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  • Biniam Girmay and Kim Le Court crowned African cyclists of the year 2025 (Photos)

    Biniam Girmay and Kim Le Court crowned African cyclists of the year 2025 (Photos)

    The inaugural Africa Cycling Excellence Awards (ACEA) ceremony honoured Africa’s cyclists of the year on Saturday evening in Kigali, in the presence of Rwanda’s Minister of State for Sports, Rwego Ngarambe, CAC President Yao Allah-Kouamé and Freddy Kamuzinzi, promoter of ACEA.

    In the men’s category, Girmay topped the rankings ahead of fellow Eritreans Henok Mulubrhan and Milkias Maekele, who had also been shortlisted in the top three.

    The Eritrean has been voted Africa’s best cyclist for the fifth time, following his successes in 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2024. The former Tour de France green jersey winner has once again had a magnificent season, with podium finishes in the biggest races proving his consistency at the highest level worldwide.

    On the women’s side, Kim Le Court edged out Ethiopia’s Kahsay Tsige Kiros and Selam Amha Gerefiel.

    The Mauritian rider demonstrated her talent this season by winning a stage of the Tour de France and becoming the first African woman to wear the yellow jersey (for four days). She also won the classic Liège-Bastogne-Liège in the spring, the first time an African rider has won a World Tour event.

    The finalists had been narrowed down from a larger pool of 18 cyclists, which included two Rwandans: Ingabire Diane and Nirere Xaveline.

    For this first award in the amateur category reserved for riders who do not belong to a professional UCI team, Burkina Faso champion Paul Daumont won over the jury members with his dedication and experience, which have made him one of the most successful cyclists on the continent for several years.

    He took first place ahead of South African Blaine Kieck, winner of several races in France, and Malian Tiemoko Diamouténé, who won stages in three major national tours, in Mali, Côte d’Ivoire and Togo.

    Eritrea’s national team was crowned Team of the Year after outperforming Rwanda and Mauritius.

    {{Regional and national winners also recognised
    }}

    The awards also honoured outstanding cyclists within the East African Community (EAC). In this category, Nsengiyumva Odette from Burundi won the women’s award, while Charles Kagimu of Uganda claimed the men’s title.

    In Rwanda, Masengesho Vainqueur of Benediction Club was named the best male cyclist of the year, with Nirere Xaveline, who races for Team Amani of Kenya, winning the women’s award.

    Rwanda has also been selected to host the ACEA awards again in 2026 before the event rotates to other countries on the continent.

    CAC President Yao Allah-Kouame delivers his remarks during the awarding ceremony.
    Ugandan cyclist Charles Kagimu was crowned best male rider in the EAC.
    Burkinabé cyclist Paul Daumont was named best rider in the amateur category.
    Xaveline Nirere receives the best female rider award in Rwanda.
    Eritrea was voted the best national team on the continent.
    Vainqueur Masengesho honoured as Rwanda'best male rider.
    Some of the award winners and officials.
  • ASEA 2025 highlights: RSE introduces multicurrency trading and green exchange window

    ASEA 2025 highlights: RSE introduces multicurrency trading and green exchange window

    The three-day meeting, which closed on Friday, November 28, brought together more than 25 stock exchanges, policymakers, institutional investors, and development partners, all converging on Rwanda’s capital to map out strategies for a more interconnected, resilient, and investment-friendly Africa.

    {{RSE unveils multicurrency trading platform
    }}

    One of the most significant announcements came from the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), which launched its Multicurrency Denominated Securities Market Segment (MDS). The new platform will allow securities to be issued and traded in various global and regional currencies, a move expected to deepen market liquidity, attract diverse investors, and simplify cross-border trading.

    “This development supports diversified investment opportunities, enhanced market depth, and improved cross-border capital flow efficiency,” said RSE.

    {{New green exchange window targets sustainable finance
    }}

    Sustainability also took centre stage with the unveiling of the Green Exchange Window, another RSE-led innovation. The dedicated platform will facilitate the listing and trading of green bonds, ESG-linked products, and environmentally focused instruments.

    The initiative positions Kigali as an emerging hub for sustainable finance in Africa, offering investors greater transparency and expanding avenues for climate-aligned investment.

