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  • Eleven books that reveal Rwanda’s truth

    Eleven books that reveal Rwanda’s truth

    In today’s digital age, while social media serves as a tool for sharing ideas and promoting businesses, it is also misused to distort historical facts and spread misleading narratives.

    To help provide a clearer understanding of Rwanda’s true history, we’ve compiled a list of books that offer valuable insights into the nation’s past, from its foundation to its post-genocide rebirth.

    These books are available in various libraries in Rwanda and accessible via online bookstores.

    {{1. Imizi y’u Rwanda (Umutumba wa Mbere, 2013)}}

    Written by Jean de Dieu Nsanzabera, Imizi y’u Rwanda (Roots of Rwanda) is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the origins of Rwanda.

    It describes how Rwanda was founded, through the unification of 29 kingdoms, and the significant efforts of the kings of Gasabo in creating a unified nation.

    The book details the historic agreement made in Nkotsi and Bikara (Musanze), which led to the formation of Rwanda.

    This 440-page book is packed with details about the heroic struggles for Rwandan unity and the leaders who fought to preserve it.

    {{2. Ibitaramo ku Mateka y’u Rwanda by Kagiraneza Zephyrin}}

    This book, written by Kagiraneza Zephyrin and published in 1990, traces the history of Rwanda from its creation. It discusses the country’s borders at that time, the advent of white people, how its territories were taken away through deceit, and its early foreign diplomacy.

    {{3. History of Rwanda: From the Beginning to the End of the 20th Century by the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission}}

    This book was published by the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission in 2016, under supervision of Déo Byanafashe in collaboration with Paul Rutayisire.

    It traces the origins of German influence in Rwanda and how they were later replaced by the Belgians, who immediately began efforts to divide the country and its people, leading Rwandans to realize that their situation had drastically changed.

    The book also focuses on Rwanda’s history from the early 20th century until its end, examining the lives of Rwandans, politics, social relations, and development. It particularly highlights the impact of colonialism and how it sowed divisions, which ultimately led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    {{4. A Thousand Hills: Rwanda’s Rebirth and the Man Who Dreamed It by Stephen Kinzer}}

    In this book, author Stephen Kinzer, published in 2008, focuses extensively on Rwanda’s journey after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, highlighting the leadership of President Kagame, whose visionary approach enabled the country to rebuild and emerge stronger, leading to the Rwanda we see today.

    Kinzer discusses Kagame’s early life, from being born and then sent into exile at just four years old, to developing revolutionary ideas that eventually led to the struggle for the country’s liberation. He also details Kagame’s role in halting the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    The author further explores the journey of unity and reconciliation, as well as Rwanda’s development. Anyone who reads this book will gain a clear understanding of the political transformations, particularly the recent history of Africa.

    {{5. Defeat Is the Only Bad News: Rwanda Under Musinga (1896-1931) by Alison Liebhafsky Des Forges}}

    This book, written by Alison Liebhafsky Des Forges and published in 2011, focuses primarily on the reign of King Yuhi V Musinga and examines the colonial era during his reign, extending into the early 20th century.

    Des Forges highlights the difficult times King Musinga faced, as the Belgians arrived during his rule and sought to impose their colonial ideas and governance on the Rwandan people.

    The book explores the origins of the divisions in Rwanda that ultimately led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    {{6. Stepp’d in Blood: Akazu and the Architects of the Rwandan Genocide Against the Tutsi by Andrew Wallis}}

    In this book, published by Andrew Wallis in 2018, the focus is on the history of Juvénal Habyarimana’s regime and the members of the ‘Akazu,’ (inner circle) a group largely composed of his family members, including his wife Agatha Kanziga, his brothers-in-law, and others known for their key roles in planning and executing the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    The book delves into both the direct and indirect involvement of the Akazu members, their propaganda efforts, and their illicit business activities, including trading in precious minerals, drugs such as cocaine, trafficking of gorilla babies, and their role in the death of Dian Fossey, who had conducted research on gorillas.

    Additionally, Wallis examines how the international community stood by while the Genocide against the Tutsi unfolded, failing to intervene or stop it.

