This week in Rwanda
Rwanda actively pursued international engagement and economic development this week, submitting its candidacy to lead the ITU Council, hosting the Africa Forward Summit with France, and strengthening trade ties with Botswana and Tanzania. Domestically, the government launched initiatives to create 500,000 youth jobs and support women-led businesses, while also addressing compensation for the Muvumba water project. Regional news highlighted efforts to ban hate speech in North Kivu and concerns over rising genocide ideology in the DR Congo.
About Rwanda
Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills" for its stunning topography, Rwanda has made remarkable strides in development and conservation, particularly with its endangered mountain gorillas. Despite its natural beauty and growing tourism, the country operates under an authoritarian government that maintains tight control over information, significantly shaping its news coverage and limiting independent press. Its recent history, marked by the 1994 genocide, continues to influence its societal and political landscape.
Visiting Rwanda
Media landscape
The media environment in Rwanda is heavily controlled by the government, with little to no significant independent press. News outlets largely reflect official messaging, limiting diverse perspectives and critical reporting.
When consuming news from Rwanda, be aware that coverage often aligns with government narratives; seek out international sources for broader perspectives.
Sources we track 1
Over 160 young women graduate as OSO turns skills into renewed prospects
- Over 160 young women graduated from OSO's skills training program in Gakenke District. - The program aims to equip participants with practical skills, offering renewed prospects for their future. - …
80, including public servants, arrested in illicit alcohol crackdown
- Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has arrested 80 suspects, including public servants, for alleged involvement in illicit alcohol production and distribution. - The crackdown targets the manufacturi…
Rwandans back crackdown on illicit alcohol
- Rwandans are expressing support for the government's crackdown on illicit alcoholic beverages. - Health experts, parents, and individuals affected by the issue have shared their reactions. - The gov…
Nduhungirehe outlines Rwanda’s diplomatic push, regional priorities
- Rwanda is focusing on rebuilding strategic partnerships and strengthening regional economic integration as key diplomatic priorities for 2026. - The government aims to advance its development agenda…
Pentagon UFO Files Show Mysterious Orb Zipping Over Homes
- The Pentagon has released a new batch of declassified files related to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). - These files include previously unseen footage and documents detailing mysterious objects…
Umuganura festival symbolizes national unity, says Rwandan minister
- Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, urged Rwandans to view Umuganura as a moment for national reflection. - He emphasized the importance of unity…
Disability rights groups seek action on UPR recommendations in Kigali
- Disability rights groups gathered in Kigali for a workshop to discuss recommendations from the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). - The event aimed to foster action and ensure that the UPR recommendat…
Over 20 alcohol brands recalled, 12 companies closed as crackdown continues
- Rwanda's Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) ordered the recall of over 20 alcohol brands. - Twelve manufacturing facilities were shut down as part of an ongoing crackdown. - The action targets su…
Agric minister explains plan to fast-track food innovation drive
- Rwanda's Minister of State for Agriculture and Animal Resources, Solange Uwituze, outlined a plan to accelerate food innovation. - The minister spoke at a meeting on July 20, emphasizing the drive t…
5,000 dropouts join upper secondary catch-up programme
- The RISE program in Rwanda aims to help young people who have been out of school for at least three years. - This initiative targets individuals who dropped out of S4, S5, or S6. - The program provi…
Rwf110bn secured for climate resilience project in volcanoes region
- Rwanda has secured 110 billion Rwandan francs (approximately €65 million) for a climate resilience project in the volcanoes region. - The funding agreement was signed by the Minister of Finance, the…
First human trial begins for Bundibugyo Ebola vaccine
- Moderna has initiated the first human trial for an experimental vaccine targeting the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. - Currently, there is no approved vaccine available for this specific strain of Ebol…
