The company engages in various activities aimed at improving people’s health, with a focus on supplying equipment that rehabilitates people with disabilities and helps those without to improve their physical well-being.
The event, held on December 3, 2024, took place in Nyaruguru District, Kibeho Sector, where the national celebration of the day was held. The event was attended by several key diginitaries, including the State Minister at the Ministry of Local Government, Marie Solange Kayisire, and the Governor of the Southern Province, Alice Kayitesi.
During the cellebrations, Mega Global Market showcased some of the equipment they distribute, which assist individuals with disabilities in physical exercises.
Attendees were given an opportunity to see these machines and were educated by Mega the company employees on maintaining good health. The staff also demonstrated innovative solutions designed to help, treat, and prevent non-communicable diseases and their effects.
In addition to selling these machines, Mega Global Market also offers natural supplements that prevent diseases and are certified by international quality standards recognized worldwide.
The company also supports individuals looking to travel abroad for education, tourism or even work in Europe, Canada, and the United States.
Mega Global Market was recently awarded the “Abroad Education Agency of the Year” by Karisimbi Events, recognizing its excellence in assisting people to pursue educational opportunities and travel abroad.
Mega Global Market has established branches in Rwanda, New York, Canada, and Europe, continuing to support individuals pursuing various international opportunities.
On December 3, 2024, a consultative meeting was held in Kigali, where senior officials from both countries gathered to explore new avenues for collaboration. The Ambassador of Angola to Rwanda, H.E. Eduardo Filomeno Octavio, kick started the discussions by emphasizing the importance of enhanced bilateral economic relations.
“The relationship between Angola and Rwanda is not just about diplomacy, but about concrete cooperation that can benefit both nations,” Octavio stated. He highlighted the significant potential for Angolan investments in Rwanda, particularly in sectors where the country has substantial growth opportunities.
He highlighted recent developments that pave the way for enhanced connectivity, such as the agreement which will allow direct flights between Kigali and major Angolan cities, expected to serve as a catalyst to boost trade and tourism.
“This is just the beginning. We are committed to making Angola a key investment destination for Rwanda,” he said.
Similarly, Michelle Umurungi, the Chief Investment Officer at the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), underscored Rwanda’s enthusiasm for building stronger ties with Angola.
“Rwanda has long been a hub for innovation and a gateway to East Africa. We see Angola as an important partner in the region, with tremendous untapped potential,” Umurungi said.
She pointed out that Rwandan investors have yet to fully tap into the opportunities available in Angola, particularly in the areas of agriculture, oil, and infrastructure. “While Rwanda has a strong track record of investments, we are eager to diversify and expand into Angola, especially in sectors like agribusiness and energy,” she added.
Umurungi also noted that both governments are working to address the challenges faced by investors, including improving the ease of doing business and creating a conducive environment for cross-border investment.
“Rwanda’s dedication to exploring new horizons alongside Angola is unwavering and together, we have the opportunity to create a sustainable partnership that will not only benefit our countries but also contribute to Africa’s economic transformation,” she said.
Jeronimo Pongolola, Executive Director of the Agency for Private Investment and Promotion of Exports of Angola (AIPEX), revealed the specific sectors where Angola is seeking foreign investment.
“Angola offers a wealth of opportunities in agriculture, energy, mining, and tourism. Its vast agricultural potential, with 35 million hectares of arable land yet only 15% is under cultivation, makes it an ideal location for investment in crop production, livestock farming, and agribusiness,” he said.
In addition to agriculture, Pongolola revealed more about the opportunities in Angola’s energy sector, particularly in renewable energy, as the country looks to expand its hydropower capacity, which currently accounts for 68% of its energy generation.
“We need partners who can help us enhance our power generation capacity and integrate renewable energy into the grid, as well as the booming mining industry, which is rich in resources like gold, diamonds, copper, and iron ore,” he said.
Angola’s tourism sector is also vibrant with ongoing projects like the Cabo Ledo and Calandula tourist poles that present lucrative opportunities for investment in hospitality and infrastructure.
