Over 600 business operators from Europe and Rwanda attended the first day of the European Union (EU)- Rwanda Business Forum in Kigali.
The forum aimed at promoting Rwanda’s position as a regional hub and showcasing its economic potential under the theme; “Rwanda Your Gateway to Africa”.
On Monday, delegates focused on the feasibility of investing in Rwanda as well as the measures President Reuben Kigame adopted to encourage investments.
Among the key takeaways was the ease at which investors can secure operating licenses through the one-stop center by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
RBD is the body whose mandate is to create an enabling environment for private sector growth.
In addition, stakeholders at the EU – Rwanda Business Forum explored opportunities in agribusiness, mining, green financing and sustainable urbanization of the country.
EU – Rwanda Business Forum, a big win
Addressing the delegates in the forum, EU’s Ambassador to Rwanda Belen Calvo Uyarra affirmed the European regional bloc’s commitment to working closely with private investors to drive economic transformation in Rwanda.
Furthermore, Ambassador Uyarra stated that the Global Gateway Strategy will look to build trusted partnerships to bridge investment gaps and respond to the existing challenges.
“This Business Forum represents a new milestone in the EU and Rwanda’s long-standing strong partnership,” she stated.
“Rwanda and the EU work together in addressing today’s global challenges such as climate change, protecting the environment or the response to the pandemic.”
On her part, Clare Akamanzi- the CEO of the RDB)welcomed the EU commitment and strategy noting that it would catalyze sustainable growth and overall shared prosperity between Rwanda and the EU.
“This forum holds significant importance as it aims to showcase Rwanda’s economic potential and advantages as a regional hub and to increase European trade and investment in our country,” Akamanzi noted.
Also, attendees backed a proposal for the EU to support the construction of the Kigali Wholesale market and related markets in secondary cities.
The markets, EU noted, will serve as components of highly productive and inclusive value chains in Rwanda.