He explained that these measures were necessary due to ongoing security threats posed by the FDLR, a terrorist group formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura illustrated the severity of the threat by comparing the distance between Kigali and FDLR’s bases, 170 kilometers, to the distance between Paris and Reims. For three decades, he noted, Rwanda has faced a persistent security challenge along its border, necessitating strong defensive actions to protect its sovereignty.
Despite sanctions imposed by the U.S., the United Nations, and the European Union, FDLR continues to operate freely with the support of the Congolese government.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura emphasized that instead of dismantling the group, the Congolese army (FARDC) collaborates with it, further endangering Rwanda’s security.
He also criticized MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, for failing to neutralize FDLR despite its decades-long presence in the region.
Referring to recent security incidents, he highlighted that after the M23 rebels took control of Goma on January 27, 2025, FARDC forces launched artillery strikes into Rwanda’s Rubavu district, killing 16 civilians.
He revealed that intelligence reports confirmed a coordinated plan involving FDLR, FARDC, Burundian forces, SAMIDRC troops, and European mercenaries to carry out a large-scale attack against Rwanda.
Additionally, weapons—including missiles, drones, and heavy artillery—were discovered less than five kilometers from Rwanda’s border, indicating an imminent threat.
In light of these developments, the ambassador reaffirmed that Rwanda’s defensive measures are necessary and justified to ensure national security.
Rubavu Port was inaugurated on December 6, 2024, with a total construction cost of $9.17 million. It is the largest port in Rwanda and will be connected to other ports, including the nearly completed Rusizi Port and future ports planned for Karongi and Nkora in Rutsiro District.
The port was built on a two-hectare area and has the capacity to accommodate two large boats, each measuring 60 meters in length and capable of carrying 500 tons of cargo. It also features 12 docking pillars for large cargo boats and a dedicated docking area for passenger boats.
The port facilitates the transportation of various goods, including cement produced in Rwanda, food products from Kenya and Tanzania destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and other commodities.
Nzabonimpa Deogratias, the Vice Mayor of Rubavu District in charge of economic development, told IGIHE that Lake Kivu was like an untapped goldmine for the region.
“Rubavu Port, built on Lake Kivu, has enabled our residents to trade more efficiently with neighboring districts and the DRC. Currently, it handles 1,400 tons of goods daily, meaning it is operating at 70% of its full capacity,” he stated.
He added that many traders are utilizing the port, and they expect to reach the full capacity of 2,000 tons per day soon.
Nzabonimpa sees the port as a major business opportunity for Rwanda and urged the private sector to maximize its potential. Currently, the port facilitates the movement of 40 trucks daily, each carrying 35 tons of goods, and employs 200 permanent workers engaged in loading and unloading activities through five cooperatives.
“This efficiency ensures that traders can quickly offload their goods and return for more shipments without delays, which is why they should take full advantage of this infrastructure,” Nzabonimpa said.
He also encouraged investors to purchase modern boats for tourism purposes, allowing visitors to explore Rwanda’s scenic beauty.
Discussing the port’s economic impact on Rubavu District, Nzabonimpa highlighted the significant increase in tax revenue and the growth of private sector investments in Nyamyumba Sector, where the port is located.
He revealed plans to develop additional infrastructure, including a cross-border market near the port.
Dieudonné Mabete Niyonsaba, Chairman of the Private Sector Federation in Rubavu District, stated that the port has eased business operations by reducing transportation costs.
“Water transport is cheaper and can carry more goods, which has significantly lowered expenses for traders who previously relied on land transport. Rubavu District has become more accessible, as the port connects us to other areas along Lake Kivu and facilitates trade with the DRC,” he said.
He emphasized that stakeholders are committed to fully utilizing the port’s capacity and maximizing its economic benefits. He also encouraged users to improve their operations and cooperation to ensure mutual profitability.
Rubavu Port, located in Nyamyumba Sector on Lake Kivu, has a total capacity of handling 700,000 tons of goods and 2.7 million passengers annually.
The port comprises key facilities, including a cargo terminal, a tourism section, immigration offices, a police station, a vehicle repair area, and restaurants.
