The new hospital, located in Kicukiro District, has already been completed. Built by China’s Shanghai Construction Group Co. Ltd, the project cost 580 million Chinese yuan, equivalent to more than Rwf124 billion.
The move will almost double CHUK’s capacity, increasing the number of beds from the current 453 to 837.
The facility is designed to deliver highly specialized healthcare, featuring 18 operating theatres, excluding those dedicated to Caesarean sections, as well as modern medical equipment, including four X-ray machines, two angiography systems, MRI technology, advanced radiology facilities, and other state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment equipment.
Appearing before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on July 2, 2026, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Jean Marie Vianney Ndayizigiye, said Kibagabaga Hospital would help absorb some of the patients who currently seek treatment at CHUK once the relocation is completed.
Although the new hospital is nearly twice the size of the existing facility, Ndayizigiye said the current CHUK site will continue operating as a major emergency care centre.
“The ICU, emergency services and the Trauma Center will remain there because it is located in the city centre, where road traffic accidents are common. The facility will continue to provide specialised care for critically injured patients,” he said.
The new CHUK is part of a growing medical district in Masaka. Nearby is IRCAD Africa, a regional centre that trains surgeons in digestive cancer surgery, robotic-assisted procedures and minimally invasive techniques.
The area will also host a specialised heart hospital, while a centre dedicated to epidemic preparedness, infectious disease management and research is currently under construction.
Four health centres set for upgrade
To strengthen healthcare services around the new hospital, the Ministry of Health also plans to upgrade four health centres into medicalised facilities capable of providing advanced and emergency care.
Ndayizigiye said Busanza, Gatenga, Gahanga and Muyumbu health centres will be upgraded to ease pressure on Masaka Hospital, which already serves a large number of patients.
“Upgrading these health centres will allow them to provide higher-level medical services and reduce the burden currently borne by Masaka Hospital,” he said.
He added that feasibility studies are expected to be completed during the 2026/27 financial year, paving the way for construction and expansion works.
Modern buildings at the new CHUK campus in Masaka showcase Rwanda’s growing investment in advanced healthcare infrastructure and specialised medical services.The new CHUK hospital features state-of-the-art medical equipment, including MRI technology, angiography systems, advanced radiology facilities and multiple operating theatres.The newly completed CHUK facility in Masaka is set to begin receiving patients by the end of 2026, nearly doubling the hospital’s capacity from 453 to 837 beds.
The findings, drawn from a nationally representative sample of over 20,000 women and men, show that 50% of men and 18% of women aged 15–49 drank alcohol in the last month, figures that point to a wide and persistent gender gap in drinking habits, even as frequency patterns look broadly similar across the two groups.
Frequency over volume
Most Rwandans who drink do so occasionally rather than heavily. Among those who consumed alcohol, 78% of women and 51% of men drank on just one to five days in the preceding month. Daily or near-daily drinking was reported by 7% of women and 15% of men.
When they did drink, men were more likely than women to have several drinks in one sitting. Among male drinkers, 32% had no more than one drink per session, compared with 48% of female drinkers. At the other end of the scale, 12% of men and 14% of women who drank consumed six or more drinks on a typical drinking day.
Drinking rises sharply with age
The survey shows a clear age gradient for both sexes. Among women, alcohol consumption climbs from 7.5% among 15–19-year-olds to 28.9% among those aged 45–49. Among men, the increase is steeper and comes earlier: from 22.2% among teenagers to over 60% by their early 30s, peaking at 64.8% among men aged 40–44.
Regional and economic divides
Alcohol use varies markedly by province, and the pattern looks different for men and women.
Among women, Northern Province (26.1%) and Southern Province (25.6%) recorded the highest rates of alcohol consumption, more than double the 10.5% recorded in the City of Kigali, the lowest of any province. Western and Eastern Provinces fell in between, at 13.3% and 15.6% respectively.
Among men, the geography shifts, though Northern Province again tops the list, at 59.4%. It is followed by Southern Province (54.1%), Eastern Province (45.7%), Kigali (49.7%), and Western Province, which recorded the lowest male consumption at 45.3%. Notably, Kigali records the lowest alcohol use among women but sits roughly in the middle among men, while Western Province is consistently the lowest- or near-lowest-consuming province for both sexes.
The rural-urban split tells a smaller but still notable story. Rural women were more likely to drink than urban women (20.5% versus 12.7%), while the gap between rural and urban men was minimal (50.9% versus 48.8%), suggesting alcohol use among men is fairly evenly distributed regardless of setting, whereas for women, urban residence appears to correlate with lower consumption, mirroring the wealth pattern seen nationally.
Wealth shapes drinking for both sexes, though the pattern is clearer among women. Women in the poorest wealth quintile were roughly twice as likely to have consumed alcohol in the last month (24.4%) as those in the wealthiest quintile (11.8%). Among men, consumption was also highest in the poorest quintile (59.3%) and lowest among the wealthiest (41.7%), though the decline was less consistent in between, dipping to 49.4–49.5% in the middle quintiles before falling further at the top.
