With a career spanning over two decades, Adesope has become a cornerstone in the African entertainment media space. His work with Afrobeats heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Olamide, Sarkodie, and Wande Coal has cemented his reputation as a key driver of African pop culture across global platforms, especially in the UK.
Recognising his influence and far-reaching network, Rwandan label 1:55AM Ltd enlisted Adesope to spearhead international promotions for “Pom Pom”, which is positioned to open new markets for the trio of artists.
According to sources, Adesope is expected in Kigali ahead of the song’s official release, with promotional activities in the UK lined up shortly after. The label also hinted that Bruce Melodie and his collaborators may head to the UK for a media tour, leveraging Adesope’s extensive industry connections.
Adesope’s media journey began in 2003 at N-Power FM in London before moving to Voice of Africa Radio. By 2014, he was hosting Live at Battersea on Vox Africa TV UK and later became a fixture on Nollywood Movies Sky 329 with Nolly Afrobeats. He also contributed to Ben Television’s ABC Sports segment.
That same year, he joined The Beat London 103.6FM, where he hosted Afrohits on The Beat, becoming a defining voice for African music radio in the UK for ten years. Since 2020, he has anchored The Afrobeats Podcast, a globally respected platform spotlighting African talent and cultural movements.
With his deep ties to the African music diaspora, Adesope continues to bridge the gap between African artists and Western audiences. His involvement in “Pom Pom” signals the track’s international ambitions and positions it for cross-continental success.
The single is slated for release between late August and mid-September 2025, marking another major milestone in Bruce Melodie’s continued rise on the global music scene.
The disclosure was made by the Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, during this year’s national celebration of Umuganura (thanksgiving festival) in Musanze District on August 1, 2025.
The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including agriculture, tourism, industry, local residents, and government officials. The day served as a moment of reflection, gratitude, and reaffirmation of cultural values.
Highlighting the significance of Umuganura in both historical and contemporary contexts, the Minister noted: “Umuganura stands out as the only festivity deeply rooted in Rwandan culture. This is why the Government of Rwanda reinstated it in 2012, and efforts are underway to have it recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.”
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura is not just a symbolic tradition, but a practical framework of values that continue to guide Rwanda’s development.
He traced its origins back to the era of King Gihanga Ngomijana and its interruption by colonial rule in 1925. The festival was officially reinstated in 2012 by the Government of National Unity under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
The Minister noted that the celebration is no longer limited to agriculture and livestock, but now includes achievements in sectors such as education, technology, tourism, arts, and industry.
“Some may perceive Umuganura as merely an act of sharing, but while sharing is an important component, it is not the sole essence of the celebration. Umuganura represents a year-long process of performance contract, planning, and striving for progress,” Habimana noted.
The festival’s theme this year—“Umuganura: The Source of Unity and Foundation for Self-Reliance”—captured its evolving role in modern Rwandan society.
The Minister also issued a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to embrace and preserve the values of Umuganura.
“Umuganura is not just another celebration. It is a unique heritage and tradition that defines our identity. I urge you to uphold it, embrace it in your daily lives, and pass it on to future generations,” he noted.
“Elders have a responsibility to instill this tradition in the youth, ensuring its preservation. Celebrating Umuganura reminds us to keep Rwanda at the heart, wherever we are, and to carry this legacy with pride,” the Minister added.
Umuganura embodies values such as hard work, resilience, sacrifice, and patriotism—principles that continue to drive Rwanda’s progress.
Gakenke Mayor Mukandayisenga Véstine made the announcement during a July 31, 2025, engagement with staff from the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) and journalists. The visit was part of a broader cultural tour aimed at identifying and promoting sites with deep historical ties to Umuganura.
Huro Hill, located in Huro Village, Huro Cell, Muhondo Sector, formerly known as Bumbog, is the most prominent historical landmark in Gakenke tied to the Umuganura tradition.
