According to Dr. Uwicyeza, the gathering has grown far beyond the capacity of the site, resulting in repeated incidents that put lives at risk.
“The monthly public gathering has been temporarily suspended pending the establishment of safety measures,” she said, adding that, “over the years, this gathering has attracted hundreds of thousands of people far exceeding the capacity of the venue.”
Her comments shared on X follow widespread public reactions on social media, where some expressed frustration at the suspension, especially given the shrine’s long-standing popularity.
However, Dr. Uwicyeza emphasised that the decision was driven by concern for public safety, particularly in light of recent health emergencies reported during the gatherings.
“Attendees undertake a 13 Km pilgrimage, many end up in ambulances or arrive exhausted and hungry. At the last gathering, a dozen people were injured,” she explained. “The safety and security of Rwandans is our top priority.”
She further stressed the need to protect vulnerable groups who attend in large numbers, including children, the elderly, and the sick.
“We need to work together to ensure that the next public gathering is conducted safely and accommodates the special needs of the vulnerable (children, sick, elderly) who make up a large portion of attendees. We cannot afford to risk a single life!” she stated.
RGB’s decision, announced on May 18, 2025, followed a chaotic incident at the April 27 gathering, where a stampede left more than ten people injured.
The shrine—known locally as Kwa Yezu Nyirimpuhwe (Merciful Jesus Sanctuary of Ruhango) —has become one of the country’s most frequented religious sites, attracting over 80,000 pilgrims per event.
In early 2025, it gained international recognition and was added to the global list of Divine Mercy shrines.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the inaugural International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) in Kigali on Monday, May 19, Kagame outlined three key pillars he said are vital for Africa’s long-term peace and stability: ownership, governance, and cooperation.
Held under the theme “Reshaping Africa’s Landscape in a Dynamic, Complex Global Environment,” the two-day forum at the Kigali Convention Centre brought together continental and global defence, intelligence, and security leaders to tackle urgent challenges and craft joint solutions.
“Africa’s future, particularly in matters of peace and security, cannot be outsourced,” Kagame told the delegates.
“For far too long, our security has been treated as a burden to be managed by others, often without our context or consent. This approach has failed to deliver — both for Africa and for the world.”
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Kagame stressed that the first step is for African nations to take full ownership of their security agendas. He cautioned against blaming foreign interference while simultaneously creating the conditions that invite it.
“Sovereignty is not just about defending borders — it’s about taking responsibility for our security, as individual states and collectively as a continent,” he noted.
The President called for strengthened continental institutions, particularly the African Union and its Peace and Security Council, to ensure that Africa is equipped to handle its internal challenges.
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The second pillar, Kagame emphasised, is the interdependence of governance and security. He noted that when one fails, the other is inevitably weakened.
“Security is not just about the absence of threats. It is about creating an environment where people can live with dignity, enjoy their rights, and look to the future with hope and confidence.”
He highlighted the need for governments to build trust by ensuring effective institutions, equitable development, and inclusive politics.
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The third pillar Kagame emphasised is cooperation. In an increasingly borderless world threatened by terrorism, pandemics, cybercrime, and climate-related disasters, he argued no country can secure itself alone.
“Cooperation must be strategic, intentional, and innovative. The key to overcoming security challenges lies in our ability to produce our own solutions,” he said.
He pointed to the exhibition attached to the conference as evidence of the innovation possible when Africa invests in its own capacity and technology.
“Where we have capacity, we must scale it. Where we lack it, this is the time and place to build it — and to cooperate.”
Kagame also appealed to delegates to match political will with technical expertise, aligning national interests with continental priorities.
“Let us leave here not just informed, but more resolved to do more and better,” he added.
Also speaking at the opening session was Moussa Faki Mahamat, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Chair of the ISCA Advisory Council. He hailed the launch of ISCA as “a turning point” for Africa, describing it as a long-overdue strategic space for reflection and dialogue on peace and security matters.
