He made the appeal on Friday, August 15, 2025, during the official inauguration of the Mugera Basilica, dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua and attended by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State. Located in Gitega Province, Mugera Parish has been elevated to the status of a minor basilica, the first of its kind in Burundi.
President Ndayishimiye expressed gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for choosing Mugera as the first Basilica under his papacy, and invited him to personally celebrate Mass there.
“We have come to receive the gift from our father, Pope Leo XIV, who has granted Mugera Church the title of Basilica. We invite him to come and bless it at a time he finds suitable—let him come to his home,” the President said.
He added that a papal visit to Burundi would include a Mass at the new Basilica.
“From today, this Basilica is his home. Mugera Church has long been a symbol of faith for all Christians, welcoming even Protestants. It is a place for all Burundians. We are deeply grateful to the Pope for this gift,” Ndayishimiye said.
The President emphasised the significance of the Basilica for national unity and called on Burundians to contribute to its development.
“This is the first Basilica under Pope Leo XIV. We hope it will become a place where we meet God—a space of peace, reflection, and inspiration to build our country,” he said.
He further urged the Pope to consider granting Burundi a Cardinal to oversee the Basilica.
“While the Basilica has been conferred, a Cardinal is still needed to shepherd it. We hope that all who pray here will feel at home, as Saint Peter once guided his followers. This will be a hub uniting Christians across the region,” the President said.
The Mugera Parish was founded in 1908 during the reign of King Mwezi Gisabo by missionaries Father Van Der Burgt and Father Van Der Wee. In 1922, as Burundi became an independent Vicariate, Mugera became the seat of its first Bishop, Monsignor Julien Louis Gorju, making it the country’s first cathedral.
Mugera, formerly known as ‘Mu mana za Mugera,’ also produced the first Burundian priests, Father Patrice Ntidendereza and Emile Ngendagende, who were ordained in 1925.
The Senegalese soldier was among the African peacekeepers deployed to Rwanda in 1994 under the United Nations mission. The veterans are currently on a seven-day visit to Rwanda.
On April 7, 1994, Belgium decided to pull out its troops from Rwanda, a move that severely weakened UNAMIR. That same day, Belgium launched a strong campaign to have the entire mission dissolved and withdrawn from Rwanda.
Under Belgian pressure, the UN Security Council on April 21, 1994, drastically reduced UNAMIR’s presence, leaving only 270 soldiers—too few and ill-equipped to protect those being massacred.
Brig. Gen. Faye explained that they had every right to leave, since that was the official order. He was then part of the observer group assigned to monitor military activities.
“Those who left for Nairobi received $135 per day, while those of us who stayed under gunfire in Rwanda were given only $93. If we had left, we would have enjoyed good hotels, comfort, and safety. But choosing to remain here was choosing death. It was a major decision and a symbol of sacrifice for those who stayed,” he recalled during an engagement with young people at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
“Every day, we came closer to death. But our greatest joy was that sometimes we managed to save two or three lives, whether in areas controlled by the UN or by the Rwandan army,” he added.
{{Mistaken for an ‘Inyenzi’
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Brig. Gen. Faye recalled an evening when he encountered Interahamwe who accused him of being an Inyenzi (a derogatory term for RPF Inkotanyi soldiers), even though he had already explained he was not Rwandan.
“That day I had been asked to escort a nun living near the Bralirwa factory. As we neared the convent, we saw three armed men who suddenly began shouting, ‘Inyenzi, Inyenzi.’ That was the first time I ever heard the word.”
He explained that after escorting the nun safely inside, he returned to find the armed group had grown from three to eight men.
“One had a rifle, the rest carried other weapons. I didn’t run. Instead, I approached them and said, ‘Don’t mistake me—I am not an Inyenzi, I am from Senegal.’ One of them said, ‘But you look like them.’ I replied, ‘Yes, but I am not.’ He told me, ‘You know, those people are witches. They can reach anywhere.’ In the end, they let me go.”
{{Remembering His Fallen Comrade
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Brig. Gen. Faye also remembered his close friend, Capt. Mbaye Diagne, describing him as an inseparable companion, since they had served together in another mission for four years before being deployed to Rwanda.