It also hosts services from the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), immigration and security authorities, and institutions typically found at land border crossings, such as MAGERWA and the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA).
Additionally, the port features designated areas for tourists visiting Rwanda’s Western Province attractions, as well as storage facilities where traders can temporarily keep their goods after unloading.
The year-on-year increase is a result of the identification of additional assets that were subsequently frozen, local media Swissinfo cited the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) as saying.
In addition, 14 real estate assets of individuals, companies or entities targeted by the European Union’s (EU) sanctions against Russia have been taken over by Switzerland.
According to the SECO, the Swiss authority has expanded its list of sanctions against Russia as it adopts the additional measures decided by the EU against Russia.
On Feb. 24, the EU adopted further measures against Russia as part of its 16th package of sanctions, which includes measures in the areas of goods, finance and services. (1 Swiss franc = 1.13 U.S. dollar)
The global health body now faces a $2.5 billion budget deficit, including a $1.9 billion gap in its planned $4.2 billion budget for 2026-27 and an additional $600 million deficit through the end of 2025, according to senior WHO officials who spoke at a recent global staff ‘Town Hall’ meeting.
Health Policy Watch, a nonprofit global health news outlet, reports that the U.S.—historically the WHO’s largest donor—has yet to pay its 2024 dues of $130 million, further deepening the organization’s financial crisis.
In total, the country owes WHO $260 million for the 2024-25 period, funds that are unlikely to be paid following newly elected President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the organization.
While the U.S. withdrawal will only take effect in January 2026 due to a required one-year notice period, the financial repercussions are already being felt.
Raul Thomas, WHO’s Assistant Director General of Business Operations, highlighted that the withdrawal of U.S. funding has played a key role in the crisis. The country contributed nearly $1 billion in both fixed and voluntary payments in 2022-23. The loss of these funds means WHO must now make significant budgetary adjustments to continue its core operations.
In response, WHO Director General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has announced strategic reductions across all levels of the organization, beginning with senior leadership.
Speaking to WHO staff via Zoom, he emphasized that the organization will undergo a prioritization exercise to focus on its core functions and maximize its impact despite reduced resources.
“Everything is on the table, including merging divisions, departments, and units, and relocating functions,” Tedros stated, adding that the prioritization process will be completed by the second half of the month.
He assured that the cuts will be guided by strategic need rather than contract type or grade level.
A newly formed “prioritization working group” led by Deputy Director General Dr. Mike Ryan, alongside Regional Directors Hans Kluge (Europe) and Hanan Balkhy (Eastern Mediterranean), will oversee the restructuring efforts. Thomas and WHO Chief Scientist Jeremy Farrar are also part of this team.
President Trump’s decision to pull the U.S. from WHO marks the second time he has pursued such action. During his first term, he initiated the withdrawal in response to what he claimed was WHO’s mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic. His successor, President Joe Biden, reversed that decision upon taking office. However, upon his return to the White House in January 2025, Trump swiftly signed an executive order to withdraw again.
While the full impact of the U.S. withdrawal will only take shape in 2026, WHO officials are already bracing for the financial and operational consequences of losing its largest donor. The organization now faces tough choices to ensure that it continues its global health initiatives with significantly reduced funding.
The program, designed to bolster youth capabilities, combined cutting-edge AI education with peace leadership training, equipping participants with tools to foster community development and promote peace.
IPYG, a global youth organization active in 128 countries, launched the YEPC in 2020. Since then, it has engaged over 3,000 participants from approximately 60 nations, offering annual peace education on topics relevant to youth.
This year’s sessions, held in March, included an AI Practical Training on March 15, where participants explored the significance of artificial intelligence and learned to use tools like ChatGPT in various fields.
A week later, on March 22, the Youth Leadership Training highlighted historical youth-led peace movements, emphasizing the pivotal role young people have played in social transformation and peacebuilding.
Rwandan youth were among those who benefited from these initiatives, joining peers from South Sudan, Timor-Leste, and beyond in gaining skills to become future “peace leaders.”
