Rwanda is back on the list of The ‘Big Five’ nations after restocking 10 black Rhinos in Akagera national park in Eastern province from south Africa as negotiations to restore full relations continue.
The development comes a few days after George Nkosinati Twala, South Africa High Commissioner to Rwanda told Journalists at his residence in the capital Kigali that the there was massive progress and that sometime this month there will be final round of talks between the two sides to resolve whatever issues they have.
In 2014, diplomatic relations between the two countries turned sour – leading to the expulsion of diplomats from both Kigali and Pretoria over accusations that Rwanda had violated South Africa’s sovereignty. Rwanda refuted the allegations which had developed since 2010.
The following year, both countries agreed to turn the page of relations. South Africa sent a new diplomat to its mission in Kigali and Rwanda named a high profile face to man its mission in Pretoria.
However, only government officials carrying diplomatic and service passports are allowed to get visas to South Africa – leaving an obstacle to ordinary citizens including business people to visit Africa’s biggest economy.
Recently while celebrating Freedom Day celebrations, High Commissioner Twala presented a gifts to government containing images of the African Big five animals; the African lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard and rhinoceros , while presenting the gifts Twala said that Rwanda Plans to get wild animals from South Africa to boost in the wild game
The gift, Twala said, symbolizes that Rwanda will be given another boost in the wild game to improve tourism sector. Rwanda plans to get Rhinos from South Africa.
“Rwanda is doing well in Tourism, and we (SA) have a surprise announcement that will make Rwanda join the big five. We will make the announcement very soon. Probably this month of May as we restore our relations fully” Twala was quoted at the function