Rwanda, according to Kanyuka, has actively contributed to combating terrorism in Central Africa and Mozambique, deploying experienced soldiers for this purpose. Speaking on behalf of M23, Kanyuka emphasized that Tshisekedi’s contemplated war with Rwanda would be self-destructive.
On December 18, 2023, President Tshisekedi announced his intention to seek parliamentary approval for a war on Rwanda, asserting that the Congolese army (FARDC) possessed the capability to strike Kigali without leaving Goma City. This announcement raised concerns and was alluded to by President Paul Kagame during a year-end address.
President Kagame dismissed the notion of attacking Rwanda, cautioning those contemplating such actions. He expressed skepticism about viewing Tshisekedi’s statements as mere jest and asserted that he would prepare accordingly until presented with evidence to the contrary.
Speculation suggests that Tshisekedi’s mention of the plan to attack Rwanda could be a political maneuver to garner support for a second term, offering a diversion from challenges faced during his initial tenure.
The M23, known for its stable management and strength, demonstrated its military prowess by swiftly capturing parts of the North Kivu province. The United Nations acknowledges the group’s capabilities, likening them to a developed country’s military. Despite President Félix Tshisekedi’s warnings, the M23 remains defiant and ready to confront any provocation.
In response to the threat posed by the M23, the armed forces of the DRC, Burundi, South Africa, Tanzania, and Malawi (SADC members excluding Burundi) are joining forces in a war reminiscent of the Second Congo War that occurred from 1998 to 2003. SADC, represented by 7,000 troops under the command of Major General Monwabisi Dyakopu from South Africa, plans to stay in the DRC for 12 months, with the possibility of an extension if the organization’s objectives are not achieved.
Reflecting on the origins of the Second Congo War, it emerged a year after Laurent Désiré Kabila came to power, triggered by his expulsion of soldiers and politicians from Rwanda and Uganda who had aided in overthrowing Mobutu Sese Seko. Kabila’s decision to expel these individuals was fueled by fears that they sought control over the resource-rich eastern part of the country.
The conflict escalated as the armed group DRC-Goma, led by Dr. Emile Ilunga Kalambo, opposed Kabila’s government, supported by Interahamwe, which had mistreated Congolese Tutsis. Rwanda and Uganda joined the fight to protect their security interests, leading to a complex and protracted conflict.
In the subsequent war, various strategic locations, such as the Kitona Military Base and the Matadi port, were lost by the DRC forces. External forces, including Zimbabwe and Angola, intervened to support Kabila’s regime against the RCD, MLC, Rwanda, and Uganda. Despite temporary successes, the war persisted, and hostilities continued until 1999.
The conflict officially ceased in 2002 when Rwanda, Uganda, Angola, Namibia, and Zimbabwe signed a ceasefire agreement, withdrawing their troops from the DRC. However, the International Rescue Committee reported that, despite the formal end of the war, internal armed conflicts persisted, resulting in significant human casualties.
Fast forward to the present, and the international community faces renewed challenges as the M23 resurfaces in the eastern DRC. SADC’s decision to deploy troops was met with criticism, with concerns raised about potential involvement of regional countries like Rwanda and Burundi. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees expressed apprehensions about a military confrontation involving these nations.
Amid these tensions, the East African Community (EAC) emphasized the importance of dialogue to end the conflict, leading to strained relations with the DRC government. The United Nations warned of increased hostility between the DRC and Rwanda, heightening the risk of military intervention and potential involvement of Burundi.
As the situation unfolds, there is uncertainty about the involvement of regional players and the effectiveness of the peacekeeping mission. The imminent withdrawal of MONUSCO, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the DRC, further complicates the landscape, marking the potential end of a 23-year-long mission.
This strategic initiative focuses on capacitating trainees, comprising engineering students and professionals from diverse construction-related fields, through a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical training.
Ruboneza Emmanuel, the site supervisor at Mr. Roof, articulates the program’s core objective of equipping future contractors with advanced knowledge and skills in contemporary construction practices. Central to this mission is the emphasis on using eco-friendly materials to fortify roofs, ensuring structural strength without imposing undue burdens on households.
The training program places a particular spotlight on welding tiles, with the overarching goal of enabling participants to fortify roofs and address issues related to structural integrity effectively.
Mr. Roof is dedicated to fostering proficiency in the use of its construction materials, coupled with comprehensive training in workplace safety and managerial skills, empowering trainees to transition into entrepreneurs who meet industry standards.
Ruboneza underlines the advantages of entrepreneurship for Mr. Roof, citing positive network establishment, increased profit margins, and an improved quality of life. The company’s approach involves leveraging technology for efficient and rapid construction, providing technical support, and offering procurement assistance to further enhance the success of its trainees.
Beneyezu Diogène, an enthusiastic participant in the program and aspiring entrepreneur, underscores the significance of Mr. Roof’s holistic approach in the current market. Increasing technicians’ knowledge about their roles is viewed as a valuable and essential endeavor in enhancing the overall competence of the industry.
