Following their capture of key territories in South Kivu on February 28, 2025, the AFC/M23 coalition announced a new administrative structure for the province.
Emmanuel Birato Rwihimba was appointed as the Governor, while Dunia Masumbuko Bwenge will serve as the Deputy Governor in charge of politics, administration, and legal affairs, and Juvénal Bushinge Gasinzira was named Deputy Governor in charge of economy, finance, and development.
M23 forces continue to clash with the Congolese army (FARDC) and allied groups, including the FDLR, Burundian troops, and local militias like Wazalendo.
The group has expanded its control across parts of South Kivu, including Bukavu City, and previously seized key areas in North Kivu, where it also established its own administration.
AFC/M23 leadership has repeatedly stated that they will continue their offensive until they reach Kinshasa and overthrow President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi, whom they accuse of discriminating against certain Congolese communities.
Pittman, a seasoned investor with extensive experience in development, particularly in Africa is also a co-founder of Kupanda Capital and Oath Africa, two firms focused on fostering business growth across the continent.
President Kagame received Bobby Pittman, Oath Africa Founding Partner and Kupanda Capital Co-Founder who also serves as Chairman of the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD) for a discussion on investment opportunities available in the country,” a statement, from the Office of the President said on February 28, 2025.
Rwanda is known for offering attractive investment opportunities due to its rapidly growing economy, stable security environment, and low levels of corruption.
Kupanda Capital is an independent investment and advisory firm specializing in building and expanding businesses across Africa. The company provides strategic guidance to businesses, helping them access new markets across the continent.
Kupanda Capital also supports the creation of new businesses, with a focus on innovation-driven and high-growth sectors. For established companies, the firm assists in expanding their operations across Africa.
The firm invests in businesses with strong growth potential and a positive impact on African communities. Its investment focus includes technology, agriculture, and financial services.
Through Kupanda Holdings, a joint venture with Universal Music Group (UMG), the company established Mdundo, a platform promoting African music globally.
President Kagame’s meeting with Pittman underscores Rwanda’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive sustainable economic growth and innovation.
“To prevent war between our two countries, we are committed to resolving disputes through peaceful means. This is what we have been doing since 2020 when Burundi initiated dialogue with Rwanda. To this day, Burundi remains open to discussions with Rwanda to settle the issues between us,” Ndayishimiye told diplomats in Burundi.
{{From threats to talks}}
Since late January 2025, Ndayishimiye had repeatedly declared his readiness to go to war with Rwanda. His fiery statements raised tensions in the already volatile Great Lakes region.
On January 31, he claimed Rwanda was planning to attack Burundi. While addressing diplomats, he said, “I am telling you, if things continue this way, war will spread across the region because the people will not allow this to happen. If Rwanda continues… the day they come to Burundi, we will not accept it.”
The tensions further grew on February 11, when Ndayishimiye, speaking to residents of Bugabira Commune in Kirundo Province, again gave a stun warning to Rwanda.
“Be prepared, do not be afraid, we know them well. Since the monarchy, they have never defeated us. Do you think they can defeat us now? Remind them, ‘Do you know where Kirundo stands? he questioned.
His remarks came amid fierce clashes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where the M23 armed group was advancing against forces that included Burundian troops.
{{A shift in tone}}
The turning point came during the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa on February 15 2025. Reports suggest Ndayishimiye faced pressure from other African leaders who warned him about the serious consequences of his inflammatory statements.
By the next day, he had softened his stance. In a post on X, he revealed that discussions with Rwanda’s allies had given him assurances that Burundi would not be attacked.
“After discussions with Rwanda’s allies, those hoping to benefit from a Rwandan attack on Burundi should abandon their plans. But to my fellow Burundians, stay alert and vigilant,” he wrote.
{{Roots of the conflict}}
Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi flared in late 2023 when the RED Tabara armed group launched an attack in Gatumba Zone. This led Burundi to close its borders with Rwanda in January 2024.
Despite the rising hostility, Rwanda has consistently signaled openness to dialogue. In September 2024, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, reaffirmed Rwanda’s readiness to engage in talks with Burundi.
“Rwandans and Burundians are brothers and sisters who should live together peacefully,” he said.
Ndayishimiye’s latest statements suggest a step back from the brink. His willingness to return to the negotiating table marks a significant shift from his earlier threats of war.
