As China-Rwanda ties deepen, more couples overcome cross-cultural challenges to say ‘I do’
- Transnational romance is on the rise as more Chinese firms set up shop in the African nation and Rwandans seek education in China
- These couples face issues such as living in a foreign land, as well as cultural, language and religious differences – but say the challenges are no barriers to love
In February 2020, Chinese national Lin Jin Qiu, 32, found herself overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness in Rwanda. Halfway across the world from China, she was troubled by her inability to physically help her family during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
Seeking a reprieve from her worries, Lin, who was in Rwanda to start a business, made a spontaneous decision to venture beyond Kigali, the capital. With no destination in mind, she packed a bag and made her way to Nyabugogo bus park, where she bought a ticket for the next departing bus.
Arriving in the western city of Gisenyi, Lin crossed paths with Muhamira Brice-Gaël, 26, a local Rwandan who approached her as he thought she was lost. At that moment, neither of them could have foreseen that this encounter would blossom into a marriage and a son, just three years later.
With the influx of Chinese businesses into the African country and a growing number of Rwandan students pursuing education in China, some Chinese and Rwandans have found love with each other along the way.
There are no official statistics available regarding the number of transnational marriages, but Richard Kubana, director general at Rwanda’s Ministry of Local Government, said the country was a welcoming one.
“In Rwanda, we are open to every culture and we are proud of it,” he said. “We even accept dual citizenship.”
Transnational couples face challenges such as living in a foreign land, cultural differences, language barriers, and religious disagreements.