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  • Why investors keep turning to Rwanda: 10 factors driving its growing appeal #rwanda #RwOT

    At a recent investor presentation in Washington, D.C., officials showcased the country’s strong economic trajectory, crediting disciplined reforms, sound governance, and a sustained push in infrastructure development.

    Despite being landlocked, Rwanda has leveraged its strategic location, progressive policies, and long-term Vision 2050 plan to position itself as a regional hub of stability and growth.

    With a growing business ecosystem, the country is opening opportunities across sectors ranging from green energy to infrastructure, making it an increasingly compelling choice for investors looking to tap into Africa’s emerging markets.

    Here are the ten key factors that continue to define Rwanda’s investor appeal.

    1. Political stability and strong governance

    Rwanda’s reputation for order and predictability continues to anchor investor confidence. The World Justice Project ranks it first in Africa and 27th globally for order and security, while governance indicators show strong control of corruption (73.1 percentile) and effective institutions (61.5 percentile).

    With a growing business ecosystem, the country is opening opportunities across sectors ranging from green energy to infrastructure.

    This combination of transparency and accountability creates a low-risk environment, one where long-term investments can thrive without fear of sudden policy shifts or instability.

    2. Rapid and resilient economic growth

    Few African economies have maintained Rwanda’s momentum. Between 2021 and 2024, GDP grew by an average of 9.1%, powered by a balanced mix of services (48%), industry (21%), and agriculture (25%).

    Few African economies have maintained Rwanda’s economic growth momentum.

    The growth has been inclusive: child mortality has dropped by two-thirds, and nearly every Rwandan child now completes primary school. The country’s economic progress tells a broader story of resilience, human development, and an expanding middle class.

    3. Vision 2050: A clear roadmap for prosperity

    Rwanda’s long-term blueprint, Vision 2050, lays out a bold ambition to become a high-income, service- and industry-led economy.

    The National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), covering 2024—2029, sets a target of 10%+ annual GDP growth, coupled with higher savings and export growth. For investors, this clarity of purpose and policy continuity signals reliability, a rare asset in many emerging markets.

    Rwanda’s long-term blueprint, Vision 2050, lays out a bold ambition to become a high-income, service- and industry-led economy.

    4. Ambitious infrastructure investments

    Infrastructure development remains central to Rwanda’s transformation. The flagship Bugesera International Airport, a $840 million project co-developed with Qatar, is designed to handle 8.2 million passengers annually by 2028 and up to 14 million by 2032.

    The artistic impression of Bugesera International Airport.

    The Nyabarongo II hydropower plant, currently halfway complete, is expected to add 43.5 MW of clean energy and support irrigation across 20,000 hectares of farmland. New roads, upgraded water systems, and modern training centres are also connecting communities and reducing business costs, making Rwanda a logistics-friendly hub in East Africa.

    The artistic impression of the Nyabarongo II Hydropower plant.

    5. Rising aviation and logistics hub

    With its strategic location and modernising infrastructure, Kigali is positioning itself as a continental gateway.

    RwandAir’s expanding fleet and the upcoming airport are part of a wider ambition to integrate with Africa’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). As intra-African air travel is projected to hit 80 million passengers by 2030, Rwanda’s connectivity will underpin growth in tourism, trade, and regional corporate investment.

    RwandAir’s expanding fleet and the upcoming airport are part of a wider ambition to integrate with Africa’s Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

    6. Leading Africa’s green transformation

    Rwanda is also emerging as a continental leader in sustainable growth. It was the first African country to update its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and has pledged to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.

    With a national green taxonomy now in place, Rwanda is showing that climate responsibility can be an engine of innovation and investment.

    Its Green Fund (FONERWA) has mobilised $200 million, created 140,000 green jobs, and attracted international partnerships, including $319 million from the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Trust. With a national green taxonomy now in place, Rwanda is showing that climate responsibility can be an engine of innovation and investment.

    7. Inclusive growth and gender equality

    Rwanda’s social transformation is one of its strongest calling cards. Women make up 63.75% of Parliament and 51.9% of Cabinet, the highest representation in the world.
    Access to electricity jumped from 22% in 2014 to 72% in 2024, and 92% of adults now use formal financial services. These social gains are not just moral victories; they create a stable, skilled workforce and a consumer market primed for responsible, inclusive growth.

    Access to electricity in Rwanda jumped from 22% in 2014 to 72% in 2024.

    8. Tourism and global branding power

    Tourism continues to drive Rwanda’s service economy, growing 4% in 2024 despite global challenges. The country’s appeal lies in its mix of natural beauty and high-end experiences, from mountain gorilla trekking to world-class events.

