Rwanda, South Africa Seek to Deepen Ties Amid Growing Regional Migration Challenges
By Andrew Shyaka
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, will meet his South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola, in Pretoria on Wednesday, June 17, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between the two countries.
The high-level meeting marks another step in the ongoing efforts by Kigali and Pretoria to consolidate diplomatic gains made since the two nations began normalising relations in recent years.
Speaking ahead of the visit with The Newtimes, Nduhungirehe said the purpose of the engagement is “to strengthen bilateral relations” between Rwanda and South Africa, underscoring both countries’ commitment to building a partnership anchored in mutual interests and regional stability.
According to South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), discussions will focus on enhancing diplomatic engagement and expanding collaboration in key sectors, including trade, tourism, health, education and security.
“Rwanda and South Africa have a unique opportunity to build a modern partnership that benefits both peoples while contributing to peace, economic growth and regional integration across Africa,” a diplomatic source familiar with the discussions said.
At the conclusion of the talks, the two ministers are expected to hold a joint press conference to present the outcomes of their discussions and outline the next steps in strengthening relations between Kigali and Pretoria.
The meeting also comes against the backdrop of growing migration challenges across the continent, with South Africa remaining one of Africa’s top destinations for migrants seeking economic opportunities.
According to recent international migration estimates, South Africa hosts approximately 2.57 million international migrants, representing about 4% of its population. Zimbabweans make up the largest migrant community, with more than 1.07 million people, followed by migrants from Mozambique (412,000), Lesotho (238,000) and Malawi (220,000).
In recent years, economic pressures and recurring anti-immigrant sentiments have prompted several African countries to step up efforts to protect and repatriate their nationals from South Africa.
Ghana recently facilitated the voluntary return of nearly 300 of its citizens amid concerns over the safety and welfare of foreign communities.
Observers say stronger ties between Rwanda and South Africa could pave the way for broader cooperation on migration management, labour mobility and the protection of African citizens living abroad.
The meeting builds on progress made in 2021 when Rwanda and South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to restoring normal diplomatic relations during talks in Pretoria between former foreign ministers Vincent Biruta and Naledi Pandor.
At the time, both countries agreed to address longstanding challenges through a structured process aimed at rebuilding trust and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
As Africa faces evolving security, economic and migration challenges, Wednesday’s meeting is expected to signal a renewed commitment by both nations to pragmatic diplomacy, regional integration and stronger African partnerships.