The high-level discussions, which build on previous engagements in Kabale, Uganda (December 2023) and Nyagatare, Rwanda (May 2024), focused on border security, the movement of people and goods, and addressing shared threats affecting both nations.
In a joint communiqué issued after the meeting, the two delegations underscored their joint responsibility in safeguarding their common border, acknowledging that both countries have previously faced challenges in managing cross-border movement of insurgents and refugees.
“The main purpose of the meeting was to further strengthen cross-border security cooperation between Uganda and Rwanda and ease movement of persons and goods between the two countries,” the statement read.
The meeting was led by Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) Robert Rusoke, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, and Ambassador Vincent Karega, Rwanda’s Envoy to the Great Lakes Region.
Discussions focused on longstanding security issues, particularly the control of illegal movements across the border, which have in the past been linked to insurgents, refugee flows, and smuggling activities.
The joint communiqué noted that the delegations “assessed the current status of shared challenges faced in the sectors of immigration, trade, customs, health, border demarcation, and security along our common border.”
Recognizing that unregulated movement of people has posed security risks in the past, both sides agreed on the need to enhance intelligence-sharing, strengthen border patrols, and coordinate immigration processes.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the progress made in implementing regional security directives, particularly in relation to the Northern corridor integration projects.
While acknowledging the strides made, both countries also noted the potential challenges arising from the operationalization of these projects, calling for continued vigilance and cooperation.
Both Uganda and Rwanda emphasized the need for sustained dialogue and security collaboration to prevent any resurgence of border-related tensions.
“The two countries welcomed the continuous efforts to provide a platform for fruitful dialogue and cooperation,” the communiqué stated, highlighting the importance of cross-border coordination in managing both security and humanitarian concerns.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Maj. Gen. Rusoke and Ambassador Karega praised the continued commitment to regional peace and stability, emphasizing that both nations would work towards fully implementing agreed security measures.
“Both leaders hailed the continued spirit of good neighborliness between the two countries and expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the meeting while committing to carry out regular follow-ups,” the communiqué affirmed.
Despite a strong performance by Duarte Marivoet Scholiers from UAZ, who claimed victory in the stage, Delbove’s commanding lead remains intact.
Delbove, who has worn the yellow jersey for consecutive stages, finished 11th in Stage 5, but his overall time of 16 hours, 25 minutes, and 33 seconds keeps him at the top of the general classification.
His closest competitor, teammate Fabien Doubey, trails by a mere 2 seconds, while Oliver Mattheis from Bike Aid follows closely, just 5 seconds behind.
Despite winning Stage 5 with a time of 4 hours, 5 minutes, and 1 second, Duarte Marivoet Scholiers remains more than three minutes off the general classification lead, meaning his victory did not threaten Delbove’s dominance.
Stage 5 witnessed intense competition over the challenging terrain. Awet Aman from CMC finished in second place, trailing Marivoet by 25 seconds, while Fabien Doubey secured third, helping Team TotalEnergies maintain its strong presence at the top of the leaderboard.
Notably, two Rwandan cyclists, Masengesho Vainqueur and Manizabayo Eric, secured spots among the top 10, finishing 8th and 10th, respectively.
The race moves into Stage 6 on Saturday, with cyclists tackling a 131.5 km route from Nyanza to Canal Olympia, passing through Bugesera.
With the competition heating up and margins narrowing, all eyes will be on whether Joris Delbove can maintain his yellow jersey or if a new leader will emerge.
As the Tour du Rwanda 2025 heads into its final stages, the stakes remain high, and the battle for the overall title promises even more drama and excitement.
Brown, who arrived in South Africa in August 2024, formally assumed her role as the senior US diplomat in the country in January 2025. Her departure comes amid escalating tensions between Pretoria and Washington over key policy differences.
Brown’s resignation follows the earlier departure of former US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, who stepped down in January as part of the standard transition process under the newly inaugurated US President Donald Trump.
The Trump administration is yet to appoint a new ambassador to replace Brigety.
Brown’s resignation has fueled speculation about diplomatic strains between the two nations. The US and South Africa have clashed on several policy issues, including Pretoria’s stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine, its growing ties with China, and most recently, its controversial land reform policies.
The South African government has been pursuing land redistribution efforts to address historical injustices related to apartheid-era land dispossession. The proposed reforms include the expropriation of land without compensation in certain cases, a policy that has raised concerns in Washington.
