Fuel Trade Deal: Kenya and Rwanda signed a government-to-government framework for Rwanda to import bulk refined petroleum products via Kenya’s Northern Corridor, using Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) transport and storage, with the first shipment expected to arrive at Mombasa in early September—aimed at boosting transit volumes and shifting Rwanda’s fuel sourcing away from Tanzania. Sanctions & Minerals: The US Treasury sanctioned Gasabo Gold Refinery and linked Rwandan mining firms over alleged gold smuggling from eastern DRC tied to M23, warning that illicit conflict minerals keep funding armed groups and destabilise the Great Lakes region. Digital Finance: Rwanda’s virtual asset law is positioned as a new regulatory architecture for digital finance, as Rwanda pushes further digital inclusion beyond access. Payments & Integration: The Rwanda Bankers’ Association highlighted payments as a driver of financial integration, aligning with broader efforts to modernise financial systems. Digital Public Infrastructure: UNDP outlined a “5Cs” approach to accelerate sovereign digital public infrastructure, stressing political commitment, capacity, sustained capital, community trust, and data protection. Diplomacy for Francophonie: Rwanda sought Yaoundé backing for Louise Mushikiwabo’s re-election to lead La Francophonie, with Donald Kaberuka delivering a sealed message from President Kagame. Film Grants: Doha Film Institute awarded grants to 48 projects, including recipients from Rwanda, supporting independent filmmaking across MENA and beyond. Business Climate: A commentary warned that regulatory whiplash can hurt business planning more than headline tax rates, as sudden policy shifts raise risk premiums for investors.