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American Robert Prevost becomes new Catholic Pope

His selection was signaled by white smoke that billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, confirming the selection of a new Pope to lead the Roman Catholic Church.

This traditional signal indicates a successful vote, where a candidate secured the required two-thirds majority—out of the 133 voting cardinals—during the conclave.

Joyful cheers erupted from the crowds filling St. Peter’s Square as the white smoke, a sign of a successful vote, appeared.

The identity of the new Pope is revealed in the traditional ceremony from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica, when a senior cardinal announces “Habemus papam!”—”We have a pope!”

The new Pope also made his first public appearance on the balcony, and delivered his blessing to the faithful below.

Pope Robert Francis Prevost, the successsor of Pope Francis, was born on 14 September 1955 in Chicago (Illinois, United States).

He becomes the first American Pontiff.

Background

In 1977 Robert Francis Prevost entered the novitiate of the Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.) in the province of Our Lady of Good Counsel, in Saint Louis.

On 29 August 1981 he gave his solemn vows. He studied at the Catholic Theological Union of Chicago, receiving a diploma in theology.

At the age of 27 he was sent by the Order to Rome to study canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University (Angelicum).

He received priestly ordination on 19 June 1982. He received his licentiate in 1984, and was then sent to work in the mission of Chulucanas, in Piura, Peru (1985-1986).

In 1987 he was awarded a doctorate with the thesis: “The role of the local prior in the Order of Saint Augustine”.

In the same year he was elected director of vocations and director of the missions of the Augustinian province of “Mother of Good Counsel” of Olympia Fields, Illinois, United States of America.

In 1988 he was sent to the mission of Trujillo as director of the joint formation project for Augustinian aspirants in the Vicariates of Chulucanas, Iquitos and Apurímac.

There he served as community prior (1988-1992), director of formation (1988-1998) and teacher of the professed (1992-1998).

In the archdiocese of Trujillo he was judicial vicar (1989-1998), and professor of canon, patristic and moral law in the “San Carlos e San Marcelo” Major Seminary.

In 1999 he was elected provincial prior of the “Mother of Good Counsel” province, Chicago.

After two and a half years, the ordinary general Chapter elected him prior general, a ministry again entrusted to him in the 2007 ordinary general Chapter.

In October 2013 he returned to his province (Chicago) to serve as teacher of the professed and provincial vicar, roles he held 3 November 2014, when Pope Francis appointed him apostolic administrator of the diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, elevating him to the dignity of bishop and assigning him the titular diocese of Sufar.

On 7 November he took canonical possession of the diocese in the presence of the apostolic nuncio James Patrick Green; he was ordained a bishop on 12 December, Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in the cathedral of his diocese.

He served as bishop of Chiclayo from 26 November 2015. In March 2018 he became second vice president of the Peruvian Episcopal Conference.

Pope Francis appointed him a member of the Congregation for the Clergy in 2019, and member of the Congregation for Bishops in 2020.

On 15 April 2020, the Pope appointed him apostolic administrator of the diocese of Callao.

On 30 January 2023 Pope Francis appointed Cardinal Prevost as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and presidet of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.

He was created and proclaimed Cardinal by Pope Francis in the Consistory of 30 September 2023, of the Deaconry of Santa Monica

May 8, 2025
Why is SADC not grateful to Rwanda?

The SADC forces entered eastern DRC under the SAMIDRC mandate, officially on a so-called peacekeeping mission. But in practice, they aligned themselves with the Congolese government and the FDLR—a militia notorious for its role in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and its ongoing efforts to destabilize Rwanda.

Intelligence reports confirmed that the joint forces’ base was not only used for operations against M23 but also served as a command post for planning attacks against Rwanda—despite the fact that Rwanda is not linked to M23’s cause, even though some foreign actors have tried to force that narrative.

While these troops claimed their objective was to neutralize M23, their posture, movements, and equipment on the ground suggested a broader readiness for confrontation—including with Rwanda. Long-range missiles were reportedly positioned near the Rwandan border, aimed in Rwanda’s direction.

