Kagame, Samia Push for Regional Unity, Accelerate Isaka-Kigali Railway
President Paul Kagame arrived in Tanzania on Sunday, May 3, for a high-level one-day working visit aimed at cementing bilateral ties and accelerating major infrastructure projects, including the long-awaited Isaka-Kigali railway.
The President was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Tanzania Amb. Gen. Patrick Nyamvumba, and Press Secretary Stéphanie Nyombayire.
Upon arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, President Kagame was welcomed by Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mahmoud Thabit Kombo.
The visit follows a preparatory mission by Minister Kombo to Kigali in late March 2026.
Following a private meeting and bilateral talks between ministers, President Kagame characterized Tanzania as a vital economic lifeline for Rwanda, specifically citing the importance of the Port of Dar es Salaam.
“Tanzania is a key partner for Rwanda. Over many years, we have developed cooperation in various sectors, particularly trade and transport, facilitating Rwanda’s access to global markets,” President Kagame stated during a press briefing.
“The President and I discussed how to build on that foundation to ensure our cooperation increases investment and trade between our countries.”
He added, “We are proud of the progress made so far and look forward to the implementation of our joint projects.”
A central pillar of the discussions was the Isaka-Kigali, a project in development for over two decades.
The line will connect the Central Corridor through Rusumo to Kigali, including an 18km extension to the Bugesera International Airport.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan confirmed the commitment to the project, stating, “This railway from Isaka to Kigali will help speed up and improve the transport of cargo.”
The leaders also reviewed progress on the Rusumo Hydropower Project—a trilateral venture between Rwanda, Tanzania, and Burundi—alongside discussions on regional security.
Call for Regional Solidarity
Amid shifting global dynamics, President Kagame urged East African nations to maintain a united front.
“In these times of global political challenges, our region must be prepared and united under a shared vision for development and cooperation,” Kagame remarked.
“For us, we are looking forward to working with teams of leaders to accelerate our development agendas. Tanzania's and Rwanda’s development agenda should move together and at a good pace,” he emphasised.
Economic data released during the visit highlighted a robust partnership. Between 1990 and March 2026, 42 Rwandan companies registered in Tanzania, investing $325.5 million and creating over 2,225 jobs.
During the visit, President Kagame also expressed gratitude to Tanzanians who showed “bravery and kindness” during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, as Rwanda continues its annual period of remembrance.
