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Jali Finance celebrates motorcycle riders for responsible collateral-free loan repayment

The recognition took place on October 10, 2025, at Jali Finance’s branch in Sonatube, Kigali, during an event marking Customer Appreciation Week.

The celebration also aimed to honor and motivate riders who uphold their contracts by making timely payments for the motorcycles financed through Jali Finance.

Jali Finance partners with various motorcycle dealerships to enable riders to acquire bikes without collateral. Under the arrangement, riders contribute Frw 35,000 per week as repayment.

To qualify, applicants must hold a valid motorcycle driving license, provide proof of residence, have two guarantors, and be free of any outstanding loans from other financial institutions.

For example, to acquire a motorcycle worth Frw 2 million, a rider is required to make an initial payment of Frw 150,000 or less and continue repaying over a period of two years without providing any collateral.

Beyond financing, Jali Finance also supports motorcyclists in cases of traffic fines, allowing riders to reimburse the amount gradually.

One of the beneficiaries, Vedaste Karangwa, expressed gratitude for the program, saying it helped him rebuild his livelihood after losing his previous motorcycles.

He attributed such opportunities to Rwanda’s visionary leadership under President Paul Kagame, emphasizing how government-driven initiatives continue to empower ordinary citizens.

“Let us thank our Head of State, President Paul Kagame, because we owe all this progress to his leadership,” Karangwa said. “This development is a result of good governance, unity, and peace. I had two motorcycles but lost them under difficult circumstances. When I approached Jali Finance for help, they supported me. I had almost lost hope, but they helped me start again.”

Another rider, Eric Ndagijimana, a father of two, shared that Jali Finance helped him upgrade from a small passenger motorcycle to a larger cargo-carrying one, which significantly improved his income.

With the additional earnings, he has been able to support his family and pay school fees for his child.

Ismaël Gasana, a 24-year-old rider, narrated how his life changed after owning a motorcycle through Jali Finance. Previously, he worked using bikes owned by others, which made it difficult to save or plan for the future, as the owners could take the motorcycles back at any time.

“I used to ride other people’s motorcycles, and it was always unstable. They could repossess them any day,” he said. “But now I have my own motorcycle, and I no longer worry. I can work freely and plan ahead.”

Jali Finance Ltd’s Chief Executive Officer, Félix Nkundimana, said the company dedicated this customer week to appreciating riders who honor their commitments and repay responsibly.

He noted that the recognition reflects the institution’s respect for integrity and professionalism among riders, many of whom demonstrate discipline on the road and a genuine desire for progress.

October 13, 2025
The day the last German soldier fled Kigali during World War I

According to a book dubbed ‘The History of Rwanda’ co-authored by Paul Rutayisire and Deo Byanafashe, the roots of the conflict in Rwanda stretch back to September 24, 1914, when German forces, led by Captain Wintgens, attacked Ijwi Island and began consolidating their control over the strategic areas surrounding Lake Kivu.

At this time, Rwanda, under German colonial rule since 1897, was already experiencing the strain of European dominance. With a population of fewer than 50,000 German soldiers across the whole of East Africa, including Rwanda, the Germans faced a daunting challenge to maintain control.

Although Germany lacked the military numbers to secure long-term dominance, their disciplined forces had managed to hold Rwanda, employing guerilla tactics to repel Belgian and British forces.

Rwanda’s central location was critical for the Germans, especially in terms of access to vital trade routes and strategic areas around Lake Kivu. However, Belgium had its own plans for the region. As the Belgians eyed the German-occupied territories in East Africa, the country sought to use Rwanda as a stepping stone for further colonial expansion.

Belgium, having already seized German-controlled Burundi, began advancing toward Rwanda in 1915. Despite the Germans’ smaller numbers, their soldiers and local allies fought fiercely to defend their hold over the country.

King Musinga, although caught in a difficult position, supported the German forces, supplying warriors and essential resources to resist the Belgian advances.

The conflict escalated in 1916 when Belgian forces launched a decisive offensive on Rwanda. On April 28, 1916, Colonel Molitor of the Belgian military led his troops to capture key strategic locations, including Gatsibo, which marked the beginning of their march towards Kigali.

The Belgians, now bolstered by British forces from Uganda, quickly closed in on the German-held capital. German forces, realizing they could no longer defend Kigali, began their retreat.

By May 5, 1916, the last German soldiers left Kigali, making their way towards the neighboring regions of Save and Burundi. The Belgian troops, after a fierce but brief skirmish, entered Kigali on May 9, 1916, taking full control of the city and marking the end of German rule in Rwanda.