The US government has previously expressed reservations about the potential economic repercussions, particularly regarding foreign investment and property rights. Pretoria, however, maintains that the policy is necessary to correct imbalances in land ownership and promote economic inclusivity.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on February 7, 2025, suspending all US aid to South Africa in response to the land expropriation law, which the Trump administration claims discriminates against white farmers.
The suspension has had immediate and severe consequences, particularly for health programs. The US had been funding nearly 20% of South Africa’s $2.3 billion annual HIV/AIDS program through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).
The abrupt withdrawal of this support has led to the closure of health clinics and nutrition programs, with experts warning of a potential increase in mortality rates and instability.
The support will be delivered under the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, a Presidential mandate aimed at training young Nigerians in digital and technology skills.
Airtel Africa also announced 10 scholarships for Nigerian students to study technology-focused courses at Plaksha University in India under the Airtel Africa Fellowship.
Driven by Airtel Africa Foundation, the scholarships will equip Nigerian youth with cutting-edge digital and innovation skills, reinforces commitment to bridge the talent gap in the technology sector while supporting the country’s aspirations to become a global tech hub.
These pledges to develop Nigeria’s future tech leaders were announced when Airtel Africa’s Chairman, Mr. Sunil Bharti Mittal, KBE and Airtel Africa CEO, Sunil Taldar met with Nigeria’s President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at State House in Abuja.
The meeting also discussed Airtel Africa’s ongoing investments in Nigeria’s telecom and digital economy.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Mr. Sunil Bharti Mittal said: “Nigeria remains a strategic market for Airtel Africa, and we are fully committed to support the government’s digital transformation agenda. Through initiatives like the Airtel Africa Fellowship and our investment in 3MTT, we are ensuring that the youth of Nigeria have access to world-class education and digital skills. We commend President Tinubu’s vision for a technologically advanced Nigeria and are committed to play our part in making that vision a reality.”
While noting the significant work currently ongoing via the Airtel-UNICEF Reimagine Education Programme which has onboarded 1,260 schools and over 600,000 students in the country to digital learning platforms such as the Nigerian Learning Passport (NLP), Mr. Mittal restated Airtel Africa’s dedication to network expansion, service quality, and financial inclusion.
Airtel Africa welcomed the recent designation of telecom infrastructure as Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII), recognizing it as an essential step in safeguarding and expanding Nigeria’s digital backbone. It also emphasised its continued mission to drive financial inclusion across Nigeria, particularly through its subsidiary, SmartCash PSB.
Mr Taldar reiterated the continuing goal of Airtel to support government efforts that are aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s digital economy, saying: “Airtel is deeply invested in Nigeria’s digital future. We are expanding our network, driving financial inclusion, and creating opportunities for the people of Nigeria through technology and innovation. Our collaboration with the government through initiatives like the Airtel Africa Fellowship and 3MTT ensures that Nigeria remains at the forefront of Africa’s digital revolution.”
Airtel Africa remains committed to working closely with the Government of Nigeria and all stakeholders to drive connectivity, digital skills development, and financial inclusion, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
{{About Airtel Africa}}
Airtel Africa is a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services, with operations in 14 countries across sub-Saharan Africa.
Airtel Africa’s integrated offer provides national and international mobile voice and data services as well as mobile money services to over 156 million customers.
The company’s strategy is focused on delivering a great customer experience across the entire footprint and increasing digital and financial inclusion to transform lives across Africa, in line with our corporate purpose.
The once-feared Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) led by Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony is rapidly losing its grip. Sources close to the situation indicate that Kony’s operations, once a terrifying force in central Africa, are now a shadow of their former self.
The Wagner Group, known for its mercenary work, has been arresting and forcing the LRA combatants to surrender, especially in the conflict-ridden areas of Darfur, Sudan, and the Central African Republic (CAR).]
The group has created a wall of security, making it increasingly difficult for Kony’s forces to operate freely.
According to New vision, Marianne Moor, head of Pax Netherlands, a non-governmental organization involved in helping former rebels reintegrate revealed that the group surrounding Kony has dissolved. “The only remaining part of the LRA is the one directly protecting Kony himself” she said.
The LRA, which once sought to establish a theocratic government based on Kony’s interpretation of the Ten Commandments, has long been notorious for abducting children and forcing them into brutal labor and warfare.
