Gen Makenga and his lieutenants are currently based in Rutshuru and Jomba forests in DRC.
The statement from Gen Makenga comes at a time when the Congolese Army (FARDC) is actively preparing for attacks against the rebel group.
According to sources, the FDLR terrorist group, collaborating with FARDC, has been deploying its combatants closer to M23 strongholds in areas designated for the deployment of the East African Community Regional Force (EACRF).
Gen Makenga has through a video aired on Sabyinyo News YouTube channel on 6th July 2023 ,criticized the Congolese government’s proposal to disarm the M23 rebels and relocate their combatants into cantonments, considering it a deceptive move that overlooks crucial factors.
He cited the EAC Heads of State summit held in February of this year as an example, where specific resolutions concerning M23 and the government were issued but later disregarded by the DRC.
“Among these resolutions were ceasefire, the withdrawal of M23, and dialogues between the government and M23. In accordance with our respect and trust in the EAC heads of state, M23 complied with the resolutions on our side and now awaits dialogues to address the root causes of the conflict. The cantonment proposal does not concern us anyway,” Gen Makenga explained.
A soldier identified as Lt Col Alfred Musubao Muriro, belonging to M23, recently appeared in a video released by the Kivu Press Agency, briefing his soldiers to remain vigilant as FDLR fighters continue to encroach upon their base.
While acknowledging that war is not the optimal solution, Lt Col Muriro emphasized the necessity for the rebels to defend themselves by any means against potential attacks. He further expressed their ongoing appeal to the government to engage in dialogue to find a peaceful resolution to existing problems, despite the government’s inclination towards war.
Meanwhile, the DRC government asserts its readiness to fight against the M23 rebel group with the goal of reclaiming all regions previously captured by the rebels.
Gen Makenga responded by stating that M23 will maintain a calm approach if the DRC chooses a peaceful process, but did not rule out the possibility of war if that is the path chosen by the DRC.
“M23 is here. When they finish their comedies, M23 will assume its responsibility. We desire peace and are peaceful. We will abide by their decision. If they desire peace, we will achieve it together. If they choose war, we will fight. That is our stance,” declared Gen Makenga.
“The people of Haiti need action to address urgent humanitarian needs,” Guterres told reporters at the UN headquarters.
According to the UN chief, the UN humanitarian response plan, which requires 720 million U.S. dollars to help more than 3 million people in Haiti, is only 23 percent funded.
“I appeal to the world to extend a lifeline of support and fill that financial gap without delay,” he said.
Guterres, who recently visited Port-au-Prince, the Haitian capital, described the situation in Haiti as “largely a forgotten crisis despite its severity.”
“The Haitian people are trapped in a living nightmare. Humanitarian conditions are beyond appalling,” he said, adding that brutal gangs have a stranglehold on the people of Haiti.
Guterres called on UN Security Council members and relevant potential contributing countries to “act now” to create the conditions for the deployment of a multinational force to assist the Haitian National Police.
He also urged all social and political actors in Haiti to accelerate their efforts toward a desperately needed political solution.
Conditions are desperate, but solutions are possible in Haiti, Guterres said, underscoring the need to take simultaneous actions.
“We cannot forget the Haitian people. The world must step up,” he said.
One remarkable example of this progress can be witnessed in Munini, a district in Nyaruguru.
Recently, G.S. St Jean Munini, a modern school, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente during the celebration of Rwanda’s 28th Liberation Anniversary on July 4th, 2023. This state-of-the-art educational facility boasts 47 classrooms, advanced laboratories, a well-stocked library, and a Smart Classroom equipped with computers and internet access to facilitate online learning for students.
Moreover, the school includes a kitchen, a spacious refectory accommodating up to 1000 people, a playground, and a comprehensive range of school supplies. Among others, the Munini Early Childhood Development Center and three kindergarten classrooms cater to the educational needs of the youngest learners in the community.
The head teacher of G.S. St Jean Munini has highlighted the importance of having well-equipped schools and facilities, stating that they greatly enhance students’ learning experiences. Through hands-on experiments and visual aids, students gain a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts and witness their practical applications in real life.
Students themselves expressed their appreciation for the modern facilities. Léonie Niyodusenga, a fifth-year secondary school student specializing in Mathematics, Chemistry, and Biology (MCB) emphasized the significance of laboratories in enhancing their understanding of complex subjects.
