Speaking on August 24, the coalition’s deputy coordinator, Bertrand Bisimwa, stated that Kinshasa must account for the charges brought against Kabila, who ruled the DRC from 2001 to 2019.
Kabila is currently being tried before the country’s High Military Court on accusations of treason, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. The trial opened on July 25, 2025.
Prosecutors allege that Kabila committed these crimes in connection with his supposed leadership role within the AFC/M23 movement, despite his earlier public denial in March that he had no involvement with the group.
During court proceedings on August 22, 2025, prosecutors requested the death penalty for Kabila. They also demanded the confiscation of assets valued at approximately $32 billion and sought an additional $21 billion in damages.
Bisimwa has pointed out that the trial contradicts commitments recently signed between the government and AFC/M23 under a Qatar-brokered agreement.
The deal included a provision for the release of more than 700 detainees, comprising suspected members and affiliates of the coalition.
“The Kinshasa regime owes us explanations regarding this media-judicial lynching of President Joseph Kabila, who is being prosecuted and sentenced to death for his alleged support to the AFC/M23, at a time when we had agreed that detainees prosecuted for the same charges should be released,” Bisimwa said.
The funding of 2 billion Canadian dollars (1.45 billion U.S. dollars) was committed at the June G7 Summit held in Canada’s Kananaskis.
About 835 million Canadian dollars (603 million dollars) of the total are planned to procure a range of critical equipment for Ukraine, including armored vehicles, medical equipment, spare parts, small arms, ammunition, and explosives, as well as additional drone capabilities and other urgently needed equipment and supplies for Ukraine, the release said.
About 680 million Canadian dollars (491 million dollars) are for the purchase of military equipment sourced from the United States to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and provide other urgently needed military assistance, the release said.
About 220 million Canadian dollars (159 million dollars) will be used to purchase drone, counter-drone, and electronic warfare capabilities, including investments in joint ventures between Ukrainian and Canadian industry, it said.
According to Reuters, the six-year contract grants Meta access to Google Cloud’s servers, storage, and networking services.
The partnership comes at a critical moment as Meta intensifies its investment in AI and rapidly expands its data infrastructure on a global scale.
For Google, the agreement is a significant achievement in the fiercely competitive cloud market, traditionally dominated by Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. Google Cloud recently reported 32% revenue growth in the second quarter of 2025, and bringing Meta on board further consolidates its position as a leading provider of large-scale computing power.
Meta has made no secret of its commitment to artificial intelligence as the core of its future strategy. In July, Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg announced plans to spend hundreds of billions of dollars on new data centres and AI systems.
The company also raised its 2025 capital expenditure forecast to between $66 billion and $72 billion, an increase of $2 billion compared to earlier projections. To support this growth, Meta has been selling off roughly $2 billion worth of data center assets, a move designed to balance costs while maintaining the pace of expansion.
Partnering with Google Cloud offers Meta the flexibility to scale quickly without being constrained by its own facilities.
The deal also reflects broader trends across the technology industry. Google Cloud has secured similar partnerships with other AI companies, including OpenAI, underscoring how even rival firms are turning to its infrastructure to power their most advanced projects.
News of the agreement was well received by investors. Meta’s stock rose 2% to $754.55 on Thursday, recovering some ground after a week of steep declines.
Analysts view the deal as a clear signal that Meta is consolidating its role in the AI race while making strategic infrastructure choices that could shape the future of the industry.
This warning follows complaints from some residents of Cyanzarwe Sector, Rwangara Cell, in Buramazi Village, Rubavu District, who have for several days been demanding that one of their neighbors accused of bewitching children leave the area and return to his place of origin.
In May 2025, some residents of Cyanzarwe told IGIHE that their neighbor was bewitching children. They claimed that even the Executive Secretary of the cell had signed a document ordering the suspect to return home.
According to them, the accused lived in hiding during the day and only came back at night. Residents warned that unless action was taken, they would stone him to death.
Earlier, in December 2023, Rwanda Police reported the arrest of five people suspected of stoning a neighbor to death after accusing him of witchcraft. The incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, December 2, 2023, in Cyanzarwe Sector, Makurizo Cell, Makurizo Village.
In a recent community meeting with residents of Rubavu and Cyanzarwe sectors, the Western Province Police Commander, CP Emmanuel Hatari, reminded citizens to refrain from mob justice.
