Announced on Monday during the Cannes Lions advertising conference, the new feature will display ads from businesses in the app’s Stories-like “status” section, which is used by about 1.5 billion people daily.
This is the first time WhatsApp, which built its reputation on simplicity and privacy, will allow advertisements within the platform.
Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, says the ads will be targeted using limited information such as users’ location, language, and interactions within the app. However, personal messages, calls, and contacts will remain off-limits for ad targeting, and WhatsApp promises that end-to-end encryption will stay intact.
“We work hard to protect the privacy of people’s communications,” said Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp. “Some people only use WhatsApp for private chats and calls, and nothing is changing about that.”
The move follows years of internal debate. WhatsApp’s original founders, Jan Koum and Brian Acton, were firmly opposed to monetising the platform through ads, but both left the company years ago.
Meta had considered similar advertising plans before shelving them in 2020, only to revive the idea amid rising pressure to diversify revenue sources.
Meta’s advertising business remains robust, generating nearly all of its $164 billion in revenue last year, but WhatsApp has been one of its last major platforms to remain untouched by ads.
Analysts suggest this new strategy could unlock a significant, yet largely untapped, revenue stream from the world’s most popular messaging app.
In addition to the in-app ads, WhatsApp also plans to promote content creators and businesses through its “channels” feature, and will introduce paid subscriptions for exclusive updates.
Despite Meta’s reassurances, the change is likely to spark concerns among users and privacy advocates. However, the company insists that participation in cross-platform data sharing for ad targeting is optional, and users can manage their preferences through Meta’s Accounts Center.
“Putin and Erdogan condemned Israel’s use of force against Iran, which violated the UN Charter and other norms of international law,” the statement said.
The statement said both sides expressed the most serious concern over the ongoing escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict, which has already caused a significant loss of life and poses long-term consequences for the entire region.
The two leaders called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged both sides to settle their differences, including those related to Iran’s nuclear program, through political and diplomatic means.
Putin expressed gratitude to Erdogan for providing organizational support for the direct talks between Moscow and Kiev, noting that Russia has strictly adhered to the agreements reached during the Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul on June 2, including the return of bodies of dead service personnel and the exchange of prisoners of war.
The event served not only as a transition of leadership from Outgoing President Srinath Vardhineni to Incoming President Srinivas Cheruvu but also as a celebration of purpose, unity, and service.
The evening opened with a symbolic gesture of lighting the ceremonial lamp, an act rooted in tradition, representing the light of service and hope Rotary brings into communities.
In his address, the newly installed President expressed deep humility and gratitude.
“This moment is not just about me, it is about all of us, about the legacy we uphold, and the future we will build together,” he said.
The presence of dignitaries, including High Commissioner of India Shri Mridu Pawan Das, Nigerian Ambassador Ibrahim Zanna, Deputy High Commissioner of Uganda Margaret Kedisi, Mr. Maurice Toroitich, MD NCBA Bank, Assistant District Governor Suman Alla of Rotary District 9150 added weight to the occasion. Their attendance reflected the club’s growing regional stature and its vision of service beyond borders.
Under Outgoing President Srinath Vardhineni’s leadership, the club saw notable achievements, membership growth, increased giving to The Rotary Foundation, and impactful projects such as a dental outreach program that screened over 3,000 children in partnership with the University of Rwanda.
Another highlight of the past year was a global grant project in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Wilton (USA) and REAP Rwamagana, which empowered 40 youth with vocational skills in tailoring and fashion design.
“These initiatives showcased the true magic of Rotary. I thank everyone for your unwavering support, offered full backing to the incoming team, and wish my President Elect Srinivas, all the very best,” reflected Vardhineni.
Cheruvu took time to appreciate the contributions of his predecessor, Srinath Vardhieni.
“Your dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our club,” he noted.