“Africa’s security cannot rely on imported solutions,” Faki said. “We often say and repeat: African solutions to African problems.”
The former AUC boss warned that instability, broken promises, and marginalisation of youth are not merely development failures but drivers of insecurity. Echoing Kagame, he called for clear mandates, sustainable funding, and proactive approaches to regional threats.
Faki said the Institute for Security and Conflict Analysis (ISCA) fills a critical gap by offering a platform for data-driven decision-making, policy innovation, and rigorous debate.
“The future we hope for cannot emerge by chance. It must be shaped with rigour, clarity, and method — but above all, it must be built together.”
The ISCA conference continues on Tuesday with high-level panels and closed-door sessions expected to define strategic pathways for a more secure and self-reliant Africa.
These individuals were transferred by staff from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), who escorted them from a camp in the city of Goma to the main border crossing between Rwanda and the DRC.
Following his repatriation on May 19, 2025, one elderly returnee shared that he originally came from Musanze District and had gone to the DRC in 2003 for farming activities.
He had been living in the Katale area in North Kivu province. Asked about his experience with the FDLR, he said, “They would come at night and abuse us. They even left me with a disability. I was often beaten.”
Marcel Kagabo Nibishaka, 31, said he lived in Kagusa, in Masisi territory, North Kivu.
His family fled to the DRC during the 1994 genocide. He explained how the FDLR looted their property: “They would come at night to steal livestock and food. They never came during the day as our village was far from the forest.”
Valentine Uwamariya expressed her joy at returning home to Rwanda, especially since she would finally reunite with her family.
“My family lives in Rwanda. I used to live over there, but now I’m happy to return and be with them. I came back with my six children,” she said.
Dr. Oscar Balinda, deputy spokesperson for the AFC/M23 coalition that currently controls Goma, said both the FDLR and the DRC government had been forcing civilians, including Rwandans, to remain in conflict zones as human shields.
“These people were held hostage by FDLR fighters. As you know, it’s a strategy used by the FDLR and the DRC government. Camps like Kanyaruchinya, Mugunga, and Lushagala were effectively turned into human shield zones to protect their military operations.”
The first group of hostages, totaling 360 Rwandans, returned home on May 17. They were initially settled in a temporary camp in Kijote, Nyabihu District, before being relocated to their places of origin.
The second group is being hosted in the Nyarushishi temporary camp in Rusizi District, mainly due to Kijote’s limited capacity of 500 people.
Over 1,000 more Rwandans remain in the Goma transit camp under UNHCR supervision and are expected to return in future waves.
In total, approximately 2,500 Rwandan nationals have expressed the desire to return voluntarily, following years of being prevented from doing so by the FDLR.
The Mayor of Rubavu District, Mulindwa Prosper, assured the returnees that they would receive identification documents and opportunities they had missed out on.
He said children would be enrolled in school, and adults would be supported through vocational training programs to help them rebuild their lives.
“Leave your fear behind. Now you can have peace of mind and start working on your future. While in the DRC, you lived with uncertainty about tomorrow,” he said.
He also mentioned government programs designed to lift citizens out of poverty, such as Girinka (One Cow per Poor Family).
“In the near future, we expect you to become livestock farmers and develop your households.”
Mulindwa encouraged the returnees to actively participate in national programs, including community meetings, where they can stay informed and engaged in national development.
The election comes after the sudden passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, the Regional Director-elect, who died in November 2024 before taking office.
Prof. Janabi was nominated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and emerged as the successful candidate among a competitive field, which included Dr. N’da Konan Michel Yao of Côte d’Ivoire, Dr. Mohamed Lamine Dramé of Guinea, and Prof. Moustafa Mijiyawa of Togo.
Prof. Janabi’s nomination will be formally submitted for appointment during the 157th session of the WHO Executive Board, scheduled for May 28–29, 2025. Once appointed, he will serve a five-year term, with the possibility of renewal.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Janabi affirmed his commitment to regional unity and health system strengthening.