Capt. Mbaye, also Senegalese, was among the UN peacekeepers deployed to Rwanda in 1993 following the Arusha Accords between the Rwandan government and the RPF-Inkotanyi.
He served as a UN military observer, tasked with reporting information to UN leadership. Upon arrival, he was based at Hôtel des Mille Collines.
When President Habyarimana’s plane was shot down, the genocide began almost immediately. The first victim was Prime Minister Agathe Uwiringiyimana, who was assassinated.
Hearing rumours of her death the following morning, Capt. Mbaye drove alone to her house to verify, without waiting for orders. He found that she had indeed been killed, along with the ten Belgian soldiers guarding her. Nearby, he discovered her children hiding and, though unarmed, managed to rescue them.
He placed the children in the boot of his car, covered them with clothes, and drove them to Hôtel des Mille Collines, where many had sought refuge.
Brig. Gen. Faye recalled:
“When he got to Agathe’s house, he called me and told me she had been killed, but that he had found her children. He immediately informed Gen. Romeo Dallaire. From that day on, he kept saving lives until May 31, 1994—the day he was killed.”
On May 31, 1994, while carrying a message from Gen. Dallaire to the then Rwandan army chief, Augustin Bizimungu, Capt. Mbaye was stopped at a roadblock. A mortar shell exploded near his car, striking him in the head and killing him instantly—just as he was preparing to return home to Senegal.
Brig. Gen. Faye said he was among the first to arrive at the scene.
“Among the Senegalese contingent, there were several officers like Capt. Mbaye. Though not all had his level of courage, they shared the same spirit. Of the 29 observers, 25 chose to remain in Rwanda, carrying out different missions. They led by example, alongside us and other soldiers from countries such as Togo.”
Brig. Gen. Faye was among a group of former UN peacekeeping soldiers who recently visited Rwanda to share their experiences from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, particularly with youth and members of the Rwandan Defence Force.
Speaking to business leaders and global delegates, he outlined how Rwanda’s bold choice to “think big” has transformed a nation once deemed doomed into a beacon of resilience and progress.
The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi left Rwanda in ruins, with one million lives lost in just 100 days. Institutions were shattered, the economy collapsed, and hope seemed lost. Yet, as Minister Nduhungirehe explained, Rwanda refused to accept despair.
“We chose to stay together, to be accountable, and to think big,” he said, describing three defining decisions that reshaped the nation’s DNA.
Rejecting a one-size-fits-all development model, Rwanda forged its own path with homegrown solutions rooted in its culture and context. The Gacaca community courts, inspired by traditional dispute resolution, processed over two million genocide-related cases in a decade, delivering justice and reconciliation where conventional courts would have taken a century.
“Gacaca means grass,” Nduhungirehe noted, recalling how village elders once settled conflicts on grassy patches, a practice revived to heal a fractured society.
Other innovations drew from Rwanda’s traditions. Umuganda, a monthly community work day, unites citizens for public projects like tree planting and building homes for the vulnerable, making Kigali one of Africa’s cleanest cities.
Imihigo, or performance contracts, hold public officials accountable with measurable targets, fostering a results-driven culture. The Girinka program, meaning “own a cow,” has lifted thousands out of poverty by providing cows to poor families, with recipients passing on calves to neighbours in a chain of solidarity.
Rwanda’s ambition extended to gender equality, with women now holding 61% of parliamentary seats, the highest globally.
“After the genocide, women were victims beyond men, facing sexual violence and loss,” Nduhungirehe said. Reforms ensured equal rights to inheritance and services, while gender-responsive budgeting prioritizes women in education, health, and agriculture. Programs like One Laptop Per Child aim to leapfrog Rwanda into the digital age.
The minister highlighted Rwanda’s defiance of sceptics who called its goals too ambitious. Despite pressure from international partners like the World Bank and IMF to scale back, Rwanda invested in five-star hotels and tourism campaigns like Visit Rwanda, partnering with soccer giants Arsenal, PSG, and Bayern Munich.
“They told us we were a poor country, that we should stay where we are,” he said. “We refused, and it’s paying off.”
