The disaster unfolded early on January 5, 2026, when days of heavy rain caused rivers and streams to overflow. The sudden rush of water, mixed with mud, rocks, and debris, roared down hillsides and into villages on Siau Island, a small volcanic island located about 130 kilometres off the northern tip of Sulawesi.
Emergency crews, supported by Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), along with police and military personnel, were deployed to the hardest-hit areas. Access to some of these villages has been difficult due to damaged roads and disrupted communications, hampering search efforts. As waters receded on January 6, rescuers recovered the bodies of 16 victims while continuing the search for at least three more people still missing in areas where entire neighbourhoods were inundated.
Authorities have declared a 14-day emergency response period to speed up relief and recovery efforts, providing food, shelter, and medical support to those affected by the flooding.
The floods caused significant structural damage across the region. At least seven houses were completely washed away, while more than 140 homes suffered varying degrees of damage, ranging from moderate to severe. Over 680 residents have been forced into temporary shelters in churches and public buildings.
Initial medical evaluations have identified multiple injuries, and emergency teams are working to evacuate vulnerable residents to safer areas. Local authorities are also working to clear blocked roads and restore access to isolated communities.
Officials have warned residents to remain alert, as further rainfall could spark additional flooding or landslides in the already affected region. The government has mobilised heavy equipment and relief supplies to address the damage caused by the floods.
This tragic event follows a broader pattern of extreme weather in Indonesia, which has seen catastrophic floods and landslides in other areas, such as Sumatra, earlier in December 2025. The ongoing challenges posed by monsoon rains and insufficient infrastructure in remote regions continue to exacerbate the country’s vulnerability to such natural disasters.
Saar arrived in Somaliland on Tuesday, nearly two weeks after Israel formally recognised the region as an independent state, becoming the first country to do so. The visit comes amid efforts by both sides to formalise diplomatic ties.
In a post on the social media platform X, Saar said the mutual recognition and establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and Somaliland “are not directed against anyone.” He confirmed that the two sides had agreed to exchange ambassadors and open embassies.
“On December 26, Israel and Somaliland signed a historic agreement on mutual recognition and the establishment of full diplomatic relations,” Saar said during a joint press statement with Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdilahi. “We agreed on the mutual appointment of ambassadors and the opening of embassies. We will get that done soon.”
An Israeli Foreign Ministry statement said Saar’s visit followed an official invitation from Abdilahi, who described the trip as “a significant milestone” reflecting a shared commitment to building a productive, forward-looking and strategic partnership.
Speaking at the joint news conference, Abdilahi said Somaliland was politically ready and committed to hosting a permanent Israeli diplomatic presence and confirmed that the region would also open an embassy in Israel. He added that he had accepted an invitation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Israel soon to formally inaugurate Somaliland’s mission.
Both leaders said they were committed to building a strategic relationship covering political, security, economic and development cooperation. Saar noted that discussions between Israel and Somaliland had been ongoing for several months and had culminated in agreements on diplomatic representation.
The Israeli foreign minister said his ministry was working to expand cooperation across sectors including agriculture, water management, healthcare, education, defence and economic development, with plans for exchanges of experts and training programmes. He also welcomed Somaliland’s intention to join the Abraham Accords, describing the region as “friendly to Israel.”
The visit, however, has drawn a sharp response from Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its sovereign territory. The Somali Foreign Ministry condemned what it termed Saar’s “unauthorised incursion” into Somaliland, accusing Israel of undermining Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a statement, Mogadishu said the visit amounted to “unacceptable interference” in the internal affairs of a sovereign UN member state, warning that any official engagement on Somali territory without the federal government’s consent is illegal, null and without legal effect.
Somalia reiterated its firm and non-negotiable commitment to national unity and territorial integrity, rejecting Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and the establishment of diplomatic ties.
Israel announced its recognition of Somaliland on December 26, a move that sparked widespread regional criticism, particularly from Arab countries, which described it as illegal and a threat to international peace and security.
Somaliland unilaterally declared independence from Somalia in May 1991, following years of conflict that left the country in turmoil. Despite maintaining its own government, security structures and currency, it has long lacked formal international recognition.
