By John Ikani
The Rwandan Government has announced the waiver of entry visas for visitors from Nigeria, across Africa, the Commonwealth, and la Francophonie Nations.
The decision comes as Rwanda continues to make strides in its ease of doing business initiatives and solidify its reputation as a favored destination for conferences and events.
Speaking at the commemoration of Rwanda’s 29th anniversary celebration and liberation day, Mr. Vianney Rubagumya, Rwanda’s Charge D’Affaires in Nigeria, said the move was geared towards boosting trade, investment, and tourism in the East African nation.
“The move also complements the ease of doing business strides and popularity as a preferred Conference destination,” said Rubagumya.
Furthermore, Mr. Rubagumya revealed that Rwanda is currently in the advanced stages of expanding the operations of the Kigali International Financial Centre, positioning it to offer innovative world-class services.
Reflecting on Rwanda’s ongoing journey of liberation, Mr. Rubagumya highlighted President Paul Kagame’s commitment to self-reliance and economic emancipation as outlined in the “Vision 2050.”
He expressed gratitude to the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their substantial support throughout Rwanda’s transformational journey and the strong bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The envoy underscored the close bond between Rwanda and Nigeria, exemplified by President Kagame’s attendance at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent inauguration.
He revealed that both countries are intensifying their cooperation across various sectors, including parliamentary diplomacy, defense and security, aviation, governance, sectoral peer-to-peer exchange, and trade and investment.
Highlighting Rwanda’s progressive approach to development, Mr. Rubagumya noted that the country’s renaissance revolves around three fundamental pillarss: Unity, Accountability, and Thinking Big.
According to him, the pillars have guided Rwanda’s structural socio-economic and political reforms, leading to significant milestones.
Notable achievements include a reduction in poverty levels from 78% in 1994 to 30% in 2018, a substantial increase in life expectancy from 51 to 69 years over the past two decades, recognition as the second-best performer in Africa for ease of doing business, and ranking as the fourth-largest contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations.
Samson Itegboje, the Nigerian representative at the anniversary celebration, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Rwanda in its economic endeavors, pledging ongoing assistance to the development of Rwanda’s economy.
Rwanda’s decision to waive entry visas serves as a powerful invitation to Nigerians, fellow Africans, and Commonwealth members to explore the vast opportunities available in the country.
As the Rwandan government continues to prioritize economic growth, international collaboration, and sustainable development, it hopes to forge stronger ties with its partners, including Nigeria, to achieve shared prosperity and lasting progress.
