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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.

November 12, 2025
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.

November 11, 2025
President Kagame addresses sons’ military choices, speculation on daughter being groomed for presidency

Speaking at a gala attended by leaders and members of the Unity Club Intwararumuri on November 8, 2025, President Kagame said he had hoped all three of his sons would join the RDF, but his eldest, Ivan Cyomoro Kagame, chose instead to pursue business and investment.

“Once they grew up, I told them my wishes, and they accepted, but one of them refused. He told me, ‘This is not how I want to be.’ I told him, ‘Do what you want. If you don’t want to join, that’s your choice.’ I asked, ‘What do you want to do?’ and he said, ‘I want to make money.’ He added, ‘When I finish studying, I will go into business,’” President Kagame revealed.

“Afterwards, he told me, ‘You and the other young men, my younger siblings, because by that time you’ll be pursuing other things, I will take care of you. I want to take care of you. Let me do that, and you do what you want,’” he added.

Brian Kagame, the youngest son of President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame, joined the RDF on October 3, 2025, after completing military training at the Sandhurst Military Academy in the United Kingdom. He followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Capt. Ian Kagame, who currently serves in the Republican Guard elite unit responsible for protecting the President and other top state leaders.

President Kagame said he had advised his sons to finish Master’s degrees before joining the military, but both insisted on starting their military careers earlier. He emphasised that every child should have the right to pursue their own aspirations.

“Any Rwandan child, including mine, should be able to become what they want or do what they want to do,” he said.

On the subject of his daughter, Ange Kagame, and rumours about her being prepared for the presidency, the President affirmed that his daughter’s future will be guided by her own ambitions.

“I saw on social media that people say I am preparing my daughter to lead the country. But who prepared me? I wasn’t prepared by my father,” he said. “My children are Rwandans like any other, and they will live their lives like everyone else.”

President Kagame added that he cannot choose who becomes President, and the daughter in question may not even desire such a role.

President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame have been blessed with four children: three sons and a daughter.

November 9, 2025
President Kagame: Rwanda drew the line long ago, will not tolerate any threat

He made the remarks on Saturday, November 8, 2025, during a gala marking the conclusion of the 18th Unity Club Intwararumuri Forum in Kigali. The Unity Club Intwararumuri, founded by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, brings together current and former government leaders and their spouses to promote unity, peace, and development in Rwanda.

The Head of State said that while Rwanda continues to engage diplomatically with its neighbours, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), some of the agreements reached contain elements of dishonesty. Nonetheless, he stressed that Rwanda remains guided by firm principles.

“Those agreements contain a lot of dishonesty. In everything we do, say, and in how we live with others or even fight with others, we drew the line long ago. Meaning, anything that threatens Rwanda, we will not tolerate,” Kagame said.

He underscored that Rwanda’s determination to safeguard its existence and sovereignty is non-negotiable.

“Our desire to live, to have our own life, is something we either live for or die for,” he said.

President Kagame also urged Rwandans to embrace self-reliance and reject dependency, emphasising that development and dignity are achieved through collective effort and resilience.

“As leaders gathered here, if there is someone who thinks that anyone from the outside will come to save us, you are mistaken. As the saying goes, it is not the size of the dog in the fight, it is the size of the fight in the dog. The question, what is the fight in the dog? What is within us that will allow us to face the challenges of our country?” he posed.

He noted that Rwanda’s progress has been shaped by visionary leadership and citizen participation but challenged leaders present to continuously evaluate their personal contribution to national development.

“To ensure things continue to improve, you cannot become complacent because of the progress we have made and only be a beneficiary of the work others have done. Make sure you are not just carried along by others but that you are truly part of it, playing your role and making your contribution. That is essential and there is no way around it,” President Kagame added.

Turning to the African continent, President Kagame questioned why many countries have failed to make significant socio-economic progress despite decades of independence.

“Africa, where were we 50 or 60 years ago? Looking back, it seems we are still almost in the same place as we were then,” he observed, adding that the continent must confront the internal factors holding it back.

“This problem within us must be solved, or we should openly admit that perhaps we are under some kind of curse, because pretending we are fine while remaining stagnant will not take us forward,” he said.

He further wondered why African nations accept poverty and hardship despite having the capacity and opportunities to transform their economies.

During the same event, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe said Africa’s underdevelopment is largely rooted in poor governance and a mindset that normalizes dependency.

Former Minister Charles Murigande pointed to leadership failures, saying some leaders pursue self-enrichment rather than service to their people.

“A true leader is supposed to eat last but we have leaders who eat alone and leave nothing for anyone else,” Murigande said.