“Thank you for your trust in me. I will not let you down. Your support underscores our collective resolve to build a healthier, stronger, and more united Africa. As we face challenges ranging from infectious diseases, noncommunicable diseases to climate change and limited health financing, we must harness African resilience and unity,” he stated.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus welcomed the nomination, praising both Prof. Janabi and the other candidates:
“I offer my warm congratulations to Professor Janabi on his nomination as Regional Director for Africa, and also to the United Republic of Tanzania. He will take the reins at an unprecedented time for the African Region, and WHO as a whole. We are grateful for his experience and expertise.”
Dr. Tedros also acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Acting WHO Regional Director for Africa, for his leadership during the transitional period following the end of Dr. Matshidiso Moeti’s term.
A leading figure in Tanzanian and African healthcare, Prof. Janabi brings over 30 years of experience spanning clinical cardiology, public health leadership, and health system reform. He is a vocal advocate for equitable healthcare access in low- and middle-income countries.
Prof. Janabi steps into the role amid growing health challenges across the continent, including emerging disease threats, climate-induced health crises, and funding gaps. His leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in driving regional health priorities and reforming health systems for resilience and equity.
From May 10 to May 18, 2025, the courts of IPRC Kigali hosted matches that brought together more than 140 players from across Rwanda.
These participants represented various member clubs under the Rwanda Tennis Federation (FRT) and competed in nine different categories.
These included divisions for professional and amateur players, seniors, and people with disabilities, with matches played in both singles and doubles formats for men and women.
The final day of the tournament was marked by a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Players, coaches, officials from the Rwanda Tennis Federation, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Sports and the Rwanda Olympic Committee, came together to pay tribute to the victims.
They toured the memorial, reflected on the history of the genocide, and laid wreaths at the mass graves that hold the remains of thousands who perished in 1994.
Before the championship matches, FRT President Theoneste Karenzi took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to NCBA Rwanda. He emphasized the bank’s crucial contribution in making this year’s tournament a success.
“This is a tournament we organize every year, but this edition stood out,” Karenzi remarked. “We had an impressive turnout of 145 players, which reinforced the very purpose of this event — to remember the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. NCBA Bank Rwanda’s support was vital, and we are currently in discussions about continuing this partnership for future tennis events.”
Representing NCBA Rwanda, Nicholas Manzi spoke about the bank’s broader vision for community impact through sports. He noted that the bank’s involvement goes beyond financial services — it’s about uplifting communities through meaningful engagement.
“Supporting sports allows us to connect more deeply with the people we serve,” Manzi said. “It’s part of our mission to contribute to development in ways that go beyond banking. Tennis, in particular, is a sport we see growing in Rwanda with strong organization and great potential, and we are proud to be part of that journey.”
The tournament featured several standout performances. In the amateur men’s singles category, Karekezi Colin defeated Rukundo Innocent in straight sets (6–2, 7–6).
In the amateur doubles division, Sean Buckley and Mugisha Livingston outplayed Antony Hachez and Vincent Vincent (7–5, 6–0). Among the seniors over 60, Gashugi Innocent and Mucyurabuhoro Eslon secured a win over Gatera Augustin and Katarebe Alphonse (6–3, 7–5).
In the women’s final, Umumararungu Gisele delivered a stunning comeback, rallying from a set down to beat Carine Nishimwe (4–6, 6–0, 6–0).
The Genocide Memorial Tennis Tournament not only showcased Rwanda’s growing tennis talent but also underscored the power of sport as a tool for remembrance, healing, and national unity.
This commitment was outlined in an official letter from Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente to UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
The letter, dated May 15, 2025, comes at a time when the UN is actively exploring ways to reduce operational costs, improve efficiency, and shift certain functions away from high-cost centers like New York and Geneva.
