The meeting took place on Thursday, July 17, 2025, and was confirmed by President Ruto via his official social media platforms. He announced that the discussions were fruitful and focused on strengthening the already strong and growing relationship between the two countries.

“I received Gen (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Special Envoy of President Paul Kagame and Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Cooperation. We held fruitful discussions aimed at deepening the strong and progressive relations between our two nations,” President Ruto posted on X (formerly Twitter).

He added that they exchanged views on matters of regional concern, emphasizing peace, security, trade, and regional integration.

“We also discussed issues of mutual and regional interest and committed to continuing collaboration in promoting peace and security, trade, and regional connectivity,” Ruto stated.

Rwanda and Kenya maintain close and strategic relations as partner states in the East African Community (EAC). Their collaboration spans various sectors including agriculture, education, health, youth empowerment, and diplomacy.

In April 2023, the two countries signed 10 bilateral agreements aimed at boosting cooperation in areas such as cooperative development, ICT, governance, vocational training, and diplomatic education.

Kenya is also a key investment partner in Rwanda. Kenyan investors have a strong presence in Rwanda’s education, healthcare, media, and banking sectors. Institutions such as Mount Kigali University and media outlets like Royal FM and Kiss FM are Kenyan-owned.

In the financial sector, Kenyan capital plays a significant role. In recent years, Equity Group Holdings acquired Cogebanque, which has since merged into Equity Bank Rwanda. Other Kenyan-origin banks operating in Rwanda include NCBA Bank Rwanda Plc and Guaranty Trust Bank Rwanda Plc, formerly Fina Bank.

Both Rwanda and Kenya are active in efforts to promote peace and stability in the Great Lakes Region, notably through the Nairobi peace process, which brought together the DRC Government and armed groups. Although the talks didn’t yield the desired results, they demonstrated the region’s commitment to peaceful solutions.

Kabarebe’s visit comes at a sensitive time for Kenya, which has recently been rocked by nationwide protests driven by economic frustrations. On July 8, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that at least 31 people had died, and over 107 others were injured in the recent wave of protests marking the anniversary of the historic Saba Saba movement.

President Kagame’s message, conveyed through Gen Kabarebe, underscores Rwanda’s commitment to building a sustainable, long-term relationship with Kenya grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for peace, prosperity, and integration across the region.