This development builds on the momentum of recent diplomatic progress, including the Peace Agreement signed by the two countries on June 27, 2025, and the earlier Declaration of Principles signed in Washington, D.C. on April 25 by DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.
The REIF is expected to serve as a living platform that evolves over time, allowing for the inclusion of new, mutually beneficial initiatives in areas ranging from infrastructure and energy to health, tourism, and mining.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe,on July 30, told Members of Parliament that Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were preparing to enter into a special economic cooperation agreement.
“These will be specific agreements focused on bilateral cooperation, particularly on adding value to mineral resources. Discussions are still ongoing. We hope that experts from both sides will reach a consensus so that the agreement can be signed in the near future,” said Minister Nduhungirehe.
Before outlining principles for their economic cooperation principles, Rwanda and the DRC convened their first meeting of the oversight body tasked with monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, which took place in Washington on July 31.
That meeting laid the groundwork for a follow-up session scheduled for August 4, bringing together members of a joint security mechanism. This body will be responsible for overseeing operations aimed at dismantling the terrorist group FDLR and reviewing Rwanda’s defensive measures previously put in place.
The United States has welcomed both meetings as significant steps toward implementing the peace agreement, emphasizing that Rwanda and the DRC are on the right track toward enhanced security and economic collaboration.
He is scheduled to perform on Saturday, August 2, at BK Arena, where he will share the stage with Rwanda’s own The Ben and fellow Nigerian artists Ayra Starr and Kizz Daniel. His return to Rwanda marks a special moment for local fans who last saw him perform during the Kigali Jazz Junction on March 25, 2022, at Canal Olympia.
At 44, Timaya remains one of the most celebrated and enduring figures in African music. Since launching his career in 2005, he has steadily built a legacy through a series of successful releases that have earned him a loyal following across the continent. Known for his distinctive fusion of dancehall, ragga, afrobeats, hip-hop, and soca, Timaya has become a musical force whose sound resonates far beyond Nigeria.
In addition to his work as a performer, he is also the founder of DM Records Limited, the label that helped launch the careers of artists such as Patoranking and Runtown. His leadership in the industry has not only elevated his profile but has also contributed significantly to the growth of African music globally.
Born on August 15, 1980, in Rivers State, Nigeria, Timaya is the youngest of fifteen children. He was raised in a large family where his father worked at a bank and his mother ran a small business. After completing his secondary education in Lagos, he enrolled in university to study accounting but left before completing his degree to pursue music full time.
His musical journey began humbly when he worked as a backup singer for Nigerian artist Eedris Abdulkareem, an experience that gave him valuable exposure to the stage and the music industry. After three years in that role, he embarked on a solo career and eventually met producer Obaksolo in Mafoluku, Lagos. It was there that he recorded “Dem Mama,” a breakthrough track that catapulted him into the spotlight and set the tone for his future success.
BNR’s initial study aimed to assess whether a CBDC, controlled and regulated by the central bank, could be beneficial to Rwanda. It evaluated how such a currency could function alongside existing systems like banks and mobile money platforms, and whether it was necessary for Rwanda’s financial future. The findings revealed strong justification for moving forward, highlighting several challenges that a CBDC could help address.
Now in the pilot phase, the project is testing how the currency could be used in everyday transactions and is welcoming ideas from industry players about the best ways to design and implement it. One of the major advantages of the proposed CBDC is that it allows users to make payments quickly—even without internet access—adding to the country’s existing electronic and cash-based payment methods with a secure, innovative solution.
This pilot marks a significant milestone for BNR, which is working to build a financial ecosystem that is technologically advanced, resilient, and accessible to all. The central bank has confirmed that testing is already underway and expects to publish the results by October 2025.
The goal of the trial is to deepen understanding of how the CBDC would work in practice—its regulatory requirements, cybersecurity safeguards, and how it could integrate with Rwanda’s existing payment systems. It will also help shape the central bank’s final decision on whether to launch the CBDC nationwide.
To support the project, BNR is collaborating with Giesecke+Devrient, a German firm with extensive experience in digital currency systems. Together, they are running a challenge-style program aimed at collecting ideas from financial institutions and technology experts.
The initiative focuses on four areas: how the digital currency can improve payments in rural areas, how it can help government disburse funds directly to citizens, how it might make person-to-person transfers faster and more affordable, and how it could contribute to a safer, more cost-effective financial sector overall.
Participants will include banks, fintech firms, and other stakeholders in the financial space. The competition is set to open in August 2025, with winners selected in September to present their ideas. These results will inform the next steps in the process.