Rwandan farmers praise organic method for boosting cassava yields tenfold
- Cassava farmers in Rwanda's Ruhango and Bugesera districts have significantly increased their yields. - By adopting an organic method involving wider spacing, farmers now harvest 80-100 kilograms of…
Standards body withdraws S-Mark for over 80 alcoholic beverages
- The Rwanda Standards Board (RSB) has revoked the certification licenses for over 80 alcoholic beverages. - Ingufu Gin Ltd is among the 47 alcoholic beverage manufacturing companies affected by the w…
Over 130 companies closed as crackdown on illicit alcohol widens
- Rwanda FDA announced the closure of 27 companies involved in illicit alcohol production and distribution. - The crackdown is part of an ongoing effort to combat illegal beverages. - Seizures of illi…
PAC urges legal action as audit exposes spending gaps
- The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Rwanda has recommended legal action against public institutions that failed to account for government funds. - The audit revealed spending gaps and a lack of p…
What data reveals about alcohol consumption in Rwanda
- Alcohol consumption in Rwanda is most prevalent among older adults, rural residents, and individuals from poorer households, according to the latest Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey. - The surve…
Fearing for safety, Nigerian man flees South Africa, leaving family behind
- Richard Itoro, a Nigerian man, fled South Africa fearing for his safety amidst rising anti-migrant sentiment and protests. - He is uncertain when he will be reunited with his wife and twin children …
AI race will be won by infrastructure controllers, not just algorithm creators, says Prateek Suri
- Prateek Suri, Chairman of Maser Group, argues that control over AI infrastructure, not just algorithms, will determine the winners in the artificial intelligence race. - He suggests that companies f…
Rwanda enlists artists in campaign against alcohol and drug abuse
- The Rwandan government is enlisting artists to help combat alcohol and drug abuse. - A dialogue session brought together government officials, musicians, and other stakeholders. - The initiative aim…
RIB, govt spox shed light on closure of alcohol manufacturers
- Rwanda's government and the Rwanda Investigation Bureau are clarifying the reasons behind the closure of alcohol manufacturers. - The closures are linked to inspections and potential violations of r…
MPs ratify continental disaster preparedness agreement
- The Chamber of Deputies has approved a draft law to ratify the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Agreement. - The agreement aims to enhance continental disaster preparedness. - The ratification signifies …
Gov't to let farmers, buyers decide milk prices
- Rwanda's government will stop setting farm-gate milk prices, allowing farmers and buyers to negotiate directly. - This policy change aims to ensure fair prices for dairy farmers and stimulate the se…
Water abstraction permits explained
- A water abstraction permit is required for anyone taking water from natural sources like rivers, lakes, or groundwater. - This applies to individuals, companies, institutions, and organizations. - T…
Rwanda FDA closes 111 facilities in crackdown on illicit alcohol
- Rwanda's Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has ordered the closure of 111 facilities for producing illicit alcoholic beverages. - The authority also revoked the manufacturing licenses of these establis…
New academy launched in Kigali to train Africa’s women leaders
- A new academy has launched in Kigali, Rwanda, to train women leaders across Africa. - The initiative aims to nurture the next generation of female political leaders on the continent. - The academy's…
How life abroad deepened one man's bond with Rwanda
- John Kalisa received a Lifetime Community Service Award for his work uniting Rwandans in the US. - Kalisa's efforts focused on fostering connections among the Rwandan diaspora in the United States. …
Parliament Flags Seven Gaps in Labour Mobility Policy
- A parliamentary committee identified seven shortcomings in Rwanda's labor mobility policy. - Remittances from Rwandans abroad significantly increased between 2020 and 2025. - The committee's finding…
Rwanda to Phase Out Asbestos Roofing by 2027
- Rwanda plans to complete the removal of asbestos roofing from public and private buildings by the end of the 2026/27 fiscal year. - The nationwide exercise aims to eliminate asbestos, a known carcin…
Minister Habimana Urges Iwawa Rehab Trainees to Shun Illicit Brews
- Minister of Local Government Dominique Habimana visited the Iwawa Rehabilitation Centre. - He urged trainees at the center to avoid illicit brews and engage in productive activities. - The minister …
