Faith Nyasuguta
In a move reflecting escalating diplomatic tensions, Rwandan authorities have directed Ecole Belge de Kigali, the nation’s sole Belgian-affiliated school, to cease its Belgian curriculum by September 2025. This decision aligns with a broader governmental mandate severing ties with Belgian-linked entities.
Education Minister Joseph Nsengimana communicated this directive to the school’s administration and parent committee, emphasizing the need to transition to an alternative educational program before the 2025-2026 academic year. He stated, “We advise you to begin making the necessary arrangements to transition to an alternative education program.”
Established in 1965, Ecole Belge de Kigali educates over 500 students under a curriculum supervised by Belgium’s Ministry of Education and benefits from Belgian governmental subsidies. The school’s spokesperson acknowledged the ministry’s decision but indicated that it was “too early” to comment on potential alternatives, noting that internal discussions are ongoing to determine subsequent steps.
This educational policy shift follows Rwanda’s broader strategy to distance itself from Belgian associations. On March 17, 2025, Rwanda severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, accusing the former colonial power of undermining Kigali during the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that Belgium had “consistently” worked against Rwanda’s interests in the DRC conflict.
In retaliation, Belgium declared Rwandan diplomats persona non grata and terminated development aid. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot expressed regret over Rwanda’s decision, describing it as “disproportionate” and indicative of Rwanda’s reluctance to engage in dialogue when disagreements arise.
Further intensifying the diplomatic rift, Rwanda suspended all Belgian aid and cooperation on March 28, 2025. The Rwandan Governance Board announced an immediate ban on all aid and cooperation from Belgian entities, affecting national and international NGOs, faith-based organizations, and common-benefit companies operating within Rwanda.
The backdrop to these developments is the complex and volatile situation in eastern DRC. Rwanda has faced accusations of supporting armed rebels in the region, leading to EU sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes against Rwandan military officials. Belgium played a pivotal role in advocating for these sanctions, further straining relations between the two nations.
In response, Rwandan President Paul Kagame accused Belgium of resurrecting its colonial legacy and attempting to destabilize Rwanda and the region. He remarked, “Belgium has killed us throughout history and keeps coming back to kill us more.”
The directive to Ecole Belge de Kigali symbolizes the tangible impact of these diplomatic disputes on educational institutions and the broader societal landscape. As Rwanda navigates its international relationships, the future of such institutions remains uncertain.
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