The program aims to inspire sustainable progress in their regions, with participants encouraged to extend their learning through educational outreach and peace campaigns that ripple from local communities to a global stage.
The YEPC aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education and supports UNESCO’s lifelong learning objectives, offering valuable opportunities to youth worldwide.
Stories of young leaders who sparked change during times of war and conflict were shared during the training, underscoring their contributions to civil rights and democratization movements.
A key influence in the program was Chairman Lee of HWPL, IPYG’s partner organization, whose belief that “the voice of one person who has experienced war can change the world” left a lasting impression. His wartime experiences reinforced the urgency of peace, a message that resonated with attendees.
Kuir Michael Riak, a participant from South Sudan and National Coordinator of South Sudan Students for Liberty, praised the training’s impact.
“Attending the YEPC has been an incredibly enriching experience,” he said.
“The peace leadership session directly addressed the challenges faced by my community. It reinforced the crucial role of youth networks in uniting citizens for grassroots peace initiatives and inspired me to drive meaningful change.”
For Rwandan youth and others, the program shifted perspectives, positioning them as active agents of peacebuilding rather than passive societal members.
With the mantra “the future of peace starts with today’s youth” echoing throughout, IPYG’s efforts are planting seeds for a more peaceful world, one empowered young leader at a time.
The 62-year-old was arrested at the Kayonza Bus Terminal in the Eastern Province and taken into custody by officers from the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) on March 19, 2025.
During the genocide, he served as the president of the CDR party in Kabuga, which is now located in Gasabo District, Rusororo Sector, Kabuga I Cell, Kabeza Village.
Reports indicate that a roadblock in front of Safari’s home was a site where numerous Tutsi were killed.
In 2018, authorities conducting searches for genocide victims’ remains discovered mass graves beneath Safari’s properties and in surrounding fields. The remains were found in Kabeza Village, Gako Cell, Masaka Sector (Kicukiro District), and Kabeza Village, Kabuga I Cell, Rusororo Sector (Gasabo District).
Safari had built structures over these remains, making it difficult to determine the exact number of victims, as many appeared to have been burned.
Upon learning that bodies were being uncovered on his properties, Safari fled to a neighboring country. He later returned and was arrested at the Kayonza Bus Terminal on March 19.
Safari is currently detained at RIB’s Rusororo Station, and his case file was submitted to the court on April 1, 2025.
The crime of concealing or tampering with genocide evidence is punishable under Article 8 of Law No. 59/2018 of August 22, 2018, concerning genocide ideology and related offenses.
If convicted, he faces a prison sentence of seven to nine years and a fine ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 Rwandan francs.
Safari had previously been convicted by Gacaca Courts in 2004 and sentenced to 30 years in prison for his role in the genocide. On appeal, his sentence was reduced to five years, and he was released in 2008.
Following Safari’s case, other individuals who were stationed at roadblocks where Tutsi were killed were also prosecuted.
These include Mucyo Jean Népomuscène, Buturutsemwabo Michel, Habyarimana Jean Népomuscène, Karekezi Augustin, and Twakizuru Jean Népomuscène.
They were found guilty of concealing information about mass graves at a site known as CND during the genocide.
On April 4, 2019, the Gasabo Intermediate Court sentenced them to five years in prison and fined each 100,000 Rwandan francs for concealing or destroying genocide evidence.
RIB has reiterated its commitment to holding accountable anyone who hides or tampers with genocide-related evidence.
The agency also urged the public to come forward with information about undisclosed burial sites so that victims can be given dignified burials.
“Thirty-one years after the Genocide against the Tutsi, it is imperative that people recognize the importance of revealing the locations of victims’ remains for proper burial, as this is a vital step toward true unity and reconciliation,” RIB stated.
The agency emphasized that concealing such evidence is a punishable offense and must not continue.
All imports would be subject to 10 percent additional tariffs, except as otherwise provided, the executive order said. This will take effect on April 5.
Trump will impose an “individualized reciprocal higher tariff” on the countries and regions with which the United States “has the largest trade deficits,” according to a White House document. This will take effect on April 9.
