The call was made on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, during a press briefing in Beijing, to update local and international media on preparations of the upcoming eighth Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs, scheduled for September 6.
This conference is a key component of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), to run from September 4 to 6.
It is jointly organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and China’s Ministry of Commerce. Notably, this year marks the first time the conference will be held in person since the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the briefing, Zhang Shaogang, Vice Chairman of CCPIT, highlighted the significance of this event, which will bring together around 1,000 business representatives from China and African countries.
In the lead-up to the event, significant consultations have taken place, considering important documents and projects, including the China-Africa Cooperation Vision 2035.
The participants will discuss issues of economic concern, build consensus for cooperation, and explore opportunities in investment, trade, and industry.
Zhang emphasized the deepening cooperation between China and Africa in recent years, underscoring the strategic guidance provided by leaders from both regions.
He affirmed China’s commitment to promoting interconnected economic development with Africa, aiming to deliver shared benefits that contribute to the consolidation of the China-Africa comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and the joint construction of a China-Africa community with a shared future.
Zhang also pointed out the similarities between Chinese and African business communities, urging entrepreneurs to leverage existing platforms for enhanced cooperation.
“I encourage entrepreneurs from China and Africa to make full use of economic trade cooperation platforms, such as the China International Supply Chain Expo, to enhance the integration of industrial and supply chains. Together, we can oppose protectionism and maintain stable and smooth industrial and supply chains,” he noted.
He further emphasized the potential for cooperation in emerging industries, highlighting areas such as the digital economy, green development, and artificial intelligence.
During the conference, 12 entrepreneurs from China and Africa will deliver speeches focused on promoting the integration of industrial and supply chains, sharing insights and experiences, and discussing cooperation opportunities.
Besides, the conference’s special attention has been given to the integration of industrial and supply chains and the development of emerging industries among others.
Since its inception in 2003, the conference has alternated between China and Africa. This year, 48 African countries will be represented, which Zhang views as a testament to the African business community’s enthusiasm for thriving China-Africa economic and trade relations.
Participating companies will span a range of industries, from traditional sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, and finance, to emerging fields like electronics, telecommunications, and biomedicine.
FOCAC has evolved into a critical platform for collective dialogue and practical cooperation, with economic and trade collaboration under its framework yielding impressive results.
In 2023, China-Africa trade volume reached an extraordinary US$282.1 billion, an 11% increase from 2021. Additionally, China’s direct investment in Africa exceeded US$40 billion by the end of 2023, reinforcing China’s role as a leading foreign investor on the continent.
From the moment visitors step out of Beijing Capital International Airport, they are welcomed by a vibrant display of African flags lining the streets, alongside summit banners that echo the shared commitment of Africa and China to forging a brighter future together.
The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as delegates from across the globe converge on the city.
Besides, security measures have been visibly heightened, with meticulous organization reflecting the importance placed on the summit.
At the China National Convention Center, the summit venue, a hive of activity is already underway. Various pre-summit events and discussions are setting the stage for the main event, while media representatives from around the world finalize their preparations to cover the summit comprehensively. With over 130 international journalists on the ground, the global spotlight is firmly on Beijing.
The summit, scheduled for August 4th to 6th in the Chaoyang District, will unite representatives from 53 African countries and China under the theme, “Joining Forces to Promote Modernization and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community of Shared Future.”
Established in 2000, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) has evolved into a cornerstone for deepening ties between Africa and China. Held every three years, alternating between China and an African host country, FOCAC has facilitated significant strides in the partnership between these regions.
The 2021 summit, which was held semi-virtually due to COVID-19, set ambitious targets, including increasing African imports to China to $300 billion. It also marked the formal integration of FOCAC into China’s Belt and Road Initiative, further intertwining the fates of these two regions.
As this year’s summit approaches, expectations are high. Many view this event as a potential turning point in Sino-African relations. Numerous bilateral agreements are expected to be signed, further solidifying the foundation for a shared future based on mutual respect and collaboration.