Father Consolateur attributed part of Africa’s challenges to the lingering effects of colonialism, which instilled a belief in inferiority among Africans.

“They destroyed us, uprooted us completely, and we agreed to it,” he said.

Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta, emphasised that true transformation will only come when African nations commit to self-reliance and break free from external dependency.

November 9, 2025
What you need to know about upcoming Indian Hospital in Kigali, now 70 percent complete (Photos)

This modern Believers International Hospital and Research Center in Rwanda is expected to reduce the number of Rwandans seeking medical specialists abroad for complex illnesses.

Once completed, the facility owned by the Indian based church, will attract specialists in various medical fields, including cardiology, which will help reduce the number of people traveling overseas for treatment and contribute to the growth of medical tourism in Rwanda, positioning the country as a hub for advanced healthcare.

The construction of this hospital began on October 1, 2023, in Kicukiro District, Kanombe sector, near Busanza. It will also include a university dedicated to training medical professionals, aiming to assist Rwanda in becoming a hub for cutting-edge medical care.

The hospital will feature 300 patient beds, with specialized doctors from different countries, as well as a university and research center that will contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Africa. Once the building is completed, plans will follow to construct accommodation for the doctors and university buildings to support the education of Rwandans.

With construction progressing as expected, the facility is set to be completed by 2026.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Simon, a representative of the church, shared that this is the second hospital built by the organization, and the decision to construct it in Rwanda was influenced by the country’s good governance.

“The former Rwandan Ambassador to India visited our hospital, saw the equipment and services we offer, and asked our church leaders if we could bring such infrastructure to Rwanda. We initially hesitated to bring such a project to Africa,” said Simon. “When we arrived in Rwanda, our mindset quickly changed. Rwanda is unique, it’s a peaceful, clean country with exceptional leadership under President Kagame. After seeing all this, we realized there was no better place to build the hospital than here.”

Rwanda is among African countries with patients seeking treatment in India for complex medical conditions.

Nshimiyimana Costica, overseeing construction activities emphasized that the hospital is being constructed with high-quality materials, including steel and durable bricks, making it resilient to earthquakes in the region.

“I would say we are about 65-70% finished with the construction. We base this estimate on the work already completed, and the remaining 30% will be completed soon.”

The hospital is being built with locally sourced materials, such as sand, cement from Cimerwa, bricks from Sunshine Rwanda Ltd, and Rutare Bricks and Ceramics, ensuring that 90% of the materials are sourced from Rwanda.

This state-of-the-art hospital to be completed at a cost of Frw77 billion, is expected to benefit both Rwandans and the world at large in terms of healthcare, research, and education. Since the project’s inception, more than 700 Rwandans have been employed.

“The project benefits the Rwandan population as the primary stakeholders,” said Nshimiyimana.

When completed, the hospital will be equipped with advanced medical technology, including cardiology treatments, a Cath Lab for heart disease treatments, two MRI machines, four X-ray machines, mammography for breast disease diagnosis, and more than eight operating theaters, allowing up to eight people to undergo surgery at the same time.

The hospital will be of international standards, capable of hosting heads of state and dignitaries who may seek medical services while visiting Rwanda.

All specialized doctors will be from abroad, including India, the United States, and other countries, while nurses and other staff will come from Rwanda.

Additionally, the church plans to engage with the Rwandan government to ensure that people covered by all insurance schemes in the country, including Mutuelle de Santé, will be able to access treatment at this hospital.

November 8, 2025
New laws, new listings, Frw 60 billion in investments: Inside Rwanda’s fast-evolving capital market

According to Thapelo Tsheole, Chief Executive Officer of the Capital Market Authority (CMA), the country is in the middle of a regulatory and structural overhaul aimed at positioning Rwanda as a credible, regional financial hub.

Speaking on The Long Form podcast, Tsheole opened up about his personal journey and explained how the Capital Market Authority of Rwanda is introducing new regulatory frameworks to unlock opportunities for both investors and companies.

{{Rising savings culture and Frw 60 billion in unit trusts}}

At the heart of Rwanda’s retail-investment growth is the rise of unit trusts, pooled vehicles that allow individuals to invest small amounts collectively.

The two main players, Rwanda National Investment Trust (RNIT) and BK Capital’s Unit Trust, have together amassed over Frw 60 billion in managed assets, growing by more than 30 percent in the past year alone.

Tsheole said unit trusts have helped ordinary Rwandans access the capital market more easily. He noted that such products are regulated and “a safe place to put money.” During the discussion, it was highlighted that unit trusts currently offer annual returns of around 10–12 percent.