“We are concerned about cases of mob justice driven by ignorance and harmful beliefs. Some people claim a child has been bewitched but instead of taking the child to the hospital for treatment, or reporting the matter to local authorities, they choose to take justice into their own hands,” he said.
“We have already registered two such cases in Cyanzarwe. This is unacceptable, because once you engage in mob justice, the law holds you accountable. We have leadership structures and a functioning justice system. There is no reason for anyone to resort to mob justice. Always approach the authorities so that your problems are resolved lawfully,” CP Hatari added.
His remarks come days after French investigative judges dismissed a long-running case against her, citing insufficient evidence.
Speaking to France Inter on Saturday, Duclert said, “The archival documents we are collecting show the very strong involvement of Agathe Habyarimana in the Genocide against the Tutsi, being, like her brother, the mastermind of the Zero Network, the secret command center tasked with exterminating the Tutsi.”
French judges ruled on August 20 that there were no grounds to prosecute Kanziga for complicity in genocide or crimes against humanity, noting she was herself affected by the April 6, 1994 plane attack that killed her husband.
However, Duclert stressed that historical records tell a different story, pointing to her alleged role in coordinating the extremist “Zero Network” and her continued activism after being evacuated to France by French forces on April 9, 1994.
“The most numerous and converging analyses confirm that the attack on her husband’s plane was the work of the Zero Network, either directly or as the instigator,” Duclert said, adding that Kanziga was also heavily involved in the killings that immediately followed.
He argued that further investigation into her role “clearly seems necessary.”
{{Appeals against dismissal
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The ruling has already sparked appeals. On Thursday, France’s National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor’s Office (PNAT) announced it would contest the decision, alongside the Civil Parties Collective for Rwanda (CPCR), which represents genocide survivors.
Lawyer Richard Gisagara, who represents survivor organisations, confirmed that the decision to halt the probe will not stand unchallenged.
“Do not be discouraged by the celebrations of génocidaires, deniers, hatemongers, and their supporters. This is only one step in the case. The next steps are appeal and annulment. The case cannot be declared closed until it has gone through all these stages,” he said on August 22.
{{A contested legal history
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The case against Kanziga dates back to 2008, when survivors’ groups filed a complaint in France over her alleged role in the genocide. Judges previously attempted to close the case in 2022, citing lack of evidence, but PNAT pushed for a broader inquiry covering her activities in the weeks leading up to April 6, 1994. Despite these requests, investigative judges in May 2025 again dismissed the case, a decision reaffirmed last week.
The ruling has been welcomed by the Habyarimana family, including Kanziga’s son Jean-Luc, who claimed the case was permanently closed. But survivor groups and prosecutors argue that both the scope and evidence considered by the judges were too limited.
Kanziga, now 82, has lived in France since her evacuation during the genocide, reportedly surviving on state support. Analysts argue that her protection reflects enduring political sensitivities in France over its role in Rwanda.
Political analyst Tite Gatabazi told IGIHE that remnants of the Mitterrand era continue to shield her.
“She holds secrets about France’s role in the genocide. She was evacuated by a French plane. To this day, she lives on support from the French state. Even though governments have changed, she still has powerful protectors,” he said.
Seven children and three women are among the injured, and 21 are in critical condition, said the ministry in a statement. Houthis officials told Xinhua Sunday night that the toll could increase, as several of the wounded remain in critical condition.
The strikes, carried out Sunday afternoon, targeted fuel and power stations, the presidential palace complex and other civilian facilities, according to the Houthis.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed in a statement that an air attack was carried out in Yemen.
The military said the sites included the presidential palace, the Asar and Hizaz power plants and a fuel storage facility, which it said were being used for military activity.
Israeli state-owned Kan TV reported that 14 warplanes took part in the attack, dropping about 40 bombs in the area.
In a statement issued Sunday evening, the Houthi group accused Israel of “brutal aggression” against civilian facilities and held both Israel and the United States responsible for what it described as a “heinous crime.”
The Houthis vowed to strike back in retaliation.
The strikes came two days after the Houthis fired a hypersonic ballistic missile at Tel Aviv, damaging houses with shrapnel but causing no deaths.
The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, including Sanaa and Hodeidah port, have launched repeated attacks on Israel since November 2023, in support of Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has retaliated with airstrikes on Houthi-held areas.
In an interview with NBC News, Vance rejected the notion that Moscow was stringing President Donald Trump along, saying the Russians have been “flexible” on some of their demands.
