The ceremony took place on July 20, 2025, at the Amphorn Royal Palace in Bangkok.
The King extended his greetings to President Paul Kagame and the people of Rwanda, and underscored the importance of continued friendship based on shared values and mutual understanding.
He expressed satisfaction with the growing cooperation between Rwanda and Thailand, emphasising the value of closer collaboration in various sectors to enhance bilateral engagement.
Amb. Mukasine will serve with residence in Tokyo, Japan, where she is also accredited as Rwanda’s envoy to other countries in the region, including Malaysia and the Philippines.
Ahead of the credentials presentation, Amb. Mukasine held a courtesy meeting with Mrs. Natthira Krasaesarn, Secretary of the Department of Protocol at the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Continuing her diplomatic engagements, the Ambassador met on July 21 with Ekachat Seetavorarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Commerce. The discussions focused on deepening Rwanda–Thailand cooperation in key sectors such as trade, investment, renewable energy, agri-processing, culture, and hospitality.
Later that day, Amb. Mukasine met with the Thai Minister of Justice to review existing bilateral agreements and convey Rwanda’s gratitude for Thailand’s recent support in the repatriation of ten Rwandan nationals.
During her stay, Rwanda was also invited to participate in an upcoming Thai government
event designed to introduce African countries to the Thai public.
The cultural and diplomatic initiative aims to enhance people-to-people connections and promote a deeper understanding of Rwanda’s heritage and contemporary achievements.
The formal trade deficit dropped to $226.75 million in May, reflecting a 2.32% decrease from April 2025 and an even more substantial 18.42% decline compared to the same period last year. The reduction was primarily driven by a strong rebound in domestic exports and moderated import growth.
Rwanda’s total exports rose to $177.31 million, up 19.39% from April. Domestic exports, mainly goods produced within Rwanda, reached $127.81 million, marking a monthly increase of 21.24%, although still 39.58% lower than in May 2024.
The export rebound was largely driven by traditional mainstays, particularly tea, coffee, and fresh produce such as avocados, which generated US$31.98 million, representing a 12.64% increase from April and a 40.38% rise year-on-year.
Exports of animal and vegetable oils soared to $8.79 million, up 20.70% from April and a remarkable 358.48% compared to the same month last year. Beverages and tobacco, though modest in absolute value at $0.93 million, recorded a dramatic surge in annual growth rate of over 12,700%.
Machinery and transport equipment also contributed to the rebound with a 192.34% increase compared to May 2024, despite showing a monthly decline.
Meanwhile, re-exports rose to $49.51 million, representing a 14.87% increase from April, although this remained 16.25% below the level registered in May 2024. Re-exports continued to be driven by regional demand, particularly from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
On the import side, Rwanda imported goods worth $404.06 million in May, a 6.15% increase from April. Despite the monthly uptick, this figure reflects a 26.35% decline compared to May 2024.
Imports were largely composed of mineral fuels and lubricants, valued at $60.48 million, which rose by 16.12% month-on-month. Machinery and transport equipment followed, amounting to $83.22 million, an increase of 12.66% from the previous month. Food and live animals, which cost $75.76 million, saw a modest year-on-year increase of 4.14%.
A striking development in May was the sharp rise in imports from Saudi Arabia, which surged by over 1,026% year-on-year, indicating a spike in petroleum or fuel-related imports. This import surge placed Saudi Arabia among Rwanda’s top import sources for the month.
In terms of trade partnerships, the United Arab Emirates remained Rwanda’s largest export destination, purchasing goods worth $44.68 million. The Democratic Republic of Congo followed with $22.31 million in imports from Rwanda, while China was third at $14.07 million.
On the import side, China led the way with $96.88 million in goods sold to Rwanda. Tanzania followed with $47.09 million, while India contributed $35.97 million. Imports from Kenya also saw a recovery, rising to $32.87 million after a significant slump earlier in the year.