    Partnerships with PSG and Bayern Munich have facilitated skills transfer, mentorship, and youth development, creating a pipeline of talent that elevates Rwanda’s human capital.

    “The 'Visit Rwanda' brand, supported by partnerships with Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich, has elevated the country’s profile on the global stage by blending tourism with soft power and international business visibility.

    More recently, Rwanda signed long-term agreements with the Los Angeles Clippers (NBA) and the Los Angeles Rams (NFL) in September 2025, marking the first time an African tourism brand has partnered with both an NBA and an NFL team.”

    9. Financial and macroeconomic stability

    Rwanda’s fiscal discipline and sound monetary management have helped the country maintain investor confidence.

    Foreign reserves cover 5.4 months of imports, inflation eased to 4.8% in 2024, and public debt remains within IMF sustainability thresholds. The banking sector is healthy, with capital adequacy ratios above 20% and non-performing loans declining. This macroeconomic stability offers investors the predictability they need to plan long-term.

    The banking sector is healthy, with capital adequacy ratios above 20% and non-performing loans declining.

    10. Investor-friendly reforms and capital access

    Rwanda has consistently ranked among the world’s easiest places to do business. It now sits 5th globally for business environment and 3rd in Africa as a financial centre.

    Recent reforms include modernised tax laws, simplified investment codes, and a maturing capital market offering bonds of up to 20 years. These measures have strengthened investor confidence and made Rwanda an emerging hub for African finance and innovation.
    As outlined in the Washington presentation, Rwanda’s development model blends vision, accountability, and innovation.

    From sound governance to green ambition, the country continues to attract investors seeking sustainable opportunities in Africa’s new growth frontier.

    For global partners, Rwanda represents more than an emerging market. Observers increasingly view it as a blueprint for transformation rooted in discipline, inclusivity, and long-term vision.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/why-investors-keep-turning-to-rwanda-10-factors-driving-its-growing-appeal

  • Bank of Africa Rwanda marks Customer Service Week with focus on client engagement #rwanda #RwOT

    The week-long initiative, which began on Monday, was officially opened at the bank’s CHIC headquarters in Kigali under the leadership of the new Managing Director, Serge Atikossie.

    Speaking at the launch, Atikossie described the week as an opportunity to deepen ties with customers, stressing that they remain at the centre of all the bank’s activities.

    'For us at BOA, we are proud to have you as our clients. We are here for you, which is why these seven days are so important. You are the reason we exist, and we value sharing this time with you,' he said.

    As part of the program, bank staff will meet customers directly to present available services, gather feedback, and understand client needs. Gahizi Bienvenue, Manager of the CHIC Branch, noted that the approach focuses on reaching out to customers rather than waiting for them to come to the bank.

    Customers attending the launch praised BOA’s service delivery, highlighting the bank’s support for business growth and satisfaction with its operations.

    Bank of Africa, an international commercial bank with over 40 years of experience, operates in more than 18 African countries. In Rwanda, the bank has branches across all provinces and in Kigali, ensuring broad accessibility for clients nationwide.

    The week-long initiative, which began on Monday, was officially opened at the bank’s CHIC headquarters in Kigali under the leadership of the new Managing Director, Serge Atikossie.

    Managing Director, Serge Atikossie, described the week as an opportunity to deepen ties with customers, stressing that they remain at the centre of all the bank’s activities.

    Gahizi Bienvenue, Manager of the CHIC Branch, noted that the approach focuses on reaching out to customers rather than waiting for them to come to the bank.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/bank-of-africa-rwanda-marks-customer-service-week-with-focus-on-client

  • Somali defence delegation visits Rwanda #rwanda #RwOT

    The visit aims to strengthen the existing defence cooperation between the two countries’ armed forces.

    During the visit, Major General Odawa Yusuf Rage held a meeting with the Rwandan Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, General MK Mubarakh.

    The visit by the Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Armed Forces aligns with the SNAF’s strategic plan to strengthen defence cooperation and mutual support among East African partners, which is considered as a critical factor in transforming security gains into sustainable peace and long-term regional stability.

    During the meeting, the Somali National Armed Forces delegation was briefed on regional security dynamics, including Rwanda’s contribution to Peace and Security in Africa.

    The Somali National Armed Forces delegation also visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where they paid tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

    The delegation will also visit the MoD/RDF-affiliated agencies, as well as the Campaign against Genocide Museum.

    The visit aims to strengthen the existing defence cooperation between the two countries’ armed forces.

    The Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Armed Forces, Major General Odawa Yusuf Rage, and his delegation, are in Rwanda for six-day working visit to Rwanda.