Education shows a similar gradient for women, alcohol use falls steadily from 24.9% among those with no education to 11.5% among those with more than secondary education. Among men, the pattern is less consistent: consumption drops from 62.5% (no education) to 41.3% (secondary), then rises again to 50.3% among the most educated group.
A different picture from tobacco use
The RDHS report notes that alcohol consumption is far more widespread than tobacco use in Rwanda, where just 1% of women and 6% of men aged 15–49 currently smoke or use tobacco products. Tobacco use among men has declined slightly since the previous survey, from 7% in 2019–20 to 6% in 2025.
Unlike tobacco, which is most heavily concentrated among older, less educated and lower-income men, alcohol consumption follows a somewhat similar socioeconomic gradient among women, while showing a less consistent pattern among men.
The report cautions that heavy alcohol intake carries significant health risks, including increased risk of alcoholism, malnutrition, chronic pancreatitis and liver disease, as well as risks to maternal and child health when consumed during pregnancy.
The 2025 RDHS was implemented by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) in collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health.
Half of Rwandan men and nearly one in five women aged 15–49 consumed alcohol in the month before they were interviewed for the 2025 Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS), according to the survey’s final report released on June 30, 2026.
Four years later, the Brooklyn rap legend and his wife, are celebrating their first year as residents of Kigali, a move they say has transformed not only where they live, but how they see the world.
For Dana Dane, a defining figure of hip-hop’s golden era, the journey to Rwanda represents a new chapter in a life already filled with milestones.
Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of 1980s hip-hop, the 60-year-old launched his career alongside childhood friend and fellow rap icon Slick Rick as part of the Kangol Crew before releasing his groundbreaking 1987 debut album Dana Dane with Fame. The album became the first solo rap project by a Brooklyn artist to earn Gold certification, while songs such as Nightmares and Cinderfella Dana Dane cemented his reputation as one of rap’s greatest storytellers.
Today, instead of navigating the streets of Brooklyn or Hollywood, the rapper, filmmaker and producer spends much of his time overlooking Kigali’s rolling hills, collaborating with local creatives and imagining what Rwanda’s growing film industry could become.
The Brooklyn rap legend and his wife are celebrating their first year as residents of Kigali
A holiday that changed everything
In a recent exclusive interview with IGIHE, the couple revealed that the idea of moving to Africa had long been part of their conversations. Ghana, Kenya and South Africa were all on their list of possibilities. Rwanda wasn’t.
In fact, their first trip here happened almost by chance.
“I saw the gorilla trekking promoted on Instagram,” Dr. Tana recalls. “My husband thought I was crazy.”
Like many first-time visitors from abroad, much of what they knew about Rwanda came from popular culture.
“The only thing we knew about Rwanda was Gorillas in the Mist, Hotel Rwanda and, of course, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” Dana Dane says.
They arrived with few expectations.
Landing after dark, they travelled straight to Volcanoes National Park before embarking on what they describe as a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience.
Approximately 604 endangered mountain gorillas reside in the Virunga Massif, which spans Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
But it was what happened after that unforgettable encounter that surprised them most.
During a short tour of Kigali before catching their flight home, the couple found themselves captivated by a city they knew almost nothing about.
The clean streets, modern infrastructure, lush greenery and use of technology, including intelligent traffic monitoring systems, challenged many of the assumptions they had carried with them.
“As we got on the plane to leave,” Dr. Tana recalls, “we turned to each other and said we could see ourselves living here one day.”
That conversation happened after only two days in Rwanda.
Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, is widely recognised and consistently ranked as Africa’s cleanest city.
Taking a leap of faith
By early 2025, they decided to stop talking about moving and simply do it.
Their plan was modest.
They would spend three months in Rwanda. If it wasn’t the right fit, they would move on to another African country.
That backup plan never became necessary.
“We’ve visited other countries since we’ve been here,” D. Tana says, “and we keep saying we made the right choice.”
The couple says several factors influenced their decision to leave the United States.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, the couple revealed that the idea of moving to Africa had long been part of their conversations. Ghana, Kenya and South Africa were all on their list of possibilities. Rwanda wasn’t.
Dana points to America’s increasingly divisive political climate, while both describe wanting a slower pace of life and a stronger sense of belonging.
“Being here was very calming,” he says. “Being in Africa and just seeing all the people that look like us.”
After taking ancestry tests that traced Dana Dane’s roots to Gabon and Dr. Tana’s to Cameroon, relocating to Africa also carried a deeper personal significance.
One phrase, however, best captures how they describe the emotional difference.
“We felt celebrated and not tolerated.”
While both speak warmly about the United States, they say Rwanda has given them something they had been searching for over many years: a genuine feeling of acceptance.
“No one’s made us feel like we were strangers or foreigners,” Dr. Tana says.