Following the current pilot and ideation stages, BNR plans to proceed with three more phases: building the necessary technological infrastructure, conducting controlled trials among a limited group of users, and finally—if all goes well—rolling out the CBDC to the wider public.
Speaking to IGIHE recently, BNR Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye emphasized that the process is long but intentional.
“This is a careful, phased approach. If we decide to move forward, we want to make sure that the digital currency is not only secure but also truly beneficial to the Rwandan people,” she said.
She confirmed that the initial research is complete and that stakeholder consultations, including citizen feedback, have already been conducted.
“Our early testing shows that the potential is real. That’s why we’re now beginning more in-depth testing with a small group of users in Rwanda. What we learn from this pilot will help determine whether the country is ready to adopt the CBDC,” she added.
Governor Hakuziyaremye also noted that one of the most immediate benefits of a CBDC could be reduced transaction costs—both domestically and for cross-border transfers.
“Many countries are already using digital currencies, and we believe this could make trade and remittances cheaper and more efficient.”
She added that the system could also enhance competition among payment service providers, ultimately improving innovation and services across the sector.
Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are often decentralized and unregulated, a CBDC is issued and controlled by the central bank. This means it poses fewer risks to the national economy and enjoys the same legal recognition as traditional currencies.
The CBDC would not exist in the form of paper notes or metal coins, but rather as a fully digital legal tender. It would be used to buy goods and services through digital platforms, and all transfers and withdrawals would take place electronically.
[With this new step->chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.bnr.rw/documents/CBDC_Ideathon.pdf], Rwanda joins a growing list of countries actively exploring the future of money through central bank-issued digital currencies. If successful, the CBDC could become a cornerstone of the country’s vision for a smart, connected economy that leaves no one behind.
RDB had temporarily suspended the issuance of new gaming licenses and the renewal of expired licenses on August 9, 2024. This action was taken as the RDB assumed its role as the regulatory authority for gaming activities and worked on a new national gambling policy.
In a public notice issued on August 1, 2025, RDB announced that the resumption of licensing activities follows the adoption of the 2024 Gambling Policy, which aims to promote a responsible, transparent, and well-regulated industry.
RDB said the decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to attract credible investment while minimising potential social and economic harms associated with gambling.
“The aim is to establish a modern and responsible gambling ecosystem, aligned with international best practices and Rwanda’s strategic vision,” RDB stated.
Under the revised framework, operators with valid licenses are required to comply with updated directives, including the resumption of annual license fee payments as stipulated in Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013.
RDB has committed to providing direct communication to each operator with detailed payment instructions and timelines to ensure continuity of operations.
In addition to re-opening licensing for physical casinos, RDB is now accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for three key gambling categories: land-based sports betting, online sports betting, and online casinos.
RDB has invited interested parties to submit their EOIs by September 30, 2025, via email to NLGC@rdb.rw.
“Submissions should briefly describe the applicant’s profile, area of interest, and proposed investment. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further engagement,” RDB stated.
The current regulatory transition comes as Rwanda works to replace the legal framework that has governed the sector since 2011.
While the review is ongoing, gambling activities will continue to operate under the existing laws, including Law n°58/2011 governing gambling in Rwanda, Ministerial Order n°01/013 of 20/06/2013 on licensing procedures and fees, and Ministerial Order n°001/MINICOM/2023 outlining administrative sanctions.
With a career spanning over two decades, Adesope has become a cornerstone in the African entertainment media space. His work with Afrobeats heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Olamide, Sarkodie, and Wande Coal has cemented his reputation as a key driver of African pop culture across global platforms, especially in the UK.
Recognising his influence and far-reaching network, Rwandan label 1:55AM Ltd enlisted Adesope to spearhead international promotions for “Pom Pom”, which is positioned to open new markets for the trio of artists.
According to sources, Adesope is expected in Kigali ahead of the song’s official release, with promotional activities in the UK lined up shortly after. The label also hinted that Bruce Melodie and his collaborators may head to the UK for a media tour, leveraging Adesope’s extensive industry connections.
Adesope’s media journey began in 2003 at N-Power FM in London before moving to Voice of Africa Radio. By 2014, he was hosting Live at Battersea on Vox Africa TV UK and later became a fixture on Nollywood Movies Sky 329 with Nolly Afrobeats. He also contributed to Ben Television’s ABC Sports segment.
