According to a statement from the President’s Office, Kagame and Amb. Fragoso discussed the strong and productive bilateral relations between Rwanda and Portugal.
Ambassador Fragoso began her assignment in Rwanda with residence in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia after presenting credentials to President Kagame on February 7, 2023.
At the time, she highlighted numerous opportunities including potential for cooperation in the areas of economy, agriculture and education.
Rwanda and Portugal established diplomatic relations on January 12, 1976.
Portugal’s first ambassador to Rwanda, António Baptista Martins, was based in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, and officially began his duties in Rwanda on January 25, 1977.
Portugal has also been a significant investor in Rwanda. In 2017, it ranked first among foreign investors, accounting for 23.8% of registered foreign investment, totaling $398 million, followed by the United Kingdom with $203.1 million.
Since 2023, Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkurikiyimfura, has been overseeing Rwanda’s interests in Portugal.
In a statement dated February 6, 2026, the Permanent Secretary of AFC/M23, Benjamin Mbonimpa reacted to remarks by the Chairperson of the AU Commission condemning a drone operation carried out by the group on the night of January 31 to February 1 at Bangoka Airport in Kisangani, Tshopo Province.
AFC/M23 said the operation targeted a military facility used by Congolese government forces to launch repeated drone attacks against both its positions and civilian populations in areas under its control in North and South Kivu.
According to the movement, for nearly two months, particularly since January 22, 2026 , civilians in Minembwe and the Haut Plateau have faced an escalation of military operations conducted by government forces using between eight and twelve attack drones operated by foreign mercenaries.
It claims these drones bombed densely populated areas including Minembwe, Twangiza, Rwitsankuku, Katogota, Sange, the Port of Kalundu, Masisi, Walikale, Rutshuru, Lubero, Mwenga and Kalehe, as well as civilian infrastructure such as hospitals, schools and churches, resulting in the deaths of many civilians, including women and children.
The AU Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf condemned the Kisangani strike on Friday, warning that attacking infrastructure located in a major city could endanger civilian lives and violate international law.
He further stated that in the absence of evidence proving the airport was being used for military purposes, the action could be considered an attack on civilian infrastructure and classified as terrorism.
In response, AFC/M23 rejected that characterization, stating that the drone-neutralization operation “exclusively targeted military assets,” caused no civilian casualties, and was intended to protect innocent populations while enforcing the ceasefire established under the Doha Agreement.
The group argued that condemning what it describes as a defensive action without prior investigation or requests for contradictory information places the AU Commission in an unbalanced position and raises questions about its impartiality in the peace process it is expected to lead.
AFC/M23 further said that describing an action it claims helped save lives as terrorism represents a dangerous step backward for the African Union, weakens its moral credibility, and departs from its fundamental mandate to protect African peoples.
It also criticized the AU Commission for what it called silence on the use of foreign mercenaries operating attack drones, noting that the African Union Charter prohibits the use of mercenaries.
The movement concluded by strongly condemning what it termed a hasty statement and called on the African Union to adopt an impartial, responsible and fact-based approach, which it said is the only path toward a just and lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Upon her arrival, Vice Admiral Wemyss-Gorman was received by Col Moses Kayigamba, Commander of the RDF Engineer Contingent, who briefed her on the progress of reconstruction activities being carried out in St James and Trelawny Parishes.
Accompanied by Col Moses Kayigamba, the JDF Chief of Defence Staff toured several reconstruction sites where engineers from both forces are rebuilding homes affected by the hurricane.
During the visit, they interacted with beneficiaries, who expressed their gratitude to both forces for the support provided.
Vice Admiral Wemyss-Gorman commended the RDF Engineer Contingent for the commendable work being undertaken in close collaboration with their JDF counterparts, noting that the RDF’s support has a positive impact on the affected communities.
The visit reflects the JDF Chief of Defence Staff’s appreciation for the strong military cooperation and solidarity demonstrated in responding to natural disasters and in supporting communities throughout the recovery and rebuilding process.