Most of Rwanda’s trade was conducted via land routes, with land transport accounting for $357.25 million in imports and $84.60 million in domestic exports. However, air transport also saw increased activity, with $46.81 million in imports and $43.21 million in exports handled through airports, highlighting a growing reliance on air freight for high-value or time-sensitive goods.
This is the result of decades-long, consistent national efforts to combat the proliferation of small and light weapons.
Following the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi, Rwanda faced the persistent threat of leftover weapons hidden by ex-FAR members, Interahamwe militias, and various infiltrators. While some of these arms are still being discovered today, they are promptly catalogued and systematically destroyed.
Between 2009 and 2014, Rwanda destroyed a total of 12,327 firearms and 500 tons of explosives, in line with its national policy on combating the spread of small arms and light weapons.
Rwanda is a signatory to several international and regional frameworks targeting arms control. Among them is the Nairobi Protocol of 2000, which focuses on the prevention, control, and reduction of small arms and light weapons in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa.
Another key agreement is the Kinshasa Convention, signed on August 1, 2011, which governs small arms and light weapons in Central Africa.
These international and regional commitments align with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a peaceful and secure continent. One of the flagship projects under this agenda is the “Silencing the Guns” initiative, which was initially aimed at ending conflict by 2020 and has since been extended to 2030.
To strengthen control, traceability, and accountability, Rwanda has made significant investments in arms management systems. The country has acquired four electronic firearms marking machines, which allow for the unique identification of each weapon.
In an environmentally responsible shift, two firearm destruction machines have also been procured, replacing older open-area dismantling methods that posed safety and environmental risks.
To further secure firearm storage, Rwanda has invested in 335 bullet-resistant storage boxes and 88 gun racks designed for large firearms. Destruction of weapons now takes place within military facilities, a move that significantly reduces the risk of misuse or leakage during the disposal process.
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Firearm ownership is legal in Rwanda but tightly regulated. Possessing a firearm requires a valid permit, and owners must carry their license, ammunition, and all related documentation when in possession of a weapon. Article 18 of the 2018 Firearms Law strictly prohibits civilians from owning firearms intended for state security forces.
The government ensures that all firearms owned by the Rwanda National Police, licensed private security companies, and authorized civilians are properly marked and traceable. This traceability enhances national oversight and accountability in firearm management.
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Under the revised National Policy on the Prevention of Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation (2024–2029), Rwanda has instituted a requirement that all newly acquired firearms be marked at the time of procurement. This includes weapons owned by private security companies and individuals licensed to possess firearms.
In December 2024, Rwanda received a mobile armoury to enhance the safety of firearm storage in the field. During the handover ceremony, Commissioner of Police (Rtd) Vianney Nshimiyimana, Head of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Unit at the Ministry of Internal Security, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to arms control.
He emphasised that while state-owned firearms and those legally possessed by civilians are secure, constant vigilance remains necessary. “A single firearm in the wrong hands can jeopardise the safety of an entire city. That’s why we take this very seriously,” he said.
According to the ministry, unauthorised firearm possession is extremely rare in Rwanda today. Most illegal weapons still traced in the country originate from the post-genocide period, a lingering challenge that authorities continue to address with diligence and resolve.
The drug, developed by U.S. pharmaceutical firm Gilead Sciences, is administered just twice a year and has shown 99.9% effectiveness in global trials.
Speaking to RBA, Dr. Ikuzo said if all goes as planned, the injection will offer a longer-lasting and less burdensome alternative to the current daily pills and two-monthly shots already available in the country.
Clinical trials for Lenacapavir Yeztugo have shown promising results. Phase III studies in South Africa and Uganda involved over 5,000 adolescent girls and young women aged 16 to 24, with no HIV infections reported among those who received the drug.
Further trials in countries including the U.S., Brazil, and Mexico targeted high-risk groups such as men who have sex with men and transgender individuals, where the drug also demonstrated high levels of protection.
