President Kagame and Faure Gnassingbé Strengthen Rwanda-Togo Relations

On January 18 and 19, 2025, Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé made a working visit to Rwanda to enhance cooperation between the two countries in various sectors. This trip followed his earlier visit in October 2024, where he participated in the inauguration of President Paul Kagame after Kagame’s re-election. The visit marked a crucial milestone in fostering relations between Rwanda and Togo, concentrating on critical shared interests such as agriculture, trade, investment, environmental sustainability, and the advancement of renewable energy.

Key Discussions and Engagements

The bilateral discussions at the President's Office in Village Urugwiro emphasized both leaders' dedication to turning agreements into tangible benefits for their citizens. President Kagame underscored the necessity of progressing from agreements to actual implementation, remarking:
“I always remind people that once we visit one another, hold discussions, and sign agreements, we must take action and implement what needs to be done.”

President Gnassingbé reiterated his commitment to enhancing Togo’s partnership with Rwanda. He highlighted the importance of deepening their current cooperation and exploring new avenues for mutual long-term benefits.

Following private conversations between the two leaders, more extensive discussions took place with delegations from each country. These talks centered on expediting the implementation of existing agreements and discovering new collaborative opportunities.

Agreements and Strategic Initiatives

During the visit, Rwanda and Togo established several key agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and promoting sustainable development:

1.    Visa-Free Travel: The two countries agreed to eliminate visa requirements for their citizens, facilitating smoother travel for business and leisure.

2.     Elimination of Double Taxation: A significant agreement was reached to exempt investors from double taxation, creating a more attractive investment landscape.

Enhanced Sectoral Collaboration: The two countries pledged to work together in key areas, such as:

◦ Agriculture: Exchanging best practices to boost productivity and sustainability.

◦ Renewable Energy: Encouraging clean energy technologies to foster economic growth while safeguarding the environment.

◦ Sustainable Urban Development: Collaborative efforts to advance green cities and eco-friendly practices.

◦ Technology and Innovation: Speeding up the implementation of technological solutions in governance and service delivery.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, described the importance of these agreements, saying:
“There is a need for exchange visits to share knowledge in areas such as agriculture, mining, sustainable investment, and good governance.”

Regional and Continental Goals

The visit highlighted both nations' dedication to advancing Africa’s development objectives, as stated in Agenda 2063. The leaders stressed the necessity of utilizing their partnership to aid regional integration and promote economic collaboration across the continent.

They also discussed urgent global and regional matters impacting their countries, emphasizing the importance of working together to tackle climate change, security, and economic inequalities.

Vision for Future Collaboration

Following his visit, President Gnassingbé thanked Rwanda for the warm welcome and reaffirmed Togo’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with Rwanda. He mentioned that the agreements established during the visit would create new opportunities for citizens and strengthen bilateral relations.

President Kagame, in turn, emphasized the need for immediate implementation of the agreements, saying:
“There is no reason for delays; what remains is to put our commitments into action.”

The visit resulted in agreements to enhance exchange programs and learning opportunities for professionals from both nations. These initiatives are designed to strengthen governance, agriculture, environmental management, and technological innovation capacity.

Conclusion

Rwanda and Togo have made significant progress in strengthening their beneficial relationship. During President Gnassingbé’s visit, the agreements and conversations reinforced the strong connection between the two countries and established a foundation for greater cooperation in essential sectors.

By removing barriers such as visa requirements and double taxation while prioritizing green energy, innovation, and sustainable development, Rwanda and Togo have positioned themselves as leaders in advancing Africa’s development agenda. This partnership is a model for how African nations can collaborate to achieve shared prosperity and a brighter future for their citizens.