Minister Nduhungirehe meets Rwandan community in Brisbane

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, wrapped up his official visit to Australia with a special stop in Brisbane, where he connected with the Rwandan community through Hobe Australia at Radio 4EB FM. The Minister was warmly received by the Hobe Australia team, who gave him a guided tour of the 4EB FM studios. They shared the history of the program, which has become a vital link for Rwandans in Australia to stay connected to their culture, language, and identity. For years, Hobe Australia has not only entertained and informed but also helped the Rwandan community in Australia remain connected to Rwanda. Through its Kinyarwanda broadcasts, the program keeps listeners updated on developments back home, promotes cultural values, and strengthens unity among the diaspora. It has also played an important role in helping younger generations born abroad learn about Rwanda and its history. Following the tour, Minister Nduhungirehe joined a one-and-a-half-hour live talk show hosted by Renatus Murindangabo and Itambineza Uwase Esherine. The conversation touched on his official engagements in Australia, the strong partnership between Rwanda and Australia, and Rwanda’s growing role on the international stage.

Foreign Affairs Minister Nduhungirehe hosted by Renatus Murindangabo and Itambineza Uwase Esherine.

He praised Australia’s long-standing support to Rwanda — from backing its entry into global organizations to contributing to various development projects. He also highlighted Rwanda’s visa-free policy for Africans and its active role in regional cooperation through the East African Community. Addressing regional matters, the Minister spoke about Rwanda’s efforts to strengthen ties with neighbors, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. He recalled the recent peace agreement signed between Rwanda and the DRC in Washington, stressing that Kigali expects the DRC to act on its commitments, particularly dismantling the FDLR militia responsible for the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Turning to economic growth, Minister Nduhungirehe encouraged Rwandans in Australia to seize the many investment opportunities back home from government bonds and shares to business ventures. He applauded the diaspora for their remittances and for running development projects that continue to drive Rwanda forward. During the Q&A session, audience members raised pressing issues, including the lack of a Rwandan embassy in Australia. The Minister assured them that the government is actively working toward opening one soon. One participant asked if Rwanda Day could be hosted in Australia next year. With a smile, the Minister responded enthusiastically: “Yes, yes, it’s possible. We will work with the Rwandan High Commission to see how it can be done.” Before leaving, Minister Nduhungirehe thanked the Rwandan community in Australia for their patriotism and commitment to their homeland. He praised Hobe Australia for its tireless work in uniting the community and keeping them connected with Rwanda, noting that such initiatives make the diaspora a strong pillar of Rwanda’s progress. He urged Rwandans abroad to remain united and to continue contributing to Rwanda’s remarkable journey of transformation.