Rwanda has announced the expulsion of Belgium’s ambassador as tensions between the two countries escalate over allegations concerning their involvement in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement released on Monday, 17 March, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation confirmed it was severing diplomatic ties with Belgium and giving Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave the country.
The statement accused Brussels of “using lies and manipulation to foster an unjustified hostile stance against Rwanda.” Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Government of Rwanda today notified the Government of Belgium of its decision to sever diplomatic relations, effective immediately.
Rwanda’s decision has been taken after careful consideration of several factors, all linked with Belgium’s pitiful attempts to sustain its neocolonial delusions.
Belgium has consistently undermined Rwanda, both well before and during the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in which Belgium has a deep and violent historical role, especially in acting against Rwanda.
Today, Belgium has clearly taken sides in a regional conflict and continues to systematically mobilize against Rwanda in different forums, using lies and manipulation to secure an unjustified hostile opinion of Rwanda, in an attempt to destabilize both Rwanda and the region.
Beyond Belgium’s destructive historical role in fueling the ethnic extremism that resulted in entrenched discrimination and persecution, and ultimately the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, it has also allowed Belgian territory to be used by groups that propagate genocide denial and sustain genocidal ideology.
Today’s decision reflects Rwanda’s commitment to safeguarding our national interests and the dignity of Rwandans, as well as upholding the principles of sovereignty, peace, and mutual respect.
All Belgian diplomats in Rwanda are required to leave the country within 48 hours. In compliance with the Vienna Convention, Rwanda will assure the protection of the premises, property, and archives of the Belgian diplomatic mission in Kigali.
</blockquote>

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Rwanda is angry at Belgium for telling lies about them in a nearby country called DRC. Rwanda has kicked out Belgium's ambassador as a result. They say Belgium has a history of causing problems in the region, especially during the 1994 genocide. Rwanda wants to protect its people and its reputation. All Belgian diplomats have been told to leave Rwanda within 48 hours. This is a big deal because it means the two countries are no longer talking to each other.

Rwanda Expels Belgium’s Ambassador Following Tensions Over DRC Conflict

The Rwandan government has condemned the United Kingdom’s decision to impose sanctions in response to Kigali’s alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has seized large parts of eastern DRC, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, along with valuable mineral resources.
On Tuesday, February 25, the UK announced it would pause some of its bilateral aid to Rwanda and impose diplomatic sanctions on the country.
In a statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation expressed disappointment, saying it was regrettable that the UK had “clearly chosen a side.”
The ministry argued that it was “unreasonable” to expect Rwanda to compromise its national security and the safety of its people.
Rwanda asserted that these measures would not help resolve the situation in the DRC or contribute to a lasting political solution to the conflict in eastern DRC.
Rwanda denies supporting the M23 group and claims its troops are simply defending against hostile groups based in the DRC.
Below is the full statement from Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in response to the UK’s actions:
<blockquote>
The punitive measures announced today by the UK Government in response to the conflict in eastern DRC – where the UK has now clearly chosen a side – are regrettable.
It is unreasonable to expect Rwanda to compromise its national security and the safety of Rwandans.
The measures do nothing to help the Democratic Republic of Congo, nor do they contribute to achieving a sustainable political solution to the conflict in eastern DRC.
The Government of the DRC has a lot more to answer for than any other party within the DRC itself and in the region but gets away with all manner of violations for reasons that are obvious to all.
Consistently not holding the Government of the DRC accountable for repeated attacks on its own citizens, including the ongoing indiscriminate bombing of Banyamulenge villages in South Kivu, encourages the DRC to double down on a military path, prolonging the conflict and the suffering of civilians.
Rwanda will continue to insist on security guarantees, which the DRC and the international community have so far been unwilling or unable to provide.
This perpetual situation of instability seems to benefit, directly or indirectly, a number of those associated with the conflict.
Rwanda is fully committed to working with partner states on the ongoing African-led mediation process and calls on the international community to support this effort, which is the only credible pathway to a negotiated solution.
</blockquote>

The Rwanda government is upset with the UK for imposing sanctions because Rwanda is accused of helping rebels in Congo. The UK stopped giving money to Rwanda and put diplomatic pressure on them. Rwanda says it's not fair to expect them to risk their safety for Congo. They say the sanctions won't help Congo. Rwanda denies supporting the rebels and says they are just defending themselves. They want the DRC government to be held accountable for attacks on their citizens. Rwanda wants security guarantees and a peaceful solution to the conflict in Congo.

Rwanda Criticises UK Decision To Impose Sanctions, Defends Its Actions In DRC Conflict

The United Kingdom announced on Tuesday that it would pause some of its bilateral aid to Rwanda and impose sanctions in response to Rwanda’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has captured large areas of eastern DR Congo, including the cities of Goma and Bukavu, as well as valuable mineral resources.
While Kigali denies supporting the group, it claims that its troops are defending against hostile groups based in the DRC.
The British government said that it would take action until significant progress was made in ending the conflict and withdrawing all Rwandan troops from Congolese territory.
The measures include ending high-level attendance at Rwandan government events, limiting trade promotion with Rwanda, and pausing direct financial aid to Rwanda, except for support for the poorest and most vulnerable, among others.
The UK also said it will coordinate with its partners on potential new sanctions, suspend future defence training for Rwanda, and review export licenses for the Rwanda Defence Force. A UK Government spokesperson said:
<blockquote>
The UK is deeply concerned by the situation in eastern DRC. The Foreign Secretary met with President Tshisekedi in Kinshasa and President Kagame in Kigali on 21 and 22 February.
In his meetings, he was clear that there can be no military solution to the conflict. There must be an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The recent offensives by M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), including the capture of Goma and Bukavu, are an unacceptable violation of DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a breach of the UN Charter.
The Foreign Secretary urged both leaders to engage meaningfully and in good faith with African-led peace processes to find a lasting political solution.
They must honour all commitments made at the Joint EAC-SADC Summit on 8 February. The UK will continue to discuss with African and other partners what more it can do to support these efforts.
The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC is critical. Close to a million people have been recently displaced in eastern DRC and hundreds of thousands are in desperate need of lifesaving support.
There is a responsibility on all parties to protect the people of eastern DRC who have suffered so much in this conflict.
The Foreign Secretary has been clear that there would be a strong response from the international community in response to the escalating conflict.
In recent weeks, the UK has coordinated closely with international partners, including those from the G7 and the International Contact Group on the Great Lakes, on that response.
We have also used every appropriate opportunity at the United Nations Security Council and the Human Rights Council to call for a resolution to the conflict in Eastern DRC.
During the Foreign Secretary’s visit, he announced an additional package of £14.6 million of humanitarian support to help those in Eastern DRC who are suffering most.
The UK calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian law, meaningful engagement with African-led peace processes, and the withdrawal of all Rwanda Defence Forces from Congolese territory.
Until significant progress is made, the UK will take the following measures:
1. Cease high-level attendance at events hosted by the Government of Rwanda.
2. Limit trade promotion activity with Rwanda.
3. Pause direct bilateral financial aid to the Government of Rwanda, excluding support to the poorest and most vulnerable.
4. Coordinate with partners on potential new sanctions designations.
5. Suspend future defence training assistance to Rwanda.
6. Review export licences for the Rwanda Defence Force.
Rwanda may have security concerns but it is unacceptable to resolve these militarily. There can only be a political solution to this conflict. We encourage DRC to engage with M23 as part of an inclusive dialogue.
We will continue to keep our policy under review.
</blockquote>

The UK is upset with Rwanda for their involvement in the conflict in the Congo. They are stopping aid and imposing sanctions until Rwanda pulls their troops out of Congo. The UK is also stopping high-level meetings with Rwanda, limiting trade with them, and more. The UK wants peace and for the fighting to stop so people in the Congo can be safe. They want leaders to talk and find a peaceful solution. The UK is giving money to help people in the Congo who are suffering because of the conflict. They hope to end the fighting and protect the people in the Congo.

