Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the UK, Johnston Busingye, and Jersey’s Minister for External Relations, Deputy Ian Gorst, convened at St Helier Town Church on Tuesday for the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The solemn event brought together government officials, religious leaders, and members of the Rwandan community to honor the memory of those lost during the tragic genocide.
Amidst the commemoration, High Commissioner Busingye’s visit to Jersey took on a significant diplomatic dimension.
Upon his arrival, he received a warm welcome from Vice Admiral Jerry Kyd CBE, the Lieutenant Governor, at the Government House, marking the beginning of his official visit to the island.
During his stay, High Commissioner Busingye and Deputy Ian Gorst inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at bolstering cooperation between the governments of Rwanda and Jersey.
The MOU seeks to enhance diplomatic ties and foster collaboration across various sectors, laying the groundwork for fruitful engagement between the two jurisdictions.
On the second day of his visit, High Commissioner Busingye engaged in discussions with the Jersey finance team, focusing on promoting financial services between Jersey and Rwanda.
The meeting underscored the importance of strengthening the existing relationship and exploring new avenues for cooperation in the financial sector.
In addition to diplomatic and economic endeavors, High Commissioner Busingye also visited schools in Jersey with partnerships in Rwanda.
Notably, GS Saint Paul Muko has ongoing collaborations with educational institutions in Jersey, including teacher training programs and the LEAP Program, aimed at enhancing education quality and opportunities in Rwanda.
Overall, the visit of High Commissioner Johnston Busingye to Jersey marks a significant milestone in the deepening of diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Jersey.
Through the signing of the MOU and engagements across various sectors, both countries are poised to strengthen their ties and explore mutually beneficial opportunities for cooperation and development.