Rwanda and Zimbabwe shared a vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa, according to Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe in his remarks yesterday during the celebration of the 46th independence anniversary of the Republic of Zimbabwe. Read his remarks:
1. It is a great honour and privilege to join you this evening in celebrating the 46th Independence anniversary of the Republic of Zimbabwe which was commemorated on 18th April 2026.
2. On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Rwanda, and on my own behalf, I wish to convey warm congratulations and best wishes to the Government and the people of Zimbabwe on this important national occasion.
3. Furthermore, I wish to congratulate the Government and People of the Republic of Zimbabwe on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027–2028. Rwanda welcomes this notable achievement and is confident that Zimbabwe will make a valuable contribution to the Council’s work in promoting international peace, security, and multilateral cooperation.
4. Rwanda and Zimbabwe share deep-rooted relations anchored in mutual respect, Pan-African solidarity, and a shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa. Our cooperation has steadily expanded across key sectors including education, energy, peace and security, agriculture, trade, and diplomacy. These efforts are further reinforced through joint engagements at the regional and continental levels.
5. Rwanda hosted the Third Session of the Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) between our two countries in August 2025, which culminated with the signing of additional five Memoranda of Understanding in the sectors of Health, Police Cooperation, Energy, Youth Affairs and Customs Information Exchange.
6. Under the education sector between our two countries, Rwanda welcomed the second cohort of education personnel from Zimbabwe in December last year, adding to the first cohort received in October 2022. Rwanda highly values the important contribution of Zimbabwean education professionals who continue to serve in Rwanda and play a significant role in strengthening our education sector. Their dedication, professionalism, and commitment have contributed to the development of human capital in Rwanda and further illustrate the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two countries.
7. Under South-South cooperation, through the Rwanda Cooperation Initiative, we have received delegations from Zimbabwe for study visits to Rwanda, facilitating the exchange of experiences and best practices in strategic sectors like ICT, public service reform, and finance. It is our wish to continue this positive momentum; there is so much we can learn from each other.
8. The exchange of high-level visits between our two countries has further strengthened our partnership and reaffirmed our shared vision for regional integration, economic transformation, and South-South cooperation.
9. Rwanda remains committed to further deepening its cooperation with Zimbabwe for the mutual benefit of our peoples.
10. As we celebrate this important milestone with our Zimbabwean brothers and sisters, allow me once again to congratulate the Government and the people of Zimbabwe on their Independence Day and to wish them continued peace, prosperity, and success.
Please join me in raising a toast:
11. To the continued good health and well-being of His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe;
To the prosperity of the people of Zimbabwe;
12. And to the continued strengthening of the excellent bilateral relations between the Republic of Rwanda and the Republic of Zimbabwe. I thank you. Tatenda! Murakoze. (End)