Britain Imposes Sanctions On Rwanda Over DRC Conflict

The Rwandan government has condemned the US decision to sanction a government minister over his alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy0dg11y6xko">reported BBC</a>.
On Thursday, the US Treasury Department imposed financial sanctions on Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Integration, James Kabarebe, accusing him of playing a key role in Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebel group.
Kabarebe, a former army chief, was blamed for aiding the rebels, alongside M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka, who was also sanctioned. Kanyuka controls two companies in the UK and France.
The UK followed with a warning, saying that Rwanda could face “consequences” for its role in the conflict.
In response, Rwanda’s foreign ministry called the sanctions “unjustified and unfounded,” insisting they would not solve the conflict in the DRC.
The M23 group, mostly ethnic Tutsis, has recently captured key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. This has sparked a major humanitarian crisis, displacing many families.
Western nations have accused Rwanda of supplying arms and military support to the M23, claims which Rwanda denies.
The US Treasury said that both Kabarebe and Kanyuka are linked to violence and human rights abuses in the DRC.
Bradley Smith, acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, said:
<blockquote>
Today’s action underscores our intent to hold accountable key officials and leaders like Kabarebe and Kanyuka, who are enabling the RDF and M23’s destabilizing activities in the eastern DRC.
The United States remains committed to ensuring a peaceful resolution to this conflict.
</blockquote>
Rwanda dismissed the US sanctions, saying Kigali’s goal was simply to secure its border and bring about an “irreversible end to the politics of armed ethnic extremism” in the region. The Foreign Ministry said:
<blockquote>
Rwandans have the right to live in peace and without the perpetual threat of insecurity originating from the DRC.
Punitive measures, including sanctions, make no contribution toward long-term security, peace and stability for all the countries of the Great Lakes region.
</blockquote>
DR Congo welcomed the US sanctions, saying it wanted to see more such measures.
In a statement posted on social media, DR Congo government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said:
<blockquote>
This marks the beginning of a long series of sanctions that we want to be more robust from the UN Security Council, the European Union and other partners in order to force Rwanda to withdraw its troops and cease its criminal activities on our soil.
</blockquote>
At the G20 foreign ministers meeting in South Africa on Friday, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned the reported involvement of Rwandan troops, calling it a “blatant breach of the UN Charter” that could escalate into a regional conflict.
Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, speaking at the event, also condemned recent attacks on UN forces and regional peacekeepers in the DRC.
Meanwhile, China said that it “firmly supports the African people in independently resolving African problems and opposes external interference in the internal affairs of African countries”.

The US put sanctions on Rwanda's former army chief and M23 spokesperson for their involvement in the war in Congo. Rwanda says the sanctions are unfair. The M23 rebels, mostly Tutsis, have taken over cities in Congo, causing a crisis. Western nations say Rwanda is giving weapons to the rebels, but Rwanda denies it. Congo supports the US sanctions and wants more. Other countries at a meeting condemned Rwanda's actions in the conflict. China says African problems should be solved by Africans without outside interference. Congo wants more countries to put pressure on Rwanda to stop the conflict.

DRC War: US Sanctions Rwanda's Former Army Chief And M23 Spokesperson

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has accused South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and government officials of “lying” and “distorting” discussions between the two leaders in a statement to South Africans on Wednesday.
Kagame’s response came after Ramaphosa shared a statement on X (formerly Twitter) accusing Rwanda of involvement in the deaths of 13 South African peacekeeping troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
He blamed the rebel group M23 which is said to be funded by Rwanda, and Rwandan troops for the killing of South African soldiers.
In his statement, Ramaphosa said the fighting was “the result of an escalation by the rebel group M23 and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militia engaging the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and attacking peacekeepers from the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).”
In a media briefing on Wednesday, South Africa’s Minister of Defence, Angie Motshekga, said that Ramaphosa had warned Rwanda that firing on South African troops would be considered an act of war.
Kagame confirmed on his official X page that he and Ramaphosa had held two conversations earlier this week, including one just hours before the statement.
He responded to Ramaphosa’s claims, labelling them as distortions, attacks, and outright lies. Wrote Kagame:
<blockquote>
I held two conversations this week with President Ramaphosa on the situation in Eastern DRC, including earlier today.
What has been said about these conversations in the media by South African officials and President Ramaphosa himself contains a lot of distortion, deliberate attacks, and even lies.
If words can change so much from a conversation to a public statement, it says a lot about how these very important issues are being managed.
A few important clarifications for the record:
1. The Rwanda Defence Force is an army, not a militia.
2. SAMIDRC is not a peacekeeping force, and it has no place in this situation. It was authorized by SADC as a belligerent force engaging in offensive combat operations to help the DRC Government fight against its own people, working alongside genocidal armed groups like FDLR which target Rwanda, while also threatening to take the war to Rwanda itself.
3. SAMIDRC displaced a true peacekeeping force, the East African Community Regional Force, and this contributed to the failure of the negotiation processes.
4. President Ramaphosa has never given a “warning” of any kind, unless it was delivered in his local language which I do not understand. He did ask for support to ensure the South African force has adequate electricity, food and water, which we shall help communicate.
5. President Ramaphosa confirmed to me that M23 did not kill the soldiers from South Africa, FARDC did.
6. If South Africa wants to contribute to peaceful solutions, that is well and good, but South Africa is in no position to take on the role of a peacemaker or mediator. And if South Africa prefers confrontation, Rwanda will deal with the matter in that context any day.
</blockquote>

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame is mad at South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa for accusing Rwanda of hurting South African soldiers. Kagame says Ramaphosa is lying and distorting the truth. Ramaphosa warned Rwanda that attacking South African troops would be like a declaration of war. Kagame says the two leaders talked, but Ramaphosa's statement is wrong. Kagame also says the group blamed for the soldiers' deaths, M23, did not do it. He says he is ready to confront South Africa if needed. Kagame is angry and wants everyone to know the truth.

Rwanda’s Kagame Accuses Ramaphosa Of Lying, Says Ready For Confrontation

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa warned Rwanda that shooting at South African troops in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) would be a declaration of war.
This was said by Defence Minister Angie Motshekga on Wednesday at the cabinet lekgotla.
Ramaphosa’s office confirmed on Monday that he had a phone call with Rwandan President Paul Kagame to discuss the conflict’s escalation. Both leaders agreed on the urgent need for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks.
Thirteen South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers died last week during skirmishes with M23 rebels near Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in eastern DRC. The South African soldiers were part of the SADC and UN peacekeeping missions.
Motshekga said that Ramaphosa has been in constant contact with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and other SADC leaders in the region. She said:
<blockquote>
There are also discussions which include Rwanda because it is alleged to be one of the big perpetrators, which is why we are keeping communications with them. 
They have been friendly, there has been no hostility against us, it’s just when they were firing above our heads.
The president did warn them [Rwanda] that if you are going to fire, we will take it as a declaration of war and we will have to defend our people. That is when the firing also stopped.
</blockquote>
Motshekga denied allegations that South African soldiers deployed to the DRC are poorly equipped. She said that during her meeting with Generals in Goma, no shortage of ammunition was reported. She said:
<blockquote>
I personally went to Goma and I got a briefing from all the Generals. At no stage did they say they had no ammunition.
We reinforce on the basis that because there’s been this escalated hostilities, then we spoke back home with the meeting that General attended with the National Council of Arms to say it’s going to be very important for us to reinforce, to make sure that we don’t reach a stage where we don’t have.
But at no stage did any of the Generals that I spoke to, even the first leader, say to me, we’ve run out of ammunition. No. Even Tanzania was reinforcing, and even itself DRC was reinforcing.
</blockquote>
The DRC and the head of UN peacekeeping have confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops in Goma, supporting their M23 allies.
Rwanda has said it is defending itself against threats from DRC militias but has not directly addressed whether its troops have crossed the border. Said Motshekga:
<blockquote>
When we were at Goma, the DRC forces were fighting Rwandan forces over our heads, that is where we lost three people, so we had to quickly communicate with M23 to say we are not part of the battle so don’t fight over our heads.
We agreed that we would hoist our white flag to say we are not part of the battle, we are not going to be dragged into it.
So we agreed on a ceasefire for free passage. We will not fire at their movement, so there was a clear ceasefire which was agreed by the generals from M23 but also by our generals.
</blockquote>