From ancient sacred forests linked to spiritual rituals and royal courts to hills that once cradled thriving kingdoms, these places capture the heart of Rwanda’s story, deep traditions, vibrant culture and enduring spirit.
While there is no official ranking of the nation’s top historic sites, the eleven we have selected stand out for their ability to illuminate Rwanda’s remarkable journey, each revealing a unique chapter of its roots and ongoing evolution.
Many more sites deserve mention, yet these eleven bring the past to life most powerfully, highlighting who Rwandans are today. Join us as we explore these extraordinary places, discovering together Rwanda’s layered history, timeless traditions, and the lives of the people who shaped it.
{{1. Karongi museum of environment }}
In the lakeside town of Karongi, overlooking Lake Kivu, stands the Museum of the Environment, one of the eight museums under the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda.
The first of its kind in Africa, it explores renewable and non-renewable energy sources while promoting harmony between people and nature.
Spread across two floors with interactive exhibits, it also features a rooftop herbal garden that celebrates Rwanda’s traditional healing heritage.
More than a museum, it serves as an educational centre helping visitors understand and protect their environment. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
{{2. Buhanga Eco-Park}}
[Buhanga Eco Park->https://en.igihe.com/tourism/article/inside-buhanga-eco-park-where-nature-meets-rwanda-s-royal-legacy], a 31-hectare forest located eight kilometers west of Musanze in the Nyakinama community, is a place where nature and history intertwine. Recently integrated into Volcanoes National Park, it holds deep cultural significance in Rwanda’s monarchy.
The name Buhanga, meaning “creation,” recalls its sacred past, legend says Rwanda’s first king, Gihanga, founded the kingdom here, and for centuries, kings were crowned in this very forest. Its untouched beauty, protected by its sacred status, features towering Ficus and Drago trees, lava-stone paths, and vibrant birdlife.
Walking through Buhanga feels like stepping into Rwanda’s living history, a tranquil sanctuary where nature and ancient royal heritage coexist in perfect harmony.
{{3. Kamegeri Rock }}
[Kamegeri Rock->https://en.igihe.com/history/article/when-the-evil-falls-in-own-trap-the-story-of-kamegeri-rock], located in Ruhango District, is one of Rwanda’s most symbolic historic sites.
It is named after Kamegeri, a local chief and trusted servant of King Mibambwe II Gisanura, who ruled around 1600.
Known for his wisdom, Kamegeri earned the king’s favor but later misused his influence by proposing a cruel punishment, burning traitors on a red-hot rock.
To teach a lesson in justice and humility, the king ordered Kamegeri to suffer the same fate on the very rock he had chosen. His story remains a moral reminder that cruelty and arrogance can lead to one’s downfall.
{{4. Ndaba Rock }}
[Ndaba Rock->https://en.igihe.com/history/article/when-greed-is-overwhelming-the-tale-of-ndaba-rock], located about 20 kilometers from Karongi on the road to Muhanga, is one of Rwanda’s most captivating cultural sites. It is named after Ndaba, a man who died tragically after succumbing to greed.
According to legend, Ndaba was lowered into a honey-filled rock by his friends but chose to eat the honey himself instead of sharing. Angry, his companions abandoned him, and when he tried to climb out, his weight and the slippery rock caused him to fall to his death.
The site remains a powerful symbol against selfishness and attracts visitors with its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and storytelling traditions.
{{5. Huye Ethnographic Museum }}
The Ethnographic Museum in Huye, which has existed since the late 1980s, stands as one of Africa’s finest cultural museums.
Its seven galleries take visitors on a journey through Rwanda’s heritage, from geography and geology to daily life, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Exhibits display tools used in farming, pottery, weaving, and woodwork, alongside traditional clothing and architectural methods. The museum also highlights the social importance of cattle, whose royal descendants still graze in nearby Nyanza.
The final gallery immerses visitors in Rwanda’s customs, beliefs, and oral traditions, while the adjoining craft centre keeps these timeless skills alive.
