On September 22, 2026, the governments of Rwanda and Togo signed three cooperation agreements at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The agreements aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries in various fields. The agreements were signed by Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe, and Togo's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Robert Dussey.
The agreements signed include one on political cooperation, another on establishing a joint commission to enhance cooperation, and a third on cooperation in various sectors. The agreements demonstrate the strong political will of both countries to strengthen ties and promote mutual benefits for their citizens. The agreements are expected to boost Rwanda's access to the West African market through trade, investment, and transportation.
The agreements are considered a significant opportunity for Rwanda, as they will help the country to tap into the West African market. Togo's strategic location makes it an ideal entry point for Rwandan businesses to access the regional market. Rwanda can leverage Togo's position to export its products, such as coffee, tea, and handicrafts, to the West African market.
In May 2026, Rwanda's Minister of Trade and Industry held talks with Togolese officials on ways to increase trade and investment between the two countries. Togo has a unique position in West African trade and investment, with its capital city Lomé serving as a major trade hub. The city is a key entry point for trade with other West African countries.
Rwanda, being a landlocked country, can benefit from Togo's strategic location and infrastructure. The Togolese government has been investing in upgrading its infrastructure, including the Lomé-Adétikopé Industrial Platform. The World Bank announced in June 2026 that Togo is upgrading its railway system, which will connect the Lomé port to the industrial platform.
Agriculture is a key sector in both countries, with Rwanda and Togo having significant production of crops such as cotton, coffee, cocoa, and cashew nuts. The two countries can cooperate in areas such as increasing production, adding value to their products, and accessing new markets. They also have opportunities to collaborate in areas such as technology, conservation, and climate change mitigation.
The cooperation agreements between Rwanda and Togo are expected to strengthen bilateral ties and promote economic growth. The agreements demonstrate the commitment of both countries to enhancing cooperation and promoting mutual benefits for their citizens. The agreements will also contribute to the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which aims to boost intra-African trade and economic integration.
Key points
- The agreements will enhance cooperation between Rwanda and Togo in areas such as politics, trade, and infrastructure.
- The agreements will provide Rwanda with access to the West African market through Togo's strategic location.
- The agreements will promote economic growth and cooperation in areas such as agriculture, technology, and conservation.