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa warned Rwanda that shooting at South African troops in the DRC would mean starting a war. They talked about a ceasefire and peace talks. South African soldiers died in a fight with rebels in the DRC. Ramaphosa is talking with leaders from the DRC and other nearby countries. The South African defence minister said they have enough ammunition. Rwanda's troops were seen in Goma fighting, causing troubles for the peacekeepers. They agreed on a ceasefire to avoid getting pulled into the fighting.

Ramaphosa Warns Rwanda That Attacks On South African Troops In DRC Will Lead To War

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has blamed the rebel group M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) for the deaths of 13 South African soldiers in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in recent days.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Ramaphosa said that M23 rebels and RDF forces attacked both the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and peacekeepers from the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), leading to the deaths of the South African soldiers, who were part of the peacekeeping force. He said:
<blockquote>
Following the recent intensification of fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Africa has lost 13 brave soldiers who were dedicated to their mission and committed to peace.
The fighting is the result of an escalation by the rebel group M23 and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) militia engaging the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and attacking peacekeepers from the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).
On behalf of the government and the people of our country, I express our sincerest condolences to their families, their loved ones and colleagues. We bow our heads in honor of their heroic and gallant fight for peace.
</blockquote>
The South African President said that full support is being provided to the families of the deceased and the injured and that efforts to repatriate the remains of the fallen soldiers are currently underway. He added:
<blockquote>
The attacks on peacekeepers resulted in the deaths of SAMIDRC members from other troop-contributing countries, namely, Malawi and Tanzania, as well as members of the UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) brigade.
We honour all the lives that were lost and pass our condolences to their families, governments and citizens.
The situation in Goma and Sake, where our troops and their counterparts are stationed, remains very tense, volatile and unpredictable.
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms Angie Motshekga and the Chief of the SANDF Gen Rudzani Maphwanya and SAMIDRC Force Commander Maj Gen Monwabisi Dyakopu are working to ensure that the SAMIDRC forces remain well equipped and sufficiently supported during this critical mission.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa expressed concern over speculation regarding the condition of the country’s troops in the DRC and the challenges they are facing.
Recent reports have suggested that the soldiers are under-equipped and operating in difficult conditions. Said Ramaphosa:
<blockquote>
We are concerned about the speculation about the state of our troops and the battle conditions. All South Africans must rally behind our brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to bringing peace to our continent.
South Africa’s military presence in the eastern DRC is not a declaration of war against any country or state. The members of the South African National Defence Force that are in the DRC are part of both SADC and United Nations efforts to bring peace and protect thousands of lives that are constantly threatened by the conflict in the DRC.
The presence of the SAMIDRC forces demonstrates a commitment of SADC member states to supporting the DRC in its efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability and ultimately, create an enabling environment for sustainable development and prosperity.
</blockquote>
Ramaphosa commended the United Nations for calling for a ceasefire, the reversal of territorial gains by the M23, and the withdrawal of external forces from the DRC. He said:
<blockquote>
We welcome the position that was recently adopted by the United Nations Security Council during its special sitting on the situation in the DRC, which calls for an immediate end to hostilities, the reversal of territorial expansion by the M23, the exit of external forces from the DRC and the resumption of peace talks under the Nairobi Process.
The territorial integrity of the DRC must be respected in accordance with the United Nations Charter on the respect of sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of other states.
We call on all parties to this conflict to fully embrace the current diplomatic efforts that are aimed at finding a peaceful resolution, including honouring the Luanda Process agreements.
We must silence the guns on our continent for the attainment of inclusive development and prosperity.
</blockquote>

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa blames rebel group M23 and Rwandan forces for the deaths of 13 South African soldiers in DRC. The soldiers were part of a peacekeeping mission. Support is given to families of deceased and injured soldiers. Concerns arise about soldiers' conditions and equipment. UN calls for ceasefire and withdrawal of external forces from DRC. South Africa's military presence aims for peace and stability in DRC. Diplomatic efforts are urged for a peaceful resolution. Ramaphosa calls for silencing guns for development and prosperity in Africa.

Ramaphosa Blames M23 And Rwandese "Militia" For Deaths Of 13 South African Soldiers In DRC

Rebels claim to have taken control of the city of Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, but the government denies it.
As reported by <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qwlkydxxko">BBC</a>, videos show M23 rebels patrolling Goma after advancing on the Congolese army, causing tens of thousands to flee.
According to local media reports, the streets are now quiet after hours of fighting.
DR Congo’s foreign minister accuses Rwanda of declaring war by supporting M23. Rwanda admits backing M23 but blames DR Congo for supporting anti-Kigali militias.
Kenya calls for a ceasefire and an emergency summit with DR Congo and Rwanda. M23 has controlled parts of eastern DR Congo since 2021 and recently advanced on Goma.
Key roads are blocked, and the airport is closed. The government claims it still controls strategic areas, including the airport. It said:
<blockquote>
Contrary to the manipulative messages circulating on social networks the FARDC [the DR Congo army] hold the Goma airport… and all the strategic points of the capital of the North Kivu Province.
</blockquote>
It added that the army was “more than determined to defend the homeland at the cost of the supreme sacrifice.”
The rebels ordered soldiers to surrender their weapons, imposing a 48-hour deadline that ended early on Monday. UN peacekeepers said some Congolese soldiers had surrendered their firearms before the deadline.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DR Congo and urged M23 to stop its advance.
He called on Rwanda to “cease support to the M23 and withdraw from DRC territory” and on M23 to “cease all hostile actions and withdraw from occupied areas.”
This followed the death of 13 soldiers serving with peacekeeping forces in clashes with the rebels.
Both DR Congo and the UN say M23 is backed by Rwanda. Rwanda has not denied this but blames DR Congo for the conflict.
At a Security Council meeting, Rwanda’s UN representative, Ernest Rwamucyo, regretted that the international community condemned M23 rather than the Congolese army, which, he said, had violated a ceasefire.
On Saturday, the UN announced it would pull all non-essential staff out of Goma.
M23 was formed in 2012 as an offshoot of another rebel group to protect the Tutsi population in eastern DR Congo, which had long complained of persecution and discrimination.
Rwanda previously said the Congolese authorities were working with those responsible for the 1994 Rwandan genocide, who fled to DR Congo.
Rwanda’s critics accuse it of using M23 to loot minerals such as gold, cobalt, and tantalum in eastern DR Congo.

