China-Rwanda Relations: Pragmatic Partners

Published: October 07,2024

By Claudine Ukubereyimfura

Rwanda’s journey of reconstruction following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi has been marked by strong efforts to forge international partnerships to rebuild the country. Among the most transformative of these partnerships is the one with China.

From being the first country to reopen its embassy in Rwanda after the genocide to constructing 70% of Rwanda’s roads and Kigali’s tallest building, the Kigali City Tower, China, through government and private partnerships, has significantly contributed to Rwanda’s development success story. But, understanding how this partnership came to be and what it means for the average Rwandan requires a deeper look into the long-standing and versatile nature of China’s engagement with Africa.

China-Africa Relations: A Brief History

China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the early years of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Despite facing its own domestic challenges, China recognized the importance of supporting African countries—many of which were still under colonial rule or had just gained independence. Premier Zhou Enlai’s visit to ten African countries between 1963 and 1964 signaled China’s commitment to aiding African nations in their struggles against imperialism and colonialism. The construction of the TAZARA (Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority) is a symbol of China’s early investment in the continent.

Fast forward to the 21st century, China’s transformation into an economic powerhouse opened new opportunities for China-Africa relations. The introduction of the ‘going out’ policy, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) significantly boosted China’s presence in Africa. While these initiatives have attracted attention from academics and policymakers, critics have raised concerns, labeling China’s role in Africa as neocolonial and accusing it of creating a “debt trap.” However, these generalized narratives fail to capture the complexities and nuances of China’s engagement with individual African nations.

Rwanda, a small, landlocked country in East Africa, offers a unique perspective on these relations. Rwanda stands out not because it represents all African countries but because it is different. Unlike many of its counterparts, Rwanda lacks significant natural resources or a large population. Nevertheless, through diligent efforts by its government, Rwanda has positioned itself as an attractive destination for investment, a corruption-free state, and a secure nation with strong, stable governance. These characteristics are the driving forces behind the robust partnership between Rwanda and China.

China-Rwanda Relations: Roads, Trade, and Strategy

Rwanda does not take China’s investment for granted but actively cultivates it. A prime example is the Rwandan Ambassador to China, James Kimonyo, who famously sold live Rwandan coffee on TikTok to tap into China’s vast market. Rwanda has also promoted its “Made-in-Rwanda” products through platforms like the Shanghai Expo and the China International Import Expo (CIIE), aiming to strengthen its presence in Chinese markets.

Politically, Rwanda has been strategic in fostering ties with China. Both nations take pride in their unique governance systems shaped by their historical contexts. Rwanda’s emphasis on home-grown solutions and self-reliance resonates with China’s development journey, offering a pragmatic cooperation model. China’s rapid development, often attributed to leaders like Deng Xiaoping, mirrors Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction under President Paul Kagame. In both cases, strong leadership has been essential to national progress, and this shared emphasis on leadership further strengthens the bond between the two nations.

From roads constructed by Chinese companies to scholarships offered by Chinese universities, from Chinese medical volunteers to affordable goods in Rwandan markets, China’s support has been timely and tangible. However, it is essential to recognize that Rwanda and its people ultimately decide how to leverage this support for their benefit.

With improved road infrastructure, Rwandans have transformed Kigali into Africa’s cleanest city. China-built electric buses are now helping Rwanda transition to green transportation. Rwandan farmers have also tapped into China’s vast market, exporting products such as dried chili, while small business owners thrive by selling a wide range of affordable goods imported from China. Additionally, Chinese enterprises in Rwanda have provided valuable job and training opportunities, which Rwandans have embraced to enhance their skills and livelihoods.

Looking Beyond Numbers: The Evolving China-Rwanda Relationship

While metrics like trade volume and investments provide insight into the strength of China-Rwanda relations, they do not fully capture its essence. In earlier years, China was synonymous with Kung Fu movies for many Rwandans. Later, it became known for road construction, affordable consumer goods, and as a study destination. Today, China represents a major market for Rwandan exports and a growing source of investment. In the near future, Chinese tourists could become the next focus of Rwanda’s outreach efforts.

What remains constant in the evolving China-Rwanda relationship is pragmatism—a careful calculation of what each side can offer and gain. This was exemplified by China’s donation of vaccines to Rwanda during the COVID-19 pandemic. As Rwanda continues to grow and pursue its development aspirations, it will be interesting to observe the role China plays in helping Rwanda achieve its goals.

The Author works at the Policy and Advocacy Faculty at African Leadership University- Kigali-Rwanda.