Rwanda’s Vision 2020 lifted millions out of poverty and established universal healthcare and free primary education. Now, Vision 2050 aims to make Rwanda an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income nation by 2050, with a GDP per capita target of $12,000.
“Even if we don’t fully reach our goals, we know we’ll be close,” Nduhungirehe said, emphasising the power of ambition.
The minister also addressed Rwanda’s global partnerships, including its role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative since 2018, which has funded roads, hospitals, and irrigation projects.
On the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nduhungirehe noted that FDLR, a militia group formed by the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, continues to destabilise the region from DRC territory.
He highlighted a peace agreement signed with the DRC in Washington on June 27, 2025, aimed at neutralising the FDLR, lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures, resolving political issues for Congolese of Rwandan descent, and fostering joint economic projects like methane gas extraction from Lake Kivu and critical minerals development.
“We hope to change the narrative from blood minerals to shared prosperity,” he said, stressing Rwanda’s commitment to implementing the agreement in good faith.
Responding to questions, Nduhungirehe credited President Paul Kagame’s visionary leadership. A delegate from his team recounted Kagame’s post-genocide call to “transform suffering into a creative force,” choosing unity over bitterness. This clarity of vision, coupled with accountability, has driven Rwanda’s progress, from performance contracts for mayors to resisting external pressures to conform.
“Development should never be about fitting into a frame designed elsewhere,” Nduhungirehe remarked. “It should be rooted in values, driven by pragmatism, and flexible enough to adapt.”
The talks, which lasted about three hours, focused primarily on the Ukraine crisis, as well as on reshaping bilateral relations that have largely stalled in recent years.
Though Trump said progress was made during the meeting, no concrete deal was agreed upon, while Ukraine and other European countries voiced concerns about being marginalised.
{{No deal reached
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At a joint press conference following the meeting, Trump said “many points” had been agreed upon, noting “great progress” had been made, though no formal deal was reached.
Putin said he agreed that Ukraine’s security should be ensured, adding that the understanding reached could help pave the way toward peace.
Russia is sincerely interested in ending the conflict, Putin said, stressing the need to address the “primary causes” of the conflict and warning Ukraine and European countries not to “throw a wrench in the works.”
In an interview with Fox News after the meeting, Trump said it is up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to strike a ceasefire deal, while indicating that he and Putin had discussed land transfers and security guarantees for Ukraine, and had “largely agreed”.
The U.S. president also said a meeting involving Zelensky, Putin and himself would be arranged soon.
The meeting marked the first visit to the United States by a Russian head of state in nearly a decade and the first face-to-face meeting between the two countries’ presidents since 2021.
In addition to the conflict, Putin also expressed hope that the meeting would serve as “a starting point” for restoring “business-like” and “pragmatic” relations between Russia and the United States, highlighting potential for Russia-U.S. cooperation in trade, high technology, space exploration and the Arctic.
The two leaders also left the door open for the next meeting, as Putin invited Trump to meet “next time in Moscow” during the press conference.
“I’ll get a little heat on that one,” Trump replied. “But I could see it possibly happening.”
{{Many differences remain
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Despite the moderately friendly atmosphere between the two leaders – Trump welcomed Putin with a red carpet at the airport, which, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, drove Western media “insane” – many differences still remain between the two sides.
The two leaders did not reach an agreement on “probably the most significant” aspect of their meeting. “We didn’t get there,” Trump told reporters before leaving the press conference room, without taking questions.
“For the man who likes to tout himself as a peacemaker and a dealmaker, it appears that Trump will leave Alaska with neither,” according to a BBC report, noting that Putin and Trump still have major differences in opinion over the Ukraine crisis.
The U.S. president also admitted in the Fox News interview that he was wrong to think the conflict would be easily solved. “I thought this would be the easiest of them all, and it was the most difficult,” Trump said.
The summit in Alaska was productive, and the U.S. side received the Russian side “very well,” said Kirill Dmitriev, Russia’s top economic envoy, on Telegram.
The two countries would continue building relations despite “resistance,” Dmitriev said.
