President Paul Kagame has described Tanzania as a strategic partner for Rwanda, citing its pivotal role in facilitating trade and transport links to international markets.
Speaking on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Dar es Salaam during a joint press briefing with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Kagame said their discussions focused on expanding cooperation and building on existing gains across key sectors.
He noted that ties between the two countries have steadily deepened, particularly in trade and transport infrastructure—critical areas for Rwanda’s access to global markets.
“Tanzania is a key partner for Rwanda. Over the years, we have prioritised collaboration in several sectors, especially trade and transport connectivity linking Rwanda to international markets,” Kagame said.
He reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Tanzania to advance shared economic interests and improve livelihoods in both countries.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan said trade between Rwanda and Tanzania reached 644 billion Tanzanian shillings (about Rwf 361 billion) in 2025, reflecting sustained growth in bilateral exchange.
She added that both countries agreed to fast-track the Isaka–Kigali Standard Gauge Railway project, expected to significantly ease movement of goods and lower transport costs.
Bilateral cooperation has continued to expand through the Joint Permanent Commission, which drives engagement across multiple sectors.
From 1990 to March 2026, at least 42 Rwandan investment projects were registered in Tanzania, valued at $325.5 million, creating over 2,200 jobs in sectors including manufacturing, transport, finance, natural resources, and tourism.
Tanzanian investors have also expanded their footprint in Rwanda, with companies such as Bakhresa Group, Magodoro Dodoma, Discount Center, Jambo Plastic, Sagar Enterprises, Buffalo Travelling Tours, Maxcom Africa, Gasabo Grain Milling Company, LCM Delta Company, and Metrex Integrated Consultancy contributing to growing economic integration between the two countries.