Dr. Tana’s career spans more than three decades in human resources, organisational development and executive coaching.
Breaking misconceptions
Dana Dane believes one of the biggest surprises has been discovering how welcoming Rwanda, and Africa more broadly, has been.
“There’s been a big misconception as Black Americans that Afro Blacks are not welcoming in Africa,” he says.
“Being here, I just want Americans to know that you are welcome in Africa as a Black American.”
That welcoming atmosphere, they say, extended beyond local residents.
They also discovered a thriving community of Black Americans already living in Rwanda, something neither had expected before relocating.
“That has been priceless for our transition,” says Dr. Tana.
Dr. Tana balances consulting work with early mornings at home, often accompanied by their puppy and a steady rhythm of international communication.
Seeing a country with a plan
Beyond the warm reception, the couple says they were impressed by Rwanda’s long-term vision.
Dr. Tana, whose career spans more than three decades in human resources, organisational development and executive coaching, was struck by what she describes as a country with a clear roadmap for the future.
Dana Dane points to Rwanda’s long-term national development strategies as another reason they chose to stay.
“My wife is big on plans,” he notes. “She saw there was a plan in place for the country.”
Watching Rwanda progress toward its vision of becoming a high-income country by 2050 has convinced them they arrived at an exciting moment in the country’s growth.
Dana Dane is a Brooklyn-bred storyteller who helped define hip-hop’s golden era in the 1980s.
Creating instead of retiring
Rather than slowing down, Dana Dane says Rwanda has sparked a new wave of creativity.
While continuing to produce films for international audiences, he has immersed himself in Rwanda’s entertainment industry.
He has already begun collaborating with local filmmakers and artists, seeing enormous potential despite the industry’s relatively young stage of development.
“I’ve already partnered with a lot of Rwandan filmmakers and entertainers,” he reveals. “We’re learning from each other and creating something incredible.”
He believes Rwanda has all the ingredients needed to become a major creative hub, provided filmmakers receive greater investment and opportunities to produce feature-length films.
Among his new projects is Break Da Banc Live, a game show he recently started filming on the streets of Rwanda.
He also hopes to collaborate with Rwandan musicians.
Dana Dane recently unveiled a street game show dubbed Break Da Banc Live.
Investing in people
For Dr. Tana, Rwanda’s greatest resource isn’t its scenery or infrastructure. It’s its young people.
Having spent decades developing leaders and organisations, she says she has been inspired by the country’s emerging generation of professionals.
“We’ve met so many very young civil engineers that are building apartment buildings, hotels and homes,” she says.
“They’re younger than our kids.”
She hopes to combine her newly earned law degree with her experience in leadership development, executive coaching and human resources to mentor young professionals while undertaking pro bono work focused on human and civil rights, particularly gender equity.
She is equally inspired by the visibility of women in leadership, with women holding a world-leading 63.8% of seats in Rwanda’s parliament alongside significant representation in the cabinet.
“The things I’ve connected to with Rwandan culture is that women are leaders here,” she remarks, pointing to women’s strong representation in government and business.
Learning, adapting and embracing home
Like any international move, settling into Rwanda came with challenges.
Learning Kinyarwanda remains the biggest one.
Dana Dane made it a priority to master simple expressions such as “Murakoze” (thank you), believing that courtesy creates instant connections.
For Dr. Tana, using Google Translate and embracing mistakes has helped smooth the transition.
“When people see you’re trying,” she says, “they’ll try to meet you there.”
But what stands out most after a year isn’t what felt unfamiliar. It’s what now feels like home.
The couple speaks enthusiastically about Rwanda’s sense of safety, efficient public services, simplified business registration, affordable cost of living and fresh food.
Simple pleasures now define their routine: morning coffee overlooking Kigali’s hills, creative work during the day and evenings spent with friends or attending cultural events.
“I take walks up these beautiful hills. The Thousand Hills give a thousand views,” Dana Dane says.
Looking ahead, neither plans to leave.
Watch the full conversation with hip-hop icon Dana Dane and Dr. Tana as they share how a gorilla trek led to a new life in Rwanda.
He made the remarks on Saturday at Intare Arena, where he and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined members of Unity Club and other leaders in a dialogue on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the Liberation War that ended it.
The discussions focused on the events that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the role of those who planned and executed it, and the Liberation War that stopped the genocide and restored the country, paving the way for national recovery and renewed unity among Rwandans.
President Kagame said the history of a country such as Rwanda is often contested because people interpret it through different perspectives shaped by their involvement, interests, or connection to past events.
He noted that historical accounts are sometimes distorted or selectively interpreted, adding that such disagreements are partly understandable given the differing roles and experiences of those involved, as well as interests that may have influenced past actions.
“History of a country like ours and what we went through involves many things that people even distort and turn into something it is not or should not be. There are many debates, which is understandable, and they are justified because how one person understands things is not how another understands them, depending on the role people played or had in them, depending on the interests that may have been involved earlier, even when it later becomes clear that those were not the right interests to guide actions in history.”
