He stated that Rwanda received a request from the UN to allow passage for these workers, who were stationed in different branches of the organization in Bukavu.
“A total of 224 UN employees crossed the border into Rwanda from Bukavu. They are UN staff, not diplomats from embassies. What we can confirm is that they crossed the border into Rwanda,” he clarified.
Mukuralinda refrained from providing further details regarding how the staff would be accommodated or taken care of as they continued their journey. According to him, the UN had initially engaged with the Rwandan government to seek approval for the passage of its personnel.
This development comes as the M23 rebel group, having taken control of the city of Goma on January 26, 2025, have dismissed any plans to seize Bukavu despite recent reports of its forces advancing toward the city.
On January 31, Jean Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, confirmed that the M23 rebels were advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province.
Rwanda had recently facilitated the evacuation of UN staff from Goma, allowing them passage through its border with the DRC in Rubavu District.
Upon arrival in Kigali, they were provided with initial assistance at Kigali Pelé Stadium then transferred to hotels for rest before continuing their journey. At that time, more than 1,800 UN employees and their families were received.
Besides the UN personnel who fled the conflict between the Congolese army (FARDC), M23, and allied armed groups such as FDLR, European mercenaries from Romania were also evacuated through Rwanda. Additionally, some FARDC soldiers, after suffering defeats at the hands of M23, fled into Rwanda.
He made these remarks on February 3, 2025, during an interview with CNN journalist Larry Madowo.
Kagame firmly rejected claims that Rwanda is responsible for the war, stating that those fighting in eastern DRC, particularly the M23 rebels, are not Rwandans but Congolese seeking their rights.
“This war you see was not started by Rwanda; it was started by the DRC. These people fighting for their rights did not come from here [Rwanda],” he said.
The M23, a group composed primarily of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, took up arms after years of persecution and failed negotiations with the Kinshasa government. Rather than addressing the grievances of its own citizens, Kagame argued, the Congolese government has opted to blame Rwanda for the crisis.
Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have been exacerbated by Kinshasa’s continued support for the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a terrorist group responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Head of State pointed out that the FDLR operates freely in the DRC with the support of its government, posing a security threat to Rwanda.
With President Félix Tshisekedi repeatedly making statements about attacking Rwanda, Kagame made it clear that his country will do whatever is necessary to protect itself. “No one, not even the United Nations or the international community will ensure our security if we do not do it ourselves,” he stated.
When asked whether the conflict in eastern DRC could spill over into the broader region, Kagame responded that he does not believe anyone, including Tshisekedi, is genuinely interested in war.
However, he noted that external influences have led the Congolese leader in that direction. “I don’t think anyone is keen on war. I don’t even think Tshisekedi himself is truly interested in war, but he has been led in that direction by those who promised to fight his battles for him.”
Kagame also addressed accusations that Rwanda exploits DRC’s mineral wealth, an allegation frequently made by Congolese authorities and echoed in some international reports. He dismissed the claims and stated that South Africa and European countries are the primary beneficiaries of DRC’s vast mineral resources.
“I invite you to come and see where we mine coltan,” Kagame said when asked if Rwanda extracts minerals from the DRC. He clarified that Rwanda has its own mines and does not depend on the DRC’s resources.
“I don’t know anything about that because it’s not an issue. The people benefiting the most from DRC’s minerals are South Africa and those Europeans.”
Available statistics indicate that Rwanda has its own mineral wealth, with underground reserves estimated at 112 million tons, valued at approximately $154 billion. A 2017 study identified 52 mineral-rich zones in Rwanda, with 37 already licensed for extraction. The country also processes its minerals domestically, with refining plants for tin and coltan.
Official data from the Rwanda Mining, Petroleum, and Gas Board (RMB) shows that Rwanda’s mineral exports generated over $1.1 billion in 2023, up from $772 million in 2022. The figures indicate steady growth in the sector, contradicting claims that Rwanda depends on illegal mineral trade from the DRC.
In October 2023, Rwanda exported 1,015 kilograms of gold, earning $62.1 million, while in November and December, exports reached 823 and 1,320 kilograms, generating $52.9 million and $87.5 million, respectively.
The country also recorded significant exports of tin, coltan, and wolfram, reinforcing its position as a legitimate mining and refining hub in the region.
Kagame concluded that despite ongoing accusations, Rwanda remains focused on its national priorities, including security and economic growth.
“Many stories will be told. I cannot stop people from talking […]. What can I do about it? What matters is that we must focus on our responsibilities and ensure that we survive any threats to our country,” he said.
He made the disclosure during a talkshow aired on different local news outlets where he emphasized that Rwanda has solid explanations backed by evidence to counter accusations made by DRC and the means to present them effectively.
