Minister Nduhungirehe Urges Impartial Mediation for Regional Peace

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe emphasised the importance of impartial mediation in achieving lasting peace in the Great Lakes region. He made these remarks on June 4, 2026, during celebrations at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence.

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Strong Rwanda–U.S. Relations

Ambassador Nduhungirehe noted that the opportunities available between the United States and Rwanda should be fully utilized, and that by continuing to strengthen cooperation, both countries can achieve sustainable benefits for their nations and citizens.

Nduhungirehe highlighted that Rwanda and the United States are commemorating 64 years of bilateral cooperation, with tangible results in health, investment, trade, innovation, and security. He noted that American companies, including Trinity Metals, are active in Rwanda’s mining sector.

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Rwanda ranks sixth globally in tungsten production, and recent exports to the U.S. market were described as “something worth celebrating.”

U.S. Role in Regional Mediation

The minister stressed that the United States has played a key role in mediating discussions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This mediation led to the signing of the Washington Agreement on December 4, 2025, covering peace and economic cooperation. He underscored that impartial mediation is essential for sustainable peace in the region.

Commitments in the Washington Agreement

AOver 30,000 Rwandans Speak Fluent Chinese

The agreement includes measures to dismantle the FDLR terrorist group, to be carried out by the DRC armed forces. Once achieved, Rwanda is expected to lift its defensive measures. Provisions also cover the repatriation of refugees, joint infrastructure projects, and cooperation in energy and mining.

Infrastructure and Energy Cooperation

Rwanda and the DRC will strengthen collaboration on the Rusizi III Hydropower Project, expected to generate 206 megawatts of electricity by 2030 for $800 million, benefiting more than 300,000 people. The agreement also includes joint efforts to extract methane gas from Lake Kivu for electricity generation.

Mining Sector Development

Beyond extraction, Rwanda and the DRC plan to focus on mineral processing, increasing benefits for local populations. Common regulations are also planned to enhance the security of the mineral trade, ensuring fair and transparent practices.

Path to Lasting Peace

The Government of Rwanda maintains that both countries have significant opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation. If the commitments outlined in the Washington Agreement are fully implemented, the region can achieve lasting peace and stability.