Some goods will not be subject to the reciprocal tariff, including steel and aluminum, as well autos and auto parts already subject to Section 232 tariffs, copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and lumber, the White House noted.
For Canada and Mexico, United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) compliant goods will continue to see a 0 percent tariff, non-USMCA compliant goods will see a 25 percent tariff, and non-USMCA compliant energy and potash will see a 10 percent tariff, according to the White House.
In his speech at the White House Rose Garden, Trump presented a chart on “reciprocal tariffs.” The chart shows that different countries and regions face different tariff rates.
For example, China will face a 34-percent tariff, the European Union 20 percent, Vietnam 46 percent, Japan 24 percent, India 26 percent, South Korea 25 percent, Thailand 36 percent, Switzerland 31 percent, Indonesia 32 percent, Malaysia 24 percent, and Cambodia 49 percent.
Trump claimed that other trading partners impose “non-monetary barriers” on the United States. The chart illustrates the tariff rates “charged” by different countries or regions to the United States, including “currency manipulation” and “trade barriers.”
“There is no basis for the claimed tariff-equivalent rates imposed by other countries. This is pure invention,” Gary Clyde Hufbauer, a nonresident senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, told Xinhua.
Despite Trump’s claim that higher tariffs will help bring in revenue for the government and revitalize U.S. manufacturing, economists have warned that such measures will push up prices for U.S. consumers and businesses, disrupt global trade, and hurt global economy.
“The move was a significant escalation of Mr. Trump’s trade fight and is likely to ripple through the global economy, driving up prices for American consumers and manufacturers while inciting retaliation from other nations,” The New York Times reported.
“The tariffs announced are at the extreme end of forecasts,” said Hufbauer. “Plus rabid characterization of foreign countries … Hard to see the U.S. avoiding a recession. World growth will be down 1 percent or more,” he said.
The prestigious event brought together distinguished guests, education leaders, students, and partners, celebrating a new chapter in Kepler College’s commitment to accessible and transformative education across Africa.
Chancellor Geingos, who officially began her term on July 29, 2024, brings a wealth of experience in governance, philanthropy, and youth empowerment. In her inaugural speech, she underscored the pivotal role of education in shaping Africa’s future.
“Education is the most powerful weapon we can wield to reshape our future. The world as we know, is changing at a fast pace, and the future isn’t coming, it’s here. It demands a new kind of African leader,” she stated.
“Today, as Kepler’s inaugural chancellor, I stand in front of you as a strong believer in the unstoppable force of African youth and the urgency of equipping them with the tools to reshape our future, because we have no more time,” she underscored.
Geingos reflected on Rwanda’s journey of resilience, emphasizing the power of narrative in shaping a nation’s destiny.
“A people who own their narrative control their destiny. When His Excellency President Kagame says, ‘We must do what is right for our country and not what pleases outsiders,’ he isn’t just speaking policy, he’s declaring intellectual sovereignty. That same sovereignty must define African education,” she emphasized.
She praised Kepler’s impact, highlighting its remarkable record of 95% of graduates securing meaningful employment within six months. Leadership, she emphasized, is not about titles but about action.
The new Chancellor called for a transformative education model that reaches across divides, empowering students from all backgrounds, including refugee communities.
The inauguration was attended by Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairperson of the Governing Council of Kepler College, who expressed deep gratitude for Geingos accepting the role. “Your wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to education make you an ideal and invaluable leader for our institution,” he said.
He also acknowledged the unwavering support from the Government of Rwanda, particularly the Ministry of Education. “We are dedicated to supporting the college in its mission to provide innovative, job-driven higher education that equips young people with the skills they need to thrive.”
Dr. Murigande reaffirmed Kepler’s commitment to making quality education accessible, affordable, and scalable.
On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, State Minister of Education Claudette Irere also extended congratulations.
“Education is the foundation of Rwanda’s progress and a key driver of our national development. Institutions like Kepler College are instrumental in realizing this vision by delivering competency-based learning and fostering a strong culture of job readiness,” she said.
Irere lauded Geingos’ appointment as a turning point for Kepler College. “Her extensive experience, passion for education, and advocacy for youth empowerment will no doubt propel this institution to new heights.
