President Kagame paid a 2-day visit to Botswana

President Kagame paid a 2-day visit to Botswana

President Paul Kagame arrived in Botswana on May 6, 2026 for a two-day visit, where he was received at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport by his counterpart, President Duma Boko. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance economic, trade and security cooperation. Botswana is one of the few countries in Africa with a stable political and economic system based on the sound management of natural resources, especially minerals.

President Kagame and President Boko held private talks followed by meetings between senior officials of the two countries. Later, agreements were signed on cooperation in various areas, including *non-double taxation*, *visa facilitation* for citizens of both countries, as well as *air transport*, economy, trade and investment. These agreements aim to remove trade barriers and facilitate investment between the two countries.

President Kagame commended Botswana for the way it conserves its natural resources, especially *diamonds*, and produces tangible benefits for its people. He said that Rwanda recognizes this approach and continues to learn from it in the areas of health and pharmaceutical development. He said, “What we have agreed here must result in tangible benefits for the lives of our people.”

Kagame noted that cooperation in the justice and security sectors is growing, and is expanding to other sectors including trade. This is in line with the two countries’ shared vision of helping Africa learn from and reduce its dependence on foreign countries in matters of security and economy. Rwanda and Botswana are both members of the African Union and are united in supporting the AfCFTA, the African Common Market.

President Kagame commended Botswana for its excellent preparations for the *World Athletics Relays* held in the country, where the men's team won the gold medal. He said it was a proud achievement not only for Botswana but for the entire continent, demonstrating Africa's potential in international sports.

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) also signed an agreement with its counterpart in Botswana. On the evening of May 6, President Kagame was hosted by President Boko, and on May 7, he is scheduled to tour the Botswana Diamond Exchange in Gaborone. The visit is expected to enhance trade relations between the two countries and encourage Rwandan investors to enter the Botswana market.