    This book provides a thorough understanding of the political landscape that led to the 1994 Genocide, which resulted in the deaths of over a million Tutsi.

    {{7. Rwanda Before the Genocide: Catholic Politics and Ethnic Discourse in the Late Colonial Era by J.J. Carney}}

    This book authored by Carney, focuses extensively on the significant role the Catholic Church played in the governance of Rwanda, particularly its involvement in politics and ethnic divisions before the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    The author investigates the Church’s collaboration with the colonizers and its role in the establishment of ethnic classifications and the ideologies associated with them.

    He examines how these factors ultimately contributed to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    {{8. L’État Français et le Génocide des Tutsis au Rwanda by Raphaël Doridant and François Graner}}

    This book focuses on the role that France played in the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

    The author explains that France supported Habyarimana’s government both politically and militarily, which made the preparation and execution of the genocide possible.

    The book discusses France’s actions both before and during the Genocide, as well as its post-genocide involvement.

    It argues that these actions led Rwanda into a period of darkness, causing immense destruction and turning the country into a site of devastation.

    Additionally, the book explores the roles of other countries in Rwanda’s history and their conduct during the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    {{9. The Struggle for Liberation: War and Militarism in African History by John Burton Kegel}}

    This book by John Burton Kegel was published in 2025. It discusses Rwanda from its roots, covering the periods before independence, as well as the administrations of Habyarimana and Kayibanda.

    The book also explores the birth of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (FPR Inkotanyi), the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), and the launch of the struggle to liberate the country. It traces the journey of Rwanda’s reconstruction after the Genocide against the Tutsi.

    {{10. Intwari z’Imbanza, zubatse u Rwanda rugahamya igitinyiro (Umutumba wa mbere, 2018)}}

    This is one of the comprehensive books that documents the history of Rwanda, authored by the expert in Rwandan culture and history, Jean de Dieu Nsanzabera. The book covers the significant events in the history of the foundation of Rwanda (1091-2017).

    It provides a thorough overview of the country’s evolution, from its establishment to its eventual decline and subsequent rebirth. It details how the process of building Rwanda was planned, implemented, and where it stands today, highlighting the contributions of those who shaped the nation during their time.

    The book serves as a guide for those seeking to understand the history of each king who ruled Rwanda over the course of 870 years (1091-1961) and the impact of their reigns.

    It also covers the actions taken by the Presidents after the monarchy transitioned to a republic. The history is traced from the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana to the time of President Paul Kagame, who was in power when this history was documented.

    {{11. Les conditions de vie des Tutsi au Rwanda de 1959 à 1990 : Persécutions et massacres antérieurs au génocide de 1990 à 1994 by Antoine Mugesera}}

    This book, written by Antoine Mugesera and published in 2015, focuses on the severe conditions that the Tutsi population endured between 1959, when they began to face persecution, killings, and displacement, and 1990, when those in exile decided to launch the struggle for the country’s liberation, allowing refugees to return home.

    Antoine Mugesera, along with Kayitesi Judence who co-authored this work, were recently recognized as one of the top writers in 2025.

  • Rwanda receives seven FDLR combatants

    Rwanda receives seven FDLR combatants

    These Rwandans had spent three days at a temporary disarmament and reintegration center in Goma before their return.

    According to MONUSCO, a total of 49 Rwandans were repatriated, all of whom expressed joy at returning home and urged their compatriots still in the forests to lay down their arms and live peacefully with others.

    From January to October 2025, MONUSCO facilitated the repatriation of 54 Rwandan ex-combatants, mostly from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), together with 44 of their family members.

    Upon arrival in Rwanda, the ex-combatants are taken to the Mutobo Demobilization and Reintegration Center in Musanze District, operated by the Rwanda Demobilization and Reintegration Commission (RDRC), where they receive training to help them reintegrate into civilian life and achieve self-reliance.

    On October 30, the RDRC reintegrated 143 former FDLR combatants who had completed between three and six months of training at the Mutobo center.

    The commission reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing support for those who choose to return peacefully.