Rwanda Announces Education Reforms for 2026-2027 School Year
- Rwanda's Ministry of Education has announced new reforms set to be implemented starting the 2026-2027 academic year. Details of the upcoming changes were released on Saturday, August 1. The reforms …
Rwandan investors eye Gabon farmland for agricultural development
- Rwandan investors are planning to utilize farmland in Gabon. - The initiative aims to foster agricultural development and economic cooperation between the two nations. - This collaboration is expect…
Rwanda Adjusts Public School Fees to Match Cost of Living
- The minister of education, Joseph Nsengimana, announced adjustments to public school fees. - These adjustments are intended to align school fees with the current cost of living. - The changes were r…
MPs call for age-appropriate teaching of Genocide history
- Rwandan lawmakers are calling for the age-appropriate teaching of the history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. - The initiative aims to ensure younger generations understand this critical per…
MTN Rwanda upgrades network with VoLTE for better call quality and digital access
- MTN Rwanda is upgrading its network with Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology. - The upgrade aims to enhance call quality and digital connectivity for customers. - This move supports Rwanda's broader d…
Political leaders pay tribute to former Speaker Mukabalisa
- Donatille Mukabalisa, a prominent Rwandan politician and former Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, has passed away. - Mukabalisa also served as the Chairperson of the Liberal Party (PL). - Politica…
Govt renews efforts to tackle alcohol abuse among youth
- Rwanda National Police report at least 50 deaths since early 2026 due to illicit alcohol consumption. - Over 100 individuals have suffered vision problems from the same cause. - The government is in…
Rwanda and Belarus Discuss Expanding Bilateral Cooperation
- Rwanda and Belarus are exploring avenues to deepen their bilateral cooperation. - Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko identified key sectors with potential for collaboration between the two na…
‘Be problem solvers, not complainers,’ Kagame tells youth
- Rwandan President Paul Kagame urged the nation's youth to become proactive problem solvers. - He encouraged them to take initiative, collaborate, and actively seek solutions rather than merely compl…
How bat conservation protects people and nature
- Many people fear bats due to misconceptions, but wildlife experts state these fears are often unfounded. - Conservationists are encouraging communities to reconsider their negative perceptions of ba…
Analysts tackle DR Congo’s mineral resources, FDLR, governance failures
- Analysts say the Democratic Republic of Congo's mineral wealth alone cannot guarantee peace in its eastern regions. - They emphasize that addressing long-standing governance challenges is crucial fo…
PHOTOS: Dozens of former child combatants reunite with their families
- The Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) facilitated the reunion of 22 former child combatants with their families. - The event took place on Tuesday, July 28, in Musanze Distri…
PHOTOS: Thousands of Goma residents protest Tshisekedi's constitutional amendment project
- Thousands of residents in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, protested a proposed constitutional amendment. - The amendment could remove presidential term limits, allowing President Felix Tshiseked…
Kagame, senior RPF cadres reflect on party values, Rwanda's transformation
- President Paul Kagame met with senior RPF cadres to discuss the party's history and its role in Rwanda's transformation. - The meeting emphasized the RPF's values and its impact on the country's dev…
Government injects over Rwf200M for lightning protection in Karongi
- The Rwandan government has allocated over 200 million Rwandan francs to enhance lightning protection systems in Karongi District. - The initiative aims to safeguard schools and communities from the …
Why conservation is emerging as Africa’s next economic frontier
- Conservation is emerging as a significant economic opportunity in Africa. - The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) CEO, Kaddu Sebunya, discussed this potential in Kigali. - The interview focused on h…
Inside RICA's role in advancing Rwanda's farming through conservation agriculture
- Rwanda is advancing its agricultural sector through conservation agriculture initiatives. - The Conservation Agriculture Promotion Project, managed by MINAGRI, trains farmers in these sustainable pr…
Can a digital detox improve your health?
