Rwanda’s President Kagame Extends Condolences to Qatar Following Death of Former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani
Kigali, Rwanda — July 12, 2026— Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Sunday offered his deepest condolences to Qatar’s ruling family and people after the passing of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who died at the age of 74.
In a statement posted on X, Kagame addressed Qatar’s current Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, describing him as his “brother” and extending sympathies to the late Sheikh’s family and the nation.
“His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani will be remembered as a visionary leader who transformed Qatar into the remarkable nation it is today,” Kagame wrote. “His legacy of service to his people and commitment to friendship and cooperation among nations will endure for generations.”
The Rwandan leader added that both he and the people of Rwanda stand in solidarity with Qatar during this time of mourning.
Sheikh Hamad, often called the “Father Emir,” ruled Qatar from 1995 until his abdication in 2013 in favor of his son, Sheikh Tamim. During his tenure, he oversaw dramatic economic diversification, massive investments in infrastructure and education, and elevated Qatar’s global profile through initiatives such as the Al Jazeera network.
Qatar’s Amiri Diwan announced the death earlier Sunday, triggering four days of national mourning with flags flown at half-mast across the country.
The statement from Kagame underscores the warm bilateral relations between Rwanda and Qatar. The two leaders met as recently as May 2026 in Doha to discuss cooperation in development, trade, and regional affairs.
Tributes have poured in from world leaders as Qatar prepares to honor the architect of its modern era.
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