Mukuralinda pointed out that DRC consistently amplifies its claims on various platforms, making it seem as though it has outpaced Rwanda in publicizing its narrative.
However, he assured that Rwanda is well aware of these tactics and is taking appropriate measures to respond.
“Everything the Congolese do, they publicize it widely and announce it everywhere they go. Do you think there is anything they say that Rwanda does not respond to? It is not necessary for Rwanda to respond to every claim all the time,” he said.
He acknowledged that among DRC’s allegations is the call for sanctions against Rwanda.
However, he reassured that Rwanda is never denied a platform to present its case on the international stage.
In many instances, he said, Rwanda has been given opportunities to explain the situation, revealing the falsehoods in DRC’s statements.
Mukuralinda further stated that Rwanda is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to ensure that the requested sanctions are not imposed.
“Rwanda’s diplomacy will do everything possible, both publicly and behind the scenes, to prevent these sanctions from being enacted. And as long as Rwanda’s calls for a resolution to the issue go unheard, it will take necessary measures to protect its citizens and national sovereignty. Once the issue is resolved, those measures will be lifted,” he added.
He emphasized that Rwanda’s diplomatic efforts should not be complacent about DRC’s statements or its calls for sanctions.
However, he expressed confidence that those responsible for handling the matter are capable of addressing the challenges effectively.
Mukuralinda cited an example of DRC’s attempt to pressure football clubs sponsored by Visit Rwanda to terminate their partnership agreements with Rwanda.
“They wrote to the presidents of these clubs, but no one can simply make a decision without consulting the other party. If we provide explanations, do you think the outcome will be the same? Had we remained silent all this time, the sanctions they are pushing for would have already been imposed,” he said.
Mukuralinda called on all Rwandans to actively contribute to explaining the truth about Rwanda’s position, as the facts are clear and well-supported.
“All Rwandans should step up and explain because the truth is there, and it is well understood,” he urged.
He cited an example of foreigners who exposed the lies of President Tshisekedi, noting that some had witnessed M23 being welcomed by the population in Goma while Tshisekedi claimed they were not present.
Mukuralinda encouraged Rwandans to use such examples to clarify the reality of the situation.
He confirmed that Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC’s Félix Tshisekedi are among the heads of state who have confirmed their participation, sharing the update on his X account.
“Through our collective effort, we will ensure security reigns in our continent,” he said.
Kenya’s State House also confirmed that the summit will be held on Friday and Saturday following an agreement between SADC Chairperson, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and EAC Chairperson, Kenyan President William Ruto.
“President Samia Suluhu Hassan has graciously agreed to host the summit to deliberate on the situation in Eastern DRC,” reads a statement from Kenya’s State House, quoting President Ruto.
The summit will be preceded by a ministerial meeting on Friday, before the Heads of State convene on Saturday.
Ruto said he has engaged several regional leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, all of whom have confirmed their participation.
The confirmation of the summit follows SADC’s acceptance of an EAC request during a meeting hosted by Mnangagwa in Harare on Friday.
The discussions were prompted by the M23 rebel group’s capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province, which had led Ruto to convene EAC leaders for a virtual session on Thursday.
During the virtual summit, [EAC Heads of State proposed a joint session with SADC to address the escalating security crisis in eastern DRC.->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/eac-heads-of-state-urge-drc-gov-t-to-directly-engage-m23-at-crisis-summit]
In a post-summit statement, the leaders emphasized the importance of diplomacy in resolving the conflict.
“The summit called for a peaceful settlement of the conflicts and strongly urged the government of the DRC to directly engage with all stakeholders, including the M23 and other armed groups that have grievances,” the statement read.
As M23 advanced into Goma, FARDC soldiers and their allied forces, including the FDLR terrorist group, were defeated. Instead of repelling the attackers, they launched artillery shells into Rwanda’s Rubavu District.
Speaking at the summit, [President Kagame vowed to take action->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/we-will-definitely-take-care-of-that-kagame-reacts-to-recent-shelling-from-drc] following the shelling, which resulted in the deaths of 15 Rwandans and left several others injured.
Tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have escalated since the resurgence of the M23 rebel group in 2022.
Kinshasa accuses Kigali of supporting the rebels, a claim Rwanda has repeatedly denied, urging the DRC to resolve its internal issues without blaming neighboring countries.
Kagame also expressed frustration over [the unyielding involvement of international actors in the DRC crisis, particularly highlighting South Africa’s role.->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/president-kagame-rebukes-ramaphosa-s-distortions-about-their-conversations-on]
Makolo was responding to a statement by Ramaphosa on Monday, February 3, 2025, in which he defended his decision to keep South African troops in the DRC, despite the recent deaths of 14 soldiers.
Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa’s commitment to supporting African nations, stating, “As a country, we have a duty of support towards the nations of Africa whose solidarity and material support helped secure our liberation. South Africa will not let up in its support to the people of the DRC so that they may have the peace and security they rightfully deserve.”
In response, Makolo accused Ramaphosa of misleading South Africans and suggested that his government’s military engagement in the DRC is driven by personal interests in the country’s mineral resources rather than a genuine commitment to peace.
“South Africans deserve to know the truth. You are not supporting the people of DRC to achieve peace. You are sending your troops to fight President Tshisekedi’s war to kill his own people,” Makolo posted on X.
“And this kind of statement only makes the Congolese president more intransigent, while the suffering continues. Please tell your people the truth about the personal interests in mining that you have in the DRC – these are the interests for which, sadly, SANDF soldiers are dying,” she added.
Her remarks come amid reports that South Africa is preparing to send additional troops and equipment to South Kivu, where M23 rebels continue their military campaign, claiming to fight for the rights of persecuted Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese.
This latest exchange adds to growing tensions between Rwanda and South Africa, which escalated after Ramaphosa recently referred to Rwandan troops as rebels.
President Paul Kagame swiftly rejected the claim, asserting that the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) is a legitimate national army, not a rebel group. He also warned that if South Africa was seeking confrontation, Rwanda was prepared to respond accordingly.
Ramaphosa had earlier stated that if M23 forces killed more South African troops, he would consider it an act of war by Rwanda, further straining diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The arrest was reportedly ordered by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following intelligence reports that the officer had been leaking classified military information.
The detained officer, whose identity has not been disclosed is based in the Communication and Information Technology Department at the Ministry of Defence.
According to journalist Andrew Mwenda, the officer was apprehended after allegedly receiving a payment of $300,000 (approximately UGX 1.1 billion) from an undisclosed SADC country. The money was purportedly meant to facilitate access to and monitoring of UPDF communications, a serious breach of national security.
After being suspected of compromising national security by granting foreign entities access to sensitive military information, reports indicate that upon arrest, the officer quickly refunded the full amount to the UPDF.
While security officials remain tight-lipped about the specifics of the case, sources within the military suggest that investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the security breach. The officer is expected to face charges related to espionage, abuse of office, and endangering national security.
This incident comes at a time when Uganda is strengthening its defense and intelligence structures amid growing regional security concerns. Analysts suggest that such a breach, if confirmed, could strain diplomatic relations between Uganda and the implicated SADC country.
Military sources indicate that additional arrests may be made as the investigation deepens, with authorities working to establish whether the accused officer acted alone or was part of a wider espionage network.
The UPDF is yet to issue an official statement, but insiders confirm that the matter is being treated with the highest level of urgency to safeguard national security.
In a security alert issued on February 3, the embassy announced a reduction in its staff and advised Americans to make immediate travel arrangements while commercial options remain available.
“Ensure that your and your family’s travel documents are in order, and pack essential items in bags that you can easily carry. We understand that border crossings remain open for transit, and many flights are departing from N’Djili Airport in Kinshasa,” the embassy advised.
At the same time, the embassy, which was among several foreign missions attacked in [recent protests in Kinshasa->https://en.igihe.com/news/article/protesters-attack-foreign-missions-in-kinshasa-after-m23-offensive-in-goma], informed the public and U.S. nationals that it would be unable to conduct visa interviews or offer routine services.
“Due to the security situation in Kinshasa, the U.S. Embassy will not be conducting any visa interviews and will not be able to offer routine services for U.S. citizens,” the embassy added.
The advisory comes just a week after the M23 rebel group seized control of Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC. The group has vowed to continue its offensive all the way to the capital, Kinshasa, unless its grievances are addressed.
Speaking during a press conference in Goma on Thursday, Corneille Nangaa, who heads an alliance of rebel groups that includes the M23, said the group would not abandon its course due to “poor governance”.
“We will continue the march of liberation all the way to Kinshasa,” Nangaa stated.
M23 is fighting against the systematic persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese in the region, a situation that has persisted for decades.
Accusing the Congolese administration of poor governance, Nangaa stated that the rebel alliance, AFC, had established a team tasked with reviving the troubled region’s socioeconomic life, as well as overseeing humanitarian, financial, and infrastructure development.
Several other organizations, including the United Nations, have evacuated their staff and families from Goma, citing the deteriorating situation. Due to closed airspace and waterways, the staff were evacuated through Rwanda.
Discussions within the administration about placing USAID under the direct control of the State Department have heightened concerns that America’s premier humanitarian agency could be dismantled or significantly downsized.
In the wake of the funding freeze, USAID has been thrown into turmoil. Hundreds of employees and contractors have been either laid off or furloughed, with nearly 60 senior career officials reportedly sidelined. Overseas operations have ground to a halt, while thousands of additional positions remain at risk.