{{From land to listed assets
}}

Tsheole emphasised the need for citizens and businesses to rethink where they place their money.

“Land is good,” he said, “but it’s illiquid. Selling it takes time, while government bonds or listed shares can be sold almost instantly.”

CMA’s outreach programmes, conducted in partnership with the Private Sector Federation, now target small and medium-sized enterprises to consider listing or issuing corporate bonds.

CMA runs a nationwide campaign to educate investors on portfolio diversification, moving from “saving to true wealth creation.”

{{Toward digital and regional integration
}}

Rwanda’s capital market, still in early stages compared to its East African peers, is preparing for automation. The Rwanda Stock Exchange has begun testing a new trading system that will allow faster, online transactions and remote participation, including from the Rwandan diaspora.

Tsheole said Rwanda’s capital market should have “long automated as a basic principle,” noting that digitisation is key to improving access, especially for investors in the diaspora.

At the same time, Rwanda is part of an African Development Bank–backed project to interlink regional exchanges, enabling investors in Nairobi, Kampala, or Kigali to trade across borders seamlessly.

{{A foundation for sustainable growth
}}

Since he assumed his role in June 2024, Tsheole has doubled CMA workforce, strengthened partnerships with institutions such as the Chartered Institute of Securities (UK), and initiated specialised training abroad for Rwandan staff. Two employees are currently on nine-month fellowships in the United States and France, while others are being trained locally through a new partnership with the Chartered Institute.

His vision, he said, is clear: “There’s no way Rwanda can sustain economic growth for a long time without a developed capital market. It is the cornerstone of every modern economy.”

{{From Mochudi to Kigali
}}

Raised in the rural village of Mochudi in south-eastern Botswana, Tsheole’s journey to leading one of Africa’s youngest capital-market regulators is rooted in humble beginnings and a deep belief in education as a tool for transformation.

“I come from a poor family. My parents were not in formal employment, and when you come from such humble beginnings, you always have an urge in yourself to succeed, to work hard,” he recalled.

“Education sort of worked for me… I was one of the students who got relatively very high marks, and the encouragement from teachers and the admiration from other students propelled me to keep on pushing.”

That persistence eventually led him into finance. After joining the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE), he rose through the ranks to become Chief Executive Officer in 2016. Under his leadership, the exchange achieved record profitability, higher listings, and greater investor participation. In 2022, he also served as President of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA).

Having reached the peak of his success in Botswana, Tsheole felt it was time for a new challenge. “I just felt the best dancer should know when to leave the floor,” he said. “I had always wanted to work outside the country to have that experience.”

When Rwanda approached him in 2023, he was drawn by what he called “the Rwanda story”, a nation rebuilding with discipline and vision.

“It’s such phenomenal work that has been done, and you can see a lot of growth potential. Yes, the market is relatively small compared to a lot of other African countries, but in terms of potential and growth, it’s there.”

{{Modernising the rulebook
}}

When he assumed office in Kigali, he found the capital market’s legal foundation “outdated and overtaken by events.” In response, CMA launched a comprehensive reform agenda that includes updates to the Capital Market Law, Central Securities Depository (CSD) Law, Collective Investment Schemes Regulations, and Virtual Assets Framework.

“You can’t grow the market without proper rules and regulations and laws,” Tsheole said, noting that Rwanda still needed to strengthen its regulatory foundation to support growth.

Among the most urgent priorities is the Virtual Assets Law, expected to be enacted before the end of the year. It will allow Rwanda to regulate cryptocurrencies and digital assets, helping the country avoid being “grey-listed” for financial-compliance risks.

As reforms take hold and more Rwandans invest through unit trusts and bonds, the capital market is steadily moving from the margins of finance to the centre of Rwanda’s growth strategy.

Watch the full interview below.

November 7, 2025
Minister Nduhungirehe calls out MONUSCO over FARDC drone and heavy weapons training

In a video shared by MONUSCO, soldiers are seen being trained in the use of drones, handling heavy artillery, and managing casualties and injuries. The training took place in Bunia, Ituri province, under the supervision of General Saiful Alam Bhuiyan, Commander of MONUSCO’s North Sector.

“As you know, our mandate is to eventually transition responsibilities to the local security forces so they can maintain law and order,” General Bhuiyan says in the social media video shared on Tuesday.

“We are trying to train the maximum number of FARDC soldiers. They are also being trained on human rights, and other sectors will continue this work until local forces have sufficient capacity to govern their own people.”

However, Minister Nduhungirehe questioned the wisdom of the training, noting that FARDC’s alliance with the FDLR, a militia linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, raises serious concerns. He argued that arming and training forces associated with such groups undermines civilian protection and perpetuates insecurity in the region, where the Congolese forces are battling M23 rebels.