High-profile leaders, including Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, have already arrived in Beijing. Rwanda’s cooperation with China spans multiple platforms, including FOCAC, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), and the Joint Economic, Technical, and Trade Committee (JETTCO).
China remains a leading investor in Rwanda, with over $1.1 billion in investments since 2019, primarily in manufacturing, construction, real estate, and mining. Among China’s ongoing projects in Rwanda is the upgrade of Masaka District Hospital, which will expand into an 837-bed facility and become part of the Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK).
Apart from Kagame., other leaders from other African nations, such as Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Chad, Gabon, South Sudan, Equatorial Guinea, Seychelles, and the Prime Minister of Cape Verde, have also made their way to Beijing. Those unable to attend in person have sent senior ministerial officials to represent them at this significant triennial event.
Since its inception, FOCAC has convened several key sessions: the inaugural meeting in Beijing in October 2000, followed by sessions in Addis Ababa, Sharm El Sheikh, and Johannesburg. The 2021 summit, adapted for the pandemic with a videolink between Dakar and Beijing, continued the tradition of fostering closer ties.
This year’s summit will be marked by the adoption of the FOCAC Joint Declaration and the Action Plan (2025-2027) during the opening ceremony, setting the stage for the next phase of China-Africa cooperation.
Aloys Manzi, who spent many years in the United Kingdom, recognized this issue and launched a project aimed at providing different types of homes tailored to clients’ preferences. This initiative allows members of the diaspora to own homes in Rwanda without the usual difficulties.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Manzi and Ignatius Mugabo explained that anyone wishing to build a home in Rwanda needs to pay 20% of the construction cost upfront. If they lack the full amount, the remaining balance can be financed by a bank, which they will repay gradually.
They confirmed that those interested in building a home do not need to oversee the construction process themselves, as Blackrock handles everything, including finding tenants if the owner is not yet ready to live in the house.
{{Excerpts:}}
{{IGIHE: Could you please describe the ‘Blackrock’ project?}}
{{Mugabo: }} The ‘Blackrock’ project is a reliable and well-structured initiative designed with the diaspora in mind. Many members of the diaspora don’t have the time to manage a construction project.
They often visit Rwanda for a few weeks and leave without completing what they started due to time constraints. Our project simplifies this process by taking care of everything for them. From purchasing land to building the house, we handle it all.
The process is even more accessible, as clients can begin with a 20% upfront payment, and a major Rwandan bank supporting this project will finance the rest. This ensures that their investment is protected, as the bank oversees the progress of the construction.
{{IGIHE: What sets these homes apart from others?}}
{{Manzi:}} Our homes stand out because we focus on building high-quality houses customized to the client’s specifications. Clients can request specific modifications, and once the construction is complete, we even assist in finding tenants if they are not ready to move in.
While similar services may exist, they are not as widely available, especially for the diaspora. We understand their unique challenges and are here to help them navigate the process easily.
{{IGIHE: }} {{How do you assist those who may not have enough money?}}
{{Manzi: }} We collaborate with a leading bank in Rwanda that is keen to support the diaspora. If a client has 20% of the required funds, the bank will provide an 80% loan to cover the remaining costs. The bank’s involvement means they will monitor the project’s progress, ensuring everything goes according to plan. This approach differs from simply handing over money to a relative, where there’s a risk of being shown photos of someone else’s house.
That’s why Blackrock is here, and we have other plans for the future, including helping someone with land by building houses on it and assisting them to run other income generating ventures.
{{IGIHE: Is it possible for someone to request a custom-built home?}}
{{Manzi: }} Absolutely. For example, one of our clients from the United States wanted to use only part of his house and rent out the rest.
He requested that the first and second floors be designed as rental units while he lived on the top floor.
We cater to such needs, whether a client wants to live in the entire house, rent out parts of it, or customize the space for other purposes. Each room is self-contained, making it easy to adapt to different needs. Our dedicated team is always available to assist with customization, ensuring that each home meets the client’s desires.
