Rwanda and Mali have agreed to pursue closer cooperation on security and African integration as the two countries seek to strengthen bilateral relations and translate existing commitments into concrete results.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Mali’s transitional president, General Assimi Goïta, and Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, in Bamako on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
According to Mali’s presidency, the meeting reviewed relations between the two countries, security challenges in the Sahel and the wider goal of African integration. Mali’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, also attended.
The meeting followed talks between Nduhungirehe and Diop on Monday, October 12, during which the two ministers discussed bilateral cooperation and implementation of agreements signed by their governments.
Nduhungirehe said the discussions provided an opportunity to review progress in the relationship and identify ways to move existing commitments forward. He stressed the importance of African countries exchanging experiences and supporting one another on issues affecting the continent.
The security agenda is significant for both countries, which have faced different challenges in maintaining stability. The ministers discussed the need for African states to strengthen their institutions and security capabilities while working together on shared concerns.
Diop said Rwanda and Mali shared views on African integration and cooperation among African countries. He also pointed to Rwanda’s experience in reconstruction, development and national reconciliation as areas from which Mali could learn.
The two governments have established a framework for cooperation covering several sectors. Their first session of the joint cooperation commission, held in Kigali in May 2024, resulted in 19 agreements covering areas including digitalisation, health, agriculture and investment promotion.
Both sides now intend to focus on implementing those commitments rather than allowing cooperation to remain limited to diplomatic discussions.
Nduhungirehe’s visit also included a meeting with Mali’s Minister of Reconciliation, Peace and National Cohesion, Lieutenant General Ismaël Wagué, to exchange experiences on reconciliation, national unity and security.
The visit reflects continued efforts by Kigali and Bamako to deepen relations and strengthen cooperation on bilateral and continental issues. The two countries are preparing for the next session of their joint commission, planned for Bamako in 2027.