“If I understand correctly, MONUSCO, which is a UN peacekeeping mission whose main mandate is the protection of civilians, is training the Congolese army, allied with the genocidal FDLR militia, to handle heavy weapons and attack drones, the very same weapons currently being used by FARDC in ongoing ceasefire violations and daily bombardments of densely populated areas,” Nduhungirehe said.

“Thus, 26 years after its deployment, during which nearly 20 billion dollars have been spent, the FDLR has strengthened, armed groups have multiplied, and hate speech and persecution of Rwandophone communities have become normalized, MONUSCO continues to demonstrate, if any further proof was needed, that it is one of the greatest failures in the history of the United Nations.”

Si j'ai bien compris, la @MONUSCO, qui est une mission onusienne de maintien de la paix, dont le mandat principal est la protection des civils, est entrain de former l'armée congolaise (alliée à la milice génocidaire FDLR) à manier des armes lourdes et des drônes d'attaque,… https://t.co/ztjh5JAarJ

— Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe (@onduhungirehe) November 5, 2025

Rwanda has often questioned MONUSCO’s mandate in the Democratic Republic of Congo amid growing insecurity, displacement, and the deaths of scores of civilians.

The concerns have been echoed repeatedly by President Paul Kagame, who has in the past sharply criticised MONUSCO over its decades-long presence in eastern DRC. Kagame argues that the mission has failed to stabilise the region, curb violence, or address the root causes of conflict, despite a multibillion-dollar budget.

“What did they actually come to do? To keep peace? What peace? To bring peace? What peace have they brought? Did they come to solve the security problem caused by the FDLR, which has been in Congo for 30 years? Nothing. So why are they still there?” President Kagame posed during an interview with Lebanese-Australian entrepreneur and citizen journalist Mario Nawfal.

November 5, 2025
Rwanda’s leather industry rebounds with Frw 11 billion in export earnings

The Cluster’s Chairperson, Jean D’amour Kamayirese, told IGIHE that the earnings mark a significant recovery in the sector, crediting government reforms for restoring the value of hides and skins.

Leather exports had declined sharply following a 2015 East African Community (EAC) directive that restricted the export of raw hides and skins outside the region. Exporters who wished to sell beyond the EAC were required to pay a USD 0.52 levy per kilogram, a policy that discouraged trade and reduced prices locally.

Before the directive, a kilogram of hides sold for about Frw 1,500, but the price later dropped to between Frw 100 and 200.

To revive the sector, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM) and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) established the Kigali Leather Cluster in May 2023 to coordinate value chain development and support plans for a leather processing plant in Bugesera District.

Although the cluster initially focused on Kigali-based processors, a broader platform, the Rwanda Value Chain Alliance (RVCA), was later formed to include members from across the country.

Kamayirese said the 2015 restriction had discouraged investors, leading to wastage of raw hides.

“We found that many traders had left the business because of heavy losses,” he said. “We began engaging producers and traders across provinces to assure them that the government was working on a solution.”

He noted that following sustained advocacy by the cluster and its partners, the government reviewed and lifted the export restriction in October 2024, allowing trade beyond the EAC without the previous high levy.

“Since the directive was lifted, we have seen a return of investors from different countries,” Kamayirese said. “Prices have since increased from Frw 100–200 per kilogram to about Frw 750.”

Before 2014, Rwanda earned more than Frw 4 billion annually from leather exports. However, between 2016 and 2019, export revenues dropped to just Frw 63 million due to the trade restrictions.

Since 2024, Rwanda has exported 459,000 cattle hides, earning about Frw 6.8 billion, and 3.2 million goat skins, generating Frw 4.8 billion, bringing total earnings to over Frw 11 billion.

Leather remains one of the world’s most versatile raw materials, widely used in footwear, fashion accessories, furniture, automotive interiors, and sports gear.

November 4, 2025
Sudanese nationals in Rwanda condemn ongoing killings in El Fasher

Since the war began in 2023, more than 150,000 people have lost their lives, and over 12 million have been displaced, with the country also suffering from severe drought. Currently, the city of El Fasher is witnessing intense fighting after the RSF took control of the area, displacing over 60,000 residents.

This Sunday, Sudanese nationals residing in Rwanda, including students and businesspeople, gathered to express their solidarity with those affected by the ongoing violence in El Fasher.

Hassan Mustafa, the leader of the Sudanese Community in Rwanda, urged them to continue supporting their compatriots under attack in El Fasher. He called on Sudan’s Transitional President, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Al Burhan Abdelrahman, to strive for peace and fight for the country’s liberation, while also assuring that they continue praying for the victory of the government forces in the ongoing battle.

