MUSCAT, Oman – As the Sultanate of Oman prepares to mark its National Day on November 20, commemorating its independence from Portuguese colonial influence, the nation is not only reflecting on its past but also strategically shaping its future, with a keen eye on strengthening diplomatic and economic bridges with East Africa, particularly Rwanda.
The celebration of sovereignty is being matched by a proactive foreign policy, where Oman aims to leverage centuries-old historical ties into modern-day economic partnerships. Central to this vision is the relationship with Rwanda, a nation with which Oman shares a growing bond of “mutual respect,” according to senior officials.
In an interview, Dr. Ibrahim bin Bakhit Al Nudhairi, CEO of ASYAD Shipping, outlined ambitious plans for collaboration in the transport and logistics sector. “We aim to leverage the excellent political and diplomatic relations between our countries to expand cooperation,” Dr. Al Nudhairi stated. “Future projects include port transport, maritime shipping, and even railway development, which could connect Rwanda and Oman through innovative trade routes.”
This potential for new infrastructure could fundamentally reshape trade links, creating a direct corridor from the heart of Central Africa to Omani ports on the Arabian Sea.
The overtures towards Rwanda are part of a broader, deeply rooted engagement with East Africa. Shaikh Ahmed bin Hashi Al Maskari, Director of Cooperation in the GCC Department at Oman’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the longevity of these relationships.
“Rwanda, alongside Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Kenya, has longstanding relations with Oman,” Shaikh Ahmed said. “We welcome Rwandans to explore investment opportunities here, whether in cargo transport or other sectors. Oman is open to all.”
A Legacy Forged in History
The modern ambition is underpinned by a shared history that stretches back centuries. Oman’s influence in East Africa was cemented in 1698 after it expelled the Portuguese from the region. Zanzibar, in particular, became a central hub of Omani power, so much so that in the 1830s, Sultan Said bin Sultan moved his royal court from Muscat to Stone Town, Zanzibar, ruling a maritime empire from the Swahili coast.
This history has left an indelible cultural mark, creating enduring links through shared language (Swahili), architecture, and family ties that continue to this day. Oman maintains strong diplomatic missions in Tanzania and Kenya, facilitating ongoing trade and cultural exchange.
A Mutually Beneficial Vision
Today, Oman is positioning itself as a strategic gateway for the East African Community (EAC)—a dynamic economic bloc with a combined GDP of over $300 billion—to access markets in the Middle East and beyond. In return, East Africa offers Oman access to the vast hinterland of Central Africa through new logistics corridors.
This symbiotic partnership is a key component of Oman’s long-term economic diversification strategy, known as “Oman Vision 2040,” which seeks to reduce the nation’s reliance on oil revenues by fostering international trade, logistics, and foreign investment.
As Oman raises its flag for its National Day, the dual focus is clear: to honor the resilience that secured its independence while boldly advancing a vision of global cooperation. By reinvigorating its ancient bonds with East Africa, the Sultanate is not just celebrating its history but is actively building a future as a central hub for trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean.
