President Paul Kagame has congratulated his counterpart Denis Sassou Nguesso following his re-election as President of the Republic of the Congo.
In a message shared on social media, Kagame wished Sassou Nguesso success in his new term and reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
“Rwanda values the strong relationship we share and looks forward to continuing close cooperation to advance our shared priorities and improve the wellbeing and development of our people,” Kagame stated.
Strong Bilateral Relations
Rwanda and the Republic of the Congo maintain longstanding diplomatic and political relations. In August 2016, Rwanda opened its embassy in Brazzaville, further strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
The two nations have signed multiple agreements covering areas such as air transport, tourism, energy, security, justice, environmental protection, and fisheries. RwandAir has also operated flights between Kigali and Brazzaville since 2011, enhancing connectivity.
In November 2021, additional cooperation agreements were signed, including in military collaboration, higher education, land management, sustainable development, trade, and environmental conservation. These agreements were formalized by former Rwandan Foreign Affairs Minister Vincent Biruta and Congo’s Minister for International Cooperation Denis Christel Sassou Nguesso.
Further partnerships were established between Rwanda Housing Authority (RHA) and Congo’s SOPRIM to promote housing development and modern urban planning.
Electoral Victory
Sassou Nguesso, aged 82, secured a fifth presidential term after winning 94.82% of the vote in elections held on March 15, 2026. He defeated six other candidates, with his closest challenger, Mabio Mavoungou Zinga, receiving 1.48% of the vote.
A veteran leader, Sassou Nguesso has governed the country for a total of 38 years, first coming to power in 1979. After losing leadership in 1992, he returned in 1997 following a civil conflict.
Constitutional changes in 2015 removed presidential term and age limits, enabling him to run for additional terms.
Regional Context
Located in Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo shares borders with Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kagame’s message underscores continued diplomatic goodwill and cooperation between the two countries as they pursue shared development and regional stability.
