President Paul Kagame has granted special privileges to staff of the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation (STBF) through a Host Country Agreement ratified by Presidential Order. Originally signed in 2020, the agreement ensures tax exemptions, legal immunities, and streamlined immigration benefits for the Foundation’s internationally recruited employees and their dependents.
Under the agreement, STBF staff will not pay income tax or social security contributions on their Foundation salaries. Customs duties and VAT exemptions also apply to personal household goods imported within their first year in Rwanda. Additionally, each household is permitted to import one vehicle tax-free, with replacement allowed after three years or in cases of theft or accidents.
In terms of legal and immigration status, the staff and their families are exempt from work permits, national service, and other immigration barriers. They will receive free multiple-entry visas and re-entry permits. While limited legal immunity is granted for actions performed in an official capacity, the Foundation may waive this if required by justice.
The Foundation’s headquarters and records are protected, requiring prior consent for any government access. Their access to public utilities and communication services will match that of other international organizations operating in Rwanda.
This agreement supports Rwanda’s Vision 2050 development goals, particularly in advancing health services for women and girls. Since opening its Africa regional headquarters in Kigali in 2020, the Foundation has worked to strengthen health systems and build local capacity.
Any disputes arising from the agreement will be resolved through arbitration under the Kigali International Arbitration Centre (KIAC), further underlining Rwanda’s commitment to international legal standards in partnership agreements.