Despite all of this, when these forces were defeated and needed to exit Congolese territory, Rwanda acted with maturity. The very country they had once viewed as a threat facilitated their safe withdrawal. Rwanda provided a secure and humane corridor—via Rubavu, the very town they had shelled, to Rusumo. It could have refused.

It could have insisted on logistical delays or demanded security reviews. But it didn’t. Rwanda’s tragic past has taught it the true cost of hardship—and that’s why, wherever support is needed, the answer is a resounding yes. That’s why the request from the TCCs in SAMIDRC for the safe withdrawal of their defeated soldiers was honored. Both the troops and their equipment are being escorted until they safely exit Rwandan territory.

There was no official statement of thanks. No acknowledgment from the SADC bloc. Just silence—as if Rwanda’s gesture were an expected obligation rather than an exceptional act of regional solidarity. I watched the media briefing organized by the Ministry of Defence of South Africa in collaboration with the SANDF this Sunday, but it ended without even a mention of Rwanda’s vital contribution to the ongoing repatriation, which is expected to conclude this month.

And yet, Rwanda’s role was critical. Goma’s airport had been rendered inoperable by those very forces. The surrounding terrain had been heavily mined by FARDC, FDLR, and allied troops in an effort to block M23—ironically putting SADC forces at even greater risk.

Without Rwanda’s cooperation, the withdrawal would likely have been nearly impossible, or at the very least, extremely costly. Some of their equipment might not have been evacuated at all. Yet, this crucial support is not acknowledged, with even a simple ‘thanks’ to Rwanda for its efforts and this moment reflects a broader trend of persistent ingratitude toward Rwanda.

For years, Rwanda has faced unfounded accusations and diplomatic hostility from both regional and international actors. Yet it continues to prioritize peace over provocation. It has facilitated the repatriation of foreign mercenaries—including those linked to European countries. But instead of appreciation, some actors have called for sanctions on Rwanda, often based on politically motivated or biased narratives.

The lack of recognition from SADC is not just an oversight—it reflects deeper insecurities within the region. Rwanda’s progress since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is remarkable by any standard.

In less than three decades, the country has rebuilt from devastation to become one of the most admired, stable, and efficient states on the continent. Its achievements in gender equality, anti-corruption, digital innovation, public health, and cleanliness are globally recognized.

Instead of learning from Rwanda’s model, some African governments remain trapped in outdated rivalries—resorting to sabotage, smear campaigns, or proxy warfare in an attempt to “cut Rwanda down to size.”

This destructive mindset has prevented them from showing gratitude to a nation that provided safe passage to their troops, who had been decisively defeated by rebels simply fighting for survival.

Rwanda has much to offer to any nation willing to learn: governance reforms, social cohesion policies, digital transformation models, community-based security frameworks, and more. Rwanda opens its arms to genuine learners and guests. But those who arrive with hostile intentions will be handled accordingly.

Africa cannot build a shared future with a divided mindset. We must begin to recognize and uplift success where it exists—not sabotage it. Rwanda’s resilience should be seen as a lesson, not a threat. It is time for African leadership, including within SADC, to act with the maturity the continent demands: acknowledge the truth, own past miscalculations, and give credit where it is due.

Gratitude is not weakness—it is a mark of strength, and of leadership.

Rwanda has already shown it.

Will SADC?

May 8, 2025
Govt plans to spend over Frw7 trillion in 2025/2026 budget

This was presented on May 8, 2025, by the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, during the unveiling of the Budget Framework Paper (BFP) for the period 2025/26 to 2027/28.

The framework is aligned with the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2) and Vision 2050, focusing on sustainable, inclusive development.

The proposed Frw7 trillion budget will support strategic national projects, including the ongoing construction of the New Kigali International Airport in Bugesera, the expansion of RwandAir, and post-crisis recovery initiatives related to COVID-19, May 2023 floods and Marburg disease outbreak.

To fund the budget, the government projects Frw 4,105.2 billion in domestic revenue, comprising Frw 3,628.0 billion in tax revenues and Frw 477.2 billion from other sources. It also expects Frw 585.2 billion in external grants and Frw 2,151.9 billion in loans.

Spending will be split between Frw 4,395.1 billion for recurrent expenses—including salaries and operational costs—and Frw 2,637.4 billion for capital investments that support long-term development.

