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Creative Commons: Copyright World Economic Forum www.weforum.org / Eric Miller

Rwanda’s President, His Excellency Paul Kagame. Creative Commons: Copyright World Economic Forum www.weforum.org / Eric Miller.

Commonwealth leaders agree to admit Rwanda

29 November 2009

Rwanda becomes the association's 54th member

Commonwealth leaders holding their biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, on 28 November 2009 considered application for membership by the Republic of Rwanda.

The leaders agreed to admit Rwanda as the 54th member.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma telephoned Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, late on 28 November 2009 to convey the leaders’ decision.

Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister Patrick Manning of Trinidad and Tobago, will discuss the subject at a news conference later on 29 November 2009.

Watch Video: Commonwealth welcomes Rwanda

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Add your comment
  • 1. Feb 22 2010 10:40PM, Ryan wrote:

    We cannot admit just any country to the Commonwealth. A British Empire past should be one strict rule, not completely set, but strict. This is what make the Commonwealth unique, and thus effective.

  • 2. Dec 14 2009 10:37AM, Uzzal Hossain wrote:

    This is great to see Rwanda as a member of commonwealth.

  • 3. Dec 2 2009 1:27PM, Fidel Gakire wrote:

    Thank you Mr. Kamalesh Sharma for your friendly partnership with Rwandans. So, keep it up and big up to our fellows member citizens of Commonwealth

  • 4. Dec 2 2009 10:09AM, Abdul Harabima wrote:

    This wise decision from CHOGM2009 of accepting Rwanda as a new member of CW is very much welcome.This historical act is beneficial to all members,because Rwanda will share with others its humble experience and of course gain the same from other members. CW is lively,please proceed.

  • 5. Dec 1 2009 9:42PM, Robin wrote:

    This is good for Rwanda, but is it good for the Commonwealth? And other Countries? We must remember what makes the Commonwealth so unique. Adding to many countries such as Rwanda and Mozambique will erode the Commonwealth's uniquness and effectiveness.

  • 6. Dec 1 2009 7:38PM, Emma MAHORO wrote:

    How God is Great! Warm congrats to his Excellency Paul KAGAME and to Commowealth member states who proudly supported RWANDA (igihugu cy'isezerano) for admission. This is our chance to reach to our change (2020 vision).

  • 7. Dec 1 2009 5:43AM, Kiapi K. Frederick wrote:

    The entry of Rwanda into the Commonwealth is a step forward in the consolidation of the country's gains made since 1994. Uganda and other EAC countries can now strive to transform their societies for the benefits of the people. Uganda looks forward to working very closely with Rwanda in promoting the values of the Commonwealth.

  • 8. Nov 30 2009 4:11PM, Felicien Mwumvaneza wrote:

    Joining the Commonwealth does not only open opportunities to Rwanda, but also brings with it the responsibility of membership

  • 9. Nov 30 2009 2:36PM, Karera Jean de Dieu wrote:

    Thanks to all countries which voted for Rwanda to be admitted to the commonwealth I think we must use this oppurtunities we get for our developement as Rwandase we are proudly to be a member hope that we will use this chance in the correct way .

  • 10. Nov 30 2009 12:30PM, JeanPaul,Uwizihiwe wrote:

    Thumb up yr guys, this is an important steps to move forward ! So proud to all these achievements !


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