A contingent of Ugandan comedians, led by Comedy Store UG founder and CEO Alex Muhangi, arrived in Kigali on March 26, 2025. The group includes Pablo, Maulana & Reign, MC Mariachi, Madrat & Chiko and renowned Ugandan musician and Karole Kasita.
Maulana & Reign shared their excitement, saying, “It feels great to be here. Expect more fire, more fire! It’s going to catch fire today.” Alex Muhangi, a regular in Kigali, added, “I love this place. It’s calm, unlike Kampala. I always want to come back.”
Pablo, thrilled to return after the pandemic, remarked, “It’s refreshing, like coming back home. We are here to deliver laughter; which people need now more than ever.”
Rwanda’s top comedians, including Fally Merci, Pirate, Rusine, Joshua, Ambasador w’Abakonsomateri, Muhinde, Umushumba, Dudu, Kadudu, and MC Kandi & Musa, will also perform.
Karole Kasita promised a thrilling show, saying, “Expect a high-energy performance where everyone will have an amazing time.”
With excitement building, fans are urged to grab tickets priced at 10,000 RWF (general), 20,000 RWF (VIP), and 35,000 RWF (VVIP). Kigali is in for an unforgettable night of laughter and entertainment.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the medal ceremony took place at the RWANBATT-2 Headquarters in the UN Malakal Base Camp, Upper Nile State.
UNMISS Force Commander, Lt Gen Mohan Subramanian, expressed his deep appreciation to the Government of Rwanda for its significant contribution to UN peacekeeping operations.
He commended the discipline and commitment of the Rwandan peacekeepers, emphasizing their vital role in maintaining peace.
Lt Gen Mohan also extended special recognition to the Battalion for their bravery during rescue operations of UN staff who were at risk of being killed by White Army rebels in Nassir County.
Brig Gen Louis Kanobayire, Rwanda’s Senior National Representative in South Sudan and UNMISS Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations highlighted RWANBATT-2 successful execution of security and stability operations.
These efforts included conducting patrols in coordination with local security forces, monitoring human rights conditions, and gathering intelligence to protect civilians.
The contingent also played a crucial role in securing the UN Malakal Protection of Civilians (POC) site and the Bunj Company Operating Base Camp, ensuring the safety of key installations and personnel.
He acknowledged that RWANBATT-2 achievements were made possible through the guidance and collaboration of all peacekeeping stakeholders, from the Force Commander to the Sector North Commander.
RWANBATT-2 Contingent Commander, Lt Col Charles Rutagisha, described the medal ceremony as a significant milestone, marking the completion of nine months of dedicated service under UNMISS.
He emphasized the importance of these medals in boosting the morale and motivation of UN peacekeepers.
He also expressed gratitude to UNMISS leadership, the Government of South Sudan, and allied contingents for their support in accomplishing their responsibilities.
Rusagara had been battling cancer for an extended period. In July 2016, his wife, Christine Rusagara, also succumbed to cancer after receiving treatment in the United Kingdom.
In 2016, Rusagara was convicted of spreading false information and inciting public insurrection against the government, as well as action that sought to discredit the state. He was also found guilty of illegal possession of firearms.
After appealing his original sentence, Rusagara was sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Court of Appeals in 2019, reducing the 20-year sentence handed down to him by the Military High Court in 2016.
Throughout his career, Rusagara held several key positions, including serving as Rwanda’s military attaché in the United Kingdom, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, President of the Military High Court, and Commander of the Nyakinama Military Academy.
Brig Gen (Rtd) Frank Rusagara died at the age of 70.
The UN has urged all parties to honor the 2018 peace agreement, which ended South Sudan’s devastating five-year civil war that claimed 400,000 lives.
According to AP, Machar’s arrest was confirmed by opposition spokesperson Pal Mai Deng, who stated that Machar is currently “in confinement by the government” and that his life is at risk.
The arrest follows increased hostilities between the opposition and government forces, particularly in the northern region, where an armed group loyal to Machar clashed with government troops.
Nicholas Haysom, head of the UN mission in South Sudan, called for restraint from all sides and emphasized the importance of adhering to the Revitalized Peace Agreement, which brought Machar and President Salva Kiir together in a unity government.
Tensions between the two leaders have been mounting, particularly after the White Army, an armed group loyal to Machar, overran a military base in Upper Nile state in March and attacked a UN helicopter.
The government’s response included airstrikes and warnings for civilians in the area to evacuate or face consequences. Since mid-March, over a dozen people have died, and the UN has raised alarms over the risk of a return to civil war.