{{6. Mu Bisi bya Huye kwa Nyagakecuru (Nyagakecuru residing in Huye mountains) }}
High in the mountains of Huye District, Southern Rwanda, once lived an old woman named Nyagakecuru, remembered for her defiance against King Kigeli IV Rwabugili in the 18th century.
While others bowed to royal authority, she refused to submit or send tributes to the king. From her fortified home atop Mount Huye, she was guarded by a massive snake said to protect her from attacks.
After repeated failures to capture her, the king sent her fifty goats as a trick. The goats devoured her thorny fence, leaving the snake homeless. It had no choice but to flee.
Seizing the moment, Rwabugili’s soldiers stormed the mountain and captured her, ending her rebellion.
{{7. Kandt House Museum }}
In the heart of Kigali lies the home of Richard Kandt, the German explorer who founded the city in the early 1900s.
Now the Kandt House Museum, it offers an intriguing glimpse into Rwanda’s colonial encounter and transformation. Through its rooms, visitors trace the shift from pre-colonial life to modern urbanization.
{{8. Mwima Mausoleum}}
A short drive from Nyanza, the Mwima Mausoleum sits quietly among trees, its simplicity befitting the dignity of its occupants.
Here lie King Mutara III Rudahigwa and Queen Rosalie Gicanda, whose lives and legacies shaped Rwanda’s modern identity.
When you stand at Mwima, you can see Rwesero, Rukari and Mushirarungu hill next you.
{{9. ‘Ku Kirenge cya Ruganzu’ – The royal footprint }}
In the hilly Rulindo District, about an hour from Kigali, stands a striking sculpture of a muscular man holding a bow and spear, said to depict King Ruganzu II Ndoli, who ruled Rwanda from 1510 to 1543.
Known as Ku Kirenge (“at the footprint”), the site hosts the Ikirenge Cultural Centre, where a rock bearing Ruganzu’s supposed footprint is displayed.
Guides eagerly point out the marks of his toes and heel, astonishing visitors with the legend’s vivid yet believable detail.
{{10. Akarwa k’abakobwa — The Girls’ island }}
Among Rwanda’s legendary islands is Akarwa k’Abakobwa, the Island of Girls, once a place of banishment for unmarried pregnant girls, seen as a disgrace to their families.
Tradition held that parents would present the girl to the king, who ordered her sent to the island to die in isolation. Sometimes, fishermen from nearby Idjwi Island rescued and married them, while others perished, their fate unknown.
The story instilled fear against premarital sex. Today, the island’s silence remains, now serving as a peaceful grazing ground for Rwanda’s famous swimming cows.
{{11. Campaign Against Genocide Museum }}
In the heart of Kigali’s parliamentary complex stands the Campaign Against Genocide Museum a solemn tribute to courage and unity.
Through powerful displays, visitors retrace the Rwandan Patriotic Army’s heroic efforts to stop the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and restore peace.
Between Oct. 25 and Dec. 30, some 65,000 individuals were displaced from multiple locations across the Kordofan region, Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN secretary-general, told a daily briefing, citing the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
In South Kordofan state, displacement has increased sharply in recent days, he said, pointing to estimates by the International Organization for Migration that between Dec. 31, 2025 and Jan. 4 this year, violence drove nearly 1,000 people to flee in Quoz locality, Kadugli town and Berdab village.
On Monday, another 2,000 people were uprooted from Um Dam Haj Ahmed locality in North Kordofan state, said the spokesperson, adding that UN humanitarians in the country reported a drone attack on Tuesday in the state’s capital, El Obeid, which allegedly claimed the lives of 13 civilians, including children.
“Once again, the UN reiterates its urgent call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the protection of civilians,” said Dujarric, adding that the United Nations also reiterates the need for rapid, safe and sustained humanitarian access so aid can reach those in need.
Several storage tanks caught fire on the premises following the blast, Gladkov said on social media. “According to preliminary information, there were no casualties.”
The attacked oil depot is located in the Stary Oskol district, the governor said. Firefighting crews are currently working to extinguish the blaze.
Gladkov said that details regarding possible casualties are still being verified, and emergency services remain on the scene.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday, Trump said the oil would be transported by storage ships to US ports and sold at market prices.
