President Paul Kagame on Tuesday met with outgoing United States Ambassador to Rwanda Eric Kneedler at Village Urugwiro, as the diplomat concluded his assignment in the country.
According to the Office of the President, the meeting held on January 13, 2026 focused on farewell discussions marking the end of Kneedler’s tenure after more than three years of diplomatic service in Rwanda.
Earlier in the day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, also held separate farewell talks with Kneedler, who has served as US ambassador to Rwanda since 2023.
Kneedler is among a group of American diplomats recently recalled as part of a broader reorganisation of US diplomatic missions ordered by President Donald Trump. In December 2025, Washington recalled ambassadors from 29 countries, including 13 in Africa, Rwanda among them.
He replaced Peter Vrooman, who was transferred to Mozambique.
The United States remains a key development partner of Rwanda, with cooperation covering health, education, modern agriculture, governance, and private-sector development. American companies are also involved in investment projects across the country.
Washington also plays a role in regional peace efforts in the Great Lakes region, including initiatives supporting dialogue between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
