Minister Nduhungirehe Calls for Africa-Europe Cooperation Based on Mutual Respect

Davos, January 22, 2026 - Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, stressed the need for Africa and Europe to base their partnership on mutual respect rather than the legacy of colonialism, during a Leaders Forum held as part of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Nduhungirehe highlighted Europe’s continuing economic strength and importance as a development partner while emphasizing that African nations should move beyond aid-driven relationships toward trade-based cooperation and investment partnerships. He cited Rwanda’s ongoing engagement with the European Union, including a €95 million grant in October 2025 to support vaccine production. Europe and the Legacy of the Genocide Addressing Europe’s historical role, Minister Nduhungirehe recalled the continent’s involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which claimed over a million lives. He pointed to the actions of several European countries: Belgium for fostering divisions during the colonial era. France for abandoning Tutsi victims and facilitating the escape of perpetrators. Other countries that served as refuges for genocide perpetrators. “Some causes of the genocide stem from the colonial era. Racial discrimination by colonialists left deep scars. Today, Rwanda pursues unity and reconciliation, justice has been served, and we live together in one country,” Nduhungirehe said. He also highlighted Rwanda’s economic recovery and development, with a focus on trade, investment, and human capital. Africa’s Growing Role in Global Affairs On Africa’s role in world governance, Nduhungirehe noted that since the UN’s establishment post-World War II, the continent had little influence. But today, Africa’s population of 1.4 billion, dominated by youth, positions it as a key player on the global stage. He emphasized collaboration with the US, EU, Russia, and China, particularly in modern technologies such as artificial intelligence. “Africa has natural resources and a young population. With cooperation, finance, and knowledge sharing, we can build a skilled workforce for the future,” he said. Rwanda-Poland Cooperation as a Model Nduhungirehe also highlighted Rwanda’s strong partnership with Poland, noting agreements on trade, green technology, education, and security. Both countries have opened embassies in each other’s capitals, and over 1,500 Rwandans currently study in Poland, the largest foreign student group from a single country. He cited the LuNa Smelter, a Rwandan tin processing plant supported by Polish investment, as an example of effective industrial cooperation. Looking Forward Minister Nduhungirehe concluded that Africa-Europe relations must evolve into mutually respectful partnerships, leveraging Africa’s investment potential while addressing internal challenges such as corruption, governance gaps, and youth inclusion. “Africa has much to offer, but Africans must also take responsibility for their own development,” he said.