During the meeting with Minister Fall, President Kagame was accompanied by the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa.
The meeting comes two weeks after President Kagame held a telephone conversation with his Senegalese counterpart regarding the progress in advancing peace in the region through the East African Community (EAC)–Southern African Development Community (SADC) process.
President Kagame described the talks as productive. The EAC and SADC are jointly involved in efforts to address the security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where government forces and the AFC/M23 rebels have been fighting.
During a joint EAC-SADC Heads of State Summit held on March 24, regional leaders appointed a five-member panel comprising former heads of state to facilitate the talks. Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Nigerian counterpart Olusegun Obasanjo are co-chairing the panel.
Meanwhile, during their phone call last month, Presidents Kagame and Faye also discussed the strong and mutually beneficial cooperation between the people of Rwanda and Senegal.
Rwanda and Senegal have maintained strong bilateral relations for many years, reinforced by reciprocal visits by their leaders to Dakar and Kigali, as well as through various cooperation agreements.
Into this tense void stepped Dr. Charles Murigande, a soft-spoken mathematician turned politician, who found himself pitted against the Vice President Paul Kagame in a parliamentary vote to choose Rwanda’s next leader.
Speaking on The Long Form podcast, Dr. offered a rare glimpse into that pivotal moment—revealing Pasteur Bizimungu’s defiance against the Rwandese Patriotic Front (RPF) and his own unexpected role in a contest that shaped modern Rwanda.
At 42, Murigande was a respected RPF secretary general, but nothing prepared him for the call to stand as a candidate against Kagame, the party’s towering chairman.
“We were in a post-genocide transition with a constitution stating that if the president resigned, the RPF would propose two candidates for a parliamentary vote,” he recalled. “I was selected with Vice President Kagame after an internal party vote where I came second.”
The crisis began on March 23, 2000, when Bizimungu, Rwanda’s first post-genocide president, tendered his resignation.
Dr. Murigande, however, saw it coming. “Bizimungu’s resignation was both a surprise and not,” he said. “There were internal RPF problems, especially over forming a new cabinet.”
The RPF, determined to root out corruption, had decided no ministers from the 1994 cabinet would continue, a move to reset governance in a nation reeling from genocide’s aftermath.
Bizimungu, appointed president in 1994 to signal unity, disagreed. He insisted on retaining one minister, Patrick Mazimhaka, believing his presidential authority trumped party decisions. “He thought as president he had authority, but he was wrong,” Murigande stated bluntly.
The tension escalated when Bizimungu delivered what Murigande called a “violent speech” during the swearing-in of a new cabinet led by Bernard Makuza.
“It was an attack on nearly every institution,” he recounted. Bizimungu criticized the RPF’s accountability processes, which were probing mismanagement, and lashed out at parliament’s efforts to curb corruption. Dr. Murigande believes the speech was Bizimungu’s breaking point.
“Probably, he preempted it because he knew that the political bureau had the capacity to remove him. So, instead of waiting for him to be removed by the political party he resigned,” he explained.
Two days later, Bizimungu resigned, leaving Rwanda leaderless and the RPF scrambling to stabilize the transition.
Enter the parliamentary vote of April 17, 2000. Dr. Murigande, a refugee-turned-scholar who’d once starved in Burundi’s camps, faced Kagame who’d led the RPF to victory in 1994.
The stakes were immense: a misstep could unravel Rwanda’s fragile recovery. Yet Dr. Murigande harbored no illusions of winning.
“I didn’t want to win,” he admitted with characteristic humility. “I told journalists if I were a voter, I’d choose Kagame. He was the better candidate.”
Kagame secured 81 of 86 ballots, with Murigande garnering five. For Murigande, the outcome was a relief. “No regrets at all, especially seeing how Rwanda has evolved over 25 years under Kagame,” he said, reflecting on the nation’s journey from ashes to prosperity.
Bizimungu’s defiance, Dr. Murigande revealed, stemming from a misunderstanding of power. As vice chairman of the RPF, Bizimungu saw himself above the party, a view that clashed with the RPF’s collective ethos.
“He was wrong.” The episode exposed fault lines in the government of national unity, formed under the Arusha Accords to bridge ethnic divides. Bizimungu, hoping his resignation would spark protests, was mistaken.