AIPEX is actively working to create an environment that supports foreign investment through various incentives, including tax exemptions for projects in priority sectors. By focusing on key sectors Rwanda and Angola aim to deepen their economic collaboration and unlock opportunities that will benefit their citizens and the wider African continent.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has been a driving force in Rwanda’s development since 1994, with a focus on infrastructure projects that support the country’s long-term growth.
By 2023, the AfDB had invested over $2.9 billion in various sectors, with the lion’s share directed toward infrastructure. The transport sector, in particular, has been a major beneficiary of this funding.
AfDB’s contributions have reshaped Rwanda’s transport infrastructure, fueling economic growth and contributing to the country’s national development goals.
In collaboration with the Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA), the AfDB has played a pivotal role in modernizing the country’s transport network, aligning with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 to enhance regional integration and establish the country as a key player in East Africa.
One of the AfDB’s significant impacts has been in road infrastructure, funding the construction and rehabilitation of over 300 kilometers of roads across Rwanda. These efforts have greatly improved connectivity, particularly in rural areas, facilitating trade and access to services.
The AfDB’s support also extended to other vital infrastructure projects, including two ports, two cross-border markets, 10 milk collection centers, 42 classrooms, three multifunctional women’s centers, and 10 water boreholes. These contributions have created a more interconnected and accessible country, with wide-reaching socio-economic benefits.
The economic and regional effects of these investments have been profound. Improved road conditions have reduced vehicle operating costs, and travel times have been shortened, particularly at border crossings, where waiting times have dropped from seven hours to just one.
This has led to an increase in regional trade within the East African Community (EAC), which saw trade exchanges rise to $ 960 million by 2020. Additionally, the rural accessibility rate has risen from 50% to nearly 80%, bringing remote communities closer to markets, healthcare, and educational services.
The social impact of the AfDB-funded projects is equally significant. Over 120,000 temporary jobs were created during the construction phase, with substantial participation from youth and women.
These employment opportunities were complemented by extensive sensitization programs on road safety, environmental conservation, and public health, reaching over 229,000 people. Such initiatives have empowered local communities with the knowledge and skills needed for safer, more sustainable practices.
Moreover, the projects have contributed to education, women’s empowerment, and local economic growth. The infrastructure, including schools and women’s centers, has bolstered the education system and fostered gender equality.
Rural infrastructure improvements have also supported local economies, increasing access to essential markets and services.
Institutionally, these projects have helped build the capacity of the RTDA, enabling the agency to more effectively plan, monitor, and enforce road safety measures. Capacity-building programs and socio-economic studies have strengthened the country’s ability to manage and sustain its transport infrastructure.
“These efforts have boosted economic growth, reduced poverty, and facilitated regional integration,” says Imena Munyampenda, Director General of RTDA. “Additionally, AfDB projects have promoted gender inclusion through community programs, enhanced road safety, and prioritized sustainability.
The technical assistance provided by AfDB has strengthened RTDA’s capacity to manage complex infrastructure projects, which aligns with Rwanda’s vision of resilient and inclusive development.”
In recent years, the AfDB has funded six key transport projects in Rwanda, including the Rusizi–Bugarama, Crete Congo-Nil–Ntendezi, Cyangugu–Ntendezi–Mwityazo, Rubavu–Gisiza, Base–Gicumbi–Rukomo, and Kagitumba–Kayonza–Rusumo roads.
These projects have enhanced regional connectivity, facilitated trade, and furthered Rwanda’s integration within the broader East African region. According to Munyampenda, the completion of these projects marked a transformative milestone for the country’s transport sector.
“Each of these projects plays a critical role in fostering regional integration and enhancing connectivity, which is essential for socio-economic development across Rwanda and the EAC. Together, they have revolutionized Rwanda’s transport infrastructure, strengthening the country’s position as a regional trade hub,” he says.
Accessibility has greatly improved, with 79.73% of rural roads now accessible compared to just 50% previously. This has empowered rural communities and facilitated better access to markets, healthcare, and education.
Munyampenda further emphasizes that the AfDB’s technical assistance has enhanced RTDA’s ability to manage complex infrastructure projects. This support has improved procurement processes, integrated climate-resilient designs into road construction, and fostered a culture of sustainability.
