Ali made the remarks during an interview with Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), where he emphasized the need to build on the good relations between the two countries.
He explained that Rwanda and Djibouti share many commonalities, including cultural ties, which should serve as a foundation for expanding private-sector cooperation.
“We already cooperate, but we should enhance and expand our collaboration just as our governments are doing. Why shouldn’t we broaden our cooperation and develop it further?” he said.
His comments follow the 2016 partnership agreement signed between Rwanda and Djibouti’s private sectors, which aimed to foster joint initiatives and drive economic growth.
The strong bilateral relationship between the two nations has also been demonstrated through land exchanges. Rwanda has been granted 60 hectares of land at Djibouti’s ports, while Rwanda, in return, allocated 10 hectares within its industrial park to Djibouti.
The call was made during the Africa Customer Experience Leaders Forum 2025, a continental meeting hosted in Rwanda that brought together representatives of institutions dedicated to promoting excellence in customer service across Africa.
The two-day forum, organized by CX Touchpoints Rwanda Ltd, convened more than 100 participants from 21 African countries.
Discussions highlighted that delivering quality services is central to achieving sustainable growth, with Rwanda presented as a leading example in innovation, effective policy implementation, and consistent improvement in both business and government services.
Jeannette Nyinawumuntu, Country Managing Director of CX Touchpoints Rwanda, emphasized that Africa must invest more in strengthening service delivery as part of its sustainable development journey.
On the first day, the forum focused on solutions tailored to Africa’s market realities, proposing new approaches to designing customer experience strategies suited for the continent.
Another key topic was the development of robust Voice of the Customer (VoC) frameworks to ensure that customer feedback directly informs corporate decisions, allowing institutions to respond effectively to the needs and expectations of their clients.
Participants also underscored the role of governments in creating enabling environments for high-quality services, citing Rwanda as a case study of how governance policies can enhance citizens’ experience with public service delivery.
The forum included sessions on consumer behavior research in Africa, offering practical recommendations for strengthening customer loyalty and trust in both businesses and organizations.
Executive Director of The Global Trust Project, Dominic Wilhelm urged African institutions to leverage artificial intelligence, noting that the technology can position organizations at the forefront of customer service excellence.
Meanwhile, Joan Ntabadde Kyeyune, a customer experience enthusiast, called on leaders of customer-focused agencies across the continent to drive cultural change in how clients are welcomed, as a means of boosting loyalty and confidence.
On her part, Dr. Lucy Kiruthu explained how aligning budgets with projects that directly improve customer experience could yield long-term benefits for both citizens and businesses.
At the conclusion of the forum, delegates visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi, where they paid respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and were briefed on Rwanda’s history, how the killings were stopped, and the country’s resilience journey.
The low level of ozone depletion observed in 2024 was partly due to naturally occurring atmospheric factors which drive year-to-year fluctuations. However, the long-term positive trend reflects the success of concerted international action, reported the Ozone Bulletin of the World Meteorological Organization.
The report, offering encouraging scientific news for both human and planetary health, was issued to mark World Ozone Day on Tuesday and the 40th anniversary of the Vienna Convention, which recognized stratospheric ozone depletion as a global problem and provided the framework for mobilizing international cooperation in ozone research, systematic observations and scientific assessments.
“Forty years ago, nations came together to take the first step in protecting the ozone layer — guided by science, united in action,” said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
“The Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol became a landmark of multilateral success. Today, the ozone layer is healing. This achievement reminds us that when nations heed the warnings of science, progress is possible,” he said.
According to the report’s investigation, to date, the Montreal Protocol has led to the phase-out of over 99 percent of the production and consumption of controlled ozone-depleting substances, which were used in refrigeration, air conditioning, firefighting foam and even hairspray.
As a result, the ozone layer is now on track to recover to 1980s levels by the middle of this century, significantly reducing risks of skin cancer, cataracts, and ecosystem damage due to excessive UV exposure.
