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Speaking in an interview with American blogger Mario Nawfall, Kagame was asked why some African nations have not achieved Rwanda’s rapid development since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

In response, he suggested that other African countries with abundant natural resources could surpass Rwanda’s progress if they adopted effective governance and leadership strategies.

“For others, what I see, if they want to do things similar to ours, they can maybe succeed even more. But the decision has to be made by leaders, and it’s about politics,” Kagame stated.

He further emphasized that Africa has the potential to rise to global economic prominence, as the same factors that have made other regions prosperous exist on the continent.

“Africa is still lagging behind other continents, but the things that have made other nations wealthy are the same things that can make Africa wealthy. Because Africa is endowed with resources,” he explained.

The DRC spans 2.3 million square kilometers and has a population exceeding 100 million. Despite its vast land and resources, it continues to seek international aid.

“Take a country like DRC. Congo is an incredibly rich country. Why would a country like that ever have to beg for anything from anyone? Why? I’m just using the question to answer you to show that it’s about politics. It’s about management. It’s about, by the way, that integrity that we’re talking about,” Kagame remarked.

He further noted that Africans, including Rwandans, Senegalese, and Congolese, have the same capabilities as people in developed nations like the United States and Europe, but poor governance remains a major obstacle.

When asked what hinders DRC’s development, Kagame pointed to broader political issues across Africa.

“It’s the politics of our continent. The system is flawed,” he said.

The DRC is one of the richest nations in terms of mineral wealth, possessing vast deposits of coltan, gold, tin, and diamonds. However, despite holding an estimated $24 trillion in natural resources, it remains among the world’s poorest countries due to governance challenges.

In recent years, faith-based organizations have significantly increased in Rwanda, with some churches renting conference rooms in prominent Kigali hotels, while others lease venues for events.

An inspection conducted in 2024 to evaluate whether churches were complying with laws passed in 2018 left over 9,800 places of worship shut down. More than 50 churches were stripped of their licenses, preventing them from operating in the country.

On March 6, 2025, RGB introduced new regulations that require religious organizations to submit proof of compliance with building and zoning requirements for any place of worship.

This ensures that only spaces that meet structural and location standards for religious activities will be allowed to operate.

Speaking to the RBA, Dr. Uwicyeza made it clear that the establishment of “mobile churches,” where people simply move from one rented space to another, will not be tolerated.

She stressed that once religious groups face difficulties and leave, they create ongoing problems in the communities they leave behind.

Additionally, Dr. Uwicyeza strongly opposed the use of buildings not designated for religious purposes and repurposing them into places of worship. For instance, a building used as a bar on one day and a church the next would not be permitted under the new regulations.

Moreover, churches cannot operate in buildings that do not meet the required standards. Attempts to bypass the regulations by renting spaces that technically meet building standards but fail to fulfill the requirements for religious activities will result in the loss of operating licenses.

The updated regulations require that individuals wishing to establish a church or its branches in a given area must gather signatures from at least 1,000 people who believe the religious space will benefit the community.

Furthermore, they must demonstrate that the church will contribute positively to local development.

Dr. Uwicyeza also raised concerns over the exploitation of church workers, particularly those who work full-time without proper compensation.

A study by RGB in 2023/2024 revealed that only 23.1% of religious organizations had clear documentation on their operations, vision, and implementation strategies, while 76.9% had approved budgets and operational plans.

Additionally, only 30.8% of faith-based organizations employed permanent staff with signed contracts and benefits such as health insurance and pension contributions.

She emphasized that it is unacceptable for individuals working full-time from Monday to Sunday without salary, pension contributions, or health insurance. As she said, such practices, which exploit workers, will no longer be tolerated.

Religious organizations planning to open new branches must also provide proof of contributions to social security for their workers, in line with set regulations.

As of July 2024, there were 345 religious institutions in Rwanda, with affiliated organizations bringing the total to 563.

Jacquemot claimed that the Tutsi population in eastern DRC was not indigenous to the area but was relocated there from various regions in the 1930s while Rwanda was under German and Belgian colonial rule. Nduhungirehe categorically dismissed this assertion as false.

