On January 22, 2025, Rwanda and Zimbabwe extended their cooperation agreement. The deal focuses on boosting investment, easing trade, promoting political advocacy, and facilitating knowledge exchange to accelerate economic growth in both countries.
The agreement was signed by Jean-Guy Afrika, CEO of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), and Tafadzwa Chinamo, CEO of Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), in Kigali. The Zimbabwean delegation was led by Dr. Martin Rushwaya, Secretary to the President and Cabinet of Zimbabwe. They were accompanied by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Charity Munyeruke.
The relationship between Rwanda and Zimbabwe has grown stronger, with 22 cooperation agreements already signed. This renewed partnership began when both countries opened embassies in Kigali and Harare in 2019. The countries share similarities in their economies, populations, and development levels, making their collaboration particularly meaningful.
To maximize the benefits of this partnership, three investor conferences have already been held. The first took place in Kigali in September 2021, opened by President Paul Kagame of Rwanda. The second was held in Harare in March 2022, and was opened by Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The third conference was held on March 18, 2024, highlighting the progress made in strengthening bilateral relations.
Both countries are committed to opening new opportunities to advance their economies, aligned with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As the world faces challenges like war, climate change, and pandemics, the Rwanda-Zimbabwe partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in finding sustainable solutions.
Both nations are dedicated to building lasting prosperity, benefiting their citizens, Africa, and the world.
