China-Rwanda Relations: A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Published : May 09,2025

By Gerald Mbanda

At the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, China and Rwanda elevated their bilateral ties to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic and developmental collaboration. This elevation reflects a deepening of mutual trust and a shared commitment to sustainable development, modernization, and regional peace.

The elevation of ties signifies a robust political partnership, with both nations pledging to enhance mutual political trust and deepen exchanges on governance. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed support for Rwanda’s independent development path and emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, satellite applications, and peacekeeping. Rwandan President Paul Kagame acknowledged China’s leadership in promoting peace and security in Africa and reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to deepening friendly cooperation with China.

China has been instrumental in supporting Rwanda’s infrastructure development. Notably, China provided a 219 million RMB interest-free loan for the rehabilitation of Kigali’s road network in 2009. Additionally, the construction of the CIMERWA cement factory in Bugarama was financed, contributing to Rwanda’s industrial capacity.

 In 2020 the Government of Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China signed an economic and technical cooperation agreement for a grant worth RMB Yuan 400 million (approximately U$ 60 million). The agreement was signed by Dr. Uzziel Ndagijimana, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning on behalf of Government of Rwanda and His Excellency RAO Hongwei, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Rwanda. Minister Ndagijimana and Ambassador Hongwei also signed a debt cancellation agreement worth RMB Yuan 40 million (apprx US$ 6 million).

In 2023, China and Rwanda signed a grant agreement for RMB Yuan 400 million, (US$60 million). This grant is earmarked for a priority project to be agreed upon, supporting various sectors like transport, agriculture, health, education, and energy. In addition, a concessional loan of $76 million was signed for the upgrade of Kigali urban roads, and a grant of about $42 million was provided for the expansion of Masaka hospital. 

In 2024, the two countries continued to strengthen economic cooperation, with China pledging to deepen practical cooperation in various fields under the Belt and Road Initiative framework. Specifically, the Giseke Irrigation Project, supported by concessional loans from the Chinese government, is expected to be a significant undertaking for Rwanda’s agricultural modernization. The expansion of Masaka Hospital, a major project supported by a Chinese grant, is also underway, aiming to become Rwanda’s top teaching hospital. 

Agriculture has been focal point of China-Rwanda cooperation. The establishment of the Hubei-Gaza Friendship Farm in Rwanda exemplifies China’s commitment to agricultural development in Africa. This farm focuses on rice cultivation and serves as a model for agricultural cooperation between the two nations.

Furthermore, China’s Juncao technology has had a transformative impact on Rwanda’s agricultural sector. Invented by Professor Lin Zhanxi from China’s Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University in the 1980s, Juncao technology utilizes hybrid grass to cultivate mushrooms. Since its introduction to Rwanda in 2006, over 50 training courses have been conducted, benefiting more than 35,000 local farmers. The technology has empowered over 4,000 Rwandan farmers, creating more than 30,000 jobs along the agricultural value chain. It has also contributed to food security, poverty alleviation, and environmental sustainability through eco-friendly practices.

Educational and cultural exchanges have flourished under the bilateral partnership. The Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda and the Luban Workshop are prime examples of initiatives aimed at fostering mutual understanding and skills development. These institutions facilitate language learning, cultural exchange, and vocational training, contributing to human resource development in Rwanda.

In 2024, 71 Rwandan students received Chinese government scholarships to pursue their studies in China. This initiative underscores China’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for Rwandan youth and fostering people-to-people ties between the two nations.

China and Rwanda have collaborated in peacekeeping and regional security efforts. Rwanda’s active role in maintaining peace and security in Africa aligns with China’s commitment to supporting peacekeeping initiatives. Both nations have pledged to deepen cooperation in these areas, enhancing stability and security on the continent.

The economic ties between China and Rwanda have strengthened over the years. China has been a significant source of investment and trade for Rwanda. The bilateral trade volume has seen consistent growth, with China being one of Rwanda’s largest trading partners. Chinese investments in Rwanda span various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services, contributing to Rwanda’s economic diversification and growth.

Looking ahead, the elevation of China-Rwanda relations presents opportunities for further collaboration. The two nations aim to implement the outcomes of the 2024 FOCAC Summit, focusing on areas such as infrastructure development, agricultural modernization, educational exchange, and regional peacekeeping. By leveraging their strengths and shared interests, China and Rwanda are poised to achieve sustainable development and contribute to the broader goals of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

The elevation of China-Rwanda relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership at the 2024 FOCAC Summit underscores a deep and multifaceted bilateral relationship. Through collaborative efforts in infrastructure, agriculture, education, and peacekeeping, China and Rwanda are setting a precedent for South-South cooperation that is mutually beneficial and aligned with the aspirations of both nations. As they continue to build on this partnership, China and Rwanda are not only enhancing their bilateral ties but also contributing to the broader development objectives of Africa.

Gerald Mbanda is a Researcher and publisher on China and Africa.  

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