President Kagame made the remarks on Saturday at Intare Arena, where he and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined members of Unity Club and other leaders in a dialogue on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the Liberation War that ended it.
President Kagame said that discussions about history are often complicated by factors such as denial, discomfort, or reluctance to acknowledge responsibility.
“There are many things involved. There is shame as people feel uncomfortable with the role they played or their connection to it, and they do not want to revisit it. That is understandable. But what is more important is trying to go beyond that and work towards gathering everything so it becomes a truth we can base other actions on,” he noted.
The Head of State emphasized that some truths are supported by clear evidence or testimonies, including from individuals acknowledging their own involvement.
“There is also truth that cannot be reversed or reinterpreted because of evidence. Or even evidence where some people admit: ‘This is what happened! What I said about myself is true.’”
President Kagame said that when individuals acknowledge their role, continued debate becomes unnecessary, and attention should shift to lessons that support positive change.
“If the person themselves tells you that, what more debate is there? Instead of arguing, you should take the lesson and use it to achieve what we want. Many of these debates often come from those who, instead of saying ‘What has been said about me is true, and I am ready to start from there and change to become a better person,’ they instead resist it.”
He further noted that some individuals remain resistant to accepted accounts of history and attempt to reshape or reinterpret events, but stressed that the country cannot be held hostage by such positions.
“Many remain stubborn for the reasons I mentioned, which is understandable. But the country cannot be held hostage. Even when a country allows certain things and gives space for people to better understand what they previously misunderstood, that space is given, and it should be given, but it must have limits,” he remarked.
“The country cannot be held hostage by people who want history to be as they wish or to be understood in a way that is not how it truly is. All those debates should have space, research should happen, many things should take place in the search for truth, and they should be given adequate time,” he added.
President Kagame noted that historical accounts are sometimes distorted or selectively interpreted.
President Kagame said Rwanda has already provided sufficient space for discussion, research, and the pursuit of historical truth, but cautioned that such space should not be misused to distort facts or mislead the public.
“And I think over the years that space has been provided or has been available, except if we misuse it. But again, as human beings, we know people have issues.”
He observed that resistance to truth is sometimes driven not by lack of knowledge, but by personal or emotional connections to individuals implicated in historical events, whether through family, friendship, ideology, or shared interests.
“In normal life, a person may say in their heart: ‘They are talking about someone who has a problem, who did bad things,’ but because it is their relative or friend, even when there is evidence, they try to protect that person and deny the truth, and even tell others it is not true.”
President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joined members of Unity Club and other leaders in a dialogue on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the Liberation War that ended it.
President Kagame added that in some cases, opposition to truth is motivated by fear that acknowledging certain crimes may have wider implications for those connected to them.
“Some do so because if that crime is acknowledged, even if it comes from testimony, it may eventually circle back to them. So they try to prevent it early. In other words, I have a connection with person X, who is accused of certain things. That connection is not only blood-related; it can also be ideological or based on shared beliefs.”
He further explained that in such situations, individuals may attempt to defend or protect others from accountability in order to avoid broader scrutiny.
“They then fight the truth to protect that person, sometimes a friend or relative, from being held accountable. The aim is to prevent it from spreading and people saying, ‘So you are also involved?’ or even saying that those crimes affect everyone connected to it, and asking, ‘So what about me, do I also accept it?’”
President Kagame noted that a deeper issue arises when denial goes as far as questioning whether crimes occurred at all, or suggesting that victims somehow deserved their fate.
“If it is someone who was killed, it becomes as if you are saying: ‘They deserved to die anyway! Why should they have lived?’ These are things we Rwandans have experienced, and we must find ways and solutions to address them.”
He stressed that Rwanda’s painful history cannot be ignored or bypassed, and that Rwandans have a responsibility to confront it honestly and draw lessons that guide the country’s future.
“Especially when I speak about Rwanda, I am talking about the country I am part of, where I am a Rwandan. There are others for whom this may not mean much; they may choose to live as they are. That is possible elsewhere… But in Rwanda, our country and our history, what we say is: ‘We had a very bad history, but we cannot go around it.’”
He added that while Rwanda’s past was deeply painful, it should not be allowed to define or dictate the country’s present and future.
President Kagame said Rwanda has reached a point of clarity about its values and direction, and that citizens should be prepared to defend them, even at great cost if necessary.
“That is what we should live for, and what we would even die for if necessary,” he affirmed.
The Head of State emphasized that dialogue, explanation, and persuasion have limits, particularly when continued resistance risks dragging the country back into its violent past.
“When you see it is reaching a point where it may take another direction that could return people to the bad history we know, then no! You draw a clear line. Whoever crosses it pays the price. We are not afraid of that at all!”
President Kagame said Rwanda has reached a point of clarity about its values and direction, and that citizens should be prepared to defend them, even at great cost if necessary.