He added that he would oversee the revenues to ensure they benefit both the American and Venezuelan people, and said he had instructed Energy Secretary Chris Wright to implement the plan “immediately”.
Trump’s announcement follows his earlier pledge to “take back” Venezuela’s oil resources and revive the country’s struggling energy sector, in the wake of his administration’s abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Energy analysts say the impact of the proposed transfer remains unclear. Mark Finley, an energy expert at the Baker Institute in Texas, said the significance depends on the timeframe involved.
“Thirty to 50 million barrels over what time frame? That’ll be key to assessing the significance of this,” Finley told Al Jazeera, noting that the volume would be substantial over a month but marginal if spread across a year.
Scott Montgomery, a global energy expert at the University of Washington, also questioned Trump’s assertion that he would control oil revenues.
“I have no real idea about how Trump might distribute the cash. There’s not much of a precedent for this kind of thing,” Montgomery told Al Jazeera.
Trump has claimed US oil companies are ready to invest billions of dollars to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, though major firms such as ExxonMobil, Chevron and ConocoPhillips have not publicly commented. US media reports say company representatives are expected to meet Trump later this week.
Analysts caution that restoring Venezuela’s oil production to its 1990s peak of more than three million barrels per day would require years of work and massive investment. Rystad Energy estimates about $110bn would be needed to raise output to around two million barrels per day.
Once a leading global oil producer, Venezuela now accounts for less than one percent of global supply, following years of sanctions, mismanagement, corruption and underinvestment under former presidents Hugo Chavez and Nicolas Maduro.
The document was signed in Paris by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The signing followed a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, which brought together leaders of several European countries, as well as White House special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law.
Following the meeting, Zelensky noted that there is already a detailed understanding of the architecture of security guarantees for Ukraine.
For his part, Starmer said the declaration creates a legal basis for operations of partner countries’ troops on Ukrainian territory if a peace agreement is achieved.
The 20-year-old YouTuber and Twitch streamer made the remarks after travelling through South Africa, where he launched his Africa tour. In videos circulating on social media, he noted that South Africa, where his journey began, does not have mountain gorillas, adding that he intends to see them in Rwanda.
“There are no gorillas here. We’ll visit the gorillas in Rwanda. We won’t be able to do a livestream because there are too many trees, but I’ll do a video,” he said.
Rwanda’s mountain gorillas represent a major conservation success story. Once critically endangered, their numbers have risen significantly, now exceeding 1,000, making them the only great ape population increasing globally.
This success is largely driven by community-focused tourism, which funds protection and turns locals into “gorilla guardians” against threats such as poaching and habitat loss. This makes gorilla trekking not only a unique and precious wildlife encounter but also a powerful symbol of national pride and sustainable economic development.
IShowSpeed, born Darren Jason Watkins Jr, kicked off his 28-day tour, dubbed “Speed Does Africa Tour,” on December 21, 2025. During the tour, he plans to visit multiple African countries, conduct livestreams, and share his experiences with followers worldwide.
Wherever he has travelled so far, the internet personality has drawn large crowds of fans, offering them a glimpse into his experiences across the continent. He received an enthusiastic welcome in South Africa, the first stop on his tour.
In videos shared on X while announcing the tour, IShowSpeed said he plans to visit several countries, including Algeria, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Rwanda, among others.
The influencer recently concluded his “Speed Does America Tour”, during which he travelled across 25 states in the United States over a 35-day period.
According to IShowSpeedTracker.com, he has previously toured regions including South America, Europe, Asia and Oceania.
The date of his visit to Rwanda is yet to be announced.
Protests have expanded beyond economic grievances to include wider criticism of Iran’s clerical leadership, according to human rights monitors. Organisations such as the Kurdish rights group Hengaw reported that the death toll includes at least four minors, and that more than 1,000 people have been arrested. Another rights network, HRANA, put the total at 29 deaths and 1,203 arrests.
Iranian officials have acknowledged the deaths of at least two members of security forces, but have not confirmed figures for protesters and dispute rights group tallies. Authorities have characterised many demonstrators as “rioters” and blamed foreign influence, while also promising dialogue to address economic concerns.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged economic reforms, including a new subsidy system and changes in central bank leadership, aimed at stabilising the currency and protecting citizens’ purchasing power. Despite these measures, the currency continued to fall, worsening public frustration.