Speaking to Radio France Internationale (RFI), Jacquemot alleged that the majority of people living in eastern Congo were Tutsi, who had supposedly been moved there during the 1930s.

In response, Nduhungirehe, writing on X (formerly Twitter), refuted the claim, clarifying that by 1930, Germany had long ceased its colonial rule over Rwanda and Burundi, having lost control after its defeat in World War I. He emphasized that Rwanda and Burundi were placed under Belgian administration in 1920.

He further emphasized that the Tutsi people in the DRC were not brought from various regions in the 1930s, as Jacquemot suggested, but were native to the land they had inhabited long before that time.

The minister explained that the Tutsi in the DRC are indigenous to the territory that was taken from Rwanda in 1910 during a meeting between Belgium, Germany, and Britain, which drew borders and decided the fate of the region.

He pointed out that the people in the eastern DRC share the Kinyarwanda language, culture, and traditions, with many place names, mountains, and rivers also bearing Kinyarwanda names. The native people in the area have long been connected to Rwanda through history, he added.

Amb. Nduhungirehe noted that while some Rwandans were forcibly taken by Belgian colonists between 1920 and 1950 for labor in the mining sector, it did not change the fact that there were many indigenous Rwandans living in the DRC who were deeply connected to their ancestral lands.

The minister also addressed another falsehood spread by Jacquemot, who claimed that the M23 group was seeking to control the coltan mines in Rubaya, a region in the DRC that reportedly produces 20% of the world’s coltan. Jacquemot alleged that the minerals are processed in Rwanda before being exported to Asia, Europe, and North America with different labels.

Nduhungirehe countered these claims, referencing research by Bojana Coulibaly, who found that the mines in Rubaya were still being worked with traditional methods, with no roads connecting the area to Goma. He questioned how the mines could possibly produce 20% of the world’s coltan without the use of modern mining technology.

He reaffirmed that the coltan mining in Rubaya is conducted by local communities who speak Kinyarwanda, and while the area was once controlled by militia including, no such military presence currently reported there.

Turning to Rwanda’s own mining sector, Nduhungirehe noted that Rwanda has been rich in precious minerals for decades, a fact uncovered during colonial times and continued after independence. Research conducted during both colonial and post-colonial periods has revealed that 52 areas in Rwanda contain valuable minerals, with mining already underway in some of these regions.

The minister stated that Rwanda is one of the world’s leading producers of coltan, with the country accounting for 22.4% of global sales in 2024, second only to the DRC, which contributed 40.2%. Rwanda’s mining industry follows both national and international laws, ensuring that minerals meet the required standards for international trade.

Nduhungirehe further pointed out that there are currently 136 licenses issued to 99 mining companies in Rwanda, as well as licenses for 18 companies engaged in mineral research and 76 companies involved in trading and processing. The minister stressed that Rwanda’s mining sector operates within the boundaries of the law, with proper documentation and traceability for international markets.

In response to Jacquemot’s misleading statements, Nduhungirehe emphasized that individuals like him who use international media to spread lies about the Great Lakes region are attempting to cover up the true beneficiaries of the valuable minerals in the DRC.

Under the new rules, any religious group applying for official status must provide a list of at least 1,000 members from the district where it intends to operate and pay a non-refundable registration fee of Frw2 million.

These requirements apply to churches, religious organizations, and affiliated institutions.

Recent inspections have already led to the closure of over 50 churches in 2024 due to non-compliance with existing regulations. Additionally, more than 900 places of worship were shut down for failing to meet legal and safety standards.

The new guidelines, issued on March 6, 2025, further emphasize compliance, making it mandatory for faith-based organizations to provide official certification from local authorities proving that their place of worship adheres to construction laws and is used exclusively for religious purposes.

Beyond financial and structural requirements, the regulations introduce stricter criteria for religious leadership. Leaders and their deputies must hold a degree in theology from a recognized institution.