These projects not only serve current needs but are also designed with the future in mind, ensuring long-term viability.
Moving forward, the RTDA’s plans, aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), focus on expanding and upgrading the national road network, enhancing rural accessibility, and promoting green transport solutions.
Through its ongoing partnership with the RTDA, the AfDB is helping to create a modern, efficient, and inclusive transport network, driving sustainable growth and enhancing Rwanda’s competitiveness within the region.
The event took place in the Rusororo sector on Saturday, November 30, 2024, where various trees, including fruit-bearing and decorative species such as cypress, were planted.
Mohamed Aarouch, the CEO of Atlantique Microfinance Plc, emphasized that the community service event is part of their contribution to Rwandan society.
“We are very happy to be part of an activity like this. It means a lot to us, and it aligns with the values that guide Atlantique Microfinance: respect, collaboration, and working together as a community,” he said.
He further added, “This is a tangible demonstration of the role we must play in the society we operate in. We are not just a financial institution; we are partners in humanitarian efforts and should take a substantial part in them.”
The Executive Secretary of Rusororo Sector, Umuhoza Rwabukumba Mado, praised the role of partners in the development journey and how they work with the community on initiatives that serve the common good.
She also commended the residents who participated in the tree planting event and urged them to continue caring for the planted trees.
The Executive Secretary of Gasabo District, Bayasese Bernard, stated that Kigali plans to plant three million trees over the next five years and encouraged Kigali residents to continue planting and maintaining trees.
Atlantique Microfinance Plc is a microfinance institution authorized to operate in Rwanda by the National Bank of Rwanda at the end of 2019. In its five years in Rwanda, Atlantique Microfinance has built a strong reputation in promoting an inclusive financial sector.
The institution is a subsidiary of AMIFA Holdings, which operates in Morocco (Casablanca) and is part of the BCP Group (Banque Centrale Populaire du Maroc).
Currently, Atlantique Microfinance PLC has six branches in Rwanda and plans to open more in other districts. Its headquarters are in Nyarugenge District, located in the YYUSSA City Center, also known as Makuza Peace Plaza.
AMIFA S.A. operates in several African countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Gabon, Guinea, Madagascar, and Rwanda.
The training focused on using technology to monitor and improve the coffee value chain through a system called the Digital Farm Extension Monitoring System (DFEMS).
TechnoServe, a long-time partner in Rwanda’s coffee sector for over 15 years, developed the technology in collaboration with BK TechHouse, which implemented the project aimed at enhancing coffee farming by collecting, storing, and quickly disseminating data to the relevant stakeholders.
Sildio Mbonyumuhire, TechnoServe’s Global Technology Lead, explained that the technology helps farmers track their farming activities and apply what they’ve learned about improving coffee quality.
He said, “In the 50 coffee washing stations we tested with, we saw positive results. The agronomist at the station uses the technology to track farmers in the zone they work in, learn where their farms are, and understand how they are implementing the advice they’ve received.”
Mbonyumuhire said that that this technology helps uplift farmers with weaker performance, leading to increased productivity in both quantity and quality.
The system requires tools such as tablets, computers, and low-cost mobile phones using the USSD technology, easy to use for many farmers who are not familiar with advanced tech.
“For low-income farmers, using a basic mobile phone, they can perform simple tasks like confirming receipt of fertilizers or seeds,” he added.
Marcel Abimana, the district officer from Gatsibo, where coffee is grown on 5.2 hectares, producing 12.5 tons per hectare, noted that this technology eases their work. It helps them connect farmers’ information to their yield securely.
He said, “In the past, when someone visited a farmer and wrote information down, it could get lost or damaged. Now, all the data shared during farmer discussions will instantly reach the intended recipients.”
Abimana believes that this initiative will improve coffee quality and boost productivity, making the entire coffee value chain more efficient starting with the farmer.
Dr. Olivier Kamana, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), who concluded the training, emphasized that Rwanda’s coffee has become a symbol of national pride.
