🇷🇼 The New Times
Rwanda · EN · https://www.newtimes.co.rw
About The New Times
The New Times describes itself as Rwanda's largest private media organization, established in 1995 to inform and promote peace and development. However, Human Rights Watch described it as a state-owned newspaper in 2009, and President Paul Kagame has publicly stated the paper was 'too servile to him and his party'.
Reporters Without Borders consistently ranks Rwanda low on the World Press Freedom Index, noting pervasive self-censorship and tight government control over media. Freedom House reports that the government imposes legal restrictions and informal controls on the press, with journalists often self-censoring. A critical analysis from 2025 described The New Times as a 'known mouthpiece for Rwanda's authoritarian regime' that employs 'distortion, selective omission, and emotional manipulation'. The outlet's headlines often convey optimistic stories about events in Rwanda, aligning with government messaging.
Reading context
Media systems vary by law, ownership, and editorial custom. We preserve each outlet's framing and add context so readers can compare coverage without treating one country as the default.
Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club marks growth, honours service at presidential installation
- Fishermen and restaurant owners in Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, are demanding that Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) replace its marine outfall pipes. - They cite ongoing pollution from the refinery's waste, whic…
Parliament approves over Rwf140bn for urban mobility development
- Rwanda's Parliament has approved over 140 billion Rwandan francs to fund urban mobility development projects. - The approved funds are intended to improve urban transport systems, with a specific fo…
Experts Call for Targeted Training to Improve Learning Outcomes
- Experts highlight ineffective teaching methods, limited reading materials, and overcrowded classrooms as key challenges to student learning outcomes. - They call for targeted training programs to ad…
As aid shrinks, Africa looks inward to finance development
- African nations are seeking internal solutions to fund development projects. - This shift comes as foreign aid budgets shrink and donor priorities change. - Strategies include mobilizing pension fun…
Rwanda Poised to Release First Biotech Crops
- Rwanda is nearing the release of its first genetically modified (biotech) crops. - The initiative aims to improve crop yields and resilience, addressing food security challenges. - The development m…
Murangwa urges shift from aid to private investment
- Rwanda's Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, is advocating for a shift from aid-dependent models to attracting private investment. - Murangwa spoke at a Convention on South-So…
Why developing countries are turning to each other for solutions
- Developing nations are increasingly collaborating to find solutions to shared challenges. - This trend fosters new opportunities for knowledge exchange, policy learning, and the transfer of domestic…
UNDP sees South-South cooperation as key development driver, Rwanda as model
- The UN Development Programme (UNDP) identifies South-South cooperation as a crucial driver for global development. - Rwanda is presented as a model country for this type of cooperation, demonstratin…
CMA Rwanda, SEC Nigeria seal deal to advance African capital markets
- The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) of Rwanda and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Nigeria have signed a cooperation agreement. - The deal aims to advance capital markets across Afric…
10,000 Rwandans could be repatriated from DR Congo in 2026 - officials
- Rwanda and officials from the Democratic Republic of Congo have agreed to repatriate approximately 10,000 Rwandans in 2026. - The agreement was signed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with Rwanda represent…
Nduhungirehe Urges Knowledge Transfer at First South-South, Triangular Convention
- Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Olivier Nduhungirehe called for knowledge transfer during the first South-South and Triangular Cooperation convention. - Nduhungirehe stated t…
Rwanda's Export Crop Production Surges in Q1, Fisher Global Leads Chili Exports
- Fisher Global Ltd saw a significant rise in chili export volumes during the first quarter of 2026. - The agriculture export company, based in Rwamagana District, reported increased production of exp…
What will it take for Africa to achieve open skies?
- African nations agreed to liberalize air travel over two decades ago, but the continent's skies remain poorly connected. - Despite repeated commitments, the full implementation of the Single African…
I&M Bank, AIMS Rwanda partner to drive AI, data analytics and youth innovation
- I&M Bank (Rwanda) Plc and AIMS Rwanda have partnered to foster innovation. - The collaboration will focus on advancing artificial intelligence, data analytics, and youth innovation. - This initiativ…
What makes tungsten a highly soughter-after mineral?