In an update on Machar’s arrest, opposition official Reath Muoch Tang reported that 20 heavily armed vehicles arrived at Machar’s home, where he was detained along with his wife.
His bodyguards were reportedly disarmed, and an arrest warrant was presented, though the charges remain unclear.
The UN has warned that South Sudan’s leaders now face a critical choice: either to risk plunging the country back into widespread conflict or to work toward peace, recovery, and democracy in line with the 2018 agreement.
The attack occurred from Monday night to Tuesday when jihadist terrorists targeted a mixed military post close to the Cameroonian border in Wulgo, Nigeria, which is part of Sector III of the MNJTF.
The terrorists used advanced weaponry and light tactical vehicles, likely due to their connection with powerful criminal groups.
The injured soldiers were evacuated to N’Djamena, Chad’s capital, for treatment. This attack is part of the ongoing violence in the Lake Chad Basin, where groups like Boko Haram have been active for over a decade.
According to reports, this new assistance package includes a variety of military supplies, such as Milan anti-tank missiles, MICA missiles for Mirage fighter jets, Mistral air defense missiles, armored vehicles, munitions, and drones. Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Ukraine’s long-term peace and security.
The announcement came ahead of the summit of the “coalition of the willing” scheduled for Thursday, which will focus on short-term military support and explore how European countries can offer long-term security guarantees for Ukraine’s defense.
Macron also addressed the issue of peacekeeping forces, clarifying that such troops would not be stationed on the front lines. Instead, they may be deployed in strategic locations behind the front lines, such as towns or bases, to support Ukraine’s military capacity.
Zelensky, speaking alongside Macron, expressed hopes that the United States would maintain its efforts to enforce a ceasefire.
However, Russia’s condition for lifting sanctions on its banks and exports was met with a firm rejection from Macron.
He stated that lifting sanctions would depend on Russia’s compliance with international law and insisted it was “far too early” to consider easing them.
The transformation from its violent past to a beacon of economic growth, social cohesion, and political stability has captivated the attention of global observers.
Recently, a group of Harvard University students visited Rwanda to learn firsthand about the country’s evolution. Their reflections offer insights into Rwanda’s remarkable journey and the lessons it holds for other nations.
Jordan Thomas, a fourth-year student at Yale Law School and Harvard Business School, was part of the Harvard Africa Caucus, which held the trip. As a JD-MBA dual degree student, Thomas was eager to delve into Rwanda’s economic and governance structures.
“There’s a lot to learn from Rwanda. Studying the economic and institutional structures from a legal standpoint has been incredibly enriching. But more than that, it’s the experience of Kigali and Rwanda as a whole that has made this trip so rewarding,” he said.
Schola Chioma Eburuoh, a U.S. citizen with Nigerian roots, joined the trip almost by chance but she acknowledges that this has been one of the most exceptional movements of her life.
“I wanted to experience a new place, especially East Africa. I had only visited Nigeria, Ghana, and Morocco, so Rwanda was an exciting new addition to my travels. I’m very impressed by how welcoming the people are, and the openness of the government, it feels like everyone is invited to contribute,” she explained.
Monserrat Magana, a student from Mexico, was drawn to Rwanda for its ambitious post-genocide transformation. “I had heard a lot about the improvements Rwanda has made after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. As someone who enjoys nature and adventure, visiting Rwanda also gave me the opportunity to see the gorillas and experience a safari, which I had always dreamed of,” she said
The beauty and community spirit of Rwanda stood out to many of the students. Magana shared, “There’s a sense of unity here. People help each other in the streets, and you can see a real sense of social interaction and togetherness.”
This theme of unity was echoed by Brandon Tran, a mid-career student in Public Administration from the U.S. He noted the strong social contract between the government and the people, which contributes to Rwanda’s development.
Tran was especially moved by his visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre. “The memorial walks you through Rwanda’s history in such a complex and personal way. It shows the pre-colonial and colonial periods, the events leading up to and during the genocide, and then the incredible regeneration post-1994. It’s not just about the tragedy of 1994, it’s about understanding what happened before and how Rwanda has rebuilt itself,” he said.
This careful and nuanced approach left a lasting impression on him. The students were equally struck by Rwanda’s bold vision for the future. The government’s focus on tourism and technology is shaping the country as a regional model for development.
Tran, for instance, was intrigued by Rwanda’s widely perceived ambition to become the ‘Singapore of Africa.’ “It’s clear that the government is proactive and focused on long-term goals. Kigali’s development is incredible, and the country’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment are impressive,” he observed.
Yuchen Ji, also known as Rain, a public policy student from Beijing, emphasized the importance of a unified vision in Rwanda’s success.