- A digital detox, which involves reducing screen time and disconnecting from digital devices, is being explored as a way to improve overall health. - The practice aims to combat the negative effects …
Minister Biruta Calls for Professionalism and Discipline Among Correctional Service Staff
- Rwanda's Minister of Interior, Vincent Biruta, urged Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) staff to uphold professionalism and discipline. - The call came during the closing of a three-day retreat for s…
'Medicine alone is not enough': First Lady calls for nutrition at the heart of patient care
- Rwanda's First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, has called for nutrition to be recognized as a fundamental aspect of patient care. - She spoke at an event celebrating the 15th anniversary of Solid Africa in …
Shelter Group Africa Marks 4 Million Injury-Free Man-Hours at Hospital Expansion Project
- Shelter Group Africa celebrated achieving 4 million man-hours without a lost-time injury at the King Faisal Hospital Expansion Project. - The milestone was marked on July 24 in Kigali, Rwanda. - Thi…
Mount Kigali University commissions Rwf300 million Ecosystem Access Road
- Mount Kigali University (MKUR) has commissioned a new Ecosystem Access Road. - The infrastructure project is valued at over Rwf300 million. - The road is expected to improve access to the university…
Family disputes fuelling children's mental health crisis - experts
- Experts in Rwanda assert that most childhood mental health issues stem from family conflict and other environmental factors, not biological conditions. - They highlight that these preventable issues…
Key projects to be funded through Rwf288bn financing packages in Rwanda
- Rwanda has secured financing packages totaling Rwf288 billion to fund key development projects. - The funding aims to support critical initiatives across various sectors within the country. - Specif…
Rwanda and Oman Boost Ties with Launch of Direct Flights
- Rwanda and Oman have strengthened their partnership with the launch of direct flights between Muscat and Kigali. - SalamAir now operates direct flights, facilitating easier travel and trade between …
Bill Gates urges early AI rollout in Africa to narrow health gap
- Bill Gates advocates for the early adoption of artificial intelligence in Africa. - He believes AI can significantly improve healthcare access and outcomes across the continent. - Gates emphasized t…
First Lady says solutions to maternal deaths exist, delivery is the problem
- First Lady Jeannette Kagame stated that solutions to prevent maternal deaths already exist. - She emphasized that the problem lies in the ineffective delivery of these existing solutions. - Kagame h…
Why top grades no longer guarantee jobs
- Marie Ritha Umutoni graduated with top honors in Embedded Computing Systems from the University of Rwanda in 2023. - Despite her first-class degree, she found that academic achievements alone did no…
REMA to Extend emissions testing to factories
- Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) plans to implement stricter emissions testing for industrial facilities. - The move aims to improve environmental standards within the country's indust…
Cost of planned Bugesera nuclear science centre cut to $500 million
- Rwanda's planned Centre for Nuclear Science and Technology (CNST) has had its cost estimate reduced. - The initial estimate was $800 million, but it has now been revised down to approximately $500 m…
Investment Needed to Double Black Soldier Fly Feed Production
- Doubling the production of animal feed from black soldier fly (BSF) larvae requires increased investment and better financing. - Stronger waste collection systems and more efficient processing are a…
Rwanda Urges Joint Effort to Develop Children's Reading Habits Amid Digital Age
- Stakeholders in Rwanda are urging parents, schools, and policymakers to collaborate on fostering a reading culture among children. - The initiative emphasizes the importance of reading habits despit…
Bill Gates in Rwanda to explore health, AI progress
- Bill Gates is visiting Rwanda to assess progress in key development areas. - His visit focuses on advancements in health, artificial intelligence, and digital public infrastructure. - Gates chairs t…
Mankind creates first global intergovernmental AI cooperation organization
- Shanghai is set to host the 2026 World AI Conference (WAIC) and a High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance. - The events, scheduled from Friday to Monday, mark a significant AI moment for the city…
Rwanda National Investment Trust eyes higher returns for Iterambere Fund