The full budget for 2025/26 is expected to be formally presented to Parliament in June 2025.

Minister Murangwa highlighted the country’s resilience and growth in the face of global challenges, noting that Rwanda’s economy grew by 8.9% in 2024, surpassing earlier projections of 8.3%.

“Rwanda’s growth momentum remains strong, despite a challenging environment caused by climate change effects, global inflation, geopolitical tensions, trade wars, among other factors. Our economic recovery has been resilient.

“The Government remains committed to maintaining macroeconomic stability and fostering inclusive growth by investing in key areas such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, social protection, and education,” he stated.

May 8, 2025
Malicious distortion must not obscure the authenticity of history

Chinese President Xi Jinping will visit Russia from May 7 to 10 at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin and will attend the celebrations marking Great Patriotic War Victory.

Historians seldom completely agree with one another even on some of the most important events of the past. There are different views on various historical events such as World War II (WWII).

With new documents being declassified and new excavations at the sites of the main battles, we are likely to see new theories and hypotheses emerging that will feed more discussions and offer contrarian narratives of the most devastating military conflict in the history of humanity.

However, there is a clear red line between looking for new facts and deliberately trying to falsify history. The former is a noble quest for truth and understanding, while the latter is a deplorable attempt to revise past events in favor of political goals or personal ambitions.

An honest scholar entering a research project cannot be completely sure what will be found at the end of the road; an unscrupulous politician presenting a falsified version of history knows perfectly well what picture to present to the target audience. Truth is skillfully mixed with lies, while fabrications are dissolved in real facts to make the picture more credible and attractive.

The most graphic manifestation of the WWII falsifications is the now very popular assertion that Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union were jointly responsible for the beginning of the war.

The narrative equating Nazis and Soviets is nonsensical because it completely ignores the history of fascism in Europe and repeated attempts by Moscow to convince London, Paris and Warsaw to form an alliance against it. Only after the “Munich Betrayal” by the West, the 1938 pact among Germany, the United Kingdom, France and Italy that forced Czechoslovakia to cede territory to Germany without Czechoslovakian consent, did Moscow decide to go for a non-aggression treaty with Germany to buy itself time before invasion.

Likewise, the dominant Western narrative of WWII increasingly frames the conflict as a stark moral battle between good and evil. As a result, there is a growing reluctance to fully acknowledge the pivotal roles that Russia and China played in the defeat of Nazi Germany and militarist Japan.

Neither do they recognize the contributions of communist-led resistance movements in countries like France, Italy, Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia and Greece. This is largely due to ideological biases that exclude these groups from the dominant narrative of “heroic liberal forces” in the fight against the Axis nations, the coalition led by Germany, Italy, and Japan.

Instead, the predominant view in most Western countries credits the U.S. as the primary force behind victory, along with limited support from other allies. This reading of WWII has nothing to do with reality, but it nicely fits the now popular Manichean interpretation of world politics.

Another typical distortion of history is the selective portrayal of the victims of the war, often shaped by a distinctly Eurocentric perspective. Much attention is given to the atrocities endured by Europeans under Nazi occupation or by Europeans in Asia at the hands of the Japanese, while the immense suffering of non-European populations frequently receives far less recognition.

Every human life is of equal value, and all victims deserve empathy. Even those who served in the German and Japanese armed forces during WWII should not be indiscriminately labeled as criminals; the notion of “collective guilt” must not override the principle of individual responsibility for verifiable war crimes.

However, it is often overlooked in contemporary Western discourse that the Soviet Union and China suffered the heaviest human cost of WWII – with casualties reaching 27 million and 35 million, respectively. A significant portion of these losses were civilians, and the scale and brutality of wartime atrocities committed on Soviet and Chinese territories far exceeded those experienced in most other regions.

Contemporary politics inevitably shapes how we interpret the past, as people often seek historical narratives that align with their present-day beliefs and agendas. Yet history should be approached with integrity, not as a tool to justify current political positions. This is not about defending national pride or preserving comforting myths; every nation, regardless of size or wealth, carries both moments of honor and episodes of regret in its historical journey. A balanced national narrative includes both triumphs and failures.

