consider these interrelated issues, recognising shared objectives while respecting contextual variation.
The conference forms part of a broader series of British Council convenings focused on inclusion and quality in education.
Practical approaches in focus
A strong emphasis was placed on classroom practice. Teachers and teacher educators shared concrete examples of how they introduce new concepts, check understanding and structure group work where learners have different language backgrounds.
Examples included beginning with familiar stories or local contexts before moving into formal textbook language; using structured pair and group work to widen participation; and employing visual and locally available materials to reinforce comprehension. Although drawn from different systems, these approaches shared a common aim: to help learners build understanding as they engage with the language and content of schooling, within established national frameworks.
Language as a strategic consideration
From a systems perspective, participants agreed that language in education should be treated as a strategic consideration rather than a purely technical matter. Decisions about language use have implications for teacher preparation, curriculum design, learning resources, pedagogy and assessment.
Governments represented at the conference described different approaches reflecting their histories and priorities. What they shared was a commitment to grounding implementation in evidence and experience. The British Council’s role in this area is to bring together research and practice from multiple contexts and to provide a platform where these sensitive issues can be explored constructively. Decisions about language in education remain the responsibility of national authorities.
Connecting global exchange and ongoing work
The conference connects directly to the British Council’s ongoing work with ministries, education agencies and institutions across many countries. This includes teacher development, English in education and inclusive classroom practice.
Insights from Abuja will inform programme design, research questions and resource development. The conference offered an opportunity to situate national priorities within a broader international context, drawing on shared experience while remaining grounded in local decision-making.
Looking ahead
The event was a staging point rather than a conclusion. The British Council and its partners are synthesising key insights and case studies into resources for policymakers, teacher educators and practitioners across different systems.
Follow-up activities are being explored, including peer learning and targeted support related to teacher development and resource design. In each case, the intention is to build on the conversations. Ultimately, the impact of the conference will be reflected in classrooms: in whether learners are better able to understand, participate and progress in their education from a language perspective. The conversations contribute to that longer-term effort, grounded in evidence, partnership and respect for national priorities.
Dr. Simpson is the British Council’s Senior Adviser for English in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has over 40 years of experience in language and education.
Today, Autumn is the founder and CEO of KGL FWD, a Kigali-based communications firm that leverages public relations, events, cultural experiences, and capacity building to elevate Rwanda’s story and strengthen connections across the global diaspora.
“We use the power of PR, experiences, events, and capacity building to amplify a more expansive narrative of Rwanda and thereby Africa,” she explained.
Now based in Kigali and approaching eight years of living in the country, Autumn describes Rwanda as home, an identity that has been shaped by both her personal journey and professional evolution.
Autumn Marie Autumn is the founder and CEO of KGL FWD, a Kigali-based communications firm.
A worldview shaped by culture and social justice
Autumn’s roots trace back to the outskirts of Chicago, where she grew up in Bellwood, Illinois, in a diverse, multicultural environment. Her early life was influenced by neighbors from different parts of the world, exposure to international food and culture, and a strong connection to the arts.
She trained in ballet, modern dance, and West African dance, while music also played a central role in her upbringing. With a father and brother who were trumpet players, and growing up during the late 1980s and 1990s hip-hop era, she was immersed in a blend of musical traditions that shaped her creative outlook.
Beyond the arts, Autumn credits social justice movements in both Chicago and New York for deeply influencing her worldview. She highlights the role of elders involved in movements such as the Black Panther Party and the Young Lords Party, who introduced her to ideas of pan-Africanism, internationalism, and community engagement.
“That’s how I really learned about pan-Africanism and about internationalism and how to interact with communities,” she said.
From community organising to communications
Autumn’s entry into communications was not through a traditional academic path. Initially studying philosophy and intending to pursue a career in social justice law, she instead found herself working as a community organiser at Sisters on the Rise in the South Bronx.
There, she focused on reproductive justice for young Black and brown women, managing a range of responsibilities that included campaign strategy, political education, and media engagement.
It was during a campaign opposing the closure of daycare services in public schools for teen mothers that she experienced a turning point.
