Kigali, 24 September 2026 – Government officials, business leaders and investors from Rwanda and Pakistan convened in Kigali today for the Rwanda-Pakistan Investment Forum 2026, a platform aimed at strengthening bilateral trade, investment and business partnerships between the two countries.

The forum brought together representatives from the public and private sectors to explore opportunities for deeper commercial cooperation and increased investment across sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, textiles and apparel, pharmaceuticals, ICT, tourism and logistics.

In her keynote address, Juliana Muganza, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Development Board (RDB), emphasised the importance of translating the longstanding relationship between the two countries into greater trade and investment outcomes.

“Rwanda and Pakistan have longstanding diplomatic relations, and our focus now is on translating that relationship into stronger trade, investment and business partnerships. We see significant opportunities for collaboration across sectors where our economies are complementary, and we look forward to welcoming more Pakistani businesses to establish, invest and grow from Rwanda.”

The forum also featured presentations on investment opportunities in both countries. 

Ronald Kabagambe, Ag. Head of Investment Marketing at RDB, highlighted Rwanda’s investment value proposition, showcasing opportunities across priority sectors and outlining the country’s business environment, investor support services and market access advantages.

 H.E Naeem Khan, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Rwanda, highlighted opportunities for collaboration between businesses in Rwanda and Pakistan.

“Pakistan and Rwanda have complementary economies with significant potential for increased trade and investment. We encourage businesses from both countries to explore partnerships, joint ventures and new market opportunities that can contribute to shared growth and prosperity.”

A key outcome of the forum was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Trade between the Government of the Republic of Rwanda and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan by Hon. Antoine Kajangwe, Minister of Trade and Industry, and H.E Naeem Khan, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Rwanda. 

The agreement provides a framework for expanding bilateral trade, promoting business partnerships, facilitating joint ventures and enhancing cooperation across sectors including manufacturing, textiles and apparel, agriculture, tourism and transport. 

It also establishes a Joint Working Group on Trade and a Joint Business Council to support closer economic cooperation between the two countries. 

Speaking following the signing ceremony, Hon. Antoine Kajangwe noted:

“The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding marks an important step in advancing economic cooperation between Rwanda and Pakistan. It provides a framework for expanding trade, advancing private sector engagement and creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.”

Jean Claude Uwizeyemungu, Vice Chairman of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) underscored the importance of private sector-led partnerships in unlocking the full potential of the relationship.

“Rwanda and Pakistan have a unique opportunity to translate shared potential into concrete investments, sustainable businesses and lasting economic partnerships through stronger private sector collaboration. The Private Sector Federation remains committed to facilitating business connections, promoting cross-border investment and supporting an environment in which both Rwandan and Pakistani businesses can grow and thrive.”

The forum concluded with business engagements aimed at identifying partnerships and investment opportunities that can contribute to increased trade, investment flows and economic cooperation between Rwanda and Pakistan.

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