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Tag: Editor’s Choice

  • Trump signs U.S.-Iran MoU as Strait of Hormuz reopens

    Trump signs U.S.-Iran MoU as Strait of Hormuz reopens

    The agreement, which was initially expected to be signed during a ceremony in Switzerland later this week, was finalised ahead of schedule after both sides agreed to accelerate implementation. According to U.S. media reports, the move was intended to allow commercial shipping to resume through the Strait of Hormuz as quickly as possible and to address growing political pressure on the White House to release the text of the agreement.

    The White House on Wednesday published the full 14-point memorandum, describing it as a “performance-based” framework under which Iran will receive economic benefits only if it complies with its commitments.

    Trump formally signed a hard copy of the document during a diplomatic dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles in Paris, France, while attending G7-related events. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also signed the agreement from Tehran, finalising a dual digital and physical execution of the historic accord.

    The MoU declares an immediate and permanent end to military operations between the two countries and extends the ceasefire to regional fronts, including Lebanon. It commits both Washington and Tehran to refrain from future military action against one another while respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    One of the agreement’s most significant provisions concerns the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors.

    The narrow waterway between Iran and Oman carries approximately 20% of the world’s petroleum liquids and about one-fifth of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, making it a critical artery for international energy markets. Any disruption to shipping through the strait immediately constrains global energy supplies, triggering sharp increases in oil prices and broader economic instability.

    The closure of the Strait of Hormuz during the conflict sent crude oil prices soaring and disrupted global shipping, with the impact quickly filtering through to fuel markets around the world.

    In Rwanda, the effects were particularly visible as fuel prices climbed to record levels despite continued government subsidies. Diesel is currently retailing at Rwf 2,927 per litre, while petrol costs Rwf 2,938 per litre, reflecting the global supply shock caused by the conflict.

    Under the memorandum, Iran has committed to making its best efforts to immediately restore safe passage for commercial vessels through the waterway without imposing transit charges. Shipping will resume alongside de-mining operations and the removal of military obstacles created during the conflict. The agreement also calls for Iran to work with Oman and other Gulf states on a broader framework for the long-term management and security of the strait.

    The United States, in turn, will begin dismantling its naval blockade of Iranian ports, with the process expected to be completed within 30 days. Washington has also agreed to gradually reduce its military presence near Iran as negotiations progress toward a permanent settlement.

    The memorandum establishes a 60-day negotiating period during which both sides will seek to conclude a comprehensive peace agreement. That deadline can be extended by mutual consent if additional time is required.

    A central element of the accord is Iran’s commitment that it will never develop or acquire a nuclear weapon. The agreement provides that Tehran’s existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium will be addressed under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), although the precise mechanism will be negotiated during the next phase of talks.

    Economic measures also feature prominently in the memorandum.

    The United States has agreed to begin discussions on lifting sanctions against Iran as part of a final agreement, while the two sides will work with regional partners to establish a reconstruction and economic development framework valued at at least $300 billion. U.S. officials stressed, however, that Washington is not obligated to finance the fund directly, saying investments are expected to come largely from regional partners and private investors.

    The agreement also provides for the phased release of certain frozen Iranian assets and the creation of a joint mechanism to monitor compliance with the MoU until a final peace settlement is reached.

    Once implementation begins, the United States and Iran will negotiate a permanent agreement, which the memorandum says will ultimately be endorsed through a binding United Nations Security Council resolution.

    While the MoU marks the most significant diplomatic breakthrough since the conflict erupted earlier this year, many of its most contentious issues, including the timeline for sanctions relief, the future of Iran’s nuclear programme and long-term regional security arrangements, remain subject to negotiations over the coming weeks.

    If successfully implemented, the agreement is expected to restore stability to one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, ease pressure on global oil markets and reduce the economic fallout that has been felt by countries far beyond the Middle East.

    President Trump formally signed a hard copy of the document during a diplomatic dinner with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palace of Versailles in Paris, France, while attending G7-related events.

