Rwanda and China Strengthen Aviation Cooperation Through Airworthiness Certification Agreement

Kigali, 12 October 2026, Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China have strengthened their aviation cooperation following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on airworthiness certification between the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA) and China’s Civil Aviation Administration (CAAC).

The agreement establishes a framework for enhanced technical collaboration between the two aviation regulators, aimed at strengthening regulatory capacity and facilitating the acceptance and oversight of aeronautical products, certificates, and approvals issued by their respective authorities.

The cooperation is expected to support more efficient regulatory processes, reduce duplication of efforts, and strengthen aviation safety oversight through the exchange of technical expertise and experience.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Col. Claudien Bizimungu, welcomed the agreement as another milestone in the longstanding cooperation and friendship between Rwanda and China.

“On behalf of the Government of Rwanda, it is my honour to welcome you to Kigali for this important occasion. Rwanda and the People’s Republic of China have a long-standing cooperation in various sectors, including aviation. Today marks another milestone in our brotherly friendship as we meet to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority and the Civil Aviation Administration of China,” he said.

The Minister of State also commended the progress made by China’s aviation sector, highlighting the development of emerging aviation technologies. He cited the flight demonstration of the EHang electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Kigali in September 2025, during Aviation Africa, as an example of advancements shaping the future of aviation.

He further recognised CAAC’s contribution to the development of aviation regulation, particularly in the certification of unmanned aircraft systems designed to carry passengers and cargo.

Emphasising the importance of regulatory cooperation, Col. Bizimungu noted that aviation depends on trust in the airworthiness of aircraft, the proper licensing of pilots, and the safety and security of airports.

“Aviation only works on trust: trust that every aircraft is airworthy, every pilot properly licensed and every airport safe and secure. No regulator can build that trust alone. That is why cooperation is not a luxury. It is how we make the most of our resources and raise our safety standards together,” he said.

Under the MoU, RCAA and CAAC will strengthen cooperation in the recognition of certificates and approvals, as well as in airworthiness oversight. The framework provides for the sharing of technical expertise and inspectors to support regulatory activities, improve efficiency, and reduce unnecessary duplication.

The agreement also creates an opportunity for both authorities to strengthen their technical capacities through closer collaboration and the exchange of knowledge and experience.

Highlighting the importance of translating the agreement into practical results, Col. Bizimungu called on both authorities to develop a joint implementation work plan with clearly defined actions, responsibilities, and timelines. He also encouraged them to review progress jointly at least once a year to ensure effective implementation.

“An MoU is only as good as its implementation. I therefore ask both authorities to agree a joint work plan with clear actions, owners and timelines, and to review progress together at least once a year,” he said.

The signing of the MoU reflects the continued commitment of Rwanda and China to strengthening cooperation in aviation and building closer institutional ties between their respective regulatory authorities.