A statement issued by RDF confirms that President Paul Kagame, who also serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Rwandan Defence Force, approved the retirement of General Kazura, along with four Brigadier Generals including; John Bagabo, John Bosco Rutikanga, Johnson Hodari, and Firmin Bayingana.
In addition, President Kagame also approved the retirement of 170 senior officers and 992 soldiers of various ranks.
General Kazura has held key leadership roles within the Rwandan Defense Force for many years, including his tenure as Chief of Defense Staff from November 2019 to June 2023.
He has also served in several other significant positions, such as the Commandant of Nyakinama Military Academy, Military Advisor to the President, Deputy Commander of the African Union forces in Darfur, Sudan, and Commander of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA).
Brig Gen John Bagabo, known for his extensive work in military justice, recently served as the President of the Military High Court and was a Commissioner in the Demobilization and Reintegration Commission.
Brig Gen John Bosco Rutikanga once served as the RDF Division Commander in the Northern Province and as the Commander of the 204th Brigade. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 2018.
Meanwhile, Brig General Johnson Hodari, once served as military commander in the districts of Bugesera, Ngoma, and Kirehe, and later led the 305th Brigade in Musanze and part of Burera districts.
Brig Gen Firmin Bayingana is also recognized for his leadership role in APR FC.
During the send-off ceremony held on Friday, Defense Minister Juvenal Marizamunda expressed gratitude to the retiring Generals and Senior Officers for their contributions from the period of the liberation struggle, stopping the Genocide against the Tutsi and to the current development programme.
“I encourage you to uphold the same dedication you have shown throughout the years. The young RDF soldiers have gained valuable insights from your example, and I am confident that you will continue to contribute to the protection of our country,” said Marizamunda.
In his remarks, the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, Gen MK Mubarakh, emphasised that this is a unique milestone, marking the culmination of long and distinguished military careers, reflecting the highest credit upon the retiring military personnel.
“Behind each of our historical successes have been your sacrifices, dedication, and commitment to accomplishing the mission of defending our country. You have served our nation with distinction and honour, and you can be proud of your contributions to current peace and security. You have left behind a tremendous legacy, not just in the accomplishment of your duties but in strengthening the respected institution of the RDF,” said Gen Mubarakh.
Brig Gen John Bagabo, speaking on behalf of the retirees, expressed gratitude to President Paul Kagame and the Commander-in-Chief of the RDF for his leadership and guidance over the years, noting that during the struggle to liberate the country, the President emphasised the importance of good conduct to benefit the nation and distinguish themselves from their adversaries.
“These principles have remained with us and continue to guide our actions. As we move into the Reserve Force, we take great pride in bidding farewell with honour.
“We ask our leaders present today to relay our message to the Commander-in-Chief, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to serve and protect the accomplishments we have fought for over the years. We stand ready to support the RDF active force in our future deployments,” said Brig Gen Bagabo.
The retirees were awarded certificates in recognition of their service to the Rwanda Defence Force.
The development was disclosed during a press briefing held on August 30, 2024.
NEC’s Executive Secretary, Charles Munyaneza, said that the Commission received 41 candidacies in accordance with legal provisions, but the Supreme Court approved only 32.
Munyaneza explained the reasons considered by the Supreme Court to reject some candidacies include failure to meet the necessary qualifications, such as lacking relevant work experience or not meeting the minimum age requirement of 40 years.
Additionally, some candidates lacked the required documents, and those from universities and higher learning institutions did not meet stipulated requirements.
This will be the fourth senatorial election since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with previous elections held in 2003, 2011, and 2019. This marks the second time senators will be elected for a five-year term, different from the previous eight-year terms.
NEC’s Chairperson, Oda Gasinzigwa, mentioned that the campaigning process for the approved candidates is progressing smoothly.
She emphasized that the elected senators will serve a five-year term, subject to renewal, and the law stipulates that the elections must be held at least 30 days before the end of the current senators’ term.
Rwanda’s senate consists of 26 senators, including eight appointed by the sitting President, four appointed by the Consultative Forum of Political Organizations, and elected senators through Electoral Colleges.