    Rwanda received seven combatants from the FDLR terrorist group, along with their family members, on November 10, 2025.
  • StarTimes presents a cross-cultural journey into China’s modern transformation

    StarTimes presents a cross-cultural journey into China’s modern transformation

    Broadcasting from September to October on ST Zone, ST Novela E, and the StarTimes ON streaming platform, the series is designed to strengthen cultural understanding and build deeper ties between China, Africa, and the global community.

    This season trails a diverse group of African and international participants, from creatives and entrepreneurs to adventurers, as they share authentic experiences of living, working, and exploring in modern-day China.

    Through their lenses, viewers journey across the country’s most compelling destinations: the peaceful beauty of Taizhou, the dynamic rhythm of Chongqing, the historical charm of Chongzhou, the coastal culture of Fujian, the ancient desert landscapes of Dunhuang, and the spiritual heights of Wudang Mountain.

    By spotlighting regions beyond China’s major cities, “A Glimpse of China in the New Era” reveals the country’s vast cultural diversity, evolving local lifestyles, and the sense of opportunity that continues to draw foreigners into China’s rapid transformation.

    “Our audience will enjoy powerful cross-cultural stories while gaining a deeper appreciation of China’s cultural depth, seen through the relatable perspectives of foreigners living here,” said Lizzie LYU, Marketing Director of StarTimes.

    “This documentary is both visually compelling and educational, a bridge for cultural exchange between Africa and China.”

    Beyond its on-air content, StarTimes is also supporting offline activities inspired by the series, encouraging cultural exchange, community engagement, and meaningful dialogue.

    With its immersive storytelling and striking imagery, “A Glimpse of China in the New Era” celebrates the spirit of curiosity, collaboration, and friendship that connects people across borders.

    StarTimes has rolled out the latest season of its documentary series, “A Glimpse of China in the New Era,” presenting a fresh and engaging look at China’s cultural richness as told by foreigners who call the country home.
    Broadcasting from September to October on ST Zone, ST Novela E, and the StarTimes ON streaming platform, the series is designed to strengthen cultural understanding and build deeper ties between China, Africa, and the global community.
    Beyond its on-air content, StarTimes is also supporting offline activities inspired by the series, encouraging cultural exchange, community engagement, and meaningful dialogue.
    Lizzie LYU, Marketing Director of StarTimes, stated that the audience will be captivated by compelling cross-cultural stories, offering a deeper understanding of China’s cultural richness, as seen through the relatable perspectives of foreigners living in Rwanda.
  • Planned power outage to affect four districts on Saturday

    Planned power outage to affect four districts on Saturday

    This announcement comes after technical issues on Rwanda’s electricity lines connecting to neighbouring countries caused power disruptions in many parts of the country on the evening of November 9.

    Residents in the Gatsibo, Nyagatare, Gicumbi, and Gasabo districts are expected to experience electricity interruptions at different times of the day. From 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, electricity will be unavailable in several sectors of Gatsibo District, including Kabarore, Rugarama, Rwimbogo, Kiziguro, Kiramuruzi, Murambi, Gasange, Muhura, Remera, Kageyo, Ngarama, Gatsibo, and part of Nyagihanga.

    In Nyagatare District, all sectors will be affected, while in Gicumbi District, the outage will impact Bwisige, Ruvune, Giti, Muko, Bukure, Rwamiko, Rutare, Rukomo, Nyamiyaga, and parts of Rushaki, Mukarange, and Mutete.

    Additionally, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, parts of Nyarutarama Cell in Remera Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali, will experience power cuts.

    REG has advised the public to exercise caution around electrical installations, noting that power may be restored earlier than scheduled.

    “The Management of REG regrets any inconveniences that may be caused by this activity and appreciates your full cooperation,” the power company stated.

    The Rwanda Energy Group Limited (REG) has announced a planned power outage on Saturday, November 15, 2025, affecting four districts as part of ongoing maintenance works on the Gabiro Substation and the Kibagabaga-Nyarutarama feeder.
  • FIFA lists Rayon Sports among over 150 African clubs under sanctions

    FIFA lists Rayon Sports among over 150 African clubs under sanctions

    The list, released on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, highlights clubs penalised primarily for unlawfully terminating contracts or failing to fulfil financial obligations to former staff or players.

