President Paul Kagame on Tuesday May 21, 2025 received credentials from 11 newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners at Urugwiro Village, in a glowing display of Rwanda’s growing diplomatic stature.
The ceremony marked a significant reaffirmation of Rwanda’s commitment to international cooperation and meaningful global partnerships.
The new envoys, representing countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, will serve as official representatives of their governments in Rwanda, ushering in a renewed spirit of collaboration in key areas such as trade, education, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
Among those accredited were ambassadors from Ukraine, Sudan, Angola, Chad, South Sudan, Somalia, Gabon, Norway, Argentina, Vietnam, and the United Republic of Tanzania.
Each diplomat presented their letters of credence to President Kagame in a symbolic gesture of trust and diplomatic readiness.
This occasion was particularly notable for the presence of Ambassador Viacheslav Yatsiuk, who will serve as Ukraine’s new envoy to Rwanda following the opening of Ukraine’s first-ever embassy in Kigali in April 2024.
Ambassador Yatsiuk emphasized the profound respect Ukraine holds for Rwanda’s transformation and resilience, highlighting shared experiences of overcoming adversity.
He also expressed hope for closer cooperation in sectors like agriculture, technology, and economic development as Ukraine continues its defense against Russian aggression.
Also historic was the arrival of Dr. Sylver Aboubakar Minko Mi Nseme, the first Gabonese ambassador to be stationed in Kigali since 2016.
His appointment signals a revitalization of Rwanda-Gabon relations, particularly in areas like higher education and cultural exchange. Currently, more than 2,000 Gabonese students are pursuing studies in Rwandan institutions, a testament to the countries’ growing educational ties.
From the East African region, Dr. Habib Gallus Kambanga, Tanzania’s new High Commissioner to Rwanda, reaffirmed the importance of enhancing trade and regional cooperation.
His counterpart from Somalia, Ambassador Ilyas Ali Hassan, echoed the desire to deepen bilateral engagement. Ambassador Khalid Musa Dafalla from Sudan praised Rwanda’s strides in national unity and peacebuilding, seeing vast potential in cross-border agricultural trade.
Ambassador Paul Molong Akaro of South Sudan lauded Rwanda’s educational system, noting its appeal to South Sudanese students seeking academic excellence.
Ambassador Abdelkerim Ahmadaye Bakhit of Chad, who had last visited Rwanda five years ago, expressed admiration for the country’s continued progress and emphasized the mutual benefits of shared learning and innovation.
As Rwanda continues to carve out a role as a trusted and visionary partner on the global stage, President Kagame’s reception of these ambassadors signals not just diplomatic formality, but a forward-looking agenda grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a collective pursuit of prosperity.