The upcoming elections in September 2024 will be for 12 senators elected according to the country’s Constitution, two senators elected respectively from lecturers and researchers from the public and private universities.
Both mosques are central to the religious life of Muslims in Kigali—Masjid Alfatah located in Biryogo, adjacent to Onatracom head office, and the Madina Mosque in the city center.
Preparations regarding the renovation project began before the COVID-19 pandemic, involving the Rwanda Muslim Community (RMC) and the Saudi Arabian government, which was expected to fund the initiative.
The plans for Masjid Alfatah included expanding its capacity from 500 to over 2,500 worshippers and adding a commercial facility to generate revenue.
The Madina Mosque was expected to undergo an extensive overhaul, with a new structure with over 10 floors, where the ground floor would serve as the mosque and the upper floors would be used for commercial activities. The total cost was estimated at Rwf8 billion for the Madina Mosque and Rwf6.5 billion for Masjid Alfatah.
In an interview with IGIHE, the Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, explained that the project was to be implemented through cooperation with the Saudi Arabian government, which had also funded the original construction of Masjid Alfatah in 1974.
“This mosque at Onatracom was built 50 years ago in 1974 by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At the time, the King of Saudi Arabia visited Kampala, and Muslims from Rwanda went there to welcome him. They presented a request to build a mosque which he welcomed and funded the project,” Sheikh Sindayigaya noted.
“Given this historical connection, the leadership of the Muslim community in Rwanda reminded them about the mosque they had helped us build, which has now aged and needs renovation. They agreed to assist with this mosque as well as the one in the city center.”
Sheikh Sindayigaya mentioned that representatives from Saudi Arabia visited Rwanda to discuss the implementation of this project with the leadership of the Muslim community in Rwanda.
“A delegation comprising officials from various ministries convened: they included the Finance Ministry and that in charge of Religious Affairs who contacted us through our very own Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” Sindayigaya explained.
He said that they met with the former Mufti, Sheikh Salim Hitimana, who then presented the projects, which they had already received in writing and got them approved.
According to him, a site visit was then conducted and appreciated, leaving them with a solid hope that the project would be implemented.
However, as preparations to implement the project proceeded the COVID-19 pandemic struck, delaying the planned activities.
“They later informed us to start preparing, as the funding agreements would be signed soon. We started gathering the necessary documents, but then COVID-19 hit, leading to an economic downturn in many countries, and after the pandemic, some countries became more focused on their own issues,” Sindayigaya explained.
He however revealed that the new leadership of the Rwanda Muslim Community has resumed discussions, and expressed hope that the project will be revived, with the support of the Rwandan government.
Major General Nzaramba was dismissed for corruption and the misappropriation of funds designated for soldiers’ welfare during his time as Commandant of the Basic Military Training Centre in Nasho.
Similarly, Colonel Dr. Etienne Uwimana was removed for gross misconduct and violating the core ethics and values of the RDF.
Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga, the RDF spokesperson, underscored the gravity of these offenses, stating, “The RDF has zero tolerance for corruption, gross indiscipline, and misconduct. These dismissals reflect our unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards within our ranks.”
Joining the celebration was Professor Lin Zhanxi. Since the 1980s, the octogenarian scientist has led a research team on Juncao technology in China’s southeastern Fujian Province. The hybrid grass technology enables fungi to grow on grass-based substrates instead of felled trees, a solution to the mushroom industry’s threat to forests.
The plant’s name means “mushroom” and “grass” in Chinese. Its versatility is a key feature, allowing it to grow edible mushrooms, provide livestock feed and help battle desertification.
Thanks to the active and visionary promotion by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Juncao is thriving in and beyond China, improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development in developing nations across the Asia-Pacific, Africa and Latin America.
{{A way out of poverty}}
Before known as “the father of Juncao,” Lin grew up in the impoverished rural mountains of Fujian. His personal experiences with poverty profoundly shaped his commitment to Juncao technology.