- Trinity Metals, Rwanda's largest mining company, reports that its tungsten exports now meet a significant portion of U.S. demand. - Exports from the Nyakabingo Tungsten Mine account for up to 20 per…
Five schools awarded in national Kinyarwanda competition
- Five schools in Rwanda received awards in a national competition focused on the Kinyarwanda language. - The competition aimed to promote and preserve the use of the Kinyarwanda language among studen…
Five-year plan proposed to combat hate speech
- Rwanda is proposing a five-year plan to combat hate speech. - The plan was announced during an event marking the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. - The initiative aims to address the is…
DR Congo crisis: Bisimwa criticises mediators for 'babysitting' Kinshasa
- Bertrand Bisimwa, deputy coordinator of the AFC/M23, criticized mediators in the Doha peace process for their approach to the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. - Bisimwa stated that medi…
Zimbabwe case sparks calls for fairer carbon markets ahead of Africa summit in Kigali
- A dispute over Zimbabwe's carbon credits has highlighted uncertainties in international carbon market rules. - The issue has prompted calls for fairer markets ahead of an Africa summit in Kigali. - …
Rwanda Voices Concerns Over Burundi, FDLR Role in DRC Crisis at UN
- Rwanda has expressed concerns to the UN Human Rights Council regarding Burundi and the role of the FDLR in the Democratic Republic of Congo. - Ambassador Urujeni Bakuramutsa presented Rwanda's posit…
RALGA Pushes for Data-Driven Governance to Improve Service Delivery
- The Rwanda Local Government Association (RALGA) is advocating for data-driven governance to improve service delivery. - Over 300 participants gathered to discuss how data can enhance decision-making…
In the age of scrolling, neurobranding gives brands a competitive edge – expert
- A neurobranding expert advises business leaders to adapt their brand strategies in the current digital landscape. - The expert highlights the increasing difficulty in capturing consumer attention du…
Rwandan youth urged to seize global opportunities at Youth Festival
- Rwandan youth are encouraged to leverage global opportunities presented at the World Youth Festival. - Amina Khubieva, Chief Advisor for African Countries at the festival directorate, highlighted th…
Kagame explains frequent official replacements at swearing-in ceremony
- Rwandan President Paul Kagame addressed newly appointed officials during a swearing-in ceremony. - The ceremony took place at Village Urugwiro on Wednesday, June 17. - Kagame's remarks focused on th…
New generation of African leaders must end cycles of failure - ASG President Gatare
- African leaders must break cycles of failure to foster progress, according to Francis Gatare, CEO of Rwanda's Development Board. - Gatare emphasized the need for strategic vision, effective implemen…
Rwanda now supplies 20% of US tungsten demand
- Rwanda is now supplying 20 percent of the United States' demand for tungsten. - This supply comes from the Trinity Metals' Nyakabingo Mine. - The arrival of tungsten concentrate from Rwanda was witn…
Rwanda-South Africa talks offer opportunity for a new start, analysts say
- Rwanda and South Africa are set to hold talks in Pretoria on Wednesday, June 17, aiming for a new beginning in their bilateral relations. - South African Minister of International Relations and Coop…
Day of African Child: Parents urged to be positive role models
- Rwandan parents are urged to serve as positive role models for their children on the International Day of the African Child. - The call emphasizes the importance of parental guidance in shaping chil…
Kigali Wetlands Park Nears Completion With Cycling Network, Zipline Plans
- Kigali Wetlands Park is nearing completion with over 90% of its rehabilitation done. - The park aims to generate revenue through eco-tourism by developing cycling networks and a zipline. - The proje…
Rwanda's Financial Sector Has Female Leaders, But Path to the Top Remains Uneven
- Rwanda's financial sector shows strong female leadership, outperforming global averages. - Women hold high representation in executive and board positions. - A new study indicates the path to the hi…
Rwanda Pursues UNESCO Global Geopark Status for Northern Region
- Rwanda is pursuing UNESCO Global Geopark status for an area in its Northern Province. - The effort is in its early stages and requires strong support from various stakeholders. - Achieving this stat…
Men's Mental Health Month Focuses on Financial Worries and Historical Support Tools
