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The awards, organised by Bridgevision in partnership with Rwandan and global institutions, aim to celebrate exceptional authors whose works contribute to education, inspiration, and cultural preservation across Rwanda and Africa.

The five-member jury comprised Francois Nyangezi, a Literary Arts and Design Industry Specialist representing the Ministry of Youth and Arts; Dr. Calixte Kabera, Professor and Vice-Chancellor at East African University; Dr. Karlene N. Jennings, Librarian and America’s Regional Public Engagement Director for Central Africa at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali; Jerome Kajuga, Director of Cultural, Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO Rwanda; and Mr. Thomas C. Ngwabije, Book Industry Promotion Officer at the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy.

The jury selected winners in five categories: Lifetime Achievement Award, Outstanding Young Rwandan Writer, Outstanding Female Rwandan Writer, Outstanding Male Rwandan Writer, and Outstanding African Writer.

Bridgevision CEO Joe E. Sully commended the jury’s work, saying the panel had done “an honourable job in selecting and elevating books meant to educate, inform, inspire, challenge, and comfort readers across the continent.”

This year’s award partners include the Ministry of Youth and Arts, UNESCO Rwanda, the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy, the U.S. Embassy in Kigali, East African University, IGIHE and Mille Collines Hotel.

The identities of the five winners will be formally revealed during the Radiate Rwanda Awards ceremony on November 7, 2025, in Kigali.

The winners of the inaugural Radiate Rwanda Literary Excellence Awards included Yolande Mukagasana, who received the Outstanding Woman Writer Award. Other recipients were Bishop Alexis Kagame and Bishop Aloys Bigirumwami.

According to reports, the clashes that erupted on Sunday, September 7, 2025, saw AFC/M23 seizing Mafuo, Biholo, Shoa, Bwambaliro, Busoro, Kinyeere, Burora, and Ngesha villages—all located in Osso Banyungu sector.

Following their defeat, FARDC soldiers and Wazalendo fighters retreated to the localities of Kazinga and Mahanga, on the border between Masisi and Walikale territories.

Local media outlet Actualite reported that both FARDC and Wazalendo militias are regrouping in preparation for counteroffensives aimed at retaking the lost positions.

Although AFC/M23 currently controls much of Masisi’s administrative center, parts of the territory remain under government authority.

Since its inception in 2005, Kwita Izina has stood as a testament to Rwanda’s conservation journey. Over the past two decades, the ceremony has evolved from a cultural tradition into an international platform that showcases Rwanda’s leadership in protecting endangered mountain gorillas, promoting sustainable tourism, and empowering local communities.

This year, the celebration highlighted two decades of remarkable achievements that have placed Rwanda at the forefront of global conservation efforts.

Bank of Kigali, a proud sponsor of the event, aligns its commitment to conservation with its broader mission of being a bank for Rwandans and supporting Rwanda’s development, through Nanjye ni BK.

By also standing alongside the Rwanda Development Board and local communities, the Bank contributes to initiatives that safeguard biodiversity, preserve forests, and create opportunities for families living around Volcanoes National Park.

“At Bank of Kigali, we believe that protecting Rwanda’s treasures is protecting Rwanda’s future. Our support for Kwita Izina reflects our commitment to conservation, community development, and national pride,” said Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali.

Over the past 20 years, Kwita Izina has become a true conservation success story, with mountain gorilla numbers steadily rising.

It has also fueled tourism-driven growth, positioning Rwanda as a leading eco-tourism destination.

At the same time, the ceremony has contributed to community development, ensuring that conservation efforts translate into better livelihoods for the people living around the park.

{{About Bank of Kigali}}

Founded in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest commercial bank, serving over 1 million customers through an extensive branch network and digital channels.

The bank is committed to fostering economic growth by providing innovative financial services to individuals, SMEs, and corporations, and continues to evolve as a trusted partner in Rwanda’s journey toward a more prosperous future.

Its excellence has been consistently recognized, with multiple wins as Best Bank in Rwanda from Euromoney Awards for Excellence (2021, 2024, 2025) and Global Finance Magazine, most recently in 2025 for the 5th time.

His passing deeply saddened many who knew him, with tributes describing him as a man of integrity, humanity, and unwavering dedication to duty.

In a message shared on X, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, remembered him as “a truly remarkable individual.” She wrote:

“Today marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the life of Lt Gen Innocent Kabandana. I feel deeply saddened to lose a friend, yet I’m grateful for the time we shared.”

Recalling his role as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., she said: “During my early days as ambassador, he was more than just a colleague – he was a trusted partner and sounding board. His strategic mind, diplomatic finesse, and unwavering dedication to Rwanda embodied the very values of a Rwandan officer.”

She also praised his unrelenting pursuit of knowledge and growth, all for the benefit of Rwanda.

Amb. Mukantabana concluded that his legacy lives on through his wife Sabine and their children—Monia, Brave, Brandon, and Noria—“who have grown into fantastic individuals.”

The Secretary General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo, also expressed her sorrow, saying: “Gen Kabandana was known for his integrity, wisdom, and boundless love for his family and for his country. Those of us who lived and worked with him are deeply saddened by his sudden passing, but the legacy he leaves behind on this earth is a source of comfort.”

{{A lifetime of service}}

Lt Gen Kabandana joined the Rwandan Patriotic Army in 1990, playing a crucial role in the liberation of Rwanda and in halting the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Throughout his career, he gained extensive experience in operations and leadership. He served as Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., Chief Instructor at the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, and Deputy Force Commander in the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Within the RDF, he held senior positions including Head of Logistics, Commandant of the Rwanda Peace Academy, and Commander of the Special Forces.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the first to wear the wristband, during his visit to the Games’ pavilion, highlighting his support for the event and the values it represents.