“I believe this voice will reach Sayyid Abdul Fattah Al-Burhan, to various countries, and to the blood of every person who desires freedom. We owe it to our brothers, we owe it to our country. We must at least confirm one thing. We pray day and night that this army will win, because right now it is the one leading the battle. I wanted to say that this moment is not about writing, but about the pain that comes from the heart,” Mustafa said.

Wisal Abdel Hamid, a representative of Sudanese women in Rwanda, expressed her sorrow over the continuous killings of children and women in the war, with many being raped and subjected to other forms of violence. She called on the international community and countries supporting the RSF to stop providing assistance to the group.

“We, Sudanese women, have risen up in the fight for equality, until our message reaches powerful countries with arrogance and oppression, as well as organisations that claim to work to protect humanity and women,” she said.

Brig Gen Mohamed Mirghani Yousif Mohamed, the Defence Attaché at the Sudanese Embassy in Rwanda, reinforced the stance that the government forces must win, no matter the cost, and reclaim the areas seized by the RSF fighters.

Sudanese students studying in Rwanda commended the country for allowing them to continue their education despite the conflict, and called for an end to the war, highlighting that it only brings death and destruction to their fellow citizens.

Ambassador Khalid Musa Dafalla emphasised that their unity is aimed at standing in solidarity with those affected by the conflict and sending a message to the international community, which continues to watch as Sudan faces widespread human rights abuses.

“We are here to support those affected by the attacks in Sudan, to show our support for the Sudanese government to liberate the country, stop the war, and strive for peace and security,” he stated.

Ambassador Dafalla declared that the ongoing events in Sudan constitute genocide, as people are being killed based on their ethnicity.

He further stated that this event, which has taken place in various parts of the world, aims to show the international community that action must be taken to stop the atrocities happening in Sudan.

November 3, 2025
The day Karekezi slapped former President Mbonyumutwa

Mbonyumutwa served as President of Rwanda from January 28, 1961, to October 26, 1961.

The slap became a significant event in Rwanda’s history due to its symbolic meaning. During that time, there was a tense political atmosphere, with Belgium using Hutu political parties to push for the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic.

Many Rwandans could not understand the idea of a republic and the possibility of forgetting the monarchy that had ruled for so long.

At that time, the political parties, especially MDR-Parmehutu, which advocated for the republic, and UNAR, which supported the monarchy, were at odds.

Mbonyumutwa was aligned with the MDR-Parmehutu party, serving as Sub-Chief in Ndiza (Gitarama). He was one of the leading politicians encouraging the population to reject the monarchy and fight for the establishment of a republic.

On November 1, 1959, Mbonyumutwa attended a mass in Byimana. After the mass, he went to visit Father Marara, who lived at the parish. On his way back, he met Karekezi Pascal and other young people.

Karekezi and the other two youths were reportedly upset by the notion of the monarchy being abolished and the words Mbonyumutwa’s alignment with ideologies to kill the Tutsis.

Karekezi once told IGIHE that he and his colleagues decided to slap Mbonyumutwa to stop his public promotion of the republic and his divisive rhetoric.

He said, “He supported the idea of killing people. Instead of promoting the culture of the country, he took the Belgian model to create a republic, and you have seen what the republic led to.”

Karekezi mentioned that he and Mbonyumutwa had known each other previously, as Mbonyumutwa was from a neighborhood called Mwendo.

Due to the political rivalry between Parmehutu and UNAR (the monarchy-supporting party), some believed Karekezi and his colleagues were sent by UNAR to slap Mbonyumutwa. However, Karekezi denied this claim.

He said, “How could UNAR send us? […] We were at home when he came from his place to promote the Parmehutu agenda, and we knew that it was all about killing people.”

Karekezi described how they ambushed Mbonyumutwa as he was on his way home and slapped him. But Mbonyumutwa fought back.

He explained, “We slapped him as he was heading to a place where he would become a Sous-Chef. He came from Mwendo… He fought back because he was not tied up.”

“He fought back and left. He didn’t go to court, and no one came for revenge. He later became a sous chef. They continued to stir division and war, until they began destroying everything.”

After the incident, rumors spread that Mbonyumutwa had been killed by Tutsi youth sent by UNAR. Some Tutsis were attacked, their homes burned, and many were killed while others fled.

Mbonyumutwa was elected president by leaders from the Hutu political parties in a meeting held in Gitarama, where it was confirmed that the monarchy was officially abolished. Mbonyumutwa was elected to lead the newly established republic.

November 1, 2025