Currently, Rwanda provides two main types of HIV prevention medication: a daily oral pill and a bimonthly injection now being rolled out in Kigali. The new biannual shot is expected to reduce the frequency of medication and improve adherence, especially for key populations at high risk of HIV.
“This new option will ease the stress of daily pills or six injections a year,” Dr. Ikuzo said. “If everything goes well, we plan to begin rollout next year.”
Currently, HIV prevention services are prioritised for groups with the highest risk of infection — including young people, sex workers, men who have sex with men, and discordant couples. These groups will also be prioritised for the new drug, which will initially be offered free of charge.
Dr. Ikuzo noted that Rwanda may eventually explore subsidised models to allow broader access as the country strengthens domestic health financing. Global partners such as the Global Fund and the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation have pledged support for the early rollout in nine countries, including Rwanda.
While HIV treatment coverage among adults in Rwanda stands at 97%, only 80% of HIV-positive children aged 0–14 are receiving treatment. However, prevention of mother-to-child transmission has made major gains, with 99% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers testing negative by age two.
Dr. Ikuzo also warned against religious claims of miraculous HIV cures, explaining that while some patients achieve undetectable viral loads through consistent treatment, this does not mean they are cured.
“There is no vaccine or cure for HIV,” he said. “Some may test negative due to viral suppression, but the virus remains in the body.”
He stressed the importance of continued protection during sex, even when a partner is virally suppressed, since such status is not always known or verifiable.
In Rwanda, about 3,200 people contract HIV each year, while 2,600 die from AIDS-related illnesses. Thanks to sustained prevention and treatment efforts, the country has seen an 82% drop in new infections and an 86% decline in HIV-related deaths over the past decade.
Healey said on social media platform X that at the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) meeting held on Monday, participating countries reached a new agreement to supply critical air defence ammunition to Ukraine, “as part of a 50-day drive to arm Ukraine and force Putin to the negotiating table.”
Last week, Trump said that he had secured an agreement with NATO allies to facilitate large-scale arms deliveries to Ukraine. He also warned Russia that it would face a second round of tariffs if it fails to reach a peace deal within 50 days.
At the UDCG meeting, Healey affirmed Britain’s support, saying that Britain “backs this policy” and will fully participate to ensure its success, according to French news outlet AFP.
Healey also revealed that Britain and Germany have agreed to jointly provide air defence missiles to Ukraine. The partnership is part of a wider European initiative aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
According to a press release from the British Ministry of Defence on Monday, Britain has already delivered more than 150 million pounds (202.5 million U.S. dollars) worth of air defence missiles and artillery to Ukraine over the past two months. The country is also ramping up procurement efforts to provide hundreds more air defence missiles and thousands of artillery shells.
In total, Britain is expected to spend at least 700 million pounds on air defence and artillery support for Ukraine this year, including the 150 million pounds worth of equipment already delivered, according to the release. (1 pound = 1.35 U.S. dollars)
The decision, announced in a public notice issued on July 21, follows an investigation that found the hotel operating without a valid Tourism Operating License (TOL), a legal requirement under Rwanda’s tourism law.
According to RDB, the hotel is required to cease operations effective July 22, 2025.
“Reopening will only be considered upon successful completion of the Tourism Operating License application process and full compliance with applicable regulatory requirements,” the notice states.
Warning other facilities against violating existing laws, RDB stated: “All tourism and hospitality operators are reminded that holding a valid Tourism Operating License is a legal obligation. The license serves as a guarantee of minimum safety, service, and operational standards necessary to protect both visitors and the industry at large.”
Hotel Chateau Le Marara’s closure comes amid growing controversy following the high-profile wedding of Hajj Shadadi Musemakweri and Uwera Bonnette on July 14, which sparked guest complaints about poor service, unhygienic food, and power outages.
Among the guests was Miss Rwanda 2020, Nishimwe Naomie, who joined others in raising concerns on social media. The event has since drawn national attention and raised questions about service standards at the five-star, European-style hotel located on the shores of Lake Kivu.