Putin’s remarks at the press conference, especially his emphasis on the “primary causes” of the conflict and his warning to Ukraine and European countries not to disrupt the talks, were seen by some in the West as evidence of “the summit’s lack of actual progress.”
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide downplayed the meeting’s “progress.” “Too little concrete information has come out,” he said.
{{Worries of Europe
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Similar to a virtual meeting held on Wednesday before the Alaska summit, Trump, on his return flight after the meeting, had phone conversations with Zelensky and several other European leaders to brief them on his talks with Putin.
Zelensky announced after the calls that he would visit the White House on Monday to discuss “all of the details” regarding ending the conflict.
The talks covered the possible establishment of a trilateral format between Ukraine, the United States and Russia, he said, voicing support for Trump’s proposal for such a meeting.
Zelensky also underscored the importance of ensuring that European countries are involved in the peace process in order to provide Ukraine with reliable security guarantees together with Washington.
Worries about being marginalized have been growing across Europe in recent days, due to the absence of European voices at the Alaska summit.
In a joint statement following the phone call with Trump, leaders of the European Union (EU), France, Italy, Germany, Britain, Finland and Poland reiterated support for “ironclad security guarantees” for Ukraine and a trilateral summit “with European support.”
“European leaders are able to inform Trump of their ideas, and the U.S. will brief them on the summit outcomes, but Europe is in the position that the Ukraine conflict outcomes are being negotiated over its head and the continent’s leadership is essentially an observer,” said Neil Melvin, director of International Security at the London-based Royal United Services Institute, ahead of the meeting.
“While Moscow and Washington decide our fate, we’re left out in the cold,” Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Tuesday, explaining why Hungary did not join a joint EU statement on Ukraine.
“It’s simple really: sit at the table or you’ll find yourself on the menu,” he said.
The case gained public attention after several journalists, including Ndayishimiye Reagan (Rugaju), Ishimwe Ricard, and former journalist Mucyo Antha Biganiro, were implicated in the investigation. Authorities allege that both military personnel and civilians colluded to misuse public resources for personal benefit.
On 5 August 2025, the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) issued a statement identifying suspects as two RDF officers and 20 civilians. They are alleged to have committed offenses such as complicity in issuing and receiving unauthorized documents and misusing public resources for unintended purposes.
In the following days, the number of defendants rose from 20, reaching 28 individuals brought before the court on 5 August 2025. Among them were three military officers: Capt Peninah Mutoni, Capt Peninah Umurungi, and Maj Vicent Muligande.
Also charged were the spokesperson of the Rwanda Revenue Authority, CSP Hillary Sengabo, and his colleague CSP Olive Mukantabana.
The case further involves 23 civilians, including sports journalists, as well as Kalisa Georgine, a former treasurer of APR FC, and Mugisha Frank (known as Jangwani), the former spokesperson for the club.
The Military Court ruled that all defendants should be tried in-camera for national security reasons, given that the allegations are closely connected to the Ministry of Defence.
{{Charges against key defendants}}
Capt Peninah Mutoni faces accusations including granting unauthorized documents to individuals, misusing public funds, and collusion in producing and using falsified documents, harges shared with Maj Vicent Muligande and Kalisa Georgine.
Capt Peninah Umurungi, CSP Hillary Sengabo, CSP Olive Mukantabana, and journalists Ndayishimiye Reagan and Ishimwe Ricard are accused of being accomplices in fraudulently obtaining documents issued by authorized institutions and misusing public resources for personal gain.
{{Case background}}
Reliable sources indicate that most allegations focus on Capt Peninah Mutoni, who worked in a department responsible for requesting airline tickets for Ministry of Defence staff and other designated individuals. She held the responsibilities from 2017 until late 2024.
It is alleged that Capt Peninah Mutoni exploited this position to fraudulently purchase tickets for individuals who were not eligible for Ministry-funded travel, including fans and journalists attending APR FC matches against Pyramid in Egypt and AZAM in Tanzania.
Capt Peninah Mutoni reportedly collaborated closely with Kalisa Georgine to solicit payments from individuals seeking these tickets. However, the funds provided were not used for their intended purpose but were instead added to the Ministry of Defence’s accounts. The two allegedly shared the proceeds for personal gain.