The German withdrawal was driven by the fear of being completely surrounded by advancing Belgian and British forces.

German Captain Wintgens, the commander in charge of the retreat, also led his troops through the rugged terrain of Rwanda’s hills towards Nyundo and beyond, seeking refuge in the neighboring forests and eventually making their way out of the region.

This retreat signified the final collapse of German authority in Rwanda and the beginning of Belgium’s colonial rule.

Under the Belgian mandate, Rwanda was governed more directly than under the Germans, and the local population would soon feel the effects of this shift. The Belgians established a more rigid political and social order, imposing taxes and forcing labor to support their colonial economy.

King Musinga, though initially hopeful that his relations with the Germans could be rebuilt, found himself under the scrutiny of the new Belgian colonial authorities.

Belgium’s takeover introduced policies that would permanently alter the governance structure of Rwanda. Unlike the Germans, who had worked through local leaders, the Belgians dismantled Rwanda’s traditional power structures, replacing them with direct colonial control.

The consequences of this change were not immediately felt, but the seeds of resistance were sown. The exploitation of Rwanda’s resources, particularly forced labor and the imposition of taxes, led to tensions between the Rwandan people and their new rulers.

King Musinga, who had tried to maintain a delicate balance during German rule, now found himself caught between appeasing the Belgians and retaining some semblance of power for his people.

Rwanda gained its independence from Belgium on July 1, 1962. This followed the dissolution of the monarchy and the abolition of the Kingdom of Rwanda in 1961.

However, Belgium’s approach to governance in Rwanda, had sparked ethnic divisionism that culminated to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi halted by the Rwanda Patriotic Army.

October 13, 2025
Trump says ‘war is over’ in Gaza as he flies to Israel for hostage release

Speaking aboard Air Force One on Monday morning, Trump said the truce would hold and announced plans to establish a “Board of Peace” to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction. He described the enclave as a “demolition site” but predicted it would become “a miracle” over the next decades.

“Everybody is happy, and I think it’s going to stay that way,” Trump told reporters, praising Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar for their roles in mediating the deal.

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The ceasefire, which took effect on Friday, marks the first phase of a 20-point peace plan brokered by Washington. Under the deal, Hamas is expected to release the remaining hostages it has held since the October 2023 attacks, in which about 1,200 Israelis were killed and more than 250 taken captive.

Twenty hostages are believed to be alive, while Hamas is expected to return the remains of up to 28 others. In return, Israel is set to release roughly 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees from Gaza, once the hostages reach Israeli territory.

Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 67,000 Palestinians, including over 18,000 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The war left vast areas of Gaza in ruins and displaced more than 1.5 million people.

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Trump will address Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, before travelling to Egypt for an international summit in Sharm El-Sheikh aimed at formally ending the war. Egyptian officials said a “document ending the war in the Gaza Strip” is expected to be signed, with leaders from over 20 nations in attendance, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Iran confirmed it was invited to the summit but said its top leaders would not participate, citing tensions with Western governments.

Despite the ceasefire, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis remains dire. Aid convoys began entering the enclave on Sunday, though UN officials say the volume falls far short of the 600 daily trucks needed to address severe shortages of food, water and medicine.

Palestinians returning to northern Gaza have found widespread destruction, with many homes reduced to rubble and unexploded ordnance scattered across residential areas.

Meanwhile, reports from Gaza City indicate renewed internal clashes between Hamas security forces and members of the Dughmush family, leaving at least 27 people dead in one of the most violent domestic confrontations since Israeli troops pulled back.

As Trump continues his tour, expectations are high but uncertainty remains over the next phases of the peace plan — including who will govern Gaza, whether Hamas will disarm, and how Israel will secure its borders.

“I’m good at solving wars,” Trump said. “I’m good at making peace.”

October 13, 2025
Kigali Fight Night set to redefine African boxing

Scheduled for November 8, 2025, at Zaria Court, Kigali Sports City, the highly anticipated event is set to become a defining moment for African boxing, bringing together some of the continent’s top fighters under one roof.

Sanctioned by the Rwanda Boxing Federation, this premier continental showdown will feature elite boxers from Rwanda, Nigeria, Tanzania, Gabon, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), uniting regional talent and showcasing the depth of African boxing prowess.

The night will feature six professional bouts and five amateur fights, shining a spotlight on both established athletes and emerging stars from Rwanda.