The 60-day agreement is intended to pave the way for broader negotiations toward a permanent ceasefire. Among its 14 key provisions are the cessation of hostilities between the two sides in the Middle East, mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the reopening of Iranian ports.
Iran is required under the deal to halt nuclear weapons development, while the United States has agreed to ease sanctions and release frozen Iranian funds held in international banks. Washington has also committed to contributing an estimated $300 billion for reconstruction of war-damaged areas.
Following the announcement, global oil prices quickly dropped back to pre-conflict levels. During peak tensions, crude oil had risen to as high as $120 per barrel, but it has since fallen to around $77.69. U.S. crude is trading at approximately $74.90 per barrel.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes daily, is a critical route for energy and trade shipments between the Middle East and global markets.
The earlier spike in international oil prices had a direct impact on Rwanda, where fuel prices reached historic highs. On June 5, 2026, a litre of petrol cost 2,938 Rwandan francs, while diesel rose to Rwf 2,927, driven by global market volatility.
Speaking to the media on June 6, Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva said that without government subsidies, a litre of diesel would have cost Rwf 3,581, meaning the state was covering about 18.16% of the cost through subsidies.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed the agreement while attending a G7 meeting in France. Iran also confirmed that President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the document on June 17.
Speaking to the press on June 16, Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Yusuf Murangwa said that while the agreement was welcome news, Rwanda would take a cautious approach.
“So far, we have received good news that there are initial agreements on the war in the Middle East. But our principle is to wait and see. There are two main reasons for this. First, we want to see whether the agreement is actually effected and whether it holds for a long period of time,” he said.
Fuel prices in Rwanda are reviewed every two months, and the country also maintains strategic reserves to cushion against supply shocks.
Shipping routes from ports such as Dubai or Bandar Abbas typically take between six and 12 days to reach Mombasa in Kenya or Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, with additional time required for transport into Rwanda. This means that goods already in transit or stored in warehouses may still reflect earlier, higher prices.
Murangwa noted that even if global conditions normalize immediately, local markets would continue to feel the effects of previous disruptions.
“Second, even if everything were to stabilize today, there would still be a backlog of issues. So, we still expect that we’ll continue to see the effects of the blockage that happened.
“It is not yet clear when this will be resolved. We will have to observe how the global business and supply chain communities manage to unlock the backlog of goods that were stuck in the Gulf,” he said.
The initial agreement also provides for the removal of naval mines and other maritime obstacles in the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days. During this period, shipping volumes are expected to return to pre-conflict levels, with the United States withdrawing naval forces deployed in the area.
The agreement stipulates that commercial shipping should return to normal levels under Iranian supervision.
Rwanda maintains that its fuel reserves have not been affected since the start of the Iran conflict and says it is working to ensure stable supply in the domestic market, along with other essential goods.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, consumer prices increased by 12.9% in May 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key route for global oil shipments.
In a communiqué released on Monday, June 8, 2026, the IMF Executive Board approved a 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement totalling SDR 185.031 million (about US$250 million) and authorised an immediate disbursement of SDR 26.433 million (approximately US$35.7 million).
According to the IMF, the program is designed to help Rwanda navigate tighter global financing conditions while sustaining economic growth, protecting social and development spending, and rebuilding policy buffers.
Rwanda’s economy has continued to demonstrate strong resilience despite a challenging international environment. Economic growth reached 9.4 percent in 2025, significantly exceeding expectations, driven by robust domestic activity and strong export performance, particularly in coffee and mineral exports.
However, inflationary pressures have intensified. Inflation rose to 13.2 percent year-on-year in April 2026, moving above the National Bank of Rwanda’s target range. The IMF attributed much of the pressure to higher global oil and fertilizer prices linked to the ongoing war in the Middle East.
While Rwanda’s external position improved in 2025 and foreign exchange reserves remained healthy at just over four months of import coverage, the IMF warned that the conflict in the Middle East poses significant risks to the country’s outlook. Economic growth is projected to slow to below 6.8 percent in 2026 as higher import costs and financing pressures weigh on the economy.
The IMF-supported program will focus on three key priorities: strengthening macroeconomic policies, managing fiscal and debt risks to preserve sustainable growth, and promoting private sector-led development through improved transparency and oversight of state-owned enterprises.
IMF Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair Bo Li said Rwanda’s economy had remained resilient despite successive global shocks, reflecting strong policymaking and reform efforts.
“Rwanda’s economy has remained resilient amid successive shocks, reflecting strong reform ownership and agile policymaking,” Li said.
He noted that advancing development goals while rebuilding economic buffers will require a carefully balanced policy approach, including greater exchange rate flexibility and a credible medium-term fiscal consolidation strategy.
The IMF emphasised the importance of strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation, improving public investment management, and enhancing oversight of fiscal risks to maintain Rwanda’s moderate risk of debt distress while protecting social spending.