If the degree was obtained abroad, an equivalency certificate must be provided. In cases where a leader holds a degree in another field, they must demonstrate completion of at least 1,200 hours of theological studies from an accredited institution.

The registration process for religious organizations has also become more rigorous. In the 2023/2024 period, 116 organizations applied for legal status, but only 19 were approved, while 97 were rejected for failing to meet requirements.

Religious groups wishing to expand by establishing new branches must now submit a formal request to the district and notify RGB, provide a notarized resolution from their governing body approving the expansion, and ensure that their activities align with the district’s development agenda.

In addition to administrative and structural requirements, the new regulations impose strict ethical standards on religious leaders.

Individuals convicted of genocide, genocide ideology, discrimination, or sectarianism are barred from holding leadership positions within faith-based organizations.

Leaders must also be at least 21 years old and have no criminal record involving imprisonment of six months or more, unless officially pardoned.

Financial transparency is another major focus of the new regulations. Religious organizations are required to conduct annual audits performed by professional experts, ensure that donor funds come from legal sources, and prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism by identifying and reporting suspicious transactions.

All financial activities must be conducted through banks or legally recognized financial institutions.

Violations of these regulations will result in severe penalties. Unauthorized branches will face immediate closure, and the organization responsible will be fined Frw5 million.

Individuals managing multiple religious organizations without proper authorization will lose the right to represent them.

Faith-based organizations already operating in Rwanda must comply with these new regulations within 12 months.

This message was conveyed by the Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga, during an interview with IGIHE.

The RDF delegation visiting CAR includes the Army Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Vincent Nyakarundi, and Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga. Their visit aims to inspect Rwandan troops stationed there and attend a graduation ceremony for CAR soldiers trained by the Rwandan military.

Rwivanga highlighted that Kagame sent Nyakarundi with a message of appreciation for the troops’ dedication and professionalism.

“The Army Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Vincent Nyakarundi, was sent by His Excellency the President of the Republic to deliver a message to the soldiers, commending them for the excellent work they are doing to maintain security,” he said.

He further emphasized that the areas under Rwandan military control in CAR remain secure, and local communities appreciate their presence.

Another key message from President Kagame was to reassure the troops that Rwanda’s security is intact, allowing them to carry out their duties without concern.

“The second message was that Rwanda is entirely secure, and they should continue their work without any worries,” Brig. Gen. Rwivanga added.

Kagame’s message comes amid continued tensions with Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which have been accused of plotting to destabilize Rwanda’s government.

When the M23 rebel group took control of Goma, evidence and weapons discovered in the city indicated the involvement of these neighboring countries in plans to undermine Rwanda. Rwivanga reassured the public that Rwanda’s borders are well-secured and that the country faces no immediate threats.

“We can assure the public that Rwanda is safe, and the borders are well-protected. The border-related concerns have been resolved. Since M23 took control of their positions, we have had no further issues along our border, meaning the country remains secure,” he stated, stressing that Rwandan forces remain vigilant and continue to fulfill their duties.

“Our troops are performing their duties as expected, safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and borders. Everything is proceeding as usual, and our message here is to assure the troops that Rwanda is safe,” he added.

He made these remarks in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, where he discussed the RDF’s missions in the Central African Republic (CAR), including both its role under the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, and its operations based on bilateral agreements between the two nations.

For the past 30 years, Rwanda’s security has remained unquestionable, with the country even contributing to regional stability. The RDF has played a crucial role in maintaining security in CAR and Mozambique, training thousands of soldiers in these countries to help them safeguard their nations in the future.

The UN peacekeeping mission in CAR began in 2014 and includes troops from various countries. However, Rwandan forces were given key responsibilities, such as protecting the country’s President and First Lady, as well as securing critical infrastructure, including the capital, Bangui, and the main airport.

In the interview, Brig. Gen. Rwivanga provided in-depth insights into these operations and revealed that in the coming days, over 600 soldiers trained by the RDF in Mozambique will complete their training.