Noting that the talks took place in “a positive atmosphere,” Araghchi, heading the Iranian delegation, told reporters after the hours-long talks that the two sides will first hold consultations back in their capitals, and then decide how and when it will be regarding the next round of talks.
Meanwhile, according to a report by Iran’s official news agency IRNA, Araghchi said the Friday talks focused solely on the nuclear issues, and that Tehran did not discuss “any other topics” with Washington.
The Iranian delegation had pointed out in the talks that refraining from threat and pressure is the prerequisite for any dialogue, Araghchi said, adding that Iran expects that this point “definitely be observed to prepare the ground for the talks’ continuation.”
Also, Iran’s state-run IRIB TV, quoting Araghchi as saying, reported that Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi held several meetings with the Iranian and U.S. delegations, helping the two sides exchange their viewpoints.
The “very deep distrust” between Washington and Tehran formed in the past posed “a very big challenge to the negotiations, and we firstly have to overcome the pervading atmosphere of distrust and then, be able to design the framework for a new dialogue capable of safeguarding the Iranian people’s interests,” Araghchi noted.
Following the talks, Al Busaidi, the Omani foreign minister, wrote a statement on social media platform X, calling the talks “very serious” and “useful.”
The discussions helped clarify each side’s position and identify potential areas for progress, he said, adding that the parties “aim to reconvene in due course, with the results to be considered carefully in Tehran and Washington.”
Earlier in the day, IRIB TV reported that the talks ended “for now” in Muscat, and that the two delegations may return home, whereas Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported that Iran rejected a “zero enrichment” demand during the talks.
The two sides centered on the dilution of Iran’s existing uranium stockpile, Mehr reported, adding that the atmosphere of the talks was “more serious” than the previous rounds of talks between the two sides.
So far, the U.S. side has not issued any official statement regarding the talks, but Washington’s subsequent moves have sent a signal somehow contradictory to Tehran’s rhetoric regarding the atmosphere at the negotiation table.
Hours after the conclusion of the talks, Washington announced new sanctions to curb Iran’s oil exports, including targeting 14 vessels, reaffirming Washington’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran.
The latest round of talks came amid heightened regional tensions, especially between Washington and Tehran, featuring a recent U.S. military buildup in the Middle East and Iran’s stepped-up preparations.
The talks have revisited a diplomatic track that collapsed violently last June, leading to U.S. airstrikes on Iran. Past negotiations between the two sides faltered over Washington’s demands for zero uranium enrichment and curbs on missile development and regional proxies, all rejected by Tehran.
The event, held from February 4 to 6 at Messe Berlin, brought together 2,600 exhibitors from 90 countries and attracted trade visitors from more than 150 nations, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s most influential platforms for the fresh fruit and vegetable industry.
Among the Rwandan exhibitors was Zima Healthy Group, a company specialising in value-added, minimally processed agricultural products, including extra virgin avocado and pumpkin seed oils.
Representing the company, Marie-Ange Mukagahima told IGIHE that Fruit Logistica offered a rare opportunity to test new products directly with international buyers.
“This year, we brought our extra virgin oils, along with a new product, a blend of African herbs and oils designed for skin and hair care. People here love it, and we are truly grateful,” she said.
Gahima noted that discussions went beyond Germany, with potential partners expressing interest from markets such as Poland, Israel and Dubai.
“Through this event, we have met potential customers from all over the world. We’ve had very fruitful discussions about cooperation and representing Rwanda in their markets,” she added.
She emphasised that the benefits extend beyond individual firms. “If we manage to secure key clients here, it won’t benefit just Zima. It will benefit the entire value chain, the farmers, distributors and many others,” Gahima said, adding that professional packaging and international-standard labelling were helping position Rwanda as a source of premium, high-end products.
{{New investments positioning Rwanda for future exports}}
Evergreen Holding Limited, through its subsidiaries Pure Harvest Farms Limited and Agribloom Farms Limited, used the fair to showcase upcoming export capacity rather than current volumes.
