Despite the extensive discussions, including a 12-hour meeting between the U.S. and Russia, both sides offered conflicting assessments of the talks.
The U.S. delegation, led by Andrew Peek and Michael Anton, met separately with Russian and Ukrainian representatives. The talks addressed issues like maritime safety in the Black Sea and a temporary moratorium on attacks against energy infrastructure.
However, both Russia and Ukraine voiced concerns about the implementation of any agreements. Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov called for clear guarantees from the U.S. regarding Ukrainian compliance, while Ukrainian President Zelensky criticized the discussions, particularly Washington’s willingness to help restore Russia’s access to global agricultural markets, calling it a weakening of sanctions.
Despite the diplomatic exchanges, fighting on the ground continued, with both sides accusing each other of escalating tensions. Ukrainian forces reported casualties from a Russian missile strike in Sumy, while Russia accused Ukraine of targeting its energy infrastructure.
Meanwhile, experts remain skeptical about the prospects of a lasting resolution, citing deep mistrust and the failure of previous negotiations.
As the situation remains volatile, Europe has also intensified its support for Ukraine, with France and Britain pushing for military assistance and long-term security guarantees.
Meanwhile, the U.S. faces criticism for its dual role as a mediator while having economic interests in Ukraine’s mineral and energy resources.
With trust between the parties eroding, the future of peace talks remains uncertain, and the path to a lasting ceasefire seems increasingly complex.
In a statement released on Tuesday, March 25, UNICEF Rwanda confirmed that the UN agency dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of children worldwide is not involved with the concert and will not receive any proceeds from it.
“UNICEF is not associated with the planned ‘Solidarité Congo’ charity concert. UNICEF will not receive any proceeds from the event, and no person associated with UNICEF is part of the concert,” the statement clarified.
The organizers of the concert say the event is intended to support children affected by the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the Congolese army has been fighting the M23 rebels.
However, UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian principles, stating that it remains “a non-political organization whose work strictly adheres to the humanitarian principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence.”
The concert, featuring Congolese artists such as Maître Gims and Youssoupha, has sparked significant backlash due to its scheduled date coinciding with the annual commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The date, recognized by the United Nations, marks the beginning of the 100 days of commemoration of the genocide, in which over a million people were killed.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has called for the event’s cancellation, citing concerns over public order and the emotional impact on the Rwandan community.
In a letter to the city’s police chief, Hidalgo emphasized the inappropriateness of hosting the concert on such a significant day, especially in light of “recent hateful rhetoric targeting Rwandans and Tutsis circulating online.”
The concert has also faced criticism from the Rwandan diaspora in France, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura, and survivor organizations, who argue that holding the event on April 7 undermines genocide remembrance efforts.
Critics have further accused some performers, including Maître Gims and Youssoupha, of previously expressing controversial views about Rwanda, intensifying tensions between the Rwandan and Congolese communities in Paris.
The Rwandan government has previously denied the Congolese government’s claims that it is backing M23 rebels, insisting that its main concern is the FDLR militia—comprising remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide—which continues to operate in eastern Congo, posing a security threat to Rwanda.
The game, filled with thrilling moments, tactical battles, and missed opportunities, left Rwandan supporters with a mix of pride and frustration.
The match kicked off with a solid defensive display from Rwanda, led by the trio of Thierry Manzi, Fitina Omborenga, and Ange Mutsinzi. Despite early pressure from Lesotho’s Lemohang Lintsa, Amavubi’s backline remained composed and absorbed the initial attacking threats with confidence.
In the 6th minute, Rwanda showed their attacking intent through intricate passing between Jojea Kwizera and Innocent Nshuti. Their combination play momentarily unsettled the Lesotho defense, but the final touch lacked precision.
Kwizera, looking lively from the start, attempted his first shot in the 15th minute, only to be denied by a well-positioned goalkeeper. The ensuing counterattack by Lesotho resulted in the first corner kick of the game, but Mutsinzi was alert to clear the danger.
Hakim Sahabo tested the Lesotho goalkeeper again in the 21st minute with a powerful shot, forcing a corner for Rwanda.
