Kigali: Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office (NMO) and Chairman of the UAE Media Council, has engaged in discussions with several Rwandan ministers and senior officials during his visit to the Republic of Rwanda. The focus of these discussions was to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation, particularly in the media sector, while also exploring opportunities in sustainable development.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Hamed held talks with James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Regional Integration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions centered on prospects for cooperation across various fields, with an emphasis on media as a tool to support bilateral relations and solidify strategic partnerships for the benefit of both nations, enhancing their regional and international presence.
In addition, Al Hamed met with Jean-Damasc¨ne Bizimana, Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement. Their meeting explored opportunities for collaboration in areas related to national identity and community participation, highlighting the role of media as a key partner in fostering a cohesive and engaged society capable of facing challenges and shaping the future.
In further discussions, Al Hamed engaged with Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard, CEO of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB); Cleophas Barore, Director-General of Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA); and Yolande Makolo, Government Spokesperson. These conversations focused on developing cooperation in media and public broadcasting and exchanging institutional and technical expertise.
The meetings also addressed the upcoming “Bridge” Summit, to be hosted in Abu Dhabi in December. Discussions underscored the summit’s key themes and its role as a platform for international dialogue, contributing to strengthening media cooperation and developing the industry to align with global changes.
At the end of his visit, Al Hamed toured the HQ of Irembo, a leading Rwandan company in technological solutions and digital governance. He was received by Israel Bimpe, CEO of Irembo, and was briefed on the company’s advanced experience in digitising government services and streamlining administrative processes. The briefing included information on Irembo’s initiatives in digital identity, Artificial Intelligence, and telemedicine, as well as its role in enhancing transparency, reducing bureaucracy, and supporting the cashless economy.
Al Hamed emphasized the UAE’s commitment to strengthening relationships and expanding cooperation with all nations, particularly those in Africa, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He noted that this commitment arises from the UAE’s belief in the importance of international partnership in fostering stability and development.
“This visit represents a new step in our fruitful cooperation with Rwanda, opening broader horizons for building joint projects that enhance communities’ ability to achieve their aspirations and actively participate in creating a better future for coming generations,” Al Hamed added.