Washington, D.C. — On Friday, October 18, 2024, the Embassy of Rwanda in Washington, DC, hosted a dinner in support of the 56th Annual Meridian Ball, an esteemed gala organized by Meridian International Center. The event aims to strengthen global engagement between the U.S. and international leaders, promoting collaboration to address shared global challenges.

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Among the attendees were Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, representing Florida's 20th congressional district, along with her husband Corlie McCormick and Chief of Staff Angelle Kwemo. Also present was Dr. John Nkengasong, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator and Senior Bureau Official for Global Health Security and Diplomacy at the U.S. State Department. Ambassador Dwight Bush, Chair of Meridian Global Engagement and former U.S. Ambassador to Morocco, was in attendance, along with other distinguished guests.

Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana of Rwanda highlighted the nation’s progress over the past 30 years, emphasizing Rwanda’s positioning as a hub in various sectors. Ambassador Dwight Bush expressed his appreciation for Rwanda’s hospitality, stating, “Meridian is grateful for the generous hospitality of Her Excellency Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana.”

Rwanda joins Morocco and Tunisia as one of only three African countries to host this prestigious event, reflecting its growing prominence in global diplomacy and international cooperation.