Historical accounts indicate that Huro served as the residence of the Abiru ba Kwa Myaka, the royal ritual specialists tasked with preparing sacred seeds, particularly sorghum and millet, used in the national harvest ceremony.
At Huro, only the finest, untainted seeds were selected and ritually purified before being sent to the royal court for Umuganura. This tradition is the origin of the popular Rwandan saying “Ihuriro ni i Huro”, meaning “the gathering point is Huro,” emphasising the hill’s role as the central hub for both seeds and those who bore them.
Paulin Mudahinyuka, a 78-year-old elder from the area, recalled the meticulous seed selection practices of the past. He said that, traditionally, women were not allowed to handle the seeds during menstruation, a time considered one of ritual impurity in the customs.
“They were extremely meticulous,” he said. “Only perfect, germinable seeds were chosen, and no one touched them with bare hands. Even men used a special stick known as isando to avoid contamination.”
Once selected, the seeds were delivered to the king accompanied by traditional drums and imutsama beer, all presented as offerings for royal blessing and symbolic national unity.
Elder Mudahinyuka further recounted that during Umuganura celebrations, the King would arrive accompanied by the Chief of the Harvest Ceremony (Umuganuza Mukuru). Together, they would place their hands into a large ceremonial basket (igitenga) filled with sacred seeds and pour them onto the ground, symbolically signifying the King’s blessing over the nation’s agricultural season.
“Once the seeds touched Rwanda’s soil,” he explained, “it was understood that the King had officially offered the seeds to the nation.”
One of Huro Hill’s enduring historical landmarks is a centuries-old rain gauge known as Ivubiro, established by a royal meteorologist named Minyaruko ya Nyamikenke, a local leader of Busigi in the 16th century. He built it at the request of King Ruganzu II Ndori. The rain basin, still present today, is concealed in a bush and retains water even now.
This rain gauge was used by the Abiru royal agricultural seers of the Myaka lineage to predict rainfall patterns. If they foresaw a delayed rainy season, they would inform the King, who would then perform rituals to prompt an early downpour.
To further protect this heritage, Gakenke District Mayor, Mukandayisenga Véstine, revealed plans to compensate a resident whose land encompasses the historic site. The move will facilitate its formal conservation.
“We are in the process of valuing the land and compensating the owner so that we can fence off the area,” she said. “We’re also working with partners to potentially build a small heritage centre where today’s elders who may not be with us tomorrow can document and display these stories, possibly even in audiovisual form.”
The Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) (Inteko y’Umuco) notes that its research has identified over 530 heritage sites nationwide. These require proper signage, preservation, and coordinated protection by multiple institutions.
Other culturally significant locations in Gakenke include Kabuye Hill, home to Iriba rya Nyirarucyaba (a sacred spring) and the King’s cave, along with Mbirima and Matovu in Coko Sector, which are associated with royal traditions, and Ibuye rya Bajyejye, a historical rock in Gakenke Town.
Umuganura in modern Rwanda: The evolving celebration of culture, unity and growth
Far more than a harvest festival, Umuganura is a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s roots, an occasion to reflect on collective achievements, reaffirm national values, and celebrate the spirit of togetherness that has guided the country through generations.
Deeply rooted in history and embraced with renewed purpose, this celebration continues to bridge the wisdom of the past with the promise of the future.
Umuganura dates back centuries to the time of the Rwandan monarchy. It was one of the most important national ceremonies, held to mark the beginning of the harvest season.
Communities across the kingdom would gather to offer the first fruits of their labour, typically sorghum, millet, and beans, as a sign of gratitude for abundance and divine blessing.
At the centre of this tradition stood the King, who played both a symbolic and spiritual role. The harvest was presented to him and, in turn, symbolically offered to the ancestors.
This ritual was not only about agriculture; it was a reaffirmation of national unity, respect for authority, and spiritual connection. Umuganura served as a mirror through which the nation reflected on its values, productivity, and collective identity.
