Samia, Kagame pledge deeper cooperation in Dar es Salaam talks

Dar es Salaam. Rwandan President Paul Kagame arrived in Dar es Salaam on May 3, 2026 for a high-level working visit.

He was received by his counterpart, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, at the State House for private bilateral discussions.

The two leaders focused on strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and Tanzania across several sectors of mutual interest.

Following their tête-à-tête, the presidents held a joint press conference to outline their shared vision.

They emphasised the importance of reinforcing regional solidarity within the East African Community.

Both leaders expressed a commitment to advancing economic integration to benefit the wider trade bloc.

President Hassan noted that trade and investment between the two nations reached approximately Sh644 billion in 2025.

This growth highlights the existing collaboration in trade, air transport, and security.

Infrastructure development remains a priority, with particular focus on the Isaka–Kigali standard gauge railway project.

The meeting builds upon the 16th Joint Permanent Commission held in Kigali in July 2025.

At that summit, both countries reaffirmed their intent to expand air connectivity and energy projects.

President Kagame also announced plans to honour Tanzanians who provided humanitarian support during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This visit underscores the historical and diplomatic ties that link the two neighbours.

Both heads of state agreed to remove non-tariff barriers to further facilitate the movement of people and goods. 

Such cooperation is essential for Rwanda, which relies heavily on the Port of Dar es Salaam for international trade.