After decades of work, Lin and his team succeeded in selecting and breeding a type of high-yield, drought and salinity-resistant herbaceous plant that can be used as a substitute for wood to grow edible and medicinal mushrooms.
At the ninth Aid-for-Trade Global Review Conference held by the WTO in Geneva in June, Lin reflected on how Juncao technology began its global journey. It was back in 1992 when Lin first presented Juncao to widespread acclaim at an international exhibition on inventions, also in Geneva. There in Switzerland, Lin received many calls to learn more about the technology.
Lin recalled how Xi has passionately supported using scientific and technological means to combat poverty.
In 1997, Xi, then deputy secretary of the Communist Party of China Fujian Provincial Committee, listed Juncao technology as part of the province’s poverty reduction efforts with the northwestern Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region. Upon receiving the assignment, Lin immediately took his team, as well as grass and fungus seeds, to Xihaigu, a poverty-stricken region in Ningxia.
Today, Juncao technology is used in 31 provinces across China and has significantly contributed to ending poverty and revitalizing rural areas.
With Xi’s support, a pilot project to introduce Juncao technology in Papua New Guinea was launched in 2000, becoming one of the first applications of Juncao technology overseas.
Fuelled by their dedication and pioneering spirit, Lin and other Chinese researchers have since introduced the technology to 106 countries and regions across the globe.
With a mission to end poverty around the world, Chinese scientists have applied Juncao technology to some challenging environments. In Papua New Guinea’s Eastern Highlands, they witnessed tribes still practicing slash-and-burn agriculture. In Rwanda, families without access to cattle or tractors labored in muddy fields using only hoes. In the Central African Republic, they observed the devastating impact of post-conflict famine.
Throughout these years, Lin has faced gunpoint robberies, malaria, altitude sickness and long periods in remote outposts without electricity or water. Witnessing extreme poverty in developing countries further strengthened Lin’s commitment to Juncao.
“We go to the poorest places with a genuine intent to help the people,” Lin stated.
{{A plant of prosperity}}
Agnes Ayinkamiye is the first coordinator of the Juncao project in Rwanda.
“One of the things that made me especially happy was how we helped people. The project was well-received, and we trained many people, particularly women’s cooperatives and youth groups,” she said. “I enjoyed my work immensely and was thrilled to collaborate with experts.”
“People can earn money through Juncao technology, and it’s become quite popular,” Ayinkamiye added.
Lin noted that around 4,000 Rwandan households have benefited from the technology, with some experiencing their incomes double or even triple over the years.
“Juncao technology is affordable … This technology is applied in such a way that makes it affordable for people at a very local level, which I believe is the key benefit,” said Earle Courtenay Rattray, chef de cabinet to the United Nations Secretary-General.
Seruwaia Kabukabu, an entrepreneur in Serea Village of Fiji’s Naitasiri Province, is one of the women trained at the Juncao demonstration center in Nadi, Fiji’s third-largest city.
“After the training, every one of us received mushroom substrate bags for free from the center. Under the guidance of technical experts, we began to harvest and sell mushrooms within 7-10 days, earning money for our family,” Kabukabu said.
The income from the Juncao project allowed her to improve her family’s living standards by purchasing essential appliances, building a concrete toilet and bathroom, and even contributing to a clean water project in her community.
“Fiji faces numerous problems ranging from geographical isolation, susceptibility to natural disasters due to climate change that hinders agricultural, and sustainable development and food security,” Kabukabu said.
Over the past decade, over 2,400 people in Fiji have received training on Juncao technology, with the Juncao cultivation area in Fiji exceeding 2,000 hectares.
“Simple to learn and effective to implement,” said Lin, emphasizing that Juncao technology should lower its technical application threshold abroad “so that even the poorest farmers can get involved.”
To date, nearly 350 international workshops have trained over 14,000 people in Juncao technology, with introductory papers now available in 18 languages for global use.
{{Never-ending expriment }}
Apart from cultivating mushrooms, Juncao technology has continued to innovate, expanding its production to include feed and fertilizer.
