Rwanda and Tanzania agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, infrastructure and security following talks between President Paul Kagame and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, with both leaders emphasizing the growing importance of their partnership.
Speaking after their meeting in Dar es Salaam, Suluhu said bilateral trade reached 644 billion Tanzanian shillings in 2025 and continues to expand. She said the two countries will work to remove non-tariff barriers, boost investment and accelerate development of key infrastructure, including transport, energy and communications.
Tanzania plays a central role in Rwanda’s trade, with about 70% of Rwandan imports and exports passing through its ports.
The two leaders also pledged closer collaboration on security and defense, as well as stronger coordination on regional and global issues, particularly within the East African Community.
Kagame described Tanzania as a key strategic partner, highlighting the importance of its ports and transport networks to Rwanda and neighboring countries.
“We have a responsibility to continue strengthening cooperation between our countries for the benefit of our citizens,” Kagame said.
During the visit, Kagame also announced that Rwanda plans to formally recognize Tanzanian citizens who showed courage and compassion by helping rescue people during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Rwanda has previously honored individuals from around the world who risked their lives to protect Tutsi during the genocide. Among them are American humanitarian Carl Wilkens and physician Paul Farmer, as well as African peacekeepers such as Henry Kwami Anyidoho and Mbaye Diagne, who was killed while rescuing civilians.
In Tanzania, former President Julius Nyerere has also been honored posthumously for his role during that period.
Kagame said the planned tribute would recognize acts of bravery and strengthen the historical ties between Rwanda and Tanzania as the two countries continue to expand cooperation.