At its peak, the group displaced over 1.8 million people and claimed the lives of more than 100,000 in northern Uganda.
But now, with the Wagner Group closing in and Sudan’s civil war making the region unstable, Kony’s stronghold is crumbling. Many of his fighters, exhausted by years of war, have been abandoning the cause.
According to Moor, the pressure is becoming too much for some of the LRA members, and more defections are expected.
“We know that wherever the group enters, there is now significant military presence. The situation has become more difficult for Kony, and many of his fighters have surrendered to authorities,” said Moor.
One of the main reasons for these defections is the increasing hardships of life in the bush. Many of the fighters, including those who were once forcibly recruited, are seeing the grim reality of their situation.
Moor explained that some of these rebels, especially those from Congo and CAR, have been offered amnesty by the Ugandan government. Once they hear stories of earlier defectors being treated with respect and reintegrated, many decide to leave the group.
Kony’s diminishing forces now seem to pose little threat to Uganda. “His group is no longer the powerful force it once was. Unless Kony recruits new fighters, his group has lost its edge.”
The NGO has already repatriated 156 combatants back to Uganda, and more are expected to follow. These former fighters are being given a chance to rebuild their lives through programs that include medical and mental care, as well as traditional ceremonies to reintegrate them into their communities.
The collapse of the LRA signals the end of a brutal era for many across central Africa, but the peace process remains fragile. Governments will need to continue offering opportunities for reintegration to ensure that the cycle of violence does not return.
The payment gateway was among the products showcased during the Inclusive FinTech Forum (IFF), held in Rwanda from February 24 to 26, 2025.
The three-day forum, opened by President Paul Kagame, brought together global leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators, providing a platform to explore solutions for the continent’s economic challenges through digital finance.
{{How IremboPay works
}}
IremboPay simplifies electronic payment collection for businesses of all sizes, from large corporations to small enterprises, significantly boosting operational efficiency. The platform was developed by Irembo, a leading tech company in Rwanda renowned for its role in transforming government services digitally through its IremboGov platform.
By integrating diverse payment methods into a single, secure, and intuitive platform, IremboPay eliminates the need for time-consuming manual reconciliation, reducing financial complexities and minimising errors.
The platform processes millions of transactions annually, empowering businesses to save valuable time and enhance their overall financial management.
IremboPay’s Business Lead, Vanitah Gatana, explained how the platform simplifies financial management and drives business growth.
“Time spent on reconciliation and lack of revenue visibility can significantly slow down a business,” Gatana stated.
“Our system integrates all payment sources, giving business owners a clear picture of their income and facilitating informed growth decisions.”
IremboPay offers several key benefits to businesses, including efficient payment processing that ensures fast and secure transactions and reduces administrative workload.
The platform employs advanced security measures such as encryption and fraud prevention to ensure safety and confidentiality.
IremboPay also provides multi-currency convenience, supporting Rwandan Francs (RWF), US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), and British Pounds (GBP), facilitating international trade.
Additionally, it features multi-language accessibility, available in English, French, and Kinyarwanda, making it more user-friendly for diverse businesses. The system also delivers user-friendly financial reports with valuable insights to inform strategic business decisions and performance tracking.
One of IremboPay’s standout features is its ability to integrate effortlessly with existing accounting and business management systems. Real-time transaction tracking allows businesses to monitor finances with ease, reducing manual bookkeeping efforts.
Looking ahead, IremboPay is set to integrate with Rwanda Revenue Authority’s Electronic Billing Machine (EBM) system, enabling businesses to automatically generate official invoices upon receiving payments.
IremboPay caters to a wide range of industries, including tourism and hospitality, where it simplifies check-ins and payments through its Payment Links solution. In education, it streamlines fee collection for schools and universities.
In the transport sector, it enables real-time payment processing for transport services. Manufacturing businesses can use it to efficiently manage transactions, while software and IT companies benefit from its integrated digital payment solutions.
Businesses interested in adopting IremboPay can start by visiting the [IremboPay.com->http://IremboPay.com] website or contacting the sales team. After an initial consultation to discuss specific business needs, a customized payment solution is developed.
The setup process is quick and easy, allowing for seamless integration with existing systems. Businesses also receive continuous support to ensure smooth financial operations.
With its user-friendly interface, secure transactions, and comprehensive reporting, IremboPay is streamlining digital payments in Rwanda. As more businesses embrace digital transformation, IremboPay stands out as an essential tool for growth, efficiency, and financial clarity.