Protests have taken place in 27 of Iran’s 31 provinces, and many demonstrators have broadened their demands to include political reforms, with chants against the country’s clerical rulers. Meanwhile, authorities have vowed to take a firm approach against those they label as instigators and extremists.
Agriculture remains a key sector of Rwanda’s economy, supporting the livelihoods of about 69% of the population. Key markets, including Nyabugogo, Musanze (GOICO), Rusizi and Huye, are supplied mainly by local producers.
In a report released on December 31, 2025, NISR provided an overview of agricultural performance during the year, showing that bean production fell slightly across most seasons. In Season A of 2025, bean output stood at 230,400 tonnes, representing a 1.2% decline compared to the same season in 2024. Season B production reached 240,700 tonnes, down by 0.6% year on year.
However, bean production improved during the Season C (summer farming) period, where output reached 3,178 tonnes, a 4% increase compared to the previous year.
In contrast, potato farmers recorded strong harvests across all three seasons. Potato production reached 475,700 tonnes in Season A, 314,000 tonnes in Season B, and 94,800 tonnes in Season C. Overall, potato output rose by 17% compared to 2024.
Sweet potato production declined during the year. In Season A, output totalled 656,000 tonnes, while Season B recorded 652,000 tonnes. Season C production stood at 41,200 tonnes.
Maize production also dropped in 2025. Season A output reached 481,200 tonnes, a 5.3% decrease compared to the same season in 2024, while Season B production stood at 117,000 tonnes, down by 1.2%.
Banana production showed modest growth, increasing by 1.3% overall. In Season A, production reached 1.2 million tonnes, while Season B recorded 1.1 million tonnes. Rice production also rose slightly, reaching 69,600 tonnes in Season A and 72,900 tonnes in Season B, representing increases of 0.8% and 0.2%, respectively.
Market prices reflect mixed supply conditions. Beans are currently selling at between Rwf 800 and Rwf 1,500 per kilogram in Nyabugogo, depending on the variety. Bananas are priced at around Rwf 600 per kilogram, while potatoes are selling at approximately Rwf 700 per kilogram.
{{Bugesera: From drought-prone to high-yield district
}}
Once known for frequent droughts, Bugesera District has emerged as one of Rwanda’s more productive agricultural areas.
According to the NISR report, Bugesera, alongside Gisagara and Rusizi districts, recorded the highest production of beans, rice and cassava in 2025.
Bugesera Mayor Mutabazi Richard told IGIHE late in 2024 that expanded tree-planting initiatives had contributed to improved rainfall patterns in the district.
“Efforts to increase tree planting have improved the local climate, leading to more rainfall,” he said.
Niyodushima Dieudonnée, head of Exodus Farm Ltd, which operates in Bugesera, noted that fully utilising the district’s nine lakes for irrigation could transform the area into a major food supplier.
“Bugesera’s land is fertile but does not produce throughout the year. When rainfall is sufficient, production is high, but dry periods limit output. With proper irrigation from the nine lakes, the district could supply the country with crops such as beans and maize,” he said.
Currently, irrigation schemes in Rwanda cover more than 75,000 hectares, with the government targeting 130,000 hectares by 2029.
Meanwhile, a market price report released in December 2025 shows that prices in November 2025 rose by 7.2% compared to November 2024. The increase was driven mainly by higher prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages, which rose by 1.4%.
Alcoholic beverages and tobacco recorded a 16.2% increase, while housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels rose by 7.7%. Medical expenses surged by 70.9%, transport costs increased by 9.3%, and food and accommodation prices rose by 19.4%.
![Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, France's President Emmanuel Macron and Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer deliver a press conference upon the signing of the declaration on deploying post-ceasefire force in Ukraine during the 'Coalition of the Willing' summit, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, Jan 6, 2026. [Photo/Agencies]](https://en.igihe.com/IMG/jpg/695dbbdea310d68600f578c0.jpg)