Represented by Emnet Kejelcha, the company highlighted its large-scale avocado, strawberry and vegetable projects in Bugesera.
“This was an excellent opportunity to present our company, our current production, and what we will be exporting from Rwanda in the near future, within the next five months and beyond,” Kejelcha said.
He explained that strawberries planted in January 2026 are expected to reach export markets by April or May, while avocado orchards will follow after maturation.
Beyond buyers, the company connected with investors, packaging suppliers and agro-input providers.
“By participating in Fruit Logistica 2026, we benefited greatly in supply chain management, customer handling and building connections,” he said.
Kejelcha described Rwanda as a favourable investment destination. “Investing in Rwanda is very rewarding. We benefit from welcoming people, friendly policies, accessible water resources and strong investment incentives,” he noted.
{{Rwanda’s growing visibility on the global stage}}
Rwanda’s Ambassador to Germany, Igor Cesar, said the country’s presence at Fruit Logistica has grown significantly over the past decade.
“Rwanda has been participating for the last 10 years, and this event provides an excellent platform to present our produce internationally,” he said.
This year, more than 15 Rwandan companies were represented, alongside institutions such as NAEB, the Rwanda Development Board and the Rwandan Embassy in Germany.
“Rwanda’s presence is now much stronger. We have multiple stands, including a prominent main one that stands out across the African continent,” Cesar said, adding that Rwanda’s visibility often greets visitors as soon as they enter the exhibition halls.
According to the ambassador, meetings were held with potential investors across the entire fruit and vegetable value chain, signalling growing confidence in Rwanda’s export potential.
At the institutional level, Janet Basiima, Division Manager for Export Market Development and Innovation at NAEB, said Rwanda’s approach to the fair has become increasingly strategic.
“Before arriving, we review registrations, identify potential buyers, schedule appointments and plan targeted meetings in advance,” she said.
Basiima noted tangible outcomes from this year’s participation. “Our companies are pleased with the results. They received clients and secured deals at fair prices,” she said, praising the professionalism of the mainly youth-led delegations.
She added that NAEB remains committed to supporting exporters’ access to international markets.
From the organiser’s perspective, Hauke Plümbeck, Head of Marketing at Fruit Logistica, pointed to Rwanda’s participation as a standout example of coordinated growth.
“The development has been phenomenal. The sector has grown significantly, with an increasing number of exporters, stronger presence in global markets, and growing participation at this trade fair,” he said.
Plümbeck highlighted the collaboration between government institutions, private companies and development partners as a key driver.
“We greatly value the true spirit of cooperation between the government, private sector, and stakeholders in the fresh produce value chains, one of the key factors behind Rwanda’s success at this fair. It continues to evolve in the right direction,” he said.
Rwanda’s participation at Fruit Logistica 2026 comes amid sustained growth in horticultural exports. In late January alone, the country earned over USD 10.85 million from agricultural shipments, while full-year exports in 2025 surpassed USD 893 million.
Under the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), Rwanda aims to raise annual foreign exchange earnings from agriculture and livestock to USD 1.5 billion by 2029, a target officials say events like Fruit Logistica help bring within reach.
In an interview with IGIHE, Talat shared his story with raw honesty. A professional chef with a master’s degree in hospitality from Damascus University, he began his career blending international cuisines and emphasising sensory experiences in food presentation.
“It’s not only about the food, but it’s also about the plates we present,” he explained. “Eyes eat before your mouth.”
In 2003, Talat moved to Dubai, where he worked in restaurants and hotels before joining the cabin crew and travelling the world until 2009. He returned to Syria to start his own business, but his plans were interrupted by mandatory military service between 2009 and 2011, coinciding with the outbreak of the war.
“My life before was very simple: one, two, three, four, like that,” he recalled. “When the war started, the action in my life started.”