The fight card includes exciting matchups such as Jerry (DRC) vs Ally (Tanzania), Hans (Gabon) vs Joseph (Tanzania), David (Nigeria) vs Aziz (Tanzania), Precious (Nigeria) vs Flora (Tanzania), Daniella (DRC) vs Mukami (Kenya), and Frank (Rwanda) vs Nelson (Gabon).

Each bout highlights the growing strength of African boxing, from rising stars within Rwanda to seasoned fighters representing powerhouse boxing nations.

Fans can now secure their seats for this historic night as tickets are officially available through ticqet.rw.

Multiple categories have been introduced to make the event accessible to everyone, from general admission to exclusive VIP experiences. The first wave of early bird tickets offers the following tiers: Bronze (RWF 10,000), Silver (RWF 12,000), Platinum VIP (RWF 60,000), and Diamond VVIP (RWF 100,000).

The VVIP package includes ringside seats and access to the VIP lounge, while VIP seating is positioned in rows 2–4 just behind the ringside area, also with lounge access. Platinum seating offers premium floor placement, while Bronze tickets cover bleacher seating.

The event, organized by Silverback Sports, Hammerton Barca, and Rwanda Events Group, will officially start at 6 PM on November 8. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to experience the energy, passion, and unity that this continental sporting showcase promises to deliver.

For further information, inquiries can be directed to contact@silverbacksports.net or by phone at +250 787 048 410.

{{About Silverback Sports Limited }}

Silverback Sports Limited is a Rwandan sports promotion and management company dedicated to elevating African athletes to the global stage.

Focused on innovation, sports, and community, Silverback Sports delivers world-class boxing events that inspire both athletes and fans.

{{About the Rwanda Boxing Federation }}

The Rwanda Boxing Federation is the governing body of boxing in Rwanda, committed to developing the sport, supporting athletes, and showcasing Rwanda as a competitive hub for international boxing.

October 13, 2025
Hamas begins handover of Israeli hostages as ceasefire holds in Gaza

According to Israeli officials and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), seven hostages were handed over to the Red Cross on Monday morning and are being transferred to Israeli military custody.

The hostages are among a group of 48 individuals whom Hamas agreed to release as part of the first phase of the deal, which also includes the freeing of 250 Palestinian prisoners and more than 1,700 detainees held by Israel.

Crowds gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square erupted in cheers as confirmation of the release emerged. Families of the captives, some of whom have been held since the October 7, 2023, attacks, expressed cautious relief amid hopes that all surviving hostages will soon return home.

In Gaza, Red Cross vehicles were seen moving through the southern corridor under heavy security. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that its teams are “prepared to receive additional hostages who are expected to be transferred later today.”

The ceasefire, which took effect on Friday, October 10, has largely held, allowing for the first significant delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza in months. Israeli forces have reportedly begun a limited withdrawal from parts of the territory under the terms of the agreement.

U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Israel early Monday to mark what he described as “the beginning of the end of the war.” He is expected to attend a peace summit in Egypt later in the day, joined by around 20 world leaders to discuss the next phase of the deal, including Gaza’s reconstruction, governance, and security arrangements.

The agreement, while welcomed internationally, remains fragile. Key issues, such as the disarmament of Hamas, the return of displaced Gazans, and the long-term political control of the enclave, have yet to be resolved.

For now, however, the hostage handover represents a rare moment of progress after months of devastating conflict. As the Red Cross convoys continue their mission, families on both sides wait anxiously for a measure of closure and a glimpse of peace that has long seemed out of reach.

October 13, 2025
Israel prepares to receive hostages as Hamas signals possible early release

Netanyahu’s office said the prime minister had spoken with Gal Hirsch, Israel’s coordinator for hostages and missing persons, about preparations for their return. An Israeli official told Kan public broadcaster that the army expects the hostages to arrive before Monday morning.

“The IDF has completed its preparations for the release of the hostages and assesses that all of them will be released before Trump’s arrival,” the official said.

Media reports suggested that Hamas has told mediators it is prepared to release all 20 living hostages as early as Sunday, ahead of a Monday deadline under the ceasefire agreement, if Israel frees at least two of seven high-profile Palestinian prisoners previously removed from the release list. It is unclear whether Israel will accept the condition.

Under the ceasefire deal, Hamas will release 20 living and 28 deceased hostages held in Gaza since the war began on October 7, 2023. In exchange, Israel will free roughly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and allow increased humanitarian aid into the enclave, devastated by Israeli strikes.