Rebels called M23 say they have taken over Goma city in Congo, but the government says they haven't. M23 rebels are supported by Rwanda, but Rwanda blames Congo for supporting anti-Rwandan groups. Kenya wants the fighting to stop and calls for a meeting. The United Nations want Rwanda to leave Congo and for M23 to stop fighting. M23 wants soldiers to give up their weapons. UN peacekeepers had clashes with rebels, and some soldiers died. M23 started in 2012 to protect a group of people in eastern Congo. Rwanda is accused of using M23 to get minerals from Congo.

M23 Rebels Claim To Have Taken Goma, Eastern DRC

In a widely anticipated but controversial outcome, Rwanda’s incumbent president Paul Kagame has won the country’s recent presidential election, securing a staggering 99.15% of the votes cast.
As reported by <a href="https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/kagame-wins-fourth-term-in-rwanda-with-99-of-vote-4691706">The East African</a>, this marks Kagame’s fourth consecutive term in office, following previous election victories where he has consistently won over 93% of the vote.
A total of eight candidates had initially applied to run against Kagame, but ultimately, only two were permitted to contest the election by the country’s electoral commission.
This decision has fueled allegations of a tightly controlled political landscape and a lack of genuine opposition.
The others, including Kagame’s most vocal critics, were barred for various reasons that included prior criminal convictions.
Kagame was running against two other candidates, Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, who also challenged him at the last poll in 2017.
The 66-year-old Kagame thanked Rwandans for their trust in an address at his Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) party headquarters. He said:
<blockquote>
These are not just figures, even if it was 100%, these are not just numbers. [They] show the trust, and that is what is most important.
</blockquote>
With about 79% of ballots counted, partial results announced by the electoral commission show Kagame had won 99.15% of the vote while his two opponents shared less than 1% of the vote.
Kagame’s opponents – environmentalist Frank Habineza and ex-journalist and government adviser Philippe Mpayimana – have 0.53% and 0.32% respectively.
The full provisional results are due by 20 July and the final ones by 27 July.
The overwhelming victory for Kagame, who has dominated Rwandan politics since the end of the country’s civil war in 1994, has reinforced concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the concentration of power within the incumbent’s hands.
Critics have long argued that Kagame’s rule has been characterized by a crackdown on dissent, the suppression of political opposition, and the curtailment of civil liberties.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rwanda's president Kagame won the election with over 99% of the votes. Only two candidates were allowed to run against him. Critics say the election was not fair. Kagame has been in power for a long time and some people think he has too much control. The election results will be fully out by the end of July. Kagame's opponents only got a very small percentage of the votes. People are worried about democracy and freedom in Rwanda because of how powerful Kagame is.

Kagame Wins Over 99% Of Votes In Rwandan Presidential Election - Partial Results

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a manhunt for suspects who allegedly shot and killed Rwandese national Samuel Habimana in Waterfalls, Harare on Friday night.
Habimana was allegedly shot in the neck at his Mainway Meadows home in Waterfalls, Harare, under unclear circumstances after a four-member gang broke it his house.
ZRP national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/featured/police-investigate-rwandese-national-shooting-incident/">ZBC News</a> that investigations into the murder are underway. He said:
<blockquote>
As the Zimbabwe Republic Police we are investigating the shooting incident which took place in Waterfalls, Harare in view to find the motive behind the shooting.
We believe that the suspects tracked him from Harare’s Central Business District to his home in Waterfalls.
We want to assure the public that comprehensive investigations are currently underway and no stone will be left unturned.
</blockquote>
Asst. Comm. Nyathi also warned the public against publishing information which has not been verified. He added:
<blockquote>
I want to warn the public against publishing false information on social media. We are urging the public that if they have any information they want the public to know they are free to come to our offices rather than publishing such without verification.
</blockquote>
A report claimed Habimana (49), who was killed in front of his son, wife, and house help, was assassinated.
A former Rwandan refugee in Zimbabwe, Ansbert Nkundineza, and one of the leading opposition figures in exile said that the shooting was a terror incident linked to Kigali. Nkundineza was quoted by <a href="https://zimetro.co.zw/kagame-orders-hit-on-zim-based-rwandese-businessman/">ZiMetro</a> as saying:
<blockquote>
We have been receiving information about distressed Rwandan refugees for a while now, most are fearful of their own lives and those of loved ones from Rwandan operatives currently roaming the streets of Harare at large.
We call upon the government of Zimbabwe to ensure the safety of Rwandan refugees as enshrined in the Geneva Convention.
Equally, we call upon the international community and the UNHCR to ensure all refugees who are at high risk are assessed and resettled to safer countries.
We call upon the government of Rwanda to cease its transnational repressive activities including the invasion of DRC and initiate dialogue with its critics as the only feasible way to settle political differences.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Police Investigate Killing Of Rwandese National In Harare

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) Normalisation Committee has ruled out using the 10,000-capacity Huye Stadium in the city of Butare, Rwanda, for the Warriors’ next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying home match against Lesotho in South Africa. Their reason is that the stadium is too distant from Zimbabwe.
Due to the Government’s failure to fulfil its promise of rehabilitating the National Sports Stadium to Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards, the Warriors are likely to play their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on foreign soil.
In their last home match, the Zimbabwe senior national team faced Nigeria and Rwanda at Huye Stadium in November 2023, resulting in draws for both matches.
ZIFA Normalisation Committee Chairperson Lincoln Mutasa told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200025211/homeless-warriors-look-to-sa">NewsDay</a> that they are actively exploring venues within the southern African region to host their upcoming home match. Said Mutasa:
<blockquote>
CAF required us to suggest a venue by March 27 and by that time no local ground had been approved by the continental football governing body to host matches, so we were left with no option but to play our match away.
However, having played our first home matches in Rwanda since being readmitted back into international football, we felt Rwanda is a bit far and we are looking at venues around SADC [Southern African Development Community] and will make it public once all the necessary modalities have been carried out.
</blockquote>
The government assured that the Warriors would host their upcoming home matches at the National Sports Stadium.
However, despite the facility being closed for renovations, no efforts have been made to bring the stadium up to the necessary standards.
This week, a widely circulated image on social media revealed the neglected state of the facility’s dried-out grass.
Over the past few decades, Zimbabwe’s public infrastructure has alarmingly deteriorated, with blame falling squarely on corrupt and ineffective public officials.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Warriors Won't Use Rwandan Stadium For Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers - ZIFA

The Confederation of African Football (CAF), is set to carry out an investigation into the state of the artificial pitch at Huye Stadium in Rwanda.
This comes after Zimbabwe, Nigeria and South Africa which all played on the pitch in last month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, complained to CAF.
Zimbabwe’s Admiral Muskwe and Marvelous Nakamba, who play in England, picked up injuries while playing on the artificial turf.
According to a letter addressed to the Rwandan Football Federation by CAF’s Technical Development Director, CAF will conduct an independent inspection of Huye Stadium. Read the letter:
<blockquote>
Concerning the use of the Huye Stadium in Huye during the last CAF/FIFA competitions matches, we would like to draw your attention that CAF has received complaints from the visiting teams concerning the quality of the artificial pitch in the field of play area.
Furthermore, the reports from the CAF Match Command Center (MCC) and the designated CAF match officials also raised the same concerns about the pitch.
In this regard, CAF will carry out an independent inspection of Huye Stadium conducted by an artificial pitch expert, to assess the current state of the pitch for use in CAF/FIFA Senior A international matches.
Based on the inspection report, a decision will be taken by the CAF regarding the approval of the stadium.
We underline that the CAF decision will be made based on the status of the stadium and the level of compliance reported at the time of the inspection.
Accordingly, we kindly ask FERWAFA to suggest the dates in the coming weeks, so that CAF can initiate the coordination of the mission.
We appreciate your contribution in helping us raise the standard of African football with improved facilities as we continue to be exposed to a global audience.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CAF Set To Inspect Rwandan Stadium After Zimbabwe, Nigeria And South Africa Lodged Complaints