That same year, he joined The Beat London 103.6FM, where he hosted Afrohits on The Beat, becoming a defining voice for African music radio in the UK for ten years. Since 2020, he has anchored The Afrobeats Podcast, a globally respected platform spotlighting African talent and cultural movements.
With his deep ties to the African music diaspora, Adesope continues to bridge the gap between African artists and Western audiences. His involvement in “Pom Pom” signals the track’s international ambitions and positions it for cross-continental success.
The single is slated for release between late August and mid-September 2025, marking another major milestone in Bruce Melodie’s continued rise on the global music scene.
The disclosure was made by the Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, during this year’s national celebration of Umuganura (thanksgiving festival) in Musanze District on August 1, 2025.
The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, industry, local residents, and government officials. The day served as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and reaffirmation of cultural values.
Highlighting the significance of Umuganura in both historical and contemporary contexts, the Minister noted: “Umuganura stands out as the only festivity deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. This is why the Government of Rwanda reinstated it in 2012, and efforts are underway to have it recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.”
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura is not just a symbolic tradition, but a practical framework of values that continue to guide Rwanda’s development.
He traced its origins back to the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana and its interruption by colonial rule in 1925. The festival was officially reinstated in 2012 by the Government of National Unity under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The Minister noted that the celebration is no longer limited to agriculture and livestock, but now includes achievements in sectors such as education, technology, tourism, arts, and industry.
“Some may perceive Umuganura as merely an act of sharing, but while sharing is an important component, it is not the sole essence of the celebration. Umuganura represents a year-long process of performance contract, planning, and striving for progress,” Habimana noted.
The festival’s theme this year—“Umuganura: The Source of Unity and Foundation for Self-Reliance”—captured its evolving role in modern Rwandan society.
The Minister also issued a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to embrace and preserve the values of Umuganura.
“Umuganura is not just another celebration. It is a unique heritage and tradition that defines our identity. I urge you to uphold it, embrace it in your daily lives, and pass it on to future generations,” he noted.
“Elders have a responsibility to instill this tradition in the youth, ensuring its preservation. Celebrating Umuganura reminds us to keep Rwanda at the heart, wherever we are, and to carry this legacy with pride,” the Minister added.
Umuganura embodies values such as hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and patriotism—principles that continue to drive Rwanda’s progress.
Gakenke Mayor Mukandayisenga Véstine made the announcement during a July 31, 2025, engagement with staff from the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) and journalists. The visit was part of a broader cultural tour aimed at identifying and promoting sites with deep historical ties to Umuganura.
Huro Hill, located in Huro Village, Huro Cell, Muhondo Sector, formerly known as Bumbog, is the most prominent historical landmark in Gakenke tied to the Umuganura tradition.
Historical accounts indicate that Huro served as the residence of the Abiru ba Kwa Myaka, the royal ritual specialists tasked with preparing sacred seeds, particularly sorghum and millet, used in the national harvest ceremony.
At Huro, only the finest, untainted seeds were selected and ritually purified before being sent to the royal court for Umuganura. This tradition is the origin of the popular Rwandan saying “Ihuriro ni i Huro”, meaning “the gathering point is Huro,” emphasising the hill’s role as the central hub for both seeds and those who bore them.
Paulin Mudahinyuka, a 78-year-old elder from the area, recalled the meticulous seed selection practices of the past. He said that, traditionally, women were not allowed to handle the seeds during menstruation, a time considered one of ritual impurity in the customs.
“They were extremely meticulous,” he said. “Only perfect, germinable seeds were chosen, and no one touched them with bare hands. Even men used a special stick known as isando to avoid contamination.”
Once selected, the seeds were delivered to the king accompanied by traditional drums and imutsama beer, all presented as offerings for royal blessing and symbolic national unity.
Elder Mudahinyuka further recounted that during Umuganura celebrations, the King would arrive accompanied by the Chief of the Harvest Ceremony (Umuganuza Mukuru). Together, they would place their hands into a large ceremonial basket (igitenga) filled with sacred seeds and pour them onto the ground, symbolically signifying the King’s blessing over the nation’s agricultural season.
“Once the seeds touched Rwanda’s soil,” he explained, “it was understood that the King had officially offered the seeds to the nation.”
One of Huro Hill’s enduring historical landmarks is a centuries-old rain gauge known as Ivubiro, established by a royal meteorologist named Minyaruko ya Nyamikenke, a local leader of Busigi in the 16th century. He built it at the request of King Ruganzu II Ndori. The rain basin, still present today, is concealed in a bush and retains water even now.