Prime Minister Ngirente outlined Rwanda’s unique advantages as a potential host, citing Kigali’s strategic air connectivity to regional and international destinations, as well as the country’s consistent political stability, institutional effectiveness, and overall safety.
“Rwanda has positioned itself as a competitive destination for multilateral institutions, offering a cost-effective, secure, reliable, and enabling environment for their operations,” the letter states.
The Government of Rwanda also pledged to provide office facilities and essential services while committing to the long-term development of a dedicated UN campus in the heart of Kigali.
In alignment with UN protocols, Rwanda is offering a full package of privileges, immunities, and tax exemptions for UN personnel.
In closing, the Prime Minister invited the UN to dispatch a technical mission to Kigali for a firsthand review of Rwanda’s infrastructure and services, in order to further discuss and align the proposal with the UN’s operational and relocation needs.
“Rwanda stands ready to serve as a committed partner in shaping the future of the UN’s global operations,” Ngirente affirmed.
This proposal aligns with broader conversations within the UN about decentralizing certain functions to more affordable and strategically located cities, particularly in response to ongoing financial constraints affecting several UN agencies.
A statement released by Biden’s office on Sunday revealed that the cancer has metastasised to his bones.
The announcement follows Biden’s recent medical evaluation after experiencing increasing urinary symptoms on Friday, May 16, 2025.
“On Friday, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, characterised by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) with metastasis to the bone,” the statement read.
According to his physicians, although the diagnosis indicates a more advanced and aggressive form of the disease, the cancer is hormone-sensitive, which allows for potentially effective treatment options.
Biden and his family are currently reviewing treatment plans with his medical team.
Joe Biden served as the 46th President of the United States from January 20, 2021, to January 20, 2025.
He chose not to seek re-election in the 2024 presidential race, citing a desire to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership. At the time, Biden, then 81, also acknowledged the increasing demands of the office and the need to prioritise his health and family after more than five decades in public service.
The decision to withdraw from the race came after increasing pressure and concerns, particularly following a debate performance that raised questions about his fitness for office.
Since leaving office, the former president has maintained a relatively low public profile, occasionally commenting on political developments and emerging global issues.
High Commissioner Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye has presented his letters of credence to the Sultan of Brunei, Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, accrediting him as Rwanda’s representative to the country.
The ceremony took place at the royal palace, Istana Nurul Iman, on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
Amb. Uwihanganye, who is based in Singapore, also represents Rwanda in Australia and New Zealand. He becomes the first High Commissioner to represent Rwanda in Brunei since the two countries established diplomatic relations nearly five years ago.
During his visit to Brunei, Amb. Uwihanganye also met with Dato Seri Paduka Abdul Manaf, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT). Their discussions focused on fostering bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector.
The High Commissioner is also scheduled to meet with other high-ranking officials in Brunei to discuss cooperation in various sectors, including construction, agriculture, and finance.
Rwanda and Brunei are both members of the Commonwealth. The two countries initiated diplomatic relations in December 2020.
In June 2022, President Paul Kagame met with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah during the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Rwanda. The two leaders discussed issues of mutual interest.
During that visit, the Sultan of Brunei was accompanied by Prince Abdul Mateen.
Brunei is a small but wealthy country located in Southeast Asia, with a population of just over 455,000 people.
For many years, Brunei’s economy has been largely dependent on the export of petroleum and natural gas, with over half of its GDP coming from oil and gas revenues.
Additionally, Brunei’s domestic economy is supported by significant income from foreign investments, mainly managed through the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA), which operates under the Ministry of Finance.
Analysts consider Rwanda an attractive destination for Brunei’s investments, largely due to Rwanda’s investor-friendly legal framework that facilitates foreign direct investment.
This aligns with Brunei’s long-term strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas.
Currently, the two countries are in discussions about cooperation agreements in the education sector and the potential for a visa waiver arrangement for their citizens.
The first American pope and 267th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, Leo used his inaugural Mass to set the tone for what appears to be a pastoral and socially conscious papacy.