Warriors striker <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Tino_Kadewere">Tino Kadewere</a> has saluted Zimbabweans based in Rwanda who came in large numbers to support the national team during the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers played at at Huye Stadium in Butare.
Zimbabwe played Rwanda at Huye Stadium on 15 November and the match ended 0-0.
Four days later, the Warriors hosted the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the same venue as Zimbabwe does not have a stadium that meets CAF standards. The match ended 1-1.
The Sunday News reported Kadewere as saying that Zimbabweans based in Rwanda who cheered the team in both matches created an atmosphere associated with playing at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, and made the Warriors feel at home. Said Kadewere:
<blockquote>
We never felt away from home. These guys have been amazing. When we heard that we would play both our games in Rwanda, we thought we would miss everything, like the atmosphere associated with playing at the National Sports Stadium. But we were wrong. These guys made us feel at home. We salute them.
</blockquote>
Butare is located about 126 kilometres south-west of Kigali, the Rwandan capital.
The road trip from Kigali to Butare takes about three hours, as the road passes through many hills, and vehicles travel at a maximum speed of 60 kilometres per hour. The trip costs RF2 500 (around US$2).
Many Zimbabweans were ready to endure the six-hour round trips to back the Warriors.
Diana Marerwa, a primary school teacher living in Keza, on the outskirts of Kigali, has been living in Rwanda for the past 25 years.
She was among among the hordes of Zimbabweans based in Rwanda who attended both games. Said Marerwa:
<blockquote>
I am a teacher based in Kigali. Once we heard that Zimbabwe would play two games here, we started mobilising each other so that we could attend the games.
I am very happy that I managed to attend both games. Our players were also very happy to see us rallying behind them.
It motivated them a lot, and we hope to see more of this, not just in football, but in other sports, here, for they are guaranteed support.
</blockquote>
Kidson Chiworera who works in Mwanza, said that the Warriors matches enabled him to physically meet with his virtual compatriots. He said:
<blockquote>
Of course, we came here for both games to show our support for the national team, but this was also an opportunity for us to meet physically with Zimbabweans who are based in this country.
We talk to each other on social media and the phone, but this was an opportunity for us to meet in person.
That’s why you saw us hugging and jumping before these games.
We were actually celebrating being together, physically, for the first time.
We are one big community and we love each other. That is why it was never difficult for us to come together and say guys, let’s go and rally behind our Warriors.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabweans appeared to outnumber the Rwandans in the first game and also sang famous songs such as “Yave nyama yekugocha” and “Vakomana vekwedu” which created a home atmosphere for the Warriors.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kadewere Salutes Zimbabweans Based In Rwanda For Creating "Home" Atmosphere At Warriors Matches

The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has confirmed that the Warriors’ two upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers will be played in Rwanda.
The Warriors take on hosts Rwanda at the Huye Stadium on 15 November before hosting Nigeria at the same venue on 19 November 2023.
Just over a week ago, ZIFA Normalisation Committee chairperson Lincoln Mutasa said that they were planning to host Nigeria in Rwanda.
Mutasa conceded that ZIFA will incur huge costs in staging the Warriors’ assignments “home away from home”. He said:
<blockquote>
Yes, there are financial losses to be incurred but this is a sticky situation that we find ourselves in.
What saddens us the most is that supporters will miss an opportunity to watch their beloved team at home after a long time without international football.
While we would have wanted to get revenue from the match, what is important for us is to give footballers a rare opportunity to play the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
You can never put a cost to that.
Naturally, the football association foots its own bills, if it is within their means, but help from our partners will be accepted.
</blockquote>
ZIFA failed to arrange international friendly matches for the Warriors in the recent international break.
The Warriors ended up playing a practice match against a Northern Region select side, which they lost 3-1.
Meanwhile, Change Radio has criticised the Government following the announcement by ZIFA that the Warriors will host Nigeria away from home. It said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean football team will host the Nigerian team in Rwanda on November 19. This comes after ZANU PF, under the name of ZIFA, failed to provide a stadium suitable for international FIFA games.
In the past five years, the Minister of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, led by Minister Kirsty Coventry, has failed to construct a single stadium. Hope was placed in Rufaro Stadium, which former Harare Mayor Cllr.
Mafume tried to improve within a short time frame and with limited resources. His vision was clear and could have been the most selfless plan for Harare and Zimbabwe.
However, the regime ensured that he didn’t receive the support and resources needed to make this dream a reality.
In August, the council organized a handover ceremony to build confidence among local and international investors and raise expectations for those inspecting the stadium.
Unfortunately, the anti-progress regime sent the police to disrupt the function. The CCC has been striving under difficult conditions to develop and lead in the cities.
Still, the regime, through the Minister of Local Government, continues to hinder their progress, reverse their decisions, and strip them of their power to make independent choices.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Warriors To Host Nigeria In Rwanda, ZIFA Has Confirmed

A senior government official has professed ignorance over plans by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) to host Nigeria in Rwanda next month as local stadiums have been declared unfit to host international matches by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/government-unaware-homeless-warriors-will-host-nigeria-in-rwanda/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Reports indicate that the Warriors may host Nigeria in Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Responding to questions from senators about the stadium crisis, Deputy Minister of Sports Arts and Culture <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Emily_Jesaya">Emily Jesaya</a> said the Ministry has not been officially informed about plans for the Warriors to host the Super Eagles in Rwanda. She said:
<blockquote>
As a Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, we are glad the suspension or ban has been lifted and we are now able to compete at the international level.
With regard to hosting soccer matches as a country, we are unable to host soccer matches in this country.
What I would like to inform the House is that the bureau has since lifted the ban and there is normalisation.
We have not officially been informed with regards to hosting local matches as far as Rwanda, but if they inform us, we will come back to the Senate to inform you of that development.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign away to Rwanda on 13 November before hosting Nigeria on 20 November.
Last month a FIFA inspector was in the country to assess the National Sports Stadium and Rufaro Stadium but the report is yet to be released.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Unaware Warriors Will Host Nigeria In Rwanda

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has confirmed that he will run for a fourth term in 2024.
The 65-year-old former rebel leader has been considered the country’s de facto leader since the end of the 1994 genocide.
Kagame was returned to power – with over 90% of the vote – in the 2003, 2010 and 2017 elections.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.jeuneafrique.com/1483925/politique/paul-kagame-le-probleme-nest-pas-entre-moi-et-tshisekedi-mais-entre-tshisekedi-et-le-m23/">the French-language magazine Jeune Afrique</a>, Kagame said he was ready to serve Rwandans for as long as he can. He said:
<blockquote>
I am happy with the confidence Rwandans have shown in me. I will always serve them as long as I can. Yes, I am indeed a candidate.
</blockquote>
Human rights groups accuse Kagame of ruling in a climate of fear, stifling dissent and freedom of expression.
In 2022, HRW’s Central Africa director, Lewis Mudge, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-62105226">told the BBC</a> that “Rwanda is a country where it’s very dangerous to oppose the government, let alone to be a political opponent”.
The Rwandan government has denied involvement in the killings of prominent opposition figures while in exile.
In 2014, Kagame warned that those who betray the country will face “consequences”.
Jeune Afrique asked Kagame what the West would think about his decision to run again and his response was:
<blockquote>
Personally, I no longer know what corresponds to Western values. What is democracy? Is the West dictating to others what they should do? But if they violate their own principles, how do we listen to them?
Seeking to transplant democracy to someone else is already a violation of democracy in itself. People are supposed to be independent and should be allowed to organise themselves as they wish.
</blockquote>
Despite leading his then-rebel group, the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), which came to power in 1994, Kagame only became president in 2000 following the resignation of Pasteur Bizimungu.
In 2003, Rwanda adopted a new constitution giving the president a seven-year tenure renewable once.
But this was amended in a referendum in 2015 where 98% of the vote approved the changes.
The changes allowed the president to run for a third seven-year term and then serve two further five-year terms starting in 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame confirms He Will Run For A Fourth Term