As the war escalated, Talat fled Syria and moved to Beirut, Lebanon. There, he worked for Gear Holding and honed his skills while competing against some of Lebanon’s top chefs. He stayed for five years, unsure of how long the war would last.
“I decided to stay close to Syria… we don’t need to be far,” he said. But the war continued far longer than expected.
A brief detour to Cambodia for visa issues led Talat to search for new, welcoming destinations. In late 2016, he discovered Rwanda, a small country in the heart of Africa that he had never heard of before.
“I didn’t know anything about it,” he admitted. During his flight, a cabin crew member reassured him, saying, “You are going to the most beautiful capital in Africa.” Those words calmed his nerves.
Upon arriving in Kigali, Talat experienced something rare for a Syrian passport holder: a genuine welcome. “In airports everywhere, when they see your passport… they look at you like you are someone who’s homeless,” he said. “But here it was a different smile, welcoming, everything was easy. In 30 minutes, they stamped my passport.”
Stepping outside, he felt a sense of “fresh air” and, profoundly, “freedom.” “As a Syrian, we are not free… here I smell the freedom,” he emphasised.
With limited funds, much of his savings lost during Lebanon’s economic crisis, Talat came to Rwanda seeking stability rather than the endless cycle of travel. “I was looking for a home,” he said. “The things I found here… I feel like I’m at home.”
The early days in Rwanda were challenging, as there were few Arabs in Kigali at the time. However, Talat credits two long-time residents, Osama and Mazim (who have since become Rwandan citizens), for helping him find his footing.
“They supported me in all ways… when you learn from successful people, you’ll be successful.”
Talat’s entrepreneurial mindset began to take shape in Rwanda. He noticed a gap in the market: the lack of quality Arabic food. “The challenge was big… there is no Arabic food,” he realised.
This gap led to the creation of Damasquino, a restaurant that combines his Syrian heritage with local Rwandan influences.
Damasquino restaurant at Kimihurura blends cultures with intentionality. The décor merges desert tents and traditional Middle Eastern courtyards with fountains, green farms, and local Rwandan elements.
“We like to mix between desert dirt houses, the tents, and green farms,” Talat explained.
The menu features over 22 dishes that use Rwandan ingredients to recreate authentic Syrian flavours, “real Syrian food… just as you would in the middle of Damascus.”
Beyond food, Talat deeply appreciates Rwanda’s unity, safety, and cleanliness, from the vibrant city of Kigali to its remote villages.
“It’s the same feeling: safe, clean, welcome… like you go to your family house.” He jokingly tells his staff, “If I pass away, just put me to rest here… I want to stay here even in the next life.”
Today, as the founder of Damasquino, Talat is one of the longest-residing Syrians in Rwanda. His story embodies Rwanda’s welcoming spirit and illustrates how one chef transformed his displacement into a cultural bridge, serving food that connects Syria to Africa. For those in Kigali craving a taste of the Middle East with a local twist, Damasquino offers not just a meal, it offers a sense of home to the Syrians.
If you have ever slow danced to “Mon Soleil” or felt your heart skip to the opening notes of “Je Sais,” mark your calendar. Nicole Nérêt, the Martinican artist known to millions as Princess Lover, is coming to Kigali for one unforgettable night.
On Saturday, 14 February 2026, Mövenpick Hotel Kigali will transform into the most romantic destination in the city as Princess Lover takes the stage for “Charmes de St Valentin,” a live concert that promises to fill the evening with zouk rhythms, R&B soul, and the kind of music that makes you reach for someone’s hand.
{{A night made for love
}}
This is the Season of Love at Mövenpick Kigali, and what better way to celebrate than with live music under the stars? Princess Lover’s voice has soundtracked countless love stories across francophone Africa and the Caribbean. Now, Kigali gets its turn.
Doors open at 6pm, giving guests time to settle in, sip something sparkling, and soak in the atmosphere before the performance begins. Whether you are planning a grand romantic gesture or simply looking for a memorable night out with someone special, this is the kind of evening curated specifically for you.