    During the visit, Major General Odawa Yusuf Rage held a meeting with the Rwandan Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the RDF Chief of Defence Staff, General MK Mubarakh.

    During the meeting, the Somali National Armed Forces delegation was briefed on regional security dynamics, including Rwanda’s contribution to Peace and Security in Africa.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/somali-defence-delegation-visits-rwanda

  • Energicotel raises Frw 2 billion in oversubscribed bond to fund expansion #rwanda #RwOT

    The company received subscriptions worth Frw 2.9 billion against its Frw 2 billion issuance, making this the second bond under its Frw 6.5 billion long-term programme listed on the Rwanda Stock Exchange (RSE) in August 2021.

    The new bond carries a seven-year tenor, maturing on September 27, 2032, with a fixed coupon rate of 13.75% payable semi-annually. Its amortising structure ensures both principal and interest will be repaid in instalments, lowering default risks and reinvestment exposure for investors.

    Proceeds from the issuance will support general corporate purposes and repayment of existing obligations. The bond is set to list on the RSE on October 10, 2025, offering liquidity to investors and further deepening Rwanda’s capital markets.

    Eng. Carine Mukashyaka, Managing Director of Energicotel, described the oversubscription as a vote of confidence in the firm’s strategy and governance.

    'The oversubscription of our bond is a strong endorsement of our creditworthiness and growth strategy. This milestone not only strengthens our capital base but also reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable returns for investors,' she said.

    The issuance attracted a broad base of retail, institutional, and corporate investors, reflecting a growing appetite for sustainable investments in Rwanda. BK Capital, the investment services arm of BK Group, acted as the sponsoring broker for the transaction.

    Ivy Hesse, Acting Managing Director of BK Capital, said the deal signals confidence in Rwanda’s financial markets.

    'The strong investor subscription reflects the trust in Rwanda’s capital markets. At BK Capital, we remain committed to creating avenues for corporates and investors to access financing and investment opportunities that build Rwanda’s future,' she said.

    Founded in 2014 under the EPC Africa Group, Energicotel operates three micro-hydroelectric plants across Rwanda and has provided engineering services for major regional energy infrastructure, including the 80 MW Rusumo Falls project.

    As it enters its second decade, the company is expanding into new energy businesses, including gas trading and solar power projects in Rwanda and Kenya, set to commence in 2026.

    With a track record of delivering beyond targets, Energicotel says the bond proceeds and its diversification strategy will position it to play a greater role in meeting Africa’s growing energy demand while strengthening Rwanda’s capital market.

    Energicotel PLC (ECTL), Rwanda’s independent power producer and engineering consulting firm, has successfully raised Frw 2 billion through a corporate bond that was oversubscribed by 145%, underscoring growing investor confidence in the country’s energy sector.

    Wycliffe Nyamasege

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/business-62/article/energicotel-raises-frw-2-billion-in-oversubscribed-bond-to-fund-expansion

  • 'Insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting a different result’ – Amb. Bakuramutsa on DRC #rwanda #RwOT

    She was speaking on October 7, 2025, at the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council, during an intervention on the draft resolution No. A/HRC/60/L32.Rev1 concerning the human rights situation in eastern DRC.

    Ambassador Bakuramutsa said, 'Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. Continuing to repeat the same accusatory narratives while ignoring the root causes of the conflict will not bring peace, neither to the people of the DRC nor to our region.”

    'Rwanda rejects the unfounded accusations made against it; nevertheless, it will continue to engage constructively to ensure that security, accountability, and the protection of civilians remain at the core of all initiatives aimed at restoring peace and dignity to the populations of the Great Lakes region,' she added.

    In June 2025, Rwanda and the DRC signed peace agreements aimed at restoring security in eastern DRC.

    The accord includes four key components: the dismantling of the FDLR rebel group, the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures, economic cooperation between the two countries, and a political section that commits both governments to support ongoing talks between the DRC and the M23/AFC, as well as facilitation for the voluntary repatriation of refugees.

    However, Rwanda has consistently highlighted that President Tshisekedi’s government has been slow in implementing these agreements.

    In August 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, told Senators that while Rwanda is hopeful the signed peace agreement with the Democratic Republic of Congo will bear fruit, it still has serious concerns about its actual implementation as agreed upon by both parties.