Traditionally, Umuganura brought together various aspects of Rwandan life. Alongside the offering of harvests, the day included rituals, traditional songs, dances, and storytelling. These cultural expressions helped reinforce social harmony and educate younger generations about shared values.
The celebration emphasised virtues such as hard work, humility, solidarity, and communal responsibility. It was also a time for communities to assess their achievements and set intentions for the seasons ahead.
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In contemporary Rwanda, Umuganura has evolved into a national reflection point. While its agricultural foundation remains, it now extends to celebrating achievements across all sectors—education, health, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It is a day to acknowledge both individual and collective contributions to national development.
Ceremonies are held at community and national levels, featuring cultural performances, exhibitions of local produce and crafts, and forums for dialogue on the country’s progress. Youth engagement is a key component, with schools and cultural institutions working to educate younger generations about the meaning and importance of Umuganura.
As Rwanda continues to grow and modernise, Umuganura remains a powerful reminder of the country’s rich heritage.
IGIHE spoke to young Rwandans from different walks of life to explore what this treasured tradition means in today’s world, reflecting on its historical roots and how it has evolved over time.
Once centred around offering the first harvest to the king, Umuganura has grown to recognise achievements in all sectors of life. Brighton Rutikanga emphasised how today’s celebration extends beyond agriculture to include progress in education, business, and other areas. He noted that the holiday encourages Rwandans to reflect on past goals and set new ambitions for the future.
Others, like Patrick Nshimiyimana, highlighted the personal and cultural importance of sharing the day with family, recalling warm memories of village celebrations with loved ones.
He and Brighton both celebrated educational accomplishments, seeing university attendance and academic improvement as major milestones. Alongside them, Hirwa Prince and Mutoniwase Fabrine shared stories of personal growth and community contributions, reflecting the spirit of resilience, connection, and national pride that continues to define Umuganura today.
“In the past, Rwanda celebrated by sharing harvests like cassava, beans, and maize. They’d bring them to the king and celebrate together, and it was awesome!”
“Now, it’s more than that. Most people rely on services and other sectors, so we use agriculture as a symbol to celebrate achievements in any field. In my sector, I reflect on last year’s goals and plan for the future,” said Patrick Nshimiyimana.
Umuganura is also a time to reflect on individual journeys and milestones. For many young Rwandans, it’s an opportunity to measure growth, whether in education, career, or service to others.
“The grades that I used to get weren’t good, and I didn’t think it was possible anymore, but my achievement when I got to university is that I started getting good grades. That was a breakthrough, and I’m grateful. This year, I’m still growing professionally, financially, everything,” said Prince Hirwa.
Speaking during the celebration of Umuganura in Musanze District, the Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana reaffirmed the enduring significance of this annual tradition in Rwanda’s cultural identity and national development.
“One may wonder if Umuganura remains relevant today. The answer is a resounding yes,” he said. “While its historical roots lie in agriculture and livestock farming, today’s Umuganura celebrates diverse sectors, including service output, technology, education, tourism, arts, and industries.”
The Minister emphasized that the foundational values of Umuganura, planning, resilience, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotism—are as vital today as they were centuries ago.
Habimana also called on Rwandans to uphold and integrate the values of Umuganura into their daily lives and ensure its transmission to future generations.
In 2023, the global beer industry supported approximately 6.4 million agriculture-related jobs, with one in five of these roles rooted in agriculture. Farmers worldwide cultivate tens of millions of tons of barley and thousands of tons of hops annually to meet brewing demands, transforming raw fields into the essential ingredients for lagers and ales.
This economic ripple effect is particularly evident in local communities. Beer is often brewed using locally sourced ingredients, prompting breweries to invest significantly in domestic agriculture. In Rwanda, BRALIRWA has spearheaded local sourcing initiatives aimed at empowering farmers. A significant number of Rwandan farmers have participated in these programs, gaining access to improved seeds, extension services, and mechanization tools to enhance yields and livelihoods. These partnerships not only ensure a steady supply of barley for brewing but also uplift entire communities.