During the investigation, journalist Ndayishimiye Reagan reportedly admitted that in September 2024 he paid Kalisa Georgine $540 for a ticket and an additional $100 for a visa, after which Kalisa delivered the ticket at the airport. Similarly, Ishimwe Ricard reportedly paid Kalisa $700 for a ticket, which Kalisa then forwarded to Capt Peninah Mutoni.
For the APR FC versus Pyramid match, Ndayishimiye Reagan and Biganiro Mucyo Antha had tickets paid for by the Ministry of Defence. RwandAir invoiced the Ministry $1,013 for Mucyo Antha’s travel to Tanzania, billed as official duty.
Prior to being taken into custody, Ishimwe Ricard admitted the wrongdoing during a radio interview on SK FM on 31 July 2025, stating:
“What troubled me in this matter is that I traveled to Egypt, spending Frw 1.4 million for my ticket, and additional travel expenses […] How can a journalist be questioned about payment and even face imprisonment?”
{{CSP Sengabo designated as APR BBW employee}}
Beyond the funds reportedly used for APR FC matches, information indicates that military and correctional service officers returning from peacekeeping missions in South Sudan were provided with airline tickets by Capt Peninah Mutoni without proper authorization. Among them was CSP Hillary Sengabo.
According to sources, at the end of 2024, as CSP Sengabo prepared to return to Rwanda for leave, he coordinated with Capt Peninah Mutoni to purchase a RwandAir ticket. She reportedly provided her bank account details and transferred $534, after which Capt Mutoni arranged the ticket.
A similar situation reportedly occurred with CSP Olive Mukantabana, who is said to have received a ticket purchased by Capt Peninah Mutoni when she intended to travel from South Sudan. CSP Mukantabana stated that she received Capt Mutoni’s contact number through Capt Peninah Umurungi, with whom they were together in South Sudan.
Both were given tickets, but the funds they provided were not used to pay for the tickets; instead, they were registered as employees of APR BBW. Capt Peninah Umurungi also received a ticket purchased by Capt Mutoni. This arrangement is where the alleged forgery charges against Capt Mutoni originate.
It is reported that once Capt Mutoni realized the illegal transactions to secure the ticket for Capt Umurungi drew attention, she collaborated with a RwandAir employee to produce a false document indicating that Capt Umurungi had paid for it.
Another military officer involved in the case is Maj Vincent Murigande, who, according to Capt Mutoni, instructed her to purchase tickets for Sengabo and Mukantabana. He is also said to have received all emails requesting tickets, which were recorded under the Ministry of Defence, even though the recipients were not affiliated with it.
Brigadier General Déo Rusanganwa, Chairman of APR FC, recently stated that anyone who misuses Ministry of Defence resources must be held accountable.
“MINADEF provides us with budgets to uplift Rwandans, and if we misuse them, we will be held accountable. If someone among you is contacted to clarify matters and has no involvement, they will be cleared. Justice may take time, but it will prevail. I ask for patience from those affected, because our country cannot function like other places we know,” he said.
He added: “We must carefully manage the resources entrusted to us to nurture talent and ensure they are used for their intended purpose. Let us trust that justice will take its course. It may take a little time, but I am confident it will be resolved appropriately. We must also cooperate to safeguard the resources APR entrusts to us.”
The confrontation erupted on August 14, 2025, in the Tukolote area of Kindu city, Maniema province, following an incident in which the son of Amani Useni Josué, also known as Saddam, the Wazalendo commander, was assaulted by security personnel on duty.
Lt. Jérémie Gbe, spokesperson for military operations in eastern DRC, stated that among the dead were five of Saddam’s fighters, two soldiers, and two police officers, while eight others were injured.
The clashes prompted Maniema Governor Mussa Kabwankubi to place the Tukolote area under a curfew from 2:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Since the launch of the incentive programme in early 2024, the total amount disbursed has exceeded Frw1.5 billion, benefiting 130,000 end consumers.
According to the Ministerial Order relating to the VAT rewards, a final consumer is someone purchasing goods or services for personal use rather than resale or business purposes. This person is entitled to a reward equivalent to 10% of the VAT amount indicated on the invoice.