{{Excerpts: }}

{{IGIHE: You have visited Rwandan troops stationed in different parts of the Central African Republic, including those under the UN mission. What was the security situation like?}}

{{Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga:}} The security situation is very stable. Our visit had two main purposes. The first was to inspect the Rwandan troops under the UN mission, MINUSCA, as well as those deployed under bilateral agreements.

The second reason was to attend the graduation ceremony of Central African Republic soldiers we have been training.

We have trained three cohorts of CAR soldiers so far. We visited our forces in various locations, including Bria and Bossembélé. The Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, was sent by His Excellency the President of Rwanda to deliver a message to the troops.

{{What was the main message?}}

It was a message of appreciation for their excellent work in ensuring security across the country. Our forces have effectively secured all assigned areas, and as you may have heard, military officials praise the RDF soldiers for their work.

Our troops have been tasked with securing major roads, including those connecting Bangui to Douala in Cameroon and Sudan. They have done this successfully, and local communities have expressed their confidence in our forces.

Another key message was to reassure them that Rwanda remains completely secure and that they should continue their mission without any concerns.

Another main purpose of the agenda was today’s passout of Central African soldiers ceremony that saw the graduation of 438 soldiers, adding to the 1,250 we have already trained in two previous cohorts. This is the third group we have trained, forming a highly specialized rapid response unit.

{{How will this unit operate, and how will you support it?}}

This unit has been built with strong capabilities, ensuring that the local forces will have the capacity to maintain security in the city and assist in other regions, in case we make a decision to withdraw our troops from Bangui, where RDF forces have been deployed since 2020.

The unit is now well-trained. We still have about two more training phases before the unit is fully complete.

{{What’s next after the remaining two training phases?}}

Training will continue as part of a structured plan. Once the unit is fully formed, it will take on its operational responsibilities. It is also possible that we will continue providing support and training even as they begin their work. The unit is already functional in certain locations, carrying out its duties effectively.

{{How do the RDF troops under the UN mission and those deployed through bilateral agreements coordinate their work?}}

The UN peacekeeping troops are responsible for ensuring civilian security, protecting UN personnel, and safeguarding key leaders, including the President. They also secure critical infrastructure, such as the airport.

Meanwhile, the troops deployed under bilateral agreements arrived in 2020 as reinforcements following an attack by François Bozizé and his allies, who attempted to overthrow the democratically elected President of CAR. The President of CAR requested support from Rwanda’s President to stop the attack.

We responded by deploying battle groups that halted the rebel offensive. After securing Bangui, our forces shifted their focus to training CAR troops to help them develop independent security capabilities.

We are now in the final phase of that mission, ensuring that local forces are fully equipped to maintain security once international forces leave.

{{What gives you confidence in the new recruits’ readiness after witnessing today’s graduation?}}

There are three key aspects. The first and most important is discipline. During training, we emphasize that military skills alone are not enough—discipline is what determines the success or failure of an army. It is evident that forces collapse because of indiscipline.

Of course, technical skills are also crucial, but discipline and strong leadership are fundamental. We have instilled these values in the troops we train.

{{Beyond CAR, the RDF is also deployed in Mozambique. What is the security situation there?}}

The situation is very stable. As you may recall, additional RDF troops were deployed there. We took over areas that were previously controlled by SADC forces, particularly in Macomia.

Initially, we were securing only Palma and Mocímboa da Praia, but due to the confidence the Mozambican leadership had in us, we were asked to expand operations.

When the Southern African Development Community mission (SAMIM) withdrew from Macomia, insurgents were still present, especially in Katupa, a dense forest like Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest. We launched operations that successfully drove them out.

We also conducted operations along coastal areas, further weakening the insurgents. While some minor security incidents still occur, we are continuously addressing them.

{{What’s next in Cabo Delgado?}}

We are now focused on restructuring the security forces and training Mozambique’s army. The first intake of 600 soldiers is set to complete their training in Nacala soon, and we will be there to oversee their graduation. We are making significant progress in this mission.

{{Recently, there has been tension in neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. What assurance can you give Rwandans?}}

We want to reassure Rwandans that the country is completely secure. Our borders are well-guarded. Previous threats along the border have been neutralized—ever since M23 took control of certain areas, we have had no further security issues on our borders.