We’re confident that under her leadership, Kepler College will continue to nurture graduates who not only achieve academic excellence but also contribute meaningfully to Rwanda and Africa’s socio-economic transformation.”
Addressing Kepler students directly, Irere encouraged them to see their education as a journey of growth and leadership. “Rwanda is counting on you to use your education to become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. Your contributions will help shape a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient future for our nation.”
The inauguration of H.E. Monica Geingos as the founding Chancellor of Kepler College marks a significant step forward in the institution’s mission to equip African youth with the education and skills necessary for a brighter future.
“This afternoon at Urugwiro Village, President Kagame received Tanzania’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Maj Gen Ramson Godwin Mwaisaka, as he completed his mission,” said a made by the Office of the President on April 2, 2025.
Rwanda and Tanzania have long-standing relations, particularly in trade, as Rwandans utilize the Dar es Salaam Port for imports and exports. Additionally, Rwanda exports goods to Tanzania for trade. The two nations also collaborate on various projects, strengthening their diplomatic ties over the years.
For instance, during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Kagame on February 27, 2024, Gen Patrick Nyamvumba was appointed as Rwanda’s new Ambassador to Tanzania, replacing Fatou Harerimana.
Security cooperation is another key aspect of Rwanda-Tanzania relations. In May 2024, Rwanda Defence Force’s 5th Division welcomed Tanzania’s 202nd Brigade as part of routine security engagements. These meetings, held every three months, allow both armies to assess border security and share intelligence.
The two countries also share infrastructure projects as neighboring nations, including the Rusumo Hydropower Plant, a joint initiative between Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi.
The plant has a capacity of 80 megawatts, equally distributed among the three nations, with each receiving 26.6 megawatts. This power supply will benefit approximately 1.146 million people, including 520,000 Burundians, 467,000 Rwandans, and 159,000 Tanzanians.
Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Tanzania continue to be reinforced through high-level visits. In April 2023, President Kagame undertook a two-day visit to Tanzania to strengthen bilateral ties. This followed a previous visit by Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu to Rwanda in August 2021.
During President Suluhu’s visit, the two countries signed five cooperation agreements, covering areas such as technology and communication, cross-border movement of people and goods, education, and pharmaceutical regulations.
He made these remarks on April 2, 2025, while addressing the Senate plenary session on the country’s preparedness to combat disasters that affect various regions during the rainy season.
He emphasized that continuous monitoring is conducted to ensure the safety of residents before disasters strike.
Minister Murasira also highlighted that the assessment identified more than 25,000 hectares of farmland, approximately 200 infrastructures, and 23 public buildings such as offices and churches as vulnerable to disasters.
In terms of districts, 88 households in Rusizi District are at high risk, while Rubavu has 452, Rutsiro 424, Nyabihu 364, and Nyamasheke 100 households at risk of being affected by disasters.
“We closely monitor these areas and ensure that if any warning signs emerge, we alert people in advance or be prepared to respond promptly,” he said.
He emphasized that the rainy season is when disasters are most severe, with lightning being a major cause of fatalities throughout the year.
The Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) highlighted that districts such as Rubavu, Rutsiro, and Nyabihu have the highest disaster risk levels. Therefore, continuous monitoring is conducted to provide early warnings and ensure rapid intervention in case of an emergency.
Minister Murasira stated, “We have identified specific areas prone to disasters, and we prioritize thorough inspections in those locations.”
He further confirmed that Rwanda’s overall disaster resilience level is currently at 46%.
“Our resilience is still low. Research on disaster resilience across different sectors, such as infrastructure and agriculture, indicates that we stand at 46% nationally. Some areas have better resilience, while others are highly vulnerable. The lower the resilience, the higher the susceptibility to disasters, even minor ones, like light winds that can damage homes,” he explained.
MINEMA stressed that disaster-affected areas require immediate response and restoration efforts, as delays can worsen the damage and increase future risks.
Rwanda has identified 14 designated relocation sites where affected individuals can be resettled in case of a disaster.
Statistics show that natural disasters caused damages worth over 222.3 billion Rwandan Francs in 2023.