October 12, 2025
Rwanda moves to curb children’s exposure to pornographic content

While technology continues to offer numerous opportunities — from innovation and learning to improving productivity — it has also brought with it a wave of risks, especially for children who often lack the maturity to discern appropriate online content.

According to officials, these risks fall into four categories: information-related, contact-related, behaviour-related, and contractual.

Information-related risks include exposure to degrading or pornographic material, violent or hateful content, fake news, and content that promotes bad behaviour.

Contact-related risks involve child trafficking, harassment, hate speech, intimidation, sexual solicitation, and online grooming.

Behaviour-related risks include cyberbullying, receiving sexually explicit messages, sharing of nude or revenge images, public humiliation, impersonation, coercion, and gambling, among others.

Authorities warn that such exposure has serious psychological and moral effects on children. In response, Rwanda has introduced a new Child Online Protection Policy, adopted in September 2025, aimed at ensuring a safer digital environment for children.

The policy calls for close collaboration between government institutions and internet service providers to detect and block harmful content before it reaches children. It also provides for clear legal and regulatory frameworks enabling authorities to sanction platforms that fail to remove flagged material.

Additionally, the framework seeks to establish systems for monitoring online offenders in line with international standards.

To discourage the production and consumption of pornographic material, the policy introduces ethical guidelines for technology developers and service providers, requiring them to uphold Rwandan cultural values and prioritise children’s safety online.

It also seeks to ensure that minors do not access age-inappropriate content and that children’s data stored on devices or online platforms is adequately protected. The policy further encourages responsible advertising by requiring online marketing to be categorised according to age groups.

Service providers will be obliged to put in place mechanisms to identify and restrict content unsuitable for minors.

To strengthen accountability, the government plans to establish a toll-free hotline through which citizens can report harmful online content, seek assistance from experts, and request the removal or suspension of offending websites.

Children under 18 make up nearly half of Rwanda’s population. The government aims to make the internet accessible to all, while ensuring that young users are equipped with digital literacy and protection mechanisms.

The Child Online Protection Policy envisions an inclusive digital environment that safeguards children’s rights while promoting safe and responsible technology use.

The policy will be implemented over a five-year period with an estimated budget of Frw 1.52 billion.

Its implementation will involve multiple institutions, including the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of ICT and Innovation, Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), RURA, RISA, REB, the Rwanda National Police, and other partners.

October 12, 2025
Inside Rwanda’s trade numbers: Key commodities driving growth

While the total value of all exports, including non-merchandise items, fell by 14.5 percent to USD 1,182.7 million, down from USD 1,382.7 million in the same period of 2024, the nation’s core merchandise export earnings grew by 6.2 percent, reaching USD 826.0 million from USD 777.7 million.

This growth was driven by gains in traditional crops and manufactured goods, highlighting a healthy shift in Rwanda’s export profile.

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Traditional exports, a cornerstone of the economy, led the momentum, with revenues increasing by 29.7 percent to USD 254.3 million, up from USD 196.2 million in the first half of 2024. These goods now account for 30.8 percent of total merchandise exports, up from 25.2 percent in the same period last year.

Coffee receipts soared by 159.1 percent, while mineral exports rose by 30.8 percent. These strong performances were supported by favourable weather and higher global commodity prices. Tea, however, recorded a 3.2 percent decline due to a 4.7 percent drop in unit prices, despite a modest 1.6 percent increase in volumes.

Non-traditional exports also gained traction, rising 22.7 percent to USD 212.2 million from USD 173.0 million, increasing their share of merchandise exports to 25.7 percent from 22.2 percent.

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Despite export gains, the overall merchandise trade deficit widened by 3.6 percent to USD 1,488.4 million, from USD 1,436.3 million in the first half of 2024, driven by a 4.5 percent increase in merchandise imports, which reached USD 2,314.3 million.

Rising imports reflect strong domestic demand for capital and intermediate goods. Consumer goods imports grew 18.9 percent in value and 12.6 percent in volume. Food imports rose 19.3 percent in value and 13.0 percent in volume, while non-food products increased 18.5 percent in value and 10.2 percent in volume.

Consequently, the export-to-import ratio fell to 45.3 percent, down from 49.1 percent, a 7.8 percent decline.

Re-exports fell by 17.6 percent to USD 277.4 million, reducing their share of total merchandise exports to 33.6 percent from 43.3 percent. Conversely, informal cross-border trade increased slightly to 9.9 percent, up from 9.2 percent.

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Rwanda recorded strong performance within the East African Community (EAC). Formal exports to the EAC surged 30.4 percent to USD 155.1 million from USD 118.9 million, driven by growth to the Democratic Republic of Congo (up 72.9 percent) and Uganda (up 26.4 percent).

