Rwanda-Botswana: preparation of cooperation agreement

The second session of the Joint Permanent Cooperation Commission (JPCC) between Rwanda and Botswana was held on May 4, 2026, in Gaborone, the Botswanan capital. The purpose of the session was to prepare cooperation agreements to be signed during the state visit of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, scheduled for April 6 in Botswana.

This Joint Permanent Cooperation Commission (JPCC) was co-chaired by the Rwandan ambassador to Botswana, James Musoni, and Ambassador Thuso Goodson Ramodimoosi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of International Relations of the Republic of Botswana.

The meeting provided an opportunity to review the results of the meeting of senior officials and to prepare for the ministerial session scheduled for April 5, still in preparation for the visit of Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador James Musoni encouraged senior officials to adopt a results-oriented approach, with clear and concrete recommendations and realistic timeframes for the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding.

This meeting allows us to strengthen bilateral relations and prepare substantial economic cooperation agreements,” he said.

Discussions focused on digital commerce, tourism, the development of vaccines for livestock, transport connectivity and the diamond value chain.

Along the same lines, a business forum is planned for May 5, 2026, in Gaborone, bringing together the private sector of both countries to explore investment opportunities on both sides.

Cooperation between Rwanda and Botswana focuses on trade, investment, defense, and the exchange of expertise. Based on mutual respect, this strategic partnership aims to stimulate economic development through sectoral agreements.

President Paul Kagame will make a two-day state visit to Botswana on May 6 and 7, 2026. This is at the invitation of Botswana’s President Duma Gideon Boko.

This visit marks a new turning point in strengthening ties between the two countries. It aims to deepen trade relations and sign agreements, particularly those concerning the elimination of double taxation.