Rwanda Roundup: Peace support training, air taxi launch, aviation summit

President Kagame receives four new envoys

On September 8, Rwandan President Paul Kagame received letters of credence from four newly accredited ambassadors: Irene Vida Gala of Brazil, Casper Stenger Jensen of Denmark, Aurélie Royet-Gounin of France, and Hanan AbdelAziz Elsaid Shahin of Egypt. The diplomats pledged to strengthen partnerships with Rwanda in areas such as trade, investment, and education. Ambassador Vida Gala highlighted Brazil’s interest in agricultural cooperation, social policies, and student exchanges, stressing shared challenges in poverty reduction and access to quality services.

Eastern Africa peace support training

A training course for battlegroup commanders in peace support operations opened on September 8 at the Rwanda Peace Academy in Musanze District. Seventeen senior officers from six Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) member states are participating in the two-week programme, organised by the EASF Secretariat, Rwanda Peace Academy, and African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA). Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga of the Rwanda Defence Force underscored the importance of the initiative in building regional capacity for sustainable peacekeeping.

Rwanda launches Africa’s first public flight of self-flying air taxi

Rwanda, in partnership with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), successfully launched Africa’s first public flight of a self-flying electric air taxi on September 3. The Ministry of Infrastructure said the project is part of Rwanda’s strategy to position itself as a hub for advanced air mobility. Infrastructure Minister Jimmy Gasore noted that the technology will help reduce traffic congestion, connect communities, and support sustainable transport solutions.

Aviation Africa Summit showcases Chinese technologies

The ninth Aviation Africa Summit and Exhibition took place in Kigali from September 4 to 5, drawing 1,700 industry professionals and more than 100 companies. Under the theme “Collaborating to unlock Africa’s growth – How can Africa deliver a sustainable aviation industry?”, the event highlighted challenges and opportunities in the sector. The EH216-S pilotless aerial vehicle from China’s EHang was the centrepiece of the exhibition, making its maiden flight in Africa in the presence of President Kagame and Chinese representatives.

Kagame calls for affordable air travel across Africa

In his opening address at the aviation summit, President Kagame reiterated his call to lower the high cost of air travel across the continent. He said affordable aviation is essential for inclusive development, tourism, and economic growth, stressing that flying should not remain a luxury for the wealthy. Kagame urged African governments and industry leaders to invest in building a more dynamic and accessible aviation sector that connects people and fuels growth.