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Tag: Editor’s Choice

  • US and Iran make progress in Switzerland talks despite tensions over Hormuz Strait

    US and Iran make progress in Switzerland talks despite tensions over Hormuz Strait

    The breakthroughs came despite renewed friction surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and strong public warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump.

    The discussions, facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar, brought together U.S. Vice President JD Vance and a senior Iranian delegation led by parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf alongside Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

    At the conclusion of the initial sessions, mediators issued a joint statement revealing that both sides had agreed to a structured roadmap to finalize a comprehensive agreement within the next 60 days, raising hopes for a lasting diplomatic breakthrough to resolve the recent four-month conflict.

    Negotiations faced immediate challenges from the outset after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced new restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for global energy supplies.

    Tehran defended the move by asserting that commitments related to regional ceasefire arrangements, specifically regarding Israeli military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon, had not been fully implemented.

    The situation was further complicated by President Trump issuing severe threats of military action from Washington if the strategic waterway remained blocked.

    Speaking with Fox News and posting to social media, Trump conversionally warned Tehran’s leadership to “watch what he says,” threatening to hit Iran “very hard” and even floating a hypothetical U.S. takeover of the Strait of Hormuz to collect commercial transit tolls if a final deal is not reached within 60 days.

    The formal negotiations faced an immediate crisis on Sunday as the Iranian delegation walked out of the quadrilateral meetings in direct protest of Trump’s public warnings, forcing a temporary suspension of the formal summit.

    While Iranian state media declared the talks had entered a “difficult phase” following the publication of the messages, intense back-channel diplomacy by Qatari and Pakistani mediators quickly salvaged the summit.

    Through rapid-fire, bilateral shuttle diplomacy conducted in the background, the mediators successfully brought both sides back to the table for intensive, late-night sessions.

    The direct engagement covered an expansive range of critical subjects, including maritime security, regional conflict zones, the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Iranian oil exports, and mechanisms for releasing frozen Iranian assets abroad.

    Vice President Vance expressed measured optimism about the dialogue, emphasizing a desire to “turn over a new leaf” and permanently shift geopolitical relations in the Middle East.

    Iranian officials also characterized the late-night sessions as constructive, though they maintained that long-term progress on broader nuclear-related matters and international inspections remains contingent upon the structured fulfillment of existing economic commitments and technical sanctions waivers.

    A primary tangible outcome of the Bürgenstock round was an explicit agreement to establish a direct “communication line” to prevent military miscalculations and ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

    Additionally, the two nations agreed to set up a dedicated “de-confliction cell” tasked with stabilizing the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon, addressing the primary catalyst of recent regional hostilities.

    The announcement of continued diplomatic progress was welcomed by financial markets, with global oil prices easing from their recent peaks as investors responded positively to signs of de-escalation.

    Analysts noted that the willingness of Washington and Tehran to maintain sustained diplomatic contact has substantially reduced the immediate risk of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt global energy distribution.

    Technical negotiations between lower-level officials are scheduled to continue in Switzerland over the coming days to build out the framework of the comprehensive agreement.

    The breakthroughs came despite renewed friction surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and strong public warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump.

  • Salah inspires Egypt to historic first World Cup match win

    Salah inspires Egypt to historic first World Cup match win

    The result marked Egypt’s first win at the World Cup in their ninth appearance, moving them to the brink of qualification for the last 32 and easing the disappointment of previous campaigns.

    New Zealand made a bright start and took the lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman rose to head home from a set-piece, putting Egypt under early pressure. However, the African side responded strongly after the break and turned the match around with a dominant second-half display.

    Mostafa Mohamed restored parity in the 58th minute after being set up by Salah, before the Liverpool forward put Egypt ahead just nine minutes later with a composed finish in the 67th minute. Mahmoud Hassan ‘Trezeguet’ sealed the historic victory in the 82nd minute, converting from a well-delivered corner to complete the 3-1 comeback.

    Salah’s influence was decisive throughout, as he continued to carry Egypt’s attacking threat after a slow start to the tournament, which had included a subdued performance in their opening draw against Belgium. Just when it seemed his World Cup struggles might continue, the 34-year-old delivered a match-winning display to lift his nation.

    The win also highlighted Egypt’s resilience, as they recovered from conceding early to produce one of their most important results in World Cup history. It leaves them in a strong position in Group G and on course for a possible place in the knockout stage.

    Egypt will now turn their attention to their final group match against Iran, where another positive result could confirm progression to the round of 32.

    Salah, who now has 68 international goals, described the victory as “a great achievement for all the players” and praised the team’s spirit in overcoming adversity on the world stage.