Signs of the agency’s diminishing presence were stark on Friday, as prominent markers at USAID’s Washington headquarters were removed, fueling speculation that a complete shutdown could be imminent.
Democratic lawmakers have been quick to push back against any potential restructuring, emphasizing that USAID operates as an independent entity by law. Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Brian Schatz, along with Representatives Gregory Meeks and Lois Frankel, issued a statement warning that “any proposal to modify [USAID’s] structure would require an Act of Congress.”
Senator Chris Murphy echoed this sentiment, stating that “a president cannot eliminate an appropriated federal agency by executive order.”
Despite the agency’s growing instability, President Trump has yet to appoint a leader to oversee USAID. Media reports indicate that Pete Marocco, a Trump administration official with a history at USAID, is leading efforts to shrink the agency’s workforce and influence.
Marocco, who previously faced resistance within USAID due to attempts to consolidate control and cut funding, is now reportedly overseeing widespread personnel changes.
Critics argue that Trump’s aggressive stance on foreign aid is not only disrupting humanitarian efforts but also strengthening geopolitical rivals like China, which has expanded its international aid initiatives.
Senator Chris Van Hollen remarked that “Trump’s USAID purge and foreign aid pause is already hurting efforts to deliver aid and growing China’s world standing at our expense.”
Adding to the controversy, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk weighed in on the agency’s fate on Sunday after a clash between USAID security officials and Trump’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Musk, appointed to lead DOGE, labelled USAID a “criminal organization” after its officials reportedly denied his team access to classified materials.
“Time for it to die,” Musk posted on X, intensifying fears that the administration is intent on dismantling USAID altogether.
Further fueling speculation, USAID’s website temporarily went offline over the weekend, while a stripped-down page appeared under the State Department’s domain. This apparent move toward consolidation led Senator Chris Coons to accuse Trump of “trying to gut the agency altogether.”
The U.S. remains the world’s largest provider of foreign assistance, distributing $72 billion to nearly 180 countries last year—more than half of which flowed through USAID.
USAID supports a wide range of programs across Africa, focusing on health, education, economic growth, governance, climate resilience, and humanitarian assistance.
The agency, founded on November 3, 1961, has been actively involved in Rwanda since 1964, focusing on enhancing the nation’s economic capacity, social climate, and environmental well-being.
In partnership with the Rwandan government, USAID implements programs aimed at improving health systems, boosting agricultural productivity, expanding livelihoods and increasing incomes, among other initiatives.
If the Trump administration follows through on its drastic changes on USAID, the global humanitarian aid landscape could shift dramatically, leaving a void that competing powers may seek to fill.
Meanwhile, Sabail PFK, where Rwandan striker Nshuti Innocent plays, settled for a 1-1 draw against Turan. Nshuti played the entire match as he continues to adapt to his new team. However, Sabail PFK remains in a difficult position, sitting at the bottom of the table with 16 points after 21 games.
In Belgium, Hakim Sahabo played the full match for K. Beerschot V.A in their narrow 1-0 defeat to Genk. Beerschot is facing a tough season, currently sitting in last place with only 13 points from 24 matches.
In the second division, Samuel Gueulette also played the entire match as RAAL La Louvière drew 0-0 with league leaders Zulte Waregem. La Louvière remains in third place with 36 points, trailing the leaders by nine.
Elsewhere in Africa, Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari has struggled for game time at Kaizer Chiefs, as he remained on the bench during their 1-0 loss to Orlando Pirates. His team currently sits in third place with 21 points from 15 matches.
In Tunisia, Stade Tunisien, featuring Bonheur Mugisha, played to a goalless draw against Espérance Sportive Metlaoui. Mugisha played the entire game, and his team now stands third with 35 points, just one point behind leaders Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
In Kenya, AFC Leopards secured a 1-0 victory over Nairobi City Stars, but Rwandan forward Arthur Gitego was not part of the squad. His team now ranks fourth in the league with 28 points from 18 matches.
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers approach, Rwandan players performing well in their respective leagues will have a strong chance of being called up for the national team, Amavubi, ahead of crucial matches against Nigeria and Lesotho in March 2025.
The temporary measures introduced early Monday morning are “to ensure the safety of civil aircraft operations,” Artem Korenyako, a representative of the Russian Federal Air Transport Agency, said in a Telegram post.
Korenyako emphasized that “aircraft crews, air traffic controllers, and airport services are taking all necessary measures to ensure flight safety, which remains the top priority.”
The announcement follows heightened security concerns after reports of a drone attack in the Astrakhan region. Astrakhan governor Igor Babushkin said that Ukraine launched a drone attack overnight, attempting to attack facilities in the region.
“Electronic warfare and air defense systems operated as intended … There were no casualties,” Babushkin said on his Telegram channel.