- Mental health awareness campaigns are highlighting historical tools and methods used to support individuals facing mental health challenges. - The initiative coincides with Men's Mental Health Month…
EASF experts meet in Kigali to harmonize air operations guidelines
- Experts from the Eastern African Standby Force (EASF) convened in Kigali, Rwanda, to harmonize air operations guidelines. - The meeting aimed to enhance coordination and effectiveness in regional ai…
Kagame urges greater air connectivity to unlock Africa’s economic potential
- Rwandan President Paul Kagame is advocating for increased air connectivity across Africa. - He believes enhanced air travel is crucial for unlocking the continent's economic potential. - Kagame atte…
Rwanda certifies its first cohort of directors, boosting corporate governance
- Rwanda has certified its first cohort of directors, marking a significant step in corporate governance. - The certification program aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of directors. - This init…
UNECA's Gatete on debt, Africa's fight for a fairer financial order
- Amb. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), discussed debt and Africa's pursuit of a fairer global financial system. - The conversation took place at th…
Experts: Ending Stigma Key to Tackling Drug Addiction
Experts emphasize that ending the stigma surrounding drug addiction is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Stigma prevents individuals from seeking help and isolates them from support system…
Debt, receivership loom as Rwanda's Century Park Hotel faces closure over safety flaws
- The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) temporarily closed Century Park Hotel & Residences on June 4, citing food safety and hygiene shortcomings. - The closure has led to debt and receivership issues fo…
Six Rwandans among top 100 finalists of Africa’s Business Heroes
- Six Rwandan entrepreneurs have been selected among the Top 100 finalists for the Africa's Business Heroes competition. - The competition, backed by the Jack Ma Foundation, celebrates Africa's most i…
Rwanda renews appeal to UN for return of ICTR archives to Kigali
- Rwanda has urged the UN Security Council to transfer the archives of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR) to Kigali. - The country argues that the archives, currently held in Arusha…
Rwandan peacekeepers provide free medical services to South Sudan civilians
- Rwandan peacekeepers provided free medical services to over 200 South Sudanese civilians. - The initiative, part of the UN Mission in South Sudan, offered consultations, treatments, and medication. …
Nearly Rwf1bn raised in Dusangire Lunch campaign
- The 'Dusangire Lunch' campaign, meaning 'Let Us Share Lunch,' successfully raised nearly Rwf1 billion. - The funds raised are designated to support Rwanda's national school feeding program. - The ca…
Why the global financial architecture is unfair to Africa
- Africa faces an unfair global financial system that hinders its development. - The UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is working to reform this architecture. - Addressing these systemic issues …
From Losses to Profit: SPOKE Cold-Chain Model Reshapes Rural Farming in Kenya
- A cooperative of about 20 vegetable farmers in Lari, Kenya, transformed from significant losses in early 2025 to profitability within a year. - The cooperative's success is attributed to the SPOKE c…
Rwanda Rejects HRW Allegations in 'Selective' DR Congo Report
- Rwanda has refuted allegations made in a recent Human Rights Watch (HRW) report concerning abuses in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). - The Rwandan government accuses HRW of selective scrutin…
Kigali's Nyabugogo Taxi Park upgrade gets $100 million cabinet approval
- The cabinet has approved $100 million for upgrading the Nyabugogo Taxi Park in Kigali. - The project aims to transform the hub into a modern, climate-resilient facility. - This upgrade is part of a …
Amb. Gatete on Africa's potential to create jobs for over 50m youth
- Ambassador Claver Gatete highlighted Africa's potential to create over 50 million jobs for its youth. - The UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Executive Secretary spoke at the Africa Developmen…
YouthConnekt Africa Summit returns to Kigali
- The YouthConnekt Africa Summit is returning to Kigali, Rwanda, for its eighth edition. - The summit will take place from November 25 to 27. - Under the theme “Shape the Generational Mission,” the ev…
Inside Rwanda’s new virtual assets law primed to protect investors, consumers