    Mixed fortunes for other African nations

    While Egypt celebrated a historic triumph, the other African representatives in action on Sunday experienced contrasting fortunes as the second round of group-stage matches continued.

    In Group H, debutants Cabo Verde produced a stunning, resilient display to secure a dramatic 2–2 draw against two-time World Cup winners Uruguay at Miami Stadium. The Blue Sharks made history in the 21st minute when Kevin Pina swept home a sensational 34-yard free-kick, recording the nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal.

    Uruguay responded aggressively before the break, turning the game on its head with quick-fire goals from Maximiliano Araújo and Agustín Canobbio to take a 2–1 halftime lead.

    However, Cabo Verde refused to back down. In the 61st minute, forward Hélio Varela capitalized on a defensive mix-up in the Uruguayan box to slot home a deserved equalizer. The hard-fought point keeps Cabo Verde firmly alive in the race for the knockout rounds, leaving them tied with Uruguay on two points in Group H.

    It was a far more sobering evening for Tunisia, who were officially eliminated from the tournament after suffering a heavy 4–0 defeat against a ruthless Japan side at Estadio Monterrey. The Group F clash, which marked the historic 1,000th match in FIFA World Cup history, was entirely dominated by the Asian giants.

    Daichi Kamada opened the scoring for Japan after just four minutes, netting the fastest World Cup goal in his country’s history. Striker Ayase Ueda doubled the advantage on the half-hour mark before winger Junya Ito added a third in the 69th minute.

    Ueda capped off his stellar performance with a looping header late in the game to complete the rout. The comprehensive loss leaves the Eagles of Carthage bottom of the group without a point, spelling an early exit from the competition.

    The victory marked a huge milestone for Egyptian football, ending the nation’s long wait for a first World Cup match win after several appearances on football’s biggest stage.

  • DR Congo Ebola cases top 1,000

    DR Congo Ebola cases top 1,000

    According to figures released by the DRC health ministry, the country has reported 1,003 confirmed cases, including 254 deaths, with an overall case fatality rate of 25.3 percent.

    A total of 365 patients are currently in isolation or hospitalized, while 100 patients have recovered, the update said. The contact follow-up rate across the three affected provinces stood at 58 percent.

    Despite the rise in cases, Ebola response efforts remain active, with heightened surveillance, intensified community outreach, and ongoing efforts to strengthen case management and diagnostic capacity, authorities said.

    Red Cross workers bury an Ebola victim at the Rwampara Cemetery, in Rwampara, Congo, Saturday, May 23, 2026.
  • Rwandan youth in Germany affirm their role in building Rwanda’s future

    Rwandan youth in Germany affirm their role in building Rwanda’s future

    Held under the theme “Rooted. Growing. Thriving.”, this year’s edition highlighted a committed generation determined to build bridges between their host country and their country of origin.

    One of the event’s distinctive features was that it was entirely coordinated by young people themselves, demonstrating their sense of responsibility and their ability to mobilize and unite their peers around shared goals.

    To attend the gathering, some participants travelled hundreds of kilometres, with several spending more than six hours on the road to reach Hamburg and reconnect with fellow Rwandans living across Germany. Beyond the conference itself, the event represented a rare opportunity to meet, expand professional and social networks, and strengthen ties within a community spread across a vast country.

    The main activities on June 20 focused on discussions and thematic panels addressing issues that matter to young people in the diaspora.

    The first panel, “Rooted in Values, Connected by Purpose: Rwandan Youth in the Digital Era,” moderated by Daisy Igihozo and featuring Gildas Mukunde, First Secretary at the Embassy of Rwanda in Germany, alongside Anaïs Usanase and Amani Shema, emphasized the importance of preserving Rwandan values in an increasingly digital world and using digital tools to strengthen community engagement.

    The second panel, “Success Beyond Career: Empowering Rwandan Youth with Skills, Resilience, and Responsibility,” moderated by Samantha Kayitete Murera, brought together Dr Kaneza Elisabeth, Moise Mwiseneza and Leilla Umutoni to discuss resilience, leadership, responsibility and skills development.

    The third panel, “Insights on Financial Literacy, Legal Awareness, and Pathways to Entrepreneurship,” moderated by Delice Perle Ikirezi and featuring Ange Bella Kabano, Musafiri Sebiziga, Protogene Hahirwabayo and Guillaume Habarurema, focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship and the importance of collective investment.