Since 2019, BRALIRWA has championed barley as a new cash crop in Rwanda. Previously imported from Europe, barley is now increasingly cultivated by over 3,000 local farmers. The company currently supports local cooperatives and small-holder farmers by providing training and access to good quality farming inputs, resources as well as agronomic support. This expansion will help to maintain consistent product quality and inject new life into Rwanda’s agricultural sector by providing farmers with a reliable market and a stable income.
One farmer, Nkurunziza from Gicumbi, shared his experience: “BRALIRWA has consistently provided us with essential equipment such as threshers, significantly reducing our harvest losses. Their timely purchases have been vital to our success. I started with just 10 hectares, and now we proudly farm 50 hectares. Barley farming has not only allowed us to rotate crops with potatoes and beans, that improves soil health, but it has also brought stability and hope to our lives.”
“We are committed to sustainable local sourcing and through our ‘brew a better world’ agenda, we are very intentional in supporting communities where we operate.” Samuel Murumu, BRALIRWA’s Supply Chain Director said. “By working closely with Rwandan farmers, we are building a value chain that is more inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in long-term impact” he added.
The company plans to scale up its use of locally grown raw materials significantly, with the strategic aim of sourcing 7,000 metric tonnes of barley and 21,000 metric tonnes of maize grain annually by 2030. This initiative forms part of BRALIRWA’s broader commitment to reducing import dependency, ensuring production resilience and boosting rural development through sustainable agriculture.
The role of beer in the economy is often underestimated. In addition to contributing significantly to GDP and government revenue, beer stimulates job creation in the farming, logistics, manufacturing and hospitality sectors. BRALIRWA’s local sourcing initiative amplifies this ripple effect, strengthening rural economies and promoting inclusive growth.
As Rwanda navigates its path towards sustainable industrialization, BRALIRWA’s approach is a compelling case study of how the private sector can combine profitability with purpose. On this International Beer Day, the company is raising a glass not only to beer, but also the farmers, brewers, transporters and service workers who make the industry thrive, from seed to sip.
In June 2025, AFC/M23 claimed control over approximately 34,000 square kilometers of territory in North and South Kivu provinces, home to more than 11 million people.
While the coalition has already installed a governance structure that includes political leadership and provincial governors, it has yet to implement a formal justice system. This gap has reportedly allowed lawlessness and impunity in some areas.
To address the issue, AFC/M23 formed a special commission to assess the feasibility of creating a judicial framework. The commission has submitted its recommendations to the coalition’s top leadership for review and approval.
Key leaders involved in this process include AFC coordinator Corneille Nangaa, his deputy and M23 political head Bertrand Bisimwa, M23 military commander Gen Sultani Makenga, and deputy military commander Brig Gen Bernard Byamungu.
Délion Kimbulungu, AFC Permanent Secretary and chair of the commission, said, “The proposal includes the re-establishment of civilian and military courts, local tribunals, and other essential justice institutions.”
AFC/M23 maintains that it has restored peace and security in the areas it controls and insists it is better positioned to establish effective governance structures than the administration of President Félix Tshisekedi.
The order hereby imposes “additional ad valorem duties on goods of certain trading partners.”
Most of the new tariff rates range from 10 percent to 40 percent, according to an annex to the release from the White House.
The new tariff rates will take effect seven days after the date of the executive order with exceptions on logistical grounds.
Trump noted in the executive order that some U.S. trading partners, despite having engaged in negotiations, have offered terms that do not sufficiently address “imbalances” in trading relationship or have failed to align sufficiently with the United States on “economic and national security matters.”
“There are also some trading partners that have failed to engage in negotiations with the United States or to take adequate steps to align sufficiently with the United States on economic and national security matters,” he said.