  • South Africa to resume visas for Rwandans in diplomatic breakthrough

    South Africa to resume visas for Rwandans in diplomatic breakthrough

    The commitment was announced on Wednesday following bilateral talks in Pretoria between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

    The decision forms part of a broader roadmap agreed by the two governments to restore full bilateral cooperation, expand trade and investment, strengthen political dialogue and deepen collaboration across multiple sectors.

    “The facilitation for South Africa to lift visa restrictions for qualifying holders of ordinary Rwandan passports represents a significant confidence-building measure and a tangible expression of our commitment to restoring normal bilateral relations with Rwanda,” Lamola said after the talks.

    He said the move is expected to stimulate trade and investment, promote tourism, expand scientific and technological cooperation and strengthen people-to-people exchanges.

    For Rwanda, the announcement represents one of the most tangible outcomes since both governments began efforts to rebuild relations.

    Nduhungirehe welcomed the agreement, describing it as another important milestone in restoring ties between the two countries.

    “In particular, Rwanda welcomes the commitment to facilitate issuance of visas to holders of ordinary Rwandan passports within 12 months,” he stated.

    “This measure will help strengthen people-to-people ties, promote business and tourism exchanges and further deepen the friendship between our peoples.”

    South Africa suspended the issuance of visas to Rwandan citizens holding ordinary passports on March 10, 2014, following a sharp diplomatic fallout that also saw both countries expel diplomats from each other’s capitals.

    Since then, ordinary passport holders have faced major restrictions in travelling to South Africa, while visa exemptions largely remained limited to holders of diplomatic and service passports.

    The diplomatic crisis stemmed from Rwanda’s accusations that South Africa was providing sanctuary to individuals involved in activities aimed at destabilising Rwanda, including attacks launched from South African territory.

    Pretoria, in turn, accused Rwandan diplomats of involvement in an attack on the residence of former Rwanda army chief Kayumba Nyamwasa, allegations Kigali denied.

    Resetting relations

    Both ministers described Wednesday’s meeting as a major step toward turning the page on years of strained relations.

    Lamola said Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Paul Kagame have demonstrated a shared commitment to rebuilding ties.

    “Our two heads of state share a profound and deep commitment to reset and re-energise our bilateral relations,” he noted.

    “The normalisation of relations assumes great significance. This visit provides an opportunity to consolidate the progress made thus far, address outstanding issues through constructive dialogue and chart a path towards a more stable and mutually beneficial partnership.”

    Nduhungirehe said Rwanda was approaching the discussions “in a spirit of openness, goodwill and partnership.”

    “Today’s meeting reflects the commitment of our heads of state to open a new chapter in Rwanda-South Africa relations,” he said.

    “It demonstrates our shared belief that dialogue, mutual respect and constructive engagement are the best way to address differences and strengthen cooperation.”

    He added that Rwanda believes “the bond between Rwanda and South Africa is unbreakable,” despite challenges experienced over the past decade.

    Wide-ranging cooperation

    Beyond the visa breakthrough, both governments agreed to significantly expand cooperation across a broad range of sectors.

    A joint declaration issued after the talks outlines plans to strengthen collaboration in nature and wildlife conservation, tourism, hospitality, health, science and technology, higher education, research and development.

    The two countries also committed to increasing cooperation in trade, infrastructure development, innovation, agriculture, digital technology and investment while encouraging greater participation in exhibitions, business forums and international conferences hosted in both countries.

    The ministers agreed to revive the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), which has not convened since 2007, to oversee implementation of bilateral agreements and identify new areas of collaboration.

    Senior officials will immediately begin preparing work plans and reviewing existing agreements while negotiating new frameworks for cooperation.

    The declaration also commits both governments to facilitate business, tourism, academic exchanges and broader people-to-people contacts, institute mechanisms for the exchange of relevant personnel to support visa issuance, and use diplomatic channels to resolve issues of mutual concern.

    Regional security and continental issues

    Regional peace and security also featured prominently during the discussions.

    The ministers exchanged views on the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Cabo Delgado in Mozambique, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia and the Sahel, while calling for peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue and mediation.

    They emphasised the need to strengthen Africa’s peace and security architecture, including accelerating the operationalisation of the African Standby Force.