{{Choose your experience
}}
The concert offers something for everyone, from couples seeking a complete romantic escape to friends who simply want to dance the night away.
The Single Ticket (RWF 150,000) gives you concert access and a glass of sparkling wine to set the mood. Perfect if you are coming with friends or flying solo.
The Couple Ticket (RWF 250,000) is designed for two. You both get concert access and two bottles of sparkling wine, so you can toast to love before the music begins.
VIP Tables (1,000,000 to 10,000,000 RWF) are the ultimate Valentine’s experience. You will enjoy a private table with premium services, a sumptuous set menu dinner, champagne, and accommodation with breakfast included. Arrive for dinner, stay for the concert, wake up to a leisurely morning. No rushing home, no logistics to worry about.
{{Where Swiss precision and Rwandan warmth meet live entertainment
}}
Mövenpick Kigali is quickly establishing itself as more than a place to stay. Sitting on the historic grounds of the former Hotel Umubano, the hotel is becoming a destination for culture, cuisine, and now, world-class live music. This concert marks another chapter in that story.
{{Book now
}}
Packages are limited, and Valentine’s Day waits for no one. Purchase your tickets online at [bossplayakigali.sinc.events/les-charme-2508->https://bossplayakigali.sinc.events/les charme-2508] or call +250 788 211 515 or +250 788 651 818 to reserve.
Some evenings are meant to be remembered. This is one of them.
Speaking on the second day of the National Umushyikirano Council at the Kigali Convention Centre, Minister Nduhungirehe said that while more than 10 peace agreements have been signed since 2000, including accords in Washington and Doha, and over 20 UN Security Council resolutions adopted, their implementation has been consistently ignored.
“We don’t lack legal instruments. We don’t lack forces on the ground. MONUSCO has been present for more than 26 years. What we lack is political will and good faith,” he said on Friday.
The minister explained that the absence of political will exists at two levels: within the DRC government in Kinshasa, which has repeatedly violated ceasefire agreements, and among the international community, which has failed to hold violators accountable. He highlighted attacks on civilians, including villages of Banyamulenge in South Kivu, and the use of civilian airports to launch strikes as examples of ongoing violations.
“What we lack is political will and good faith […] Everything that is happening on the ground, we have informed the international community. We have informed the UN Security Council. We have informed the mediators,” he added.
The remarks came alongside insights from Rwandan lawyer Gatete Nyiringabo, who highlighted the continued targeting and stigmatisation of Tutsi communities in the DRC. He cited incidents of hate speech and incitement to violence, including statements by a Congolese army spokesperson warning against intermarriage with Tutsi women. Nyiringabo stressed the importance of proactively using international legal instruments to protect rights and counter impunity.
“Even though we might not have so much faith in international instruments, we have to be more proactive to optimise them and make our rights respected,” he said, citing incidents in the DRC where Rwanda often remains silent in the face of attacks or hate speech.
At the forum, Minister Nduhungirehe also reassured Rwandans of the country’s security. Echoing President Paul Kagame’s statements, he emphasised that the ongoing conflict in the DRC is an internal Congolese matter and that Rwanda has not instigated it. He reaffirmed that Rwanda supports the full implementation of peace agreements, the neutralisation of the FDLR militia group, and the restoration of lasting regional stability.
“Rwanda is secure. The country is protected. Rwandans should go about their lives and sleep peacefully. We have put in place defence measures, some of which you have seen intercepting incoming shells, and others. All are designed to protect Rwanda and its people, so that we can continue pursuing our development goals,” he said.
Speaking during a recent exclusive interview with IGIHE at his studio, the Afro-fusion and drill artist opened up about his creative process, the message behind his trending single Treasure, and his steady rise as one of Rwanda’s leading new-generation artists.
“This is where I feel the happiest, the safest, the most me,” Logan Joe said as he worked on new music. “When I’m in the studio making music, if I die here right now, I would go to heaven.”
Asked whether that would be “with a smile,” he responded simply: “A smile and go to heaven.”