By the half-hour mark, Rwanda had dominated possession and created several promising opportunities. Their hunger for a breakthrough was evident, but Lesotho’s defensive resilience proved to be a formidable barrier.
On the 32nd minute, Kwizera delivered a precise free kick, but Lesotho’s goalkeeper parried it away for another corner. Mutsinzi rose to meet the corner with a strong header, but the ball whisked just wide of the post, leaving Rwanda agonizingly close to an opener.
With four minutes remaining in the first half, Kevin Muhire showcased his skill by dribbling past two defenders, only to lose control of the ball at the crucial moment.
Muhire redeemed himself moments later, setting up Kwizera with a perfect through pass. Kwizera’s shot was, however, deflected into another corner by the alert Lesotho goalkeeper.
In the dying moments of the half, Kwizera found himself with another golden opportunity, but his shot went wide, summing up Rwanda’s luckless first half. Three minutes of added time were played before the referee blew for halftime with the score still goalless.
The second half began with renewed urgency from both sides. In the 58th minute, Kevin Muhire thought he had finally broken the deadlock when he slotted the ball into the net.
However, his celebration was cut short as the referee ruled the goal out for a foul by Mutsinzi, who had collided with the Lesotho goalkeeper in the buildup.
Lesotho made two substitutions shortly after, injecting fresh energy into their lineup. But in the 65th minute, Amavubi’s persistence paid off when Kwizera calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net, sending the Rwandan fans into wild celebrations. The goal was a deserved reward for Rwanda’s relentless attacking efforts.
Four minutes later, tempers flared when Lesotho’s Motlomelo Mkhwanazi was shown a yellow card for a reckless foul on Claude Niyomugabo. Amavubi’s coach, furious at what he deemed an overly lenient decision, protested strongly and was also shown a yellow card for his animated reaction.
As the game neared its conclusion, Rwanda’s defense stood firm, with the backline tirelessly repelling Lesotho’s attempts to equalize. York Rafael and Samuel Gueulette were introduced in place of Sahabo and Nshuti in the closing minutes as Rwanda looked to consolidate their lead.
However, heartbreak struck late on when Lesotho’s Neo Mokhachane capitalized on a rare defensive lapse to score an equalizer with just minutes remaining.
The stunned Amavubi side pushed forward in search of a winner, and in the 90th minute, Gilbert Mugisha squandered a glorious chance, missing a free header that could have sealed the victory.
The referee added four more minutes, but neither side could find the decisive goal. Finally, Antoine Max Depadoux Effaessouma blew the final whistle, confirming a frustrating draw for Rwanda.
Despite dominating much of the game, Amavubi will rue their missed chances, while Lesotho will be relieved to have salvaged a point. As Rwanda looks ahead, they will need to sharpen their finishing to turn their impressive play into decisive victories in future matches.
McFadden’s appeal follows concerns raised by his constituent, Alexis Kiray, who represents approximately 2,300 Banyamulenge refugees resettled in the UK.
In a letter to Lord Collins of Highbury, Minister for Africa, McFadden stated that Kiray is concerned about the ongoing violence and human rights abuses against the Banyamulenge people and Tutsis in the eastern Congo.
“He [Kiray] is deeply concerned with the continuing persecution and displacement of the Banyamulenge community in the DRC, with many being arbitrarily detained and some executed. External observers have noted the risk of ethnic cleansing taking place in the DRC,” wrote the MP representing Wolverhampton South East.
McFadden highlighted that Mr. Kiray seeks clarification on the UK Government’s response to the situation.
“Mr Kiray wishes to know what action the UK Government is taking to protect the Banyamulenge and Tutsi from this treatment, and what can be done to prevent crimes against humanity from taking place.”
The Banyamulenge refugees, whom Kiray represents, were resettled in the UK through a partnership between the UK Government and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
The Kinyarwanda-speaking communities in the DRC, whose presence traces back to the colonial era’s arbitrary border-drawing, have faced decades of persecution for decades.
The AFC/M23 rebel group, which has recently captured large swaths of territory in the eastern region, says it is fighting for the rights of this minority group.