“He thought the Hutu population would rise up,” Murigande said. “Nobody demonstrated. Shops stayed open, and the situation remained calm.” Rwanda’s trust in the RPF’s maturity held firm.
Dr. Murigande, who returned to his RPF duties post-vote, saw it as a moment of clarity. “The people knew the RPF was in control,” he said, crediting the party’s discipline for averting chaos.
Kagame’s ascent marked a new chapter, one Dr. Murigande endorsed wholeheartedly. “The RPF trusted I could be a good president if chosen, but I campaigned for him,” he reiterated.
The 2025 edition of the awards, unveiled at the EAC headquarters in Tanzania’s northern city of Arusha on Monday night, is expected to build upon the success of the inaugural 2024 edition, which took place in Uganda and drew widespread participation and enthusiasm.
According to the statement, the primary objective of the EAC Regional Quality Awards is to foster a culture of quality within the region by encouraging the adoption of standards and quality management practices by EAC enterprises.
The awards seek to stimulate interest in quality management practices and excellence among EAC enterprises and encourage sustainable competitiveness by recognizing organizations that excel in adopting international standards, the statement said.
Speaking during the launch, EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva said the awards have grown into one of the most consistent and impactful regional initiatives.
“I am pleased to note that over 40 enterprises, small, medium, and large, from across diverse sectors, including services, have benefited from this competition,” said Nduva.
The statement also said the winners will be honored at a formal ceremony in December in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital.
The EAC is a regional intergovernmental organization of eight member states, namely Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, with a mission to promote economic, political, and social integration in East Africa.
“I drove through most parts of the city and could not see any signs of a humanitarian crisis,” Fahrenholtz revealed in a post on X on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
“The streets are bustling with people and they seem very relaxed and feeling safe. The shops are full with foodstuff, imported goods, etc. The University reopened, electricity and water are supplied by the municipality 24 hours per day. There is even street lighting during the night.”
No humanitarian crisis in Goma. I drove through most parts of the city and could not see any signs of a humanitarian crisis. The streets are bustling with people and they seem very relaxed and feeling safe. The shops are full with foodstuff, imported goods etc. The University… pic.twitter.com/xAbuGTj3kT
— Peter Fahrenholtz, Ambassador rtd (@peterfahren) April 15, 2025
Fahrenholtz, who previously served as Germany’s ambassador to Rwanda and Bangladesh, praised the efforts to restore order in Goma, noting that law enforcement appeared effective and visible improvements in public services were evident.
“Almost no garbage to be seen in the streets. Police officers are doing their job, crime and corruption seem to be clearly less. Rule of law is beginning to be established,” he added.
During his visit, Fahrenholtz observed that the border crossing between Goma and Gisenyi, Rwanda, is fully operational, with UN World Food Programme trucks and NGO vehicles crossing smoothly to address humanitarian needs that may still exist in districts outside the city.
“I saw women walking across into Goma at 9 p.m.,” he noted.
In his visit, Fahrenholtz met with the Governor of North Kivu, Manzi Willy, who spoke of the ongoing genocidal acts targeting the Tutsi population in eastern DRC—atrocities also flagged by the UN Special Advisor on Genocide Prevention.
The governor stressed that the M23 movement aims to end these acts, protect civilians’ human rights, and work toward peace and stability in the region.
Describing M23 as an “inclusive and diverse Congolese movement” with members from various ethnic backgrounds, including Hutu, Fahrenholtz echoed concerns about the persecution and displacement of Tutsi communities over decades.
The former ambassador has previously criticized international responses to the conflict, particularly those of the European Union. He challenged comments made by EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, who in March accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebellion. Rwanda has repeatedly denied involvement in the conflict, insisting that its primary concern is the continued presence in the DRC of the FDLR militia, which is linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“Are M23 not DR Congo citizens? Were there not European mercenaries fighting against them in DR Congo? Who will protect ethnic minorities in eastern DR Congo?” Fahrenholtz questioned.
He further criticized the Congolese government’s failure to resolve the root causes of the rebellion, including ethnic divisionism and genocidal ideology.