Looking forward, President Cheruvu outlined a vision grounded in continuity and deepened community impact. The club has committed to continue contributing to The Rotary Foundation and End Polio Funds in the Rotary year 2025–26.
“Each contribution we make, no matter the size, becomes a gift that multiplies, investing in humanity, empowering communities, and transforming lives,” he said.
Planned projects include support for a school catering to blind and deaf children by providing educational materials, training tools, and equipment. Another initiative aims to furnish medical equipment to health facilities serving vulnerable populations.
“Rotary is not just about changing lives, it’s about transforming communities with one service at a time,” Cheruvu emphasised.
During the ceremony, the outgoing board members were recognised for their efforts in the past year. Rotarian Dr. Dinesh C. Maganti was honoured as Rotarian of the Year for his pivotal role in strengthening membership, supporting fundraising efforts, and leading community outreach.
“Let this be the year we deepen our connections, enhance our collaborations, and expand our impact… Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much,” said Cheruvu.
With a legacy of achievement behind and a promise of purpose ahead, the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan stands poised to serve, inspire, and transform lives, one project, one person, one act of service at a time.
The 61-year-old boasts a wealth of experience on the African continent, having managed top-tier Moroccan sides such as RS Berkane, AS FAR, and Wydad Athletic Club. Talib holds CAF Pro and UEFA Pro coaching licenses and most recently managed Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi during the 2022/23 season. He later served as the Director of Sports at RCA Zemamra.
Talib is set to replace Serbian coach Darko Nović, who parted ways with the club just three games before the end of the 2024/25 Rwanda Premier League campaign. Nović’s tenure lasted 11 months, during which APR FC endured a mixed season—falling short in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round but eventually clinching the Rwanda Premier League title, albeit with difficulty.
Club insiders say Talib’s signing is part of APR FC’s broader strategy to revamp the squad and bring tactical discipline to the team, as they aim to make a deeper run in continental competitions.
According to Rwandan football journalist Kalisa Bruno Taifa, who closely monitors the club, Talib’s knowledge of African football and track record in developing competitive squads made him the top choice for the role.
In preparation for the new season, APR FC has already strengthened its squad with several local signings, including Hakizimana Adolphe, Iraguha Hadji, Bugingo Hakim, and Ngabonziza Pacifique.
The club is also in advanced talks with former right-back Omborenga Fitina and plans to bring in three foreign players. One of them, Ronald Ssekiganda from Uganda, signed earlier in January. The other two are expected to be an out-and-out striker and a creative midfielder to fill the No. 10 role.
With pre-season preparations set to begin soon, all eyes will be on how Talib reshapes the squad and instills a competitive edge as APR FC prepares for both domestic and continental challenges.
Speaking in a candid conversation on The Long Form podcast hosted by Sanny Ntayombya, Onyango-Obbo described the RPF as Africa’s first true statehood movement and shared vivid memories of encountering President Paul Kagame, who at the time was commander of its armed wing, the RPA, and whose quiet resolve in Rwanda’s rugged bush foretold his role in transforming a shattered nation.
Onyango-Obbo described the RPF’s struggle, which ended the 100-day Genocide against the Tutsi in July 1994, as unique.
“It was not a classical liberation movement against dictatorship,” he said. “It was to get the largely Tutsi refugee population to return home.”
He likened the movement’s geopolitical significance to the forces behind Israel’s founding, noting its improbable success. Operating deep in Rwanda’s hinterland, far from coastal supply lines, the RPF faced steep odds as a minority force, never exceeding 15% of Rwanda’s population even with full Tutsi support. Yet, under Kagame’s command, it triumphed.
Onyango-Obbo revealed that his access to the RPF, facilitated by childhood ties in Fort Portal and the group’s openness to African journalists, offered a rare perspective.
“The RPF was one of the first movements to give preference to African journalists to cover them,” he recalled.
Onyango-Obbo, then a budding journalist, travelled to Rwanda’s war-torn north and saw stark contrasts—abandoned government barracks stocked with beer and cigarettes, while barefoot RPF fighters in tattered t-shirts pushed forward.