By the time you reach your mid-thirties, life often demands a higher level of competence and self-sufficiency. Navigating adulthood isn’t always smooth, but certain essential skills can make the journey easier and more rewarding.
From managing your emotions to handling basic finances, these capabilities form the foundation of a well-rounded, independent adult. Here are the critical life skills every person should aim to master by 35.
{{Adapting your humor to different situations}}
A well-developed sense of humor is more than just making people laugh, it’s about understanding social cues and adapting your jokes to fit the environment. By your mid-thirties, being able to adjust your humor appropriately shows emotional intelligence and social awareness.
Whether you’re in a professional setting, with close friends, or meeting new people, the ability to gauge what kind of humor is suitable reflects a mature understanding of interpersonal dynamics.
Humor can also be a coping mechanism, helping to navigate stressful situations with ease. Knowing when to be playful and when to remain serious allows you to build stronger relationships while easing tensions.
{{Managing personal finances}}
Financial literacy is crucial for anyone striving to maintain stability and achieve long-term goals. By 35, understanding the basics of budgeting, saving, and managing debt should be second nature.
This involves knowing how to track income and expenses, prepare for tax obligations, and make informed financial decisions. Mastering basic bookkeeping helps you maintain control over your financial well-being.
It also enables you to plan for future milestones like buying a home, investing for retirement, or covering emergencies. With increasing economic uncertainties, the ability to manage money effectively is a powerful tool for financial independence and peace of mind.
{{Prioritizing self-care and rest}}
In the fast-paced modern world, self-care is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity. By your mid-thirties, it is essential to have established habits that prioritize both physical and mental well-being.
This means scheduling regular rest, nourishing your body with balanced meals, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine. Prioritizing rest allows you to recharge and approach life with greater clarity and resilience.
Equally important is caring for your emotional health. Learning to set boundaries, engage in activities that bring joy, and recognize the signs of burnout can prevent long-term health issues.
{{Emotional regulation and managing stress}}
Handling emotions effectively is a hallmark of emotional intelligence. By 35, being able to identify, understand, and regulate your feelings is a critical life skill.
This means remaining calm during conflicts, expressing yourself clearly, and maintaining composure in stressful situations. Emotional regulation supports healthy relationships and informed decision-making.
Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and cognitive reframing can help you navigate complex emotions. Developing this skill ensures you can cope with life’s challenges while maintaining a sense of balance and well-being.
Offering a sincere apology
The ability to apologize genuinely is a reflection of emotional maturity. By the time you reach your mid-thirties, understanding how to acknowledge your mistakes and make amends is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.
A sincere apology involves accepting responsibility, expressing remorse, and offering to repair any harm caused. Authentic apologies are a sign of growth, accountability, and respect for others’ feelings.
This skill fosters trust and emotional connection. Whether in personal or professional relationships, the ability to apologize can prevent lingering resentment and strengthen bonds.
{{Performing basic household tasks}}
Being able to manage a household independently is a practical skill that everyone should master by 35. This includes grocery shopping, cooking simple meals, cleaning, and basic home repairs.
Knowing how to maintain your living space not only fosters a sense of self-sufficiency but also creates a comfortable and functional environment.
Basic cooking skills allow you to prepare nutritious meals, while understanding home maintenance can save you time and money. This independence enhances confidence and ensures you can handle daily life without relying on others for every task.
{{Understanding and respecting others’ needs}}
A critical aspect of adult maturity is recognizing that people experience the world differently. By 35, you should be capable of understanding and respecting the needs and perspectives of others.
This means practicing empathy, being considerate, and adjusting your behavior to accommodate those around you. Simple gestures, such as being mindful of shared spaces or acknowledging others’ emotions, contribute to harmonious relationships.
Developing this awareness allows you to engage in meaningful interactions and create an environment where others feel valued and respected.
{{The essence of true adulthood}}
While mastering these skills by 35 can enhance your independence and emotional intelligence, true adulthood is not about perfection. It involves continuous growth, self-awareness, and the ability to ask for help when needed.
Each person’s journey is unique, and not everyone will excel in every area. However, striving to develop these essential life skills fosters a sense of confidence, adaptability, and compassion.
Ultimately, the ability to navigate life with resilience and grace is the hallmark of a fully realized adult.