Alarmed by the escalating conflict and violence, regional leaders and the international community have renewed calls for dialogue between the parties to settle the conflict.
Speaking to Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Alfieri revealed that the Pope experienced a violent bronchospasm in which he aspirated vomit, endangering multiple organ systems.
The medical team faced a critical decision: whether to halt aggressive treatment or to push forward with interventions that carried the risk of damaging other organs.
“We had to choose whether to stop and let him go, or push forward with every available treatment—despite a high risk of damaging other organs,” Alfieri stated. “We chose to go forward.”
Massimiliano Strappetti, Francis’ longtime health aide, played a crucial role in the decision, urging doctors not to give up.
The Pope remained alert and aware during the crisis, though at one point, doctors feared he might not survive the night. The medical team employed a non-invasive aspiration procedure to clear his airways, followed by an intensive regimen of medications. While concerns loomed over potential kidney and bone marrow damage, the treatment ultimately succeeded in stabilizing his condition.
Three days later, Francis suffered a second pair of acute respiratory episodes. Doctors inserted a specialized tube to remove mucus from his lungs, once again averting a life-threatening situation.
The Vatican took an unusually transparent approach during the Pope’s hospitalization, releasing detailed daily updates. According to Alfieri, Pope Francis himself insisted on honesty.
“He wanted the truth about his condition to be shared. Nothing was hidden or omitted.”
After 38 days in the hospital—the longest stay of his papacy—Francis was discharged on March 23. Appearing frail but resolute, he greeted well-wishers from a hospital balcony, thanking them for their prayers.
The Vatican has since confirmed that the Pope will undergo a strict two-month recovery period at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. His doctors have recommended continuous medical supervision and oxygen support during his convalescence.
It remains uncertain whether the Pope will participate in upcoming events such as King Charles III’s planned visit to the Vatican or the Holy Week celebrations. Francis has not publicly led the Angelus prayer in weeks but has continued to offer reflections online, recently calling for global peace.
In a message on social media, he expressed gratitude for the prayers that supported him through his ordeal.
“Let us pray together for peace,” he wrote, citing ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Reflecting on the Pope’s remarkable recovery, Alfieri credited both science and faith. “Science backs it up—prayer can have real effects,” he said. “Twice we thought we had lost him, and then it happened like a miracle.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that respiratory infections cause between 290,000 and 650,000 deaths annually, with 99% of these occurring in children from low-income or developing countries.
One of the challenges often encountered is that many people still resist seeking medical attention for respiratory illnesses, opting instead to take over-the-counter medications or resort to herbal remedies.
Dr. Fentahun Alemu Tsegaw, a pediatrician specialist in treating respiratory diseases among children, based at Baho International Hospital explained that these conditions require careful attention and should be managed thoroughly due to their potential severe impact on a child’s health.
He said that respiratory diseases, particularly airway allergies, are common among children. There are two main types; Allergic Rhinitis (hay fever), which is caused by allergens in the air and results in constant sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery discharge from the nose, and Asthma, which affects the airways, causing them to swell and leading to symptoms such as severe coughing and difficulty breathing.
Fentahun noted that airway allergies are especially prevalent in children and can be spread through genetic factors or environmental triggers, such as polluted air, dust, and pollen.
“Respiratory diseases can be triggered by several factors, including air pollution from agricultural activities, vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and even smoking near children, all of which put them at greater risk,” he stated.
He advised against placing children in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation, like smoke-filled rooms, and ensure that windows are opened to allow fresh air to circulate.”
He further explained that if respiratory diseases are not properly managed, and medical attention is delayed when symptoms appear, the risks of complications increase. For instance, untreated asthma can lead to chronic chest pain and even be life-threatening.
Fentahun mentioned that there are six approved medications specifically for children over the age of two, which can be prescribed to treat respiratory conditions. Treatment must be adjusted according to the child’s condition and must be done under medical guidance.
He advised anyone suffering from respiratory conditions to promptly seek medical help, educate parents on how to care for children during illness, avoid exposure to smoke, unpleasant odors, and extreme temperatures, and follow prescribed medication and medical advice.