    The two governments also reaffirmed support for South Africa’s leadership of the African Union’s C5 High-Level Advocacy Committee on South Sudan and expressed concern over the deteriorating political and security situation in the country.

    On global affairs, both ministers called for reform of international governance institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, arguing that Africa and the Global South deserve greater representation in global decision-making.

    Presidents to meet

    The ministers agreed to maintain regular consultations and convene the next session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation during the first quarter of 2027.

    They also confirmed that Presidents Kagame and Ramaphosa will hold a bilateral meeting at a mutually agreed date through diplomatic channels.

    Lamola said the planned summit would be “another powerful affirmation that South Africa and Rwanda have reaffirmed the strong bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation.”

    Nduhungirehe said Rwanda was leaving Pretoria encouraged by the progress made.

    “We remain committed to sustaining the positive momentum generated by this engagement,” he concluded.

    “We are confident in the future of the relations between our two countries.”

    The commitment to resume visas for Rwandan nationals was announced on Wednesday following bilateral talks in Pretoria between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, and South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.

  • President Kagame urges newly sworn-in officials to prioritize Rwanda’s interests

    President Kagame urges newly sworn-in officials to prioritize Rwanda’s interests

    Those sworn in include Murwanashyaka Damien, appointed Minister of Infrastructure; Kajangwe Antoine Marie, appointed Minister of Trade and Industry; Col Bizimungu Claudien, appointed Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure; and Zingiro Armand, also appointed Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure.

    The Head of State also received oaths from other newly appointed leaders, including Mbabazi Judith, who was appointed Deputy Ombudsman in charge of preventing and fighting injustice within the Office of the Ombudsman.

    Others include Uwizeye James, appointed Deputy Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), and CP Theos Badege, appointed Deputy Commissioner General of the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS).

    President Kagame called on the officials to clearly understand the responsibilities entrusted to them and to always view them from a national perspective rather than a personal one.

    “Being a leader in these public institutions is, first and foremost, about serving citizens and working for their well-being. Each of you has been appointed to these roles because of the capacity you have shown, or what others have observed in you in your previous responsibilities,” he said.

    He added: “But you should also constantly ask yourselves why you, among many other Rwandans who could do the same work, were chosen. That reminder helps you make a meaningful contribution.”

    The President warned that poor leadership practices create serious problems for citizens, who ultimately bear the consequences even when they are not responsible. He emphasized that the public should be the primary beneficiary of government work, not officials themselves.

    He said: “Often you find people prioritizing their own interests, including self-importance and what has almost become a habit. Many even act with arrogance, forgetting that we serve the country, not in competition with one another. National interest must always come first. When you serve the country well, you too benefit—you are part of that success.”

    President Kagame reminded the officials of Rwanda’s journey, referring to the liberation struggle led by the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) in July 1994, noting that had it been driven by self-interest, the country would not have reached its current progress.

    “At that time, what people were thinking about was the possibility of losing their lives. […] Compared to that level of sacrifice, what we do today should not be difficult if we truly understand it. These are not jobs that require us to give our lives on the battlefield, not knowing whether we will return safely,” he stated.

    The President noted that the history of the liberation struggle should guide public servants in their daily duties—working through challenges collectively with others, whether subordinates or colleagues in other institutions, and where issues cannot be immediately resolved, allowing time and resources for proper follow-up.

    President Kagame also told the newly sworn-in officials that their responsibilities are part of normal life and should be treated as such.

    “These are achievable tasks; there is nothing extraordinary about what we do. It is normal life. When you choose to make it normal and good, it works. But when you mix it with unnecessary complications, it often becomes short-lived,” he said.

    President Paul Kagame has urged newly appointed officials to serve citizens’ interests first.
  • Rwanda’s Trinity Metals targets New York IPO, $150 million in processing plant investments

    Rwanda’s Trinity Metals targets New York IPO, $150 million in processing plant investments

    Chief Executive Officer Peter Geleta told IGIHE that the twin milestones aim to transition the company into a mechanised, industrial-scale producer capable of advancing deep-drill exploration of a major newly discovered lithium deposit.