“One of my biggest takeaways was the country’s ability to invite different government agencies to align with a shared goal. For instance, in discussions with the Ministry of Justice, I learned how critical rule of law is for both societal development and attracting foreign investment,” she noted.
The Ministry of Education’s focus on developing human capital also resonated deeply with the students. As Rain explained, Rwanda’s efforts to equip its citizens with both knowledge and practical skills play a crucial role in its economic development.
“This holistic approach, addressing everything from the rule of law to education, sets the country on a strong path forward,” she explained.
Tunde Wey, a Nigerian fellow at the Graduate School of Design, also reflected on Rwanda’s design aesthetics, which resonated with his own cultural background. “The design sensibility here is familiar to me. There’s an elegance and functionality that speaks to a deep-rooted cultural understanding of space and community,” he revealed.
Throughout their trip, the Harvard students came to recognize Rwanda as a country that not only acknowledges its tragic past but actively works towards a brighter future. The nation’s resilience, unity, and proactive approach to governance have left a deep impression on each of them.
As they prepared to leave, the students reflected on Rwanda’s incredible transformation and the lessons that other nations might take from its journey.
“Rwanda is a shining example of how a country can rebuild, not just physically, but socially and politically. The resilience of the people here and the commitment to healing and progress are truly inspiring,” said Jordan.
Rwanda, once synonymous with tragedy, is now a symbol of hope and a testament to the power of unity and transformation. The students from Harvard left with a deeper understanding of the country’s journey and with a renewed belief in the potential for positive change anywhere in the world.
The appointment was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
As head of RIB, Col. Kabanda will oversee the overall direction and operations of the bureau, including leading investigations, ensuring accountability, and upholding the rule of law.
In addition to Col. Kabanda’s appointment, the cabinet also confirmed several other key positions across different institutions, including the reappointment of Oda Gasinzigwa as chairperson of the National Electoral Commission (NEC). She will be deputized by Kizito Habimana.
Other members of the commission include Fortunée Nyiramadirida, Nicole Mutimukeye, Carine Umwali, Jean Bosco Mutijima, Faustin Semanywa, Françoise Kabanda Uwera, and Judith Mbabazi.
During Wednesday’s meeting, the Cabinet also appointed Jeanne Umuhire as the new Deputy Director General at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).
Nassi Agaba Bisengo was appointed Deputy Director General at the Rwanda Technical and Vocational Education Training Board (RTB).
In the Ministry of Education, John Bosco Nkuranga was named Strategic Projects Implementation Unit Coordinator.
Dorian Cyubahiro joins the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning as Chief Technical Advisor.
At the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board, Dr. Joram Ndayishimye will head the Nuclear Technologies and Research Development Department, while Capt. Agnes Mutoni will lead the Nuclear Safety and Security Department. Eng. Alexis Ruhinda steps into the role of Manager of the Research Reactor Division, and Eng. Yves Butera becomes Manager of the Nuclear Power Production Development Division.
In the Office of the Prime Minister, Chantal Tuyishimire takes on the role of Senior Policy Analyst, with Françoise Niyigena, Oscar Uwayo, and Ornella Rwaniza all appointed as Policy Analysts.
This tax declaration specifically pertains to business activities conducted between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Following the end of this tax period, taxpayers are granted an additional three months to complete their accounting and submit their income tax returns to the RRA.
With the deadline fast approaching, the RRA reminds taxpayers that timely compliance is essential to avoid unnecessary penalties and ensure smooth processing of their returns.
Jean Paulin Uwitonze, Assistant Commissioner in charge of Taxpayer Services and Communication, explains that those concerned with this tax are individuals or businesses that generate income and have a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
Thus, they must declare whether they engaged in business activities or not or if they made profit or not.
“We have individuals who obtained their TINs in 2024. When you acquire a TIN, you are required to declare, for the first time, between January and March of the following year,” he clarified. “You may have operated for a month, two months, or the entire year. The important thing is that if you have engaged in profit-generating activities, you are required to pay income tax, and that will be determined after declaration.”
“We are saying that any taxpayer with a TIN, whether they have operated or not, should declare their status and whether they made a profit or not, fulfilling their obligation to declare is required by law.”
Apart from taxpayers registered under the real regime, who manage their accountancy and pay the corporate income tax at 28 percent rate, small enterprises composed of those whose turnover is between Frw 12 million and Frw 20 million, must pay a lump sum tax of 3% on annual turnover. Micro-enterprises pay a flat tax based on their annual turnover.
Taxpayers under the lump sum or flat tax regimes can file their returns by dialing *800#, allowing them to declare easily using their mobile phones. Corporate income taxpayers, however, file their declarations through the e-tax system.