Fahrenholtz’s remarks add a diplomatic voice to the growing scrutiny of the conflict in eastern Congo since the takeover of Goma by the rebels in January, urging the international community to reevaluate its stance and prioritize protection of minority communities.
The restaurant’s founder and proprietor, Nicole Ansoni, was honored in the hospitality category, representing Rwanda among a class of global change makers who are redefining their industries before the age of 40.
The Forty Under 40 Global Awards, themed “Connecting Global Champions,” celebrated 40 high-performing leaders from 17 countries who are creating transformational impact across business, technology, arts, and culture.
Hosted at the Hilton garden inn hotel in Business Bay, the event brought together a vibrant network of entrepreneurs and innovators, highlighting excellence, vision, and leadership on a global scale.
Nicole Ansoni’s recognition marks a significant moment for Rwanda’s hospitality sector. Through her work with Inka Steakhouse, she has elevated Rwandan cuisine and championed a local-first philosophy that blends fine dining with community empowerment.
Her restaurant, known for its refined menu centered on locally sourced meat and produce, has not only redefined Kigali’s dining scene but also served as a platform for promoting Rwanda’s rich agricultural heritage.
“This award is a powerful recognition of Rwanda’s growing voice in global hospitality and of the work we’re doing to celebrate African excellence through food, service, and storytelling,” Ansoni said in her acceptance speech.
“Standing on that stage, representing my country, was humbling, but also a reminder that our ideas, our culture, and our vision have a rightful place at the center of global conversations. I hope this moment encourages more young Africans, especially women, to lead boldly, dream without limits, and build with purpose,” she added.
Founded with a mission to spotlight Rwanda’s culinary potential, Inka Steakhouse has quickly become more than just a restaurant, it is a movement celebrating local ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and homegrown talent.
Named after the Kinyarwanda word for “cow,” Inka reflects dignity, nobility, and a deep respect for tradition.
Under Nicole’s leadership, the restaurant has forged partnerships with Rwandan farmers, improving meat quality standards and helping establish a more sustainable supply chain in a country where the hospitality infrastructure is on an upward trajectory.
Nicole’s award highlights not only her personal journey as an entrepreneur but also the rise of African voices shaping the global narrative in food and hospitality.
Her work is grounded in a belief that business can be both profitable and purpose-driven, and that excellence can be achieved through honoring local culture and community.
The Forty Under 40 recognition underscores the growing international appreciation for innovative African-led businesses.
For Inka Steakhouse and Nicole Ansoni, this milestone is not just a celebration of achievement, it’s a signal that Rwanda is firmly on the map as a destination for world-class hospitality and visionary leadership.
Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the UK, Johnston Busingye, confirmed the graduation of Yuhi Cesar and Mugisha Blaine (a son of Assistant Commissioner of Police Kuradupagase Augustin) on April 15, 2025.
“A colourful Sovereign’s Graduation Parade at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, Friday, 11th April 2025. Warm congratulations to our own Officer Cadets Mugisha Blaine and Yuhi Cesar,” he posted on his X account.
Family members, including Ambassador Cesar and High Commissioner Busingye, were present at the graduation ceremony to celebrate the graduates’ achievement.
Graduates from military academies, whether Rwanda’s Gako Academy or foreign institutions like Sandhurst, are usually integrated into the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) with the rank of Second Lieutenant.
A colourful Sovereign's Graduation Parade at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, Friday, 11th April 2025.
Warm congratulations to our own Officer Cadets Mugisha Blaine and Yuhi Cesar. Muri ishema ry'Igihugu. Tubifulije ishya n'ihirwe. #Turikumwepic.twitter.com/BdFIbT036g
The Ugandan lawyer and sports administrator was named following an announced resignation of President Chris Jenkins to guide Commonwealth Sport until elections in November 2025.
Jenkins, who took the role in November 2023, will be remembered for his longstanding service and contribution to the Commonwealth Sport movement.
“I am particularly proud of the opportunities I have been given to advance Sport for Development and especially Para inclusion through our GAPS program and want to thank all my Commonwealth Games Association colleagues and friends for their support,” said Jenkins.
Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir explained that with a mid-term resignation the Constitution allows for an interim President to be appointed by the Executive Board, and a new President will be elected by the membership at the next General Assembly in November 2025.
“The Board appointed Dr. Donald Rukare as interim President until the General Assembly. We look forward to working with Donald in this role as we continue driving the organization’s event operations and wider movement forward,” said Sadleir.
“We look forward to welcoming a new President in November to lead us through our upcoming period of growth and continued transformation,” he added.
“I am ready to step into this role and thank the Board for their confidence in me. We have come through a particularly challenging period in our Games history, and we are now building momentum towards an outstanding Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026,” said Rukare upon his appointment.
Amb. Igor delivered this message on April 12 in Berlin, as the Rwandan community in Germany commemorated the 31st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The commemoration event included a Walk to Remember and the lighting of the Flame of Hope. Participants also observed a moment of silence to honor the victims of the genocide.
Addressing the gathered participants, Amb. Igor emphasized the historical context of the genocide, stating, “The genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda from April to July 1994 was the culmination of decades long ethnic based hate and ideology of division instigated, taught and spread since the colonial period in Rwanda by the colonial administrations, the Catholic White Fathers, the missionaries that led Rwanda and built their policies on ethnic division and hatred against Tutsi.”
He further detailed Belgium’s direct involvement, explaining, “This led to recurring cycles of genocidal violence, waves of unpunished killings and massacres of Tutsi between 1959-1963 under the supervision of Belgian military officers mandated by the Belgian Administration.”
According to the ambassador, this “colonial administration installed a culture of impunity, enabling the deep-rooted hatred that led to the planning and execution of the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.”
The Ambassador also criticized Belgium’s contemporary stance, asserting, “Genocide ideology and genocide denial prevails and it is still being spread in neighbouring countries and abroad, under the cover and support of some western countries among which Belgium, a country that has deep rooted responsibilities in Rwanda’s tragic past.”
Amb. Igor also expressed his disapproval of recent political decisions in Europe, pointedly referencing the cancellation of a genocide commemoration event in Belgium.
He argued that “suspending a commemoration because of a tense political climate sends a clear message: that remembrance and commemoration is optional…That it can wait,” directly challenging the idea that remembrance is secondary to political considerations.
He concluded by stressing the fundamental importance of memory and its role in confronting difficult truths, stating, “But memory, by definition, disturbs. It questions. It confronts. It forces us to face what others prefer to forget.”
Judence Kayitesi, President of Ibuka Deutschland, underscored the vital role of youth in preserving history, rejecting all forms of discrimination, and ensuring that genocide never occurs again.
“You must be the voice of truth, challenging harmful ideologies wherever they emerge. You must be agents of change, guardians of memory, and defenders against denial and distortion,” she noted.
Kayitesi, President of Ibuka-Germany, reminded participants that remembrance is not merely ceremonial but a shared responsibility.
“Kwibuka is everyone’s responsibility,” she stated, calling on the international community to stand firmly against genocide denial and distortion.
NSW Police said in a statement this morning that the NSW Emergency responded to reports of an aircraft crash at about 7:15 a.m. local time on Tuesday at an airstrip in the small town of White Cliffs in northwest NSW.
The male pilot of the aircraft died at the scene but has not been formally identified.
Initial inquiries indicated that the man was the sole occupant of the aircraft, said the police.
Police officers as well as ambulance paramedics, firefighters and personnel from the NSW State Emergency Service were deployed to the scene.
Police established a crime scene and have commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident with assistance from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau.
According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), at least 10 humanitarian workers from Relief International were among the dead. UNICEF reported that 23 children were killed.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the killings, with the UN’s Sudan Coordinator calling for an immediate end to hostilities and justice for victims.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said around 16,000 people fled Zamzam, while additional clashes in Um Kadadah left over 50 dead and 900 homes destroyed. Nearly 19,000 people have been displaced from the region since Thursday.
OCHA warned of worsening humanitarian conditions, including critical shortages of food, water, and fuel.
2Relief supplies are being mobilized, but access remains limited due to insecurity. The World Health Organization noted that over 160 attacks on health facilities have occurred since Sudan’s civil conflict began in April 2023.