Since using Juncao as fodder, Tahiya Massawe, a farmer in Bumbwi Sudi, Tanzania, has observed improved milk density and nutrition and increased milk production.
“It has also saved money for me,” she told Xinhua, “because the budget I previously spent on other feed is now saved by using this grass.”
Farmers multiply Juncao and use it on their farms. Many testimonials show that farmers have accepted the technology simply because the feeds are rich, said Makame Kitwana, director of Planning, Policy and Research at Tanzania’s agriculture ministry.
“In a number of ways, scientifically, it has (been proven) that the protein content, as well as carbon content, is high, making cattle more satisfied when consuming Juncao grass compared to other grasses,” he said.
Juncao can also help with ecological management.
Soil erosion has been a serious problem in countries such as Rwanda. Rwandan officials used to worry that if the soil problem could not be resolved, Rwanda would have no land to cultivate. Lin always kept their concerns in mind.
He still remembers the experimental data in Rwanda during his visit over a decade ago. On one day the rainfall for two and a half hours reached 51.4 millimeters. All the rain was captured by the giant (Juncao) grass, and it was very effective in water conservation and soil retention.
In February in Fiji, Lin also worked on applying Juncao technology to saline soil management, aiming to seek additional solutions to combat climate change for developing countries, including Pacific island nations.
“The experimental results were very promising,” Lin said. “Juncao is the grass of happiness, a gift from China to all.”
This year’s FOCAC is the fourth to be held at the summit level, with leaders from China and African countries as well as representatives from regional and international organizations gathering to chart a course for the future of China-Africa relations.
{{So, what can we expect from this year’s FOCAC Summit？}}
{{Elevating China-Africa relations in the new era}}
As the world’s largest developing country and the continent with the highest concentration of developing nations, China and Africa are bound by similar historical experiences and a shared mission.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has said he attaches great importance to China-Africa relations. During his first overseas visit as president in 2013, he visited Africa, where he proposed pursuing relations based on the principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, as well as acting together for the greater good and shared interests.
Under the guidance of head-of-state diplomacy, China-Africa relations have entered a new phase of building a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future. The 2024 FOCAC Summit offers an opportunity for partnerships to be strengthened, the spirit of friendship and cooperation to be carried forward, and the bonds of the China-Africa community in the new era to be further tightened.
{{Embracing closer economic, trade ties}}
China and African countries have developed increasingly close economic and trade ties, with an ever-growing trade volume and a diversification of commodities and services.
For the past 15 consecutive years, China has been Africa’s largest trading partner. According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, China-Africa trade reached a record high of $282.1 billion in 2023, a year-on-year increase of 1.5 percent. Additionally, trade between China and Africa saw a 5.5 percent year-on-year increase, reaching 1.19 trillion yuan (approximately $166.6 billion), from January to July this year.
The Chinese economy and the economies of African countries are highly complementary as China possesses mature and applicable technologies, equipment and sufficient capital, while African countries have significant advantages in terms of manpower and natural resources. The 2024 FOCAC summit will be a crucial opportunity for China and African countries to deepen their economic and trade relationships, achieve mutual benefits and advance shared development goals.
{{Aligning with global climate goals}}
The Adama Wind Power Project, located in Ethiopia and built by Chinese companies, is a symbol of the growing green cooperation between China and Africa.
Since it began operating in 2015, the wind farm has powered approximately 600,000 households, created 2,100 local jobs and contributed to Ethiopia’s green energy goals. The collaboration has also fueled the growth of Adama city, with its population increasing from 324,000 in 2015 to over 480,000 in 2023, while improved infrastructure has enhanced the quality of life for nearby villagers.
In recent years, China has developed advanced technologies in areas such as renewable energy, waste management and water conservation. Sharing these technologies with African nations, coupled with training programs to build local expertise, could accelerate the continent’s green transition.