    The upcoming Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) follows a definitive decision by the company’s board, with Geleta noting that the listing could raise between $100 million and $200 million or more based on comparable global mining debuts.

    Trinity Metals Group CEO Peter Gelata (left) discusses operations with staff inside one of the firm’s mines.

    Scaling up tin production

    Trinity Metals currently produces tin from its Rutongo and Musha mines at a combined rate of about 70 tonnes per month. This output is expected to remain stable this year while the company actively implements its long-term growth strategy.

    Geleta noted that the company is currently putting down large underground declines across the sites, a development that will allow larger mining equipment to extract significantly higher volumes. Additionally, the company is conducting metallurgical testing and study work required to build dedicated processing plants at each mine.

    Over the next three to five years, these modernisations are projected to push combined production from the current 70 tonnes to 100 tonnes per month in the medium term, eventually peaking at 300 tonnes per month once the plants are operational and the new ground is fully mechanised.

    Expanding Africa’s largest tungsten mine

    At the Nyakabingo mine, recognised as Africa’s largest tungsten operation, the company produced an average of just over 100 tonnes of tungsten last year, with a similar volume expected this year.

    Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump on African Affairs, visited the Nyakabingo mining site in Shyorongi Sector, Rulindo District, on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The site is Africa’s major source of wolfram.

    The company is currently finalising feasibility studies for a new processing plant, utilising South Africa-based engineering consultancy Obsideo. The study is on track to be completed by the end of this year.

    “If we get the investment in, which we believe we will, we will start building the process plant next year,” Geleta said. “By the end of next year, we’ll be using the process plant, which will lead to a big increase in production.”

    The incoming processing facility, combined with deep production ground opened up by major underground declines developed since October 2024, is part of a broader plan to scale Nyakabingo’s output to 300 tonnes per month within the next three to five years.

    To support these downstream value-addition transitions, Trinity Metals plans to invest an estimated $150 million over the next three years to construct process plants across its operations. Each facility, which includes necessary tailings infrastructure, will require an investment of over $50 million.

    Deep-drilling uncovers major lithium potential

    Beyond its traditional 3T minerals, Trinity Metals is advancing exploration for lithium following a highly successful 2024 drilling campaign. The company drilled up to 800 meters deep, the deepest holes ever recorded in Rwanda, uncovering excellent deposits.

    Drilling activities at Nyakabingo mine.

    Initial geological modelling suggests estimated reserves of between 70 million and 100 million tonnes at an average grade of over 1%. If verified through an upcoming secondary drilling phase, the asset could rank among the top 10 lithium deposits in the world.

    However, Geleta emphasised that immediate lithium mining is a secondary priority. The company’s immediate focus is on maximising output at its currently producing assets to generate the necessary cash flow to reinvest into further large-scale exploration.

    Tantalum production temporarily paused

    Concurrently, the company has not mined tantalum since 2022. The pause is strategic: Trinity’s tantalum reserves are located exclusively at the Musha mine in the Eastern Province, sitting directly within the massive, newly discovered lithium footprint.

    The company plans to resume tantalum extraction in tandem with the future lithium rollout once the necessary exploration and extraction frameworks are finalised.

    When President Paul Kagame visited the Nyakabingo Mine in Rulindo District in May 2025.

    Financial position and global supply shifts

    Geleta highlighted that Trinity Metals has grown significantly over the past four years and is completely debt-free, a factor that makes it highly attractive to international markets. He noted that under the right investment structures, the company holds the long-term potential to become a $1 billion entity within three to five years.

    The company’s commercial strategy aligns heavily with Western supply chains, supplying high-grade tin and tungsten to long-term buyers in the United States, Austria, and Thailand under strict contract arrangements.

    According to the firm, exports from Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine now account for up to 20% of all primary tungsten concentrate used in the US. Since the August 2025 agreement with Global Tungsten (GTP) and Traxys, Trinity Metals has shipped more than 320 tonnes of high‑grade concentrate to GTP’s Pennsylvania facility, powering America’s defence and industrial supply chains. Deliveries to GTP have doubled month-on-month.

    Global supply shifts, particularly reduced tungsten exports from China, which controls an estimated 85% of global supply, have driven up commodity prices, directly benefiting Trinity Metals’ reinvestment capability.

