Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta, along with his Tanzanian counterpart, January Makamba, have pledged to enhance bilateral ties between their countries across multiple sectors such as trade, energy, and infrastructure.
This commitment was articulated during a joint news conference held in Kigali on Tuesday, March 12, following a bilateral meeting between their delegations.
Makamba, who is currently on a four-day working visit to Rwanda, assured that Tanzania would continue facilitating Rwanda’s use of the Dar es Salaam port for international trade, as the port handles over 80% of Rwanda’s cargo imports.
To improve transportation between the two nations, Tanzania plans to upgrade its road network, focusing on the 92-kilometer route from Rusabunga to Rusumo.
Makamba also addressed concerns raised by truckers regarding non-harmonized levies between Tanzania and Rwanda.
Furthermore, he encouraged Rwanda’s private sector to utilize land allocated to the country in Kwala and Isaka.
Emphasizing the importance of effective transportation corridors, Makamba affirmed their commitment to ensuring that the Dar es Salaam corridor functions efficiently for Rwanda.
Both Rwanda and Tanzania are collaborating on the Rusumo Hydropower Plant project, which is nearing completion and will generate 27 megawatts of electricity.
This project will contribute to the national grids of both countries, with Minister Biruta highlighting the mutual benefits of this cooperation.
Biruta emphasized Rwanda’s regard for Tanzania as a valued partner, citing their shared historical, cultural, and linguistic ties, including the adoption of Kiswahili as Rwanda’s fourth official language in 2017.
He underscored Tanzania’s significance as a trade partner, given its direct access to the Indian Ocean, which facilitates the transit of goods to and from Rwanda.
Expressing the desire to maintain strong neighborly relations and foster increased trade flows, Biruta reiterated the importance of their economic partnership in stimulating growth and strengthening the bond between their nations.
He also mentioned discussions on regional security issues during their meeting.
Makamba began his tour by paying respects at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and is expected to engage with students from various Rwandan universities during his visit.
