KIGALI/PRETORIA — Rwanda and South Africa have agreed to reinstate visa issuance for Rwandan citizens holding ordinary passports by no later than mid-2027, in a step widely seen as part of efforts to ease more than a decade of strained diplomatic relations.
Officials from both countries confirmed the agreement as part of ongoing moves to normalise ties that have been marked by political tensions and mutual accusations over regional security concerns.
Under the arrangement, South Africa will resume processing visa applications for Rwandan travellers, a service that had been significantly restricted during periods of diplomatic friction. The decision is expected to boost travel, trade, and people-to-people exchanges between Kigali and Pretoria.
Analysts say the development signals a gradual thaw in relations, with both governments showing increased willingness to rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation on economic and regional stability issues.
Relations between Rwanda and South Africa have experienced recurring tensions over the past decade, affecting collaboration in areas including security coordination and broader regional diplomacy.
Officials said no further measures were immediately announced, but indicated that additional talks are expected in the coming months to expand cooperation beyond visa facilitation.
