The Burundian coach joins from Kiyovu Sports FC, where he delivered impressive performances this season despite the club facing financial difficulties.
With only a few months remaining on his contract, Haringingo makes the switch following Rayon Sports’ decision to part ways with Bruno Ferry, who was dismissed after just three months in charge.
Rayon Sports’ leadership has set clear ambitions of winning the league title, last secured in 2019 or lifting at least one domestic trophy this season.
The team is currently preparing for the resumption of the Rwanda Premier League, with a Matchday 26 fixture against Gicumbi FC scheduled for Saturday at 6:00 PM at Kigali Pelé Stadium.
Haringingo previously coached Rayon Sports in 2023, when he led the club to victory in the Rwandan Peace Cup. He takes over a side currently sitting fourth in the league standings with 42 points.
Francis Haringingo Christian has rejoined Rayon Sports FC as head coach. Haringingo previously coached Rayon Sports in 2023, when he led the club to victory in the Rwandan Peace Cup.
This exhibition taking place in London, United Kingdom, officially opened on March 30, 2026, and runs through April 1, 2026, at the ExCeL London exhibition centre.
At the trade fair, a delegation from Rwandan companies is showcasing a range of locally produced goods and engaging directly with international partners.
Rwanda’s participation is coordinated by the Embassy of Rwanda in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with NAEB.
The event aims to support Rwanda’s ambition to boost agricultural exports, strengthen its presence on the international stage as a competitive food-processing nation, and attract new buyers for Rwandan products.
IFE brings together thousands of professionals each year from the food, beverage, and hospitality sectors across all continents. For Rwanda, this is not only an opportunity for visibility but also a strategic platform to increase exports, build new partnerships, and showcase the quality of its products to the global market.
This participation comes at a time when the Middle East, previously a key export market for Rwanda’s agricultural products, is facing instability due to ongoing conflict. Exploring new markets in Europe could help Rwanda mitigate the potential impact of these disruptions and sustain its export growth.
More than one billion tonnes of food, equivalent to 19 percent of all food available to consumers, are wasted, while 13 percent is lost before arriving at retail outlets, according to a joint statement from the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat).
About 60 percent of food waste happens within households, followed by food service at 28 percent and retail at 12 percent, with households alone wasting over one billion meals daily, according to the UN agencies.
Inger Andersen, UNEP executive director, noted that food loss and waste cost the global economy one trillion U.S. dollars annually, while combating the challenge is key to taming the climate crisis, desertification, and water scarcity.
“Reducing food waste makes economic sense, delivers methane cuts, supports food security, and helps build a circular, zero-waste, zero-emissions future,” Andersen said.
Food loss and waste generate 8 to 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, nearly five times the emissions from the aviation industry, with food waste alone accounting for up to 14 percent of global methane emissions, according to the statement.
Anaclaudia Rossbach, UN-Habitat executive director, noted that urban centers have been at the forefront of integrating food systems, water services, waste management, and recovering surplus food to foster circularity.
Rossbach added that informal workers, waste pickers, and community water managers are providing solutions to the food waste crisis in cities, helping to create circular systems that save money, cut emissions, and generate jobs.
This facility, which is part of the company’s phased development plan, will provide essential support for the efficient handling, aggregation, and movement of temperature-sensitive products, specifically for the domestic and export markets.
The new packhouse is the first step in Cold Solutions’ strategy to expand its cold storage capacity and logistics services in Rwanda. It will strengthen the country’s cold chain infrastructure and offer reliable solutions for horticultural produce, food manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies.
Cold Solutions Rwanda has been at the forefront of providing world-class temperature-controlled storage and logistics solutions across East Africa, playing a pivotal role in handling and storing perishable goods.
Speaking to IGIHE, Julie Igiraneza, Commercial Director at Cold Solutions Rwanda, shed light on the company’s commitment to supporting the local and regional supply chains.
“As part of our phased development, we have commissioned a modern, fully equipped packhouse facility to support the handling and export of horticultural produce. This will provide exporters with reliable, high-quality services while our flagship temperature-controlled complex in Rwanda remains under construction and will be launched in 2027,” she noted.
This packhouse not only addresses a key market gap in the cold storage sector but also introduces cold chain logistics services, such as intercity, long-haul, and cross-border transportation. These services are designed to ensure product quality and integrity throughout the entire value chain, from production to export.