“Seeing the impact of the media come out to that campaign really set something on fire inside of me,” she recalled. “When media amplifies our stories, people are able to see them in an exponential way.”
That experience sparked her interest in public relations, leading her to her first role at a boutique fashion PR agency. She later expanded her career into the music industry at Digiwaxx, where she worked on influencer marketing, talent booking, and events, collaborating with clients including Nas, Jamie Foxx, and Busta Rhymes.
Her professional journey continued into film and television communications, working with clients, Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and diaspora-focused platforms such as Urbanworld Film Festival and ImageNation Film and Music Festival.
A move that became a long-term home
Autumn’s relocation to Africa was not initially planned as a permanent move. In 2017, seeking a change in lifestyle, she left the United States with a desire for a different environment. Her journey first took her to Mauritius, following her partner’s professional path, before eventually leading them to Rwanda when he joined the African Leadership University campus in Kigali.
Autumn Marie Autumn’s journey first took her to Mauritius, following her partner’s professional path.
What started as a relocation linked to career and personal circumstances evolved into a deliberate choice to remain.
“It’s been the intentional decision to choose Rwanda again and again since being here,” she said.
Over time, Rwanda became more than a place to live, it became a place she identifies with personally and professionally.
Building across cultures and perspectives
Through KGL FWD, Autumn works with a diverse team composed of Rwandan and international professionals from countries including Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Nigeria. She notes that this diversity contributes to richer, more well-rounded campaigns that reflect multiple perspectives.
Her work also aligns with her long-standing belief in pan-Africanism—not just as a concept, but as a lived experience. In Rwanda, she says she has been able to translate those ideals into daily practice through collaboration, community engagement, and cross-cultural work.
Through KGL FWD, Autumn works with a diverse team composed of Rwandan and international professionals from countries including Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Nigeria.
Autumn highlights Rwanda’s homegrown solutions and governance systems as key elements that distinguish the country. She points to initiatives such as Umuganda and Umudugudu as examples of community participation embedded in national development.
She describes Rwanda as a country defined by ambition and forward-thinking approaches.
“Rwanda is like the overachiever student,” she said. “The country achieves something and then still says there is more to do. It does not see a glass ceiling.”
For Autumn, this mindset has not only influenced her perspective but has also expanded the scope of her work, pushing her into new sectors such as tourism education, cultural exchange, and international partnerships.
Expanding Rwanda’s global connections
Autumn’s work increasingly focuses on building bridges between Rwanda and the global diaspora. Through cultural exchange initiatives, she has helped facilitate visits from groups such as Nomadness Travel Tribe, as well as delegations from across Africa and beyond.
Her efforts have also contributed to collaborations linking Rwanda-based experiences to international platforms, including exhibitions and artistic exchanges tied to commemorations of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, as well as media placements for artists.
These initiatives, she says, are rooted in a broader goal: ensuring that people experience Rwanda firsthand rather than relying solely on external narratives.
Reflecting on her personal transformation, Autumn contrasts her life in the United States with her experience in Rwanda. She references the work of James Baldwin in describing the emotional and psychological weight often associated with life in the U.S., particularly for Black individuals engaged in social awareness and activism.
For her, relocating to Rwanda offered a different kind of environment, one that allows for clarity, focus, and intentionality.
“Moving to Africa and more so to Rwanda is a break from that,” she said. “You can see things more clearly and work more purposefully.”
In her message to the Rwandan government and people, Autumn emphasised partnership and shared responsibility in telling Rwanda’s story.
“If I could say anything to the government of Rwanda, I would say you are not alone,” she said. “We in the private sector are standing with you.”
She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to live and work in Rwanda, noting the country’s broader impact beyond its borders.
“Thank you for giving us this example for the world to see, for children to see, so that they can dream bigger… This is real in Rwanda,” she said.
Through KGL FWD, Autumn continues to position storytelling as a powerful tool for connection and change, bridging diasporas, challenging stereotypes, and contributing to a more nuanced understanding of Rwanda and Africa.
The Kigali concert formed part of the “Move Afrika” tour, which continues with Doja Cat’s scheduled performance in South Africa on March 20, 2026, extending the tour’s reach across the continent.