The Fund also called for a tight and forward-looking monetary policy to address elevated inflation and reinforce confidence in the inflation-targeting framework. Although rapid credit growth warrants close monitoring, the IMF said Rwanda’s financial sector remains stable.
Looking ahead, the IMF stressed that continued structural reforms, including improvements in public investment efficiency and accelerated reforms of state-owned enterprises, will be essential for enhancing economic resilience and fostering stronger private-sector-led growth.
The newly approved ECF arrangement is expected to serve as a key policy anchor for Rwanda as it seeks to manage external shocks, maintain reform momentum, and attract additional financing from development partners.
According to the IMF, the program is designed to help Rwanda navigate tighter global financing conditions while sustaining economic growth, protecting social and development spending, and rebuilding policy buffers.
The debutants delivered a memorable performance to secure a historic title on home soil, overcoming one of the tournament’s most experienced and successful clubs in a closely contested final. The clash was attended by high-ranking dignitaries, including President Paul Kagame.
The Tigers become the first Rwandan team to lift the trophy in the tournament’s sixth edition.
American guard Craig Randall II once again proved decisive for the Tigers, leading all scorers with 33 points in a standout display that powered the Rwandan side to victory. His consistency throughout the tournament was rewarded as he was named BAL 2026 Most Valuable Player (MVP), edging out teammate Mangok Mathiang as well as Petro de Luanda duo Childe Dundao and Aboubacar Gakou for the top individual honour.
The final lived up to expectations, with both teams battling intensely in a game that remained competitive until the decisive moments. RSSB Tigers, however, held their nerve in front of a passionate home crowd to complete a remarkable championship run in their first appearance in the competition.
In the third-place playoff earlier on Sunday, Libya’s Al Ahly Ly secured the bronze medal after defeating their Egyptian counterparts, Al Ahly SC, 106–98 at BK Arena. The Benghazi-based side bounced back strongly from their semifinal defeat to Petro de Luanda, with Majok Deng and Charlie Moore combining for 52 points to seal a podium finish.
Petro de Luanda had reached the final after a dramatic semifinal victory over Al Ahly Ly on Thursday, where they overturned a late deficit to win 94–88. That comeback, driven by Lukeny Gonçalves and Childe Dundao, set up what was expected to be another title push for the Angolan champions, who have a strong BAL pedigree, including the 2024 championship and multiple top-four finishes in recent seasons.
However, it was RSSB Tigers who ultimately rose to the occasion, completing a fairytale debut campaign by lifting the BAL trophy and etching their name into the competition’s history.
RSSB Tigers defeated Petro de Luanda 90–88 to win the 2026 BAL title.The Tigers become the first Rwandan team to lift the trophy in the tournament’s sixth edition.The final lived up to expectations, with both teams battling intensely in a game that remained competitive until the decisive moments. American guard Craig Randall II once again proved decisive for the Tigers, leading all scorers with 33 points in a standout display that powered the Rwandan side to victory. His consistency throughout the tournament was rewarded as he was named BAL 2026 Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Nduhungirehe reacted on May 24, 2026, following comments by Ambassador Ntahiraja that justified possible attacks on Rwanda.
Speaking during an interview with journalists, Ntahiraja suggested that he would see nothing unusual about Rwanda being attacked.
The remarks come amid growing allegations that Burundi is involved in plans to destabilize Rwanda alongside armed groups including the FDLR, a militia linked to perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
When asked about reports of Burundi’s cooperation with opponents of the Rwandan government, the diplomat dismissed the concerns, suggesting that even if such cooperation existed, it would not pose a problem.
“Would it really be surprising if Rwanda were attacked by those opposed to the problems it is causing in the region?” Ntahiraja said.
He also referred to Rwandans who fled the country in 1996, claiming they would continue fighting for their country indefinitely.
However, his remarks overlooked the fact that refugee status for Rwandans who fled between 1959 and 1998 officially ceased on December 31, 2017. The comments appeared to indirectly reference individuals accused of involvement in the Genocide against the Tutsi who fled justice and are reported to be regrouping with intentions of destabilising Kigali.
“Rwandans, because of the many wrongs committed by their government, should expect they could be attacked by fellow Rwandans they expelled,” he added.
Reacting on X, Nduhungirehe said the statements warrant serious concern, particularly because they were made by a senior diplomat expected to uphold diplomatic norms.
“That a Burundian ambassador accredited to the Kingdom of Belgium, despite being fully aware of diplomatic ethics, allows himself to make such inflammatory remarks against a neighboring state with complete impunity, while promising to support an attack by the genocidal FDLR against Rwanda, should raise serious concern,” Nduhungirehe wrote on Sunday.
Allegations involving Burundian leaders in plans targeting Rwanda are not new. In January 2024, President Évariste Ndayishimiye said in Kinshasa that he would support young Rwandans seeking to remove Rwanda’s government from power.
Rwanda strongly condemned the remarks at the time, describing them as a serious provocation.
