KIGALI, Rwanda — Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J.P. Nduhungirehe, met with members of the Rwandan community living abroad in Kigali on Friday, August 14, 2026, calling for continued diaspora engagement in the country’s development and stronger connections between Rwandans at home and overseas.
The gathering, organized as a “Meet & Greet” with members of the Rwanda Community Abroad, provided an opportunity for participants to reconnect, exchange ideas and discuss ways Rwandans living in different parts of the world can contribute their professional knowledge, networks and experience to national development. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the meeting was also intended to strengthen relationships among Rwandans across borders.
Addressing participants, Nduhungirehe expressed appreciation for the contributions Rwandans abroad continue to make toward the country’s development. According to the ministry, he encouraged diaspora members to expand cooperation through professional expertise, partnerships and initiatives capable of generating new opportunities while reinforcing their relationship with Rwanda.
The minister’s message emphasized that Rwandans living abroad can serve as an important bridge between their country of residence and Rwanda. Their international experience, professional networks, investment activities and knowledge can contribute to Rwanda’s economic and social ambitions while maintaining connections between diaspora communities and their homeland.
Nduhungirehe has delivered similar messages during previous engagements with Rwandan communities overseas. During an official diaspora gathering in Australia in 2025, he outlined unity, patriotism, investment and preservation of Rwandan culture as important priorities for Rwandans abroad. He also emphasized the value of skills, networks and business ideas in advancing Rwanda’s long-term development.
The Kigali gathering reflects Rwanda’s broader policy of maintaining regular engagement with its citizens abroad and encouraging their participation in national initiatives. During another diaspora meeting in Austria, discussions similarly addressed contributions to national development, cooperation, cultural preservation and the transfer of skills and investment.
Friday’s meeting also created space for personal interaction and the exchange of perspectives among participants. The Foreign Ministry described the gathering as an opportunity to reconnect and strengthen the ties that bring together Rwandans living in different countries.
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For Rwanda, engagement with its global community extends beyond maintaining cultural connections. Government outreach increasingly presents the diaspora as a source of knowledge, partnerships, investment and international networks that can contribute to the country’s development priorities.
The message was therefore centered on continued participation: Rwandans abroad were encouraged to remain connected to their country while using their experience and expertise to create partnerships and opportunities that benefit both Rwanda and its communities around the world.