To qualify, consumers must register for the VAT reward programme by providing their name, a Rwandan mobile phone number, a Mobile Money or bank account, and a national ID. Registration can be done by dialing *800# or through the MyRRA platform. The same channels allow users to check their reward accounts and track issued invoices.
So far, nearly 200,000 end consumers have enrolled in the VAT reward programme, resulting in a total of over 4 million invoices requested, which have generated approximately Frw33 billion in VAT revenue.
To get the reward, the value added tax appearing on the invoice must have been declared and paid.
When requesting an EBM invoice, the consumer must ensure that the seller includes their registered phone number.
If a seller refuses to issue an EBM invoice, consumers are encouraged to report the incident to the RRA by providing details such as the trader’s name, Tax Identification Number (TIN), address, date of purchase, proof of payment, and any invalidated invoice.
Consumers, who report such cases receive an additional 50% reward from penalties imposed on the non-compliant trader.
Reports can be submitted to the RRA WhatsApp line: 0739008010. To boost participation, RRA last month launched a partnership with QT Global Software Ltd and AMBI Tech Ltd to provide additional incentives to final consumers.
Through TengaPromo, the more VATable invoices a consumer requests using their registered phone number, the more loyalty points they earn. These points correspond to weekly cash prizes they can play for, ranging from Frw5,000 to Frw1 million.
A total of 1,200 lucky winners can share up to Frw50 million in cash prize each month.
The veterans, currently on a seven-day visit to Rwanda, were commended on Friday, August 16, during an engagement with young people at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. The dialogue aimed to inspire Rwandan youth with lessons of resilience, shared humanity, and moral courage.
Veneranda Ingabire, Executive Director of Memory and Genocide Prevention at the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE), expressed deep gratitude to the peacekeepers for returning to Rwanda to retrace their steps and revisit sites marked by painful memories.
“Your decision to be here today is not a passive one, but an active testament to your enduring connection with our country. You chose compassion over comfort. Thank you. You stayed, and by doing so, you saved lives. Your decision was not just an act of defiance,” Ingabire underlined.
She told the peacekeepers that they have returned to a nation that is no longer defined by its past, but is now united and building a hopeful future that stands on the bare principles of courage and resilience they maintained.
“Look at these men. They are not just heroes of a distant past. They are living examples of what it means to be a person of that past,” Ingabire said.
Speaking on behalf of the Rwanda Defence Force, Defence Spokesperson Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga also saluted the former peacekeepers for risking their lives to protect civilians.
“We are here not just to listen to history, but to engage with living witnesses who defied orders, stood their ground, and risked their lives to protect innocent civilians during one of the darkest chapters in human history, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” he said.
Brig Gen Rwivanga lauded the heroism of Ghanaian and Senegalese peacekeepers, who refused to abandon their posts and instead chose to stay on, protecting those under threat. He explained that in those days, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) was under immense strain.
When the Belgian contingent withdrew and the UN Security Council voted to reduce the force, most countries pulled out their troops.
But soldiers from Ghana and Senegal refused to abandon their posts, making them direct targets. Despite this, they continued evacuations, escorted survivors to safety, and provided protection in desperate situations.
Maj Gen (Rtd) Clayton Boanubah Yaache who served with the Ghanaian contingent under UNAMIR in Rwanda explained why they chose to stay while other countries withdrew.
“We didn’t stay because we had superior weapons or a more defined mandate. We stayed because of something deep inside us, something that transcended orders or protocol told us that walking away from Rwanda would mean abandoning our shared humanity. As a soldier, I had sworn an oath to serve and protect,” he noted.
The visiting delegation includes Maj Gen (Rtd) Clayton Boanubah Yaache, Brig Gen (Rtd) Martin Owusu-Ababio, Brig Gen Elhadji Babacar Faye, Major (Rtd) Peter Sosi, Ex WO II Lucas Norvihoho, and Ex WO I Sampson Agyare.
Through this partnership, BasiGo Kenya and Rwanda will become CATL’s designated service agents for the region.
