Rwanda has announced the suspension of its bilateral development cooperation with Belgium, citing what it describes as Belgium’s politicization of aid and interference in the ongoing crisis in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The move, revealed in a statement by Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscores deepening diplomatic tensions as regional and international actors navigate the complex conflict in the region.
Belgium Accused of Undermining Mediation Efforts
At the heart of Rwanda’s decision is what it sees as an “aggressive campaign” led by Belgium, allegedly working alongside Kinshasa to block Rwanda’s access to development financing from multilateral institutions. According to Kigali, this pressure undermines the African Union (AU)-mandated mediation process, which is backed by both the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“Belgium has made a political decision to choose a side in this conflict, which is its right, but politicizing development is plainly wrong,” Rwanda’s foreign ministry stated.
Rwanda argues that using development aid as a tool of leverage against a country in the region sets a dangerous precedent, one that risks derailing African-led peace efforts and prolonging instability.
Security and Sovereignty at the Forefront
Beyond concerns about aid conditionality, Rwanda’s move signals its broader frustration with what it sees as international reluctance to address the root causes of instability in Eastern DRC. Kigali has long insisted that the conflict stems from Kinshasa’s failure to disarm the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned rebel group with links to the perpetrators of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
“Rwanda will not be bullied or blackmailed into compromising national security,” the statement read. “Our only aim is a secure border, and an irreversible end to the politics of violent ethnic extremism in our region.”
A Diplomatic Shift?
The suspension of the 2024-2029 bilateral aid program with Belgium marks a significant shift in Rwanda’s diplomatic posture. Traditionally, Rwanda has maintained strong development partnerships, ensuring accountability in the use of foreign aid. The decision suggests that Kigali is willing to forgo financial assistance if it believes its national security is being compromised.
“Development partnerships must be based on mutual respect,” the statement emphasized, warning that selective pressure on Rwanda while ignoring the deeper issues fueling the conflict would not lead to a lasting solution.
Regional and Global Implications
Rwanda’s move comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with M23 rebels—who claim to represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis—gaining ground in Eastern DRC. While Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of backing the group, Kigali has consistently denied involvement, arguing that the focus should be on addressing long-standing ethnic tensions and disarming groups like the FDLR.
The suspension of cooperation with Belgium could set a precedent for how Rwanda engages with other international actors moving forward. It also raises questions about the broader effectiveness of external interventions in the region’s protracted conflicts.\
With diplomatic fault lines hardening and the crisis in Eastern DRC showing no signs of abating, the next steps by regional and international stakeholders will be closely watched. For Rwanda, the message is clear: security and sovereignty come first, even at the cost of longstanding partnerships.