    Delegates said the window is poised to play an essential role in mobilising capital for renewable energy projects, climate adaptation, and conservation efforts, areas expected to attract growing international interest.

    {{ASEA strengthens commitments on cross-border market linkages
    }}

    At the forum, ASEA members renewed pledges under the African Exchanges Linkage Project (AELP), an initiative that seeks to boost cross-border trading by harmonising technology and market infrastructure. The commitment supports wider goals of building deeper, more unified African capital markets capable of attracting global institutional capital.

    In a virtual address, the Secretary General of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) highlighted the alignment between ASEA’s market integration agenda and the AfCFTA Investment Protocol. He stressed that stronger governance and liquidity will be crucial as Africa positions itself for enhanced competitiveness.

    “I believe that the ACFTA protocol on investment is well poised to position our continent for competitiveness. This is where your work becomes indispensable by deepening liquidity, strengthening governance and enhancing cross-border cooperation. Africa’s Securities exchanges are shifting our economies from dependence on short-term lending to more diversified, resilient financial systems”.

    {{Africa launches its first Pan-African ESG awards
    }}

    Another highlight of the Kigali conference was the inauguration of the Pan-Africa ESG Awards, the continent’s first awards dedicated to recognising excellence in environmental stewardship, social impact, and corporate governance.

    The awards aim to set new standards in sustainability reporting and encourage companies to adopt stronger ESG practices in line with global investment trends.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony, ASEA President and CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, praised the collective resolve displayed at the conference.

    “Hosting ASEA 2025 has demonstrated what is possible when African markets come together with a shared vision,” he said. “The initiatives launched here, including the Pan-African ESG Awards and the Multicurrency Denominated Securities Market Segment, signal a new chapter for our continent. Rwanda is proud to contribute to a future where Africa’s markets are more integrated, more innovative, and more globally competitive.”

    The Kigali conference reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to advancing regulatory harmonisation, expanding sustainable finance, strengthening commodities and derivatives markets, and integrating digital infrastructure across exchanges.

    As the continent steps up efforts to build more open and resilient capital markets, the measures unveiled in Kigali are expected to shape the next phase of Africa’s financial integration agenda.

    One of the most significant announcements came from the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE), which launched its Multicurrency Denominated Securities Market Segment (MDS).
    Speaking at the closing ceremony, ASEA President and CEO of the Rwanda Stock Exchange, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, praised the collective resolve displayed at the conference.
    At the forum, ASEA members renewed pledges under the African Exchanges Linkage Project (AELP).
  • CAR strengthens army capacity with new RDF-trained cohort

    CAR strengthens army capacity with new RDF-trained cohort

    The troops completed their basic military training under the guidance of instructors from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) on Saturday, marking another milestone in the growing defence cooperation between the two nations.

    The pass-out ceremony, held at Camp Kassai Military Barracks in Bangui, was presided over by President Faustin Archange Touadéra, who applauded the newly enrolled soldiers for their commitment and resilience throughout the programme.

    Alongside the new recruits, 121 platoon sergeants graduated from a six-month leadership course also delivered by RDF instructors. The group is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping discipline, coordination, and operational efficiency within the ranks of the FACA.

    Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, the RDF Army Chief of Staff, attended the ceremony as a distinguished guest. In his remarks, he congratulated the graduates and urged them to uphold professionalism, competence, and discipline as they assume their duties. He encouraged the new platoon sergeants to lead by example and provide consistent support and guidance to their commanders.

    Gen Victor Yacoub, Deputy Chief of Staff of the FACA, expressed deep appreciation for Rwanda’s continued support, noting that the RDF has now trained a total of 2,409 soldiers in basic military skills and 300 non-commissioned officers. He commended the trainees for demonstrating discipline and dedication throughout the programme.

    The ceremony featured demonstrations of key competencies acquired during training, including marksmanship, martial arts and map-reading skills that highlight the operational readiness of the new recruits.

    Rwandan forces first deployed to the Central African Republic in 2014 as part of peacekeeping efforts following civil unrest in 2012. Initially under the African Union mission MISCA, and later the United Nations mission MINUSCA, Rwandan troops have played a key role in protecting civilians, safeguarding UN facilities, and providing security for the Head of State and his family.