According to the order, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce and the Secretary of Homeland Security, together with other senior officials, shall publish every six months a list of countries and specific facilities used in circumvention schemes, to inform public procurement, national security reviews, and commercial due diligence.
In addition, major U.S. governmental agencies are directed and authorized to take “all necessary actions” to implement and effectuate this order, consistent with applicable law, including through temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 31, the EAC Secretariat warned that unilateral measures restricting freedoms guaranteed under the EAC Common Market Protocol undermine the bloc’s efforts toward regional economic integration.
“Partner States shall not reverse or restrict sectors and trades they have previously liberalised,” the Secretariat said, adding that “unilateral backtracking on these commitments is inconsistent with the obligations under the Protocol.”
The statement comes just three days after the Government of Tanzania gazetted a directive prohibiting non-citizens from engaging in a wide range of business activities. The new restrictions, published on July 28, prevent foreigners from operating mobile money services, repairing electronic devices, running tour companies, or engaging in small-scale mining and media operations, among other sectors.
The order, issued by Trade Minister Selemani Saidi Jafo, also limits foreign involvement in real estate, parcel delivery, cleaning services, salon operations (unless tourism-related), and wholesale and retail trade, except for supermarkets and speciality outlets that support local producers.
Under the new regulations, foreign nationals found violating the ban face fines of no less than 10 million Tanzanian shillings (approximately Frw 5.6 million), up to six months in prison, and the revocation of residence permits and visas. Tanzanians aiding such activities also risk penalties of up to 5 million shillings or three months’ imprisonment.
Tanzanian authorities say the decision is aimed at protecting local businesses and promoting citizen participation in the economy. However, critics warn it could damage cross-border trade and investment, particularly within the EAC framework that guarantees the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital.
The EAC Secretariat noted that the Common Market Protocol, ratified by all Partner States, prohibits reversing liberalised sectors and commits countries to resolving disputes amicably through established institutions.
The Secretariat added that it is reviewing compliance levels among Partner States and will present its findings during the next meeting of the Sectoral Council on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment.
“The EAC remains committed to fostering a seamless regional integration process,” the statement said, urging Partner States to uphold the principles outlined in the Treaty and Protocols governing the Community.
The East African Community (EAC) is a regional bloc consisting of eight countries: Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Somalia became a full member in March 2024.
He emphasized that neither governments nor faith-based institutions can address Africa’s pressing challenges alone — a principled partnership is required, rooted in “integrity, mutual respect, and a shared vision for justice.”
The Prime Minister made these remarks on July 31, 2025, during the official opening of the 20th Plenary Assembly of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM), held in Kigali.
Speaking on behalf of President Paul Kagame, Dr. Nsengiyumva welcomed church leaders and partners from across Africa, calling their presence in Rwanda “a sign of solidarity and a powerful message of shared commitment to the values of hope, reconciliation, and peace.”
“This theme — Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation, and Peace — is deeply relevant not only to Rwanda’s journey, but to Africa’s broader transformation,” he said. “It echoes the complex but determined path we have taken to rebuild our country after the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.”
He acknowledged the Catholic Church’s vital role in Rwanda’s post-genocide recovery and social development.
“The Church’s contribution to our transformational journey is recognized in the history and lives of our country. In sectors like education, health, and social cohesion, its impact is not only felt — it is deeply appreciated,” he said.
Looking beyond Rwanda, Dr. Nsengiyumva challenged SECAM delegates to explore how the Church can continue to play a constructive role in Africa’s future, particularly in conflict resolution, youth empowerment, environmental stewardship, and ethical leadership.
“Africa is at a crossroads. The wounds of the past are still healing, and new global pressures are emerging,” he said. “But within these challenges lies a unique opportunity for renewal. The Church in Africa, as a voice of conscience, has a vital role to play in inspiring ethical leadership, promoting dignity, and reinforcing the moral compass of our nations.”