In Kigali, the atmosphere matched the event’s international billing. Beyond the lights, sound, and stage production, the crowd itself told a story of a concert that resonated far beyond Rwanda’s borders.
Data compiled from ticket sales shows that 7,908 tickets were purchased from 25 countries across all continents, reflecting both strong local demand and growing regional and global interest in Kigali as a live entertainment destination.
Unsurprisingly, Rwanda led the way with 5,488 tickets sold, accounting for 69.4% of total attendance. The home crowd formed the backbone of the audience, creating the energy and reception that typically defines major concerts.
Uganda followed with 1,023 tickets (12.9%), while Kenya contributed 746 tickets (9.4%), underscoring East Africa’s strong presence at the event.
Beyond the region, the concert also drew attendees from further afield. The United States recorded 228 ticket purchases, followed by Tanzania with 72, Canada with 60, South Africa with 59, and the United Kingdom with 33.
European representation included the Netherlands (29 tickets), Spain (28), Belgium (26), France (21), and Germany (15), alongside 27 tickets purchased from the United Arab Emirates.
Other countries on the list included Nigeria and Poland with eight tickets each, the Democratic Republic of Congo with seven, Côte d’Ivoire, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe with six each, Japan with four, Togo with three, Mauritius and South Sudan with two each, and India with one.
Taken together, the numbers point to a concert that transcended borders, blending a predominantly local audience with a noticeable international footprint, an increasingly familiar hallmark of Kigali’s emergence on the global entertainment circuit.
Move Afrika, a Global Citizen initiative, blends world-class live music with social impact programs, aiming to create jobs, support youth entrepreneurship, and provide skills training across Africa. The initiative also engages local artists, production crews, and vendors, boosting capacity in host cities while delivering a world-class entertainment experience.
Doja Cat wowed fans with an electrifying performance in Kigali on March 17, 2026.The concert atmosphere in Kigali matched the event’s international billing. Beyond the lights, sound, and stage production, the crowd itself told a story of a concert that resonated far beyond Rwanda’s borders.
The faithful were urged to maintain the spirit of Ramadan by continuing to do good deeds and avoiding sin beyond the fasting period.
The national Eid prayer was held on March 20, 2026, at Kigali Pele Stadium in Nyamirambo and was led by the Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa.
The Rwanda Muslim Community announced that more than Rwf 38 million was raised during Ramadan to support vulnerable Muslims, enabling the distribution of food on Eid day. Under the initiative, 20 tonnes of rice were provided to those in need.
The national Eid prayer was held on March 20, 2026, at Kigali Pele Stadium in Nyamirambo.
Sibomana Salimu, Executive Secretary of the Rwanda Muslim Community, said that although Ramadan has ended, the commitment to faith should continue.
He also noted that preparations for the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia are underway, with 65 pilgrims expected to depart from Rwanda in May. The group will travel directly to Saudi Arabia.
Delivering his message, Mufti Sindayigaya emphasised the importance of sustaining good character and righteous actions beyond Ramadan.
“The end of Ramadan should not mark the end of good deeds. We must continue praying and supporting the vulnerable. A wise person draws strength from this period,” he said.
He added that consistency in doing good, even in small acts, is what defines true devotion.
“Good deeds are not temporary. Even the smallest acts matter when done consistently,” he noted.
The Mufti further cautioned against returning to sinful behaviour after the fasting period, stressing that true worship extends throughout the year.
“It is a great loss for one to fast during Ramadan only to return to sin afterward. Worship should not be limited to one month while the rest of the year is neglected,” he said.
He also called on Muslims to uphold discipline, integrity, and values that reflect their faith.
Sindayigaya urged the Muslim community to remain grateful for the peace and stability in Rwanda, noting that in some parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East, communities marked the end of Ramadan under difficult security conditions due to ongoing conflicts.
“Peace enables economic growth and allows people to enjoy its benefits. We should always be thankful,” he said.
Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa, urged the Muslims community to maintain the spirit of Ramadan by continuing to do good deeds and avoiding sin beyond the fasting period.
He concluded by encouraging unity among Muslims, calling for collective efforts toward development and social cohesion.
“Our unity is a strong foundation for achieving sustainable development,” he said.