    In 2020, Rwanda reinforced its support through additional troop deployments and military training programs for the Central African Republic’s armed forces.

    The pass-out ceremony, held at Camp Kassai Military Barracks in Bangui, was presided over by President Faustin Archange Touadéra.
    The troops completed their basic military training under the guidance of instructors from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
    Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, the RDF Army Chief of Staff, attended the ceremony as a distinguished guest.
    President Faustin Archange Touadéra applauded the newly enrolled soldiers for their commitment and resilience throughout the programme.
  • Guinea-Bissau’s transitional president appoints new cabinet members

    Guinea-Bissau’s transitional president appoints new cabinet members

    According to a statement from the Presidency’s Office of Communication and Public Relations, the new government consists of 23 ministries and five secretariats of state.

    Key appointments include Joao Bernardo Vieira as minister of foreign affairs, international cooperation and communities, Mamasaliu Embalo as minister of interior and public order, and former foreign minister Carlos Pinto Pereira as minister of justice and human rights.

    All members of the new cabinet are said to be linked to the electoral camp of deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, with four having served in the previous government.

    Earlier, Inta-A appointed Tomas Djassi as chief of general staff of the armed forces and Ilidio Vieira Te as prime minister and minister of finance.

    Guinea-Bissau held presidential and parliamentary elections on November 23, with Embalo seeking re-election. The results were initially expected on Thursday.

    On Wednesday, the military declared it had taken “full control” of state authority to counter “attempts by certain political actors to undermine national stability,” subsequently dismissing Embalo. Senior military officer Inta-A was sworn in as transitional president on Thursday for a one-year term.

    Guinea-Bissau's newly appointed Prime Minister Ilidio Vieira Te, left, stands next to the country's new military ruler, General Horta Inta-A, during a swearing-in ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Bissau, on Friday, November 28, 2025. He later appointed members of the new cabinet on Saturday.
  • Sri Lanka declares state of emergency as Cyclone Ditwah death toll soars to 132

    Sri Lanka declares state of emergency as Cyclone Ditwah death toll soars to 132

    According to the country’s Disaster Management Centre (DMC), heavy rains, floods and landslides brought on by the cyclone have destroyed more than 15,000 homes. Nearly 44,000 people have been displaced and are now sheltering in temporary, state‑run centers.

    Authorities confirmed that 176 people remain missing, as rescue and relief efforts continue amid challenging conditions.

    The government has appealed for international assistance to address the growing humanitarian crisis. Immediately after the emergency declaration, several countries responded with offers of aid.

    Rescue operations have been significantly supported by the military, with the army, navy and air force deployed to reach remote and flood‑hit areas, evacuate stranded people and deliver relief supplies.

    As floodwaters continue to threaten more regions, especially low‑lying coastal zones and river basins, the authorities have issued widespread evacuation orders. Many residents along flood‑prone areas have been moved to safer zones under escort by security forces.

    The scale of the disaster from destruction of homes to displacement of tens of thousands has placed Sri Lanka among the worst‑hit nations in recent years by climate‑related disasters.

    International relief agencies and neighbouring countries have begun mobilizing resources to provide urgent humanitarian support.

    Sri Lanka has appealed for international assistance to address the growing humanitarian crisis.
  • Meet DJ Lamper, Milan-born talent putting Rwanda on global Afro-House map (VIDEO)

    Meet DJ Lamper, Milan-born talent putting Rwanda on global Afro-House map (VIDEO)

    Known for his groundbreaking Afro-House music events, particularly the Atmosfera series, Lamper’s mission is to elevate Rwanda’s entertainment landscape and showcase its rich cultural heritage to the world.

    “Originally from Milan, I moved here almost three years ago, and now I call Rwanda home,” Lamper shared in an exclusive interview with IGIHE, emphasizing the fusion of both cultures that deeply influences his musical work.

    Lamper’s love for music began at a young age, though it wasn’t until later in life that he discovered his true calling as a DJ and producer.

    In 2018, DJ Lamper graduated with a tourism degree but chose to pursue music mixing instead. Since then, he has performed at various venues in Milan, the economic capital of Italy, as well as in France, Spain, China, Rwanda and more.