“Our operations are powered by advanced technologies, including a robust warehouse management system, blast chilling, and blast freezing capabilities, with temperature control ranging from ambient to -40°C,” added Igiraneza.
Cold Solutions’ broader vision includes expanding its operations through the development of a 4,000-pallet position temperature-controlled warehouse.
This new facility, which will be launched in Q3 2027, will significantly increase the company’s storage capacity and integrated logistics offerings, enabling it to cater to Rwanda’s growing horticulture, food, and pharmaceutical sectors.
Azhar Rifai, Managing Director of Cold Solutions Rwanda, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “This milestone marks a defining moment in bringing our packhouse vision to life. It reflects our ambition to set new benchmarks in quality, efficiency, and innovation within the industry. As we move toward completion of the full facility, we are building more than infrastructure; we are shaping the future of our operations and unlocking long-term value for our partners and stakeholders.”
Fredd Kambo, Managing Director of ARCH Emerging Markets Partners, also commented on the significance of the new packhouse, saying, “The opening of our 1,400 sq m packhouse in Kigali is an important milestone in our strategy to build a modern, integrated cold chain platform in Rwanda. Through Cold Solutions Rwanda Limited, we are establishing critical handling infrastructure while also launching dedicated cold chain logistics services to support the movement of temperature-sensitive goods.”
This development is part of a broader regional initiative aimed at enhancing cold storage infrastructure across East Africa.
Cold Solutions Rwanda Limited (CSRL) operates as the Rwandan platform of the ARCH Cold Solutions East Africa Fund, which is managed by ARCH Emerging Markets Partners, a private equity firm dedicated to building and growing market-leading businesses across Africa.
The packhouse caters to Rwanda’s growing horticulture, food manufacturing, and pharmaceutical sectors, supporting both local and export supply chains.The new facility provides advanced cold storage and logistics solutions for temperature-sensitive products such as French beans.Julie Igiraneza, Commercial Director at Cold Solutions Rwanda, highlighted that the packhouse supports the handling and export of horticultural produce for domestic and regional markets.Fredd Kambo, Managing Director of ARCH Emerging Markets Partners, noted that the Kigali packhouse is a critical step in building an integrated cold chain platform in Rwanda.Azhar Rifai, Managing Director of Cold Solutions Rwanda, described the expansion as a milestone in delivering efficient, high-quality cold chain services.
Premier Dr. Nsengiyumva, representing President Paul Kagame, is among dignitaries who attended the inauguration ceremony of Touadéra at at the Barthelemy Boganda Sports Complex on Monday.
The development was confirmed by the Office of the Prime Minister of Rwanda without disclosing further details of their discussions.
President Faustin-Archange Touadéra was re-elected in December 2025 with 76.15% of the vote.
Rwanda and the Central African Republic (CAR) maintain cooperation particularly in the areas of security, mineral resources, and other sectors.
Security cooperation is central to the partnership, with Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and police contributing to the UN peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, since 2014. In 2020, Rwanda deployed 1,200 troops under a bilateral agreement to neutralize rebel groups loyal to François Bozizé that were threatening Bangui.
Beyond peacekeeping, Rwandan forces provide security for the President, government officials, and key infrastructure, including M’Poko International Airport.
They also support the development of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA), helping the country build its capacity to maintain security independently. Since 2023, RDF has trained over 2,400 soldiers and 300 officers, with several cohorts integrated into FACA between 2023 and 2025.
Currently, around 1,200 Rwandan personnel operate in CAR under bilateral arrangements separate from the UN mission. Their duties include restoring peace, safeguarding Bangui and its surroundings, ensuring the smooth functioning of daily life, and securing President Touadéra’s residence in Damara, Ombella-M’Poko Prefecture.
It was glamour at the inauguration of CAR President Faustin-Archange TouadéraTouadera took the oath of office at the Barthelemy Boganda Sports Complex, with heads of state and diplomats in attendance.President Faustin-Archange Touadéra was re-elected in December 2025 with 76.15% of the votePrime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva met with CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra following the President’s inauguration on March 30, 2026.
Touadera took the oath of office at the Barthelemy Boganda Sports Complex, with heads of state and diplomats in attendance.
Following the ceremony, Touadera expressed gratitude to the citizens for their trust and emphasized that his mandate would focus on women, youth, and national development.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace and stability in the war-torn country.
