Rwanda’s growth and stability have positioned it as a top choice for global investors and residents alike. Many foreigners are opting for Rwandan citizenship, drawn by the country’s economic opportunities, security, and strong governance, among other reasons.

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The New Times spoke to some foreign nationals who took an oath of allegiance as Rwandan citizens during a ceremony at Gasabo District, on November 8. And here are the nine key reasons why Rwandan citizenship is coveted by many foreigners:

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1. A welcoming community

Ike Erhabor, a key figure behind Rwanda’s electric mobility industry, describes the sense of belonging that he and his partner experienced ever since they moved to Rwanda, in 2018.

"The biggest thing for me is the sense of community. The people here are like family. Once you are part of society, they bring you in,” he said.

"It’s not like other states where you don’t know your neighbours. Here, it feels like you are part of something bigger,” he added.

2. Leadership that inspires confidence

For Erhabor, the leadership of President Paul Kagame and the continuity of Rwanda’s policies played a significant role in his decision to invest and settle in Rwanda.

"Even with a change in leadership, your business thrives because the next mayor continues from where the previous one stopped,” he noted.

Erhabor commends Rwanda’s forward-thinking policies, which he believes make the country a beacon for all of Africa.

" Rwanda is an example for the whole of Africa. The leadership is something we are very grateful for,” he added.

3. Rising global influence

Many foreigners see Rwanda’s growing influence on the global stage as another compelling reason to seek Rwandan nationality. For Erhabor, Rwanda is an example of what Africa can achieve when there’s leadership, vision, and commitment.

As Rwanda continues to gain recognition for its rapid development, strong governance, and international partnerships, many expatriates are proud to be part of this thriving nation, Erhabor added.

4. Unmatched security, peace of mind for families

For Fidelia Miiro who has called Rwanda home for over two decades, the country’s safety is one of the standout qualities that convinced her to stay.

"My 10-year-old can walk from Nyarutarama to Kacyiru without fear,” she said. This level of security, which is hard to find even in many developed countries, she stressed, has been vital for her to raise her children in Rwanda.

"Security is number one,” she insists, emphasizing that this peaceful environment is a top reason for her long-term residency and her decision to seek citizenship.

5. Respect for foreigners

Miiro highlighted the country’s respect for foreigners, noting that whether on the street or meeting a policeman, respect is always there.

She appreciated how Rwanda’s culture treats foreigners with dignity and gives them the space to exist without fear of harassment.

"It’s different from many other places, where you feel like you are constantly under scrutiny,” she added.

Miiro noted that this respectful atmosphere has made Rwanda feel like home for her and many other expatriates.

6. Business-friendly environment

Keith Woodward, a British national who has spent 14 years in Rwanda, highlighted the country’s impressive growth and business opportunities. "Rwanda is expanding at a fantastic pace,” he said.

"Every time I leave and come back, there is a new building, a new road.”

For entrepreneurs like Woodward, the ease of doing business in Rwanda is a major draw.

He has seen, firsthand, how the country’s infrastructure, government support, and commitment to development make it an ideal place for setting up and growing a business.

"It’s the most dynamic and easiest place to start a business,” he said.

7. A haven for children, raising families with confidence

For Seth-Benoit, a Burundian national married to a Rwandan woman, the decision to seek Rwandan citizenship was motivated by a desire to secure a future for his children.

"My children should have the right to call me a full Rwandan,” he said. He values Rwanda’s stability and family-friendly environment, where his children can grow up without the constant fear or concern that often accompanies life in less secure regions.

He is confident that in Rwanda, his children will have the opportunities, safety, and a sense of belonging.

Jamimah Tushabe, a Ugandan who moved to Rwanda in 2013, decided to apply for Rwandan citizenship after marrying a Rwandan man in 2018. She describes how Rwanda’s environment has made her feel secure and happy.

"I love the country so much,” she said, reflecting on the opportunities she and her children have here.

She noted that this is a place where her children can grow up with a sense of belonging.

8. Cultural similarities

Seth-Benoit also speaks about the cultural connection he feels with Rwanda, which shares many traditions and values with his native Burundi.

"Rwanda’s culture is very similar to mine. It’s not far from my own, so it feels very natural,” he stressed.

9. Quick, efficient citizenship process

Mahmoud al-Shafi’i, an Egyptian who has lived in Rwanda for almost 12 years, reflects on the efficiency of Rwanda’s citizenship acquisition process.

"It only took me about six months to acquire my Rwandan nationality,” he said, appreciating how straightforward the process was.

"It’s a great achievement to hold Rwanda’s nationality,” he added.

He reflected on the pride that many foreigners feel once they complete the naturalization process.