    A conversation titled “Rooted Identity Beyond Borders: Belonging and the Global Rwandan Experience,” led by Nadège Akamanzi with Madame Jeanne Adili Ndatirwa, further explored questions of identity, belonging and the role of Rwandans living abroad in shaping the country’s future.

    Beyond the panel discussions, participants also took part in open exchanges that allowed them to share personal experiences, daily challenges and powerful testimonies about navigating life between Rwanda and Germany. These discussions revealed a common reality: despite the distance, their attachment to Rwanda remains deeply rooted.

    The event also featured a session on youth engagement in Germany, facilitated by Naomi Ikamba and Moise Mwiseneza, highlighting the importance of further structuring youth-led initiatives across the country.

    The highlight of the gathering was the closing address delivered by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar, who reminded participants that they are not mere observers of Rwanda’s development but active contributors to its future.

    Addressing the young audience gathered from different German cities, he stressed that the diaspora is considered Rwanda’s “sixth province” and encouraged them to remain organized, united and ambitious.

    Drawing on the example of the Rwandan community in Kaiserslautern, he demonstrated how a simple collective initiative can generate meaningful impact, citing a solidarity mechanism that helped finance health insurance for vulnerable people in Rwanda.

    He also encouraged young people not to separate their lives in Germany from their Rwandan identity, but rather to transform the skills and experiences acquired abroad into opportunities for Rwanda, including through collaborative entrepreneurial projects.

    After the official discussions and speeches, participants gathered for an evening of cultural performances, music and moments of fellowship.

    More than a celebration, the evening became a space for meaningful connections among young Rwandans from different parts of Germany. Participants strengthened friendships, built new relationships and expanded a network that now extends beyond regional boundaries.

    These moments perfectly embodied the spirit of Rwanda Youth Connect Germany: bringing together young members of the diaspora to share experiences, support one another and jointly contribute to Rwanda’s future.

    Rwanda Youth Connect Germany 2026 demonstrated that beyond geographical distances, a united, organized and deeply rooted generation can become a powerful force for national development.

    The message that resonated throughout the event was clear: the Rwandan youth in the diaspora are not simply preparing Rwanda’s future; they are already helping to build it.

    In 2025, the Rwandan diaspora injected US$639.84 million into Rwanda’s economy, reaffirming its essential role in the country’s development.

    Held under the theme “Rooted. Growing. Thriving.”, this year’s edition highlighted a committed generation determined to build bridges between their host country and their country of origin.
    The first panel, “Rooted in Values, Connected by Purpose: Rwandan Youth in the Digital Era,” was moderated by Daisy Igihozo.
    The second panel, “Success Beyond Career: Empowering Rwandan Youth with Skills, Resilience, and Responsibility,” was moderated by Samantha Kayitete Murera.
    The third panel, “Insights on Financial Literacy, Legal Awareness, and Pathways to Entrepreneurship,” was moderated by Delice Perle Ikirezi.
    A conversation entitled “Rooted Identity Beyond Borders: Belonging and the Global Rwandan Experience,” led by Nadège Akamanzi.
    Mrs. Jeanne Adili Ndatirwa, wife of Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar, also contributed to a deeper reflection on issues of identity and the sense of belonging among Rwandans living abroad.
    Attendees performed and enjoyed traditional Rwandan dances.
    The highlight of the gathering was the closing address delivered by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar, who reminded participants that they are not mere observers of Rwanda’s development but active contributors to its future.
    IGIHE spoke with Ambassador Igor César and his wife, Jeanne Ndatirwa.
    Rwanda Youth Connect Germany 2026 thus demonstrated that, beyond geographical distances, a united, organized youth deeply connected to its roots can become a true force for development.

    karirima@igihe.com

  • Halo nails: Elegant manicure trend redefining modern nail art

    Halo nails: Elegant manicure trend redefining modern nail art

    The trend gained massive popularity through social media platforms and celebrity influence, especially after being showcased by artists like Dua Lipa, who helped propel the design into mainstream beauty culture.

    Unlike traditional nail styles that rely on solid colors or simple patterns, halo nails focus on light, contrast, and depth. The design typically utilizes a contrasting base color, which is then framed at the top and bottom borders with a lighter, metallic, or shimmering tone.

    This effectively creates a “halo” ring around the nail’s center, which often features a soft, diffused aura effect. Nail artists frequently use chrome finishes, iridescent powders, or magnetic cat-eye polishes to achieve this reflective look, making each manicure appear slightly different depending on the lighting and angle.

    One reason halo nails are so popular is their versatility. They can be subtle and elegant for everyday wear or bold and dramatic for special occasions.