The Central African Republic held its presidential election on Dec. 28, 2025, with Touadera winning 77.9 percent of the vote, according to the Constitutional Council.
The inauguration ushered in a seven-year mandate for Touadera, 68, who has served as president since 2016. This will be his third term in office.
Faustin-Archange Touadera (C) takes the oath of office at the Barthelemy Boganda Sports Complex in Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic, on March 30, 2026.
“Today, we are formally resuming operations at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, marking a new chapter in our diplomatic presence in Venezuela,” the U.S. Department of State said in a statement, adding that the reopening of the embassy “is expected to strengthen direct engagement with the interim government, civil society and the private sector.”
The United States gradually resumed ties with Venezuela after Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez took over as acting president in the wake of Maduro’s capture on Jan. 3.
The United States and Venezuela broke off diplomatic relations in 2019, when U.S. President Donald Trump, during his first term, recognized then opposition leader Juan Guaido as the interim president of Venezuela, accusing Maduro of rigging the presidential election.
The U.S. flag flutters at the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, capital of Venezuela, on March 30, 2026.
The commitment was made on March 28, 2026, during celebrations marking the club’s 25th anniversary.
Rotary is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to humanitarian work, including supporting the underprivileged, promoting public welfare services such as clean water, environmental conservation, combating epidemics, and contributing to community development initiatives.
Rotary International was founded by Paul Percy Harris in Chicago, United States, on February 23, 1905. In Rwanda, it was introduced in 1960 by the Rotary Club Kigali Doyen. The Kigali Virunga chapter was established in 2000 and currently has over 94 members.
Peter Malinga, President of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga, highlighted that over 25 years, the club has implemented numerous projects benefiting the community, including contributions to the Kigali Library, which cost over $6 million, with the club contributing $2 million.
“We have undertaken many projects that demonstrate the impact of the Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga in society. These initiatives reflect the achievements possible when government institutions and non-governmental organizations collaborate effectively,” he stated.
During the celebrations, members elected Alex Ndibwami as the new club president for the 2026/2027 term.
The club also raised over Rwf53 million to support the purchase of the SPECT Scan machine. Ndibwami emphasized that fundraising efforts will continue through partnerships with private companies, collaboration with other Rotary clubs in Rwanda, and additional grant applications.
He noted, “Within Rotary International, there are structured ways to request support, but it requires demonstrating what you have already accomplished. We will combine our local fundraising with support from other clubs and both private and government entities to complete this project.”
Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, welcomed the initiative, noting that it complements government efforts to provide high-quality healthcare.
“Currently, breast and cervical cancers are on the rise. Introducing a machine like this, which can detect cancer early, is an opportunity for Rwanda, as many patients previously had to travel abroad at high cost to access such services,” he said.
The project to acquire the SPECT Scan machine is expected to be completed by 2028.
During the event, Past Assistant District Governor (PADG) and Centennial Past President (CPP) Paul Masterjerb Birungi, a dedicated member of the Rotary Club for 25 years, was recognized as the district’s top recruiter and inducted into the Membership Society, an honor reserved for Rotarians who have recruited more than 25 new members.
Notably, he is the only individual across the district, which spans 10 countries, to have reached this milestone.
Businessman Faustin Mbundu also received the Major Donor Label pin in recognition of his USD 10,000 contribution to the Rotary Foundation, which supports impactful community projects worldwide.
Over the past 25 years, he has remained closely connected to the growth of Rotary Club Kigali Virunga, frequently serving as a guest of honor and generously supporting various initiatives.
Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga has celebrated 25 years of serviceDuring the celebrations, Alex Ndibwami was elected as the new President of Rotary Club of Kigali VirungaMembers of Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga pledged $5 million to acquire a state-of-the-art medical scannerRotary Club of Kigali Virunga raised over Rwf53 million to purchase a SPECT Scan machineProminent businessman Mbundu Faustin was also awarded the Major Donor Label pin in recognition of his USD 10,000 contribution to the Rotary Foundation, which funds projects globally that impact communities. He has been closely involved with the growth of Rotary Club Kigali Virunga over the past 25 years, frequently serving as the club’s guest of honor and supporting numerous projects through generous donations.Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana welcomed the SPECT Scan acquisition project
The awards were presented during celebrations marking Youth Development Day, held at Maison des Jeunes Kimisagara in Nyarugenge District on March 27, 2025.
