AfroNews TV – News Bulletin
Presented by Andrew Mzungu
📍 Kigali, Rwanda | September 22, 2025
1. Cycling Glory in Kigali – Rwanda on the Global Stage
The world’s eyes are on Kigali as Rwanda makes history by hosting the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, the first time this prestigious event has come to Africa.
Belgian sensation Remco Evenepoel stunned crowds on the streets of Kigali yesterday, securing his third consecutive men’s elite individual time-trial world title. His time of 49 minutes and 46 seconds over the demanding 40.6-kilometer course showed not just power, but precision.
🔎 Analysis:
- For Rwanda, this is more than sport. Hosting the championships demonstrates its growing infrastructure, tourism strength, and ability to stage world-class events.
- Local businesses in Kigali are already reporting a boost in hotel occupancy, restaurants, and transport.
- The men’s road race on September 28 will be one of the toughest ever, with 267 km and over 5,500 meters of climbing. Experts believe it could reshape the hierarchy of world cycling.
2. Pogačar’s Redemption Mission
After his disappointment in the time trial, Tadej Pogačar is now focused on the road race. Known for his resilience and climbing ability, he sees Kigali’s challenging terrain as an opportunity.
- He told reporters: “This is a true test. Rwanda offers us the toughest road race in years, and I want to prove myself here.”
- For African cycling fans, his comeback attempt adds global star power and drama.
3. Botswana Celebrates – Relay Gold Sparks National Holiday
Across the continent, Botswana is celebrating its first-ever men’s 4x400m relay gold medal at the World Athletics Championships.
- The victory over traditional giants like the U.S. and South Africa has led the Botswana government to declare September 29 a national holiday.
- Athletes Letsile Tebogo, Bhekempilo Eppie, Bayapo Ndori, and Collen Kebinatshipi have become instant national heroes.
- The triumph shows how African nations are rising in global athletics, inspiring young athletes across the region.
4. Peace in Peril – M23 Rebel Group Parade Raises Tensions
In the Great Lakes region, peace remains fragile. In Goma, DR Congo, the M23 rebel group showcased over 7,000 new recruits in a public parade.
- This move threatens the Rwanda–DRC peace process and alarms humanitarian groups.
- Reports suggest that some recruits may have been forcibly conscripted, adding to human rights concerns.
- Analysts warn that unless the peace deal is fully implemented, the region risks sliding back into open conflict.
🔎 Implications for Rwanda:
- Any instability in eastern DRC directly affects Rwanda’s border security and trade.
- Kigali, now under the world’s spotlight due to the cycling championship, must balance the image of peace with the reality of regional tensions.
5. Conservation Front – Rhinos Still at Risk in Africa
On World Rhino Day, South Africa reported progress in protecting rhinos, with poaching figures slightly down. Yet, the country still loses about one rhino every day.
- Conservationists say while technology and anti-poaching patrols help, the demand for rhino horn in Asia continues to fuel killings.
- This serves as a reminder that Africa’s natural heritage, like its sporting talent, must be safeguarded for future generations.
🎤 Andrew Mzungu – Closing Words
“From the streets of Kigali to the tracks of Gaborone, Africa is writing new chapters in sport, resilience, and heritage. Rwanda is at the center of this week’s global spotlight — not only proving it can host the world, but reminding us that Africa’s story is one of both triumph and challenge. I’m Andrew Mzungu for AfroNews TV. Good evening.”