This means that our security is intact. Our troops are effectively protecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. That was part of our message to the forces, ensuring that they know Rwanda is safe.

People can sleep peacefully. As for those who threatened in the past, we all saw how that turned out for them, they achieved nothing.

Makolo made these remarks during an interview with the German news outlet DW Africa, which focused on the recent capture of Brigadier General Jean Baptiste Gakwerere, a senior leader in the FDLR. This rebel group is composed primarily of individuals who participated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Brig. Gen. Gakwerere, along with 13 other FDLR fighters, was handed over to Rwanda by the M23 rebel group on March 1, 2025, through the main border post (La Corniche) in Rubavu district.

Makolo described Gakwerere as a long-sought target for Rwanda. “One of the individuals handed over is a senior figure in the FDLR, believed to be in charge of intelligence. We have been pursuing him for a long time to bring him to justice for his crimes during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and for his continued criminal activities in the DRC,” she said.

She added, “This is a positive development for the security of Eastern DRC. The more FDLR fighters are captured and brought to Rwanda, the more peaceful the region becomes for both Congolese residents and Rwandans who do not want these threats near our border.”

Makolo indicated that these FDLR fighters were captured during clashes that saw the M23 seize control of Goma. Those without criminal records will be sent to a reintegration center, while those with pending charges will face legal proceedings.

The 13 FDLR fighters, along with many others still at large, are reportedly being used by the DRC government in its conflict against the M23 rebels in the eastern part of the country. Makolo reiterated that the DRC’s reliance on the FDLR stems from the weakness and incompetence of its military.

“Since 2001 and 2009, there have been multiple agreements aimed at addressing this issue. One of the reasons these individuals, who played a role in the Genocide, continue to operate freely in the DRC is because the Congolese government sees value in their combat capabilities,” she explained.

“These are hardened fighters who participated in the Genocide, have spent years waging war in the DRC, and continue to spread genocidal ideology,” she added.

Makolo was blunt in her assessment of the Congolese military. “The DRC has a weak, ineffective military plagued by corruption and mismanagement. It is a military that cannot deliver results,” she said.

She further claimed that these weaknesses have led to the integration of FDLR fighters into the Congolese army and the involvement of Burundian troops, SADC forces, local militias known as Wazalendo, and European mercenaries in the conflict.

Despite the DRC government’s efforts to reinforce its military capabilities, it continues to lose ground. The M23 currently controls large parts of North Kivu, including Goma. In South Kivu, the group holds the Bukavu area, and credible reports indicate that M23 forces are advancing toward the city of Uvira.

He highlighted their exceptional professionalism and noted that wherever they are deployed, people are left reassured and satisfied with their conduct.

He made these remarks following discussions with the Rwandan Army Chief of Staff for Land Forces, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi, who visited the MINUSCA headquarters in the Central African Republic.

During his official visit to CAR, this week, Nyakarundi checked on Rwandan troops serving under the UN mission in Bossembélé, located in the Ombella-M’Poko Prefecture.

This visit followed an earlier trip on Wednesday, where he and the spokesperson for the Rwandan Defence Forces, Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, visited Rwandan troops stationed in Bria under the same mission.

Lt. Gen. Nyone commended Rwanda’s significant contribution to the UN mission, acknowledging the presence of both UN peacekeeping forces and bilateral forces operating under intergovernmental agreements.

“Rwandbat1 is based here in Bangui, ensuring the security of the capital. In military terms, Bangui is the center of gravity,” he said.

He emphasized the special role of these troops in protecting the Head of State, stating, “Beyond their general duties, they are entrusted with the security of the Head of State. Being selected for such a sensitive responsibility is a mark of distinction.”

He further elaborated on the responsibilities of Rwandbat2, which focuses on securing major supply routes into Bangui. “They are like the lifeblood of this mission. They perform excellently well. We faced some challenges in the past, but I believe significant progress has been made,” he noted.