- Rwanda has enacted a new law to regulate virtual asset businesses, aiming to protect investors and consumers. - The legislation establishes a legal framework for companies dealing with cryptocurrenc…
€15m vaccine clinical trial on mosquito-borne viral disease launched
- A €15 million clinical trial for a vaccine against a mosquito-borne viral disease has been launched. - The trial aims to develop a vaccine to combat diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. - Dr. Menelas…
Rwanda Targets 50% Sugar Self-Sufficiency as Producer Boosts Output
- Rwanda's sole major sugar producer, Kabuye Sugar Works, has increased its output over the past three seasons. - The government is targeting 50% sugar self-sufficiency. - This effort aims to bolster …
AI, online learning drive call for law review
- Rwanda's Higher Education Council (HEC) is pushing for an education law review. - The review aims to integrate advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and online learning. - The goal is to ensu…
Digital fraud in Rwanda declines below global average
- Suspected digital fraud involving consumers in Rwanda decreased significantly from 2.7% in 2024 to 1.6% in 2025, according to a newly published report. - This decline indicates a positive trend in c…
EVP Charger Powers Rwanda's EV Transition with Extensive Charging Network
- EVP Charger operates approximately 95 superfast direct charging stations for electric motorcycles in Rwanda. - The company also manages nearly 20 superfast charging stations for electric cars. - The…
Cabinet makes 11 appointments in key institutions
- Rwanda's Cabinet has approved 11 new appointments across key public institutions. - These appointments include leadership positions in the Rwanda Development Board and the Higher Education Council. …
Rwanda Boosts Climate-Smart Farming with Subsidies
- The Rwandan government is supporting farmers in Kayonza District to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices. - Subsidies are available for essential farming infrastructure like damsheets, chopper…
NEC explains key reforms in new electoral law
- Rwanda's National Electoral Commission (NEC) is implementing key reforms to its electoral law. - These changes are based on lessons learned from the 2024 general elections and a comprehensive review…
Rwanda Slashes Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 1.5 Million Tonnes
- Rwanda has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 1.5 million tonnes through various mitigation measures. - Key strategies included promoting renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and implemen…
BPR Explores Financing to Shield Fuel Importers from Global Shocks
- BPR Bank Rwanda is exploring financing solutions to help fuel importers navigate rising costs and supply disruptions. - These challenges are linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, which impacts…
BPR Explores Financing to Cushion Fuel Importers from Global Shocks
- BPR Bank Rwanda is exploring financing solutions to assist fuel importers in managing rising costs and supply disruptions. - These challenges are linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, which im…
Kigali Golf Rotary Club Eyes Advanced Healthcare as Mutoni Takes Over
- The Rotary Club of Kigali Golf has launched a healthcare initiative to improve specialized treatment access for prostate and kidney stone conditions. - Julie Mutoni has taken over leadership of the …
Rwanda calls for country-focused, accountable UN reform
- Rwanda called for a United Nations reform focused on accountability and country-specific approaches. - Ambassador Martin Ngoga participated in a joint meeting of executive boards for several UN agen…
For patients facing long journeys, technology offers hope – and new challenges
- Patients in Rwanda seeking rehabilitation services often face long travel distances, sometimes exceeding 100 kilometers. - Technology offers potential solutions for these challenges but also introdu…
Rwanda warns of 'partiality' in US mediation of DR Congo conflict
- Rwanda's Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe warned against perceived bias in U.S. mediation efforts. - The minister expressed concerns about the impartiality of the U.S. in mediating the conflict…
Rwanda, Pakistan ink deal on nuclear energy regulation cooperation
- Rwanda and Pakistan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on nuclear energy regulation. - The agreement was signed between the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority and the Pakistan…
Rwanda, France ‘writing a new chapter’, says Kagame
- Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron met on Tuesday, June 2. - The leaders attended a dinner hosted by the Macrons at the Élysée Palace. - The meeting signifies a new c…
World Bank's IFC to back Adämaius' $500 million Virunga Africa Fund II
- The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank, will invest in Adämaius Capital Partners' Virunga Africa Fund II. - The fund aims to raise $500 million to invest in African busi…
Kagame: Paris memorial honors dignity and history of Rwandans
- Rwandan President Paul Kagame described the new memorial in France as a mark of respect for Rwandans' dignity and history. - The memorial is the first permanent one in France dedicated to victims of…
Shared infrastructure key to closing Africa’s $100bn digital gap — MTN senior executive
- MTN Group Senior Vice President Ebenezer Twum Asante stated that shared infrastructure is crucial for bridging Africa's $100 billion digital divide. - Asante highlighted the need for collaboration b…
From childhood curiosity to engineering leadership at Zipline
- Albertine Uwineza leads maintenance operations as a certified operations engineer at Zipline Muhanga. - Her journey to engineering leadership began with childhood curiosity. - Zipline operates drone…
Rwanda warns peace efforts in DR Congo risk failure without concrete action
- Rwanda urged the international community to take concrete action to resolve the crisis in eastern DR Congo. - Kigali warned that peace efforts risk failure without decisive steps from Kinshasa. - Th…
Banyamulenge and Tutsi communities protest violence in eastern DR Congo in Australia
- Members of the Banyamulenge and other Tutsi communities held demonstrations in Canberra, Australia. - The protests were organized to raise awareness about violence in the eastern Democratic Republic…
PM's office, ministries honor staff killed in Genocide against Tutsi
- The Prime Minister's office and various ministries honored former staff members who were killed during the Genocide against the Tutsi. - Wreaths were laid in a solemn ceremony to commemorate the vic…
World Connect Rwanda Showcases Power of Community-Led Development with 12 Projects
- World Connect successfully inaugurated 12 community-led development projects in Rwanda. - The projects were implemented in Gatovu IDP model village and Gataraga Sector, showcasing the power of commu…
East African Police SWAT Training Concludes in Rwanda
- A joint SWAT training exercise and advanced police special forces course for Eastern Africa concluded in Bugesera, Rwanda. - The training was organized by the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperatio…
Africa's $400 trillion resource wealth fails to spur widespread development
- Africa possesses vast mineral wealth estimated at $400 trillion, but this has not translated into widespread development across the continent. - The African Development Bank acknowledges this parado…
Rwanda trains veterinarians to speed up livestock insurance payouts
- Rwanda is training veterinarians in postmortem handling and loss assessment for livestock. - This initiative aims to expedite insurance payouts for farmers. - The training is part of efforts to impr…
UN honours Rwandan peacekeepers in South Sudan
- Rwandan peacekeepers serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) received UN service medals. - The ceremony recognized their dedication and contributions to peace in South Sudan. - The event…
FDLR-led attacks kill 10 civilians in eastern DR Congo
- At least 10 civilians were killed and 12 injured in attacks in eastern DR Congo. - The attacks are attributed to the FDLR militia and allied Wazalendo fighters. - The incident occurred in the easter…
Africa Day: Experts urge greater trust among states to spur trade
- Experts at an Africa Day event in Kigali urged African states to increase trust and cooperation to boost intra-Africa trade. - The discussion focused on regional integration as a key driver for sust…
Kigali seeks to maintain housing affordability amid rapid growth
- Kigali faces growing concerns about maintaining housing affordability as the city experiences rapid expansion and increased investment. - The city's growth attracts more residents, businesses, and i…
Kigali mulls expansion of bus routes as demand surges
- The City of Kigali is considering expanding its bus routes due to surging demand for public transport. - Residents are requesting wider coverage in underserved areas of the capital. - The expansion …
Rwanda set to benefit from Lake Victoria Basin conservation drive
- Rwanda is poised to benefit from a new conservation initiative focused on the Lake Victoria Basin. - The initiative aims to protect and manage the natural resources within the basin. - The Nyabarong…