He urged all those involved in coffee farming to keep improving its quality, noting that the government continues to support this effort.
He praised TechnoServe’s contributions to Rwanda’s development, especially in coffee farming from planting to market preparation.
“TechnoServe started by helping us build coffee farmer cooperatives, and now they’ve introduced technology that helps us reach farmers more effectively, eliminating the strain on agronomists. It also helps secure all the data, including what an agronomist would normally discuss with a farmer, reducing the chance of forgetting crucial information. More so, national data base will be promptly updated,” he said.
One of the successes in Rwanda’s coffee farming is that at least 82% of Rwandan coffee reaches the market well-processed, adding value on international markets. This has been achieved through close partnership between TechnoServe and NAEB.
Rwanda’s coffee sector generated $112 million in revenue in 2022, benefiting over 400,000 households across the country.
The DFEMS technology was implemented as part of the ‘Rwanda Ikawa Nziza Project’ that started in January 2021 and will end in January 2025.
TechnoServe has also integrated the DFEMS system into the government’s existing Smart Kungahara System (SKS) to ensure the technology reaches all districts in Rwanda even after the project ends, while continuing to expand and improve.
In addition to the technology, the project has been instrumental in distributing high-quality coffee seeds, with at least two million seeds provided in six districts; Gisagara, Huye, Nyamagabe, Rusizi, Nyamasheke, and Karongi.
As the AfDB celebrates its 60th anniversary in Rwanda, its partnership with the Government of Rwanda has significantly advanced access to clean water (82 percent of the country’s population), through the Water and Sanitation Corporation (WASAC), while also fostering broader socio-economic improvements across communities.
For over eight years, AfDB has led the way in supporting Rwanda’s water supply and sanitation projects, financing initiatives that have benefited millions.
A major milestone in this partnership was the approval of the Rwanda Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Program in November 2017. The program focused on the City of Kigali and several satellite cities, including Rubavu, Rusizi, Nyagatare, and Muhanga.
To date, approximately 1.1 million people have gained access to improved water services, with another 475,000 people expected to benefit from enhanced sanitation infrastructure by 2026.
Building on this success, AfDB expanded its support in 2018, providing additional financing to extend the program to districts such as Gatsibo, Kayonza, and Ruhango.
In December 2023, AfDB approved a new phase of the partnership, the Rwanda Transformative and Sustainable Water Supply and Sanitation Program. This initiative aims to reach approximately 2.33 million people by 2029, with a particular focus on improving water supply and sanitation in Kigali and several other districts, including Gicumbi, Huye, and Nyaruguru. Women will make up 50% of the beneficiaries.
The financing for these projects includes an initial loan of $282,318,000, an additional loan of EUR 135,717,000, and support for the Rwanda Transformative and Sustainable Water and Sanitation Program through a loan of JPY 39,732,944,830.
Reflecting on these efforts, Dr. Omar Munyaneza, CEO of WASAC, highlighted the far-reaching benefits of these projects.
“The projects funded by the African Development Bank have not only provided access to clean water to the served community, but they have also impacted the socio-economic aspects of the project’s beneficiaries.
This was achieved through employment, reduction of waterborne diseases, water access to schools, which directly impacts the quality of education and sustainability of school feeding programs, and many more,” he said.
Some of the most significant AfDB-funded projects include the construction, rehabilitation, and expansion of water supply networks in Kigali and its peri-urban areas.
Other key initiatives include the Mwoya water treatment plant, which serves Rusizi District, and the new Gihira plant in Rubavu, both of which are essential for meeting the water needs of these rapidly growing communities.
The Kivu and Muhazi water supply projects, which aim to provide reliable water access to Karongi and Gatsibo Districts, respectively, and the Volcano Belt project, which will upgrade the Mutobo treatment plant to 48,000 cubic meters per day, benefiting residents of Musanze, Nyabihu, and Rubavu, are also notable.
AfDB’s role has extended beyond financial support to include addressing Rwanda’s water access challenges, particularly in rural areas. The long-term impacts of these projects are already visible. In addition to providing clean water, AfDB-funded initiatives have spurred economic growth by creating jobs and reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases.