- The Rwanda National Investment Trust is considering raising the annual returns for its RNIT-Iterambere Fund. - The proposed increase is subject to regulatory approval and current macroeconomic condi…
Nyandungu Eco-Park sees visitor numbers more than double after restoration
- Nyandungu Eco-Park in Rwanda has seen a significant increase in visitors since its restoration. - In 2025, the park welcomed over 111,000 visitors, a substantial rise from approximately 48,000 in 20…
Kigali to host 6th edition of renewable energy summit to advance Africa’s sustainable growth
- Kigali, Rwanda, will host the 6th edition of the Renewable Energy for Sustainable Growth (RE4SG) Summit in 2026. - The summit aims to bring together global energy leaders, policymakers, investors, a…
Rwanda Equips Teachers to Identify Disabilities in Young Learners
- Over 4,200 teachers in Rwanda have completed specialized training. - The training focuses on the early identification and support of children with disabilities. - This initiative aims to strengthen …
Kigali Set to Host Major Roman Catholic Conference
- Kigali, Rwanda, will host a major conference for the Catholic Church's communication arm, SIGNIS. - The event highlights the Church's dedication to using communication for evangelism. - Cardinal Ant…
What to know about Rift Valley Fever as Rwanda responds to latest outbreak
- Rwanda is responding to a Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreak in its Eastern Province. - The disease was first confirmed in livestock in Rwanda in 2012, and this is the latest outbreak. - The article p…
Rwanda Praised for Investor Relations and Debt Transparency
- Rwanda has been recognized by the Institute of International Finance (IIF) for its strong performance in sovereign investor relations and debt transparency. - The US-based IIF report places Rwanda a…
Language barrier challenges litigants in Rwandan courts
- Rwandan courts primarily operate in Kinyarwanda, posing challenges for non-Rwandan litigants. - Many individuals involved in legal proceedings do not understand the national language. - This linguis…
Rwanda's NIDA registers nearly 9,000 diaspora members for digital ID
- The National Identification Agency (NIDA) is extending digital ID registration to Rwandans living abroad. - Nearly 9,000 diaspora members have enrolled in the e-Ndangamuntu system so far. - Special …
Sawa City shoppers access Kuku Yacu chicken through SPAR partnership
- SPAR International has partnered with Kuku Yacu, a local Rwandan chicken producer, at its Sawa City store in Kigali. - The partnership aims to offer shoppers a retail experience that combines global…
Rwandan Engineer Boosts IT Graduate Employability
- A Rwandan engineer is bridging the skills gap for IT graduates through practical training. - OfficeHomeTechX academy equips students with real-world ICT skills using hands-on projects. - The initiat…
Rwanda Prepares for Local Government Elections
- Rwanda's National Electoral Commission is preparing for upcoming local government elections. - Oda Gasinzigwa, the commission's chairperson, has been speaking with journalists about the preparations…
Kigali Launches $5 Million Drive for Cancer Scanner with Rotary Club
- The City of Kigali and the Rotary Club have launched a joint initiative to raise $5 million for a new cancer scanner. - The launch event, the Kigali Cancer Walk 2026, took place on July 15. - The fu…
Why Rwanda chose Aston Villa to spearhead its UK tourism push
Rwanda has chosen Aston Villa Football Club to lead its tourism promotion efforts in the United Kingdom. This partnership aims to boost tourism in Rwanda by leveraging the global reach of the Premier …
DR Congo deploys ceasefire monitoring team to Goma amid ongoing fighting
- A ceasefire monitoring team has been deployed to Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo. - The deployment aims to support peace efforts in the eastern part of the country. - Fighting continues in …
Fitnesspoint launches first summer camp to keep children active and learning
- Fitnesspoint has launched its inaugural Summer Camp to keep children engaged and learning during the break. - The camp aims to provide an active and educational experience for children throughout th…
ICPAR sanctions seven audit firms, eight practitioners over quality failures
- The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) has imposed sanctions on seven audit firms and eight practitioners. - These actions follow a 2025 audit quality assurance review that …
Muvumba Dam Project Crucial for Nyagatare's Agricultural Growth
- The Muvumba dam project in Nyagatare District, Rwanda, aims to address long-standing water scarcity challenges impacting agriculture. - The dam is crucial for boosting agricultural productivity and …