He also extended Eid greetings to all Rwandans.
Rwanda’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Mubarakh Muganga, attended Eid prayer.Sindayigaya urged the Muslim community to remain grateful for the peace and stability in Rwanda.The Executive Secretary of the Rwanda Muslim Community, Sibomana Salimu, said that during Ramadan, Muslims supported vulnerable people.
The Chadian government confirmed the attack occurred Wednesday and said the drone was launched from within Sudanese territory.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) condemned what it called a drone attack on Al-Tina and blamed the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), calling it “a violation of Chad’s sovereignty and a dangerous escalation.”
The SAF denied involvement and said in a statement Thursday that an RSF drone had struck a gathering of civilians inside Chad, calling it part of a “repeated pattern” of cross-border attacks.
Chad’s information minister and government spokesperson, Qassem Sharif, said the government had raised its military and security forces to a higher state of alert following the strike. He said Chad reserves the right to pursue those responsible inside Sudan under international law.
The strike comes as fighting between the SAF and RSF has intensified along the Sudanese-Chadian border, particularly in the Darfur region, where both sides have clashed over supply routes and border crossings.
The crossings between Sudan and Chad, including the Adre crossing, are vital commercial and humanitarian corridors for Darfur’s population.
Chad closed its border with Sudan on February 23 after armed groups crossed into its territory, allowing exceptions only for humanitarian purposes with prior authorization.
The SAF and RSF have been at war since April 2023. The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions inside Sudan and across the region.
The Sudan conflict has driven millions of people to flee across the border to Chad. Chad’s president has ordered the military to retaliate against future attacks from Sudan following a drone attack that killed at least 17 people and injured several other people attending a funeral.
In its latest Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report, the WTO forecast that in a baseline growth scenario excluding energy price shocks, global merchandise trade growth would slow to 1.9 percent in 2026 from 4.6 percent in 2025 before rebounding to 2.6 percent in 2027.
Commercial services trade growth will ease to 4.8 percent in 2026, then accelerate again to 5.1 percent in 2027. Together, goods and services trade will grow 2.7 percent in 2026 compared with 4.7 percent in 2025, the report said.
Global GDP growth is projected to moderate slightly from 2.9 percent in 2025 to 2.8 percent in both 2026 and 2027, the report noted.
However, the WTO warned that these baseline projections could deteriorate if the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to disrupt energy markets.
The United States and Israel launched massive attacks on Iran on February 28, disrupting global shipping, sending oil prices soaring and shaking the global economy.
European gas and oil prices rose sharply in early trading on Thursday. The Dutch TTF benchmark, a key reference for European gas supply contracts, surged more than 30 percent to 70.7 euros (about 76.8 U.S. dollars) per megawatt-hour at the open, before easing to around 67 euros per megawatt-hour. The price has more than doubled from around 32 euros megawatt-hour before the conflict began.
Oil prices also moved higher. Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose to above 116 dollars per barrel in early trading.
If crude oil and liquefied natural gas prices remain elevated throughout 2026, world merchandise trade growth would be reduced by 0.5 percentage points to just 1.4 percent in 2026. Services trade would also grow at a slower rate of 4.1 percent. Global GDP growth could be cut by 0.3 percentage points, the report said.
WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said the outlook reflects the resilience of global trade, supported by trade in high technology products and digitally delivered services, adaptations in supply chains and the avoidance of tit-for-tat retaliation on tariffs.
However, Okonjo-Iweala cautioned against further pressure from the Middle East conflict on global trade. “Sustained increases in energy prices could increase risks for global trade, with potential spillovers for food security and cost pressures on consumers and businesses,” she said.
The WTO’s new chief economist Robert Staiger told a press conference that the “unusually strong trade growth” in 2025 was mainly driven by the frontloading of imports in North America in anticipation of higher U.S. tariffs, as well as a surge in AI-related goods.
But the two forces are “unlikely to persist through 2026,” said Staiger.
However, the WTO economists still see potential upside if the Middle East conflict is short-lived and AI-related spending remains strong throughout 2026 and into 2027, which could lift merchandise trade growth by 0.5 percentage points to around 2.4 percent in 2026 and 2.7 percent in 2027.