The launch reflects the UAE’s commitment to fostering community engagement, encouraging active lifestyles, and promoting unity through sport.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said, “The launch of the official wristband for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents a significant milestone in our preparations for this global event. It reflects the unwavering support of our wise leadership, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in strengthening Abu Dhabi’s status as a leading destination that brings the world together through sport, while inspiring the adoption of a healthy and active lifestyle.”

He added: “The Abu Dhabi Sports Council is fully committed to supporting the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 by providing all the facilities and resources needed to ensure the success of this landmark event, being hosted for the first time in the Middle East. The Council is also dedicated to encouraging the participation of sports enthusiasts from around the world, underscoring its mission to advance the role of sport as a strategic driver in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as a global centre of sporting excellence and a vibrant platform for cultural exchange.”

The wristband serves as a symbolic identifier of the Games and will accompany athletes, participants, and supporters as they prepare for the multi-sport event scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi from 6 to 15 February 2026.

With thousands of athletes expected to take part in more than 30 sports, the Games will bring together diverse cultures and sporting communities from around the world.

The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will feature a wide range of sports, including traditional sports that have long been an integral part of Emirati heritage, underscoring Abu Dhabi’s role as a global destination for sporting excellence and cultural exchange.

Asked by a reporter if he’s ready to move to “the second phase of sanctions against Russia” as he left the White House for New York, Trump answered, “Yeah, I am.” He did not elaborate.

Trump has grown increasingly pessimistic about the chance of brokering an end to the conflict anytime soon or seeing the Russian and Ukrainian presidents meet in person, reported NBC News last week, citing two senior administration officials.

A key building in Kyiv’s government district was attacked during Russia’s drone and missile attack overnight into Sunday morning, according to U.S. media outlets.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said it was the first time since the start of the conflict that the main government building in Kyiv had been damaged.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the attack involved 810 drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, most of which were launched overnight. Debris from the interceptions caused fires across the capital and damaged residential areas.

The strike on the Cabinet building, which houses several ministries, was described as a symbolic escalation.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack in a televised address, calling it a deliberate strike against civilians. “Russia continues its policy of terror,” he said, urging Western allies to tighten sanctions and increase military support.

Ukraine’s prime minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, warned that Moscow was escalating its campaign by targeting state institutions.

“This attack shows that Russia is not only striking our energy and residential infrastructure, but also our government institutions,” she said, adding that international partners must respond with stronger measures against Russian oil and gas revenues.

The Guardian reported that emergency services battled flames at the Cabinet building for several hours before bringing the fire under control. Witnesses described smoke rising from central Kyiv as sirens echoed throughout the city.

According to local officials, among the dead was a young mother and her child, killed when debris struck their residential block. Another civilian died in a separate blast on the city’s left bank. Across the country, 18 people were injured, including several in critical condition.

The assault also drew swift international condemnation. European leaders denounced Moscow’s actions as a violation of international law. French officials reiterated support for Kyiv, while British leaders said the attack underscored the need to accelerate air defence deliveries.

In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested his administration was considering additional sanctions on Russia. He described the strike as “a brutal escalation” and said his team was in contact with allies to coordinate a response.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Gala Dinner celebrating the 20th anniversary of Kwita Izina, Rwanda’s renowned gorilla naming ceremony.

During the discussions, Director-General Kim praised President Kagame for his visionary leadership and highlighted the longstanding partnership between GGGI and the Government of Rwanda.

He reaffirmed GGGI’s commitment to supporting Rwanda’s goal of achieving a climate-resilient, low-carbon, and high-income economy by 2050.

“President Kagame’s bold vision and leadership show what’s possible when ambition meets action,” said Kim.

“We are committed to deepening cooperation in key areas, including carbon markets, sustainable AI, greening the Kigali International Airport, hydrogen initiatives, and mobilising green investments for flagship projects in line with Rwanda’s vision to become a green investment hub.”

GGGI has worked with Rwanda since 2012 and signed a Host Country Agreement in 2016. According to the organisation, since 2018, it has mobilised USD 61 million (about Frw 88 billion) in green investments and supported the development of 11 national policies promoting sustainable buildings, waste management, and the circular economy.

Currently, GGGI is collaborating with the Rwandan government on flagship initiatives, including enhancing institutional readiness for carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, integrating gender equality and social inclusion into Rwanda’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions, piloting innovative financing instruments for clean cooking and sustainable forestry, and developing climate-resilient district master plans.

Kim attended the Kwita Izina celebrations as one of the distinguished baby gorilla namers. He named a gorilla “Impuguke,” meaning “Expert” in Kinyarwanda.

The event, which named 40 baby gorillas this year, underscores Rwanda’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community empowerment, principles aligned with GGGI’s global mission.

As of 8:30 a.m. local time (0530 GMT) Sunday, the air defense had intercepted 747 combat and decoy drones, along with four Iskander-K cruise missiles, said the Ukrainian Air Force in a Facebook post.

Five additional Iskander-K missiles, four Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and 56 drones struck 37 locations across the country, it added.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian authorities said the Russian drone attacks triggered a fire in the country’s government building and “emergency crews are working to extinguish the fire.”

This has been the first time since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict that “the government building, including its roof and upper floors, was damaged in the attack,” Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed on Telegram.

Svyrydenko added that apart from Kiev, Russian strikes hit the cities of Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Kremenchuk and Odesa.

According to the State Service for Emergencies, a mother and her 2-month-old baby were killed in the capital, while more than 20 people were injured.