With the aid of projectors and visual demonstrations, intricate concepts, such as the human body’s functions, become more accessible and easier to comprehend.
Emmanuel Mbabazi, a student studying Mathematics, Economics, and Geography (MEG), lauded the Smart Classroom available at the school for its invaluable assistance. With access to various technological resources and comprehensive research opportunities, students can explore subjects more deeply and develop practical skills that benefit them both in school and in real-life situations.
{{TVET schools}}
Rwanda’s commitment to establishing a knowledge-based economy is reflected in the government’s vision for 2035 and 2050. By these milestones, Rwandans are projected to earn a minimum of $4,000 and $12,000 per year, respectively. Ensuring high-quality education and improved medical services are pivotal to achieving these ambitious development goals.
To this end, the government has undertaken the construction of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) schools across the country monitored by the Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA). These schools provide vocational skills training and other courses previously requiring individuals to cross the border into Uganda for education.
Located near the Rwanda-Uganda borders, Shonga Technical School in Tabagwe Sector and Cyanika Technical Secondary School in Burera District stand as prime examples of this initiative’s success.
These schools inaugurated two years ago offer courses in carpentry, electricity, construction, and more. The Dean of Studies at Cyanika TSS, Jean Baptiste Hitimana, acknowledged the significant positive impact of these schools, as students no longer need to travel across borders to pursue their education.
Verien Hakorimana , head of Shonga TVET, highlighted that the establishment of the school was a response to the local community’s request, ensuring accessibility for youth who previously lacked access to vocational education. He proudly shared the success stories of graduates who secured decent jobs, indicating the schools’ positive influence on both personal and professional development.
Students studying at these TVET schools exemplify the transformative power of modern education.
Thierry Ndatimana, a Construction student at Shonga TSS, expressed gratitude for the school’s presence in their rural area, highlighting the caring leadership that strives to provide opportunities for all Rwandan children.
Julienne Uwineza, a senior five student in Carpentry at Cyanika TSS, emphasized that studying carpentry as a girl was not only fulfilling but also a pathway to personal growth and empowerment. She encouraged her fellow girls to embrace carpentry and prepare for a future filled with possibilities.
These examples of progress are not limited to specific districts. Throughout the country, numerous schools have been constructed, bringing educational infrastructure closer to Rwandans. The government’s unwavering commitment to education and its role in building a prosperous future is evident in these initiatives.
With each milestone achieved, Rwanda continues to prove that transformation and progress are possible even in the face of immense challenges.
By investing in education, infrastructure, and vocational training, the country paves the way for a brighter future, where every Rwandan can pursue their dreams, contribute to their community, and realize their full potential.
The UN migration agency, in its latest situation update issued Friday, said as of Tuesday, more than 60,000 people have arrived in Ethiopia through multiple border crossing points in Amhara, Benishangul Gumz and Gambella Regions.
It said the armed conflict in Sudan has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee to neighboring countries.
Figures from IOM show that from the total of 60,046 people who have crossed into Ethiopia, 30,606 are Ethiopian nationals, 15,541 Sudanese while the remaining 13,899 are third country nationals.
IOM said it has scaled up presence at border crossing points and its migration response center in Metema, providing multi-sectoral assistance to arriving people, including health, water and sanitation, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, onward transportation and tailored protection assistance.
It, however, expressed its concerns regarding gaps associated with onward transportation, inadequate access to life-saving services including food, non-food items, water, sanitation and hygiene as well as health.
IOM further said heavy rains have made the conditions and terrains very difficult for aid workers to provide timely support. It said protection services are a major concern, with gender based violence case management requiring urgent attention.
Sudan has witnessed deadly armed clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in the capital city of Khartoum and other areas since April 15, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.
The deals, involving areas like advanced technology, modern agriculture, health sciences, and higher education, were announced at the ongoing 2023 China-Africa Innovation Cooperation and Development Forum.
Chinese universities, alongside research and medical institutions as well as corporations, have entered into partnerships with their African counterparts in Ethiopia, Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, Tunisia, Kenya, and Mozambique.
The partnerships cover diverse areas such as smart city development, multimedia communication, energy storage, water-saving irrigation, sesame variety improvement, prevention and treatment of tumors, and infrastructure.