Lieutenant General Nyone also highlighted the contributions of Rwandan forces in the northeastern regions and those operating a state-of-the-art hospital.

“The hospital provides comprehensive medical assistance not only to MINUSCA personnel but also to local civilians. As the Commander of the Forces, I am impressed by the work of the Rwandan troops,” he remarked.

He stressed that it is rare to find local residents complaining about Rwandan troops, attributing this to their professionalism and positive impact.

“Due to the trust they have earned and the excellent work they are doing, they have earned trust and respect. People want to see tangible results rather than hear unfounded stories. Their actions speak for themselves,” he added.

Nyone confirmed that the security situation in the Central African Republic is currently stable, particularly in Bangui and its surroundings, although there are still some security concerns in the western regions and border areas.

Currently, Lt Nkurikiyineza is deployed in the Central African Republic (CAR) as one of the security personnel assigned to protect President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.

Rwandan troops, deployed under the United Nations peacekeeping mission in CAR, are tasked with protecting the President and the First Lady, as well as securing key national infrastructure, including M’Poko International Airport.

Lt Nkurikiyineza explains that his decision to join the military was influenced by his older siblings, who encouraged him, along with his deep love for his country and desire to defend it as a soldier.

His dedication led him to be assigned to a UN peacekeeping mission. For over 20 years, Rwandan troops have actively contributed to such missions. Currently, besides CAR, they are also deployed in South Sudan.

“I take great pride in knowing that our country is at the forefront of restoring peace in foreign nations, especially here in the Central African Republic. It is an honor for me and my country to ensure that others do not suffer what we once endured when the world abandoned us,” he said.

In Bangui, at the Palais de la Renaissance, the Presidential Palace, Rwandan soldiers are highly visible. From the entrance to the innermost security perimeters, they work alongside Central African forces to ensure the President’s safety.

Lt Nkurikiyineza is positioned close to President Touadéra, ensuring that no threat comes near him.

“We operate based on the President’s schedule. Nearly 24 hours a day, we are with him—whether at his office, during his visits, or at his residence,” he explained.

This job is demanding, but those who undertake it do so with dedication. Their rigorous training prepares them to handle any challenges that arise.

“I am always positioned directly behind him as his second security officer. There is another Rwandan soldier I work closely with. When I was first assigned this duty, I thought it would be extremely difficult, but thanks to the training we received, we were well-prepared,” he added.

Lt Yvonne Mutesi has had a similar journey. She joined the military in 2016, completed her basic training, and later graduated from the Cadet Officer Course in 2023.

As part of the Rwandan contingent in the UN mission, her primary role is to protect the First Lady of the Central African Republic, Tina Marguerite Touadéra.

She begins her day at 5 a.m., preparing for work. Her daily schedule depends on the First Lady’s agenda, which she must anticipate and be ready for in advance.

Protecting a Head of State is a high-security responsibility that demands constant vigilance, commitment, and absolute readiness to prevent any threats.

“My work schedule is never the same. It depends on the First Lady’s activities, but regardless, I must always be at work before she wakes up or prepares for her day. I ensure everything is in place even before she informs me of her schedule,” Lt Mutesi said.

She has never encountered any challenges in her role due to being a woman. Instead, she believes her military training and confidence in her capabilities enable her to perform at the same level as her male counterparts.

“I have faced no challenges. We adapt to the culture of the people we work with, respecting their traditions while remaining professional. Thanks to the training we receive, there are no obstacles,” she said.

She encourages young women to serve their country, emphasizing that military service is not as difficult as some may think and that it brings immense pride.

“My advice to young women is to step up and serve their country. There is nothing too difficult, and it is a source of great honor,” she added.

Lt Marie Ingabire, also assigned to protect the First Lady, echoed this sentiment, urging more young women to consider military service.

“We are proof that women can do this job. I encourage other young women to join and contribute to our country,” she said.

Rwandan troops have been protecting CAR’s leaders since 2014, having initially been assigned to safeguard former President Catherine Samba-Panza and continuing with President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who took office in March 2016.