At the same time, imports from EAC countries contracted 28.9 percent to USD 545.5 million from USD 767.4 million, mainly due to sharp declines from Kenya (84.5 percent drop) and Tanzania (25.4 percent drop). As a result, Rwanda’s trade deficit with the EAC narrowed by 39.8 percent, falling to USD 390.4 million from USD 648.6 million.

October 12, 2025
Rwandan troops join forces with diaspora and SFH for malaria outreach in Juba

The initiative, aimed at supporting the well-being of IDPs, brought together peacekeepers, community members, and partner organisations in a coordinated campaign to reduce the risks and impact of malaria.

During the outreach, participants engaged in clearing overgrown vegetation, eliminating mosquito breeding sites, educating residents on malaria prevention methods, and distributing mosquito repellents to families living in the camp.

Speaking at the event, Colonel Leodomir Uwizeyimana, Commander of the Rwanbatt-3 Contingent and representative of the Rwandan peacekeepers in UNMISS, emphasised the importance of collaboration between peacekeepers and the local community. He encouraged residents to actively maintain a clean environment by removing bushes and stagnant water, crucial steps in preventing malaria transmission.

Simon Khan Lok, Chairman of the Mangateen IDP Camp, praised the initiative, highlighting how the partnership promotes community health by combining education with practical tools to fight malaria.

Malaria continues to pose a serious health challenge in Mangateen, located on the outskirts of Juba. This outreach activity underscores the shared commitment of Rwandan peacekeepers, diaspora groups, and health organisations to improving the living conditions and health outcomes of displaced residents.

October 12, 2025
Inside Jasmine Hills, a $20 million housing estate set to redefine modern living in Kigali

The project was unveiled on October 10, 2025, at the construction site of the new modern estate in Kacyiru Sector, Gasabo District. It will comprise 59 housing units designed to blend comfort, style, and sustainability.

Each of the Jasmine Hills homes will feature a living room, kitchen, dining area, and four spacious bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom, toilet, and balcony.

The estate will include three types of housing designs, ranging from two-story homes with private gardens and parking spaces to those with additional basements for extra space. The most exclusive units will be standalone villas enclosed within fenced compounds, complete with gardens and parking for two cars.

Beyond private residences, the estate will offer shared facilities that reflect a modern lifestyle, including a swimming pool, a children’s playground, landscaped gardens, and a fully equipped gym.

According to Bharat Parmar, Chief Executive Officer of Reportage Properties Rwanda, Jasmine Hills will stand out not only for its architecture but also for its natural setting.

The estate is located next to the Rugenge-Rwintare wetland, which is currently being rehabilitated into a green recreational area.

“We bought this land without knowing there was a project to rehabilitate the wetland,” Parmar said. “When we learned about it, we were thrilled. Our houses will now overlook a beautiful green area, it will be a wonderful view for residents.”

Parmar praised Rwanda’s favorable business climate, highlighting that the company’s smooth operations are a result of the country’s strong governance and investment-friendly policies.

“We plan to stay in Rwanda and embark on even bigger projects,” he said. “The support we’ve received from the government, the Rwanda Development Board, the City of Kigali, and citizens has been remarkable. Even though buying unfinished houses is not common here, Rwandans have trusted us and invested in our developments.”

Echoing the same sentiment, Alkesh Kumar Rajput, Chief Executive Officer of Reportage Properties East Africa, described Rwanda as one of the easiest and most efficient countries to do business in.

“For me and other leaders, we call this place the Dubai of Africa,” Rajput remarked. “It’s a beautiful country with strong security, good governance, and excellent organization. Everything functions smoothly, just like in Dubai. It was very easy for us to establish our operations here.”

Reportage Properties Rwanda has introduced a flexible payment plan, offering a 10 percent discount on the purchase price.

Buyers can secure a home by paying 10 percent upfront, followed by one percent of the total cost each month until construction is completed, with the remaining balance paid upon handover.

Prices range from $294,000 to $441,000 depending on the house type and location, and buyers have the freedom to select their preferred finishing materials and interior fittings.

Jasmine Hills is expected to be completed within two and a half years. The project represents Reportage Properties’ second major investment in Rwanda, following Indabyo Heights, a residential development currently under construction in Nyarutarama.

Founded in 2014, Reportage Properties operates across several countries, including the United Arab Emirates and the United States, and continues to expand its footprint across Africa.

October 12, 2025