Among them, Kagame, then a Major General, struck him as contemplative yet tough. His quiet resolve anchored the movement’s gruelling campaign after he stepped in to lead following the death of Fred Rwigema, just one day after the liberation war began.
“He was almost exactly as he is today,” he said, noting Kagame’s unassuming demeanour.
Unlike flamboyant rebel leaders like Angola’s Jonas Savimbi, Onyango-Obbo revealed, Kagame’s authority was subtle.
“He was contemplative, thoughtful, not rushed to judgment, but tough. Your first sense would be, ‘How is he the leader?’ He didn’t broadcast it visibly. As president, he has trappings that make him stand out, but back then, unlike Jonas Savimbi, who lived like a king in the bush, Kagame didn’t,” he observed.
“You needed to know him to understand his place. If you were a visitor, guessing the leader, you wouldn’t pick him.”
In the unforgiving Muhabura mountains, where RPF fighters endured brutal cold and some froze to death with guns still clutched in their hands, Paul Kagame’s unyielding grit stood out.
Onyango-Obbo, witnessing the rebels’ resilience in the mountains, became convinced of their unstoppable force.
“If they came down the mountain,” he believed, “they wouldn’t be stopped.”
Onyango-Obbo noted that Kagame’s relentless persistence, which later drove Rwanda’s successful methane extraction projects on Lake Kivu despite numerous failures, confirmed his unwavering belief that no challenge was insurmountable.
“His views have broadened, but he’s the same person. The idea of impossible doesn’t exist for him. He wouldn’t have succeeded if it did,” he explained.
“For example, after the war, they explored methane extraction. They had many failures, but he didn’t give up despite disappointments. Now, with methane plants on Lake Kivu, looking back to 2000, anyone would have thrown in the towel.”
He also shared his first impression of Rwigema, describing him as warm and easy to connect with, even from a distance.
“He was easily the most charismatic person I’ve met. He radiated it from a distance. He had a very easygoing personality. You wouldn’t imagine he was a soldier. It’s difficult for people who’ve been in the trenches to escape being soldiers, but he could,” he narrated.
The Ugandan author also shared a memory of seeing Rwigema in Kampala near the Diamond Bank building, heading to a bookstore.
“He drove up in a VW Golf, got out in jeans, an untucked shirt, and sandals, going to the bookshop. We shouted at him, he gave high-fives, greeted people in the street, alone, without guards. That’s the kind of person he was.”
In the interview, filmed in Nairobi, Kenya, the Ugandan journalist also recalled early warning signs of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Just weeks after the RPF’s October 1990 offensive, he visited a Ugandan border camp where Tutsi refugees bore machete wounds inflicted by Interahamwe militants.
“The infrastructure of the genocide was already baked into Rwandan society,” he said, lamenting journalists’ failure to foresee the horror.
Beyond Rwanda, Onyango-Obbo shared reflections on East Africa’s trajectory. He warned that Uganda, after nearly four decades under President Yoweri Museveni, faced a fractured future, potentially splintering into autonomous regions by 2070 due to regional distrust and unresolved grievances.
He predicted that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Somalia could stabilise within 15 years, possibly through federalism or an al-Shabaab-led regime, while South Sudan and Burundi risked prolonged stagnation.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Rwanda, Dr Edouard Ngirente, on behalf of the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force, Paul Kagame.
Also in attendance were the Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda; Minister of Cabinet Affairs, Ines Mpambara; Minister of Internal Security, Dr Vincent Biruta; Minister of Local Government, Dr Patrice Mugenzi; Minister of Education, Joseph Nsengimana; Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire; RDF Chief of Defence Staff, General M.K. Mubarakh; Service chiefs; the heads of the Rwanda National Police and Rwanda Correctional Service; representatives of other security organs; as well as officials from the University of Rwanda and local government.