Zimbabwe has committed to cooperating in bringing to justice the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The Rwandan Genocide is one of the most notorious modern genocides which occurred between April and July 1994.
Almost one million ethnic Tutsi and moderate Hutu were killed as the international community and UN peacekeepers stood by.
Zimbabwe’s acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira, said there cannot be justice and lasting peace without full accountability. <a href="https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/6665/news/kwibuka/zimbabwe-commits-to-bring-perpetrators-of-1994-genocide-against-the-tutsi-to-justice">The New Times</a> quoted Murwira as saying:
<blockquote>
The primary responsibility to prevent and stop genocide lies with all of us.
On that note let me reaffirm Zimbabwe’s commitment to providing support to all international and continental efforts to bring to book those responsible for genocide in Rwanda and elsewhere.
We believe there cannot be justice and lasting peace without full accountability.
</blockquote>
Murwira was addressing Rwandans living in Zimbabwe, diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe, the business community and friends of Rwanda.
Last year, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabwe-denies-hiding-rwandese-genocidaire-protais-mpiranya-full-statement/">Zimbabwe denied that it had harboured the most wanted Rwandese fugitive, Protais Mpiranya</a>, whose remains were found in Zimbabwe under the alias Ndume Sambao.
While Murwira committed Zimbabwe to bring to justice the perpetrators of the Rwanda Genocide, the Government of Zimbabwe is yet to bring to justice those responsible for the Gukurahundi killings in the 1980s.
Moreover, the findings of the Chihambakwe Commission of Inquiry, which was set up by the government to investigate Gkurahundi, were never made public.
The Government has also failed to bring to account those responsible for the 01 August 2018 killings as recommended by the Motlanthe Commission.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Commits To Bring Perpetrators Of 1994 Rwandan Genocide To Justice

Rwandan authorities on Saturday said they had arrested six people for allegedly hurling insults at Salima Mukansanga, the Rwandese female referee who made history as one of the first woman referees chosen for the men’s World Cup.
Mukansanga (34) took charge of Kiyovu Football Club’s 0-0 draw against Gasogi United on 20 January in Nyamata, south of Kigali.
Some Kiyovu fans repeatedly chanted offensive slurs at Mukansanga, calling her “a prostitute”, while others wanted to physically attack her after the game but were stopped by the security.
Thierry Murangira, the spokesman for the Rwanda Investigative Bureau (RIB), told AFP that three women and three men were arrested on Thursday. Said Murangira:
<blockquote>
Those arrested are being investigated for hurling insults in public and for discrimination.
They are suspected to have committed these crimes during a football match between Kiyovu FC and Gasogi United and they are now in the custody of RIB
Investigations will continue as we prepare their dossier to be submitted to the prosecutors, while we continue to search for others who were involved in this crime.
</blockquote>
The Rwanda Football Federation (Ferwafa) this week launched a probe into the matter and said measures will be taken by the disciplinary committee after the probe.
Mukansanga was among three women on the list of 36 referees selected by FIFA to referee the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.
She made history last year by becoming the first woman to referee at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Mukansanga also officiated at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France. | <a href="https://ewn.co.za/2023/01/28/rwanda-arrests-six-for-insulting-trailblazing-female-football-ref">EWN</a>

Rwanda Arrests 6 People For Insulting Female World Cup Referee

Zimbabwean teachers who were recently deployed in several schools in Rwanda have refuted reports of unfair treatment in the central African country.
Earlier this week, several local teachers’ unions said they were concerned over the poor conditions of service for their counterparts who were deployed in Rwanda two months ago.
However, some of the Zimbabwean teachers who spoke to The New Times, a Rwanda newspaper, said the claims were “baseless insinuations.”
One of the teachers, Nicholas Moi, a qualified educational psychologist for the past 13 years, was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
I don’t know where it is coming from because surely if we are talking about our contracts, we signed them in Zimbabwe after agreeing to the terms and conditions.
I think the routine is almost the same, as the life of a teacher, you wake up, prepare your day, and report to school.
Here the difference is that maybe we start a bit earlier than in Zimbabwe, but also at the same time the workload is the same.
I don’t have a problem with my contract, I am in contact with my family, and I talk to my family on video.
I am actually travelling on the 23rd for the festive season with my family and will return shortly before schools reopen.
</blockquote>
Another teacher, Josiah Chidawo, who teaches Mathematics, pointed out that perhaps someone wants to achieve political mileage. He said:
<blockquote>
People were expecting us to divulge a lot of information after getting here, but it is quite unfortunate on their side that we remained calm, and just did our duties.
But it’s been more than a month and a half, and they know nothing about our arrangement. Let these people who are making these claims continue. Because it is simply a daylight lie.
</blockquote>
Machaire Tendayi, a special needs educationist for the past 22 years, said he has never experienced any problem since he arrived in Rwanda. He said:
<blockquote>
From the day we touched down at the airport, I haven’t had any complaints.
It is a made-up story that can probably market their platforms, I have never experienced any problem since I came here.
We meet people outside here and we talk, no one has come to us and violated our space.
</blockquote>
In a statement released earlier on Thursday, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare said there was “no shred of truth in the baseless utterances” attributed to trade union leaders in Zimbabwe. | <a href="https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/3427/news/education/zim-teachers-speak-out-on-allegations-of-mistreatment-in-rwanda">The New Times</a>

Zimbabwean Teachers Speak Out On Allegations Of Mistreatment In Rwanda

The government has denied reports that Zimbabwean teachers who were recruited by Rwanda under the Government-to-Government bilateral agreement are working under terrible conditions.
Over 154 Zimbabwean teachers arrived in Rwanda on 19 October 2022 and are set to share knowledge and skills with Rwandan educators and students.
In a statement, the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare said remarks made by some local teachers’ unions alleging unfair treatment of Zimbabwean teachers in Rwanda are untrue. Part of the statement reads:
<blockquote>
Government notes with absolute dismay, the irresponsible and unfounded utterances attributed to Mr Tapedza Zhou, the secretary-general of the Education Union of Zimbabwe, Mr Takavafira Zhou, the president of the Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), and Dr Obert Masaraure, the president of Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe, regarding the situation of Zimbabwean educational personnel and other specialists seconded to the Republic of Rwanda.
Government wishes to inform the public and concerned stakeholders that the educational skills transfer programme between the two sister Republics was undertaken after careful planning, negotiations and rigorous engagement among experts from both countries.
</blockquote>
The statement also said the Rwandan government has facilitated the acquisition of work permits for all Zimbabwean teachers “which guarantees the rights to stay in Rwanda as well as access to financial services”. | <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-govt-dismisses-unfair-treatment-of-teachers-in-rwanda">The Sunday Mail</a>