{{Assistance for Taxpayers facing difficulties}}
To support those encountering difficulties during the declaration process, a help desk was set up and will remain open to assist taxpayers, who may encounter challenges while filing their 2024 income tax, with just few days left until the March 31, deadline.
Kimihurura support desk assists those in the City of Kigali while those in provinces can access the same services from their respective district tax centres.
“Currently, very few have declared, which is an issue. We expect a rush and high traffic at the last minute, yet the system has been open for three months,” Uwitonze explained.
“That’s why we encourage people to declare early—it doesn’t mean you have to pay right away. Declare early, know your tax amount, and you can pay later on the 28th, 29th, or 30th of the month; but make sure you have declared to avoid becoming one of those in last minute long queues in need of urgent help.”
With the changes made this year, taxpayers can now generate a declaration document (Doc ID) in the system. To do this, go to E-Tax, select “Online Requests,” and find the option to request the declaration document. Choose the type of tax and the period, and then continue.
Taxpayers are urged to act promptly to declare their taxes and avoid the last-minute rush, which may lead to penalties.
{{Penalties for non filing }}
The tax procedure law states that a taxpayer who fails to declare and pay tax within the legal time limit must pay the tax due and is subject to an administrative fine. It provides for both general fixed administrative fines and non-fixed administrative fines for non-filers.
{{For fixed administrative fines, a taxpayer provides different rates:}}
-* Frw 50,000: If the annual turnover is below Frw 20 million:
-* Frw 300,000: For a public institution, a non-profit organization or a taxpayer whose annual turnover exceeds Frw 20 million
-* Frw 500,000: If they fall under the category of large taxpayers.
{{In addition, there are non-fixed administrative fines, and the law provides different rates:}}
-* A penalty of 20% of the due tax applies if the delay does not exceed 30 days.
-* A penalty of 40% applies if the taxpayer pays within 31 to 60 days after the deadline.
-* A penalty of 60% applies if the delay exceeds 60 days.
{{Late payment interests}}
If a taxpayer declares the tax due within the legal time limit but fails to pay it on time, the following fines apply:
-* 5% of the due tax if the delay does not exceed 30 days.
-* 10% of the due tax if the payment is made between 31 and 60 days after the deadline.
-* 30% of the due tax if the delay exceeds 60 days.
{{A taxpayer who fails to pay tax within the period set by law is also subject to late payment interest on the principal tax amount:}}
-* 0.5% if the delay does not exceed 6 months.
-* 1% if the delay is between 6 and 12 months.
-* 1.5% if the delay exceeds 12 months.
Late payment interest is non-compounding and is calculated on a monthly basis from the first day after the due date until the payment date. Each month that begins is counted as a full month. The total late payment interest cannot exceed 100% of the due tax.
On March 16, 2025, Tshisekedi’s office announced that it had welcomed Congressman Dr. Ronny Jackson and discussed security in eastern DRC as well as development issues.
“On this Sunday, President Félix Tshisekedi met with Mr. Ronny Jackson, the Special Envoy of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, and a member of the U.S. Congress,” the office of the president said in a statement.
Dr. Jackson, who also chairs the U.S. Congress Intelligence and Special Operations Committee, visited Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda to understand the root causes of insecurity in the region.
After concluding his visit on March 23, Dr. Jackson explained to his fellow U.S. lawmakers that the insecurity stemmed from colonial-era border changes in the 19th century, which resulted in some land being allocated to the DRC.
Dr. Jackson stated that due to these altered borders, some Congolese in eastern DRC, including many members of the M23 armed group, are not recognized as full citizens, which has led them to take up arms to fight for their rights.
“For lasting peace, the Congolese government must integrate M23 fighters into the military and recognize the people of eastern DRC as full citizens with legitimate rights,” he added.
His remarks angered some Congolese social media users, who criticized the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa, questioning how a special envoy from Trump could make such statements.
The outrage stemmed from the fact that Dr. Jackson did not distort the region’s history as some Congolese politicians and their foreign allies have often done.
On March 26, the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa clarified that Dr. Jackson was not a special envoy of Trump but had visited the region as a member of the U.S. Congress.
“The Embassy wishes to clarify that Mr. Ronny Jackson is an elected member of the U.S. Congress and not an official envoy appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate,” the statement read.
Dr. Jackson’s remarks could potentially shift the perspectives of some U.S. politicians who previously believed that the conflict between the Congolese army and M23 was solely driven by the struggle for mineral resources, rather than by the fight for the rights of marginalized Congolese communities.