In his remarks, Dr. Ngirente, underscored the pivotal role the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College plays in preparing leaders to navigate today’s complex security environment.
“It is more than an institution; it is the foundation upon which we build the future of our defence forces. Through this programme, our senior officers have acquired not only tactical expertise but also strategic insight; ensuring they are well prepared to operate effectively in an evolving and challenging security landscape.
“Today, the world presents emerging threats, including cyber warfare, asymmetric conflicts, misinformation, and global health crises. These challenges require leaders who think critically, adapt swiftly, and act decisively with integrity. Developing such leadership is at the heart of this training. In this regard, the Government of Rwanda continues to invest in resources, enhance infrastructure, and foster technological advancement to support this College,” said Dr. Ngirente.
He also expressed gratitude to the nations of the graduating officers, noting that their presence at this internationally recognised college reflects the value of cooperation and collaboration in strengthening defence capacities.
The Commandant of the RDF Command and Staff College, Brigadier General Andrew Nyamvumba, reiterated the college’s commitment to delivering high-quality and adaptive education and training that meet the demands of today’s dynamic security environment.
Colonel Dr. Dan Gatsinzi of the RDF was recognised as the overall best-performing student.
Among the graduates, 70 were awarded a Master of Arts in Security Studies by the University of Rwanda.
Participating countries in this year’s intake included: Rwanda, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Jordan, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
The arrest was confirmed by Dr. Murangira B. Thierry, spokesperson for the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), who stated that Uwihanganye was apprehended on June 10, 2025.
“Uwihanganye was arrested on June 10, 2025, and is currently held at the RIB Kicukiro station. His case was forwarded to the Prosecution on June 13, 2025,” Dr. Murangira said.
The charge of fraud, which Uwihanganye faces, is defined in Article 176 of Law No. 68/2018 of June 30, 2018, on offenses and penalties. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of between three and five years, along with a fine of no less than Frw 500,000 and no more than Frw 1 million.
The charge of forging, altering, or using forged documents is specified in Article 276 of the same law. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of between five and seven years, along with a fine of no less than Frw 3 million but not exceeding Frw 5 million, or one of these penalties.
Dr. Murangira emphasized that RIB will not tolerate fraudulent acts or the exploitation of others for personal gain, nor the use of forged documents.
He reminded the public that anyone involved in such activities will be apprehended and brought to justice, as these offenses are punishable by law.
RIB also urged people to exercise caution and avoid trusting individuals claiming to be selling cars, advising them to refrain from handing over money to such persons.
Kayisinga Francine, a loyal client of COPEDU Plc since 2001, expressed her gratitude for the company’s consistent support, especially in helping her provide education for her children and build a home.
“When my husband passed away in 2001, I turned to COPEDU Plc for a loan to build a house. Over the years, they have provided me with multiple loans, all of which I have successfully repaid. Today, I have two children studying abroad, and I’ve been able to support their education . I am truly grateful.”
Investor Byukusenge Elie, who has been a client for nine years, noted that he started with a loan of just Frw 5 million and has since expanded his business significantly.
“Now, my loans exceed Frw 100 million, and the service is incredibly fast,” he said. “When you request a loan, it’s approved within a month, and they keep you informed about the status. Meeting as clients allows us to gain a better understanding of the services offered, including new products we weren’t aware of. They actively listen to our feedback, and we’ve seen real improvements,” she shared.
COPEDU Plc’s Managing Director, Raissa Muyango, highlighted that the primary objective of the event was to facilitate dialogue, build stronger relationships, and hear client feedback in order to refine the services provided.
“COPEDU plays a key role in Rwanda’s financial development. We hold a significant market share, and last year, we posted a profit of Frw 3 billion, all thanks to you, our clients. We are deeply appreciative of your continued support.
“Our services today extend beyond loans, and we’ve embraced technological advancements. Clients can now access our services remotely, without needing to be physically present,” she noted.
