Madam Madeleine Nirere, Rwanda’s Chief Ombudsman, who signed the agreement on behalf of Rwanda, described the signing as a significant step in reinforcing bilateral cooperation. She said:

“This initiative is an important new step in strengthening cooperation and collaboration between Rwanda and Zimbabwe. It is also a critical path to improving the relationship between the Office of the Ombudsman and the Anti-Corruption Commission of the Republic of Zimbabwe in tackling the consequences of corruption."

She added: "It further demonstrates cooperation in enhancing our shared responsibilities, promoting integrity, transparency, accountability, which are the foundations of good governance and sustainable development in our countries.”

Hon. Michael Reza, Commissioner of ZACC, welcomed the signing, emphasizing that the MoU reflects the commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation. He said:

“This agreement will support collaboration in research and staff training, staff exchanges to share experience, sharing information on anti-corruption measures, joint analysis of shared corruption offenses, as well as cooperation in governance and the use of ICT to reinforce the capacity and professionalism of our institutions.”

The agreement will take effect 30 days after signing and is valid for five years, with the possibility of extension.

According to the 2025 Transparency International (TI) annual report on global anti-corruption efforts, Rwanda ranks 43rd worldwide with a score of 57%, and 3rd in Africa, following Seychelles (72%) and Cape Verde (62%). Rwanda’s score increased by 4% from 53% in 2023, marking the highest in the country’s history.

In East Africa, Rwanda ranks first, followed by Tanzania (41%), Kenya (32%), Uganda (26%), the Democratic Republic of Congo (20%), and Burundi (17%). The country aims to achieve a corruption-free society by 2050. Globally, Denmark leads in anti-corruption with 90%, followed by Finland at 88%.

Rwanda and Zimbabwe have maintained strong bilateral relations, recently signing agreements in August 2025 to cooperate in health, youth, police, energy, trade, customs information exchange, and education, with Zimbabwe sending teachers to teach English in Rwanda. Both countries established embassies in Kigali and Harare in 2019 to further deepen cooperation. Globally.