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Rwanda Joins United Kingdom in Celebrating Official Birthday of King Charles III

Kigali, Rwanda – June 18, 2026, The Government of Rwanda joined the United Kingdom in celebrating the Official Birthday of His Majesty King Charles III during a celebration party hosted by the British High Commission in Kigali on Thursday evening.

The event brought together government officials, diplomats, development partners, members of the private sector, and other distinguished guests to mark the occasion.

Representing the Government of Rwanda, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr. Usta Kaitesi, attended the celebration and conveyed Rwanda’s appreciation for the longstanding partnership between the two nations.

Smiling woman with glasses speaking at a podium with two microphones, banners in the background. — **Dr. Usta Kaitesi** – *Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation*

In her remarks, the Minister commended the enduring cooperation between Rwanda and the UK, highlighting a relationship built on mutual respect, regular dialogue, and a shared commitment to prosperity and sustainable development.

“The United Kingdom has remained a valued development partner, supporting Rwanda’s national transformation agenda in education, social protection, climate resilience, financial sector development, public financial management, and Ebola preparedness.” Kaitesi Said.

The minister also acknowledged that partners may occasionally hold different views on regional and international issues. However, she stressed that such differences do not weaken the relationship.

“ Such moments do not define our relationships; rather, they remind us that genuine partnerships are strengthened through honest dialogue, mutual understanding, and a continued engagement.”

The Official Birthday of King Charles III is celebrated annually by British diplomatic missions around the world, bringing together partners and friends of the United Kingdom to commemorate the occasion and strengthen international relations.

Two women at a wooden podium on a brightly lit stage; one speaks into a microphone while the other stands nearby, with flags and banners in the background. — **Alison Thorpe** – *British High Commissioner to Rwanda*

Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe highlighted both the celebratory nature of the occasion and the growing depth of UK-Rwanda relations.

Explaining the significance of the event, Thorpe humorously noted the British tradition of the monarch having two birthdays.

“The King has two birthdays. His real one is in November and his official birthday is in June.”

Reflecting on the significance of this celebration Alison Thorpe outlined the UK’s vision for deeper engagement with African partners (including Rwanda) revealing the new Africa approach that will move UK from being an old-fashioned donor to a genuine investor and partner.

“We’re working to create real economic opportunities in both our countries, bringing Rwandan business together with British capital and expertise”

Addressing regional challenges, including insecurity in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the High Commissioner reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.

“The UK will continue to work with Rwanda and others to support a path to lasting peace, because peace unlocks the stability and economic opportunity that this whole region deserves.”

The UK has been one of Rwanda’s key development partners, supporting initiatives aimed at improving education outcomes, strengthening public institutions, enhancing financial accountability, and building resilience against health emergencies and climate-related challenges. In recent years, cooperation has increasingly evolved beyond traditional development assistance toward investment, trade promotion, and private sector partnerships.

About King Charles III

King Charles III is the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and the Head of the Commonwealth. Born Charles Philip Arthur George on 14 November 1948, he is the eldest son of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Before ascending to the throne, he served as the Prince of Wales for more than six decades, making him the longest-serving heir apparent in British history. Throughout his public life, King Charles became widely known for his advocacy on environmental conservation, sustainable development, interfaith dialogue, youth empowerment, and charitable causes.

He succeeded Queen Elizabeth II as King on 8 September 2022 following her passing and was formally crowned at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 2023.

More photos from the event

A couple walks a red carpet at an evening event, surrounded by warm fairy lights and green drapery.

Two women share a friendly chat at an outdoor tropical-themed event; one in a black dress with fringe sleeves, the other in a bright yellow-orange patterned outfit and orange headwrap, with pink drapery and string lights behind them.

Three men in suits chatting and laughing at an outdoor event, one wearing a bold Jamaican flag-inspired shirt and holding a glass of drink.

Woman in a gold sequined dress dancing with colorful headphones at a neon-lit party, smiling at the camera

Group of people at a garden party under colorful lights; a woman in the center wears sunglasses and a red patterned scarf. John? (context-friendly) Not needed.

About The Author

Justin Kayiranga

Justin Kayiranga is a Rwandan journalist, digital content creator, and tourism consultant based in Kigali, Rwanda. He is primarily known for his media work focusing on environmental issues, climate change, sustainable agriculture, and African travel.

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