Guests reported being served spoiled milk and fruit, facing constant power disruptions, and experiencing neglect by hotel staff. The guests alleged that they had to rent an emergency generator to continue wedding preparations. Others accused the hotel of overcharging, including for attendees at events that were allegedly not part of the original agreement.
Chateau Le Marara has denied the allegations, calling them “99% lies” intended to damage its reputation. The hotel has instead filed a complaint with the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), accusing the couple behind the wedding of defamation and non-payment of over Frw 5 million in outstanding bills.
In response to the growing uproar, RDB confirmed it had launched a formal investigation into the service complaints. RDB CEO Jean-Guy Afrika said the board is reviewing the matter thoroughly as part of its mandate to ensure professionalism and consumer protection in the tourism sector.
The ceremony marked the graduation of OSO’s 4th cohort of fashion design students and the 2nd cohort specialising in soap and detergent production.
Most of the beneficiaries are girls and young women from vulnerable backgrounds, including school dropouts, teenage mothers, orphans, and those living with disabilities.
Founded in 2019, OSO offers year-long training that equips participants with hands-on entrepreneurial skills in fashion, agribusiness, and manufacturing. The organisation also provides post-graduation support, including business startup capital and mentorship.
“We take them in for a full year, train them, and help them build income-generating projects when they return to their communities,” said Delphine Uwamahoro, OSO’s founder and executive director. “They become self-reliant, creative, and financially empowered.”
This year’s graduates bring the total number of OSO alumni to over 400, with 80 percent of previous participants having launched their own ventures.
Each of the new graduates received a Frw 200,000 startup grant, while the top three business plans were awarded an additional Frw 500,000.
The initiative has attracted growing support from development partners, and the latest milestone drew government officials and donors alike. Northern Province Governor Maurice Mugabowagahunde praised the graduates for taking steps toward transforming their lives and communities.
“These projects are not to be shelved—they must now become reality,” the governor said. “We expect you to be change agents who will help eradicate poverty and promote inclusive development.”
Gakenke District Mayor Mukandayisenga Vestine reminded the graduates of government funding opportunities, urging them to apply for youth-targeted financing schemes.
“The country has resources. What matters now is your commitment to create jobs and solve problems,” she said.
Alongside the graduation, OSO officially opened a new dormitory with capacity for 87 students. Built in collaboration with the U.S.-based GO Campaign, the facility positions OSO to begin hosting learners from across East Africa and operate as a regional boarding school.
“Our vision is not limited to Rwanda,” said Uwamahoro. “We want to welcome girls from Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania—because poverty and gender-based violence don’t stop at the border. Neither should opportunity.”
Key supporters present at the event included representatives from GO Campaign, Segal Family Foundation, Lemonaid ChariTea Foundation, Kvinna Till Kvinna, and World Connect.
OSO’s model targets girls and women aged 13 to 25, especially those from rural areas or facing extreme hardship. As it expands, the organisation hopes to become one of Africa’s leading incubators of female-led entrepreneurship and grassroots job creation.
The arrest took place on Sunday, July 20, 2025, following reports that Burikantu had locked up a group of girls who had gone to his home in Kinyinya to discuss potential collaborations on social media content creation.
Sources told IGIHE that the incident began when Burikantu allegedly invited one of the girls into a separate room to discuss how he could support her online presence. When she declined, he reportedly got upset and locked the group inside his house. He then demanded they pay him back for the transport fare and sodas he had provided before he would allow them to leave.
The situation escalated when the girls couldn’t meet his demands. After one left, the others contacted the police for help. Officers from Rwanda National Police responded promptly and freed them, leading to Burikantu’s arrest shortly after.
RIB spokesperson Dr. Thierry B. Murangira confirmed the incident took place in Kinyinya Sector, Murama Cell, Binunga Village, where the influencer resides.
Burikantu is now being held at the RIB Kinyinya station as investigations continue. His case file is being prepared for submission to the Prosecution in accordance with the law.
