Rwanda and Senegal have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen cooperation between the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Senegalese Investment Promotion Agency (APIX). The agreement aims to facilitate investment, promote business, and enhance economic cooperation between the two countries. The signing ceremony took place in Kigali on October 7, 2026, on the sidelines of a business and investment conference.
The conference brought together delegates from Rwanda and Senegal, and was attended by Rwandan Foreign Minister and International Cooperation Minister, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Senegalese counterpart, Cheikh Niang. The event marked the first meeting of the Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation (JPCC). Ambassador Nduhungirehe expressed his hope that the economic conference would be a starting point for a new era of cooperation between Rwandan and Senegalese business leaders.
In his remarks, Ambassador Nduhungirehe emphasized the need for the conference to go beyond mere discussions and instead lay the groundwork for concrete partnerships. He stated that the goal was to create a new chapter in Rwanda-Senegal cooperation, one that would yield tangible results. The minister's sentiments were echoed by Kayinamura Joseph, a social media user, who noted that the conference should aim to transform the mindset on cooperation and investment.
The agreement between RDB and APIX seeks to leverage the strengths of both countries to promote economic growth. By working together, Rwanda and Senegal aim to create a more favorable business environment, attract investment, and increase trade. The partnership is expected to facilitate the exchange of best practices, expertise, and knowledge between the two countries.
The signing of the agreement is a significant step towards deepening economic ties between Rwanda and Senegal. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and this new framework is expected to build on existing relationships. The partnership is also seen as a way to promote regional integration and economic development in the African continent.
The business and investment conference in Kigali provided a platform for Rwandan and Senegalese entrepreneurs to network, share ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The event featured discussions on various sectors, including trade, investment, and innovation. Participants had the opportunity to engage with government officials, business leaders, and experts in their fields.
The implementation of the agreement between RDB and APIX is expected to have a positive impact on the economies of both Rwanda and Senegal. By promoting investment and economic cooperation, the partnership is likely to create new opportunities for growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. The success of the partnership will depend on the commitment and collaboration of both countries.
Key points
- The agreement aims to facilitate investment, promote business, and enhance economic cooperation between Rwanda and Senegal.