But when history is deliberately manipulated to serve short-term political interests, we risk blurring our understanding of the present and undermining our vision for the future. Such willful distortion is not only intellectually dishonest but could also lead to grave consequences.

May 8, 2025
Winners Mount Academy’s partnership with Israel embassy opens doors to enhanced ICT education

The partnership was officially announced on May 7, 2025, during a visit by Israeli Ambassador to Rwanda, Einat Weiss. During her visit, the students showcased their talents, and the ambassador took time to engage with them directly.

Elie Muhizi, the school’s founder, described the partnership as a significant milestone and expressed pride in collaborating with Israel—renowned for its global leadership in technology and innovation.

He emphasized the long-term value the partnership could bring to both the students and the broader national education landscape.

“Israel is a powerful and advanced country. Partnering with them is an honor. It will benefit our students and our nation in many ways, and we expect the collaboration to keep expanding,” Muhizi stated.

He noted that the initiative will strengthen the school’s use of technology in learning and hinted at broader opportunities ahead, including the possibility of students pursuing further studies in Israel.

“Another aspect of our partnership involves teaching Hebrew—the official language of Israel—to students at Winners Mount Academy,” he added.

Winners Mount Academy currently serves around 300 students, with 170 girls and 130 boys enrolled.

The school is preparing to present its first cohort of 18 candidates for Rwanda’s national primary leaving national exams.

Muhizi expressed high expectations for the students, aiming for top marks that will enable them to gain admission to the country’s best secondary schools.

May 8, 2025
Key insights on Rwanda’s ten newly discovered mining blocks

These blocks, rich in high-value minerals like cassiterite, coltan, wolframite, and rare earth elements, were detailed in the Rwanda Mining Board’s (RMB) May 2025 Mining Investment Pitchbook.

Designed to attract strategic investors, the findings highlight Rwanda’s untapped mineral wealth across Kamonyi, Bugesera, and Gatsibo districts.

Below is an overview of each block, showcasing their geological potential and investment opportunities.

1. Binyeri

Nestled in the Rukoma Sector of Kamonyi District, the Binyeri block spans 50 hectares and is geologically tied to the mineral-rich Kayenzi granite.

Surrounded by active mining licenses, this area has a history of artisanal and medium-scale mining.

Past surveys confirmed rare metal pegmatites, with cassiterite as the dominant mineral, making Binyeri a promising site for targeted exploration.

2. Juru

In Bugesera District, the expansive Juru block covers 1,354 hectares of quartzite and brecciated schists. It hosts epithermal deposits of tin, tungsten, and tantalum (3Ts), with tin being particularly abundant.

A 2014 geophysical survey estimated 52,998 tonnes of cassiterite, and the block’s geology hints at potential for rare earth elements, positioning Juru as a high-value prospect.

3. Mamfu-Rwasama

Spanning 1,300 hectares in Gatsibo District, the Mamfu-Rwasama block lies in a tin-rich region historically mined by companies like SOMIRWA and Luna Smelter.

Affected by regional metamorphism, it features two main vein types yielding high-grade cassiterite and coltan.

The coltan found in the area contains about 63% tantalum and 20% niobium, while the cassiterite is very pure, with tin levels between 90% and 99%, making both minerals valuable for commercial use.

4. Musenyi

Located in Bugesera District, the Musenyi block covers 1,000 hectares and is a brownfield site previously licensed to Hard Metal.

Near other active licenses, it contains Sn-rich pegmatites with significant tin and tantalum concentrations.

Although current production is modest, the block’s high-grade ore and scalability make it an attractive investment opportunity.

5. Remera

One of the largest blocks, Remera stretches across 4,025 hectares in Gatsibo District, part of a historically productive tin district.

Geophysical surveys have identified primary cassiterite veins beneath lateritic cover, with past production exceeding 4,488 tonnes.

The block also shows iron ore potential, broadening its appeal across Gatsibo, Gicumbi, and Nyagatare.

6. Rubiha

In Gatsibo District, the Rubiha block encompasses 450 hectares near the Rugarama granite. It hosts over 20 mineralized quartz veins rich in cassiterite and columbite-tantalite.

Decades of geological studies have mapped favorable pegmatite zoning, ensuring high-purity tin and a well-structured mineralization profile for efficient extraction.