In schools, the availability of reliable water has had a direct impact on both the quality of education and the sustainability of school feeding programs. With water easily accessible, students no longer spend hours fetching water, allowing them to focus on their studies and enhancing overall learning outcomes.
Looking ahead, both WASAC and AfDB are committed to ensuring the sustainability of these achievements. Munyaneza stressed that the key to long-term success lies in building capacity and maintaining infrastructure.
“As we are envisaging 100% water access across the country, the current common goal is to sustain the infrastructure through continuous capacity building for service providers on proper operation and maintenance. We are also working on introducing innovative technology to reduce non-revenue water, and focusing on institutional development in areas like sanitation and water resources management,” he said.
As Rwanda moves closer to achieving universal water access, AfDB’s continued support will be crucial. With the bank’s financing, Rwanda is on track to meet its goal of providing every citizen with access to clean water by 2024, as set out in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).
Munyaneza expressed gratitude for the collaboration with AfDB and optimism about the country meeting its water distribution targets. “AfDB has been a very key partner, and through its continued support and collaboration in financing water and sanitation projects, we are confident we will achieve the government target of water access for all Rwandans by 2029, as outlined in the NST2,” he said.
With a strong commitment to building on these successes, the future looks bright for Rwanda as it continues to make clean water and sanitation a reality for all its citizens.
A venture that exemplifies AfDB’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation, this initiative has not only elevated Rwanda’s healthcare and education systems but has also set a benchmark for regional growth and excellence.
The vision behind CEBE is rooted in addressing critical gaps in healthcare, particularly in biomedical engineering, e-health, and rehabilitation sciences.
As an integral part of the UR, the center’s objectives align closely with Rwanda’s national development agenda: advancing education, improving healthcare services, and fostering research-based solutions to tackle real-world challenges.
Key infrastructure developments have been the backbone of CEBE’s transformation. A six-story, 6,300-square-meter facility now houses state-of-the-art laboratories, specialized equipment, and academic spaces dedicated to research and learning.
This infrastructure is more than just is a hub of innovation that empowers students, faculty, and researchers to create solutions that improve lives.
One of the beneficiaries of this initiative, Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi, shared her story during the AfDB’s 60th-anniversary celebrations.
“In 2014, I began my journey in prosthetics and orthotics with a vision to empower persons with disabilities. Thanks to the AfDB’s investment in CEBE, I was able to further my education and refine my skills,” she said.
Today, Gatsinzi is not just a professional, she is an advocate for dignity and independence, equipped to bring transformative change to her community.
Gatsinzi’s story is one of many, highlighting how access to quality education and resources can empower individuals to drive meaningful change in their communities.
CEBE’s impact extends beyond individuals to influence broader systems. Over 680 professionals; including students, faculty, and health practitioners have benefited from scholarships, training programs, and research opportunities supported by AfDB.
Women constitute 40% of these beneficiaries, highlighting a commitment to inclusivity and gender equity. These professionals are now contributing to Rwanda’s healthcare system, designing assistive technologies, and addressing critical healthcare challenges, particularly in underserved areas.
{{A vision for growth}}
Since its establishment, CEBE has achieved remarkable milestones, positioning itself as a cornerstone of Rwanda’s healthcare and education sectors.
Its accomplishments include groundbreaking research, innovative projects, and the creation of specialized training programs among others.
The center has spearheaded over 40 research projects, with several breakthroughs in e-health and rehabilitation technologies. Projects such as digital rehabilitation solutions and mobile health platforms for managing chronic diseases are revolutionizing healthcare delivery in Rwanda and beyond.
On the other hand, CEBE has equipped hundreds of students and practitioners with specialized skills in biomedical engineering, rehabilitation sciences, and digital health.
These individuals such as Gatsinzi’s, are now leading innovations in healthcare, from developing new medical devices to improving patient care systems.
Beyond its physical structure, the center boasts cutting-edge biomedical laboratories and specialized equipment that rival international standards. These facilities not only support education but also foster research that addresses Rwanda’s unique healthcare challenges.