The management of Mr. Roof is unwavering in its commitment to sustaining this transformative program. Their aim is to secure roofing contracts and deliver professional services through the entrepreneurs trained in the program.
Mr. Roof actively encourages skilled individuals in the construction sector to join the entrepreneurial training program, highlighting the potential for growth and success through a strategic and hopeful approach. This initiative stands as a testament to Mr. Roof’s dedication to innovation and fostering a new generation of skilled subcontractors in the roofing industry.
As King Abdullah II walked through the memorial on Monday, accompanied by Rwandan officials including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vincent Biruta, the gravity of the moment weighed heavily on the dignitaries.
After laying wreaths at the memorial’s mass grave, the King took a moment to reflect on the individual stories behind the staggering number of lives lost, acknowledging the profound impact on families: “This powerful memorial reminds us that behind every individual killed was a world unto itself, a family that lost a loved one, a mother, a father, a child, a dream extinguished, a potential taken too soon.”
The King’s visit was not just a ceremonial gesture but a symbolic expression of solidarity and shared commitment to prevent such heinous acts from occurring again.
In his address at the memorial, King Abdullah II conveyed a message that resonated with the lessons drawn from Rwanda’s tragic past: “The brutality that these walls bear witness to is a constant reminder of the terrifying consequences of dehumanizing the other, of how fear-mongering and disinformation amid international complacency can lead to the ugliest and deadliest extremes.”
Rwanda’s journey from the depths of genocide to a nation committed to reconciliation and healing became the focal point of the King’s speech. He emphasized the need to confront and counter dehumanizing rhetoric that fuels conflicts globally: “Rwanda’s experience teaches that we must fight the dehumanizing rhetoric that fuels conflict. Your story. It can be a beacon for us all.”
The King’s poignant words extended beyond the borders of Rwanda, drawing attention to ongoing conflicts, particularly in Gaza. King Abdullah II expressed concern over the devastating toll on the civilian population: “Almost 30,000 Gazans have been killed or unaccounted for over the past three months. The overwhelming majority, nearly 70%, are women and children.” He questioned the viability of indiscriminate aggression and shelling, urging for a just peace based on the two-state solution.
The parallels drawn between Rwanda’s history and contemporary conflicts underscored a crucial message: “This memorial teaches us that we cannot write off any conflict as hopelessly irreparable. It shows us how respect, justice, and compassion can lead to a better future.”
Besides, Jordan King emphasized the importance of memory, urging the world to acknowledge the brutality before working towards peace and cautioning against complacency that can be tantamount to collusion.
As King Abdullah II concluded his visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, his words echoed as a call to action, emphasizing the collective responsibility to preserve humanity and prevent the recurrence of such tragic events.
The event stood as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the imperative to learn from history to build a more compassionate and just world.
King Abdullah II arrived in Rwanda for a three-day working visit on Sunday 7th December 2023. On the first day of his visit, he was welcomed by President Paul Kagame where after both leaders witnessed the signing of cooperation agreements in several fields including agriculture, economy, trade, health, and medical science.
Reflecting on his four-year term as a European leader, Michel said, “It’s my responsibility to give an account of my work these past years and to propose a project for Europe’s future.”
While Michel’s current mandate concludes in November, the European Parliament elections are slated for June. He is expected to lead the list of the liberal Reformist Movement party, of which he is a former leader, in the European Parliament elections.
“That means I would continue my work as European Council president until being sworn in as an MEP on July 16,” he stated.
Michel has served as the president of the European Council, the group of government leaders of the 27 European Union (EU) member states, since late 2019. Prior to his EU responsibilities, he served as the Prime Minister of Belgium.
The SNA chief Ibrahim Sheikh Muhidin said senior al-Shabab commanders were among the dead during the military onslaught against the al-Qaida linked terrorist group which were conducted on Saturday and early Sunday.
“The al-Shabab terrorists suffered heavy casualties and lost 76 fighters during operations conducted in the past two days,” Muhidin said.
He added that the military onslaught destroyed al-Shabab bases and vehicles, adding that troops were making progress in vanquishing the militants from their strongholds in central and southern Somalia.
Al-Shabab extremist group that is fighting to topple the government has been facing enormous pressure and offensive from government forces backed by the local militia in central Somalia.
The extremist group was driven out of Mogadishu in 2011, but the terror group is still capable of conducting attacks, targeting government installations, hotels, restaurants and public places.
The signing ceremony transpired following discussions between President Kagame and King Abdullah II, with government representatives from both nations in attendance. In addition to the comprehensive cooperation pact, agreements were inked on the same day concerning the elimination of double taxation on income and the prevention of tax evasion and avoidance.
These newly signed agreements complement existing accords in areas such as political consultations, aiming to foster cooperation in trade and investment, tourism, and agriculture.
Among the Rwandan dignitaries present at the ceremony were Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Vincent Biruta, Minister of Trade and Industry Prof. Jean Chrysostome Ngabitsinze, CEO of Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Francis Gatare, and Secretary-General of the National Security and Intelligence Service (NISS) Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita.