Zhang Xiao, director of the China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Center, noted that the extensive coverage of the signed projects reflects the deepening innovative collaboration between China and Africa.
“Amending the constitution to harmonize the date for parliamentary and presidential polls will help save money and time used for conducting each election,” said Edda Mukabagwiza, deputy speaker of the Chamber of Deputies in charge of parliamentary affairs, after the vote.
The bill for the constitutional amendment was proposed by the president and first approved by the Rwandan Cabinet in March this year.
Wednesday’s final vote by lawmakers means the parliamentary elections originally scheduled for September this year will be delayed until August next year, the date set for presidential polls, according to officials.
According to the National Electoral Commission, holding parliamentary and presidential elections at the same time could save the country about 6 billion Rwandan francs (about 5 million U.S. dollars).
This is the second amendment to the country’s constitution since 2015 when it was amended to reduce presidential tenure to two five-year terms.
These remarks were made on 4th July 2023 as Rwandans residing in the Netherlands celebrated 29th Liberation Anniversary.
The event was attended by Mrs. Martine Van Hoogstraten, Deputy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa in the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives from international organizations among others.
“This evening, we are not only celebrating a national day but also commemorating the values and principles of togetherness and prosperity, friendship and cooperation, and multilateralism and international law,” Amb. Nduhungirehe stated.
He emphasized that these three sets of values are fundamental to Rwanda’s progress and development.
Rwanda’s Liberation Day, which falls in the same month as Independence Day on July 1st, marks the anniversary of the overthrow of the ethnic regime responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Amb. Nduhungirehe also reflected on Rwanda’s liberation journey, highlighting the critical role played by unity, reconciliation, and togetherness in rebuilding the nation after the destruction caused by a divisive ideology propagated by the colonial administration and successive regimes.
Prosperity has been a core objective of the Rwandan government since the end of the genocide, leading to significant socio-economic transformation over the past 29 years.
Amb. Nduhungirehe acknowledged that Rwanda’s independence in 1962 was not marked by national unity and celebration, but rather by pogroms and persecution within the Rwandan community, supported by the colonial administration.
Despite this, Rwanda also honors its Independence Day as an integral part of its history.
Besides, Amb. Nduhungirehe considered the celebration as an opportunity to recognize the friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and partner countries, including the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
These partnerships have contributed to Rwanda’s development, particularly in areas such as e-governance, FinTech, manufacturing industry, and technology.
Amb. Nduhungirehe expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ support in Rwanda’s judicial sector and their efforts to promote accountability for the genocide. He also highlighted the significant trade, investments, and cooperation in critical sectors such as agriculture and water resources management between the two countries.
Moving beyond aid to trade, he expressed hope for the continued flourishing of friendship and cooperation between Rwanda and the Netherlands.
The celebration also served as an occasion to emphasize the importance of multilateralism and international law.
Amb. Nduhungirehe underlined Rwanda’s belief in multilateralism as a means of fostering international togetherness where he expressed support for institutions such as the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and called for continued backing of its work to build a better world free of chemical weapons.
Among others, he acknowledged the contribution of The Hague-based international courts to peace, justice, and international law, which Rwanda greatly appreciates.
Martine Van Hoogstraten, Deputy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa in the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed delight for joining the celebrations of Rwanda’s 29th Liberation Day and the 61st Independence Day.
She underscored the importance of reflecting on the challenges Rwanda has overcome and commended the country’s efforts to honor the victims of Genocide against the Tutsi.
Hoogstraten also encouraged participants to visit a commemorative statue built in Beatrixpark in honour of victims of Genocide against the Tutsi, noting that it symbolizes deep connection between the two nations.
During the event held on Wednesday 5th July 2023, Defence Attachés were briefed on Rwanda’s internal and external security situation, updates on RDF bilateral engagements in Mozambique and the Central African Republic and RDF participation in peacekeeping operations.
In his remarks while welcoming the DAs, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Mubarakh Muganga said that the security brief was an important way to pursue defence cooperation and mutual understanding ‘between our countries’. He emphasized that RDF firmly believes in cooperation and strong partnership with allies.
The President of the Defence Attachés Association, Col Didier Calmant congratulated RDF colleagues on the occasion of Rwanda Liberation Day. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to them to attend the briefings and exchange views on security and defence matters. He said that their participation in the periodic security briefs was an important milestone.