The offence he is being investigated for is punishable under Article 151 of Rwanda’s penal code, which addresses unlawful confinement. If convicted, he could face between five to seven years in prison.
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Murangira said: “RIB reminds the public that no one has the right to take advantage of others or hold them against their will. Such actions are illegal and will not be tolerated.”
This decision was one of the key resolutions made during an International Scientific Symposium held on July 19, 2025, which brought together members of RMC and the Muhammad VI Foundation. The summit explored how Islamic moral values can serve as powerful tools in promoting peace and harmony across Africa.
Speaking at the event, Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Sindayigaya Mussa, emphasized the importance of living out Islamic principles beyond religious spaces.
“Islamic values shouldn’t just remain within religious gatherings. We must embody them in our everyday lives, in how we treat one another, and how we engage with society,” he said.
He noted that values like respect, peace, and justice not only reflect faith but also shape responsible and compassionate citizens.
Also addressing the gathering, Deputy Speaker of Rwanda’s Chamber of Deputies, Sheikh Musa Fazil Harerimana, praised Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery journey as a model of resilience and reconciliation.
“The efforts made after the genocide—through forgiveness, Gacaca courts, and government-led unity programs—have transformed Rwanda. Other nations can learn from our story,” he stated.
He further called for the documentation of humanitarian acts carried out by Muslim families and others during the genocide, noting they could serve as inspirational case studies for future generations.
Sheikhat Sauda Niyirora, who leads Muslim women in Rwanda, reflected on how Islam was once misrepresented in public discourse.
“Islam used to be misunderstood and unfairly judged. But thanks to Rwanda’s leadership, today every Rwandan enjoys equal rights. We must now prove through our actions who we truly are.”
The planned research center will be built in Rwanda in collaboration with the Muhammad VI Foundation, which has pledged funding to support its academic and cultural activities.
This initiative marks a significant step in preserving Rwanda’s complex past while using faith-based values to build a peaceful, united future.
The eight-year amortising bond marks IFC’s return to Rwanda’s onshore market for the first time in 11 years. It’s also its second “Umuganda bond” denominated in Rwandan francs.
The bond, listed on the Rwanda Stock Exchange, was 1.75 times oversubscribed and carries a fixed coupon of 10.50%, about 0.55% below the interpolated government yield.
Proceeds from the bond will be used to finance a local digital infrastructure project, allowing the client to avoid currency risk associated with borrowing in U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies.
Mary Porter Peschka, IFC’s Director for Eastern Africa, said the bond aligns with IFC’s long-term goal of strengthening capital markets while supporting critical infrastructure.
“The bond offers investors exposure to IFC’s triple-A rating, while also enabling IFC to provide local currency financing to an important project that will enhance digital connectivity,” she said.
IFC coined the term “Umuganda bond” in 2014 when it became the first non-resident issuer to place a Rwandan franc bond in the domestic market. The success of the current issuance is seen as a vote of confidence in Rwanda’s capital market framework and regulatory environment.
The bond attracted a wide range of investors, including pension funds, insurance companies, banks, and asset managers. BK Capital and Rand Merchant Bank served as joint lead managers on the transaction.
Finance Minister Yusuf Murangwa welcomed the issuance as a positive step for local market development.
“IFC’s second Umuganda bond will support our work to deepen domestic capital markets in Rwanda,” he said. “Bond issuances by international borrowers such as IFC create new investable opportunities for domestic investors while raising much-needed Rwanda franc financing for local businesses.”
Beyond bond issuance, IFC continues to support capital market reforms in Rwanda through the Rwanda Capital Market Development Project—a joint initiative with the World Bank. The project focuses on improving government bond market liquidity, increasing non-government bond issuance, and building a more diversified and professional investor base.
In 2024, IFC also issued two offshore Rwanda franc-denominated bonds listed on the London and Luxembourg Stock Exchanges.