As an authorized service agent, BasiGo’s service teams in Kenya and Rwanda will receive specialized training and equipment from CATL to provide local maintenance and support for CATL battery technology.
CATL batteries are used in BasiGo’s electric buses, as well as in a growing number of electric vehicles across the region.
These teams will be equipped with diagnostic tools, training, and spare parts to enable rapid and reliable battery service and repair within the region.
“This is a major milestone for BasiGo and a strong endorsement of the capabilities we’ve built across Kenya and Rwanda,” said Jit Bhattacharya, CEO of BasiGo. “Batteries are the most important component in any EV and and CATL is the global leader in EV battery technology. Through this partnership, we are now equipped to ensure the uptime of CATL batteries in African EV’s, not just for our electric buses, but for the wider ecosystem of EV operators across the continent.”
BasiGo’s proven strength in after-sales service was a key factor in CATL’s approval as its service partner in the region.
“BasiGo’s experience and local presence make them a strong partner for supporting CATL’s expansion in Africa,” said Saba Azizi, Head of Service Network and After-Sales at CATL for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa region. Their strong track record in electric mobility makes them an ideal partner to support the growing demand for reliable EV battery solutions in the region. This collaboration is an important step in expanding CATL’s global service network and supporting sustainable transportation in Africa.”
The partnership will make CATL battery servicing available locally in both Kenya and Rwanda, significantly improving uptime for fleet operators and shortening the supply chain for spare parts needed to keep batteries operating in good health.
BasiGo’s service centers will also act as collection points for end-of-life batteries, supporting CATL’s global recycling efforts. BasiGo’s appointment as a CATL service agent comes at a time of rapid growth in the Africa’s electric mobility sector, with increasing adoption of EVs across both public and commercial transport segments.
From breathtaking outdoor escapes to immersive cultural encounters and world-class dining, Kigali presents a weekend full of discovery and refinement. This guide invites you to explore the city’s finest offerings, ensuring that every moment you spend here is both enriching and unforgettable.
{{Hike Mount Kigali for Stunning Views
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Kick off your weekend with a hike up Mount Kigali, a rewarding adventure that offers panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply love a good walk in nature, this hike provides a peaceful escape from the city while offering breathtaking views at the summit. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of Kigali from above.
{{Experience Outdoor Thrills at Fazenda Sengha
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Perched high on the slopes of Mount Kigali, Fazenda Sengha is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Originally opened in 2012 as a horseback riding school, it has since grown into one of Kigali’s most popular outdoor recreation spots. The panoramic views alone — stretching across the city and over the rolling hills beyond — are worth the trip, but it’s the variety of activities that truly make Fazenda Sengha unforgettable.
Whether you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush or a leisurely day out, there’s something here for everyone. Thrill-seekers can take on the zip-line, quad biking trails, or even a bungee ride, while those after a slower pace can enjoy archery, badminton, or scenic horseback rides through the surrounding landscape. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly fun, from trampolines to picnic areas, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
After a busy day of activity, visitors can wind down at the onsite restaurant, which serves hearty local dishes and refreshing drinks — the ideal way to refuel while soaking in the spectacular sunset over Kigali. Just a short drive from the city center, Fazenda Sengha offers a refreshing escape that blends adventure, relaxation, and some of the best views in Rwanda.
{{Escape to Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park
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If you’re looking for a relaxing nature retreat, head to Nyandungu Urban Wetland Eco-Tourism Park. This 120-hectare park is an urban oasis filled with walking trails, ornamental ponds, and birdwatching opportunities. It’s the perfect place to unwind amidst nature without leaving the city, offering a peaceful escape for a quiet afternoon or a leisurely walk.
{{Relax by Nyarutarama Golf Lake
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For a tranquil escape, visit the Nyarutarama wetland area. While the area is not a traditional lake, it offers a peaceful urban retreat. You can take a leisurely walk along the paths that skirt the wetland, enjoy the calm atmosphere, and observe the many bird species that frequent the area. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy a quiet moment in nature.
{{Explore Richard Kandt Museum
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The museum is named after Richard Kandt, the first colonial governor of Rwanda under German rule, who governed in the early 1900s. Today, the Kandt House Museum in Kigali is divided into three main sections.