Despite these successes, the journey has not been without challenges. The initial phases of CEBE faced hurdles such as site relocation, delays in procuring specialized equipment, and the unforeseen disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, AfDB’s support and the resilience of the Rwandan government ensured these obstacles were overcome. The project now stands as a testament to perseverance and strategic collaboration.
Prof. Celestin Twizere, the Rector of CEBE explains that the center stands as a shining example of the transformative impact of the AfDB as it addresses critical gaps in healthcare and education.
CEBE focuses on biomedical engineering, e-health, and rehabilitation sciences. With AfDB’s support, the center has grown into a hub of innovation, driving advancements in technology and healthcare.
“Our mission is to empower professionals with the skills to solve real-world problems in healthcare and beyond. With this support, we are building a hub where technology and medicine converge to improve lives and transform communities,” he said.
Hundreds of students and professionals have so far developed groundbreaking research projects and equipped its facility with state-of-the-art technology. These achievements are paving the way for Rwanda to become a leader in healthcare innovation.
Moving forward, Prof. Twizere expresses optimism about the center’s future; “The center aims to bridge the gap between education, research, and healthcare innovation. With continued investment, we envision Rwanda becoming a leader in biomedical engineering and e-health, not just in Africa, but globally,” he acknowledged.
One of CEBE’s most ambitious goals is to address the shortage of specialized infrastructure and certified biomedical professionals in Rwanda.
According to recent government reports, there is a significant gap in the availability of accredited healthcare facilities and skilled practitioners.
CEBE aims to fill this void by training more professionals, developing high-quality research outputs, and fostering collaborations that drive sustainable solutions.
The African Development Bank remains a pivotal partner in this journey. With its continued support, CEBE is poised to become a global center of excellence, attracting talent and investments while contributing to Rwanda’s Vision 2050 goals of creating a high-income, knowledge-driven economy.
{{A legacy of hope and opportunity}}
The story of CEBE is a reflection of the AfDB’s 60-year legacy of empowering communities, fostering innovation, and transforming lives. Through its strategic investments, this has not only elevated Rwanda’s healthcare and education sectors but also inspired a generation of change makers ready to shape Africa’s future.
As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, the words of Jackline Gatsinzi Mupenzi resonate deeply.
“The AfDB’s support has given us the tools to make a difference, not just for today, but for generations to come. Thank you for believing in us and for investing in a brighter future for Africa,” she says.
The African Development Bank’s partnership with Rwanda is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision meets action.
As CEBE continues to grow, its impact will ripple far beyond Rwanda, inspiring a new era of innovation and progress across the continent.
Rwanda is among the beneficiaries of the regional financial institution’s initiatives, including financing infrastructure projects and supporting private sector development.
The agriculture sector has received multimillion-dollar funding from the AfDB since the launch of its first project in 1974. As of November 2024, the institution had supported 46 projects to aid the Rwandan government’s efforts to enhance food security. Three projects are currently active, supported by $16.77 million in funding.
Through the multi-million dollar Bugesera Agricultural Development Support Project (PADAB) and the Inland Lakes Integrated Development and Management Support Project (PAIGELAC), the Bank has not only revolutionized farming and fisheries but also fostered resilience, uplifted livelihoods, and strengthened food security.
In the arid plains of Bugesera, farming was once a gamble with nature. The arrival of PADAB, however, turned this challenge into an opportunity.
An investment of $14.8 million between 2006 and 2013 introduced modern irrigation systems covering over 700 hectares in Bugesera. This has enabled farmers to grow crops year-round, significantly increasing yields of maize, beans, and vegetables.
Beyond irrigation, the rehabilitation of 260 kilometers of feeder roads has been a game-changer. Farmers can now transport produce to markets more quickly and at lower costs, reducing losses and increasing profits.
Additionally, training sessions on high-yield seeds and sustainable practices have made smallholder farmers more productive and resilient.
Anne, a farmer in Bugesera, is one of many beneficiaries. Once dependent on unpredictable rains, she now harvests surplus vegetables to sell at the market. “I can now afford school fees for my children and invest in better farming tools,” she says.
