Rwanda is seeking to attract more Russian investment in mining, fertiliser production, agriculture and technology as the two countries prepare to establish a joint commission to expand economic and political cooperation.
The agreement is expected to be signed during the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow on October 28–29, 2026, which President Paul Kagame is expected to attend, Rwanda’s ambassador to Russia, Major General Joseph Nzabamwita, told Russian news agency TASS.
The proposed commission would provide a formal mechanism for coordinating bilateral initiatives in social, economic and political affairs.
Nzabamwita said Rwanda wanted its engagement with Russia to produce tangible results, including new investment, trade opportunities and joint industrial projects, rather than remain limited to general agreements.
He identified opportunities for Russian companies in mining and fertiliser production, while cooperation could also extend to agriculture, healthcare, education, science and technology, sports and tourism.
Education and scientific cooperation remain among the priorities, with Rwanda seeking more opportunities for its students to study at Russian universities, particularly in healthcare, information technology and agriculture.
The countries are also discussing cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, has been supporting Rwanda’s efforts to develop a small modular nuclear reactor, according to the Rwandan embassy in Moscow.
The proposed commission is intended to help the two governments coordinate work across these sectors and identify additional opportunities for cooperation.
Nzabamwita outlined the priorities during the ninth international forum, “The North Caucasus: A Space for Dialogue, Traditions and Development.” His remarks come as Moscow prepares to host African leaders, government officials and business representatives for the summit and its accompanying economic and humanitarian forum.
The first Russia-Africa Summit was held in Sochi in 2019, followed by a second meeting in St Petersburg in 2023. The upcoming gathering is expected to focus on trade, investment, technology, humanitarian cooperation and other shared priorities.
For Rwanda, stronger commercial links with Russia could help diversify sources of investment and widen opportunities for businesses. The practical impact will depend on whether the planned commission leads to concrete projects, financing arrangements and trade partnerships.
The agreement establishing the commission has not yet been signed. The summit is expected to provide the next opportunity for both governments to formalise the framework and set out priorities for implementation.