    For him, each day is filled with creativity and excitement. “I wake up and, honestly, I don’t get much sleep because I work at Lemon. So I gather as much energy as I can,” he laughs. “After waking up, I take a shower, finish my playlist, and do some last-minute edits if needed. I make sure everything is set for the day’s event.”

    His dedication to his craft extends beyond his personal routine. “If we have a special guest, I might go pick them up; otherwise, I head straight to Mundi, where the event takes place. My team is always ready, and I communicate with them throughout the day to ensure everything runs smoothly,” he explains.

    With the help of his assistant and stage manager, Lamper ensures that the artists and lineup are well-managed, and that the venue is prepared for the show.

    DJ Lamper, a dynamic Italian-Rwandan DJ and producer, has rapidly become a staple in Rwanda's music scene, bringing a unique blend of Afro-House and Rwandan influences to the stage.

    {{The vision behind Atmosfera}}

    Atmosfera, Lamper’s flagship event series, represents the realization of a long-held dream.

    “I have always wanted to bring Afro-House music to Rwanda and make it mainstream here. It’s already a huge genre worldwide, and I wanted to fuse it with Rwandan sounds to create something truly unique,” Lamper explains.

    His goal is to create an Afro-House sound that feels distinctly Rwandan, while showcasing local talent alongside global influences.

    “Afro-House is a huge genre internationally, and I want to promote Rwanda’s music scene, which is rich with talented singers, DJs, and artists,” Lamper says. “I am here to give my contribution and push Rwandan entertainment to the international stage.”

    Despite the challenges posed by Rwanda’s competitive entertainment industry, Lamper has managed to stand out.

    “Rwanda’s entertainment scene is tough. There are many DJs, but few spots to perform,” he admits. “To make a name for myself, I had to do something different. That’s why I started shooting videos in iconic places around Rwanda. This helped me get noticed and build my recognition.”

    For Lamper, authenticity has been key. “People started recognizing my unique approach, and that’s how I started building my brand,” he explains.

    As DJ Lamper takes the stage, the crowd at is in full swing, captivated by the Afro-House beats that seamlessly blend with Rwandan melodies, creating an immersive experience for all.

    {{Advice for the youth and the future of Atmosfera}}

    As a role model for many young Rwandans, Lamper shares valuable advice: “Never give up. Entertainment can be tough, but consistency is key. Whether you’re winning or not, you must always keep pushing. If you stay consistent and professional, you can make it.”

    Looking ahead, Lamper has ambitious plans for Atmosfera. “In five years, I want Atmosfera to be a global event that showcases one culture to the world. Starting next year, we are planning to take it to different countries,” he says. “The ultimate goal is to fill up a stadium with people enjoying this Afro-House experience.”

    For Lamper, the mission extends beyond hosting events. It’s about creating a movement that transcends borders, bringing people from all over the world together to celebrate music, culture, and unity.

    His work with Atmosfera has not only redefined Kigali’s nightlife but also introduced Rwandan culture to an international audience, fostering a sense of unity and self-expression through music.

    {{WATCH THE FULL VIDEO:}}

    DJ Lamper’s Atmosfera has become a pivotal event for Kigali’s nightlife scene, offering a platform where fans dance to the rhythm of both local and global sounds, making each event a spectacular occasion.
    The atmosphere at DJ Lamper’s events is filled with an undeniable energy, where music lovers come together to celebrate the vibrant fusion of Afro-House and Rwandan culture.
    Fans at DJ Lamper’s Atmosfera events are treated to an electrifying mix of Afro-House beats and Rwandan rhythms, creating an unforgettable experience that resonates with locals and internationals alike.
    With every set, DJ Lamper brings a fresh burst of creativity, showcasing his commitment to pushing Rwandan music to international levels and leaving audiences yearning for more.
  • Hong Kong mourns victims of deadly blaze as toll reaches 128

    Hong Kong mourns victims of deadly blaze as toll reaches 128

    According to media reports, the blaze occurred at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, a densely populated residential area.

    Emergency teams have worked around the clock to search for survivors, but as of now, authorities have confirmed that the death toll stands at 128, with many others still missing.

