Brazil’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Irene Vida Gala, has announced plans to raise awareness of Rwanda across Brazil, aiming to introduce the country to millions of Brazilians through the Visit Rwanda tourism initiative.
The ambassador told local media that the campaign targets a broad audience in Brazil, including people who are not football fans, generating curiosity and interest in visiting Rwanda. “Visit Rwanda will reach millions across Brazil, creating awareness of the country beyond sports partnerships,” she said.
Diplomatic ties between Rwanda and Brazil date back to 1980, but relations have strengthened significantly over the past two years, with both countries opening resident embassies—Rwanda in Brazil in 2024, and Brazil in Kigali in 2025. Ambassador Vida Gala is the first Brazilian ambassador to reside in Rwanda.
She highlighted that cooperation is already underway in sectors such as education, aviation, cultural exchange, and tourism, facilitated in part by Rwanda’s envoy to Brazil, Lawrance Kamanzi. These areas, she said, are expected to continue expanding as bilateral relations deepen.
“Brazil sees Rwanda as a strategic partner in multilateral engagement and a model for development on the African continent,” the ambassador said, noting Rwanda’s progress in governance, technology-driven agriculture, sports, and quality education.
Ambassador Vida Gala also emphasised cultural and knowledge exchange as key to strengthening long-term collaboration. She noted that while Brazilian visitors are impressed by Rwanda’s progress in investment promotion, poverty reduction, and public cleanliness, many are still unfamiliar with the country’s broader culture and history.
Tourism promotion, particularly through the Visit Rwanda initiative, is expected to play a major role in raising Rwanda’s profile. Millions of Brazilians will have the opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s attractions, culture, and achievements, broadening mutual understanding between the two countries.
Looking ahead, Rwanda will host a Brazil–Rwanda business forum in early February 2026, bringing together over 50 Brazilian companies. The event will mark the first direct engagement of business communities from both countries, aimed at strengthening economic ties and cooperation in education, tourism, and cultural sectors.
This initiative reflects Rwanda’s strategy of leveraging tourism, education, and cultural exchange as drivers of international partnerships, positioning the country as a leading African destination for visitors and collaborative projects.