7. Rubona-Gatunda

This 925-hectare block in Gatsibo District, a former Luna Smelter concession, is hosted in Bulimbi meta-sediments.

Known for its tin and tantalum potential, it has a history of cassiterite mining.

Recent petrographic analyses reveal late magmatic mineralization, particularly rich in tin, enhancing its prospects for modern operations.

8. Rugarama

Covering 2,175 hectares in Gatsibo District, Rugarama has benefited from extensive geological studies since the 1980s, including UNDP and BRGM surveys.

The block is renowned for tin-rich placers and greisen zones, with over 20 quartz veins forming stockworks that yield significant cassiterite and tantalum, making it a cornerstone of Rwanda’s mining portfolio.

9. Rweru

Situated in Bugesera District, the Rweru block spans 875 hectares. It boasts high concentrations of niobium, tantalum, tin, lithium, and rare earth elements.

10. Rweru-Kimvubu

Also in Bugesera District, this 1,300-hectare block lies between two large granite bodies, intersected by fault systems.

Soil and rock samples reveal niobium and tin concentrations well above global averages, alongside significant wolframite deposits.

Its rare metal pegmatites and potential for rare earth element exploration make it a standout opportunity.

According to Donat Nsengumuremyi, the Division Manager of the Mining Extraction and Inspection Division at RMB, these blocks align with Rwanda’s strategy to expand its processing industry and attract investment.

Facilities like Gasabo Gold Refinery, LuNa Smelter, and Power Resources International are well-positioned to process minerals from these sites, supporting downstream value addition.

Innocent Kagenga, Chairperson of the Rwanda Mining Association (RMA), highlighted the importance of transparent data, noting that mapping and publishing these blocks levels the playing field for local and foreign investors.

Rwanda’s mining sector is poised for significant growth, targeting $2.2 billion in annual revenue by 2029, up from $1.7 billion in 2024.

So far, Rwanda has issued 136 mining licenses to 99 companies, 18 exploration permits to 17 companies, 76 licenses for mineral trading companies, and 3 for mineral value-addition activities.

In addition to the 3Ts, Rwanda also has deposits of gold in districts like Gicumbi, Musanze, Burera, Nyamasheke, Rusizi, and Nyarugenge.

Gemstones used in jewelry can be found in Ngororero, Ruhango, and Muhanga; sapphire is found in the Western Province; and lithium and other minerals are under active exploration.

May 8, 2025
Papal Conclave enters day two

The first day of the conclave, held on Wednesday, concluded without a decision. As tradition dictates, the appearance of black smoke from the chapel’s chimney signaled that no candidate had secured the necessary two-thirds majority to be named pope and succeed the late Pope Francis.

While only one round of voting is customary on the first day, Thursday marked the beginning of a more intensive schedule. From now on, the cardinals will hold up to four ballots each day—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a new pontiff is chosen.

Outside the Vatican, a quiet tension mingled with hope. St. Peter’s Square glowed under the morning sun, the basilica’s iconic dome casting long shadows across the gathering crowds.

Pilgrims, clergy, tourists, and reporters—speaking a blend of languages—waited patiently for the next sign from the chimney.

Some found shade under the colonnades; others sat cross-legged on the cobblestones, gazing toward the roofline for a glimpse of smoke.

The mix of ages and backgrounds spoke to the global significance of the moment. From the devout to the curious, seasoned observers to first-time visitors, all had come to witness history.

As the world watches, the color of the smoke remains the only clue to the proceedings within. Until white smoke rises—signaling the successful election of a new pope—the search for the next leader of the Catholic Church continues.

May 8, 2025
Rwanda partners with E7 Group to boost secure printing services and advanced manufacturing

Announced via Rwanda Development Board (RDB)’s official X account, the partnership will include a range of services and the development of a cutting-edge manufacturing facility aimed at improving public service delivery and reinforcing Rwanda’s position as a regional hub for advanced manufacturing.

E7 Group, based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, specializes in secure printing, identity management, packaging, publishing, and logistics.