{{A career shaped by sound, not pressure
}}
Logan Joe broke through in 2020 and quickly became a familiar name on major concert stages, collaborating with artists including Ish Kevin, Kenny K-Shot, Kivumbi King, and producer Kina Beat. His growing catalogue includes popular tracks such as Kibonumwe, Ibitambo, Whatever, and Treasure.
He says adjusting to the Rwandan music industry was never a challenge.
“I wasn’t trying to prove anything to random people that I can do music,” he explained. “I was just focused on finding the best of my art and proving to myself that I can get what I want.”
That inward focus has become a defining trait of his career, especially as his sound, known for blending Kinyarwanda with modern trap and drill beats, continues to gain traction.
{{Treasure and the message of self-worth
}}
Released in late 2025, Treasure has been trending heavily and is widely seen as one of Logan Joe’s most personal songs to date. According to the artist, the track is about self-validation in a culture that often looks outward for approval.
“I wanted people to know they can be their own treasure,” he said. “Don’t stress your mind searching for validation from someone else. Maybe the treasure you’re looking for is already within you.”
When asked whether he considers himself a treasure, he answered without hesitation: “Yeah. That was the message.”
The response from listeners, he added, has been overwhelming, with many fans telling him his music helped lift them during difficult moments.
“That makes me want to connect with them even more,” he said. “That’s the only thing I want, for people to feel the music the way I intend it.”
{{Inside Logan Joe’s creative process
}}
Despite his emotional sound, Logan Joe says songwriting is often decided in the first few seconds.
“The hardest part is the first line,” he said. “Once I get it and I know what the song is about, then the whole song is done. The first line defines everything.”
After long studio sessions, he keeps recovery simple. “I sleep,” he said. “A long, long sleep.”
He also describes himself as an introvert, though he insists there’s another side of him yet to be seen.
“They’d be surprised to see me dance,” he said, laughing. “I’m a good dancer, but I haven’t made the right song for my moves yet.”
{{What’s next
}}
During the interview, Logan Joe was also recorded working on an unreleased love song titled One in a Million, teasing new material expected soon.
During his talks with Trump over phone, Xi noted that he attaches great importance to China-U.S. relations, saying that over the past year, he and Trump have enjoyed sound communication, and had a successful meeting in Busan, charting the direction and course for China-U.S. relations. This has been welcomed by the people of both countries and the broader international community.
Just as the United States has its concerns, China for its part also has concerns, he said.
China always means what it says and matches its words with actions and results. If the two sides work in the same direction in the spirit of equality, respect and mutual benefit, we can surely find ways to address each other’s concerns, Xi said.
The Chinese president said that both China and the United States have important items on their agenda this year — China will kick off its 15th Five-Year Plan, and the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its independence.
China will host the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, and the United States, the G20 Summit, he added.
The two sides should follow the common understandings we have reached, enhance dialogue and communication, manage differences properly, and expand practical cooperation, Xi said.
It is always right to do a good thing, however small, and always wrong to do a bad thing, however small, he said, noting that the two sides should make progress step by step to build mutual trust, find the right way to get along, and make 2026 a year where the two major countries advance toward mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.
Xi emphasized that the Taiwan question is the most important issue in China-U.S. relations. Taiwan is China’s territory, and China must safeguard its own sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will never allow Taiwan to be separated, he said.
The United States must handle the issue of arms sales to Taiwan with prudence, Xi said.
For his part, Trump said that both the United States and China are great countries, and the U.S.-China relationship is by far the most important in the world.
Trump also said he has a great relationship with Xi and a lot of respect for him. Under their leadership, the United States and China are doing well in such fields as economy and trade, he added.
Noting that he wants to see China succeed, Trump said the United States would like to work with China and make more progress in bilateral ties. Trump said that he understands how China feels about the Taiwan question.
He would like the two sides to continue talking to each other and keep the U.S.-China relationship in good shape during his presidency, Trump added.