To further protect and treat children with respiratory diseases, Baho International Hospital launched a week dedicated to children’s health, focusing particularly on respiratory illnesses. This initiative began on March 24, 2025, and will run until April 5, 2025.
Baho International Hospital boasts international specialists in treating a variety of diseases and offers expert advice on maintaining your health.
The minister made the comments following President Ndayishimiye’s interview with the BBC, in which he claimed to have reliable information suggesting that Rwanda is planning an attack on Burundi through the RED Tabara rebel group, which operates in South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In the interview, President Ndayishimiye intensified his rhetoric, suggesting that Burundi is prepared to attack Rwanda.
“We know that Rwanda is attempting to attack us via Congolese territory, using the RED Tabara group. But we are telling them that if they want to attack Bujumbura through Congo, Kigali is not far from us through Kirundo,” he stated.
Nduhungirehe expressed concern that such comments contradicted the progress made in talks between the two countries to de-escalate tensions.
“This statement by H.E. the President of Burundi is unfortunate, especially since the military and intelligence authorities of both countries are currently in discussions and have even agreed on the need for a military and verbal de-escalation,” Nduhungirehe stated, referring to the talks, with the most recent meeting taking place in Kirundo Province on March 10, 2025.
The minister also noted that he had discussed the matter with his Burundian counterpart during a recent joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) ministerial meeting in Zimbabwe.
“I also discussed this matter with my Burundian counterpart on the sidelines of the joint EAC-SADC ministerial meeting in Harare on March 17, 2025, and we were fully aligned on this issue,” Nduhungirehe added.
Despite the setbacks, Nduhungirehe emphasized that Rwanda remains committed to peace with Burundi and the broader Great Lakes region.
“Rwanda will continue its commitment to peace with Burundi and in the Great Lakes region, while hoping for more calm and restraint in official statements from across the Akanyaru River,” he stated.
The relations between Rwanda and Burundi have been strained for years, particularly due to Rwanda’s refusal to extradite individuals accused of attempting to overthrow former President Pierre Nkurunziza’s government in 2015. Rwanda maintains that these individuals are refugees protected under international law, preventing their extradition.
Since January 2024, Burundi has closed its land borders with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting attacks by RED Tabara—a claim that Rwanda has consistently denied, asserting it has no connection with the armed group.
However, one experience stood out above the rest: my encounter with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly acupuncture.
Traditional medicine is an integral part of every culture. In Rwanda, I have often heard about traditional healing practices, but I had never personally explored them. However, when I travel, I make it a point to experience new things firsthand.
So, when the opportunity arose to visit Beijing Massage Hospital, I knew I had to try acupuncture—one of the most renowned components of TCM.
Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a premier institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.
Established in 1958, the hospital has built a stellar reputation for integrating TCM practices with modern rehabilitation techniques. It is particularly known for treating musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic pain through methods such as tuina (therapeutic massage), acupuncture, and herbal medicine.
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. While some people dismiss it as quackery, I was eager to judge for myself.
What made my experience even more interesting was that, on the morning of my visit, I woke up with a nagging pain in the upper right part of my back. Whether from poor posture or an awkward sleeping position, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test acupuncture’s effectiveness.
Walking into Beijing Massage Hospital, I was immediately struck by its calm and orderly atmosphere. After a brief consultation, I was guided to an acupuncture specialist who assessed my condition and explained how the treatment could help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.
As the session began, I felt a slight prick as five thin needles were inserted into targeted points on my back. Contrary to my expectations, there was no real pain—just a mild tingling sensation.
I lay still, breathing in the serene environment as the needles worked their magic. The entire process lasted about 10 minutes. While I wasn’t instantly cured, I felt a noticeable sense of relief and a soothing warmth where the needles had been placed.
Just before my session, a friend who accompanied me opted for a general health check-up using traditional Chinese diagnostic techniques. What I witnessed was nothing short of fascinating.
