Zambia, Rwanda vow to uphold ties after Lusaka xenophobic violence

Zambia and Rwanda have vowed to uphold bilateral ties following xenophobic attacks targeting Rwandan nationals in the Zambian capital Lusaka last week.

Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister, Harry Kalaba, on Thursday met at his office with charge'd Affaires at the Rwandan Embassy in Zambia, Abel Buhungu.

Kalaba said the violence against Rwandan nationals was unfortunate and that Zambia was committed to upholding its relations with Rwanda.

He assured the international community that Zambia would continue protecting foreign nationals.

On his part, Buhungu said Rwanda would continue to strengthen ties with Zambia despite the attacks.

He commended the Zambian government for putting in place intervention measures to quell the xenophobic attacks and its commitment to the protection of foreigners.

He denied reports that Zambian nationals in Rwanda were facing revenge attacks, saying they were safe.

Last week, local residents in some densely populated areas in Lusaka attacked and looted shops owned by Rwandans, after rumors that the Rwandans were behind a spate of ritual killings in the city.

Two people have been burned to death and over 65 shops looted in two days of violence.

Seven people have been murdered since March in Lusaka and their body parts removed in what locals call ritual killings. It is said the body parts are used in rituals to ensure good fortune. Endit