Qu’un ambassadeur burundais accrédité au Royaume de Belgique se permette, malgré l’éthique diplomatique dont il est bien conscient, de faire impunément une telle déclaration incendiaire contre un État voisin, promettant de soutenir une attaque des génocidaires FDLR contre le… https://t.co/HLejPnT4yupic.twitter.com/uXLOKOE44A— Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe (@onduhungirehe) May 24, 2026
The decision was announced on Thursday, May 21, by BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye during a Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Financial Stability Committee press conference in Kigali.
According to the Monetary Policy Committee statement issued following its May 20, 2026, meeting, the policy tightening aims to steer inflation back toward the 5% medium-term target while containing growing price pressures across the economy.
This is the second time BNR has raised the rate, after increasing it by 50 basis points to 7.25% in February.
The rate hike works by raising the cost of money across the local banking sector. When the BNR increases its benchmark rate to 8.25%, it directly drives up the cost of short-term borrowing for commercial banks. To protect their margins, commercial lenders will likely pass this increase down to the market, making business loans and personal credit more expensive.
By making borrowing less attractive, the policy aims to gently ease consumer spending and corporate expansion, giving supply chains time to adjust and helping bring inflation back toward its 5% target.
Inflation pressures intensify
The MPC noted a sharp rise in inflation in recent months. Headline inflation increased to 9.1% in the first quarter of 2026, up from 7.4% in Q4 2025, driven by higher core, fresh food, and energy prices.
Price pressures strengthened further in April 2026, with inflation rising to 13.0% from 9.2% in March, well above the central bank’s target band of 2% to 8%.
Energy inflation recorded a particularly steep increase, alongside rising costs in food and core categories such as housing, hotels, and restaurants.
Outlook revised upward
The central bank has revised its inflation outlook upward, now projecting an average inflation rate of 13.9% in 2026, compared to a previous forecast of 9.4% made in February.
“The MPC has decided to increase the CBR to 8.25 percent. The MPC considers this level appropriate to help steer inflation back toward the 5 percent objective over the medium term,” Governor Hakuziyaremye told members of the press.
The revision reflects both domestic and external factors, including higher global energy prices linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, as well as increased transport costs caused by supply chain disruptions.
Inflation is expected to ease to around 7.4% in 2027, supported by tighter monetary policy, improved agricultural output, and other stabilisation measures.
Despite inflationary pressures, Rwanda’s economy continues to show strong performance. Real GDP grew by 9.4% in 2025, while economic activity expanded further in early 2026, with the Composite Index of Economic Activities (CIEA) rising by 16.5% in Q1 2026.
External trade also strengthened, with merchandise exports increasing by 63.2% year-on-year in Q1 2026, driven by higher coffee and mineral export volumes and stronger prices. Non-traditional exports rose by 64.8%, led by processed cooking oil and wheat flour.
The MPC reported improved monetary policy transmission, with the interbank rate rising to 7.13%, moving closer to the CBR following earlier policy tightening.
However, deposit rates declined to 9.15%, while lending rates eased slightly to 15.67%, reflecting shifts in deposit composition and corporate lending conditions.
The central bank said the rate increase reflects its commitment to maintaining price stability and protecting household purchasing power, while supporting broader macroeconomic stability.
The bank added that the Monetary Policy Committee would continue to closely monitor global and domestic developments amid persistent upside risks to inflation.
The decision was announced on Thursday, May 21, by BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye (left) during a Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Financial Stability Committee press conference in Kigali.BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye and her deputy Nick Barigye during a Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) and Financial Stability Committee press conference in Kigali on Thursday, May 21, 2026.
The BAL Playoffs are scheduled to run from May 22 to May 31, 2026, in Kigali, with Bien officially confirmed as one of the headline halftime performers during the tournament.
Speaking to the media shortly after landing at Kigali International Airport on Wednesday, May 20, Bien expressed excitement about returning to Rwanda, praising Kigali’s beauty, the country’s peaceful atmosphere, and the growing influence of East African music and sports culture.
Bien expressed excitement about returning to Rwanda.
“I love basketball”
The former member of the popular Sauti Sol boy band, which announced an indefinite hiatus in 2023, said his connection to the BAL goes beyond music, revealing that basketball has been part of his life since childhood.
“I’m sure I’m going to enjoy the games,” Bien said. “I was in Johannesburg a couple of weeks ago, and I really enjoyed the games, especially watching the Rwanda team. They really brought a good game.”
The singer added that basketball remains one of his greatest passions.
“I don’t know if there’s an African artist who has played basketball more than me because I grew up playing basketball. That’s my sport. So I love it and I can’t wait to see what the games have in store for us.”
The singer said basketball remains one of his greatest passions.
Meeting President Kagame
Bien also reflected on his meeting with Paul Kagame during the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles earlier this year, describing the Rwandan leader as one of Africa’s strongest champions for sports development.
