Kigali, Rwanda — October 17–18, 2025. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal arrived in Kigali on October 17, 2025, for a two-day state visit at the invitation of President Paul Kagame. This marked Faye’s first official trip to Rwanda since taking office in April 2024 and formed part of his East African tour, which also included Kenya. The visit focused on strengthening bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and youth development.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
On October 18, President Kagame officially welcomed his Senegalese counterpart at Village Urugwiro, delivering a speech that highlighted the growing partnership between Rwanda and Senegal. He stated: “Rwanda and Senegal are guided by the same values — putting citizens first, pursuing transformation, and building institutions that deliver results”. Kagame emphasized that strong governance and mutual collaboration are central to Africa’s advancement.
President Faye responded with a speech reinforcing shared goals and African unity. “Our nations may be distant geographically, but we are united by a common vision for Africa’s progress,” he said. Faye underscored that despite differences in geography, Senegal and Rwanda share priorities in development, innovation, and youth empowerment, noting that partnerships are critical to advancing the African agenda.
During their joint address at the signing of five bilateral cooperation agreements, Kagame highlighted the importance of practical collaboration: “These agreements are more than formalities; they are instruments to improve citizens’ lives, expand opportunities, and strengthen regional integration”. He framed the accords as models for South–South cooperation, emphasizing results-driven partnerships.
President Faye echoed this perspective, describing the agreements as a milestone in Africa’s self-reliance. “These agreements represent a model of South–South cooperation that advances the African agenda for self-reliance and shared growth”. He stressed that trade, mobility, and sectoral collaboration will be strengthened through these accords, highlighting their strategic value.
Youth Empowerment and Sports Development
On the topic of sports and youth development, Kagame stated: “Investing in youth and sports is investing in the future of our nations. Partnerships in training, competitions, and infrastructure will prepare our young people to compete at the highest levels and showcase African talent globally”. His remarks emphasized the connection between youth empowerment and national progress.
President Faye reinforced the role of sports in African unity and development, particularly in the context of the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. He remarked: “The Youth Olympics in Dakar will unite our continent through sports while creating lasting legacies in youth empowerment, infrastructure, and international collaboration”. Faye highlighted opportunities for collaborative athlete development programs and exchange initiatives between Senegal, Rwanda, and other African nations.
The visit concluded with both leaders reaffirming their vision for continental cooperation. Kagame stated: “This visit is not just symbolic — it is a practical step toward an Africa that collaborates, innovates, and thrives together”. Faye concluded: “Our partnership shows that African nations, by working together, can chart a shared path toward transformation, development, and excellence”. Their speeches collectively underscored unity, youth empowerment, and practical collaboration as central pillars of the Rwanda–Senegal relationship.