    Geleta noted that the current economic environment is boosting international interest in diversifying critical mineral supply networks, placing transparent, traceable partners like Rwanda in sharp focus.

    With a workforce of 6,000 private employees, Trinity Metals stands as one of Rwanda’s largest private employers.

    Geleta, a mining veteran with over 40 years of international experience across firms like Anglo American, Barrick Gold, and Acacia Mining, believes Rwanda is systematically positioning itself as a dominant and professionalised critical minerals hub.

    According to Trinity Metals, exports from Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine now account for up to 20% of all primary tungsten concentrate used in the US. Since the August 2025 agreement with Global Tungsten (GTP) and Traxys, Trinity Metals has shipped more than 320 tonnes of high‑grade concentrate to GTP’s Pennsylvania facility
  • Tortoise Jonathan named Guinness World Records icon as oldest land animal at 194

    Tortoise Jonathan named Guinness World Records icon as oldest land animal at 194

    The Seychelles giant tortoise, believed to have been born around 1832, is now approximately 194 years old. His remarkable age has already earned him the titles of the world’s oldest-known land animal and oldest turtle ever recorded.

    The recognition was announced as part of a global Guinness World Records campaign celebrating individuals and animals whose achievements have captured international attention.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, the Government of St Helena welcomed the honour, describing Jonathan as a cherished resident and a symbol of the island’s heritage.

    He lives at Plantation House, the official residence of the Governor of St Helena, where he has become one of the South Atlantic island’s most celebrated attractions.

    Jonathan’s lifespan stretches across almost two centuries of history. Born before the Victorian era, he is older than some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including Paris’s Eiffel Tower, London’s Tower Bridge and New York’s Statue of Liberty.

    Throughout his life, Jonathan has witnessed extraordinary changes in the modern world, from the arrival of automobiles and electricity to television, mobile phones and the internet.

    Despite his advanced age, local veterinarians say Jonathan remains in good health and maintains a healthy appetite. Although he has lost his sense of smell, he continues to enjoy a relaxed life alongside three other giant tortoises in the gardens of Plantation House, spending his days grazing on grass and basking in the sun.

    Beyond his status as a wildlife icon, Jonathan has also attracted scientific interest. Researchers are studying his DNA in hopes of understanding biological factors that may contribute to exceptional longevity, as his cells appear to age differently from those of humans.

    For the people of St Helena, however, Jonathan is more than a scientific curiosity or a record holder. Affectionately known as “Jono” by locals, he has become a living link between generations and a symbol of resilience, endurance and the wonders of the natural world.

    His latest recognition as a Guinness World Records ICON further cements his place among the most extraordinary animals ever known and brings renewed global attention to both his remarkable story and the remote island he calls home.

    Jonathan the tortoise with his GWR ICON certificate

  • Hearing of Victoire Ingabire on seven charges begins behind closed doors

    Hearing of Victoire Ingabire on seven charges begins behind closed doors

    Ingabire Victoire, who describes herself as an opposition politician, is facing seven charges including forming or joining a criminal organisation, inciting public disorder, undermining the existing government, and spreading false information or propaganda aimed at inciting international hostility against the Government of Rwanda.

    She is also charged with conspiracy to undermine the government, conspiracy to cause public disorder, and conspiracy to organise demonstrations.

    Once the preliminary hearing concludes, the case is expected to proceed in open court.

    Preliminary hearings, as provided for under Article 125 of Rwanda’s law governing criminal procedure, are intended to allow parties to address any procedural issues that could affect the main trial before it begins.

    Regarding the charge of forming or joining a criminal organisation, the prosecution alleges that Ingabire played a role in organising training sessions for members of her supporters linked to DALFA Umurinzi, an organisation considered illegal in Rwanda.

    The prosecution also argues that attacks carried out by groups such as RUD Urunana and P5 resulted in deaths, and that Ingabire was linked to these groups through her leadership of FDU-Inkingi, which allegedly later aligned with P5.

    During a prior bail hearing, Ingabire stated that she had distanced herself from FDU-Inkingi, saying she left the party after concluding that it was involved in harmful activities.