Under the baseline scenario, Asia is expected to lead merchandise trade growth in 2026, with imports rising by 3.3 percent and exports by 3.5 percent. South America is also projected to post strong export growth of 3.5 percent.
In contrast, North America’s imports growth would remain flat at 0.3 percent. Europe’s exports are forecast to stagnate at 0.5 percent, while the Middle East is expected to see a sharp slowdown in exports to 0.6 percent.
The report also highlighted continued disruptions to global transport and services trade linked to the Middle East conflict.
The WTO cautioned that a prolonged crisis may lead to structurally higher transport costs, reduced transhipment activity and shifts in global travel and trade patterns toward alternative routes.
The logo of the World Trade Organization (WTO) is pictured at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, March 19, 2026. The WTO said on Thursday that global trade growth is set to slow in 2026 after a stronger-than-expected performance in 2025, warning that the ongoing Middle East conflict could add further pressure on global trade.A press conference on World Trade Organization (WTO)’s latest Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report is held at its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, March 19, 2026. The World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters is pictured in Geneva, Switzerland, March 19, 2026.
Held on Thursday under the theme “Capital Market Connect: Preparing Businesses for Investment Success,” the forum brought together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and development partners to explore how Rwanda’s private sector can access long-term financing through the stock market and related instruments.
The event underscored the growing role of capital markets in supporting business expansion, improving corporate governance, and enhancing investor confidence, key elements considered essential for attracting both local and international investment.
Opening the forum, Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, said capital markets remain central to linking ideas with financing and enabling businesses to scale.
“Good businesses require access to great capital. Capital markets allow ideas to become companies, and companies to become industries,” he said, emphasising that market development is a strategic pillar for national economic growth.
He noted that the Listings Forum serves as a platform to engage businesses across sectors and raise awareness about the value of listing on the stock exchange, including access to long-term funding, broader investor participation, and strengthened governance structures.
Bob Junker, Head of Cooperation at the Luxembourg Embassy in Kigali, reaffirmed the international community’s support for Rwanda’s financial growth, highlighting the importance of capital markets in driving innovation and competitiveness.
“Capital markets play a critical role in enabling businesses to grow, to innovate, and to compete,” he said, adding that listing on a stock exchange also improves transparency and visibility for companies seeking to scale sustainably.
From a policy perspective, Antoine Marie Kajangwe, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), emphasised that capital markets provide alternative financing options beyond traditional lending, including equity listings and corporate bonds.
He noted that Rwanda Stock Exchange initiatives, such as the Investment Clinic, are helping businesses meet the standards required by investors by strengthening financial reporting, governance, and internal management systems.
“A key barrier is meeting corporate governance standards. Investments follow preparation,” he said, pointing to the need for SMEs to formalise operations and improve compliance in order to access capital market financing.
The forum also highlighted the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in meeting due diligence and governance requirements. Stakeholders noted that programs like the Investment Clinic are designed to bridge these gaps by equipping firms with the tools needed to become “investment ready.”
Capital Market Authority Rwanda representatives reiterated that investor trust depends on strong regulatory frameworks and transparent business practices.
Eric Karekezi Ngabonziza, Head of Market Development at the Capital Market Authority, highlighted that regulations are designed to create the right conditions for investment, noting that “we are not here to create barriers. We are here to build the conditions that make investment possible.”
The Listings Forum forms part of RSE’s broader efforts to expand awareness of capital markets across Rwanda’s business community and encourage more companies to consider listing as a viable financing option.
Rwanda Stock Exchange, established in 2005, currently lists more than 100 securities, including equities, government treasury bonds, and corporate bonds, and continues to play a central role in mobilising capital for economic development.
As Rwanda’s economy continues to grow, stakeholders at the forum emphasised that stronger capital markets will be critical in connecting businesses with investors, fostering innovation, and supporting long-term, inclusive economic growth.
Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), together with its partners, urged businesses to leverage capital markets as a pathway to sustainable growth. Rwanda Stock Exchange CEO, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, said capital markets remain central to linking ideas with financing and enabling businesses to scale.Bob Junker, Head of Cooperation at the Luxembourg Embassy in Kigali, reaffirmed the international community’s support for Rwanda’s financial growth.Antoine Marie Kajangwe, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM), emphasised that capital markets provide alternative financing options beyond traditional lending.Eric Karekezi Ngabonziza, Head of Market Development at the Capital Market Authority, highlighted that regulations are designed to create the right conditions for investment.The forum was interactive, allowing attendees to engage with the panellists.The forum brought together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and development partners to explore how Rwanda’s private sector can access long-term financing through the stock market and related instruments.
In a message shared on X, Kagame said he looks forward to the continuation of strong bilateral relations and close cooperation with the Republic of the Congo.
“Rwanda welcomes the strong quality of our bilateral relations and looks forward to continuing close cooperation in support of our shared priorities and the prosperity of our peoples,” President Kagame said on Friday.
Sassou Nguesso, 82, secured a fifth term after winning 94.82 percent of the vote in Sunday’s presidential election, according to the Interior Ministry. Out of 3,167,909 registered voters, turnout reached 84.64 percent, reflecting strong participation in the electoral process.
Seven candidates contested the election. Uphrem Dave Mafoula finished a distant second with about 1.03 percent of the vote. Other contenders included Joseph Kignoumbi Kia Mboungou, Anguios Nganguia Engambe, and first-time candidates Vivien Romain Manangou, Destin Gavet, and Mabio Mavoungou Zinga.
Under the country’s electoral framework, the president is elected through direct voting, with a two-round system applied if no candidate achieves a majority in the first round.
Rwanda and the Republic of the Congo have maintained a longstanding partnership marked by cooperation across multiple sectors, including diplomacy, trade, and security. In August 2016, Rwanda opened its embassy in Brazzaville, further strengthening diplomatic engagement.
The two countries signed a series of agreements in 2011 covering trade, air transport, tourism promotion, energy, security, environmental protection, and fisheries. Air connectivity has also been reinforced, with RwandAir operating flights between Kigali and Brazzaville since that year.
Cooperation expanded further in November 2021, when both nations signed agreements on military collaboration, higher education, land management, sustainable development, and trade promotion. Additional deals focused on environmental protection and expanding air transport links.
In the same year, Rwanda’s Housing Authority and Congo-Brazzaville’s SOPRIM entered into a partnership to promote housing development and the construction of affordable, modern homes.
Relations between the two leaders have remained cordial over the years. During a visit to Rwanda in 2023, Sassou Nguesso was awarded the Agaciro Medal by President Kagame in recognition of his contribution to Africa’s development.
In 2023, President Kagame gifted cows to Denis Sassou Nguesso in a gesture of friendship and respect.President Kagame upon his arrival in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, in 2022. President Kagame during his third visit to Congo-Brazzaville in 2013.President Kagame praised the relations between Rwanda and the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville). During a visit to Rwanda in 2023, Sassou Nguesso was awarded the Agaciro Medal by President Kagame in recognition of his contribution to Africa’s development.
Construction of the two-storey building valued at Rwf 678 million is progressing, with partners laying a symbolic foundation stone on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in a ceremony attended by senior government officials and development partners.
The project is expected to transform the existing facility into a modern, one-stop health centre offering integrated and client-centred services, particularly in HIV prevention, care, and treatment, as well as broader primary healthcare.
Artistic impression of the new modern facility, estimated to cost Rwf 678 million.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Lambert Rangira, AHF Rwanda Country Program Manager, said the expansion reflects a strong partnership between the Government of Rwanda and development partners aimed at strengthening the country’s health system.
“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when institutions work together toward a common goal, which is improving access to quality healthcare for all,” he said.
He also requested a collective commitment from all stakeholders to ensure that this investment translates into measurable impact for the Rwandan communities it will serve.
He emphasised that the new facility will go beyond infrastructure, delivering tangible benefits such as reduced waiting times, improved confidentiality, enhanced patient experience, and better health outcomes.
A symbolic foundation stone was laid at the site of the new facility on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
The project is progressing well and is currently 38% complete, with full completion scheduled for October this year.
