President Paul Kagame held talks with the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who is on an official working visit to Rwanda. According to Village Urugwiro, the Office of the President, the meeting took place on the afternoon of June 14, 2026.
ALSO READ: United States and Iran Agree to Ceasefire Agreement
Strengthening Cooperation
In a statement, the Office of the President said: “President Kagame received Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey, who is in Rwanda on a working visit. They held constructive discussions on strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and the Commonwealth, as well as preparations for the upcoming CHOGM 2026.”
ALSO READ: Hotel Rooms Reach Nearly 28,000: Rwanda’s Hospitality Industry Expands
Rwanda’s Commonwealth Role
Rwanda is a member of the Commonwealth and hosted the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2022.
ALSO READ: India: Officer Cadets Elie Ndagijimana and Fils Niyikiza Graduate from IMA
Significance of Botchwey’s Visit
Botchwey’s visit comes as preparations are underway for CHOGM 2026, giving the trip added significance. It is her first visit to Rwanda since assuming office in 2025 and will also be the first CHOGM to take place during her tenure as Secretary-General.
CHOGM Background
CHOGM is traditionally held every two years. The most recent summit was hosted by Samoa in 2024. CHOGM 2026 is scheduled to take place from November 1–4, 2026, in Antigua and Barbuda.
Engagement with Rwanda Development Board
On June 12, 2026, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey also met with the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Jean-Guy Afrika, in the presence of Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Johnston Busingye.
Focus on Trade and Investment
Their discussions focused on exploring ways to further strengthen cooperation between Rwanda and Commonwealth member states, particularly in the areas of trade and investment. The two sides examined opportunities to expand international trade, attract investment, and deepen engagement with the private sector, with the aim of supporting Rwanda’s economic growth and helping Rwandan businesses expand into international markets.
Botchwey’s Appointment
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey was confirmed as Commonwealth Secretary-General during the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting held in Apia, Samoa.