Dr. Nsengiyumva also reaffirmed Rwanda’s readiness to work hand-in-hand with religious institutions to build a more just, peaceful, and inclusive society.
“We stand ready, as a government and as a people, to continue building inclusive partnerships with faith-based actors committed to service, equity, and peace.”
The Archinbishop of Kigali, Cardinal Antoine Kambanda praised the growth of the Catholic Church in Rwanda despite the devastating impact of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He commended Rwanda for prioritizing national unity and reconciliation in the post-genocide era.
Cardinal Kambanda also expressed deep gratitude to President Kagame for his leadership and political will to support unity and reconciliation, highlighting the Church’s own contribution to this journey.
He added that Rwanda serves as a significant example from which the rest of the world can learn.
SECAM’s Secretary General, Rev. Fr. Rafael Simbine, noted that over the past 20 assemblies, the symposium has played a key role in the growth and mission of the Church in Africa.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Rwanda, Arnaldo Sanchez Catalan, delivered Pope Francis’ message to, highlighting the Vatican’s appreciation for the recent peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, facilitated with support from the United States.
He stated that the peace deal was a positive political step toward resolving longstanding conflicts.
Catalan emphasized that this SECAM gathering in Kigali aims to explore how the Catholic Church can actively contribute to peacebuilding, healing, and dialogue across Africa.
The President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, applauded Rwanda’s hospitality and stressed that the Catholic Church must enhance its efforts in reconciling communities and promoting unity, encouraging collective action across Africa.
“This year’s theme resonates strongly in these times of conflict affecting many African countries,” he said. “The Church in Africa must become a symbol of reconciliation, justice, and peace. We must walk together as a family of God’s children, called to be witnesses, peacemakers, and prophets of hope in a world longing for light.”
“This assembly is an opportunity to reinforce the internal cohesion of SECAM, encourage dynamic leadership, and deepen synergy between our regional conferences. In everything, we want to walk together as one Church, united in faith, mission, and service,” he said.
The 20th Plenary Assembly of SECAM which opened on Thursday, beginning with a Mass at Regina Pacis Parish in Remera, part of the Archdiocese of Kigali, continues through August 3, 2025.
After the Mass, the sessions continued at the Kigali Convention Centre, bringing together 13 Cardinals, 100 bishops, over 70 priests, and numerous lay participants to reflect on the Church’s role over the next 25 years.
The assembly will close with a major youth-attended Mass in Kibeho, a revered Catholic pilgrimage site in Rwanda.
The meeting was attended by observers from the United States, the State of Qatar, the Republic of Togo (representing the African Union), and the African Union Commission.
According to a joint statement released on Thursday night, the Joint Oversight Committee serves as a platform for both implementation and dispute resolution. It is mandated to handle complaints regarding violations of the agreement, take corrective measures, and help settle disputes amicably.
“The Committee is responsible for receiving complaints about violations of the agreement, taking appropriate measures to address violations, and amicably settling disputes,” the joint statement released by the U.S. Department of State spokesperson reads in part.
During the meeting, committee members selected their chairpersons, established the terms of reference for future engagements, reviewed progress made so far, and prepared for the first session of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism scheduled for August 4 in Washington.
The peace agreement includes two core commitments: dismantling the FDLR armed group, deemed a threat to Rwanda and the region, and lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures. Both steps are to be guided by a mutually agreed roadmap from October 2024 under the Luanda process.
Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe told Rwanda’s Parliament on July 30 that the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism would be responsible for these actions and has been given a 90-day mandate, extendable by 30 days.
The Rwandan government has reiterated that the dismantling of the FDLR, comprising remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, must precede any easing of its defensive posture.
Rwanda Defence Force spokesperson Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga stated in June 2025 that the FDLR consists of an estimated 7,000 to 10,000 fighters. UN expert reports have indicated the group cooperates with DRC forces and armed coalitions such as the Wazalendo alliance, including CMC-FDP and APCLS.
