Rwanda Amb. Rutabana Urges Shift to Co-Ownership as Africa–EU Ties Enter New Phase

Rwanda’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Joseph Rutabana, has called for a renewed, balanced, and forward-looking Africa–Europe partnership anchored in mutual respect, shared prosperity, and the aspirations of Africa’s young population.

He made the remarks while delivering the keynote speech at an AU–EU reception hosted at the residence of the EU Ambassador to Uganda, Jan Sadek.

Speaking in his capacity as Dean of the Group of African Ambassadors accredited to Uganda, Ambassador Rutabana thanked the EU Delegation and the Uganda Council on Foreign Relations for convening discussions ahead of the 7th AU–EU Summit, in Luanda, Angola from 24-25 November.

He praised the day’s dialogue for fostering an open exchange of ideas, adding that the AU–EU relationship continues to evolve into “a partnership rooted in equality, mutual respect, and shared ambition.”

A Partnership at a Critical Turning Point

Reflecting on the broader context of Africa–Europe relations, Ambassador Rutabana noted that Africa has undergone profound transformation over the past two decades.

“We are witnessing a continent that is more connected, more ambitious, and increasingly driving its own development agenda. Institutions are being strengthened, innovation is taking root, and economies are becoming more resilient,” he said.

He emphasised that Europe remains one of Africa’s most important partners, but stressed that the relationship must shift firmly toward co-ownership and mutual benefit.

“The forthcoming Luanda Summit presents a timely opportunity to reaffirm that the AU–EU relationship is not one of assistance, but of joint responsibility,” he said.

The three envoys toast to a continued AU-EU partnership

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Three Pillars for the Future: Peace, Prosperity and People

Ambassador Rutabana outlined three core pillars that will shape the future of the partnership:

1. Peace and Security

He thanked the EU for its continued support to peacekeeping missions across Africa and highlighted the contributions of African countries—including Rwanda and Uganda—in restoring stability in conflict-affected regions such as Somalia.

“These collective efforts reflect our belief in the value of peace both on our continent and globally,” he noted.

2. Prosperity and Sustainable Growth

The ambassador underscored Africa’s diverse yet interconnected economic transformation, pointing to successful national reforms such as:

• Kenya’s digital innovation ecosystem

• Ghana’s renewable energy programmes

• Senegal’s agricultural modernization under the Plan Sénégal Émergent

He said Africa needs partnerships that translate political commitments into concrete opportunities, especially through public–private partnerships, technology transfer, and youth-centered investment.

3. People and Mobility

Ambassador Rutabana stressed that the success of any partnership must be measured by its impact on citizens—particularly Africa’s youth, who form more than 60% of the continent’s population under the age of 25.

“Education, skills and innovation must remain at the heart of our cooperation,” he said, urging for more programmes that support regional mobility, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship.

Strengthening Cooperation in Kampala

The ambassador also commended the strong collaboration between African missions, the AU Delegation, and European embassies in Uganda, describing it as an example of productive diplomacy.

He voiced appreciation to Ambassador Jan Sadek for his leadership and commitment to strengthening AU–EU ties, and thanked the Government of Uganda for fostering an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue.

Looking Ahead to Luanda

Ambassador Rutabana concluded with optimism, expressing confidence that the Luanda Summit will reaffirm a partnership of equals that delivers tangible results in peace, sustainable growth, and people-centered development.

“Our shared vision is of an Africa that contributes solutions—solutions for peace, for sustainable growth, and for global challenges that affect us all,” he said.