The State Minister in the Ministry of Youth and Arts, Sandrine Umutoni, urged the beneficiaries not to focus only on the financial rewards but to remain committed to their journey of personal growth and national development.
“Today is not only about reflecting on what has been achieved, but also about looking ahead and reminding each one of you that you have a significant role in building the Rwanda we aspire to. […] We thank those who received support today. You have shown that you do not wait for opportunities, you seek them. Keep moving forward and make the most of these opportunities,” she said.
Assoumpta Uwase, founder of Urugero Fashion, a clothing company, is among those who received Rwf 1 million. She noted that the funds will help her expand her business by acquiring additional sewing machines.
“This will help me purchase equipment. There are tools one may not have but knows would improve production. For us, machines are the most important because they help us work faster,” she noted.
A similar event took place in the Eastern Province, where the Minister of Youth and Arts, Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima, encouraged young people to be bold and take advantage of available opportunities.
The Governor of the Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, urged youth to explore opportunities in large-scale agricultural projects, particularly in irrigation and livestock, invest in them, and share knowledge with others.
Youth in Northern Province urged to make the most of opportunities
The Governor of the Northern Province, Maurice Mugabowagahunde, called on youth awarded in the Youth Connekt and Arts Connekt Awards 2025 not to waste the opportunities they have received, but to use them to advance themselves and contribute to national development.
He encouraged young people to work hard, avoid bad habits, and build on the unity of Rwandans.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service and Labour, Clément Kabiligi, said the awarded youth are a strong example that self-development is possible when one takes advantage of available opportunities.
He urged them to maintain discipline and guide others who may stray from the right path.
Southern Province youth advised to act wisely
The Vice Mayor of Nyamagabe District, Thaddée Habimana, encouraged youth to remain patient and avoid making rushed decisions.
He particularly urged them to participate in government programmes such as the monthly Umuganda community service and activities marking the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Governor of the Western Province, Jean Bosco Ntibitura, commended the country’s leadership and partners for their continued support in empowering youth to drive both personal and national development.
He noted that recognizing youth achievements is intended to inspire others to take initiative and improve their livelihoods.
The Youth Connekt competitions are organized in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU).
The awarding of top projects in Youth Connekt 2025 also coincided with the official launch of the Aguka Fund, which provides loans to youth-led projects at an interest rate of 9%, with a required collateral of 10% of the total amount needed.
The UNDP Resident Representative in Rwanda, Dr. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, congratulated all winners for their promising projects, noting that their success marks the beginning of a greater journey, to become competitive in the job market, strengthen the private sector in Rwanda, and contribute to Africa’s economic transformation.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Nsengiyumva arrived in Bangui on the morning of March 30, 2026.
President Touadéra was re-elected in the December 2025 elections, securing 76.15% of the vote. His 2026–2032 agenda emphasizes building lasting peace in the country, implementing political reforms, and investing in initiatives that promote economic growth and improve the well-being of citizens.
Rwanda and the Central African Republic share strong bilateral relations in several areas, particularly in security, mineral resources, and other sectors.
Security cooperation is a key pillar of the relationship. Since 2014, Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and police have contributed to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic, MINUSCA.
In 2020, the two countries signed a bilateral agreement under which Rwanda deployed around 1,200 troops to help neutralize rebel groups loyal to François Bozizé, which were threatening Bangui.
Beyond this, Rwandan forces provide security for the President and the capital city of Bangui, while also helping to build the capacity of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) so they can maintain security independently once the Rwandan mission ends.
To date, the RDF has trained over 2,400 new Central African soldiers and 300 officers. The first cohort of 512 soldiers joined FACA in November 2023, followed by 634 in August 2024, 438 in March 2025, and 545 in November 2025.
Rwandan troops and police in CAR perform a wide range of duties, including protecting civilians and their property, high-level government officials including President Touadéra, UN personnel and assets, and critical infrastructure such as M’Poko International Airport.
Currently, around 1,200 Rwandan personnel are deployed in CAR under these bilateral arrangements, separate from the UN mission. Their responsibilities include restoring peace and security, safeguarding Bangui and its surroundings, and ensuring that daily life continues smoothly for local residents.
Another key responsibility is securing President Touadéra’s residence in the Damara area of Ombella-M’Poko Prefecture.
Rwanda’s Prime Minister, Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva was warmly welcomed upon arrival in Bangui, the capital of CARDr. Nsengiyumva arrived in Bangui on the morning of March 30, 2026.
