This was emphasized during a visit by Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura, who toured the Rwandan pavilion and engaged with exhibitors about the benefits from it.
The ambassador noted that France is a major player in agriculture and livestock, stressing the value of establishing business partnerships. He also assured participants that the Rwandan Embassy would continue to support them in accessing new markets in France.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura was accompanied by Janet Basiima, the Head of the Export Market Development and Innovation Division at the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB).
Among the exhibitors was Ritha Umutoni, CEO of Rixu Rwanda Coffee, who told IGIHE that participating in such fairs helps promote Rwandan products on international markets.
“Attending is not just about meeting buyers,” she said. “We also engage in planned activities, meeting executives from large importing and exporting companies worldwide. It’s a place to learn, visit other key markets in France, and expand our business ideas and practices.”
Umutoni also praised Rwanda’s governance under President Paul Kagame, saying it enables Rwandans to participate confidently on international platforms.
Stephanie Kayirangwa, Managing Director of Fita Ltd, which grows and exports agricultural products including chili, commended NAEB for facilitating access to the fair and the embassy for ongoing support.
Aloys Rubayiza, Managing Director of Rwanda Mountain Coffee, noted that this was his first time at the show but was impressed by the attention Rwandan products received.
“This was Rwanda’s fifth participation, and we noticed buyers returning for Rwandan coffee and tea because they enjoyed it. It confirmed that our coffee is gaining recognition internationally,” he said.
The fair, held annually at Paris Expo – Porte de Versailles from late February to early March, showcases agricultural and livestock products, related technologies, partnerships, and innovations.
The 2026 edition opened on February 21 with the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron. Rwanda was allocated the seventh pavilion among over 100 participating countries, highlighting its progress in promoting agricultural and livestock exports.
Rwanda was represented by NAEB, the Rwandan Embassy in France, and 15 companies showcasing products such as coffee, tea, honey, and more.
The exhibition provides a valuable platform for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors to share experiences and explore investment opportunities.
SIA spans nine days and attracts more than 1,000 exhibitors and thousands of visitors. In 2025, over 607,503 people attended the event, making it one of France’s most attended fairs.
The exhibition also features 4,000 animals, including cows, sheep, pigs, and horses.
Agricultural exports continue to grow. In December 2025, Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources reported that exports of these products had generated over $893.1 million.
Under Rwanda’s Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), the country aims to increase foreign currency earnings from agricultural exports to $1.5 billion annually by 2029.
Rubayiza Aloys, the Managing Director of Rwanda Mountain Coffee, showcasing his products to visitors.
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