The first section showcases Rwandan life before the colonial era, exploring its social, economic, and political dimensions.
The second section delves into Rwanda’s colonial experience, beginning with the Berlin Conference of 1884, which led to German rule until 1916. After World War I, Belgium took over governance under the League of Nations mandate.
This section also highlights Richard Kandt’s life in Rwanda.
The third section focuses on the history of Kigali, chronicling its evolution before, during, and after the colonial period.
{{Discover Contemporary Art at Inema Arts Center
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Dive into the local art scene at Inema Arts Center, where you can explore a collection of contemporary Rwandan art. Located in Kiyovu, Inema showcases vibrant paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works by local artists.
Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for something unique to do, Inema offers a creative and engaging experience. You can even purchase a piece of art to take home as a reminder of your visit.
{{Savour Delicious Meals at Heaven Restaurant
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When it comes to food, Heaven Restaurant & Boutique Hotel is a must-visit. Located in Kiyovu, this restaurant offers a fusion of Rwandan and international cuisines, served with breathtaking views of Kigali. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Rwandan dish or something more global, Heaven provides a great dining experience in a stunning setting.
{{Taste Local Flavours at Repub Lounge
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For those craving authentic Rwandan flavours, Repub Lounge is the perfect spot. Known for its delicious brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and hearty local meals, Repub Lounge provides a casual yet vibrant atmosphere to enjoy a taste of Kigali’s best street food-inspired dishes. It’s the place to go for a relaxing evening out with friends or family.
{{Enjoy a Plant-Based Meal at The Hut
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For a meal with great views and healthy options, check out The Hut. While the menu offers a range of dishes, from grilled meats to pasta, it’s particularly well-known for its fresh salads and a number of excellent vegetarian and vegan options. Its relaxed atmosphere and focus on quality ingredients make it a great choice for a nutritious and delicious meal.
{{Shop Local at Kimironko Market
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Kigali’s bustling markets are a true reflection of the city’s energy and culture. Kimironko Market, the largest in the city, is a must-see. It’s packed with fresh produce, local crafts, and vibrant textiles. Whether you’re looking to shop for souvenirs or just soak in the local atmosphere, Kimironko offers an authentic Rwandan market experience.
{{Discover Handmade Crafts at Caplaki Craft Village
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For those seeking unique souvenirs or locally made crafts, Caplaki Craft Village is the place to go. This charming village features a range of handmade products, including traditional baskets, wood carvings, and jewelry. Shopping here is a great way to support local artisans while picking up a meaningful gift to remember your time in Kigali.
{{Experience Rwanda’s Coffee Culture at Cave Coffee
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Kigali’s coffee culture is rich and vibrant, with many cafes offering freshly brewed, high-quality coffee. Cave Coffee is a great example of this, offering a cosy ambience and a taste of Rwanda’s famous beans. Other excellent and popular choices include Question Coffee, Inzora Rooftop Café, and Rubia Coffee Roasters, each providing a unique experience for coffee lovers, from stunning city views to a deep dive into the bean-to-cup process.
{{Immerse Yourself in Rwandan Art at Ivuka Arts Studio
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For a hands-on cultural experience, visit Ivuka Arts Studio in Nyarutarama. This creative space showcases the work of local artists, offering visitors the chance to interact with the artists and purchase their works.
The studio also hosts workshops, making it an ideal spot for those interested in learning more about Rwandan art and creativity.
{{Connect with Local Culture at Kigali Cultural Village
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Kigali Cultural Village is the place to be if you want to dive deeper into Rwanda’s cultural heritage. The village hosts a variety of cultural events, including traditional music, dance performances, and artisan markets. It’s a lively and colourful venue that provides visitors with a true sense of Rwandan culture and tradition.
{{Marvel at Modern Architecture at Kigali Convention Centre
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End your weekend with a visit to the KCC, a symbol of Rwanda’s rapid modernisation. This iconic building is known for its unique architecture and serves as a hub for international conferences and events. Even if you’re not attending an event, it’s worth stopping by to admire the building’s striking design and enjoy the surrounding area.
