Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Mozambique, Amb. Claude Nikobisanzwe has revealed that the flights to be operated by RwandAir are expected to stimulate an increase in the volume of business between the two countries which have recently strengthened cooperation in the political and commercial areas.

The flights are expected to commence in the first week of August.

Currently, Mozambicans travelling to Rwanda are not required to present a visa while Rwandans are necessitated to do so.

According to Club of Mozambique, the envoy has said that Rwanda would also like to see entry into Mozambique for its citizens eased, particularly as Mozambicans do not need a visa to enter Rwanda.

“I would like to say that our Rwandan airline will start direct flights from Maputo to Kigali, which will boost the movement of people and goods and stimulate trade. In principle, it will be in the first week of August. Mozambicans who have a normal passport can travel without needing a visa. We are in discussions with our counterpart, to see if we cannot have the same facility for Rwandans,” Amb. Nikobisanzwe explained.

Rwanda and Mozambique have cooperation in different areas particularly in defence matters where Rwanda sent troops to fight terrorists in the country’s Cabo Delgado Province.

Both parties are undergoing discussions for the possibility to exchange goods through the port of Nacala.

“We believe that the port of Nacala, with its deep waters, can help in this cooperation. We believe that trade between African countries can generate employment for African peoples, particularly Mozambicans, and contribute to all countries’ economies,” said Amb. Nikobisanzwe.

Recently, a delegation of 120 Rwandan entrepreneurs attended the Mozambique-Rwanda Business Forum to tap investment opportunities in the country.

Under existing relations, Mozambique currently exports sugar, ores and other mining products to Rwanda, but both parties want to see an increase in exports.

RwandAir is set to start direct flights to Maputo.