TZ to host Kagame, Ruto

RWANDA: TANZANIA is set to host President of Rwanda Paul Kagame and President of Kenya William Ruto, a move that is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties, boost trade and deepen regional cooperation.

According to a statement issued yesterday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda will carry out a one-day working visit in the country tomorrow, while President William Ruto will undertake a two-day State Visit from May 4 to 5, 2026.

The ministry said the visits are expected to create new opportunities for strategic cooperation between Tanzania and the two neighbouring countries, while also reinforcing regional solidarity and economic integration within the East African Community.

During his visit, President Kagame will be received by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the State House in Dar es Salaam, where the two leaders are expected to hold bilateral talks focusing on strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and Rwanda.

He is expected to return to Rwanda after the discussions. President Ruto will arrive the following day for his State Visit and will also be received by President Samia at the State House for official talks. The leaders will later address the media and witness the signing of various agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in key sectors.

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As part of his itinerary, President Ruto will join President Samia at the Tanzania-Kenya Business and Investment Forum in Dar es Salaam, where business leaders and investors from both countries are expected to explore opportunities for trade and joint investments. A State banquet in his honour will also be held later that evening.

On the final day of his visit, President Ruto is scheduled to travel to Dodoma, where he will address the Parliament before concluding his trip and returning to Kenya. Tanzania and Rwanda have maintained strong historical and strategic ties through the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC), with cooperation spanning trade, infrastructure and investment.

Trade between the two countries has continued to expand, supported by growing investments that have contributed to job creation and economic development. Tanzania and Kenya also remain key economic partners, with trade between the two nations accounting for nearly 40 per cent of all trade among EAC member states between 2020 and 2024.

The ministry said the visits demonstrate the commitment of Tanzania, Kenya and Rwanda to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, health, education and energy for the benefit of their citizens and the wider East African region.