    Rayon Sports appeared on the list after facing two disciplinary cases in October 2025. One of the cases was filed by Brazilian coach Roberto Oliveira Gonçalves do Carmo, known as Robertinho, who accused the club of wrongful dismissal and unpaid dues. FIFA ordered Rayon Sports to pay $22,500 (over Frw 30 million), but after failing to settle the amount, the club was handed a three-transfer-window registration ban, preventing it from registering new players during that period.

    The club was also sanctioned in a separate case filed by Adulai Jalo, a striker from Guinea-Bissau.

    Other African clubs facing similar sanctions include Nyasa Bullets, KenGold SC, Township Rollers, AS Arta Solar7, Coton Sport de Garoua, TS Galaxy, Pretoria Callies, Welkite Kenema FC, SCCM, Ismaily SC, Zamalek, Enyimba FC, and Club Sportif Sfaxien.

    Rayon Sports is under sanctions for failing to pay former staff, including Robertinho.
  • President Kagame arrives in Guinea-Conakry

    President Kagame arrives in Guinea-Conakry

    The Simandou deposit is the world’s largest known untapped iron ore reserve, estimated to contain approximately 3 to 4 billion tonnes of high-grade recoverable iron ore.

    The project is expected to reach full production capacity by 2030, with an annual output of around 120 million tonnes.

    On Wednesday, President Kagame and his host, President Mamadi Doumbouya, will address the opening of this year’s Transform Africa Summit (TAS), organized by the Smart Africa Alliance under the theme “AI for Africa: Innovate Locally, Impact Globally.”

    The Summit, which convenes every other year in Rwanda-home to the Smart Africa Secretariat, brings together leaders and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence can advance Africa’s economic integration, strengthen governance, and foster innovation across the continent.

    The Simandou Iron Ore Project is expected to reach full production capacity by 2030, with an annual output of around 120 million tonnes.

    Rwanda and Guinea enjoy existing cordial relations reinforced through exchanges of visits and cooperation in different areas.

    President Kagame last visited Guinea Conakry on Monday, May 13, 2024. He had made a similar trip to Guinea from April 17-18, 2023, which resulted in the signing of an agreement on the creation of a joint cooperation committee between Rwanda and Guinea.

    The committee covers areas such as agriculture, ICT, education, mining, and security.

    At the time, President Kagame and Doumbouya also witnessed the inauguration of a highway interchange connecting Kagbélen to Conakry that was named after President Kagame.

    The project was initiated to ease movement between major industrial cities and Conakry, as well as with neighbouring countries.

    In October 2024, both countries also signed a partnership agreement, committing to collaboration across several strategic sectors, including technology, agriculture, investment, services, tourism, energy, and trade.

    Meanwhile, General Doumbouya was in Rwanda in May 2025 for a friendly visit aimed at strengthening the strong ties between the two countries.

    Upon his arrival, President Doumbouya was warmly welcomed by the Guinean community in Rwanda during a celebratory event held in Kigali.

    This visit marked President Doumbouya’s return to Rwanda after his previous trip in August 2024, when he attended the inauguration of President Paul Kagame following his re-election.

    Earlier, in January 2024, he had visited to reaffirm the commitment to bilateral cooperation.

    Guinea is located on the west coast of Africa, bordered by Guinea-Bissau to the northwest, Senegal to the north, Mali to the northeast, Côte d’Ivoire to the east, Liberia to the southeast, and Sierra Leone to the south.

    Its capital and largest city is Conakry, which is situated on the Atlantic coast. Guinea covers an area of approximately 245,857 square kilometers, making it a medium-sized country in the region.

    As of recent estimates, Guinea has a population of around 14 million people, with a youthful demographic and a substantial portion of the population living in rural areas.

    The country is home to a rich cultural diversity, with several ethnic groups such as the Fulani, Mandinka, and Susu, and the

    French is the official language of the country. However, many indigenous languages, such as Fula, Maninka, and Susu, are widely spoken across the country.