St. Peter’s Square was filled with an estimated 100,000 faithful at the start of the liturgy, a crowd that swelled to 200,000 as the two-hour ceremony progressed.
The Mass, steeped in centuries-old tradition, was attended by dignitaries, royalty, and worshippers from across the globe, including U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and Peru’s President Dina Boluarte — the leader of the country where Pope Leo previously served as a missionary and bishop.
Before the Mass began, the 69-year-old pontiff, born Robert Prevost, toured the square in the open-air popemobile, warmly greeting the cheering crowds and pausing to kiss a child. As chants of ‘Viva il Papa!’ (Long live the Pope) echoed across the square, Leo’s humility and calm demeanour were on full display.
In his homily — widely seen as a declaration of papal priorities — Pope Leo called for healing within a Church often divided between conservatives and reformers.
“There is no room in the Church for propaganda or power plays,” he said. “This is the hour for love.”
He also issued a sharp rebuke of global economic systems that “exploit the Earth’s resources and marginalise the poorest.”
Calling on Catholics to serve “not with superiority, but with humility,” Leo emphasised a missionary spirit rooted in compassion and respect for diversity: “We are called to offer God’s love to everyone, in order to achieve that unity which does not cancel out differences but values the personal history of each person.”
The Mass included several striking moments of symbolism: the bestowing of the pallium, a lamb’s wool vestment representing his role as shepherd, and the Ring of the Fisherman, engraved with the image of St. Peter and Leo XIV’s name, symbolising his role as Peter’s successor. As the ring was placed on his finger, Leo appeared visibly moved, glancing down in quiet reflection.
In a solemn close to the liturgy, Leo offered prayers for peace in Ukraine and Gaza. “We pray for a just and lasting peace,” he said. “For children, families, the elderly, survivors — those reduced to hunger and sorrow.”
Since his election on May 8, Pope Leo has signalled a blend of continuity and change. He has embraced tradition, including Latin liturgy and ornate vestments, while also launching a papal Instagram account and making early appeals for interfaith dialogue and global peace.
He has also struck a chord with many, from traditionalists to reformers, with his calls to uphold human dignity, protect migrants, and prioritise the needs of the marginalised.
Next Sunday, Pope Leo XIV will take formal possession of the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the cathedral of the bishop of Rome, marking the canonical start of a papacy already being watched closely around the world.
He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 after a long illness.
According to Karua, all three were guests of the East Africa Law Society (EALS). They were scheduled to attend a court session related to Lissu’s ongoing treason case.
Karua detailed the sequence of events upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport at 9:00 a.m., explaining that her passport was referred to a supervisor who kept her waiting for over an hour while consulting superiors. She was later informed that entry had been denied without explanation.
“The supervisor has now informed us that our entry into Tanzania has been denied. No reasons given,” she posted.
Karua voiced concern over the apparent restriction of her freedom of movement within the East African Community (EAC), saying,
“I am concerned that as a citizen of EAC, my access within a @jumuiya country appears inexplicably restricted.”
Lissu was charged with treason in April, a day after being arrested following a political rally in southern Tanzania.
The charges stem from his “No Reforms, No Election” campaign, which calls for sweeping electoral reforms ahead of Tanzania’s general elections scheduled for October.
Karua has been a vocal advocate for Lissu’s release and recently took on a leadership role in a pan-African rights lobby group calling for the charges against him to be dropped, labelling them politically motivated. She is also among the lawyers representing Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who is facing similar charges in the neighbouring country.
Lissu, who survived an assassination attempt in 2017 and has been in and out of exile, is among those expected to challenge President Samia Suluhu Hassan in the upcoming polls.
President Suluhu rose to power in 2021 following the death of her predecessor, John Magufuli.
By the time of going to press, Tanzanian authorities had not issued any official statement regarding the decision to deny Karua and her colleagues entry into the country.