This rain gauge was used by the Abiru royal agricultural seers of the Myaka lineage to predict rainfall patterns. If they foresaw a delayed rainy season, they would inform the King, who would then perform rituals to prompt an early downpour.
To further protect this heritage, Gakenke District Mayor, Mukandayisenga Véstine, revealed plans to compensate a resident whose land encompasses the historic site. The move will facilitate its formal conservation.
“We are in the process of valuing the land and compensating the owner so that we can fence off the area,” she said. “We’re also working with partners to potentially build a small heritage centre where today’s elders who may not be with us tomorrow can document and display these stories, possibly even in audiovisual form.”
The Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) (Inteko y’Umuco) notes that its research has identified over 530 heritage sites nationwide. These require proper signage, preservation, and coordinated protection by multiple institutions.
Other culturally significant locations in Gakenke include Kabuye Hill, home to Iriba rya Nyirarucyaba (a sacred spring) and the King’s cave, along with Mbirima and Matovu in Coko Sector, which are associated with royal traditions, and Ibuye rya Bajyejye, a historical rock in Gakenke Town.
Umuganura in modern Rwanda: The evolving celebration of culture, unity and growth
Far more than a harvest festival, Umuganura is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s roots, an occasion to reflect on collective achievements, reaffirm national values, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that has guided the country through generations.
Deeply rooted in history and embraced with renewed purpose, this celebration continues to bridge the wisdom of the past with the promise of the future.
Umuganura dates back centuries to the time of the Rwandan monarchy. It was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
Communities across the kingdom would gather to offer the first fruits of their labour, typically sorghum, millet, and beans, as a sign of gratitude for abundance and divine blessing.
At the centre of this tradition stood the King, who played both a symbolic and spiritual role. The harvest was presented to him and, in turn, symbolically offered to the ancestors.
This ritual was not only about agriculture; it was a reaffirmation of national unity, respect for authority, and spiritual connection. Umuganura served as a mirror through which the nation reflected on its values, productivity, and collective identity.
Traditionally, Umuganura brought together various aspects of Rwandan life. Alongside the offering of harvests, the day included rituals, traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These cultural expressions helped reinforce social harmony and educate younger generations about shared values.
The celebration emphasised virtues such as hard work, humility, solidarity, and communal responsibility. It was also a time for communities to assess their achievements and set intentions for the seasons ahead.
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In contemporary Rwanda, Umuganura has evolved into a national reflection point. While its agricultural foundation remains, it now extends to celebrating achievements across all sectors—education, health, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It is a day to acknowledge both individual and collective contributions to national development.
Ceremonies are held at community and national levels, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions of local produce and crafts, and forums for dialogue on the country’s progress. Youth engagement is a key component, with schools and cultural institutions working to educate younger generations about the meaning and importance of Umuganura.
As Rwanda continues to grow and modernise, Umuganura remains a powerful reminder of the country’s rich heritage.
IGIHE spoke to young Rwandans from different walks of life to explore what this treasured tradition means in today’s world, reflecting on its historical roots and how it has evolved over time.
Once centred around offering the first harvest to the king, Umuganura has grown to recognise achievements in all sectors of life. Brighton Rutikanga emphasised how today’s celebration extends beyond agriculture to include progress in education, business, and other areas. He noted that the holiday encourages Rwandans to reflect on past goals and set new ambitions for the future.
Others, like Patrick Nshimiyimana, highlighted the personal and cultural importance of sharing the day with family, recalling warm memories of village celebrations with loved ones.
He and Brighton both celebrated educational accomplishments, seeing university attendance and academic improvement as major milestones. Alongside them, Hirwa Prince and Mutoniwase Fabrine shared stories of personal growth and community contributions, reflecting the spirit of resilience, connection, and national pride that continues to define Umuganura today.
“In the past, Rwanda celebrated by sharing harvests like cassava, beans, and maize. They’d bring them to the king and celebrate together, and it was awesome!”
“Now, it’s more than that. Most people rely on services and other sectors, so we use agriculture as a symbol to celebrate achievements in any field. In my sector, I reflect on last year’s goals and plan for the future,” said Patrick Nshimiyimana.
Umuganura is also a time to reflect on individual journeys and milestones. For many young Rwandans, it’s an opportunity to measure growth, whether in education, career, or service to others.
“The grades that I used to get weren’t good, and I didn’t think it was possible anymore, but my achievement when I got to university is that I started getting good grades. That was a breakthrough, and I’m grateful. This year, I’m still growing professionally, financially, everything,” said Prince Hirwa.