PADAB has helped Anne and many others shift from subsistence farming to sustainable livelihoods.
On the other hand, Rwanda’s lakes have long been a lifeline for fishing communities, but overfishing and environmental degradation posed a serious threat to this vital sector.
PAIGELAC stepped in to revive inland fisheries, combining infrastructure upgrades, environmental conservation, and community training to ensure long-term benefits.
The construction of modern landing sites, cold storage facilities, and ice plants has drastically reduced spoilage, enabling fishers to supply high-quality products. Environmental restoration efforts, including watershed protection and reforestation, have safeguarded ecosystems, ensuring that fish stocks remain plentiful.
Nadine, a fish processor and entrepreneur, epitomizes this empowerment. After joining a PAIGELAC-supported training program, she expanded her business and now exports smoked fish to neighboring countries.
“This project changed my life,” she shares.
With her earnings, Nadine has built a home and educated her children, inspiring others in her community to follow her lead. Dnd just like her, thousands of women have also received training, loans, and tools, enabling them to lead agribusinesses and improve their families’ quality of life.
For François, a fisherman on Lake Muhazi, the results have been life-changing. “With training and access to better facilities, my income has increased. I can now support my family and save for the future,” he says.
Since PAIGELAC’s inception, Rwanda’s fish production has grown to 17,000 tonnes annually, lifting thousands out of poverty.
As the regional multilateral financial institution celebrates 60 years, it has, through its initiatives, touched the lives of more than 700,000 Rwandans, supported 696 agribusinesses, and made significant strides in improving food security.
The Bank’s focus on sustainability and inclusivity ensures that its projects not only address immediate challenges but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity. This is a pivotal role in supporting Rwanda’s vision to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income country by 2050.
Government has made impressive strides in forest management and with climate change at the forefront of global concerns, Rwanda aims to restore 2 million hectares of degraded land by 2050. The country aims to plant 65 million trees this year alone, building on last year’s success of 62 million trees.
The conversation centered on how to enhance afforestation efforts, particularly through performance-based contracts and leveraging social security programs to encourage farmers to plant and maintain trees.
While tree planting campaigns have been successful in increasing numbers, experts highlighted the critical issue of ensuring that these trees survive and thrive.
Dr. Concorde Nsengumuremyi, Director General of the Rwanda Forestry Authority, emphasized the importance of sustainability in afforestation efforts.
“We have to find a way of increasing the chances of the trees we plant to be sustainable but, if the trees don’t survive, that’s a loss,” Nsengumuremyi said.
He pointed out that trees offer vital ecosystem services, such as water retention, soil fertility, and erosion control especially crucial in Rwanda’s hilly terrain. While fruit trees and timber are beneficial to farmers, the challenge remains that trees require years of investment before providing financial returns.
As a solution, Nsengumuremyi proposed using performance-based contracts, where farmers can partner with investors to plant trees and receive rewards once they reach maturity. These rewards could take the form of cash or in-kind benefits such as farming equipment or livestock.
Experts also explored the possibility of incorporating the Vision 2020 Umurenge Program (VUP), a flagship poverty-alleviation initiative into the tree planting efforts.
“VUP delivers more benefits to Rwandan citizens in return for participation in public works activities. We suggest the expansion of VUP to include tree planting and management,” Nsengumuremyi said.
He highlighted that this could provide much-needed financial incentives for farmers, particularly when combined with public-private partnerships.
“Using such programs where the local population earns but also contributes to environmental development is a great opportunity with the government plans to involve more groups, such as women and youth, to ensure inclusivity in afforestation efforts,” he said.
Professor Egide Karuranga, a researcher in the field, acknowledged that tree survival rates remain a challenge worldwide, with drought, poor planting techniques, and climate change affecting tree longevity.
He noted that the survival rate of trees in Rwanda could be improved by offering continued support to farmers for at least three years, ensuring proper care during the crucial early stages of tree growth.
“Tree survival rate is still a challenge due to various factors, including drought and poor planting methods. In some regions like California, 50% of the trees do not survive, and in Ethiopia, the rate is between 30 and 40%. Our research shows that privately owned trees tend to have a higher survival rate than those in public forests,” said Karuranga.
