This week, Rwanda hosts over 90 business leaders from Zimbabwe as they engage with the Rwandan private sector to delve into trade and investment opportunities at the Rwanda-Zimbabwe Business Forum, taking place on 18-19 March  2024 in Kigali.

The forum, which follows two previous editions held in 2021 and 2022 in Kigali and Harare respectively, comprises interactive sessions on business and investment opportunities in the two countries.

Key sectors with growth potential being highlighted include agriculture and agribusiness, construction and real estate, manufacturing, mining, finance, e-Government services, and education, among others.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Rwanda, Hon. Vincent Biruta officially opened the forum noting:

“As we navigate a complex global landscape, it is essential to identify and capitalise on emerging trends and market dynamics. Rwanda and Zimbabwe, with their unique strengths and capabilities, have much to offer the world. Leveraging our respective comparative advantages, we can create a cycle of growth and prosperity that benefits both nations. We must continue to explore avenues to enhance bilateral trade and investment particularly sectors such as manufacturing, finance, real estate and construction. Improving the ease of doing business is paramount to attracting more investment and fostering job creation. Rwanda stands ready to further collaborate with Zimbabwe in these crucial sectors for mutual benefit.”

On her part, Zimbabwe Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sheillah Chikomo said:

“This engagement presents an opportunity to share up-to-date and improved information on trade and investment opportunities between our two countries. We are at your service and will be pleased to assist businesses from Zimbabwe and Rwanda with trade information to increase market coverage for goods and services.”

Francis Gatare, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Development Board said:

“As a result of organising the last two editions of the Rwanda-Zimbabwe Business Forum in Kigali and Harare, several MoUs and partnerships have been established, both in business and between the Governments. They span across various sectors including ICT, agriculture and livestock, e-Government, education, energy, infrastructure, and several others. We have a very solid foundation to start from to grow collaborations over the next two days.”

The Chief Executive Officer of ZimTrade, Zimbabwe’s national trade development and promotion agency, Allan T. Majuru said:

“As we continue fostering trade relations between our two countries, we believe there’s more we can do to solidify our position as lead trading partners.”

The event also provides opportunities for structured B2B and B2G networking meetings, along with an exhibition area showcasing Made in Rwanda and Zimbabwe products.

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Note to editors:

• Below are some outcomes of the previous Rwanda-Zimbabwe Business Forums:
  • 153 Zimbabwean teachers are working with Rwandan Universities, TVET schools, Polytechnic schools, and TTCs.
  • Over 15 energy power projects were implemented.
  • Zimbabwean companies invested over US$38 million in Rwanda.
  • Over the past four years, Rwanda’s imports from Zimbabwe have increased by 52%, while exports to Zimbabwe have seen an 8% increase.
  • Over 8 Rwandan companies in energy, IT, agro-processing, recreation, and general trade are established in Zimbabwe.
• Download photos from the forum here

About the Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is a government agency in Rwanda with a vision to transform Rwanda into a dynamic global hub for business, investment, and innovation. Its mission is to fast-track economic development in Rwanda by enabling private sector growth. Learn more about the Rwanda Development Board at www.rdb.rw

About ZimTrade

ZimTrade, the national trade development and promotion organisation, is a unique joint venture partnership between the Private Sector and the Government of Zimbabwe. It was formed through a constitution in September 1991.

Working closely with our Partners, Industry Experts and Development Cooperation Partners, we provide a comprehensive suite of value-added services. We assist Zimbabwean exporters, including first-time exporters and potential exporters, to develop, promote and facilitate export of their goods and services to the world.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Rwanda Development Board (RDB)

Doreen Ingabire, Communications ManagerEmail: communications@rdb.rw