    Under Rwandan law, forming or joining a criminal organisation carries a prison sentence of no less than seven years and not more than 10 years.

    Inciting public disorder is punishable under Article 204 of the penal code with a sentence ranging from 10 to 15 years in prison.

    The prosecution alleges that in one audio recording, Ingabire and Cassien Ntamuhanga were heard planning a protest at Kigali’s city roundabout near Rubangura.

    On the charge of undermining the government, prosecutors argue that Ingabire’s FDU-Inkingi party collaborated with armed groups opposed to the state, including RUD Urunana, P5, and RNC, with the aim of destabilising the government.

    It is further alleged that once these plans were uncovered, Ingabire went on to form another political party, DALFA Umurinzi.

    If convicted of undermining the government, she could face life imprisonment.

    She is also accused of spreading false information or propaganda intended to incite hostility against the Government of Rwanda abroad, particularly around the time Rwanda was preparing to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

    Prosecutors allege that Ingabire and her associates planned demonstrations aimed at portraying Rwanda as insecure.

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, she is also accused of mobilising people who were promised food aid in order to stage protests.

    Depending on whether the offence is considered in peacetime or wartime, the penalty ranges from seven years to life imprisonment.

    Given the seriousness of the charges, prosecutors may seek a life sentence.

    Ingabire faces charges including conspiracy to undermine the government, conspiracy to cause public disorder, and conspiracy to organise demonstrations.
  • Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ prison release date moved up to early 2028

    Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ prison release date moved up to early 2028

    According to updated records from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Combs is now scheduled to be released from FCI Fort Dix on February 23, 2028, several months earlier than earlier projections.

    The revised date marks another adjustment to the 56-year-old’s 50-month sentence. Initial estimates placed his release in May 2028 before it was briefly pushed to June following reported institutional issues. However, the timeline has since been shortened.

    The reduction is believed to be linked in part to Combs’ participation in the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP), a federal rehabilitation initiative that can provide eligible inmates with opportunities to reduce their sentences. Sources close to the former hip-hop executive say he has remained committed to the program and focused on personal rehabilitation during his incarceration.

    Combs’ current circumstances represent a dramatic shift from the lavish lifestyle that once made him one of the entertainment industry’s most influential figures.

    In July 2025, a federal jury found him guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution under the Mann Act. However, he was acquitted of the more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.

    In October 2025, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian sentenced Combs to more than four years in prison. The sentence included credit for 14 months already served, a $500,000 fine, and five years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

    While federal authorities do not publicly disclose the exact calculations used to determine sentence reductions, inmates may earn earlier release dates through a combination of good-conduct credits, time already served, and successful completion of approved rehabilitation programs.

    Despite the revised release date, Combs’ legal team continues to pursue an appeal in hopes of overturning the conviction or obtaining a further reduction in his sentence. For now, the former music powerhouse remains at FCI Fort Dix, with his expected return to freedom now set for early 2028.

    According to updated records from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, Combs is now scheduled to be released from FCI Fort Dix on February 23, 2028, several months earlier than earlier projections.
  • Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa named new RDF spokesperson

    Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa named new RDF spokesperson

    The appointment was announced in a press release issued by the RDF on Wednesday, June 17.

    Brig Gen Karuretwa will serve concurrently as the Director General of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence, a position he already holds, while taking on the additional responsibility of Defence Spokesperson.

    He replaces Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, who recently assumed office as Director of the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF).

    As Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Karuretwa will serve as the principal public communications representative of the Rwanda Defence Force, providing official information on the institution’s activities, operations and policies.

    Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa joined the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) in 1992 during the liberation struggle at the age of 18.

    He later studied law at the National University of Rwanda, graduating in 2000, before pursuing advanced studies at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in the United States from 2009 to 2011. There, he earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in International Law and a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy (MALD) specialising in International Security Studies.

    Following his studies, Brig Gen Karuretwa served in the Office of the President for a decade in various capacities, including as a Defence and Security Advisor. From November 2013 to July 2021, he served as the Principal Private Secretary to the President.