    The economy of Guinea is heavily reliant on natural resources, particularly mining.

    The country is a major global supplier of bauxite, holding some of the largest known reserves in the world, and also produces significant amounts of gold, diamonds, and iron ore.

    Agriculture also plays a crucial role in the economy, with rice, maize, and cassava being staple crops, while fishing and livestock farming contribute to the rural economy.

    President Kagame has arrived in Guinea-Conakry.
    President Kagame arrived in Conakry where he was welcomed by Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya.
    President Kagame has arrived in Guinea-Conakry.
    The Simandou Iron Ore Project is the world’s largest known untapped iron ore reserve.
  • France’s new initiatives, Rwanda’s uniqueness and diplomatic priorities: Amb. Aurélie Royet-Gounin opens up (Video)

    France’s new initiatives, Rwanda’s uniqueness and diplomatic priorities: Amb. Aurélie Royet-Gounin opens up (Video)

    Succeeding Antoine Anfré, who served in Kigali for four years, Ambassador Aurélie Royet-Gounin arrives with extensive experience on the African continent, having previously worked in Kenya (2000–2003) and Senegal (2006–2009).

    Speaking to IGIHE in an exclusive interview, Royet-Gounin admitted that before her appointment, her knowledge of Rwanda was limited to general impressions.

    “I had heard a lot about Rwanda, but had never set foot here,” she said. “Before coming, I met with many people in Paris, from ministries, institutions, and organisations connected to Rwanda, to understand the country better and prepare for the mission.”

    Her first impressions were striking. Upon arriving in Rwanda, she said what struck her most was the country’s uniqueness, describing it as “a very distinctive blend” unlike any other she had experienced.

    “Every country has its own identity, but here there’s something truly special: the hills, the orderliness, the civility. People are determined, respectful, and remarkably calm,” she added, noting that the atmosphere of safety and courtesy makes life welcoming for a newcomer.

    {{Between history and healing
    }}

    Royet-Gounin takes office at a delicate but hopeful moment in the relationship between France and Rwanda, still shaped by the legacy of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. She acknowledges that both sides have had to take difficult steps to rebuild trust.

    “Our reconciliation, which culminated in 2021, required introspection from France and great generosity from Rwanda,” she said. “We have reset relations and now focus on mutual trust and cooperation.”

    Central to France’s engagement, she said, are memory and justice. France has committed to preserving and teaching the history of Rwanda and the Genocide against the Tutsi through research, memorialisation, and education.

    “That includes concrete projects: historical research, the creation of a memorial soon to be inaugurated in Paris, and educational programs in French schools to ensure that students understand and remember,” she said.

    But the reconciliation narrative also carries a legal dimension. Over the past decade, France has faced mounting pressure to act against genocide fugitives living on its soil, and recent years have seen significant judicial progress.

    Laurent Bucyibaruta, the former governor of Gikongoro, was sentenced in Paris in 2022 to 20 years for complicity in genocide, while Philippe Hategekimana, a former Rwandan gendarme who had obtained French nationality, was convicted in 2023 and sentenced to life imprisonment. Another case, that of Sosthène Munyemana, a former doctor accused of involvement in killings in Butare, has been on trial since late 2023.

    Félicien Kabuga, long considered the “financier” of the genocide, was arrested in 2020 near Paris after 26 years on the run and extradited to The Hague. Though declared unfit to stand trial due to dementia, his arrest remains a significant moment.

    “France is firmly committed to fighting impunity,” Royet-Gounin said, emphasising close cooperation between France’s National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office and Rwanda’s Office of the Prosecutor General.

    {{Development beyond diplomacy
    }}

    Beyond the courtroom and symbolic reconciliation, France’s relationship with Rwanda has become increasingly developmental. The French Development Agency (AFD) has invested heavily in Rwanda since the 2021 relaunch of cooperation.

    France pledged €500 million in 2021 and an additional €400 million in 2024 to finance joint projects. These include the rehabilitation of Ruhengeri Hospital, vocational training programs, and youth employment initiatives.

