Speaking at a diplomatic briefing, Amb. Nduhungirehe highlighted Rwanda’s position on the upcoming Francophonie elections, regional security and cooperation with Mozambique.
He also briefed diplomats on measures Rwanda has put in place to prevent the spread of Ebola from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda.
Mushikiwabo, who has led the OIF since 2018 and was re-elected in 2022, is seeking a third term. Elections are scheduled for November in Cambodia.
Amb. Nduhungirehe praised her leadership, saying Louise Mushikiwabo elevated La Francophonie to another level.
“Ms Louise Mushikiwabo has elevated La Francophonie to greater heights. Under her leadership the organisation has secured its rightful place at decision-making tables on issues related to youth employment, democratic governance, the economy, culture, gender and the promotion of the French language,” he noted.
On regional security, Amb. Nduhungirehe reiterated Rwanda’s support for peaceful solutions to tensions with the DRC and urged international partners to encourage Kinshasa to honor commitments made under existing peace processes.
“ Rwanda calls on the international community and all partners to engage the DRC in a constructive manner that produces tangible results in implementing its end of the bargain,” he said.
He warned that failure to apply impartial pressure could encourage a military approach rather than dialogue.
“Failing to do so would amount to supporting the DRC’s never-ending military approach. Without even-handed pressure and follow up, we cannot create the conditions and incentives necessary for lasting peace in the Great Lakes region,” Minister,” the minister added.
Amb. Nduhungirehe also addressed Rwanda’s security cooperation with Mozambique, confirming that Kigali will continue working directly with the Mozambican government to support the deployment of Rwandan troops and police in Cabo Delgado.
“Rwanda decided this year to work exclusively with the Government of Mozambique, which has secured and will continue to secure the necessary funding for the Rwandan Security Forces in Cabo Delgado.
Collaboration between the two governments has been successful so far and will continue to remain so in the future,” he stated.
This follows a decision by the European Union, influenced by Germany and Belgium, to block €20 million in funding that had been allocated to support counter-terrorism operations in Mozambique.
Rwanda deployed soldiers and police officers to Mozambique at the invitation of the Mozambican government in July 2021. The mission aims to help the country combat terrorist and insurgent groups operating in Cabo Delgado Province.
Over the past five years, the deployment has recorded significant gains, with insurgents largely pushed back from areas secured by Rwandan forces. The improved security situation has enabled many residents who had fled the violence to return to their homes.
Leave a Reply