    Some designs use soft pinks and nude tones for a natural glow, while others experiment with vibrant colors like sunset orange, navy, or neon shades for a more striking effect. This flexibility allows people to personalize the trend according to their personal style.

    Another appeal of halo nails is their low-maintenance nature; because the color concentrates on the outer framing and the cuticle cuff, natural nail growth is far less noticeable over time. While achieving the perfect symmetrical arcs requires a steady hand or precision nail tape, beauty enthusiasts enjoy replicating the look both at home and in professional salons.

    Overall, halo nails represent a modern shift in nail fashion toward creativity, individuality, and expressive minimalism. They combine structural simplicity with artistic detail, proving that even subtle designs can make a powerful style statement. As nail art continues to evolve, halo nails remain a standout trend that blends elegance with innovation in a beautifully framed way.

    Glossy pink nails are highly flattering, featuring a soft hot pink gradient with an aura effect and   a shiny, polished finish.
  • Nigeria launches investigation into death of Rwandan inmate

    Nigeria launches investigation into death of Rwandan inmate

    Relasss died on the morning of Tuesday, June 16, while awaiting trial at the High Court in Abuja in connection with a financial-related case.

    He had been held in pre-trial detention since 2023 after a court denied him bail, citing concerns that, as a foreign national without Nigerian citizenship, he could abscond if released.

    According to local media reports, correctional authorities convened an emergency management meeting following his death to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. The meeting reportedly also reviewed the state of healthcare services available to other ill inmates.

    Sources cited by Sahara TV alleged that inmates are required to pay for basic sanitary supplies for sick prisoners instead of having such essentials provided by the correctional service. The reports claim that inmates are asked to contribute 15,000 Nigerian naira (about $11) for hygiene materials.

    The same sources further alleged that prisoners must also cover the cost of being transferred to hospitals outside the correctional facility for specialized treatment, a practice they claim contributed to Relasss’ death after he was unable to access medical care in time.

    The allegations have not been independently verified.

    The Nigerian Correctional Service has not publicly commented on the claims or the circumstances surrounding Relasss’ death. Sahara TV reported that the agency’s spokesperson, CSC Jane Osuji, did not respond to requests for comment.

    The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances of the Rwandan national’s death and examine broader concerns over access to healthcare for inmates within Nigeria’s correctional facilities.

    Nigeria’s National Correctional Service (NCS) has launched an investigation into the death of a Rwandan national, Benjamin Relasss, who died while in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre, amid allegations that he was denied timely medical care.
  • Kent State University unveils plans to set up fashion school in Rwanda

    Kent State University unveils plans to set up fashion school in Rwanda

    The proposal was presented during a high-level symposium held in Kigali on June 19, where government officials, fashion industry stakeholders, and university representatives toured the future campus facilities.

    The institution is currently undergoing accreditation in Rwanda and the United States before launching degree programmes in fashion design and fashion merchandising.

    Officials said the initiative aims to bridge the gap between creativity and business by training students in design, merchandising, branding, and fashion marketing. They noted that while Africa’s creative economy is valued at more than $58 billion, the continent remains underrepresented in the global fashion industry, currently worth about $1.8 trillion and projected to reach $2.3 trillion by 2030.

    The proposed school is intended to help address shortages in specialized training, infrastructure, and industry support that have limited Africa’s participation in the sector.

    Speaking at the event, Minister of Trade and Industry Antoine Kajangwe said the project aligns with Rwanda’s ambition to develop a competitive textile and garment industry capable of serving regional and global markets.

    “As we continue our industrialization drive, skills development will be a very important component of that process,” Kajangwe said, adding that the programmes will help develop strong Made-in-Rwanda fashion brands.

    Kent State University’s Vice President for Global Education, Marcello Fantoni,
    said Rwanda was selected after extensive research across Africa because of its strong investment in education and human capital development.

    “We are not coming here to teach Rwandans how to do fashion. Rather, we are here to help Rwandans teach the world how they do fashion,” Fantoni said.

    The proposed university also plans to incorporate African textile history and trade routes into its curriculum while maintaining international academic standards.

    According to officials, graduates will receive qualifications equivalent to those awarded by Kent State University in the United States. Discussions are also underway with Rwanda’s Ministry of Education to facilitate sponsorship opportunities and preferential tuition arrangements for eligible students.

    The university says the project is expected to support job creation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and talent development while positioning Rwanda as an emerging hub for fashion, textiles, and the broader creative economy.

    The proposal was announced during a high-level symposium held in Kigali on June 19, where government officials, fashion industry stakeholders, and university representatives toured the future campus facilities.