The expansion comes as AHF Rwanda continues to scale up its operations. Since launching in 2006, the organisation has grown from supporting just a few facilities to working in 11 districts. What began with three health facilities in Gasabo, Kicukiro, and Nyabihu districts with 850 patients in 2026 has expanded significantly over the past two decades. Today, AHF Rwanda supports 38 health facilities across 11 districts, collectively serving more than 47,200 people living with HIV.
The Kagugu Health Center expansion is also part of AHF Rwanda’s broader growth strategy. This year, the program plans to expand services to 24 additional sites, bringing care to an estimated 11,000 more clients across five new districts. By the end of the year, AHF Rwanda aims to reach 62 health facilities across 16 districts.
Aerial view of the new building. The project is expected to be completed by October 2026.
Founder and President of AIDS Healthcare Foundation Michael Weinstein, who was visiting Rwanda for the first time, commended the country’s coordinated approach to healthcare delivery, particularly in the fight against HIV.
“Rwanda has been a global leader in HIV response by ensuring that all partners work within one system,” he said. “Facilities like this need to be expanded to meet demand, and what we are seeing here is the essence of partnership.”
At the local level, the expansion is expected to address longstanding challenges at Kagugu Health Centre, which currently serves a population of over 100,000 people.
According to the facility’s head, Dogo Trésor, limited space has constrained service delivery despite growing demand.
“We follow up nearly 3,000 HIV patients, with more than 2,500 active clients, and currently record over 40 new HIV cases each month. The current infrastructure is not enough,” he said, adding that the expansion will allow for improved working conditions and the recruitment of additional staff.
Front view of the modern hospital under construction at Kagugu Health Center.
Kigali City authorities also welcomed the project as a key contribution to urban health development. Urujeni Martine, Vice Mayor in charge of Socio-Economic Affairs, noted that the investment aligns with Kigali’s broader goal of ensuring residents have timely access to quality healthcare.
“This facility will play a critical role in improving the well-being of our citizens and supporting sustainable development,” she said.
From the national perspective, the Ministry of Health highlighted the project’s alignment with Rwanda’s priorities, including modernising health infrastructure and improving service delivery.
Representing the Ministry, Dr. Oreste Tuganeyezu said the expansion would significantly enhance the quality of care provided at the facility.
“This project contributes directly to improving healthcare quality and supporting health workers, while also strengthening services for people living with HIV,” he said, adding that AHF’s support has been instrumental in expanding access to care and supporting vulnerable populations by covering their Community-Based Health Insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) contributions.
Dr. Oreste also noted that the project aligns with Rwanda’s broader health sector goals, including the plan to quadruple the number of health professionals between 2025 and 2029, which will further improve service delivery and reduce the workload on existing staff.
Once completed, the upgraded facility will offer a wide range of services under one roof, including HIV testing and counselling, laboratory services, pharmacy, maternal and child health services, non-communicable disease screening, and dedicated youth-friendly spaces.
AHF, which has a presence in more than 50 countries across Africa, the Americas, the Asia/Pacific region, and Europe, has been operating in Rwanda for the last 20 years and offers a comprehensive range of services, including HIV testing, care and treatment, prevention programs including Condom education and distribution, and integrated non-communicable disease (NCD) services, advocacy initiatives, and provision of supplemental personnel and monthly operational funding to all supported sites.
With robust testing models and strong community outreach, AHF Rwanda ensures services reach hard-to-access areas. The organisation partners with community-based organisations (CBOs) for mobilisation, education, and referrals, while also advocating for policy changes to benefit people living with HIV (PLHIV). To date, it has distributed more than 3 million condoms through its strategically located condom kiosks and dispensers across the city.
Founder and President of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Michael Weinstein, led other partners to lay a foundation stone for the new health facility under construction on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.The two-story building is 38% complete.Founder and President of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Michael Weinstein, during a tour of the Kagugu Health Center on Wednesday.Michael Weinstein, founder and president of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, was given a tour of the hospital operations.Kagugu Health Center head, Dogo Trésor, said the expansion will provide much-needed relief to the hospital amid rising demand from the local community.Representing the Ministry, Dr. Oreste Tuganeyezu said the expansion would significantly enhance the quality of care provided at the facility.