This would empower African countries to adopt sustainable practices and also innovate and develop their own solutions to environmental challenges. The 2024 FOCAC Summit is also a platform from which China and African countries can reaffirm their commitment to international climate agreements.
{{Paving the way for Africa’s modernization and a shared future}}
As African nations and their peoples forge ahead on the path of modernization, with China as a steadfast supporter and companion, the “Support for Africa’s Industrialization Initiative,” the “China-Africa Agricultural Modernization Plan” and the “China-Africa Talent Development Cooperation Program” will continue to be important drivers.
The initiatives address key areas essential to Africa’s modernization, showcasing China’s commitment to supporting the development of countries across the continent. Working together, China and African nations are poised to create a brighter future for their peoples and set an example in building a community with a shared future for mankind.
The new Russian Ambassador, Alexander Polyakov, was confirmed by the Cabinet Meeting on May 22, 2024, succeeding Karen Chalyan, who served in Rwanda from June 2018 until the end of his tour of duty in June 2024.
After presenting his credentials to the President on August 28, 2024, Amb. Polyakov expressed his commitment to strengthening the historical ties between Russia and Rwanda, benefiting the citizens of both nations.
Amb. Polyakov highlighted Russia’s commitment to ongoing projects with Rwanda, including a promising nuclear energy initiative, and the exploration of other areas for cooperation.
“My main task is to take massive efforts to develop existing possibilities of the Russia and Rwanda agenda including the most promising project in the field of nuclear energy as well as finding new possibilities and opportunities in different areas,” he noted.
“We are very much satisfied with relations in terms of military and technical and Russia continues to provide an increasing number of state-financed scholarships to the Rwandan students,” added Amb. Polyakov.
He also mentioned Russia’s recent proposal to establish an intergovernmental Russia-Rwanda commission on cooperation in trade, science, and technology, to alternate meetings between Kigali and Moscow to discuss practical issues and explore future opportunities.
He commended Rwanda’s warm welcome and sent wishes to Rwandans for success and prosperity for Rwandans all their way towards modernization.
Meanwhile, the new Indian Ambassador to Rwanda, Shri Mridu Pawan Das, upon presenting his credentials, pledged to strengthen bilateral relations between Rwanda and India.
“I am delighted to be posted to this wonderful country. Both countries have friendly relations and it will be my endeavor to further strengthen existing friendly relations between India and Rwanda,” he noted.
Ambassador Shri Mridu is among the 12 ambassadors approved by the Cabinet on August 23, 2024, during a meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame.
Italian Ambassador Mauro Massoni, who will have residence in Kampala, was confirmed by the Cabinet on November 29, 2023. He expressed his readiness to boost trade relations between Italy and Rwanda.
“I am here to improve existing relations between Italy and Rwanda. We already have a number of Italian companies here, and my duty will be trying to increase them,” Amb. Massoni said, emphasizing the potential for further economic collaboration.
He also mentioned Italy’s longstanding tradition of offering scholarships to Rwandan students and sees continued support in science and engineering education as a vital way to strengthen the ties between the two nations.
Azerbaijan’s new Ambassador, Ruslan Rafael oglu Nasibov, who will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, also presented his credentials to President Kagame.
He affirmed that the relationship between Rwanda and Azerbaijan has been steadily growing over the past 20 years and expressed optimism about the potential for economic cooperation.
Amb. Ruslan also highlighted that there are many opportunities in the economic field, public service delivery and expressed optimism to make concrete steps very soon.
Other ambassadors who presented their credentials include the new UK High Commissioner, Alison Heather Thorpe, who succeeded Omar Daair after his tour of duty ended in July 2024.
Also present were Ambassador Fátima Yesenia Fernandes Juaréz of Venezuela, who will be based in Kampala, Ambassador Enrique Javier Ochoa Martínez of Mexico, with residence in Nairobi, and Ambassador Genţiana Şerbu of Romania, also based in Nairobi.
Rwanda currently hosts resident ambassadors from 45 countries, while another 72 ambassadors are accredited to Rwanda but with residences in other countries.
