On Monday, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, received copies of credentials from newly appointed ambassadors, including Kazuya Nakajo of Japan and Mansour Ali Fahd Al Shahwani Al Hajri of Qatar.
Rwanda and Japan share a long-standing friendly relationship, collaborating across multiple sectors. In 2022, Rwanda’s Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning signed a $20.3 million agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to support the development of water supply infrastructure across the country, improving access to clean water for communities.
Japan opened its embassy in Rwanda in 2010, further strengthening diplomatic ties that had already been reinforced through multiple high-level visits between leaders of both countries. Japanese support to Rwanda has focused primarily on infrastructure, education, and agricultural development.
Rwanda’s relations with Qatar have also grown steadily over the years, reinforced by reciprocal visits of national leaders. In November 2025, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, visited Rwanda for a two-day official trip aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic and diplomatic matters.
In 2019, the Emir made a similar visit during which the two countries signed agreements covering culture, sports, and tourism.
Air transport remains a key area of cooperation between Rwanda and Qatar. Qatar has played a pivotal role in the construction of Kigali International Airport in Bugesera District, a project expected to cost approximately $2 billion and projected to become the second most modern international airport in East Africa after Ethiopia.
Qatar Airways, which holds a 60 percent stake in RwandAir, is a key partner in the project, which is expected to enhance regional connectivity and increase passenger traffic across East Africa.
This meeting highlights Rwanda’s continued engagement with global partners to strengthen diplomatic ties and accelerate development in strategic sectors.
