By Cremilda Macuácua, China Africa News
Kigali, Jan. 22, 2026 —The Chinese Lunar New Year celebration that took place in Kigali on January 22, 2026 was a rich blend of cultural tradition and diplomatic engagement that went far beyond mere festivity. On that day, members of the Chinese community in Rwanda, government officials, health professionals and Rwandan partners gathered to usher in the Year of the Horse with joy, reflection and a symbolic reaffirmation of longstanding cooperation between the two nations.
The festivities also provided a meaningful occasion to formally welcome a new China Medical Team (CMT), comprised of 19 medical professionals from China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, who had prepared for their mission by spending two months learning Kinyarwanda to better serve local patients and colleagues.
What made this event particularly resonant was how seamlessly cultural celebration and international cooperation were woven together. In his address, Chinese Ambassador to Rwanda Gao Wenqi spoke from the heart about the depth and breadth of China–Rwanda relations, describing the gathering as “a symbol of a profound and multi‑dimensional friendship between the two nations.” He pointed to the 45 years of uninterrupted service by Chinese medical teams in Rwanda as evidence of this commitment, noting that their continued arrival “demonstrates China’s firm commitment to Rwanda” and embodies more than just professional exchange it reflects shared human solidarity.
Ambassador Gao highlighted that the cooperation between China and Rwanda is not limited to health alone, but is supported by vibrant economic and infrastructural partnerships. He cited landmark collaborations such as Masaka Hospital a Chinese‑funded public health institution that stands as a lasting testament to people‑to‑people ties between the two countries and the Nyabarongo Hydropower Plant, among others, as emblematic of how bilateral efforts have grown over decades. “This friendship thrives on strong economic, trade and investment cooperation,” he said, underscoring both historic progress and future potential.
During his remarks, Ambassador Gao also honored the work of past medical teams and acknowledged both the outgoing 25th contingent and the newly arrived 26th, describing the Chinese health professionals as “a powerful testament to the deep bonds between our peoples.” He even paid homage to a medic who lost his life while serving in Rwanda, emphasizing the selfless spirit that has characterized this unique partnership. The ambassador’s closing sentiments carried both warmth and optimism as he proposed a toast and expressed his hope that bilateral relations would continue to advance “with the vitality of the horse,” wishing everyone success and renewed energy in the coming year.
At its essence, the Kigali celebration was far more than a festive cultural occasion; it was a moment that honored traditions of the Spring Festival a time of renewal, reunion, and hope while also highlighting the tangible ways in which cultural diplomacy, health cooperation and shared history can deepen mutual respect and understanding. The event reminded attendees that the Year of the Horse, with its associations of strength, progress and endurance, mirrored the aspirations of both Rwanda and China as partners committed to sustained growth, human connection, and joint development.
