Ambassador Margaret A. Daniel, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of South Sudan to Rwanda, based in Kampala, Uganda, participated in a high-level meeting in Kigali on the invitation of Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The discussion aimed to address concerns over a recent incident purportedly involving South Sudanese nationals living in Rwanda.

The meeting, also attended by the South Sudanese Embassy’s Desk Officer, focused on reports of previous violence involving South Sudanese nationals and their interactions with the host community. However, it was clarified that the violent altercation reported on December 27, 2024, in the Gasabo district of Kigali did not involve South Sudanese nationals as alleged by social media narratives. Investigations by the Rwanda National Police (RNP) revealed that the incident was a misidentification and actually involved nationals of Chad and the local host community.

Addressing Stereotypes and Misconceptions

The dialogue coincided with recent remarks by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, who urged Rwandan youth to desist from perpetuating stereotypes against South Sudanese students. The Minister’s appeal came after social media criticism alleging misconduct by South Sudanese youth studying in Kigali and other regions, including Musanze.

"I have been closely following the complaints on social media. Let me be clear: all forms of violence, whether by Rwandans or foreigners, are unacceptable in Rwanda," said Minister Nduhungirehe. "We must avoid language that promotes stereotypes or incites division. This is not in line with the principles we hold as a nation."

He emphasized that such inflammatory and provocative rhetoric goes against Rwanda’s values of unity and coexistence. His remarks echoed the RNP’s stance that violence, regardless of the perpetrators, is intolerable in Rwanda.

Strengthening Bilateral Coordination

During the meeting, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, participants resolved to enhance coordination and collaboration between Rwanda and South Sudan. South Sudanese students and community leaders were designated as focal points to report and address incidents of violence promptly.

Call for Community Responsibility

Ambassador Margaret A. Daniel commended the Rwandan government’s leadership for organizing the preventive dialogue and for its thorough investigation into the matter. She called on the South Sudanese community in Rwanda to respect the laws of the host nation and to actively contribute to peaceful coexistence.

“I urge our community in Rwanda to respect the laws of the host nation and to actively contribute to the unity and stability between our sisterly countries,” Ambassador Margaret remarked.

The meeting underscored the commitment of both nations to address misconceptions and promote mutual understanding, ensuring the safety and well-being of their respective communities.