    Ambassador Urujeni Bakuramutsa, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland, has stated that the Democratic Republic of Congo’s continuous tendency to blame Rwanda for its problems, while overlooking the root causes of the insecurity within the country, will not lead to a lasting solution.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/insanity-is-doing-the-same-thing-repeatedly-and-expecting-a-different-result

  • WTO raises 2025 global trade growth forecast to 2.4 pct #rwanda #RwOT

    According to the WTO’s latest Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report, global GDP is projected to grow by 2.7 percent in 2025 and 2.6 percent in 2026.

    The report said the volume of world merchandise trade, as measured by the average of exports and imports, expanded by 4.9 percent year-on-year in the first half of this year.

    The WTO attributed the strong performance to several factors, including frontloading of imports in North America ahead of expected higher U.S. tariffs, disinflation and supportive fiscal policies, solid growth in emerging markets, and a surge in trade of AI-related goods.

    Trade among developing economies also saw a notable rise. The value of South-South trade climbed 8 percent year-on-year in the first half of 2025, outpacing the 6 percent growth in overall global trade value.

    AI-related goods, including semiconductors, servers, and telecommunications equipment, played a particularly significant role, accounting for nearly half of total trade growth during the same six-month period. The trade value of such products surged 20 percent year-on-year.

    At a press conference, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said that despite the “stiff headwinds” from the U.S. unilateral actions and unprecedented rise in trade policy uncertainty, trade has shown resilience. She stressed that such resilience underscores that there is a core in the multilateral trading system that continues to work well.

    The report said the main downside risk to the outlook is the spread of trade-restrictive measures and policy uncertainty to more economies and sectors.

    It warned that rising import prices and slower trade shipments could signal higher inflation later this year, as inventories decline in sectors heavily affected by tariffs.

    According to the report, trade performance varies widely across regions. Asia and Africa are expected to record the fastest export growth in 2025, while Europe will likely see slower growth and North America will face declining exports.

    The report also noted that the growth of services exports, though indirectly affected by tariffs, is set to slow from 6.8 percent in 2024 to 4.6 percent in 2025, and further to 4.4 percent in 2026.

    Europe is projected to lead services export growth in 2025, followed by Asia, the Middle East, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), it added.

    The World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (C) speaks at a press conference on WTO’s latest Global Trade Outlook and Statistics report at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Oct. 7, 2025.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/wto-raises-2025-global-trade-growth-forecast-to-2-4-pct

  • Egypt’s President invites Trump to attend Gaza’s deal ceremony when reached #rwanda #RwOT

    In his address during a police graduation ceremony in eastern Cairo, President Sisi invited US President Donald Trump to attend the signing ceremony of the ceasefire agreement, should the talks reach a successful conclusion.

    Sisi stated, 'I invite US President Donald Trump to attend the signing of the ceasefire agreement in Egypt if it is reached. It would be wonderful to have you here.'

    According to media reports, the talks have seen high-level involvement, with US envoy Steve Witkoff, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman actively participating.

    Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin and Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer are also expected to join the negotiations.

    On September 29, Trump unveiled a 20-point proposal that includes the release of Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a ceasefire, the disarmament of Hamas, and the rebuilding of Gaza. Hamas has agreed to the plan in principle.

    The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza, with over 67,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, killed since October 2023.

    Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced on Wednesday that negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, taking place in Egypt’s Red Sea city of Sharm el-Sheikh, are progressing positively.

    Xinhua

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/egypt-s-president-invites-trump-to-attend-gaza-s-deal-ceremony-when-reached

  • Mützig announces Chriss Eazy as new Brand Ambassador #rwanda #RwOT

    This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for Mützig as it continues to deepen its connection with bold, ambitious consumers across Rwanda.

    With its bold positioning that celebrates 'the wins — big or small,' Mützig stands for progress, confidence, and living boldly.

    Chriss Eazy perfectly embodies this spirit — his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Rwanda’s most celebrated artists mirrors Mützig’s belief that every achievement, no matter the size, deserves to be celebrated.

    As the official brand ambassador, Chriss Eazy will play a key role in upcoming campaigns, events, and activations, bringing the Mützig experience to life through music, culture, and shared celebration.

    'We are excited to welcome Chriss Eazy to the Mützig family,' said the Mützig Brand Manager. 'His passion, drive, and originality align perfectly with Mützig’s values. This partnership is about more than endorsement – it’s about inspiring Rwandans to keep celebrating their progress, big or small.'

    'It’s an honor to represent Mützig – a brand that celebrates growth, confidence, and bold living. Together, we’re going to create moments that uplift and connect people. I can’t wait for what’s ahead.'

    About Mützig

    Mützig is a beer brand committed to delivering high-quality products and memorable experiences to consumers.

    With a reputation for celebrating progression, Mützig continues to lead in the beverage industry and foster meaningful connections with its audience.

