Rwanda and Uganda Signal Strengthened Cooperation Following Ayebare Appointment

KIGALI, Rwanda, May 27, 2026 - Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe has expressed confidence in strengthened diplomatic cooperation with Uganda following the appointment of Dr. Adonia Ayebare as Uganda’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs.

In a message shared on May 27 via social media platform X, Nduhungirehe congratulated Ayebare on his appointment and conveyed optimism about future collaboration between the two countries.

He stated that he looked forward to productive engagement and expressed confidence that bilateral cooperation would be beneficial for both Rwanda and Uganda.

Ayebare was appointed on May 26, 2026, following a cabinet reshuffle in Kampala that elevated him from his previous role as Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, a position he had held since 2017.

The new Ugandan foreign minister has long been involved in regional diplomacy, including past assignments as Uganda’s ambassador to Rwanda and as a special envoy during periods of strained relations between Kigali and Kampala.

His diplomatic background includes participation in efforts aimed at easing tensions between the two neighboring countries, which experienced a prolonged period of strained relations and border closures in previous years.

Observers note that Ayebare played a role in facilitating communication between the two governments during efforts to restore diplomatic relations, including engagements that preceded the reopening of dialogue between Rwanda and Uganda.

Subsequent high-level visits contributed to gradual normalization of relations, supported by regional diplomacy and security discussions.