The doctor placed two fingers on her right wrist, closed his eyes briefly, and then asked her to open her mouth so he could examine her tongue. After only two minutes of assessment, he confidently diagnosed her with digestive issues, sensitivity to cold, and a need for more exercise.
To my amazement, my friend confirmed that all his observations were accurate. It was incredible to witness the precision of this ancient diagnostic method, which relied solely on pulse reading—a practice that has existed in China for thousands of years.
Beijing Massage Hospital offers a wide range of TCM treatments beyond acupuncture, including medical massage (tuina), moxibustion, rehabilitation therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine consultations, among others.
My experience at Beijing Massage Hospital was eye-opening and reaffirmed a saying in my native Kinyarwanda: “Buri gahugu n’umuco wako,” which means each country has its own culture and practices.
The date, officially recognized by the United Nations as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide, holds deep meaning for the Rwandan community.
The President of the Rwandan diaspora in France, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura and representatives of survivor organizations, had raised concerns with the mayor, warning that the event could undermine genocide remembrance efforts.
Critics of the concert say some of the scheduled performers, including Maître Gims and Youssoupha, have previously expressed controversial views about Rwanda, adding to the tension already present between the Rwandan and Congolese communities in Paris.
While the concert was allegedly intended to raise funds for children affected by conflict in eastern Congo, UNICEF France, the intended beneficiary, has declined to be associated with the event if it goes ahead on April 7, citing the significance of the date.
The Mayor’s office, in a statement released on March 25, said the concert’s timing was inappropriate and risked disturbing public order, especially in light of recent hateful rhetoric targeting Rwandans and Tutsis circulating online.
Authorities also noted that protests had already been planned should the event proceed as scheduled.
Hidalgo formally requested the Prefect of Police to prohibit the concert, emphasizing the potential for disruption and the need to respect the day of mourning and remembrance.
Located in the city center, Greenland Plaza is situated in the Nyarugenge District, Muhima Sector.
Xiao Ben, the investor and owner of Homart Group, revealed that his company continues to invest in residential housing, noting that since his arrival in Rwanda in 2009, he has increasingly invested due to the country’s security, cleanliness, and good governance.
Over the past years, his company has invested more than $200million (close to Frw300billion) in various projects, including the construction of factories like Kigali Ceramics and Kigali Plastics, as well as residential buildings such as Phoenix Plaza, Rose Garden, and Elizabeth Golf apartment , all of which have already been sold.
In 2021, construction began on Greenland Plaza, a project that started during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, Xiao explained that they were determined to see it through as promised to their clients.
Greenland Plaza has two phases each with 84 units, in total 168 units out of 168 units, 130 were already sold out. The apartments include one, two and three-bedroom units.
The Greenland project has successfully completed Phase 1, which is currently operational. Construction for Phase 2 is underway, with plans for it to be functional in the near future. Additionally, Phase 3 is set to begin construction soon, marking the continued progress and expansion of the development.
Xiao confirmed that many investors, particularly from China, choose to invest in and purchase properties in Rwanda due to the country’s safety and rapid development. He said, “I have lived in over 27 African countries, but I chose to invest in Rwanda because it is a country with a promising future.”
Simon Lee, the CEO of Homart Group, thanked their partners and customers, stating that the trust they have from clients helps the company achieve its goals.
“The housing sector in Rwanda is growing every day, and we expect to see more developments. Our partners, coming from over 40 countries, show the confidence they have in Rwanda’s housing market,” he said.
He emphasized that investing in Rwanda is a unique opportunity that should not be missed, adding that purchasing an apartment at Greenland Plaza is an excellent choice, as the apartments are modern, well-equipped, and offer 24-hour security.
One of the buyers at Greenland Plaza, Philbert Bimenyimana, who won a car as a prize, expressed his happiness with the reward, highlighting that it showed how Homart Group values its customers and that their efforts are yielding positive results.
Marie Solange Muhirwa, the Director of Planning in Kigali, thanked Homart Group for its investment in various development projects that benefit the country, assuring them of continued collaboration in future endeavors.
Homart Group has become a prominent player in construction, with projects in ten African countries, including Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Malawi, Ethiopia, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