Originally established in 2006 as United Printing & Publishing (UPP), the company rebranded to E7 Group in January 2024 to reflect its broader mandate and alignment with the UAE’s strategic vision. The name “E7” symbolizes the unity of the UAE’s seven emirates and the company’s forward-looking mission.

As a subsidiary of ADQ—one of the region’s key investment vehicles established in 2018 to drive economic diversification—E7 Group brings significant expertise in secure, high-tech solutions.

Rwanda, meanwhile, continues to make notable progress in industrial development. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), industrial output grew by 5% in March 2025.

Earlier that month, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted that the country’s industrial production has tripled since 2017, increasing from Frw 591 billion to Frw 1.68 trillion, largely driven by value-added investments across sectors.

Industrial parks have been central to this progress, with 230 factories now fully operational nationwide and another 98 in the pipeline.

Employment in the sector has also surged—from 180,000 in 2017 to 259,000 in 2024—reflecting the country’s ongoing commitment to industrialization as a key pillar of economic transformation and job creation.

May 8, 2025
The Road to Rwanda: A Traveler’s Guide to the 2025 UCI Road World Championships

The Ministry of Sports is coordinating the event, ensuring it aligns with national development goals. Visit Rwanda contributes its hospitality experience, curating memorable experiences for athletes and visitors, while FERWACY offers technical expertise gained from organizing the Tour du Rwanda. Through this collaborative effort, Rwanda is steadily bringing its vision to life.

Rwanda’s hosting strategy relies on its well-established security framework, developed through the successful management of various international events. This includes sports gatherings such as the FIFA Congress in 2023, the FIA Awards ceremony in December 2024 (a first for Africa), and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) finals, hosted repeatedly since 2021 in Kigali.

Notably, the successful 17th edition of the Tour du Rwanda in February 2025 demonstrated Rwanda’s effective safety protocols, as the race navigated diverse regions smoothly, allowing all participants to concentrate fully on competition.

Infrastructure development progresses steadily to welcome the global cycling community. Kigali’s hospitality sector has mobilized to meet anticipated demand, while transport networks are optimizing for seamless connectivity between race routes and cultural attractions. The championship routes themselves will display Rwanda’s lush landscapes, from Kigali’s colourful urban environment to the diverse and unique scenery found throughout Rwanda’s various provinces and districts.

Rwanda continues to ensure accessibility through straightforward travel policies. Visitors from all nations can secure visas upon arrival, with citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and Francophonie member states benefiting from free 30-day visas. The efficient e-Visa system via the Irembo online portal offers added convenience.

Clarifying some misconceptions, yellow fever vaccinations are required only for travelers arriving from at-risk regions, consistent with standard WHO guidelines. Travelers can access detailed and current information on visa requirements and application procedures on the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration of Rwanda’s official website, the reliable source for immigration-related matters.

Beyond the immediate excitement of the races, the 2025 Championships promise a lasting legacy. The event will inspire young athletes across Africa and solidify Rwanda’s position as a premier destination for international sports. As preparations enter their final stages, Rwanda welcomes the world to witness this historic moment in cycling and African sports.

Regular updates on venues, tickets, and related events are available through official channels as the countdown to September continues.

May 7, 2025
President Kagame meets French counterpart Macron

The meeting was confirmed by the Office of the President, Urugwiro Village.

Relations between the two countries have significantly improved in recent years, especially after President Macron acknowledged France’s historical responsibility in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and expressed a desire to rebuild ties and promote reconciliation.

This renewed partnership has been further reinforced through high-level visits and ongoing diplomatic engagement.

In 2021, President Macron paid a landmark two-day official visit to Rwanda aimed at deepening bilateral ties and cooperation.

During the visit, he toured the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where over 250,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are laid to rest.

There, he laid a wreath and delivered a powerful speech acknowledging France’s role in Rwanda’s history.

“As I stand with humility and respect at your side on this day, I come to recognise the magnitude of our responsibilities,” Macron said.

The visit also included a bilateral meeting and a joint press conference, during which the two heads of state witnessed the signing of two key agreements: one outlining a framework for bilateral cooperation and another focused on sports and talent development.

President Kagame most recently visited France in October 2024, accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, to attend the 19th Summit of La Francophonie, co-hosted by the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF).

May 7, 2025