Radisson Blu, KCC mark decade of driving hospitality growth, community impact
- Radisson Blu Hotel and Kigali Convention Centre (KCC) are celebrating their 10th anniversary. - Their opening in 2016 symbolized Rwanda's ambition to become a hub for international conferences and b…
Turning satellite data into solutions for farmers, cities and mines
- Two Rwandan engineers, Samuel Ishimwe and Eric Ibyishaka, are developing innovative solutions using satellite data. - Their work aims to address challenges in agriculture, urban planning, and the mi…
Tanzania set to receive first direct shipment of 40,000 tonnes of fuel
- The Tanzanian government is set to receive its first direct shipment of refined petroleum products. - A vessel carrying 40,000 tonnes is expected to arrive at the Port of Tanga. - This marks a signi…
Rwanda allocates over $50 million for fertilizer subsidies in 2026-27
- Rwanda plans to spend over 64 billion Rwandan francs (approximately $50 million USD) on fertilizer subsidies in the 2026-27 fiscal year. - The subsidy program aims to support farmers and boost agric…
Rwanda achieves full interoperability with eKash payment system
- Rwanda has achieved full interoperability with the eKash payment system. - This integration allows for seamless transactions across different financial platforms. - The move is expected to enhance f…
Rwanda plans to expand services at health posts
- Rwanda's Ministry of Health plans to reform health posts to offer expanded services. - The reforms aim to address staffing shortages and enhance the use of technology. - These changes are intended t…
Farmers turn to black soldier flies for cheaper fertilizer, feed
- Rwandan farmers are using black soldier flies to produce cheaper fertilizer and animal feed. - Kitchen waste and vegetable scraps are fed to the flies, reducing landfill. - This innovative approach …
PM urges faster work on Muvumba dam project
- Rwandan Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva urged the contractor of the Muvumba Multipurpose Dam Project to accelerate work and recover lost time. - The dam project, intended to boost irrigation and e…
National exams: How learners with disabilities get extra support
- Learners with disabilities in Rwanda receive extra support during national examinations. - Special accommodations include extended time, scribes, and separate rooms. - The goal is to ensure equitabl…
Bugesera quarry tragedy: Bereaved families recount their ordeal
- Bereaved families in Bugesera are recounting their experiences following a tragic quarry collapse. - The incident claimed the lives of multiple individuals, leaving their families to cope with profo…
Rwandan students win awards in Rosatom nuclear science contest
- Two students from the University of Rwanda won awards in the 2026 Atoms Empowering Africa Video Contest. - The competition was organized by Russian energy company Rosatom. - The contest aimed to pro…
Airtel Rwanda, Watu make smartphones more accessible with new financing deal
- Airtel Rwanda and Watu have launched a new smartphone financing initiative to make devices more accessible. - The partnership aims to provide flexible payment options for customers in Rwanda. - This…
Govt steps up measures to shield agriculture from global shocks
- The Rwandan government is intensifying measures to safeguard its agriculture sector from global economic and climate-related shocks. - Key investments are being directed towards enhancing irrigation…
You are now entitled to better reward if you report tax evasion
- Rwanda has updated its policy to offer increased rewards for individuals reporting tax evasion. - Whistleblowers will now receive a reward equivalent to five percent of the principal tax recovered b…
Floating solar panels on Nyabarongo dam could generate 200MW: PM
- Floating solar panels on the Nyabarongo dam could potentially generate 200 megawatts of power. - The Prime Minister visited the Nyabarongo II Hydropower Project, which is currently under constructio…
Why exercise matters during pregnancy
- Staying active during pregnancy was a hard-learned lesson for Alice Kamanzi Muberarugo after a previous miscarriage. - She found that exercise helped manage her health and well-being throughout her …
Major water projects to double supply by 2029
- Rwanda's government plans to significantly increase treated water production capacity by 2029. - The goal is to raise daily output from over 367,000 cubic meters in 2026 to more than 688,000 cubic m…
What's holding back Kigali's settlement sites?
- Landowners in Kigali's planned settlement sites are concerned about delays in approving physical plans. - These prolonged delays are preventing landowners from developing their properties. - The unc…
