In response to Rwanda’s alleged support to the M3 rebels who recently invaded the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Canada announced a battery of sanctions on March 3. The measures are aimed at restricting economic cooperation with Rwanda. Among others, Canada suspended exports of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, halting new intergovernmental trade initiatives, and ending support for private-sector business development projects. The northern American country also said it will review its participation in international events hosted by Rwanda and scrutinize future Rwandan bids to host global summits.
In a joint statement, Canadian Ministers Mélanie Joly (Foreign Affairs), Ahmed Hussen (International Development), and Mary Ng (Export Promotion) condemned Rwanda’s actions, describing the presence of Rwandan defense forces in the DRC and their backing of M23 as “flagrant violations of the DRC’s territorial integrity and sovereignty” and the United Nations Charter. The ministers also denounced atrocities attributed to M23 in eastern DRC, including massacres, kidnappings, and sexual violence against women and girls. Rwanda rejected Canada’s accusations as “defamatory” and called the sanctions “wrong and counterproductive.”
The sanctions come amid escalating violence in eastern DRC, where M23 rebels—reportedly backed by Rwandan forces—have seized key cities like Goma and Bukavu since January 2025. The conflict has claimed over 8,500 lives and displaced thousands, according to the latest figures from the Congolese government.
Pressure Rises
Canada’s decision also marks a significant shift in bilateral relations with Rwanda. Their partnership, existing in 1963, covers development aid, trade partnerships, and diplomatic cooperation. Between 2022 and 2023, Ottawa allocated $44.82 million in international aid to Rwanda for education, health, and gender equality projects. Trade between the two countries totaled $13.4 million in 2023, with Canada exporting wheat, vehicles, and aircraft parts while importing coffee and spices from Rwanda. Many Canadian companies are also active in Rwanda in the infrastructure, engineering, mining, and energy sectors.
Canada joins a growing list of Western nations taking action against Rwanda. The European Union recently suspended defense consultations with Kigali, while the United Kingdom froze portions of its bilateral aid. The United States imposed sanctions on James Kabarebe, Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Integration, accusing him of supporting M23.
This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