Zim Government Dismisses Reports Of Unfair Treatment Of Teachers In Rwanda

The second batch of Kenyan troops is due to arrive in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday.
They are part of a regional force deployed for a peacekeeping mission in the east of the country, according to BBC News.
Armed groups have stepped up attacks in recent months raising concern about the threat they pose to the region’s security.
More than 900 Kenyan troops will be based near the town of Goma in the volatile region.
Burundi soldiers have been operating in South Kivu province since August.
The Kenyan troops will be in North Kivu province where the M23 rebels have seized more territory in recent months and displaced thousands of people.
The Congolese government is set to resume talks with representatives of various armed groups later this month in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
The<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/rwanda-responds-to-renewed-provocation-by-drc-armed-forces/"> current crisis erupted in November 2021,</a> when the largely defunct March 23 Movement (M23) militant group carried out strikes on military positions of the FARDC in the villages of Chanzu and Runyonyi in North Kivu Province, just west of the Ugandan and Rwandan borders.
The longstanding rivalry between Uganda and Rwanda in the DRC and the Great Lakes region is a key driver of the current crisis. There is a profound level of mistrust at all levels, between the DRC and its neighbours, particularly Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi, as well as between all of these neighbours.
In August this year, Rwandan troops attacked soldiers inside DR Congo and aided the M23 rebel group with weapons and support, a United Nations group of experts said.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Second Batch Of Kenyan Troops Deployed To DRC

Rwanda’s Minister of State in Charge of ICT &amp; Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Claudette Irere, has said Zimbabwean teachers who were recruited by Rwanda under the Government-to-Government bilateral agreement are free to bring their families to the central African country.
Over 154 Zimbabwean teachers arrived in Rwanda on 19 October 2022 and are set to share knowledge and skills with Rwandan educators and students. Said Irere:
<blockquote>
Those with families are free to bring them into the country. We will be with the teachers for a two-year period and will discuss whether to extend it or not.
</blockquote>
Irere also said that in the first three months, the Government of Rwanda will provide rent for the teachers and after that period, they will opt to stay at their respective residences or move somewhere else.
The teachers were recruited by Rwanda’s Ministry of Education (MINEDUC)and will start working by 22 October.
They will be deployed in Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs), TVET schools with rare skills requirements, and three Integrated Polytechnic Regional Centres (IPRCs) while some will teach at the University of Rwanda – College of Medicine and Health Sciences (UR-CMHS).
The Zimbabwean teachers are currently undergoing a three-day induction at La Palisse Hotel Nyamata. | <a href="https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/1925/news/education/zimbabwean-teachers-set-to-share-knowledge-with-rwandan-educators-students">The New Times</a>

"Zimbabwean Teachers Free To Take Their Families To Rwanda"

The government has challenged teachers who are set to leave for Rwanda under the Government-to-Government bilateral agreement to represent the country well.
A send-off ceremony for the 159 teachers was held at Morgan Zintec College in Harare on Wednesday.
Addressing the teachers at the function, the Deputy Minister for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Lovemore Matuke, said:
<blockquote>
I wish you well as you go to represent our country in Rwanda.
Be the Zimbabwean people we have known, who are hard-working, results-oriented and uphold Zimbabwean values, ethics and norms.
I call upon all of you to present a united front, determined to make a difference, and leave a trail of good work in Rwanda,
Be your brother’s keeper in the foreign land and remember ‘I am because we are’ – Ubuntu.
Go, therefore, and make us proud, lift the flag of Zimbabwe high.
I trust all of you and the results will speak for themselves in Rwanda.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/teachers-leave-for-rwanda/">H-Metro</a>

Send-off Ceremony Held For Rwanda-bound Zimbabwean Teachers

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said Rwanda President Paul Kagame helped Zimbabwe secure US$800 million in funding for its rural electrification programme.
Mnangagwa made the comments in Chiredzi on Saturday afternoon while addressing thousands of villagers during a ZANU PF “Thank You Rally”.
The President added that Kagame will attend the unveiling of the rural electrification programme at the end of this month. He said:
<blockquote>
We have a programme which is coming at the end of this month. President Kagame of Rwanda is visiting us for this occasion.
This is after I spoke to him to say, fellow brother, our country Zimbabwe is under sanctions but we have a programme to ensure everyone has access to electricity wherever they are.
President Kagame then spoke to his friends and he secured US$800 million. So that’s the facility he is coming to launch.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa said the current shortages of electricity in southern Africa have been caused by economic growth. He said:
<blockquote>
If you go to Rwanda and see what President Kagame has done in the villages, it is well organised. Over there (in Rwanda) they work in unity with government assistance.
That way, there is no family left behind because every household is assisted out of poverty.
There is a shortage of electricity in the country and the SADC (Southern African Development Community) region.
In our case, it is mainly because of the economic growth we have experienced in recent years.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe and Rwanda enjoy cordial relations which have seen the two countries sign several agreements of cooperation and Memorandum of Understanding in various areas. | <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/us800m-rural-power-deal-ready">The Sunday Mail</a>

Paul Kagame Mobilises US$800 Million For Zimbabwe’s Rural Electrification

The first batch of Zimbabwean teachers assigned to Rwanda is set to travel in mid-October. 224 teachers will be leaving for the East African nation.
Zimbabwe and Rwanda signed a <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/rwanda-recruits-teachers-from-zimbabwe/">Memorandum of Understanding</a> last year which will see Zimbabwean teachers to the central African country to cover a skills gap.
The minimum requirements for the educators were a bachelor’s degree and post-graduate qualification, according to a recruitment manual that was jointly agreed to facilitate the hiring.
Leona Musekiwa and Faith Mukunditsa who are among the top education experts travelling to Rwanda under a government-to-government agreement told ZBC News that they will perform diligently. Musekiwa said:
<blockquote>
I am very excited, I never thought I would make it this far. I want to thank our President for opening this opportunity for us and trusting us to be ambassadors to Rwanda. I am very happy.
I promise to showcase the best that we have as Zimbabwe. This indeed is something that we are very grateful for.
</blockquote>
This Saturday, they joined their counterparts for a pre-departure seminar that familiarised them with expectations and working conditions.
The government notes the organised migration initiative is a bold statement of commitment to providing enhanced opportunities beyond the country’s borders.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

First Batch Of Zimbabwean Teachers Set To Leave For Rwanda

Dethroned Ntabazinduna Chief Nhlanhlayamangwe Ndiweni said that President Emmerson Mnangagwa should not have been invited to the Africa Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) 2022.
Ndiweni said Mnangagwa’s government has reduced Zimbabwe to a basket case in the region, hence, he should not have been invited to attend the forum.
The AGRF event was attended by various heads of State who included host President Paul Kagame, Mohamed Bazoum (Niger) and Philip Isdor Mpangho (Tanzania).
Ndiweni, who is based in the United Kingdom, also attended the event alongside other dignitaries from the West, among them former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair and retired Ivory Coast footballer Didier Drogba. Said Ndiweni:
<blockquote>
We note with great regret to see our President Mnangagwa here. We saw him in close proximity today and we were saddened because the government of Zimbabwe has let the people down on many fronts.
When we talk to some organisations that deal with agriculture internationally, on a daily basis, they will have one answer that the current government of Zimbabwe has let the people and region down.
For a country that was known to be the breadbasket of southern Africa not to have a formidable footprint in this conference is telling the world that the country has gone off track.
</blockquote>
Reports claim that <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/kagame-reiterates-ed-needs-to-first-convince-zimbabweans-that-things-are-fine/">Kagame told Mnangagwa to start convincing Zimbabweans that things were fine</a> before he convinces the international community.
Kagame reportedly made the remarks on the sidelines of the event. | <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200000199/we-were-sad-to-see-ed-in-rwanda-ndiweni">NewsDay</a>

