The Speaker of the Rwandan Chamber of Deputies, Gertrude Kazarwa, has praised the growing partnership between Rwanda and Mozambique, describing it as a model of African solidarity built on concrete action rather than rhetoric.
Kazarwa delivered the remarks on Monday during a special session of the Plenary Assembly of Mozambique, as part of her official visit to the country.
In her address, Kazarwa highlighted the joint efforts of the two nations in combating terrorism in northern Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado.
She stressed that the successful collaboration in restoring security and stability demonstrated the power of African-led solutions.
“In recent years, Rwanda and Mozambique have demonstrated, through action rather than only words, the true meaning of African solidarity,” she said.
“Together, we have proven that African-led solutions can restore security and hope to affected communities.”
Beyond the security sphere, the Speaker noted that Kigali and Maputo are deepening cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, justice, environment and education. She described Mozambique’s natural resources and strategic coastal advantages as complementary to Rwanda’s innovation-driven economy and strong governance institutions.
Kazarwa also emphasised the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), arguing that enhanced economic integration across the continent would increase resilience and stimulate shared development. She expressed appreciation for the Mozambican communities hosting Rwandan nationals and highlighted the presence of Mozambican investors operating in Rwanda as a sign of healthy economic exchange.
Turning to matters of governance, Kazarwa underlined the central role of parliaments in safeguarding democracy, transparency and accountability. She recalled the 2022 visit of the former Rwandan Speaker to Maputo, during which a Parliamentary Cooperation Protocol was signed—an agreement that has since strengthened inter-parliamentary diplomacy and exchange.
“Today, I reaffirm Rwanda’s commitment to implementing the Parliamentary Cooperation Protocol and deepening collaboration in legislative development, oversight, capacity building, and people-centred governance,” she said.
“Our cooperation can drive stability, prosperity, and stronger democratic governance for our citizens.”
Kazarwa concluded by expressing confidence that her visit would further energise bilateral collaboration, calling for Rwanda and Mozambique to continue advancing “as partners, as Africans, and as custodians of our people’s aspirations.”
Mozambique Expresses Gratitude for Rwanda’s Security Support
Responding to her counterpart’s remarks, the Speaker of the Mozambican Parliament, Margarida Talapa, acknowledged that Mozambique continues to face serious security challenges due to ongoing terrorist activity in Cabo Delgado and parts of Nampula province.
She expressed profound gratitude to the people and the Government of Rwanda for their decisive role in supporting counter-terrorism efforts in the north.
Talapa made the statements in Maputo during her meeting with Kazarwa, noting that Rwanda’s military assistance has been instrumental in restoring stability in affected districts.
The Mozambican Speaker also welcomed the progress achieved in bilateral cooperation, especially in the areas of security, agriculture and socioeconomic development. She highlighted that several agreements signed between the two countries are currently being implemented and are already yielding positive results.
“We are confident that this cooperation will continue to deepen, bringing mutual benefits and strengthening the bonds of friendship between our nations,” Talapa said.
Kazarwa’s visit forms part of broader efforts to reinforce parliamentary diplomacy and enhance cooperation across multiple sectors, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between Rwanda and Mozambique.
