SWAZILAND - President Kagame is in Swaziland to attend the country’s 40th anniversary of independence from British rule as well King Mswati III’s 40th birthday.

President Kagame held talks with Mswati and thanked him for the invitation to attend the national celebrations, as well as his past visits to Rwanda.

In a warm, lengthy discussion, both the President and the King agreed to intensify relations between both countries and committed to regular annual visits.

Specific areas of collaboration discussed included agriculture, with a focus on sharing of knowledge and expertise with a view to modernisation.

President Kagame noted the geographic similarities between Rwanda and Swaziland and expressed appreciation for the unique Swazi culture after viewing traditional dances and homes.

On Friday night President Kagame will join other heads of state at a state banquet held in honour of visiting dignitaries and on Saturday will attend the independence celebrations at the national stadium in Mbabane.

President Kagame’s visit to Swaziland follows his attendance earlier this week at the state funeral of the late President Levy Mwanawasa who was laid to rest in Lusaka on Wednesday. 

Before departing Zambia, President Kagame met with the acting President, Rupiah Banda.

He expressed his appreciation of the well organised state funeral noting that the presence of former Zambian Presidents Frederick Chiluba and Kenneth Kaunda at the ceremony was indicative of the country’s desire for a smooth transition.

Kagame also noted the positive changes visible in Lusaka since his last visit and urged the Government of Zambia to sustain the good progress already achieved.

Ends