“I think the Russians have made significant concessions to President Trump for the first time in three and a half years of this conflict,” Vance said. “They’ve actually been willing to be flexible on some of their core demands. They’ve talked about what would be necessary to end the war.”
“Of course, they haven’t been completely there yet, or the war would be over. But we’re engaging in this diplomatic process in good faith,” he added.
“We’re going to keep on doing what we have to do to bring this thing to a close,” Vance said. “I don’t think it’s going to happen overnight.”
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Friday that a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is not being planned.
Intense diplomatic efforts have been underway in recent weeks to end the conflict in Ukraine. Following the Trump-Putin meeting in the U.S. state of Alaska, Trump held talks with Zelensky and European leaders on Monday.
Sixty juniors, ranging from 4 to 16 years old, competed across four divisions, bringing a mix of excitement, composure, and raw talent that left parents, coaches, and spectators convinced Rwanda is nurturing players who could soon compete on the continental stage.
The 18-hole advanced category proved the highlight of the day, delivering a commanding performance from Mukabwa Murenjekha, whose precision and calmness under pressure earned him a net 65 to secure first place.
His younger sister, Wambui Murenjekha, followed closely with a sharp short game and impressive course management, finishing with a net 70. Hannah Murenzi joined them on the podium with an equally composed net 70. Their consistency and strategic play sent a clear message: Rwanda’s junior golf program is producing athletes with the skill and temperament to excel regionally and beyond.
In the 9-hole intermediate division, six-year-old Joey Zane Wimfura Mutaboba stole the spotlight, claiming victory with a composed 49. Yao Yao and Cyibil Wambui weren’t far behind, with scores of 51 and 52, respectively, proving the depth of talent emerging in Rwanda’s youth golf scene.
The energy carried into the younger categories, where the 6-hole beginners put on a spirited performance led by Rodney Rwivanga at 35 strokes. In the 3-hole contest, Sine Saro and Travis Yuhi Emile tied for top honors with 17 strokes each. Even at these early levels, discipline and skill were evident, demonstrating that this tournament is more than just an event—it’s a vital pipeline for Rwanda’s future golf stars.
“This series isn’t simply about competition; it’s about building a pathway,” said Ambassador Bill Kayonga, Chairman of the Rwanda Golf Union. “We now have a structure for young golfers to develop their skills and feed directly into Rwanda’s national team. We thank NCBA for making this possible.”
“We’re proud to offer a glimpse into the next generation of African golf,” said Maurice Toroitich, Managing Director of NCBA Bank Rwanda. “Our investment in junior golf reflects our commitment to ‘Change the Story’ and build opportunities where they matter most.”
The event’s success was also a testament to the meticulous planning by Kigali Golf Resort & Villas, which has invested heavily in its junior academy. “Seeing these kids take the course with professionalism and joy proves that consistent coaching and opportunities pay off,” said Gaston Gasore, Acting CEO of Kigali Golf Resort & Villas.
As competition wrapped up, the tournament transformed into a lively family celebration. A poolside prize-giving ceremony featured grand trophies, giveaways, and a cake-cutting ceremony, with music, swimming, food, and ice cream courtesy of the sponsors. Families, golfers, and guests celebrated not only a successful tournament but also the bright future of Rwandan golf.
With strong partnerships, rising talent, and a clear development pathway, Rwanda’s next generation of golfers is swinging confidently toward a future filled with possibility.
Ndikuriyo made these remarks during a recent media briefing in Butanyerere District, Buye, which addressed several national issues, including widespread poverty, fuel shortages, refugee returns, border closures, and prospects for restoring ties with Rwanda.
When journalists asked about the potential reopening of borders and the restoration of bilateral relations, Ndikuriyo was unequivocal. He stated that Burundi is not prepared to live in harmony with Rwanda until those involved in the 2015 coup attempt are surrendered.
“Rwanda must hand over those who attempted the coup d’état. If they continue to refuse, we will not back down because Burundians respect themselves and their dignity,” he stated.
Burundi closed its borders in January 2024, after repeatedly accusing Rwanda of supporting the RED Tabara rebel group following an attack in the Gatumba area of Bujumbura. At the time, the Rwandan government dismissed the claims, saying they were false and that Rwanda had no connection to any armed group in Burundi.
Rwanda has also made clear that it cannot hand over the individuals involved in the coup attempt, as doing so would violate international refugee law.