Speaking during the celebration of Umuganura in Musanze District, the Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana reaffirmed the enduring significance of this annual tradition in Rwanda’s cultural identity and national development.
“One may wonder if Umuganura remains relevant today. The answer is a resounding yes,” he said. “While its historical roots lie in agriculture and livestock farming, today’s Umuganura celebrates diverse sectors, including service output, technology, education, tourism, arts, and industries.”
The Minister emphasized that the foundational values of Umuganura, planning, resilience, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotism—are as vital today as they were centuries ago.
Habimana also called on Rwandans to uphold and integrate the values of Umuganura into their daily lives and ensure its transmission to future generations.
In 2023, the global beer industry supported approximately 6.4 million agriculture-related jobs, with one in five of these roles rooted in agriculture. Farmers worldwide cultivate tens of millions of tons of barley and thousands of tons of hops annually to meet brewing demands, transforming raw fields into the essential ingredients for lagers and ales.
This economic ripple effect is particularly evident in local communities. Beer is often brewed using locally sourced ingredients, prompting breweries to invest significantly in domestic agriculture. In Rwanda, BRALIRWA has spearheaded local sourcing initiatives aimed at empowering farmers. A significant number of Rwandan farmers have participated in these programs, gaining access to improved seeds, extension services, and mechanization tools to enhance yields and livelihoods. These partnerships not only ensure a steady supply of barley for brewing but also uplift entire communities.
Since 2019, BRALIRWA has championed barley as a new cash crop in Rwanda. Previously imported from Europe, barley is now increasingly cultivated by over 3,000 local farmers. The company currently supports local cooperatives and small-holder farmers by providing training and access to good quality farming inputs, resources as well as agronomic support. This expansion will help to maintain consistent product quality and inject new life into Rwanda’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with a reliable market and a stable income.
One farmer, Nkurunziza from Gicumbi, shared his experience: “BRALIRWA has consistently provided us with essential equipment such as threshers, significantly reducing our harvest losses. Their timely purchases have been vital to our success. I started with just 10 hectares, and now we proudly farm 50 hectares. Barley farming has not only allowed us to rotate crops with potatoes and beans, that improves soil health, but it has also brought stability and hope to our lives.”
“We are committed to sustainable local sourcing and through our ‘brew a better world’ agenda, we are very intentional in supporting communities where we operate.” Samuel Murumu, BRALIRWA’s Supply Chain Director said. “By working closely with Rwandan farmers, we are building a value chain that is more inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in long-term impact” he added.
The company plans to scale up its use of locally grown raw materials significantly, with the strategic aim of sourcing 7,000 metric tonnes of barley and 21,000 metric tonnes of maize grain annually by 2030. This initiative forms part of BRALIRWA’s broader commitment to reducing import dependency, ensuring production resilience and boosting rural development through sustainable agriculture.
The role of beer in the economy is often underestimated. In addition to contributing significantly to GDP and government revenue, beer stimulates job creation in the farming, logistics, manufacturing and hospitality sectors. BRALIRWA’s local sourcing initiative amplifies this ripple effect, strengthening rural economies and promoting inclusive growth.
As Rwanda navigates its path towards sustainable industrialization, BRALIRWA’s approach is a compelling case study of how the private sector can combine profitability with purpose. On this International Beer Day, the company is raising a glass not only to beer, but also the farmers, brewers, transporters and service workers who make the industry thrive, from seed to sip.
In June 2025, AFC/M23 claimed control over approximately 34,000 square kilometers of territory in North and South Kivu provinces, home to more than 11 million people.
While the coalition has already installed a governance structure that includes political leadership and provincial governors, it has yet to implement a formal justice system. This gap has reportedly allowed lawlessness and impunity in some areas.
To address the issue, AFC/M23 formed a special commission to assess the feasibility of creating a judicial framework. The commission has submitted its recommendations to the coalition’s top leadership for review and approval.
Key leaders involved in this process include AFC coordinator Corneille Nangaa, his deputy and M23 political head Bertrand Bisimwa, M23 military commander Gen Sultani Makenga, and deputy military commander Brig Gen Bernard Byamungu.
Délion Kimbulungu, AFC Permanent Secretary and chair of the commission, said, “The proposal includes the re-establishment of civilian and military courts, local tribunals, and other essential justice institutions.”
AFC/M23 maintains that it has restored peace and security in the areas it controls and insists it is better positioned to establish effective governance structures than the administration of President Félix Tshisekedi.