  • Gisagara VC suspends two players over misconduct

    Gisagara VC suspends two players over misconduct

    In a statement released late Saturday, the club said the decision follows “unacceptable behaviour during GMT 2026 that adversely affected the team.”

    The club also reiterated its disciplinary stance, stating that it “maintains a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct” and remains committed to “upholding the highest standards of discipline and professionalism.”

    The sanctions come after Gisagara VC arrived late for its quarterfinal match against Police VC, resulting in a walkover defeat and elimination from the competition.

    The club recently appointed Kwizera Marchal as head coach, though reports suggest internal tensions within the team, particularly between management and players.

    Sources indicate that delayed player salaries have also contributed to unrest, with some players reportedly refusing to feature due to unpaid wages.

    The 2026 Kwibuka Volleyball Tournament concludes on Sunday with classification matches across both men’s and women’s categories.

    In the men’s category, REG VC will face Police VC in the third-place playoff, while APR VC meet Kepler VC in the final.

    In the women’s competition, Police WVC take on Kepler WVC for third place, while APR WVC face KPC WVC in the final.

    Gisagara VC has taken disciplinary action against players including Muvara Ronald.
    Cedric Ngaboyintwari has been suspended for 90 days.
    Kwizera Marchal is the head coach of Gisagara VC.

  • UK PM Keir Starmer expected to resign amid mounting Labour pressure

    UK PM Keir Starmer expected to resign amid mounting Labour pressure

    According to UK media reports, Starmer has come under increasing internal pressure following weeks of political uncertainty, with senior figures in the Labour Party urging him to make way for a new leader. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has emerged as a leading contender to replace him, with supporters claiming he could command majority backing within the parliamentary party.

    Speaking on Sunday, Business Secretary Peter Kyle acknowledged the growing political tension, saying the Prime Minister was “aware of the political realities” and would act in the national interest. However, he declined to confirm any final decision, describing the situation as fluid and uncertain.

    The reported resignation plan would mark a dramatic turn in UK politics, just two years after Labour’s sweeping general election victory brought Starmer to power with a large parliamentary majority. Since then, his leadership has faced criticism over policy U-turns, declining poll numbers, and internal party divisions.

    Starmer’s allies have insisted he would resist any leadership challenge, but pressure has intensified following Burnham’s strong political showing in recent contests, which has energised calls for a transition at the top of government.

    If confirmed, Starmer’s departure would make him one of several UK prime ministers to leave office in rapid succession, reflecting ongoing instability in British politics and growing voter dissatisfaction with mainstream parties.

    In Rwanda, his legacy is defined by scrapping the ‘Rwanda migration deal’ on his first day in office, as well as his failure to curb illegal Channel crossings and the resulting damage to voter confidence. The Rwanda scheme was first announced in April 2022 by the government of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, following a deal with the Rwandan government.

    Analysts say the potential leadership change could further reshape the Labour Party’s direction, particularly on immigration, public spending, and foreign policy, as it seeks to consolidate power ahead of the next general election.

    Starmer has not yet made a formal public statement confirming his resignation, but government insiders suggest an announcement could come within days as pressure from within his party reaches a critical point.

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to resign on Monday after weeks of mounting pressure from Labour MPs calling for a leadership overhaul.

  • DR Congo reports 956 confirmed Ebola cases, 247 deaths

    DR Congo reports 956 confirmed Ebola cases, 247 deaths

    Twenty-three new confirmed cases, including two deaths, were reported Friday in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu. Ituri remains the epicenter of the outbreak, with 874 confirmed cases and 201 deaths, accounting for more than 91 percent of the country’s confirmed cases.

    A total of 92 patients have recovered, while 361 patients were in isolation or hospitalized.

    The report also said 162 suspected cases were identified during the day, while the contact-tracing rate stood at 69.3 percent, below the 95-percent target set by health authorities.

    At a press briefing Friday evening, DRC Health Minister Roger Kamba said the outbreak remained in an upward phase, with more confirmed cases expected as response teams expanded active case-finding and moved deeper into affected communities.

    Kamba added that the authorities will only be able to say that the outbreak has reached its peak, plateaued, or begun to decline once the weekly figures have stabilized or begun to fall. For now, he said, efforts to detect cases, isolate and treat patients, and strengthen community engagement must continue.

    The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo Ebola virus, was declared by the DRC authorities on May 15.

    Red Cross workers bury an Ebola victim at the Rwampara Cemetery, in Rwampara, Congo, Saturday, May 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa) CORRECTION: City corrected to Rwampara, instead of Bunia