Top 10 philanthropists transforming Africa through business and social impact in 2026
- A new generation of philanthropists is transforming Africa through business and social impact initiatives. - These leaders are driving change in healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship. - The up…
Africa's Youngest Billionaire Prateek Suri Signals Major Expansion in Mining Sector
- Africa's youngest billionaire, Prateek Suri, is planning a significant expansion of his mining operations across the continent. - Suri, Chairman of Maser Group and CEO of MDR Investments, recently m…
Study reveals blood type affects risk of early stroke
- A study suggests that blood type may influence an individual's risk of experiencing an early stroke. - Research indicates a potential link between certain blood types and a higher likelihood of stro…
Congolese Coalition Accused of Drone Attacks on Civilian Camp in North Kivu
- The Congolese government coalition is accused of using drones to attack civilian properties in Rumangabo, North Kivu province. - The alleged attacks occurred on Sunday, May 24, targeting civilian ar…
Pan-Africanists urge collective action on water crisis
- Pan-Africanists emphasize the need for collective action to address Africa's water and sanitation crisis. - They argue that without cooperation among governments, businesses, and citizens, the conti…
Rwanda to Celebrate Africa Day with Call for Unity, Home-Grown Solutions
- Rwanda will participate in the 62nd Africa Day celebrations on May 25. - The event will focus on promoting unity across the continent. - A key theme will be the development and implementation of hom…
First Lady Urges Leaders to Confront Genocide Denial, Hate Speech
- First Lady Jeannette Kagame called on leaders to actively combat genocide denial and hate speech. - She spoke at a consultative meeting focused on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and e…
DJ Toxxyk Handed 18-Month Sentence on Appeal
- DJ Toxxyk, whose real name is Arnaud Shema De Bosscher, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison. - The sentence was handed down by the Nyarugenge Intermediate Court on Friday, May 22. - The court'…
Kigali Police Destroy Over Rwf60 Million in Illicit Drugs and Products
- Police in Kigali, Rwanda, destroyed illicit drugs and other unlawful products valued at over Rwf60 million. - The operation was conducted in collaboration with local officials. - The destruction aim…
Uganda suspends flights from DR Congo over Ebola virus
- Uganda has suspended all flights to and from the Democratic Republic of Congo. - The measure is a response to the ongoing Ebola virus outbreak in both nations. - The suspension aims to prevent the f…
Gen. Rwivanga Takes Helm of East African Standby Force
- Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has taken over as the Director of the East African Standby Force (EASF). - The EASF is a regional security organization with a mandate fo…
African Leaders Explore Small Modular Reactors for Future Energy Needs
- African nations are exploring the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) to meet their growing energy demands. - Leaders including Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé of Togo, and …
RSSB Recovers 30% of Contribution Arrears in 2025
- The Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) successfully recovered 30% of its outstanding contribution arrears in 2025. - RSSB CEO Regis Rugemanshuro announced the recovery figures during a press confer…
New financing model key to Africa’s nuclear energy ambitions
- Africa is exploring nuclear energy to meet its growing power demands. - A recent summit in Kigali, Rwanda, focused on new financing models to support nuclear energy projects on the continent. - Deve…
Rwanda Steps Up Border Screening Amid Ebola Concerns in Neighboring Countries
- Rwanda has intensified screening measures at its border crossings with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. - These enhanced preventive measures are a response to confirmed Ebola cases in th…
Rwanda MPs Flag Disability Assessment Gaps
- Rwandan lawmakers are concerned about discrepancies in disability assessments between medical professionals and the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB). - This gap raises questions about the fairnes…
African Universities Adapt Education for AI-Driven Future of Work
- African universities are actively working to adapt their educational programs to the evolving demands of an AI-driven job market. - Discussions at a recent meeting focused on developing AI-enabled p…