Ndiweni "Sad" To See Mnangagwa In Rwanda

208 Zimbabwean teachers passed the written recruitment examinations to enable them to work in Rwanda.
The examinations or interviews were done virtually on Wednesday and Thursday last week in Gweru, Bulawayo, Masvingo, Chinhoyi and Harare.
The successful candidates have been invited for an oral interview from Tuesday next week in the final phase.
The online recruitment examinations were jointly administered by the Ministry of Labour, Public Service and Social Welfare and Rwanda’s Ministry of Education.
Speaking to State media after the online interviews of the teachers, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education in Rwanda Charles Karakye said:
<blockquote>
We have just concluded the exams and 208 teachers participated in the set of exams. The next step is to do oral interviews.
Of those who participated, close to 80 per cent passed the preliminary exam so we will get the final marks after doing the oral interviews which are scheduled for next week.
We expected about 324 teachers then 260 attended. The memorandum of understanding we have with the Government of Zimbabwe is that Zimbabwe is open for business so we will be coming back to recruit more teachers.
</blockquote>
The Permanent Secretary for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Simon Masanga said:
<blockquote>
For this first phase, we flighted an advert which people responded to. We shortlisted candidates and shared the list with Rwanda and they were happy and then came here to do tests which were done electronically.
We had teams in Gweru, Bulawayo, Masvingo, Chinhoyi and Harare and the process went on very well.
We went through all the candidates and the pass rate is very impressive. It is over 80 per cent.
Those who passed are going for oral interviews starting from Tuesday up to Friday next week.
By the end of the month, we are expecting the final results and after the results, we then organise the health checks where we will be assisted by the Ministry of Health and Child Care and the National Social Security Authority.
Thereafter people will go for security vetting then they can leave for Rwanda.
</blockquote>
Masanga added that the teachers would have a pre-departure training session in Harare.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/208-zim-teachers-pass-rwanda-test/">The Herald</a>

208 Zimbabwean Teachers Pass Rwanda Test

Hundreds of Zimbabwean teachers who have applied to work in Rwanda will go through virtual examinations on 17 and 18 August before they are selected to work in the central African country.
This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Harare and Kigali.
A delegation of eight officials from Rwanda led by the permanent secretary in Rwanda’s Ministry of Education Charles Karakye arrived in the country on Monday for the recruitment exercise.
More than 491 teachers from various fields will be interviewed under a worker-exchange agreement between Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
The exercise is being jointly undertaken by the Ministry of Labour, Public Service and Social Welfare and Rwanda’s Ministry of Education.
Addressing journalists after meeting the delegation, the chief director Labour Administration and Employment Promotion Cliford Matorera said:
<blockquote>
They are here in Zimbabwe specifically following up on the MoU signed by our two principals, the President of the Republic of Rwanda Paul Kagame, and President Mnangagwa which is to do with the exchange of our personnel expertise in the field of education, science and medicine among others.
The issue was discussed on May 4, 2022, followed by a signing of the MoU between our Minister of Labour, Public Service and Social Welfare and the Minister of Education in the Republic of Rwanda.
After that, a series of activities happened which were aimed at ensuring that a number of Zimbabweans who are in the field of education who are interested in working in the Republic of Rwanda can then be recruited. This is what the delegation has come to fulfil.
This is the first of its kind when we are going to do an e-recruitment, which is being facilitated by a system that our colleagues from Rwanda have come with.
We have dedicated centres, one in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, and Chinhoyi where those who want to work in Rwanda will be sitting for the e-recruitment examinations on August 17 and 18.
</blockquote>
Matorera said after the online recruitment is completed, teachers who have passed will undergo an oral interview. He added:
<blockquote>
The team has come to facilitate the smooth transition of conducting the e-recruitment. 
They will also conduct some training for the Zimbabwean team on how to conduct the invigilation.
</blockquote>
Karakye said they came to Zimbabwe to follow up on the implementation of the MoU between the two countries regarding the exchange of educational personnel. He said:
<blockquote>
We have already moved ahead with the implementation of some of the steps toward the recruitment of these teachers.
We are here to supervise, invigilate and work gently with the team here in Zimbabwe to ensure that we conduct a fast online recruitment exam which will be followed by interviews if they manage to make it to the next stage.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zimbabwean-teachers-undergo-exams-for-rwandan-jobs/">The Herald</a>

Zimbabwean Teachers To Undergo Virtual Interviews For Rwandan Jobs

Teachers’ unions on Monday said the government has failed them following its decision to export teachers to Rwanda while the teacher-pupil ratio remains too high in local schools.
More than 400 teachers will be exported to Rwanda in September to join other Zimbabwean teachers already there.
Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) president Obert Masaraure said the country’s schools are understaffed. Said Masaraure:
<blockquote>
Our government doesn’t seem to care about delivering on its mandate to provide education to the people as stipulated in section 75 of the Constitution.
The teachers are also severely underpaid, they are leaving in droves to destinations other than Rwanda.
Government should prioritise paying a living wage to retain quality teachers in the country.
</blockquote>
Educators Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Tapedza Zhou said by exporting teachers to Rwanda, the government is sending teachers into a lion’s den. He said:
<blockquote>
The government is exporting teachers yet the conditions are actually tougher there.
At the moment there is no indication that they shall enjoy better salaries.
This is also despite the fact that we still have local demand for teachers which is well above 20 000 and questions are easily raised on why export what you still need.
It only makes sense when we conclude that the government has failed teachers.
Rwanda has an interest in Zimbabwean teachers because it expects them to be docile and loyal in the face of poor remuneration and harsh working conditions.
Rwanda has not yet attracted teachers from other countries in the SADC region because they are better paid and not readily available to oppressive conditions that Zimbabwean teachers may agree to.
Clearly, Zimbabwean teachers are easy prey to Rwanda’s plans because they are exploitable.
</blockquote>
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) president Takavafira Zhou sees nothing wrong in sending teachers to Rwanda. Zhou said:
<blockquote>
We call upon the government to ensure that there are broad government-to-government agreements with many regional and continental countries.
It is prudent to engage teachers’ unions over the agreements in order to maximise cooperation and have a smooth transition that would not disadvantage learners in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/govt-has-failed-us-teachers/">NewsDay</a>

"Govt Has Failed Us," Teachers Bemoan "Tough" Working Conditions

491 Zimbabwean teachers have been shortlisted for interviews that will be conducted in the next few days for recruitment by the Rwandan government.
Zimbabwe and Rwanda signed an agreement early this year that will see Kigali hire teachers from Harare to cover a skills gap.
The minimum requirements for the educators were a bachelor’s degree and post-graduate qualification, according to a recruitment manual that was jointly agreed to facilitate the hiring.
The Permanent Secretary for Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Simon Masanga said Rwanda had requested more teachers to bridge longstanding skills gaps and language barriers. He said:
<blockquote>
We are recruiting competent education personnel to be employed in Rwanda on job position under four categories: basic education, basic TVET (technical and vocational education and training), polytechnic and universities.
… The successful candidates are expected to travel to Rwanda in September after undergoing pre-departure training by a team of experts from Zimbabwe and the embassy of Rwanda to ensure adequate orientation and requisite information is imparted to the Zimbabwean nationals prior to their deployment.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has tens of thousands of qualified teachers that cannot be absorbed into its education system and is seeking to export some of them to African countries.
More: <a href="https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/rest-of-africa/rwanda-recruits-teachers-from-zimbabwe-to-bridge-shortage-3900378">The East African</a>

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