    “Health, education, and inclusion through sport are key areas,” Royet-Gounin explained. “We also work on climate resilience, a universal challenge where France and Rwanda share a strong sense of responsibility.”

    While large-scale projects dominate the headlines, the ambassador insists that cultural and linguistic collaboration remains crucial. “We continue to promote the French language by training teachers, accrediting bilingual schools, and improving language quality across disciplines,” she said.

    {{Humanitarian diplomacy and regional engagement
    }}

    Asked about her recent participation in the October 30 humanitarian conference in Paris, co-hosted by France and Togo under the auspices of the African Union, Royet-Gounin described it as a show of solidarity rather than a negotiation platform.

    “It was a pledging conference meant to support the peace processes underway, the Rwanda–DRC talks in Washington and the inter-Congolese dialogue in Doha,” she said.

    France’s position, she explained, was to “demonstrate that the international community has not forgotten the conflict, the displaced, or the victims.”

    The meeting raised €1.5 billion in humanitarian pledges for recovery and reconstruction efforts in the Great Lakes region.

    {{Women, the Francophonie, and feminist diplomacy
    }}

    The ambassador also previewed the upcoming Francophonie Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kigali, describing it as both symbolic and strategic.

    “We are delighted it’s happening in Rwanda, a very active member of the Francophonie under Louise Mushikiwabo’s leadership,” she said.

    The summit’s theme, “30 years after the Beijing Conference: the contribution of women in the Francophone space,” reflects France’s focus on feminist diplomacy. Royet-Gounin said the discussions align with ongoing efforts to promote women’s rights, inclusion, and equal participation in peace and security processes, noting the continued relevance of commitments made at the Beijing Conference.

    “La Francophonie is not just about language or culture, it’s also an economic and values-based community,” she said, pointing out that by 2050, French speakers will number around 700 million, making it the world’s fifth most spoken language.

    {{Listening, learning, and walking Rwanda’s hills
    }}

    Despite the dense diplomatic agenda, Ambassador Royet-Gounin said her approach begins with humility and observation. “The wise person is first an ear that listens,” she said, quoting an adage she has adopted as her motto.

    She plans to spend her early months meeting people from different walks of life and understanding Rwanda beyond official meetings and reports.

    “My job is not only to represent France, but also to understand and convey what we observe and feel,” she said.

    “I brought my walking shoes. I fully intend to explore this beautiful country as much as possible,” she added.

    Watch the full interview below.

  • Why Rwanda Stock Exchange is introducing a green investment segment

    Why Rwanda Stock Exchange is introducing a green investment segment

    The official launch is scheduled for late November 2025, during the annual conference of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA), which will be hosted in Kigali.

    Currently, companies developing green projects are listed on the exchange alongside other businesses, without a dedicated framework. The new section will provide them with a distinct space to attract investors who prioritise sustainability and environmental protection.

    Typically, companies listed on the RSE raise funds by issuing bonds, which investors purchase. The proceeds serve as business capital, to be repaid later with agreed-upon interest, an approach considered a more affordable alternative to traditional bank loans.

    RSE Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Pierre Célestin Rwabukumba explained that while the exchange already has segments for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), large corporations, and general bonds, the decision was made to introduce a specialised green segment to attract investors interested in climate-conscious initiatives.

    “When green bonds are issued specifically for environmental protection, investors focused on sustainability and biodiversity are able to participate more directly,” Rwabukumba told IGIHE.

    “Such investors are often willing to commit more capital because they see the value beyond profit, they recognise the broader impact on communities and the planet.”

    Rwabukumba noted that the creation of this new section aligns with Rwanda’s national strategy to promote a green and inclusive economy, adding that it represents a pioneering step on the African continent.

    “This will be the first dedicated green investment segment of its kind in the region, and likely across Africa,” he said. “Sometimes when we talk about building a green economy, people assume there are no tangible implementation measures. This initiative will demonstrate that we are not only committed in words but also in action, through dedicated financial infrastructure.”

    The development of the Green Exchange Window is being undertaken in partnership with the Luxembourg Stock Exchange, a global leader in sustainable finance. The collaboration aims to ensure the new segment operates to international standards and attracts both local and foreign investors.