Bilateral relations between Rwanda and Burundi deteriorated sharply in 2015 during an attempted coup against Nkurunziza. The coup, led by soldiers including Gen. Maj. Godefroid Niyombare, unfolded while Nkurunziza was attending an East African Community summit in Tanzania.
On May 15, 2015, forces loyal to Nkurunziza regained control, prompting Niyombare and other coup participants—soldiers, police, and politicians—to flee. Burundi claims many sought refuge in Kigali, and has repeatedly requested their extradition, which Rwanda has refused on legal grounds.
On March 10, 2025, intelligence officials from both countries met in Kirundo Province to discuss security issues that have exacerbated tensions. While talks also addressed potential pathways for restoring relations, progress has been stalled by Burundi’s continued accusatory stance towards Rwanda.
The border closure has significantly disrupted travel and trade between the two countries.
{{FDLR presence complicates reconciliation
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While Burundi focuses on accusations against Rwanda and demands the extradition of coup plotters as a precondition for better ties, experts warn that its tolerance of the FDLR militia group linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda could hinder the restoration of relations.
The collaboration between Burundian troops and the FDLR has been evident in eastern DRC, where they have worked alongside the Kinshasa administration in efforts to neutralise the AFC/M23 rebel coalition.
Analysts also warn that if military operations targeting the FDLR are carried out as part of the DRC–Rwanda agreement signed in June, its members may seek refuge in Burundi.
The FDLR remains a major security threat to Rwanda, having contributed to instability in eastern DRC for the past three decades. Rwanda has consistently affirmed that as long as the group exists, it will maintain defensive measures to protect its security.
As part of this initiative, RURA has engaged lecturers, researchers, university administrators, and students—especially those involved in technology, telecommunications, and broadcasting—to contribute ideas for the law’s revision.
The discussions took place on August 22, 2025, at the University of Rwanda, College of Science and Technology, and were attended by senior officials from telecom companies and internet service providers.
RURA’s Director General, Evariste Rugigana, stated that universities should play a visible role in decisions across different sectors through research or input on desired directions, which is why they were brought together.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Rwanda, Dr. Didas Muganga, emphasised the importance of giving universities the opportunity to participate in development-focused decision-making, noting that they house experts in various fields. He also highlighted that universities conduct research aimed at societal transformation, and giving them a platform in certain changes provides a valuable contribution.
Charles Gahungu, General Manager of ICT Regulation at RURA, told IGIHE that the law governing service quality standards is currently under revision.
“We are bringing all relevant stakeholders together to determine how these regulations should be designed so they are fair for everyone—both service providers and users,” he said.
“That’s why we convened here at the University of Rwanda. We brought RURA, universities, and service providers together to share ideas—researchers give their input and hear the challenges faced by service providers, and providers also hear these ideas. We then combine them to benefit citizens.”
He noted that the revisions will consider new technologies such as 5G and 4G, which were not adequately addressed in the existing law.
“New technologies have emerged that the old laws did not cover. For example, 5G is now being deployed in Kigali, but its services did not previously have clear regulations regarding standards. There is also VoLTE technology, which allows calls over 4G internet and was launched last year by Airtel. Our old laws did not cover these new services, and as technology evolves, so do the standards.”
On challenges faced by investors that the revised law could address, Gahungu noted that older standards like 2G and 3G remain expensive to maintain because they require additional equipment, while technology continues to advance and older services gradually exit the market.
“At RURA, we look at both sides: ensuring citizens can continue to access services without disruption or poor quality, while also implementing measures that encourage users to transition to modern technologies,” he said.
MTN Rwanda’s CEO, Ali Monzer, said the company is committed to providing quality services but investment should prioritise advanced technologies such as 4G and 5G rather than 2G and 3G, which could limit progress.
“Providing quality services is essential, but it must align with our long-term vision. If we continue to focus heavily on maintaining 2G and 3G networks, it will reduce our capacity to accelerate investment in 4G and 5G,” he said, adding: “Allow us to align quality service delivery with investment.”
Airtel Rwanda’s Managing Director, Emmanuel Hamez, echoed this view, noting that investing heavily in 2G and 3G is increasingly costly and inefficient, as these networks may soon become obsolete.
CanalBox CEO, Aimé Abizera, praised the ongoing progress, emphasising the importance of contributing to initiatives that improve internet use and transform the lives of Rwandans.