Athanase Mukurarinda, Country Director of World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), a leading environmental organization, also echoed the need for greater community involvement in tree care.
He noted that in a recent campaign, when residents were encouraged to take ownership of the trees planted in their areas, survival rates increased dramatically. Initially, only 30% of trees were surviving, but after a series of awareness campaigns and incentives, more than 70% of the trees planted are now thriving.
“Both the government and the public must work together. When people feel ownership over the trees they plant, the results are far more successful. With proper care and support, we can ensure the survival of these trees and ultimately create a greener, more sustainable Rwanda,” Mukurarinda explained.
Speaking to the national broadcaster regarding the ongoing peace process between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nduhungirehe expressed pessimism if DRC does not change its approach.
“Yes, we signed the concept of operations that would guide the peace process moving forward. But despite these agreements, when we look at what is happening on the ground, we see that DRC has continued to support and arm groups that pose a direct threat to Rwanda’s security,” he said
His remarks followed a ministerial meeting held on November 25, 2024, in Luanda, Angola, where key issues of regional security, including the dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and the easing of security measures along the Rwanda-DRC border.
The meeting, which brought together ministers from Rwanda, DRC, and Angola, was intended to fast track the process however, Nduhungirehe expressed frustration over the lack of tangible progress despite the agreements reached in Luanda.
The minister pointed to the actions of armed groups close to Rwanda’s border, particularly the M23 and other rebel factions, which continue to carry out attacks against each other despite the agreed-upon ceasefire.
Nduhungirehe described these actions as a clear violation of the commitments made during the Luanda discussions.
“After the fifth round of talks, despite the commitments made, we observed over 20 attacks by rebel groups against M23 teritories. This ensured the continuation of retaliatory fighting, which is exactly the opposite of what was agreed upon,” he said.
“This is why I raised the issue in the meeting. when we agree to commitments, they need to be implemented on the ground,” Nduhungirehe revealed.
He also commented on recent inflammatory rhetoric from DRC President Félix Tshisekedi, which has further complicated the peace process. On November 17, 2024, President Tshisekedi delivered a speech in the Haut Katanga region, where he openly stated that if given the chance to amend the constitution, he would seek to overthrow the government of Rwanda.
“This public call for regime change is particularly concerning as it contradicts the diplomatic efforts underway to ease tensions between the two countries. We are deeply concerned about these statements. Such words are reckless and dangerous, undermining the ongoing peace efforts” Nduhungirehe noted.
The minister also criticized the DRC’s Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, who in a video published on social media, is seen addressing detainees in the overcrowded Munzenze Prison, in Goma, warning inmates against collaborating with ‘the enemy’ Rwanda and President Paul Kagame, at the same time mobilizing those willing to fight against Rwandans to reclaim their land.
“Such statements are not only provocative, but they are a direct challenge to the peace process. These words fuel hate and mistrust, and they make it difficult for us to lower our defense mechanisms,” Nduhungirehe explained.
Despite these setbacks, Nduhungirehe reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to peace, but made it clear that Rwanda will not remove its defense measures until it sees a genuine commitment to peace from the DRC.
“We want peace, but we are not seeing the will from the DRC. Until there are concrete actions on the ground, we cannot lower our guard,” he warned.
He called for the DRC government to engage directly with the M23 group to find a lasting solution to the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. He emphasized that such dialogue could help bring stability to the region and ultimately lead to peace.
“We believe the solution lies in dialogue, including with the M23 group. It’s time for the DRC government to take this bold step and engage in meaningful discussions that can lead to lasting peace in the region,” Nduhungirehe advised.
Rwanda has also called for greater international support to ensure that the peace agreements are properly implemented and that DRC is held accountable for its actions. “We are committed to working for peace, but we need to see real actions from DRC. We will continue to safeguard our sovereignty and the safety of our citizens,” he emphasized.
The situation remains tense, and while both countries have publicly expressed a desire for peace, the path forward will require true commitment to make difficult decisions and fulfill each other’s commitments in order to avoid further escalation.