    For more information or media inquiries, Mützig encourages individuals to visit their social media platforms on Instagram and Facebook.

    The brand invites everyone to join in welcoming Chriss Eazy to the Mützig family and looks forward to sharing exciting collaborations in the future.

    Chriss Eazy interacting with participants at the launch.

    Mützig, Rwanda’s leading beer brand, has officially announced the signing of Chriss Eazy as its new Brand Ambassador.

    As the official brand ambassador, Chriss Eazy will play a key role in upcoming campaigns, events, and activations, bringing the Mützig experience to life through music, culture, and shared celebration.

    Chriss Eazy is expected to play a key role in upcoming campaigns, events, and activations, bringing the Mützig experience to life.

    Mützig has announced Chriss Eazy as new Brand Ambassador.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/mutzig-announces-chriss-eazy-as-new-brand-ambassador

  • First ever endoscopic surgery for early rectal cancer performed in Rwanda #rwanda #RwOT

    The surgery, called Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD), allows patients to avoid more serious treatments like chemotherapy or a permanent colostomy (an opening in the belly for waste to leave the body).

    The hospital shared this achievement on its official X account on Tuesday, October 7, calling it a “proud moment” for Rwanda’s healthcare.

    This successful operation is seen as a big step forward in improving cancer care in the country, showing how much Rwanda’s medical field is advancing.

    Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is a modern, less-invasive technique used to remove tumors from the digestive system.

    Doctors use a flexible tube with a camera and small tools to remove cancerous growths from the inner lining of the intestines or rectum.

    This procedure is important for patients with early-stage rectal cancer because it means they don’t need heavy treatments like chemotherapy or surgery to create a permanent opening in the stomach.

    This new procedure is a huge benefit to patients, offering a quicker recovery and a better quality of life. King Faisal Hospital’s successful surgery shows that Rwanda is making great progress in treating cancer.

    King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda has achieved a major medical breakthrough by performing the first-ever endoscopic surgery to treat early-stage lower rectal cancer.

    Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is a modern, less-invasive technique used to remove tumors from the digestive system.

    IGIHE

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/health/article/first-ever-endoscopic-surgery-for-early-rectal-cancer-performed-in-rwanda

  • From grief to resolve: Remembering October 7, standing against terror #rwanda #RwOT

    On October 7, 2023, the people of Israel woke up to a nightmare that has left deep and lasting scars. Hamas, the terrorist organization that governs Gaza, launched an unprovoked, brutal assault on southern Israel—murdering over 1,200 innocent civilians, including babies, the elderly, and entire families. Women were raped. Children were burned alive. Over 250 people were taken hostage into Gaza, many of whom remain in captivity today. It was the single deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

    This October 7th, 2025, marks two years since that day of terror. As we commemorate the lives lost, the pain endured, and the resilience shown by survivors, we in Israel also find deep resonance in the shared history and spirit of the Rwandan people.

    Rwanda, too, knows what it means to face unimaginable cruelty. The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi left over a million people dead in just 100 days—killed not because of what they did, but because of who they were. As I have witnessed here in Rwanda, the journey from horror to healing is long, difficult, and deeply human. It requires courage, truth, justice, and above all, remembrance.

    The images from Kibbutz Be’eri, Kfar Aza and other communities attacked on October 7, bear strange and heartbreaking testimonies. Through these acts of barbarism, the perpetrators sought not only to kill, but to erase—communities, families, cultures, and hope.

    And yet, our peoples have refused to be defined by our wounds. Instead, we are defined by our resilience, our belief in life, and our determination to build societies based on dignity and peace.

    It is no accident that Rwanda and Israel share a close and growing friendship. We are nations that have emerged from trauma not to seek vengeance, but to ensure such horrors never happen again. We believe in the responsibility to remember—and the responsibility to act.

    Today, as Israel continues to fight a war not of its choosing, we remain committed to the basic principles that should guide us all: the right of every nation to defend its people, the value of every innocent life, and the pursuit of justice.

    To our friends in Rwanda and the region, your solidarity in these difficult times is deeply felt and deeply appreciated. History reminds us that evil can be overcome, and that healing is possible— even after the darkest chapters.

    As we mark two years since October 7, let us recommit to a world where terrorism is condemned, not excused; where victims are mourned, not forgotten; where memory becomes a bridge to peace—not a barrier, and where Never Again is not just a phrase—but a promise.

    Einat Weiss is the Ambassador of Israel to Rwanda.

    Amb. Einat Weiss

    Source : https://en.igihe.com/opinion/article/from-grief-to-resolve-remembering-october-7-standing-against-terror