    Authorities have officially ended search and rescue operations, and the focus has shifted to identifying victims and investigating the cause of the fire.

    As of now, officials have not finalized the exact cause, but early reports suggest that poor fire safety measures and the building’s renovation may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

    The fire has been described as particularly devastating due to the building’s overcrowded conditions and the high number of residents it housed.

    The authorities have yet to provide a full breakdown of the victims’ nationalities, though it is known that the complex was home to many low-income families and some foreign workers.

    A man reacts, as smoke rises while flames engulf bamboo scaffolding across multiple buildings at Wang Fuk Court housing estate, in Tai Po, Hong Kong on November 26, 2025. Tyrone Siu/Reuters
  • Maj Gen Nyakarundi visits Rwandan peacekeepers in Bangui (Photos)

    Maj Gen Nyakarundi visits Rwandan peacekeepers in Bangui (Photos)

    During the meeting, he conveyed the message of appreciation from RDF leadership. Maj Gen Nyakarundi commended the peacekeepers for the work well done and professionalism in carrying out their duty.

    He also briefed them on the current security situation in Rwanda and the region in general. The ACOS is in the Central African Republic for a working visit to the Rwandan forces deployed under both UN Mandate and Bilateral arrangements.

    He is expected to participate in the graduation ceremony of FACA soldiers trained by RDF, meet with MINUSCA officials and FACA military leadership.

  • A new public transport model to be introduced in Kigali

    A new public transport model to be introduced in Kigali

    The Ministry of Infrastructure is expected to roll out this improved transportation system starting in December 2025.

    The new system will focus on providing reliable service, with buses adhering to scheduled timetables.

    There will be a modern traffic management system in place, which will track the buses in real-time, ensuring they are dispatched to areas where they are needed. This will guarantee that passengers receive regular service throughout all routes.

    The system also aims to protect the environment, supporting Rwanda’s goals for sustainable urban development, as outlined in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050.

    Recently, the Director-General of RURA, Evariste Rugigana, informed Senators about the plan to address the transportation challenges, especially in Kigali. He mentioned the establishment of a public enterprise, Ecofleet Solutions Ltd, aimed at improving public transport services.

    He emphasized that currently, public transport is operated by private individuals seeking profit. Therefore, the establishment of a government company would help improve the system of passenger transportation.

    He explained, “Currently, public transport is operated by private businesses that focus on making a profit. If a bus arrives at a terminal but isn’t full, it doesn’t depart. This leads to delays for passengers, as some people have to wait for the bus to fill up. We don’t want to inconvenience passengers. We want to ensure timely service even when there are fewer passengers.”

    A new public transport model is set to be introduced in Kigali City with plansfor expansion to other urban areas.
  • Amb. Karamba meets with delegation of Rwanda Bar Association attending EALS conference in Addis Ababa

    Amb. Karamba meets with delegation of Rwanda Bar Association attending EALS conference in Addis Ababa

    The meeting took place in Addis Ababa, where the conference was held, as announced by the Rwandan Embassy in Ethiopia.

    After the meeting, the Rwanda Bar Association (RBA), through its X account, thanked Ambassador Karamba for warmly receiving their delegation in Ethiopia.

    “Thank you Ambassador Charles Karamba, for warmly hosting the RBA delegation. Your thoughtful insights, clear guidance, and constructive conversations provided valuable perspective and greatly enriched the delegates’ engagement at the Conference,” reads the message.

    The EALS is celebrating 30 years of advancing justice, regional integration, and the rule of law in East Africa. Rwanda continues to lead in developing a strong and unified legal community.

    EALS is a professional association of lawyers from the East African region, founded in 1995, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.

    It brings together legal associations from the East African Community member states, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and Zanzibar, as well as individual lawyers from these countries, numbering over 10,000.

    The mission of EALS is to promote the legal profession, protect the rule of law, advance good governance, and defend human rights in the region.

    Amb. Karamba has met with delegation of Rwanda Bar Association attending EALS conference in Addis Ababa
    After the meeting, the Rwanda Bar Association (RBA), through its X account, thanked Ambassador Karamba for warmly receiving their delegation in Ethiopia.