    In December 2024, Brig Gen Karuretwa was sworn in as the President of the Military High Court while also serving as the Director General of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence.

    Brig Gen Karuretwa will serve concurrently as the Director General of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence, a position he already holds, while taking on the additional responsibility of Defence Spokesperson.
  • No ebola case reported in Rwanda, health ministry confirms

    No ebola case reported in Rwanda, health ministry confirms

    In a statement issued on June 16, 2026, the ministry said that health authorities remain vigilant and are strengthening preventive measures following the declaration of an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain in Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), about a month ago.

    “There are currently no cases in Rwanda and no active cases in areas bordering Rwanda. While the risk is low, Rwanda remains vigilant and continues to strengthen surveillance and preparedness,” the statement read.

    Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana also reaffirmed that surveillance efforts will continue to ensure timely response and prevention.

    “No Ebola cases in Rwanda or neighboring areas. The risk of transmission to Rwanda is low. With the epicenter still active, vigilance remains as usual,” he said.

    The announcement comes at a time when a patient previously identified in Goma has recovered, and all 255 people who had contact with the case tested negative for the virus.

    In Bukavu, another affected city, one person died from the disease, while around 200 suspected cases were placed under quarantine. No further infections were confirmed among them.

    In Uganda, Ebola has also been detected in Kampala. According to the Ugandan Ministry of Health on June 9, 2026, 19 cases were confirmed in the capital, including 12 patients still in hospital, five recoveries, and two deaths.

    Ebola is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids such as blood, sweat, saliva, urine, vomit, and other secretions.

    The first fatality in the current outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain was recorded in Bunia, Ituri Province, on April 24, 2026, although the death was confirmed to have been caused by Ebola six weeks later.

    As of June 16, the DRC had recorded 837 confirmed Ebola cases,including 196 deaths including 192 deaths, as health authorities and international partners warned that the outbreak continues to deteriorate with sustained community transmission and geographic expansion.

    Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana also reaffirmed that surveillance efforts will continue to ensure timely response and prevention.
  • Jolly Mutesi responds to Bebe Cool’s fraud allegations

    Jolly Mutesi responds to Bebe Cool’s fraud allegations

    Jolly Mutesi responded by reminding Bebe Cool that, as a public figure, he should verify information thoroughly before making public accusations that could harm someone’s reputation.

    The dispute began after Bebe Cool claimed on his X account that Jolly Mutesi, who lives in the United Kingdom and is an Arsenal supporter, had allegedly scammed him last year using the names of Rwanda and Arsenal F.C.

    “This woman @mutesi_jolly stays in the UK, and she always watches Arsenal games. She conned me last year in the name of Rwanda, Arsenal football club, and now she’s on another big mission,” Bebe Cool wrote.

    Speaking to IGIHE, Jolly Mutesi denied any involvement in the alleged scam and suggested that the musician may have been deceived by individuals impersonating her on Facebook.

    “I do not know what happened, but it is possible that people pretending to be me on Facebook were responsible,” she said.

    When asked whether she knew any details about the alleged fraud or had attempted to contact Bebe Cool, Mutesi said she had no information about the matter. However, she emphasised that public figures should be more careful before making accusations.

    In a message shared on X, Mutesi expressed sympathy for Bebe Cool if he had indeed fallen victim to fraud but urged him to verify facts before publicly blaming others.

    “First and foremost, I regret that you were scammed by an impersonator, but please, next time use common sense and fact-check before making allegations about people’s names. As a public figure, you must know better and do better, thank you,” she wrote.

    She further noted that celebrities have a responsibility to be mindful of their words because their statements can significantly impact the lives and reputations of others.

    Meanwhile, Bebe Cool has indicated that he plans to share the full story with his followers in the future and explain exactly how the alleged incident occurred.

    Bebe Cool has accused Miss Jolly Mutesi of defrauding him, although reports suggest that he may have been deceived by individuals impersonating her.
    Miss Jolly Mutesi urged Bebe Cool to exercise caution and conduct proper fact-checking before making accusations, noting that, as a celebrity, his statements carry significant influence and could negatively affect the reputation and well-being of others.