    Rwabukumba added that RSE has already facilitated green bond issuances, including those by the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), which has raised more than Frw 70 billion for environmentally sustainable projects. These existing instruments will be integrated into the new segment, with other project developers encouraged to participate.

    He expressed confidence that the initiative will draw additional investors and partners, given Rwanda’s growing portfolio of green projects and its strong commitment to environmental protection.

    Rwabukumba further encouraged companies seeking capital for environmentally friendly ventures to explore this new financing avenue, emphasising that the capital market offers one of the most cost-effective means of raising investment funds in the country.

    RSE CEO Pierre Célestin Rwabukumba explained that while the exchange already has segments for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), large corporations, and general bonds, the decision was made to introduce a specialised green segment to attract investors interested in climate-conscious initiatives.
  • COP30 summit kicks off in Belem, Brazil

    COP30 summit kicks off in Belem, Brazil

    At the opening ceremony, COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev called to meet the goals of the climate summit held last year in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.

    COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago thanked Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for appointing him and reiterated that COP30 must present solutions.

    Despite recent setbacks, the living conditions of populations around the world can and must continue to improve, Correa do Lago emphasized. “Science, education, culture are the path that we have to follow,” he said.

    Multilateralism is definitely the way forward in the fight against climate change, he said.

    A series of topics, including climate adaptation, just transition, and implementation of the Paris Agreement’s global balance, are expected to be discussed at the event.

    Delegations of over 190 countries and regions have registered to participate in the conference, which runs through Nov. 21, according to the COP30 presidency.

    Participants arrive at the venue of the 30th United Nations climate change conferencein Belem, Brazil, Nov. 10, 2025. The 30th United Nations climate change conference, commonly known as COP30, opened Monday in Belem, in the Brazilian state of Para, with the aim of putting the fight against climate change back in the center of international priorities, according to local authorities.
  • Experts call for stronger G20-Africa partnership over debt sustainability

    Experts call for stronger G20-Africa partnership over debt sustainability

    The conference, organized by G20 Presidency South Africa in collaboration with the African Union (AU) at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.

    AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals Francisca Tatchouop Belobe addressed the event that the resilience of African nations is being tested by an unsustainable debt burden and a financial system that penalizes Africa.

    “The rising debt burden is a cause for Africa’s financial constraints,” Belobe said, highlighting that in 2024 alone, debt service payments exceeded 70 billion U.S. dollars as a significant number of African governments are spending more on servicing debt than on investing in human development.

    Noting that Africa’s public debt has grown from approximately 100 billion dollars in the 1990s to roughly 1.8 trillion dollars now, or about two-thirds of the continent’s GDP, she said the continent’s rising costs of public debt servicing are diverting scarce resources.

    The AU commissioner said about 57 percent of Africa’s population lives in countries where debt servicing surpasses social spending, underscoring that the situation is “unsustainable, not only economically but morally.”

    “Such iniquities in the global financial system restrained African nations of the means to invest in what truly matters, such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, energy transition, and the green and digital economies that will define the future,” Belobe warned.

    The AU commissioner called for a partnership that treats Africa “not as a risk to be managed, but as a partner to be empowered.” She also outlined AU initiatives, including efforts to establish an African debt monitoring mechanism for fiscal transparency and Africa’s financial autonomy.

    South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes stressed the urgency of the dialogue to address “one of our foremost priorities — ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries.”

    He said the policy space available to developing countries is significantly constrained by their debt servicing obligations, with many countries paying more for debt costs than critical development enablers like social welfare, health care, and education.

    “We are working to ensure that the sovereign credit ratings are fair and transparent and to address high risk premiums for developing economies,” Botes said, adding that South Africa is reviewing the cost of capital during its G20 presidency.

    The high-level dialogue served as a critical platform for experts and policymakers to amplify Africa’s collective voice within the G20. Participants pushed for fairer global financing, lower cost of capital, and reforms that drive sustainable growth.

    A high-level Group of 20 (G20)-Africa dialogue on debt sustainability, cost of capital, and financing reforms was held on Monday, calling for strengthening partnerships.