Senior ABC journalist John Lyons had asked Trump how much wealthier he had become since returning to the White House in January.
“I don’t know,” Trump replied, insisting that his children were in charge of the family businesses. He then accused the reporter of undermining relations between the two nations: “In my opinion, you are hurting Australia very much right now, and they want to get along with me.”
Trump added that he would raise the matter with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, saying, “I’m going to tell him about you. You set a very bad tone.”
When Lyons attempted to continue his questioning, Trump pressed his index finger to his lips and said “quiet” before turning to another journalist.
The exchange comes as Albanese continues to seek face-to-face talks with Trump. A planned meeting in June was cancelled at the last minute after Trump left the G20 summit early to address developments in the Middle East.
Albanese confirmed in an interview with ABC Radio that he would meet Trump next week while in the US for the UN General Assembly.
“He’s hosting a reception on Tuesday night of next week. And as well, we’ll see each other at various forums that are taking place between now and the end of the year,” the prime minister said.
In a joint statement released by South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, the ministers said the flotilla, a civil society initiative, aims to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Consisting of dozens of boats and hundreds of activists, the GSF is supported by delegations from 44 countries, aiming to break Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip and deliver humanitarian aid.
The flotilla departed from Barcelona, Spain, on Sept. 1 and is expected to arrive in Gaza in mid-September.
Issued collectively by the foreign affairs ministers of Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, Indonesia, Ireland, Libya, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Pakistan, Qatar, Oman, Slovenia, Spain, South Africa and Türkiye, the statement also highlighted the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people as well as the need to stop the war in Gaza.
“Both objectives, peace and humanitarian aid delivery, together with the respect of international law, including humanitarian law, are shared by our governments,” it said.
The statement called on all parties to respect international law and refrain from any unlawful or violent act against the flotilla, warning that violations, including attacks in international waters or illegal detention, would lead to accountability.
Kipyegon dominated the race from start to finish, clocking 3 minutes 52.15 seconds, with fellow Kenyan Dorcus Ewoi taking silver in a personal best 3:54.92 and Australia’s Jessica Hull winning bronze in 3:55.16, marking her country’s first medal in the event.
The 31-year-old now equals Moroccan legend Hicham El Guerrouj’s record of four world 1,500m golds (1997–2003) and is also eyeing her second world 5,000m title later this week.
“Being able to defend my title and to win a fourth gold feels really special,” Kipyegon told reporters. “After setting the world record in Eugene [in July], I said to myself, ‘I have to go to Tokyo and defend my title.’ I knew I could run it under control.”
She reflected on her career milestone in Tokyo, the same city where she won her second Olympic gold in 2021 after giving birth to her daughter, Alyn. “I won here in the 2021 Olympics just after becoming a mother, so being back here, winning again, means I can show a new gold medal to my daughter.”
Known fondly as the “Queen of 1,500m,” Kipyegon grew up running barefoot in Kenya’s Rift Valley before being discovered by a coach in 2009.
Since then, she has collected three Olympic golds, four world titles, and a world record, making her one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport.
The incident occurred on September 16, 2025, at around 13:40 hours. According to the RDF, the UAV was being used as part of a training exercise when it veered off course due to adverse weather conditions and subsequently crashed.
As a result, three students who were returning home from school sustained injuries. Two of them were taken to Kivumu Health Centre for treatment, while the third was transferred to Murunda Hospital for further care.
In a statement, the RDF extended its sympathy to the affected families and expressed regret over the distress caused by the incident.
“The Rwanda Defence Force extends its sympathy to the families of the injured children and deeply regrets the distress this incident has caused,” the statement reads.
The RDF also confirmed that it is working closely with local authorities and medical staff to ensure the injured children receive proper care, and pledged to provide all necessary support to both the students and their families.
Following its successful participation at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) held at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, the committee recently conducted productive discussions with sports federations in the UAE and is preparing to host the Sponsors’ Summit on 17th September.
Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said, “The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is more than just a sporting competition; it’s a dynamic community initiative designed to foster active lifestyles, encourage a passion for sport, and promote healthy living. Hosting this event is a significant point of pride for Abu Dhabi and will further enhance our reputation as a leading global destination for major sporting events. We are prepared to welcome participants from around the world and are committed to delivering a memorable experience for everyone involved.”
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will be the largest and most diverse international sporting event ever hosted in the region. Taking place from 6 to 15 February 2026 in Abu Dhabi, it will welcome more than 25,000 athletes competing across more than 30 different sports, including six heritage sports that reflect the UAE’s national identity and cultural legacy.
As the first edition of the Masters Games to be held in the Middle East, the event will encourage healthy lifestyles, strengthen community connections and demonstrate that sporting excellence can be achieved at any age. Participants from over 100 nationalities are expected to attend the event, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and intergenerational engagement.
Additionally, six Emirati heritage sports will feature Falconry, Endurance Horse Racing, Camel Racing, Dhow Sailing, Al Taba, and Diving. In line with its mission to foster inclusivity, participation in 18 sports categories have also been opened for people of determination.
Competitions will take place at more than 20 venues across Abu Dhabi, including Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Zayed Sports City, Al Ain Adventure, Corniche, Al Mirfa, Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi Padel Kingdom, NYU Abu Dhabi, Hudayriyat Island, Space 42, Erth Hotel, Emirates Palace, Mubadala Arena, Green Mubazzarah, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub, Khalifa International Bowling Centre, Mohammed Bin Zayed City Swimming Pool, Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, Abu Dhabi Falconers Club, and Al Ain Equestrian, Golf and Shooting Club.
Volunteer registration, launched in partnership with Emirates Foundation in July, is currently ongoing and is open to students, professionals, sports enthusiasts and community leaders.
The programme offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of the Games while leaving a lasting social impact.
Furthermore, the official Open Masters Games wristband was launched at ADIHEX, reflecting the leadership’s strong support for the event and its call for community participation and active living.
The wristband serves as a symbol of the Games and a companion for participants and supporters, accompanying them through the preparations and into the course of the event.
Participation in the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is open to all individuals aged 30 and above, with no restriction on experience or sporting level.
This decision, made in collaboration with educational institutions and relevant authorities, aims to ensure public safety and smooth coordination during the global sporting event.
Schools and universities will remain closed for the specified period, with normal activities resuming on Monday, 29 September 2025.
To mitigate the impact on academic progress, the Ministry has assured that lost school days will be compensated through adjustments to the academic calendar.
Schools are encouraged to prepare online content, assignments, or homework in advance, and [a special educational booklet on cycling and the UCI championships ->https://www.reb.gov.rw/home?elD=dumpFile&f=142870&t=f&token=38fa17d2c15a8a%3Cbr%20class%3D%27autobr%27%20%2F%3E7b83be7a373c804974f2d21b25&cHash=cf901524a03d62161e9e297f082eca0f]is available to support this effort.
Learners are also invited to engage with the historic event, turning it into a unique educational opportunity.
The Ministry has requested the cooperation of all education stakeholders in ensuring both safety and learning continuity, while also allowing students to participate in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The UCI Road World Championships is an annual international road cycling competition, bringing together national teams from around the world under the organisation of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
The event is expected to attract numerous participants from across the globe, along with visitors who will come for both the event and tourism activities.
First held in 1921 in Copenhagen, Denmark, the most recent edition of the championship took place in Zürich, Switzerland, in 2024.
Explosions and a fire were recorded in the area of the facility, and the extent of the damage is currently being assessed, the statement said.
The Saratov refinery, which processed 4.8 million tons of oil in 2023, produces over 20 types of petroleum products, including gasoline and diesel fuel.
Ukrainian authorities previously reported strikes on the oil refinery in February and August.