King Abdullah II’s visit to Rwanda, spanning three days, commenced on Sunday evening, with President Kagame extending a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport. In an earlier meeting with King Abdullah II in August 2023, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Vincent Biruta revealed Rwanda’s intention to establish its embassy in Jordan’s capital, Amman.
In recent times, the two nations have solidified their relationship through various agreements, including the mutual waiving of visas for their citizens. Additionally, there are plans for the opening of Rwanda’s diplomatic mission in Jordan, as announced in 2023.
The commitment to enhance bilateral ties was evident in February 2023, when Rwanda and Jordan signed three cooperation agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These agreements covered political consultations, higher education, health and medical sciences, and visa waivers for diplomatic, service, and special passports.
Notably, Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame visited Jordan in March 2022 for a bilateral meeting with King Abdullah II. Discussions during the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in defense and security, particularly in the shared goal of combating terrorism through the exchange of information and expertise.
King Abdullah II has played a significant role in addressing counter-terrorism and violent extremist threats. In 2015, he launched the Aqaba Process, which seeks to comprehensively tackle interconnected challenges through informal discussions centered around prevention, coordination, and ‘filling in the gaps.’
Jordan, situated in Western Asia, shares borders with countries such as Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Palestine, and Israel. With an area of 89,342 square kilometers and a population exceeding 11.4 million, Jordan remains an influential player in the region.
“There is no reconciliation or agreement with the rebels. We will fight until the militia ends, or we end,” Al-Burhan said in a video speech posted by the sovereign council on its Telegram account on Friday.
“Our battle continues until every site in Sudan is restored,” said the SAF commander.
Al-Burhan welcomed a popular campaign, or the “Sudanese Popular Resistance.” “We welcome the popular resistance, and we will arm them, but the weapons must be legalized and registered by the armed forces,” he said.
He, meanwhile, criticized the recently signed declaration between the RSF and Coordination of Civilian Democratic Forces (Taqaddum), a Sudanese political coalition led by former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok.
“The politicians who signed an agreement with RSF made a mistake by talking to rebels,” said Al-Burhan, noting that “the politicians’ agreement with the RSF is unacceptable and valueless.”
On Jan. 2, the RSF and the Taqaddum signed the “Addis Ababa Declaration” to stop the war in Sudan.
According to the declaration, the RSF is prepared to immediately and unconditionally cease hostilities through direct talks with the Sudanese army.
The two parties to the declaration also stressed that sustainable peace in Sudan must be based on ending the multiplicity of armies and forming one professional army.
Sudan has been witnessing deadly clashes between the SAF and the RSF since April 15, 2023. More than 12,000 people have been killed in the fighting, according to a statement by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in December last year.
This concern arises after Ndayishimiye’s speech on December 31, 2023 (reported on January 1, 2024), where he expressed intentions to close the border again, similar to the period from 2015 to 2021. The primary accusation against Rwanda is its alleged support for the RED Tabara group, suspected of carrying out attacks in the West of Burundi near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
President Ndayishimiye attributes these attacks to defectors from RED Tabara who sought refuge in Rwanda with the aim of overthrowing the Burundian government. Rwanda promptly denied these allegations, emphasizing its commitment to peace and refuting any involvement in actions detrimental to Burundi. Despite Ndayishimiye being initially perceived as a mediator fostering improved relations between the two nations since assuming power in 2020, the sudden shift in his stance has raised questions.
The RED Tabara fighters’ entry into Burundi at the Gatumba border, coupled with the complex route through South Kivu, Congo, raises suspicions about the accusations against Rwanda. This sudden change in Ndayishimiye’s approach is particularly noteworthy given his initial role as a peacemaker between Rwanda and Burundi.
Ndayishimiye’s change in stance can be attributed to three main factors. Firstly, the ideological differences between the CNDD-FDD party in power in Burundi, which identifies itself as Hutu-centric, and Rwanda, which has moved away from ethnic-based politics since 1994. Secondly, the shame, economic challenges, and alleged involvement of the Burundian army in Congo’s affairs, motivated by internal economic issues, including a shortage of foreign currency. Thirdly, the influence of invisible external forces, potentially Western countries opposing the 2021 cooperation agreement between Rwanda and Congo, which included mutual benefits in resource processing and infrastructure development.
This unseen force, reminiscent of previous interference in the region, seems to have played a role in altering the dynamics between Burundi and Rwanda. The agreement signed between Congo and Burundi in July 2023, with Ndayishimiye seemingly sacrificing his role as a mediator in Congo’s issues, reflects this external influence. The narrative of Rwanda aiding RED Tabara, without substantiated evidence, appears to be a result of Ndayishimiye’s alignment with these external forces and his awareness of Congo’s cooperation with the FDLR, a group linked to the Rwandan genocide.
Ndayishimiye’s abrupt change in approach is multifaceted, involving ideological differences, economic challenges, and external influences that have reshaped the relations between Burundi and Rwanda. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical landscape in the Great Lakes region.