Muyango also mentioned that COPEDU is focusing on expanding its money transfer services. While there are still some challenges to address, the institution is committed to making these services more accessible for clients and encourages their active participation.
COPEDU Plc has been providing financial services for nearly 28 years. The institution currently operates 11 branches across Rwanda, including locations in Remera, Batsinda, the headquarters in Kicukiro, Nyabugogo, Nyarugenge Market, Gisozi, Kimironko, CHIC, Kabuga, and Rwamagana.
Held on Sunday, June 15 at Iwacu Academy, the event aimed to raise awareness and offer critical screenings for major health risks, including hypertension, diabetes, cervical cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.
The event attracted a broad range of participants, including residents of Vision City and Estate 2020, individuals from surrounding villages, local government leaders, and representatives from the Kinyinya Sector in Gasabo District.
It also saw the participation of members of the National Council of Women (CNF), various youth groups, the Kinyinya Sector’s Taille Irahenda Group, and security personnel from the Kinyinya Sector.
During the event, Dr. Edgard Alexandre Murinzi shared insights on the importance of early detection and regular screenings.
He emphasised that early identification of diseases is a vital tool in preventing and effectively managing non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Murinzi also addressed the stigma often associated with certain conditions, urging participants to overcome the fear and shame tied to diseases like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer.
Goodlife Access, an organisation dedicated to improving public health, reaffirmed its commitment to providing healthcare services to communities. By facilitating free screenings and offering vital health information, the organisation emphasised the importance of preventive care and early detection as key components in safeguarding the health of Rwandans.
Ida-Alexandra de Cordier, Director of Goodlife Access, thanked Vision City for its leadership and collaboration in promoting public health initiatives. She commended Vision City’s role in encouraging local populations to actively participate in health screenings and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention.
The leader of Vision City, Mrs. Nishimwe Luce Gloria, expressed gratitude to all attendees, participants, and representatives from various institutions for supporting the event.
She also extended her thanks to Iwacu Academy School for playing a critical role in organising this impactful health awareness day.
Through the collaborative efforts of Goodlife Access, Iwacu Academy School, and local leaders, the event successfully underscored the importance of proactive healthcare.
Residents of Vision City were empowered to take control of their health by participating in the screenings and gaining valuable knowledge on disease prevention and early detection.
The Ministry of Health in Rwanda indicates that nearly 60% of deaths caused by illness are due to non-communicable diseases.
This underscores the urgency of raising awareness and providing access to early screenings, which are crucial in reducing the impact of NCDs on the population.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 70% of global deaths, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause, responsible for approximately 32% of global deaths.
Cancer is the second leading cause, contributing to over 9.6 million deaths each year, followed by diabetes and hypertension as significant contributors to mortality worldwide.
The event not only provided free health screenings but also offered a platform for health education, where participants learned about the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with these common diseases. By raising awareness and facilitating direct access to healthcare services, this initiative helped Vision City residents take an active role in managing their health.
The success of the event demonstrates the power of community collaboration in promoting health and well-being. With continued efforts like these, Vision City is making significant strides toward creating a healthier, more informed community.
The removal was confirmed by FATF President Elisa de Anda Madrazo after the FATF general meeting held in Strasbourg, France, from June 10 to 13, according to the statement.
Tanzania was placed on the grey list in October 2022 due to identified strategic deficiencies in its framework for addressing financial crimes, including money laundering and terrorist financing, said the statement.
Reacting to the announcement, Minister of Finance Mwigulu Nchemba reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its financial systems.
“Tanzania will sustain the progress achieved and continue working with both domestic and international stakeholders to combat money laundering, terrorism financing, and the financing of weapons of mass destruction,” he said.
“The goal is to maintain Tanzania’s reputation for integrity and transparency in financial systems, which are critical for sustainable development and prosperity,” Nchemba added.