The briefing was organised by the RDF-International Military Cooperation Department and involved 30 Defence Attachés and Associates representing 23 countries namely Algeria, Belgium, Botswana, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, Kenya, The Netherlands, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Sweden, Sudan, Türkiye, Uganda, United Kingdom, USA and Zimbabwe
After the brief at RDF Headquarters, the DAs also toured the Rwanda Military Academy Gako that trains RDF troops for Peace Support Operations and cadet officers’ course.
RDF organizes Defence Attachés Security Briefings periodically to provide the opportunity to resident and non-resident DAs to meet and exchange views on current security dynamics at national, regional and international level with a view to enhance cooperation between Defence and security forces.
The Head of State made the remarks on Wednesday 6th July 2023 as he addressed participants of the 45th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) held in Trinidad and Tobago.
Kagame is among dignitaries invited to attend the meeting that coincided with the organization’s celebration of its 50th anniversary.
Other guests include US State Secretary, Anthony Blinken, Chinese Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Hua Chunying and others.
As he delivered remarks, Kagame stated that the meeting took place at a time when Haiti , as a member of the block, is faced with a security crisis which cannot be overlooked.
He went on to say that Rwanda’s history is a testament that nothing is beyond repair.
“Rwanda and Haiti enjoy long-standing ties of friendship. The history of my country shows that no matter how bad things are, nothing is beyond repair, and there is always a way forward,” said Kagame.
The President emphasized that it is always the onus of leaders to take the leading step in desired transformations.
“The turning point starts with the leaders in the country, and the wider region, at different levels, coming together to forge a new, unified path. When that process begins to occur, then external support can be part of the solution, instead of being part of the problem,” he noted.
Kagame reminisced on Haiti’s situation at a time when the country has been faced with insecurity that began when the country’s President Jovenel Moïse was shot dead on 7th July 2021.
As of today, the United Nations shows that a large part of the country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, is controlled by armed groups that killed over 2000 people while more than 1000 were kidnapped in 2022.
The security crisis was an addition to other problems the country had been experiencing including food crisis, epidemics and drug trafficking.
Following the meeting, President Kagame and the Prime Minister of Haiti, Dr. Ariel Henry held a closed-door meeting for discussions on potential solutions to address the security challenges impeding Haiti’s progress.
{{Need for closer collaboration}}
Apart from the Haiti security crisis, President Kagame stressed the need for collaboration between the Caribbean and African countries.
“The horrors of the Middle Passage, and the indignities of colonialism, join our peoples in a shared story of struggle, survival, resilience and, ultimately, renewal,” he stated.
“Many intellectuals and professionals from the Caribbean served in Africa in the years after independence, helping to build our new institutions,” added Kagame.
The President further called for concerted efforts to reinforce the cooperation between the Caribbean and Africa.
“We need to come together in real terms and focus on concrete initiatives which address the challenges that nations like ours face today. It is possible to do so,” he remarked.
“As smaller countries, we gather strength by working together in our regional organizations, integrating our economies, and sharing infrastructure costs,” added Kagame.
Citing an example of partnership between Rwanda, Guyana and Barbados where they have embarked on a program of mutual support for the local manufacturing of vaccines and medicines; Kagame highlighted that the cooperation between Africa and the Caribbean is possible.
The Head of State disclosed that the cooperation can involve enabling the free movement of people by removing obstacles to travel and exchange.
It is reported that Col Simba, 85, died on July 4, 2023, in Benin, where he had been residing since his early release by the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT).
Simba was a former soldier of the Rwanda Armed Forces (FAR) and was among the soldiers who assisted former President Juvénal Habyarimana in seizing power in 1973. He served as a security adviser in Gikongoro Prefecture and Butare during as the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi unfolded.
Simba was arrested in Senegal in 2001 and subsequently transferred to Arusha, Tanzania. He was handed a 25-year sentence by the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) after being found guilty of leading various attacks orchestrated by Interahamwe to exterminate Tutsis in former Butare and Gikongoro prefectures, as well as committing crimes against humanity.
In 2019, Judge Theodor Meron, the former President of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, granted Simba early release, which sparked controversy. Rwanda contested the decision, arguing that it had not been informed beforehand, as Simba had not completed his full prison term.