“Every time I meet President Kagame, it’s very special to me because I look up to him as a leader and a father figure,” he said.
According to Bien, their discussions centered around the future of basketball in Africa and opportunities for young African athletes.
“We spoke about young basketball players and talented sportsmen and women looking to take their gifts to the next level. It was a beautiful moment.”
The singer was warmly received at the airport by the Rwandan organisers. He praised the calm and welcoming nature of Rwandans.
“Kigali is what Africa should look like”
One of the strongest moments from Bien’s interaction with journalists came when he explained why Rwanda continues to draw him back year after year.
“The food, man,” he revealed. “I just want to come eat Rwandese food, eat sombe with goat meat inside.”
But beyond the cuisine, the artist said Kigali represents a vision of what modern African cities can become, following the city’s innovation and development over the past three decades since the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Kigali is widely recognised for its clean and well-organised urban planning, efficient public services, strong emphasis on safety and order, and relatively smooth traffic management.
The city has also built a reputation for environmental cleanliness, supported by innovative sanitation policies and community-driven cleanliness efforts, alongside a growing reputation as a regional hub for conferences, technology, and creative industries.
“I come to Rwanda to see what Africa should look like,” Bien said. “For a long time, whenever people talk about model cities, they mention Geneva and Switzerland and all these places. I’m always telling people there’s Kigali.”
He also praised the calm and welcoming nature of Rwandans.
“The people are peaceful. They’re amazing,” he added.
One of the strongest moments from Bien’s interaction with journalists came when he explained why Rwanda continues to draw him back year after year.
BAL showcases East African talent
Bien hailed the BAL for assembling a predominantly East African entertainment lineup for this year’s playoffs, like Ugandan sensation Joshua Baraka and Tanzania’s Abigail Chams, saying the moment reflects the growing global recognition of East African music.
“For a long time, East African art was made to feel like we weren’t worthy of certain spaces,” he said. “I want to thank the BAL for proving to everybody that East Africa has heavy-hitting music.”
The artist also expressed excitement about sharing the stage with fellow regional stars, while revealing disappointment that Rwandan producer Mugisha Fred Robinson, better known as Element Eleéeh, would not be available for a planned joint performance due to commitments in the United States.
Arsenal, “Finale,” and a champion mindset
An outspoken supporter of Arsenal F.C., Bien also opened up about his hit collaboration “Finale” with Tanzanian superstar Alikiba and the inspiration behind the song.
According to Bien, the track was written with the intention of putting listeners into a “champion mindset.”
“I wanted to make a song that prepares people as if they’re preparing for a final,” he explained. “Whether you’re going to work, going to the gym, or preparing for life, every day could be your final.”
The singer laughed while recalling how he and his wife decided to feature Arsenal supporters in the song’s music video long before the club’s recent success, which saw the club lift the English Premier League title after 22 years on Tuesday.
“Deep down, I knew this was going to be our season,” he joked, adding, “And I hate to say I’m a prophet, but you can see what’s happening now.”
Praise for Rwandan artists
Bien reserved special praise for Rwanda’s music industry, calling local musicians some of the most talented in East Africa.
He singled out Bruce Melodie as “the most talented vocalist in East Africa,” while also applauding producer Element Eleéeh for capturing “the soul of East Africa” through his sound.
The singer further revealed he has several unreleased collaborations with Mike Kayihura and other Rwandan artists, including Kivumbi King.
“I love working with Rwandese musicians,” he said. “They are beautiful people and very musical.”
The BAL Playoffs are scheduled to run from May 22 to May 31, 2026, in Kigali, with Bien officially confirmed as one of the headline halftime performers during the tournament.
Hinting at a solo Kigali concert
Although he has previously performed in Kigali alongside Sauti Sol, Bien admitted he has yet to stage a major solo concert in Rwanda under his own name.
“I would love to come and do a Bien show and invite all my brothers I’ve collaborated with over the years,” he said, hinting at future plans for a standalone Kigali concert.
Sports, music and Africa’s future
Beyond entertainment, Bien spoke passionately about the economic power of sports and music, saying events such as the BAL can create opportunities for young Africans across the continent.
Reflecting on his experience attending the NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles, he said witnessing the economy built around sports and entertainment inspired him to think more deeply about Africa’s potential.
“Music and sport are the two things that unite people the most,” he said.
“These events empower youth and show them that sports can become a viable career path.”
He also argued that East African music is currently enjoying one of its strongest moments yet, with regional artists increasingly dominating charts across Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda.
“To East Africans, we are now global ambassadors,” Bien said. “All we need to do is keep telling our story and keep making great music.”
As the BAL Playoffs prepare to tip off at BK Arena, Bien says he is ready to deliver both energy and soul to fans in Kigali.
“The show is going to be amazing,” he said. “I’m here with my entire crew and I can’t wait to come and give and share.”
Watch the full video of Bien’s interaction with journalists in Kigali below.
